Jan 25th - Sun - Thonotosassa
With the return of warmer weather, we moved a couple of chairs into the sun this morning to enjoy a cup of coffee. After breakfast/lunch, we joined Carie & Gary for a bike ride around the park and then we all decided to join Billy & Lauri at the pool. But before we went, we cleaned, masked and touched up the rust on the bike rack with spray paint. I guess it’s a combination of 27 months of traveling, humidity and some salt spray in the Florida keys that is resulting in rust.
At happy hour at our place, we all decided that it was time to go for pizza at Ci Ci’s - the pizza buffet place. Gary & Carie have a fold down console in their pickup so they emptied the back seat and we all squeezed in for the ride to Zephyrhills. No one ate too much (yeah, right!!) and we all enjoyed our dinner.
Jan 26th - Mon - Thonotosassa
It warmed up enough (at least 60 by 10 o’clock) for water exercise class this morning. There had been a problem with the pool and it was very warm - 91 degrees!
We had talked about the group going on a canoe trip but we all decided that nearly $50 for a 2 hour paddle was a little pricey so we packed lunches, loaded our bikes in trucks and went for a bicycle ride. We discovered a 6.7 mile trail between John Sergeant county park and Hillsborough River state park so we unloaded the bikes and then took one truck back to the county park so we would ride only one way. The trail was unpaved and had several sections of loose sand so it was a real workout. Luckily, the last 2.2 miles were paved to give us old folks a break. We saw 2 armadillos - one was quite curious and stood up on it’s hind legs to try to see us.
When we got back we all headed for the pool and the hot tub. Then a short happy hour at Gary & Carie’s before parting for dinner.
Jan 27th - Tues - Thonotosassa
After water exercises and breakfast, we and Billy & Lauri headed for Costco. Costco has a liquor store right beside the regular store and the prices are very good (½ gallon Scotch $17, ½ gallon Vodka $12) so we decided to stock up a bit as we don’t know what the prices will be down the road. A quick stop at WalMart and then at a produce stand for some strawberries. Gary’s birthday is today and “the group” will have dinner together at Gary & Carie’s. I made strawberry shortcake so I baked the biscuits and sliced & sweetened the berries when we got home. Also cut up a pork loin that Lauri & I split and washed up romaine lettuce. And it was already time for happy hour!
The weather cooperated so we could sit and have dinner outside. Gary & Carie made a buddy burner so we enjoyed that as well. Very nice dinner and evening.
Jan 28th - Wed - Thonotosassa
Before exercise class, I gave Dolly another bath and flea dip treatment and vacuumed. Only a few fleas left so have to keep at them. I sent Terry to the store so after exercises I could mix up marshmallow & cream cheese dip for the rest of the strawberries. Then the 6 of us set off for Clearwater Beach in Gary & Carie’s truck. It is quite a long drive (an hour). The sand is very white and fine, the weather was warm but windy. We left at 3 and drove to Cody’s Roadhouse restaurant in Brandon to take advantage of the 2 for 1 fajitas again. It was just as good as the first time, most of us ate too much and groaned all the way back to the park.
Terry & I went for a bike ride around all the park roads to settle our dinner a little.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Jan 21st to 24th - Thonotosassa FL
Jan 21st - Wed - Thonotosassa
It was very cold last night (near freezing) and windy this morning. The cold front is supposed to be leaving in a couple of days which will be great.
Billy & Lauri and we went to a Manatee viewing area that Paul & Vicki had told us about yesterday. When the water is cold, the manatees move to a protected inlet where a power plant discharges warm water. There are viewing platforms, a long boardwalk/pier, an interpretive center with an informational film and a gift shop. Retired power plant employees are hosts and docents. And for a nice change it is free.
We had dug out our warmest jackets and I should have tried to find ear muffs as well since the wind made it pretty cold. There were lots of manatees mostly submerged in the water. They would slowly raise their heads to breathe and slowly roll and go down a bit. We saw a sting ray and schools of large fish (tarpon, we think) off the pier.
Billy had heard about a restaurant (Cody’s Roadhouse) in Brandon that had 2 for 1 fajitas on Wednesday so we had to check it out on the way back. It is a “peanut shells on the floor” and “disposable paper on the table” type of place - very relaxed and fun. We were there at happy hour so drinks were 2 for 1 as well. The fajitas were great and Billy was very happy with his 2 glasses of beer so it was a good dinner choice.
Carie wore a mask to dinner last night as she was sneezing like crazy and did not want anyone else to catch whatever she might have be coming down with. She had a full blown cold today so they were taking it easy.
Jan 22nd - Thurs - Thonotosassa
Cold again this morning so we hibernated until about 10:30 when we joined Billy & Lauri for a drive to Ybor City which is between here and Tampa. It is a National Historic District which still has several hand-rolled cigar companies that were the reason for the growth of the city in the late 1800’s. It is well known for it’s nightlife from Wed to Sat. We visited the visitor information center and wandered down the streets before stopping for lunch. I wanted to sample a Cuban sandwich and figured this would be a good place to do so. The sandwich has ham, pork, salami, cheese, tomato, lettuce, pickles, mayo & mustard on Cuban bread which is like a French bread. Then it is pressed and toasted. Good but too much ham and not enough pork & salami which would have made it more distinctive.
We wandered back to the car - still cool but the sun was warm - then stopped at Camping World and a little roadside produce stand on the way back to the park.
After dinner, we and Billy & Lauri went to Bingo. No one at our table won a thing!! Gary now has Carie’s cold so they didn’t join us.
Jan 23rd - Fri - Thonotosassa
Relaxing day today. Did laundry and then took advantage of warming weather to go to the pool.
We have been getting wonderful, huge avocados here and both Lauri & I had the idea to use them for guacamole before they went bad. So we had to force down a couple bowls of guacamole at happy hour!
Tomorrow is an auction and bake sale at the park so I baked a few dozen shortbread cookies to contribute.
Jan 24th - Sat - Thonotosassa
I made a dozen quick danish this morning - 6 for us and 6 for the bake sale. Terry & I delivered the baking just after 9 and took a quick look at the auction items. This is a Chinese Auction - donated items are grouped on sheets of paper on tables with a red plastic cup for each group. You buy tickets (10 for $1) and drop a ticket into any cup where you want the items on the paper. Then a ticket is drawn from each cup to determine the winner of that lot. Any item that we wanted had other junk grouped with it so we didn’t buy any tickets.
At noon, a regular auction started with larger donated items. We attended for a while, took a break for lunch and then went back for a few minutes just in time for a 30 amp cord go for more money than Terry wanted to spend. Went to pick up a few groceries and had happy hour at our place - first with Billy, then joined by new acquaintances Larry & Judy (we met Judy at bingo) and then Gary & Carie joined us for a while.
It was very cold last night (near freezing) and windy this morning. The cold front is supposed to be leaving in a couple of days which will be great.
Billy & Lauri and we went to a Manatee viewing area that Paul & Vicki had told us about yesterday. When the water is cold, the manatees move to a protected inlet where a power plant discharges warm water. There are viewing platforms, a long boardwalk/pier, an interpretive center with an informational film and a gift shop. Retired power plant employees are hosts and docents. And for a nice change it is free.
We had dug out our warmest jackets and I should have tried to find ear muffs as well since the wind made it pretty cold. There were lots of manatees mostly submerged in the water. They would slowly raise their heads to breathe and slowly roll and go down a bit. We saw a sting ray and schools of large fish (tarpon, we think) off the pier.
Billy had heard about a restaurant (Cody’s Roadhouse) in Brandon that had 2 for 1 fajitas on Wednesday so we had to check it out on the way back. It is a “peanut shells on the floor” and “disposable paper on the table” type of place - very relaxed and fun. We were there at happy hour so drinks were 2 for 1 as well. The fajitas were great and Billy was very happy with his 2 glasses of beer so it was a good dinner choice.
Carie wore a mask to dinner last night as she was sneezing like crazy and did not want anyone else to catch whatever she might have be coming down with. She had a full blown cold today so they were taking it easy.
Jan 22nd - Thurs - Thonotosassa
Cold again this morning so we hibernated until about 10:30 when we joined Billy & Lauri for a drive to Ybor City which is between here and Tampa. It is a National Historic District which still has several hand-rolled cigar companies that were the reason for the growth of the city in the late 1800’s. It is well known for it’s nightlife from Wed to Sat. We visited the visitor information center and wandered down the streets before stopping for lunch. I wanted to sample a Cuban sandwich and figured this would be a good place to do so. The sandwich has ham, pork, salami, cheese, tomato, lettuce, pickles, mayo & mustard on Cuban bread which is like a French bread. Then it is pressed and toasted. Good but too much ham and not enough pork & salami which would have made it more distinctive.
We wandered back to the car - still cool but the sun was warm - then stopped at Camping World and a little roadside produce stand on the way back to the park.
After dinner, we and Billy & Lauri went to Bingo. No one at our table won a thing!! Gary now has Carie’s cold so they didn’t join us.
Jan 23rd - Fri - Thonotosassa
Relaxing day today. Did laundry and then took advantage of warming weather to go to the pool.
We have been getting wonderful, huge avocados here and both Lauri & I had the idea to use them for guacamole before they went bad. So we had to force down a couple bowls of guacamole at happy hour!
Tomorrow is an auction and bake sale at the park so I baked a few dozen shortbread cookies to contribute.
Jan 24th - Sat - Thonotosassa
I made a dozen quick danish this morning - 6 for us and 6 for the bake sale. Terry & I delivered the baking just after 9 and took a quick look at the auction items. This is a Chinese Auction - donated items are grouped on sheets of paper on tables with a red plastic cup for each group. You buy tickets (10 for $1) and drop a ticket into any cup where you want the items on the paper. Then a ticket is drawn from each cup to determine the winner of that lot. Any item that we wanted had other junk grouped with it so we didn’t buy any tickets.
At noon, a regular auction started with larger donated items. We attended for a while, took a break for lunch and then went back for a few minutes just in time for a 30 amp cord go for more money than Terry wanted to spend. Went to pick up a few groceries and had happy hour at our place - first with Billy, then joined by new acquaintances Larry & Judy (we met Judy at bingo) and then Gary & Carie joined us for a while.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Jan 18th to 20th - Thonotosassa FL
Jan 18th - Sun - Thonotosassa
Chores this morning. Terry scraped, sanded and spray painted the 5th wheel hitch as there was quite a bit of rust on it. I helped with masking tape and advice! After a sandwich for lunch, we headed to the Super WalMart to buy a couple of digital conversion boxes for our TVs. We received our forwarded mail yesterday and got our $40 coupons from government so figured we better get them sooner than later. On the way back we drove by to see Paul & Vicki but they weren’t home. Just then Carie called to see where we were and if we wanted to show them the strawberry shortcake place. She twisted our arms so we returned to the park, dropped off our purchases and went for shortcake which was just as good as the last time(s).
About 8, we finally were hungry enough to want something for dinner so had bacon & eggs.
Jan 19th - Mon - Thonotosassa
Not sure what happened but Marg told me last night that my blog was not up to date. I checked this morning and sure enough, the 13th through 15th was finished in my word document but not posted. I even had 2 more days in the word document so I posted them all before we left at 8 for the big Monday-only flea market in Webster. Today is Martin Luther King day, a federal holiday, and the Webster market has way more vendors than usual so we had to check it out. Started out cool but we carried our jackets most of the day.
We bought a couple of small things and took some pictures for Dad. All of us met up for lunch and finally left about 1:45 - the wind was really kicking up dust and we were all tired of walking. It took us ½ hour to reach the turnoff to Hwy 301, maybe 4 miles - bumper to bumper cars leaving the flea market. About 4 we put on jackets for an outside happy hour.
Jan 20th - Tues - Thonotosassa
We were having Billy & Lauri, Gary & Carie and Paul & Vicki over for a baby back rib dinner for Terry’s birthday today so we had to go to Costco this morning for the ribs. Billy & Lauri came with us and we also made a stop at Super WalMart. Had some lunch and figured out how to seat 8 for dinner as it is just too cold to be outside. It poured rain last night and was very windy. Today is cold and windy.
Everything worked out great for dinner - everyone contributed to the food and we all had a good time. We brought in our new rectangular folding table and sat 2 on one side on the couch and 2 on the footstool ends of the coffee table on the other side - perfect.
We had dinner early as we had expected to eat outside and wanted to eat while the sun was out. So everyone was gone by 7:30 and Terry climbed into our nice electric-mattress-pad-warmed bed shortly after!
Chores this morning. Terry scraped, sanded and spray painted the 5th wheel hitch as there was quite a bit of rust on it. I helped with masking tape and advice! After a sandwich for lunch, we headed to the Super WalMart to buy a couple of digital conversion boxes for our TVs. We received our forwarded mail yesterday and got our $40 coupons from government so figured we better get them sooner than later. On the way back we drove by to see Paul & Vicki but they weren’t home. Just then Carie called to see where we were and if we wanted to show them the strawberry shortcake place. She twisted our arms so we returned to the park, dropped off our purchases and went for shortcake which was just as good as the last time(s).
About 8, we finally were hungry enough to want something for dinner so had bacon & eggs.
Jan 19th - Mon - Thonotosassa
Not sure what happened but Marg told me last night that my blog was not up to date. I checked this morning and sure enough, the 13th through 15th was finished in my word document but not posted. I even had 2 more days in the word document so I posted them all before we left at 8 for the big Monday-only flea market in Webster. Today is Martin Luther King day, a federal holiday, and the Webster market has way more vendors than usual so we had to check it out. Started out cool but we carried our jackets most of the day.
We bought a couple of small things and took some pictures for Dad. All of us met up for lunch and finally left about 1:45 - the wind was really kicking up dust and we were all tired of walking. It took us ½ hour to reach the turnoff to Hwy 301, maybe 4 miles - bumper to bumper cars leaving the flea market. About 4 we put on jackets for an outside happy hour.
Jan 20th - Tues - Thonotosassa
We were having Billy & Lauri, Gary & Carie and Paul & Vicki over for a baby back rib dinner for Terry’s birthday today so we had to go to Costco this morning for the ribs. Billy & Lauri came with us and we also made a stop at Super WalMart. Had some lunch and figured out how to seat 8 for dinner as it is just too cold to be outside. It poured rain last night and was very windy. Today is cold and windy.
Everything worked out great for dinner - everyone contributed to the food and we all had a good time. We brought in our new rectangular folding table and sat 2 on one side on the couch and 2 on the footstool ends of the coffee table on the other side - perfect.
We had dinner early as we had expected to eat outside and wanted to eat while the sun was out. So everyone was gone by 7:30 and Terry climbed into our nice electric-mattress-pad-warmed bed shortly after!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Jan 13th to 17th - Thonotosassa
Jan 13th - Tues - Thonotosassa
Gary & Carie joined Billy, Lauri and me for water exercise class this morning. After lunch, Terry & I went to Plant City just south of here looking for a hardware store and a place that we have been told about that makes good strawberry shortcake. We found the hardware store but not the strawberry shortcake. We also stopped at Big Lots to get a new lamp for between our recliners.
I decided I had to pull out all the stops to try to get rid of Dolly’s fleas so I bathed her in flea shampoo, used a leave-on flea dip and then we set off a “bug bomb” in the rig to kill fleas in the carpet and furniture. While we were unable to go back into the rig, we did laundry and Carie invited us to their place between washing & drying. Then she invited us to join them for dinner - how nice! After Terry opened windows and door to air the rig out, I took the laundry and Dolly in from the truck and cleaned the floor & countertops. Then we went with Gary & Carie to soak in the hot tub and have a swim.
Jan 14th - Wed - Thonotosassa
The huge Tampa RV show started today at the fairgrounds. Terry has been like a kid before Christmas waiting to go so we made plans to meet Frank & Marion (from Newfoundland, met in Davenport) at 9 at the front entrance. They arrived just before Carie & Gary called to see where we were and they joined us as well. We knew we would not be able to stay together so we made plans to meet for lunch and went our separate ways. It is indeed a very large show - the ads said 350 vendor booths and 1200 2009 RVs. So we were amazed that we saw Paul & Vicki (now in Zephyrhills) and Doug & Louise (spent New Years with them) twice while we were wandering around. There was an interesting motor home where the side folded out to make a deck accessible from the inside. A row of windows folded out as well and then up to form the deck railing.
We finally left about 4:30 and did not see everything. We think we looked at most of the 5th wheels but there may be more hiding in the buildings. I did not see one 5th wheel that I prefer to ours so we better take really good care of ours as we may have it quite a while longer. When you purchase a ticket, you receive another one for a future day so we will be going back tomorrow to finish checking everything out.
We sat out for a quick drink with Gary & Carie and Billy & Lauri. It started out quite cool this morning and cooled down quickly after the sun went down so we all headed inside. Terry went to the hot tub with Carie & Gary but I was tired & lazy so didn‘t go.
Jan 15th - Thurs - Thonotosassa
It was 41 degrees when we left for the RV show just before 9. Yesterday was senior day and there were way more people there early than there were today. Repeat of yesterday except that we finally saw a 5th wheel that caught our eyes - a Montana. Very similar layout to ours but with a peninsula kitchen, a large fridge, flat screen TV and a nice closet by the door that is plumbed for a washer/dryer but set up as a broom/coat closet - all features that we would love. If the recession hadn’t decimated some of our savings we would be negotiating with the salesman!
There was a great sand sculpture at the show. It was a map of the US, made on a slant for viewing, with items on it that were representative of some states or areas - for example, the Space Needle in Seattle, Liberty Bell, Capital Building, St Louis arch, hula dancer in Hawaii, an ear of corn and a sign pointing to Tampa for the 2009 RV show. Very clever and well done.
We left the show earlier today and went to Plant City to return an item to Big Lots (not the lamp) and to find the place selling strawberry shortcake. And wonderful shortcake it turned out to be!!
About 5 Carie invited us all over for happy hour (inside as it was too cool to sit out) that turned into 2 ½ happy hours with lots of laughs. Both Terry & I declined to go out in the cold to join Carie in the hot tub.
Jan 16th - Fri - Thonotosassa
Posted the blog and worked on emails before joining Billy & Lauri on a drive to Plant City & Lakeland. There is going to be a Hawaiian theme dance tomorrow at the park so Billy & Lauri needed some shirts, much to conservative Billy’s disapproval. They found something for each of them at Bealls Outlet and then we had to introduce them to the great strawberry shortcakes. Lauri and I opted for the Strawberry Boat which is strawberries over ice cream with whipped topping - YUM!! Also picked up huge avocados for 80 cents each and a bag of fresh picked navel oranges for $1.39. The oranges are very sweet.
We continued on to check out Lakeland and find the location for a gun show that Billy will be going to tomorrow. Terry & I walked over to exchange some books before joining the rest of the group at Billy & Lauri’s for happy hour.
Cool again all day today - 51 inside this morning and 42 outside.
Jan 17th - Sat - Thonotosassa
I caught up on some computer stuff and other chores this morning while it was still too cool to enjoy outdoors. We made a quick trip to the nearby Big Top flea market with Gary & Carie trying to find a bicycle for Carie and made a grocery stop on the way back.
Happy hour at our place before dinner and then we all attended a dance from 8:00 to 11:00 at the RV park. Music was provided by a couple with a wide range of styles including Hawaiian to match the theme of the dance. $10 for tickets, BYOB and snacks for an inexpensive evening. Terry & I danced a lot - including most of a polka and the twist.
Gary & Carie joined Billy, Lauri and me for water exercise class this morning. After lunch, Terry & I went to Plant City just south of here looking for a hardware store and a place that we have been told about that makes good strawberry shortcake. We found the hardware store but not the strawberry shortcake. We also stopped at Big Lots to get a new lamp for between our recliners.
I decided I had to pull out all the stops to try to get rid of Dolly’s fleas so I bathed her in flea shampoo, used a leave-on flea dip and then we set off a “bug bomb” in the rig to kill fleas in the carpet and furniture. While we were unable to go back into the rig, we did laundry and Carie invited us to their place between washing & drying. Then she invited us to join them for dinner - how nice! After Terry opened windows and door to air the rig out, I took the laundry and Dolly in from the truck and cleaned the floor & countertops. Then we went with Gary & Carie to soak in the hot tub and have a swim.
Jan 14th - Wed - Thonotosassa
The huge Tampa RV show started today at the fairgrounds. Terry has been like a kid before Christmas waiting to go so we made plans to meet Frank & Marion (from Newfoundland, met in Davenport) at 9 at the front entrance. They arrived just before Carie & Gary called to see where we were and they joined us as well. We knew we would not be able to stay together so we made plans to meet for lunch and went our separate ways. It is indeed a very large show - the ads said 350 vendor booths and 1200 2009 RVs. So we were amazed that we saw Paul & Vicki (now in Zephyrhills) and Doug & Louise (spent New Years with them) twice while we were wandering around. There was an interesting motor home where the side folded out to make a deck accessible from the inside. A row of windows folded out as well and then up to form the deck railing.
We finally left about 4:30 and did not see everything. We think we looked at most of the 5th wheels but there may be more hiding in the buildings. I did not see one 5th wheel that I prefer to ours so we better take really good care of ours as we may have it quite a while longer. When you purchase a ticket, you receive another one for a future day so we will be going back tomorrow to finish checking everything out.
We sat out for a quick drink with Gary & Carie and Billy & Lauri. It started out quite cool this morning and cooled down quickly after the sun went down so we all headed inside. Terry went to the hot tub with Carie & Gary but I was tired & lazy so didn‘t go.
Jan 15th - Thurs - Thonotosassa
It was 41 degrees when we left for the RV show just before 9. Yesterday was senior day and there were way more people there early than there were today. Repeat of yesterday except that we finally saw a 5th wheel that caught our eyes - a Montana. Very similar layout to ours but with a peninsula kitchen, a large fridge, flat screen TV and a nice closet by the door that is plumbed for a washer/dryer but set up as a broom/coat closet - all features that we would love. If the recession hadn’t decimated some of our savings we would be negotiating with the salesman!
There was a great sand sculpture at the show. It was a map of the US, made on a slant for viewing, with items on it that were representative of some states or areas - for example, the Space Needle in Seattle, Liberty Bell, Capital Building, St Louis arch, hula dancer in Hawaii, an ear of corn and a sign pointing to Tampa for the 2009 RV show. Very clever and well done.
We left the show earlier today and went to Plant City to return an item to Big Lots (not the lamp) and to find the place selling strawberry shortcake. And wonderful shortcake it turned out to be!!
About 5 Carie invited us all over for happy hour (inside as it was too cool to sit out) that turned into 2 ½ happy hours with lots of laughs. Both Terry & I declined to go out in the cold to join Carie in the hot tub.
Jan 16th - Fri - Thonotosassa
Posted the blog and worked on emails before joining Billy & Lauri on a drive to Plant City & Lakeland. There is going to be a Hawaiian theme dance tomorrow at the park so Billy & Lauri needed some shirts, much to conservative Billy’s disapproval. They found something for each of them at Bealls Outlet and then we had to introduce them to the great strawberry shortcakes. Lauri and I opted for the Strawberry Boat which is strawberries over ice cream with whipped topping - YUM!! Also picked up huge avocados for 80 cents each and a bag of fresh picked navel oranges for $1.39. The oranges are very sweet.
We continued on to check out Lakeland and find the location for a gun show that Billy will be going to tomorrow. Terry & I walked over to exchange some books before joining the rest of the group at Billy & Lauri’s for happy hour.
Cool again all day today - 51 inside this morning and 42 outside.
Jan 17th - Sat - Thonotosassa
I caught up on some computer stuff and other chores this morning while it was still too cool to enjoy outdoors. We made a quick trip to the nearby Big Top flea market with Gary & Carie trying to find a bicycle for Carie and made a grocery stop on the way back.
Happy hour at our place before dinner and then we all attended a dance from 8:00 to 11:00 at the RV park. Music was provided by a couple with a wide range of styles including Hawaiian to match the theme of the dance. $10 for tickets, BYOB and snacks for an inexpensive evening. Terry & I danced a lot - including most of a polka and the twist.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Jan 9th to 12th - Thonotosassa FL
Jan 9th - Fri - Thonotosassa
After water exercises and lunch, we all went to Zephyrhills in search of a bathing suit for me. I haven’t wanted to swim in the afternoon or evening as my suit will still be wet which is no fun to put on in the morning. Checked out a few stores and finally found one at Bealls Outlet at a reasonable price.
When we got back, it was time for a drink and some more cards before dinner.
Jan 10th - Sat - Thonotosassa
The weather is forecast to get cooler next week so Billy & lauri thought it would be a good day to check out the beaches. We packed lunches and took off about 10. It is quite a long drive (an hour?) to the coast and then you can drive along a coastal highway with access to multiple beaches. We checked out St. Pete’s beach which was lovely with very fine sand. It was early so we decided to continue driving north. We stopped at Sand Key beach, fed the parking meter for 2 hours and discovered that the beach was not as pretty and clean as St. Pete’s beach. We had lunch, gathered a few shells, caught some rays, headed back to the car and continued driving north to Clearwater Beach. Good thing we did not go there initially as the parking lots were full as were the meters on the streets. So we turned back east and took a slightly different route back to the RV park.
A few games of 31 again before dinner.
Jan 11th - Sun - Thonotosassa
We got tired watching Billy washing the black streaks off his rig so we headed to Zephyrhills looking for a couple of flea markets that we had found on the internet. It appears as it the internet information is not updated regularly as neither one is still in operation. Vicki called just before 12 while we were still in Zephyrhills so we went to see them at their RV park. It was a lovely day so after chatting a bit we went to watch skydivers a few miles away at one of the most popular skydiving locations in the US. We watched from 21 to 29 people load into a plane, waited while it gained altitude and then watched them come down and land. It was a fun thing to do on a sunny day.
From there Paul & Vicki went with us to a Super WalMart for some groceries. We dropped them off and headed home. Gary& Carie were due in today but weren’t here when we returned so we took a bike ride around the park to see if they were in a different site. Nope - they showed up as we were riding so we confused the heck out of Gary trying to help him squeeze between the concrete pad and the sewer connection and still get far enough back to reach the electric connection. While they were setting up we cooked dinner (a wonderful steak!) early as we hadn’t had lunch. Gary & Carie joined us for a drink and when they went to fix dinner we went to discuss tomorrow’s plans with Billy& Lauri.
Later, we and Gary & Carie enjoyed the hot tub and the pool.
Jan 12th - Mon - Thonotosassa
We all skipped exercise class today so we could leave at 9 to go to a flea market in Webster, about an hour north of here. Billy & Lauri rode with us and Gary & Carie followed. No one can fit 6 people.
I have to revise a previous comment in this blog - this is probably the largest market that we have attended. One side is mostly used/antique/collectible items and the other is a lot of new items with most of the stalls under cover. We were there for 4 hours with a short lunch break and were not able to see the whole thing even though we did not linger long at any one spot.
On the way back, we stopped at a state park to check out a spot to launch kayaks in the Hillsborough River.
Terry & I went for a bike ride around the park while the others were starting dinner. Then we all got together for a drink and more 31 before going our separate ways for dinner. Another visit by us and Gary& Carie to the hot tub & pool to end a very nice day.
After water exercises and lunch, we all went to Zephyrhills in search of a bathing suit for me. I haven’t wanted to swim in the afternoon or evening as my suit will still be wet which is no fun to put on in the morning. Checked out a few stores and finally found one at Bealls Outlet at a reasonable price.
When we got back, it was time for a drink and some more cards before dinner.
Jan 10th - Sat - Thonotosassa
The weather is forecast to get cooler next week so Billy & lauri thought it would be a good day to check out the beaches. We packed lunches and took off about 10. It is quite a long drive (an hour?) to the coast and then you can drive along a coastal highway with access to multiple beaches. We checked out St. Pete’s beach which was lovely with very fine sand. It was early so we decided to continue driving north. We stopped at Sand Key beach, fed the parking meter for 2 hours and discovered that the beach was not as pretty and clean as St. Pete’s beach. We had lunch, gathered a few shells, caught some rays, headed back to the car and continued driving north to Clearwater Beach. Good thing we did not go there initially as the parking lots were full as were the meters on the streets. So we turned back east and took a slightly different route back to the RV park.
A few games of 31 again before dinner.
Jan 11th - Sun - Thonotosassa
We got tired watching Billy washing the black streaks off his rig so we headed to Zephyrhills looking for a couple of flea markets that we had found on the internet. It appears as it the internet information is not updated regularly as neither one is still in operation. Vicki called just before 12 while we were still in Zephyrhills so we went to see them at their RV park. It was a lovely day so after chatting a bit we went to watch skydivers a few miles away at one of the most popular skydiving locations in the US. We watched from 21 to 29 people load into a plane, waited while it gained altitude and then watched them come down and land. It was a fun thing to do on a sunny day.
From there Paul & Vicki went with us to a Super WalMart for some groceries. We dropped them off and headed home. Gary& Carie were due in today but weren’t here when we returned so we took a bike ride around the park to see if they were in a different site. Nope - they showed up as we were riding so we confused the heck out of Gary trying to help him squeeze between the concrete pad and the sewer connection and still get far enough back to reach the electric connection. While they were setting up we cooked dinner (a wonderful steak!) early as we hadn’t had lunch. Gary & Carie joined us for a drink and when they went to fix dinner we went to discuss tomorrow’s plans with Billy& Lauri.
Later, we and Gary & Carie enjoyed the hot tub and the pool.
Jan 12th - Mon - Thonotosassa
We all skipped exercise class today so we could leave at 9 to go to a flea market in Webster, about an hour north of here. Billy & Lauri rode with us and Gary & Carie followed. No one can fit 6 people.
I have to revise a previous comment in this blog - this is probably the largest market that we have attended. One side is mostly used/antique/collectible items and the other is a lot of new items with most of the stalls under cover. We were there for 4 hours with a short lunch break and were not able to see the whole thing even though we did not linger long at any one spot.
On the way back, we stopped at a state park to check out a spot to launch kayaks in the Hillsborough River.
Terry & I went for a bike ride around the park while the others were starting dinner. Then we all got together for a drink and more 31 before going our separate ways for dinner. Another visit by us and Gary& Carie to the hot tub & pool to end a very nice day.
Friday, January 09, 2009
Jan 6th to 8th - Thonotosassa
Jan 6th - Tues - Thonotosassa
Terry went for a walk and a bike ride around the park while I was in the water exercise class. Then lunch and a bike ride around a park across the road and down the road a ways to see what was there - nothing much!
Our down comforter badly needed washing so we went to a laundromat next to WalMart for a large washer and dryer. Picked up a couple of items at WalMart while we waited and then a quick stop at the nearby Publix (grocery store) for some shish kabob ingredients for the barbeque.
I also had to wash sheets but didn’t take them to the laundromat as I thought it would be more expensive than the park laundry which is $1.00 per load. I was wrong (same price) and we still had to go to the park laundry when we got back. Terry fell in the pool while I passed the time with a book.
Billy & Lauri were outside playing cards when we passed by and invited us to join them. So we learned how to play 31 (often played in RV parks) which was fun. After dinner, Terry talked to Don (step-Dad) to see how they were coping with all the snow. Spokane has had 77 inches of snow this season but it was raining today so some was disappearing.
Jan 7th - Wed - Thonotosassa
The water exercise class completed just before a rain storm hit today. Florida needs rain desperately so it was a good thing. It didn’t last very long which meant I didn’t get through organizing and putting captions on my pictures - but I did get a start on it!
Later in the afternoon Billy & Lauri went with us to find Costco and a Super WalMart in Brandon which is just south of here. Easy access off a freeway which is great for these two important stores.
After we all put purchases away, we played 31 again and swapped quarters around to end up with each couple back to even. Into the rig for dinner and to close up all windows against the cooler weather.
Jan 8th - Thurs - Thonotosassa
Still cool enough to keep some people from the pool exercises - but not us hardy north-westerners. We finally got out the ladder to clean windows today. Outside is easy with Terry moving the ladder and me washing the windows. I bought some cloths for window washing at a flea market. You use only water and they work great. They are also absolutely wonderful to clean my black stove top with no streaks. Cleaning the windows inside is another story as screens have to be removed and cleaned and the tracks have to be washed. Good thing no one else was around as I would have been embarrassed by how dirty some tracks were.
Billy & Lauri and we went to play bingo this evening. They play with hard cards & markers rather than flimsies & daubers. It is a whole new experience - in fact I missed a bingo on the first early game as I couldn’t keep up with 9 cards! So Terry & I both went down to 6 cards and I won the third early game. Bingo is much less expensive here than at the last park but we are not loving playing with markers. Luckily the early games paid more than the regular games so we actually came out a few dollars ahead.
Terry went for a walk and a bike ride around the park while I was in the water exercise class. Then lunch and a bike ride around a park across the road and down the road a ways to see what was there - nothing much!
Our down comforter badly needed washing so we went to a laundromat next to WalMart for a large washer and dryer. Picked up a couple of items at WalMart while we waited and then a quick stop at the nearby Publix (grocery store) for some shish kabob ingredients for the barbeque.
I also had to wash sheets but didn’t take them to the laundromat as I thought it would be more expensive than the park laundry which is $1.00 per load. I was wrong (same price) and we still had to go to the park laundry when we got back. Terry fell in the pool while I passed the time with a book.
Billy & Lauri were outside playing cards when we passed by and invited us to join them. So we learned how to play 31 (often played in RV parks) which was fun. After dinner, Terry talked to Don (step-Dad) to see how they were coping with all the snow. Spokane has had 77 inches of snow this season but it was raining today so some was disappearing.
Jan 7th - Wed - Thonotosassa
The water exercise class completed just before a rain storm hit today. Florida needs rain desperately so it was a good thing. It didn’t last very long which meant I didn’t get through organizing and putting captions on my pictures - but I did get a start on it!
Later in the afternoon Billy & Lauri went with us to find Costco and a Super WalMart in Brandon which is just south of here. Easy access off a freeway which is great for these two important stores.
After we all put purchases away, we played 31 again and swapped quarters around to end up with each couple back to even. Into the rig for dinner and to close up all windows against the cooler weather.
Jan 8th - Thurs - Thonotosassa
Still cool enough to keep some people from the pool exercises - but not us hardy north-westerners. We finally got out the ladder to clean windows today. Outside is easy with Terry moving the ladder and me washing the windows. I bought some cloths for window washing at a flea market. You use only water and they work great. They are also absolutely wonderful to clean my black stove top with no streaks. Cleaning the windows inside is another story as screens have to be removed and cleaned and the tracks have to be washed. Good thing no one else was around as I would have been embarrassed by how dirty some tracks were.
Billy & Lauri and we went to play bingo this evening. They play with hard cards & markers rather than flimsies & daubers. It is a whole new experience - in fact I missed a bingo on the first early game as I couldn’t keep up with 9 cards! So Terry & I both went down to 6 cards and I won the third early game. Bingo is much less expensive here than at the last park but we are not loving playing with markers. Luckily the early games paid more than the regular games so we actually came out a few dollars ahead.
Monday, January 05, 2009
Jan 2nd to 5th - Thonotosassa FL
Jan 2nd - Fri - Thonotosassa
I joined the aquatic exercise class this morning and really enjoyed it. It is held weekday mornings at 10 (weather permitting) and I hope to participate each morning that we do not have any other plans. Billy & Lauri also go but when I suggested that Terry come along to keep Billy company, he thought maybe he could walk over and sit in the hot tub.
About noon we joined Billy & Lauri for some more exploring. We went to Tampa, found a parking spot on the street and went to a mall right on the water. Unfortunately, it was a secured area so we had to look out through a fence. The mall was quite interesting with mostly bars & restaurants and a large, multi-screen theater. We were fascinated by a bar that had a row of about 20 rotating drums with “slushy” iced drinks. This was a bar so they were alcoholic slushies. We were taking pictures when the bartender asked if we wanted a sample. She put banana something and strawberry something side by side in a little tasting cup for me - very cold and very good. Lauri had a couple samples with coffee something and chocolate something mixed in one. Prices were $7, $8 and $9 for about 6 oz and up and you could drink while wandering around the area. We passed since it was a little early for happy hour.
Lauri’s back was bothering her with the walking so we headed for the Hard Rock Casino. Billy & Lauri received $20 credit each when they got a players’ club card but were not able to turn it into take home cash. I managed to break even with one lucky machine and Terry spent his allowance. We had a late lunch/early dinner in the small food court in the casino and headed home. On the way we checked out a large flea market near the RV park - only open Sat & Sun - we will be back.
Fairly cool with the sun down so we went our own way for the evening rather than sitting out. Our rig is aligned east/west with the door facing north so our “sitting out” side is in shade all the time. We also have trees on the south side. Great when it is hot. Billy & Lauri are beside us on the north and the sites are large so we can move chairs out close to them in the afternoon.
Jan 3rd - Sat - Thonotosassa
We drove today for a trip to the large Oldsmar flea market which is about a ½ hour drive away. It has an aisle down the center and 10 or 11 covered aisles branching off both sides. All of the flea markets here include lots of fresh produce at good prices. We spent quite a bit of time looking at some smaller chairs to replace our recliners that are not comfortable for Terry. Stopped at a shopping center on the way back to pick up a prescription for Billy and grab a couple of grocery items.
Carie & Gary were here when we returned. They are just staying one night. We were sitting out with a buddy burner when a helicopter started flying repeatedly over our area. We found out from the office that there was an escaped convict and they were looking for him. Then a park employee came by in his golf cart and stopped to check out our “fire”. Someone in the sheriff’s helicopter had contacted them to say there was an illegal open fire in the park! Once he looked at it, he did not make us put it out. We did lock the doors when we went to bed.
After dinner, Gary & Carie joined us for a swim. The hot tub was not hot and the water was cloudy so the pool was more appealing.
Jan 4th - Sun - Thonotosassa
Gary & Carie did not unhook since they were leaving today so at 9 we took them with us to a nearby flea market. Again, it is a large market. Not all stalls were open and some were empty but there was plenty to see. We returned about 11:30, made lunches and ate together and then Gary & Carie left.
I phoned Marg (sister) to wish her a Happy Birthday and had a nice long chat. We didn’t have time to go through the whole flea market in the morning so Terry & I returned for a short time. Didn’t have as much to finish as we thought. Next a stop at Camping World to try to find a cover for the TV input on the outside of the 5th wheel - no luck.
Back to the rig to putter & relax. Billy & Lauri were gone all day so we chatted with them briefly when they returned and then it was time for dinner.
Jan 5th - Mon - Thonotosassa
Water exercise class started a little late today due to a park resident meeting so I got to chat with another camper for a bit. Someone turned the pool temperature up last night so it was way too warm, especially for exercising. While I was gone, Terry cleaned the truck. I made a nice breakfast/lunch and we went for a bicycle ride around all the roads in the park. Then we gathered up dirty clothes and headed to the laundry which is right beside the pool. Very sunny & warm so it was nice to swim and take in some sun while waiting for the washing. After we returned and I put away the clothes and got out of my swim suit, Terry asked if I wanted to go for a bike ride! I said I really just wanted to sit and read - I had done enough for the day. So we lazed around until it was time to barbeque hamburgers for dinner.
Lauri had a sore neck and jaw today which she thought was possibly due to an infected tooth. So after Billy went to the water exercise class he took her to a dentist. All OK with her teeth so they went to a doctor. They spent from 11:30 to 6 waiting for the dentist, doctor and getting a prescription to treat the inflammation in a gland in her neck.
I joined the aquatic exercise class this morning and really enjoyed it. It is held weekday mornings at 10 (weather permitting) and I hope to participate each morning that we do not have any other plans. Billy & Lauri also go but when I suggested that Terry come along to keep Billy company, he thought maybe he could walk over and sit in the hot tub.
About noon we joined Billy & Lauri for some more exploring. We went to Tampa, found a parking spot on the street and went to a mall right on the water. Unfortunately, it was a secured area so we had to look out through a fence. The mall was quite interesting with mostly bars & restaurants and a large, multi-screen theater. We were fascinated by a bar that had a row of about 20 rotating drums with “slushy” iced drinks. This was a bar so they were alcoholic slushies. We were taking pictures when the bartender asked if we wanted a sample. She put banana something and strawberry something side by side in a little tasting cup for me - very cold and very good. Lauri had a couple samples with coffee something and chocolate something mixed in one. Prices were $7, $8 and $9 for about 6 oz and up and you could drink while wandering around the area. We passed since it was a little early for happy hour.
Lauri’s back was bothering her with the walking so we headed for the Hard Rock Casino. Billy & Lauri received $20 credit each when they got a players’ club card but were not able to turn it into take home cash. I managed to break even with one lucky machine and Terry spent his allowance. We had a late lunch/early dinner in the small food court in the casino and headed home. On the way we checked out a large flea market near the RV park - only open Sat & Sun - we will be back.
Fairly cool with the sun down so we went our own way for the evening rather than sitting out. Our rig is aligned east/west with the door facing north so our “sitting out” side is in shade all the time. We also have trees on the south side. Great when it is hot. Billy & Lauri are beside us on the north and the sites are large so we can move chairs out close to them in the afternoon.
Jan 3rd - Sat - Thonotosassa
We drove today for a trip to the large Oldsmar flea market which is about a ½ hour drive away. It has an aisle down the center and 10 or 11 covered aisles branching off both sides. All of the flea markets here include lots of fresh produce at good prices. We spent quite a bit of time looking at some smaller chairs to replace our recliners that are not comfortable for Terry. Stopped at a shopping center on the way back to pick up a prescription for Billy and grab a couple of grocery items.
Carie & Gary were here when we returned. They are just staying one night. We were sitting out with a buddy burner when a helicopter started flying repeatedly over our area. We found out from the office that there was an escaped convict and they were looking for him. Then a park employee came by in his golf cart and stopped to check out our “fire”. Someone in the sheriff’s helicopter had contacted them to say there was an illegal open fire in the park! Once he looked at it, he did not make us put it out. We did lock the doors when we went to bed.
After dinner, Gary & Carie joined us for a swim. The hot tub was not hot and the water was cloudy so the pool was more appealing.
Jan 4th - Sun - Thonotosassa
Gary & Carie did not unhook since they were leaving today so at 9 we took them with us to a nearby flea market. Again, it is a large market. Not all stalls were open and some were empty but there was plenty to see. We returned about 11:30, made lunches and ate together and then Gary & Carie left.
I phoned Marg (sister) to wish her a Happy Birthday and had a nice long chat. We didn’t have time to go through the whole flea market in the morning so Terry & I returned for a short time. Didn’t have as much to finish as we thought. Next a stop at Camping World to try to find a cover for the TV input on the outside of the 5th wheel - no luck.
Back to the rig to putter & relax. Billy & Lauri were gone all day so we chatted with them briefly when they returned and then it was time for dinner.
Jan 5th - Mon - Thonotosassa
Water exercise class started a little late today due to a park resident meeting so I got to chat with another camper for a bit. Someone turned the pool temperature up last night so it was way too warm, especially for exercising. While I was gone, Terry cleaned the truck. I made a nice breakfast/lunch and we went for a bicycle ride around all the roads in the park. Then we gathered up dirty clothes and headed to the laundry which is right beside the pool. Very sunny & warm so it was nice to swim and take in some sun while waiting for the washing. After we returned and I put away the clothes and got out of my swim suit, Terry asked if I wanted to go for a bike ride! I said I really just wanted to sit and read - I had done enough for the day. So we lazed around until it was time to barbeque hamburgers for dinner.
Lauri had a sore neck and jaw today which she thought was possibly due to an infected tooth. So after Billy went to the water exercise class he took her to a dentist. All OK with her teeth so they went to a doctor. They spent from 11:30 to 6 waiting for the dentist, doctor and getting a prescription to treat the inflammation in a gland in her neck.
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Dec 25th to Jan 1st - Florida
Dec 25th - Thurs - MERRY CHRISTMAS
Another sunny, hot day - not Christmas at all!
In between phone calls this morning, I updated the blog and put a sweet potato casserole together for later.
We attended the Christmas dinner at the park at 3:00. The park provided turkey, mashed potatoes, dressing and gravy. The hostess of each 16 person table organized everyone to bring all the rest - appetizers, salad, baked corn, sweet potatoes, the mandatory green bean casserole and desserts. They also beautifully and differently decorated their table and provided a small gift for each person. At out table, we each received a small glass ornament - quite delicate so not sure what we will do with ours. We did not know anyone at our table but sat across from a friendly couple from Pennsylvania so had someone to chat with during dinner.
Our neighbors Paul & Lorraine (and Lorraine’s sister Bev) were sitting out when we returned. I gave them the leftover sweet potatoes for their dinner and we joined them for a drink while they ate. We pulled out a buddy burner and ended up visiting until nearly 9.
Dec 26th - Fri - Naples
Terry decided to wash the truck today and discovered that the new ends that he put on our 50 foot hose were not very good - they just blew off when he attached the nozzle. So out on a shopping expedition. When Terry & I both got shoes a few days ago, we received a $10 certificate to be used on 12/26 thru 12/28 so I had to stop in at Bealls for a pair of sandals as a couple of pairs of OLD, CHEAP slips ons bit the dust. When we returned, Terry washed the truck with our new hose.
We went for a bike ride in the late afternoon and stopped to see the couple (George & Vicki) that we met at the Christmas dinner. They had an incredible amount of shells that they collected on nearby beaches during the 2 months that they have been here - including sand dollars, starfish, sea urchins and a sea horse. We were not impressed with the shells that we saw on the beaches but found out that you have to go early in the morning (6:30 - 7!!!) before the shells are picked over. Vicki makes “crafty” items with the shells but was looking for more ideas to use the amount of shells that they had picked up this time.
Dec 27th - Sat - Naples
We picked up Gary & Carie for a trip to Costco today - they don’t have a Costco card so we said we would take them with us. We had to stock up on the thin buns that we have not been able to find in the US and that Billy & Lori found for us in Costco. Of course we had to have a hot dog there for lunch. We dropped off perishable items at Gary & Carie’s rig and went on to a large shopping center where Carie & I looked for some shoes for her while the guys enjoyed a beer. Then we had to stop for ice cream as Gary & Carie said it was really good - and it was.
When we went to pick up Gary & Carie, we saw a familiar motor home in their park. Paul & Vicki that we stayed with in Ft. Lauderdale had returned from the keys and had just arrived in Ft Meyers. They weren’t home so I left a note on their door. While we were still out the Gary & Carie, Vicki called to say that they were near our RV park and wanted to come see us. They had not returned to their rig yet to see my note so where amazed when I told them about it. After returning Gary & Carie to their place, we stopped for a chat with Paul & Vicki. It is so incredible how we keep meeting up with people.
We had to hustle home and grab a bite to eat as George & Vicki were going to drop by to see our rig and discuss truck tow ratings. Ray (next door) had consumed a large amount of wine with some friends and joined us to provide a lot of laughs with his witty, honest comments.
Dec 28th - Sun - Naples
We met Billy & Lori at 10 this morning to go on a canoe trip. We rented 2 person canoes and put them into the Estero River right from a dock at the rental place. The river is tidal and had very little current while we were on it but there was a slight breeze behind us as we headed out so we kept that in mind when deciding how far to go. You can go about 4 miles to the Gulf of Mexico but we turned around after about 1 ½ hours and found a place to beach the canoes and have lunch. A steady paddle back and we made it in our allotted 3 hour time frame. There was not a lot of wildlife but it was very pretty with trees hanging over the water.
We decided to make laundry more enjoyable by using the laundry room right by the pool and swimming while the machines were running. Works quite well.
Dec 29th - Mon - Naples
Busy day today. We are allowed to wash vehicles in this park so planned to clean up the 5th wheel today. Scrubbed both sides of the awning, the roof section that wraps down the side, wheels and of course the entire body. Also wiped it down to prevent water spots. It was sunny and hot so the occasional over spray of water felt great. We were just about done at about 11:30 when Carie called to see if we wanted to join them at Bonita Beach. A swim sounded wonderful so we said we would finish up, pick up a sandwich for lunch and call them when we got to the beach so we could find them. Before we could even get our suits on and leave, Carie called back to say that there were no parking spots available so, Plan B, they were going to Barefoot Beach. Just as we were parking at Subway, she called again to say the parking & distance to the beach was even worse so, Plan C, how about meeting us back at our park and driving together to Delnor-Wiggins State Park and only paying one entrance fee. By the short time later that we were both at the park, we had each decided the Plan D sounded better - eat our lunch and then go to the park pool! There were few people in the pool when we got there, the water temperature was perfect, the sun was hot when you got out and we had a great couple of hours.
Paul & Vicki had invited us for dinner so Terry & I had quick showers and were walking out the door when Colin & Linda from down the street showed up. Linda had been reading an entry in our blog about our barbeque light and they wondered what it was and where we got it. Terry showed it to them and told them if they wanted one we could pick one up as the store is just past the park where Paul & Vicki are staying. It is about 16 miles away and they are leaving on Wed so we figured they probably wouldn’t want to drive there just for the light. So, a quick stop to buy the light before collapsing on Paul & Vicki’s patio.
Nice dinner and nice company. We left quite early as we were both fading fast.
Dec 30th - Tues - to Sarasota FL
Finished packing up this morning, went to deliver the light to Colin & Linda and chatted with them a bit before saying goodbye to Ray & Claire and heading north. Just a short 2 hour drive to Sun N Fun RV park just east of Sarasota where we are staying for 2 nights. Set up, had lunch and hopped on the bikes to find Doug & Louise who we met in Shediac, New Brunswick. We hoped to meet up somewhere and have been keeping in touch by email. Finally worked out to get together if only for a short time.
We sat and chatted with them over a few cocktails and were joined by their friends Ed & Diane. Louise started bringing out snacks and then made tacos for all of us for dinner. How nice!!
This park has a restaurant and is having 2 sittings for New Years Eve dinner which Doug & Louise are attending. They tried to get us tickets for dinner and a dance to follow but their table was filled up, Doug & Louise went to Canada for Christmas and Diane didn’t know if we wanted to go so didn’t get tickets for us. Oh well, it was great visiting with them even if Terry rode right in front of me on his bike and caused me to run into him!
Dec 31st - Wed - Sarasota
Relaxed a bit this morning and then took a bike ride around the park. Put on 5 miles and didn’t even ride half of the roads. Then we went for a drive to see the area a bit - west to Sarasota, north along Hwy 41 near the coast and ending up at the Red Barn flea market. Shopped, had lunch and bought a couple of little items. On the drive back we stopped for diesel at $2.29. We needed propane to cook ribs tonight so Terry went in search of it since the park propane service closed at noon.
We joined Doug & Louise and 3 other couples for a drink before they went to the New Years’ dinner here at the park. We came back for our rib dinner and then went to the dance which was sold out but our new friends were given 2 extra wrist bands which got us in.
Had a great time dancing to a good band until 1 and then Doug & Louise and Ed & Diane came to our place for a nightcap that no one really needed. Can’t remember the last time that we went to bed at 2 am!
Jan 1st - Thurs - to Thonotosassa (Tampa) FL
I cannot believe that I let the blog get so far behind! I swore the last time that it happened that it would not happen again - who knew how busy we would be.
We left shortly after 10 for the hour drive to the Southern Aire RV park. Got all set up and were just finishing lunch when Billy & Lori showed up. We are both staying here for the month of January since the weather further north looks too cold. It is cooler and breezy today.
Terry & I went for a bike ride around the park which has about 400 spots with quite a few vacancies. Then I worked on the blog and Terry took a nap - all that dancing wore him out. Billy asked us to join them on a ride so we went exploring. Stopped at a grocery store and checked out a Bealls outlet next door where I found a pair of shorts. Back to the rig for dinner, blog & more napping.
Another sunny, hot day - not Christmas at all!
In between phone calls this morning, I updated the blog and put a sweet potato casserole together for later.
We attended the Christmas dinner at the park at 3:00. The park provided turkey, mashed potatoes, dressing and gravy. The hostess of each 16 person table organized everyone to bring all the rest - appetizers, salad, baked corn, sweet potatoes, the mandatory green bean casserole and desserts. They also beautifully and differently decorated their table and provided a small gift for each person. At out table, we each received a small glass ornament - quite delicate so not sure what we will do with ours. We did not know anyone at our table but sat across from a friendly couple from Pennsylvania so had someone to chat with during dinner.
Our neighbors Paul & Lorraine (and Lorraine’s sister Bev) were sitting out when we returned. I gave them the leftover sweet potatoes for their dinner and we joined them for a drink while they ate. We pulled out a buddy burner and ended up visiting until nearly 9.
Dec 26th - Fri - Naples
Terry decided to wash the truck today and discovered that the new ends that he put on our 50 foot hose were not very good - they just blew off when he attached the nozzle. So out on a shopping expedition. When Terry & I both got shoes a few days ago, we received a $10 certificate to be used on 12/26 thru 12/28 so I had to stop in at Bealls for a pair of sandals as a couple of pairs of OLD, CHEAP slips ons bit the dust. When we returned, Terry washed the truck with our new hose.
We went for a bike ride in the late afternoon and stopped to see the couple (George & Vicki) that we met at the Christmas dinner. They had an incredible amount of shells that they collected on nearby beaches during the 2 months that they have been here - including sand dollars, starfish, sea urchins and a sea horse. We were not impressed with the shells that we saw on the beaches but found out that you have to go early in the morning (6:30 - 7!!!) before the shells are picked over. Vicki makes “crafty” items with the shells but was looking for more ideas to use the amount of shells that they had picked up this time.
Dec 27th - Sat - Naples
We picked up Gary & Carie for a trip to Costco today - they don’t have a Costco card so we said we would take them with us. We had to stock up on the thin buns that we have not been able to find in the US and that Billy & Lori found for us in Costco. Of course we had to have a hot dog there for lunch. We dropped off perishable items at Gary & Carie’s rig and went on to a large shopping center where Carie & I looked for some shoes for her while the guys enjoyed a beer. Then we had to stop for ice cream as Gary & Carie said it was really good - and it was.
When we went to pick up Gary & Carie, we saw a familiar motor home in their park. Paul & Vicki that we stayed with in Ft. Lauderdale had returned from the keys and had just arrived in Ft Meyers. They weren’t home so I left a note on their door. While we were still out the Gary & Carie, Vicki called to say that they were near our RV park and wanted to come see us. They had not returned to their rig yet to see my note so where amazed when I told them about it. After returning Gary & Carie to their place, we stopped for a chat with Paul & Vicki. It is so incredible how we keep meeting up with people.
We had to hustle home and grab a bite to eat as George & Vicki were going to drop by to see our rig and discuss truck tow ratings. Ray (next door) had consumed a large amount of wine with some friends and joined us to provide a lot of laughs with his witty, honest comments.
Dec 28th - Sun - Naples
We met Billy & Lori at 10 this morning to go on a canoe trip. We rented 2 person canoes and put them into the Estero River right from a dock at the rental place. The river is tidal and had very little current while we were on it but there was a slight breeze behind us as we headed out so we kept that in mind when deciding how far to go. You can go about 4 miles to the Gulf of Mexico but we turned around after about 1 ½ hours and found a place to beach the canoes and have lunch. A steady paddle back and we made it in our allotted 3 hour time frame. There was not a lot of wildlife but it was very pretty with trees hanging over the water.
We decided to make laundry more enjoyable by using the laundry room right by the pool and swimming while the machines were running. Works quite well.
Dec 29th - Mon - Naples
Busy day today. We are allowed to wash vehicles in this park so planned to clean up the 5th wheel today. Scrubbed both sides of the awning, the roof section that wraps down the side, wheels and of course the entire body. Also wiped it down to prevent water spots. It was sunny and hot so the occasional over spray of water felt great. We were just about done at about 11:30 when Carie called to see if we wanted to join them at Bonita Beach. A swim sounded wonderful so we said we would finish up, pick up a sandwich for lunch and call them when we got to the beach so we could find them. Before we could even get our suits on and leave, Carie called back to say that there were no parking spots available so, Plan B, they were going to Barefoot Beach. Just as we were parking at Subway, she called again to say the parking & distance to the beach was even worse so, Plan C, how about meeting us back at our park and driving together to Delnor-Wiggins State Park and only paying one entrance fee. By the short time later that we were both at the park, we had each decided the Plan D sounded better - eat our lunch and then go to the park pool! There were few people in the pool when we got there, the water temperature was perfect, the sun was hot when you got out and we had a great couple of hours.
Paul & Vicki had invited us for dinner so Terry & I had quick showers and were walking out the door when Colin & Linda from down the street showed up. Linda had been reading an entry in our blog about our barbeque light and they wondered what it was and where we got it. Terry showed it to them and told them if they wanted one we could pick one up as the store is just past the park where Paul & Vicki are staying. It is about 16 miles away and they are leaving on Wed so we figured they probably wouldn’t want to drive there just for the light. So, a quick stop to buy the light before collapsing on Paul & Vicki’s patio.
Nice dinner and nice company. We left quite early as we were both fading fast.
Dec 30th - Tues - to Sarasota FL
Finished packing up this morning, went to deliver the light to Colin & Linda and chatted with them a bit before saying goodbye to Ray & Claire and heading north. Just a short 2 hour drive to Sun N Fun RV park just east of Sarasota where we are staying for 2 nights. Set up, had lunch and hopped on the bikes to find Doug & Louise who we met in Shediac, New Brunswick. We hoped to meet up somewhere and have been keeping in touch by email. Finally worked out to get together if only for a short time.
We sat and chatted with them over a few cocktails and were joined by their friends Ed & Diane. Louise started bringing out snacks and then made tacos for all of us for dinner. How nice!!
This park has a restaurant and is having 2 sittings for New Years Eve dinner which Doug & Louise are attending. They tried to get us tickets for dinner and a dance to follow but their table was filled up, Doug & Louise went to Canada for Christmas and Diane didn’t know if we wanted to go so didn’t get tickets for us. Oh well, it was great visiting with them even if Terry rode right in front of me on his bike and caused me to run into him!
Dec 31st - Wed - Sarasota
Relaxed a bit this morning and then took a bike ride around the park. Put on 5 miles and didn’t even ride half of the roads. Then we went for a drive to see the area a bit - west to Sarasota, north along Hwy 41 near the coast and ending up at the Red Barn flea market. Shopped, had lunch and bought a couple of little items. On the drive back we stopped for diesel at $2.29. We needed propane to cook ribs tonight so Terry went in search of it since the park propane service closed at noon.
We joined Doug & Louise and 3 other couples for a drink before they went to the New Years’ dinner here at the park. We came back for our rib dinner and then went to the dance which was sold out but our new friends were given 2 extra wrist bands which got us in.
Had a great time dancing to a good band until 1 and then Doug & Louise and Ed & Diane came to our place for a nightcap that no one really needed. Can’t remember the last time that we went to bed at 2 am!
Jan 1st - Thurs - to Thonotosassa (Tampa) FL
I cannot believe that I let the blog get so far behind! I swore the last time that it happened that it would not happen again - who knew how busy we would be.
We left shortly after 10 for the hour drive to the Southern Aire RV park. Got all set up and were just finishing lunch when Billy & Lori showed up. We are both staying here for the month of January since the weather further north looks too cold. It is cooler and breezy today.
Terry & I went for a bike ride around the park which has about 400 spots with quite a few vacancies. Then I worked on the blog and Terry took a nap - all that dancing wore him out. Billy asked us to join them on a ride so we went exploring. Stopped at a grocery store and checked out a Bealls outlet next door where I found a pair of shorts. Back to the rig for dinner, blog & more napping.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)