Dec 25th to 28th - Mesa

Dec 25^th – Merry Christmas

We joined a group for a now annual gathering at the pool at 10:00. Two years ago there were 6 or 8 hardy people in the hot tub and this year there were several groups totaling around 50 people. But today was a gorgeous day to be at the pool. We went initially with long pants and sleeves. When we got too hot we came back, changed into swim suits and returned to enjoy both the pool and the hot tub.

I made a sweet potato dish for later but otherwise we were pretty lazy until we went for happy hour at 2 & dinner at 3. It was hosted by Julie and Tina and they set up tables in Jim & Caroline's park model next door to Terry & Tina. Jim & Caroline are not here right now but gave permission to use their carport which was perfect – especially later when it cooled down and a couple of propane heaters kept it comfortable. Neal & Judy, Jerry & Becky and Brad, Clare & Shannon also joined us. After dinner, Bill & Beth, Ray & Vivian and Thelma came for dessert, drinks & lots of laughs.

We got home about 9:30 and were very happy that we turned on the electric mattress pad before we left.

Dec 26^th – Fri

Terry left at 8:15 for golf. They had a frost delay – initially supposed to be 2 hrs but ended up an hour late – so he didn't get back until after 2. While he was gone, I enjoyed being lazy & puttering around. Dennis & Gloria stopped by to print boarding passes for Julie & River who leave this evening.

Jeff Stephens was in the courtyard and we danced a lot. Beautiful sunshine and a bit cool in the shade. When we walked back we stopped to say hello to Doug & Delores who arrived late yesterday. I had a ham in the crock pot so I asked them to come for dinner. They were happy to do so as they hadn't gone grocery shopping yet. They left about 8 so they could go get a few groceries.

Dec 27^th – Sat

I made a late breakfast for lunch after we were very lazy in the morning. We tend to get up later when the rig is cold. A bit later in the afternoon we went to Reese & Diane's to pick up the last Spyder Santa “costume” and ended up having a drink and chatting with them.

There was no dance here so we joined a group from VVV at a dance at Good Life which is very close and another CalAm park. The band was Junction 87 – country music and we did a line dance to nearly every song. The ballroom is large and the attendance much smaller than here so there was lots of room to dance.

Dec 28^th – Sun

Another lazy morning before we headed out for some errands. We dropped the “Santa” tote at Dale & Sharon's for storage in their shed. We had lunch at the 5 'n Diner. We went to Power Square and got slacks & a shirt for Terry for the New Year's dance. Then we wandered through Superstition Springs mall and finally found a pair of earrings for me. A stop at Fry's for groceries and then home.

We found baby back ribs for $1.99 a pound. Duane & Sue walked by after playing pool so we asked them to join us for dinner. I added more ribs to the pot and we had a good dinner. Then we played a hard fought game of Ponytail Canasta which the guys won by 80 points.

Dec 21st to 24th - Mesa

Dec 21^st – Sun

Terry went to help Tina & Terry move Julie & Larry's big couch out and move in a replacement couch & chair that were temporarily in the storage shed. The sliding door had to be removed and the guys had a hard time getting it back in so it ended up taking a couple of hours. I used the time to catch up the blog and do some cleaning.

We used the motorcycle to deliver the rest of our Christmas goodies – beautiful weather once it warmed up in the afternoon. We fixed a broken hinge on a compartment on the motorcycle. The compartment came open when Terry stopped a while ago and he hit it with his leg when he got off the bike. We bought a $20 little bottle of glue at the Mesa Market and it appeared that the plastic was one that the glue did not work on! Bob brought over some bonding material that you knead before using to activate and we put it behind the hinge. Then we had to go to Home Depot to replace the tube of material and get one for future use for us.

I made a nice dinner for a change!

Dec 22^nd – Mon

We took the toy hauler in for warranty work this morning and then carried on to have breakfast at the Waffle House. On the way back we stopped at WalMart for groceries.

We helped new friends – Harlan & Barb – move Julie's old couch to their new park model. It is unfurnished so they were happy to get the couch.

After MCY with Guilty Pleasures and line dancing, we picked up Phyllis and Larry & Julie to go to dinner at China City buffet. Phyllis has been wanting to take us out so we finally picked a date & place. We had our usual good dinner there.

We got back about 7:15 and walked over to see changes that Ernie & Dianne have made to their AZ room. Dianne asked if we had time to play some cards so we did. We split the games with the guys winning the first and the ladies the second. It was after 11:30 when we got home and had to crawl into a cold bed as we forgot to turn on the electric mattress pad.

Dec 23^rd – Tues

We got a little bit of a late start this morning. We were still having coffee & playing computer games when Gary Kullman stopped to visit. He is a friend of Dennis & Gloria's who was here previously. He was still here when Dennis & Gloria stopped in to invite us to dinner on Christmas Eve.

I made mustard sauce & boiled eggs for deviled eggs for Christmas Eve in between making breakfast. We went to a couple of places to pick up the CalAm Santa costumes in order to store them in one place. We ended up missing one so will have to go back.

We made a trip to Fry's for groceries and then headed to the courtyard for music & dancing. I didn't have a plan for dinner so we ate at the courtyard. We weren't home too long when Neil & Robin stopped to deliver a goodie box. Of course we had to have a drink with them. They were still here when Dennis & Gloria came over since their company (daughter Julie & grandson River) had gone to Brian & Bev's park model where they are spending the nights. We decided to pass on line dance lessons and enjoy our friends instead. When they left I worked on the blog but obviously didn't get it done.

Dec 24^th – Wed

Fry's was totally out of whole cranberry sauce that I need for tomorrow so we hoped on the bike for the couple of blocks to Albertson's who were also out. We continued on to Safeway who had a huge display of the canned sauce. We got a couple of other items and went next door to the Dollar Store to get a Santa hat for me. Then we stopped for a quick burger in the same shopping center.

When we drove back into the park, Allan was on their Spyder on the main road so we followed him instead of turning on our street. We passed Ralph & Elsie just leaving the post office on their Spyder and they joined us so we had an impromptu, very short, little parade! We stopped to check out another Spyder but the owners are in Alaska right now.

I finished up the deviled eggs before we walked across the street to Brad & Clare's at 2:00 for a cookie decorating party. Cookie decorating has been their family traditional since Clare was a child. Their daughter Shannon is here for a visit so they decided to include a lot of their friends in the tradition. They had tables & chairs from the party wagon and everything set out – cookies, frosting and oodles of decorations. Most people decorated at least one cookies. I did a couple “fancy” ones and then one more for Terry to eat. The weather was absolutely perfect as was the whole concept. They also had individually wrapped & “bow-ed” rice krispie squares that looked wonderfully festive before they were gobbled up.

Ralph & Elsie stopped by for a drink a few minutes after we got home just after 4:00. Then it was off to Dennis & Gloria's for dinner. They had a couple of propane heaters to make the carport cosy and we had a great meal with good friends.

Terry wanted to take the motorcycle for a little ride to show off the lights he put on it but we didn't get too far. We stopped at Tina & Terry's where they were playing dominoes with Jerry & Becky. They had finished a game so we joined them for another drink – or 2!

Dec 17th to 20th - Mesa

Dec 17^th – Wed

It rained during the night but quit in time for the Christmas parade in the park. Terry wiped down the motorcycle and we put on the decorations. Our group started on our street which was handy as everyone could put on the finishing touches and I could get any bits & pieces that were needed. We made Santa faces on our windshields and they were very well received by everyone along the parade route. We had 6 bikes with faces and one smaller bike with the “Cal Am Can Ams” sign. There were coffee & cookies in the ballroom after the parade. We won second prize which was a $50 gift certificate for Costco. We still haven't decided what to do with it!

Five of us rode slowly down University to Mesa Regal (another CalAm park) and we rode a lot of the streets honking our horns and waving at the few people on the street or in cars. Then we went to Towerpoint (CalAm park) and did the same. Here there were more people outside and we got lots of smiles & waves.

We stopped for lunch at a small cafe (RaVeS) in the building used by the catering services of CalAm. We kind of overwhelmed them but ended up with good sandwiches, chips & a cookie. When we got back I did a few repairs to beards & eyes caused by wind when we drove.

MCY was moved inside due to cold weather and we danced to the music of Wayne & Deb. Then dinner and a quiet evening.

Dec 18^th – Thurs

Terry was lazy again and stayed in bed watching TV when I went to coffee & doughnuts. I even brought him a doughnut since there were plenty left over. I guess lots of people have gone home for the holidays.

Ernie & Dianne stopped in to deliver an invitation and we had a nice chat over a cup of coffee/hot chocolate. After breakfast for lunch, we went grocery shopping. I put ingredients in the crock pot for a new chocolate/peanut candy recipe and then we took the motorcycle for a couple of errands. The temperature was quite cold this morning but it was comfortable riding with a jacket on.

Duane & Sue were sitting outside when we returned so we made a drink and joined them. By the time the sun went down and Duane lit the propane fire pit, we were joined by Dan & Robin, Bob & Gail and Peter & Barb.

I finished the candy – recipe is a keeper – and made dinner.

Dec 19^th – Fri

I made a couple batches of peanut brittle before we went to the Mesa marketplace this morning. We had breakfast there first and then bought some things as we wandered the aisles.

We returned items to the toy hauler and made sure everything was secured as we will be taking it in for some warranty work next week. On the way back we picked up bags of cans from Terry & Tina to add to the horseshoe club recycle can in front of our rig. Of course we had to chat for a bit.

We went by Larry & Julie's to see how they were doing and ended up helping Terry & Tina with some window toppers and modifying a rail to hang vertical blinds. Now it was time for MCY with The Breeze and line dancing. It was lovely sitting in the sun – no hunting for shade at this time of year.

Computer games, dinner & TV in the evening.

Dec 20^th – Sat

I had help with the laundry today. We were just finishing a late breakfast after putting clothes in the dryers when Nancy called saying Billy needed help unloading the CanAm they just bought so Terry took the motorcycle there while I went back to the laundry room. Terry arrived to help load up and I suggested that he could drive & park the truck while I rode the bike back. Have to get a bit of practice when I can!

I needed a few more candy ingredients so we made a trip to Fry's and then I made 3 more batches of peanut brittle since once batch got a little overcooked. We went on the motorcycle to deliver some candy but didn't get too far as Ralph & Elsie figured it was time for a drink and a nice visit.

We got back just in time to change clothes and take chairs & drinks to Jerry & Becky's as they asked us over for dinner before the dance tonight. Larry & Julie, Terry & Tina and Bill & Beth were also there. Comeback Buddy played for the dance. They do 50's, 60's & 70's rock & roll type music - much of which is still suitable for two stepping. We only did a couple of line dances.

Dec 13th to 16th - Mesa

Dec 13^th – Sat

We believed the weather forecast for rain & cold weather and canceled our group golf game this morning. It was a good decision as it was cold and the course would have been soaked. I used some of the morning to catch up on the blog.

The rest of the day has pretty much slipped my mind – again! We went to the AZ Opry for the first time this season. It was the Christmas show with enough changes from last year to be a new show to those of us with failing memories. Instead of alternating chicken & beef dinners, they are now serving smaller portions of each meat with every meal.

Dec 14^th – Sun

We went to Neal & Judi's for their annual Christmas brunch. Judi does a beautiful job of decorating tables and makes wonderful food. A propane heater took part of the chill off and some people chatted in the sunshine in the street after eating.

We stuck bits of the decorations for the bikes back on before delivering them to the rest of the group that will be in the parade. Of course trips around the park on the motorcycle end up with short visits here & there as well. We made a trip to WalMart which included some chicken for dinner as I was feeling lazy.

Diane came over and we made invitations for Ernie's birthday party in January.

Dec 15^th – Mon

I was making deviled eggs for later when Phyllis stopped in for a short visit.

We went for a late breakfast at Red Mountain Cafe where I enjoyed their crunchy French toast. We went to WalMart for a few more groceries and candy to throw during the parade. We waited to get the candy as the weather forecast has included rain for Wednesday. Today it looked like the rain would be later so hopefully the parade will happen.

We picked up a sign for the parade and delivered it to Allan & Diane. We ended up chatting with them long enough that Allan decided it was time to have a drink.

After dancing to the Brookharts in the courtyard, we changed clothes and went to Jerry & Becky's Ugly Christmas Sweater party. They reserved 2/3 of the new multipurpose room in the fitness complex. We all brought heavy appies and music was provided by Bruce & Duane. Lots of creativity showed in the ugly sweaters.

Dec 16^th – Tues

Don & Susan picked us up at 8:30 for a trip to the casino. After getting coupons and eating breakfast, we all went our own ways to whip the slot machines into shape. Unfortunately that didn't happen!

We relaxed & played free computer games when we got back and I got some dinner started on the stove and then put it in the crock pot. Van Arlon was playing in the courtyard and Bobbie was there to suggest line dances so we danced a lot. We ended up eating there as well since the Tuesday special was steak and/or chicken fajitas that looked & tasted great.

I put our dinner in the fridge and we rested before going to line dance lessons.

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Dec 10th to 12th - Mesa

Dec 10^th – Wed

Haircut time for Terry this morning before going for a bike ride. We and Duane & Sue are going to stay overnight at the Apache Gold Casino & Hotel so the weekly motorcycle riders decided to ride there and have lunch. Twelve bikes with 14 riders pulled out at 11:45. It is a large group to keep together so we had to pull over to regroup a couple of times. Three of the bikers left the group for a different destination.

By the time we parked and got to the restaurant, the buffet was closing in 10 minutes (at 2:00) so we all ordered from the menu. It took a long time to get our mediocre food. Duane & Sue were delayed by a pool tournament and arrived just before we got our food. They had a quick lunch before leaving home so they had a drink while we ate. We got our bags and registered at the hotel. Sue asked for a room close to ours and we ended up with adjoining rooms so we sat and had a drink before going back to the casino.

My allowance was going down fast before I hit a couple of machines that gave everything back – and then some. Terry was doing OK with ups & downs. We went back to the grill for a a late dinner since we discovered that the steak house was a 5 minute walk away. Again not bad but not special food. I lost my “then some” money after dinner!

Dec 11^th – Thurs

We had coffee before heading back to the casino and Duane & Sue joined us there a while later. No choices so we went back to the grill for breakfast where we used points on our casino cards to reduce the cost of the meal. Too bad I also lost the rest of my allowance but Terry didn't!

We checked out of the hotel just before 11 and hit the road. Really nice weather and we only had to zip our jackets all the way up when we climbed up a bit.

We stopped at Superstition Views (upscale RV resort owned by CalAm) on the way back and went through several model homes. They are modular homes (not park models) that are finished outside once they are set on the lots. They are 14, 16 or 18 feet wide and 45 feet long so feel very spacious. They are set on lots wide enough to customize with a double driveway or single driveway and motor home parking. Unlike park models you can add almost anything – second bedroom/bath, garage, shop, breezeway, covered motor home parking - and even a rooftop patio. Very interesting and a fun thing to do.

I have a cold – again!!! - so I stayed home when Terry went to MCY. I needed to rest a bit since we went to John & Gloria's for dinner at 6. We had a great dinner and a lovely evening. Terry put a hurt on a bottle of Scotch that John bought for him so I drove him home on the motorcycle.

Dec 12^th – Fri

I coughed a lot last night but we had things to do so had to carry on. We went shopping – Costco for coffee, WalMart for groceries, a crock pot, and cough medicine – before stopping at 5 'n Diner for a late breakfast. Back home I started a pot of split pea soup for a “Soupfest” dinner hosted by Larry & Suz.

Again I stayed home to rest & finish the soup while Terry went to the courtyard. I had everything ready to load in the truck when he got back and we went to Larry & Suz's party in the Fiesta ballroom. They had round tables set up & decorated, Suz was a great elf and Larry looked very dapper in shirt, slacks and a Christmas apron. There were 60 guests to attack about 15 crock pots of soup, salad, bread & crackers. Of course we started with appetizers and ended with dessert. Then it was time to draw numbers for the $10 gifts brought by each couple with the usual opportunity to steal an opened gift. Everyone got into the spirit with oohs & aahs as a gift was opened and suggestions about which gift to steal. Since we started at 5 we were home around 9. My cough medication worked great!

Dec 6th to 9th - Mesa

Dec 6^th – Sat

It is our turn to make lunch after golf tomorrow so we did some prep – wash potatoes for baking, pick up plates & crock pot from the toy hauler & slice onions are a few things that come to mind. Breakfast at home today.

We went shopping for stuff to decorate our CanAm for the park Christmas parade and to look for something to wear to an “ugly Christmas sweater” party. Linda (CanAm owner) dropped in to talk about the parade and liked my idea for decorating so we are going to try to turn it into reality on Monday morning.

I was making dinner when Terry walked over to borrow a roaster oven from Gloria. On the way back he saw Bob & Sandi and Henry & Diane sitting in Bob & Sandi's gazebo and they asked us over for a drink. Put dinner on hold, have a drink and a good chat, finish dinner & gobble it down, change clothes and go to a dance here in the park – phew!

The band was Tory Edwards who is an amazing fiddle player. Unfortunately they started 20 minutes late at max volume, took two 20 minute breaks and included one “rock” set which is not our favorite. We saw the band earlier this year at Mesa Regal and really enjoyed them so were disappointed. However, the line dance group claimed an end of the dance floor and did a lot of dances.

Dec 7^th – Sun

I got potatoes in the roaster oven and corn & meat into crock pots before going golfing this morning. The course was really wet nearly the whole game so balls didn't roll very far once they hit the grass and started throwing up a rooster tail of water.

When we got back, I discovered that the potatoes weren't done so I put some in the microwave and took some to Terri to put in her microwave. Terry set up tables & chairs so we could all sit at some type of table to eat. We were pretty much ready with lunch when people started arriving at 12:30. The backed potato lunch was well received & enjoyed by everyone – or at least they were all polite enough to say so!! – and the rice krispie squares totally disappeared. Thanks to Sandi, Ann & Terri for doing dishes!

We went to see Ralph & Elsie to discuss the Christmas parade and then stopped at Dale & Sharon's to see if they wanted to join us in the parade. We got there close to 4:00 and finally left just before 8 after sitting around a propane fireplace in their carport/sitting area drinking beer & wine and talking non-stop. We had been invited to a party at the bocce courts but didn't make it there. I made dessert for dinner!

 

Dec 8^th – Mon

Linda, Elsie & Sharon arrived at 10 to make decorations for our CanAms. It took a little figuring before we got down to serious “construction”. We sent the guys to the store a couple of times for more supplies. We took a break for lunch and then worked until it was time to put stuff away and head to the courtyard at 3 to listen to Rich Mancini who we really enjoy and he now knows which dances we like for line dancing.

A quiet evening for a change?

Dec 9^th – Tues

Golf and laundry this morning - you can probably guess who did which activity! I did my usual walking back & forth and had a nice chat with Diane in the laundry room. Somewhere along the line I put a roast in the crock pot.

I was going to walk to Albertson's for more exercise but decided I needed to practice driving the motorcycle outside the park so I took it to get a couple of yams. It is only a block away so I took a longer route back and did just fine. I stopped to let Elsie know that we have one more CanAm in the parade and dropped off a phone number with Al.

Terry got back with just a little time to spare before going to MCY. The popular band North Star was playing and the courtyard really filled up. They extended music until just before 6 so I was happy that dinner was ready so we could go to line dance lessons at 6:30. There was a grand opening of the fitness center complex at 6 but we decided that dinner & line dance lessons were more important.

Nope – not done yet. Ron & Terri are leaving on Thursday for a couple of weeks so Terry decided we should have a “little” farewell gathering at 8:30. We left dance lessons a bit early and just had time to set up chairs and buddy burners before the first people arrived. We were good neighbors and had people & noise done just after 10 when we had a little quiet time with Ron & Terri.

Dec 1st to 5th - Mesa

Dec 1^st – Mon

In between computer games this morning, I took time to catch up the blog and Terry helped the guys take down tarps from the Grey Cup party. After breakfast we took the bike to Fry's for a few groceries. While I was putting away and doing a little dinner prep, Terry rode over to welcome Don & Susan who just arrived today.

A new musician in the courtyard – Paul Taylor – was very good and we got our usual work out on the dance floor. Susan was mobbed with huggers when she arrived.

Dennis & Gloria were coming over at 7:30 to print Chris' boarding pass for tomorrow so I went to few neighbors and suggested that if Chris came over also that we have a little farewell gathering. We ended up with Terri, Gail, Brad & Clare and Joe & Stella joining us for drinks, multiple conversations at once & lots of laughs.

Dec 2^nd – Tues

Gloria called fairly early to say that Chris (with help from Mom?) had the toy hauler all cleaned up and ready to go back to storage. We had lots of help to finish closing it up – dump tanks, get the satellite dish off the roof, put away loose items in the kitchen – and Terry backed into the storage slot in one go. After locking it up, we spent some time across the street with a guy who had a swivel wheel “trailer” for sale.

Now it was time to have a very late breakfast at Wild Berry. I finally drove the motorcycle around the park with Terry on the back doing a bit of coaching – like how to start the darn thing! We stopped and had a nice chat with Ralph & Elsie.

Music at the courtyard was good – Midnight Moon – and we didn't let too many songs go by without line dancing especially since Bobbie (line dance teacher) was there to suggest different dances. I had enough leftovers from yesterday for my dinner so Terry got the Tuesday special (meatloaf) at the courtyard – great solution for both of us!

There were a lot of people at line dance lessons. We learned 3 new dances – actually only one of them was new to people who took lessons last year – and had newbies turning every which way. Tons of fun. It was raining when we finished so Terry pulled the motorcycle under the awning and wiped it off. Yes, I did suggest putting the cover on earlier!

Dec 3^rd – Wed

Terry moved the motorcycle back out before taking the truck to pick up other golfers this morning. I eventually took a big bag of books to Susan and stayed to talk with her & Don for a long time. Don made me feel guilty for not posting pictures regularly so I worked on captions & deleting similar pictures and actually uploaded one album and started compiling another.

Rockafella provided good music for dancing in the courtyard. Then we went to Dennis & Gloria's for dinner along with Duane & Sue. After dinner the women allowed the men to beat us in a close game of Ponytail Canasta. It was sprinkling when we walked back.

Dec 4^th – Thurs

It poured rain most of last night so I put on my rubber boots to walk with Terri to coffee & doughnuts. Before I left, I took coffee to Terry in bed as he decided he would rather stay there & watch TV than going to the weekly meeting. The Camping World ambassadors sponsored coffee & doughnuts again and the rain actually kept the ballroom from being totally packed. We were shocked to hear that a bar of soap was thrown in each pool and someone felt they needed to take an extension cord from a light over the jigsaw puzzles. Manager Kerry said they are very committed to stopping this sort of thing and promised a “rent adjustment” for information that helps identify the perpetrators.

A Christmas parade in the park was planned for today but was canceled due to rain so we had time to goof off before and after a late breakfast for lunch. Once the rain stopped and the sun came out it warmed up nicely.

MCY was also canceled today so HH at Joe & Stella's (they are going home for 6 weeks) started slightly before the planned time of 4:00. At 5:00, we and Ron & Terri moved to Bob & Sandi's for dinner.

We sat outside – in a screen gazebo – for drinks & appies before moving inside for a nice dinner. We stayed later than Ron & Terri and crashed as soon as we got home.

Dec 5^th – Fri

We took Joe & Stella to the airport at 8:30 and stopped for groceries at Fry's on the way back. Groceries included doughnuts & a bagel for breakfast which we haven't had for a long time.

After putting everything away, I mixed computer games with food prep for Sunday and some light cleaning. Reese stopped by to show us his new CanAm Spyder which he bought yesterday.

Just after 2 we went to the courtyard and had lunch. The singer – Michael Ewing aka the AZ Cowboy – started early so we were soon settling our lunch with line dancing.

We came back to drop off our drink glasses and took the motorcycle to the Fiesta Community Center for a happy hour put on by the sales office for “Rvers and Renters”. It was already packed when we got there but there was room for a couple of chairs at a table with some friends. Ron & Terri and Brian & Bev arrived after some people left so they sat next to us. We ended up being the last group to leave. We helped put chairs away and sales rep Debra said we could take home part boxes of wine if we folded tables so we did that too.

We toured around a bit on the way back to look at Christmas lights in the park and ended up stopped to see Phyllis. We were just in time to help her change a light bulb in a fixture over her bed. She called her friend MaryEllen to join us so we had a nice chat and shared the wine with them.

Nov 28th to 30th - Mesa

Nov 28^th – Fri

Another forgotten, uneventful morning & early afternoon!!

We were just getting ready to leave early for MCY when Reese & Diane stopped by to talk about CanAms so we fixed them a drink first. They both have motorcycles but Diane's new bike is a bit too big & powerful so she is uneasy about riding it. Reese was thinking about giving up both bikes and getting a Spyder but he had never been on one so Terry let him drive ours and they went for a short ride. When they left they were going to “crunch numbers” and probably go back to the dealer for a test drive & negotiation on a CanAm.

North Star was in the courtyard today and we were lucky enough to have Terri saving chairs for us as we were just a bit late. North Star is very popular and they play lots of “line danceable” music so we obliged and filled the new big dance floor.

Dennis & Gloria asked us to join them for dinner at China City so I didn't have to cook.

Nov 29^th – Sat

We were paired with John & Gloria for golf this morning so we picked them up. I had my best front 9 ever and then totally fell apart on the back 9 which is when Gloria really kicked in. The guys ended up with the same score and actually the same score on each 9.

Larry told us that a new Total Wine store opened in the shopping center near the Mesa Market so we went looking for it. After driving the whole place, we called Larry and he said he hadn't actually been there but saw an ad in the paper. At this point we went to the store at Superstition Springs and ended up having to wait for an employee to restock 2 items that we needed. By this time John & Gloria's dog had been home long enough so they canceled on lunch plans and we dropped them off before going to a Mexican place just down University Ave. Turns out the new Total Wine store is in the Tempe Marketplace.

Dirty clothes were overflowing the basket so we had to do laundry since tomorrow will be busy but first we took the motorcycle to Fry's for laundry soap and a few groceries. We pretty much goofed off the rest of the afternoon & evening. Dennis & Gloria stopped in for a visit.

Nov 30^th – Sun

Terry took his ladder at 8:30 to help set up for a Grey Cup party today. The guys hung huge tarps on the side & front of Brian & Bev's carport/patio to act as a wind break and to block the light so everyone could see the TV better. The 40 or so guests started arriving with appies about 2:30. The game was scheduled to start at 4 (3:00 PST in Vancouver where it was played) but by the time all the hoopla was over the kickoff was at 4:30.

Most of the women are not big football fans so we sat across the street at Larry & Suz's where tables & chairs were set up for dinner. After the sun went down we appreciated 2 big propane heaters. Some of us ran back & forth (or used Gloria's golf cart!) to make our contributions for dinner at the end of the game. Time for bed & TV when we got home.

Nov 25th to 27th - Mesa

Nov 25^th – Tues

I put a roast in the crock pot to experiment with that cut (sirloin from Costco) for pulled pork.

I am looking after our bi-weekly Saturday golf game while Dar is away so after breakfast we rode around on the motorcycle to find people and see if they could play this week. It ended up taking a while as it was after noon when we went to Chris & Anne's so we had to have a beer after checking out the park model they bought just before they left last season.

We needed a few groceries so we rode to Fry's. We went to MCY to listen to The Breeze and danced less than usual but enjoyed being able to sit in the sun to compensate for a bit cooler weather.

After dinner we went to line dance lessons for 2 hours. We reviewed the dances that we learned in the last 3 weeks so didn't have to concentrate and learn a new dance. We watched DWTS when we got back as we had it recorded. I was happy that Alphonso won.

Nov 26^th – Wed

At 8:57 I remembered that I had an appointment for a haircut so I checked the calendar and saw that it was for 9:00. I had Terry run me up there on the motorcycle and found Holly in the middle of a cut & style that she had to fit in because of a water outage yesterday so I ended up waiting for over ½ hour.

We finally contacted everyone for golf so we drew names for pairings and I sent out emails. Of course AOL picked today to not have old mail available and I had to enter all the addresses rather than using an email sent by Dar. OK, there were only 9 and some were already in my contact list!!

At noon we joined a group of 10 other motorcycles for a ride to Saguaro Lake where we had lunch on the patio in perfect weather. We stopped at Ft. McDowell casino on the way back and some of the group hit the bar for a beer and others played slots for an hour. We got back about 4 so Terry immediately went to the courtyard and I stayed home to do a bit of tidying up and then walked to Albertsons for a few groceries.

John & Gloria came for dinner which was easy as I had leftover pulled pork and just added an appetizer, apple slaw & dessert.

Nov 27^th – Happy Thanksgiving

Terry golfed with Bruce, Ron & Chris (D&G's son) today so I had another morning to putter around – computer stuff, cleaning, walk with Terri to get water and visiting on the street with neighbors in the lovely sunshine. When Terry got back I was trying to line up some music on a tablet for later and getting very frustrated as our new computer does not recognize the tablet.

I put a casserole in the oven and we headed to Dennis & Gloria's site for Thanksgiving dinner with 38 friends. Since our toy hauler is in the adjacent site, we used that paved patio & parking area to set up 7 tables and put the food in D&G's carport. We scheduled an hour for assembling & chatting and ate at 3:00. Three of the tables were in the sun and it was quite warm (high of 82) but wonderful.

After dinner, tables were folded & stacked and the chairs were moved to the carport & sidewalk. We did/taught some line dances on the street before Ernie & Dianne and Duane provided entertainment with their guitars & singing. Viv added a lovely song with no musical accompaniment. By 7 Terry was exhausted from the golf, dancing and too much food so we headed home. It think he was asleep by 7:10! I watched TV & played computer games.

Nov 21st to 24th - Mesa

Nov 21^st – Fri

We took Ron & Terri, Bob and Bruce to an RV sale with multiple vendors at a stadium in Tempe this morning. There were a lot of interesting rigs including many large 5^th wheel toy haulers. No one actually got as far as buying anything but we all got good ideas & information. On the way back we stopped at Olive Garden for lunch. As I mentioned before, Terry isn't particularly keen on it and is now even less so! I told him he should have spoken up when it was mentioned – everyone in the truck was entitled to their opinion.

We didn't have too long before heading to MCY. I waited just a bit and ended up having a nice little visit with Gloria. Wayne & Deb were singing and we did a lot of line dances. The weather was cold this morning but warmed up quite a bit. I optimistically put on shorts before going to the courtyard and immediately returned to get a jacket and put my long pants back on.

We had a light dinner and then went across the street to Bob & Gail's to join a group sitting around a propane fire. Duane got his guitar and entertained us all with a few songs. The group got large enough to add 2 buddy burners for a while and then back to just the propane fire for the diehards.

Nov 22^nd – Sat

Terry & Ron helped Joe install 3 window awnings on his motor home. At times there were all 3 guys on 3 ladders with Terry & Ron holding everything steady and Joe drilling holes in his new coach. I spent some time messing about with this & that and popping outside to supervise!

We and Bob & Dar went to dinner at Larry & Suz's. We were then all going to a dance and Suz didn't realize how early we would want to be there to line up & get tables. Luckily Ron & Terri were in line ahead of us and got a decent table. We had time to help with the dishes and decided to got back later for dessert.

Music was provided by Rare Collections and we didn't remember that most of their music is rock and roll. But it was still fun and we did quite a few line dances. Back to Larry & Suz's for banana cream pie & a toddy.

Nov 23^rd – Sun

We golfed with the Whiskey Row Hackers this morning. Again pretty cool to start but not long to warm up. I didn't do too well but Terry had one of his better games. We had chili for lunch which was made by Milo & Laverne and served at Bev & Brian's. Yum again!

We moved our toy hauler to the site beside Dennis & Gloria so their son Chris can use it for 10 days while he visits his parents. I started cleaning it up a bit while Terry set up water, satellite, etc. Then we ended up visiting & having a drink with Bruce & Ann and Dennis & Gloria in the toy hauler.

After dinner we went to Dennis & Gloria's to say hello to Chris and to turn on the hot water heater which we forgot to do.

Nov 24^th – Mon

Terry golfed this morning and I had a lovely time – computer games, talked to Marg (Pat discovered a young cougar in the chicken house when she went to do morning chores!), looking after some computer chores and shopping but not buying.

Bill & Linda (also have a Spyder) dropped by to see if we were entering the motorcycle in the park's Christmas parade. We visited until it was time for MCY where Rich Mancini played very danceable music. Dinner & TV for the rest of the evening.

Nov 17th to 20th - Mesa

Nov 17^th – Mon

Terry went golfing this morning so I caught up the blog, paid some bills, put a roast in the crock pot and had a nice long chat with sister Marg. I even worked on a jigsaw puzzle for a short time.

Of course we headed to the courtyard for MCY at 3. Not our favorite singer but we did some dancing.

Nov 18^th – Tues

Terry helped take clothes to the laundromat and then he & Dale rode their bikes to the motorcycle dealer so Dale could get a couple of items. They stopped for lunch so I finished the laundry by myself. While the clothes were washing & drying, Gloria & I took her golf cart to visit some people to set up a dinner. I joined Dennis & Gloria for lunch in the courtyard and was still there when Terry got back.

John & Susie were the singers today and weren't as good as usual but we still did a lot of line dances – I even did the Clogger which is done to a polka.

I used leftover roast to make a fairly quick dinner so we could get to line dance lessons at 6:30. Actually we were a few minutes late and everyone was lined up and into the first dance.

Nov 19^th – Wed

We took the motorcycle to run some errands in the park this morning and chatted with John & Gloria who were here earlier and had gone home to Saskatchewan for a while. I made a late breakfast and then went through a practice test on the computer before going to the MVD to get my motorcycle learner's permit. There was no line to check in but a lot of people waiting to be processed. It ended up taking 2 hours to get my permit.

A new couple – Pam & Dave - provided music in the courtyard and were very good. I didn't have any dinner planned so we went to Midwestern Meats where Terry had his favorite pork ribs and I tried the salmon which I will have again some time.

Service is quick at Midwestern Meats so we had plenty of time to get to Dennis & Gloria's at 6:30 to play Newfie Bingo along with Ernie & Dianne and Bob & Dar. It wasn't a late evening as Ernie & Dianne had to get up early to go to Algodones for dental work.

Nov 20^th – Thurs

Terry joined me to attend coffee & doughnuts this morning. Then we decided to go to the casino to have breakfast & gamble a bit. The truck would not start so we hooked it up to the charger, put on our jackets (cool this morning) and took the motorcycle. When we got to the casino, Terry put his jacket & helmet in the front compartment, closed it and realized that he put the key in his jacket pocket. Not a problem except you need a key to open the compartment! Some friends had already headed to the casino so we had breakfast and went looking for them so Terry could get a ride back with them, pick up the spare key and come back in the truck.

He met them at 12:30 and Dar decided to stay and gamble and come back with us. Terry called me so I could meet him at the bike as he had to get a jump-start for the truck and couldn't turn it off. We took the truck across the street from the park to get the batteries tested and the “check engine” light checked out.

We went to MCY to dance and got a call about 4:30 saying we could pick up the truck. One new battery and multiple weird codes associated with the check engine light. Will have to see what the internet has to say.

Dinner at home and a quiet evening.

Nov 12th to 16th - Mesa

Nov 12^th – Wed

Pretty lazy morning & a bit of shopping in the early afternoon. At 4 we went to Bruce & Ann's for dinner – along with 26 other good friends! After drinks & otherwise enjoying the great AZ weather, we were served an excellent “All American” dinner featuring Sloppy Joes and Mac & Cheese. We are so lucky to have such amazing friends!!

Nov 13^th – Thurs

Terry played golf with the guys and I joined a group at Greenfield Lakes GC. It is a short course that we played earlier this year. The greens were very fast so it was an adjustment for all of us. I did fairly well and even parred one of the 2 par 5's.

I went to the courtyard to have lunch with Terri & Dar. We decided to stay there to save the table for later as lots of people were starting to arrive for the Manager's Happy Hour which started at 3.

The Happy Hour was held in the ballroom and the courtyard. Both areas had a band and were full of tables. There were also food tables set up in the ballroom. Beer, wine & soft drinks were free from 3 to 5. We had to sign up ahead of time and get a free ticket for the food so they could calculate how much food was needed. It was reported that 920 people attended the function but there could have been more as the count was from the food tickets.

Nov 14^th – Fri

I tried to find a document to plan a dinner and realized that it was done in Print Shop on our old computer so we dug out our old computer and then figured it was 2 computers ago. We couldn't find the last one so Terry went to look in the toy hauler. In the meantime I found the computer – in the computer bag of all places!! Now we started to look for Print Shop to load on the newest computer. We looked everywhere – including places it should never have been – and couldn't find it. But Terry did toss out a bunch of old, useless junk that I have been trying to get rid of for a while. It is amazing how long something like this can take.

Terry went to the courtyard to listen to music while I finished updating & printing and then I joined him. The music wasn't the best but we did a couple of line dances. Then we actually had a quiet evening.

Nov 15^th – Sat

The park had patio sales today and we signed up to try to get rid of a few items so we were setting up about 8. We sold the few most expensive items, gave away a couple of things, tossed some items and put the rest aside for later action. Of course Terry had to take the motorcycle to check out other sales. When we were done, we both took off on the bike to see what still remained – not much! We stopped and chatted to a couple with a CanAm (staying in Mesa Regal) and their friends who are here in VVV.

About 10 Neil (& Robin) called to finalize plans for a trip to a casino later. They asked a couple of weeks ago (when we were all partying) if we wanted to go. Of course Terry said yes and I told Robin we would talk more about it later – which never happened – so I am happy they reminded us a few hours before departure time! Robin had free rooms & tickets for a County music show so we packed an overnight bag and followed them to the casino. We needed 2 cars as we were playing golf on Sunday.

We had a great time! Thanks again Neil & Robin! We had appies after we checked in about 4, gambled a bit and then went to the outdoor show. We had wristbands to get into a VIP area, 4 drink tickets each and vouchers for food which the guys used. Music was provided by several young, new artists and not really our cup of tea but it was a fun experience. Then it was time to get down to some serious slot play! I was lucky and won enough money to keep us both going for the rest of the night. Robin had more food comps so we had decided to have dessert which we did at 11:00. Neil actually joined us which was a good thing since we ordered 3 fabulous desserts! We finally called it quits at 2, Terry was asleep 4 seconds after his head hit the pillow and I couldn't get to sleep even after reading for ½ hour.

Nov 16th – Sun

We had to get up early to get to the golf course for our 8:40 tee time. With light weekend traffic it didn't take us as long as we expected so we had lots of time. Today was the group organized by Dar so Terry & I played with Jac & Karen. I haven't played with Terry for quite a while so it is a nice change. The only thing I don't like about playing with “long hitters” is looking for errant balls!

Most of the group went for lunch at the Hub - a sports bar very close to the golf course. Dar arranged for a private dining room which is a nice way to accommodate a larger group. The food was good and a Bloody Mary for $2 was very affordable.

We stopped at Costco on the way back to get a new step stool. We saw one at Ron & Terri's and figured we had to have one too! Of course we had to get a few other items. By the time we put stuff away we were pretty much done for the day. It didn't take Terry long to have his first nap while playing computer games.

Nov 9th to 11th - Mesa

Nov 9th - Sun

Golf at Desert Sands again this morning and I had my best game ever on this course. On the 18^th hole, the cart that Terri & I were using decided to quit. We were partway down the cart path so we loaded our clubs in Ann & Dar's cart and walked the rest of the hole.

Lunch was provided by Dar & Bob. They went with make-you-own sub sandwiches which were great. Dar kind of over estimated our appetites so we all took home leftover meat, cheese & buns.

We had a lazy afternoon with riding around on the motorcycle and visiting people.

Nov 10^th – Mon

We went for breakfast at the Wild Berry. They have a senior omelet with hash browns & a huge biscuit for $4.99. Add a side of gravy for 50 cents and you have more than you can eat. Or at least more than I can eat!

We had to hook on to the toy hauler and pull it out so we could extend the awning and take a picture of the serial number on the awning roller so it can be replaced under warranty. It wasn't bad as Terry could drive out onto an empty site on the opposite side of the road and then back straight in. We printed the picture and Terry delivered it to Desert Autoplex.

We went to MCY with Rich Mancini and did a lot of line dances. We sat near the pool for a bit afterward and then came home for dinner & TV.

Nov 11^th – Tues

After coffee & games, we went to WalMart. Terry's razor quit yesterday and we needed some groceries. By the time we got back and put stuff away, it was time to use leftovers from Sunday for an early lunch.

April Walker provided music in the courtyard for 2 hours of dancing to most of the songs. By the time dinner was cooked we had to gobble it down and head to line dance lessons. There are lots of people at the lessons already. Should be really crowded when everyone gets here in January.

Nov 4th to 8th - Mesa

Nov 4^th – Tues

Golf for both of us today. Terry drove for the weekly guy's game and Dar took me, Terri & Ann to Shalimar GC for 9 holes along with 3 other groups. Terri & I decided to walk so Terry loaded our clubs & carts yesterday. Too bad he didn't check my cart – I had 3 flat tires! Luckily the pro shop had a hand pump and Vic helped me get enough air in the tires for today. I started out great and parred the first hole which was a par 4 – rare for me. Too bad I got a couple of 8's later.

The four of us decided to stop for lunch and ended up at Olive Garden for their unlimited soup, salad & bread sticks which I love but Terry only tolerates once in a LONG while. I told Ann that I would take her shopping until I got home, saw the empty parking spot and remembered that Terry took the truck!

We didn't do too much before going to MCY about 2:30. Wayne & Deb provided the music and once again we danced a lot. We bought steaks a couple of days ago so we put them on the BBQ for a nice, quick dinner. I had to be fairly quick as line dance lessons started at 7.

When we got there it was obvious that lessons started before 7. Lessons are from 7-9 this year so I didn't think they would be starting early. Terri has a “FitBit” and her step count today was over 18,000. Recommended steps per day is 10,000.

Nov 5^th – Wed

Another day when I can't remember what the heck we did before MCY except Terry got the battery from the toy hauler and hooked up the charger. North Star was playing at the courtyard today and there is always a big turnout for them so we went early. Luckily Ron & Terri had lunch at the courtyard and Terri stayed to get a table in the shade. Lots of dancing.

We went to dinner with Wayne & Ruth at Midwestern Meats just down Main Street. They serve a lot of good food at decent prices but the atmosphere is nothing special.

Nov 6^th – Thurs

Terry went golfing with the guys. Terri, Dar & I went to coffee & doughnuts which was sponsored by Camping World and well attended since the Camping World rep who lives in VVV always brings lots of goodies for door prizes. He also had tickets for NASCAR truck races and Dar got 4. After she got her hair cut, Terri took me, Ann & Dar shopping at a couple of thrift stores. Ann wanted a metal spatula which is hard to find and she got one at Goodwill.

Brad & Clare arrived shortly after noon with Larry & Suz not too far behind them.

We went to MCY for a short time and then attended a small, short “welcome” happy hour at Ron & Terri's. Then it was off to Dennis & Gloria's for dinner along with Larry & Suz.

Nov 7^th – Fri

I got the laundry ready while Terry took the battery back to the toy hauler and tested it out. We drove up to put the clothes in the washers and I made a couple of trips for water. We had to chat with Ralph and then Dale who were riding around on their Spyders. Hauled the laundry back & put it away – done for another 10 days or so. Time for a late breakfast for lunch.

We went to MCY with Keven Moen who is not our favorite singer but we did a few line dances. Jac invited us to go to bike night in downtown Mesa so we had some chicken wings at the courtyard before he picked us up just before 6 in his convertible.

Jac has been to bike night (first Friday of each month) previously so he knew where to find a parking spot. We wandered up & down a few blocks of Main Street a couple of times looking at all the bikes parked along the street which is closed to other traffic for a few hours. In between we enjoyed a cold beer and watched everyone riding past. What a huge range of bikes & riders!

I put on a light jacket for the drive back about 8 – wonderful weather.

Nov 8^th – Sat

We goofed off a bit in the morning, ate breakfast and went grocery shopping. I made some Crabbies to get into the freezer for later and we started some setup for a party tonight which we hosted along with Ron & Terri. We had time for more computer games before people started arriving shortly after 4.

We ended up with 64 people at the party. Everyone brought drinks & food and we had to bring in more tables for all the food. We ended up with a smaller, quieter group next door at Ron & Terri's but the people in that group were constantly changing. We had a GREAT time! Terry got out a couple of buddy burners for the ambiance as no heat was needed. Duane (he & Sue arrived just as people were arriving) brought his guitar & sang a few songs with loud if not harmonious accompaniment from slightly tipsy friends. At 9:55, Terry announced that quiet hour was 5 minutes away and the party had to be shut down. Everyone was packed up & out shortly after 10.

Oct 31st to Nov 3rd - Mesa

Oct 31^st – Fri

Just when I think I am doing great keeping up the blog I get way behind! So I don't know what we did before going to Music in the Courtyard (MCY from now on) which is now actually in the courtyard. We left a little before it ended at 5, gobbled down some leftover dinner that I had heating in the crock pot, put on our costumes and headed to the Halloween dance.

Music for the dance was provided by Harry Matthews. He is not too tall and showed up in a white Elvis costume which actually suited him great. He really gets people involved in dancing.

After the dance, a large group went to Dennis & Gloria's to “christen” their resurfaced driveway/patio. We left about 10:30 and nearly made it in the door when other friends showed up to party some more. Our apologies again to our neighbors for noise after quiet time.

Nov 1^st – Sat

Terry went to get tickets for dances in Nov & Dec and then we returned to get tickets for New Years Eve, the managers' happy hour and a Sunday Brunch. Their wasn't much going on at the park today so we went to the casino where we had a late breakfast and donated some money again.

We took it easy the rest of the day and I actually made dinner for a change. Too bad my stomach was queasy and I didn't really enjoy it.

Nov 2^nd – Sun

We left for golf before 7 this morning. When the alarm went off at 6:10 I told Terry that I didn't think we could golf in the dark! Terry reported that he did very well on the front nine and I did quite a bit better than last week. The weather was perfect – a vest felt good for the first few holes and it never got too hot. Vic & Jackie took their turn for lunch and did burgers, veggies & chips.

Lots of people are arriving daily now. Terry drove around on the motorcycle and greeted several new arrivals while I rested. We went to say hi to Pender & Donna and chatted a bit until they had to go to dinner with friends. Since I didn't eat much yesterday we had enough for leftovers for dinner.

Nov 3^rd – Mon

It was cool enough to turn on the fireplace for a while this morning while we had coffee and played computer games. We returned our costumes, went to the Wild Berry for breakfast and then stopped for groceries at Frys.

Terry got a phone call from the people who are going to do some warranty work on the toy hauler and they needed a serial number from the awning. We have to pull the toy hauler out to open the awning as a motor home is parked beside us. Terry couldn't get to the storage area because of road closures for road sealing so the guy will have to come another day. We stopped at the toy hauler to look for something recently and the battery was dead so Terry will have to charge it before they awning will go out.

We went to MCY and didn't even require full shade – perfect. Lots of hugs for new arrivals and lots of dancing. We had Dennis & Gloria over for dinner and talked about playing cards but somehow the evening got away from us and we just enjoyed drinks, dinner & visiting. And a little bit of Dancing With the Stars that we had recorded.

Oct 28th to 30th - Mesa

Oct 28^th – Tues

Golf with the guys for Terry this morning. After I caught up the blog and puttered around, I went shopping. I started at Goodwill and got a different costume for Halloween. My first outfit from the costume shop had a heavy black slip with fringe and when I tried it on yesterday I saw that, indeed, you could see through the skirt. I browsed through Kohls & WalMart and only ended up with a few groceries.

There was leftover Mexican layered dip from yesterday so I invited Terri over to have lunch. We walked over to check out Dennis & Gloria's driveway project – still needs a clear coat. I had a little more “me” time before Terry got back.

A group decided to go to Taco Tuesday at Sun Life again so we drove and took Ron & Terri and Brian & Bev. We were there for an hour or so when someone mentioned that Jerry & Becky didn't come because they were going to Don & Mary's. That's when we realized that Don & Mary's party was today rather than Thursday as we thought!!!

We went to Don & Mary's when we got back and it was still hopping. They provided all the food & drinks and only a few chairs which results in more mingling and a great party. When we left we drove by Dennis & Gloria's to check out the driveway – looks great – and then stopped to chat with a group at Ron & Irene's.

Oct 29^th – Wed

Our shade for the end of the awning was delivered about 1:00. The guys finished installation of clips & rods on ours & Ron & Terri's. They look great.

There was a grand opening at the Courtyard today. It was to start at 2:45 with a ribbon cutting so we thought we couldn't get in before that time until someone said Julie was already saving tables just after 1:00. We went shortly after 2 and lots of people were already there. The ribbon cutting was accompanied by a champagne toast and the core group of workers were brought up front and given a well deserved round of applause.

Then it was time to party. Free beer & wine, full $ bar open for those who don't drink beer or wine. Brats with sauerkraut, chips & cookies were served buffet style in the ballroom. Rich Mancini did a marvelous job of providing dance music and an electric slide filled the huge new dance floor. The pool deck had been painted and chairs set out so Terry asked Jodie (manager) if the pool was open for swimming. She only needed to say yes to have Terry being the first to jump in fully dressed when music stopped.

We came home, Terry changed into dry clothes and went to Roosters. I have had some “intestinal discomfort” for a couple of days so I stayed home. Terry had a scare when he couldn't find his wallet after being at Roosters for a while. Being in a panic and having had a few drinks sent him home to see if he left the wallet here. When he went back, Julie pulled out a little flashlight and they found his wallet on the floor. I will have to replace the velcro on his pocket flap.

Oct 30^th – Thurs

We picked up Ralph & Elsie at 8 for a trip to Tucson to look at and hopefully bring back a 5^th wheel for them. We stopped for breakfast in Florence. It was a Mexican restaurant downtown and was very good. We had to wait for a sales rep at an RV park to see the 5^th wheel. Ralph had talked to people several times and had seen only a few pictures. After a thorough inspection by all of us and a discussion later in the park lobby, they decided to do some more looking as they didn't really have any comparisons and there were a few things that Elsie really didn't like – oak woodwork for one. One the way back, we stopped for a late lunch at Cracker Barrel in Casa Grande. Of course it was now time for a drink and more discussion about 5^th wheels & park models.

Ron was out riding his new bicycle so we chatted a bit with Terri before he returned. Vic & Jackie came by as they were waiting for Peter & Barb to arrive. When Peter & Barb got here, they had quite a story about a woman standing on the side of the highway and talking on a phone. Just before they reached her, she spun around and walked onto the road in front of them. Peter swerved & honked the horn but Barb is still not sure how they missed her. Bob & Dar stopped for a quick chat when they returned from watching a senior tour golf tournament. Ron Sr came by with no new information on Irene who was taken to the hospital in an ambulance last night with pain in her back & leg that kept her from getting out of bed yesterday. Results of a CT scan tomorrow will determine what treatment is needed. There is a very real possibility of Medivac for Irene and Ron driving the motor home back to their home in BC. Bummer!!!

When Ron started the BBQ for their dinner, we took the bike to see Bill & Beth to discuss park model rentals. Then we came home to crash.

Oct 24th to 27th - Mesa

Oct 24^th – Fri

Ron & Brian helped Terry install lights on the underside of the motorcycle so, in his own words, Terry will feel like he is riding on a cloud at night. It was quite the job with at least one trip to the store for more bits & pieces in addition to what they all had in their toolboxes.

Terri, Dar, Gina & I made a trip to BigLots since Gina had never shopped there.

I made a late lunch and then at 3 we went to listen to music by Fall River. After music, we were joined by Ron & Terri, Joe & Stella, Brian & Bev and Larry & Julie for snacks & drinks. They had barely left when Bill & Beth, Jerry & Becky and their friends Larry & Debbie came over. Terry & Terri had to cruise around to show off the new lights on the motorcycle.

Oct 25^th – Sat

I finally shortened a Tshirt that I bought a couple of years ago in Alaska! We went to a thrift store and found pants for Terry for Halloween. We stopped for lunch on our way to WalMart for some groceries and a few other items.

We went to Tina & Terry's (Terry Lee) for dinner. Also there were Larry & Julie, Jerry & Becky and Larry & Debbie. Sort of like last year – the guys were Terry, Terry, Larry, Larry & Jerry! When it got dark ,Terry wanted to show off the bike lights but they wouldn't work. We thought the problem was with the remote as Terri had noticed that the Off button didn't work well yesterday. Terry went to Ron & Terri's as they had an extra remote but Ron discovered that the problem was a loose wire. Will have to secure it somehow.

We didn't stay too long after dinner as Terry Lee was falling asleep. So we, Jerry & Becky and Larry & Debbie stopped to have a nightcap with Bill & Beth.

Oct 26^th – Sun

We had 4 groups golfing this morning at Desert Sands. The greens were a lot better than last week but the rough was still long & sparse so balls settled right down to the ground and were still hard to find & get out of there. It got quite hot and our group was struggling on the back nine.

Rather than going to a restaurant for lunch after golf, we are all going to chip in some money and take turns making lunch. Brian & Bev did today's lunch and provided burgers, potato salad, macaroni salad & coleslaw. They have park model with a large enough carport/patio to seat us all in the shade. We all brought our own drinks to keep things easy.

We were both tired so we rested (Terry's “rest” involved closed eyes!), watched TV & played computer games. There was a big gathering starting at 5:30 at the bocce courts but we just couldn't dig up enough ambition to go.

Oct 27^th – Mon

Terry dug out our rope lights and put them out while I got laundry ready. He still wasn't finished so I took the truck to the laundry room. I walked back to get 3 water jugs and filled them at the dispenser behind the laundromat. I had a few minutes to chat with Vic & Jackie, put clothes in dryers (Terry showed up about then) and we went back to visit again. Then the usual – hang & fold, put away & make the bed.

We picked up our Halloween costumes and headed to Total Wine. I remembered that I needed golf balls so we stopped at Dick's Sporting Goods and ended up with shoes for Terry as well. We stopped for a burger on the way back.

Dennis & Gloria are having a coating (paint?) put on their driveway/carport so they had to be out of the house – or stay inside! - most of the day. Julie invited them for brunch and they came to see us about 1:30. We chatted & had a drink which we barely had time to finish before going to MCY in the ballroom. Palmer Howard was a new-to-us musician and started out with a couple of songs not suitable for dancing. But he figured out what worked and we had a good time. We got to greet several couples who have recently arrived for the season.

Terry was inviting people to come over after music so we had a couple of tacos between dances. We ended up with friends arriving & leaving at different times so the mix was constantly changing. Ralph & Elsie just got back today and Terry talked them into coming as well.

Oct 21st to 23rd - Mesa

Oct 21^st – Tues

Terry went golfing with the guys and I had a lovely time puttering around doing bits & pieces of whatever I wanted – blog, light cleaning, computer games, visiting with Grace and generally relaxing. I had the use of the truck as Terry didn't drive today but I didn't even go anywhere.

Some major street “grinding & resurfacing” started today so we had to play sidewalk superintendent for a while and then check out the progress on the courtyard. We went to the pool later for a refreshing dip & chitchatting. After dinner we went to visit Howard & Gina as we still had to check out their new lights – great job – and Terry had to help them use up their Scotch since they are leaving on the 27th!

Oct 22^nd – Wed

We had coffee and watched asphalt trucks rumble by early this morning. We and Ron & Terri did some measuring for sun shades to hang on the ends of our awnings as the late afternoon sun comes right under the awnings and makes it uncomfortable to sit outside. Then Terri & I ordered the awnings which will be delivered next week.

We went to Harbor Freight for some ramps as Ron & Brian are helping Terry with a small addition to the motorcycle. More on that later. We made another grocery stop at Safeway on the way back.

I was mixing up some leftover turkey for sandwiches for a late lunch when Gloria called to say that Allan & Diane had arrived. They pull a motorcycle trailer with their motor home and it is hard to back it into their site so Terry helps them. Off he went so I enjoyed a sandwich before walking over to say hi. Allan, Terry & Dennis were enjoying a drink after getting the trailer situated (back it in with the truck then turn it around “manually” so the motorcycles can be parked inside) so I went to MCY in the ballroom by myself. Terry cleaned up and joined us shortly after.

Guilty Pleasures played enjoyable, danceable music. I finally talked Terry into having a loaded baked potato as we decided to go to Rooster's after music was done. We came home to get the truck and Patti and talked Joe & Stella into coming as well. We were going to park at the gate as usual but the asphalt crew was working there so we drove over.

There was a good mix of people there today with some excellent singers for karaoke so we had a great time. When we got back, Ron & Terri had some friends still sitting outside so of course we had to join them.

Oct 23^rd – Thurs

I did some dinner prep this morning. When I was starting to whip some cream, I realized it was 11:30 which was the time of my hair appointment! I put the bowl in the fridge and power walked to the hair salon where Holly had just finished the person before me. Then it was back to the dinner prep and lunch.

I did some stuff on the computer while Terry cleaned the motorcycle and then we relaxed – again! That's what being retired is all about.

Howard & Gina came for dinner. I introduced them to a “flattened, breaded chicken” dish and to creamed peas. I thought most people had eaten creamed peas sometime in their life. As they were leaving, we had to check out Ron's motion sensor alarm. He is getting a new bike and doesn't want it to disappear like his old one.

Oct 18th to 20th - Mesa

Oct 18^th – Sat

We had a lazy morning and I made breakfast for lunch. We took the motorcycle to Power Square where I looked for shorts but they have all been cleared out for the season. On the way back we stopped for a few groceries at Fry's. We saw diesel for $3.39 at a Fry's but the one where we shopped was still at $3.59. For every $100 per month of purchases, you get 10 cents off per gallon of fuel. We have to buy groceries anyhow so we often shop at Fry's.

Bob & Dar arrived across the street and they were followed shortly by Vic & Jackie who parked in a pull-through site to unload their motorcycle. They will move to their normal site tomorrow.

Of course new arrivals called for another happy hour. It didn't last into the dark hours as Ron & Terri made dinner for Bob & Dar. I had started cooking chicken thighs when I was making an appy and I popped in a couple of times to check on them so dinner was easy.

Oct 19^th – Sun

We went golfing at Desert Sands with Ron & Terri, Bruce & Ann, Bill, Grace, Howard & Gina and Bob & Dar. The course just reopened after overseeding and it was not in good shape. The greens were shaggy & blotchy – just smack the ball! - and the rough was so high that you couldn't see a ball unless you were right over it. Carts were “cart path only” which also slows down the game. Oh well, we were with friends and in sunshine!! We went to a sports bar for lunch and managed to get a table for 8 beside a booth for 4. The lunches were huge so we were all stuffed when we left. This led to a lazy afternoon.

We took the motorcycle to Safeway and stopped to say hi to Dennis & Gloria as they were sitting outside. Gloria asked if we could pick up a bag of ice for her so they could have us over for a drink. We put our purchases away and went back to their place. Gloria started her dinner and we left with a promise to be back to watch some fireworks that we knew were happening tonight.

We found out from Robin that the fireworks were starting at 6:30 so we and Joe & Stella were back at Dennis & Gloria's before they finished eating! We set up chairs in an empty site behind them and had a great view of fireworks – both man-made and natural as we had lightning as well. We moved back into their carport to continue the impromptu party and were joined by Patti who was out for a walk.

Oct 20^th – Mon

Terri came by this morning with a list of guests for yet another happy hour – this time to welcome Brian & Bev – and a request to have the gathering at our place since we have more chairs & tables. Makes total sense rather than carrying them next door and most readers know by now that we love parties & people.

I checked recipes for a different appy and we went grocery shopping again. On our way out we saw Terry & Tina unloading a trailer with stacks of boxes that they shipped from Washington. We had told them to let us know when the truck arrived so we went back to help since only Larry & Julie were there. Their carport was stacked 3 or 4 high with boxes when we finished. We had to come home to change shirts before heading back out.

We stopped at the CalAm costume shop and picked out costumes to be set aside for Halloween. This is a nice perk offered to everyone staying in a CalAm park. Just wear your name badge and clothes & accessories are free to use and only have to be cleaned before returning. When we stopped at Fry's we picked up some chicken for lunch since we didn't even have breakfast.

I started cooking some sauce for later, paid some bills online and before we knew it, it was time to head to the ballroom for music. Rick Jones is not my favorite singer but we still danced and had fun. Terri left a little early so when we got back our place was all ready for happy hour and everyone started arriving. So nice to see Brian & Bev again.

We did “heavy” appies today since we weren't starting until 5 and, as usual, the variety and quality of food was great. I think the last people left about 9:30.