Mar 1st to 9th - Mesa

Mar 1^st – Sun

I put together cabbage rolls for later and then went for a line dance rehearsal at 11:00. We went shopping for PJs for a party tonight which is “costume, PJs or togas”.

The party today was our big Fouth Street Farewell which had to be moved inside because rain was forecast. We got all three sections of the new multipurpose room, hired Wayne & Deb for music and had a wonderful time. We all agreed that inside turned out to be better so we will do the same next year regardless of the weather. People really got into the costume thing, the food was great as usual and the dance floor got a workout.

Mar 2^nd to 4^th – Mon to Wed

Fairly uneventful days. MCY had to be moved inside on Monday due to rain. It was outside on Tuesday with rain threatening but not showing up. Before going to the courtyard on Wednesday, I took some time to check out the quilt show. PVC pipe & black fabric is set up in the ballroom and quilts are hung on both sides of the black fabric. The whole thing had to be taken down in time to set up for Thursday morning coffee & doughnuts. There are a lot of very talented quilters in this park. A freearm quilting machine was included in the new “fiber arts center” this season and it is obviously getting a lot of use. Dave & Phyllis had a group over on Wed evening for strawberry shortcake which was yummy

Mar 5^th – Thurs

After coffee & doughnuts, I started dinner prep for tonight. I made Broccoli Cheese soup and enjoyed a bowl for breakfast. I did a lot of chopping so things would be ready after a line dance rehearsal at 3:00. Then I skipped MCY and found out that I didn't miss a thing as the band was awful.

We had Ron & Terri and Dennis & Gloria over for dinner. I made pork chops & cabbage which requires a lot of time & steps before getting it in the oven. We started with soup, had my usual/favorite romaine/mandarin orange/onion salad, the pork chops accompanied by sliced tomato & avocado drizzled with balsamic glaze and ended with Velvet Hammer – ice cream blended with Kaluha & rum and refrozen. Bev and Chris (Bev's daughter's mother-in-law) came for drinks later.

Mar 6^th – Fri

We left at 10 for a motorcycle ride to Payson. We had 9 bikes & 11 people. There is quite an elevation change – UP – and you could notice the temperature change but it wasn't cool enough to be cold. We went to the casino where everyone got player's cards and then we all had lunch. After lunch some left soon and others stayed a while to play slots and/or check out the town a bit.

Ralph & Elsie, Bill & Linda and we were the last group to leave. We took Usury Pass back and stopped at Saguaro Lake for a drink. Jackets off on the way back – a very nice trip.

We had leftovers for dinner – perfect!

Mar 7^th – Sat

Today was variety show rehearsal for the whole cast starting at 8:30. It was mainly a tech rehearsal so sets and music cues could get sorted out. We did fine in spite of our music cutting out for a beat a couple of times.

At 2:15 I joined a group to do some line dancing for entertainment at the Western States party. We dressed as “western” as we could – I borrowed Terry's Stetson. The party was running late so we did 3 dances rather than 4.

We went to the Saturday night dance with North Star and had our usual good time. Most of the time we claimed room to line dance.

Mar 8^th – Sun

Stella & Joe and Phyllis & Dave hosted their 2^nd annual breakfast at the bocce court this morning. Because some of us had a dress rehearsal for the variety show, we ate first and got there in plenty of time. We did fine again.

In the evening we walked to Ralph & Elsie's to discuss the St Patrick's Day parade and enjoyed a drink with them as well. We went past Dennis & Gloria's on the way back but their place looked all buttoned up for the night so we didn't stop.

Mar 9^th – Mon

We went to the Dollar Store for supplies before everyone arrived at 10:00 to work on decorations for our Spyders for the parade. We also picked up a dozen doughnuts since we didn't have breakfast.

Linda, Lori, Elsie, Diane and I painted foam core boards with sections of a rainbow as the basis for our group decoration. Then Terry cut & stapled wood strips to hold the boards above our heads. Another “great” idea from me!!! Oh well, we mostly had fun and still have to wash paint off the parking area.

The first of 2 performances of the variety show was tonight. We had to show up about 5:30 for “makeup”. We watched most of the first act and then had to complete our outfits as we were the second group in the second act. All went well.

Feb 23rd to 28th - Palm Springs & Mesa

Feb 23-25^th – Mon to Wed - Palm Springs

We left a little after our planned time of 9 as Larry & Barb informed us when we picked them up that it was raining in Palm Springs so we stopped back at our place to get long pants and closed shoes. Turned out we didn't need them as it rained a bit early in the drive and then no more precipitation. We stopped in Quartzsite to have lunch with friends Clem & Marlene. We couldn't check into the condo until 4 so we spent some time in a casino – everyone donated! We still had time to pick up some groceries to make dinner so we could relax with a drink and not worry about driving to a restaurant.

We made breakfast at the condo and did some shopping on Tuesday. Then Larry & Barb enjoyed the pool at the condo while Terry & I went to another casino. We got back in time to join them poolside with a drink. Today was Larry & Barb's anniversary (the reason for the trip) so we went to Babe's for dinner. It is Barb's favorite restaurant and we had a very nice meal before moving to a fire pit area for a drink.

Barb's turn to make breakfast Wednesday morning and my turn to clean up. We stopped at a couple of stores looking for a retractable clothes line for Barb before we went to The Sands RV & Golf resort for 9 holes of golf. The weather was lovely and the course was in good shape so it was a nice walk. Then we went to Gilbert & Grace's in the park for a drink where a few other friends joined us. We went to Terry's brother Skip's and his wife Kathy's incredible new house for dinner. It was being built when we were in Palm Springs last year so it was fun to see it completed.

Feb 26^th – Thurs

We left at 9 for an uneventful drive back. We got a chuckle when Terri sent a text asking if she could borrow a “crackpot”. Gotta love auto word completion & correction! We were back in time to unpack & relax before going to Bob & Sandi's happy hour. We couldn't stay long as we were going to the Arizona Opry. We could enjoy a drink however as we rode with Dennis & Gloria. The show was “Country” and we all agreed that it was the best one that we have seen this year.

Feb 27^th – Fri

I was very lazy this morning and was still in bed reading when Sandi came over to return the crock pot at 9:30. We went out for lunch and then did some shopping. We went to MCY and danced to Wayne & Deb.

I had put dinner in the crock pot so we could eat as soon as we got back. We stopped at Neil & Robin's before going to a dessert party put on by Don & Susan. We were a bit late as we were confused about which multipurpose room was being used! Great desserts and lots of friends for another fun event.

Feb 28^th – Sat

Another marathon of activities today. The Sunday golf group played today due to a tournament tomorrow. Brad set up a Scramble format that was a lot of fun. He included a length of ribbon and a pair of scissors for each team which we could use to “enlarge the hole” by cutting off a piece of ribbon the length that a putt was away from the hole. You could do this as long as you had ribbon left. Then everyone went to our courtyard for lunch. The weather was cool & cloudy so there weren't too many other people even when music started at 1:00. We danced between bites of lunch.

We weren't very hungry but thought we should have something to eat before going to the regular Saturday night dance so we had dessert. Southwest Surfers played 60's & 70's music which turned out to be fine for a lot of line dances.

Feb 20th to 22nd - Mesa

Feb 20^th – Fri

Terry was feeling a little rough this morning so things were quiet around here. We went to see Don & Susan's new vinyl flooring in their motor home – very nice. We visited with Larry & Barb for a bit.

We went to a post office to see about applying for Terry's passport but there are only a few post offices that have the service so we just stopped at Walgreens to get photos. I completed an application online for Terry and relaxed while he went to listen to music in the courtyard.

We went to Dennis & Gloria's for dinner and cards. We played a few hands of a game that Gloria wanted to refresh in her mind and then played a game of Cross Cribbage.

Feb 21^st – Sat

We played golf with the Saturday group and were paired with Chris & Anne. Unfortunately we only had one helping of “birdy juice” - not great games today. We stopped at Costco for a few items on the way back and then went to the courtyard for lunch and dancing. But the singer – Pete Byam - also told jokes so we didn't get much dancing. We left a bit early to join a group next door for birthday cake for Joe.

We had a light dinner before going to a regular Saturday night dance with North Star. There was not a huge crowd so the dance floor was not jammed and we had room to line dance. Sometimes we had a large group joining us and other times it was just Terri & me. Always fun.

Feb 22^nd – Sun

We slept a little late and then headed to the laundry room. We did the usual back & forth and ended up with Terry finishing the folding as I forgot to start one dryer and I had to go to dance rehearsal. Terry had run a couple of errands on the motorcycle and had it at the laundry so I took it to dance. I continued a forgetful day and Terry WALKED to bring me a couple of dollars so he took the bike home!

I made us a sandwich and then put together devilled eggs for later before relaxing with computer games.

Dar & Bob had a big gathering (60+ ?) at the bocce court with what started as heavy appies and ended up being dinner. Most people played a game of bocce. Clouds had moved in and the temperature cooled off which was actually nicer than blazing sun on the courts. It started at 3 so we were home early.

We are going to Palm Springs for 4 days tomorrow so I won't be posting to the blog until the end of the week.

Feb 17th to 19th - Mesa

Feb 17^th – Tues

I got the blog caught up before we picked up Nancy and Bob & Sandi to go to Organ Stop Pizza for another lunch just for our park. It was excellent as usual. We danced to Ricky Ricci (not our favorite) in the courtyard.

I had put dinner in the crockpot so we could eat before going to line dance lessons. Then we decided not to go to lessons as they were just reviewing dances so we had a nice dinner and a relaxing evening.

 

Feb 18^th – Wed

After breakfast we went grocery shopping. I put everything away, put a roast in the crock pot and finally started the process to renew our passports. Because my application is coming from & returning to the US, it will cost me $260 for a 10 year passport instead of the $160 that it costs to be mailed to Canada.

Dennis & Gloria dropped in for a chat before we went to the courtyard. The Brookharts play very danceable music and we took full advantage of it.

Bob & Sandi and Dennis & Donna came over at 5 to make some buddy burners. We ended up making 4 burners and about 8:30 I finally dished up dinner for Terry & I and Sandi made sandwiches for her & Bob and anyone else who wanted one. Joe & Stella had joined us by then.

Feb 19^th – Thurs

Terry golfed this morning and I first went to Coffee & Doughnuts and then went shopping with with Terri & Clare. I had time for lunch & puttering around before going for dance rehearsal at 2:00.

We went to the courtyard for a bit and then came back to change for the Canada Day Party. Talk about a sea of red & white clothes! The party was put on by Ontario this year with Steve Stairs & North Star providing the music. A good time was had by all.

Feb 12th to 16th - Mesa

Feb 12^th - Thurs

After going to coffee & doughnuts (didn't win anything from sponsor Camping World) and doing a small catch-up blog entry, I relaxed a while with computer games. I agreed to take part in a line dance for the park variety show next month and had a practice at 1:00.

We went to MCY and danced before changing and picking up Dennis & Gloria to go the the Arizona Opry. Today's show was Mark Lucas and the Wild Bunch and was a great show as usual.

Feb 13^th – Fri

Normal lazy morning with a short trip for a burger and to pick up a few groceries. Marg called and I had a nice chat with her.

We are now looking for some shade when we go to the courtyard. Luckily Terri goes early and gets a good table – thanks!!!

We had Larry & Barb over for dinner so we sat outside for a drink first. In no time at all our chairs – and then some - were filled with friends and we had an impromptu happy hour. We were sorry to chase everyone out at 7 so we could have dinner.

Feb 14^th – Sat

Our Sunday group played golf at Desert Sands this morning (tournament tomorrow required a reschedule). We didn't play together but we each managed to have another less than stellar game. Sandi & Bob prepared a yummy lunch. We know that Sandi did most of the work as Bob played golf! We were done in time to catch part of music in the courtyard from 1-3.

We had a bit of down time before going to the Valentine's dinner & dance. Dinner was prime rib and was better for some than for our table as we were the second to last table called for the food line and somehow they couldn't keep baked potatoes hot. Oh well! We didn't enjoy the band too much and the dance floor was smaller than usual due to the round tables for dinner. Cross this event off our list for next year.

Feb 15^th – Sun

We had a quiet morning before I went to practice our line dance routine. We were in the Fiesta community center so we – and especially Nancy who is dancing as well as leading the group - could see ourselves in the wall mirrors. Not always a pretty sight!

Larry & Barb had a happy hour(s) gathering at their site which was fun as usual. We had a light dinner and went to play cards/dice game at Rick & Vi's along with Dennis & Donna and Bob & Dar. We were comfortable sitting outside until we quit shortly before quiet time at 10:00.

Feb 16^th – Mon

I met the line dance ladies at the Country Store (sale here at the park) to get “bling” for our dance and then went through the rest of the sale with Terri. Dave & Margo – friends from Walla Walla – arrived for a visit about 10:00. After a cup of coffee and lots of catching up, we went for a tour of the changes here in the park. They stayed here a couple of years ago so were familiar with the facilities. We ended up at the courtyard where we had lunch. They left shortly after music & dancing started at 3 as they are staying in Phoenix and didn't want to end up stuck in rush hour traffic.

We went to Fat Willy's for dinner with Richard & Nancy. Then we taught them to play Ponytail Canasta which was easy for them to pick up as they play Hand & Foot Canasta. Unfortunately the guys won.

Jan 26th to Feb 11th - Mesa

Jan 26^th – Feb 11^th

I wondered when someone would ask about the blog and finally Claude gave me a gentle little nudge!

I was overwhelmed doing the entry for the cruise and was already behind when I finished it so I thought I would take a little break. I guess it is about time to get back to the routine.

We have been line dancing a lot and loving it. Our dance instructor Bobbie says she is happy to see her “little chickies” decide on a dance and head to the floor without her. The weather warmed up early which is wonderful since that is why we are all here in the south. We did end up line dancing in the rain in the courtyard one day.

We had a nice visit from Don & Joanne and Lorne & Diane (Joanne's sister). We showed off the changes to VVV – Joanne loved the fiber arts center, we enjoyed lunch in the new courtyard, and the gym was a hit (just to look!). It's a good thing that Diane was the DD as the guys had to try a new single malt Scotch.

We have joined the FitBit group. For those who haven't been exposed, FitBit is a brand of step & exercise trackers and we have the model worn on the wrist which is also a watch. It is quite motivating. We usually get our recommended 10,000 steps after we finish line dancing for a couple of hours in the afternoon.

I will TRY to keep up the blog. Thanks for reading!

Jan 15th to 25th - Cruising

Jan 15^th to 17^th – Thurs/Fri/Sat

I was right about “a couple of weeks”! This is going to be one big entry.

We left for Houston bright & early on the 15^th in Bob & Sandi's Jeep. We stopped in Van Horn TX for the night – OK motel, crappy dinner. The next day we took a break in San Antonio and wandered around the river walk. We stayed in Schulenburg – better motel, great dinner at a buffet with intentionally crooked windows - which left a decent drive Saturday morning to Seabrook which is the location of a new cruise ship terminal near Houston. We had plenty of time to board the Norwegian Jewel, get drink package stickers on our key cards, find our room (9) – balcony and directly across the ship from Bob & Sandi – and have lunch and explore a bit before watching the ship leave the dock at 4. The props & side thrusters throw up “stuff” from the bottom and there were tons of birds having dinner. We checked out the casino, had dinner and went to the lounge/nightclub before calling it a day at midnight.

Jan 18^th – Sun

Today was a sea day. We met Bob & Sandi for breakfast (7), watched some line dance lessons (13) and we all took part in a slot tournament (6) where we did not get past the first round. The numbers in ( ) are levels in the ship and I put them in to show how much exercise we all got – yes, Terry included – by using the stairs ALL THE TIME! We had a light lunch and then Terry went back to the casino and I relaxed & read. Sandi & I went to a movie while the guys watched the Sea Hawks pull out a surprising win. We went to a steakhouse for dinner to celebrate Terry's birthday a couple of days early. The meal was wonderful.

 

Jan 19^th – Mon

We docked at Cozumel this morning and walked a short ways where we rented a well used (rickety!?) jeep and went touring. We stopped for a beer and pictures on the rocks and then made a second stop for nearly the same thing but added some chips & salsa. The circular peaked roof of the bar was entirely covered on the underside with T-shirts and there were fun signs all over. We missed a turn for some ruins so we backtracked, drove a couple of miles off the main road and then decided not to tour the ruins! We returned the jeep and did some shopping before returning to the ship.

We had a snack at the outdoor buffet to tide us over and went to the casino for a bit until the 7:15 show – a comedian named David Naster who was excellent. Bob & Sandi went to eat (Sandi had a very small snack unlike the rest of us!) and we went to watch some line dance lessons. The floor was jammed and we knew the dances so we just watched – and drank! The lessons were followed by a “contest” called “Dance Like a Norwegian” where 6 guests were paired with ship personnel in a dance contest. Lots of laughs.

Jan 20^th – Tues

During the night we traveled to Belize City. Due to the barrier reef, we had to tender in which was a good experience. Catamarans from Belize were used rather than lifeboats from the ship as all ships have to tender. We walked down the dock and joined up with couple from Florida for a private tour in an air conditioned van that could have held twice as many people. It was run by a church and the pastor was our tour guide. The outstanding impression of Belize City was poverty and lack of fundamental facilities in the majority of houses. We made the “mandatory” stop at a run factory and then went through a very poor part of town which was quite depressing.

We shopped – of course - on the main street and then in a duty free section in the dock area. We sampled some frozen drinks and had to buy one each – yummy. Can you say “head freeze”? We had an early dinner at Azura which is a complementary sit down restaurant and very good. Norwegian has “free style” dining so no reserved seating with the same people each night and suits us fine. The show was a Russian acrobatic couple who were excellent. The man was also a very good singer. Then we went to the lounge for a “Battle of the Sexes” game which was quite funny.

 

Jan 21^st – Wed

A night of travel took us to Roatan, Honduras. It is a little island – 38 miles long, 3 miles wide - just off the coast and very lush & tropical. We had booked a zip line excursion but not early so we had breakfast, then lined up on the dock and followed our tour guide to the bus area. She gave us lots of information on the way. We were all decked out with harnesses, helmets & gloves for braking. There were 12 zip lines going back & forth across a big gully for a total of 2 miles. There were 40 people in our group so it wasn't as much fun as the zip lines we did in Maui with a smaller group but it was OK. We piled into trucks for a ride back to the start and then had to wait for the 2 buses to get back to the dock area.

We shopped, had $2 drinks in a “rustic” bar and headed back to the ship. Once again we had an early dinner at Azura (not so good this time) so we could get good seats for the 7:15 show which was a magician/comedian and again very good. We spent some time at the casino before calling it a day.

Jan 22^nd & 23^rd – Thurs/Fri – sea days

Bob & Sandi enjoyed breakfast on their balcony (east side of the ship going back) so after we had another great meal at the buffet, we went back to the casino. We all met for lunch and then went for a talk/presentation (You just have to laugh) given by the comedian David Naster. It was really good. We watched a movie trivia game while we had a drink. We moved to another bar where Bob & Sandi took part in a martini tasting event and we continued to make good use of our “unlimited drink package”. We had to change into slacks for dinner at the Tzar's palace which was just OK.

The 9:15 show was Le Cirque Bijou where we were amazed to see dancers from a few nights ago now doing acrobatic acts above the audience. After the show, a parade of employees & officers were introduced and then exited so they could “meet & greet” the leaving guests. We continued on to the “White Hot Party” in the lounge which was very loud & crowded so we didn't stay too long.

 

Friday dawned with clouds & showers but 7 foot swells didn't budge the ship. We dawdled over breakfast, Bob & Sandi joined us at the casino for a bit and then we separated for lunch and some packing. Once again we went to Azura for dinner and this time the service and the food were not very good. I am happy that we got the good meal first or we would have only gone once.

The “grand finale” show was super. All the acts took part in some fashion and at the end 6 of the activities personnel did a hilarious “water spitting” act that Bob & Sandi have seen on previous cruises. The activity director was superb. A great end to a fun trip!

Jan 24^th – Sat – disembarkation (just had to use the word!!)

Norwegian has a “fast exit” process where those who can carry all their luggage can do so and disembark first rather than waiting for luggage with different colored tags to show up in the terminal. We were supposed to leave at 7:45 but an announcement at 7:15 said the gangplank was ready so we hustled out. There were lots of customs agents, the parking lot was close to the terminal and we were on the road just before 8. Breakfast at McDonald’s, a few gas stops, lunch at Subway and a Red Roof motel in El Paso. We went to Outback for dinner but there was a 45 minute wait so we went to Logan's Roadhouse where there was also a wait. We ended up at Macaroni Grill which was good. We were definitely ready to crash when we got back to the motel. Terry had turned on the heat before we left for dinner and we could hear a fan rattling before we opened the door. Luckily it was warm enough that we could turn it off for the night.

Jan 25^rd – Sun

We got an early start and drove for an hour before stopping for breakfast at Cracker Barrel. There was a bit of snow on the ground in Texas and quite a bit more in New Mexico. Bob & Terry took turns driving & napping and we made good time. We arrived at VVV at 3:10 to find a few friends waiting in the street as Gloria had sent a text when we were near Casa Grande and they had a pretty good idea when we would arrive. A couple of phone calls and others arrived. We threw our bags in the rig, got a drink and some snacks, put out chairs and enjoyed the party!

Home Sweet Home!!

Jan 11th to 14th - Mesa

Jan 11^th – Sun

After a lazy morning, we went to Red Mountain Cafe for a late breakfast but there was a line out the door so we checked out Wild Berry – same thing there. So we went to Fry's for a few groceries and picked up chicken for lunch.

I continued with minor alterations and finally put the sewing machine away. Terry had promised to take Beth on a motorcycle ride so he did that and then took Terry Hensley for a ride. She wasn't sure about the whole thing and wouldn't let him go out of the park and drive too fast.

I made deviled eggs for a party at Bob & Gail's that started at 4:00. It was originally a farewell party for us and for Gail who is going to Ontario to visit family. Any reason for a party is good enough! Their driveway & patio were jammed and people spilled out onto the street. Luckily we had eaten by the time a light rain started. Tables were moved at Bob & Gail's to allow seating under the awning and a bunch of people moved under our awning and inside our place.

After everyone left our place, we went to Bob & Sandi's to decide which excursions we want to book. We finally decided on a zip line trip and will figure out the other stops when we get there.

Jan 12^th – Mon

We did laundry late this morning and then separated clothes that we are taking on the cruise so we won't wear them again. Terry brought the motorcycle to the laundry room to help me fold clothes so I drove it all around the park for some practice before I brought it back.

Terry went a bit early to the courtyard to get a table and I put a roast & veggies in the crock pot for dinner. One of our favorite singers – Rich Mancini – was playing so we line danced a lot. When a group got up for the first line dance, he said (about Terry) “I wonder what this guy eats for breakfast because every time he gets on the dance floor he is followed by 9 women”.

When MCY was over, we walked to Larry & Barb's site. They are on 7^th Street this year rather than 4^th Street with us as the site they were in had a streetlight that made it hard to park and there was a big, humming power box in the site next to them. They weren't home so we stopped at Harlan & Barb's. Barb promised to make me a Moscow Mule and she had just fixed one for herself. She had me taste it to see if I wanted it – yes! - and then made a couple more for herself & Terry. Our dinner was ready when we got home and we had a quiet evening.

Jan 13^th – Tues

We started packing for the cruise and then went shopping. But not for anything fun – underwear for me and Terry just LOVES hanging around near that department! We stopped for lunch at Subway on the way home.

It started raining when we were shopping so MCY was moved inside to the ballroom. Line dancers claimed half the dance area and everyone was happy. I used leftovers from last night for dinner and we had time to walk over and see Larry & Barb before going to line dance lessons. Line dancing was all review so we didn't have to get there until 7.

Jan 14^th – Wed

Clear & sunny this morning which brings out the neighbors in little groups on the streets. We did some more organizing/packing and then went to talk to Bob & Sandi about the trip. We are leaving tomorrow morning at 9. I doubt if I will post to the blog until we get back on the 26^th. I will have to make notes for a big entry then.

Of course we had to go to Albertsons for a few last minute items and ran into Bruce there. He has been sick and is on the mend but not 100 percent. He was buying medication because now Ann is sick! After another “street” powwow with neighbors, I gave Terry a haircut and sent him off to the courtyard so I could putter in peace. We are going to the variety show at Arizona Opry this evening so have to get everything finished up.

Woohoo! “Talk” to you in a couple of weeks!

Jan 8th to 10th - Mesa

Jan 8^th – Thurs

I joined Terri at coffee & doughnuts this morning. Larry & Suz won a motor coach trip for 2 to Laughlin but as usual my tickets weren't drawn for anything!

After a late breakfast we went shopping – clothes at Vanity Fair & Izod and a few items at Costco which was very busy but not slow checking out as all registers were open. We were back in time for MCY with Montana Guy.

We left the courtyard a little early and went to Dennis & Gloria's along with Ron & Terri. We had bought a step stool as a little “housewarming” gift for Bruce & Ann and asked them earlier if we could come over for a drink. Bruce was sick so they said another day would be better. We didn't want to wait too long with the gift so we just delivered the stool and left.

We ended up at Dennis & Gloria's long past dinner time and Terry was not the only one feeling no pain.

Jan 9^th – Fri

I bought a windbreaker at Izod which had a hood that folded into the collar. It made the collar too bulky and I figured I would not use it so I spent a lot of time picking the stitching apart, removing the hood and putting it back together. I also altered the sleeves so they wouldn't fall halfway down my hands. Picky, picky, picky!! No wonder Terry goes crazy when I try on clothes and don't buy anything. I had some blouses that gaped a bit and finally figured out a way to fasten them without using a pin every time I wore them. Unfortunately it took me a couple of tries – good thing I had time.

I turned some leftovers into a yummy lunch for a change rather than waiting for them to get cold enough to throw away. We spent time on the computer looking at possible shore excursions on our cruise.

We went to MCY with Tommy G. The singing wasn't great but we did a lot of dancing and enjoyed the sunshine. Afterward we joined a group at a big firepit area by the pool. At one point Ron & Terry made a run home for more alcohol and some chips. Dinner consisted of dessert!

Jan 10^th – Sat

We left at 7:40 to golf with the Saturday group. Terry & I played with Chris & Anne. It was very cool when we teed off at 8:44 and I didn't take my jacket off until we were almost finished the first nine. Then the jacket came on & off the rest of the game as clouds moved in & out and we even had a few sprinkles. I had the best game ever at this course and was the first in our group to get a birdie which called for Chris' “birdie juice” - shots of Malibu Rum after each birdie. Luckily, Terry & Chris both got birdies! We joined 11 others for lunch at The Hub after golf.

Terry went to listen to the last hour of music in the courtyard and I continued trying on clothes and doing small alterations which in some cases I should have done a long time ago – like hemming a T-shirt that I bought in Alaska!

We sold our tickets for a dance here in the park and went to a dance at Good Life instead. A large group of line dancers from here were going to listen to North Star and have room to line dance.

We had crawled into bed and were watching TV & reading when Larry & Barb pounded on our door. They arrived today and popped into the dance to see who was there and when the dance was over came to say hi. Terry & Larry had a nightcap and we had a nice chat.

Jan 5th to 7th - Mesa

Jan 5^th – Mon

I finally talked to sister Marg. Her birthday was yesterday but she wasn't home each time I called. We did laundry again as we needed to wash the new sheets and I am trying to time things to coincide with our cruise.

It took me forever to catch up the blog. Once again I will tell myself not to let it get so far behind and once again I am sure I will not keep up! We danced to John & Susie in the courtyard and were not unhappy when they said they would not be back this season as their last 2 performances were not up to par.

We ate a late lunch at the courtyard and had a quiet evening.

Jan 6^th – Tues

I went with Terri to pick up Mike & Susie at the Phoenix airport. When she knocked on the door she said the flight was going to be early. As we were approaching the terminals, Susie texted to say they has just landed but they didn't know how long it would take to disembark & get out so we found the new cell phone parking lot. When they called, they were at the last door and we didn't know enough to immediately cut across 3 lanes of traffic to exit so we ended up making the loop around the terminals again. It is a big airport.

I made lunch and put a roast in the crock pot before we went to MCY. Dakota Kid provided good music and there was a large group of line dancers. The weather was absolutely perfect – not too warm even in the sun but not too cool in the shade. We actually ended up at 79 degrees which is 2 degrees below the record high for this date.

Having the roast ready made it easy to finish & eat dinner before going to line dance lessons at 6:30 which was well attended again.

Jan 7^th – Wed

Ron & Terri came over to ride with us to Organ Stop Pizza where there was a special lunch just for Val Vista residents. The truck didn't quite catch and then would not turn over! The guys put the trickle charger on it and Terri drove. We had a good lunch and a very entertaining performance on the pipe organ.

When we got back, the truck still wouldn't start so the guys borrowed a large battery charger from Mike. While they were messing with the truck, Terri & I walked to the new dog park where there was a grand opening complete with a band, food & beer. The park is much larger than before and all grass. It even has a fire hydrant and an agility course.

Now it was time for MCY with Dan the Music Man. Ron Smith kept the line dancers on the floor for most of the songs.

Jerry & Becky invited us for dinner but first Terry started the truck and took the charger back to Mike. After dinner we played Pegs and I am happy to report that the ladies won.

Dec 29th to Jan 4th - Mesa

Dec 29^th – Mon

Laundry day again. Terry saw Joyce and she said the laundry room was packed. I had everything ready to go so I went to check and found plenty of empty washers – just scattered about. We didn't get all the ingredients that I needed for Seafood Lasagne so after we finished the laundry we had to go to Albertsons.

We picked Ron & Terri up at the airport and got back before 4. Terry & Terri went to MCY and I stayed home to cook as we invited Ron & Terri and Bob & Sandi for dinner. We were talking with Bob & Sandi before Ron & Terri arrived and they told us that they had just finished booking tickets for a cruise. Terry said “I wish we were going” and - voila – we decided to join them! Sandi called her travel agent and left a message asking her to call us tomorrow.

We had a good dinner and a wonderful evening with great friends.

Dec 30^th – Tues

Terry talked to the travel agent and got reservations for the cruise to the western Caribbean! We will be driving with Bob & Sandi to Houston TX (1000 miles) and leaving from there on Jan 17^th. We stop in Cozumel, Belize City and Roatan Honduras. We get back to Houston on the 24^th.

Of course we went to the courtyard & danced as usual.

Terry got ribs at the courtyard for dinner but I got the better deal – leftover lasagne from last night! We had a quiet evening.

Dec 31^st – Wed

Lazy morning!

We went to Burger King for lunch and walked to the Dollar Store nearby looking for eye masks for tonight's dance. We didn't find what I thought I wanted so we went to a couple other places and finally ended up at another Dollar Store and got the same masks we looked at first! I had to make a couple of modifications when we got back.

The masks were for the New Year's Eve dance with a “Black & White Masquerade” theme. It started at 8:45 with heavy appies and “dinner” music from Johnny K & Kompany. Once most people finished eating, the band switched to livelier music. It was very crowded but our small line dance group found little corners. The band played until after 1:00 so we were ready to call it quits.

Jan 1^st – Thurs

We joined a group of 8 other bikes and 11 riders to ride to Filly's for lunch. We had a slight delay when Debra had a problem with her bike and stopped at a service station. The front bikes didn't stop so she asked us to catch up to Chief and tell him to come back. By the time we made the decision to head back, Debra had discovered she was out of gas so we met them continuing on and did a “Chinese fire drill” to get everyone going in the right direction.

We had a nice surprise – snow on the Superstition Mountains. I managed to get some good pictures with Terry's camera as the traffic was very slow due to lots of people pulling over to take pictures of this rare occurrence. One the way back after lunch at Filly's, we stopped at What The Hell Bar for a drink. The weather cooled down quite a bit from when we left the park at noon.

There was no music in the courtyard so Terry figured it was time to head to a casino. We went to the Wild Horse and had a hard time finding empty machines at first. Then it started to thin out a bit and Terry got most of our money back before we left. It was late when we got back but we were hungry so we had dessert.

Jan 2^nd – Fri

Dennis & Gloria stopped by after getting tickets to tell us what table they got for the Valentine Dinner & Dance. After they left, we went to the activity office to get our tickets for February. Then we told Ron & Terri and went back with Terri so she could get tickets. All set!

After music in the courtyard we joined Richard & Nancy for dinner at The Duchess. When they brought us back they came in for a drink and more chatting.

Jan 3^rd – Sat

Terry went to check on the toy hauler repairs – they had the siding replaced but no decals and hadn't worked on any other items.

Today was the first day for music in the courtyard from 1:00 to 3:00 on Saturdays. It wasn't too cool (a big propane heater helps) and we had a great time dancing.

We needed new sheets so we went to WalMart and also did grocery shopping there. I don't know if it is a regular occurrence late on Saturday afternoon but there were empty shelves all over the grocery department – no 2% half gallons of milk, egg shelves about ¾ empty, picked over produce. We got chicken from the deli so I only had to add a salad for dinner.

We went to a dance here at 7:00 – the Needham Twins were playing and we have enjoyed them in the past. The dance was not sold out so the line dancers were able to stake out a portion of the dance floor.

Jan 4^th – Sun

I put cabbage rolls together and had to send Terry to the store as the seal was broken on the jar of sauerkraut. Then I made all the rolls and realized I left out one ingredient so I had to take them all apart, add the eggs and make them up again. Finally I had them simmering on the NuWave cooktop which I really like.

We didn't do anything much “constructive” until it was time to head to the Fiesta community center for Ernie's birthday party. Ernie & Dianne run the weekly music jam and a group of their friends were playing when we arrived. After one line dance at the “back” of the room, Terry asked it he could move a couple of empty tables from the front to the back and then everyone could watch the musicians & dancers at once.

Dianne cooked a couple of turkeys and a ham and everyone brought the usual wonderful, delicious assortment of accompanying dishes. More music & dancing after dinner until the party broke up about 8. We stopped on the way back to visit with Jerry & Becky.

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.