Nov 25th to 27th - Mesa

Nov 25^th – Mon

Terry played golf this morning.  After posting the blog and passing another Candy Crush level, I headed out for some shopping.  But first I had to stop to see Ann for a bit and then Sharon next door to Ann.  It was a lovely sunny morning to stand outside & visit.

I had a good time checking out everything in Kohl’s and actually buying a few items.  Terry had returned shortly before I got back so we went to the courtyard.  When we got back, Richard & Nancy showed up with their contribution to Thanksgiving dinner as they will arrive later.  They stayed for a drink & nonstop talking as usual.  I had some leftovers to make an easy dinner before watching TV and crashing.

Nov 26^th – Tues

We did some grocery shopping and stopped at WalMart to get a small crock pot which we used for cocktail wieners a bit later. 

The occasion for appies today was a Street Hockey game on 7^th street.  It was organized by Jim & Caroline who own a park model across from Larry & Julie and also the fishing resort on Jewel Lake that we visited this summer.  They used PVC & sheets to make very nice goals and marked center & end lines with red duct tape on the pavement.  They had a bunch of hockey sticks and some poor person had to empty beer cans to use as pucks.  Each team had 2 guys & 1 woman and played two 3 minute halves.  They started at 5 minutes but it was too long for old people trying to keep up with those in a bit better shape!  They had a chart for winner &loser brackets with Jim & Caroline’s team eventually winning and doing a victory lap with the trophy.

We missed the street hockey game last year and were happy to attend this year.  Terry played but I wimped out & cheered.  A couple of guys hit the pavement, the “puck” cut Brad’s lip, someone broke a nail(!) and lots of people had shins hit with sticks but luckily there were no serious injuries to players or spectators who were sometimes in the middle of the action.

Then it was right on to line dancing at 6:30 so we could take advantage of extra lessons before the regular class from 7 to 8-ish.  After that we went to Dennis & Gloria’s to watch the finale of DWTS.

Nov 27^th – Wed

We went to get Terry’s motorcycle license today with the usual long lines & waits at the MVD.  I know, everyone else uses DMV but AZ has to be different!  On the way back we stopped at a couple of large motorcycle stores and got gloves for both of us and a jacket for Terry.

We went to music in the courtyard (MCY) and did a lot of line dancing to The Weezul Brothers.

Then it was time to make a quick appy and go to Larry & Julie’s for another party.  This one was to introduce people to Terry & Tina (good friends of L&J and new owners of a park model across the street from L&J) and “Parrish & family”.  Parrish is Bill & Laurie’s son and is visiting them with his wife, son & daughter.  There was a huge crowd with a high noise level from so many conversations.  It was quite cool but a lot of people could sit in the carport and there were a couple of heaters for those on the street.  We finally headed for home about 10.

Nov 21st to 24th - Mesa

Nov 21^st – Thurs

Terry went golfing this morning and I went to coffee & doughnuts with Terri.  Then she drove me to Albertsons for a few groceries.  I made 2 batches of Rice Krispy squares for tonight, worked on the blog, visited with Sue and finally made it through the level of Candy Crush that has had me stumped for a while.  While I baked a couple of pans of rolls, I decided to try to get Terry through the level that has him stalled but I wasn’t able to get it done.

Shortly after Terry got back, we went to the courtyard for a bit.  Came back, packed up our drink bag & food and went to Dennis & Gloria’s for a potluck, “non birthday” dinner with about 36 of our closer friends!  Gloria asked Ernie & Dianne, Doug & Duane to provide music.  They were joined or spelled off at different times by Bruce, Ray & Viv and Dale who is new to the park with his wife Sharon.

We ate at tables in the carport and then put away the tables to provide a little room for dancing.  Part way through the musical part of the evening the promised rain started.  One large lightning bolt and a clap of thunder startled everyone.  People tried to time their departure to lighter rainfall but that didn’t work too well.  Robin had her car so she gave us a ride home.

The motorcycle was out in the rain and our chairs were filled with water.  We emptied the chairs and tucked them under the rig and then Terry drove the motorcycle under the awning.

Nov 22^nd – Fri

It rained hard last night and most of today.  I know this is not bad weather compared to a lot of other places – like those with snow & freezing temperatures already – but we didn’t even venture out except to cover the motorcycle.

We had a late lunch/early dinner so Terry could leave for his first motorcycle class at 4:15.  The class started at 6:00 but we knew one road was closed due to flooding and he would hit rush hour traffic.  He got home at 9:30 which was when the class was supposed to finish.  They had elected not to have a break and get done early.

I made apple blossoms (individual pies) and ice cream and we called it a day.

Nov 23^rd – Sat

The alarm went off at 5 as the class today started at 6:30.  It was still raining when Terry left but changed to wind a while later so I put up the awning.  I did much the same as yesterday – goofed off and puttered around.

Shortly after Terry got back, Brad & Clare arrived so everyone had to greet them and make Brad nervous backing in with an audience.  They had nasty road & weather conditions for their drive today from north of Albuquerque. 

We had an early dinner and had time to rest & relax before going to a dance at 7.  We sat at a different table than usual and met 2 new couples.  The band was North Star which is popular & sold out but there were fewer tables and the dance floor did not get as packed.

Nov 24^th – Sun

No rest for the wicked!  Before we went grocery shopping with a large list, Terry helped Ron & Brian move a couple of large propane heaters in case the weather continued ugly for tonight’s Grey Cup party at Brian & Bev’s. 

After I put everything away, we went to Home Depot for some decorative rocks to cover the red dirt/mud where we park the motorcycle.  We figured it would take the park too long to respond to a request to do it especially since they are still busy pumping water out of the horseshoe pits which flood any time it rains.  Terri has a rain gauge in a decorative light in front of their motorhome and it showed nearly 3 ½ inches of rain.  This area broke all time records for the amount of rain in a 24 hour period.

The Gray Cup party was a lot of fun and made better by Terry winning the pool for the 3^rd quarter score.  Ron takes the organization of this party seriously and had assigned seating for the men and Clare who was the only woman who said she would watch the game.  The rest of the women chatted inside or out and watched the game part-time.  We had lots of appetizers and then dinner at half-time.  Everything was put away and cleaned up before 9 and everyone headed home.

Nov 15th to 20th - Mesa

Nov 15^th – Fri

We went to a large motorcycle dealer to see if we could get an adapter for the “intercom” system in our helmets.  We didn’t find anything so we came home and had a late breakfast.  A friend (Ralph) with a Gold Wing bike came by to check out the system and said he would buy it as it was made for a Gold Wing.  So now we will look at a bluetooth system instead.

We took it easy for a few hours.  I warmed up some leftovers for Terry for an early dinner as he was going to a motorcycle safety & learning school.  But first we went across the street to Dave & Phyllis’ for a goodbye gathering for Bill & Margie.  Terry was just leaving to change clothes and leave when he got a phone call from the motorcycle school.  Turns out our credit card was refused since we used an AZ address but no one bothered to let us know so Terry was not enrolled and the class was full!  The lady said others had requested a class for 3 wheel bikes and she would call Terry back later to let him know what was happening.  So Terry went to get a drink and joined the party.

No call back from the school!!

Nov 16^th – Sat

It was cool enough to put on long pants & a light jacket to ride our bikes and check out patio sales early this morning.  There is more visiting than selling on the patio sales – bikes, golf carts and cars crisscrossing everywhere.  We cut our “shopping” short to go to breakfast at the 5 ‘n Diner with Ron & Terri.

I went through our forwarded mail and looked after a bunch of junk that needs to be stopped so we don’t pay to receive it.  Terry washed the motorcycle.  Unfortunately he washed it where it is parked which is dirt that turns to sticky red mud with the addition of water.  So we had to wash our shoes and Terry moved the bike so he could hose down the sidewalk and part of the driveway.

We had an early dinner so it would be settled before we went to a dance at 7.  “Come Back Buddy” was the band and, like last year, played the whole 3 hours with no break.  There was finally a large crowd and a full but not jammed dance floor.  We sat at a different table than usual and got to know Cliff & Sue (they run karaoke) a bit better.

Nov 17^th – Sun

Ron has organized a bi-weekly golf outing with 5 tee times and we were part of the group this morning.  It was cool at 7:30 but warmed up quickly.  Terry did very well and I had nowhere to go but down after my good game on Thursday.

We all went out for lunch at a different Red Robin since the one we had frequented no longer has a long table to seat a big group.  Also, the waiter who normally served us moved to the new location.  He didn’t start work until 4 today but our group of 20 was looked after very well by several servers.

After lunch, we went to Costco to pick up my contacts and a few other items.  Then we stopped at Fry’s for more groceries.  After emptying the truck, we relaxed with Candy Crush & TV.

Nov 18^th – Mon

Terry left at 8 to play golf and I had a lovely morning doing whatever I wanted – visited the country store, checked the mail box, chatted with neighbors, did some cleaning, had lunch and generally goofed off.  Terry got back not long before we went to the courtyard for music.

I had thawed some chicken so I cooked it and made Terry a light dinner.

Just before 8 we went for a special line dance lesson for the Wooden Nickel which looks very nice done as a couple.  Terry wanted to learn it last year but we just never got it done.  Margaret (leads beginner line dancing) got another couple that knows the dance to help us as it involves a turn as you move around the floor so you need someone in front and behind to watch as you are learning.  Terry didn’t quite catch it all but I think I can teach him.  I had the advantage of a guy who knows the dance as a partner one time so he could “steer” me through the turns.

Nov 19^th – Tues

Here I am behind again in my blog!  We went on a Poker Run at 11 which consisted of 5 groups of 25 people going to 5 locations in the park.  At each location, we saw & learned about an activity and/or special facility – computer room, pottery, card room, lapidary/silver smith and Fiesta community center.  We drew cards out of a bag and someone working at the location marked your draw on a card worn around your neck on a ribbon.   In past years, cards were sealed in envelopes which was a lot more work for the organizers.  When we finished the 5 stations, we all returned to the courtyard and ballroom for beer & hotdogs and to see who won.

By the time we finished, it was a little early to stay at the courtyard for music but Curtis was playing so we stayed.  We did some line dances and had our usual good time in wonderful weather.

At 6:20 we went to line dance lessons.  They start at 7 but anyone who wants help can go earlier.  We reviewed 3 dances from last week and learned a new one.

Nov 20^th – Wed

We got out early to wash the underside of the awning, the motorcycle trailer, the driveway and the patio because we were having a company coming to wash & wax the 5^th wheel.  They arrived on time at 11 so I went inside to do some things and Terry stayed outside to “supervise”.

At 12:30, we were starving and the guys were going to be about another hour so we joined Moe for lunch in the courtyard.

I chatted with Erika when we returned and Terry paid the guys who were now done with the rig.  We had to move everything back into place and clean up the mud that was tracked back onto our nice clean driveway.  Just as we were finishing, Dennis & Gloria showed up with a drink in hand.  We barely had time to make a drink to join them when others started arriving - Ron & Terri, Moe & Trish, Joe & Stella, Dave & Phyllis and Duane & Sue.  After a few drinks and a lot of laughs, everyone went home to make dinner.

Nov 12th to 14th - Mesa

Nov 12^th – Tues

We removed the fifth-wheel hitch from the truck and stored it in the motorcycle trailer.  This will make it easier to load golf clubs & pull carts when I take women golfing.

When we were walking to the courtyard in the afternoon, we spotted Jerry & Erika who had just arrived.  They rented a park model behind us 2 years ago and have the same unit for 2 months this season.  They had trouble with their transmission on the way down from Kelowna so, with no reverse gear, they parked on the street and went to register after using our phone to try to contact the owner of the unit they are renting as they are 3 days early.  They joined us later in the courtyard which has been enlarged by removing a wall and a large planter.

After music in the courtyard, we returned to Ron & Terri’s site to welcome their friends Jim & Grace to the park – only Grace didn’t attend so we will have to meet her another day.  I came home to make a sandwich for dinner and we rushed off to line dance lessons at 7.   Dance lessons ended at 8:15 and we joined Pender & Donna and Richard & Nancy for a trip to The Village Inn for pie & coffee.

Nov 13^th – Wed

We used the motorcycle to run some errands – check the mail, get water, visit Dennis & Gloria and visit Jac.  I am sure the novelty will wear off and we will be back on our bikes soon!

We listened to Jeff Stevens in the courtyard this afternoon and did some dancing.  Jeff plays a guitar and sings without all the electronic accompaniment that other singers have.  He also plays Dueling Banjos on his one guitar which is really amazing.

Right after MCY, we went to Patti’s for a taco party.  She provided all the food and beer and we only had to bring something if we didn’t want to drink beer.  There was a fun group as usual.  We were ready to kick back & relax when we got home.

Nov 14^th – Thurs

I picked up 4 ladies and we joined 3 others for 7:48 & 7:55 tee times this morning.  We had to leave by 7 as the course was not as close as some we play.  Terry joined the guys at 8 to leave for their golf game.  I had a good game and enjoyed the course.  We went to 5 ‘n Diner for breakfast/lunch after our 9 holes.

I puttered around before Terry got back about 1.  I went to the library to exchange books while Terry went to the courtyard and had a burger for lunch.  A bit later, Terry went back to the courtyard to listen to music and I went to the pool where I “floated & chatted” and then read for a while before coming back.

We went to dinner at Vic & Jackie’s.  Moe & Trish were also there to enjoy a great dinner and good friends.  We were walking back when Neil came by in a golf cart and gave us a ride the rest of the short distance.  Bill & Margie and Dave & Phyllis were sitting outside so we talked a bit with them before calling it a night.

Nov 9th to 11th - Mesa

Nov 9^th – Sat

Jac knocked on our door at 9 to tell us that he saw 2 motorcycle helmets at a yard sale across the street so we immediately drove over to check them out and ended up buying them.  They came equipped with microphones so we can talk to each other but we haven’t tried them out yet.  We were scheduled to leave at 9:30 with Dennis & Gloria and Moe & Trish so we rushed back, picked up D&G and then I took a few minutes to fix my hair which was messed up from trying on the helmet.

We went to the art & craft sale at Fountain Hills which we attended and enjoyed last year.  It got pretty hot by the time we left.  We all made a couple of purchases and had a bite to eat.  When we got back, some people headed to the pool but we were lazy and stayed in.  We had an early dinner and then went to a dance.  Once again, there was a small crowd but I think a little larger than the last dance.  Terry invited Jerry & Becky, Harry & Cathy and Pender & Donna over for a nightcap so it was a late night.

Nov 10^th – Sun

I made jelly biscuits for breakfast and we played Candy Crush until we ran out of lives!  Jerry & Becky stopped by and then Nancy returned Terry’s glass which we left there Friday night.  She stayed a while and visited with Becky & me.  Brian & Bev stopped and we went to their place to check out the furniture that they have purchased – very nice.

By this time it was closing in on 2:00 so we went out for a burger and then picked up some groceries.  I had just finished putting everything away when Terry came back to say he was at Moe & Trish’s so I joined him there.  Dennis & Gloria were also there.  Trish brought out a few snacks, Duane & Sue came over with chairs & snacks and Vic & Jackie joined us with more snacks.  Moe had to move their car so we could make the circle bigger to include Joe & Stella, Brian & Bev, Chief, Dave & Phyllis and Ron & Terri.  We watched a lovely sunset and then all headed home for dinner.  Terry had to BBQ in the dark but the steaks were great.

Nov 11^th – Mon

Terry left early to play golf and I enjoyed reading and playing Candy Crush for a while.  I had a long phone conversation with sister Marg.  I returned a couple of glasses to Trish and ended up visiting with her & Jackie.  Then it was time for some cleaning before Terry got back after lunch.

The remainder of the afternoon was lazy since I didn’t feel like going to the pool and Terry followed suit.  We drove around on the motorcycle to find a place in the shade to take a picture which I then posted on the blog.

After dinner we watched DWTS and Blacklist which is our Monday night ritual now.

Nov 11th - New toy

I am behind on posting pictures to my albums so will just put this one picture on the blog.

 

Nov 6th to 8th - Mesa

Nov 6^th – Wed

We were looking forward to sleeping in but woke up early anyhow.  I caught up the blog before Mike came over to show Terry the basics of the bike.  Moe showed up to help unload and then push the trailer back into our parking area as we wanted it parked backwards so we can put the bike inside if we want to.  Without the bike inside it is a great storage unit for chairs & golf clubs.

After a couple of test rides and a late breakfast, we went to get the truck washed and to pick up some groceries.  I made devilled eggs and put a casserole together while Terry continued to familiarize himself with the bike and to show it off to everyone.

Shortly after 4 we went to the bocce courts for a second “welcome back” party organized by Gloria & Trish.  We socialized, played bocce and had a great dinner with food provided by everyone – even a turkey cooked by Gloria.  We were worn out when we returned barely after 9 so went to bed to watch TV & read.

Nov 7^th – Thurs

We both played golf this morning – Terry with the guys and me with 7 other women.  The ladies played 9 holes and had breakfast afterwards, the guys played 18 holes followed by lunch.  I had the truck with a full load of golf bags & carts.  A lot of tow cars cannot fit bags and carts for 4 people.  Shortly after I got back, Patti stopped in for a nice visit.

Terry has been bugging the manager for a tree at our site as the one they planted earlier this year died.  We decided the spot where the tree would go was a good place to park the motorcycle and of course a crew showed up today to plant an orange tree!  The first worker did not speak much English so later 2 guys showed up with a huge auger and the tree.  One guy spoke English and I still had a hard time convincing him that we didn’t want the tree.

We went to the courtyard to listen to music, had a couple of hours to make & eat dinner and then went to the Rancho’s courtyard to listen to Wayne & Deb and Doug Bailey from 7 to 9.  Once Richard & Nancy showed up, we did some line dances.

Nov 8^th – Fri

We transferred the titles to our new toys this morning which was quite a lengthy procedure.  The bike was OK but in Minnesota, trailers under 3000 lbs do not have titles.  The agency that we started at did not know how to process it so we went to the large state licensing office where we waited our turn.  Then the processor we got did not know quite what to do so it took a while for her and another lady to look in a thick book and figure it out.  From there we went to Costco to exchange my new contacts and I took a number and waited there.  I tried a new brand – I have heard that my old brand is going to be discontinued – and was not happy with my distance vision so I ordered the old brand again.

Then it was time to do laundry and have lunch while the clothes were washing.  We finished in time for Terry to give motorcycle rides to Dennis & Gloria before we went to listen to music.  Wayne & Deb performed in the ballroom this afternoon as the courtyard is being expanded a bit by having planters & a wall removed.

Nancy asked if we wanted to have dinner & play cards so we came home for our drinks bag & the bike and went to their place.  We walked to The Duchess for dinner and then played Hand & Foot with the park rules which are very different from how we normally play.  I am sad to say that the guys won 2 games and the ladies won 1.

Nov 1st to 5th

Nov 1^st to 5^th - Fri to Tues

I haven’t posted on the blog for 5 days as we were on a road trip.  We left Friday morning to go to St. Peter Minnesota to pick up a motorcycle & enclosed trailer that Terry bought from our friend Mike.

We spent the first night in Tucumcari NM and then drove a long day to Sioux City Iowa.  Along the way we went past enormous feed lots.  The smell was so bad that a squashed skunk made it smell better!  We ended up having to change rooms at the motel as someone above us took a shower and water started pouring through our bathroom ceiling.

On Sunday we continued to St. Peter where we met Mike’s nephew Kelly at his auto body shop where the bike & trailer were located.  We strapped down the bike, hooked up and headed back.  The weather so far had been perfect and was marred only a bit by high winds for a couple of hours.  We put in another very long day (13 hours), enjoyed a blazing sunset and stayed at Grand Island Nebraska.

Monday was another long, uneventful day which took us to Albuquerque NM.  We took a different route back to avoid roads with little towns that require slowing & speeding back up to 65 MPH over & over.  We ended up on Hwy 71 in eastern Colorado which is a very flat, even boring part of an otherwise scenic state.  We stayed at the Route 66 Casino hotel.  We had a lovely room and spent a couple of hours on the slots before getting a very good night’s sleep.  As we drove south from Las Cruces, a bank of very dark clouds produced a great lightning show that stayed a long way from the highway.  We realized in the morning that it rained during the night but we didn’t hear a thing.

Tuesday we drove 4 ½ hours before stopping at a casino in Payson AZ for breakfast and a bit of slot play since Terry kept our losses to a minimum the day before.  Gloria was making dinner for us so we didn’t want to be late getting in.  We actually arrived about 2 and went to the courtyard to listen to Curtis and dance a bit before joining Ernie & Dianne at Dennis & Gloria’s.  Bruce & Ann stopped by for a drink before we ate.  When we arrived we also hugged hello to Duane & Sue who arrived the day we left.

The bike is still in the trailer as we were ready to relax & have fun - not like driving 3300 miles in 5 days isn't fun!

Oct 29th to 31st - Mesa

Oct 29^th – Tues

Gloria organized a group to get together to play bocce ball at 1:00.  We ended up with 27 players and since the weather cooled down quite a bit it was actually not too hot at all.  We went right from there to listen to music in the courtyard – Doug Bailey – which was very enjoyable and involved some line dancing.

We had just finished eating dinner when Julie & Larry stopped by.  They were still here when Ron & Terri came over to visit.  Julie was feeling no pain tonight but probably won’t be feeling up to par tomorrow morning.

Oct 30^th – Wed

We got the laundry going and were making breakfast when Dennis & Gloria stopped in for a cup of coffee.  We had seen them at the laundry room and they were waiting for their clothes to dry.  One of our washers didn’t spin out the water so I had to rewash a load which added 30 minutes to our laundry time.

We joined a large group in the courtyard to listen to music and then went to dinner at Moe & Trish’s along with Dennis & Gloria.  Great food, great friends, great time – can’t get much better than this.

Oct 31^st – Thurs

Terry went golfing this morning.  I went to coffee & doughnuts and then helped finish decorating the ballroom.  When Terry got back just after 1:00, we went to the bank to wire some money and finally had something to eat.

Now it was time to head to the courtyard and listen to “Wayne & Deb”.  We left a little early to change into our Hawaiian shirts for the Halloween Dance.  A couple of tables were reserved for volunteers & friends so we didn’t have to line up early.  “North Star” played at the dance which always makes for a good time.

Oct 26th to 28th - Mesa

Oct 26^th – Sat

We went shopping for groceries and new bike seats.  Ours weren’t too old but the outer layer of stretchy fabric just peeled off and the material underneath left dark smudges on light pants.  Terry installed the seats while I put away groceries.

In the afternoon we went to the pool and visited with others there for a while.  At 6:30 we went to a dance with music by the Weezul Brothers.  Lots of line dancing, lots of fun.  Dave & Sandra gave Phyllis and us a ride home on their golf cart and then they came in for a nightcap.  Jerry & Becky also joined us.

Oct 27^th – Sun

I didn’t set the alarm last night but luckily woke in time to get ready for golf – Terry, Bruce, Ron & Mike at 8:00; me, Ann, Terri & Susie at 8:15; and Dennis, Gloria, Moe & Trish at 8:30.   The course was very wet most of the round so you didn’t get much roll.  We all went to lunch afterwards at Red Robin.  The restaurant has changed their tables and our “usual” server is moving to the Chandler location so we will probably follow him there.

Mike stopped by a bit later and then Moe invited us over for a drink.  Trish put out some snacks and the circle kept growing to include Vic & Jackie, Dennis & Gloria, Joe & Stella and Brian & Bev.  We had a large lunch and a few snacks so when we got back we had dessert only.

There were clouds which provided an absolutely stunning sunset tonight.

Oct 28^th – Mon

Terry went to Discount Tires to get 2 tires for truck.  They had to bring them from another store so we went for breakfast and then to pick up my contacts at Costco.  When Terry later went to get the tires put on, I cleaned the A/C filters and the fan blades – chores I love to postpone!

We took our bikes to deliver a shirt to Phyllis, chatted a bit with her and then got 2 gallons of water & brought them back.  Then on to Brian & Bev’s where Brian was installing vertical blinds.  We rode a big loop around the park and stopped to talk to John & Julie who were leaving the Fiesta pool.

We had an early dinner and then went to Dennis & Gloria’s to watch DWTS and Blacklist.

Oct 23rd to 25th - Mesa

Oct 23^rd – Wed

Terry and Dennis went to visit Mike so I took the opportunity to catch up the blog and do the vacuuming with some time left over for reading.  It was time for lunch when he got back.

The weather has warmed up again so we went to the pool and listened to music from the courtyard.  There is a nice couch arrangement near the courtyard so you can sit there and take a dip when you get too warm.

We joined Vic & Jackie, Moe & Trish, Dave & Phyllis, Joe & Stella and Bill & Margie for a trip to Organ Stop Pizza for dinner.  We were stuffed pizza & beer when we got back so we crashed.

Oct 24^th – Thurs

We & Gloria went to a rummage sale that is held twice a year at Nelda Rose Methodist church.  A group decided to wear bright Hawaiian shirts for the Halloween dance so that was our mission.  Gloria got a couple of shirts for them and a perfect blouse for Julie and I got a shirt for me and a tin for a buddy burner as it seems that people are always looking for one.  We stopped by Julie’s on the way home and she was delighted with her blouse but it needed a slight alteration which I did as soon as I got back.  When I took it to her, I had to take a treat for Bandit as I didn’t have one in the truck and he did everything he could think of to coax a treat out of me.

I went to exercise class and Terry helped Moe find a leak in a compartment in his motor home.  Shortly after noon we went to pick up Phyllis at the airport.  Our timing was great and I walked in to help Phyllis with her bags just as she was walking to the luggage carrousel.

I made a late lunch when we got back.  I finally checked emails and saw that Brian & Bev were due to arrive so we walked over and found that there were here.  Bev was shopping but she returned shortly and we helped unload all the groceries, cleaning products and dishes.  Then it was time to go to the courtyard. 

We went to Gloria & Dennis’ for dinner along with Moe & Trish, Brian & Bev and Phyllis.  We had asked Phyllis to dinner here but Gloria said to bring her along to their place.  After dinner, Allen & Diane dropped by as they heard our noisy conversation & laughter.

Oct 25^th – Fri

We had a quiet morning which included setting up chairs & tables for later and making a “welcome home” sign for Ron & Terri who arrived early this afternoon.  By the time they got backed in and started setting up, it was time for us to head to the courtyard.  We figured we had to get there early as North Star was playing and they are popular.  Turns out not a lot of people arrived early but quite a few ended up sitting in the back under shade as only sunny tables were left.  We danced quite a bit and really enjoyed the band.

When the music finished, we headed right home and were soon joined by 28 others for Ron & Terri’s first happy hour(s) here this season.  We had everyone bring “heavy appies” which is our term for appetizers that will be dinner.  A great time was had by all!!

Oct 20th to 22nd - Mesa

Oct 20^th – Sun

After we got laundry into the washers, I made breakfast and Terry cleaned up leaves that had blown onto our site.  When the laundry was done & put away, Gloria dropped by.  We didn’t have anything else planned so Terry asked if she & Dennis wanted to go to a casino.  We picked them up and went to Fort McDowell casino where we used a special where you get $40 slot play and a breakfast certificate for $25.

I didn’t do well, Terry didn’t lose all his money and D&G made $5.  D&G invited us in for a drink when we got back to their place.  We passed Patti riding her bike when we drove in so she joined us.  Of course “a” drink turned into a couple and Terry had to start the BBQ as soon as we got back so he wouldn’t have to cook steaks in the dark.

As we were getting dinner ready, we heard the distinctive sounds of fireworks and joined neighbors outside watching an impressive display that showed up over nearby roofs.  After dinner, Terry went across the street to join some other neighbors at Bill & Margie’s.  I wasn’t feeling super well so I went to bed & read instead.

Oct 21^st – Mon

We went to Costco this morning for the follow-up visit for my contacts.  I got the prescription and ordered new contacts.  Amazingly enough, there wasn’t anything else we needed to buy.

We stopped at the Waffle House for breakfast and were waited on by “the new guy” so it wasn’t the best choice.

We went to listen to music in the courtyard and ended up having a burger there for dinner.  I was still slightly queasy today so we took it easy this evening.

Oct 22^nd – Tues

Angie gave us a good workout at exercise class this morning.  There are more people attending each week as winter residents are streaming in every day.  We actually ate breakfast before I went to exercise class so before we ran some errands on our bikes, I made lunch while Terry went to buy dance tickets for November.

We spent quite a while inviting people to a gathering later this week and of course ended up visiting with them and some others as well.  Just after 3 we went to the courtyard and I took a break to get a haircut.

We were very happy to give Moe & Trish big hugs when they arrived at the courtyard just after the music finished.  They got here late this afternoon.  We stayed and chatted with them so we weren’t finished eating dinner when Jerry & Becky came by.  Terry had asked them over for cards but we ended up talking instead and enjoyed visiting with just one couple for a change.

Oct 16th to 19th - Mesa

Oct 16^th – Wed

After puttering most of the morning away, we had breakfast and then made a trip to Total Wine and the grocery store.  We rode our bikes to get water and then went visiting on our bikes – Dennis & Gloria’s, Allen & Diane’s and had stopped to talk to Thomas when Mike & Susie drove by and stopped to hug hello and chat a while.  By now it was time to go to the courtyard and listen to John & Susie again.  There weren’t many people there but our group around 2 tables had a lot of fun.

We went for dinner at Larry & Suz’s.  Also there were Dennis & Gloria and Larry & Julie.  It cooled off quite a bit by 8 so we all headed home.  Joe & Stella were visiting outside with some others and invited us to join them but I needed to call Marg and ended up talking to her for 2 hours.

Oct 17^th – Thurs

Right after coffee & doughnuts, Terry & Larry helped Larry & Norma move furniture & appliances from one park model to another.  After my exercise class & computer games, I made lunch.  We walked over to pay our utility bill and I stayed a while to work on a jigsaw puzzle.

At 3:25, Larry & Suz arrived and then we picked up Dennis & Gloria to go to an Oktoberfest dinner at Towerpoint which is another CalAm resort.  Val Vista was very well represented there – probably about 50 of us went.  They have a huge courtyard where the dinner was held.  Tickets were $6 for dinner (brats, Polish sausage, noodles & mushroom gravy, sauerkraut, cabbage and apple strudel), open bar with beer, wine & soft drinks, an “Oompa” band and dancing.

When we got back shortly after 6, Phyllis invited us over to sit by their fire and watch the full moon.  We rested for a bit at home and then joined them, Joe & Stella and Bill & Margie.  Turns out the moon was not full so we might have to do it again!

Oct 18^th – Fri

As I mentioned, we are hooked on Candy Crush and I didn’t know how to get more friends for Terry on Facebook which are necessary to get more lives to continue playing.  Bruce offered to help so after breakfast we took our PC & tablet over to his place.  The solution was to log me out completely and then login with Terry’s account so he could request friends. 

At 3 we went to listen to music in the courtyard and dance a bit.  Just before 5 we moved to the ballroom for a steak dinner.  Again, the dinner was good and the staff moved 150 people quickly through the food line.  North Star was providing music from 5 to 7 so we danced after dinner.

Terry figured 7 was too early to quit so he invited a lot of people to our place to continue the party.  We ended up with 33 people enjoying each other’s company and a couple of buddy burners.  We finally tidied up and fell into bed about 10.

Oct 19^th – Sat

Dennis & Gloria dropped in for coffee this morning.  After a late breakfast, we visited Harry & Cathy, rode around on our bikes and then looked at a couple of park models that were for sale.  We spent the rest of the afternoon with miscellaneous chores, computer games and reading.

We went for an early dinner at the Wild Berry restaurant.  Mike & Susie came by for a chat and then it was time to go to a dance here at 7.  There was a new band – Debbie & the Double Eagles – that played very danceable (lots of country) music with only one break in their 3 hour gig.  There was still a small crowd but again that allowed us to join quite a few line dances.

Oct 13th to 15th - Mesa

Oct 13^th – Sun

We goofed off this morning with computer games, email & the blog.  Neil & Robin stopped in to say hi and then Gloria made an appearance to fill us in on the bocce “tournament” later today.  I finally made lunch for breakfast (bacon & tomato sandwiches!)

Of course I didn’t plan to make devilled eggs when we were at Costco yesterday so we went back today to buy their hard-boiled, peeled eggs.  Very lazy but it sure is easy to make devilled eggs with them.

Gloria set up the above mentioned bocce tournament and we were all bringing appies.  It started at 4 and there were about 30 people there – some watched rather than played.  Jerry & Becky ended up winning.  Food was great as usual and the company & fun even better.  The weather was perfect – no too hot when the sun was still up and not at all cool when it went down.

TV filled the rest of the evening.

Oct 14^th – Mon

I did some cleaning this morning – for a change – but otherwise it was pretty lazy.  Before we went to the courtyard, I put together a vegetable casserole for later.  I left the courtyard early to get it into the oven and shortly after Dennis & Gloria came by to sit in our shade and visit.

The occasion this evening was a Canadian Thanksgiving dinner organized by Joe & Stella.  They had the party wagon for tables & chairs.  We were surprised to see Vic & Jackie at the dinner.  Lots of rigs & people are arriving every day now.

After cleaning up from dinner, Dennis & Gloria, Joe & Stella and Harry & Cathy joined us outside to watch DWTS.

Oct 15^th – Tues

The truck would not start this morning so Terry hooked up the battery charger.  As I was leaving for exercise class, the truck did start and Terry drove to a nearby battery store for a test.  Sure enough, one battery needed to be replaced so they ordered it.  It arrived in a few hours so we are all fixed up for now.  In the meantime, we went to Dennis & Gloria’s and helped Dennis install a new light above their dining table.  On the way back to our site, Allen & Diane invited us to sit down & chat.

Curtis was singing in the courtyard today and there was the largest crowd that we have seen this season.  It has cooled down to the mid 80’s so it wasn’t too hot if you couldn’t get a shady table.  We sat at 2 tables pushed together with 5 other couples.  The names of the guys at our table were Larry, Larry, Larry, Harry, Terry & Jerry!

At the last minute, we invited Joe & Jean over for dinner.  I had to boil baby backs so dinner ended up being late but as usual we didn’t run out of things to talk about.

Oct 10th to 12th - Mesa

Oct 10^th – Thurs

We remembered to go to coffee & doughnuts this morning.  I sorted clothes before exercise class, helped decorate the ballroom after class, made breakfast, showered and finally we went to do laundry.

We went to MCY and did some line dances with Bobbie.  Terry went to play poker at 6.  When he returned at 7 –oops, first out! – we joined Joe & Stella and new neighbors Bill & Margie to sit around a buddy burner at Phyllis & Dave’s.  It was cool enough for long pants and a light jacket so it was perfect weather for a “fire”.

Oct 11^th – Fri

After having breakfast at The 5’n Diner, we went to Costco to see if I could get an eye exam for new contacts.  The store and vision area were really busy but I was able to get an appointment for tomorrow. 

Music in the courtyard was provided by “John & Suzie” who were very good singers & musicians.  Not only did they not take a break, they barely paused between songs.

Terry saw Larry & Suz arrive and went to greet them.  They had a dead battery on their tow car but their site is on a corner so they were able to pull the car beside their spot before unhitching.

We left MCY a bit early, changed into long pants, picked up Larry and Harry & Cathy and went to the Buffalo Chip bar & restaurant for dinner.  Also going were Jerry & Becky, Chief, Al & Linda and Steve & Theresa (just met them).  We drove 40 miles to Cave Creek, arrived at 6 and found the restaurant packed but we were able to sit at a long table outside.  A draw at this place is three sessions of bull riding on Wed & Friday.  The first session was at 8 and we were still eating!!  The server started out badly by not being able to figure out drinks when the first round finally arrived and things got worse from there.  We went to the back where the small corral & grandstand are located but couldn’t see anything.  We decided not to fight the crowds for the 9 o’clock show and headed home.

Oct 12^th – Sat

We went back to Costco for my 9:40 eye appointment.  I got a pair of trial contacts that are a new brand and slightly different prescription.  I also received the “designer” sunglasses so I could get back to the truck with my eyes dilated.

We went to see Larry & Suz and to invite them for dinner.  We just got back when Dennis & Gloria dropped by.  We went grocery shopping and then relaxed with computer games until it was time to make dinner.  After dinner we all went to a dance here in the park.  There was a small turnout again but we were able to relearn several line dances with Bobbie.

After the dance Larry, Larry & Julie, Jerry & Becky, Neil & Robin and Harry & Cathy came over to enjoy a buddy burner and a nightcap.  Luckily Joe & Stella were still awake and joined us as well.

Oct 7th to 9th - Mesa

Oct 7^th – Mon

We rode around the park a bit before getting water and then cleaned our golf clubs and put them in the new bags that we got yesterday at the Mesa Marketplace.  We took another bike ride to drop off old golf balls at the golf practice net here in the park and then enjoyed the rest of the split pea soup for lunch.

We went to MCY at 3 and had a good time visiting with friends as usual.  After dinner, we went to Dennis & Gloria’s to watch DWTS and Blacklist.

Oct 8^th – Tues

I spent time on the computer – blog, email & @#% games! – before going to exercise class.  There were quite a few people there.  I made a late breakfast before having a shower and getting ready to face the rest of the day.

We made a trip to WalMart for groceries and put everything away just in time to go to the ballroom for cake & champagne to celebrate Val Vista Village’s 40^th anniversary.  Then we stepped next door for MCY.  Bob & Bobbie – line dance instructors – just returned and Bobbie got us up for a couple of line dances that we haven’t done since last spring.  They came back pretty quickly.  There was a larger crowd than usual in the courtyard and if the energy & fun continue like today it will be a great season.

Terry BBQ’d steak for dinner.  We went out to watch the space station zoom across the sky and told Joe to come out to watch.  Then Joe & Stella joined us to watch TV outside.

Oct 9^th – Wed

Our tablet kept turning off in the middle of games yesterday so I uninstalled Candy Crush and reinstalled it using Terry’s facebook name so he didn’t have to keep using his phone to play the game.  I am not going to continue wasting so much time on the game!

After Terry went to the doctor last January for the problem with his hand, we thought the bill was all settled but we had a statement forwarded from Spokane – which was sent here first – that showed money owing.  So I spent time calling, leaving a message and finally talking to a billing person at the doctor’s office.  Talk about wasting time!!  I helped Dave & Phyllis put up their awning as it was getting quite windy.  We rode our bikes to go to the library, the activities office and to get water.  Of course this takes more time than you expect as we had to chat with friends.

Music was in the courtyard even though the band’s music stands blew over before they even started.  Once again it was a fun time and we did a couple of line dances without Bobbie’s help.

We had nachos at the courtyard so we just had a sandwich before Dennis & Gloria came over to play Farkle.  Of course the rules were slightly different from time we played with Dave & Sandra.  Terry won a game, I won a game and then we all adjourned to the patio to have a nightcap and watch TV.

Oct 4th to 6th - Mesa

Oct 4^th – Fri

Terry went golfing early this morning but when he loaded the clubs and tried to start the truck it would make a little noise like it wanted to start but it didn’t start.  After a few minutes, he sent a message to Chief that someone else would have to drive.  When they got back it was time for MCY earlier than usual (1 to 4) so we went over to have lunch and listen to Kevin Moen who has a nice voice but all the songs seem to have the same beat.  After a while we came back to put on our swim suits and joined people in the pool where you can still hear the music.

When we got back, Terry tried the truck and it started so we went for a short drive where I ran into Albertsons to get split peas and then stopped at Dennis & Gloria’s to pick up the ham bone from dinner on Wed.  I started a pot of soup and dinner.

About 5:30 I looked out the window to see a MH backing in beside us.  It was Joe & Stella from Victoria who were here for 3 months last fall.  This year they are staying until March.  When we finished eating, Joe & Stella and Dennis & Gloria came over for a nightcap.  It was absolutely perfect weather to sit outside.

Oct 5^th – Sat

I asked Dennis & Gloria to come over and have pea soup for lunch so we made a trip for crackers & bread and ended up spending over $50 at Safeway!  The soup was good and even enjoyed by Gloria who has never tried it before.

We went to a big golf store to look at golf bags but didn’t buy anything.  We walked over to Dennis & Gloria’s and saw a MH being parked on the opposite side of their street.  It was Allen & Diane who we met late last season.  They left a car here and towed a gib enclosed trailer with their motorcycles.  They had a hard time parking their trailer so Terry said he would come over tomorrow to straighten it out and get it further back on their site.

We went to dinner at Carrabba’s with Dennis & Gloria and were ready to have a quiet evening with Candy Crush when we got back.

Oct 6^th – Sun

Terry had just got up when Jerry called to see if we wanted to join them for breakfast at Mickey D’s in Apache Junction.  They gave us 35 minutes to shower and get ready.  We have a coupon book but when I looked for Mickey D’s I discovered missing pages and other pages duplicated.  The missing pages had the coupon I wanted.

After a great breakfast, we stopped at a flea market where Jerry & Becky got a couple of small items.  Then we went to a “living estate sale” that was in a dome house.  Once we saw the house we had to check it out – it was more interesting than all the “stuff” for sale.

Our truck started right up again – Terry did notice that the GPS would come on when the truck was off!? – and went to move Allen & Diane’s trailer.  I went over to ask Bruce if we could invite them for a gathering today and then we chatted a while with them after the short repositioning job.

About 3 we went to the pool area for the gathering I just mentioned which was planned for 4:00 to 7:00.  A few days ago, Bruce & Ann said they wanted to make hamburgers for a dinner and told Terry to ask all the people sitting with us in the courtyard.  By the time Terry finished, he told Bruce there would be 20 people so they planned for 24 and 27 showed up.  Most of us went in the pool and the noise of all those people floating & talking was louder than I have ever heard in the pool.  There is a smaller patio/courtyard area beside the pool which is where Bruce cooked the burgers & brats and we all could sit at round tables to eat – and of course talk some more.  We got home at 8 after putting all the tables & chairs back in place.

Sept 30th to Oct 3rd - Mesa

Sept 30^th – Mon

Dennis & Gloria introduced us to “Candy Crush Saga” and now we are hooked!  I lucked out and got the tablet while Terry is playing the game on his phone. 

We took a break to do the laundry and it is nice that there are still not a lot of people here so there is no wait for machines.  I made breakfast when we waited for the washers to finish.  After putting away the laundry we really got into the stupid game!

About 1:30 we went to Fat Willy’s to have a hamburger for lunch and stopped for groceries on the way back.  We were just in time to listen to MCY and have a few dances with the Weezul Brothers.  It was in the ballroom again as it is too warm for the musicians outside.

As we were walking back, Ann waved to us and told us to come over.  Dennis & Gloria were sitting outside with Bruce & Ann and we ended up drinking & talking until 7 when Gloria & I broke up the gathering so we could watch DWTS.  I am not as thrilled with the “stars” as in past years.  We didn’t need dinner so just had dessert, watched TV and cussed at Candy Crush! 

Oct 1^st – Tues

Terry amused himself with computer games when I went to exercise class.  The instructor locked her keys in her car so Robin & I decided the class should go to the fitness room where we set up a circuit like the instructor did last week.  It worked out very well.

We had to go to MCY today as Curtis Knox was playing.  He lives in the park and puts on a good show.  Then we went for dinner at Dave & Phyllis’ – very good taco salad and a yummy berry crisp.  I might need more than 2 days a week of exercise! 

Oct 2^nd – Wed

Bruce & Ann picked us up at 8:35 to go golfing at the Arizona Country Club.  As the name might indicate, it was a very nice setting & course.  Lots of water & hills on the front and hilly desert on the back.  Bruce got a tee time online for a great price since it is early in the season and the course is being prepared for over-seeding.

We hit the pool when we got back.  Terry put on a shirt and moved to the courtyard to listen to music but I stayed by the pool and visited with Bruce & Ann.  I just had enough time to make coleslaw and we went to Dennis & Gloria’s for dinner with Larry & Julie and Bill & Lauri. 

Oct 3^rd – Thurs

Things are not quite organized here.  Four of us showed up at the Fiesta ballroom for exercise class (according to our instructor last week and the schedule) and had to rush back to Val Vista ballroom when someone arrived to post a notice on the locked door saying it was still at Val Vista.  When I got back & showered, I made lunch and then went shopping with Gloria.

Gloria is going to make toppers/valances for her park model windows and wanted a second opinion on some fabric.  We both decided that the material she saw a couple of days ago was not going to work so we went to Hobby Lobby.  Gloria decided to buy ½ yard of a possible fabric and we came back to try it out.  It worked so we went back for more fabric & lining and then stopped at WalMart and got a couple of panels for their sliding glass door.

We were tuckered out from shopping so had to regroup with a refreshing cocktail.  Terry was at the courtyard and showed up shortly after I got home.  He said he was going to play poker but Gloria had asked us over for dinner & games.  We played Pegs & Jokers with the fancy outfit that we bought last year and never used.

Sept 27th to 29th - Mesa

Sept 27^th – Fri

Chief sent a text this morning saying it was only going to be 80 degrees at noon and asked if we still wanted to float the river.  We weren’t too enthusiastic since there were only 5 of us planning to go so after a quick check with Jerry & Becky we decided to cancel.

We went to Big 5 to check out inflatable tubes since we probably will fit in another float trip.  We got 2 tubes with little head rests, water shoes for me and sandals for Terry.  At 3 we went to the courtyard to listen to music.  “Recollections” was 2 guys who seemed kind of corny at first but turned out to be OK with “costume” changes to go along with some songs – think Elvis & Alley Oop the caveman.

Sept 28^th – Sat

We got up early to shop for fruit to make up a platter to take to Jerry & Becky’s “biscuits & gravy” breakfast at 9 this morning.  They got a party wagon and had tables & chairs set up in the unoccupied space next to them.  We all enjoyed vodka & OJ or Bloody Marys before gobbling down the excellent biscuits & gravy.

We inflated our tubes to make sure there were no leaks and joined Gloria in the pool for a while before dinner.  At 7 we went to a dance here in the park.  The band was Exit 40 and the turnout was dismal.  There was a prime rib dinner yesterday with a band for entertainment & dancing so I think there are just not enough people here yet to fill both events.  For once you didn’t have to worry about bumping into people on the dance floor!

Sept 29^th – Sun

We went for another float on the Salt River today.  The company (SR Rec) that rents tubes & runs shuttle buses will close tomorrow as the water level gets too low.  Jerry & Becky and Chief came with us and Al & Linda (owners of the trailer that Terry re-parked) followed.  We went to the park where everyone starts a float right now, unloaded & inflated all our tubes & coolers.  Then Terry & Al drove the truck & car back to SR Rec to park and took the shuttle bus back to the put-in point.  Terry was a little nervous about leaving the truck at the park and it would require a recreation pass which we didn’t have.

We expected the water to be cooler but it was still lovely.  Our new tubes with headrests were wonderful and the little inflatable cooler obediently tagged along with Terry.  We stopped a couple of times to regroup & eat.  Since it was Sunday, there were a lot more people on the river which was fun.

When we reached the take-out spot, we carried everything up the hill and deflated tubes while Terry & Al took the shuttle bus back to the parking lot.  We barely had time to get organized before they returned.  We got back to VVV just after 3.

We were just finishing an early dinner when Bruce & Ann dropped in to return our camera charger and visit a bit.  At 7 we went to Jerry & Becky’s to play Pegs.  For the record, the girls beat the guys 5 to 3.