Probably not hard to tell I have most of the work caught up! I went up to Mom's 'old place' to return a garage door opener and check to see if Bob had picked up his pick-up yet...he hasn't. His roses are looking quite spectacular as always so I snitched a few. I may sneak back to town for one of his peaches too if we are near enough at the right time of year. Today Butch is washing on the motorhome...again!
Butch's birthday is Wednesday and the sale is next Saturday. Big week for us.
Sunday, June 6
We went to Boone yesterday to see the house Jason and Laura purchased. It is a beautiful home and should be very comfortable for them. They do not close on the house until August 15th so moving day is a ways off yet. That gives them time to condense and compile their accumulated 'stuff'. I love their kitchen with its big picture window to the backyard. It is perfect for enjoying a second cup of coffee and watching the birds.
Wednesday, June 2
Tuesday, June 1
This past weekend we went to Lees Summit Missouri to help Gary and Susan move into their new home. It is a beautiful place. One of the things that impressed me was the fact that noise does not transfer from room to room. I will post more pics on the webshots site under Gary's name if you would like to see more. Keep Movin' On
Thursday, May 27
Long time -No blog:-( We have been very busy sorting and sifting getting ready for a double auction. First my mothers estate auction along with our downsizing auction. With hindsight I have rather enjoyed the whole process. It is very much like a treasure hunt and some of the "finds" are downright amazing.
Among my mothers things I ran across letters to and from my grandparents. They affected me in numerous ways. I never knew my grandfather as my mother was only three when he passed away. I now feel I know him at least a little. The letters reflected anxiety, worry, love, hope and views of everyday life in 1926 and they have stayed with me. I have typed them off the pencil written pages and preserved the misspellings and punctuation as much as possible.
I am sharing them with you all.
John Zimmerle, 47 years of age, was in the hospital in Iowa City Iowa where they were determining what was ailing him. John was my grandfather. His youngest daughter, Fern, referred to as Sissie or Sister was my mother. John and Myrtle had seven children, Mae, Ray, Phillip, Vivian, Harold, Jack and Fern. Mae was grown and gone by the time John was hospitalized. John was a barber and worked in Cooper and Herndon Iowa.
Letter written on October 28th,1926 from John Zimmerle to his wife Myrtle.
Well Mom,
I don't know why you don't write. I wrote to you Monday morning. It is hard for me to write. Can't see very good. I haven't had a dose of medicine yet. You write to Mother and all the rest of the folks for me. I can't hardly do it. Did you get my first letter? I lost my money Sunday. Only had 85 cents left. This is two stamps and envelopes I have borrowed. I don't need very much money. I haven't had a smoke since Sunday morning. I haven't been out of bed yet. This is Thursday about 5 o'clock so you can tell how long it takes to get a letter to you. I guess about once a week will be all I will write. Tell Sister and Jackie I said Helow. Well supper is coming. I will close at this time.
from dady
You adr my letters in care of the hospital.
From John Zimmerle to his wife and familyNovember 4th, 1926
Well Mom,
This is Thursday night and I haven't heard a word from you yet. I have done all I can to trace your letters but can't find them. I don't know if you are getting the letters I am writing or not. This is the forth one. I got here OK. Am doing fine but I don't believe they are helping me any yet. I haven't taken a dose of med (medicine) yet. I have had lots of exams and one ex-ray taken. They won't let me get out of bed yet. I haven't had a smoke yet but am getting along chewing tob (tobacco) now. I have written to you so often without getting any word I don't know what to write anymore.
You be shure to write. Start me a letter Monday morning and I will get it Tuesday at the 10:30 delivery. Adress this one to John Zimmerle in care of the University Hospital Iowa City.
From Myrtle Zimmerle to her husband John
Herndon Iowa
November 5th, 1926
Dear Dady,
Will answer your letter. We are all well. I have answered all your letters. I suppose you got the dollar I sent you. Let me know if you didn't. Grandma said she would send you some money before long. I had to send Grandma's check back. She never signed it. Well, I hope they find out pretty soon what is the matter with you. I think when they do they can help you.
Ray hasn't went to shuck corn. I don't think Doc wants him but Hermie Hucheson was after him or Phil so I guess he will go there. Nobody husked much this week as we had quite a snowstorm. They tell me lots of them haven't started to husk corn yet. Ray has been busy most of the time. Samuelson gave him another $7.50 check and he still has $3.30 coming. The boys hauled 2 loads of cobs. I want them to get some more yet.
I got a letter from Mae. She said she was awfully surprised to hear about you and was sorry she got mad at you and to tell you she was going south and would send me her add. She sent that box. It was broke open and I think some of the stuff was gone. You got 2 pairs of lyle (?) socks, the boys 3 pair of socks apiece, the others stockings. Mine and Vivians was white silk. Me and V. a pair of new slippers. Mine was too small. Me 2 new dresses. 3 new suits of underwear for Phil. A new cap-Phil got it. Harold a waist. Sister a dress. A lot of ink tablets to make ink. Quite a bunch of raisins. They were all spilled and 2/3 of them gone. 13 candy bars. 7 lead pencils. I guess thats about all. Well I guess I will ring off so
answer soon
Myrtle
P S Grandma will write you. When she does write her a few lines. Sister says dady went to JoMakeO. The other night she yelled goodnight Dada then shook her head. Jack is always crazy when we get a letter from you. Otherwise he doesn't say much.
From Myrtle Zimmerle to her husband John
Herndon Iowa
November 8th, 1926
Dear Dady,
Will answer your letter. We are all well. This makes four letters I have wrote. I am going to send this by special delivery. If you get this write to me your ward number then I think you will get your mail. It's an awful bad day. I think I got all your letters. I sent you a $1 in one. Well I am in a hurry and will close. If you get this I can write more.
Myrtle
From John's Mother
November 9th, 1926
Dear Son,
Will write a few lines. I haven't been very well. Had to get medicine from the Doc last week but am better. I am working all the time. I do hope you are feeling lots better. How do you like it out there? Fine, I hope. Hope you get good care and of course I suppose you do. Please write to me and let me know how you are. You know I am anxious about you. Got a letter from Myrtle. Folks was well. Not much to write. Don't go much. So will close. Write soon.
From Mother
Will send a dollar and if you want money anytime, just let me know. Goodby
Wednesday morning- The ground is white with snow and still snowing.
From John Zimmerle to his wife and family
November 9th, 1926
Dear Mom and all,
I got your last two letters. The one you wrote last Friday and the one with special delivery on. I was getting worried here over two weeks before I got any word from home. Tell Ray not to fool with Doc any longer. Get him another job if he can. Well, Mom, I didn't get the money you sent. I wish you would send me a little money but send it in a Post Office order then if I don't get it we can get it back. I can't write to Mother or anybody else until I get a little money. This is 5 stamps I have borrowed and a can of tob (tobacco). That makes 25 cents I have to pay the boys.
You write to Mother and Anna and Louden and tell them my address and tell them if they send me any money to send it in a Post Office order for the banks or no place else will cash a check. You had the address OK on this last letter. It came without any trouble. Well, Mom one of the big guns was here just now and he told me they would be able to get me up on my feet again but not to do a big days work. That makes me feel good now. I am going to have all my teeth taken out and my rupture fixed up. I have already had one operation. That sore on my nose was a cansor. They cut that out last Sat. It is healing now and doing fine. I expect I will be here a month yet anyway. Maby longer. I will have lots of experiences to tell you about when I do get home. O yes, my head nurses home is Bagley (IA). Her brother married Dr. Corn's daughter. Her name is Sailor. Well I guess I will close for this time. Tell Sissie and Jack and all the rest dady said helow and kiss them all for me.
by by from dady
P S Send me a little money but be shure and send it by P. O. order.
From John's Mother
November 14th, 1926
Dear Son John,
Received your letter. Was glad to hear from you and that you was a little better. Do hope this finds you very so much better.
I do hope that place on your face don't cause you no more trouble. I got a letter from Myrtle. She said you was going to have an operation for rupture. Is it absolutely necessary for you to have it done?
I am glad you have good care that will help you out alot.
Well John, don't worry about the county not paying your care for that is why I am working to let you have what money you need. I sent Myrtle a check last week and told her when she needed more to let me know I would send it and if you need more than I send let me know. Myrtle said she sent you a dollar. I will try to get down to the Post Office sometime this week and send you a four dollar order. Whenever you get ready to go home, let me know and I will send the money for your carfare. I will send a clipping out of the Deer Creek (ILL.) paper about Mr. McCans death.
We have been having nice weather but it looks like it would storm this evening. I am well. Will close. Write me. Send letter every week as I am anxious to hear from you.
From your Mother
From John Zimmerle to his wife and family. He died three days later.
November 14th, 1926
Dear Mom and all,
I thought I would write you a few lines today. I am not feeling so good today. My lung is stopped up again. Can't hardly get my breath. The Dr. said I didn't need any med (medicine) for it. He put me back to bed for a week. Well I believe that sore on my nose is getting better. Well there is one thing they have done for me anyway. They tested my eyes and I am to get a pair of glasses. They will be done Monday.
I got a letter from Mother the other day. I answered it the same day. Also wrote to Louden (his brother). Say I had a heck of a time getting that order cashed. You sent an express order instead of a P. O. order. Well I don't know if you can make out this big word or not but it has lots of meaning. Mitros stenosis is the big name for my heart. It means hardening of the valves and leakage of the heart. My liver is enlarged and (dropped?) about 2 inches. That they say causes the soreness in my right side and lung.
Also an ulcer on the point of my liver. That is what that soreness is under my breastbone.
So you can see there is not very much wrong with me.
You write to my Mother and the rest of them and tell them what my trouble is. It is awful hard for me to write. The next time you write tell Jackie and Sissie to write dady a letter to. Well kiss all the kids for me. It is hard for me to say when I will be home as they haven't done anything yet. Well I guess I will close
from dad to all
Among my mothers things I ran across letters to and from my grandparents. They affected me in numerous ways. I never knew my grandfather as my mother was only three when he passed away. I now feel I know him at least a little. The letters reflected anxiety, worry, love, hope and views of everyday life in 1926 and they have stayed with me. I have typed them off the pencil written pages and preserved the misspellings and punctuation as much as possible.
I am sharing them with you all.
John Zimmerle, 47 years of age, was in the hospital in Iowa City Iowa where they were determining what was ailing him. John was my grandfather. His youngest daughter, Fern, referred to as Sissie or Sister was my mother. John and Myrtle had seven children, Mae, Ray, Phillip, Vivian, Harold, Jack and Fern. Mae was grown and gone by the time John was hospitalized. John was a barber and worked in Cooper and Herndon Iowa.
Letter written on October 28th,1926 from John Zimmerle to his wife Myrtle.
Well Mom,
I don't know why you don't write. I wrote to you Monday morning. It is hard for me to write. Can't see very good. I haven't had a dose of medicine yet. You write to Mother and all the rest of the folks for me. I can't hardly do it. Did you get my first letter? I lost my money Sunday. Only had 85 cents left. This is two stamps and envelopes I have borrowed. I don't need very much money. I haven't had a smoke since Sunday morning. I haven't been out of bed yet. This is Thursday about 5 o'clock so you can tell how long it takes to get a letter to you. I guess about once a week will be all I will write. Tell Sister and Jackie I said Helow. Well supper is coming. I will close at this time.
from dady
You adr my letters in care of the hospital.
From John Zimmerle to his wife and familyNovember 4th, 1926
Well Mom,
This is Thursday night and I haven't heard a word from you yet. I have done all I can to trace your letters but can't find them. I don't know if you are getting the letters I am writing or not. This is the forth one. I got here OK. Am doing fine but I don't believe they are helping me any yet. I haven't taken a dose of med (medicine) yet. I have had lots of exams and one ex-ray taken. They won't let me get out of bed yet. I haven't had a smoke yet but am getting along chewing tob (tobacco) now. I have written to you so often without getting any word I don't know what to write anymore.
You be shure to write. Start me a letter Monday morning and I will get it Tuesday at the 10:30 delivery. Adress this one to John Zimmerle in care of the University Hospital Iowa City.
From Myrtle Zimmerle to her husband John
Herndon Iowa
November 5th, 1926
Dear Dady,
Will answer your letter. We are all well. I have answered all your letters. I suppose you got the dollar I sent you. Let me know if you didn't. Grandma said she would send you some money before long. I had to send Grandma's check back. She never signed it. Well, I hope they find out pretty soon what is the matter with you. I think when they do they can help you.
Ray hasn't went to shuck corn. I don't think Doc wants him but Hermie Hucheson was after him or Phil so I guess he will go there. Nobody husked much this week as we had quite a snowstorm. They tell me lots of them haven't started to husk corn yet. Ray has been busy most of the time. Samuelson gave him another $7.50 check and he still has $3.30 coming. The boys hauled 2 loads of cobs. I want them to get some more yet.
I got a letter from Mae. She said she was awfully surprised to hear about you and was sorry she got mad at you and to tell you she was going south and would send me her add. She sent that box. It was broke open and I think some of the stuff was gone. You got 2 pairs of lyle (?) socks, the boys 3 pair of socks apiece, the others stockings. Mine and Vivians was white silk. Me and V. a pair of new slippers. Mine was too small. Me 2 new dresses. 3 new suits of underwear for Phil. A new cap-Phil got it. Harold a waist. Sister a dress. A lot of ink tablets to make ink. Quite a bunch of raisins. They were all spilled and 2/3 of them gone. 13 candy bars. 7 lead pencils. I guess thats about all. Well I guess I will ring off so
answer soon
Myrtle
P S Grandma will write you. When she does write her a few lines. Sister says dady went to JoMakeO. The other night she yelled goodnight Dada then shook her head. Jack is always crazy when we get a letter from you. Otherwise he doesn't say much.
From Myrtle Zimmerle to her husband John
Herndon Iowa
November 8th, 1926
Dear Dady,
Will answer your letter. We are all well. This makes four letters I have wrote. I am going to send this by special delivery. If you get this write to me your ward number then I think you will get your mail. It's an awful bad day. I think I got all your letters. I sent you a $1 in one. Well I am in a hurry and will close. If you get this I can write more.
Myrtle
From John's Mother
November 9th, 1926
Dear Son,
Will write a few lines. I haven't been very well. Had to get medicine from the Doc last week but am better. I am working all the time. I do hope you are feeling lots better. How do you like it out there? Fine, I hope. Hope you get good care and of course I suppose you do. Please write to me and let me know how you are. You know I am anxious about you. Got a letter from Myrtle. Folks was well. Not much to write. Don't go much. So will close. Write soon.
From Mother
Will send a dollar and if you want money anytime, just let me know. Goodby
Wednesday morning- The ground is white with snow and still snowing.
From John Zimmerle to his wife and family
November 9th, 1926
Dear Mom and all,
I got your last two letters. The one you wrote last Friday and the one with special delivery on. I was getting worried here over two weeks before I got any word from home. Tell Ray not to fool with Doc any longer. Get him another job if he can. Well, Mom, I didn't get the money you sent. I wish you would send me a little money but send it in a Post Office order then if I don't get it we can get it back. I can't write to Mother or anybody else until I get a little money. This is 5 stamps I have borrowed and a can of tob (tobacco). That makes 25 cents I have to pay the boys.
You write to Mother and Anna and Louden and tell them my address and tell them if they send me any money to send it in a Post Office order for the banks or no place else will cash a check. You had the address OK on this last letter. It came without any trouble. Well, Mom one of the big guns was here just now and he told me they would be able to get me up on my feet again but not to do a big days work. That makes me feel good now. I am going to have all my teeth taken out and my rupture fixed up. I have already had one operation. That sore on my nose was a cansor. They cut that out last Sat. It is healing now and doing fine. I expect I will be here a month yet anyway. Maby longer. I will have lots of experiences to tell you about when I do get home. O yes, my head nurses home is Bagley (IA). Her brother married Dr. Corn's daughter. Her name is Sailor. Well I guess I will close for this time. Tell Sissie and Jack and all the rest dady said helow and kiss them all for me.
by by from dady
P S Send me a little money but be shure and send it by P. O. order.
From John's Mother
November 14th, 1926
Dear Son John,
Received your letter. Was glad to hear from you and that you was a little better. Do hope this finds you very so much better.
I do hope that place on your face don't cause you no more trouble. I got a letter from Myrtle. She said you was going to have an operation for rupture. Is it absolutely necessary for you to have it done?
I am glad you have good care that will help you out alot.
Well John, don't worry about the county not paying your care for that is why I am working to let you have what money you need. I sent Myrtle a check last week and told her when she needed more to let me know I would send it and if you need more than I send let me know. Myrtle said she sent you a dollar. I will try to get down to the Post Office sometime this week and send you a four dollar order. Whenever you get ready to go home, let me know and I will send the money for your carfare. I will send a clipping out of the Deer Creek (ILL.) paper about Mr. McCans death.
We have been having nice weather but it looks like it would storm this evening. I am well. Will close. Write me. Send letter every week as I am anxious to hear from you.
From your Mother
From John Zimmerle to his wife and family. He died three days later.
November 14th, 1926
Dear Mom and all,
I thought I would write you a few lines today. I am not feeling so good today. My lung is stopped up again. Can't hardly get my breath. The Dr. said I didn't need any med (medicine) for it. He put me back to bed for a week. Well I believe that sore on my nose is getting better. Well there is one thing they have done for me anyway. They tested my eyes and I am to get a pair of glasses. They will be done Monday.
I got a letter from Mother the other day. I answered it the same day. Also wrote to Louden (his brother). Say I had a heck of a time getting that order cashed. You sent an express order instead of a P. O. order. Well I don't know if you can make out this big word or not but it has lots of meaning. Mitros stenosis is the big name for my heart. It means hardening of the valves and leakage of the heart. My liver is enlarged and (dropped?) about 2 inches. That they say causes the soreness in my right side and lung.
Also an ulcer on the point of my liver. That is what that soreness is under my breastbone.
So you can see there is not very much wrong with me.
You write to my Mother and the rest of them and tell them what my trouble is. It is awful hard for me to write. The next time you write tell Jackie and Sissie to write dady a letter to. Well kiss all the kids for me. It is hard for me to say when I will be home as they haven't done anything yet. Well I guess I will close
from dad to all
Wednesday, May 12
I haven't blogged in a long time! I have been knee deep in Ma's junk of many years. Some good junk and some just plain trash. I am nearing the end on hers and then I can start on mine. Mine will be easy as I am not a collector of junk.;-)
We are also taking care of our health. Annual checkups and doing necessary tests and such. Everything is looking good. I have been on Atkins for a year and my Cholesterol is super. Doc told me I could sell my numbers they were so good. Exercise and low carb diet must be a winning combination.
I have been like a pit bull with getting the auction stuff ready but it will be a load off my mind when I can get on to more fun stuff.
Auction date is June 12th at 10:00 A M at the community building in Cumberland. Ya'all come!!
We are also taking care of our health. Annual checkups and doing necessary tests and such. Everything is looking good. I have been on Atkins for a year and my Cholesterol is super. Doc told me I could sell my numbers they were so good. Exercise and low carb diet must be a winning combination.
I have been like a pit bull with getting the auction stuff ready but it will be a load off my mind when I can get on to more fun stuff.
Auction date is June 12th at 10:00 A M at the community building in Cumberland. Ya'all come!!
Saturday, March 27
6:09 PM 3/27/2004
We are sitting in the Exxon Truck Stop north of El Campo Texas. We fought the wind all day,
it was a relief to stop. A bit ago I spotted a bird perched on a sign and used a bird book
given to me as a gift (Thanks Shipleys!)to identify it. It was a scissor-tailed Flycatcher.
I think it will be an early night. My butt is tired.
I do have an excellent Internet connection here. We are getting close to Houston so I
figured it might be a good one. I have checked the weather ahead and there is no mention of
winds. I sure like this connection for that reason.
We are sitting in the Exxon Truck Stop north of El Campo Texas. We fought the wind all day,
it was a relief to stop. A bit ago I spotted a bird perched on a sign and used a bird book
given to me as a gift (Thanks Shipleys!)to identify it. It was a scissor-tailed Flycatcher.
I think it will be an early night. My butt is tired.
I do have an excellent Internet connection here. We are getting close to Houston so I
figured it might be a good one. I have checked the weather ahead and there is no mention of
winds. I sure like this connection for that reason.
Friday, March 26
12:03 PM 3/26/2004
This morning I opened the door for Angel and a half grown black cat stopped in the street and turned around. It made a few distress sounds and looked from me to Angel. I could tell it was very leery of me but curious about Angel. It moved cautiously closer and Angel started trilling to it! I haven't seen her do that since she met Buddy. It became obvious in a hurry that they could have become friends. They came together and touched noses. I woke Butch up to witness this phenomena. The cat could have been fast friends with Angel in a heartbeat but we could also tell it was used to being run off by those scary people in motorhomes so it didn't stick around long. Angel has been out looking for her new friend a couple of times today but I haven't seen it. No, we are NOT taking on another cat!
This morning I opened the door for Angel and a half grown black cat stopped in the street and turned around. It made a few distress sounds and looked from me to Angel. I could tell it was very leery of me but curious about Angel. It moved cautiously closer and Angel started trilling to it! I haven't seen her do that since she met Buddy. It became obvious in a hurry that they could have become friends. They came together and touched noses. I woke Butch up to witness this phenomena. The cat could have been fast friends with Angel in a heartbeat but we could also tell it was used to being run off by those scary people in motorhomes so it didn't stick around long. Angel has been out looking for her new friend a couple of times today but I haven't seen it. No, we are NOT taking on another cat!
Friday, March 19
Wednesday, March 17
Written Wednesday,3/17/04
Monday was a wet day. Lots of rain,thunder and lightning spread out through the day. No golf for Butch so we went to Mexico with Scotts. Marge and Pam went for pedicures, while I went for Margaritas and nachos at Garcias. Butch and Dave were chauffeurs. We ate supper at another new to us place to eat with a very tasty local flavor. Butch has developed a taste for "Mexican Ketchup" (very hot salsa) but I doubt if I ever do.
Yesterday Butch and I cleaned up the screen room and stored it away. We plan to leave on the 27th and stop short of Houston and then straight through the center of it on I-10 Sunday morning.Sunday morning is a very good time to go through cities. We will continue east on I-10. Butch is contemplating stopping at a casino but we are unsure of the timing. Many casinos have RV parks. Our destination will be son Rich's place in Moultrie Georgia. We are looking forward to spending a few days in their vicinity before going on to Tennessee and seeing Jayne's daughter Kay in Clarksville and spending a few days there before heading to Missouri and son Gary's place. Hopefully the weather will be at an acceptable level by then in the northern tundra. We want S.I.S. weather- sweating in shorts!
This morning was a biking day but there were only seven of us as many have left already. Tuffy, our fearless leader, took a tumble this morning after his foot slipped off the pedal. It was while crossing a normally busy road too but fortunately no one was coming at the time. He skinned up his arm but probably won't know the full extent of his injuries until he has had time to evaluate.
We passed several cornfields and it is about 6 or so inches high. We also passed a field of cabbages that were let go too long and you could sure smell them from a ways off!
With everyone leaving to go home it once again changes and the pace slows. I really like a slower pace but Butch has yet to get used to it. It is all part of his learning process on this retirement business. He may never get it and that's okay too as long as I am not expected to be tour director and entertainer and for the most part he doesn't expect me to.
Monday was a wet day. Lots of rain,thunder and lightning spread out through the day. No golf for Butch so we went to Mexico with Scotts. Marge and Pam went for pedicures, while I went for Margaritas and nachos at Garcias. Butch and Dave were chauffeurs. We ate supper at another new to us place to eat with a very tasty local flavor. Butch has developed a taste for "Mexican Ketchup" (very hot salsa) but I doubt if I ever do.
Yesterday Butch and I cleaned up the screen room and stored it away. We plan to leave on the 27th and stop short of Houston and then straight through the center of it on I-10 Sunday morning.Sunday morning is a very good time to go through cities. We will continue east on I-10. Butch is contemplating stopping at a casino but we are unsure of the timing. Many casinos have RV parks. Our destination will be son Rich's place in Moultrie Georgia. We are looking forward to spending a few days in their vicinity before going on to Tennessee and seeing Jayne's daughter Kay in Clarksville and spending a few days there before heading to Missouri and son Gary's place. Hopefully the weather will be at an acceptable level by then in the northern tundra. We want S.I.S. weather- sweating in shorts!
This morning was a biking day but there were only seven of us as many have left already. Tuffy, our fearless leader, took a tumble this morning after his foot slipped off the pedal. It was while crossing a normally busy road too but fortunately no one was coming at the time. He skinned up his arm but probably won't know the full extent of his injuries until he has had time to evaluate.
We passed several cornfields and it is about 6 or so inches high. We also passed a field of cabbages that were let go too long and you could sure smell them from a ways off!
With everyone leaving to go home it once again changes and the pace slows. I really like a slower pace but Butch has yet to get used to it. It is all part of his learning process on this retirement business. He may never get it and that's okay too as long as I am not expected to be tour director and entertainer and for the most part he doesn't expect me to.
Tuesday, March 16
Written Sunday 3/14
Yesterday we went to the CAF Air Fiesta 2004 with Dave and Marge Scott and Marge's sister Pam visiting from Des Moines.
It was the first time Butch and I had ever attended an air show. There were many vintage military planes, some of which were used to do re-enactments, albeit on a small scale, of famous battles. They made it clear they were in no way attempting to glorify war. Their purpose was to show those who had never experienced it the confusion, noise, fire and smoke of battle as well as the skills necessary for the pilots to endure it.
They also had a stunt pilot perform along with other demonstrations such as the South Padre Island Kite Club. Everyone put on a good show.
Sunday was a rainy day, but Butch and I did manage to get in our two walks between showers. We had a thunderstorm, it wasn't a ripsnorter but it was the first time we had heard thunder in quite some time.
The weather now reminds me of Iowa in June. The nights are warm as well as the days. Orange blossoms scent the air and the birds announce their intentions to all who will listen.
A few more people leave every day. Each trip around the park notes someone else who has pulled up stakes.
One of the next few days we plan to wash down the screen room, let it dry and pack it away for travel. Even as we prepare to move on I am looking forward to returning next fall. We will be in a different spot next year-still the same park but I spotted a lot with a nice large cement patio so I asked for it for next year and it is reserved for us.
Yesterday we went to the CAF Air Fiesta 2004 with Dave and Marge Scott and Marge's sister Pam visiting from Des Moines.
It was the first time Butch and I had ever attended an air show. There were many vintage military planes, some of which were used to do re-enactments, albeit on a small scale, of famous battles. They made it clear they were in no way attempting to glorify war. Their purpose was to show those who had never experienced it the confusion, noise, fire and smoke of battle as well as the skills necessary for the pilots to endure it.
They also had a stunt pilot perform along with other demonstrations such as the South Padre Island Kite Club. Everyone put on a good show.
Sunday was a rainy day, but Butch and I did manage to get in our two walks between showers. We had a thunderstorm, it wasn't a ripsnorter but it was the first time we had heard thunder in quite some time.
The weather now reminds me of Iowa in June. The nights are warm as well as the days. Orange blossoms scent the air and the birds announce their intentions to all who will listen.
A few more people leave every day. Each trip around the park notes someone else who has pulled up stakes.
One of the next few days we plan to wash down the screen room, let it dry and pack it away for travel. Even as we prepare to move on I am looking forward to returning next fall. We will be in a different spot next year-still the same park but I spotted a lot with a nice large cement patio so I asked for it for next year and it is reserved for us.
Monday, March 15
From friends in Florida
Just got your message about the lizard, very interesting.
We have a lot of the little "buggers" here in Florida but not as long as 8 inches. I wouldn't want one in my mobile! Our cat, Sammy, would be of no help, or maybe he would if he could chase it. He weighs about 20 lbs. so is a pretty contented cat!! I can't believe how attached we are to him or him to us. Just like a little watch kitty.
Tried to bring up your webshots but didn't have any luck so will try again another time. The accounts of your adventures are very interesting.
I had a hair appointment this morning, so after pancake breakfast here in the park we went to get the hair cut. It was such a beautiful day so decided to head east to Arcadia, an antique town. We looked around and ate lunch and left for the Hermann Ranch at Myakka City. That is the home of the famed Lippizan stallions. Their performance was at 10 a.m. instead of 3 p.m. Missed that so went in the barns and looked at the horses, 18. They leave for tour after Easter and return in October. We have seen them perform in other years, but was sorry we missed them this time. We saw a lot of cattle between Arcadia and Palmetto. I never thought about Florida being cattle country but that is their main industry. We always thought it was fruit. We are in a big strawberry and tomato growing area. There are big packing factories for tomatoes in Palmetto. The strawberries are so good now. Their big strawberry festival was in Plant City a week or so ago.
All for Now
Jean
Just got your message about the lizard, very interesting.
We have a lot of the little "buggers" here in Florida but not as long as 8 inches. I wouldn't want one in my mobile! Our cat, Sammy, would be of no help, or maybe he would if he could chase it. He weighs about 20 lbs. so is a pretty contented cat!! I can't believe how attached we are to him or him to us. Just like a little watch kitty.
Tried to bring up your webshots but didn't have any luck so will try again another time. The accounts of your adventures are very interesting.
I had a hair appointment this morning, so after pancake breakfast here in the park we went to get the hair cut. It was such a beautiful day so decided to head east to Arcadia, an antique town. We looked around and ate lunch and left for the Hermann Ranch at Myakka City. That is the home of the famed Lippizan stallions. Their performance was at 10 a.m. instead of 3 p.m. Missed that so went in the barns and looked at the horses, 18. They leave for tour after Easter and return in October. We have seen them perform in other years, but was sorry we missed them this time. We saw a lot of cattle between Arcadia and Palmetto. I never thought about Florida being cattle country but that is their main industry. We always thought it was fruit. We are in a big strawberry and tomato growing area. There are big packing factories for tomatoes in Palmetto. The strawberries are so good now. Their big strawberry festival was in Plant City a week or so ago.
All for Now
Jean
Friday, March 12
1:52 PM 3/12/2004
Our plans have changed a little and that's the nice part of being retired. After doing a quick scan of weather in other parts of the USA we have decided to stay put for a couple of weeks. Last year the weather wasn't much good in Iowa until late May or early June. Relax we aren't waiting That long to come back. We are still going to Georgia, Tennessee, and Missouri before returning to the fair state of Iowa to take care of the chores that await us like auctions, house sales and taxes.
The weather here is delightful and it was a long time coming so we hate to pick up and leave just as it is coming into its full glory. We have however been doing some preparation work such as cleaning up the screen room and putting stuff away that we won't be using. When the day of departure gets here it takes very little time to be ready to roll.
Our plans have changed a little and that's the nice part of being retired. After doing a quick scan of weather in other parts of the USA we have decided to stay put for a couple of weeks. Last year the weather wasn't much good in Iowa until late May or early June. Relax we aren't waiting That long to come back. We are still going to Georgia, Tennessee, and Missouri before returning to the fair state of Iowa to take care of the chores that await us like auctions, house sales and taxes.
The weather here is delightful and it was a long time coming so we hate to pick up and leave just as it is coming into its full glory. We have however been doing some preparation work such as cleaning up the screen room and putting stuff away that we won't be using. When the day of departure gets here it takes very little time to be ready to roll.
Wednesday, March 10
Written Tuesday, March 9th, 2004
My birthday turned out to be quite a day! First off I got a virus, more exactly a worm on the computer and spent the better part of the day getting rid of it. Yes, I know how I got it and it is just too embarrassing to admit how it happened. But it is gone now.
Anyway I was in the midst of getting rid of Worm-Bagel J when I heard a rustling sound on the plastic runner we have to protect the carpet. I looked down to see an 8-inch lizard looking back at me. Angel was in the screen room so I hollered at her and she came running, spotted the lizard and took after it. It was too quick thus escaping the cat claws and run for cover under the chair in which I was sitting! So I moved, deciding that Angel needed more room to do her magic. The lizard escaped Angels grasp and sought refuge under the dash. Butch was returning home from the flea market about this time so I suggested he do his "manly" duty and rescue either Angel, me or the lizard or perhaps all three. He failed to see this as HIS duty. Go figger! There was no way to retrieve the lizard at this point so we hoped he would find his own way to freedom. Time passes. I was working around the drivers seat when I glanced over and spotted our new reptilian resident. So we devised a plan involving two ice cream buckets and a broom. I said, " I'll poke him with the broom handle and when he runs your way trap him in the bucket." Butch said, " No, I will poke him and when he runs your way YOU trap him in the bucket." Butch poked him my way first and miracles happen and I trapped him under the bucket. We slid a flat piece of plastic under the upturned bucket enabling us to transport the lizard to his new digs about a block away. He lives to eat bugs another day. So my birthday this year will be known as the day of the lizard...and the worm.
On Sunday we went for a pontoon ride on the Rio Grande with friends Marge and Dave Scott. Pleasant Day-Pleasant ride.
Monday after golf Butch went to see Dr. Penalo about a sore throat. Now taking antibiotics for that condition and feeling much better. I must say he is never a wimp. He is like the energizer bunny, just keeps on going. When I am sick I lay down.
Today we went to the Santa Ana Wildlife refuge and rode their seven-mile bike trail. Very nice ride and we should have ridden it twice but it was getting plenty warm by the time we finished the first seven.
This afternoon we went to Mexico and Butch got a haircut. He got a "butch" and it is very short.
My birthday turned out to be quite a day! First off I got a virus, more exactly a worm on the computer and spent the better part of the day getting rid of it. Yes, I know how I got it and it is just too embarrassing to admit how it happened. But it is gone now.
Anyway I was in the midst of getting rid of Worm-Bagel J when I heard a rustling sound on the plastic runner we have to protect the carpet. I looked down to see an 8-inch lizard looking back at me. Angel was in the screen room so I hollered at her and she came running, spotted the lizard and took after it. It was too quick thus escaping the cat claws and run for cover under the chair in which I was sitting! So I moved, deciding that Angel needed more room to do her magic. The lizard escaped Angels grasp and sought refuge under the dash. Butch was returning home from the flea market about this time so I suggested he do his "manly" duty and rescue either Angel, me or the lizard or perhaps all three. He failed to see this as HIS duty. Go figger! There was no way to retrieve the lizard at this point so we hoped he would find his own way to freedom. Time passes. I was working around the drivers seat when I glanced over and spotted our new reptilian resident. So we devised a plan involving two ice cream buckets and a broom. I said, " I'll poke him with the broom handle and when he runs your way trap him in the bucket." Butch said, " No, I will poke him and when he runs your way YOU trap him in the bucket." Butch poked him my way first and miracles happen and I trapped him under the bucket. We slid a flat piece of plastic under the upturned bucket enabling us to transport the lizard to his new digs about a block away. He lives to eat bugs another day. So my birthday this year will be known as the day of the lizard...and the worm.
On Sunday we went for a pontoon ride on the Rio Grande with friends Marge and Dave Scott. Pleasant Day-Pleasant ride.
Monday after golf Butch went to see Dr. Penalo about a sore throat. Now taking antibiotics for that condition and feeling much better. I must say he is never a wimp. He is like the energizer bunny, just keeps on going. When I am sick I lay down.
Today we went to the Santa Ana Wildlife refuge and rode their seven-mile bike trail. Very nice ride and we should have ridden it twice but it was getting plenty warm by the time we finished the first seven.
This afternoon we went to Mexico and Butch got a haircut. He got a "butch" and it is very short.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)