Gayla---did laundry, read
Evelyn--walked around the neighborhood
Glen, Evelyn--practiced music, went to Jam Session. 12 performers.
Gary--went with Gary and Evelyn to Jam Session
Tonight--played 19-point pitch with Gay and Fred. The team of Fred, Evelyn, and Gayla won 5 games to 3. We sat outdoors to play. Glen did turn on the patio heater which felt nice. There is no wind, thankfully.
Not much excitement in this corner of the neighborhood!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Let's Talk "Weather"!
Did you get "hit" by the storms that swept across the mid-section of the US last night?
Our son reports from Cape Girardeau MO that his neighborhood was hit was 70+mph swirly winds, maybe a tornado in the air that didn't touch down. Their house lost some shingles. Thankfully that is all. Plus rain all night and this morning.
Other homes/neighbors lost part to all of the shingles, vinyl fences blown down, swing sets turned and twisted, small trees pulled out of the ground, lots of debris on the ground.
I was just watching the CBS New York City station+weather reports. There was a few seconds of video from Poplar Bluff, MO (from where we retired).
It was windy here today. I saw one gust of 31 mph this morning. It was sunny all day. Presently (10:30) it is 50 degrees and no wind.
It was a good afternoon to play cards with Gary and Evelyn!
Our son reports from Cape Girardeau MO that his neighborhood was hit was 70+mph swirly winds, maybe a tornado in the air that didn't touch down. Their house lost some shingles. Thankfully that is all. Plus rain all night and this morning.
Other homes/neighbors lost part to all of the shingles, vinyl fences blown down, swing sets turned and twisted, small trees pulled out of the ground, lots of debris on the ground.
I was just watching the CBS New York City station+weather reports. There was a few seconds of video from Poplar Bluff, MO (from where we retired).
It was windy here today. I saw one gust of 31 mph this morning. It was sunny all day. Presently (10:30) it is 50 degrees and no wind.
It was a good afternoon to play cards with Gary and Evelyn!
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Typical Tuesday
What shall we talk about tonight?
The weather? OK. It was 90 degrees with winds from the south. Currently at 10:30 p.m. it is 72 degrees, and the wind has changed to the north and humidity has dropped to 39 percent.
Highs tomorrow in the 70's.
Have I told you about a "breakfast taco"? Scramble eggs, add bacon or sausage or ham or refried beans---you get the idea. Lightly grill a freshly made flour tortilla, add scrambled eggs and meat. Eat and enjoy. Total cost at the local "Stripes" convenience store. I am not kidding, all prepared in the deli of the convenience store. And....all for 99-cents each. This is what we had for breakfast this morning. Did I mention the breakfast taco is delicious!
Glen and Evelyn played music, chose the songs for tonight's Jam Session. There were 14 on stage tonight at the Jam Session.
The weather? OK. It was 90 degrees with winds from the south. Currently at 10:30 p.m. it is 72 degrees, and the wind has changed to the north and humidity has dropped to 39 percent.
Highs tomorrow in the 70's.
Have I told you about a "breakfast taco"? Scramble eggs, add bacon or sausage or ham or refried beans---you get the idea. Lightly grill a freshly made flour tortilla, add scrambled eggs and meat. Eat and enjoy. Total cost at the local "Stripes" convenience store. I am not kidding, all prepared in the deli of the convenience store. And....all for 99-cents each. This is what we had for breakfast this morning. Did I mention the breakfast taco is delicious!
Glen and Evelyn played music, chose the songs for tonight's Jam Session. There were 14 on stage tonight at the Jam Session.
Monday, January 28, 2013
An Interesting Day
We were blessed to be two of seven that helped serve a family meal after a funeral/burial. About 50 family members attended the meal.
Our pastor's wife prepared two large roaster pans of spaghetti/sauce. The side dishes were brought in by other church members.
Glen and I enjoyed the time visiting with the rest of the crew from the time preparations started to when the family arrived. Four ladies are bi-lingual. Spanish is their first language with English second. They speak to each other in Spanish but in very good English with us. One lady described she and her husband as "migrant workers" in the north until he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Gary and Evelyn had a quiet day. I think they sat outdoors most of the day enjoying the 88--yes,88---degrees.
Fred and Gay came over tonight at six for music and fellowship. Gay brought a fruit pizza for dessert. I told her there was only one word for the pizza...."yum-m-m-m-m!"
Our pastor's wife prepared two large roaster pans of spaghetti/sauce. The side dishes were brought in by other church members.
Glen and I enjoyed the time visiting with the rest of the crew from the time preparations started to when the family arrived. Four ladies are bi-lingual. Spanish is their first language with English second. They speak to each other in Spanish but in very good English with us. One lady described she and her husband as "migrant workers" in the north until he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Gary and Evelyn had a quiet day. I think they sat outdoors most of the day enjoying the 88--yes,88---degrees.
Fred and Gay came over tonight at six for music and fellowship. Gay brought a fruit pizza for dessert. I told her there was only one word for the pizza...."yum-m-m-m-m!"
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Settling In......
It's Sunday evening, almost 8 p.m. We are settling in for the Hallmark Movie on ABC! The Hallmark movies are always uplifting.
There was a combined "traditional" and "contemporary" worship service this morning. Glen and Evelyn both sang with the worship team. Evelyn also played her guitar.
I sent birthday wishes to my mother yesterday (her actual birthday), and today. My sister hosted a family dinner for Mom this afternoon. She had a great time with the family members. Happy Birthday, Mom.
There was a combined "traditional" and "contemporary" worship service this morning. Glen and Evelyn both sang with the worship team. Evelyn also played her guitar.
I sent birthday wishes to my mother yesterday (her actual birthday), and today. My sister hosted a family dinner for Mom this afternoon. She had a great time with the family members. Happy Birthday, Mom.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Party Time 1-26-13
There wasn't a great deal to do to get ready for tonight's cook out.
We set up the tables and chairs, bought ice, etc. Gary and Evelyn prepared the baked beans. I did slaw, and baked a gooey-butter cake. Glen grilled the brats and burgers. The pulled pork warmed in the crock pot.
Eighteen, counting Gary/Evelyn, Glen and me, were here tonight. Three declined because illness. We missed them but appreciated them not sharing their germs. Three of the 18 live here year-around. The rest of us are "winter Texans".
Weather Alert! 63 low temp and 86 high temp. The wind has averaged 10-20 all day! Lots of sunshine.
The mesquite trees are in the process of losing their leaves. Yes, just now in late January. Probably in the next two weeks the same trees will start blooming, form seed pods, and put on new leaves.
We set up the tables and chairs, bought ice, etc. Gary and Evelyn prepared the baked beans. I did slaw, and baked a gooey-butter cake. Glen grilled the brats and burgers. The pulled pork warmed in the crock pot.
Eighteen, counting Gary/Evelyn, Glen and me, were here tonight. Three declined because illness. We missed them but appreciated them not sharing their germs. Three of the 18 live here year-around. The rest of us are "winter Texans".
Weather Alert! 63 low temp and 86 high temp. The wind has averaged 10-20 all day! Lots of sunshine.
The mesquite trees are in the process of losing their leaves. Yes, just now in late January. Probably in the next two weeks the same trees will start blooming, form seed pods, and put on new leaves.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Fun Times
Wow, another great day.
We tried a new breakfast dish this morning. We had been told to try "migas" at one of the local restaurants.
"Migas" is scrambled eggs mixed with crisp corn tortilla strips and melted cheese. It is a tasty dish. After we were served the plate-full, the waitress tells us, "oh, you can order half a serving!". We had already decided that we would split an order next time.
Grocery shopping followed breakfast. We are getting ready for the cook-out tomorrow evening.
At two this after there was a performance by "Amber Waves", a family group of six, originally from Colorado. The Costello family have been on the road full time over a year now. Mom played a mandolin and sang; dad played bass fiddle and sang; twin daughters, about the age of 17, played banjo and guitar, and sang; son age 12 played the fiddle, sang and told jokes; and least was Mary, age 7, who sang. One of the twins sang three songs that she had written. They are a very talented family.
The music was bluegrass, with an Irish jig thrown in. They were very entertaining.
There was time for a bite of supper, then off to church where Glen and Evelyn practiced music for Sunday morning. I dropped them at church and went to a nail salon for a pedicure. Pure luxury.
Are you interested the temperatures for today? 65 for a low and 85 for a high!
We tried a new breakfast dish this morning. We had been told to try "migas" at one of the local restaurants.
"Migas" is scrambled eggs mixed with crisp corn tortilla strips and melted cheese. It is a tasty dish. After we were served the plate-full, the waitress tells us, "oh, you can order half a serving!". We had already decided that we would split an order next time.
Grocery shopping followed breakfast. We are getting ready for the cook-out tomorrow evening.
At two this after there was a performance by "Amber Waves", a family group of six, originally from Colorado. The Costello family have been on the road full time over a year now. Mom played a mandolin and sang; dad played bass fiddle and sang; twin daughters, about the age of 17, played banjo and guitar, and sang; son age 12 played the fiddle, sang and told jokes; and least was Mary, age 7, who sang. One of the twins sang three songs that she had written. They are a very talented family.
The music was bluegrass, with an Irish jig thrown in. They were very entertaining.
There was time for a bite of supper, then off to church where Glen and Evelyn practiced music for Sunday morning. I dropped them at church and went to a nail salon for a pedicure. Pure luxury.
Are you interested the temperatures for today? 65 for a low and 85 for a high!
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Oh, What A Beautiful Day! (1-24-13)
The day started with fog so thick we couldn't see the house across the street. But it didn't take for the sun to pop out and burn it away! It was bright and sunshiny all day.
Of course we spend the day outdoors on days like this. We are slowly preparing for the cook-out Saturday.
Glen and Evelyn sang/played at the afternoon Jam Session (different location than Tuesday night). There were nine performers today. Actually, ten. I forgot the trumpet player. He was very entertaining.
Gary is trying out new recipes. Today he fixed a southwestern casserole: hamburger, jalapenos, cheese, prepared Jiffy cornbread, corn, and other stuff...all baked together. it was mighty tasty!
As soon as we finished with the late lunch/early dinner..."lupper!", we went next door to visit with neighbors who were celebrating another neighbor, Shirley's, 79th birthday.
Then....Fred and Gay came over about seven for a few card games.
It has been quite the social day.
Of course we spend the day outdoors on days like this. We are slowly preparing for the cook-out Saturday.
Glen and Evelyn sang/played at the afternoon Jam Session (different location than Tuesday night). There were nine performers today. Actually, ten. I forgot the trumpet player. He was very entertaining.
Gary is trying out new recipes. Today he fixed a southwestern casserole: hamburger, jalapenos, cheese, prepared Jiffy cornbread, corn, and other stuff...all baked together. it was mighty tasty!
As soon as we finished with the late lunch/early dinner..."lupper!", we went next door to visit with neighbors who were celebrating another neighbor, Shirley's, 79th birthday.
Then....Fred and Gay came over about seven for a few card games.
It has been quite the social day.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Oh, what a beautiful day!
We are enjoying this weather ever so much!
80 degrees today, with clouds to start, but wonderful sunshine this afternoon. Perfect for sitting outdoors, visiting with drop-in company.
Fred and Gay stopped by for a couple of hours of laughing, fish tales, and more laughter.
We delivered invitations to several friends for a bar-b-que Saturday. We learned that several will be attending a funeral. The number attending will be fewer, but still will have a great time.
80 degrees today, with clouds to start, but wonderful sunshine this afternoon. Perfect for sitting outdoors, visiting with drop-in company.
Fred and Gay stopped by for a couple of hours of laughing, fish tales, and more laughter.
We delivered invitations to several friends for a bar-b-que Saturday. We learned that several will be attending a funeral. The number attending will be fewer, but still will have a great time.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Nuttin' Honey
Tonight at the Jam Session everyone greeted each other by saying "what did you do today?"
Nearly everyone said, "nuttin' honey"; or if you don't remember the commercial, "nothing", "not much". It was that kind of day. One person said "went fishing, caught 7 crappie."
Retirement....ah-h--h, days of doing nothing.
We did go for a bike ride this morning. Gary made a trip to the grocery store.
There was Jam Session tonight. Thirteen on stage. Audience fewer in number.
We are hosting a neighborhood bar-b-que Saturday afternoon. We are working on those details.
Nearly everyone said, "nuttin' honey"; or if you don't remember the commercial, "nothing", "not much". It was that kind of day. One person said "went fishing, caught 7 crappie."
Retirement....ah-h--h, days of doing nothing.
We did go for a bike ride this morning. Gary made a trip to the grocery store.
There was Jam Session tonight. Thirteen on stage. Audience fewer in number.
We are hosting a neighborhood bar-b-que Saturday afternoon. We are working on those details.
Monday, January 21, 2013
A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That ----1-21-2013
It has been one of those days...a little of this and a little of that.
Cooking
I put a pork butt in the crock pot to cook on low all day. Boy, does it smell good. Tomorrow I will "pull" it apart and add some bar-b-que sauce for a good sandwich. I can't wait!
Gary tried out a new recipe. A "minty chocolate cake that makes its own sauce" that cooked in the crock pot for four hours. Everyone seemed to enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream for topping.
Cleaning
Evelyn wins the cleaning award today. She shook rugs and vacuumed--that I know of. There might have been more.
Exercise
Evelyn, Glen and I went for a bike ride in the neighborhood. We start out -when we are fresh -up the big hill which also means, it is all downhill when we start home.
Visiting
Jim and Dee, from next door, came over for a couple of hours this afternoon. We exchanged some camping stories, caught up on family activities, made some plans for summer of 2014. They are great friends and neighbors.
Music
Fred and Gay arrived about six this evening. There was a whole of music going on all evening. Break time included a dish of Gary's cake! We sat outdoors the entire evening. A jacket was required about the time temps dropped to 65 degrees or so.
Weather
It has been n-i-c-e the past few days. The day started at 58 degrees and made it 78 degrees late this afternoon. At 10 p.m. it is 64 degrees with a light breeze and lots of stars and moonshine! **
Family
We talked to our son Darin today. Darin took Zade, his 4-yr old son, to St. Louis today to meet some of the St. Louis Cardinals at a fundraiser for Cardinal Care. Zade was most excited to meet Daniel DeCalso. Zade had a ball that DeCalso had hit to the first base side during a game. Darin "caught"/recovered the ball as it landed practically in Darin's lap. DeCalso autographed the ball and gave Zade a "high five". The picture Darin sent shows Zade with a smile from ear-to-ear!
Darin sent the pictures to my phone. I have tried unsuccessfully to move them from the phone to the computer. Just don't have the know-how necessary for that procedure.
Take care.
Cooking
I put a pork butt in the crock pot to cook on low all day. Boy, does it smell good. Tomorrow I will "pull" it apart and add some bar-b-que sauce for a good sandwich. I can't wait!
Gary tried out a new recipe. A "minty chocolate cake that makes its own sauce" that cooked in the crock pot for four hours. Everyone seemed to enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream for topping.
Cleaning
Evelyn wins the cleaning award today. She shook rugs and vacuumed--that I know of. There might have been more.
Exercise
Evelyn, Glen and I went for a bike ride in the neighborhood. We start out -when we are fresh -up the big hill which also means, it is all downhill when we start home.
Visiting
Jim and Dee, from next door, came over for a couple of hours this afternoon. We exchanged some camping stories, caught up on family activities, made some plans for summer of 2014. They are great friends and neighbors.
Music
Fred and Gay arrived about six this evening. There was a whole of music going on all evening. Break time included a dish of Gary's cake! We sat outdoors the entire evening. A jacket was required about the time temps dropped to 65 degrees or so.
Weather
It has been n-i-c-e the past few days. The day started at 58 degrees and made it 78 degrees late this afternoon. At 10 p.m. it is 64 degrees with a light breeze and lots of stars and moonshine! **
Family
We talked to our son Darin today. Darin took Zade, his 4-yr old son, to St. Louis today to meet some of the St. Louis Cardinals at a fundraiser for Cardinal Care. Zade was most excited to meet Daniel DeCalso. Zade had a ball that DeCalso had hit to the first base side during a game. Darin "caught"/recovered the ball as it landed practically in Darin's lap. DeCalso autographed the ball and gave Zade a "high five". The picture Darin sent shows Zade with a smile from ear-to-ear!
Darin sent the pictures to my phone. I have tried unsuccessfully to move them from the phone to the computer. Just don't have the know-how necessary for that procedure.
Take care.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
The Week-End Report!
Would you be worried about me if I said I can't remember Saturday morning? Saturday was a day to be outdoors, and we were.
Glen and Gary started and finished a carpentry project. In between we watched the Missouri basketball game. That was a sad event. Mizzou lost by 30 points.
We enjoyed lunch outdoors. It was just a good day be outdoors.
Today at worship service we learned that a good friend who had had a pacemaker installed on Wednesday and came home Thursday, went by ambulance Saturday morning (5 a.m.) to a hospital in Laredo. He has been diagnosed with a collapsed lung and is in ICU. We chauffeured his wife to see him this afternoon.
Football has taken up our time since we arrived back home. I have no particular favorite but Glen and Gary have teams they want to win.
I have talked to my mother, our son and Ashlynn and Zade, Trisha and Jeff. We are now caught up with the family news.
Hope your week end has been a good one.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Outdoors Day
Another good day in the neighborhood!
Did a little indoor cleaning!
Prepared a broccoli/cauliflower salad for lunch. Gary and Evelyn provided grilled peppered bacon for BLT sandwiches. Um-m-m, delicious.
Alert! Glen mowed the yard...ok, not the entire yard. There were a few sprigs of grass that needed trimming. It does look better. There are no green yards unless irrigation is involved.
Glen also trimmed the last mesquite tree. Things are shining around here!
Glen, Evelyn and I also went for a short bike ride. One must ease into "exercise"! But it was a great afternoon to be out in the sunshine.
Gary washed the outside of all of the windows in their fifth-wheel.
Glen washed one side of the motor home.
All in all, it has been a great day! Blue skies with a light breeze.
Did a little indoor cleaning!
Prepared a broccoli/cauliflower salad for lunch. Gary and Evelyn provided grilled peppered bacon for BLT sandwiches. Um-m-m, delicious.
Alert! Glen mowed the yard...ok, not the entire yard. There were a few sprigs of grass that needed trimming. It does look better. There are no green yards unless irrigation is involved.
Glen also trimmed the last mesquite tree. Things are shining around here!
Glen, Evelyn and I also went for a short bike ride. One must ease into "exercise"! But it was a great afternoon to be out in the sunshine.
Gary washed the outside of all of the windows in their fifth-wheel.
Glen washed one side of the motor home.
All in all, it has been a great day! Blue skies with a light breeze.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Oh What a Glorious Day! 1-17-2013
It has been a glorious day---all day! Started the day in a sweatshirt but didn't need it very long!
Glen helped a neighbor with a plumbing problem. He dug a three-four foot hole which quickly filled with water/mud. He replaced broken parts and told the neighbor to let it dry thoroughly. Later in the afternoon another leak developed. He also repaired it. So far, the second repair is holding!
Evelyn did a couple loads of laundry, and then I took over. I did four loads. It is folded and put away.
In between Glen trimmed limbs, and the rest of us dragged the limbs to the edge of the road. The county has already picked it up. It is a great service. Homeowners can stack/pile tree limbs, grass clippings, lumber; and the county will pick it up with no cost to the homeowner.
The evening ended with fun and fellowship. Fred and Gay came over. The six of us played cards; no music tonight.
I have a sneaking suspension that Glen may be interested in washing the motor home tomorrow.
Glen helped a neighbor with a plumbing problem. He dug a three-four foot hole which quickly filled with water/mud. He replaced broken parts and told the neighbor to let it dry thoroughly. Later in the afternoon another leak developed. He also repaired it. So far, the second repair is holding!
Evelyn did a couple loads of laundry, and then I took over. I did four loads. It is folded and put away.
In between Glen trimmed limbs, and the rest of us dragged the limbs to the edge of the road. The county has already picked it up. It is a great service. Homeowners can stack/pile tree limbs, grass clippings, lumber; and the county will pick it up with no cost to the homeowner.
The evening ended with fun and fellowship. Fred and Gay came over. The six of us played cards; no music tonight.
I have a sneaking suspension that Glen may be interested in washing the motor home tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
I am Officially "HOT"!
I know that title has your curiosity at a very high level. You are wondering "what is 'hot'?" Is it her temperature? her feet?
It is just me! I can't help it if I am "hot"! It is official...the Border Patrol declared me "hot!". They even measured my "hotness!"
Today to cure "cabin fever" we drove to "the valley"...about 120 miles south of here. The first stop was at Falcon Dam, across the Rio Grande River which forms Falcon Lake, 30 miles south of Zapata.
We drove out to the middle of the dam, to the border of the USA and Mexico.
We turned around, and stopped at the Border Patrol station at the west (US) end of the dam. Glen handed the agent the four passports. In a very short time the agent asked "which one of us had recently had a medical procedure?"
I raised my hand, rolled down my window and confessed it was me. An agent came out to the window and turned on a Geiger counter and it clicked fast and loud. He told me I was "still hot!" Glen was told to pull over to the tables, and the four of us come inside the station.
We went inside. Two more agents came out with the Geiger counter and ran it up and down me, with it continuing to click loudly and rapidly. I answered all questions, including when I had had the medical procedure. Remember, back in December I swallowed a radioactive pill for thyroid issues. The pill is still hard at work!
An agent also searched the truck. All of the agents were polite and friendly. We were told that they see people who have had medical procedures to leaking propane tanks to illegal bomb making materials set off the alarms.
We were also told that each incident is reported to headquarters in Washington, DC.
We all agree that we are glad to see our Border Patrol doing their jobs. I have nothing to hide so it did not bother me to be questioned. I want them to find the bad guys who are trying to get into the USA with illegal materials---or other things.
Our next stop was at the border at Weslaco, TX, going into Progressive, Mexico. This is a SAFE border town, about 15 blocks wide with many physicians, pharmacies, eye doctors, salons for pedicures/manicures/haircuts/permanent eyeliner, enhanced eyelashes, etc.
We thought by being there in the middle of the week, there might not be many Winter Texans there. Wrong! The parking lot was full, the sidewalks were full.
We ate lunch at the Red Snapper, where a Shrimp Plate with six large butterflied shrimp, rice, french fries, and a salad can be purchased for 8.99. It is delicious.
The only purchases we made were a few items at a pharmacy.
Since we exited Mexico via the pedestrian bridge there were no alarms or Geiger counter clicking when we exited! :}
We then shopped at the Donna/Weslaco Fruit and Vegetable market. Wow, what a selection there. We bought the best fresh pineapple, wonderful navel oranges, and Rio Red grapefruit.
We also stopped at a new Walmart for a few items. Then it back north to Zapata.
I figured it out. "Blogger" is having problems. I had to go through another something...Google Chrome instead of Internet Explorer.
P.S. Did you see "Flat Stanley" in several of the pictures? My nephew, a third grader, has read 'Flat Stanley' at school; sent me his version of Flat Stanley. We are hosting Flat Stanley for a few weeks here in Texas so he can experience some adventures here.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
A Lot of Little Things
We did a lot of little things today....
...completed reservations at an RV park near Mackinaw Island, Michigan, for July.
... watched a movie, "something-something Exotic Marigold Hotel" with Gary and Evelyn at their place. It was a very enjoyable movie!
...received a phone call this afternoon that the evening's Jam Session was cancelled for tonight. The heater in the hall is not working.
...called Fred and Gay and invited them over for a Jam Session at Evelyn/Gary's.
...baked cookies for our Jam Session.
...watched three "Jeopardy!" programs. I am now up to date.
...gathered the binoculars, camera, and passports for a day adventure on Wednesday.
...keeping up with the weather in Arkansas and Missouri--where our family resides. Cold temperatures and snow and ice makes me grateful that we can escape to south Texas.
...completed reservations at an RV park near Mackinaw Island, Michigan, for July.
... watched a movie, "something-something Exotic Marigold Hotel" with Gary and Evelyn at their place. It was a very enjoyable movie!
...received a phone call this afternoon that the evening's Jam Session was cancelled for tonight. The heater in the hall is not working.
...called Fred and Gay and invited them over for a Jam Session at Evelyn/Gary's.
...baked cookies for our Jam Session.
...watched three "Jeopardy!" programs. I am now up to date.
...gathered the binoculars, camera, and passports for a day adventure on Wednesday.
...keeping up with the weather in Arkansas and Missouri--where our family resides. Cold temperatures and snow and ice makes me grateful that we can escape to south Texas.
Monday, January 14, 2013
(Mostly) Indoor Day
Whine, whine! I promise I am going to try to quit whining about the weather here. I talked to my mother today and she reported it was 24 degrees while it was 60 here. There was sunshine for most of the day.
We picked up our mail from our mail-forward-service today. There were even a few Christmas cards to read. There are now magazines to read, new credit cards to exchange with the old, etc.
Tonight we went to Fred and Gay's fifth-wheel rv for music night. They are parked in a rv park about a mile from here. It is always a fun evening.
Glen washed the pick-up this afternoon...with no help from me. I am not sure how he got it rinsed...but he managed :}
Have a great week.
We picked up our mail from our mail-forward-service today. There were even a few Christmas cards to read. There are now magazines to read, new credit cards to exchange with the old, etc.
Tonight we went to Fred and Gay's fifth-wheel rv for music night. They are parked in a rv park about a mile from here. It is always a fun evening.
Glen washed the pick-up this afternoon...with no help from me. I am not sure how he got it rinsed...but he managed :}
Have a great week.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
How was your week end?
You need to share what you have done this week end. Did you stock the cupboards for bad weather. I know Missouri had "wintry mix" today.
North winds brought in cooler temps today. Weather center says "66" for high but I imagine that was at midnight. Temps when we got up this morning was 50, and it didn't get much above that all day. The winds have settled tonight and there are no stars.
Five couples ate together after church. One of the specials was "grilled or fried quail". Three couples each split one plate, which contained two quail over seasoned rice, steamed veggies, baked potato, salad bar.
It has been so many years since I have eaten quail that I had forgotten it is all dark meat. It was good. Glen said he would like to try it fried. Gary and Evelyn weren't particularly impressed.
Of course, afternoon activities included football and nap; one of us did that at the same time :}.
Have you noticed that we like to play cards!!! Gary, Evelyn, Glen and I played "Hearts" tonight.
Have a great week. Avoid slick roads and steps. Stay safe, and TAKE CARE.
North winds brought in cooler temps today. Weather center says "66" for high but I imagine that was at midnight. Temps when we got up this morning was 50, and it didn't get much above that all day. The winds have settled tonight and there are no stars.
Five couples ate together after church. One of the specials was "grilled or fried quail". Three couples each split one plate, which contained two quail over seasoned rice, steamed veggies, baked potato, salad bar.
It has been so many years since I have eaten quail that I had forgotten it is all dark meat. It was good. Glen said he would like to try it fried. Gary and Evelyn weren't particularly impressed.
Of course, afternoon activities included football and nap; one of us did that at the same time :}.
Have you noticed that we like to play cards!!! Gary, Evelyn, Glen and I played "Hearts" tonight.
Have a great week. Avoid slick roads and steps. Stay safe, and TAKE CARE.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Humidity
We awakened to 67 degrees with 98 percent humidity. It made it to 78 degrees with 98 percent humidity. It is currently 69 degrees (9:47 p.m.) with 98 percent humidity.
The day started with light fog and lots of dew. The sun was behind clouds all day. It is the beginning of a predicted 7 days of clouds. We will see if the forecasters are correct with a high of 57 degrees on Sunday.
Glen and Gary added trim to the "room" in the Outdoor Living Space. We are hoping and assuming the trim will keep the birds out of the room. Evelyn and I were the bosses/advisors on the project!
Tonight was "movie night" at the church. We watched "The Mission", a 1986 movie with Robert DeNiro. The movie told the story of a tribe in South America in the 1700's that were educated by Jesuit missionaries; however, the area is turned over to slavers, and the tribe and missionaries killed. I know it was based on true events, but wasn't particulary uplifting.
The day started with light fog and lots of dew. The sun was behind clouds all day. It is the beginning of a predicted 7 days of clouds. We will see if the forecasters are correct with a high of 57 degrees on Sunday.
Glen and Gary added trim to the "room" in the Outdoor Living Space. We are hoping and assuming the trim will keep the birds out of the room. Evelyn and I were the bosses/advisors on the project!
Tonight was "movie night" at the church. We watched "The Mission", a 1986 movie with Robert DeNiro. The movie told the story of a tribe in South America in the 1700's that were educated by Jesuit missionaries; however, the area is turned over to slavers, and the tribe and missionaries killed. I know it was based on true events, but wasn't particulary uplifting.
Friday, January 11, 2013
"Goldwing Express"
Foggy 'til noon today! The sun finally made an appearance about noon and scattered the heavy fog! Then it was a great afternoon.
Yesterday Glen, Evelyn and Gary went to the two o'clock jam session at a nearby RV park. Glen and Evelyn, of course, played the guitar and sang, with 10 other musicians.
I had awakened early yesterday morning so stayed home and napped.
Today "Goldwing Express" performed at the neighboring RV park. "Goldwing Express" is a quartet--a father and three sons, who perform regularly at Branson, and is great entertainment. They bill themselves as country/bluegrass. They are spending the winter months in "the valley"...south of here in the Mission/McAllen/Donna/Weslaco area. They play guitar, mandolin, bass, dobro guitar, and banjo and are awesome vocalists. All for $5 per person!
Late afternoon Glen a little carpentry.
The day ended with Fred and Gay coming over for some games of "19 point pitch". Gary is the one who was the tutor for all us for this game.
Yesterday Glen, Evelyn and Gary went to the two o'clock jam session at a nearby RV park. Glen and Evelyn, of course, played the guitar and sang, with 10 other musicians.
I had awakened early yesterday morning so stayed home and napped.
Today "Goldwing Express" performed at the neighboring RV park. "Goldwing Express" is a quartet--a father and three sons, who perform regularly at Branson, and is great entertainment. They bill themselves as country/bluegrass. They are spending the winter months in "the valley"...south of here in the Mission/McAllen/Donna/Weslaco area. They play guitar, mandolin, bass, dobro guitar, and banjo and are awesome vocalists. All for $5 per person!
Late afternoon Glen a little carpentry.
The day ended with Fred and Gay coming over for some games of "19 point pitch". Gary is the one who was the tutor for all us for this game.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
What is That Bright Object in the Sky?
There was more drizzle overnight with a week-long total of 1.0 inches of moisture.
About mid-day this bright object appeared in a blue sky! It made us blink, and reach for sunglasses. Oh, my, how good to see and feel the sunshine. We'll take it and enjoy it for as long as it lasts--about Saturday, I think.
Evelyn and I sat with our books in the recliners IN the sunshine all afternoon while Glen and Gary started and completed a wiring project.
Gary ordered a new converter for their fifth-wheel Monday; it was delivered yesterday. Tomorrow's project (for Gary and Glen) is to get it installed.
About mid-day this bright object appeared in a blue sky! It made us blink, and reach for sunglasses. Oh, my, how good to see and feel the sunshine. We'll take it and enjoy it for as long as it lasts--about Saturday, I think.
Evelyn and I sat with our books in the recliners IN the sunshine all afternoon while Glen and Gary started and completed a wiring project.
Gary ordered a new converter for their fifth-wheel Monday; it was delivered yesterday. Tomorrow's project (for Gary and Glen) is to get it installed.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
The Goodness of Music
Music is good for the soul!
A friend, Evonne, came over today for some music practice. She had asked Glen to sing bass on one of her songs.
Glen and Evelyn also sang music together today. More goodness.
Tonight at Jam Session Glen and Evelyn made more goodness. There were a total of 12 on stage tonight, all making their own kind of goodness. Of course some are lower on the goodness scale than others, but they are still enjoying themselves. smile.
It is a familiar refrain...a drizzly day. There was actually thunder in the middle of the night. The drizzle totalled .20". Every little drop counts.
A friend, Evonne, came over today for some music practice. She had asked Glen to sing bass on one of her songs.
Glen and Evelyn also sang music together today. More goodness.
Tonight at Jam Session Glen and Evelyn made more goodness. There were a total of 12 on stage tonight, all making their own kind of goodness. Of course some are lower on the goodness scale than others, but they are still enjoying themselves. smile.
It is a familiar refrain...a drizzly day. There was actually thunder in the middle of the night. The drizzle totalled .20". Every little drop counts.
Monday, January 7, 2013
A Great Day (1-7-2013)
Wow, spent most of the day OUTSIDE! The sun was shining, the wind was just a breeze, and the temperature reached 65 degrees.
We cleaned/straightened the OLS (Outdoor Living Space) in anticipation of an afternoon of music, dinner, and football.
Fred and Gay arrived mid-afternoon, for 2-plus hours of music. The Four Amigos--Glen, Evelyn, Gay, Fred, do a great job. The music ends when the guitar players can't play anymore because of sore fingers!
Dinner consisted of grilled brats, macaroni salad prepared by Evelyn, summer sausage prepared by Gary, cheese, chips and dips.
Did I mentioned that the music and dinner happened outdoors!
By the time it was football game we moved to our motor home. We cheered for Notre Dame, but it wasn't enough. Alabama "rolled" over them. During one of the commercial breaks we served apple dumplings prepared by Gay with ice cream. Um-m-m, delicious!
There is 60 percent change of rain Tuesday and Tuesday night with warmer temperatures. I think it would be fun to sit in the OLS and watch it rain!
We cleaned/straightened the OLS (Outdoor Living Space) in anticipation of an afternoon of music, dinner, and football.
Fred and Gay arrived mid-afternoon, for 2-plus hours of music. The Four Amigos--Glen, Evelyn, Gay, Fred, do a great job. The music ends when the guitar players can't play anymore because of sore fingers!
Dinner consisted of grilled brats, macaroni salad prepared by Evelyn, summer sausage prepared by Gary, cheese, chips and dips.
Did I mentioned that the music and dinner happened outdoors!
By the time it was football game we moved to our motor home. We cheered for Notre Dame, but it wasn't enough. Alabama "rolled" over them. During one of the commercial breaks we served apple dumplings prepared by Gay with ice cream. Um-m-m, delicious!
There is 60 percent change of rain Tuesday and Tuesday night with warmer temperatures. I think it would be fun to sit in the OLS and watch it rain!
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Quiet Sunday
Somehow I feel I should apologize when I say it was a quiet day. "Quiet" days are great. There has been no emergencies, no deadlines, no "must do" things, no illnesses, nothing broken.
After worship service 9 from church met at a local restaurant for brunch--or late breakfast.
I got in a long nap while Glen, Gary, and Evelyn watched the first football game of the afternoon. Since then there has been more football, and a basketball game.
There was sunshine all day. Hurray! The temperature reached 68 degrees this afternoon. There was enough breeze a jacket was required. But, no complaints at all about today.
I imagine we will be outdoors tomorrow!
After worship service 9 from church met at a local restaurant for brunch--or late breakfast.
I got in a long nap while Glen, Gary, and Evelyn watched the first football game of the afternoon. Since then there has been more football, and a basketball game.
There was sunshine all day. Hurray! The temperature reached 68 degrees this afternoon. There was enough breeze a jacket was required. But, no complaints at all about today.
I imagine we will be outdoors tomorrow!
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Unexpected Plans
The day started quietly; once again it was cloudy and cool. We checked out the blogs, Facebook, email, news, on the computer. I was snuggled under a lap robe, reading, when Evelyn came to visit.
They had been in contact with their grandson, Ross, who is working 60-90 minutes north of Laredo. They arranged to meet in Laredo for dinner about 5:30.
We all got ready and left about 12:30, heading north to Laredo.
We---all four of us---had stops at AT&T, Sam's, Walmart, Sears, The Guitar Store, and ultimately, Red Lobster.
Speaking of Sam's: we stopped primarily to have prescriptions filled. We were stunned to learn that the Laredo Sam's does not have a pharmacy! I thought all Sam's had pharmacies.
So-o-o, we took the prescriptions to WalMart. I had two and Glen had four prescriptions. This pharmacy didn't have the medication to fill two of Glen's. We were running out of time so will fill those two at another visit at another Walmart location. Laredo has three Walmarts.
Ross, the grandson, is a safety engineer/manager for a pipeline company. He is having culture-shock, being in south Texas, coming from central Oklahoma. He commented that he thought he liked "Mexican" food. What he really likes, he said, is "Tex-Mex"...not "Mexican" from near the border.
We are back home, watching the TIVOed Missouri Tigers vs Bucknell basketball game.
The day ended in SUNSHINE, and the temp got to 56 degrees. It was great to see the sun.
They had been in contact with their grandson, Ross, who is working 60-90 minutes north of Laredo. They arranged to meet in Laredo for dinner about 5:30.
We all got ready and left about 12:30, heading north to Laredo.
We---all four of us---had stops at AT&T, Sam's, Walmart, Sears, The Guitar Store, and ultimately, Red Lobster.
Speaking of Sam's: we stopped primarily to have prescriptions filled. We were stunned to learn that the Laredo Sam's does not have a pharmacy! I thought all Sam's had pharmacies.
So-o-o, we took the prescriptions to WalMart. I had two and Glen had four prescriptions. This pharmacy didn't have the medication to fill two of Glen's. We were running out of time so will fill those two at another visit at another Walmart location. Laredo has three Walmarts.
Ross, the grandson, is a safety engineer/manager for a pipeline company. He is having culture-shock, being in south Texas, coming from central Oklahoma. He commented that he thought he liked "Mexican" food. What he really likes, he said, is "Tex-Mex"...not "Mexican" from near the border.
We are back home, watching the TIVOed Missouri Tigers vs Bucknell basketball game.
The day ended in SUNSHINE, and the temp got to 56 degrees. It was great to see the sun.
Friday, January 4, 2013
OU is o-u-t!
Regarding the Cotton Bowl, Oklahoma University didn't fare well against "Mr. Football", Johnny Manziel, and the rest of the Texas A & M team. I am not sure any team could have played any better against the Aggies.
We helped Fred and Gay, who is from Oklahoma, cheer for the Oklahoma Sooners. Football games are more fun watched with friends. Gary and Evelyn were also here enjoying the game.
A neighbor who used to have an RV parts store came down to help Gary find the converter on the fifth wheel. It took 2-3 hours of looking in and behind everything inside the fifth wheel; but finally found it in a basement storage area behind the built in vacuum. Now that Gary has a brand and model number he is working with the extended warranty people on getting a replacement. The extended warranty people want a "certified" service person to do the purchasing and replacement. Well, we are at least 100 miles from a certified service person. I am not sure what is going to happen.
I am sure there is more football on the agenda for tomorrow.
It--the temps---got to 48 degrees today, no sunshine. It is now drizzling hard enough to run down the front windshield. I think there is a chance of the sun shining tomorrow.
We helped Fred and Gay, who is from Oklahoma, cheer for the Oklahoma Sooners. Football games are more fun watched with friends. Gary and Evelyn were also here enjoying the game.
A neighbor who used to have an RV parts store came down to help Gary find the converter on the fifth wheel. It took 2-3 hours of looking in and behind everything inside the fifth wheel; but finally found it in a basement storage area behind the built in vacuum. Now that Gary has a brand and model number he is working with the extended warranty people on getting a replacement. The extended warranty people want a "certified" service person to do the purchasing and replacement. Well, we are at least 100 miles from a certified service person. I am not sure what is going to happen.
I am sure there is more football on the agenda for tomorrow.
It--the temps---got to 48 degrees today, no sunshine. It is now drizzling hard enough to run down the front windshield. I think there is a chance of the sun shining tomorrow.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
More Music
Br-r-r! I know it is not as cold as in the middle and north part of the country, BUT with temps in the mid-40's, it is cold for here. There hasn't been any sunshine for several days which adds to the cold-feeling!
I think there will be warmer temps by the end of the week-end. We are ready!
Gary and Evelyn are experiencing an aggravating problem with the 12-volt power (lights) in their fifth wheel. Gary made several phone calls this morning trying to garner some info about the problem. There hasn't been any suggestions or solutions so far. Do you have a suggestion?
This afternoon Glen and Evelyn played/sang at another "jam" session. This "jam" is at a different RV park 5 miles south of town. There were ten musicians at this session. Gary and I sat in the audience.
We ended the evening with a few games of "hearts", and watching the "Tostita" Cotton Bowl.
I think there will be warmer temps by the end of the week-end. We are ready!
Gary and Evelyn are experiencing an aggravating problem with the 12-volt power (lights) in their fifth wheel. Gary made several phone calls this morning trying to garner some info about the problem. There hasn't been any suggestions or solutions so far. Do you have a suggestion?
This afternoon Glen and Evelyn played/sang at another "jam" session. This "jam" is at a different RV park 5 miles south of town. There were ten musicians at this session. Gary and I sat in the audience.
We ended the evening with a few games of "hearts", and watching the "Tostita" Cotton Bowl.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Drizzly Day
It has been drizzly since midnight....key word--drizzly. Total rain fall since then .44". That won't fill the lake any time soon.
Falcon Lake is 35 feet below pool-or "normal" full reading. It will take lots of rain north of here to run come down the Rio Grande River to fill the lake.
There isn't much to report for today. We made a trip to town with stops at the post office, grocery store, and library.
Friends Fred and Gay came over this afternoon for three hours or so of music and visiting. We all congregated in Evelyn and Gary's living room.
Have a great rest-of-the-week!
Falcon Lake is 35 feet below pool-or "normal" full reading. It will take lots of rain north of here to run come down the Rio Grande River to fill the lake.
There isn't much to report for today. We made a trip to town with stops at the post office, grocery store, and library.
Friends Fred and Gay came over this afternoon for three hours or so of music and visiting. We all congregated in Evelyn and Gary's living room.
Have a great rest-of-the-week!
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Getting Ready for the New Year
One of the things I enjoy on the first day of the New Year is closing out the old calendar and getting the new calendar ready.
I re-read all of the activities, note the new "important" events--new babies or marriages--and transfer them to the new calendar. Reading the old calendar reminds me of all the fun things we have done--all of the family and friends visited, places visited, routes taken, reunions attended.
It is a visible reminder of the blessings in our life. Thank you, each and all, for your part in our past year.
Gary and Evelyn served b-b-q ribs this afternoon for lunch. Um-m-m good.
Our friends, Fred and Gay, from Oklahoma, arrived in Zapata this afternoon.
They rode with us to the "jam" session. Glen and Evelyn were on stage tonight, singing and playing the guitar. There were ten on stage.
P.S. Thanks to the friends that left comments last night! I appreciate it very much.
I re-read all of the activities, note the new "important" events--new babies or marriages--and transfer them to the new calendar. Reading the old calendar reminds me of all the fun things we have done--all of the family and friends visited, places visited, routes taken, reunions attended.
It is a visible reminder of the blessings in our life. Thank you, each and all, for your part in our past year.
Gary and Evelyn served b-b-q ribs this afternoon for lunch. Um-m-m good.
Our friends, Fred and Gay, from Oklahoma, arrived in Zapata this afternoon.
They rode with us to the "jam" session. Glen and Evelyn were on stage tonight, singing and playing the guitar. There were ten on stage.
P.S. Thanks to the friends that left comments last night! I appreciate it very much.
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