Several days ago we made plans to host a "spring fling luncheon" for the neighbors at our outdoor space.
By the way: I learned the proper name for our outdoor living space...palapa--pa lapa. It is Spanish for outdoor living area. That's the name/word I have been searching for.
Chef Gary and sous chef Evelyn were in charge of baking prime rib, and preparing horsey-sauce. We provided the baking potatoes. Neighbors brought corn casserole, green pea salad, homemade bread, Jell-o pretzel salad/dessert, fruit salad, pineapple upside-down cake, homemade ice cream, and another cake.
It was all delicious. The prime rib was superb. Thanks, again, Gary and Evelyn.
After lunch everyone (18 of us) sat around and visited until 3:30.
At least we didn't have to tell anyone to leave....because we had different company coming at 5:30. Fred and Gay wanted to do a "shrimp boil" for the four of us plus other friends Bill and Joy; but wanted to "do" it at our place as we could be outdoors in our palapa.
Fred and Gay brought all the fixings: shrimp, corn on the cob, red potatoes, and sausage. Glen cooked it on the propane camp stove outdoors. It was scrumptious. I prepared cole slaw; Joy brought crostini (toasted bread) and spinach/artichoke dip. We were all so full that we didn't even eat dessert.
I can't believe prime rib and shrimp boil all in the same day.
Fred and Gay wanted to do all this as both Bill/Joy and Evelyn/Gary are leaving next week.
Bill and Joy didn't stay long after dinner. The six of us then went indoors for three games of 19-point pitch.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Thursday, February 27, 2014
February 27, 2014 More Music
Thursday--it's another music day.
There is a two-hour jam session in the afternoon, ending at four. Just two hours later there is another jam session starting at six.
Performers for the evening jam session are friends Gay and Fred Vaughan from Oklahoma, Evelyn Morrow--Glen's sister; and Glen.
Here's a picture of the four of them:
The four are performing in the rec hall of the RV park where Fred and Gay are parked.
Tomorrow is a busy day. We, the four of us, are hosting a lunch for the neighbors. Tomorrow evening friends Fred and Gay are bringing dinner here to prepare for us plus one other couple. Thankfully it is going to be warm enough to dine in the outdoors!
There is a two-hour jam session in the afternoon, ending at four. Just two hours later there is another jam session starting at six.
Performers for the evening jam session are friends Gay and Fred Vaughan from Oklahoma, Evelyn Morrow--Glen's sister; and Glen.
Here's a picture of the four of them:
The four are performing in the rec hall of the RV park where Fred and Gay are parked.
Tomorrow is a busy day. We, the four of us, are hosting a lunch for the neighbors. Tomorrow evening friends Fred and Gay are bringing dinner here to prepare for us plus one other couple. Thankfully it is going to be warm enough to dine in the outdoors!
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
February 26, 2014 Streets of Laredo
We were invited by friends Jim and Dee to meet them at "Montana Mike's", a steak house, at noon in Laredo.
We left this morning with the plans to shop at Sam's before arriving at Montana Mike's. We finished at 12:00 and drove the ten minutes to the steak house.
The meal was great; the company better. Jim and Dee treated us to lunch as a "payback" for Glen and Gary working on the wiring project for them.
After lunch we went to Walmart. We had a list but the main goal was to pick up med refills. I had called in the refills yesterday so it would all be ready. I stepped up to the counter, and my two refills were ready. There was no record of the request for one refill for Glen. It was all done in one prescription, so where did it go?
After officially requesting the refill, it was a 20-25 minute wait, but finally it was complete.
After getting back home, putting everything away (the hard part), we watched a movie with Gary and Evelyn. They order movies from Netflix which is extremely efficient and timely with the orders.
Tonight's showing was "The Butler", loosely based on the life of a butler who worked at the White House for 30 years. It was a reminder of the nation's history in the 50's and 60's, though the election of today's president.
I haven't mentioned the weather. At midnight it was 71 degrees. The wind gusted in from the north, temperatures dropped all day, and is currently 46 degrees. There has been a whopping .26" of rain....all in one day. Not enough to break the drought, but welcome, none the less.
We left this morning with the plans to shop at Sam's before arriving at Montana Mike's. We finished at 12:00 and drove the ten minutes to the steak house.
The meal was great; the company better. Jim and Dee treated us to lunch as a "payback" for Glen and Gary working on the wiring project for them.
After lunch we went to Walmart. We had a list but the main goal was to pick up med refills. I had called in the refills yesterday so it would all be ready. I stepped up to the counter, and my two refills were ready. There was no record of the request for one refill for Glen. It was all done in one prescription, so where did it go?
After officially requesting the refill, it was a 20-25 minute wait, but finally it was complete.
After getting back home, putting everything away (the hard part), we watched a movie with Gary and Evelyn. They order movies from Netflix which is extremely efficient and timely with the orders.
Tonight's showing was "The Butler", loosely based on the life of a butler who worked at the White House for 30 years. It was a reminder of the nation's history in the 50's and 60's, though the election of today's president.
I haven't mentioned the weather. At midnight it was 71 degrees. The wind gusted in from the north, temperatures dropped all day, and is currently 46 degrees. There has been a whopping .26" of rain....all in one day. Not enough to break the drought, but welcome, none the less.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
February 25, 2014 Toys
Glen has talked about (???) for years, couldn't convince himself that he could find what he wanted, worried it would cost too much money, but...today he got it, what he wanted.
You will never guess. Thinking of something? Ok, here is what came by UPS today. I should have taken a picture, will do that next time it is set up.
But I will tell you without a picture.. It is a -----sound system! Two speakers, an amplifier, and five microphones with stands. Can you see it now?
Glen and Evelyn, each with their own microphone, singing each afternoon. Yep, Glen has a smile from ear to ear. And...there are enough microphone for the Hickey clan, or for jam session on Monday night, or whenever they want.
I have been appointed "sound board engineer". I get to hit the on/off button, set the balance for the mics. Smile!
The system has a great sound. Of course it was set up as soon as it was delivered. It is put away now as it is supposed to rain tomorrow.
Glen and Gary went next door to Jim/Dee's about nine this morning to help with a concrete project. They worked until about noon.
It was a full house at the Tuesday night Jam Session with 18 performers. Dell, a favorite of everyone's, is 89 and plays the harmonica!
You will never guess. Thinking of something? Ok, here is what came by UPS today. I should have taken a picture, will do that next time it is set up.
But I will tell you without a picture.. It is a -----sound system! Two speakers, an amplifier, and five microphones with stands. Can you see it now?
Glen and Evelyn, each with their own microphone, singing each afternoon. Yep, Glen has a smile from ear to ear. And...there are enough microphone for the Hickey clan, or for jam session on Monday night, or whenever they want.
I have been appointed "sound board engineer". I get to hit the on/off button, set the balance for the mics. Smile!
The system has a great sound. Of course it was set up as soon as it was delivered. It is put away now as it is supposed to rain tomorrow.
Glen and Gary went next door to Jim/Dee's about nine this morning to help with a concrete project. They worked until about noon.
It was a full house at the Tuesday night Jam Session with 18 performers. Dell, a favorite of everyone's, is 89 and plays the harmonica!
Monday, February 24, 2014
February 24, 2014 An Outdoor Kind of Day
Started today outdoors and ended the day outdoors.
Glen mowed the lawn (almost all of it), and did some weed-eating. As soon as he finished I used the blower on all the concrete, then washed all the dust away.
The reason Glen didn't finish the yard was the neighbor had clothes hanging on the clothesline, and Glen didn't want the dust blowing that direction.
We sat outdoors and watched .04' of rain fall. The raindrops just about could be counted! Best of all, there was some thunder rumbling around. What a great sound.
Glen then went to the neighbors' Milton and Glenda to mow their lawn. Milton is recovering from leg surgery (had a growth inside upper thigh removed) and Glen is recovering from gall bladder removal. Obviously neither needed to be pushing a mower. They irrigate their lawn; it actually is green.
We arranged chairs in preparation for the Jam Session tonight.
It was the same group tonight. Gary, Sally, and Gay each made a new recipe tonight. We all agreed we would be the test audience anytime.
Glen mowed the lawn (almost all of it), and did some weed-eating. As soon as he finished I used the blower on all the concrete, then washed all the dust away.
The reason Glen didn't finish the yard was the neighbor had clothes hanging on the clothesline, and Glen didn't want the dust blowing that direction.
We sat outdoors and watched .04' of rain fall. The raindrops just about could be counted! Best of all, there was some thunder rumbling around. What a great sound.
Glen then went to the neighbors' Milton and Glenda to mow their lawn. Milton is recovering from leg surgery (had a growth inside upper thigh removed) and Glen is recovering from gall bladder removal. Obviously neither needed to be pushing a mower. They irrigate their lawn; it actually is green.
We arranged chairs in preparation for the Jam Session tonight.
It was the same group tonight. Gary, Sally, and Gay each made a new recipe tonight. We all agreed we would be the test audience anytime.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
February 22/23, 2014 The Week-End
There is usually not much to report over the week end.
Saturday we walked to four yard sales in the neighborhood, and......we didn't buy a thing. We did get to visit with lots of neighbors/friends.
The rest of the day was filled in with college basketball, reading, and visiting.
Today we attended Sunday School--class, and worship services. Glen and Evelyn always sings with the choir.
After worship service the youth had sold tickets for a chicken spaghetti and green beans, and hot bread and dessert lunch to be served after church.
I helped in the kitchen with last minutes chores, then helped with serving. There were about 60 lunches sold, including 10 take-out. The funds raised will help with summer camp fees.
Glen also helped with the clean-up.
I think I was the only one to enjoy a long nap this afternoon. Glen sharpened the blades on the lawn mower; then mowed part of the lawn. He will finish tomorrow.
Tonight was the beginning of a new season of THE AMAZING RACE, the only reality show we watch. Eleven favorite teams from previous seasons are the contestants this season.
Saturday we walked to four yard sales in the neighborhood, and......we didn't buy a thing. We did get to visit with lots of neighbors/friends.
The rest of the day was filled in with college basketball, reading, and visiting.
Today we attended Sunday School--class, and worship services. Glen and Evelyn always sings with the choir.
After worship service the youth had sold tickets for a chicken spaghetti and green beans, and hot bread and dessert lunch to be served after church.
I helped in the kitchen with last minutes chores, then helped with serving. There were about 60 lunches sold, including 10 take-out. The funds raised will help with summer camp fees.
Glen also helped with the clean-up.
I think I was the only one to enjoy a long nap this afternoon. Glen sharpened the blades on the lawn mower; then mowed part of the lawn. He will finish tomorrow.
Tonight was the beginning of a new season of THE AMAZING RACE, the only reality show we watch. Eleven favorite teams from previous seasons are the contestants this season.
Friday, February 21, 2014
February 21, 2014 Entertainment
Let's see, what did this day bring?
There was an afternoon program at a nearby RV park rec hall. The entertainers were parents, daughter age 15 1/2, and daughter, 13 1/2.
We missed the opening intro with the names as we ran late after a 1:00 hair cut appointment.
The family of four were a little bit bluegrass, a whole lot country, with some hymns/gospel thrown in. They could play a guitar, mandolin, banjo, and fiddle, and a electric bass.
They have been on the road full-time for four years, homeschooling the girls.
AND, they are a very talented and entertaining family.
Tonight Fred and Gay came to our place for some cards. We were outdoors. The wind came up and Glen did turn on the patio heater to take off the chill. We love being able to play cards outside in February!
Tomorrow is "yard sale" day in the neighborhood. Four neighbors are hosting sales in the morning. We will go around and say "hello" with no plans to buy anything!
There was an afternoon program at a nearby RV park rec hall. The entertainers were parents, daughter age 15 1/2, and daughter, 13 1/2.
We missed the opening intro with the names as we ran late after a 1:00 hair cut appointment.
The family of four were a little bit bluegrass, a whole lot country, with some hymns/gospel thrown in. They could play a guitar, mandolin, banjo, and fiddle, and a electric bass.
They have been on the road full-time for four years, homeschooling the girls.
AND, they are a very talented and entertaining family.
Tonight Fred and Gay came to our place for some cards. We were outdoors. The wind came up and Glen did turn on the patio heater to take off the chill. We love being able to play cards outside in February!
Tomorrow is "yard sale" day in the neighborhood. Four neighbors are hosting sales in the morning. We will go around and say "hello" with no plans to buy anything!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
February 20, 2014 Music, Music, Music
Music, music, music!
Two hours this afternoon Evelyn and Glen joined the Jam Session at the south RV park. The numbers of performers were smaller than the past few weeks. Each participant therefore performed more often.
Tonight at 6 Glen and Evelyn joined friends Fred and Gay at their home RV park. This session lasted until 8:15. The guitar players were commenting on their sore fingers!
I was successful in having lab work done this morning. Texas law prohibits Texas lab/medical facilities from using orders from an out of state doctor which necessitates a visit to a local doctor to get the same orders as the home doctor ordered.
Two hours this afternoon Evelyn and Glen joined the Jam Session at the south RV park. The numbers of performers were smaller than the past few weeks. Each participant therefore performed more often.
Tonight at 6 Glen and Evelyn joined friends Fred and Gay at their home RV park. This session lasted until 8:15. The guitar players were commenting on their sore fingers!
I was successful in having lab work done this morning. Texas law prohibits Texas lab/medical facilities from using orders from an out of state doctor which necessitates a visit to a local doctor to get the same orders as the home doctor ordered.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
February 19, 2014 Down Mexico Way!
Up and at 'em early this morning.
We were at the doctor's office this morning at 7:45. It didn't take long to see the doctor. She signed the lab order. Now, I am ready to get to the lab tomorrow.
It was then south to the Valley.
Are you familiar with the Valley? It is the area in the tip of Texas where the first winter Texans started spending the winter months many years ago. The cities of Mission, McAllen, Pharr, Donna, Alamo, Weslaco, south to Brownsville make up the Valley.
The first stop was the Don/Wes Flea Market, open on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. You can find sunglasses, t-shirts, fruit, vegetables, RV parts, dominoes, purses, hats, used books, signs, and much, much more. We found a couple of RV parts that we needed.
It then was on to Nuevo Progreso, across the border from Pharr. Are we frightened? NO. Is there danger? no. There are no obvious security, no armed soldiers. It is not a police state. Nuevo Progreso is a extremely poor border town, existing strictly by welcoming Winter Texans to the many pharmacists, eye doctors, dentists, trinkets, jewelry, black-market movie DVDs, restaurants and liquor.
Winter Texas flock to the cheap medicine available at the pharmacies. The medicine is sealed, dated, labeled. I feel that is is safe to use...and we do buy antibiotics and an occasional prescription medicine. Many Winter Texans have dental work done there, or buy eye glasses there.
Don't worry, Dr. Gary, we do not have our dental work done there!
Gary and Evelyn bought several bottles of Mexican vanilla.
We enjoyed lunch at the Red Snapper, where waiters vie for your attention and the right to seat you when you enter the door. Gary enjoyed a chicken fried chicken plate ($4.99), Glen enjoyed broiled shrimp (8.99); Evelyn and I each had a fried buttered shrimp (6) plate with french fries, and flavored rice. Each of us also had a salad.
By the way it costs 50 cents to go into Mexico; 35-cents to return to the USA. Customs asks what you bought when you come back to the USA. Liquor purchasers must pay Texas tax when then re-enter the USA.
We headed north to Zapata, which is a two-hour trip, arriving back about 6:15.
We were at the doctor's office this morning at 7:45. It didn't take long to see the doctor. She signed the lab order. Now, I am ready to get to the lab tomorrow.
It was then south to the Valley.
Are you familiar with the Valley? It is the area in the tip of Texas where the first winter Texans started spending the winter months many years ago. The cities of Mission, McAllen, Pharr, Donna, Alamo, Weslaco, south to Brownsville make up the Valley.
The first stop was the Don/Wes Flea Market, open on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. You can find sunglasses, t-shirts, fruit, vegetables, RV parts, dominoes, purses, hats, used books, signs, and much, much more. We found a couple of RV parts that we needed.
It then was on to Nuevo Progreso, across the border from Pharr. Are we frightened? NO. Is there danger? no. There are no obvious security, no armed soldiers. It is not a police state. Nuevo Progreso is a extremely poor border town, existing strictly by welcoming Winter Texans to the many pharmacists, eye doctors, dentists, trinkets, jewelry, black-market movie DVDs, restaurants and liquor.
Winter Texas flock to the cheap medicine available at the pharmacies. The medicine is sealed, dated, labeled. I feel that is is safe to use...and we do buy antibiotics and an occasional prescription medicine. Many Winter Texans have dental work done there, or buy eye glasses there.
Don't worry, Dr. Gary, we do not have our dental work done there!
Gary and Evelyn bought several bottles of Mexican vanilla.
We enjoyed lunch at the Red Snapper, where waiters vie for your attention and the right to seat you when you enter the door. Gary enjoyed a chicken fried chicken plate ($4.99), Glen enjoyed broiled shrimp (8.99); Evelyn and I each had a fried buttered shrimp (6) plate with french fries, and flavored rice. Each of us also had a salad.
By the way it costs 50 cents to go into Mexico; 35-cents to return to the USA. Customs asks what you bought when you come back to the USA. Liquor purchasers must pay Texas tax when then re-enter the USA.
We headed north to Zapata, which is a two-hour trip, arriving back about 6:15.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
February 18, 2014 Variety of Activities
The most important thing about today: we were outside most of the day!
Glen and I washed the truck. Glen had driven the truck several times on the beach on Mustang Island. It was important to get the salty sand removed/washed away. It does look better.
Gary went to neighbors' Jim and Dee to do one more electrical job for them. Jim had some decorative clocks that he wanted hung inside the new garage. Gary added some wiring/plug-ins for the clocks.
There were a few errands this morning. There were stops at post office, doctor's office, Dollar General, ATM, and the library.
I need some lab work completed to be sent to doctor in Cape Girardeau MO. The labs in Texas can't use lab orders from out-of-state doctors. So-o-o, I made an appointment with doctor in the morning which will then write a new lab order. Finally, then can go to lab.
Evelyn and Gary are making noises, even plans to head to Missouri in about ten days. Sad face. Time to get those last-minute trips made. It's one trip to the "Valley" tomorrow--after the doctor's appointment.
Of course, it's Tuesday, which means the day ends with Jam Session. There were 12 musicians on stage this evening.
Glen and I washed the truck. Glen had driven the truck several times on the beach on Mustang Island. It was important to get the salty sand removed/washed away. It does look better.
Gary went to neighbors' Jim and Dee to do one more electrical job for them. Jim had some decorative clocks that he wanted hung inside the new garage. Gary added some wiring/plug-ins for the clocks.
There were a few errands this morning. There were stops at post office, doctor's office, Dollar General, ATM, and the library.
I need some lab work completed to be sent to doctor in Cape Girardeau MO. The labs in Texas can't use lab orders from out-of-state doctors. So-o-o, I made an appointment with doctor in the morning which will then write a new lab order. Finally, then can go to lab.
Evelyn and Gary are making noises, even plans to head to Missouri in about ten days. Sad face. Time to get those last-minute trips made. It's one trip to the "Valley" tomorrow--after the doctor's appointment.
Of course, it's Tuesday, which means the day ends with Jam Session. There were 12 musicians on stage this evening.
Monday, February 17, 2014
February 17, 2014 Monday Music
It's Monday. Get ready for Music Night.
This morning:
use blower on concrete floors,
use power washer on floors,
set out chairs
bake cake for tonight--"gooey butter cake"
Evelyn and Gary prepared pulled pork sandwiches, homemade mac 'n' cheese for lunch. Delicious.
Afternoon:
a little music warm-up
read
celebrate the 86 degrees
Evening:
Fred and Gay arrive with their music. Fred fished this afternoon; didn't get a bite! Gay brought peanut butter cookies. Delicious.
Doyle and Arlene, Sally arrive. Fred ill with cold; didn't come. Arlene sings with Fred and Gay, Glen, and Evelyn.
In between songs there is some conversation about traveling to Alaska, shopping in Laredo (Arlene and Sally).
We were able to be outdoors tonight with NO heaters. It is currently 70 degrees.
It's been a great day!
This morning:
use blower on concrete floors,
use power washer on floors,
set out chairs
bake cake for tonight--"gooey butter cake"
Evelyn and Gary prepared pulled pork sandwiches, homemade mac 'n' cheese for lunch. Delicious.
Afternoon:
a little music warm-up
read
celebrate the 86 degrees
Evening:
Fred and Gay arrive with their music. Fred fished this afternoon; didn't get a bite! Gay brought peanut butter cookies. Delicious.
Doyle and Arlene, Sally arrive. Fred ill with cold; didn't come. Arlene sings with Fred and Gay, Glen, and Evelyn.
In between songs there is some conversation about traveling to Alaska, shopping in Laredo (Arlene and Sally).
We were able to be outdoors tonight with NO heaters. It is currently 70 degrees.
It's been a great day!
Saturday, February 15, 2014
2-15-2014 The End of the Day
We are unloaded, and unpacked. We were greeted with 82 degrees this afternoon!
Neighbors welcomed us home. It is good to be missed.
Here's something we saw as we drove home. This is about 30 miles north of Zapata. The long-lasting drought has done in pastures and of course, there is no water in ponds, creeks, or lakes.
Rancher was feeding prickly pear cacti to his cattle. The rancher burns off the spines with a torch before feeding it. He says he alternates days feeding the cacti with hay. Of course hay is expensive.
I think I am caught up on the past week!
Remember, click on the pictures to enlarge.
Neighbors welcomed us home. It is good to be missed.
Here's something we saw as we drove home. This is about 30 miles north of Zapata. The long-lasting drought has done in pastures and of course, there is no water in ponds, creeks, or lakes.
I think I am caught up on the past week!
Remember, click on the pictures to enlarge.
February 15, 2014 The Rest of the Week
The internet service was so iffy at Port Aransas that I just gave up on posting here. I will summarize the week here.
I think I left you yesterday morning as we were going to breakfast.
Thursday and Friday
Both days we left Mustang Island, crossing on the free ferry to go to the Rockport TX area.
Thursday we visited the site of the Fulton Mansion--see yesterday's photo. It is not nearly as large as the Biltmore but makes me think of it with the innovations added to the building.
We had lunch both days at "Charlotte Plummers" Restaurant, an excellent seafood restaurant. Oysters, shrimp, oyster stew, shrimp gumbo was delicious as well as bread pudding for dessert. Note; this wasn't all one meal!
Thursday we then boarded the "Skimmer" a tour boat, going toward the Aransas National Park, home to the Whooping Cranes. The boat captain was excellent. We enjoyed his closing speech: "friends don't let friends go birding on a fishing boat", meaning he was a birder. He was excellent at locating and describing the birds seen. We saw nearly 40 species that afternoon. Of course the Whooper Cranes were the highlight. I am showing you just a few of the 60 I have in the files.
The population declined in the first half of the 1900's until there were only 30 birds--total in US, but has increased with care and preservation of enviroment to about 400. An adult is about 52" tall with a wingspan of 87". They are equal-opportunity eaters-- eating anything, but love soft-shell crabs.
The picture just above shows a crew unloading 100-lb burlap sacks of oysters. Each boat can harvest 50 bags per day, with the season lasting six months--November to April.
This Big Tree is a live oak, or coastal live oak, at least 1000 years old. It is located in Goose Island State Park, just north of Rockport.
Finally, two more pictures of Whooping Crane and Sandhill Cranes. The last two show 7-8 whooping cranes mixed in with two dozen or so sandhill cranes in a pasture. The homeowner had put out a feeder (see above) and the whoopers were enjoying the easy-eating.
Sandhill cranes are much more abundant, social birds, about 41 inches tall with a wingspan of 73 inches. It was great seeing these birds, appreciating the efforts that saved the Whooper Cranes.
Last night our sweethearts--Glen and Gary--took us to a community theater performance of "Steel Magnolias", with a cast of six women. The outing was complete with chocolate and a free drink!
The performance was enjoyable. The actresses did a great job. We talked about the ability to memorize lines.
We were up early this morning, driving the three hours or so back to Zapata. Back to our own bed, back to fast internet!
We thank Gary and Evelyn from our hearts for sharing the condo with us. It was a great week, even if the first few days were cold. The week had....beach, sand, birds, seafood, boatride, seafood, whooping cranes, seafood!!
I think I left you yesterday morning as we were going to breakfast.
Thursday and Friday
Both days we left Mustang Island, crossing on the free ferry to go to the Rockport TX area.
Thursday we visited the site of the Fulton Mansion--see yesterday's photo. It is not nearly as large as the Biltmore but makes me think of it with the innovations added to the building.
We had lunch both days at "Charlotte Plummers" Restaurant, an excellent seafood restaurant. Oysters, shrimp, oyster stew, shrimp gumbo was delicious as well as bread pudding for dessert. Note; this wasn't all one meal!
Thursday we then boarded the "Skimmer" a tour boat, going toward the Aransas National Park, home to the Whooping Cranes. The boat captain was excellent. We enjoyed his closing speech: "friends don't let friends go birding on a fishing boat", meaning he was a birder. He was excellent at locating and describing the birds seen. We saw nearly 40 species that afternoon. Of course the Whooper Cranes were the highlight. I am showing you just a few of the 60 I have in the files.
 |
| Sub Adult age, about one year. |
 |
| Parents and offspring |
 |
| Adult with band and radio transmitter--like a GPS so it can be tracked. |
Sandhill cranes are much more abundant, social birds, about 41 inches tall with a wingspan of 73 inches. It was great seeing these birds, appreciating the efforts that saved the Whooper Cranes.
Last night our sweethearts--Glen and Gary--took us to a community theater performance of "Steel Magnolias", with a cast of six women. The outing was complete with chocolate and a free drink!
The performance was enjoyable. The actresses did a great job. We talked about the ability to memorize lines.
We were up early this morning, driving the three hours or so back to Zapata. Back to our own bed, back to fast internet!
We thank Gary and Evelyn from our hearts for sharing the condo with us. It was a great week, even if the first few days were cold. The week had....beach, sand, birds, seafood, boatride, seafood, whooping cranes, seafood!!
Friday, February 14, 2014
2-13-14 It's a Bird!
Sorry this is late but there was NO internet last night!
This is Friday morning so Happy Valentine's Day!
Thursday's trip to Rockport was awesome. We arrived with some time to spare so we went to the visitor's center for the Fulton Mansion. The Mansion was closed for renovation so there was no tour. It is is beautiful home and definately want to go back when the renovation is finished.
Time for breakfast. more later.
This is Friday morning so Happy Valentine's Day!
Thursday's trip to Rockport was awesome. We arrived with some time to spare so we went to the visitor's center for the Fulton Mansion. The Mansion was closed for renovation so there was no tour. It is is beautiful home and definately want to go back when the renovation is finished.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
February 12, 2014 Happy Birthday, Mr. President
Happy Birthday, Mr. Lincoln. What a fine president you were.
By mid-morning there was sunshine. Hooray! Clapping and smiles everywhere!
This is the east side of the island but the sunset spread it's beautiful colors all around this evening.
We found a new area to see some birds this afternoon.
Myrna: there were many yellow-rumped warblers, and a pair of catbirds. I always think of arriving at your house and the catbirds arriving at the same time.
We have booked passage tomorrow on a boat to go to Aransas Pass National Park to see the Whooping Cranes from the boat. Hopefully there will be pictures to share with you.
By mid-morning there was sunshine. Hooray! Clapping and smiles everywhere!
This is the east side of the island but the sunset spread it's beautiful colors all around this evening.
We found a new area to see some birds this afternoon.
Myrna: there were many yellow-rumped warblers, and a pair of catbirds. I always think of arriving at your house and the catbirds arriving at the same time.
We have booked passage tomorrow on a boat to go to Aransas Pass National Park to see the Whooping Cranes from the boat. Hopefully there will be pictures to share with you.
Monday, February 10, 2014
February 10, 2014 Welcome Aboard
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| The USS Lexington, Corpus Christi, TX |
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| Gayla |
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| Glen. |
So foggy you couldn't see the water.
We decided it would be better by the time we got there. It was-barely. The USS Lexington looked like it's nickname..."the blue ghost".
If you like, appreciate US WWII history, this is a museum for you.
The sheer size of Lady Lex: 910 feet long; width of flight deck:191.6 feet; miximum speed 38 mph...is amazing. Other facts: maximum fresh water capacity 180,000 gallons; decks and levels 16.
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| Fog shrouded USS Lexington |
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| Fog hiding the bridge across from the ship. |
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| Glen and Gary ordering lunch at WENIERSCHNITZEL "the world's largest hot dog chain" |
After a stop at the local Chamber of Commerce we learned there was a free music show tonight at the local community theater. We attended a show performed by Ron Baker, former lead guitarist for Charlie Pride. There was about 200 in attendance. Mr. Baker is an exceptionally talented musician.
The fog and mist stayed around all day. We are ready for some sunshine.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
February 9, 2014 Part 2--more pictures
As you could see there were difficulties with posting Part 1's pictures. These are just a few of the many varieties we saw today.
As we left Zapata yesterday one of the neighbors said "eat some seafood for me". We have been trying to do that. Lunch yesterday was at 'Cody's'. We won't go back again.
Today's lunch was "Fins", a much better choice. Glen and I had shrimp po' boys; Gary and Evelyn had a shrimp platter.
Dense fog has arrived and we can't even see the water from the balcony. Needless to say we are in for the day.
February 9, 2014 See the Birdie!
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| Our chohorts on the boardwalk: Gary and Evelyn |
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| Many Northern shovelers (center). |
There was difficulty with the WIFI, both from our Verizon MiFi and the WIFI offered by the condo.
Here's a few pictures from yesterday and today.
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| Biting off more than you can chew. |
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| Gulf of Mexico, Port Aransas TX |
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| Surfing in 50-degree water. Just imagine the top three pictures down here. When they downloaded they were in the wrong position. I can't figure how to move them. |
Friday, February 7, 2014
February 7, 2014 Real Winter Language in south Texas
A neighbor tells us this is the 27th winter for her and her husband and she has Never seen a winter like this!
More at the end of the day!
Weather for the day: high of 37 degrees which is the current temp (9:15), drizzle all day.
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The day is ending with the opening ceremonies for the Winter Olympics. Lots of pomp!
I baked snickerdoodle cookies this morning for us to take with us in the morning.
Where are you going? On vacation!
We are leaving Saturday for a week at Port Aransas, Texas. Port Aransas is on Mustang Island in the bay across from Corpus Christi.
It is about three hours from here.
Gary and Evelyn made reservations a year ago for us to go to a condo there. Of course, we were hoping for/expecting better and warmer weather.
We are looking forward to some great seafood meals, a view of the Gulf of Mexico, some sightseeing, maybe a boat trip to see the Whooping Cranes.
Hopefully we will have an adventure or two to report in the next week.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
February 6, 2014 Music, Music, Music
Work before play!
This morning we vacuumed, dusted, mopped, cleaned bathroom, cleaned mirrors. I know it was in the motorhome, several square feet less than a house, but I worked up a sweat doing my share!
Yes, Glen did half.
Thursday afternoon brings a Jam Session. There were 15 musicians/singers today. We got home with time to rest a few minutes before going to the next gig!
Fred and Gay had volunteered to sing in the rec hall at their rv park at six p.m. They invited Glen and Evelyn to sing with them. This session added 90 more minutes of music to the day's total.
There were several--two dozen-- in the audience.
ALERT!
There is a winter freeze alert from midnight to 9 a.m. Friday. Bring in the plants and pets. Temperatures may go as low as 28 degrees and stay for several hours. We have disconnected hoses; disconnected the water softener and filter system and moved them to the protected area of the outdoor kitchen. Glen also moved the six pots of petunias to a protected area.
Don't compare this low to your temperatures. Remember this is south Texas. These are very unusual temperatures.
There also may be a WIND CHILL!
Friday's plans will include packing a suitcase. Why? Check in tomorrow to solve the mystery.
This morning we vacuumed, dusted, mopped, cleaned bathroom, cleaned mirrors. I know it was in the motorhome, several square feet less than a house, but I worked up a sweat doing my share!
Yes, Glen did half.
Thursday afternoon brings a Jam Session. There were 15 musicians/singers today. We got home with time to rest a few minutes before going to the next gig!
Fred and Gay had volunteered to sing in the rec hall at their rv park at six p.m. They invited Glen and Evelyn to sing with them. This session added 90 more minutes of music to the day's total.
There were several--two dozen-- in the audience.
ALERT!
There is a winter freeze alert from midnight to 9 a.m. Friday. Bring in the plants and pets. Temperatures may go as low as 28 degrees and stay for several hours. We have disconnected hoses; disconnected the water softener and filter system and moved them to the protected area of the outdoor kitchen. Glen also moved the six pots of petunias to a protected area.
Don't compare this low to your temperatures. Remember this is south Texas. These are very unusual temperatures.
There also may be a WIND CHILL!
Friday's plans will include packing a suitcase. Why? Check in tomorrow to solve the mystery.
February 5, 2014 Indoor Day
Glen and Gary finished the roofing project this afternoon for neighbors Glenda and Milton from Nebraska. Those neighbors are experiencing health issues that prevented them from helping with the project.
Glenda is having gall bladder surgery tomorrow. Milton is facing leg surgery.
Friend Fred flew from Laredo Monday to Tulsa Oklahoma to attend a funeral Tuesday. He flew back to Laredo tonight arriving at 10:15 p.m..
We drove Gay to airport to meet Fred tonight. It took an hour to go to and from airport.
We were signed up for and paid to go on a bus tour tomorrow (Thursday). After riding the bus to Mission we were going on a 50' pontoon boat ride on the Rio Grande River. But the temps tomorrow are forecast to be in the mid-40's with rain.
Now you folks in the Midwest are wishing for these kind of temperatures, I know; but the tour director felt it would be miserable and cancelled the tour. It is rescheduled for Feb 27.
Stay warm, stay off of the icy/snow roads; check on your neighbor. We watch the Weather Channel and shudder at what family and friends are enduring.
Glenda is having gall bladder surgery tomorrow. Milton is facing leg surgery.
Friend Fred flew from Laredo Monday to Tulsa Oklahoma to attend a funeral Tuesday. He flew back to Laredo tonight arriving at 10:15 p.m..
We drove Gay to airport to meet Fred tonight. It took an hour to go to and from airport.
We were signed up for and paid to go on a bus tour tomorrow (Thursday). After riding the bus to Mission we were going on a 50' pontoon boat ride on the Rio Grande River. But the temps tomorrow are forecast to be in the mid-40's with rain.
Now you folks in the Midwest are wishing for these kind of temperatures, I know; but the tour director felt it would be miserable and cancelled the tour. It is rescheduled for Feb 27.
Stay warm, stay off of the icy/snow roads; check on your neighbor. We watch the Weather Channel and shudder at what family and friends are enduring.
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
February 4, 2014 Laredo
It was time for a prescription refill which means a trip to Laredo.
We ate lunch at a Mexican Seafood restaurant which was quite good.
A stop at Walmart meant we stocked up on groceries. The prescription refill was ready for pick up.
Lunch and Walmart, that was it for being in Laredo.
There was time for resting before going to Jam Session. There were ten on stage.
We ate lunch at a Mexican Seafood restaurant which was quite good.
A stop at Walmart meant we stocked up on groceries. The prescription refill was ready for pick up.
Lunch and Walmart, that was it for being in Laredo.
There was time for resting before going to Jam Session. There were ten on stage.
Monday, February 3, 2014
February 3, 2014
There has been lots of comments on Facebook, Yahoo, television about the Super Bowl. Some of the remarks have been "personal". I just want to say to some of those people: it's just a game, people.
Team loyalty is one thing. Being savage is another thing.
What is every on talking about, other than the Super Bowl? The weather.
All of our grandchildren enjoyed a "snow day", meaning no school due to snow/ice. There's another storm coming in tomorrow, leaving more of the same.
It started off with blue skies here, but by late afternoon the clouds rolled back in. The high today was 59 degrees.
There was nothing done or happening worth reporting today.
Team loyalty is one thing. Being savage is another thing.
What is every on talking about, other than the Super Bowl? The weather.
All of our grandchildren enjoyed a "snow day", meaning no school due to snow/ice. There's another storm coming in tomorrow, leaving more of the same.
It started off with blue skies here, but by late afternoon the clouds rolled back in. The high today was 59 degrees.
There was nothing done or happening worth reporting today.
Sunday, February 2, 2014
February 2, 2014 At Least It Isn't a Skunk!
When you were in the early grades if a team didn't get any points was it a "skunk"? You know, pee-eu--no score; a stinky game.
What happened to the Denver Broncos? I along with many others predicted a close game. Not this time.
There's been some good commercials. Didn't enjoy half-time. I am too old for that kind of music.
I enjoyed "America the Beautiful" and "The Star-Spangled Banner".
Have a great week.
I understand the groundhog saw his shadow. The Roadrunner here in Texas didn''t see it's shadow. lol
What happened to the Denver Broncos? I along with many others predicted a close game. Not this time.
There's been some good commercials. Didn't enjoy half-time. I am too old for that kind of music.
I enjoyed "America the Beautiful" and "The Star-Spangled Banner".
Have a great week.
I understand the groundhog saw his shadow. The Roadrunner here in Texas didn''t see it's shadow. lol
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