Thursday - Off to Chesapeake Bay RV Resort at Gloucester, VA

I woke to the 3 AM alarm and was amazed that I got ready before Ken even knew I had gotten out of bed.  We were able to take all the remaining few items to Wilbur when we headed to leave.  By 3:45 we left the driveway and were on our way for a 9 day camping adventure with John and Cindy.

There was plenty of traffic around Baltimore and DC but very manageable.  We always stop at the Rutter's in York right before we get on I-83 no matter where we are going - Florida, VA, etc. to get coffee and hot chocolate.  Later, we stopped around 7 to enjoy a delicious breakfast at Denny's, another stop that  has become a tradition whenever we go to this CG.  There is a shopping area behind the restaurant so parking is readily available for Wilbur.  We also got gas and I bought a ball (for my stretches) at a Dollar Tree along the way.

We arrived at the CG shortly after 10 and Cindy and John were on the pickleball courts playing with other campers.  The site we had been on last year was available, but it was quite a "hike" from where John and Cindy set-up.  So, we picked a nice site in the same section where they are camped.

Ken began his work outside by de-winterizing Wilbur and then hooking up to water, electric and sewer.  I spent my time indoors getting us organized and everything in its proper place.  Cindy and John stopped by to welcome us and chat for just a short time.  After Ken and I ate lunch, we both were exhausted and decided to take naps.  Actually it was hard to even finish eating we were so tired.  I am not a nap taker and I slept for 2 hours - WOW!  Last night I slept very poorly and probably only had a couple hours of sleep!  I guess I was excited to head out of town!

We walked over to John and Cindy and spent about 2 hours chatting.  Back to Wilbur to get things ready for dinner.  Ken grilled chicken and salmon and then we took our meat and salads over to their site to have dinner together.  They had grilled pork medallions and had plenty for me as well, so I saved my chicken for tomorrow night.  Cindy had also made some delicious cauliflower with a cheese sauce and then served pound cake with strawberries and blueberries (we had provided some of the berries!).  

After going back to Wilbur to do the dishes, the 4 of us played Skip-Bo (men won) and Pinochle, which the women won.  It was a very nice evening to play outdoors at their site.  What a fun time and the adventure has just begun!

Today's weather was mostly overcasted, but the sun came out early evening.  It was hot and rather humid and we did have a few showers off and on.  Looks like a hot one tomorrow! 

Wednesday - Off and On Sunny Day!

Ken was up before 6 and I "rolled out" around 6:45.  He had done his reading and sent messages to numerous friends and buddies!  I did my stretches and we watched the headlines of the Morning News.

Ken left at 8 for his volunteer work at MCC.  I showered and got ready for the day and then did some prep work in the kitchen for leaving tomorrow including getting the items in the freeze and frig organized for taking with us.  I also made salads for tonight and tomorrow night so that when we arrive at the CG they will be ready for dinner.  I packed up a few items and made a couple trips to Wilbur.

At 11:45 I left to go to Ephrata to meet my ladies card club at the Scratch Bakery for lunch which is right in the center of town.  I had not eaten there previously and it was very good and extremely reasonably priced.  There were 10 of us and we had a fun time.

Ken worked overtime today so we both arrived at the apartment at 2:00.  He ate lunch and then we did more loading and packing.  We are trying to not take more than is absolutely needed for this trip, but it still seems like there is so much "stuff" and so many trips required.   I did some work on this blog and my reading.

After dinner and watching the news, we made trips to Wilbur with refrigerator and freezer items plus a few last minutes items.  Ken vacuumed before we went to bed.  It was one very busy day with lots of trips in and out of the apartment.

We plan to get up very early to be on our way to VA.

Tuesday - Time to Get Ready for our Camping Adventure!

Both of us slept in a bit today, for it was 6:20 when we got up.  Ken did some reading while I did my stretches and put in a load of wash.  Ken went for a 45 minute walk.  We got ready and then had oatmeal for breakfast.  I left at 8:45 for my physical therapy.

As soon as I returned we drove to Ephrata to pick-up Wilbur.  After stopping for gas, we headed back home.  Ken did some unloading and loading of numerous items we had gotten ready for our trip to near the Chesapeake Bay in VA, about a 5 1/2 hour drive, but we have to go around Baltimore and DC.

I did 3 loads of wash and baked a double batch of oat bran muffins while Ken went in and out to Wilbur.  Around lunchtime the sun decided to make an appearance and it got fairly hot and humid.  After cleaning the kitchen and completing the wash, we ate lunch and then Ken left to meet one of his CR buddies for coffee.  I downloaded pictures, worked on this blog, and then spray painted a picture frame that will display our photos from hiking Angel's Landing in Zion National Park several years again.  That is probably the most taxing and scary adventure I have ever done and it is worthy of being documented!

Ken had made salads for dinner before he left so he grilled mahi mahi and a steak and we had a delicious dinner.  He left at 6:20 to go to Celebrate Recovery! I spent the evening working in my craft area and on the computer downloading some more ideas for rock painting and card making.

I also had numerous phone conversation with friends I hadn't talk with for quite a while including, Doloris, Jackie, and my mother.  All are doing well and it was great "catching up"!  I enjoyed watching America's Got Talent and Ken and I went to bed around 10.

Monday, Memorial Day - Cloudy, Dreary Start to the Day!

Ken was up at his usual time to do his reading and studying.  I slept in until 7:20  - Wow!  He decided to go for an hour walk while I did some clean-up, read the paper, and did my devotions.  I also spent time on Pinterest getting more ideas for cardmaking and painting rocks.

When he returned we had a light breakfast, showered, and got ready for the day.  He worked at his desk while I cut-up lettuce, tomatoes, and onions to put on the hamburgers at Jamie's picnic.  I also made us salads for lunch.

I got a surprise phone call from Noela and we had a very nice chat.  They are on an almost 2 week camping trip visiting their children and 2 of Ernie's sisters.  I downloaded and printed the images I had gotten earlier today off Pinterest and then worked on this blog.  It was 12:15 and the sun still wasn't shining!  What is that about!

Did get a message from Rick and Joyce and they drove the entire way back to their home in Venice yesterday driving from 2:30 AM to about 9 PM.  That is a lot of driving, but I am sure they are so glad to be back home!  They need to rest after such a busy week here in PA!

Ken and I left at 12:45 to go to Jamie's for the family picnic!  Jamie's family only got home from Rehobeth Beach at 11 AM, Dane mowed, and Jamie got ready for our picnic - unbelievable, for they were relaxed and ready when we got there.  

The day was overcast and a bit cool (sweatshirts felt good most of the time) but we spent the entire day outdoors.    No games for the family today, just lots of talking and sharing.  I spent most of the time crocheting while listening and adding my "2 cents" every once in a while.

Memorial Day just wouldn't be complete without their red,
white and blue tattoos!

I guess make-up goes with tattoos also!

Sampson enjoys being with the "boys"!

The girls all made an appearance after Bria did their make-up!

With their eyes closed, you can appreciate her make-up job!

The adults were having a good time just relaxing and sharing!

Our granddaughters spent over an hour kayaking in the creek behind their house and had so much fun.

Not many folks have such a great setting off their backyard
when they live in town!

Jamie had purchased the hamburgers and the "firecrackers" (jalapenos stuffed with hot sausage, cheese, and then wrapped in bacon) at a local butcher shop and they were delicious.  Ken and I left around 8, watched a little TV and were in bed by 9 to do some reading.

These firecrackers were very good and not too hot!

The girls enjoy having their own table!

The adults enjoy their time together too!

Sunday - Cloudy, but Again No Rain and They Had Predicted a Wash Out!

Ken was up early and spent most of his time sending out messages to friends and fellow CR buddies.  He sent one to Rick and Joyce who left PA around 2:30 AM for the return to their home in Venice, FL.  By 7 they were getting close to Richmond, VA - Wow!

Ken left at 8:10 to go to the 1st service at LCBC.  The service today dealt with addiction and Ken volunteered to talk to folks afterwards if they had any questions about Celebrate Recovery.  I decided to met him there at 10:30 to attend the 2nd service and he was going to be available again if anyone wanted to talk!  It was a great message with the story of a couple who attend CR and their journey to overcome drug and alcohol addictions and what a story it was.  What a positive message for those in the midst of the struggle!

I left after the service to get some groceries at Wal-Mart and we were both home around 1:15.  We decided to go out for our usual Sunday morning breakfast and then go to Costco for some items we will need for our camping adventure beginning on Thursday.

We only got home at 3:15, put everything in its proper place, Ken carved the chicken, and I made a pot of white bean chicken chili and red beet eggs.  It took a little while to get the kitchen back in order.  I did a little crocheting and then we played the last round of our Hand and Foot game and Ken beat me by 350 points - ridiculous!

Ken watched 60 Minutes while I worked on this blog.  He decided to go for a walk around 7:45 because there was no rain predicted!  I would have loved to go with him, but my back and hip just weren't cooperating today.  I worked on this blog, downloaded photos, and did some crocheting!  Then when he returned, we played some more rounds of Hand and Foot!  Only played 3 and he is ahead of me "by a lot"!  I just can't seem to win this game lately!

Looking forward to a family picnic at Jamie's starting at 1 tomorrow.  Looks like the weather should cooperate!

Saturday - Another Very Hot Day!

It was already very warm when we got up but beautiful.  Ken and I left at 8:10 to meet Cindy and John at the pickleball courts.  It was already near 80.  What a fun time we had and all the games were extremely close.  Cindy and I actually beat the guys 2 of 3 games - Wow!  I discovered that I need to play pickleball in the morning instead of the afternoon, because that it when my back is at its best.  I actually played well today - YES!  I felt like I was able to move around the court much better than on Wednesday afternoon.  

We played for about 2 hours and were tired and very hot!  We said our good-byes until we meet next Thursday at Chesapeake Resort in VA.  They will get there on Tuesday, but we are only leaving very early Thursday morning.

Showers were very necessary when we arrived back home and then it was time for lunch.  I left at 1 to go to the new AC Moore Craft Store they opened outside of Lancaster and then also went to check out the existing one.  I had a good time.  

I was home by 3:15 and Ken had left for his Step Study.  I did some clean-up and then worked on this blog.  Also made a greeting card.  Ken was home by 5 and we had leftovers for dinner.  We played 3 rounds of Hand and Foot and then planned to stay in for the evening.  But, there was nothing special on TV and we knew that the Lancaster Symphony was giving a free concert in the band shell in Lititz Park at 8, so we left about that time to catch part of it.  Well, because of the predicted thunderstorms, there was no concert and it was actually a beautiful evening.  Turns out, unknown to us, they had announced on Friday that the concert was being moved to the High School Auditorium because of the questionable forecast!  Well, so much to spending the evening listening to patriotic music.

We walked back home and by 9:15 we were in bed to do some reading.  We did not get any of the predicted wet weather today, just heat and some sun!

Thursday and Friday - Gorgeous Days!

Ken went for a long walk while I was at PT.  Megan, my therapist, was concerned that I was having pain in my shin at night, so decided to go a little easier on some of the stretches.  She is doing a great job, but I am sure I give her quite a challenge.  She works on backs and folks with scoliosis, but I don't believe many of her clients have this much of a curve.  She did give me 2 stretches to do when I go to bed to help relieve the tightness in my shin.

I did a load of wash while Ken worked at his desk and after a light lunch, we drove to Masonic Village to spend the afternoon playing Pinochle with Mom and Dad.  She is still having a battle with coughing and the Dr. told her that in 2016 it was discovered that she had some emphysema - who knew????  She is going to have a test to check on her high ital hernia that could also be causing some of her problem.  She doesn't feel badly, but it rather tired and run down!  Dad, the EverReady Bunny, is doing just fine!

We had a fun afternoon playing cards and all of the games were extremely close.  I think the men won 2 of the 3.  We left at 4:15 and headed back to Lititz.  We decided to walk downtown where they have a farmers market every Thursday in the park.  It is rather small and unfortunately not very exciting or well attended.  We did buy a container of black beans and rice to have with our dinner.

Ken grilled chicken and salmon and we had the rice (delicious) and salads we had made earlier in the day.  We both did some reading and I crocheted.  Both of us were tired and were in bed by 9.

Friday was another beautiful day with temperatures in the upper 80's.  Ken and I left at 8:15 to go to Samantha and Katelyn's school, 40 minutes away, to participate in Grandparents Day.  First we got to listen to their musical concert that is always so well done.  Their music teacher picks amazing songs and really gets the children to do such a great job.  It is very entertaining.

Katelyn is on the very end on the left in the light coral colored
dress!

There she is getting ready to sing!

So hard to tell, but Samantha is in about the middle of the top
row in the red dress!

Then it was time to go to each of their classrooms to meet their teachers and do some worksheets with them pertaining to Grandparents.  I went to Katelyn's class and Ken headed to Samantha's, switching after about 15 minutes.  Then the 4 of us went to see the display of the student's artwork, which is also amazing.  

Katelyn's leave picture....

and her clay starfish!

Samantha with her picture...

and the sunset with the palm trees
which she did because of PawPaw
and Grandma being in Florida!

All the students in the school painted rocks to emphasize their them of being kind and they are on display around the trees and flowerbeds at the school -

Thi is Samantha's....

.....and Katelyn's!  What a
great project for the school!

We left there at 11:45 and met Lanie at the local Subway for lunch.  Then a quick trip to Wal-Mart so we could be a toy for each of the girls.  By 1:10 we were back in Lititz, changed clothes, and got ready to introduce Rick and Joyce to Pickleball.

They got here at 2 and we headed to the courts.  They were anxious to learn to play the game and they really did a good job.  It can be a bit overwhelming at the beginning, especially the scoring, but they "caught on" quickly!  It was extremely hot and after playing a little over an hour, we were done!

Back to the apartment where we all took showers and by 5 we were on our way to K-ville to have dinner on their deck with 6 other folks we know from church.  It was the perfect night to be outdoors and the food was absolutely delicious!  We were there from 5:30 to almost 8:30, so obviously we had a great time!  We had to say our good-byes to Rick and Joyce for they are heading back to Venice, FL early Sunday morning.  We surely will miss them!  We were so thankful for all the time they spent with us this past week and look forward to seeing them in Florida from December to April.  Hopefully they will return to PA before December!

What a beautiful evening to eat outdoors with such great friends!

Ken and I went right to bed when we returned and did some reading.  It has certainly been a very busy week but oh so good!  We are celebrating Life!!!!

Wednesday - Off and On Cloudy Morning, But Beautiful Afternoon!

It was in the 60's when we got up, but the sun didn't decide to stay shining until about 1:15.  It was a windy day, but beautiful when we could finally see our shadows!

Ken left for his volunteer job at MCC and by a little before 9 I was on my way to Jamie's.  We met Lanie in New Holland for a mother and daughters day!  We drove to the Village of Intercourse (yes, that is the town's name!) and spent most of our time walking around the shoppes at Kitchen Kettle.  The girls had never been there and we really had an enjoyable time.  We spent lots of time at the Olive Oil Shop tasting all the balsamic flavored oils and all the others.  Of course, all 3 of us bought some of the sampler sized bottles.

Throughout the Village, there are lots of things to sample like jams and jellies, salsas, cheese, beef sticks, fudge, candy, flavored peanut butters, shoofly pie, etc.  It like being at a delicious smorgasbord!  We also checked out some of the stores in the town area and then had a great lunch at the Kling House.  We left there around 1:45 so Lanie and Jamie would be home in time to meet the girls at the bus stop.

Ken worked hard at MCC and then went to a local roadside market to get some fruits and veggies.  He was resting when I got home at 2:30.  I quickly changed and by 3 we were on our way to meet Cindy and John to play pickleball.  Unfortunately I did not play well today.  My back and hip just didn't want to cooperate, maybe because of all the walking and standing I had done this morning.  Whatever the reason, it was rather frustrating for me.  I felt like my feet just didn't want to move!

We had a light dinner when we got home around 6 and then I finished one baby afghan and started another one.  Then it was time to work on this block and do my devotions which I didn't have time to do earlier today.

I was so grateful to spend time with Lanie and Jamie. The 3 of us don't get together very often, but when we do I feel so blessed.

Monday Was Gorgeous and Sunny, But Tuesday Was Another Rainy, Cold and Damp Day!

Ken was up early to do his reading, but I stayed in bed until 6:45.  I had trouble falling asleep last night because of left leg "tinkling", so it was a short night!  After doing our morning routines and having breakfast, we left to meet Cindy and John to play pickleball at 9.  It was a beautiful, sunny morning with the temperature already in the 70's.

Pickleball went well for all of us although I definitely didn't play as well as I know I can which can be a bit frustrating.  We left the courts at 11 after playing many games.  It certainly was a fun time.

We showered and did a few things around the apartment until we left at 1:00 to meet Rick and Joyce at The Deck in Ephrata to eat lunch on their outside deck.  The food was delicious and we just had a great time eating and chatting.  Then we all went to Wilbur Chocolate so they could purchase some gifts to take back to Florida.  Of course, Ken and I had to buy a bag of their double coated dark chocolate malted milk balls - YUMMY!

Back to our apartment where we did more visiting and then played a game of double deck Pinochle on our balcony.  It was a very close game till the very end when Ken got double Kings around and the men of course won!  The 4 of us certainly enjoy playing that game.

We sent a message to our small group inviting them to join us at Fox Meadows, a ice cream shoppe at a local farm where they make their own ice cream using the milk from their cows.  You would not believe how busy that place gets.  We could hardly find a place to park.  Both couples got their sampler - 4 smaller scoops (but plenty!) of different varieties of their treats.  Ken and I had dark mint chocolate, raspberry, white chocolate raspberry swirl, and salted caramel pretzel - so good! Another fun day with Rick and Joyce!

Ken and I were home by 9:15 and I watched the end of The Voice.  It will be interesting to see who is the winner tomorrow evening!  We were in bed by 10 and did some reading.

Today, Tuesday, was another very rainy, cool day.  I had a 9:00 PT appointment that went well and got back home around 10.  I did some work on our blog before we left at 10:15 to deliver for Meals on Wheels.  It was "spritzing" a little when we started delivering, but was pouring by the end.  We delivered 17 meals today which is quite a large route, but it was fun chatting with the folks.

Back home by a little after noon so it was time for lunch.  I made several phone calls and then Ken rested while I did my devotions and worked on this blog.  Then I finally found some time to make some greeting cards and printed some additional ideas for painting rocks and creating different cards.  

Ken left at 6 for CR and after making my dinner I went back to my work space to continue crafting while watching the finals of The Voice.    I also got cards ready to send to several friends.  Hey, if I am going to make cards I should certainly take the time to send them - Dah!!!  Somehow that seems like the hard part!!!!!

Ken was home by 9 and we watched The Voice together in the LR.  I really didn't have a favorite so whoever won was fine with me!   I finished crocheting a baby afghan for Knots of Love while watching.  We were in bed by 11.

Sunday - A Fantastic Day!

The girls woke about 6 and did so much laughing and having a great time before coming out around 7.  Ken had gotten up earlier to do some reading.  I started getting ready around 6:30 so we could leave on time for church.

We packed up the girls things and Ken loaded the car.  Each of them brought 3 large stuffed animals for the weekend, plus clothing, games, etc.  Ken and I also got the apartment back "in shape" before I made pancakes for the girls. 

We left at 8:30 for LCBC where Cali met Samantha and Katelyn and went with them to the class where they would all be together.  We had a wonderful "sermon"/discussion with a Vietnamese gentleman whose family was rescued when they left Vietnam after the war by a boat manned by World Vision.  It was such an interesting and amazing story that he shared with the congregation.  The Ephrata branch of LCBC is partnering with World Vision to sponsor children in Bolivia, so today Ken and I had the opportunity to choose a little girl, Miramar, whom we will help financially in the coming years.

We met Bob at Wal-Mart around 10:30 and he took Samantha and Katelyn back home.  From there Ken and I met 7 members of our Life Group for breakfast at Evergreen because Rick and Joyce had arrived yesterday from Florida to visit for a week or so.  It was so great to see everyone!

What a special group!

Rick and Joyce came back to the house with us and after some time chatting and catching up on life, the 4 of us went to Bria and Cali's field hockey games from 3 to 4.  It was such a beautiful day to be outdoors and the girls did a great job.

The hockey field has artificial turf!  So nice!

Hot and red faced after an hour
of playing field hockey!

Rick and Joyce spent the rest of the afternoon and evening with us and we had such a wonderful time playing Hand and Foot (the men won) and then 2 games of double deck Pinochle in which the women "creamed" the men.  We just couldn't be stopped.  They left around 10:15 after a fantastic day with such special friends.  They are loving their move to Florida, but we certainly miss having them here in PA!

Saturday - A Fun Day but Miserable Weather!

Saturday morning we were all up and about by 7.  I think the girls woke earlier, but at home they can't come out of their rooms till 7, so that is what they do here too!

We allowed them to watch a movie while we got ready and then it was time for a pancake breakfast and fresh fruit.  Katelyn loves whipped cream, so she asked for strawberries, syrup and whipped cream on her pancakes!  PawPaw also loves whipped cream, so they enjoyed just squirting it in their mouths over the weekend!  Samantha is not a fan of the "delicacy"!

We played several games of Uno throughout the day and I started them on their sewing project.  They did well, but it is a difficult concept to understand and always having the stitches going the same direction can be a challenge.  

Katelyn did well following directions!

Samantha did well working on her own
after some instruction!

It really rained a lot of the morning and continued to be cloudy, damp, cool and overcast most of the day - not great outdoor weather.  They always like to walk to the park and then go to the candy store downtown, but that certainly wasn't happening today.  We did give them time to play on our I-Pads, alternating between games of Uno, which Katelyn would play all day long!  Games are not a favorite of Samantha!

Ken was gone for hie Step Study from 2:30 to 5:30 so Katelyn and I made a small purse out of paper and had a great time.  Samantha wasn't interested in doing the project, so she did more sewing.

Ken brought pizza for dinner from the girls favorite shop in downtown Lititz and picked up Frosty's for dessert.  The 4 of us spent the evening watching Charlotte's Web, a book I never read nor I had ever seen the movie.  Ken and I really enjoyed watching it with the girls.

I went to bed around 9 and Ken sat up with the girls for about 20 minutes so they could "calm down" before going to bed.  I think they went to sleep as soon as they "hit their heads hit their pillows"!  It certainly was a fun day with Samantha and Katelyn and they did so well considering that we weren't able to be outdoors!

Dane had a triathlon at Mt. Gretna today (horrible weather and so muddy there) and came in 5th overall.  Congratulations to Dane and for Jamie, Bria and Cali for supporting him as spectators!

Friday - Another Dreary but Mild Day! We Need Sunshine!!!

I was actually up before Ken this morning and he never even heard me get out of bed.  He was up and about before I left at 6:25 to meet the Curvette ladies for breakfast.  Becky had a torn meniscus (knee) and had surgery yesterday, but joined us for breakfast.  What a trooper!  Doesn't really have pain and she didn't even need crutches - wow!  We had a fun breakfast and everyone was there but Deb who is in Florida for a few weeks with her hubby, Lloyd!

I left there around 8 and went to a scrapbooking sale where numerous folks can sell their items (like a group garage sale) at discounted prices and there was such a variety of products.  I had a good time but really didn't buy very much!  Yes, I was good!!

Ken had breakfast with his mentor and then tried to visit Chris, a member of our high school graduating class that he tries to see every month or so.  Unfortunately Chris wasn't home, but Ken did get to have a phone conversation with him later.

I did some reading, cleaned up around the apartment and then made 2 trips to Polly's to drop off some decorative scissors and took some painted rocks that she wanted to purchase for a great nephew (?) that was visiting.  

Ken and I decided to go for a walk but I wasn't able to go too far because of hip pain.  I did use a heating pad today, but I think between PT and the damp, dreary weather, my hip is not at a happy place!

Ken did some reading while I made several cards using one of the stamps I had purchased earlier today.  At 4 we left to go to Lanie's to pick up Samantha and Katelyn for the weekend.  We drove to Lancaster with them and enjoyed dinner at their choice, McDonald's.  Then Ken took us to AC Moore while he went to Costco to get a photo we had ordered to complete our framing of the National Parks we have visited.  I bought a few items for Samantha and Katelyn including plastic canvas kits for sewing.  They wanted to learn to do counted cross stitch, but I thought that would be too difficult as a starting project so on these pictures they only have to make 1/2 X's.  It proved to be a good decision.  They did well, but it is tricky for a 7 and 9 year old!

We stopped for Frosty's at Wendy's and were back home around 7:30.  We played Uno and by 9:00 we were all in bed.  Ken and I did some reading and the girls had a good time laughing and playing.  By 10 everyone was headed to "dreamland"!

Wednesday and Thursday - More Rainy, Dreary Days!

Ken got his morning routine completed before I arose at 6:45.  I did my stretches and then we enjoyed some oatmeal for breakfast.  Ken left for his volunteer job at MCC and I did some reading and a load of wash.

I left at 11 to go to Wal-Mart for a few items, including spray paint for one of the black frames I had bought that needs to be brown!  From there I headed to Jamie's, and so did Ken, so we could both get haircuts.  We really appreciate that our daughter is a hair stylist and is willing to cut our hair.

Both of us went home for a late lunch and then Ken went for a walk.  I decided that I just wasn't up to walking especially on this damp, rainy day.  Ken did some reading while I separated my handmade jewelry to take to Mom tomorrow.  Some of the nurses are interested at seeing the pieces and hopefully making some purchases.  Then I worked on this blog and tried using Scrubbing Bubbles, which was recommended on the internet, for getting rid of the dirt in the depressions in linoleum.  It worked fairly well, but it still isn't as clean as I would like it to be.

Talked to my mother, and she still has a terrible cough.  The nurse practitioner and the nurses are telling her it can take about 3 or more weeks after you start taking antibiotics for pneumonia till you feel like yourself again.  Obviously, she wants to feel better NOW!

I made some cards for my mother for an order she had because she had trouble getting the lay-out to "work"!  Amongst the rain drops, Ken grilled us Mahi and steak for dinner.  After watching the news, I went back to my craft area to finish the cards (they were trickier than I anticipated) and then we played 3 rounds of Hand and Foot with Ken in the lead.

After doing some reading in bed, it was lights out!

Today, Thursday, Ken was up very early to do his reading and I woke at my normal time - 6:45.  Ken decided to go for a walk as it was cloudy but not raining at the moment.  They are predicting heavy rain later today and tomorrow.  I did my6 stretches, ate a light breakfast, and got ready to go to PT.

I was there from 9 to 9:45 and each time they have me do some additional exercises.  The therapist did a great job of "stretching" my leg.  Ken was busy vacuuming when I got home.  I sat on a heating pad while I did my devotions.  

After lunch, we drove to Masonic Homes for an afternoon of card playing with Mom and Dad.  She was feeling better today and enjoyed playing Pinochle even if the men won 2 of the 3 games!  Her cough is still lingering, but fortunately she appears to be getting stronger each day!

We made salads when we got home and ate them while watching the news. Ken and I played 3 rounds of Hand and Foot and he won again.  What is going on???  I just can't seem to beat him!!! I put some finishing coats on my rocks while watching Grey's Anatomy.  It was a good day, even though it was still dreary, cloudy, and there were occasional raindrops.

Tuesday - Crazy Weather Day!

It was rather warm when we got up and it got into the upper 80's with high humidity as the day progressed.  We made omelettes for breakfast and by 9:00 I was at physical therapy.  My back was fairly uncomfortable on Sunday and Monday and I decided to attribute that to the damp, rainy weather.  

The added more exercises to my routine today and it went well.  Ken was waiting for me outside when I got back home and we headed right to the pickleball courts to meet Cindy and John at 10:15.  It was a gorgeous morning to play and we had a good time.  I am not sure if pickleball is a good thing to do right after physical therapy, because I was sort of hurting today.  We played many games and had a fun time, but by the time we stopped, I was ready for a rest!

Ken and I headed back home for lunch and then I rested for a little after using a heating pad!  I did some more work on the picture framing with Ken's help.  By then it was getting very dark and ominous and the local TV station warned the area about severe storms and possibly a tornado!  It got extremely windy and dark, but fortunately, we just had heavy rain and strong winds with just a little lightning.   Ken had planned to grill for dinner, but that wasn't a possibility, so we just enjoyed our salads.

We left at 6:15 to attend Bria's school concert with the 5th grade boys and girls choruses and the 5th grade orchestra.  Bria had what they called a solo with 5 other girls that had tried out for the part.  She took it very seriously and did an amazing job!  

Because of having such a "light" dinner, Ken and I stopped at Wendy's for one of their 50 cent Frostys.  I watched the end of The Voice and then Rise.  In bed by 10:15 and hoping for a better back day tomorrow.

Monday - Cloudy Morning, but Then Sunny and Mild!

Ken did his devotions before leaving at 7:30 to meet Gary for breakfast.  They usually get together on Thursday morning, but Gary wasn't available, so today was the day!  I did my morning routine till Ken returned.

At 10:15 we went to Lititz Church of the Brethren to pick-up the food to deliver for Meals on Wheels.  Our route was the largest as we had 17 stops.  We always enjoy chatting with the folks and encouraging them to have a good day!

Back home by noon, put in a load of wash, and after lunch, we headed to Costco to get our photos and some groceries.  By then it was in the 70's and very sunny - hallelujah!  We also made a stop at Michael's Crafts to get a canvas type storage bag that will hold all my rock painting supplies - hey, I had a 55% off coupon!

After putting the groceries away, Ken did some reading while I worked on the laundry, this blog, and then framed some of the photos we had just gotten.  I will be so glad when this framing project is finished, because it continues to be a lot of work!

We left at 4:45 to pick-up Polly and headed to El Serrano Mexican Restaurant (Yes, Really!) in Lancaster for dinner.  Ken and I had never been there but it is a favorite of Pollys and we can see why.  What a beautiful place and the food was delicious!  We had such a nice evening of fellowship and fun.  We really appreciate Polly's friendship and the great influence she is on our lives!  Thanks, Polly, for a special evening!

I watched The Voice when we got back home and then both of us were in bed by 10:15.  

Sunday - What a Terrible Weather Day!

It is supposed to be mid Spring but it certainly didn't seem that way today.  It was around 50 degrees when we left for church with a light drizzle and so damp!  It was down right raw!

We sat with Jamie, Dane, and his parents and enjoyed another great service at LCBC.   Had a nice visit with Bria and Cali before Ken and I left to do a little grocery shopping at Wal-Mart.  We decided to go home for breakfast and have some time to read the newspaper!  Ken was so tired because he had gotten up very early and we had only gone to bed after midnight.  So, he rested while I relaxed and then spent time framing some photos for Wilbur.

We worked together ordering pictures from Costco for the frames we recently bought for our LR.  Fortunately we had sorted through them about a week ago, so now it was just a matter of ordering the right photos in the correct size.  We even got an 11 x 14 to put in a frame of the aspens when they were at their peak near Durango!

As soon as we completed that task, we left to visit Mom and Dad at Masonic Village.  We planned to stop at a restaurant for my Mother's Day Meal, but we were running a bit late and the restaurants had folks waiting, so I got to enjoy a special meal at Wendy's that even included a Frosty - talk about living LARGE!

We got to Masonic at 6 and John and Cindy were there too!  Mom is still so tired and coughing a lot even though she is not contagious.  She has had this cough off and on since February and just can't seem to get rid of it.  Dad had 1 day that he didn't feel too great, but now he seems to be just fine!  He just keeps going like the Everready Bunny!  Hopefully Mom will be feeling better soon, for they are doing a great job of taking care of her!

The 6 of us played one game of Up the River which the men won.  By then mom was ready to rest, so we left there by 8:15 and came right home.  It was raining heavily when we left and rather miserable for driving.  Both of us were tired and headed right to bed to do some reading!

I certainly had a great Mother's Day Weekend!

Saturday - A Celebration with Lanie and the Girls!

Ken was up early to do his morning routine but I only appeared around 7:15.  We both completed our morning "rituals", had breakfast, and at 10:15 Lanie, Samantha, and Katelyn arrived to spend time with us.  

Lanie had to meet someone at our local Sheetz to purchase many pieces to her current dish set of which many have broken.  So, Ken, Samantha, Katelyn, and I walked to the park where Lanie met us.  The girls had so much fun feeding the ducks and enjoying the playground area.  Katelyn can now reach the bars on some of the equipment that she was not tall enough in the fall to do on her own - Wow!  They continued playing when Lanie arrived and then all of us went to Subway for lunch!

Samantha and Katelyn love the Lititz Springs Park!

They always want to have their photo taken in the back of
the park sitting on the lion!

Looks like the ducks needed a snooze!

Of course, no time spent in downtown Lititz would be complete without a stop at Wilbur for a sampling of those delicious Wilbur Buds.  The girls also picked out a treat that they could give Lanie tomorrow for Mother's Day!  From there we walked to the local "penny type" (but nothing is a penny anymore) candy store where they picked out a special treat.  We headed back to the park so they could play a little more before returning to the apartment around 2:45.  Amazing how cloudy it was when we left, but turned into a gorgeous sunny day when we returned.

PawPaw and the girls waited on the bench while Lanie and I
took a quick trip into the local thrift store!  We didn't buy
a single thing!!!

We love spending time with
these 2 special gals!

Ken left for his Step Study and I played Uno with the girls while Lanie went to Target to exchange an item she had purchased on the internet and was the wrong color.  I had fun playing with Samantha and Katelyn and they loved our card shuffler and the card holders we got in Florida!

They left around 3:30 after a very fun filled, special day.  I worked on this blog and then changed for our couples card club.  We went out to dinner and then played cards at the Kreiders.  What a special day!

Friday - Very Nice Weather Day and Evening with Jamie's Family!

We were both up by 5:30 and by 6:25 I was on my way to Ephrata to meet the Curvettes for our Friday morning breakfast!  Polly gave each of us a gift - fresh pomegranate seeds and a cute little paper purse with Wilbur Buds.  How nice!

Ken left at 8 to go out on the truck at MCC to pick-up clothing at a Thrift Shop about 45 minutes from Ephrata.  I went to physical therapy at 8:30 and had a good workout.  Megan, my therapist, had gotten a written report of my MRI and it revealed my large curve (really????) and that I had some severe osteoarthritis in the area where my spine begins the large curve.  Never realized I had arthritis, but really not a surprise!  

When I got back to the apartment, I decided to do some cleaning and then paint some rocks.  Ken returned at noon and we ate lunch on the balcony.  He did some reading and I continued with my rock painting and reading my devotions.

We left around 4 and stopped by Wilbur (he is wondering why he has been sitting idle for 2 months and not on the road) to get a few items before arriving at Jamie's for dinner and a delightful evening of just sharing life!  She had invited us for a Mother's Day meal and she knew I like Mexican food, so that is what she made.  It was delicious and we spent the entire time outside, including sitting around their fire ring enjoying a fire.  We left there at 9:15 and went right to bed when we got home.  What a nice way for them to celebrate Mother's Day with me.  I brought home a wonderful card and gorgeous bouquet of flowers!

Sampson had a tough day!!

What a quiet, serene setting in their backyard!

Thursday - Crazy Weather but Played Pickleball and Cards!

Ken left to have breakfast with Gary and I had breakfast and did my morning routine.  At 9:00 Ken was back home and we got ready to meet Cindy and John at the pickleball courts.

At about the time we needed to leave, it was raining, so after talking with Cindy, we decided to check with each other around 10:30 to decide if playing today was a possibility.  It appeared that we would have a "window of opportunity" with no rain for about 1 1/2 hours after 11. 

So, the 4 of us met at the courts at 11 and sure enough, it started to "drip" just about the time we arrived.  We decided to play anyway, since the courts were not slippery and we were all excited to get some exercise.  The rain continue to increase and after about 45 minutes, we were all fairly wet!  

The 4 of us went back to our apartment to play Skip-Bo, John's choice.  Of course, we only played about 20 minutes until the sun appeared.  Cindy and I both said we would be willing to go back to the courts, so we stopped our card playing and headed back to the courts.  There were a few "drops" when we arrived, but then the sun came out and it was the perfect weather for pickleball playing!  We played about 1 1/2 hours and then returned to the apartment to finish Skip-Bo, which the men won.  Did I ever mention that I really dislike that game!!!!!!  After 1 round of Hand and Foot, which the men won, Cindy and John headed home.  By then it was 4:45 and we certainly had a wonderful time together.

After dinner, we took a walk downtown and then did some more work on choosing photos of our trips that we want to hang in the apartment.  We were in bed by 9:30.

Wednesday - A Fun Day with Cindy!

Ken was up early to do his readings before leaving at 8 for his volunteer work at MCC.  I left at 8:45 for my 2nd physical therapy appointment. It lasted about 45 minutes and I really enjoyed chatting with Megan appreciate the good job she does stretching my hip and leg.  I expect to have some discomfort after these sessions because my hip doesn't really like what she is trying to do - imagine that!!!!

I went for a few specials at Stauffer's of Kissel Hill, a local large store that offers groceries, meats, lots of fresh produce, plus has a huge garden center.  It is quite an amazing place.  Once back home, I spent some time writing notes to several friends and then walked to downtown Lititz to meet my sister for lunch and doing some shopping or "looking" in some of the local shops.  We had lunch at Tomato Pie on their outside patio area.  It was a gorgeous day with temperatures in the 70's and plenty of sunshine.  After a delicious lunch, we did some more walking in the downtown area, including sampling those yummy Wilbur Buds.  I really enjoy spending time with my sister because we can have serious talks or just laugh and be totally silly!  That is special!

By 4, my hip was starting to bother me and we were both ready to call it a day.  She dropped me off for I would have been really hurting if I walked the 3 blocks back to our apartment.

Ken had a good day at work, stopped for some fruits and veggies and after lunch went for a long walk here in Lititz.  He thought we might meet up when he was in the downtown area, but we didn't see each other.  He relaxed while I did some game playing on my tablet.  Ken left at 6 to go to a gathering in Lancaster and I spent the evening making cards and working on this blog.  I finished my devotions by the time Ken got home at 8:45.  

We chatted and by 10 we were in bed.  It has been a fun day!

Monday and Tuesday - Good Weather Days!

We were both up at our "normal" times and did out typical morning routines.  We have recently starting enjoying some high protein oatmeal for breakfast and it is delicious when you add fresh berries!

Both of us left at 8:45, Ken for a walk and I went for the MRI of my back.  It was in the upper 50's with lots of sunshine.  Boy, those MRI's are certainly noisy.  They gave me a choice of music that I could listen to while in the open tunnel, but who are they kidding!  The loud beeping made it impossible to hear the music, except for about 30 seconds between each "session"!  It went well, but I wouldn't want to do it every week.  It did give me plenty of time for meditating, which was a good thing!

Ken and I returned home at the same time but I had to go back to the MRI Center because I had forgotten my watch - bummer!  Fortunately it is less than 10 minutes from the apartment.  When I returned, Ken had gotten ready to help me plant the flowers in the flower boxes on our balcony.  They are going to look pretty!

I called my mother to see how she was doing today because she was very sick yesterday!  They took some x-rays of her lungs and discovered she has pneumonia.  Fortunately they had started her on medication yesterday and by mid afternoon when I called again, she was improving.  They told her in 48 hours she would not be contagious and could be out of her room.  Hallelujah!

Ken and I left the apartment again at 11:15 - he went for a bike ride and I headed to ladies card club.  What a fun afternoon playing double deck pinochle, even though I won the prize for the lowest score.  Jackie and I had gone up for 65 during the 1st round and I had rather terrible hands the rest of the day!  Oh well, I may have lost but I was still the winner of $6.00.  Actually I only got $5.75, because I gave Jackie .25 for helping me to "win"!

I was back home by 4 and Ken had an enjoyable bike ride and then did a great job of organizing his office space.  He had an appointment with his foot Dr. at 5:15 to get some information on the pain he can get on the back of his heel after playing pickleball or riding bike.  His Dr. said it is tendinitis and he recommended some stretches he should do before and after those activities and some icing and heat when needed.   I am so happy Ken can play pickleball, because he is good at it and we have so much fun playing with John and Cindy and other friends!

We had a very light dinner and then played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot with a very close score.  We will finish the game tomorrow.

I watched The Voice while crocheting and Ken did more reading.  This is my least favorite year of watching the show, for I don't find many of the singers to be major "stand-outs"!  We were in bed by 10 to do some reading!

Today, Tuesday, it started out a bit cloudy but then it became a beautiful warm, sunny day.  We had our typical morning routine and by 9:30 we were on the pickleball court with Cindy and John.  I had called my mother on the way there and she is feeling much better.  The antibiotic is doing its job!

It was a perfect morning for pickleball and we played about 11 games, switching partners after each game.  Cindy and I played together the last game (we had lost the first 2 times we played together) and we won!  I believe the last game is always the most important and memorable!  We had such a fun time and every game was so close.  I guess all of us are pretty evenly matched!

All of us went to the Flower Wagon to get some annuals and Ken and I were back home by 1:15, hungry and ready for lunch.  It was great to eat on the balcony!  Ken offered to help me plant the "flat" of petunias I had bought to put around the lamppost in the front of our apartment building and I quickly took him up on the offer!  3 of the other folks living here came out to tell us how much they appreciate the colorful flowers.

I played some games on my tablet and then recorded our expenses on my computer budget program.  Then I had fun painting some inspiration rocks.  We both did some reading and then I had a nice phone conversation with Noela.  Their young granddaughter was in the hospital with a form of pneumonia but is now back home - hallelujah!  It was quite a concern for the family.

Ken left for CR at 6 (he decided to go there for dinner) and I continued my rock painting.  After dinner and watching the news, I spent the evening making some cards and watching The Voice and Rise.  Ken was home by 9:20 and we were in bed by 10:30.

It was a great day!