We both did our morning routines and then Ken left to do part of his walk. I got breakfast ready till he returned. After breakfast and cleaning up the kitchen, I had time to do my devotions before we left to deliver for Meals on Wheels.
Ken and I both enjoy interacting with the people to whom we deliver and as per usual, they are extremely thankful for the service. When we returned, Ken left to meet Kevin for lunch, his former partner during Ken's Real Estate days. After their lunch, Ken did a bunch of errands - bank, Wal-Mart, checking on Wilbur, etc. I spent that time talking with my sister and then had a lengthy conversation with Jamie. The shooting that took place while they were in Pittsburgh was such a horrible thing and so tough for Cali to handle. Her "worries" because of OCD just get so heightened during such a traumatic event. Also, she is in the process of being "weaned" off her current medication that caused too many side effects and has to wait to start on a new one. That has increased her anxiety and takes a toll on the whole family. We feel so badly for what goes on in Cali's little head and the many worries she feels each and every day! It is also very difficult for all the family members!
When Ken returned, we went for a walk through downtown Lititz and then Ken grilled for dinner after we had made salads. It was another night for playing 2 rounds of Hand and Foot, and even though he has a substantial lead again, I think I may be able to pull off a victory! Ken read while I watched The Voice and crocheted. We were in bed by 10:15.
Tomorrow morning I get injections in my back and although I am a bit apprehensive, I am being optimistic that they will help my back pain, because my hip is definitely better. I guess time will tell!!!!
Today, Tuesday, was another cold start to the day, but then it was very sunny with temperatures in the 50's. We were up early and Ken was able to complete his morning routine. I only had time to get ready for my 8 AM injection appointment. I had to take a "happy" pill to help me relax around 7 and it did it's job. I was fairly "relaxed" when we left!
All went well at the appointment and during the procedure, as they placed the steroid in 3 different areas of my back. When he "shot" the last spot, it felt like he hit a nerve (only lasted a few seconds) and my leg raised off the table 2X's of which I had no control. It was strange! For being such a good girl, Ken bought my a Pumpkin Spice Latte on the way home! What a guy!
I guess that little pill I took ahead of time was working, because I felt tired and decided to go to bed to rest and I slept from 9:45 to 12:15 - wow! I am not experiencing any pain from the procedure but I am supposed to "lay low" today and not do any stretches or exercises for the next 4 days - how disappointing!!! So I spent the majority of my day crocheting and x-stitching on the sofa. What a life!! Starting tomorrow I can walk no further than a mile until Saturday. It can take from 3 days to 2 weeks to know if these injections were helpful. I guess time will tell!
Ken did some work at his desk and took a long walk. He went to Celebrate Recovery, leaving at 6 and returning around 9:30. I had a 2 nice phone conversations, one with my sister during which we made plans for a celebration for Mom's birthday on Monday. I also talked to Jackie and we made plans to get together Saturday evening for pizza and cards. Looking forward to both events. I had a quiet evening while watching The Voice and New Amsterdam.
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Sunday, October 28, 2018
A Fairly Relaxing Weekend!
The weather on Saturday was positively ugly! It was cold, windy, and so rainy! Ken and I left at 8 to meet a dear friend, Claire LeFevre, at Gus's for breakfast. The restaurant was so busy, but we were able to get a seat fairly quickly.
Claire used to leave in Ephrata and attended our former church, Ephrata Church of the Brethren and taught Jamie and Lanie in Sunday School. Numerous years ago she moved to Las Vegas and she camped with us and Ernie and Noela at Valley of Fire when we were there 2 years ago. While there, she slept in a tent (it was cold and windy) and had lots of sand in her tent. We wanted her to sleep in Wilbur, but she said she enjoyed her tent and refused our offer. What a woman!!! The 5 of us did some hiking the next day and we really had a great time together. It was so much fun to spend time with her again. We left the restaurant around 10 and will probably see each other at church tomorrow morning!
Ken did some work at his desk when we got home and I finished some clean-up. He had a very short night, so he read and rested while I did some card making watching college football. Ken left at 2:30 for his last Step Study Class. It was a 25 week study and they finished today. This was the "Journey Continues" because last year the same 6 gentlemen did the 1st session and that was 25 weeks also, so it has been quite a commitment! I painted rocks for his buddies that said "You are Never Alone" and Ken also bought them some inspiration coins to keep in their pockets. I am proud of him for completing this life changing course and all the work that he had to do weekly. It is quite an accomplishment!
I did more cardmaking while he was gone and worked on a card holder. He returned at 5 and we had our leftovers from our "senior citizen" meal while watching some college football. He left again at 6:45 to go to the Lititz Church of the Brethren for a service on Peace! I decided to stay home, work on this blog, and do some crocheting while watching the beginning of the World Series!
Just a little side note - Jamie and her family were in Pittsburgh this weekend and when we heard the news flash about the shooting there we were rather concerned. Jamie left us know that they were fine, but there was lots of activity in the area including the Swat Team. It was a bit traumatic for Cali, but they were able to work her through it. This was another senseless act of violence. Our prayers go out to the victims and their families!
Today, Sunday, we attended LCBC for a another fantastic message and inspiration music. After the service we went to breakfast with Lloyd, Deb, Gene and Marilyn. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and sharing our excitement of spending some time together in Florida this winter. We were back home around 1:30.
I did some "crafting" while watching the Steelers game, but Ken wasn't too interested, so he went for a walk. He is committed to walking 10,000 steps everyday this week if possible. I headed to AC Moore to purchase some yarn for crocheting more baby afghans for Knots of Love and Aida cloth to make some x-stitch items. When I returned, Ken and I went for a walk together and it felt very good to be outdoors.
After dinner, we played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot and I declared Ken the winner of the entire game since he was so far ahead (it was good for this ego!). Ken read and I did more crafting and watching football. I guess I am more of a football fan than Ken!!!! By 10:30 we were in bed reading. It certainly was a wonderful weekend!
Claire used to leave in Ephrata and attended our former church, Ephrata Church of the Brethren and taught Jamie and Lanie in Sunday School. Numerous years ago she moved to Las Vegas and she camped with us and Ernie and Noela at Valley of Fire when we were there 2 years ago. While there, she slept in a tent (it was cold and windy) and had lots of sand in her tent. We wanted her to sleep in Wilbur, but she said she enjoyed her tent and refused our offer. What a woman!!! The 5 of us did some hiking the next day and we really had a great time together. It was so much fun to spend time with her again. We left the restaurant around 10 and will probably see each other at church tomorrow morning!
Ken did some work at his desk when we got home and I finished some clean-up. He had a very short night, so he read and rested while I did some card making watching college football. Ken left at 2:30 for his last Step Study Class. It was a 25 week study and they finished today. This was the "Journey Continues" because last year the same 6 gentlemen did the 1st session and that was 25 weeks also, so it has been quite a commitment! I painted rocks for his buddies that said "You are Never Alone" and Ken also bought them some inspiration coins to keep in their pockets. I am proud of him for completing this life changing course and all the work that he had to do weekly. It is quite an accomplishment!
I did more cardmaking while he was gone and worked on a card holder. He returned at 5 and we had our leftovers from our "senior citizen" meal while watching some college football. He left again at 6:45 to go to the Lititz Church of the Brethren for a service on Peace! I decided to stay home, work on this blog, and do some crocheting while watching the beginning of the World Series!
Just a little side note - Jamie and her family were in Pittsburgh this weekend and when we heard the news flash about the shooting there we were rather concerned. Jamie left us know that they were fine, but there was lots of activity in the area including the Swat Team. It was a bit traumatic for Cali, but they were able to work her through it. This was another senseless act of violence. Our prayers go out to the victims and their families!
Today, Sunday, we attended LCBC for a another fantastic message and inspiration music. After the service we went to breakfast with Lloyd, Deb, Gene and Marilyn. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and sharing our excitement of spending some time together in Florida this winter. We were back home around 1:30.
I did some "crafting" while watching the Steelers game, but Ken wasn't too interested, so he went for a walk. He is committed to walking 10,000 steps everyday this week if possible. I headed to AC Moore to purchase some yarn for crocheting more baby afghans for Knots of Love and Aida cloth to make some x-stitch items. When I returned, Ken and I went for a walk together and it felt very good to be outdoors.
After dinner, we played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot and I declared Ken the winner of the entire game since he was so far ahead (it was good for this ego!). Ken read and I did more crafting and watching football. I guess I am more of a football fan than Ken!!!! By 10:30 we were in bed reading. It certainly was a wonderful weekend!
Friday, October 26, 2018
Thursday and Friday - Cool Off and On Sunny Days!
Thursday was a very special day - Ken and my 49th Wedding Anniversary (we must have been married when we were 10!). After completing our early morning routines and exchanging cards, we left the house at 8:30 to pick up Polly so the 3 of us to go to breakfast at Rachel's new location on the Fruitville Pike near Lancaster. They specialize in delicious crepes and also have my favorite chai!
We had such a good time fellowshiping with Polly. Ken and I shared a western crepe and also a dessert one that had fresh strawberries, bananas, strawberry sauce and whipped cream. Both were phenomenal!
After visiting with Polly for a short time when we got back to her home, Ken and I returned to the apartment so I could prepare for tomorrow's couples card club at our house. Ken went to get a few items I needed at the grocery store and I started making 2 of those "impossible" apple pies. While they were baking, I made up a fruit tray and made my special fruit dip. Then it was time to clean up the kitchen.
After lunch we played cards with my parents at Masonic Village from 1 to 4:30, with the women only winning 1 of the 4 games! No sure what is going on but we had a lot of fun! Ken and I stopped at Knight and Day Diner on the way home for their "senior citizen" ham loaf special and both of us brought half of our meat and veggies home! Wow, we really are senior citizens!!!!
We spent about 1 1/2 hours getting set-up for card club, I watched Grey's Anatomy, and by 9:15 we were in bed! It was a busy day and my back was not "happy"! Thanks for all the Happy Anniversary wishes! We really appreciated hearing from all of you!!!
Today, Friday, was a card playing marathon. We meet our card couples group at Knight and Day Diner for breakfast and were back at our apartment by 10:15. This is the 1st time we are playing during the day instead of on Saturday night and it worked so well. We got to play all 7 rounds of cards and enjoyed some snacks, mulled cider and apple pie. It was also a great time of fellowship and catching up on our lives the last several months. Everyone left by 2:30 and it was time to clean-up.
Dan and Jackie had invited us to their new house about a mile from us here in Lititz, so we went to visit from 4 to 6:30. They have such a beautiful place and have done a terrific job decorating. We played 2 more games of cards before we headed back home.
Fred and Doloris arrived here at 6:30 and we enjoyed a repeat of our snacks, cider and pie while playing a game of Hand and Foot which the men won. It was so good to spend time with them. We always have a fun time. They left around 10:30 and after a little more clean-up, Ken and I were off to bed! What a great day with special friends!
We had such a good time fellowshiping with Polly. Ken and I shared a western crepe and also a dessert one that had fresh strawberries, bananas, strawberry sauce and whipped cream. Both were phenomenal!
After visiting with Polly for a short time when we got back to her home, Ken and I returned to the apartment so I could prepare for tomorrow's couples card club at our house. Ken went to get a few items I needed at the grocery store and I started making 2 of those "impossible" apple pies. While they were baking, I made up a fruit tray and made my special fruit dip. Then it was time to clean up the kitchen.
After lunch we played cards with my parents at Masonic Village from 1 to 4:30, with the women only winning 1 of the 4 games! No sure what is going on but we had a lot of fun! Ken and I stopped at Knight and Day Diner on the way home for their "senior citizen" ham loaf special and both of us brought half of our meat and veggies home! Wow, we really are senior citizens!!!!
We spent about 1 1/2 hours getting set-up for card club, I watched Grey's Anatomy, and by 9:15 we were in bed! It was a busy day and my back was not "happy"! Thanks for all the Happy Anniversary wishes! We really appreciated hearing from all of you!!!
Today, Friday, was a card playing marathon. We meet our card couples group at Knight and Day Diner for breakfast and were back at our apartment by 10:15. This is the 1st time we are playing during the day instead of on Saturday night and it worked so well. We got to play all 7 rounds of cards and enjoyed some snacks, mulled cider and apple pie. It was also a great time of fellowship and catching up on our lives the last several months. Everyone left by 2:30 and it was time to clean-up.
Dan and Jackie had invited us to their new house about a mile from us here in Lititz, so we went to visit from 4 to 6:30. They have such a beautiful place and have done a terrific job decorating. We played 2 more games of cards before we headed back home.
Fred and Doloris arrived here at 6:30 and we enjoyed a repeat of our snacks, cider and pie while playing a game of Hand and Foot which the men won. It was so good to spend time with them. We always have a fun time. They left around 10:30 and after a little more clean-up, Ken and I were off to bed! What a great day with special friends!
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday - Nice Weather!
Monday, after an early rise by Ken and a later one by me, we did our usual morning routines, had breakfast, and by 9:30 we were at Jamie's to have a "family" meeting" (Lanie was there too) to discuss family vacation plans for next summer.
Because it will be Ken and my 50th wedding anniversary we wanted to do something different than the beach! We had previously talked about going to Niagara Falls, but it is a long drive, taking almost a full day on each end of the trip, so we decided to try to come up with something closer to home. Ken had spent some work on it ahead of time, trying to find something that everyone would enjoy but also to have them experience just a bit of the type adventures we love doing. Ken laid out his plan of going to Corning Glass on the way to Watkins Glen. From there we could do some hiking and exploring in the State Parks in the Finger Lakes. He also mentioned taking a sailboat excursion and going horseback riding. Lanie and Jamie loved the idea and went to work right then and there trying to find a house FRBO (for rent by owner) in downtown Watkins Glen. By the time we left at noon, we had reserved a 1 year old home within walking distance of eateries and Watkins Glen State Park and it has 6 bedrooms and 3 1/2 bedrooms plus 2 family rooms. It will be so much better than staying in a hotel!
I spent a lot of the day doing laundry while Ken read and worked at is desk. We did take about a 2 mile walk. Ken grilled for dinner and we watched The Voice. I did some crafting while watching.
Tuesday - After breakfast, we decided to go to Rott's Market to buy mainly fruits and veggies. What great bargains and good produce you can get there and we did all of our shopping outside, never entering the buildings. I was disappointed in myself for not doing more shopping there this past summer, because everything is fresh and so reasonably priced. I went shopping from 11 to 3, mainly to get sneakers and search of a clock for the LR and a floor lamp. Success for the clock and shoes, but "no go" for the floor lamp. I did stop at Costco to get some medicine for Ken and I had a nice chat with Sue Burkholder, Jamie's mother-in-law who was also there. She is recovering from rotator cuff surgery and it is not an easy healing process.
When I got home, I sat in the car in our parking lot talking to Ken's sister. She has an appointment with her surgeon on Wednesday to determine what type of treatment is recommended following a lumpectomy. The oncology report was very good and we are hoping that no radiation will be required. Ken had gone for a long walk while I was gone, read, and cleaned-up his office space. He went to have coffee with one of his CR buddies, came back for dinner, and then went to Celebrate Recovery. I spent time making cards while he was gone and watching The Voice. I also had a nice phone conversation with Noela and she and Ernie are currently in the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, one of their stops on their 2 month camping adventure. Ken was in bed by 10 but I stayed up to watch New Amsterdam, a great new show!
Today, Wednesday, was a busy one for Ken. We woke in the middle of the night to a smoke detector that was beeping, so we replaced the battery. After that, Ken was wide awake so he headed to the LR. He only went back to sleep 1 1/2 hours later, so it was a short night because he was up by 6:30 to eat breakfast and leave by 8 for his work at MCC. He did stop to check out Wilbur and to find some apple cider spices we had bought on our trip to Mystic Seaport, because we couldn't find them here at home. Mission accomplished, the spice packet was in Wilbur's pantry!
I spent the morning scouring the bathroom, vacuuming, and then washing floors. Did some extra clean-up and then coated about 2 dozen rocks I had painted previously, and made some more cards. Ken had run some errands after working including getting a flu shot, a Christian Bookstore to find gifts for his buddies who will be completing their Step Study this weekend. He also went to Costco to buy me a beautiful bouquet of flowers for our anniversary tomorrow - what a guy!
We took a 2 mile walk, had salads for dinner, and then played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot. I am winning again by1,000 points. (Ken is threatening to be done with this game!) I worked on this blog while Ken did his devotions which he didn't have the time to do this morning. We did call our friends Joyce and sang Happy Birthday! We watched some of the World Series and were in bed before 10.
The weather yesterday was amazing - in the upper 60's and sunny. Monday and today were windy days with high's in the upper 50's.
Because it will be Ken and my 50th wedding anniversary we wanted to do something different than the beach! We had previously talked about going to Niagara Falls, but it is a long drive, taking almost a full day on each end of the trip, so we decided to try to come up with something closer to home. Ken had spent some work on it ahead of time, trying to find something that everyone would enjoy but also to have them experience just a bit of the type adventures we love doing. Ken laid out his plan of going to Corning Glass on the way to Watkins Glen. From there we could do some hiking and exploring in the State Parks in the Finger Lakes. He also mentioned taking a sailboat excursion and going horseback riding. Lanie and Jamie loved the idea and went to work right then and there trying to find a house FRBO (for rent by owner) in downtown Watkins Glen. By the time we left at noon, we had reserved a 1 year old home within walking distance of eateries and Watkins Glen State Park and it has 6 bedrooms and 3 1/2 bedrooms plus 2 family rooms. It will be so much better than staying in a hotel!
I spent a lot of the day doing laundry while Ken read and worked at is desk. We did take about a 2 mile walk. Ken grilled for dinner and we watched The Voice. I did some crafting while watching.
Tuesday - After breakfast, we decided to go to Rott's Market to buy mainly fruits and veggies. What great bargains and good produce you can get there and we did all of our shopping outside, never entering the buildings. I was disappointed in myself for not doing more shopping there this past summer, because everything is fresh and so reasonably priced. I went shopping from 11 to 3, mainly to get sneakers and search of a clock for the LR and a floor lamp. Success for the clock and shoes, but "no go" for the floor lamp. I did stop at Costco to get some medicine for Ken and I had a nice chat with Sue Burkholder, Jamie's mother-in-law who was also there. She is recovering from rotator cuff surgery and it is not an easy healing process.
When I got home, I sat in the car in our parking lot talking to Ken's sister. She has an appointment with her surgeon on Wednesday to determine what type of treatment is recommended following a lumpectomy. The oncology report was very good and we are hoping that no radiation will be required. Ken had gone for a long walk while I was gone, read, and cleaned-up his office space. He went to have coffee with one of his CR buddies, came back for dinner, and then went to Celebrate Recovery. I spent time making cards while he was gone and watching The Voice. I also had a nice phone conversation with Noela and she and Ernie are currently in the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, one of their stops on their 2 month camping adventure. Ken was in bed by 10 but I stayed up to watch New Amsterdam, a great new show!
Today, Wednesday, was a busy one for Ken. We woke in the middle of the night to a smoke detector that was beeping, so we replaced the battery. After that, Ken was wide awake so he headed to the LR. He only went back to sleep 1 1/2 hours later, so it was a short night because he was up by 6:30 to eat breakfast and leave by 8 for his work at MCC. He did stop to check out Wilbur and to find some apple cider spices we had bought on our trip to Mystic Seaport, because we couldn't find them here at home. Mission accomplished, the spice packet was in Wilbur's pantry!
I spent the morning scouring the bathroom, vacuuming, and then washing floors. Did some extra clean-up and then coated about 2 dozen rocks I had painted previously, and made some more cards. Ken had run some errands after working including getting a flu shot, a Christian Bookstore to find gifts for his buddies who will be completing their Step Study this weekend. He also went to Costco to buy me a beautiful bouquet of flowers for our anniversary tomorrow - what a guy!
We took a 2 mile walk, had salads for dinner, and then played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot. I am winning again by1,000 points. (Ken is threatening to be done with this game!) I worked on this blog while Ken did his devotions which he didn't have the time to do this morning. We did call our friends Joyce and sang Happy Birthday! We watched some of the World Series and were in bed before 10.
The weather yesterday was amazing - in the upper 60's and sunny. Monday and today were windy days with high's in the upper 50's.
Sunday, October 21, 2018
The Weekend - Cold and Windy!
Ken and I woke with thankful hearts for Ken's good test results this week - the ultrasound for a stomach aneurysm and his normal stress test! After a cooked breakfast, we got ready to go to Lanie and Bob's.
We left a 10 and went to their house to visit where the girls were happy to show us numerous things in their rooms and share what is happening at school. After eating pizza we all drove together to Katelyn's 12:45 soccer game, about 25 minutes away. It was a partly sunny day with temperatures in the low 60's and very breezy, but we had enough layers to stay warm. Katelyn has improved a lot since last year and really does a great job! She is such a fast runner and had fairly good ball control! It was fun to watch.
After the game, we went back to their house and visited with Lanie and Bob, leaving around 3 to head home. We stopped at Wal-Mart where Ken slept in the car while I shopped. Ken went for a walk, but I decided I needed to give my back a rest. He vacuumed the apartment when he got back from his walk.
I watched the Penn State game (they were lucky to win) and then got very involved in the Purdue/Ohio State game. What a game. I did some more x-stitching and crocheting while watching. Ken spent more time reading and sending messages to friends. He went to bed by 9:45 but I was too involved in the game. At 10:15 I decided I was extremely tired and had to go to bed, but with only 10 more minutes in the game, it was a tough decision. I did do a little reading in bed, but it was lights out by 10:45.
Today, Sunday, was another cold, very windy, and partly sunny day. It only got into the upper 40's and with the wind, it was extremely cold. We went to church and boy, we had one terrific service! The music and sermon were exceptional. Jamie's family were at a swim meet, so we left immediately after church and made a special trip to Costco. When I put on my new boots this morning, neither Ken nor I could get the zipper to work - what a disappointment and I wanted to wear them this afternoon. So we went to Costco to return them.
When we got home, I worked on this blog watching the Eagle's game while Ken wrote a letter to one of his Celebrate Recovery friends who is in prison. We left at 2:45 to go to Ken's mentor's home for a gathering of friends for a black kettle chili picnic. We took along plenty of layers of clothes because it was windy and only in the 40's, not exactly picnic weather. They provided the chili, drinks, hot dogs, and a delicious chocolate cake and the rest of us brought snacks, desserts, or salads. There was plenty of delicious food and the chili was exceptional. It was cooked in the "witch's" black cauldron over a wood fire and stirred with a large wooden paddle. We also sat around a campfire, so we were able to keep warm. We had a very nice time and returned to the apartment by 6.
I spent the evening x-stitching and crocheting and watching more football. Ken worked at his desk and did some reading. We were in bed by 10:30 after a very nice day!
We left a 10 and went to their house to visit where the girls were happy to show us numerous things in their rooms and share what is happening at school. After eating pizza we all drove together to Katelyn's 12:45 soccer game, about 25 minutes away. It was a partly sunny day with temperatures in the low 60's and very breezy, but we had enough layers to stay warm. Katelyn has improved a lot since last year and really does a great job! She is such a fast runner and had fairly good ball control! It was fun to watch.
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| What is happening???? I am right here waiting for the ball! |
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| This is more like it!!! |
After the game, we went back to their house and visited with Lanie and Bob, leaving around 3 to head home. We stopped at Wal-Mart where Ken slept in the car while I shopped. Ken went for a walk, but I decided I needed to give my back a rest. He vacuumed the apartment when he got back from his walk.
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| Some people really enjoy decorating for Halloween! |
I watched the Penn State game (they were lucky to win) and then got very involved in the Purdue/Ohio State game. What a game. I did some more x-stitching and crocheting while watching. Ken spent more time reading and sending messages to friends. He went to bed by 9:45 but I was too involved in the game. At 10:15 I decided I was extremely tired and had to go to bed, but with only 10 more minutes in the game, it was a tough decision. I did do a little reading in bed, but it was lights out by 10:45.
Today, Sunday, was another cold, very windy, and partly sunny day. It only got into the upper 40's and with the wind, it was extremely cold. We went to church and boy, we had one terrific service! The music and sermon were exceptional. Jamie's family were at a swim meet, so we left immediately after church and made a special trip to Costco. When I put on my new boots this morning, neither Ken nor I could get the zipper to work - what a disappointment and I wanted to wear them this afternoon. So we went to Costco to return them.
When we got home, I worked on this blog watching the Eagle's game while Ken wrote a letter to one of his Celebrate Recovery friends who is in prison. We left at 2:45 to go to Ken's mentor's home for a gathering of friends for a black kettle chili picnic. We took along plenty of layers of clothes because it was windy and only in the 40's, not exactly picnic weather. They provided the chili, drinks, hot dogs, and a delicious chocolate cake and the rest of us brought snacks, desserts, or salads. There was plenty of delicious food and the chili was exceptional. It was cooked in the "witch's" black cauldron over a wood fire and stirred with a large wooden paddle. We also sat around a campfire, so we were able to keep warm. We had a very nice time and returned to the apartment by 6.
I spent the evening x-stitching and crocheting and watching more football. Ken worked at his desk and did some reading. We were in bed by 10:30 after a very nice day!
Friday, October 19, 2018
Thursday and Friday - Very Cold on Friday!
Thursday, Ken was up early and I was up in time to do some of my morning routine before we watched the morning news. Ken had breakfast with one of his buddies from their Step Study to "catch up" on 2 of the classes he had missed while we were traveling. I kept busy while he was gone and was just ready to start cardmaking when he returned around 10:15. Instead we worked together making salads for tonight and tomorrow. He read and I worked on this blog.
After lunch, Ken and I were on our way to Masonic Village to play Pinochle with my parents. They were so happy to be able to play again, because they always miss our Thursday afternoon sessions when we are gone. We began our time together by showing them a video of the inside and outside of Wilbur that Ken had taken, because Dad recently told John that he has never seen either of our motorhomes. Ken did a great job with the video and I think Mom and Dad enjoyed getting to see how we travel. As per mom's request, we also showed them photos of the huge mansions we toured at Newport, RI. She found it fascinating! Then the card playing began and the men won 2 of the 3 games which was disappointing for the women. We always have a good time playing cards with them and they are so appreciative of our time together!
We were back home by 5:15 and enjoyed our salads for dinner. After cleaning up, we played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot and I have a good lead. I watched the NFL football game (Ken really doesn't have much interest) while doing some crocheting. We were both in bed by 10.
Friday we were both up by 5:30 and I left to meet the Curvettes for breakfast by 6:30. Ken had gone out earlier to "scrap" ice off both of our windshields - what is that about???? It is starting to feel like we soon should be heading to Florida! This gal does not appreciate weather under 60 degrees! I had a fun time with my lady friends and Polly bought each of us one Mega Ball and one Super Jackpot lottery tickets and 5 gold wrapped chocolate coins. What fun!!!! While I was at breakfast, Ken was having his echo stress test in Lancaster. Both of us were a bit "anxious" to get the results. His test went well and he was able to continue beyond what they needed.
Ken and I delivered Meals on Wheels from 10:30 to 11:30 and always feel so rewarded when we do that. The recipients are always so grateful. While doing our route, Ken got a call from the Cardiac Office that his stress test was fine and there were no problems -Hallelujah!!! From there we went right to Costco to get a few items and return the boots I had bought without realizing I had the wrong size! How does that happen???? Ken treated me to lunch at Costco, a soda and hot dog for $1.50 - what a guy!!!!! We were back home by 1 and I spent the afternoon cleaning the apartment. Ken did some reading and paid bills, etc. on the computer. He also took a walk.
I spent some time card making and we had salads for dinner with sauteed onions, peppers, chicken, and corn. Delicious!!! We played 2 more rounds of Hand and Foot (started a new game because Ken declared me the winner from the unfinished last game!) and I did some x-stitching while Ken read and "caught up" on texts and e-mails.
After lunch, Ken and I were on our way to Masonic Village to play Pinochle with my parents. They were so happy to be able to play again, because they always miss our Thursday afternoon sessions when we are gone. We began our time together by showing them a video of the inside and outside of Wilbur that Ken had taken, because Dad recently told John that he has never seen either of our motorhomes. Ken did a great job with the video and I think Mom and Dad enjoyed getting to see how we travel. As per mom's request, we also showed them photos of the huge mansions we toured at Newport, RI. She found it fascinating! Then the card playing began and the men won 2 of the 3 games which was disappointing for the women. We always have a good time playing cards with them and they are so appreciative of our time together!
We were back home by 5:15 and enjoyed our salads for dinner. After cleaning up, we played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot and I have a good lead. I watched the NFL football game (Ken really doesn't have much interest) while doing some crocheting. We were both in bed by 10.
Friday we were both up by 5:30 and I left to meet the Curvettes for breakfast by 6:30. Ken had gone out earlier to "scrap" ice off both of our windshields - what is that about???? It is starting to feel like we soon should be heading to Florida! This gal does not appreciate weather under 60 degrees! I had a fun time with my lady friends and Polly bought each of us one Mega Ball and one Super Jackpot lottery tickets and 5 gold wrapped chocolate coins. What fun!!!! While I was at breakfast, Ken was having his echo stress test in Lancaster. Both of us were a bit "anxious" to get the results. His test went well and he was able to continue beyond what they needed.
Ken and I delivered Meals on Wheels from 10:30 to 11:30 and always feel so rewarded when we do that. The recipients are always so grateful. While doing our route, Ken got a call from the Cardiac Office that his stress test was fine and there were no problems -Hallelujah!!! From there we went right to Costco to get a few items and return the boots I had bought without realizing I had the wrong size! How does that happen???? Ken treated me to lunch at Costco, a soda and hot dog for $1.50 - what a guy!!!!! We were back home by 1 and I spent the afternoon cleaning the apartment. Ken did some reading and paid bills, etc. on the computer. He also took a walk.
I spent some time card making and we had salads for dinner with sauteed onions, peppers, chicken, and corn. Delicious!!! We played 2 more rounds of Hand and Foot (started a new game because Ken declared me the winner from the unfinished last game!) and I did some x-stitching while Ken read and "caught up" on texts and e-mails.
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
So Far This Week
I have sort of decided that when we are home, I will only do short blogs because we aren't taking pictures and not as much happens that needs to be shared. Sometimes I do these posts as a kind of diary for me so that when we are older we will have fun looking back on our lives. I just hope we remember that it is us in the photos and the places WE have been!
Monday - Ken had breakfast with his friend, Gary, went to the movie, "Broken", and then visited a friend from High School who is paralyzed from a fall. I spent almost the entire day with my mother (9:30 to 5:00) moving her summer clothes to bins to be stored and then putting her winter wardrobe in her closet. We also cleaned out some of her drawers. I took subs for lunch and dad joined us in Mom's room. After lunch I took her to Dollar Tree and the grocery store for some items she needed. We had a nice day and she was so appreciative for all the help. Ken and I spent the evening reading and then watching The Voice. He did some "catching up" on e-mails, texts, etc. while I crocheted.
Tuesday - Ken left early for a cardiology appointment (check-up, but he will have a stress test on Friday as a precaution), met another "buddy" for breakfast and then got an oil change and his car washed. I spent my time making a double batch of oat bran muffins, since they are now a favorite of my mother too! After cleaning up and doing some reading, Ken returned and then took the CRV to be washed. Upon his return we had lunch. I went shopping from 1 to 6, returning some items and then spending time at my favorite craft stores. I picked up my Mexican dinner at Mo's and brought it home, because Ken had already left for Celebrate Recovery where he would have dinner. I spent a lot of the evening decorating for Fall (I had bought a few items today) and then crocheted while watching The Voice. Ken was home by 9:30 and was in bed by 10 to read. I enjoyed my new favorite show, New Amsterdam, which is on too late for this gal. So, I only got to bed at 11 and did some reading.
Today, Wednesday, Ken left at 6:45 for an appointment for a stomach ultrasound, which is a test they are doing on older men who have a history of smoking. He was back home and eating breakfast when I got up, never realizing he was finished with the test! He left for his volunteer work at MCC and after my breakfast, I had a wonderful conversation with my friend, Joyce, who is in Florida. I miss Joyce and Rick since they moved to Florida. After doing some reading, I spent some time on the computer and had another nice phone call with our daughter, Jamie. Ken and I will get together with Lanie and Jamie on Monday to try to come up with a family trip for next summer to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. I spent the morning doing some clean-up around the apartment, working on our blog, and reading. Ken was home by 12:30 after a good morning of working at MCC. He did get his finger pinched very badly and it bled a lot where it actually got sliced. We put new bandaids on it and realized that a few stitches might have been a good idea, but it looks like it should be okay. I spent the afternoon making cards and at 4:30 we went for about a 2 mile walk. It was cool and very windy, but it actually felt good to be out. Ken grilled for dinner and after cleaning up, we played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot and I have a substantial lead. No TV after the Nightly News but time for reading. I did talk to Mom and Cindy. John and Cindy are in Memphis, TN until about the 27th, when they will head back home.
Side Note - Ken got the results of his ultrasound and no problems at all - hallelujah! I am scheduled to have a steroid injection in my back in about 1 1/2 weeks, that will be divided among 3 different locations, hoping to give me back pain relief. That would be great.
Monday - Ken had breakfast with his friend, Gary, went to the movie, "Broken", and then visited a friend from High School who is paralyzed from a fall. I spent almost the entire day with my mother (9:30 to 5:00) moving her summer clothes to bins to be stored and then putting her winter wardrobe in her closet. We also cleaned out some of her drawers. I took subs for lunch and dad joined us in Mom's room. After lunch I took her to Dollar Tree and the grocery store for some items she needed. We had a nice day and she was so appreciative for all the help. Ken and I spent the evening reading and then watching The Voice. He did some "catching up" on e-mails, texts, etc. while I crocheted.
Tuesday - Ken left early for a cardiology appointment (check-up, but he will have a stress test on Friday as a precaution), met another "buddy" for breakfast and then got an oil change and his car washed. I spent my time making a double batch of oat bran muffins, since they are now a favorite of my mother too! After cleaning up and doing some reading, Ken returned and then took the CRV to be washed. Upon his return we had lunch. I went shopping from 1 to 6, returning some items and then spending time at my favorite craft stores. I picked up my Mexican dinner at Mo's and brought it home, because Ken had already left for Celebrate Recovery where he would have dinner. I spent a lot of the evening decorating for Fall (I had bought a few items today) and then crocheted while watching The Voice. Ken was home by 9:30 and was in bed by 10 to read. I enjoyed my new favorite show, New Amsterdam, which is on too late for this gal. So, I only got to bed at 11 and did some reading.
Today, Wednesday, Ken left at 6:45 for an appointment for a stomach ultrasound, which is a test they are doing on older men who have a history of smoking. He was back home and eating breakfast when I got up, never realizing he was finished with the test! He left for his volunteer work at MCC and after my breakfast, I had a wonderful conversation with my friend, Joyce, who is in Florida. I miss Joyce and Rick since they moved to Florida. After doing some reading, I spent some time on the computer and had another nice phone call with our daughter, Jamie. Ken and I will get together with Lanie and Jamie on Monday to try to come up with a family trip for next summer to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. I spent the morning doing some clean-up around the apartment, working on our blog, and reading. Ken was home by 12:30 after a good morning of working at MCC. He did get his finger pinched very badly and it bled a lot where it actually got sliced. We put new bandaids on it and realized that a few stitches might have been a good idea, but it looks like it should be okay. I spent the afternoon making cards and at 4:30 we went for about a 2 mile walk. It was cool and very windy, but it actually felt good to be out. Ken grilled for dinner and after cleaning up, we played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot and I have a substantial lead. No TV after the Nightly News but time for reading. I did talk to Mom and Cindy. John and Cindy are in Memphis, TN until about the 27th, when they will head back home.
Side Note - Ken got the results of his ultrasound and no problems at all - hallelujah! I am scheduled to have a steroid injection in my back in about 1 1/2 weeks, that will be divided among 3 different locations, hoping to give me back pain relief. That would be great.
Sunday, October 14, 2018
The Weekend - What a Special Time!
After our normal morning routine, we got ready and loaded a few more items in Wilbur. We were able to put the bedding, towels, rugs and a lot of summer clothing in Wilbur so we would have less to do when getting ready to go to Florida after Thanksgiving! By 10, I followed Ken to the storage area where Wilbur will "rest" before heading south.
We were back home by 11 and I chatted with my mother. I plan to visit her on Tuesday and help "switch" her clothing in her closet from her summer wardrobe to her winter one. Then we decided to go to Costco for Ken's medicine and groceries we needed. We had a nice time chatting with some friends from our previous church. Back home by 1:15 in time to have lunch.
Ken did some reading while I worked on our blog, read my book while "listening" to some college football. Ken left for his Step Study at 2:30 and I did some crocheting and more reading. I spent about 30 minutes getting ready to go to our 50th High School Reunion and Ken returned by 4:45. We left for our Class Reunion, about a 20 minute drive, and we had such a special evening. Ken and I graduated the same year from the same school, so we have many mutual friends. It was so much fun to go around the room visiting and catching up with people we hadn't seen for many years, some since graduation. It was a phenomenal evening filled with so many special memories. We only got home at 11, so we went right to bed!
Today, Sunday, was a cold, cloudy, dreary, damp day with some afternoon "sprinkles"! We went to church and were thrilled to see Jamie, Dane, Sue, Dan, and Bria and Cali. Jamie had invited Ken and I to their house to visit and have some tea and coffee. After chatting with Lloyd and Deb for awhile, we drove to Jamie's and had a great time just visiting. We were back home by 1:15.
Ken had gotten up very early, so he read and rested while I did my devotions, read, and did some crocheting. It was raining very lightly but we decided to go to Bria and Cali's hockey game. It was chilly, but it was fun to watch. It was amazing how much Bria has improved since last fall. The chilly weather reminded us why we go to Florida in the winter. Both of us were shivering already and it hasn't gotten that cold!!!
We left the hockey fields at 4:15 and went to a birthday party for Ken's 2nd cousin's mother who lived across the street from Ken's family when he was growing up. It was nice to visit with her and other members of Ken's family.
Ken also got to talk with his piano teacher, who he hadn't seen for at least 50 years! Mrs. Shelly is 88 and what a "hoot". She has such a zest for life and a great memory! We were back home by 5:45 and made a pizza from a kit we had bought at Costco - it makes 4 organic pizzas! It was very good.
I worked on this blog while we watched 60 minutes. Then it was time for Sunday Night Football. It is fun to watch the game while crocheting or making card holders.
This has been a very nice weekend!
We were back home by 11 and I chatted with my mother. I plan to visit her on Tuesday and help "switch" her clothing in her closet from her summer wardrobe to her winter one. Then we decided to go to Costco for Ken's medicine and groceries we needed. We had a nice time chatting with some friends from our previous church. Back home by 1:15 in time to have lunch.
Ken did some reading while I worked on our blog, read my book while "listening" to some college football. Ken left for his Step Study at 2:30 and I did some crocheting and more reading. I spent about 30 minutes getting ready to go to our 50th High School Reunion and Ken returned by 4:45. We left for our Class Reunion, about a 20 minute drive, and we had such a special evening. Ken and I graduated the same year from the same school, so we have many mutual friends. It was so much fun to go around the room visiting and catching up with people we hadn't seen for many years, some since graduation. It was a phenomenal evening filled with so many special memories. We only got home at 11, so we went right to bed!
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| Ken, John Graybill, Carl Mease, and Dean Graybill! Good friends of both of us, but Ken spent a lot of time "hanging" with them in high school! |
Today, Sunday, was a cold, cloudy, dreary, damp day with some afternoon "sprinkles"! We went to church and were thrilled to see Jamie, Dane, Sue, Dan, and Bria and Cali. Jamie had invited Ken and I to their house to visit and have some tea and coffee. After chatting with Lloyd and Deb for awhile, we drove to Jamie's and had a great time just visiting. We were back home by 1:15.
Ken had gotten up very early, so he read and rested while I did my devotions, read, and did some crocheting. It was raining very lightly but we decided to go to Bria and Cali's hockey game. It was chilly, but it was fun to watch. It was amazing how much Bria has improved since last fall. The chilly weather reminded us why we go to Florida in the winter. Both of us were shivering already and it hasn't gotten that cold!!!
We left the hockey fields at 4:15 and went to a birthday party for Ken's 2nd cousin's mother who lived across the street from Ken's family when he was growing up. It was nice to visit with her and other members of Ken's family.
Ken also got to talk with his piano teacher, who he hadn't seen for at least 50 years! Mrs. Shelly is 88 and what a "hoot". She has such a zest for life and a great memory! We were back home by 5:45 and made a pizza from a kit we had bought at Costco - it makes 4 organic pizzas! It was very good.
I worked on this blog while we watched 60 minutes. Then it was time for Sunday Night Football. It is fun to watch the game while crocheting or making card holders.
This has been a very nice weekend!
Friday, October 12, 2018
Thursday and Friday - Goodbye Rhode Island and Hello Lititz!
Ken and I were up by 6 on Thursday, did the necessary chores for departing, and were on our way to Hershey Campground leaving Newport, Rhode Island around 7:00.
We stopped at 8:30 at a Rest Stop and started up the generator to make coffee and oatmeal. As soon as we finished eating, it was back on the road for the long drive home. Around 9:30 we had our 1st bit of rain, but only a light drizzle. We only stopped for gas 1 time on this trip, but did pull off at the PA Visitor Center to eat lunch in Wilbur. It was cloudy when we arrived there and just when we returned from the restrooms, it started to pour! We had some heavy rain earlier in our trip and there were some slow downs because of construction. At one point we did have to get off the highway for a short distance to avoid a major delay because of an accident.
We finally arrived at the Hershey Campground at 4 and the CG was almost filled. Fortunately we found a nice site that was very level. We had decided to come to the CG for 1 night so Ken could winterize Wilbur because we won't be using him again until we leave for Florida the end of November. It is almost impossible to do that task at our apartment, because we don't have access to water outside. He need to flush the tanks, so water is a necessity.
After we got set-up very basically (no extras), we realized that Neil and Nancy Savage were camped very close to us. So after texting them if they would be available to chat, we headed to their campsite and had a great job catching up on life. We spent about 1 1/2 hours with them and were so happy to see them again.
Back to Wilbur by 7:30 and we were ready for dinner. After eating and cleaning up I headed to bed to do my devotions and some reading. Both of us were extremely tired. Ken did so well driving, but I know it was rather stressful with the heavy rains.
Today, Friday, Ken and I did some of our morning routine, ate breakfast, and then got busy doing the tasks we wanted to do before leaving the CG. Ken finished loading a few more items in the car and then began winterizing Wilbur. I am amazed how good a job he does and how he remembers what to do when he only performs the task 1X per year. I spent my time doing a thorough cleaning of Wilbur, so he would be "shining" when we left for Florida. We completed both tasks and were on our way to Lititz by 11.
When we got home (only a 1/2 hour drive) the fun began. The car was positively loaded to the "brim", so it took quite a while to do all the unloading and then find a place for everything. Hard to imagine how much "stuff" you take with you when you are gone for about a month.
I started the laundry as soon as we brought in the 1st round of things and it continued the remainder of the day. Cindy called to check if we made it home safely and we had a nice, long chat. They have some strong winds from Hurricane Michael on Wednesday evening, but no damage. Ken and I worked well together and after eating lunch we decided to take a trip to Costco. We were back home by 4 and the laundry continued. I had finished washing the sheets, blanket, mattress cover, and all the towels from Wilbur, so we took all those things to Wilbur and remade the bed. Earlier we had loaded a lot of summer clothes in preparation for our Florida "winter".
It took until 8 to finish all of the laundry and by then I was very tired. I worked on this blog and then by 9:15 called it a day. Tomorrow morning we will take Wilbur back to his storage place where he will rest before his next big adventure - snowbirding in Port Charlotte, Florida. In the mean time, Ken and I will have a lot of fun with family and friends, doing some volunteer work, and Celebrating Life Daily!
We stopped at 8:30 at a Rest Stop and started up the generator to make coffee and oatmeal. As soon as we finished eating, it was back on the road for the long drive home. Around 9:30 we had our 1st bit of rain, but only a light drizzle. We only stopped for gas 1 time on this trip, but did pull off at the PA Visitor Center to eat lunch in Wilbur. It was cloudy when we arrived there and just when we returned from the restrooms, it started to pour! We had some heavy rain earlier in our trip and there were some slow downs because of construction. At one point we did have to get off the highway for a short distance to avoid a major delay because of an accident.
We finally arrived at the Hershey Campground at 4 and the CG was almost filled. Fortunately we found a nice site that was very level. We had decided to come to the CG for 1 night so Ken could winterize Wilbur because we won't be using him again until we leave for Florida the end of November. It is almost impossible to do that task at our apartment, because we don't have access to water outside. He need to flush the tanks, so water is a necessity.
After we got set-up very basically (no extras), we realized that Neil and Nancy Savage were camped very close to us. So after texting them if they would be available to chat, we headed to their campsite and had a great job catching up on life. We spent about 1 1/2 hours with them and were so happy to see them again.
Back to Wilbur by 7:30 and we were ready for dinner. After eating and cleaning up I headed to bed to do my devotions and some reading. Both of us were extremely tired. Ken did so well driving, but I know it was rather stressful with the heavy rains.
Today, Friday, Ken and I did some of our morning routine, ate breakfast, and then got busy doing the tasks we wanted to do before leaving the CG. Ken finished loading a few more items in the car and then began winterizing Wilbur. I am amazed how good a job he does and how he remembers what to do when he only performs the task 1X per year. I spent my time doing a thorough cleaning of Wilbur, so he would be "shining" when we left for Florida. We completed both tasks and were on our way to Lititz by 11.
When we got home (only a 1/2 hour drive) the fun began. The car was positively loaded to the "brim", so it took quite a while to do all the unloading and then find a place for everything. Hard to imagine how much "stuff" you take with you when you are gone for about a month.
I started the laundry as soon as we brought in the 1st round of things and it continued the remainder of the day. Cindy called to check if we made it home safely and we had a nice, long chat. They have some strong winds from Hurricane Michael on Wednesday evening, but no damage. Ken and I worked well together and after eating lunch we decided to take a trip to Costco. We were back home by 4 and the laundry continued. I had finished washing the sheets, blanket, mattress cover, and all the towels from Wilbur, so we took all those things to Wilbur and remade the bed. Earlier we had loaded a lot of summer clothes in preparation for our Florida "winter".
It took until 8 to finish all of the laundry and by then I was very tired. I worked on this blog and then by 9:15 called it a day. Tomorrow morning we will take Wilbur back to his storage place where he will rest before his next big adventure - snowbirding in Port Charlotte, Florida. In the mean time, Ken and I will have a lot of fun with family and friends, doing some volunteer work, and Celebrating Life Daily!
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Wednesday - The Best Weather Day Since We Left Home!
Ken was up before me and at 7 we watched the news to check the path and info on Hurricane Michael! What a frightening storm for the Florida Panhandle. We got ready for the day and had an omelette breakfast. After doing dishes, we packed a lunch to take with us into Newport today.
Ken did some work outside while I did my devotions. We left at 9:45 and drove into Newport and parked at The Breakers to walk part of the Cliff Walk. It was a beautiful sunny warm day with temperatures near 80. There was a nice breeze so it was a gorgeous day for this walk along the coastline. We probably walked about 2 miles and it was a delightful stroll.
We left there and drove to tour the Rosecliff Mansion. This was another audio tour that was very well done. The staircase was amazing, but you didn't get to tour most of the home because it is available for renting for special occasions. It was probably my least favorite of the 5 that we toured, but the view from the back was amazing.
Back to the car for the short drive to our 5th and final mansion tour, The Marble House. Again, it was another audio tour and this was probably one of the most lavish with tons and tons of marble everywhere. It was another property owned by the Vanderbilts and they certainly didn't have any problem being extravagant during the Gilded Age. You were able to see many rooms in this home and it left you almost breathless.
Just a few interesting facts I learned at The Marble House today. The amount of time most of these folks actually lived there each year was about 6 to 8 weeks. During that time the family was "expected" to have many parties and at least 2 of them were supposed to have 400 guests. So, they "budgeted" about $500,000. for entertaining in the late 1800's and the early 1900's, which is equivalent to about 12 million today. The ladies also were expected to have new gowns for all the parties they attended, which was about 275 outfits including hats, gloves, jewelry, shoes, wraps, etc. Can you imagine???? The Gilded Age was from 1865 to 1914 and ended when Federal Income Tax started.
By the time we left The Marble House it was 2:00 and we were hungry. So we drove to a downtown Harbor Area where we ate our packed lunch sitting on a bench overlooking all the boats.
While there I talked to Cindy who is RVing on Jekyll Island, GA. Fortunately they are not in the path of Hurricane Michael, but they are going to have very strong winds this evening and overnight with gust as high as 55 mph. Hopefully they won't have any damage.
On the drive back to the CG I talked to my friend, Jackie, whose son and his family are in Pensacola, FL on the Panhandle. They decided not to evacuate and we are praying that they will be safe and not have any major damage.
Once back to the CG, Ken and I started the fun process of getting ready to head home early tomorrow morning. But before we started, we "staged" Wilbur and did a video inside and outside to share with my parents. Dad recently commented to John that he has never seen any of our motorhomes, so both of us decided to do a video for him. Looking forward to sharing it with Mom and Dad when we return.
Then the work began of putting things away outside, unhooking somethings, and then packing up things inside and loading them into the CRV. That makes it so much easier for unloading when we get back to Lititz. We will spend tomorrow night at Hershey Preserve so Ken can backwash the tanks and then winterize before we leave for Florida after Thanksgiving. It will give me the opportunity to really houseclean the inside in preparation for our winter in Florida. We plan to be in Lititz by lunchtime on Friday.
We showered and then ate dinner while watching the Evening News. Did dishes and played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot with Ken winning. I downloaded photos and worked on this blog.
I did hear from Jackie, the her son, Dustin, and his family in Pensacola felt very little from Hurricane Michael. It really "skirted" around them. They felt extremely fortunate and were in the process of removing the boards from their windows.
I also talked to my mother and she and dad are just fine. They are anxious for us to get back home so we can all get together.
We headed to bed around 9:15 and plan to be on our way by 7 tomorrow morning. What a great time we have had here in Newport, RI. We have been Celebrating Life Daily this entire trip!
Ken did some work outside while I did my devotions. We left at 9:45 and drove into Newport and parked at The Breakers to walk part of the Cliff Walk. It was a beautiful sunny warm day with temperatures near 80. There was a nice breeze so it was a gorgeous day for this walk along the coastline. We probably walked about 2 miles and it was a delightful stroll.
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| It is a very scenic and beautiful walk! |
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| Rather impressive, don't you think??? |
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| You did get to some unpaved areas. |
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| You can see several of the buildings on this campus from the Cliff Walk. I appreciate that several of the buildings on their campus are the old mansions that would have been destroyed. |
We left there and drove to tour the Rosecliff Mansion. This was another audio tour that was very well done. The staircase was amazing, but you didn't get to tour most of the home because it is available for renting for special occasions. It was probably my least favorite of the 5 that we toured, but the view from the back was amazing.
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| The Rosecliff which had beautiful gardens! |
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| For me, one of the most impressive parts of the house - the regal stairway outlined by a heart. Many weddings take place at the Rosecliff! |
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| The entrance hall |
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| The ballroom |
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| Quite a view from the back patio! |
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| So many tapestries in these homes! |
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| The drawing room, that was mostly used by the men! |
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| The Dining Room, which is not really furnished because it is used for receptions, meeting, etc.! |
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| A staircase fit for a queen or princess! |
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| The beautiful gardens |
Back to the car for the short drive to our 5th and final mansion tour, The Marble House. Again, it was another audio tour and this was probably one of the most lavish with tons and tons of marble everywhere. It was another property owned by the Vanderbilts and they certainly didn't have any problem being extravagant during the Gilded Age. You were able to see many rooms in this home and it left you almost breathless.
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| The Marble House built by the Vanderbilts! |
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| I wonder how the house got its name???? Marble everywhere! |
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| The lights and moldings were amazing! |
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| So much gold leaf and marble in the formal dining room! |
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| In the corner of the Dining Room ceiling! |
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| The Japanese Tea Building and Garden was built when the Mansion was built! Today they serve tea, sandwiches and salads! |
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| This is the Gothic Room where Mrs. Vanderbilt displayed her extensive Gothic Art Collection! |
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| Can you believe this chandelier complete with cherubs! |
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| This walls in the sitting room were 24 carat gold. A bit over the top for me! |
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| Quite a fireplace mantel! |
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| Mr. Vanderbilt's BR! |
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| Mrs. Vanderbilt's BR was fit for a queen and that is exactly what she wanted it to look like! The drapes were beautiful and the valences had so much gold leaf! |
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| Quite a fancy bed! |
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| Another amazing fireplace! |
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| Their daughter's bedroom and she had no say in the furnishings, not even the decorative pieces. |
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| The guest room! |
Just a few interesting facts I learned at The Marble House today. The amount of time most of these folks actually lived there each year was about 6 to 8 weeks. During that time the family was "expected" to have many parties and at least 2 of them were supposed to have 400 guests. So, they "budgeted" about $500,000. for entertaining in the late 1800's and the early 1900's, which is equivalent to about 12 million today. The ladies also were expected to have new gowns for all the parties they attended, which was about 275 outfits including hats, gloves, jewelry, shoes, wraps, etc. Can you imagine???? The Gilded Age was from 1865 to 1914 and ended when Federal Income Tax started.
By the time we left The Marble House it was 2:00 and we were hungry. So we drove to a downtown Harbor Area where we ate our packed lunch sitting on a bench overlooking all the boats.
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| Another great view for eating a picnic lunch! |
While there I talked to Cindy who is RVing on Jekyll Island, GA. Fortunately they are not in the path of Hurricane Michael, but they are going to have very strong winds this evening and overnight with gust as high as 55 mph. Hopefully they won't have any damage.
On the drive back to the CG I talked to my friend, Jackie, whose son and his family are in Pensacola, FL on the Panhandle. They decided not to evacuate and we are praying that they will be safe and not have any major damage.
Once back to the CG, Ken and I started the fun process of getting ready to head home early tomorrow morning. But before we started, we "staged" Wilbur and did a video inside and outside to share with my parents. Dad recently commented to John that he has never seen any of our motorhomes, so both of us decided to do a video for him. Looking forward to sharing it with Mom and Dad when we return.
Then the work began of putting things away outside, unhooking somethings, and then packing up things inside and loading them into the CRV. That makes it so much easier for unloading when we get back to Lititz. We will spend tomorrow night at Hershey Preserve so Ken can backwash the tanks and then winterize before we leave for Florida after Thanksgiving. It will give me the opportunity to really houseclean the inside in preparation for our winter in Florida. We plan to be in Lititz by lunchtime on Friday.
We showered and then ate dinner while watching the Evening News. Did dishes and played 2 rounds of Hand and Foot with Ken winning. I downloaded photos and worked on this blog.
I did hear from Jackie, the her son, Dustin, and his family in Pensacola felt very little from Hurricane Michael. It really "skirted" around them. They felt extremely fortunate and were in the process of removing the boards from their windows.
I also talked to my mother and she and dad are just fine. They are anxious for us to get back home so we can all get together.
We headed to bed around 9:15 and plan to be on our way by 7 tomorrow morning. What a great time we have had here in Newport, RI. We have been Celebrating Life Daily this entire trip!
Tuesday, October 9, 2018
Tuesday - Wow, A Sunny Day!
After completing our normal morning routines, we had an omelette breakfast and then Ken had a nice phone conversation with Lanie while I did my devotions! He also had a chat with one of his Celebrate Recovery buddies.
By the time we left the CG around 10 there was this amazing yellow ball in the sky. What could it be? Wow, it was the sun and we were thrilled to see it. We decided to go into Newport and tour our 1st mansion, The Elms. It was built by the coal baron, Edward Berwind, completed in 1901 at the cost of 1.4 million. It is approximately 60,000 SF and had a grand ballroom that comfortably held 400 people! They give you a headset and you tour the home room by room listening to a wonderful narrator tell you all about the home. The amount of intricate sculptures and details on walls and ceilings is breathtaking! The grounds are amazing too. It is hard to imagine that all of the mansions were called summer cottages and most of them were only lived in about 6 or 8 weeks per year. During that time there were lavish parties with hundreds of guests and they said about $350,000. was spent on the parties during the short time they were there!. The Elms is considered on of the 5 best Newport Mansions and the best one not built or owned by a Vanderbilt!
From there we went to the Chateau-sur-Mer where we had a wonderful tour guide who offered a wealth of information in such an interesting way. It was one of the 1st grand mansions that was part of the gilded age in Newport. It was completed in 1852 and the most palatial residences in Newport until the appearance of the Vanderbilt houses in the 1890's. They had an elaborate picnic with over 2,000 guests in 1857. It was home to 3 generations of the Wetmore family and the 2nd generation Wetmore was the governor and senator for Rhode Island.
We had planned to tour all 5 mansions today, but soon realized that was a hefty goal! We decided to go to The Breakers, the most famous of all the mansions and eat our packed lunch sitting on a blanket along the Cliff Walk. What a beautiful setting!
After we finished eating, I started to fold the blanket which goes back to a pillow shape with handles and Ken got his foot caught in the strap. Down he went, but fortunately he was not hurt, but his glasses were broken. He has frameless ones and the cord that holds the lens in had separated and his lens had fallen out, but it wasn't broken or scratched. Now what?? I did not want to even consider my driving Wilbur back home. He did have a pair of prescription sunglasses back at the CG and we also knew our prescriptions are very similar. So, I drove back to the CG and he tried using my glasses. It could work, but they weren't perfect. We also realized our class reunion is this weekend and he didn't want to go there wearing my glasses!
Long story short! I looked up glass repair places nearby and there was one only 6 miles away that had a 5 star rating. One of the reviews was from a gentleman who broke his glasses exactly the same way and they fixed them in less than 10 minutes -wow! So, off we went to find this optical office and just like the man had said, they repaired Ken's glasses as soon as we got there and there was no charge! They were amazing! So, now I am "off the hook" for driving Wilbur - that's a hallelujah!
We continued our drive back to Newport to tour The Breakers, which was built by the Vanderbilts as a summer home. The 5 floor mansion has 70 rooms and was built in 1892, taking 2 years to complete. The largest room is the Dining Room which has 2,400 SF. The entire house has a total of 125,000 SF of living area and is one of the most visited house museums in the country. It was filled with marble, tapestries, and gold leaf everywhere, as well as amazing sculptures. It was totally fascinating!
Back to Wilbur by 5:30 and we worked together to make salads for tonight and the next two days. We also spent time getting information on the mansions we had seen. Ken spent time on his I-Pad, I downloaded the photos and worked on the blog while watching The Voice, This Is Us, and New Amsterdam.
It has been quite a day but we continue to Celebrate Life Daily!
By the time we left the CG around 10 there was this amazing yellow ball in the sky. What could it be? Wow, it was the sun and we were thrilled to see it. We decided to go into Newport and tour our 1st mansion, The Elms. It was built by the coal baron, Edward Berwind, completed in 1901 at the cost of 1.4 million. It is approximately 60,000 SF and had a grand ballroom that comfortably held 400 people! They give you a headset and you tour the home room by room listening to a wonderful narrator tell you all about the home. The amount of intricate sculptures and details on walls and ceilings is breathtaking! The grounds are amazing too. It is hard to imagine that all of the mansions were called summer cottages and most of them were only lived in about 6 or 8 weeks per year. During that time there were lavish parties with hundreds of guests and they said about $350,000. was spent on the parties during the short time they were there!. The Elms is considered on of the 5 best Newport Mansions and the best one not built or owned by a Vanderbilt!
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| Hard to appreciate how large this mansion really is! |
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| This is the entrance! |
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| Gorgeous gardens that required a head gardner and 12 other gardners! |
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| What an ornate table! |
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| The dining room was amazing with the huge tapestries and the gold leaf ceiling! |
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| Maybe this is where the term "throne" comes from! |
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| Hard to believe how many guests could be served at one meal/ party from this kitchen! |
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| This is the stable with a beautiful fountain in the front! |
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| The back of The Elms! |
From there we went to the Chateau-sur-Mer where we had a wonderful tour guide who offered a wealth of information in such an interesting way. It was one of the 1st grand mansions that was part of the gilded age in Newport. It was completed in 1852 and the most palatial residences in Newport until the appearance of the Vanderbilt houses in the 1890's. They had an elaborate picnic with over 2,000 guests in 1857. It was home to 3 generations of the Wetmore family and the 2nd generation Wetmore was the governor and senator for Rhode Island.
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| The Chateau-sur-Mer |
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| A amazing DR! |
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| This gorgeous carving was made from 1 solid piece of wood! |
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| The 1st bathroom in Newport where the toilet, sink, and tub were all in the same room! |
We had planned to tour all 5 mansions today, but soon realized that was a hefty goal! We decided to go to The Breakers, the most famous of all the mansions and eat our packed lunch sitting on a blanket along the Cliff Walk. What a beautiful setting!
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| Great views for eating our packed picnic lunch! |
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| This is along the Cliff Walk! |
We continued our drive back to Newport to tour The Breakers, which was built by the Vanderbilts as a summer home. The 5 floor mansion has 70 rooms and was built in 1892, taking 2 years to complete. The largest room is the Dining Room which has 2,400 SF. The entire house has a total of 125,000 SF of living area and is one of the most visited house museums in the country. It was filled with marble, tapestries, and gold leaf everywhere, as well as amazing sculptures. It was totally fascinating!
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| The beautiful and huge Breakers! |
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| This is the back overlooking the water! |
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| What a beautiful "foyer" area! |
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| The ceiling in the foyer! |
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| A fountain under the stairway! |
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| The enormous Dining Room with so much gold leaf! There were chairs all around the room! The chandeliers were amazing and even had a place to fill them with gas if there was no electric! |
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| Looking from the foyer out the back windows! |
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| This cherub sculpture is unique because there is a train behind the one on the left and a tugboat on the right side, that reflects Mr. Vanderbilt's enterprises! |
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| Rather fancy doors complete with cherubs! |
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| The "family room"! |
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| And of course, no home would be complete without a music room! |
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| The library! |
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| Mr. Vanderbilt's bedroom and it actually was a dark red! |
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| A very interesting tub carved out of 1 solid piece of marble. They would have to fill it 3 or 4 times before the marble would get warm enough to take a comfortable bath. The extra 2 spigots were for salt water, which was considered healthy! |
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| A rather interesting chair! |
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| A view of the foyer from the second floor! |
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| What a view from their "sunroom"! |
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| Unique stairways! |
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| The kitchen! |
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| The Butler's Pantry! |
Back to Wilbur by 5:30 and we worked together to make salads for tonight and the next two days. We also spent time getting information on the mansions we had seen. Ken spent time on his I-Pad, I downloaded the photos and worked on the blog while watching The Voice, This Is Us, and New Amsterdam.
It has been quite a day but we continue to Celebrate Life Daily!
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