Another gorgeous day in the Valley.
Started the day by attending the church service in the park. The Pastor had his 3 grandchildren and their parents in attendance and they each played several piano pieces for us. They are all amazingly talented. Just for my daughter's info, no I don't sing, but I do follow along in the book, LOL.
When I got home, I started to deal with the door that I repaired yesterday. I had gone to Lowes where I described the job I was doing and they recommended liquid nails, heavy duty as the adhesive to glue the Styrofoam core to the fiberglass exterior panels. When I took the weights off the door, I was astounded to see that the adhesive had dissolved the foam and I mean in a big way. So it was back to Lowes this AM where the customer service desk gave me a quick refund, probably to get rid of an unhappy customer. I even took what was left of the foam in for them to see how bad their advice turned out. I picked up some Gorilla glue construction adhesive as it said it works on fiberglas and made another try. This time I didn't buy new foam, just used the old piece and re-assembled it. We'll see tomorrow how it turns out.
At Lowes Marg got the cleaner she uses at home for the floors. When we got back she did the laminate floor in the trailer and apparently it turned out just the way she wanted it. The dust down here is a real problem and difficult to keep up with, so she was happy to get a better solution for her swifter thing. Then she got a corned beef brisket in the slow cooker and set it to go for the day. This bodes well for the future, where I anticipate two of my favourite meals: Rueben sandwiches or corned beef hash. With any luck it will eventually become both.
Most of the day was spent messing with the door & Marg had her usual parade of visitors. While I was out in the utility shed, I checked my glue traps. I put out a couple of roach motels in the shed, the Az room and the park model to catch whatever kind of bugs are crawling around. When I looked in there I saw I had: a few crickets, some kind of moth type bug and a little snake. It was
Sunday 28 February 2016
Saturday 27 February 2016
Saturday, Feb 27th
A nice day, although it started off a bit chilly the day warmed up very quickly.
We went to the Lost Dutchman Days parade with a couple of other people and by coincidence there were about a dozen other people from our rv park right around us. It's always a good parade with lots of variety and more horse entries than we usually see back home. I mainly took pictures of some of the gals on horses for Katie. The parade lasted about 2 1/2 hours, so that was most of the morning. There were lots of politicians in the parade, I think it must be an election year for some of them as they had lots of people handing stuff out. The ladies stayed for most of it, but left early to find some park sale or sales, so Larry caught a ride back with me.
When I got back, I went to Lowes to get some foam sheets and some liquid nails to put the door back together. That was most of the afternoon for me, allowing for dumping 5 gallon pail of water all over everything on the driveway. Some days it seems I am clumsier than normal. After all that, I am still not certain the plan I have for the door is a good one, but time will tell. I only half assembled it in case the adhesive doesn't work as well as the salesperson told me it would. The gals went for lunch and Marg got back in mid-afternoon. It seems all she was able to come up with was a teapot, which she got for a dollar.
Supper was a nice pasta dish with shrimp. We didn't want to go out as we had company coming after supper. Marg had her first margarita on the patio event tonight. There were 4 other couples and it was a fun event with everyone staying fairly late. It was mainly the gals that Marg spent the day with and their spouses and the Blanke's. Nice folks, most from Ohio and a few laughs in the process.
When I got back, I went to Lowes to get some foam sheets and some liquid nails to put the door back together. That was most of the afternoon for me, allowing for dumping 5 gallon pail of water all over everything on the driveway. Some days it seems I am clumsier than normal. After all that, I am still not certain the plan I have for the door is a good one, but time will tell. I only half assembled it in case the adhesive doesn't work as well as the salesperson told me it would. The gals went for lunch and Marg got back in mid-afternoon. It seems all she was able to come up with was a teapot, which she got for a dollar.
Supper was a nice pasta dish with shrimp. We didn't want to go out as we had company coming after supper. Marg had her first margarita on the patio event tonight. There were 4 other couples and it was a fun event with everyone staying fairly late. It was mainly the gals that Marg spent the day with and their spouses and the Blanke's. Nice folks, most from Ohio and a few laughs in the process.
Friday 26 February 2016
Friday
A gorgeous day, now this is the Arizona we all signed on for. It is still cool in the nights, like around 50F, but warms up pretty quickly to where it peaks mid-afternoon, I think today was about 87F.
Started my morning with a bike ride with Larry. The wind was blowing a pretty good breeze from out of the mountains & there were only the two of us this morning. We made just a bit over 2 miles today as my co-rider was having problems, but still good to get some exercise. When I got back I discovered the plumbing drip had returned. I ran down to Home Depot to get a few things to help me repair the door I took off yesterday and the incessant drip, but never got to either as it was time to go to the hall.
Marg had the morning to get organized and then went down to the hall with me, to prepare for the job she created. Marg and Karen did some decorating and got the place set up.
I made coffee and tea water and got the stuff out to make that happen. Richard and Brenda Cain were celebrating their 50th anniversary today and they have both been a big part of life in our rv park here at Carefree. After hearing nothing was planned to help them celebrate this day, Marg took it on herself to make a party for them. There were some challenges with getting it together, the greatest of which was to get Brenda to agree that it was a good idea. In the end it was agreed to keep it simple, so it was a coffee/tea with cake and ice cream and an open invitation to park residents to join us.
Betty & Ma being related to Richard, wanted to get the cake and Nancy & Lynette the ice cream. That left us the napkins, forks, plates, decorating and actual work for a 1 o'clock get together. It came together nicely with a little over 70 people showing up to wish the couple well. Marg chopped up the cake and Linda came forward to help her serve cake, while I slapped a blob of ice cream on everyone's plate. Oh yeh, then there was clean up, you know wiping tables, dishes, garbage, but it was a big success and we were done by 3.
A nice couple stopped by when we got back and invited us to an omelet in a bag type breakfast next week. Barb is the lady who organizes splash & thrash, so we had a cold beer with them and chatted. Nice folks, Barb is also the organizer of the ladies tea that I have been conned into helping with this year - again, arghhh. They left almost right at 4 o'clock, so you know by now that is happy hour. A quick dash around and packed another brewski to go off to that group event. We had agreed to eat out tonight, so kept our time at happy to one hour.
Then it was off to, well find out how big the lines were at the place we planned on. They were lined up outside [Friday problem everywhere], so we went tot he 5 & Diner. It was our first time there this winter & it is generally one of our fav's. We got in quickly and Marg had the fish plate, while I had a scrambled egg/hash kind of dish. It was timely and we were hungry, so a good fit for our needs and the food is pretty good there. No milkshake though, even if it is a specialty there and they have more flavours than I can even recall.
On the way back home we stopped at Walmart and got prints of the pictures I took today. Ma wasn't able to attend as she is not well, so we made a copy for her & Betty and a copy for Richard & Brenda. It went pretty well, except the machine ran out of paper, so it took the ladies a long time to get it going again. Both groups were glad to get the pics, so another good deed done by Margie. Then we stopped to fill the 5 gallon water bottle for the water cooler. Well by then it was dark and we just came home.
Well that's about it, lots to do tomorrow again, we are starting to think we might need a rest, LOL.
Started my morning with a bike ride with Larry. The wind was blowing a pretty good breeze from out of the mountains & there were only the two of us this morning. We made just a bit over 2 miles today as my co-rider was having problems, but still good to get some exercise. When I got back I discovered the plumbing drip had returned. I ran down to Home Depot to get a few things to help me repair the door I took off yesterday and the incessant drip, but never got to either as it was time to go to the hall.
Marg had the morning to get organized and then went down to the hall with me, to prepare for the job she created. Marg and Karen did some decorating and got the place set up.
A nice couple stopped by when we got back and invited us to an omelet in a bag type breakfast next week. Barb is the lady who organizes splash & thrash, so we had a cold beer with them and chatted. Nice folks, Barb is also the organizer of the ladies tea that I have been conned into helping with this year - again, arghhh. They left almost right at 4 o'clock, so you know by now that is happy hour. A quick dash around and packed another brewski to go off to that group event. We had agreed to eat out tonight, so kept our time at happy to one hour.
Then it was off to, well find out how big the lines were at the place we planned on. They were lined up outside [Friday problem everywhere], so we went tot he 5 & Diner. It was our first time there this winter & it is generally one of our fav's. We got in quickly and Marg had the fish plate, while I had a scrambled egg/hash kind of dish. It was timely and we were hungry, so a good fit for our needs and the food is pretty good there. No milkshake though, even if it is a specialty there and they have more flavours than I can even recall.
On the way back home we stopped at Walmart and got prints of the pictures I took today. Ma wasn't able to attend as she is not well, so we made a copy for her & Betty and a copy for Richard & Brenda. It went pretty well, except the machine ran out of paper, so it took the ladies a long time to get it going again. Both groups were glad to get the pics, so another good deed done by Margie. Then we stopped to fill the 5 gallon water bottle for the water cooler. Well by then it was dark and we just came home.
Well that's about it, lots to do tomorrow again, we are starting to think we might need a rest, LOL.
Thursday 25 February 2016
Thursday, Feb 25th
Not much of February left, not sure who wrote or sang the song about time keeps on slipping away into the future, but some days sure feel like that.
It was a nice day, but a bit windy. The guys were riding, so I passed on the coffee & donuts this morning and went on the ride. There were only four of us this morning, the pull of the donuts must have been strong, LOL. We made about 6 miles today as we never went to Idaho, just went east of the park down to the school on Mountainview, but as it turns out the wind still blew against us on the way back. Two of the guys took a detour to get a couple more miles in, but I rode back with Larry on the shorter route.
Marg went with the gamblin' gals, there were 5 of them today. The big lure of the serving dish had them fairly racing down the bush highway to make sure they got one. Well with Nancy driving the term racing really doesn't fit, its more of a leisurely drive. Anyway they got there and after some assistance from Marg, they all got the big red dish. There were no winners at the bingo, in spite of Marg helping Linda get into the bingo mode, even though that game is not really her thing. They had a bit better luck on the slots and Marg had a pretty good result there, so a good end to the trip.
After the bike ride, I again worked on the sink drain. After doing my lunch dishes [yes I do clean up after myself], I discovered the roll of paper towel under the sink to be super saturated and the drain was again dripping. The cause was split gasket ring and was no surprise as it was the same as the other day. Got a new one in and put it together and it seems to be fine for now, although I left a bucket under there. I went to Lowe's for some parts, I got the one to replace that old piece of drain and that will likely be the next step if it re-occurs. When I got back I took off the door at the back of the breezeway as it is all wobbly and seems to be sagging badly. I pulled it apart and the problem is a repeat of what I saw last year. When I was at Lowes I came up with a solution; I am going to replace the foam core and cement it with liquid nails, but will have to get the parts tomorrow. Being at a stopping point, I went over to see Kenny as he had told me he bought a new piece of shootin' iron. It is a nice Smith & Weston .380 pistol, very light and much easier to operate, so he is quite happy. He bought it off one of the cycle riding guys, but it's in like new condition. He also showed me his Beretta .380 which is an older model, but a little more hefty and seems much more like a hand gun ought to. We talked about taking them out to try in the desert to a range, now that would be a hoot, but we'll see. Had a beer with him and we went to happy hour for a bit.
That was about when the gamblin' gals got back, so we went back to pick up the salad Marg made and a few more beers. We had an invite to a dinner put together by some folks up the other side of the hall. There was a pot luck affair and the food was very good. As it turned out there were lots of folks there, about 25 I would guess. The food was very good and I even got a piece of the dessert Smitty made, which in itself is remarkable as it goes very quickly.
After supper it was out to Walmart to get my watch battery replaced. It died tonight and I had only replaced it 10 days ago. They replaced it at no charge and Marg needed kitchen saran wrap, so it was only a very brief stop. When we got back home, Stan stopped in with his son-in-law [who we met last year] to ask about going golfing with us on Monday. A couple of scotches and the son-in-law fell asleep in his chair. It seems he had been up since 3 AM so they could get to the airport in time in Minnesota, so they left when their drinks were finished. I have a decent selection of scotch here at this time, so was able to give them a taste of a couple they have not previously tried. I could tell they were well experience as they don't use ice and only a splash of water to release the flavour.
It was a nice day, but a bit windy. The guys were riding, so I passed on the coffee & donuts this morning and went on the ride. There were only four of us this morning, the pull of the donuts must have been strong, LOL. We made about 6 miles today as we never went to Idaho, just went east of the park down to the school on Mountainview, but as it turns out the wind still blew against us on the way back. Two of the guys took a detour to get a couple more miles in, but I rode back with Larry on the shorter route.
Marg went with the gamblin' gals, there were 5 of them today. The big lure of the serving dish had them fairly racing down the bush highway to make sure they got one. Well with Nancy driving the term racing really doesn't fit, its more of a leisurely drive. Anyway they got there and after some assistance from Marg, they all got the big red dish. There were no winners at the bingo, in spite of Marg helping Linda get into the bingo mode, even though that game is not really her thing. They had a bit better luck on the slots and Marg had a pretty good result there, so a good end to the trip.
After the bike ride, I again worked on the sink drain. After doing my lunch dishes [yes I do clean up after myself], I discovered the roll of paper towel under the sink to be super saturated and the drain was again dripping. The cause was split gasket ring and was no surprise as it was the same as the other day. Got a new one in and put it together and it seems to be fine for now, although I left a bucket under there. I went to Lowe's for some parts, I got the one to replace that old piece of drain and that will likely be the next step if it re-occurs. When I got back I took off the door at the back of the breezeway as it is all wobbly and seems to be sagging badly. I pulled it apart and the problem is a repeat of what I saw last year. When I was at Lowes I came up with a solution; I am going to replace the foam core and cement it with liquid nails, but will have to get the parts tomorrow. Being at a stopping point, I went over to see Kenny as he had told me he bought a new piece of shootin' iron. It is a nice Smith & Weston .380 pistol, very light and much easier to operate, so he is quite happy. He bought it off one of the cycle riding guys, but it's in like new condition. He also showed me his Beretta .380 which is an older model, but a little more hefty and seems much more like a hand gun ought to. We talked about taking them out to try in the desert to a range, now that would be a hoot, but we'll see. Had a beer with him and we went to happy hour for a bit.
That was about when the gamblin' gals got back, so we went back to pick up the salad Marg made and a few more beers. We had an invite to a dinner put together by some folks up the other side of the hall. There was a pot luck affair and the food was very good. As it turned out there were lots of folks there, about 25 I would guess. The food was very good and I even got a piece of the dessert Smitty made, which in itself is remarkable as it goes very quickly.
After supper it was out to Walmart to get my watch battery replaced. It died tonight and I had only replaced it 10 days ago. They replaced it at no charge and Marg needed kitchen saran wrap, so it was only a very brief stop. When we got back home, Stan stopped in with his son-in-law [who we met last year] to ask about going golfing with us on Monday. A couple of scotches and the son-in-law fell asleep in his chair. It seems he had been up since 3 AM so they could get to the airport in time in Minnesota, so they left when their drinks were finished. I have a decent selection of scotch here at this time, so was able to give them a taste of a couple they have not previously tried. I could tell they were well experience as they don't use ice and only a splash of water to release the flavour.
Wednesday 24 February 2016
Tuesday / Wednesday
Never got a Tues. post done, so am doing 2 days tonight.
Tuesday morning was biking with the guys, we had about 6 riders and went up to Idaho and then back to the school and home, so about 8 miles. Pretty good considering the wind blew hard, so we worked up a sweat. Marg went to water aerobics and they had a good turnout. She was all excited about a couple of new maneuver's she has mastered: the frog kick and the leg swing to touch a wall on each side. While she was there, I went for a haircut, but they were so busy I had to return at 1:30, so I played pool with Kenny in the AM. He wanted to try at a time when no one else was in the pool room & it worked out pretty good. Back to the park for lunch with Marg as she gets back from the class just around lunch time. After lunch it was back to Walmart where a different lady cut my hair. I think she was better than the last one and I ended up with a decent job. Later on we went for happy hour at Jim & Beth's, then Marg made spaghetti for dinner. After supper it was bingo & we met Gerry & Deb at the hall. We got a surprise as Nancy had already bought our cards and left a nice thank you note with them for the work I had done with the carpet on their steps. It was nice, but I thought we had an understanding that I was doing it and no money would change hands. Marg is quite worried about her as she has pneumonia. She seems to get it every year and is under a doctors care, but it's still concerning. Gerry won twice, the second time he split, so it was a good night. We were all close at different times, but he brought home the cash.
Wednesday started off real early. We left the house at 4:15AM, yes that's no typo. Marg had agreed to drive Barb [Lynette's daughter] to the airport and she had to be there by 5AM. I didn't want the ladies out there in the dark, so went with them. After we got back, we both went to bed and got a couple hours more sleep. Then we got up at our regular time, about 7 this morning so I would be ready for golf. Got in a good game, still playing with the Calloway's, had lots of good chances and played with a couple of good folks. Marg went to Walmart for salad stuff as we are invited out to dinner for tomorrow night. Get this, she was back by 9 AM and then went to water aerobics. There was a much smaller group this morning because it was quite a bit cooler. I think the temp only made it into the low to mid 70's today. Then it was lunch and I went off to play pool for the afternoon. I played some pretty good guys and ended up winning more than I lost and pulled off some shots that made then think I play better than I really do. Then it was out for happy hour and over to the hall for hamburgers & fries. The power was out for a bit, so we were concerned that it might have to be cancelled, however such was not the case. The burgers were great as usual and we were lucky enough to be in the start of the line so ate early on.
After eating we gathered all the dirty laundry and carted it down to the Laundromat. Marg did laundry while I played poker. That worked out pretty well tonight and although I don't keep score, I am pretty certain I came out ahead.
Well we are getting tired, so time to call it a day
Tuesday morning was biking with the guys, we had about 6 riders and went up to Idaho and then back to the school and home, so about 8 miles. Pretty good considering the wind blew hard, so we worked up a sweat. Marg went to water aerobics and they had a good turnout. She was all excited about a couple of new maneuver's she has mastered: the frog kick and the leg swing to touch a wall on each side. While she was there, I went for a haircut, but they were so busy I had to return at 1:30, so I played pool with Kenny in the AM. He wanted to try at a time when no one else was in the pool room & it worked out pretty good. Back to the park for lunch with Marg as she gets back from the class just around lunch time. After lunch it was back to Walmart where a different lady cut my hair. I think she was better than the last one and I ended up with a decent job. Later on we went for happy hour at Jim & Beth's, then Marg made spaghetti for dinner. After supper it was bingo & we met Gerry & Deb at the hall. We got a surprise as Nancy had already bought our cards and left a nice thank you note with them for the work I had done with the carpet on their steps. It was nice, but I thought we had an understanding that I was doing it and no money would change hands. Marg is quite worried about her as she has pneumonia. She seems to get it every year and is under a doctors care, but it's still concerning. Gerry won twice, the second time he split, so it was a good night. We were all close at different times, but he brought home the cash.
Wednesday started off real early. We left the house at 4:15AM, yes that's no typo. Marg had agreed to drive Barb [Lynette's daughter] to the airport and she had to be there by 5AM. I didn't want the ladies out there in the dark, so went with them. After we got back, we both went to bed and got a couple hours more sleep. Then we got up at our regular time, about 7 this morning so I would be ready for golf. Got in a good game, still playing with the Calloway's, had lots of good chances and played with a couple of good folks. Marg went to Walmart for salad stuff as we are invited out to dinner for tomorrow night. Get this, she was back by 9 AM and then went to water aerobics. There was a much smaller group this morning because it was quite a bit cooler. I think the temp only made it into the low to mid 70's today. Then it was lunch and I went off to play pool for the afternoon. I played some pretty good guys and ended up winning more than I lost and pulled off some shots that made then think I play better than I really do. Then it was out for happy hour and over to the hall for hamburgers & fries. The power was out for a bit, so we were concerned that it might have to be cancelled, however such was not the case. The burgers were great as usual and we were lucky enough to be in the start of the line so ate early on.
After eating we gathered all the dirty laundry and carted it down to the Laundromat. Marg did laundry while I played poker. That worked out pretty well tonight and although I don't keep score, I am pretty certain I came out ahead.
Well we are getting tired, so time to call it a day
Monday 22 February 2016
Monday, the 22nd
It never ceases to amaze how hot the day can be while the night is downright cold out here in the desert. It no doubt is partly the body adjusting from coping with the heat of the day with the 30 degree change in temperatures from the high to the low. The forecaster this morning on TV was talking about it getting colder tomorrow, down to 78 or something like that, but still very nice.
The day started off cool this morning, in fact I wore a jacket on the bike ride. There were 6 of us this morning, but we never went far as everyone had commitments, for 4 of us that was golf today. I think we still made about 4 miles and by the time we finished it was getting warm enough that the jacket was no longer needed.
Marg went to water aerobics this AM and they had a pool full. She likes to get there early and shower prior to going into the pool, but she said they seem to be starting earlier than the posted time. I guess not everyone showers first, some just jump into the pool. While that seems odd, it may be that they shower at their unit before coming down, so it's like a Shakespeare question - to shower or not to shower, that is the question! They had a good workout and by the time they finished it was very warm, so pleasant getting out of the pool and walking back to the unit. While she was gone, I grabbed a sandwich. You guessed it, cheese slices with strawberry jam. We were due to leave shortly before noon, so didn't want to go without eating.
Gary W drove today and we had to pick Gerry C up at his condo in the city. The problems I had last week with the access code for the gate were still a problem this week. We tried quite a few times, without success. They have a remote unit that opens it, so really don't use the keypad. Fortunately the guy behind us grew impatient and shouted out his code. I wonder how often that happens and how secure that kind of system really is. We got to Encanto with lots of time, so they sent us off a bit early. We were only 3, so they sent a single out with us to make a foursome. The course played well and we were just a bit over 4 hours, so the pace was good. The wind really came up on the back nine and it was a bit of a challenge [20 to 30 mph]. In fact my hat blew off 3 times making me chase it down the fairway, Gary was more fortunate, he had a chin strap on his. I got a birdie and a couple of pars, but struggled most of the day. Well we all seemed to at different times, in fact all 3 of us ended up within a stroke of a dead heat. How windy was it, well Gerry said he wasn't playing next week if it was forecast to be windy, Hah, we'll see. Traffic was pretty good returning home and we were back in good time, well not for happy hour, but for supper.
Marg went out for groceries, she went to the large Fry's store, not the small Fry's, LOL. It is a bit further, but she made her way there successfully and was more than pleased with the better selection, prices and quality in the store. She expected the pricing to be a bit better as it is in Mesa, which has lower municipal sales tax than Apache Junction. After getting back she went for a walk to get the mail and in the process got a new kettle [for free]. Our old one, not that old really started to rust inside, so we threw it out. One of the park models in the park just sold and the lady who bought it had a bunch of duplicate stuff, so apparently put out a table of things to get rid of, one of which was an electric kettle. Then Marg went to happy hour for a half hour, now that is funny!. She had bought some white Russian coolers at Total Wine and she said they are to die for. Then she got back in time to make a pork chop affair in the slow cooker that was accompanied by a bed of egg noodles, the end result of which was to die for; in my opinion! I don't think the white Russian things would do it for me.
And that's the kind of day it was.
The day started off cool this morning, in fact I wore a jacket on the bike ride. There were 6 of us this morning, but we never went far as everyone had commitments, for 4 of us that was golf today. I think we still made about 4 miles and by the time we finished it was getting warm enough that the jacket was no longer needed.
Marg went to water aerobics this AM and they had a pool full. She likes to get there early and shower prior to going into the pool, but she said they seem to be starting earlier than the posted time. I guess not everyone showers first, some just jump into the pool. While that seems odd, it may be that they shower at their unit before coming down, so it's like a Shakespeare question - to shower or not to shower, that is the question! They had a good workout and by the time they finished it was very warm, so pleasant getting out of the pool and walking back to the unit. While she was gone, I grabbed a sandwich. You guessed it, cheese slices with strawberry jam. We were due to leave shortly before noon, so didn't want to go without eating.
Gary W drove today and we had to pick Gerry C up at his condo in the city. The problems I had last week with the access code for the gate were still a problem this week. We tried quite a few times, without success. They have a remote unit that opens it, so really don't use the keypad. Fortunately the guy behind us grew impatient and shouted out his code. I wonder how often that happens and how secure that kind of system really is. We got to Encanto with lots of time, so they sent us off a bit early. We were only 3, so they sent a single out with us to make a foursome. The course played well and we were just a bit over 4 hours, so the pace was good. The wind really came up on the back nine and it was a bit of a challenge [20 to 30 mph]. In fact my hat blew off 3 times making me chase it down the fairway, Gary was more fortunate, he had a chin strap on his. I got a birdie and a couple of pars, but struggled most of the day. Well we all seemed to at different times, in fact all 3 of us ended up within a stroke of a dead heat. How windy was it, well Gerry said he wasn't playing next week if it was forecast to be windy, Hah, we'll see. Traffic was pretty good returning home and we were back in good time, well not for happy hour, but for supper.
Marg went out for groceries, she went to the large Fry's store, not the small Fry's, LOL. It is a bit further, but she made her way there successfully and was more than pleased with the better selection, prices and quality in the store. She expected the pricing to be a bit better as it is in Mesa, which has lower municipal sales tax than Apache Junction. After getting back she went for a walk to get the mail and in the process got a new kettle [for free]. Our old one, not that old really started to rust inside, so we threw it out. One of the park models in the park just sold and the lady who bought it had a bunch of duplicate stuff, so apparently put out a table of things to get rid of, one of which was an electric kettle. Then Marg went to happy hour for a half hour, now that is funny!. She had bought some white Russian coolers at Total Wine and she said they are to die for. Then she got back in time to make a pork chop affair in the slow cooker that was accompanied by a bed of egg noodles, the end result of which was to die for; in my opinion! I don't think the white Russian things would do it for me.
And that's the kind of day it was.
Sunday 21 February 2016
Sunday, February 21st
It was a beautiful morning and I was up and put the coffee on as the sun was coming up. The paper was already here out front, so picked it up to flip through all the flyers. Sunday's paper is full of flyers, coupons, sale ads and it is a large paper. The delivery lady throws it out the car window, so the larger ones like today are in a plastic bag so they stay together or in the case of rain, stay dry. No chance of rain today though.
After a bowl of cereal, I showered, dressed and went to the church service in the hall. It was well attended, as usual with a few people having family members visiting. They generally have a fellowship time after the service, but I never stay for it as I generally have other commitments. This morning it was to take Marg to the outlet stores in Tempe. It turns out she wanted me to go so she could get me some shirts, so stopped in at Nordstrom Rack where I ended up with 3. Then it was on to Total Wine where she got some coolers, then I got a bottle of scotch. After a spirited discussion, she ended up with a bottle of scotch as well, even though she doesn't drink the stuff. Hers is an 18 year old Grangestone that it turns out is very nice.
On the way back we stopped at Long John Silvers for the cod lunch special. We like the fish there and it came with fries, of course, but the bonus was it also came with hush puppies. A nice lunch and we quite often eat there when we are up on Power road. It was on the way home, just a few exits earlier on the 202 [Red Mountain freeway]. We had to get off there as we wanted to stop at Winco for groceries today. It's sort of a bulk food kind of place, like Costco and has some unique features, so once in a while we like to go there.
After it was back to the park where Marg did some more running around on the 50th anniversary party. She had picked up some cards, one for Betty & Ma to give [they are family to the couple] and haven't been able to get out as Ma is not feeling well. She also had to meet with Pat on the cake and give her the money for it, then the couple's son, Randy, etc. All that and the obligatory visiting that takes place anytime you walk in the park and the afternoon was almost over. Me, well I started reading and fell asleep in my chair. Pretty funny as I woke when Marg got back and there was an orange on the table in front of me that was left by someone. We found out later it was Marg's friend Linda have a bit of fun with my nap.
Supper was a salad with some freshly cooked shrimp. We ate a bit lite as it was ice cream social tonight and with a 6:30 start time, you don't want to go with a full stomach. It worked as I had a banana split, Marg the usual sundae and cake. I did change things up a bit: no pineapple on the split, just extra strawberries. I think I like it better like that and the gals are more than ready to accommodate special requests like that.
After a bowl of cereal, I showered, dressed and went to the church service in the hall. It was well attended, as usual with a few people having family members visiting. They generally have a fellowship time after the service, but I never stay for it as I generally have other commitments. This morning it was to take Marg to the outlet stores in Tempe. It turns out she wanted me to go so she could get me some shirts, so stopped in at Nordstrom Rack where I ended up with 3. Then it was on to Total Wine where she got some coolers, then I got a bottle of scotch. After a spirited discussion, she ended up with a bottle of scotch as well, even though she doesn't drink the stuff. Hers is an 18 year old Grangestone that it turns out is very nice.
On the way back we stopped at Long John Silvers for the cod lunch special. We like the fish there and it came with fries, of course, but the bonus was it also came with hush puppies. A nice lunch and we quite often eat there when we are up on Power road. It was on the way home, just a few exits earlier on the 202 [Red Mountain freeway]. We had to get off there as we wanted to stop at Winco for groceries today. It's sort of a bulk food kind of place, like Costco and has some unique features, so once in a while we like to go there.
After it was back to the park where Marg did some more running around on the 50th anniversary party. She had picked up some cards, one for Betty & Ma to give [they are family to the couple] and haven't been able to get out as Ma is not feeling well. She also had to meet with Pat on the cake and give her the money for it, then the couple's son, Randy, etc. All that and the obligatory visiting that takes place anytime you walk in the park and the afternoon was almost over. Me, well I started reading and fell asleep in my chair. Pretty funny as I woke when Marg got back and there was an orange on the table in front of me that was left by someone. We found out later it was Marg's friend Linda have a bit of fun with my nap.
Supper was a salad with some freshly cooked shrimp. We ate a bit lite as it was ice cream social tonight and with a 6:30 start time, you don't want to go with a full stomach. It worked as I had a banana split, Marg the usual sundae and cake. I did change things up a bit: no pineapple on the split, just extra strawberries. I think I like it better like that and the gals are more than ready to accommodate special requests like that.
Saturday 20 February 2016
Saturday
A busy day with gorgeous weather. You will be hearing about great weather for a week or two now if the forecast is correct. Didn't sleep well and was up at 5:30 AM, so the day went long for me. It started out well with breakfast in the hall, the special today was french toast, so no pancakes for me this AM. After I went for a ride with 2 of the guys, but Larry wasn't up to a long one so we only rode about 4 miles. It's all about just getting out, so I met my objective.
When I got back, I packed up the truck with tools to take to Larry's as I had committed to put new carpet on his outside steps. Marg drove me down there as she was picking up Doris & Nancy to go shopping. They went over to Mesa to the Kohl's store and also check out some others in the same centre. Marg only got one top and a few decorations for the anniversary party next week, but Doris & Nancy got lots of clothes. They were back by lunch, so were only gone a couple of hours. I would have thought with those 3 that they would have stayed out for lunch, but I guess the other ladies weren't hungry after having a big breakfast. I had stopped for lunch when she pulled up and I had already made my cheese sandwich with strawberry jam for a spread on it, so Marg just made something for herself. For some strange reason she is never interested in this yummy sandwich option. After lunch it was back on the tools to finish the steps, so got both front and back done and they seemed happy enough with the job. I told Larry there is a tail light warranty on the job, you know when you can't seem my tail lights, the warranty period is over. Well he told just about everyone about it. Pretty funny!
Then it was time for a shower, especially the knees were in desperate need of a good wash. Fortunately Marg had put a nice chicken dish with potatoes and vegetables in the slow cooker earlier as happy hour was at out place tonight. We didn't know what kind of mess we would have at Johnsons so she offered to have it here today. There were about 16 or 18 here for cocktails and it went pretty well. It was funny to see the number of golf carts parked out front, I think there were about 6 or 7. It certainly got the neighbours talking as we are normally one of the quiet places on the street. Little did they know, but they are wiser now.
Supper was great and then it was over to the hall for a disco type party.
They had a pretty good turnout and we danced a few slow ones, well Marg danced in a Congo line as well. Sat with friends and had a very nice evening. Well getting sleepy now as my day is 19 hours already, so that's all folks.
When I got back, I packed up the truck with tools to take to Larry's as I had committed to put new carpet on his outside steps. Marg drove me down there as she was picking up Doris & Nancy to go shopping. They went over to Mesa to the Kohl's store and also check out some others in the same centre. Marg only got one top and a few decorations for the anniversary party next week, but Doris & Nancy got lots of clothes. They were back by lunch, so were only gone a couple of hours. I would have thought with those 3 that they would have stayed out for lunch, but I guess the other ladies weren't hungry after having a big breakfast. I had stopped for lunch when she pulled up and I had already made my cheese sandwich with strawberry jam for a spread on it, so Marg just made something for herself. For some strange reason she is never interested in this yummy sandwich option. After lunch it was back on the tools to finish the steps, so got both front and back done and they seemed happy enough with the job. I told Larry there is a tail light warranty on the job, you know when you can't seem my tail lights, the warranty period is over. Well he told just about everyone about it. Pretty funny!
Then it was time for a shower, especially the knees were in desperate need of a good wash. Fortunately Marg had put a nice chicken dish with potatoes and vegetables in the slow cooker earlier as happy hour was at out place tonight. We didn't know what kind of mess we would have at Johnsons so she offered to have it here today. There were about 16 or 18 here for cocktails and it went pretty well. It was funny to see the number of golf carts parked out front, I think there were about 6 or 7. It certainly got the neighbours talking as we are normally one of the quiet places on the street. Little did they know, but they are wiser now.
Supper was great and then it was over to the hall for a disco type party.
Friday 19 February 2016
Friday
Gone are the working days when Friday was cause for celebration or payday, now that is a good news/bad news story, Eh! It was a nice day, a bit overcast, but perfect for a bike ride. There were 6 of us this AM, pretty good turnout. Some bike groups we come across are about double that, but most are less. We made right about 8 miles today, which for me is great as it is enough to work up a sweat and get some exercise. Marg was up early [before I left] and out and about by the time I got back.
We are really suffering from the pollen in the air these days. The pollen from trees and plants is at a very high level, but the dust born is quite low. We seem to be sneezing a lot more than usual and are both taking off the shelf remedies for it. Seems to be helping, but I think a good rain would really help.
At 11 Marg had a meeting with Karen, who looks after decorating the hall, to see if she had anything that would help with dressing the hall up a bit for Rich & Brenda's anniversary party. It turns out she had quite a bit of stuff that will be a big help to Marg in putting the day. On her way back, she made a few stops to speak with folks about the impending party. Lots of ideas, but she wants to have something very casual and not make the couple uncomfortable. She also put up a poster on the board outside the door in the community room to stimulate interest. Seems to be lots of people wanting to help out and quite bit of interest in going as Richard is particularly well liked.
After lunch we went out with Marg's buddy Nancy to Home Depot & then to Lowes. The girls were looking for carpet and I was trying to make certain we bought the right kind and enough of it. Nancy settled on one a Lowes and we came back home. I am replacing carpet on their outside steps as theirs is badly worn. We thought it would be nice to do something for them as they are always doing stuff for others and most of the happy hours are in their breezeway. I think it is supposed to be in ours tomorrow, just in case I don't work fast enough and we wouldn't want to leave people without a place to go.
Supper tonight was some brats, potato salad and a new kind of yam that Marg picked up at the ranch market. It was very nice and we had some of the Krustekai for dessert. Being Friday, it was the animal races tonight and I won 6 of 8, while Marg won 5 of 8, so we were better off for having gone, well that and all the whooping & hollering.
We are really suffering from the pollen in the air these days. The pollen from trees and plants is at a very high level, but the dust born is quite low. We seem to be sneezing a lot more than usual and are both taking off the shelf remedies for it. Seems to be helping, but I think a good rain would really help.
At 11 Marg had a meeting with Karen, who looks after decorating the hall, to see if she had anything that would help with dressing the hall up a bit for Rich & Brenda's anniversary party. It turns out she had quite a bit of stuff that will be a big help to Marg in putting the day. On her way back, she made a few stops to speak with folks about the impending party. Lots of ideas, but she wants to have something very casual and not make the couple uncomfortable. She also put up a poster on the board outside the door in the community room to stimulate interest. Seems to be lots of people wanting to help out and quite bit of interest in going as Richard is particularly well liked.
After lunch we went out with Marg's buddy Nancy to Home Depot & then to Lowes. The girls were looking for carpet and I was trying to make certain we bought the right kind and enough of it. Nancy settled on one a Lowes and we came back home. I am replacing carpet on their outside steps as theirs is badly worn. We thought it would be nice to do something for them as they are always doing stuff for others and most of the happy hours are in their breezeway. I think it is supposed to be in ours tomorrow, just in case I don't work fast enough and we wouldn't want to leave people without a place to go.
Supper tonight was some brats, potato salad and a new kind of yam that Marg picked up at the ranch market. It was very nice and we had some of the Krustekai for dessert. Being Friday, it was the animal races tonight and I won 6 of 8, while Marg won 5 of 8, so we were better off for having gone, well that and all the whooping & hollering.
Thursday - late post
It was a great day, a bit cloudy but perfect for a ride. I skipped out on the coffee & donuts and rode with Larry & Patrick. It was a bit windy, but we made 6 miles anyway.
Marg went with the gamblin' gals to the Fort. There were 6 of them, so Nancy had a car full and so she ended up in the 3rd row seat. That is always the least desired location, so some of the others must have made excuses as to why they couldn't ride in that row. LOL. in fact there were more than 6, but there was a second vehicle that went up to meet them at the casino. They mostly played bingo, with a little time to plug the slots. With that many players you would have high expectations of an armored car bringing back the loot, but you would be wrong. The only thing they returned with was good memories and a few laughs.
My day had less laughs than theirs. I started in on a plumbing leak and smelly sink drain before lunch, thinking I would be done in time to play in the pool tournament, Hah! As usually happens in old places, Murphy's Law played a big role in my day. After a trip to Best hardware, I got it apart and re-assembled with a new drain basket and a new leak with the drain still smelly. The problem was this place has RV plumbing and over time the drain pipes [not residential quality] take on permanent odor. So back to the hardware, does anyone ever get-er done with one trip? I tore out all the pipes and replaced them every piece, I discarded the plumbers putty in favour of silicone and I used a different fitting connecting to the drain basket and eureka, success! Well in a way, it was about 2:30, so well past the pool tournament time. Then I went on to a second job, we have an end stand on which the laminate top came loose, probably a combination of age and heat over the summer. I got it apart and lathered with contact cement, pounded it down with the rubber mallet and another success story.
By the time I finished Marg was back home with a report that her day had been less successful than mine. We took a few moments out of our days to un-lax and catch each other up on our days events, so never even went to happy hour.
Then it was time to head out for supper. We had previously arranged to go out with Smitty and his wife for a Ukrainian meal. It was a place simply called Pierogi, can you imagine that the spelling is different. The place is owned by a nice Ukrainian couple, but the waitress was Hungarian, pretty close anyway. We had a combo plate of smoked sausage & perogy's [note spelling] while I had a salad & Marg had Borscht. They had a green borscht, made with spinach, but no one tried it. The Smiths ordered cabbage rolls, but they were the big German style, so we passed and instead had extra perogy's, fried. The food was excellent, a real treat. After we stopped in to look at the deli they also had, attached to the restaurant and they had a wide range of ethnic foods, mainly from the Ukraine. Marg & Caroline both bought a large container of Krustekai [phonetic spelling] that they called Hruschiki, maybe that's the right way? These were a bonus and were excellent, just like Marg's mother used to make.
This was posted late because I ate too much and fell asleep early, LOL.
Marg went with the gamblin' gals to the Fort. There were 6 of them, so Nancy had a car full and so she ended up in the 3rd row seat. That is always the least desired location, so some of the others must have made excuses as to why they couldn't ride in that row. LOL. in fact there were more than 6, but there was a second vehicle that went up to meet them at the casino. They mostly played bingo, with a little time to plug the slots. With that many players you would have high expectations of an armored car bringing back the loot, but you would be wrong. The only thing they returned with was good memories and a few laughs.
My day had less laughs than theirs. I started in on a plumbing leak and smelly sink drain before lunch, thinking I would be done in time to play in the pool tournament, Hah! As usually happens in old places, Murphy's Law played a big role in my day. After a trip to Best hardware, I got it apart and re-assembled with a new drain basket and a new leak with the drain still smelly. The problem was this place has RV plumbing and over time the drain pipes [not residential quality] take on permanent odor. So back to the hardware, does anyone ever get-er done with one trip? I tore out all the pipes and replaced them every piece, I discarded the plumbers putty in favour of silicone and I used a different fitting connecting to the drain basket and eureka, success! Well in a way, it was about 2:30, so well past the pool tournament time. Then I went on to a second job, we have an end stand on which the laminate top came loose, probably a combination of age and heat over the summer. I got it apart and lathered with contact cement, pounded it down with the rubber mallet and another success story.
By the time I finished Marg was back home with a report that her day had been less successful than mine. We took a few moments out of our days to un-lax and catch each other up on our days events, so never even went to happy hour.
Then it was time to head out for supper. We had previously arranged to go out with Smitty and his wife for a Ukrainian meal. It was a place simply called Pierogi, can you imagine that the spelling is different. The place is owned by a nice Ukrainian couple, but the waitress was Hungarian, pretty close anyway. We had a combo plate of smoked sausage & perogy's [note spelling] while I had a salad & Marg had Borscht. They had a green borscht, made with spinach, but no one tried it. The Smiths ordered cabbage rolls, but they were the big German style, so we passed and instead had extra perogy's, fried. The food was excellent, a real treat. After we stopped in to look at the deli they also had, attached to the restaurant and they had a wide range of ethnic foods, mainly from the Ukraine. Marg & Caroline both bought a large container of Krustekai [phonetic spelling] that they called Hruschiki, maybe that's the right way? These were a bonus and were excellent, just like Marg's mother used to make.
This was posted late because I ate too much and fell asleep early, LOL.
Wednesday 17 February 2016
Wednesday
Happy birthday Kennedy, 15 already. Hope your day was special!
The day started off nice, a bit windy, but that made the heat pleasant. Gerry came and we went to Apache Sun for golf with the group from the park. A perfect morning to play and we had a good turnout, with no vacant spots in the tee times. I hit some very good shots, but had my share of duds as well and in the end had a slightly better than average round. I never lost a ball, which is always one of my success criteria and I got a par on the last hole, so left with a smile.
Marg got some of the stuff prepared and made a potato salad for supper. She knows how I love potato salad in the summer and well it's very much like summer here. Later she went to water aerobics and it was a great day to be in the pool. They had a good turnout and had a few laughs as well. One of the ladies discovered a screw lying on the bottom and in spite of several of them attempting to remove it, they couldn't bring it up. Marg said she had pretty good toe control, so walked over to it and then managed to grasp it with her toes, carry it over to the side and get it out. I guess she got lots of cheers and then some funny comments about her muscle control.
She got back shortly after me and then we had lunch. Sandwiches were the order of the day and they were very good. She gets really good cheese here and although it looks like process cheese, it is more like brick cheese. After lunch I went to play pool. Played for a couple of hours with some characters. We had a new guy play, who although he could play pretty well, created an interesting change in the game. It was all good and we all had fun. Marg spent the afternoon visiting with folks to get a party organized. It is the 50th anniversary of a couple in the park who have been long time residents here. Richard has been an employee of the park and has helped almost everyone here at some time & calls bingo, so quite popular. She got permission to use the hall and then people to help with the cake, ice cream, coffee, etc. all for next Friday. I guess the couple are really excited that it's going to happen, it will be great.
Happy hour was a bit longer affair today. Although I only take one beer, Larry was in party mode and wouldn't hear of a couple of us leaving so opened some beers to keep things going. Then we got into a malt beverage and the thing had all the earmarks of a runaway. in fact when I got up to leave, Marg was long gone, to get supper ready. Sometimes I am easily led astray & I usually find the kind of guys who are more than willing to do that. Not really sure how that happens.
Supper was bbq and the potato salad. There is no such thing as bad potato salad, some are just better than others. It was great. Timely too as it was poker night and not much time to spare. After supper Marg had all the laundry together, so I helped load it up and drive to the laundry room. It's close to the poker room, so not too worry folks, it wasn't too far out of my way. LOL. Poker was fun tonight, had a new player there too. A fellow Albertan who originally came from the area around Falher. I made out OK, although I think I lost a bit, nothing too serious. When I got home the laundry was done and Marg was just packing up. A very pleasant evening as the heat of the day cooled down.
The day started off nice, a bit windy, but that made the heat pleasant. Gerry came and we went to Apache Sun for golf with the group from the park. A perfect morning to play and we had a good turnout, with no vacant spots in the tee times. I hit some very good shots, but had my share of duds as well and in the end had a slightly better than average round. I never lost a ball, which is always one of my success criteria and I got a par on the last hole, so left with a smile.
Marg got some of the stuff prepared and made a potato salad for supper. She knows how I love potato salad in the summer and well it's very much like summer here. Later she went to water aerobics and it was a great day to be in the pool. They had a good turnout and had a few laughs as well. One of the ladies discovered a screw lying on the bottom and in spite of several of them attempting to remove it, they couldn't bring it up. Marg said she had pretty good toe control, so walked over to it and then managed to grasp it with her toes, carry it over to the side and get it out. I guess she got lots of cheers and then some funny comments about her muscle control.
She got back shortly after me and then we had lunch. Sandwiches were the order of the day and they were very good. She gets really good cheese here and although it looks like process cheese, it is more like brick cheese. After lunch I went to play pool. Played for a couple of hours with some characters. We had a new guy play, who although he could play pretty well, created an interesting change in the game. It was all good and we all had fun. Marg spent the afternoon visiting with folks to get a party organized. It is the 50th anniversary of a couple in the park who have been long time residents here. Richard has been an employee of the park and has helped almost everyone here at some time & calls bingo, so quite popular. She got permission to use the hall and then people to help with the cake, ice cream, coffee, etc. all for next Friday. I guess the couple are really excited that it's going to happen, it will be great.
Happy hour was a bit longer affair today. Although I only take one beer, Larry was in party mode and wouldn't hear of a couple of us leaving so opened some beers to keep things going. Then we got into a malt beverage and the thing had all the earmarks of a runaway. in fact when I got up to leave, Marg was long gone, to get supper ready. Sometimes I am easily led astray & I usually find the kind of guys who are more than willing to do that. Not really sure how that happens.
Supper was bbq and the potato salad. There is no such thing as bad potato salad, some are just better than others. It was great. Timely too as it was poker night and not much time to spare. After supper Marg had all the laundry together, so I helped load it up and drive to the laundry room. It's close to the poker room, so not too worry folks, it wasn't too far out of my way. LOL. Poker was fun tonight, had a new player there too. A fellow Albertan who originally came from the area around Falher. I made out OK, although I think I lost a bit, nothing too serious. When I got home the laundry was done and Marg was just packing up. A very pleasant evening as the heat of the day cooled down.
Tuesday 16 February 2016
Tuesday
A nice day and I went out for a bike ride with about 7 guys this AM. A couple turned back early, but the rest of us rode up to Idaho, down to the school and back for a total of about 8 miles. By the time we got back the daytime heat was beginning to build and it turned out to be a hot one. We weren't alone as we came across many walkers, runners, bikers this morning all with the same idea as us, get some exercise before it gets too hot. A perfect morning for the ride!
It was nice when I got home as Marg had baked cinnamon buns, so sat down to a couple of nice fresh buns. Had a quick shower and then we went down to the Superstition mall. Unfortunately there was a collision at a main intersection on Power, so traffic was backed up a long way. We made it around using some side streets and got to Burlington Coat, then Ross's, then TJ Maxx all in pretty good time. Marg checked them out pretty closely, but nothing came home with her. I finished a pocket book in the truck and even managed to find a bit of shade to park in. Marg said it seems the stores are carrying less selection this year, anticipating a the slower shopper traffic. The good news is we were back in the park for lunch, so able to do some other stuff.
I went to play pool, a good day for that. Marg went to Fry's and the Farmers market. She picked up a bunch of groceries and some nice fresh oranges. They don't seem to have harvested them yet this year and the ones we have been buying are fabulous. The oranges here are one of the highlights, they really are excellent. Sounded like there may be a potato salad in our future, now there is something to look forward to. I played pool with some pretty good guys and we managed to have a few laughs doing it. There was a bluegrass jam session on in the hall, but neither of us went. It was well attended, but just not our thing.
We sat around for a bit after, sometimes we need a break in all the stuff going on, so we do a time out for ourselves. We had a nice chicken and rice dinner that Marg put together. It was bingo in the hall tonight, but neither of us won. Kenny and Doris each won twice, so they were way ahead of the game. It was one of those nights to tell everyone how close we were without winning.
It was nice when I got home as Marg had baked cinnamon buns, so sat down to a couple of nice fresh buns. Had a quick shower and then we went down to the Superstition mall. Unfortunately there was a collision at a main intersection on Power, so traffic was backed up a long way. We made it around using some side streets and got to Burlington Coat, then Ross's, then TJ Maxx all in pretty good time. Marg checked them out pretty closely, but nothing came home with her. I finished a pocket book in the truck and even managed to find a bit of shade to park in. Marg said it seems the stores are carrying less selection this year, anticipating a the slower shopper traffic. The good news is we were back in the park for lunch, so able to do some other stuff.
I went to play pool, a good day for that. Marg went to Fry's and the Farmers market. She picked up a bunch of groceries and some nice fresh oranges. They don't seem to have harvested them yet this year and the ones we have been buying are fabulous. The oranges here are one of the highlights, they really are excellent. Sounded like there may be a potato salad in our future, now there is something to look forward to. I played pool with some pretty good guys and we managed to have a few laughs doing it. There was a bluegrass jam session on in the hall, but neither of us went. It was well attended, but just not our thing.
We sat around for a bit after, sometimes we need a break in all the stuff going on, so we do a time out for ourselves. We had a nice chicken and rice dinner that Marg put together. It was bingo in the hall tonight, but neither of us won. Kenny and Doris each won twice, so they were way ahead of the game. It was one of those nights to tell everyone how close we were without winning.
Monday 15 February 2016
February 15th - A Monday
The day started out nice, but the wind blew from the northeast out of the mountains. Morning came early [7:30] as we never got to bed until 2AM. One of Lynette's daughters came in on a late [delayed] flight last night [12:15 arrival]and we couldn't see her going to the airport in the dark and offered to drive her for the pick up. By the time she got her luggage and what not, it was 2 when we finally made it to bed. My internal clock figured it was my normal time to get up, so I did. I wanted to be up to go riding with Larry as I knew most of the other guys were golfing, so he would be looking for a biking partner. With the wind we only went a little over 3 miles, but a good workout anyway. We rode past the 5th wheel trailer on Teepee that was pulled out of our park. I forgot to mention that, but a few nights ago at 9:30 Marg heard a racket and a bunch pulling out a trailer in the dark. The made a bit of a mess of it, but it turned out to be a long story about a woman renting it and the park lot rent was not paid, so they pulled it out. They didn't crank up the rear stabilizer jacks, so they made lots of noise dragging them down the road, ultimately parking it about 2 blocks away on the roadside. They bent the jacks up pretty badly and who knows what else. Anyway Larry & I rode by to check it out, it almost seems like they must know the person who lives in the house it's sitting in front of.
Marg was up by the time I left as she must have had the same problem I did. By the time I got back she had her coffee and a few visitors already. We went out to get a couple of things at Walmart, but mainly a new battery for my wrist watch. It is a major inconvenience when I don't have the watch, so it was nice to get it back in working order again. When we returned, Kenny stopped by and he was having some email problems with his phone. He was trying to send some pictures of the Colt .45 to a gun dealer who advertised looking for old war firearms. I took pictures of his pistol and then sent them to the person, who apparently lives in Payson. By the end of the day he still had not heard from them, but I am pretty certain the email went thru.
After I cleaned my Calloway's from golfing yesterday. The course was quite wet under the turf in many areas and I just about always take a divot, so they were well caked with mud. They do have watering systems, but Encanto also floods the fairways every so often for irrigation, which leads to the mud problem. The I pulled off a portion of the skirting on the trailer as it was pushed in and out of straight. It took quite a bit of cleanup before I could put in the new trim piece and then re-assemble it. Marg had a facetime with Roger and Vanessa from home in the morning to keep up to date on what they are up to. As soon as that was done, Marg had French Toast made for lunch. It is one of my fav's so a great reason to stop. We never had syrup, but used honey on it instead, which turned out to be fortunate as it was very good.
Had the best of plans for the afternoon, but I fell asleep. I believe I had a nap for about 1 1/2 hrs, so quite a while. This doesn't happen very often, but the day was really warming up and I was feeling the effects of not having a full nights rest. While I was doing that Marg put away most of the things I had out and got the chairs, etc all put back. After I got mobile, we hung a couple of pictures in the Az room that Marg had picked up for that purpose.
I had intended to take my driver to the driving range to see what the new hand grip is like, and hopefully get back on good terms with it; but by now it was Happy hour at Johnson's, so went there for a bit of gossip and then over to the spaghetti dinner in the hall. Patti & Gary's crew do this once every winter and it is always a hit. I think they fed over 100 people tonight and its a good excuse to get together with friends. I like pasta anyway, so it didn't take any convincing to go.
It was another cloudless sunny day in the AJ, with temperatures in the mid 80's, so a very nice day. Maybe tomorrow I will see if the driver can come out of the penalty box and get back into the game.
Marg was up by the time I left as she must have had the same problem I did. By the time I got back she had her coffee and a few visitors already. We went out to get a couple of things at Walmart, but mainly a new battery for my wrist watch. It is a major inconvenience when I don't have the watch, so it was nice to get it back in working order again. When we returned, Kenny stopped by and he was having some email problems with his phone. He was trying to send some pictures of the Colt .45 to a gun dealer who advertised looking for old war firearms. I took pictures of his pistol and then sent them to the person, who apparently lives in Payson. By the end of the day he still had not heard from them, but I am pretty certain the email went thru.
After I cleaned my Calloway's from golfing yesterday. The course was quite wet under the turf in many areas and I just about always take a divot, so they were well caked with mud. They do have watering systems, but Encanto also floods the fairways every so often for irrigation, which leads to the mud problem. The I pulled off a portion of the skirting on the trailer as it was pushed in and out of straight. It took quite a bit of cleanup before I could put in the new trim piece and then re-assemble it. Marg had a facetime with Roger and Vanessa from home in the morning to keep up to date on what they are up to. As soon as that was done, Marg had French Toast made for lunch. It is one of my fav's so a great reason to stop. We never had syrup, but used honey on it instead, which turned out to be fortunate as it was very good.
Had the best of plans for the afternoon, but I fell asleep. I believe I had a nap for about 1 1/2 hrs, so quite a while. This doesn't happen very often, but the day was really warming up and I was feeling the effects of not having a full nights rest. While I was doing that Marg put away most of the things I had out and got the chairs, etc all put back. After I got mobile, we hung a couple of pictures in the Az room that Marg had picked up for that purpose.
I had intended to take my driver to the driving range to see what the new hand grip is like, and hopefully get back on good terms with it; but by now it was Happy hour at Johnson's, so went there for a bit of gossip and then over to the spaghetti dinner in the hall. Patti & Gary's crew do this once every winter and it is always a hit. I think they fed over 100 people tonight and its a good excuse to get together with friends. I like pasta anyway, so it didn't take any convincing to go.
It was another cloudless sunny day in the AJ, with temperatures in the mid 80's, so a very nice day. Maybe tomorrow I will see if the driver can come out of the penalty box and get back into the game.
Sunday 14 February 2016
Valentines Day!
Happy Valentines day everyone!
Woke up at a good hour, well I think it was. My watch battery gave up during the night and it is hard to get accustomed to not knowing the time of day. I carry the cell phone, but it's not as convenient as looking at a wrist watch. Had a bite to eat and a coffee, then it was time to go, missing out on the bike ride and church service this morning. I played golf with Gerry at Encanto today. The course was nice shape, except a little muddy from the overnight flood. We had both checked with our valentines before going and were encouraged to play. We were paired with a couple from Illinois and the day went well. Traffic was light going to downtown Phoenix, but the 202 around here was closed off, so it was fortunate I left with lots of time to spare as the detour was long and slow. It was a warm day and went through 2 bottles of water and a big bottle of Gatorade. That stuff is amazing for re-energizing the body on a hot day and keeping hydrated
Marg did some cleaning in the park model, this place is always a bit dusty. They are never real air tight which combined with the regular wind and dust off the desert always leaves something to do. She went for a walk through the park and stopped in to visit with several people, keeping up on what is happening and then she had a regular parade of people stopping in to chat with her.
Golf went pretty good and I was back at the park around 4 pm, after a stop for fuel. Gasoline today was $1.49/ gallon, about the cheapest so far this winter. For you people north of the border that would work out to about 39 cents a litre, so could barely put $30 in an almost empty tank, pretty amazing really. I know this is not good news to anyone working in the oil patch, but it's been a long time since we have seen prices like this.
Got back in time for a shower and for a dinner date as the 202 was again open to traffic. We had arranged to go to the Golden Corral for dinner with a group of friends from the park here. We rode with Stan & Judy, they have a new Toyota van, very nice. The place was crowded and lined up, but they do a good job of handling that, so our wait was not overly lengthy. Considering there were 12 of us, seating was very quick. It made for a fun evening.
Woke up at a good hour, well I think it was. My watch battery gave up during the night and it is hard to get accustomed to not knowing the time of day. I carry the cell phone, but it's not as convenient as looking at a wrist watch. Had a bite to eat and a coffee, then it was time to go, missing out on the bike ride and church service this morning. I played golf with Gerry at Encanto today. The course was nice shape, except a little muddy from the overnight flood. We had both checked with our valentines before going and were encouraged to play. We were paired with a couple from Illinois and the day went well. Traffic was light going to downtown Phoenix, but the 202 around here was closed off, so it was fortunate I left with lots of time to spare as the detour was long and slow. It was a warm day and went through 2 bottles of water and a big bottle of Gatorade. That stuff is amazing for re-energizing the body on a hot day and keeping hydrated
Marg did some cleaning in the park model, this place is always a bit dusty. They are never real air tight which combined with the regular wind and dust off the desert always leaves something to do. She went for a walk through the park and stopped in to visit with several people, keeping up on what is happening and then she had a regular parade of people stopping in to chat with her.
Golf went pretty good and I was back at the park around 4 pm, after a stop for fuel. Gasoline today was $1.49/ gallon, about the cheapest so far this winter. For you people north of the border that would work out to about 39 cents a litre, so could barely put $30 in an almost empty tank, pretty amazing really. I know this is not good news to anyone working in the oil patch, but it's been a long time since we have seen prices like this.
Saturday 13 February 2016
Saturday, Feb 13th
Saturday morning is breakfast in the hall, if you have been following along, well for me anyway, Marg, like many of the wives, doesn't do breakfast. She thinks yogurt at 10 AM is breakfast, it's really more like brunch! LOL It was a little different this morning as they had ham instead of sausage links and the pancake maker used cinnamon in them. I liked them, it was a nice change.
After I had to duck out on the bike ride as I had committed to taking Marg to a few park sales. There was a big one down south on Baseline. It was in a huge park and there were quite a few vendors, but according to Marg all we came across was junk. For my money that would be about 90% of all of the sales I have ever been to.
When that was done we went out to the Mesa market where I got my driver, the Taylor Made burner, re-gripped. Since playing without a glove last week, I did something radical, I bought a new style of glove, it has the fingers cut out off and I can hardly wait to see how it works. The most significant change I made was to buy a new style of hat. After Marg going on about the effect of the sun and the need to cover, I bought a had with a brim all around so it covers the ears. When I paid for it, the sales lady asked if I was Canadian as she noticed the flag on my P2K cap. When I said I was, she gave me back a dollar saying she knows how bad our dollar is and she wanted to thank me for shopping with them and as a gesture of how important she felt the Canadians are to their economy wanted me to take the reduced price on the hat. She also said it was heart breaking to see so many friends selling out and not being able to return next year. We were kind of startled, but Marg has heard similar sentiments from other sales people.
When we got back it was time for lunch. There was no one playing pool today, so we visited a bit with Blanke's. It was Kenny's mail day, and he had a bunch of letters to mail, so we took his outgoing mail to the post office for him. We had to go out to pick up ice cream for the celebration this afternoon. It was a party for Jerry & Susie on the occasion of their 60th anniversary and Marg had volunteered to provide the ice cream to go with the cake. The party was well attended by park residents and well appreciated by the Lairs. I took a bunch of pictures that we got prints of for them that Marg dropped off to a very appreciative couple. We also got one of Kenny & me at Cabala's with the pistol yesterday.
By then it was happy hour and there were quite a few partaking today. That was where I gave Kenny his picture and after a bunch of questions, he went to get his WW1 pistol to show the guys. It was a hit and he enjoyed being able to show it off. It got lots of ooh's and aw's; not often you see something like that and pretty much every guy there but me has at least one pistol.
Supper was a stir fry and bbq pork chops, which was very nice. It was a good night to bbq; another hot day, but that's what we came here for isn't it?
After I had to duck out on the bike ride as I had committed to taking Marg to a few park sales. There was a big one down south on Baseline. It was in a huge park and there were quite a few vendors, but according to Marg all we came across was junk. For my money that would be about 90% of all of the sales I have ever been to.
When that was done we went out to the Mesa market where I got my driver, the Taylor Made burner, re-gripped. Since playing without a glove last week, I did something radical, I bought a new style of glove, it has the fingers cut out off and I can hardly wait to see how it works. The most significant change I made was to buy a new style of hat. After Marg going on about the effect of the sun and the need to cover, I bought a had with a brim all around so it covers the ears. When I paid for it, the sales lady asked if I was Canadian as she noticed the flag on my P2K cap. When I said I was, she gave me back a dollar saying she knows how bad our dollar is and she wanted to thank me for shopping with them and as a gesture of how important she felt the Canadians are to their economy wanted me to take the reduced price on the hat. She also said it was heart breaking to see so many friends selling out and not being able to return next year. We were kind of startled, but Marg has heard similar sentiments from other sales people.
When we got back it was time for lunch. There was no one playing pool today, so we visited a bit with Blanke's. It was Kenny's mail day, and he had a bunch of letters to mail, so we took his outgoing mail to the post office for him. We had to go out to pick up ice cream for the celebration this afternoon. It was a party for Jerry & Susie on the occasion of their 60th anniversary and Marg had volunteered to provide the ice cream to go with the cake. The party was well attended by park residents and well appreciated by the Lairs. I took a bunch of pictures that we got prints of for them that Marg dropped off to a very appreciative couple. We also got one of Kenny & me at Cabala's with the pistol yesterday.
By then it was happy hour and there were quite a few partaking today. That was where I gave Kenny his picture and after a bunch of questions, he went to get his WW1 pistol to show the guys. It was a hit and he enjoyed being able to show it off. It got lots of ooh's and aw's; not often you see something like that and pretty much every guy there but me has at least one pistol.
Supper was a stir fry and bbq pork chops, which was very nice. It was a good night to bbq; another hot day, but that's what we came here for isn't it?
Friday 12 February 2016
Friday
A nice day, started off a bit cool, surprisingly cool for how hot it has been. I went for a bike ride with the guys. It was a good day to ride as there was no wind and it only started to warm right up while we were riding. Larry and I made about 5 miles today, not sure about the other 3 guys, but they likely went quite a bit further.
When I got back, Marg had left for water aerobics group. They had a good turnout with 10 for splash & thrash, but she said the pool was too warm [over 90F] for her and although many of them liked it, I think Marg would have liked it a lot lower. Just shows how hot it is here, the pool is solar heated. I did a few repairs around the place while she was gone, nothing too serious.
When she got back we had nachos for lunch. She found some mango salsa again. We had it in prior years, but couldn't find it at home when we got back to GP. We may have to take a couple of jars of it back with us. It makes for a great lunch when it is too hot too cook inside and the sun was already rapidly warming up the day. We watched the news at lunch and it was full of the two young ladies/girls who died at one of the high schools in Glendale today. Pretty sad when young lives end prematurely; it turns out they were in a relationship that one wanted to end and it became a murder/suicide.
Kenny & Doris stopped by shortly after, we had agreed to go to Glendale with them to Cabalas. They have a gun library there where they buy & sell used guns and Kenny wanted to get an idea of what his model 1911 Colt .45 was worth. I drove and we went right through the centre of Phoenix on the 202/I 10 and it was very busy, slow going through the city centre. I think it might have been related to the shooting as several roads were closed off. They took a long time evaluating his pistol and in the end gave him an offer. He didn't accept it, wanting to see what his options are. I personally think they gave him a bit of a low offer, however I am not familiar with how they determine values. The approach they use is to evaluate it and establish a retail value against which they offer 65%. Kenny also wanted to look at a couple of pistols: one a revolver they advertised and the other a .380 Kimber, but never picked one up. An interesting process that gave both of us some interesting insights in the process. Marg was the only successful one, picking up a pair of shorts.
The way back was very busy
as well with a couple of collisions on the freeway to add to the confusion. The area right downtown shown in the picture has 9 or 10 lanes of traffic As usual, it got a lot better after we got through the area where the 101 exits on the 202 are in the Tempe/Scottsdale area. After we got through there we stopped at Cracker Barrel for supper. It is one of Kenny's favourites and we enjoy it as well. We had a great waitress and the food was good. There was one out in Glendale, but we elected to drive to the one in Mesa as it was closer to home and with the travel a better time to eat.
When we got back to the park, it was time for the Animal races, so Marg made a pot of coffee and we headed down there. Marg won 3 races, I won 4 of the 8 held. It was a bit of a smaller crowd, but still good for a few laughs. The elephant only won once and that's always good for a humorous time in the room.
When I got back, Marg had left for water aerobics group. They had a good turnout with 10 for splash & thrash, but she said the pool was too warm [over 90F] for her and although many of them liked it, I think Marg would have liked it a lot lower. Just shows how hot it is here, the pool is solar heated. I did a few repairs around the place while she was gone, nothing too serious.
When she got back we had nachos for lunch. She found some mango salsa again. We had it in prior years, but couldn't find it at home when we got back to GP. We may have to take a couple of jars of it back with us. It makes for a great lunch when it is too hot too cook inside and the sun was already rapidly warming up the day. We watched the news at lunch and it was full of the two young ladies/girls who died at one of the high schools in Glendale today. Pretty sad when young lives end prematurely; it turns out they were in a relationship that one wanted to end and it became a murder/suicide.
The way back was very busy
When we got back to the park, it was time for the Animal races, so Marg made a pot of coffee and we headed down there. Marg won 3 races, I won 4 of the 8 held. It was a bit of a smaller crowd, but still good for a few laughs. The elephant only won once and that's always good for a humorous time in the room.
Thursday 11 February 2016
Thursday, Feb 11th
Another gorgeous day in the Valley of the Sun, temps in the 80's without a cloud in the sky. Looks like it will be this warm for at least a week or better and the tan is starting to happen, sort of like making toast, I guess. LOL
Marg & I went to coffee & donuts this morning, good thing too as the donuts were free. We did pretty well in the draw for the order of tables, got to go second, so choices were very good. It was pretty well attended. There was a bit of visiting after this AM, seems no one was in a hurry to get on with the days' activities. Didn't even get all the comments about Marg being a new person in the park.
After we got on the road to go to Mediacom to pay the bill. Their office is just down Ironwood, so only a few minutes from here. I went as well because I wanted to tell them we are still unhappy with the wifi service and that it is no where near what it was in the past 2 years. The girl was great, looked up the account right there and asked about the service call we had earlier. I guess she must have done something when I told her it was a bust, the guy came to the door, saw 2 other crews working in the park and left. Anyway we got a service guy out today, well sort of. He came by to say he didn't have what he needed and would be back tomorrow. You can't make this stuff up, it's really what happened.
Marg had to get going because she was driving Lynette's daughter to the airport at 11 AM. It was the Gateway airport in Gilbert, not the big one in Phoenix. There are 5 or 6 airports in the Phoenix area and the Gateway airport is larger than anything in Alberta, but much smaller than Phoenix with its 4 million passengers a year. Marg asked Nancy to go with them as she doesn't get out that much and they were planning on stopping for lunch before dropping Tammy off. It turns out they had to go right by the American Furniture warehouse, largest one we have ever seen and none of them even knew about it. Then they stopped at the Sweet Tomato restaurant that none of them had ever heard of. Its one of those salad, soup and stuff of that ilk, anyway they all loved it. They think Marg is a star as a tour guide, I guess. The dropped Tammy off after and made their way back in good time, pretty darn good for Marg who is directionally challenged.
I had to make my own lunch again and this is becoming a regular thing for me. Then it was on to the pool tournament today, to play Mountainview. We had a pretty good turnout with 10 players as did the opponents park. My partner and I won one game out of 3, so we never held our own and I think as a team we took a beating. They had some very good players, had to be to beat us, LOL!
After we went to happy hour at Blanke's. They had a big bunch tonight, must have been close to 2 dozen. Marg didn't go as she had a lady come to our unit to cut her hair. It's the same one who has done it in prior years and she generally cuts several others on the same trip. The good news is she is always happy with the cut she gets from this lady and believe me that is not normal, it's usually a lot of handwringing after a cut.
It was out for supper tonight to Ihop. Marg had enjoyed the chicken dinner there so much last time that she had the same tonight. On the way back we stopped at Safeway. I wanted to pick up a 6 pack of Michelob beer for one of the pool players. I had talked him into playing against his objections and he ended up partnered with his objection, so I felt I had to complete an act of contrition. Marg had picked up a few things, so when we got back she wanted to give a few people a cream puff. She had a container of the large [as a bun] ones and 3 of her buddies a couple of them. She said it was just to put a smile on their faces.
Marg & I went to coffee & donuts this morning, good thing too as the donuts were free. We did pretty well in the draw for the order of tables, got to go second, so choices were very good. It was pretty well attended. There was a bit of visiting after this AM, seems no one was in a hurry to get on with the days' activities. Didn't even get all the comments about Marg being a new person in the park.
After we got on the road to go to Mediacom to pay the bill. Their office is just down Ironwood, so only a few minutes from here. I went as well because I wanted to tell them we are still unhappy with the wifi service and that it is no where near what it was in the past 2 years. The girl was great, looked up the account right there and asked about the service call we had earlier. I guess she must have done something when I told her it was a bust, the guy came to the door, saw 2 other crews working in the park and left. Anyway we got a service guy out today, well sort of. He came by to say he didn't have what he needed and would be back tomorrow. You can't make this stuff up, it's really what happened.
Marg had to get going because she was driving Lynette's daughter to the airport at 11 AM. It was the Gateway airport in Gilbert, not the big one in Phoenix. There are 5 or 6 airports in the Phoenix area and the Gateway airport is larger than anything in Alberta, but much smaller than Phoenix with its 4 million passengers a year. Marg asked Nancy to go with them as she doesn't get out that much and they were planning on stopping for lunch before dropping Tammy off. It turns out they had to go right by the American Furniture warehouse, largest one we have ever seen and none of them even knew about it. Then they stopped at the Sweet Tomato restaurant that none of them had ever heard of. Its one of those salad, soup and stuff of that ilk, anyway they all loved it. They think Marg is a star as a tour guide, I guess. The dropped Tammy off after and made their way back in good time, pretty darn good for Marg who is directionally challenged.
I had to make my own lunch again and this is becoming a regular thing for me. Then it was on to the pool tournament today, to play Mountainview. We had a pretty good turnout with 10 players as did the opponents park. My partner and I won one game out of 3, so we never held our own and I think as a team we took a beating. They had some very good players, had to be to beat us, LOL!
After we went to happy hour at Blanke's. They had a big bunch tonight, must have been close to 2 dozen. Marg didn't go as she had a lady come to our unit to cut her hair. It's the same one who has done it in prior years and she generally cuts several others on the same trip. The good news is she is always happy with the cut she gets from this lady and believe me that is not normal, it's usually a lot of handwringing after a cut.
It was out for supper tonight to Ihop. Marg had enjoyed the chicken dinner there so much last time that she had the same tonight. On the way back we stopped at Safeway. I wanted to pick up a 6 pack of Michelob beer for one of the pool players. I had talked him into playing against his objections and he ended up partnered with his objection, so I felt I had to complete an act of contrition. Marg had picked up a few things, so when we got back she wanted to give a few people a cream puff. She had a container of the large [as a bun] ones and 3 of her buddies a couple of them. She said it was just to put a smile on their faces.
Wednesday 10 February 2016
Wednesday
Middle of the week, the day we used to call hump day when we were working. It is halfway between weekends, so all uphill until Wed noon and then it's downhill to the next weekend.
Marg had another early day as the gambling's gals went to the Fort today. One of Lynette's daughters went home already and the other still here so she joined them. It seems going back to Wednesday is not without controversy as the only pots or dishes given away are on Thursday, creating a vacancy. They had a great day and two of the gals won, sadly Marg was donor, so it would appear the lucky bucks from yesterday are just a memory. They all came back in a great mood, so it appears it was the price of fun.
I went golfing with Gerry to Apache Sun. They had a full slate of players, so the pots for the putt and closest to the pin were pretty good. Gerry won the closest tee shot and had a good game. I had a much better game today as well. I played without a glove, because one of the guys did it and it helped his game. My driver worked much better without it as did most of the other clubs. My other driver has been turning in my hand, making it difficult to be consistent with it. The guys suggested a new grip & I think that is where it is headed on the weekend. It was a bit cool at the start, but really warmed up and was a very pleasant day to play. My score ended up better than average, for me anyway, so it was all good.
When I got back I found that the lunch lady had skipped, so had to make my own. I usually make something Marg won't have any part of. Today was no exception, a cheese sandwich, but instead of mayo, I put strawberry jam on it for spread. It's kind of a throw-back to my bachelor days & that is a major throw! After lunch I went to play pool. I got in with some good players, in fact one used to do trick shots and play for some pretty serious money. Although that was a few years back and he has developed a condition that keeps him out of that stuff, Dick is still an excellent player. It was a fun group even if I did play the losing side a few times.
Happy hour started out with just Larry & me, but by the time the gamblin' gals got back it was a full house. It was pretty lively today and there were a couple of new people who although they were previously in the park, it was before we were here. It was pretty much everyone talking, no one listening, so a good thing I got there early and chatted with Larry before the hoard descended on the place. When the gals got in, we went home and made supper. Tonight it was some of those really good deal steaks, baked potato & vegetables; followed by a small dish of ice cream & a cookie.
After supper I went to play poker with the guys. We had a decent turnout and a good time. I ended up winning some hands, so came away a bit ahead. My trip there was pretty funny. Marg had been chatting with Patti about leftovers when she said Gary loved them. So guess what, she sent me with to drop off at their place. It turns out Gary was by the room where we play, so I just left him with the leftovers, telling him that by telling her he liked leftovers, he can expect more of the same. LOL, the good news is I won't be eating a bunch of them. Marg had company most of the time I was gone, she is such a social butterfly.
Marg had another early day as the gambling's gals went to the Fort today. One of Lynette's daughters went home already and the other still here so she joined them. It seems going back to Wednesday is not without controversy as the only pots or dishes given away are on Thursday, creating a vacancy. They had a great day and two of the gals won, sadly Marg was donor, so it would appear the lucky bucks from yesterday are just a memory. They all came back in a great mood, so it appears it was the price of fun.
I went golfing with Gerry to Apache Sun. They had a full slate of players, so the pots for the putt and closest to the pin were pretty good. Gerry won the closest tee shot and had a good game. I had a much better game today as well. I played without a glove, because one of the guys did it and it helped his game. My driver worked much better without it as did most of the other clubs. My other driver has been turning in my hand, making it difficult to be consistent with it. The guys suggested a new grip & I think that is where it is headed on the weekend. It was a bit cool at the start, but really warmed up and was a very pleasant day to play. My score ended up better than average, for me anyway, so it was all good.
When I got back I found that the lunch lady had skipped, so had to make my own. I usually make something Marg won't have any part of. Today was no exception, a cheese sandwich, but instead of mayo, I put strawberry jam on it for spread. It's kind of a throw-back to my bachelor days & that is a major throw! After lunch I went to play pool. I got in with some good players, in fact one used to do trick shots and play for some pretty serious money. Although that was a few years back and he has developed a condition that keeps him out of that stuff, Dick is still an excellent player. It was a fun group even if I did play the losing side a few times.
Happy hour started out with just Larry & me, but by the time the gamblin' gals got back it was a full house. It was pretty lively today and there were a couple of new people who although they were previously in the park, it was before we were here. It was pretty much everyone talking, no one listening, so a good thing I got there early and chatted with Larry before the hoard descended on the place. When the gals got in, we went home and made supper. Tonight it was some of those really good deal steaks, baked potato & vegetables; followed by a small dish of ice cream & a cookie.
After supper I went to play poker with the guys. We had a decent turnout and a good time. I ended up winning some hands, so came away a bit ahead. My trip there was pretty funny. Marg had been chatting with Patti about leftovers when she said Gary loved them. So guess what, she sent me with to drop off at their place. It turns out Gary was by the room where we play, so I just left him with the leftovers, telling him that by telling her he liked leftovers, he can expect more of the same. LOL, the good news is I won't be eating a bunch of them. Marg had company most of the time I was gone, she is such a social butterfly.
Tuesday 9 February 2016
Tuesday
Well the weather has made a drastic change this week. We changed out to cotton sheets and the heat never even came on last night. It got pretty hot today, in fact it was an all-time record for this date at 88F. I can feel the effect of the sun on my arms and neck from yesterday on the course.
Marg has been really tired after getting up before 7AM several days in a row, so has been retiring a bit earlier and consequently has been up and at em' early these days. In fact she is complaining it is like jet lag and has her body clock all messed up and is now getting up and about around 7 every morning, not what she signed up for. Pretty funny stuff!
I got myself organized and went for a bike ride this AM. There were 8 of us this morning and the wind was blowing pretty strong out of the mountains. We took a different route that accommodated anyone wanting to take a short course. Larry felt it was too windy for a long ride, so turned off. We are a bit like the marines, we leave no man behind, so I turned off with him. We still made just over 3 miles and with half into the wind, it was still a decent workout. Besides Marg wanted to do laundry this AM and I wanted to be back to give her a hand. You might be skeptical about what I mean by that, well I carry the large hamper and other things full of clothes, the laundry soaps and such and in the Laundromat I put the soap, softener and bleach in the machines and then help fold and hang stuff. The locations for the soap and stuff is on top of these machines and not well situated for anyone vertically challenged, as the reservoirs or openings are hard to see when you can't see over the machines.
Got the laundry done, not a favourite chore of anyone. It is always full of the oddest folks you will ever see anyplace. The lady who runs it is great and in spite of all the confusion and activity has a very sunny disposition. Marg really likes the machines there: type, size [capacity] & number of them. I think she said they are triple load machines. It really doesn't make much difference from the laundry in the park, except for the travel and it goes faster with the large machines.
After getting back, Marg hung things and put other stuff away. I went out back and cleaned my golf clubs. They don't have sprinklers to water the course, instead they flood I at night. When taking a divot it results in many muddy clubs and the stuff dries on them quickly, filling the grooves and what not. That didn't take long, so I put some primer on a few areas where we had some stains, mainly on the ceiling. Then I pulled the patio door out. The door has been dragging and it felt like the wheels were broken. When I got them out, it turned out he bearings cratered so not rolling or doing their job at all. At Best hardware they stock all this stuff, even for older models like ours, so I was successful in getting 2 replacement kits. As luck would have it these were some of the more expensive models, but they were a must have. When I installed them, it made a world of difference, the door just glides now and we have to be very deliberate in trying to not slam it
While I was doing this Marg had gone to Patti's where they were having a farewell for Susie as she will be leaving next week to go back to Iowa. There were about a dozen ladies and they had a few drinks and snacks and shared stories to laugh about, mainly about husbands I would guess. Marg told the one about me doing laundry at home by phoning Char in Birmingham which apparently had them rolling in laughter. Not sure where the humour was in that?
Supper was out of the slow cooker. Marg had put it in just in case she didn't feel like cooking after their party, or whatever [blasted??]. It was really good and it made for an easy evening so we could go to bingo. Bingo tonight was something else. Both Marg and I won regular games and then she won a second time, but called bingo on the money ball so got to share that jackpot with another winner. She was close all night and in fact on the final full card game was waiting on one number. She was getting self-conscious about it and hoping that someone else would win. Me I would have just given my card to Gerry or Deb and had them call a winner out, but it wasn't a problem. All her buddies made quite a fuss over it and I believe the lucky money is headed to the Fort with her tomorrow. LOL.
Marg has been really tired after getting up before 7AM several days in a row, so has been retiring a bit earlier and consequently has been up and at em' early these days. In fact she is complaining it is like jet lag and has her body clock all messed up and is now getting up and about around 7 every morning, not what she signed up for. Pretty funny stuff!
I got myself organized and went for a bike ride this AM. There were 8 of us this morning and the wind was blowing pretty strong out of the mountains. We took a different route that accommodated anyone wanting to take a short course. Larry felt it was too windy for a long ride, so turned off. We are a bit like the marines, we leave no man behind, so I turned off with him. We still made just over 3 miles and with half into the wind, it was still a decent workout. Besides Marg wanted to do laundry this AM and I wanted to be back to give her a hand. You might be skeptical about what I mean by that, well I carry the large hamper and other things full of clothes, the laundry soaps and such and in the Laundromat I put the soap, softener and bleach in the machines and then help fold and hang stuff. The locations for the soap and stuff is on top of these machines and not well situated for anyone vertically challenged, as the reservoirs or openings are hard to see when you can't see over the machines.
Got the laundry done, not a favourite chore of anyone. It is always full of the oddest folks you will ever see anyplace. The lady who runs it is great and in spite of all the confusion and activity has a very sunny disposition. Marg really likes the machines there: type, size [capacity] & number of them. I think she said they are triple load machines. It really doesn't make much difference from the laundry in the park, except for the travel and it goes faster with the large machines.
After getting back, Marg hung things and put other stuff away. I went out back and cleaned my golf clubs. They don't have sprinklers to water the course, instead they flood I at night. When taking a divot it results in many muddy clubs and the stuff dries on them quickly, filling the grooves and what not. That didn't take long, so I put some primer on a few areas where we had some stains, mainly on the ceiling. Then I pulled the patio door out. The door has been dragging and it felt like the wheels were broken. When I got them out, it turned out he bearings cratered so not rolling or doing their job at all. At Best hardware they stock all this stuff, even for older models like ours, so I was successful in getting 2 replacement kits. As luck would have it these were some of the more expensive models, but they were a must have. When I installed them, it made a world of difference, the door just glides now and we have to be very deliberate in trying to not slam it
While I was doing this Marg had gone to Patti's where they were having a farewell for Susie as she will be leaving next week to go back to Iowa. There were about a dozen ladies and they had a few drinks and snacks and shared stories to laugh about, mainly about husbands I would guess. Marg told the one about me doing laundry at home by phoning Char in Birmingham which apparently had them rolling in laughter. Not sure where the humour was in that?
Supper was out of the slow cooker. Marg had put it in just in case she didn't feel like cooking after their party, or whatever [blasted??]. It was really good and it made for an easy evening so we could go to bingo. Bingo tonight was something else. Both Marg and I won regular games and then she won a second time, but called bingo on the money ball so got to share that jackpot with another winner. She was close all night and in fact on the final full card game was waiting on one number. She was getting self-conscious about it and hoping that someone else would win. Me I would have just given my card to Gerry or Deb and had them call a winner out, but it wasn't a problem. All her buddies made quite a fuss over it and I believe the lucky money is headed to the Fort with her tomorrow. LOL.
Monday 8 February 2016
Monday, February 8th
Happy birthday to Lyzi & Bill. Hope you both had a nice day for your special day.
I got up and went for a bike ride with the guys this morning. The weather really warmed up, but it was blowing pretty hard off the mountains today. There were only four of us and two of them went a bit farther as Larry & I turned off early and only made about 3 miles today. It was tough going against the wind and we didn't want to overdo it.
Marg went to water aerobics this morning. It was fabulous in the pool, but the wind made it a bit chilly to get out, but they had about 10 ladies anyway. With the nicer weather trend starting, it will likely be more popular now. She stayed for quite a while after they finished and enjoyed the pool, you know how much she likes hanging out in the pool!
Meanwhile, Gerry had managed to get our tee time changed to a foursome, but a little later in the day. Gene & Gary W. both rode with me and we met him at Encanto. The course was fairly busy, but play moved right along and it was nice having a foursome. When just the two of us play it's like a lottery, sometimes we are paired with good people to play with, other times, not so much. It was a perfect day for golf, the little bit of wind made it pleasant. The sun shone and it was warm, I think in the 80's; the temp gauge on the truck read 28C when I was driving back. I ked the guys about their most attractive feature being I get to drive in the HOV lane, LOL. All kidding aside, it makes quite a difference in the travel time. Oh yeh, how did I play, about average. The front 9 really went well, the back 9, not so good, but they were good guys to play with and we enjoyed the day.
Marg had lots of visitors today both at the park model and while she was out and about. It's almost impossible to walk about in the park without visiting with folks. There are lots of new people in the park this year and she chatted a few of them. We generally try to do that, as we appreciated it when we used to move about, sort of makes you feel welcome. RV'ers are generally chatty folks anyway, probably comes from being in the unit with just your spouse all day, LOL!
Marg had supper on the stove when I got home, so got to sit right down and eat. It was a form of stir fry and was good. Pretty hard to predict when I will be back because of the distance and volume of traffic, but she does a pretty amazing job to coping with it. After supper we had a facetime with Bill for his birthday. He showed us his present from Patti; a Bronco's helmet autographed by Peyton Manning. Just for the guy who has everything.
I got up and went for a bike ride with the guys this morning. The weather really warmed up, but it was blowing pretty hard off the mountains today. There were only four of us and two of them went a bit farther as Larry & I turned off early and only made about 3 miles today. It was tough going against the wind and we didn't want to overdo it.
Marg went to water aerobics this morning. It was fabulous in the pool, but the wind made it a bit chilly to get out, but they had about 10 ladies anyway. With the nicer weather trend starting, it will likely be more popular now. She stayed for quite a while after they finished and enjoyed the pool, you know how much she likes hanging out in the pool!
Meanwhile, Gerry had managed to get our tee time changed to a foursome, but a little later in the day. Gene & Gary W. both rode with me and we met him at Encanto. The course was fairly busy, but play moved right along and it was nice having a foursome. When just the two of us play it's like a lottery, sometimes we are paired with good people to play with, other times, not so much. It was a perfect day for golf, the little bit of wind made it pleasant. The sun shone and it was warm, I think in the 80's; the temp gauge on the truck read 28C when I was driving back. I ked the guys about their most attractive feature being I get to drive in the HOV lane, LOL. All kidding aside, it makes quite a difference in the travel time. Oh yeh, how did I play, about average. The front 9 really went well, the back 9, not so good, but they were good guys to play with and we enjoyed the day.
Marg had lots of visitors today both at the park model and while she was out and about. It's almost impossible to walk about in the park without visiting with folks. There are lots of new people in the park this year and she chatted a few of them. We generally try to do that, as we appreciated it when we used to move about, sort of makes you feel welcome. RV'ers are generally chatty folks anyway, probably comes from being in the unit with just your spouse all day, LOL!
Marg had supper on the stove when I got home, so got to sit right down and eat. It was a form of stir fry and was good. Pretty hard to predict when I will be back because of the distance and volume of traffic, but she does a pretty amazing job to coping with it. After supper we had a facetime with Bill for his birthday. He showed us his present from Patti; a Bronco's helmet autographed by Peyton Manning. Just for the guy who has everything.
Sunday 7 February 2016
Sunday, February 7th
Happy birthday Daniel, a teenager today! Hope your day was special!
Got up and went to the church service in the hall this morning. Well I got there a few minutes late, so snuck in and sat at the back of the room. Although it did not go unnoticed, it was nice of the pastor not to mention it. He and his wife will be celebrating their anniversary next week so he asked me to take a picture of them, a new one for his fb account. I was more than happy to do it, just hope one of the pictures I took turns out to be a good one. I think it was just his way of making me feel welcome, actually. Anyway it was a nice gesture. I didn't stay for the fellowship, use a line my mother used to use: I can't be late twice in one day, so having arrived late, would have to leave early.
When I got back we called Daniel on facetime and had a nice chat with both Vanessa and Daniel. It was nice seeing them both and wish them well. It was encouraging to hear Vanessa say she had a nice rest sleeping in her own bed and was getting support at home.
After a bite to eat, we went out to get a few things at Walmart. Bu then the day was really starting to warm up, something we have really been looking forward to. Marg's watch gave up the ghost which was frustrating as we had just replace the crystal. Anyway she got a new one, after we had the usual disagreement over which one she should have, she just went ahead and bought the economy model. We also picked up a bunch of other stuff we needed, like the 30 pack of Miller. Stopped by Harbour Freight and picked up a magnetic strip for holding tools in the shed. I had picked up a few on the weekend and was having organization problems that this solved.
Took the 5 gallon water bottle and filled it. Pretty funny, there was guy there filling bottles and he said that he shouldn't be getting water, rather something stronger to drink at the Super Bowl. I told him with those kind of plans he might well be pleased with the water purchase when he wakes up so thirsty tomorrow.
Then Marg put some stuff in the oven to heat before going to the Super Bowl party at Gary & Linda's place. They had 4 couples over and everyone brought something. Gary did some ribs on the bbq. Marg brought some: ribs, shrimp, cheese bread. Gary had the tv out under the carport, so it was nice to sit out in the great weather. There were lots of snacks and then around half time we had the good eats. It was a good football game and was close until the end. We had a bit of a slow start getting it on as we first had to watch the end of the Phoenix Waste Management open, which needed 3 playoff holes, then catch up on the taped first quarter of the football game.
Marg & I had to leave the party just after 6, as she had volunteered to work at the ice cream social. You may recall one couple left for a few days and she had agreed to fill in for them. It was quite a while since I scooped ice cream or Marg made banana splits, but we picked up right where we left off. They had the big screen tv on, so we never missed any of the game. Surprisingly we had a couple of dozen at ice cream, only one of whom was interested in the big game. Then it was back to to party where they had waited for us to eat. We were not sure of the game plan, so we both had ice cream, which ended up being our appetizers It was all good. Go Bronco's!
Got up and went to the church service in the hall this morning. Well I got there a few minutes late, so snuck in and sat at the back of the room. Although it did not go unnoticed, it was nice of the pastor not to mention it. He and his wife will be celebrating their anniversary next week so he asked me to take a picture of them, a new one for his fb account. I was more than happy to do it, just hope one of the pictures I took turns out to be a good one. I think it was just his way of making me feel welcome, actually. Anyway it was a nice gesture. I didn't stay for the fellowship, use a line my mother used to use: I can't be late twice in one day, so having arrived late, would have to leave early.
When I got back we called Daniel on facetime and had a nice chat with both Vanessa and Daniel. It was nice seeing them both and wish them well. It was encouraging to hear Vanessa say she had a nice rest sleeping in her own bed and was getting support at home.
After a bite to eat, we went out to get a few things at Walmart. Bu then the day was really starting to warm up, something we have really been looking forward to. Marg's watch gave up the ghost which was frustrating as we had just replace the crystal. Anyway she got a new one, after we had the usual disagreement over which one she should have, she just went ahead and bought the economy model. We also picked up a bunch of other stuff we needed, like the 30 pack of Miller. Stopped by Harbour Freight and picked up a magnetic strip for holding tools in the shed. I had picked up a few on the weekend and was having organization problems that this solved.
Took the 5 gallon water bottle and filled it. Pretty funny, there was guy there filling bottles and he said that he shouldn't be getting water, rather something stronger to drink at the Super Bowl. I told him with those kind of plans he might well be pleased with the water purchase when he wakes up so thirsty tomorrow.
Then Marg put some stuff in the oven to heat before going to the Super Bowl party at Gary & Linda's place. They had 4 couples over and everyone brought something. Gary did some ribs on the bbq. Marg brought some: ribs, shrimp, cheese bread. Gary had the tv out under the carport, so it was nice to sit out in the great weather. There were lots of snacks and then around half time we had the good eats. It was a good football game and was close until the end. We had a bit of a slow start getting it on as we first had to watch the end of the Phoenix Waste Management open, which needed 3 playoff holes, then catch up on the taped first quarter of the football game.
Marg & I had to leave the party just after 6, as she had volunteered to work at the ice cream social. You may recall one couple left for a few days and she had agreed to fill in for them. It was quite a while since I scooped ice cream or Marg made banana splits, but we picked up right where we left off. They had the big screen tv on, so we never missed any of the game. Surprisingly we had a couple of dozen at ice cream, only one of whom was interested in the big game. Then it was back to to party where they had waited for us to eat. We were not sure of the game plan, so we both had ice cream, which ended up being our appetizers It was all good. Go Bronco's!
Saturday 6 February 2016
Saturday
Another early morning as we got up and went to cook breakfast for the park folks. This means a 6 AM wake-up and a busy morning. Marg did scrambled eggs & I did pancakes, as per usual. We fed about 70 people this morning and it went well. A good crew to work with. By 10 AM we were done and out of there.
After we got back, we decided to go to a couple of park patio sales in the two parks that are just down the street. We got a few things, Marg got: a teapot/cup & two other china cups. When we got back we looked up the two china cups on the internet & it turns out they are both quite collectable with one valued at approx. $42 & the other at $45. Good eye darling, as they are in perfect condition & she got them at a very good price. The teapot/cup item she bought because they are always looking for unique tea things for the ladies tea in March.
After we got back I went and played some pool for about an hour or so. Ended up playing with a couple of fun fellows and got lucky as the balls seemed to want to fit in the pockets pretty well today. That's not always the case, so just enjoy it when it happens. Marg visited with some of the neighbours and relaxed to unwind as it has been pretty hectic for her.
By the time I got back and we got organized, it was time to leave for the dinner & show we had booked and paid for about a month ago. It was a nice change, kind of a night club format, except the dinner was buffet. Good food and a good show, it was their country show. We were pretty confident the show would be good as the headliners were from the Arizona Opry & we have seen them quite a few times. The lead guy, George was married to one of the Barleen ladies & after their divorce, went his own way taking some of the performers. George is the guy who sang the original version of "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" & Mark has the Tortilla Flats band and at one time played with Dottie West in her country band. Mark was at his bad boy best & had us laughing hard many times. He can sure play and sing, though. They certainly lived up to our expectations. Marg was in her element as they did a lot of her old favourites, like Buck Owens, Charlie Pride, Patsy Kline, etc. The price on the show was about the same as the Az Opry at $39 per person. As usual we rode with Blanke's & all 6 of us went, women in the back row, Bingers in the middle & Kenny & I up front.
After we got back I went and played some pool for about an hour or so. Ended up playing with a couple of fun fellows and got lucky as the balls seemed to want to fit in the pockets pretty well today. That's not always the case, so just enjoy it when it happens. Marg visited with some of the neighbours and relaxed to unwind as it has been pretty hectic for her.
Friday 5 February 2016
Friday, Feb 5th
Today was the big park wide patio sale that the tenants association holds at Carefree Manor. The tenants put out tables at their sites and sell all sorts of things. The association has activities in the hall where they bring in craft vendors, offer coffee, slices of pie and sloppy joes and have a big raffle for all sorts of things. These things are items donated, this year there were 80 or so prizes drawn for. They draw a name first, then the prize from separate buckets with ticket stubs. Marg worked in the kitchen where they served the sloppy joes they made yesterday as well as slices of pie. They were very busy this year and pretty much sold every piece of pie they had. There was quite a bit of the sloppy joe mixture, but it will be frozen and used in the baked potato night as one of the garnishes. It all meant for an early morning and a busy day until the 1:00 closing for Marg.
I pretty much wandered about and took some pictures, visited with some of the residents. I stopped at Mark's place and he said the chicken Marg gave him last night was the best he had eaten and that he went to the hall and bought some of her brownies. I told him to beware or he would soon be a large as I am. LOL I did by a warming tray that heats 3 dishes over hot water that Marg was interested in. She thought it would be good for either happy hours here or for meals out at the lake. The price was right and we know the vendors who said they only used it once at a family function. I did win in the raffle draw, well Marg did really. It is a set of 2 very large screw drivers, that were donated by Marg's friend Lynette. They were her late husbands and were still in the new package. Bud was a good friend, so it was nice.
After we helped clean up the hall and put all the tables and chairs back in their right order. Then our kitchen crew got together and did our prep work for the morning breakfast. It will be another early morning tomorrow, something we generally don't favour. Anyway we got it done and will be ready for them when they start arriving, knife & fork in hand.
When we got back to our place it was time to go look for a happy hour. It seems something changed and our regular group did not have one today, so we went on a bit of a walk-about looking to see if some of our other friends were having cocktails. Before we got too far, we were stopped and had a beer with Gary & Patti. Nice folks and it was nice to have a chance to chat with just them. It turns out Gary is getting notices of friend requests from Patti's FB account on his cell phone and wants them stopped. That was good for a laugh, but will have to look into it. Gary was the guy who bought Kenny's other pistol yesterday, so he brought it out to show me. It was very nice and I can see why he picked it up. Yes Char, it was loaded, but we unloaded it before looking at it. LOL
Supper tonight was Taco Bell. We like their Mexican food better than some of the other places around here. It was funny, because I set my drink down and it disappeared. It kind of puzzled me for a moment, until I saw Jerry L in the line up to order with a big drink in his hand. He's a real character, but it was good for a laugh. Food was good and it being in the Fry's parking lot, I went over to pumps to fuel up. The pump price was $1.57/gal., but Marg had earned a fuel discount of 10 cents from purchases, so paid $1.47, that would be 39 cents/litre.
Glad to hear that Vanessa was well enough to go home and wishes for a full recovery.
I pretty much wandered about and took some pictures, visited with some of the residents. I stopped at Mark's place and he said the chicken Marg gave him last night was the best he had eaten and that he went to the hall and bought some of her brownies. I told him to beware or he would soon be a large as I am. LOL I did by a warming tray that heats 3 dishes over hot water that Marg was interested in. She thought it would be good for either happy hours here or for meals out at the lake. The price was right and we know the vendors who said they only used it once at a family function. I did win in the raffle draw, well Marg did really. It is a set of 2 very large screw drivers, that were donated by Marg's friend Lynette. They were her late husbands and were still in the new package. Bud was a good friend, so it was nice.
After we helped clean up the hall and put all the tables and chairs back in their right order. Then our kitchen crew got together and did our prep work for the morning breakfast. It will be another early morning tomorrow, something we generally don't favour. Anyway we got it done and will be ready for them when they start arriving, knife & fork in hand.
When we got back to our place it was time to go look for a happy hour. It seems something changed and our regular group did not have one today, so we went on a bit of a walk-about looking to see if some of our other friends were having cocktails. Before we got too far, we were stopped and had a beer with Gary & Patti. Nice folks and it was nice to have a chance to chat with just them. It turns out Gary is getting notices of friend requests from Patti's FB account on his cell phone and wants them stopped. That was good for a laugh, but will have to look into it. Gary was the guy who bought Kenny's other pistol yesterday, so he brought it out to show me. It was very nice and I can see why he picked it up. Yes Char, it was loaded, but we unloaded it before looking at it. LOL
Supper tonight was Taco Bell. We like their Mexican food better than some of the other places around here. It was funny, because I set my drink down and it disappeared. It kind of puzzled me for a moment, until I saw Jerry L in the line up to order with a big drink in his hand. He's a real character, but it was good for a laugh. Food was good and it being in the Fry's parking lot, I went over to pumps to fuel up. The pump price was $1.57/gal., but Marg had earned a fuel discount of 10 cents from purchases, so paid $1.47, that would be 39 cents/litre.
Glad to hear that Vanessa was well enough to go home and wishes for a full recovery.
Thursday 4 February 2016
Thursday
Well this should be the last of the real chilly mornings and the start of warmer weather, fingers crossed. We are all saying this has not been the Arizona we signed up for, ours is much warmer. Pretty funny because although we were almost at the freezing point, it is still a lot warmer than home.
It was coffee and donuts this morning and the place was pretty darn full. Made the mistake of sitting with some friend we normally don't and got a job helping out at the ladies tea again this year. Note to self must learn to say NO. Well it wasn't all bad, I got an apple fritter with my coffee. This meeting was the start of the election process for the officers of the association and that is generating interest. I have had a dozen or more people suggest I should run, but my reply is that if we take jobs away from Americans and we don't have a green card, they will turn us back at the border. And I'm sticking with that. The really big news this morning that shocked and amazed people was that Marg went, it was her first one this winter. We almost had to get the AJ paramedics in to restart a couple of hearts that skipped a few beats.
After breakfast, Marg stayed with her buddies to make the sloppie joe mixture. She has been doing this for about a half dozen years, so it's old hat to her now. This was also the REAL reason she got up early and came with me. They sell a lot of these during the park wide patio sale, which is tomorrow and always a busy day in the park. When she finished and got back we went around to check out what is for sale. They have a preview day for the residents the day prior. I managed to get a set of wrenches [Craftsman], a corded drill [Craftsman], a do-dad, a set of nut drivers, a hammer and looked at lots of other stuff, all for under $20. Marg got some glasses, but broke one washing them. She also got a wall decoration, playing cards.
After we went back because Marg had to bake brownies for the bake sale. People donate stuff that is sold for the benefit of the association. Her stuff always goes very quickly. These are the same ones she made a couple of weeks back and have an added kick of dark chocolate that she chops up and adds to the mix. When we took them down to the bake sale, they already had 3 large tables full of yummy stuff. While she was baking the brownies, Kenny & Doris stopped by.
He had a couple of pistols he wanted to sell. I never realized it but he sold one at his place before I knew he had made the decision. It was a real nice 380 automatic at a very fair price that was bought by Gary here in the park. Good thing too as I would have struggled with the decision. The reason he stopped by was not to torment me with that news, rather he had a second one that I offered to look up on the internet to look at values. It is a 45 cal. Colt Army issue from WW1, I think the date is 1913 and it is still in fine firing order. I both got some info on it from other sales and from the Cabella's store in Glendale. We will be taking a trip over to Cabella's next week with it. They have a gun library and buy old guns to sell in it and are real interested in this one. This was the first one I have actually held & it is a cool piece of shootin' iron.
After it was out for groceries. A stop at the ranch market, where Marg got some fresh oranges, they are to die for here. Then over to Safeway for another bunch of stuff. Say did you hear of the little mouse that got pregnant in Basha's; he never knew there was a Safeway! LOL Anyway Marg got some ice cream, because it is going to be hot, hot, hot next week.
Supper tonight was out to Ihop. I don't seem to ever tire of that place and Marg thinks its OK too. In fact she had a chicken dinner and said it was the best fried chicken she has ever had. I asked ever & she said without a doubt it is. The quantities are good too, in fact she brought a big chunk back, it looked to me to be about half a chicken and that was after she had eaten her fill. It was kind of funny when we got back Mark was walking past our place and when I drove up behind him, he stopped to chat. He's a nice guy, kind of looks like he could be a member of the band ZZTop, but we know he lives alone. Anyway Marg up and gave him the chicken & he looked to be pretty pleased with the whole thing. Me, well you can all guess what I had, the usual! ;>))
It was coffee and donuts this morning and the place was pretty darn full. Made the mistake of sitting with some friend we normally don't and got a job helping out at the ladies tea again this year. Note to self must learn to say NO. Well it wasn't all bad, I got an apple fritter with my coffee. This meeting was the start of the election process for the officers of the association and that is generating interest. I have had a dozen or more people suggest I should run, but my reply is that if we take jobs away from Americans and we don't have a green card, they will turn us back at the border. And I'm sticking with that. The really big news this morning that shocked and amazed people was that Marg went, it was her first one this winter. We almost had to get the AJ paramedics in to restart a couple of hearts that skipped a few beats.
After breakfast, Marg stayed with her buddies to make the sloppie joe mixture. She has been doing this for about a half dozen years, so it's old hat to her now. This was also the REAL reason she got up early and came with me. They sell a lot of these during the park wide patio sale, which is tomorrow and always a busy day in the park. When she finished and got back we went around to check out what is for sale. They have a preview day for the residents the day prior. I managed to get a set of wrenches [Craftsman], a corded drill [Craftsman], a do-dad, a set of nut drivers, a hammer and looked at lots of other stuff, all for under $20. Marg got some glasses, but broke one washing them. She also got a wall decoration, playing cards.
After we went back because Marg had to bake brownies for the bake sale. People donate stuff that is sold for the benefit of the association. Her stuff always goes very quickly. These are the same ones she made a couple of weeks back and have an added kick of dark chocolate that she chops up and adds to the mix. When we took them down to the bake sale, they already had 3 large tables full of yummy stuff. While she was baking the brownies, Kenny & Doris stopped by.
After it was out for groceries. A stop at the ranch market, where Marg got some fresh oranges, they are to die for here. Then over to Safeway for another bunch of stuff. Say did you hear of the little mouse that got pregnant in Basha's; he never knew there was a Safeway! LOL Anyway Marg got some ice cream, because it is going to be hot, hot, hot next week.
Supper tonight was out to Ihop. I don't seem to ever tire of that place and Marg thinks its OK too. In fact she had a chicken dinner and said it was the best fried chicken she has ever had. I asked ever & she said without a doubt it is. The quantities are good too, in fact she brought a big chunk back, it looked to me to be about half a chicken and that was after she had eaten her fill. It was kind of funny when we got back Mark was walking past our place and when I drove up behind him, he stopped to chat. He's a nice guy, kind of looks like he could be a member of the band ZZTop, but we know he lives alone. Anyway Marg up and gave him the chicken & he looked to be pretty pleased with the whole thing. Me, well you can all guess what I had, the usual! ;>))
Wednesday 3 February 2016
Wednesday
Man it was cold last night. When I got up the temp was 28F, so about minus 2 for the Celsius crowd.
Marg got up and went with the gamblin' gals + two this morning. They changed from Thursday in spite of losing out on the bake ware because of their commitments for the rest of the week. The plus two are Lynette's daughters who are in to spend some time with their mother. It was pretty funny last night they told me of the laughs they all had when I posted the pics of Lynette and me and said I had a new woman in my life. Joanne said her boyfriend had earlier said their mother had a male friend and that set them to gossiping, but that Tammy, who we met last year figured out who I was and cleared it all up. Then I told them I actually got her up on the dance floor and they had lots more fun with their mother. Great gals. Anyway they went to the Fort with Marg, Nancy & their mother today. There were no bingo winners, but Marg had taken my lucky money from last night and she turned a profit on it, lucky money brings luck.
I was up early for golf. Remember the cold, well when we got to the course, the putting green was a sheet of ice and the fairways were frosted badly in the shade. I had to stop twice on the first hole to knock the ice off the soles of my shoes. Its funny the ball was not as lively in the cold and certainly never ran like it usually does on the fairways. The greens were tough to figure out as they were really slow where the frost lay, only just slow where it had melted and normal where the sun had been on them for an hour or so. That's my excuse for the day as I had a good game, but poor score. I had my name on the longest putt [took my old putter again], but was beat out by Terry. Gerry had his name on the tee shot closest to the pin, but was beat out bay Gary [her spouse] when he got a hole in one. Very cool, I have played with both quite a few times and was very happy for them.
When I got back, I went and played pool for just over an hour, but left early to wash the truck. It was really dirty from the rain & wind the other day. The car washes were fairly full of people with the same idea. The darn water here spots so bad that you have to put the rinse agent on and then do the windows when you get home. Being environmentally friendly, I just use vinegar in water on them and it does a good job. I just got done in time to go to happy hour and then the gals got home, so Marg joined us there. It was home for a bite to eat and then off to play poker. There were quite a few people that have expressed interest in the game tonight, but in the end it was just the 7 of us regulars. I took a bit of a kicking tonight, but a good time. Need to get some rest, so plan to retire early tonight as the next few days will be busy.
Marg got up and went with the gamblin' gals + two this morning. They changed from Thursday in spite of losing out on the bake ware because of their commitments for the rest of the week. The plus two are Lynette's daughters who are in to spend some time with their mother. It was pretty funny last night they told me of the laughs they all had when I posted the pics of Lynette and me and said I had a new woman in my life. Joanne said her boyfriend had earlier said their mother had a male friend and that set them to gossiping, but that Tammy, who we met last year figured out who I was and cleared it all up. Then I told them I actually got her up on the dance floor and they had lots more fun with their mother. Great gals. Anyway they went to the Fort with Marg, Nancy & their mother today. There were no bingo winners, but Marg had taken my lucky money from last night and she turned a profit on it, lucky money brings luck.
I was up early for golf. Remember the cold, well when we got to the course, the putting green was a sheet of ice and the fairways were frosted badly in the shade. I had to stop twice on the first hole to knock the ice off the soles of my shoes. Its funny the ball was not as lively in the cold and certainly never ran like it usually does on the fairways. The greens were tough to figure out as they were really slow where the frost lay, only just slow where it had melted and normal where the sun had been on them for an hour or so. That's my excuse for the day as I had a good game, but poor score. I had my name on the longest putt [took my old putter again], but was beat out by Terry. Gerry had his name on the tee shot closest to the pin, but was beat out bay Gary [her spouse] when he got a hole in one. Very cool, I have played with both quite a few times and was very happy for them.
When I got back, I went and played pool for just over an hour, but left early to wash the truck. It was really dirty from the rain & wind the other day. The car washes were fairly full of people with the same idea. The darn water here spots so bad that you have to put the rinse agent on and then do the windows when you get home. Being environmentally friendly, I just use vinegar in water on them and it does a good job. I just got done in time to go to happy hour and then the gals got home, so Marg joined us there. It was home for a bite to eat and then off to play poker. There were quite a few people that have expressed interest in the game tonight, but in the end it was just the 7 of us regulars. I took a bit of a kicking tonight, but a good time. Need to get some rest, so plan to retire early tonight as the next few days will be busy.
Tuesday 2 February 2016
February 2nd
It was chill last night, Marg said there was a frost on the truck first thing. It must have been pretty cold to be on the valley floor. Up in the mountains it snowed, in fact it was white on four peaks even this afternoon.
I left about 10:30 for downtown Phoenix to play golf with Gerry at Encanto. It warmed up a bit as the day wore on and was about 8 degrees warmer downtown than out here in AJ. We were paired up with a couple of guys who were good to golf with, for a change. There was a cool wind, but out in the sun it got very pleasant out of the wind & especially on the back nine. It was my free round today, you get one about every 10 rounds.
With no wheels, Marg stayed home today. She did some house cleaning and cleaned all the debris in the breezeway left by the wind the other night. She got the mail, we don't go every day, so we never know what to expect; anything from a full box to nothing. Our mail seems to be coming more regular this year, likely a result of the tent card I put in our mail slot back at home telling them we have a forward mail order. The system is less than ideal, so we have devised this work-around. She visited a bit, but it was cool to be outside for any length of time.
We finished up in good time and I was on the road home by 4PM & traffic was already getting heavy. The route I have to take has all the downtown traffic leaving work for the burbs. Since changing my route to 7th Street, I get down to the freeway earlier, but it is bumper to bumper there for quite a while. The traffic generally moves well, sometimes 70 mph, but today there was an accident at the 101 connection, so a couple of miles of crawling along. Still got home early and Marg had pork chops and all the fixin's in the slow cooker. Very delicious. Oh yeh, a wee dram as well, I generally reward myself with on after the hectic drive back.
Bingo tonight and Deb & Gerry came to join us. I got lucky and won the early bird, so we made out pretty well. Marg & the others were close quite few times, but success was not in the card tonight. Get it - it's a pun, oh I crack myself up. The money ball went tonight, so the big jackpot is back at zero. I bought ice cream at the break. Marg never has it though, she goes outside with a regular group. While out there tonight she met some friends of Rita's who live in Ft Sask, but are originally from Fahler. Small world, one is related to Norm Dufresne & the other to Paul Henley, both neighbours at the lake. The girl had babysat all of the Dufresne kids when they were little.
Oh the joke at bingo tonight [Christine tells one at the start] was:
2 guys are talking, one says I think I'll get myself a dog. The second says forget dogs, get a cat. No the other says, I really like dogs, I think I'll get a lab. The other says don't get a dog & even if you do, never get a lab. The first says what have you got against dogs & labs in particular. Well says the other, it's just that I've noticed a lot of people who get them go blind.
Gong to be another cold one tonight, but should be warm after that. Will be interesting for golf, might have to wear the woolens. LOL
I left about 10:30 for downtown Phoenix to play golf with Gerry at Encanto. It warmed up a bit as the day wore on and was about 8 degrees warmer downtown than out here in AJ. We were paired up with a couple of guys who were good to golf with, for a change. There was a cool wind, but out in the sun it got very pleasant out of the wind & especially on the back nine. It was my free round today, you get one about every 10 rounds.
With no wheels, Marg stayed home today. She did some house cleaning and cleaned all the debris in the breezeway left by the wind the other night. She got the mail, we don't go every day, so we never know what to expect; anything from a full box to nothing. Our mail seems to be coming more regular this year, likely a result of the tent card I put in our mail slot back at home telling them we have a forward mail order. The system is less than ideal, so we have devised this work-around. She visited a bit, but it was cool to be outside for any length of time.
We finished up in good time and I was on the road home by 4PM & traffic was already getting heavy. The route I have to take has all the downtown traffic leaving work for the burbs. Since changing my route to 7th Street, I get down to the freeway earlier, but it is bumper to bumper there for quite a while. The traffic generally moves well, sometimes 70 mph, but today there was an accident at the 101 connection, so a couple of miles of crawling along. Still got home early and Marg had pork chops and all the fixin's in the slow cooker. Very delicious. Oh yeh, a wee dram as well, I generally reward myself with on after the hectic drive back.
Bingo tonight and Deb & Gerry came to join us. I got lucky and won the early bird, so we made out pretty well. Marg & the others were close quite few times, but success was not in the card tonight. Get it - it's a pun, oh I crack myself up. The money ball went tonight, so the big jackpot is back at zero. I bought ice cream at the break. Marg never has it though, she goes outside with a regular group. While out there tonight she met some friends of Rita's who live in Ft Sask, but are originally from Fahler. Small world, one is related to Norm Dufresne & the other to Paul Henley, both neighbours at the lake. The girl had babysat all of the Dufresne kids when they were little.
Oh the joke at bingo tonight [Christine tells one at the start] was:
2 guys are talking, one says I think I'll get myself a dog. The second says forget dogs, get a cat. No the other says, I really like dogs, I think I'll get a lab. The other says don't get a dog & even if you do, never get a lab. The first says what have you got against dogs & labs in particular. Well says the other, it's just that I've noticed a lot of people who get them go blind.
Gong to be another cold one tonight, but should be warm after that. Will be interesting for golf, might have to wear the woolens. LOL
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