It turns out he was the host of The Late Late show and had been for several years. It is also true that he was born in Glasgow and left school at sixteen, became a hopeless alcoholic for ten years before attending rehab in London, then meeting success in California where his world will now be happy evermore, even though he is onto his third marriage. The book eventually got interesting but I felt like I was attending a testimony meeting at The Salvation Army, except with lots of swear words.
In the early seventies, swear words in public were so unusual that everyone laughed, including me, but now they are merely tedious. I do not know why comedians today use such foul language especially the F word. Do they think it is funny or are they just so devoid of additional vocabulary that the same words are repeated many times, each time with a different context.
This book had redeeming social value, eventually. I am always interested with success and this book is all about success, but Craig could have ended up with a better book if he had a good editor. It should be on a reading list for the AA.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
January 30, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. People.
I evesdrop shamelessly. This morning while waiting for the shuttle I over heard several folks from Saskatchewan discussing the weather at home. They did not know each other until this morning but just started chatting while standing waiting for the shuttle and discovered that they were all from different towns in that province. One lived in Saskatoon, where the temperature was 40 degrees below zero. At that temperature, Celcius and Fahrenheit is the same, but I know that is cold. The two other couples live in smaller towns outside bigger towns, but they mumbled their words and as I was not part of the conversation, felt it rude to ask them to speak up. All three couples were thrilled to be away from Saskatchewan.
People are interesting in that the ways they got to Mexico were very different. One lady and her husband have been spending the whole winter in Mexico. The first winter after retirement, they came for two weeks and just decided to stay all winter. They rent places in Mexico, using the Internet, and use the bus to get around. They were in Acapulco for four weeks in January, then will rent a place in our Playa Royale for four weeks, and next take the bus up to Cabo San Lucas, until finally returning home at the end of April. In July, August and September they do the same thing but in Canada. The last two summers they spent on PEI. again renting a place. Her last sentence before we got on the shuttle was "Sometime soon I will be forced to stay at home, but in the meantime, we hit the road".
Another two folks who we met are much younger, have moved here full time. Ten months ago they came for a vacation but when they got home they decided to sell their home and move south, so they did, driving down in their large Mercedes. We chatted with them briefly yesterday afternoon while we were having coffee at a funky little cafe over on the Marina. They walked past us and commented to us that we were drinking at a spot usually used by the locals, which was true. Later in the afternoon, he spotted us walking home from the market so he stopped to talk. Fascinating what people are doing. We would love to chat with them some more but we never exchanged names or numbers. It is definitely one of the charms of this place, the people we meet.
People are interesting in that the ways they got to Mexico were very different. One lady and her husband have been spending the whole winter in Mexico. The first winter after retirement, they came for two weeks and just decided to stay all winter. They rent places in Mexico, using the Internet, and use the bus to get around. They were in Acapulco for four weeks in January, then will rent a place in our Playa Royale for four weeks, and next take the bus up to Cabo San Lucas, until finally returning home at the end of April. In July, August and September they do the same thing but in Canada. The last two summers they spent on PEI. again renting a place. Her last sentence before we got on the shuttle was "Sometime soon I will be forced to stay at home, but in the meantime, we hit the road".
Another two folks who we met are much younger, have moved here full time. Ten months ago they came for a vacation but when they got home they decided to sell their home and move south, so they did, driving down in their large Mercedes. We chatted with them briefly yesterday afternoon while we were having coffee at a funky little cafe over on the Marina. They walked past us and commented to us that we were drinking at a spot usually used by the locals, which was true. Later in the afternoon, he spotted us walking home from the market so he stopped to talk. Fascinating what people are doing. We would love to chat with them some more but we never exchanged names or numbers. It is definitely one of the charms of this place, the people we meet.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
January 29, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. More Books.
Don't bother to read this book. I must have read a good review and perhaps it gets better further along, but it is probably not worth your time to read it. Now my problem begins. Ken stops reading immediately when he determines that the book is either not well written or is boring. I, on the other hand, is programmed to complete whatever I have started, so right now, I am plowing through the whole book, trying to find something of value.
It has an interesting concept. A Scotsman has chosen to become an American citizen. My bias is that the author is a comedian now, lives in Los Angeles and is a Liberal so I am trying to overcome these three black marks. I'm only on chapter five but already I don't think he will get interesting. Already he hints of his two failed marriages and his fifteen years as an alcoholic. But I am always looking for reasons for success and he certainly has done that although I do not know his name.
The good fairies must have snuck into my Kindle to put these books onto my home page because I have no recollection of reading any review, but here it is "American on Purpose" by Craig Ferguson. I will continue to search out any evidence of redeeming social or intellectual value. And I will report.
It has an interesting concept. A Scotsman has chosen to become an American citizen. My bias is that the author is a comedian now, lives in Los Angeles and is a Liberal so I am trying to overcome these three black marks. I'm only on chapter five but already I don't think he will get interesting. Already he hints of his two failed marriages and his fifteen years as an alcoholic. But I am always looking for reasons for success and he certainly has done that although I do not know his name.
The good fairies must have snuck into my Kindle to put these books onto my home page because I have no recollection of reading any review, but here it is "American on Purpose" by Craig Ferguson. I will continue to search out any evidence of redeeming social or intellectual value. And I will report.
Friday, January 28, 2011
January January 28, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Planning Ahead.
We are busily organizing the rest of the year, something we just love to do. The question of how long we will be in Nova Scotia and when we will return to Texas gives us great pleasure. I know that one is supposed to live for the moment and not pay much attention to the past or the future, but I have always felt that you must pay a lot of attention to the future or the future will be decided for you by circumstances. Our present situation is a perfect example. We set up the system of avoiding ice and snow several years ago, long before we could make use of the weeks here. Now that we are both retired, we are able to make use of the system we established years ago. Today, we could not afford it.
The part of the future that we can not ignore is that the future will soon become the present whether or not you are prepared. Real Estate agents know better than anyone. You fix a date for settlement and the date arrives whether or not everyone has done their job. The real trick is to try to figure out what is needed in ten years, then be ready with everything in place when the time comes. Not easy to do but certainly better than giving no thought to the future and making no preparations.
I have had such fun putting the ballet recital into my calender, on May 14th. We'll be there, God willing, because we have planned ahead.
The part of the future that we can not ignore is that the future will soon become the present whether or not you are prepared. Real Estate agents know better than anyone. You fix a date for settlement and the date arrives whether or not everyone has done their job. The real trick is to try to figure out what is needed in ten years, then be ready with everything in place when the time comes. Not easy to do but certainly better than giving no thought to the future and making no preparations.
I have had such fun putting the ballet recital into my calender, on May 14th. We'll be there, God willing, because we have planned ahead.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
January 27, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. My Past and My Future.
My brother thinks I need to find another job. He may be right. We will find out. Certainly, my past has been full of finding a task, getting proficient, then finding another task. I have been extremely goal oriented. It never occurred to me that quitting was an option. Once I started up the ladder I wanted to get up near the top. Of course I was careful what I attempted. I knew my limitations. All my life I could not sit still and had great difficulty being bored. In fact, both as a child and as an adult I tended to misbehave whenever I got bored. Fortunately I selected my vocations to fit my abilities and liabilities. For instance, when I was a manager, we always kept our sales meetings to thirty minutes, mainly because after thirty minutes both the agents and me became bored by it all and are ready to get on to something else. I love accountants but I never could contemplate being one.
Now I am in the position of being hedonistic and doing whatever I want that pleases me. This is not something I have ever considered in the past at least not for the long haul. Most of what I have done in my life was done because it was for someone else or it was earning the money to live the way we wanted to live. So far, I am doing well, however the people I have known in my life who were hugely self indulgent have mostly been a pain in the backside. It's all about them. I must remember and do better.
My brother, when he retired, took on an almost full time job of playing his trombone in three musical groups, complete with rehearsals and performances. His vacation was dictated by his performances, in other words, his job. As I have no talent except reading and talking, I will continue on my path, floating around North America and keeping in touch!!
Now I am in the position of being hedonistic and doing whatever I want that pleases me. This is not something I have ever considered in the past at least not for the long haul. Most of what I have done in my life was done because it was for someone else or it was earning the money to live the way we wanted to live. So far, I am doing well, however the people I have known in my life who were hugely self indulgent have mostly been a pain in the backside. It's all about them. I must remember and do better.
My brother, when he retired, took on an almost full time job of playing his trombone in three musical groups, complete with rehearsals and performances. His vacation was dictated by his performances, in other words, his job. As I have no talent except reading and talking, I will continue on my path, floating around North America and keeping in touch!!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
January 26, 2011, Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. We did it.
Truth be told, the best part of a visit to the gym is the hot tub. I'm big at having a light at the end of the tunnel, so in my mind's eye, I picture the changing room with the showers all ready. After exercising upstairs in the very high tech large room full of very young fit people, I return downstairs where I take a long hot shower. Next up is the large hot tub, all in a separate room holding a steam room and a sauna along with a cool shower stall. It is perfect, especially because it seems no one uses the room but me. I have never met another person in the hot tub. It is heaven in there.
First I hot tub, next take a cool shower, followed by five minutes in the steam room, followed by another cool shower. The shower only comes down cool. Next up, the sauna, again followed by a shower. Finally, I sink into the hot tub for a few minutes of luxury before returning to the changing room for another shower and finally to dress and meet Ken for the shuttle back to the apartment.
This routine is very much on my mind as I travel from machine to machine, trying not to work too hard the first time back to the gym. It is very easy, the first time, to injure yourself. I have done it myself. But not today. We are both fit as a fiddle.
First I hot tub, next take a cool shower, followed by five minutes in the steam room, followed by another cool shower. The shower only comes down cool. Next up, the sauna, again followed by a shower. Finally, I sink into the hot tub for a few minutes of luxury before returning to the changing room for another shower and finally to dress and meet Ken for the shuttle back to the apartment.
This routine is very much on my mind as I travel from machine to machine, trying not to work too hard the first time back to the gym. It is very easy, the first time, to injure yourself. I have done it myself. But not today. We are both fit as a fiddle.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
January 25, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Exercise.
Today we are going to begin...again. We are going back to the fitness center. Now that we are both fully recovered from our cold and coughs and have returned to full energy, we decided that today is the first day of the rest of our lives. So after we have digested our breakfast, off we will trundle to the gym. Actually, it seems silly, but we take the shuttle bus to the gym in order to exercise. I wonder why we don't just walk to the gym to get us warmed up before we use the hated machines.
Robbie commented to Ken that his body hurts from his exercise program, not from the aging process. Yes, they are both putting us to shame. Since they arrived ten days ago, they have been diligent at their attendance at the gym. We have been here almost four weeks and have yet to darken the door. We have been walking almost every day but now we will make the journey to the gym so Ken will be able to work in the garden this summer in Nova Scotia.
In truth, we both do the exercises that Mary told us to do every other day, when she gave us the video from the agency at NIH dealing with the aged so we are not total duds. Now we will do better.
I am actually interested with the question of why people don't do what they say they want to do, such as quitting smoking , loosing weight or exercising. I listened to a radio program not too long ago with the same topic and the conclusion was that short term goals almost always trump long term goals. Made sense to me. You eat a donut to feel good immediately even though the long term goal of being thin is cast aside. The part of the brain dealing with the different goals can be seen activated. Irritating but true.
One thing I know, when we are in heaven we will be perfect, in the meantime, we do the best we can.
Robbie commented to Ken that his body hurts from his exercise program, not from the aging process. Yes, they are both putting us to shame. Since they arrived ten days ago, they have been diligent at their attendance at the gym. We have been here almost four weeks and have yet to darken the door. We have been walking almost every day but now we will make the journey to the gym so Ken will be able to work in the garden this summer in Nova Scotia.
In truth, we both do the exercises that Mary told us to do every other day, when she gave us the video from the agency at NIH dealing with the aged so we are not total duds. Now we will do better.
I am actually interested with the question of why people don't do what they say they want to do, such as quitting smoking , loosing weight or exercising. I listened to a radio program not too long ago with the same topic and the conclusion was that short term goals almost always trump long term goals. Made sense to me. You eat a donut to feel good immediately even though the long term goal of being thin is cast aside. The part of the brain dealing with the different goals can be seen activated. Irritating but true.
One thing I know, when we are in heaven we will be perfect, in the meantime, we do the best we can.
Monday, January 24, 2011
January 24, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Out of Touch.
It is very odd for me, not being in touch with the people I have paid attention to for the past 23 years. For some of the agents at work I have been involved with their business life the whole time, if for nothing else than cheering them on their path of success. Now I am retired and now is the time to allow the agents to build their support so it is best for me to stay out of the picture, but it certainly does seem odd. Until this past year, I was always back in the office after two or three weeks. In 2010, we changed the system and I was away for longer periods of time. In November, Wes thought it best to allow me to retire right away, which for Ken and me was for the best. Ken is already doing better with the warm clean air of Mexico.
Joyce was talking with me the other day about my retirement life and suggesting that I will have major changes with scheduling, now that I am retired. I, on the other hand, suggested that I have been partly retired for the past three years so perhaps I will know my way through retirement. She correctly mentioned that, while I stayed connected to work, I always had the place in my mind, to make plans and to try to solve any issues. Now I don't. " The bigger part", she said, "is that all the people you worked with will no longer be in your world." She thought I needed a new schedule and a new 'to-do' list. I think she is right.
It just feels odd that I know nothing about Sarah or Debbie or Betty or Regina or Carol or Peppy or Maureen or Joe. Ken says I'm just nosy. I like to know how they are getting on. It certainly is odd for me.
Joyce was talking with me the other day about my retirement life and suggesting that I will have major changes with scheduling, now that I am retired. I, on the other hand, suggested that I have been partly retired for the past three years so perhaps I will know my way through retirement. She correctly mentioned that, while I stayed connected to work, I always had the place in my mind, to make plans and to try to solve any issues. Now I don't. " The bigger part", she said, "is that all the people you worked with will no longer be in your world." She thought I needed a new schedule and a new 'to-do' list. I think she is right.
It just feels odd that I know nothing about Sarah or Debbie or Betty or Regina or Carol or Peppy or Maureen or Joe. Ken says I'm just nosy. I like to know how they are getting on. It certainly is odd for me.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
January 23, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Walking the Beach.
I am not in love with walking on the beach. I seem to be in the minority. Every day there is a great march past, with scantily dressed folks walking the beach all day long. Friends visiting us always want me to walk on the beach with them. Suzanne always takes a long walk on the beach right after breakfast, lasting for at least two hours and sometimes ending up at Bucerias.
My problem with the beach is that it is not level so I end up with one hip giving me trouble. Also, I really don't enjoy walking in loose dry sand that fills up my Tevas and makes walking difficult. In order to walk on the hard wet flat sand you are required to walk over a large expanse of dry loose sand. Mostly I refuse to accompany anyone on a walk on the beach.
Except yesterday. Ken told me that the tide was out so a large expanse of flat sand was right ready for walking. It was five o'clock, a perfect time to walk, so out I went. Much to my great surprise I enjoyed it hugely. People were flying huge kites along the shore, the children were frolicking in the shallow water, and every where I looked I could see birds and boats. It was a lovely scene.
We walked for an hour and I enjoyed every minute, much to my surprise.
My problem with the beach is that it is not level so I end up with one hip giving me trouble. Also, I really don't enjoy walking in loose dry sand that fills up my Tevas and makes walking difficult. In order to walk on the hard wet flat sand you are required to walk over a large expanse of dry loose sand. Mostly I refuse to accompany anyone on a walk on the beach.
Except yesterday. Ken told me that the tide was out so a large expanse of flat sand was right ready for walking. It was five o'clock, a perfect time to walk, so out I went. Much to my great surprise I enjoyed it hugely. People were flying huge kites along the shore, the children were frolicking in the shallow water, and every where I looked I could see birds and boats. It was a lovely scene.
We walked for an hour and I enjoyed every minute, much to my surprise.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
January 22, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Two more books.
Without the computer and my Kindle I would be lost, here in Mexico. Bev. commented several times during her visit here about the quiet in the apartment. She was correct. Ken and I are either reading or using the computer, both quiet activities. It is my guess that our life style here is too lacking in activity for her liking but she really did enjoy the sunshine and warmth.
It is an old fashioned love story, well written and engaging, taking place in Scotland in 1296, involving the fights between the English and Scots. "His Captive" is the book, written by Diana Cosby. I read it in a day and enjoyed every minute. I'm not going to tell the ending. Just read it and enjoy.
Now I have started a new Bill Bryson book, "At Home: A Short History of Private Life". He is one of the funniest writers around today, very entertaining and enjoyable. I have read many of his books, perhaps the best is his history of the english language. His new book deals with his house and it's component part, the history and function. I am looking forward to delving into this new book, to glean information and to be amused. He is a very funny man.
It is an old fashioned love story, well written and engaging, taking place in Scotland in 1296, involving the fights between the English and Scots. "His Captive" is the book, written by Diana Cosby. I read it in a day and enjoyed every minute. I'm not going to tell the ending. Just read it and enjoy.
Now I have started a new Bill Bryson book, "At Home: A Short History of Private Life". He is one of the funniest writers around today, very entertaining and enjoyable. I have read many of his books, perhaps the best is his history of the english language. His new book deals with his house and it's component part, the history and function. I am looking forward to delving into this new book, to glean information and to be amused. He is a very funny man.
Friday, January 21, 2011
January 21, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Massage.
Finally, after 52 years, Ken is beginning to enjoy a massage. In the past, he took a massage for social reasons, such as when we were staying at a lovely airport hotel in Japan with the boys and they all went together to have a massage and a hot tub and drink sake and smoke cigars. They had a wonderful time together, while I was doing the same in the ladies side, but without the cigar. For the past few years, Ken has agreed to have a massage at the Spa here in Mexico, mainly because the price is right. They charge only fifty percent for the second massage so he thinks we are 'saving money'. This morning, he actually stated that the older he gets, the better the massage feels to his muscles. Amazing it took him so long to get smart.
Every time I take another massage I note that new tricks have been added to the routine. Today, when first laying on the table, hot towels were wrapped around my feet, and a warm cloth was placed on my back. It felt good. Then when I was on my back, a warm towel was put on my stomach. Of course, they still use the warm scented oil, that makes me sneeze and stuffs up my nose. But the worst aspect is the bell. This wonderful musical bell sounds right beside my ear, telling me that the massage is over. I hate that part of the new routine!!
Every time I take another massage I note that new tricks have been added to the routine. Today, when first laying on the table, hot towels were wrapped around my feet, and a warm cloth was placed on my back. It felt good. Then when I was on my back, a warm towel was put on my stomach. Of course, they still use the warm scented oil, that makes me sneeze and stuffs up my nose. But the worst aspect is the bell. This wonderful musical bell sounds right beside my ear, telling me that the massage is over. I hate that part of the new routine!!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
January 20, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. A Lovely Visit.
This morning, Bev and I went for a walk along the sidewalk, behind the resorts. We got as far as the first building with a sign saying 'OPEN'. In we went to check it out. The Luma is a place adjacent to our resort and is under construction. Two buildings are up and mostly sold and the third tier is just now open for sale although no construction has begun. Beverly and I were like old pros, hurrying the manager when he was taking too long and asking questions when he was omitting information.
The interesting part of the tour was that we loved the place. The apartments are beautifully done and the pools are worth the price of admission. The unusual part of the whole visit was to discover that they changed their approach mid stream. Now they are building bigger units, three, four and five bedroom units in the new building. It turned out that one and two bedroom units were slow to sell. Interesting. They are looking for the wealthy buyers. Full ownership. Beautiful amenities. All you need is a bunch of cash. Neither Beverley or I are going to buy one of their units but we surely enjoyed looking at them!!
The interesting part of the tour was that we loved the place. The apartments are beautifully done and the pools are worth the price of admission. The unusual part of the whole visit was to discover that they changed their approach mid stream. Now they are building bigger units, three, four and five bedroom units in the new building. It turned out that one and two bedroom units were slow to sell. Interesting. They are looking for the wealthy buyers. Full ownership. Beautiful amenities. All you need is a bunch of cash. Neither Beverley or I are going to buy one of their units but we surely enjoyed looking at them!!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
January 19, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Exercise.
We have the best of intentions. Our work out clothes are ready as are our shoes. The gym here is excellent and the shuttle bus takes us right to the door. But so far since we have been in Mexico we have not been to the exercise place to work out. Now we have walked regularly but we have yet to darken the door of the gym.
Our excuses are many. When we arrived in January we both had infections and you know that exercising when ill is a bad idea. Then we had company for a week. It is rude to run off and spend time away from your guest. Ken was fearful of exercising with his heart that runs at crazy speeds but the Cardiologist says not to worry but just keep on going. I have no excuse at all. At least we think about exercising!!
Now we intend to finally get back to our routine and work out three times a week. We will begin soon. Even Irene wondered why she was not hearing about our gym activities here in Mexico. Soon, we will begin. I promise.
Our excuses are many. When we arrived in January we both had infections and you know that exercising when ill is a bad idea. Then we had company for a week. It is rude to run off and spend time away from your guest. Ken was fearful of exercising with his heart that runs at crazy speeds but the Cardiologist says not to worry but just keep on going. I have no excuse at all. At least we think about exercising!!
Now we intend to finally get back to our routine and work out three times a week. We will begin soon. Even Irene wondered why she was not hearing about our gym activities here in Mexico. Soon, we will begin. I promise.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
January 18, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Another Good Book.
"My Reading Life" written by Pat Conroy is an interesting and instructive book. I enjoyed it although I am not sure I have read any of his books. It deals with the question of how writers become writers, something that has puzzled me all my life. Look him up and you will see that many of his books were made into movies and his titles seem familiar to me but I do not recall any of his books in my memory bank. But I loved this book, a personal telling of the important influences on his life as a reader and as a writer.
From his Mother to his first good English teacher to the owner of a bookstore, through Thomas Wolfe, Leo Tolstoy and James Dickey, they all played a part in his life as a writer. I loved the journey. Now I must find our more about this interesting man. Once again, I do not recall placing this book on my Kindle. Perhaps I had read a review in the past and kept it until Mexico where time to read is readily available. I am certainly pleased to have found this book. It is well worth the time.
From his Mother to his first good English teacher to the owner of a bookstore, through Thomas Wolfe, Leo Tolstoy and James Dickey, they all played a part in his life as a writer. I loved the journey. Now I must find our more about this interesting man. Once again, I do not recall placing this book on my Kindle. Perhaps I had read a review in the past and kept it until Mexico where time to read is readily available. I am certainly pleased to have found this book. It is well worth the time.
Monday, January 17, 2011
January 17, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Lunch.
Poor Beverley. Every day we have lunch at another spot where we like to eat, someplace scattered around the complex that is a favorite, to sit and eat and enjoy. She never gets to stay home and eat lunch in the apartment. This is probably because we have few visitors here in Mexico so we want our whole array of luncheon places displayed for her approval, whether she wants to eat there or not.
Today we ate lunch at the golf course. Yesterday, the restaurant on the beach in our own resort. The day before was Mark's, in Bucerias. Then we ate at the restaurant right at the end of the resort, always a quiet spot and a lovely place to watch the sea. And of course, the Italian restaurant on the canal, The Porto Belo, where we drank a whole bottle of wine and ate three courses. Ken and I are loving showing off our options, but I suspect she might prefer to eat at home. These large lunches mean we eat sparingly at night, so Ken doesn't need to cook. We just eat some cheese and crackers or cereal.
She must leave on Thursday, well before we have exhausted our choices for lunch. I guess she will just be required to come again!!
Today we ate lunch at the golf course. Yesterday, the restaurant on the beach in our own resort. The day before was Mark's, in Bucerias. Then we ate at the restaurant right at the end of the resort, always a quiet spot and a lovely place to watch the sea. And of course, the Italian restaurant on the canal, The Porto Belo, where we drank a whole bottle of wine and ate three courses. Ken and I are loving showing off our options, but I suspect she might prefer to eat at home. These large lunches mean we eat sparingly at night, so Ken doesn't need to cook. We just eat some cheese and crackers or cereal.
She must leave on Thursday, well before we have exhausted our choices for lunch. I guess she will just be required to come again!!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
January 16, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. The Mystery Meal.
Robbie and Joyce arrived yesterday from Texas. Instead of having them head out to dinner or making a trip to the local market, I invited them to our place for dinner, except we really did not want to cook. Instead we arranged for a mystery meal.
Cocktails and wine at our place at six to meet Beverley and say hello to us, followed by a short walk to a restaurant. This place is new and not a bit fancy, sitting right alongside the road, but the chef is young and eager, so Ken and I elected to order dinner ahead for everyone, with three different choices of main course. It was an Italian dinner even though the chef is Mexican. It was to be only one choice during the meal, just sit down, drink a glass of wine and eat the meal, one course after the other. We were hoping everyone would be good sports.
I warned everyone ahead to use their own restrooms. The restaurant of the evening had just installed two bathrooms, except there were no doors or toilets seats. Fram a practical standpoint, they had no bathrooms. Robbie tried them out and reported a shower curtain over one stall, a definite improvement.
The meal was fun and festive, a welcome to Nuevo Vallarta dinner, our mystery meal for Beverley, Joyce and Robbie.
Cocktails and wine at our place at six to meet Beverley and say hello to us, followed by a short walk to a restaurant. This place is new and not a bit fancy, sitting right alongside the road, but the chef is young and eager, so Ken and I elected to order dinner ahead for everyone, with three different choices of main course. It was an Italian dinner even though the chef is Mexican. It was to be only one choice during the meal, just sit down, drink a glass of wine and eat the meal, one course after the other. We were hoping everyone would be good sports.
I warned everyone ahead to use their own restrooms. The restaurant of the evening had just installed two bathrooms, except there were no doors or toilets seats. Fram a practical standpoint, they had no bathrooms. Robbie tried them out and reported a shower curtain over one stall, a definite improvement.
The meal was fun and festive, a welcome to Nuevo Vallarta dinner, our mystery meal for Beverley, Joyce and Robbie.
Friday, January 14, 2011
January 14, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Doing Nothing Important.
We are becoming experts at doing nothing important, but we are experts at enjoying ourselves. Today was a perfect example of living the simple life and enjoying it.
Who would have thought that taking two trolley rides around the complex was so pleasant. Beverley enjoyed it too. Walking around the marina area was interesting too. In Mexico, things change, but slowly, so every time we walk around the area we see signs of progress but the progress is slow.
The highlight of the day was lunch at The Porto Bella restaurant on the canal. We did it all. Mussels, shared, for an appetizer. Lasagna for Bev,(for old times sake, she said), osso buco for Ken and pasta for me. Wonderful food, with red wine from Chile washing it all down. Tirimisu, shared for dessert. We got home at four. I napped for thirty minutes.
We watch the sunset every evening, from our balcony, another simple pleasure, looking over the Pacific Ocean. It is a beautiful sight and certainly not important, but we enjoy it.
Who would have thought that taking two trolley rides around the complex was so pleasant. Beverley enjoyed it too. Walking around the marina area was interesting too. In Mexico, things change, but slowly, so every time we walk around the area we see signs of progress but the progress is slow.
The highlight of the day was lunch at The Porto Bella restaurant on the canal. We did it all. Mussels, shared, for an appetizer. Lasagna for Bev,(for old times sake, she said), osso buco for Ken and pasta for me. Wonderful food, with red wine from Chile washing it all down. Tirimisu, shared for dessert. We got home at four. I napped for thirty minutes.
We watch the sunset every evening, from our balcony, another simple pleasure, looking over the Pacific Ocean. It is a beautiful sight and certainly not important, but we enjoy it.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
January 13, 2011. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Lasagna.
Beverley is a friend of long standing, from my days of living in Vancouver. We were Girl Guides together, many years ago, and we have been friends ever since.
Twenty years ago she visited us in Bethesda and looked at the agent handbook for Bethesda Hampden Square. She was an educator and commented that it was an interesting piece but it could be much better. I of course asked how. She assured me that if I wanted her, she could return in two weeks and tell me how to fix it, and she did.
Every day we went to work at 7:30 and she spent all day in the conference room, correcting each error and making suggestions. Every page was filled with pink post-its, which I was required to fix. Every evening we went home to Franklin Street, where we ate lasagna. Every night, the same thing. The first evening I cooked a full lasagna and every subsequent evening we ate another piece. Ken was at a meeting, until Thursday when he returned when we finally got to eat something other than lasagna.
Tonight. after cocktail hour, Beverley asked if we were going to eat lasagna. She remembered!!
Twenty years ago she visited us in Bethesda and looked at the agent handbook for Bethesda Hampden Square. She was an educator and commented that it was an interesting piece but it could be much better. I of course asked how. She assured me that if I wanted her, she could return in two weeks and tell me how to fix it, and she did.
Every day we went to work at 7:30 and she spent all day in the conference room, correcting each error and making suggestions. Every page was filled with pink post-its, which I was required to fix. Every evening we went home to Franklin Street, where we ate lasagna. Every night, the same thing. The first evening I cooked a full lasagna and every subsequent evening we ate another piece. Ken was at a meeting, until Thursday when he returned when we finally got to eat something other than lasagna.
Tonight. after cocktail hour, Beverley asked if we were going to eat lasagna. She remembered!!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
January 12, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Vitamin D.
"Stay in the shade. Apply sun screen every time you are out in the sun. Protect yourself from skin cancer. " Those have been the rules for many years... until now. I am supposed to be out in the sun for a minimum of 20 minutes a day, optimally full sun with no sunscreen, because it turns out I am deficient in Vitamin D. In addition I am supposed to take 1000 something of Vitamin D every day. So far, I have not been perfect.
First of all, I hate sitting in the sun. I get too hot. My skin is not the skin that easily gets skin cancer, as Ken and Christina do, but I get lovely large freckles all over my arms and legs and face, which are ugly. I don't really tan nicely. But here we are, in Paradise, sitting in the full sun for twenty minutes trying to be good.
Last Spring, my Internist declared me short on Vitamin D and told me all the problems of it's deficiency, including the immune system. As I am having difficulty shedding myself of the infection acquired in Texas, it dawned on me that perhaps I should take seriously this Vitamin thing. Starting yesterday, I sat in the sun and I took my Vitamin D which comes along with my Calcium pill each day. Ken hasn't told me all the bad things that happen when you are short of Vitamin D. He is afraid I will get all the symptoms. Now I am a believer and I might even double my Calcium pills, which truthfully only have 600 somethings of Vitamin D.
It is the latest trend. Years ago it was Vitamin C. Take them and have no colds. Next was Vitamin E. Take it and get smarter. Now it is Vitamin D. Actually, I only have 50% of it in my system, which turns out to be a national norm. Remarkable but true. I am a believer now.
First of all, I hate sitting in the sun. I get too hot. My skin is not the skin that easily gets skin cancer, as Ken and Christina do, but I get lovely large freckles all over my arms and legs and face, which are ugly. I don't really tan nicely. But here we are, in Paradise, sitting in the full sun for twenty minutes trying to be good.
Last Spring, my Internist declared me short on Vitamin D and told me all the problems of it's deficiency, including the immune system. As I am having difficulty shedding myself of the infection acquired in Texas, it dawned on me that perhaps I should take seriously this Vitamin thing. Starting yesterday, I sat in the sun and I took my Vitamin D which comes along with my Calcium pill each day. Ken hasn't told me all the bad things that happen when you are short of Vitamin D. He is afraid I will get all the symptoms. Now I am a believer and I might even double my Calcium pills, which truthfully only have 600 somethings of Vitamin D.
It is the latest trend. Years ago it was Vitamin C. Take them and have no colds. Next was Vitamin E. Take it and get smarter. Now it is Vitamin D. Actually, I only have 50% of it in my system, which turns out to be a national norm. Remarkable but true. I am a believer now.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
January 11, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. The Remote Control.
David Eisenhower noted the constant friction between Ike. and Mamie over the remote control. They would typically have cocktails while watching the evening news, often with David too. Mamie was constantly urging Ike. to settle on something, anything and then she would be happy. But of course, he never did. Certainly, he was always in charge of the clicker. This was just at the beginning of the remote control era. It has been an issue ever since for many families.
On Saturday morning, the Texas girls get up and watch TV. Samantha usually wakes up first, so for a while, she is in charge of the clicker, even after the other girls join her. Eventually, she is required to go to the bathroom and you can watch the strategy. Normally, Sarah is in charge of the remote control, and it doesn't take long for her get her hands on the clicker, always pleasantly and always persistently. It is funny to watch.
In our family, we typically watch TV for a specific event such as Antiques Roadshow or a football game so who is in charge of the clicker is not an issue. Here in Mexico, we have a wonderful situation. If Ken is in charge of the clicker and does a bad job, I just return to the bedroom and click away to my heart's desire and watch whatever I want. It is a good system. The beauty of it is that often Ken just thinks I have gone to the restroom!!
On Saturday morning, the Texas girls get up and watch TV. Samantha usually wakes up first, so for a while, she is in charge of the clicker, even after the other girls join her. Eventually, she is required to go to the bathroom and you can watch the strategy. Normally, Sarah is in charge of the remote control, and it doesn't take long for her get her hands on the clicker, always pleasantly and always persistently. It is funny to watch.
In our family, we typically watch TV for a specific event such as Antiques Roadshow or a football game so who is in charge of the clicker is not an issue. Here in Mexico, we have a wonderful situation. If Ken is in charge of the clicker and does a bad job, I just return to the bedroom and click away to my heart's desire and watch whatever I want. It is a good system. The beauty of it is that often Ken just thinks I have gone to the restroom!!
Monday, January 10, 2011
January 10, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Fred Creighton.
Fred Creighton died just before Christmas, another link lost with the Buckley family. His funeral was held immediately after he died, but the family wisely waiting until Jan 8th for a public memorial service. My sister reported to me that the momorial service was a fitting tribute for this wise and kindly man. I spoke about him just last Spring after meeting him again after many years. After his retirement from IBM, he was spending all his time and intellect and efforts at the Salvation Army Heritage Center. He was vigorous and energetic in the Spring. Now he is gone.
The Creighton and Buckley families go back to the days in Calgary, in the early years of the twentieth century. Fred's parents, Doris and Will were married there and my father and siblings lived there. Doris and Will were lifelong friends of my parents. Will and Doris along with my aunt Lillian moved to California, probably for economic reasons but Will and Doris moved back to Canada and settled in Toronto. Two sons, David and Fred (actually Cyrus Wifred) were born when the parents lived in the US. My aunt Lill married and lived in Oakland the rest of her life. I am sure none of her four great-grand children know anything about the Creighton family.
David Creighton, Fred's brother, wrote an account of the tragedy of the sinking of the Empress of Ireland, where most of the officer rank on the Canadian Salvation Army along with the whole Staff Band perished. The parents were both on the ship when it went down. Now I must get the book.
Carol reports that Fred, before he died, outlined the service, which in Salvation Army parlance is termed "Promoted To Glory". Fred was very active in banding and had asked that the band for his service be comprised of peole who had served under Fred as a Bandmaster, either as a Senior or Junior Bandmaster. There were well over one hundred on the platform in the band playing for the service. And the songs sung were all lively as were the tributes. The last piece said it all that needed to be said of Fred "Count your blessings, count them one by one". He lived it every day but I am missing another last link with the Buckley family.
The Creighton and Buckley families go back to the days in Calgary, in the early years of the twentieth century. Fred's parents, Doris and Will were married there and my father and siblings lived there. Doris and Will were lifelong friends of my parents. Will and Doris along with my aunt Lillian moved to California, probably for economic reasons but Will and Doris moved back to Canada and settled in Toronto. Two sons, David and Fred (actually Cyrus Wifred) were born when the parents lived in the US. My aunt Lill married and lived in Oakland the rest of her life. I am sure none of her four great-grand children know anything about the Creighton family.
David Creighton, Fred's brother, wrote an account of the tragedy of the sinking of the Empress of Ireland, where most of the officer rank on the Canadian Salvation Army along with the whole Staff Band perished. The parents were both on the ship when it went down. Now I must get the book.
Carol reports that Fred, before he died, outlined the service, which in Salvation Army parlance is termed "Promoted To Glory". Fred was very active in banding and had asked that the band for his service be comprised of peole who had served under Fred as a Bandmaster, either as a Senior or Junior Bandmaster. There were well over one hundred on the platform in the band playing for the service. And the songs sung were all lively as were the tributes. The last piece said it all that needed to be said of Fred "Count your blessings, count them one by one". He lived it every day but I am missing another last link with the Buckley family.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
January 9, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. A Bad Rap.
The drugs are being used by people who live in North America. The drugs are grown and manufactured in Central and South America. Because drug usage is illegal in North America, it is expensive to obtain, so folks will go to any length to get their hands on that money.
The government had been waging a war against drug use. They are failing. The government has been waging war on the drug importers both in Colombia and Mexico. The drug importers are fighting with each other to protect their area. It is violent and it is ugly. It is hard to determine if the government is winning.
The bad rap is for the people of Mexico. Most people are not involved and just continue to work hard and care for their families. The violence occurs in several specific areas in Mexico and always between the drug people. And yet, major TV analysts state that they would not travel to Mexico because of the violence and corruption. It is a bum rap. It reminds me of the rum runners during prohibition.
The government had been waging a war against drug use. They are failing. The government has been waging war on the drug importers both in Colombia and Mexico. The drug importers are fighting with each other to protect their area. It is violent and it is ugly. It is hard to determine if the government is winning.
The bad rap is for the people of Mexico. Most people are not involved and just continue to work hard and care for their families. The violence occurs in several specific areas in Mexico and always between the drug people. And yet, major TV analysts state that they would not travel to Mexico because of the violence and corruption. It is a bum rap. It reminds me of the rum runners during prohibition.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
January 8, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. An Unusual Book.
I have no recollection of how this book got into my Kindle, but there it was, so, as the name seemed interesting, I started to read it. Now I must have read a review or someone recommended the book to me, but it must have me who put into my Kindle. I don't think it was a joke. I am reading it, all the way through and now am at 60% of the pages. Sometimes it is funny and sometimes it is a serious look at the topic but it is rather weird, reading this book about dying in this beautiful place.
The author, Julian Barnes, has had a fixation on dying. His whole life he has spent a part of everyday thinking about dying, so this book is the results of his reading and thinking, both past and present. He is English and non-Christian which seems to be the norm now in Europe.
Now I never think of dying, rather take it as a natural aspect of living. When I was first told that I had breast cancer I commented to Bob Dunn at work that I was not making a big deal of it in my mind. I had done my best in my work, had two fine sons both with lovely families, and if it all turned out badly, that would be the end of me and life would go on for everyone else. No trauma, no hysterics.
But this book makes dying complicated. Last summer, several of us in Nova Scotia were discussing our health. Marg. who has had health problems, commented that she was not afraid of dying, after all she believed in the afterlife, but she was very fearful as to how she was going to die. She did not want to be a burden on her family.
Gitta and I decided long ago that we were going to die in our sleep, the night after returning from a trip!!
"Nothing To Be Frightened Of", by Julian Barnes. Enjoy.
The author, Julian Barnes, has had a fixation on dying. His whole life he has spent a part of everyday thinking about dying, so this book is the results of his reading and thinking, both past and present. He is English and non-Christian which seems to be the norm now in Europe.
Now I never think of dying, rather take it as a natural aspect of living. When I was first told that I had breast cancer I commented to Bob Dunn at work that I was not making a big deal of it in my mind. I had done my best in my work, had two fine sons both with lovely families, and if it all turned out badly, that would be the end of me and life would go on for everyone else. No trauma, no hysterics.
But this book makes dying complicated. Last summer, several of us in Nova Scotia were discussing our health. Marg. who has had health problems, commented that she was not afraid of dying, after all she believed in the afterlife, but she was very fearful as to how she was going to die. She did not want to be a burden on her family.
Gitta and I decided long ago that we were going to die in our sleep, the night after returning from a trip!!
"Nothing To Be Frightened Of", by Julian Barnes. Enjoy.
Friday, January 7, 2011
January 7, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. An Afternoon in Bed.
I am pretty much the same as I was yesterday morning, even though I stayed in bed all afternoon and evening. Now I will revert to my former routine of ignoring my infirmities until I get better. My problem is that I cough, long and loud. It is almost as if I caught it from Ken except I sound worse than him. I was irritated. We arrived last Saturday and I am still hacking away and feeling miserable, so at the grocery store yesterday I asked Ken to buy two types of cough medicine, one for the day and one at night.
We arrived home around noon, took one dose of the medicine and promptly lay down for a nap and never got up. No e mails, no blog, no reading, no walk. Of course I felt terrible with a dry mouth and throat, but I just stayed in bed, deciding that I would be perfect in the morning. Ken noticed a definite improvement in me this morning. "You are standing up" says Ken.
No more cough medicine in the day time for me. I am reverting to my old program which has worked for 73 years.
We arrived home around noon, took one dose of the medicine and promptly lay down for a nap and never got up. No e mails, no blog, no reading, no walk. Of course I felt terrible with a dry mouth and throat, but I just stayed in bed, deciding that I would be perfect in the morning. Ken noticed a definite improvement in me this morning. "You are standing up" says Ken.
No more cough medicine in the day time for me. I am reverting to my old program which has worked for 73 years.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
January 5, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. Mexico.
This evening, Ken spotted three huge whale spouts, while looking out to sea from our apartment. They were far away but clearly visible to the naked eye. The whales winter here, arriving from Alaska in November and December and staying the winter season before returning in early Spring with their new babies.
This year, for the first time, Ken and I are doing the whale thing. We spent two weeks here in December and will be here all January and February, finally returning March 5th. We have never been here for such a long time and perhaps we won't like it. But we will enjoy avoiding the ice and snow and cold weather. Ken's observation that we are both better at doing nothing is accurate, but I am not so sure. We will see.
So far we have been here four days. Time is so relative. It seems like we have been here a month. I have already read two full books but we have yet to go to the grocery store. We are both recovering from an infection we picked up in Texas so are staying close to home, just eating out at close to home restaurants. This year is an experiment on living here in Mexico for two full months. I'll let you know how it goes.
This year, for the first time, Ken and I are doing the whale thing. We spent two weeks here in December and will be here all January and February, finally returning March 5th. We have never been here for such a long time and perhaps we won't like it. But we will enjoy avoiding the ice and snow and cold weather. Ken's observation that we are both better at doing nothing is accurate, but I am not so sure. We will see.
So far we have been here four days. Time is so relative. It seems like we have been here a month. I have already read two full books but we have yet to go to the grocery store. We are both recovering from an infection we picked up in Texas so are staying close to home, just eating out at close to home restaurants. This year is an experiment on living here in Mexico for two full months. I'll let you know how it goes.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
January 4, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. More Books.
I am in the midst of another enjoyable book, "Extraordinary, Ordinary People: A Memoir of Family", by Condolizza Rice. She spoke at the NAR last year. During her talk she referred to her family and I was determined to read her book. It has been waiting in my Kindle until now. She was personable and pleasant and funny in her speech, giving several stories about buying and selling houses and telling us about the best qualities of agents. Then, as her speech was fairly short, the President interviewed her. Sitting in the middle of the stage, she responded to many fairly personal questions about her training and her upbringing, which encouraged me to read her book. I still find it amazing that she was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, the most segregated city in the country.
Another book I finished yesterday was written by David Eisenhower and Julie Nixon, dealing with the years of the General/President from retirement to death. It is not a perfect book. The writing is uneven, but in it are stories you would never hear concerning Ike, without reading these told by David. The events discussed all took place during my lifetime, which makes the book doubly interesting, because I read the book, then try to recall what I was doing or thinking at the time. Just now, the so called experts are re-thinking the whole Eisenhower presidency, so it is interesting to read the book right now. The book is worth reading.
Another book I finished yesterday was written by David Eisenhower and Julie Nixon, dealing with the years of the General/President from retirement to death. It is not a perfect book. The writing is uneven, but in it are stories you would never hear concerning Ike, without reading these told by David. The events discussed all took place during my lifetime, which makes the book doubly interesting, because I read the book, then try to recall what I was doing or thinking at the time. Just now, the so called experts are re-thinking the whole Eisenhower presidency, so it is interesting to read the book right now. The book is worth reading.
Monday, January 3, 2011
January 3, 2010. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. New e mail.
My new e mail address is Frdickie@me.com. Ken's is Kennethjd@me.com. It works everywhere in the world and we always travel with a computer. I need my own, because Ken sometimes forgets to tell me what is happening on his e mail, thus the need for my own. My first e mail came today from my sister-in-law Irene. Very nice to know it is working as we just established it yesterday afternoon.
I have a reputation at work of not using e mails and that was true. I decided early on in my management career to delegate everything I could to someone else, except for talking to agents to enable them to get better at their job, so Regina checked my e mails regularly and responded to those not agent important. On my desk was put a copy of everything else. It was very efficient, but became somewhat limiting but I stuck with my system...until now. Over the years I took a lot of heat from the agents for my lack of speed with the e mails. My observation was that most managers were spending way too much time at the computer and not enough time with the agents, so I took the ribbing in good grace.
Every so often I would remind them that I am an early adaptor of technology. As an agent I bought a "car phone" the first week Cellular One received their license. It cost $3,000. And I was using a Kindle long before anyone else had heard of the device. But now I will be using my new e mail. Ken is not nearly as quick to report events to me as Regina!!
I have a reputation at work of not using e mails and that was true. I decided early on in my management career to delegate everything I could to someone else, except for talking to agents to enable them to get better at their job, so Regina checked my e mails regularly and responded to those not agent important. On my desk was put a copy of everything else. It was very efficient, but became somewhat limiting but I stuck with my system...until now. Over the years I took a lot of heat from the agents for my lack of speed with the e mails. My observation was that most managers were spending way too much time at the computer and not enough time with the agents, so I took the ribbing in good grace.
Every so often I would remind them that I am an early adaptor of technology. As an agent I bought a "car phone" the first week Cellular One received their license. It cost $3,000. And I was using a Kindle long before anyone else had heard of the device. But now I will be using my new e mail. Ken is not nearly as quick to report events to me as Regina!!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
January 2, 2011. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. The Mover and Shaker.
Now I know people helped. Christina brought cranberry cake, fudge, cookies and toffee, enough desert for the whole season and everyone helped out with the kitchen. But the responsibility person was Suzanne. Every detail was in place from the food to the toys. The last straw was the poppers for the girls to celebrate the new years. She had purchased three boxes so each girl had a partner to celebrate. They went outside and had a noisy and happy time, then cheerfully cleaned up their mess. I had never even heard about these safe poppers, but Suzanne knew.
The adults enjoyed the whole holiday season and so did the children, which is not always the case. The memories will be forever etched into all our minds, from the beginning to the end of our time together and for Suzanne we give thanks. I hope she enjoyed it as much as the rest of us. I certainly hope she gets a good rest now that we have all left town!!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
January 1, 2010. Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. My Hats Live.
Sarah asked first. "Now that Grandma is retired, could I have one of her hats," asked Sarah to her Mother. Suzanne relayed the message to me, so I asked Regina to send me seven hats, to be put into each Christmas bag of goodies. Regina sent seven hats to David's home. Then I got smart and decided to ask Regina to send all my hats to San Antonio. It took four boxes to hold them all.
The girls were thrilled with their one hat which they wore the rest of the time opening gifts. After all the gifts had been opened by both adults and girls and we were sitting in the glow of pleasure, I set out the four boxes of hats for them to open. They were so excited and spent the next hour modelling the hats and insisting all adults wear one too. We looked totally ridiculous but we were happy. The rest of the time in San Antonio they each wore a hat, a different hat each time.
When they returned from the ranch, Suzanne set out all the hats in the middle of the living room and the seven girls took turns picking a hat until there were four hats left. At that point, the young adults chose a hat each which they wore the rest of the holiday. The girls held a fashion show of hats, even three year old Molly joining in the fun.
The girls decided that every Christmas they will give the other cousin one of my hats along with their gift. Now some of my hats are in Jackson, Mississippi and some hats are in San Antonio, Texas. Long reign my hats.
The girls were thrilled with their one hat which they wore the rest of the time opening gifts. After all the gifts had been opened by both adults and girls and we were sitting in the glow of pleasure, I set out the four boxes of hats for them to open. They were so excited and spent the next hour modelling the hats and insisting all adults wear one too. We looked totally ridiculous but we were happy. The rest of the time in San Antonio they each wore a hat, a different hat each time.
When they returned from the ranch, Suzanne set out all the hats in the middle of the living room and the seven girls took turns picking a hat until there were four hats left. At that point, the young adults chose a hat each which they wore the rest of the holiday. The girls held a fashion show of hats, even three year old Molly joining in the fun.
The girls decided that every Christmas they will give the other cousin one of my hats along with their gift. Now some of my hats are in Jackson, Mississippi and some hats are in San Antonio, Texas. Long reign my hats.
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