I love spiders when they are outside but I do not enjoy knowing that spiders are in my house. This week, Chandes and his crew of two were installing weather stripping in our four doors. The weather was cold when we returned from Mexico and we discovered that the doors leaked air. People in the south are not as careful about leaking doors as do the Canadians. I have never understood why because keeping out the heat is just as important as keeping out the cold, but perhaps in the south it is less uncomfortable. Anyway, when we discover our air leaks, Chantes came to fix our problem.
While the men were working, the doors were open and when they completed their task, the door in the breakfast room was left wide open. I did not discover the open door until 11:00 pm, so I knew lots of insects and spiders had entered the house. Sure enough, the next morning, when I sat in my chair in the corner of the living room for breakfast, I noticed 4 strands of a spider web had been installed on top of my large water mug. Some clever little spider was making a web right on the top of my mug. The nerve. I looked everywhere but found no spiders. But I know they are here in my house but so far I have seen no more webs on the top of my water mugs. And I hope to never see them again.
Friday, March 31, 2017
Thursday, March 30, 2017
March 30, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Troubles.
Lots of people in the US are upset. They do not like the President. They do not like the amount of illegal drugs being consumed. Debate is impossible when name calling is all is said about the opposition. The country is polarized which is true. People even speak of today as the darkest of times.
Since we have returned to Mississippi this time, I have been reading a book with the title of "The Civil War in Mississippi. Major Campaigns and Battles", by Michael B. Ballard. Now those were hard times. Just imagine how you would have functioned if you lived in Jackson during the Civil War. I am not reading from beginning to end. I have started at the end and am picking a chapter at will. What I am really looking for is what happened to the people of Mississippi during these battles. For instance, three military campaigns came through Jackson. It was not burned only once. The city was burned three times. Whatever was missed during the last campaign was burned the next.
Our times never come close to 1861 to 1865. Even after the war ended, it took Mississippi a century to get back on it's feet. The slaves were emancipated during the Civil War but the newly freed slaves had a dreadful time for the same hundred years. But everyone survived and prospered, which we will do now, but it will not takes us 100 years. I suspect that a little less complaining and more hard work will win the day.
Since we have returned to Mississippi this time, I have been reading a book with the title of "The Civil War in Mississippi. Major Campaigns and Battles", by Michael B. Ballard. Now those were hard times. Just imagine how you would have functioned if you lived in Jackson during the Civil War. I am not reading from beginning to end. I have started at the end and am picking a chapter at will. What I am really looking for is what happened to the people of Mississippi during these battles. For instance, three military campaigns came through Jackson. It was not burned only once. The city was burned three times. Whatever was missed during the last campaign was burned the next.
Our times never come close to 1861 to 1865. Even after the war ended, it took Mississippi a century to get back on it's feet. The slaves were emancipated during the Civil War but the newly freed slaves had a dreadful time for the same hundred years. But everyone survived and prospered, which we will do now, but it will not takes us 100 years. I suspect that a little less complaining and more hard work will win the day.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
March 29, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Mocking Bird.
Today when I went walking, a mocking bird came too. All thought the whole walk, his sounds accompanied me. Mocking birds make lots of different sounds so I heard all those songs throughout my walk. I can not believe that the same bird followed me the whole way. That does not seem reasonable but I definitely heard those bird songs though out the whole walk.
Most people do not like mocking birds. They are aggressive at the bird feeders and to other birds. And they are common, there are so many of them. But I like them. They perch on the top of the tree and sing and sing. And the number of different sounds they make is remarkable. Grackles can make almost as many sounds as a mocking bird. People do not like grackles either for the same reason that they are aggressive.
I never was able to actually see that mocking bird. I must keep my eyes on the ground and i have no peripheral vision so perhaps there were other birds I heard along the way. But the whole idea was perfect that I went walking today and a mocking bird came too. That is my story and I will stick to it. I liked my walk with the mocking bird. Maybe he will come again tomorrow.
Most people do not like mocking birds. They are aggressive at the bird feeders and to other birds. And they are common, there are so many of them. But I like them. They perch on the top of the tree and sing and sing. And the number of different sounds they make is remarkable. Grackles can make almost as many sounds as a mocking bird. People do not like grackles either for the same reason that they are aggressive.
I never was able to actually see that mocking bird. I must keep my eyes on the ground and i have no peripheral vision so perhaps there were other birds I heard along the way. But the whole idea was perfect that I went walking today and a mocking bird came too. That is my story and I will stick to it. I liked my walk with the mocking bird. Maybe he will come again tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
March 28, 2017. Madison, Mississippi Stupidity.
The Left wing of the Democratic Party seemed to have a mental breakdown when Mrs. Clinton lost the election. They became unhinged. I assumed they would get over it but so far, this has not happened. Civility and grace does not seem to have returned. Their behavior seems stupid to me. Half the voters in the nation voted for Mr. Trump and the longer they continue their present patterns of obstruction the more they will alienate many democrats. Even Mr. Biden has suggested their behavior should end.
One of the most interesting aspects of the present world of politics is that many of the goals of Mr. Trump are part of the Democratic agenda, such as infrastructure. Most main line Republicans do not really want to talk infrastructure. If the Democrats could just get over their hatred of Mr. Trump and cooperate, , good things might happen for the country. And their loyal party members could reap some glory. But the far left in the party seem never to cooperate for the common good. I have spent many years following the world of politics but I have never observed such stupid behaviors by so many politicians.
During the election, I put my head in the sand and never listened to news. The election was interesting and for a few months I paid attention to the political world. When we were in Mexico, Don and I had many conversations about American politics because he also thought the election was stunning. But now I have returned to putting my head in the sand and watch no news. I will wait for Mr. Trump to accomplish the items to help the country such as a new tax law. In the meantime, I will await the return of civility and grace and ignore the stupidity.
One of the most interesting aspects of the present world of politics is that many of the goals of Mr. Trump are part of the Democratic agenda, such as infrastructure. Most main line Republicans do not really want to talk infrastructure. If the Democrats could just get over their hatred of Mr. Trump and cooperate, , good things might happen for the country. And their loyal party members could reap some glory. But the far left in the party seem never to cooperate for the common good. I have spent many years following the world of politics but I have never observed such stupid behaviors by so many politicians.
During the election, I put my head in the sand and never listened to news. The election was interesting and for a few months I paid attention to the political world. When we were in Mexico, Don and I had many conversations about American politics because he also thought the election was stunning. But now I have returned to putting my head in the sand and watch no news. I will wait for Mr. Trump to accomplish the items to help the country such as a new tax law. In the meantime, I will await the return of civility and grace and ignore the stupidity.
Monday, March 27, 2017
March 27, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Milk.
In Canada and The United States, we buy our milk at a grocery store, when we move the milk from a large refrigerator full of milk into our basket. When we get home we put the milk immediately in the fridge to keep the milk fresh. But in Mexico, in addition to buying 4 cartons of milk at the Mega store from the big refrigerator, I also buy a case of 16 quarts of milk which will be kept on the pantry shelves until needed. After opening, the milk must stay in the fridge. Our life is easier without carrying the heavy milk from the market one half mile away.
Years ago when we were skiing in Europe, we discovered milk that did not need to go into the fridge, so we bought it. The boys drank lots of milk and the fridges were small, so we got used to the milk. But the milk tasted just a bit different. When we came home we discovered that the grocery stores did not stock this milk that had been irradiated. Evidently, Americans would not drink it.
The milk in Mexico tastes exactly the same in the milk from the shelves as the milk from the fridge at the store. We could tell do difference. So clever Ken, when he ran out of milk this morning, checked on the internet to find this milk that will stay on the shelf. And he bought a case. It will arrive on Wednesday. Now all we need at the store is fruit. He is definitely a keeper, that Ken.
Years ago when we were skiing in Europe, we discovered milk that did not need to go into the fridge, so we bought it. The boys drank lots of milk and the fridges were small, so we got used to the milk. But the milk tasted just a bit different. When we came home we discovered that the grocery stores did not stock this milk that had been irradiated. Evidently, Americans would not drink it.
The milk in Mexico tastes exactly the same in the milk from the shelves as the milk from the fridge at the store. We could tell do difference. So clever Ken, when he ran out of milk this morning, checked on the internet to find this milk that will stay on the shelf. And he bought a case. It will arrive on Wednesday. Now all we need at the store is fruit. He is definitely a keeper, that Ken.
Sunday, March 26, 2017
March 26, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Drago's Restaurant.
Today we dined at 12:30 because Mary Frances was working the cameras and sound at church. She and a friend film the service, which will then be seen on TV in a week. MF is responsible for the sound and the lights. She enjoyed doing it. We asked if the two of them were totally in charge. She laughed and said that an adult is always close at hand if help is needed. It does not matter to us whether we eat at 11:15 or 12:30. We enjoy either.
The official name is Drago's Seafood Restaurant and is straight from New Orleans., which means that the food is excellent and tasty but not hot. Our conversations today were all about basketball, hockey and curling. Molly played basketball this season. Her team won their final two games so she is ready for next season. She wanted to tell us about her team and their games, but she kept getting interrupted, but at the first lull in conversation, she just picked up when she left off without missing a beat. Her interest and enthusiasm never waned and she did not seem to get discouraged even though she was interrupted multiple times. Molly was sitting on my side of the table so I could hear her start up about her team. I was interested in how persistent she was at returning to her topic of conversation. She never wavered until she finished describing their last game. Then she was happy. Of course, by then we were busily ordering dessert.
We have been to Drago's multiple times because it is right next door to the Hilton where David and the family stay. But mostly we go there because they have lots and lots of good seafood. We started off with a dozen raw oysters which were big and tasty. Even Molly loves them. Great food and great time today at Drago's Seafood Restaurant.
The official name is Drago's Seafood Restaurant and is straight from New Orleans., which means that the food is excellent and tasty but not hot. Our conversations today were all about basketball, hockey and curling. Molly played basketball this season. Her team won their final two games so she is ready for next season. She wanted to tell us about her team and their games, but she kept getting interrupted, but at the first lull in conversation, she just picked up when she left off without missing a beat. Her interest and enthusiasm never waned and she did not seem to get discouraged even though she was interrupted multiple times. Molly was sitting on my side of the table so I could hear her start up about her team. I was interested in how persistent she was at returning to her topic of conversation. She never wavered until she finished describing their last game. Then she was happy. Of course, by then we were busily ordering dessert.
We have been to Drago's multiple times because it is right next door to the Hilton where David and the family stay. But mostly we go there because they have lots and lots of good seafood. We started off with a dozen raw oysters which were big and tasty. Even Molly loves them. Great food and great time today at Drago's Seafood Restaurant.
Saturday, March 25, 2017
March 25, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Our Deck.
Today the wind was too strong so I was not able to sit on our deck. Most afternoons this week, at around 5:00, I take my bottle of water and phone and carefully walk down the 7 stairs to our deck. Ken has already taken the cushions from the box and set up our chairs so I am ready to relax and watch the boats and the birds. Most days, Ken joins me and we talk.
Our back yard faces east so first thing in the morning I see the sunrise. Many mornings are beautiful. I enjoy seeing the sunrise but what I really like is the deck in the afternoon when the sun is on the front of the house. In the south, facing the back yard to the east is a blessing. The first house David and Suzanne owned faced west so their deck was useless in the late afternoon. They never made that mistake again. At the lake house in Texas, the deck faces east so our afternoons are delightful.
Our deck in Mississippi is a lovely spot. I am not sure why I enjoy watching the action before me but I do. When I get bored or if I am alone, I pull out my phone and check my e mails. Or I read. But mostly I look for birds. And I wish a birder was sitting beside me. Our deck is splendid.
Our back yard faces east so first thing in the morning I see the sunrise. Many mornings are beautiful. I enjoy seeing the sunrise but what I really like is the deck in the afternoon when the sun is on the front of the house. In the south, facing the back yard to the east is a blessing. The first house David and Suzanne owned faced west so their deck was useless in the late afternoon. They never made that mistake again. At the lake house in Texas, the deck faces east so our afternoons are delightful.
Our deck in Mississippi is a lovely spot. I am not sure why I enjoy watching the action before me but I do. When I get bored or if I am alone, I pull out my phone and check my e mails. Or I read. But mostly I look for birds. And I wish a birder was sitting beside me. Our deck is splendid.
Friday, March 24, 2017
March 24, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Boxes.
The manufacturing of boxes must be big business these days. Bit by bit, for the past two decades the consumption of paper has declined, mainly due to the decrease in daily newspapers. But since the advent of purchasing on line, the need for cardboard boxes has skyrocketed. Our family is a perfect example.
Every Monday our recycled bin is picked up, along with the regular trash. The regular trash is also picked up on Thursday along with any big items. (As an aside, the trash collection here in Madison is excellent.) Our big bin is always full even though Ken flattens out every box no matter the size. The neighbors across the street receive even more boxes at their door so their bin would be full too. And that is only two families on one street. I always wonder what happens to that flat cardboard in the recycled bin. I hope the clean cardboard is returned to some machine and made into more boxes. There certainly must be lots and lots of them, and I do not see any change in buying patterns in the near future.
In fact, Ken told me today that he has ordered 10 different items coming to our door, all carefully packed in boxes. Whew. The box manufacturers must be happy.
Every Monday our recycled bin is picked up, along with the regular trash. The regular trash is also picked up on Thursday along with any big items. (As an aside, the trash collection here in Madison is excellent.) Our big bin is always full even though Ken flattens out every box no matter the size. The neighbors across the street receive even more boxes at their door so their bin would be full too. And that is only two families on one street. I always wonder what happens to that flat cardboard in the recycled bin. I hope the clean cardboard is returned to some machine and made into more boxes. There certainly must be lots and lots of them, and I do not see any change in buying patterns in the near future.
In fact, Ken told me today that he has ordered 10 different items coming to our door, all carefully packed in boxes. Whew. The box manufacturers must be happy.
Thursday, March 23, 2017
March 23, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. J. & S.
We bought our Mississippi home from J. She was pleasant and helpful to us even though her daughter who lived in New Orleans was mean and nasty to everyone, except at settlement when she was pleasant. J. had been widow for 4 years and for 4 years prior to S's death he had been ill, so when we saw the house, it had 8 years of deferred maintenance, which after 2 years has all been done.
J.&S. belonged to the Yacht Club and was well known there. Evidently they ate there several times a week and held lavish parties at their home. Both were friendly and pleasant and everyone spoke well of them both. And everyone thought they were rich, including the daughter from his first marriage. After S. died, and the will was read and the accounting done, it appeared that S.&J. had no money. They spent everything he had earned. J. was taken to court for hiding all the money because one quarter of the assets were to go to the step daughter and she was sure that J. had done something with all the money. But there was no money so she lost her case. She also lost a step-mother.
J. took a job in a dress shop because she could not cover her expenses. For two years she tried to sell the house but she did nothing to fix it up so it took ages to sell. And she no longer was a member of the Yacht Club.
The other day when we were there for brunch, the people at the adjacent table were discussing J. "She was such a lovely lady and she has disappeared," one lady said to the other. I could have told them that J. has moved to Hattiesburg and owns a little house there, but I never said a word. J.&S. seem to be perfect examples of how not to handle your money. S. was the life of the party and lived the high life. But he never saved a dime. Everyone thought he was rich but he actually was poor, leaving his elderly widow with taking a job even though she had never worked a day in her life. J. was a well known attorney in Jackson but he needed some instructions in handling money. Not smart and not wise.
J.&S. belonged to the Yacht Club and was well known there. Evidently they ate there several times a week and held lavish parties at their home. Both were friendly and pleasant and everyone spoke well of them both. And everyone thought they were rich, including the daughter from his first marriage. After S. died, and the will was read and the accounting done, it appeared that S.&J. had no money. They spent everything he had earned. J. was taken to court for hiding all the money because one quarter of the assets were to go to the step daughter and she was sure that J. had done something with all the money. But there was no money so she lost her case. She also lost a step-mother.
J. took a job in a dress shop because she could not cover her expenses. For two years she tried to sell the house but she did nothing to fix it up so it took ages to sell. And she no longer was a member of the Yacht Club.
The other day when we were there for brunch, the people at the adjacent table were discussing J. "She was such a lovely lady and she has disappeared," one lady said to the other. I could have told them that J. has moved to Hattiesburg and owns a little house there, but I never said a word. J.&S. seem to be perfect examples of how not to handle your money. S. was the life of the party and lived the high life. But he never saved a dime. Everyone thought he was rich but he actually was poor, leaving his elderly widow with taking a job even though she had never worked a day in her life. J. was a well known attorney in Jackson but he needed some instructions in handling money. Not smart and not wise.
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
March 22, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Tree Trimming.
This morning, I ate my breakfast watching our view of the Reservoir get better and better. The first day we looked out the windows both Ken and I said immediately that the trees needed to be trimmed. That was two years ago. Finally. It has been done.
Watching the men at work was fascinating. One young man with a long pony tail was 40 feet up a tree holding on with the spikes in his boots and a rope holding him safe. He must put ropes around both ends of the branch coming down. Two strong men held the ropes and lowered it down to the ground, after the young man had cut off the section to be removed. While he is 40 feet up, he reached down to pick up his chain saw, starts it up and while holding on with one arm cuts through the wood. It was quite a feat and very labor intensive. And the two young men did it all day, while the other 6 looked after the wood on the ground.
I feel sure these young men have never studied physics but there was lot of it going on today. They used lots of ropes and pulleys. And lots of the things you use when climbing. I was impressed. They worked all day, taking 30 minutes for lunch and they left at 4. Both front and back were left neat as a pin. And when we sat on the deck this evening both Ken and I were delighted with the new view of the water. Our trees have finally been trimmed.
Watching the men at work was fascinating. One young man with a long pony tail was 40 feet up a tree holding on with the spikes in his boots and a rope holding him safe. He must put ropes around both ends of the branch coming down. Two strong men held the ropes and lowered it down to the ground, after the young man had cut off the section to be removed. While he is 40 feet up, he reached down to pick up his chain saw, starts it up and while holding on with one arm cuts through the wood. It was quite a feat and very labor intensive. And the two young men did it all day, while the other 6 looked after the wood on the ground.
I feel sure these young men have never studied physics but there was lot of it going on today. They used lots of ropes and pulleys. And lots of the things you use when climbing. I was impressed. They worked all day, taking 30 minutes for lunch and they left at 4. Both front and back were left neat as a pin. And when we sat on the deck this evening both Ken and I were delighted with the new view of the water. Our trees have finally been trimmed.
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
March 21, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. My Scans.
Once again my scans were clear. Dr. Sheehan, my Oncologist was thrilled. "It does not often happen," she said to Ken and me. When I read of people saying terrible things about modern medicine I just shake my head. Without modern medications and modern surgical techniques both Ken and I would be dead. I am grateful to be turning 80 this year. For a while it seemed a bit iffy.
Dr. Kosko, my eye surgeon, paid Ken and me a compliment yesterday. He was discussing my vision and the success I have had with the surgery. And he asked about my scans. He said that most older people come to him and complain about what they can not do, but when he looked at the both of us, who have had major health difficulties, he could see that we have a nice life style. And we were doing what we wanted to do and going where we want to go. He said, "When I am 80 I hope I can remember how you have done it. And I am comforted about my old age." Pretty nice comment I thought.
My next scan is booked for November so until then, I will not need to check my blood and report to the Oncologist. I am using one eye drop. I see the eye Doctor in a month and will find out my protocol when away. I am getting much better.
Dr. Kosko, my eye surgeon, paid Ken and me a compliment yesterday. He was discussing my vision and the success I have had with the surgery. And he asked about my scans. He said that most older people come to him and complain about what they can not do, but when he looked at the both of us, who have had major health difficulties, he could see that we have a nice life style. And we were doing what we wanted to do and going where we want to go. He said, "When I am 80 I hope I can remember how you have done it. And I am comforted about my old age." Pretty nice comment I thought.
My next scan is booked for November so until then, I will not need to check my blood and report to the Oncologist. I am using one eye drop. I see the eye Doctor in a month and will find out my protocol when away. I am getting much better.
Monday, March 20, 2017
March 20, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Boxes.
Every day, boxes arrive at our door. Yesterday, on Sunday, 3 packages were being delivered just as we were leaving and when we returned 3 more boxes were at our door. And that was on a Sunday. This is not Christmas but it seems like Christmas to me as I never know what are in those boxes. But Ken knows because he has ordered each item from Amazon. We have been home 10 days. Ken has been busy.
On the trip home, while we were waiting for our next flight in Dallas, I suggested to Ken that he could order many items for the house on line rather than hauling things home from the grocery store. Carrying big bulky items into the house are difficult for both of us, with our bad legs. As we talked about it, we came up with a long list that could be ordered. Ken is a whiz at ordering on the internet so he started in while we were still at the airport. He has been busily ordering ever since.
So far to our house has come 40 rolls of toilet paper, 24 rolls of paper towel, 16 boxes of kleenex, 24 chocolate and mint energy bars, 224 individual coffee pods, 60 protein drinks, 6 big adult bibs, and many more items that have disappeared into Ken's drawers. Today, he took the cake. We now are the proud owners of 240 big individually wrapped cookies. We promptly sat down and ate cookies and drank milk. And we laughed.
At this rate, we should be able to buy only fruit, vegetables and milk. at the grocery store. Modern life is efficient. Lourdes our Cuban cook, cooked all afternoon so we do not even need to buy meat. Life is sweet as long as those boxes keep arriving at our door.
On the trip home, while we were waiting for our next flight in Dallas, I suggested to Ken that he could order many items for the house on line rather than hauling things home from the grocery store. Carrying big bulky items into the house are difficult for both of us, with our bad legs. As we talked about it, we came up with a long list that could be ordered. Ken is a whiz at ordering on the internet so he started in while we were still at the airport. He has been busily ordering ever since.
So far to our house has come 40 rolls of toilet paper, 24 rolls of paper towel, 16 boxes of kleenex, 24 chocolate and mint energy bars, 224 individual coffee pods, 60 protein drinks, 6 big adult bibs, and many more items that have disappeared into Ken's drawers. Today, he took the cake. We now are the proud owners of 240 big individually wrapped cookies. We promptly sat down and ate cookies and drank milk. And we laughed.
At this rate, we should be able to buy only fruit, vegetables and milk. at the grocery store. Modern life is efficient. Lourdes our Cuban cook, cooked all afternoon so we do not even need to buy meat. Life is sweet as long as those boxes keep arriving at our door.
Sunday, March 19, 2017
March 19, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Surin of Thailand.
The parking lot was empty when we arrived at 11:10. Ken said that the place must not be open, but he was wrong. Before we could open the door three other cars drove up. When we walked into the restaurant the waiters greeted us enthusiastically. They had opened at 11 and so far we were the first patrons. But by the time we left, the place was almost full. Christina and the girls pulled in while we were just entering so we were all set for our Sunday Brunch. Mary Frances was missing. Four wisdom teeth were removed on Thursday and she was not yet up to dining.
Jackson is just a couple hours drive north of New Orleans, where even the greasy spoon cafes are good. The food in New Orleans is just better than anywhere else. Perhaps it is the competition. The next thing I know is that the flavor of New Orleans food has influenced the restaurants in Jackson. The food is good. We have eaten in many Thai restaurants in the world and the Surin of Thailand has great food. The soup is so good that even though they give you a cup of soup with your meal, Kate orders a full bowl of the same soup for her main course. And she takes half home to take back to College when she returns today.
Our Sunday Brunch tradition is wonderful. We enjoy good food and pleasant conversation with the family. The food at Surin was extra good. Or perhaps we just enjoyed our family more than usual. Or perhaps the beautiful weather made us mellow. No matter, we had a good time at Surin of Thailand.
Jackson is just a couple hours drive north of New Orleans, where even the greasy spoon cafes are good. The food in New Orleans is just better than anywhere else. Perhaps it is the competition. The next thing I know is that the flavor of New Orleans food has influenced the restaurants in Jackson. The food is good. We have eaten in many Thai restaurants in the world and the Surin of Thailand has great food. The soup is so good that even though they give you a cup of soup with your meal, Kate orders a full bowl of the same soup for her main course. And she takes half home to take back to College when she returns today.
Our Sunday Brunch tradition is wonderful. We enjoy good food and pleasant conversation with the family. The food at Surin was extra good. Or perhaps we just enjoyed our family more than usual. Or perhaps the beautiful weather made us mellow. No matter, we had a good time at Surin of Thailand.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
March 18, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. A Birthday Party.
Virginia Mills celebrated her 9th birthday today. Molly was invited along with three cousins, Isabelle Sutherland, and Charlotte and Mary Greaves, so 5 little girls aged 8 or 9 were present. In addition, Greta Barbour invited the Mothers to stay for coffee. I was invited which pleased me. The Mills grandparents were there too along with Aunt Kate from Memphis, who is John's sister. The event was all very civilized and pleasant.
Kate had decorated the birthday cake which was made by Greta Barbour. The cake looked like a cat with long whiskers. And the adults were served cup cakes with a candle along with lemon curd, which is a favorite of mine. The little girls played outside or at the kitchen table while the 6 ladies sat in the dining table enjoying our coffee and cupcakes and talking. Both Eleanor and Kate are artists so one of the things we discussed was creativity and how it comes and goes. For me, I have no idea because I do not have a creative brain. On the other hand, I can organize everything and everyone but if you asked me to paint on an empty canvas I would have nightmares.
Mrs. Mills lives in Louisiana on a farm. But it is not an anti-intellectual farming area. Their book club, which has been in operation for 40 years, reads interesting challenging books. One of our topics of conversation was the position of women today. Several books unknown to me were describing the achievement of women in the past. I suggested "The Angle of Repose", a wonderful book by Wallace Stegner. One theme in the book describes the woman artist of the 19th century who settled in the west. The novel may be the best book I have ever read. Only Mrs. Mills had read the book or knew of it. The book is dense and wonderful.
John, Mr. Mills and son Payton were off playing a game so just the ladies talked, until Virginia opened her gifts in the living room when we all adjourned to the living room to watch the fun. Then the little girls disappeared and left the adults alone. My afternoon was delightful and I felt fortunate to have been invited. I have observed a different level of conversations in Mississippi. Today was a perfect example. I loved the whole afternoon. Hats off to Greta Barbour.
Kate had decorated the birthday cake which was made by Greta Barbour. The cake looked like a cat with long whiskers. And the adults were served cup cakes with a candle along with lemon curd, which is a favorite of mine. The little girls played outside or at the kitchen table while the 6 ladies sat in the dining table enjoying our coffee and cupcakes and talking. Both Eleanor and Kate are artists so one of the things we discussed was creativity and how it comes and goes. For me, I have no idea because I do not have a creative brain. On the other hand, I can organize everything and everyone but if you asked me to paint on an empty canvas I would have nightmares.
Mrs. Mills lives in Louisiana on a farm. But it is not an anti-intellectual farming area. Their book club, which has been in operation for 40 years, reads interesting challenging books. One of our topics of conversation was the position of women today. Several books unknown to me were describing the achievement of women in the past. I suggested "The Angle of Repose", a wonderful book by Wallace Stegner. One theme in the book describes the woman artist of the 19th century who settled in the west. The novel may be the best book I have ever read. Only Mrs. Mills had read the book or knew of it. The book is dense and wonderful.
John, Mr. Mills and son Payton were off playing a game so just the ladies talked, until Virginia opened her gifts in the living room when we all adjourned to the living room to watch the fun. Then the little girls disappeared and left the adults alone. My afternoon was delightful and I felt fortunate to have been invited. I have observed a different level of conversations in Mississippi. Today was a perfect example. I loved the whole afternoon. Hats off to Greta Barbour.
Friday, March 17, 2017
March 17, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Rita and Ian.
They are having a run of bad luck. Their travel plans have been tipped upside down like a cocked hat. In early January they were coming to Mexico to be with us in the condo. Getting away from Ottawa in January and February is a good idea. But Rita got sick just before Christmas and was in hospital for a few days. White there, unbeknown to her she contacted an infection, so when she came home intending to recover she instead got worse. Her infection is now gone and she is well, down to one nap every other day.
Next plan for them was to come to Mississippi to see our Mississippi family and our new home. They have yet to visit us here. But Ian was given a high number on his prostate test, so at the moment they are trying to figure out what to do. They meet with the Oncologist and the Urologist to map out a plan next week. Whatever their decision, the recovery will take time so they might not get to Mississippi after all, at least not this Spring.
Some clever person once wrote a poem about best laid plans. This certainly has the experience of Rita and Ian this Winter season.
Next plan for them was to come to Mississippi to see our Mississippi family and our new home. They have yet to visit us here. But Ian was given a high number on his prostate test, so at the moment they are trying to figure out what to do. They meet with the Oncologist and the Urologist to map out a plan next week. Whatever their decision, the recovery will take time so they might not get to Mississippi after all, at least not this Spring.
Some clever person once wrote a poem about best laid plans. This certainly has the experience of Rita and Ian this Winter season.
Thursday, March 16, 2017
March 16, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Our Mississippi Home.
The first Persian carpet we ever purchases is on the kitchen floor leading to the garage in Mississippi. And the second is on the main entrance hall outside the powder room. We were thrilled to have purchased them in our first home on Lancaster Drive in Bethesda and I am delighted to see them every day now. They were purchased in 1974.
Beside the stairs to the lower level on the left side is a set of built in shelves. They go from the floor to the ceiling. Gloria decided to place all of family pictures on those shelves. When we sold the farm, we brought pictures from two houses. All our pictures from Chevy Chase had been taken to the farm so we were really bringing pictures from three homes. Now they look wonderful. I can see my grandmother Houghton every day along with pictures of our children and their families. And lots of pictures of the grandchildren. It is such fun seeing them every day.
We brought a few pieces of furniture from the farm too, including an old walnut hutch in the dining room and a liquor safe we use as an end table. And we use our good dishes every day, the same ones we have used for 50 years, but only on special occasions.
When we returned from Mexico, I felt as if I was coming home, which made no sense to me because we have only owned this house for two years. But since we have arrived, I have been looking around and noticing that many objects have been in our houses for many years, so of course I felt as if I was at home along with the treasures of our life. Each object has it's own history and brings happy memories. We are enjoying this house and all it's belongings.
Beside the stairs to the lower level on the left side is a set of built in shelves. They go from the floor to the ceiling. Gloria decided to place all of family pictures on those shelves. When we sold the farm, we brought pictures from two houses. All our pictures from Chevy Chase had been taken to the farm so we were really bringing pictures from three homes. Now they look wonderful. I can see my grandmother Houghton every day along with pictures of our children and their families. And lots of pictures of the grandchildren. It is such fun seeing them every day.
We brought a few pieces of furniture from the farm too, including an old walnut hutch in the dining room and a liquor safe we use as an end table. And we use our good dishes every day, the same ones we have used for 50 years, but only on special occasions.
When we returned from Mexico, I felt as if I was coming home, which made no sense to me because we have only owned this house for two years. But since we have arrived, I have been looking around and noticing that many objects have been in our houses for many years, so of course I felt as if I was at home along with the treasures of our life. Each object has it's own history and brings happy memories. We are enjoying this house and all it's belongings.
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
March 15, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Birthday Girls.
Some grandmothers never miss the birthdays of their grandchildren. I know some who actually attend every birthday celebration, even if they don't live in the same city. Ken and I are not like those folks. I think I am doing well if I remember to send flowers on the actual day, then celebrate when we are all together. Fortunately, the other set of grandparents are much more attentive so send cards and gifts at the proper time.
Today we celebrated the birthdays of Kate and Mary Frances, who turned 20 and 17 in February. They enjoyed the late party. In fact, Kate thought it a grand idea to celebrate when the birthday is long past. Our choice for the birthday party was Sombra, the Mexican restaurant near the Renaissance. For several years, we have given the girls a cheque for their birthday gift. So before we ordered, they opened their gift, which was enclosed in a card from Nova Scotia. Every year, the girls paint the rocks. Several years ago, my friend Betty S.stayed at the house just after the girls had left. Brother in law, who is a professional photographer, took pictures of the rock art, then made the pictures into cards, which Betty gave me. The girls had as much fun seeing the cards as they did with the money.
The event was delightful. Excellent food and lively conversations. We 6 celebrated the birthdays in style.
Today we celebrated the birthdays of Kate and Mary Frances, who turned 20 and 17 in February. They enjoyed the late party. In fact, Kate thought it a grand idea to celebrate when the birthday is long past. Our choice for the birthday party was Sombra, the Mexican restaurant near the Renaissance. For several years, we have given the girls a cheque for their birthday gift. So before we ordered, they opened their gift, which was enclosed in a card from Nova Scotia. Every year, the girls paint the rocks. Several years ago, my friend Betty S.stayed at the house just after the girls had left. Brother in law, who is a professional photographer, took pictures of the rock art, then made the pictures into cards, which Betty gave me. The girls had as much fun seeing the cards as they did with the money.
The event was delightful. Excellent food and lively conversations. We 6 celebrated the birthdays in style.
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
March 14, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Mrs. Degroot.
Last evening, I was pondering who I have known who did not drive. Just one generation older, my Mother could have come up with several friends who never drove. In fact, my Mother drove earlier than most of there contemporaries. Many other ladies thought her fast. But for me, the only lady I knew well and had never driven was Mrs. Degroot.
Mr. and Mrs. Degroot emigrated from Holland just after they married at 20 and 22. They settled in Harrisburg, where Mr. Degroot opened his successful architect firm. Their five children were born close together. When the eldest became a teen, they decided to move to D.C., because of all the Universities. Mr. Degroot told me, "We could never have afforded to send all five away to college and graduate school, so they moved.
They bought a house on Morrison Street in Chevy Chase, just two blocks off Connecticut Avenue. Mrs. Degroot walked to everything she needed: bank, library, church, grocery store, drug store. She told me that she never needed to drive either in Harrisburg or Chevy Chase. All five children stayed at home for college and graduate school. Their move was very cost effective. Their son Bill was in charge of the Pulmonary Lab. in Galveston where Ken worked for 3 years. He was the contact.
Mrs. Degroot was a lovely, old fashioned lady. She took no part in the finances of the family. Their system worked. At the beginning of the month, she would tell Mr. Degroot how much money she needed that month and he gave it to her in cash. At no time did he ever demur. When Mr. Degroot died, the family discovered that she had never written a cheque and of course, she had never driven.
Mrs. Degroot was kind and gracious to me. After we moved to Bethesda, I stopped by at least once a month for afternoon tea. She was a happy lady and always felt she had much independence, even though she could not drive. I had not thought about Mrs. Degroot for years, until I found I can no longer drive. Something good comes from everything because both Ken and I were fond of the Degroots. Now I have been remembering her all day....and smiling.
Mr. and Mrs. Degroot emigrated from Holland just after they married at 20 and 22. They settled in Harrisburg, where Mr. Degroot opened his successful architect firm. Their five children were born close together. When the eldest became a teen, they decided to move to D.C., because of all the Universities. Mr. Degroot told me, "We could never have afforded to send all five away to college and graduate school, so they moved.
They bought a house on Morrison Street in Chevy Chase, just two blocks off Connecticut Avenue. Mrs. Degroot walked to everything she needed: bank, library, church, grocery store, drug store. She told me that she never needed to drive either in Harrisburg or Chevy Chase. All five children stayed at home for college and graduate school. Their move was very cost effective. Their son Bill was in charge of the Pulmonary Lab. in Galveston where Ken worked for 3 years. He was the contact.
Mrs. Degroot was a lovely, old fashioned lady. She took no part in the finances of the family. Their system worked. At the beginning of the month, she would tell Mr. Degroot how much money she needed that month and he gave it to her in cash. At no time did he ever demur. When Mr. Degroot died, the family discovered that she had never written a cheque and of course, she had never driven.
Mrs. Degroot was kind and gracious to me. After we moved to Bethesda, I stopped by at least once a month for afternoon tea. She was a happy lady and always felt she had much independence, even though she could not drive. I had not thought about Mrs. Degroot for years, until I found I can no longer drive. Something good comes from everything because both Ken and I were fond of the Degroots. Now I have been remembering her all day....and smiling.
Monday, March 13, 2017
March 13, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. My Eyes.
I failed the test. It is a test I hate because I can not win. First one eye is covered and I look into a machine with a small bright light in the middle. My task is to hit the button when ever I see a flash of light. For the the last 20 years I have been taking that same test. My problem now is that I can not see many flashing lights. First one eye and then the other is tested. I always am inclined to just keep pushing the bottom to see perhaps I might be correct. But I don't do that. I try to do my best.
The score for todays test was not good. I see 15 degrees in my left eye and 22 in my right. The laws are to have 120 degrees of peripheral vision in order to drive which I obviously can not do. Usually, the good Doctor would send the information to the state authorities but as my drivers license is in Texas, he will do nothing. In truth, when I go to renew my driver's license, I could pass because my tunnel vision is fortunately good. But I should not drive.
I have read that many people get upset when unable to drive because they see it as a loss of independence. Somehow, I am not upset. For the last few years I have become dependent on others so now this adds to my list. Ken, on the other hand, may be upset, because he is now the driver forever!
The score for todays test was not good. I see 15 degrees in my left eye and 22 in my right. The laws are to have 120 degrees of peripheral vision in order to drive which I obviously can not do. Usually, the good Doctor would send the information to the state authorities but as my drivers license is in Texas, he will do nothing. In truth, when I go to renew my driver's license, I could pass because my tunnel vision is fortunately good. But I should not drive.
I have read that many people get upset when unable to drive because they see it as a loss of independence. Somehow, I am not upset. For the last few years I have become dependent on others so now this adds to my list. Ken, on the other hand, may be upset, because he is now the driver forever!
Sunday, March 12, 2017
March 12, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Preacher/Taxi Driver.
The drive home from the airport last evening was one of the most interesting conversation of our life. Ken usually begins a taxi trip by asking the driver a question. If the driver answers in monosyllables, Ken stops attempting to talk any further. But sometimes the drivers have interesting things to say so the conversations provide us with lots of information and entertainment. Last night was a perfect example.
We were late leaving the terminal. Ken commented to our driver about the lateness of the hour and that Ken appreciated him working. The driver laughed and said that lots of drivers do not wish to work on Saturday night especially in the rain. Then he said that he did not want to be too late because on Sunday morning he would be preaching. Well, from then on, our conversation was spirited, so much so that the driver took a wrong turn. We picked his brain about how he became a preacher, where he preaches, how long had he be doing this work and why he drives a taxi. And we talked about the pleasures and pitfalls of being a preacher.
He attended seminary after being successful in business after high school because he wanted to help people. He still does. He is a preacher to help folks live their life. He preaches at The Foursquare Baptist Church and from that he gets a salary. He has been there for 16 years. He will not involve himself in the finances of the church. The people of the church own the church and they manage their money. Many preachers have come to a bad end by tampering with the money of the church so he will not even attend the financial meetings. The church has 3500 families belonging to that church. And he runs a taxi service for extra money and to help people when no other driver wants to work. He was quite a remarkable person. He is single. While in seminary, his wife divorced him and he has no wish to repeat the experience. Evidently, his wife decided she did not want to be married to a preacher. Our conversation was unusual for sure. We would never have met him had we been on time. Last night we just got lucky.
We were late leaving the terminal. Ken commented to our driver about the lateness of the hour and that Ken appreciated him working. The driver laughed and said that lots of drivers do not wish to work on Saturday night especially in the rain. Then he said that he did not want to be too late because on Sunday morning he would be preaching. Well, from then on, our conversation was spirited, so much so that the driver took a wrong turn. We picked his brain about how he became a preacher, where he preaches, how long had he be doing this work and why he drives a taxi. And we talked about the pleasures and pitfalls of being a preacher.
He attended seminary after being successful in business after high school because he wanted to help people. He still does. He is a preacher to help folks live their life. He preaches at The Foursquare Baptist Church and from that he gets a salary. He has been there for 16 years. He will not involve himself in the finances of the church. The people of the church own the church and they manage their money. Many preachers have come to a bad end by tampering with the money of the church so he will not even attend the financial meetings. The church has 3500 families belonging to that church. And he runs a taxi service for extra money and to help people when no other driver wants to work. He was quite a remarkable person. He is single. While in seminary, his wife divorced him and he has no wish to repeat the experience. Evidently, his wife decided she did not want to be married to a preacher. Our conversation was unusual for sure. We would never have met him had we been on time. Last night we just got lucky.
March 11, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. A Long Day.
Every major city in Canada has a direct flight to Puerto Vallarta. While waiting at the gate to board ours to Dallas we heard the calls for Winnipeg, Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver and Edmonton, but no flight to San Antonio or Jackson. Going down to PV were fine but trying to get decent times home to Jackson, Mississippi proved impossible so we ended up with a long layover in Dallas. Had we booked an earlier flight we would have missed it. Clearing customs and finding the gate can not be done quickly so we were pleased with our choice even though we spent almost five hours waiting.
Finally we arrived in Jackson at 10:30. Our arrival time was to be 9:30 but we were late. Our plane did not arrive in Dallas so American took our plane from the hanger, checked it out and off we went...but late. The temperature was 40F and it was pouring rain. Fortunately, we had planned to take a taxi. Christina offered to pick us up but we declined. The drive home was miserable and we were happy not to be having Christina driving in the heavy rain.
Our bags ended up on an earlier flight so after our bags did not appear on the luggage carousel, the man who was pushing our wheelchairs took us upstairs and found our bag in anAmerican airline office. No official was in sight so we were fortunate that he knew where to look. Traveling is always subject to unexpected events but all was well when we arrived at our lovely home. The house is spotlessly clean with everything working. Of course, we have yet to turn on the TV or use the stove or coffee maker so perhaps I am speaking too quickly. Getting home is always a pleasure, even after a very long day.
Finally we arrived in Jackson at 10:30. Our arrival time was to be 9:30 but we were late. Our plane did not arrive in Dallas so American took our plane from the hanger, checked it out and off we went...but late. The temperature was 40F and it was pouring rain. Fortunately, we had planned to take a taxi. Christina offered to pick us up but we declined. The drive home was miserable and we were happy not to be having Christina driving in the heavy rain.
Our bags ended up on an earlier flight so after our bags did not appear on the luggage carousel, the man who was pushing our wheelchairs took us upstairs and found our bag in anAmerican airline office. No official was in sight so we were fortunate that he knew where to look. Traveling is always subject to unexpected events but all was well when we arrived at our lovely home. The house is spotlessly clean with everything working. Of course, we have yet to turn on the TV or use the stove or coffee maker so perhaps I am speaking too quickly. Getting home is always a pleasure, even after a very long day.
Friday, March 10, 2017
March 10, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. And Here We Go.
I have checked out of our condo and paid our restaurant bills. The locker is almost full, except for the space for one additional bag. Ken and I are wearing our night shirts. The bags are packed and ready. Now we will enjoy one last sunset before eating the last meal of leftovers. Our clothes are all clean and both of us are clean too. We are ready to go to Mississippi tomorrow.
Today, Ted and Cathy along with Ted's brother and sister-in-law have visited San Sebastian, a little old mining town in the middle of the mountain. When Ken and I made the trip 5 years ago we thought the town was not really ready for prime time, so I will be interested with their response. They will stop by to say good bye either tonight or in the morning. San Sebastian at one time was an important large town. And it was wealthy. But now the population has shrunk and when we were there many homes were in need of renovation. I hope the folks in the town have made progress.
Ken and I are ready to say goodbye to Mexico for another year. We are set for Spring in the south.
Today, Ted and Cathy along with Ted's brother and sister-in-law have visited San Sebastian, a little old mining town in the middle of the mountain. When Ken and I made the trip 5 years ago we thought the town was not really ready for prime time, so I will be interested with their response. They will stop by to say good bye either tonight or in the morning. San Sebastian at one time was an important large town. And it was wealthy. But now the population has shrunk and when we were there many homes were in need of renovation. I hope the folks in the town have made progress.
Ken and I are ready to say goodbye to Mexico for another year. We are set for Spring in the south.
Thursday, March 9, 2017
March 9, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. This Is My Story.
Once upon a time, many years ago, my Father was on the radio once a week. His program ran for 30 minutes. The opening and closing music was This Is My Story, a good old gospel song. He always played at least one band piece, he read the scripture and he had people he interviewed. And he gave a three minute sermon. I had not thought about that program for years, until today when I heard the song on You Tube. Bit by bit, the program came back to me, but not everything. But it made me think about my wonderful Father.
For instance, I can not recall whether the program was done in Calgary or Vancouver. I often went with my Father to the studio when he ran his program. It was done live. I sat in the control room beside the man who was in charge and who was responsible for turning on the music. And he pointed to Dad when his mike was live. It was all very exciting.
My Father was an able person. He was serious about his life and his commitment but he also had a sense of humor. One evening, my Father was to play a trombone duet with someone who I thought was my brother. My brother has a much better memory then me and has no recollection of the event. No matter. After the two players were introduced, my Father told a joke. Well, the joke tickled his fancy and he started to laugh, all the while trying to play his trombone. He never was able to complete the piece of music Everyone in the audience was laughing too, except my Mother. This I believe was in either London or Calgary. And I suspect that that was the last time my Father played a trombone duet.
If you know the words of This Is My Story, which is the chorus of Blessed Assurance, you can know everything about the life of my Father. He lived that song.
For instance, I can not recall whether the program was done in Calgary or Vancouver. I often went with my Father to the studio when he ran his program. It was done live. I sat in the control room beside the man who was in charge and who was responsible for turning on the music. And he pointed to Dad when his mike was live. It was all very exciting.
My Father was an able person. He was serious about his life and his commitment but he also had a sense of humor. One evening, my Father was to play a trombone duet with someone who I thought was my brother. My brother has a much better memory then me and has no recollection of the event. No matter. After the two players were introduced, my Father told a joke. Well, the joke tickled his fancy and he started to laugh, all the while trying to play his trombone. He never was able to complete the piece of music Everyone in the audience was laughing too, except my Mother. This I believe was in either London or Calgary. And I suspect that that was the last time my Father played a trombone duet.
If you know the words of This Is My Story, which is the chorus of Blessed Assurance, you can know everything about the life of my Father. He lived that song.
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
March 8, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. The Last Hurrah.
We four were festive this afternoon. To celebrate our successful visit to Nuevo Vallarta, we ate tiramisu at the new Italian restaurant in the plaza outside the mall. I drank green tea while the three others drank cappuccino. Ken and I discovered the restaurant last week. As we had food in the condo that needed to be eaten, we decided to walk down mid afternoon and enjoy a fancy dessert. Last. week, Ken and I shared one tiramisu but today we each ate a big piece all by our selves. Wow.
Tomorrow Don and Doreen return to Toronto. This afternoon Doreen helped me return our belongings to the locker. Now tomorrow morning we will take down the rest of Ken's clothes. Now we will be set when Ken and I leave on Saturday morning. We have enjoyed the company of Don and Doreen and appreciative of Doreen's cooking and looking after the whole kitchen. Every morning the coffee is ready, the dish washer is run last thing at night and by the time I get up the dishwasher is empty. And today they payed the bill for our dessert. Pretty nice.
Tomorrow Don and Doreen return to Toronto. This afternoon Doreen helped me return our belongings to the locker. Now tomorrow morning we will take down the rest of Ken's clothes. Now we will be set when Ken and I leave on Saturday morning. We have enjoyed the company of Don and Doreen and appreciative of Doreen's cooking and looking after the whole kitchen. Every morning the coffee is ready, the dish washer is run last thing at night and by the time I get up the dishwasher is empty. And today they payed the bill for our dessert. Pretty nice.
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
March 7, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. A Successful System.
This year, our system worked beautifully. At dinner tonight we all four agreed. Several winters ago, our system for acquiring our food did not work. That year, Ken and I decided to only buy food when we needed it. We bought all our food at the local market in the mall, the grocery store I do not like. And we intended to eat out more often. This resulted in going to the market regularly or always running out of something. We walk to the market so we must carry the groceries home which turned out to be difficult. At any time, we were short of food. It seemed like an efficient way to shop but it turned out to be a nuisance. At the end of the winter season we all agreed that our system was a failure.
When we were at the Villa this year for a week with Wonderful Wendy and her family, Wendy did all the shopping for breakfasts and lunch. And we all went out to dinner. The day after we moved to our condo, I shopped at the Mega and bought all the staples plus lots of meat. My basket was loaded down. Our fridge and freezer were full and Ken and I ate well using up my purchases, along with weekly visits to our Farmer's Market for fish, bread and fruit and vegetables. Our life was easy.
The day before Don and Doreen arrived, Ken and I made another journey to the MEGA grocery store and again came home and filled the pantry, fridge and freezer. The beauty of our system this year was that we could go out for lunch if we wished, but we could also stay home and eat the food from the fridge.
For breakfast and lunch, everyone was responsible to get their own meal. But at dinner, Doreen cooked. And she cleaned up the kitchen. I offered to help but she is quick so by the time I amble into the kitchen everything is in apple pie order. Tonight we ate the last meat from the freezer. Our system has been perfect. Our freezer is empty and we have just enough food in the fridge to last a few days. We all voted that in future years, we should implement the same program. And we all four laughed about the year we had no food in the house.
When we were at the Villa this year for a week with Wonderful Wendy and her family, Wendy did all the shopping for breakfasts and lunch. And we all went out to dinner. The day after we moved to our condo, I shopped at the Mega and bought all the staples plus lots of meat. My basket was loaded down. Our fridge and freezer were full and Ken and I ate well using up my purchases, along with weekly visits to our Farmer's Market for fish, bread and fruit and vegetables. Our life was easy.
The day before Don and Doreen arrived, Ken and I made another journey to the MEGA grocery store and again came home and filled the pantry, fridge and freezer. The beauty of our system this year was that we could go out for lunch if we wished, but we could also stay home and eat the food from the fridge.
For breakfast and lunch, everyone was responsible to get their own meal. But at dinner, Doreen cooked. And she cleaned up the kitchen. I offered to help but she is quick so by the time I amble into the kitchen everything is in apple pie order. Tonight we ate the last meat from the freezer. Our system has been perfect. Our freezer is empty and we have just enough food in the fridge to last a few days. We all voted that in future years, we should implement the same program. And we all four laughed about the year we had no food in the house.
March 6, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. The Farmer's Market.
The Farmer's Market is a big success. Every Tuesday the number of buyers swell and more vendors have been added. The name is a bit misnomer because there are only a half dozen vendors selling farm produce. There is one fish monger, 2 vendors selling fruit and vegetables and 2 selling bread. Then about 10 folks sell prepared food. Lots of customers take the products home while lots of others eat sitting at the many tables and chairs. White tents are scattered down the center of the rows of vendors with chairs covered with white. Customers sit and chat while they eat. It is all very pleasant.
All the rest of the about 60 vendors sell typical Mexican products. You can buy anything at our market, from clothes to jewelry and everything in between. The market also is run in other places so every day the vendors are busy selling their goods. I have no idea who runs the Farmer's Market but I am pleased with the organization. Customers come in bikes and cars and taxis with many on foot. This is the third year it has operated at our site. It is very convenient for us. After a large shopping at the Mega when we arrived, we have purchased all our fruit and vegetables, as well as bread and fish at our local market just across the street.
Tomorrow, Doreen and I will visit the market but we will not buy any food. We both will be leaving Mexico later this week. I wish I could shop at a Farmer's Market everywhere I live. It is fun and festive, but the most important part is the food which is fresh. I will miss this market.
All the rest of the about 60 vendors sell typical Mexican products. You can buy anything at our market, from clothes to jewelry and everything in between. The market also is run in other places so every day the vendors are busy selling their goods. I have no idea who runs the Farmer's Market but I am pleased with the organization. Customers come in bikes and cars and taxis with many on foot. This is the third year it has operated at our site. It is very convenient for us. After a large shopping at the Mega when we arrived, we have purchased all our fruit and vegetables, as well as bread and fish at our local market just across the street.
Tomorrow, Doreen and I will visit the market but we will not buy any food. We both will be leaving Mexico later this week. I wish I could shop at a Farmer's Market everywhere I live. It is fun and festive, but the most important part is the food which is fresh. I will miss this market.
Monday, March 6, 2017
Sunday, March 5, 2017
March 5, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. Trombones.
I have been listening to trombone sounds my whole life. My father played trombone as did my brother Dave. Two nephews play trombone too, Norm and Ben. And of course, being brought up in The Salvation Army meant that I heard lots of brass band playing. Every day in our home could be heard the sound of a musician practicing their trombone. I knew every exercise and I knew all the parts of trombone duets. But for a while, I have not been listening to the sound of the trombone...until tonight.
On You TubeI I listened to Gunhild Carling, a lady who plays jazz trombone. The concert I heard had her playing in the style of many of the famous trombone players of the age. It was lots of fun. And she was terrific.
Then I listened to a quartet, The Quartet de Trombones da UA. They played classical and they played jazz and they were good. I loved every minute. And I realized how much I miss listening to the trombone. Thank heavens for the Internet.
On You TubeI I listened to Gunhild Carling, a lady who plays jazz trombone. The concert I heard had her playing in the style of many of the famous trombone players of the age. It was lots of fun. And she was terrific.
Then I listened to a quartet, The Quartet de Trombones da UA. They played classical and they played jazz and they were good. I loved every minute. And I realized how much I miss listening to the trombone. Thank heavens for the Internet.
Saturday, March 4, 2017
March 4, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. Pelicans.
Every evening, in groups of 6 to 12, the pelicans provide us with a fly past. Over the water but higher than the buildings they glide along to the north, probably heading for the nightly roost. They fly effortlessly, or at least to our minds. We have brown pelicans and white pelicans, I have seen hundreds of brown pelicans but have yet to see the white type. Pat, who is a birder, saw three from our balcony but I did not see them. The brown pelicans are enough for me. They are incredible birds.
After we four watched the sun go down, everyone left me on the balcony all by myself, so I looked out to the sea., The Bay of Banderas., I was looking for boats and whales and birds. What I saw was a display of 2 pelicans fishing for dinner. First they flew around above the water about 10 feet. When they spot something, they dive straight down into the water. After a few seconds, they resurface and float on the water before springing up to repeat their process. A couple of times one dove close to shore so I am wondering how they avoid breaking their necks. They put on a show for me for thirty minutes. White pelicans do not dive for their food. They float on top and catch fish as they swim by. I had a wonderful time enjoying the brown pelicans fish for their food. Then they too, flew high about the building and headed along the shore to the north, looking for their nightly roost. But what I show!!
After we four watched the sun go down, everyone left me on the balcony all by myself, so I looked out to the sea., The Bay of Banderas., I was looking for boats and whales and birds. What I saw was a display of 2 pelicans fishing for dinner. First they flew around above the water about 10 feet. When they spot something, they dive straight down into the water. After a few seconds, they resurface and float on the water before springing up to repeat their process. A couple of times one dove close to shore so I am wondering how they avoid breaking their necks. They put on a show for me for thirty minutes. White pelicans do not dive for their food. They float on top and catch fish as they swim by. I had a wonderful time enjoying the brown pelicans fish for their food. Then they too, flew high about the building and headed along the shore to the north, looking for their nightly roost. But what I show!!
Friday, March 3, 2017
March 3, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. Genetics.
Once upon a time, many years ago, my Mother and Father were visiting Dave and Irene in Dundas, Ontario. It was my Father's habit to take a rest after lunch, followed by a walk. One day when he came home after his walk he seemed puzzled and took off his glasses, only to discover that he had gone for a walk wearing my Mother's glasses. No wonder he was puzzled. Their prescriptions were not even close to being similar.
Irene told me that story via email this morning. I had never heard it before as I was not there. My Father had a good sense of humor so I feel sure he thought it a good joke. And Irene thinks that wearing the wrong glasses runs in the family. Definitely, it was not my fault when I wore the wrong glasses. It was all in the genes.
Irene told me that story via email this morning. I had never heard it before as I was not there. My Father had a good sense of humor so I feel sure he thought it a good joke. And Irene thinks that wearing the wrong glasses runs in the family. Definitely, it was not my fault when I wore the wrong glasses. It was all in the genes.
Thursday, March 2, 2017
March 2, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. Oops.
My eyes have been a trouble to me for the past two years. I have gotten in the habit of expecting problems. When I left the condo this morning I was not seeing clearly. Things were fuzzy and the edges were not sharp. But I just continued to squint and hope things got better. Ken and I were walking to the mall to have our hair cut. I did not say a word to Ken about my eyes. I just assumed something else was happening to my eyes that I could not control. I just kept my head down and kept walking.
Ken was first to have his hair cut. I was sitting looking out the window checking my vision, first looking out one eye and then the other. It was clear that I was not seeing well. Then I took my glasses off and discovered my vision was better without my glasses. Finally, the mystery was solved. I had forgotten to switch from my reading glasses when I left home. I had been reading my iPad and when Ken told me that he was ready to leave, I got up and left without changing glasses. No wonder I could not see clearly. I was wearing glasses that are clear at 12 inches but not for distance. So I put my reading glasses in my pocket and chuckled to myself.
Once again, I did something to keep me humble. Now my question is why it took me so long to figure out I was wearing the wrong glasses. A normal person would have picked it up much sooner I bet. But I expect my eyes not to work well I guess. Or maybe it was just stupidity. But no matter what, I had a good laugh at my own expense. Oops, once again.
Ken was first to have his hair cut. I was sitting looking out the window checking my vision, first looking out one eye and then the other. It was clear that I was not seeing well. Then I took my glasses off and discovered my vision was better without my glasses. Finally, the mystery was solved. I had forgotten to switch from my reading glasses when I left home. I had been reading my iPad and when Ken told me that he was ready to leave, I got up and left without changing glasses. No wonder I could not see clearly. I was wearing glasses that are clear at 12 inches but not for distance. So I put my reading glasses in my pocket and chuckled to myself.
Once again, I did something to keep me humble. Now my question is why it took me so long to figure out I was wearing the wrong glasses. A normal person would have picked it up much sooner I bet. But I expect my eyes not to work well I guess. Or maybe it was just stupidity. But no matter what, I had a good laugh at my own expense. Oops, once again.
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
March 1, 2017. Playa Royale, Mexico. Pleasant Events.
Very often, simple activities bring great pleasure. Today, we four did nothing fancy but we had a wonderful day. The morning was lovely with a warm sun and a cool breeze. Our goal was to walk to the mall for lunch and eat at the Chinese take our restaurant. Before we leave Mexico both Ken and I need a hair cut so we needed to make an appointment at the salon in the mall.
Once again, we walked down the bike path, which is down the center of the boulevard. Most of the way is shaded so the walking is pleasant. Doreen and I walk faster than Don and Doreen. I went to make an appointment while Doreen waited for the men. And we met at the restaurant. This is the third year the restaurant has been open. Lots of tables and chairs are in the mall so most people get their food, then sit in the mall to eat.
The food at the Chinese restaurant is acceptable and inexpensive. Their menu offers 6 options plus rice or noodles. For 50 pesos you can get one meat plus rice or noodles. For 60 pesos you get two options and for 70 you can have three. Doreen and I quickly calculated that for $1. more, we could buy three meats plus either rice or noodles. We arrived home with at least 2 other meals.
Next up we ate a dish of ice cream at the other end of the mall. Before we left, Doreen popped into the market for two items we needed. Just after we left the mall, the shuttle came so rather than walk on a full stomach, we took the shuttle home.
At 12:30 we left home to walk to the mall. By 3:45, we were home taking a nap. Our afternoon was simple, but very pleasant.
Once again, we walked down the bike path, which is down the center of the boulevard. Most of the way is shaded so the walking is pleasant. Doreen and I walk faster than Don and Doreen. I went to make an appointment while Doreen waited for the men. And we met at the restaurant. This is the third year the restaurant has been open. Lots of tables and chairs are in the mall so most people get their food, then sit in the mall to eat.
The food at the Chinese restaurant is acceptable and inexpensive. Their menu offers 6 options plus rice or noodles. For 50 pesos you can get one meat plus rice or noodles. For 60 pesos you get two options and for 70 you can have three. Doreen and I quickly calculated that for $1. more, we could buy three meats plus either rice or noodles. We arrived home with at least 2 other meals.
Next up we ate a dish of ice cream at the other end of the mall. Before we left, Doreen popped into the market for two items we needed. Just after we left the mall, the shuttle came so rather than walk on a full stomach, we took the shuttle home.
At 12:30 we left home to walk to the mall. By 3:45, we were home taking a nap. Our afternoon was simple, but very pleasant.
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