Here we are in the last week of November already! The leaves are almost all off of the trees (and my roof). The weather has been it's normal wet self with a little extra wind thrown in. Yesterday we had an early Thanksgiving dinner with Josh & Brynn here at our house as they both work on Thursday. So on Thursday, Joyce, Kristin and I will be going to our friends Dick & Linda for dinner.
The fact that yesterday was the 46th anniversary of the most significant history altering day of my life, almost slipped past me. It was around mid day when the light came on as to the date. Seems like only yesterday.
On a cheerier note, we are getting closer to our venture to the dessert southwest. The motorhome is all cleaned up, waxed and covered up. About 2 months from now all we need to do is take off the cover, load it up, fill the gas tank and point it south. We may take our time heading to Arizona. We are scheduled to be there the middle of February.
Kristin has taken a job at a camp in Texas teaching environmental education that starts in the middle of February for four months. Then she is scheduled for a camp in Colorado for the summer. So she will be away for the better part of next year.
The house is getting bigger!
I'm sure that I have probably left out some significant news, but this is all for now.................................Ernie
Monday, November 23, 2009
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Reality Sucks
As I sit here and write this, I think that last week at this time we were enjoying temperatures in the mid 80's and sunshine. We were watching the big waves (complete with surfers) at Sunset Beach on Oahu's North Shore. Now it's in the mid 50's, the wind is blowing, and the rain is falling! I did manage to get up on the roof today to remove the leaves. In another 2 or 3 weeks they should all be gone. The joy of trees. We did have a couple of good weather days this week, and I did manage to get about 3/4 of the motorhome waxed. With a little bit of luck, I will be able to finish it up on Sunday, then get the cover on so we'll be ready to go in February. I am pleasently surprised at how good it looks with a fresh wax job. It's 8 years old now, but it looks almost as good as new. We will have our friends from Tulsa (Ron & Diane) visiting in Arizona for a week in March to hang out with and take in some spring training baseball. We are all looking forward to that. I wasn't too happy with the World Series outcome, but there is some talk that Hideki Matsui could end up a Mariner next year. That could be interesting.
So for now there is not much going on. The next trip (Arizona) is all planned out, and no concrete decisions on "what to do next". We are looking at a week in New Mexico possibly late summer at the World Mark Resort in Taos. I think that we would both like to pull off another "big adventure" motorhome trip. We could incorporate New Mexico into that. We shall see. It's going to be a long, cold, wet winter with lots of time to plan!!
Until next time, one last ALOHA! Ernie
So for now there is not much going on. The next trip (Arizona) is all planned out, and no concrete decisions on "what to do next". We are looking at a week in New Mexico possibly late summer at the World Mark Resort in Taos. I think that we would both like to pull off another "big adventure" motorhome trip. We could incorporate New Mexico into that. We shall see. It's going to be a long, cold, wet winter with lots of time to plan!!
Until next time, one last ALOHA! Ernie
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Surf's Up!! (The last day)
Today the ocean was a whole lot different than it was yesterday. The great snorkel area we were at yesterday was getting pounded today. It would have turned me into hamburger meat! Talking with a surfer today, he told me that the waves were about 8 feet. The measurement is at the back of the wave, and the front is twice that. So an 8 foot wave is 16 feet high comming at you. There were quite a few surfers out today, but they are quite a ways out, and they don't come anywhere near shore when they terminate their ride. We were at Waimea and Sunset Beaches this morning, with the best surf at Sunset. The Banzai Pipeline is between these 2 beaches which are only a couple miles apart. We tried to get some pictures of surfers, but were only able to get the body surfers and the boogie boarders.
I did find one well protected cove to snorkel this afternoon that had lots of fish, but was only 3 feet deep with a lot of sharp rocks and coral. I managed to keep from getting scraped up. Only stayed in for about half an hour.
We took a drive down part of the east coast (we drove up it Tuesday) and checked out a couple of gift shops, then stopped for lunch. We didn't find much interesting, and a lot of the little roadside souveneir shops weren't open. They must not have known that Joyce was comming!
Tomorrow morning we head for Honolulu to catch a 1:45 flight back to reality. We've been getting lots of weather information from the home front, and it doesn't sound good! Snow in the mountains and hail in Seattle. We can hardly wait for February and the Arizona sun.
You'll be able to recognize me at the airport tomorrow night. I'll be the guy in the shorts, sandals, and Hawaiian shirt.
The final aloha, Ernie and Joyce
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Cowabunga!
Here we are on the North Shore of Oahu where a bunch of the surfing spots that the Beach Boys were singing about in the early 60's. I snorkled today in a little beach that was just a couple miles west of the Banzai Pipeline, and just a couple miles east of Waimea Bay! The water here is clear as can be, and the fish are plentiful. I spent about 45 minutes in the water while Joyce read a book on the beach. Then we stopped at Waimea Bay and spent about an hour talking with a couple who relocated there from Europe about 35 years ago. After that we went to Hale'iwa for lunch. I had a pulled pork sandwich that was pretty good. Then we cruised around the shopping areas a little. By now it was mid afternoon, and a break with a nap sounded good. When we got back to the place where we are staying, the key that we left hidden in a fake rock was gone! Not just the key, but the fake rock also. So we spent an hour or so contacting the owner, and getting another key. Apparently the new young dog they have has been known to do strange things like move rocks and shells from their places. By then it was Mai Tai time, and the World Series was on. A-Roid went 0 for 4and Philly won 6 to 1, so all was well again.(Go Philly's)
Internet connection is very weak here, but I will try to post some picture later today or tomorrow.
Only one more day,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Ernie
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Hawaii Day #4 & 5
Sunday we spent the day hanging out here at the resort. This property is so nice that it wouldn't be right not to spend time here. We had a sales presentation to attend at 2:00 in the afternoon which lasted for about 2 hours. It's very tempting. It could be something that fits into our plans at a later date.
Sunday evening there was a "Torch Lighting Ceremony" on the main lawn. That's where the pictures of the people dressed in native attire, and playing with fire came from.
It was well done and lasted about an hour.
Yesterday we went to the Punchbowl Volcano National Cemetery on the hill overlooking Honolulu. The cemetery was started in the late 40's. We spent a couple hours there.
As the name implies, it's located in the crater of an old volcano. That is where the other pictures posted came from. It makes you stop and think about what the generation that born in the teen's and twentie's went through. There is a complete history of World War 2 depicted in large murals begining with the attack on Pearl Harbor, and ending with the Japanese surrender. There are many thousands of names on the marble walls of the soldiers and sailors whose remains were never recovered. Looking through the cemetery, I came upon a marker for a young man killed in action just 4 months after his 17th birthday. When I was 17, I was in high school. It makes a person think.
We will be checking out of here at 10:00 this morning, and will be heading to the north shore. We will be staying just a few miles from Wiamea Bay and the famous surfing at the Bonzai Pipeline. The surf is just begining to get big there, so I hope to get some good pictures. Will up-date the blog from there.
P.S. The temperatures are still mid to upper 80's!!
Aloha again, Ernie and Joyce
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Hawaii day 2
We went to Hanauma Bay in the morning for snorkeling fo Ernie, and beach sitting with a book for Joyce. Spectacular area and quite crowded. Huge bay, and very shallow reef. Probably not more than 3 or 4 feet deep anywhere. The water was warm, but slightly cloudy. Saw a fair amount of fish, but not like on the big island, or the area where we snorkeled on Kauai. I did see a couple of eels, and one big turtle.
After the beach we headed to Molly's Barbecue. Molly is from Texas, and has had the business here for about 10 years. I had a combo plate with beef briskit and pork ribs. The combo came with 3 sides plus cornbread. Joyce had the briskit sandwich. It was all very good!
After lunch we came back to the resort and relaxed, and in the late afternoon took a walk along the beach. We went to a place called Aloha Salads and got dinner to go. We ate outside at one of the many tables around the property.
Today we have a sales presentation to attend, and we are talking about going to the Punchbowl Crater National Cemetery where many of the Pearl Harbor dead are buried later this afternoon.
Aloha again, Ernie and Joyce
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Hawaii, the first day
Arrived on schedule Thursday afternoon, picked up the rental car and headed over to our 5 day home. The complex consists of 3 huge highrise buildings. Everything appears to be quite new, and the grounds are immaculate. Ther are several swimming pools & restaurants. There is a very nice sandy beach lagoon that is perfect for swimming. Unfortunately the lagoon is not good for snorkeling.
We took a drive up the west side of the island yesterday. It is approximately 10 miles to where the road ends. For about 5 miles the beach is covered with tents, tarp covered vehicles, leanto's, etc. There are hundreds if not thousands of people living sort of permanently on the beach. Beautiful beach that looks like Nickelsville. I don't understand it, but maybe it's a native Hawaiian thing. But I guess if I was a bum and just wanted to do nothing, this would be the place to do it. Mid 80's during the day, and low 70's at night. Today we are heading over toward Honolulu, and go to Hanauma Bay State Underwater Park to snorkel. I'm sure that it will be very crowded. We will update again in a couple of days. Now I hope that I can add a couple of pictures, then have a little breakfast.
Aloha, Ernie & Joyce
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Back to "normal"
There's been a lot going on since my last update. Joyce made it home from her European Adventure with Kristin on the 29th of September. They saw a lot, and for the most part had a good time together. Now we can get on with our travel plans starting with 8 days in Hawaii later this month. I'm looking at making arrangements for some time in the Arizona sun with Spring Training Baseball thrown in. We'd like to go from mid February to mid April. We shall see. Baseball season ended today for us with the Mariners going 85 & 77 after last years 61 & 101. Counting Spring Training, I saw 25 Mariners games this year, and Joyce saw almost that many. If this was Juniors last season, he finished with a base hit on his final at bat. Almost everybody wants to see him back next year. We shall see.
Last Sunday I attended a memorial service for an old friend who passed away way too soon at 60 years of age. This was the 3rd passing from a group that hung out together in the mid 60's. I hadn't seen her in at least 30 years, and we were just in the process of setting up a reunion of those of us that are still in the area. But on a brighter note, several of us who hadn't been together in years have re-connected. I intend to not let people slip away any more, and e-mail will allow us to stay connected. These damn computers are good for something!!
It's a beautiful day, the barbecue is loaded with three racks of pork back ribs, and there's beer in the refrigerator. Life is good. Stay connected. You never know.
Ernie
Last Sunday I attended a memorial service for an old friend who passed away way too soon at 60 years of age. This was the 3rd passing from a group that hung out together in the mid 60's. I hadn't seen her in at least 30 years, and we were just in the process of setting up a reunion of those of us that are still in the area. But on a brighter note, several of us who hadn't been together in years have re-connected. I intend to not let people slip away any more, and e-mail will allow us to stay connected. These damn computers are good for something!!
It's a beautiful day, the barbecue is loaded with three racks of pork back ribs, and there's beer in the refrigerator. Life is good. Stay connected. You never know.
Ernie
Monday, September 28, 2009
More Rome
I'm losing track of days but I think it was Saturday we went to The Coliseum (think Gladiator) and all the surrounding remaining buildings/sculptures left from 2000 years ago. We took a guided tour (there are a lot available) to get some idea of what went on there and how it was constructed. There was a lot of very brutal goings on in that arena. Now they have concerts (Paul McCartney was there recently). After a short food break we went on another tour to Palatine Hill where the rulers lived. It's hard to grasp that some of these building are still standing. There are still gigantic pillars and parts of the Roman Senate still left and the public is allowed to walk around and look at all of this. There is a huge amount of antiquities - we spent most of the day there.
On Sunday we left early to gain entrance in to the Vatican Museum. We waited outside in line for 1 1/2 hours, then spent at least 2 1/2 hours inside and didn't see half of what was there. There were ancient and Renaissance(sp?) paintings, thousands of sculptures from B.C. time, then all the paintings on the ceilings and walls. The biggest draw was the Sistine Chapel of course. The scope and sheer number of historical treasures there are beyond anything I can describe.Add to that the thousands of people from every country who are all there at the same time to view these items and it's quite the experience. That was pretty much our day and afterwards we went back to our B&B to eat and rest. There was a nice eating/dining area which gave us a place to eat and rest without being in our room all the time, altho we did nap after each of these outings. It's been about 90 degrees daily.
Today being our last day we checked out at 10 a.m. and went to a street market and went over to the Vatican one more time. There was a very brief scene from some film being made set in the '30's and there were actors dressed in German Nazi uniforms with the Vatican as a backdrop. We kept walking and ended up in a quaint small old neighborhood and they always have these huge ornate churches at every corner and all the streets are narrow and cobblestones. We had lunch at a restaurant outside again. It was good to get away from where all the major tourist draws are located so that we could get a real flavor for the normal neighborhoods. Afterwards we walked thru a beautiful old Botanical Garden from the 1600's.
By then it was time to head back to our B&B where they were holding our bags and we had a taxi pick us up for the 40 minute ride to our hotel at Fiumicino Airport. It's a clean, new, modern hotel (Hilton Garden Inn) which I like after all the B&B's. They are interesting and different, but a little luxury is nice too!
Tomorrow Kristin and I go our separate ways - I will catch my flight from this airport at 8:15 and then fly to London for a 5 hour layover before heading for Seattle. Kristin has to backtrack to a secondary airport to catch her Ryanaire flight to Spain.
This is a our last day in Europe. I'm ready to head for home - my shoes and sandals are worn out - it's been a great trip. I will ask Kristin to publish more pictures when she gets home from Spain. Time to get some sleep because tomorrow will be a long travel day. See you in the States! - Joyce
On Sunday we left early to gain entrance in to the Vatican Museum. We waited outside in line for 1 1/2 hours, then spent at least 2 1/2 hours inside and didn't see half of what was there. There were ancient and Renaissance(sp?) paintings, thousands of sculptures from B.C. time, then all the paintings on the ceilings and walls. The biggest draw was the Sistine Chapel of course. The scope and sheer number of historical treasures there are beyond anything I can describe.Add to that the thousands of people from every country who are all there at the same time to view these items and it's quite the experience. That was pretty much our day and afterwards we went back to our B&B to eat and rest. There was a nice eating/dining area which gave us a place to eat and rest without being in our room all the time, altho we did nap after each of these outings. It's been about 90 degrees daily.
Today being our last day we checked out at 10 a.m. and went to a street market and went over to the Vatican one more time. There was a very brief scene from some film being made set in the '30's and there were actors dressed in German Nazi uniforms with the Vatican as a backdrop. We kept walking and ended up in a quaint small old neighborhood and they always have these huge ornate churches at every corner and all the streets are narrow and cobblestones. We had lunch at a restaurant outside again. It was good to get away from where all the major tourist draws are located so that we could get a real flavor for the normal neighborhoods. Afterwards we walked thru a beautiful old Botanical Garden from the 1600's.
By then it was time to head back to our B&B where they were holding our bags and we had a taxi pick us up for the 40 minute ride to our hotel at Fiumicino Airport. It's a clean, new, modern hotel (Hilton Garden Inn) which I like after all the B&B's. They are interesting and different, but a little luxury is nice too!
Tomorrow Kristin and I go our separate ways - I will catch my flight from this airport at 8:15 and then fly to London for a 5 hour layover before heading for Seattle. Kristin has to backtrack to a secondary airport to catch her Ryanaire flight to Spain.
This is a our last day in Europe. I'm ready to head for home - my shoes and sandals are worn out - it's been a great trip. I will ask Kristin to publish more pictures when she gets home from Spain. Time to get some sleep because tomorrow will be a long travel day. See you in the States! - Joyce
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Pictures from Italia!
Due to the very slow internet connection which I am currently stealing from some nice roman person in our building, I have been anable to properly download my pics onto the shutterfly site. So here are some highlights from the past week including Cinque Terre, Florence, Siena, and now Rome! ~Kristin
The view of Vernazza while hiking in Cinque Terre
More Cinque Terre hiking!
Mom in Monterosso, the neighboring village.
Last sunset in Vernazza
The view from our B&B in Florence (The Doumo and Bascilica outside)
Florence from top of the bell tower (which I climbed, not mom).
Salumi at the city market in Florence
Me with Florence in the background.
The Tuscan view from outside our hotel in Siena
Piazza del Campo, Siena
Street artwork, Siena
Mozart winery, Tuscany
St. Peter's Bascilica, the Vatican, Rome
Me at the Spanish steps, Rome
Mom at the Trevi Fountain, Rome
Mom at the collosium, Rome
The view of Vernazza while hiking in Cinque Terre
More Cinque Terre hiking!
Mom in Monterosso, the neighboring village.
Last sunset in Vernazza
The view from our B&B in Florence (The Doumo and Bascilica outside)
Florence from top of the bell tower (which I climbed, not mom).
Salumi at the city market in Florence
Me with Florence in the background.
The Tuscan view from outside our hotel in Siena
Piazza del Campo, Siena
Street artwork, Siena
Mozart winery, Tuscany
St. Peter's Bascilica, the Vatican, Rome
Me at the Spanish steps, Rome
Mom at the Trevi Fountain, Rome
Mom at the collosium, Rome
Friday, September 25, 2009
Italy
Here we are over a week after my last post. Have had no internet service until now. Here is a brief snapshot of our past week:
Left Nice, France last Thursday 9/17. Let's just say the train system in Italy leaves a lot to be desired. We were supposed to leave at 10:15 but the train never showed up and thus began our 8 hour day of hopping off and on trains (which should have only taken about 3-4 hours). Reached Vernazza, Italy on the coast about 6pm - beautiful picturesque small town. Next day took a hike along the upper coast line between 2 towns - this town has more stairs than I've ever seen in one place in my life. Saturday we hopped the trains between all 5 towns - another crazy train experience but at least they were short distances. Had a lovely dinner in the town square sitting at outside tables.
Last Sunday Sept 20 we took the 3 hour train ride to Florence, Italy. Stayed at a Bed&Breakfast in an old building that had been remodeled and it was right next to the 700 year old Cathedral. Kristin climbed up the tower attached to the church - 400+ steps - I declined and waited. On Monday we toured on foot - the 'market' was especially interesting - esp. the indoor food market. The meat case is fascinating - no animal parts go to waste (even the pig's head was there).
Tuesday we caught train to Siena, Italy - got right on and all went well - things are looking up with our transportation! We even took a taxi from train station to hotel - we're getting smarter. I liked Siena better than Florence - not so overwhelming and more laid back. We had a lovely dinner at an outside restaurant and met a couple from Alberta Canada with whom we had a fun visit. Next day we walked back in to the center of town and went thru a restored church/hospital that was hundreds of years old. We kept walking down deeper underground - got kind of creepy because we were about the only people there. It was nice to see daylite again! Had decided earlier to go on a Tuscany wine tour at 2pm - turned out to be quite an adventure and lots of fun. The last winery all 20 of us sat at long tables and were given 3-4 generous wine samples. It turned in to a party....The host was about an 80 year old man who only spoke Italian and the winery had been in his family for a long time. He was quite a character. Kristin and I had a nice chat with a couple from Colorado. There are a LOT of American tourists in Italy.
Yesterday (Thursday) - 3 hour bus ride to Rome - the best transportation we had yet -a nice CLEAN (unlike the trains) bus with only 12 passengers. Arrived Rome 3pm - insane traffic. Caught a taxi to our hotel, got settled, then went walking and ended up at the Vatican and St. Peter's Square where we spent about 2 1/2 hours. Got right in as it was late in the day. It is difficult to describe in words St. Peter's Basilica - it's like nothing I've ever seen. The sculptures are magnificent. Today we went to The Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and many other places. Had another very nice dinner at a lovely restaurant just down the street from our B&B - every restaurant has outdoor tables and seating and the weather is perfect for that. Need to get some sleep. Tomorrow we will attempt to see The Coliseum and more. Ciao!
Left Nice, France last Thursday 9/17. Let's just say the train system in Italy leaves a lot to be desired. We were supposed to leave at 10:15 but the train never showed up and thus began our 8 hour day of hopping off and on trains (which should have only taken about 3-4 hours). Reached Vernazza, Italy on the coast about 6pm - beautiful picturesque small town. Next day took a hike along the upper coast line between 2 towns - this town has more stairs than I've ever seen in one place in my life. Saturday we hopped the trains between all 5 towns - another crazy train experience but at least they were short distances. Had a lovely dinner in the town square sitting at outside tables.
Last Sunday Sept 20 we took the 3 hour train ride to Florence, Italy. Stayed at a Bed&Breakfast in an old building that had been remodeled and it was right next to the 700 year old Cathedral. Kristin climbed up the tower attached to the church - 400+ steps - I declined and waited. On Monday we toured on foot - the 'market' was especially interesting - esp. the indoor food market. The meat case is fascinating - no animal parts go to waste (even the pig's head was there).
Tuesday we caught train to Siena, Italy - got right on and all went well - things are looking up with our transportation! We even took a taxi from train station to hotel - we're getting smarter. I liked Siena better than Florence - not so overwhelming and more laid back. We had a lovely dinner at an outside restaurant and met a couple from Alberta Canada with whom we had a fun visit. Next day we walked back in to the center of town and went thru a restored church/hospital that was hundreds of years old. We kept walking down deeper underground - got kind of creepy because we were about the only people there. It was nice to see daylite again! Had decided earlier to go on a Tuscany wine tour at 2pm - turned out to be quite an adventure and lots of fun. The last winery all 20 of us sat at long tables and were given 3-4 generous wine samples. It turned in to a party....The host was about an 80 year old man who only spoke Italian and the winery had been in his family for a long time. He was quite a character. Kristin and I had a nice chat with a couple from Colorado. There are a LOT of American tourists in Italy.
Yesterday (Thursday) - 3 hour bus ride to Rome - the best transportation we had yet -a nice CLEAN (unlike the trains) bus with only 12 passengers. Arrived Rome 3pm - insane traffic. Caught a taxi to our hotel, got settled, then went walking and ended up at the Vatican and St. Peter's Square where we spent about 2 1/2 hours. Got right in as it was late in the day. It is difficult to describe in words St. Peter's Basilica - it's like nothing I've ever seen. The sculptures are magnificent. Today we went to The Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and many other places. Had another very nice dinner at a lovely restaurant just down the street from our B&B - every restaurant has outdoor tables and seating and the weather is perfect for that. Need to get some sleep. Tomorrow we will attempt to see The Coliseum and more. Ciao!
Friday, September 18, 2009
A Word From The Home Front
The cat and I have now been on our own for almost 2 weeks. Neither one of us has lost any weight, and we're doing alright. I got a new smoker / Barbecue that I have been playing with. I've cooked on it twice now, and am impressed. Yesterday I put a five pound pork shoulder on about 11:00 a.m., went to the baseball game about 2:00 p.m., and when I got home at 7:00 p.m., the meat was almost done. I gave it another hour, and it was as good as it gets! I'm getting hungry and it's only 10:30 in the morning.
I've spent 3 days with the motorhome getting things done. Tomorrow Keith and Sheila are having some BIG trees cut down, so I will go up in the morning to move the motorhome, and try to stay out of the way. Today I will be hanging out at the house doing laundry, etc. Woo Hoo!!
Unfortunately for Joyce and Kristin, the weather here has definitely been better here than it was for them in France, and so far Italy hasn't been too good either. Hopefully that improves and they get some beach time. They have been having a great time.
Anybody know how to operate a washing machine??????? Ernie
I've spent 3 days with the motorhome getting things done. Tomorrow Keith and Sheila are having some BIG trees cut down, so I will go up in the morning to move the motorhome, and try to stay out of the way. Today I will be hanging out at the house doing laundry, etc. Woo Hoo!!
Unfortunately for Joyce and Kristin, the weather here has definitely been better here than it was for them in France, and so far Italy hasn't been too good either. Hopefully that improves and they get some beach time. They have been having a great time.
Anybody know how to operate a washing machine??????? Ernie
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Monaco
Rain, rain and more rain. Felt like we were back in Seattle. By the time we figured out where to catch the bus for Monaco, we had been walking in the complete downpour for at least 15 minutes. Piled on the bus along with a huge German tour group.
We were anticipating a ride along the coast to Monaco which would have some nice scenery, but all bus windows were fogged up and we could see nothing. The bus driver was having a hard time clearing his window and we were on a narrow 2 lane road above the sea.
Got off the bus at the base of the granite rock that holds the castle. Climbed a steep grade for about 10 minutes to get there. Meantime it's still pouring. Kristin took some good pictures and then we got in line for a tour. The Grimaldi family has been in that castle since the 1200's. There were a lot of references to Grace Kelly who died in an auto accident above Monaco in 1982. Some of the family still lives there. The views of the harbor are stunning - many large luxury yachts. It's a compact crowded town and the traffic is very intense with narrow winding streets. The castle overlooks the sea and the town.
Kristin spotted the Monte Carlo Casino so we decided to walk there - by now the rain had let up a bit - we almost gave up because there's a lot of construction in the area (they're digging in to the granite rock below the casino) and we couldn't figure out how to get there. We finally find the front of the casino and they don't open for another 30 minutes. So Kristin took some pictures and we decided to catch the bus back to Nice (45 minute ride). We were so tired from walking around we both fell asleep on the bus. Walked back to our hotel and the sun finally peeked out a bit. We had planned to go down to the beach sometime while being here but the weather has not been good at all.
Tomorrow we catch a train to Vernazza, Cinque Terra, Italy where we will stay Thurs, Fri, Sat. On Sunday Sept 20 we head for Florernce, Italy - no internet service there. So the next time I post will hopefully be Sept. 22 or 23.
Au-revoir from France for the last time. Next time it will be 'ciao baby'....
We were anticipating a ride along the coast to Monaco which would have some nice scenery, but all bus windows were fogged up and we could see nothing. The bus driver was having a hard time clearing his window and we were on a narrow 2 lane road above the sea.
Got off the bus at the base of the granite rock that holds the castle. Climbed a steep grade for about 10 minutes to get there. Meantime it's still pouring. Kristin took some good pictures and then we got in line for a tour. The Grimaldi family has been in that castle since the 1200's. There were a lot of references to Grace Kelly who died in an auto accident above Monaco in 1982. Some of the family still lives there. The views of the harbor are stunning - many large luxury yachts. It's a compact crowded town and the traffic is very intense with narrow winding streets. The castle overlooks the sea and the town.
Kristin spotted the Monte Carlo Casino so we decided to walk there - by now the rain had let up a bit - we almost gave up because there's a lot of construction in the area (they're digging in to the granite rock below the casino) and we couldn't figure out how to get there. We finally find the front of the casino and they don't open for another 30 minutes. So Kristin took some pictures and we decided to catch the bus back to Nice (45 minute ride). We were so tired from walking around we both fell asleep on the bus. Walked back to our hotel and the sun finally peeked out a bit. We had planned to go down to the beach sometime while being here but the weather has not been good at all.
Tomorrow we catch a train to Vernazza, Cinque Terra, Italy where we will stay Thurs, Fri, Sat. On Sunday Sept 20 we head for Florernce, Italy - no internet service there. So the next time I post will hopefully be Sept. 22 or 23.
Au-revoir from France for the last time. Next time it will be 'ciao baby'....
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
A Day in Nice, France
Our day started out with a pastry from the corner pattiserie (bakery). Then we walked from one end of old Nice to another (3 1/2 hours). The pictures Kristin took best describes what we saw. Old buildings, steep narrow streets, old churches, town squares. We walked up to the top of the hill overlooking the town where the original town was built for defense purproses. The view of the Mediterranean Sea was stunning.
On the way back to our room we stopped at the daily market for fresh figs and nectarines. Bought some cheese and a baguette and had lunch on the patio on the roof of our bulding. Even tho the weather was deteriorating, we were able to enjoy the morning.
Went back to our room and I fell asleep (the result of a lot of walking and a lot of stairs). Afterwards we stopped at the train station to buy our ticket to Cinque Terra, then walked around looking at shops. Started to pour rain so we headed back for the hotel and I thought it would be a good evening for a nice dinner out. We found a reasonably priced Italian restaurant and had a nice meal.
Tomorrow we head by bus for Monaco for the day. That will be our last day in France.
On the way back to our room we stopped at the daily market for fresh figs and nectarines. Bought some cheese and a baguette and had lunch on the patio on the roof of our bulding. Even tho the weather was deteriorating, we were able to enjoy the morning.
Went back to our room and I fell asleep (the result of a lot of walking and a lot of stairs). Afterwards we stopped at the train station to buy our ticket to Cinque Terra, then walked around looking at shops. Started to pour rain so we headed back for the hotel and I thought it would be a good evening for a nice dinner out. We found a reasonably priced Italian restaurant and had a nice meal.
Tomorrow we head by bus for Monaco for the day. That will be our last day in France.
Monday, September 14, 2009
From Avignon to Nice, France
Our morning started with a pastry from the bakery around the corner (there are bakeries around almost every corner!). After eating our nutritious breakfast we checked out of Hotel Colbert and found the bus stop for our short ride to the train station. We bought our tickets for the 3 1/2 hour train ride to Nice. Beautiful mountains and French vineyards, castles and cathedrals. Our train took us back to the coast where the tracks followed the Mediterranean.
We spent most of the day in transit between waiting for a bus, riding on a bus, then waiting for a train and riding on a train. However, it was a low key day which we need once in a while. Our train took us thru Cannes (film festival place) and pulled in to Nice around 3:45 pm.
Disembarked and followed our Rick Steves directions from the train station to the hotel - took us about 10 minutes to walk here. We are a few blocks from the water and the hotel is very nice. It had belonged to a nobleman back in the day and has been renovated. The room is quite small but has everything we need and it's clean and nicely decorated.
After settling in we took a 1 1/2 hour walk around Nice - it's a busy place. The sea is a beautiful color - like in the Bahamas. Finally got hungry so got some food to go and ate on the patio upstairs in our hotel. The wind has been blowing hard all day so after the umbrella blew over and almost hit me, we decided to retire to our room where we've been nailing down transportation for the next few parts of our journey. We won't have internet after this until we get to Siena on Sept. 22.
We are getting good at doing our laundry in the sink. Since we each have only one carry-on suitcase we have to schlep it on and off all the transportation we take. Every time I'm in a train or bus station and face more stairs I curse myself for packing too much, but at least it's all in one suitcase.
The weather is supposed to deteriorate significantly tomorrow and 100 percent rain and thunderstorms on Wednesday. Not good beach weather. The waves were really kicking up today.
We haven't tried too much local food just for economy reasons. The Euro vs. dollar rate is awful and when pricing anything, you have to 1 1/2 times the cost which is sobering. We usually just pick something simple up at an open air bakery or cafe. It would be nice to eat out more but have to save money somewhere. (Especially since Kristin is paying for most of her food, surface transportation and incidentals).
Not sure what we are doing tomorrow - we were going to sit on the beach - depends on the weather. Will probably take a day trip to Monaco on Wednesday and tour the castle there.
Au-revior from the Mediterranean!
We spent most of the day in transit between waiting for a bus, riding on a bus, then waiting for a train and riding on a train. However, it was a low key day which we need once in a while. Our train took us thru Cannes (film festival place) and pulled in to Nice around 3:45 pm.
Disembarked and followed our Rick Steves directions from the train station to the hotel - took us about 10 minutes to walk here. We are a few blocks from the water and the hotel is very nice. It had belonged to a nobleman back in the day and has been renovated. The room is quite small but has everything we need and it's clean and nicely decorated.
After settling in we took a 1 1/2 hour walk around Nice - it's a busy place. The sea is a beautiful color - like in the Bahamas. Finally got hungry so got some food to go and ate on the patio upstairs in our hotel. The wind has been blowing hard all day so after the umbrella blew over and almost hit me, we decided to retire to our room where we've been nailing down transportation for the next few parts of our journey. We won't have internet after this until we get to Siena on Sept. 22.
We are getting good at doing our laundry in the sink. Since we each have only one carry-on suitcase we have to schlep it on and off all the transportation we take. Every time I'm in a train or bus station and face more stairs I curse myself for packing too much, but at least it's all in one suitcase.
The weather is supposed to deteriorate significantly tomorrow and 100 percent rain and thunderstorms on Wednesday. Not good beach weather. The waves were really kicking up today.
We haven't tried too much local food just for economy reasons. The Euro vs. dollar rate is awful and when pricing anything, you have to 1 1/2 times the cost which is sobering. We usually just pick something simple up at an open air bakery or cafe. It would be nice to eat out more but have to save money somewhere. (Especially since Kristin is paying for most of her food, surface transportation and incidentals).
Not sure what we are doing tomorrow - we were going to sit on the beach - depends on the weather. Will probably take a day trip to Monaco on Wednesday and tour the castle there.
Au-revior from the Mediterranean!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Tour deFrance
Quick note - it's late and we need to get some sleep. Tomorrow we catch a bus to a train that will deliver us to Nice, France - our next stop.
Our tour today (from 9am-7pm) covered about 160 miles. There were 4 other people in our group - one couple lived in Bothell, Washington and the young woman had just graduated from UW. It's a small world....
We stopped and explored at least 4 or 5 towns with varying impressive histories. Our last stop was a Roman aqueduct over the Rhone River.
One thing I found interesting was the woman who was giving us the tour was fairly young. I mentioned we were driving on JFKennedy Hwy and she said, oh yes, there are a lot of Eisenhower street names too. She said that we (the French) owe Eisenhower a lot for what he did during WWII.
That's a very brief description of our day due to time constraints! Au-revoir again/
Our tour today (from 9am-7pm) covered about 160 miles. There were 4 other people in our group - one couple lived in Bothell, Washington and the young woman had just graduated from UW. It's a small world....
We stopped and explored at least 4 or 5 towns with varying impressive histories. Our last stop was a Roman aqueduct over the Rhone River.
One thing I found interesting was the woman who was giving us the tour was fairly young. I mentioned we were driving on JFKennedy Hwy and she said, oh yes, there are a lot of Eisenhower street names too. She said that we (the French) owe Eisenhower a lot for what he did during WWII.
That's a very brief description of our day due to time constraints! Au-revoir again/
Saturday, September 12, 2009
England and France
Wednesday morning we headed for The Tower of London (via the tube of course). It's not like I pictured it - which was one big tower where people were usally not seen again once they entered. It's a huge castle with a long history. Wall grafitti from prisoners from the 1500's etc are still there, protected by a covering. It's all very surreal and set in the middle of busy intersections and buildings from every era. A cold blustery wind blew that day - kind of went with the castle. I climbed a lot of stairs that day- some very narrow. After lunch we walked over the Tower Bridge which spans the Thames River, then on to the Tate Modern Museum which holds thousands of art pieces , including Andy Warhol. It's the largest space I've ever seen for an art museum, but then London has a lot of large buildings with large spaces. Went back to our room to rest for a while, then back on the tube! to meet a friend of Kristin's from high school. We ate at The Crown Pub in the Soho theater district and shared a meat pie. Their has been an eating establishment on that spot practically since London began.
Thursday morning up early to ride the London Eye and get a great view of the city. At the beginning it was a little disconcerting knowing we were on a gigantic ferris wheel but it moves very slowly. Got some great pictures which Kristin has on the other picture site. On the tube to Trafalgar Square where those huge lion statues and fountain are situated. It has a historial significance pertaining to some battle, but I couldn't tell you what that was. There are a LOT of memorial statues and monuments , a lot pertaining to war heroes, particularly WWII.
Then we decided to go to the neighborhood of Notting Hill (as in the Julia Roberts Movie). Very cute and a good neighborhood feel. We ate lunch at a corner cafe (ehcikcen crepes).
Last, but not least, we took the tube to Hyde Park where Kensington Palace is located (last residencedof Princess Diana). We took a self guided tour where they had displays of Di's gowns, plus some of the resident apts and bedrooms of past Kings and Queens. This is also where Queen Victoria was born. After that day, we packed up our suitcases, took the tube to the train station bought tickets for a train to the hotel we stayed at next to Gatwick airport, which is about 40 minutes out of London. Checked in to the Sofitel Hotel (very nice).
The next morning we were up at 4:45 a.m. to catch a 6:45 a.m. plane to Marsielle, France. 2 1/2 hours later we arrived. We had only begun our adventure. Transportation has been a challenge but it's worked out so far. From the airport we caught a bus, which took us to a train, which finally got us to Avignon at 2:30 pm Checked in to Hotel Colbert - quaint, cute, and with a million stairs set in to a very steep spiral staircase. Our two windows overlook the patio below - there are about 10 rooms in a very old building - very charming. The 5 years of French Kristin took has helped us out tremendously - she can communicate very well with the locals. We walked all over town - the pictures help describe it a lot. I'm thoroughly enjoying this town and since Kristin has been here before, it helps us to sort things out.
Today we took a 40 minute bus ride to St. Remy (where Picasso did a good amount of his art work) and that was every more charming. I've enjoyed interacting with the French and I like the sound of their language.
Tomorrow we have an all day tour in a mini-van with an English guide. We'll be gone from 9am-7pm.
Au-revoir!
Thursday morning up early to ride the London Eye and get a great view of the city. At the beginning it was a little disconcerting knowing we were on a gigantic ferris wheel but it moves very slowly. Got some great pictures which Kristin has on the other picture site. On the tube to Trafalgar Square where those huge lion statues and fountain are situated. It has a historial significance pertaining to some battle, but I couldn't tell you what that was. There are a LOT of memorial statues and monuments , a lot pertaining to war heroes, particularly WWII.
Then we decided to go to the neighborhood of Notting Hill (as in the Julia Roberts Movie). Very cute and a good neighborhood feel. We ate lunch at a corner cafe (ehcikcen crepes).
Last, but not least, we took the tube to Hyde Park where Kensington Palace is located (last residencedof Princess Diana). We took a self guided tour where they had displays of Di's gowns, plus some of the resident apts and bedrooms of past Kings and Queens. This is also where Queen Victoria was born. After that day, we packed up our suitcases, took the tube to the train station bought tickets for a train to the hotel we stayed at next to Gatwick airport, which is about 40 minutes out of London. Checked in to the Sofitel Hotel (very nice).
The next morning we were up at 4:45 a.m. to catch a 6:45 a.m. plane to Marsielle, France. 2 1/2 hours later we arrived. We had only begun our adventure. Transportation has been a challenge but it's worked out so far. From the airport we caught a bus, which took us to a train, which finally got us to Avignon at 2:30 pm Checked in to Hotel Colbert - quaint, cute, and with a million stairs set in to a very steep spiral staircase. Our two windows overlook the patio below - there are about 10 rooms in a very old building - very charming. The 5 years of French Kristin took has helped us out tremendously - she can communicate very well with the locals. We walked all over town - the pictures help describe it a lot. I'm thoroughly enjoying this town and since Kristin has been here before, it helps us to sort things out.
Today we took a 40 minute bus ride to St. Remy (where Picasso did a good amount of his art work) and that was every more charming. I've enjoyed interacting with the French and I like the sound of their language.
Tomorrow we have an all day tour in a mini-van with an English guide. We'll be gone from 9am-7pm.
Au-revoir!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
European Adventure 2009
An overnite 8 hour plane ride to Heathrow airport on outskirts of London was the beginning of our journey. Boarded a commuter train, then transferred to the 'tube' (subway)which deposited us at Millennium Gloucester Hotel where we are staying. Got settled in to our room, rested a bit and then took a long walk. We are in a residential neighborhood dotted with an area of typical English shops and architecture.
Harrod's Dept. Store was our first stop today. All types of merchandise but I especially liked the all the separate food areas - so much variety and type from all over the world - the displays were like works of art. Harrod's has to be at the top of the heap when it comes to merchandising. Everything you could possibly think of is sold there.
After sensory overload at Harrod's we hopped on to the tube. It stops at stations called Gloucester Road, Notting Hill Gate, Sloane Square, Charing Cross, Paddington to name a few. It's fast, efficient and used by Londoners and tourists in all walks of life.
Our next stop was to see Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey. Even tho they are only buildings, I thought about all the history connected with them. These buildings survived the bombing of London during WWII. Seeing them up close I was struck by the detail and workmanship involved. They are much bigger when standing in front of them. I told Kristin it was worth the whole trip to me to see those buildings. These historical buildings are all within a stone's throw of each other but since they are so big it took us a while to walk around and look at them. We also went inside a church adjacent to Westminster Abbey called St. Margaret's - it was built in about 1100. Lots of people buried in the walls from over the centuries.
Next we walked and walked along the Thames river - saw the London Eye across the river- it moves VERY slowly in the course of 45 minutes. Which leaves a person about 30 seconds to hop on or off because it keeps going.
we took the 'tube' back to our hotel again to rest for a while. Then we walked to Hyde Park and walked all thru the grounds - the Peter Pan statue was a big draw for everyone. Kensington Palace is also located on those grounds (where Queen Victoria was born).
Some random observations: traffic is intense and since cars go opposite of what we're used to, I have to keep very alert - it's easy to forget and that would be deadly; the taxi cabs are quaint and cute; there are Bobbies (police) everywhere near Parliament; people actually live in very old dwellings and they're beautiful; charming cobble stone side streets with flower lined boxes in front of old row houses.
Kristin is the picture taker - she has put those pictures on a separate website: http://kristineurope2009.shutterfuly.com/#
The adventure continues tomorrow...Joyce
Harrod's Dept. Store was our first stop today. All types of merchandise but I especially liked the all the separate food areas - so much variety and type from all over the world - the displays were like works of art. Harrod's has to be at the top of the heap when it comes to merchandising. Everything you could possibly think of is sold there.
After sensory overload at Harrod's we hopped on to the tube. It stops at stations called Gloucester Road, Notting Hill Gate, Sloane Square, Charing Cross, Paddington to name a few. It's fast, efficient and used by Londoners and tourists in all walks of life.
Our next stop was to see Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey. Even tho they are only buildings, I thought about all the history connected with them. These buildings survived the bombing of London during WWII. Seeing them up close I was struck by the detail and workmanship involved. They are much bigger when standing in front of them. I told Kristin it was worth the whole trip to me to see those buildings. These historical buildings are all within a stone's throw of each other but since they are so big it took us a while to walk around and look at them. We also went inside a church adjacent to Westminster Abbey called St. Margaret's - it was built in about 1100. Lots of people buried in the walls from over the centuries.
Next we walked and walked along the Thames river - saw the London Eye across the river- it moves VERY slowly in the course of 45 minutes. Which leaves a person about 30 seconds to hop on or off because it keeps going.
we took the 'tube' back to our hotel again to rest for a while. Then we walked to Hyde Park and walked all thru the grounds - the Peter Pan statue was a big draw for everyone. Kensington Palace is also located on those grounds (where Queen Victoria was born).
Some random observations: traffic is intense and since cars go opposite of what we're used to, I have to keep very alert - it's easy to forget and that would be deadly; the taxi cabs are quaint and cute; there are Bobbies (police) everywhere near Parliament; people actually live in very old dwellings and they're beautiful; charming cobble stone side streets with flower lined boxes in front of old row houses.
Kristin is the picture taker - she has put those pictures on a separate website: http://kristineurope2009.shutterfuly.com/#
The adventure continues tomorrow...Joyce
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Heading into September!
It's hard to believe, but September is upon us. By the time that Joyce gets back from Europe, we will be staring at October! Baseball season will be over(for us), I will be up on the roof every weekend to clear off the leaves, and the long, warm, sunny days will be history. But a 2 week motorhome trip would fit into the first half of October nicely. But that depends on the weather.
A week from today Joyce and Kristin head off on their big adventure to Europe. They should have nice weather in France and Italy. England's weather doesn't look so hot, but I think England is more of an indoor place anyway. It's going to be pretty quiet around here with just me and the cat. I just hope that I can get all of the things on my list done in 3 weeks.
We have a week in Hawaii the end of October to look forward to, then it will be long pants and flannel shirts until February. And, the first of October will be time to plan chapter 2 of "Spring Training in Arizona". By the time February rolls around, we will probably have not seen the sun more than a couple of times since we left Hawaii, the tan lines will have faded, and I will be experiencing serious shorts, sandals, and Hawaiian shirt withdrawels! We will have company in Arizona for a week or so in March. Ron & Diane (cruise buddies) from Tulsa Oklahoma will be hanging out for some Spring Training baseball. We're all looking forward to that.
Daughter Kristin is planning to move to Austin Texas with 2 friends for the winter. We're not quite sure how that will work, as none of them have jobs to go to, and I know that the cost of living is lower there, but............ If that does happen, we will incorporate a side trip to Austin into our Arizona getaway. Then into the far off future of next Summer/Fall, we are in the thinking phase of another major motorhome trip for the summer, and Germany for Octoberfest. It seems like there is always something on the horizon. Life is good!
Ernie
A week from today Joyce and Kristin head off on their big adventure to Europe. They should have nice weather in France and Italy. England's weather doesn't look so hot, but I think England is more of an indoor place anyway. It's going to be pretty quiet around here with just me and the cat. I just hope that I can get all of the things on my list done in 3 weeks.
We have a week in Hawaii the end of October to look forward to, then it will be long pants and flannel shirts until February. And, the first of October will be time to plan chapter 2 of "Spring Training in Arizona". By the time February rolls around, we will probably have not seen the sun more than a couple of times since we left Hawaii, the tan lines will have faded, and I will be experiencing serious shorts, sandals, and Hawaiian shirt withdrawels! We will have company in Arizona for a week or so in March. Ron & Diane (cruise buddies) from Tulsa Oklahoma will be hanging out for some Spring Training baseball. We're all looking forward to that.
Daughter Kristin is planning to move to Austin Texas with 2 friends for the winter. We're not quite sure how that will work, as none of them have jobs to go to, and I know that the cost of living is lower there, but............ If that does happen, we will incorporate a side trip to Austin into our Arizona getaway. Then into the far off future of next Summer/Fall, we are in the thinking phase of another major motorhome trip for the summer, and Germany for Octoberfest. It seems like there is always something on the horizon. Life is good!
Ernie
Saturday, August 15, 2009
One year ago today
Today is the first anniversary of "Joyce and Ernie's Big Adventure." One year ago today, we were spending our first night in Hermiston Oregon, where it was 107 degrees!! The wheels are begining to turn for the sequel. We're thinking about trying to go again in 2010. I haven't had a decent crawdad since we left Louisiana! But until then, we will be satisfied with a week in Hawaii in October, then a month or 2 in Arizona for Spring Training. Plus Joyce has the 3 weeks in Europe next month.
While she's gone, I've got 3 cars to detail, and a motorhome roof to clean and re-seal. With a little bit of luck we may be able to sneak in a 2 week motorhome trip to Montana the first part of October.
Otherwise there's not to much happening here, but I couldn't let the anniversary slip by without a little blurb. Joyce is anticipating summer's return next week!
Until then, Ernie
While she's gone, I've got 3 cars to detail, and a motorhome roof to clean and re-seal. With a little bit of luck we may be able to sneak in a 2 week motorhome trip to Montana the first part of October.
Otherwise there's not to much happening here, but I couldn't let the anniversary slip by without a little blurb. Joyce is anticipating summer's return next week!
Until then, Ernie
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Re-retired
Last Thursday/Friday was my last day of my 10 week temporary employment. It went relatively well, except for the working nights part. I was asked if I would be interested in returning for another short stint next year. I think that I would, but it would have to be daytime hours. So we will see what happens. But for now, I need to get back in my retired mode!
The weather has been crazy the last few days with temperatures in the mid to upper
90's. The forecast for today is 100+, which would be an all time record! Not just for this date, but ever!! We should be sitting out in the sprinkler all day, but instead, I am going to the Mariner's game this afternoon with friend Pat. Then we are going to the Moody Blues concert with Pat and Steph this evening at an outside venue. This should be a good endurance check.
No RV plans for the remainder of this year yet. Maybe we can sneak off for a week or two after Joyce and Kristin get back from Europe the latter part of September. It would depend on what the weather forecast is. We tried RVing in the snow on our "Great Adventure" last year, and we would rather be where it's warm, dry, and sunny. Neither one of us is partial to snow.
This past weekend, we took my mother with us to Keith and Sheila's for the day. She always enjoys getting out for the day. It's about a 1 1/2 hour drive each way. Her hearing is about as bad as it gets, so she doesn't get very much of the conversations. But at 94 she can't complain,(but she does!)
I'm sure there must be some other important things going on here, but I can't think of any. So until then, stay cool!!!!!!!Ernie
The weather has been crazy the last few days with temperatures in the mid to upper
90's. The forecast for today is 100+, which would be an all time record! Not just for this date, but ever!! We should be sitting out in the sprinkler all day, but instead, I am going to the Mariner's game this afternoon with friend Pat. Then we are going to the Moody Blues concert with Pat and Steph this evening at an outside venue. This should be a good endurance check.
No RV plans for the remainder of this year yet. Maybe we can sneak off for a week or two after Joyce and Kristin get back from Europe the latter part of September. It would depend on what the weather forecast is. We tried RVing in the snow on our "Great Adventure" last year, and we would rather be where it's warm, dry, and sunny. Neither one of us is partial to snow.
This past weekend, we took my mother with us to Keith and Sheila's for the day. She always enjoys getting out for the day. It's about a 1 1/2 hour drive each way. Her hearing is about as bad as it gets, so she doesn't get very much of the conversations. But at 94 she can't complain,(but she does!)
I'm sure there must be some other important things going on here, but I can't think of any. So until then, stay cool!!!!!!!Ernie
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Mid July Already
2 More weeks! By the time I do the next update, I will be done working for the year!! Then it will be time to kick back and enjoy the rest of the summer and the early part of fall. And with a little luck we can throw a travel adventure in somewhere before Hawaii in the latter part of October.
Patrice, Paul, & Anthony were out from Chicago for 6 days the end of June/first of July. We had a good time and a very busy 6 days. The weather cooperated and we spent most of our time outdoors. We did our part for the economic stimulus by supporting restaurants and gas stations a little more than normal! They headed home on a red eye out of Seatac on Friday the 3rd.
The 4th was spent at Gail & Randy's. We even had a warm sunny day for once. They had about 20 people over for lots of food and a few beers (for me). We hung out well into the night and the mosquitos were feeding on us. We got home to find our cat (Hairold) hiding in a cubbyhole of the organizer in the computer room. He was totally traumatized by the fireworks. It took him a couple of days to get back to his normal ornery self.
My mother celebrated her 94th birthday on the 7th. Joyce and I went to pick her up to take her out for ice cream in the afternoon. We had arranged that with her on the 5th, but it was a total surprise to her by the 7th. So we altered the plan, and ended up with a very short drive to the local McDonalds. Hadn't been in a McDonalds for years, but how can you go wrong for ice crean? Ice cream is ice cream.
Last night we had friends Pat & Steph over for a barbecue and a couple of rum & Cokes. July is begining to be a tough month for weight control!! Then we topped it off with a little Ben & Jerry's ice cream! So today to get things back under control, we are going out with Gail & Randy to eat at a place that is supposed to have the best Reuben sandwich around. We may have to up our daily walk distance by a mile or so for a while.
I will attempt to include some random pictures............Ernie
Pictures from the top:
Hairold
Joyce and Kristin before
Joyce and Kristin after
E & J, Josh & Brynn, and Patrice, Paul, & Anthony (at Ivar's)
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Summertime (and the livin is easy?)
Here it is the 2nd full day of summer, and it looks like we went back in time to April. Mostly cloudy, showers, and maybe 70 degrees. But I will take that over temperatures in the 90's with humidity to match, which is what a lot of folks are having now.
Today is our 24th wedding anniversary! Seems like only yesterday. How can this be?
Since I am still working nights, we have no big plans for the day. We thought that we would go up to the Snoqualmie Casino for their Happy Hour for a drink and a couple of appetizers.
We went to Keith and Sheila's for Fathers Day. Had a nice dinner, visited, played a little ping pong with Grandson Chandler, and had a good day. Skylar greeted us at the door in his power chair, and was talking up a storm. While there we stepped into the motorhome for a few minutes just to check things over. We kinda got the urge to just "drive off". We may still try to squeeze a week or so away into the month of August. It always amazes me that the motorhome smells new, even tho it is now 8 years old. It must be the combination of the wood and the leather. I like it! On Monday we went out to dinner with Josh and Brynn for Fathers Day as they worked on Sunday.
We have Patrice, Paul, and Anthony ariving from Chicago on Sunday. They will be here for 6 days, so we will be busy doing the tourist/tour guide thing. We are looking forward to it. The Mariners are out of town all next week, so the guys will be attending a Raniers game in Tacoma. As usual we have a list of things to do that is longer than the number of days to do them in. Not having to work for the week is especially apealing to me. Then after that I only have 3 weeks to go, then I will be retired again!! Speaking of retired, Joyce is into her 2nd week and doing quite well.
She has enough to keep busy with around the house, and she now has the time to work on her upcoming trip to Europe.
We are trying to extend our Hawaii trip in October for a few more days. We have never stayed on Oahu before, so it would be nice to have at least 10 days to explore. We haven't ruled out the possibility of a Cruise in early October and/or in January. In fact we want to do both, but not sure how that would work out. If the weather was good, we could take the Motorhome to Florida for a late January cruise, then head for Arizona for some "Summer" in February and March.
I'm sure that I have failed to include something in this rambling, and since Joyce has a lot of free time now, she just may add a P.S. For those of you in the Seattle area, summer will be back! For the rest of you, I hope your A.C. is working!
Till the next time, Ernie
Today is our 24th wedding anniversary! Seems like only yesterday. How can this be?
Since I am still working nights, we have no big plans for the day. We thought that we would go up to the Snoqualmie Casino for their Happy Hour for a drink and a couple of appetizers.
We went to Keith and Sheila's for Fathers Day. Had a nice dinner, visited, played a little ping pong with Grandson Chandler, and had a good day. Skylar greeted us at the door in his power chair, and was talking up a storm. While there we stepped into the motorhome for a few minutes just to check things over. We kinda got the urge to just "drive off". We may still try to squeeze a week or so away into the month of August. It always amazes me that the motorhome smells new, even tho it is now 8 years old. It must be the combination of the wood and the leather. I like it! On Monday we went out to dinner with Josh and Brynn for Fathers Day as they worked on Sunday.
We have Patrice, Paul, and Anthony ariving from Chicago on Sunday. They will be here for 6 days, so we will be busy doing the tourist/tour guide thing. We are looking forward to it. The Mariners are out of town all next week, so the guys will be attending a Raniers game in Tacoma. As usual we have a list of things to do that is longer than the number of days to do them in. Not having to work for the week is especially apealing to me. Then after that I only have 3 weeks to go, then I will be retired again!! Speaking of retired, Joyce is into her 2nd week and doing quite well.
She has enough to keep busy with around the house, and she now has the time to work on her upcoming trip to Europe.
We are trying to extend our Hawaii trip in October for a few more days. We have never stayed on Oahu before, so it would be nice to have at least 10 days to explore. We haven't ruled out the possibility of a Cruise in early October and/or in January. In fact we want to do both, but not sure how that would work out. If the weather was good, we could take the Motorhome to Florida for a late January cruise, then head for Arizona for some "Summer" in February and March.
I'm sure that I have failed to include something in this rambling, and since Joyce has a lot of free time now, she just may add a P.S. For those of you in the Seattle area, summer will be back! For the rest of you, I hope your A.C. is working!
Till the next time, Ernie
Sunday, June 7, 2009
What A Difference A Month Makes
We are now into the 2nd week in June and we went from freezing in April to sweltering in June. I believe that we topped out last Thursday at 93 degrees. That's about 15 too high for me. But Joyce thought that it was just right!
I have now finished 3 weeks of my "Back To Work Adventure". I have questioned my decision to do this several times, but I keep telling myself that it's easy traveling money. The problem is now that my time is eaten up by work, we don't have any time to travel! If I do this again next year, I hope to have better timing. But I thought since Joyce is still working part time, what the heck. Now as things turn out, she is soon to be unemployed, and we would have had a month or so to travel this summer. I finish work the last week of July, and she starts weekly Italian lessons the first of August in preperation for Europe in September. Timing is everything. We do have a week scheduled in Hawaii the last week in October. This is the week we were supposed to do in January when my mother was hospitalized, and we had to cancel. Since we had prepaid the accomodations, I was able to reschedule so we will be there for my birthday. And, right now airfares are about 65% of what they usually are. We may extend the stay on Oahu if I can find a good deal on a condo for a few more days.
Last weekend we had some of Kristin's friends and some family friends over for a graduation party. The weather cooperated and we were able to spend the day out on the decks. Kristin and Joyce did all of the food, and everything went really well.
Kristin just left today for her summer job at YMCA Camp Colman. She will be there for 3 months, but will be home for a day or so now and then. She would like for camp to turn into a full time job, but right now that doesn't look like a happening thing.
When she gets back from Europe she plans to start seriously seeking a full time job.
I'm out of things to write about so, Aloha,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Ernie
P.S. As Ernie mentioned above, I am soon to be unemployed. This Friday is my last day at the YMCA where I've worked for approx. 21 years all told. Unfortunately, myself and 3 other long time employees had our jobs eliminated due to restructuring and reorganizaion. There were layoffs at all the YMCA"s in Seattle. In all fairness, we were offered an option to take another job within the YMCA. However, i declined the offer. After talking it over with Ernie, we figured this would be best for our future travel plans. I am sad to leave but at least the YMCA is literally just down the block from where we live and I can always drop in for a visit. I will mostly miss all the wonderful friends and co-workers I will no longer be able to interact with on a daily basis. I will especially miss my good friend Molly who was like the other half of my brain - we worked together for so long we could practically read each other's minds. Even tho I worked part time it was a big part of my life and I will miss it. --Joyce
I have now finished 3 weeks of my "Back To Work Adventure". I have questioned my decision to do this several times, but I keep telling myself that it's easy traveling money. The problem is now that my time is eaten up by work, we don't have any time to travel! If I do this again next year, I hope to have better timing. But I thought since Joyce is still working part time, what the heck. Now as things turn out, she is soon to be unemployed, and we would have had a month or so to travel this summer. I finish work the last week of July, and she starts weekly Italian lessons the first of August in preperation for Europe in September. Timing is everything. We do have a week scheduled in Hawaii the last week in October. This is the week we were supposed to do in January when my mother was hospitalized, and we had to cancel. Since we had prepaid the accomodations, I was able to reschedule so we will be there for my birthday. And, right now airfares are about 65% of what they usually are. We may extend the stay on Oahu if I can find a good deal on a condo for a few more days.
Last weekend we had some of Kristin's friends and some family friends over for a graduation party. The weather cooperated and we were able to spend the day out on the decks. Kristin and Joyce did all of the food, and everything went really well.
Kristin just left today for her summer job at YMCA Camp Colman. She will be there for 3 months, but will be home for a day or so now and then. She would like for camp to turn into a full time job, but right now that doesn't look like a happening thing.
When she gets back from Europe she plans to start seriously seeking a full time job.
I'm out of things to write about so, Aloha,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Ernie
P.S. As Ernie mentioned above, I am soon to be unemployed. This Friday is my last day at the YMCA where I've worked for approx. 21 years all told. Unfortunately, myself and 3 other long time employees had our jobs eliminated due to restructuring and reorganizaion. There were layoffs at all the YMCA"s in Seattle. In all fairness, we were offered an option to take another job within the YMCA. However, i declined the offer. After talking it over with Ernie, we figured this would be best for our future travel plans. I am sad to leave but at least the YMCA is literally just down the block from where we live and I can always drop in for a visit. I will mostly miss all the wonderful friends and co-workers I will no longer be able to interact with on a daily basis. I will especially miss my good friend Molly who was like the other half of my brain - we worked together for so long we could practically read each other's minds. Even tho I worked part time it was a big part of my life and I will miss it. --Joyce
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Mid May or What Happened to Spring??
Here we are in the middle of May, and I have needed gloves in my morning walk. Joyce has been bundled up like it was December! We need a little of that "global warming" that we have been hearing so much about. Maybe with our crappy winter and spring things will turn around for a nice summer.
I am officially headed back to work for about 10 weeks begining this coming Monday. I will be working nights and probably will not be getting the sleep that I have grown accustomed to since retiring last August. I'll have to get into an afternoon nap routine, and I have just the right outdoor recliner for that. (Thanks Joe& Molly)
I need somebody to step up and take a few baseball tickets off my hands, as work will cause me to miss a few. Good seats in the 300 level behind home plate.
Last night we went to a Blues Dinner Club with a group of friends, and stayed out almost to midnight! Good music with Louisiana style food that was not as good as we had on our trip but, you can't have everything. Randy and I decided that they need to add some barbecue to the menu, but we aren't in charge.
We have finally gotten to the mid 60's to low 70's for our daytime temperatures, so I am in the process of finishing the front door that was installed about 6 months ago. Now if only my lawn would take shape after killing off all of the moss, the outdoors will be in fairly good shape. I just need to finish the annual "staining of the deck", but again we need DRY weather with WARM temperatures.
My mother is back on the road to recovery, but is still in the health center at Judson Park. We do not think that she will be able to move back to her independent living apartment, but hope to get her to assisted living. She picked up one of the so called "Super Bugs" somewhere. We think it was probably at the hospital where she went when she had a stroke in March.(She will be 94 in July)
It's time to go for our daily walk, then get back to work on the door.......Ernie
I am officially headed back to work for about 10 weeks begining this coming Monday. I will be working nights and probably will not be getting the sleep that I have grown accustomed to since retiring last August. I'll have to get into an afternoon nap routine, and I have just the right outdoor recliner for that. (Thanks Joe& Molly)
I need somebody to step up and take a few baseball tickets off my hands, as work will cause me to miss a few. Good seats in the 300 level behind home plate.
Last night we went to a Blues Dinner Club with a group of friends, and stayed out almost to midnight! Good music with Louisiana style food that was not as good as we had on our trip but, you can't have everything. Randy and I decided that they need to add some barbecue to the menu, but we aren't in charge.
We have finally gotten to the mid 60's to low 70's for our daytime temperatures, so I am in the process of finishing the front door that was installed about 6 months ago. Now if only my lawn would take shape after killing off all of the moss, the outdoors will be in fairly good shape. I just need to finish the annual "staining of the deck", but again we need DRY weather with WARM temperatures.
My mother is back on the road to recovery, but is still in the health center at Judson Park. We do not think that she will be able to move back to her independent living apartment, but hope to get her to assisted living. She picked up one of the so called "Super Bugs" somewhere. We think it was probably at the hospital where she went when she had a stroke in March.(She will be 94 in July)
It's time to go for our daily walk, then get back to work on the door.......Ernie
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Hi Ho, Hi Ho
Well, it's almost a done deal that I will be returning to work in a week or so. It will be a 10 week deal, so the light at the end of the tunnel will start out big! I turned in my official application today. I had another inquiry about my services from another former employer yesterday. I could barely get my shirt off over my head last night when I went to bed.
Otherwise not much happening around here. The weather has been kind of sucky lately. Lots of wind and rain, so my yard looks like crap again with all of the crud from the trees. But the moss perceveres! One of these days I'll get it looking good again.
Joyce and I went to the Mariners game last night, and saw them lose for the first time in the regular season. We don't have tickets for a game now for almost 3 weeks.
And because of my potential work schedule, I may have to miss a game or two.
Joyce and Kristin are continuing to prepare for their trip to Europe in September, and I am looking into meeting Joyce in Germany the end of September. It might workout. We shall see.
I've been promising to get some pictures up on the past couple of blogs, and the camera battery is being charged right now. So shortly there will be some very random pictures down loaded (that's computer talk).
Today is the 5th of May, so kick back and tip a Corona!! Adios, Ernesto
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