Lighthouses-and-other-travels

My Dad

2011-12-03T19:12:00.004-05:00

Today, December 6, 2011 would have been my dad's 100Th birthday. There was a time that he was positive he would live to be 100.

He was born on Fayal, one of the several islands that comprise the Azores, December 6, 1911. When he was 8 years old he and his parents emigrated to the United States. World War I prompted my grandfather to move his family to New Bedford, Massachusetts. They came into the port of New York aboard a steamship. My father remembered that their stateroom had windows. There was a large population of Portuguese people living in New Bedford. My father was put in the first grade because he could not speak English. He was so embarrassed at being the biggest student in the first grade that he learned English in 6 months and was then put in the third grade with his age group.

My grandfather worked in a mill and when my dad finished high school, he worked in the same mill for a year until he saved money to go to what is now the University of Rhode Island. During his four years he dug ditches for one of FDR's programs. When he graduated with a Chemical Engineering degree, there were no jobs, so he stayed in his frat house, dug ditches and took mechanical engineering courses. He eventually got a job at American Silk Spinning. While there he took textile courses at what is now the Rhode Island School of Design. While there he met my mom under dubious circumstances. One of the exhaust fans bound up clogged with lint. My mom was the first aid gal for the plant and she was told to go see the bright college boy who stuck his finger in the fan to spin it to see if he could clear whatever was binding the fan. He lost the tip of one finger and found his soul mate.

At some point my dad went to work for the U S Rubber Co. When WW II came he was transferred to Ankeny, Iowa to work in a munitions factory as a executive on loan. I was a baby when they left for Iowa. My dad worked a lot of hours and we lived in Des Moines. Near the beginning of 1944, we moved back to Rhode Island and dad settled in the U S Rubber plant in Providence where his career flourished over the years. We moved to Greenville, RI where we were the first family whose last name ended in a vowel. He stayed there until the plant closed and moved South. He chose to take early retirement and promptly went to work selling SRO supplies. He finally retired when he was 72.

Earlier I mentioned that he was certain he would live to be 100. He had several aunts and uncles who easily surpassed the century mark. They all lived in the Azores, where I am sure the quality of air, etc was much healthier than the industrial environment of the Northeast. Dad was 86 when he passed.

My dad was a good man, good husband and a good father who wanted what he thought was best for both of his sons. It was his desire that I study to become an engineer. I did start engineering at URI, but my heart was not in it, nor was I ready for college. After one semester I joined the Navy. I eventually went back to college after the four years in the Navy. I went eleven years at night ending with my MBA. When I graduated he told me that he was proud of me and that I did it all on my own. Yet I know my dad was always disappointed that I was not an engineer. I was well into my 40's when he told me, "I am constantly amazed that you support your family as well as you do without being an engineer." I decided that I would accept that as a compliment.

Happy 100Th birthday Dad!

Coupon-ing

2011-11-06T13:13:00.003-05:00

Last week Carol and I went to the local Publix market to pick up a few items. We entered a check out aisle and noticed that the order ahead was about done. Then the woman handed the cashier a stack of coupons. The manufacturers coupons went quickly. Then I noticed that the cashier was scrolling through the screen looking for product purchased. After a good five minutes of watching this, I said to Carol, lets go. What about the stuff on the counter. Don't care, they can put it back. Nope we are not leaving. After another few minutes I went to the store manager and told him something was wrong. Either their computer system sucked or the cashier was poorly trained and I was leaving. I had noticed him watching and ignoring the problem until I spoke up. He immediately moved my stuff to the next aisle. The woman looked at me and said I don't care who I hold up, I'm getting $100.00 of free merchandise. I had no comment. Once home, I called the store manager and told him that my Rhode Island market had a much better computer system. He said the problem was that the internet coupons the lady printed off had no bar code. I asked him which customer was more important, one with a lot of free stuff or me who never uses coupons and lets you make a profit. The next day I was having lunch at the local restaurant and telling my story of aggravation. She laughted and opened the local paper ( I cancelled it after one too many times of finding it under the truck where I could not reach it) and showed me the ad for "couponing classes". Oh joy! Rocky the owners husband told me that when he worked second shift he joined a coupon club. One goal was to get $100.00 off an order. A second goal was to buy over $100 worth of merchandise and pay less than half of the total. Great! Carol and I decided to try the local Winn-Dixie. They have a great store, better looking meat and almost everything we wanted. When I got home I noticed that the register tape had a code and a web address for my comments. Also unlike Publix, Winn-Dixie has self check out aisles similar to Stop & Shop. I did fill out the questionnaire and then found Publix website and wrote them a long message with my experience and concerns and my recommendations. Three days later, A regional manager called me and we had a nice conversation. he told me that they needed to service all customers. My suggestions were:
Require all coupons to be given to the cashier before the checkout process begins. That way the cashier can determine if she should shut off her light and notify manager that another aisle should be opened.
Maybe if this coupon-ing become so prevalent that they should have coupon only aisles.
"No bar code no coupon".

He did tell me that some of what I recommended they had not thought of. I will still do some shopping at Publix, but the vast majority of our shopping will be done at Winn-Dixie. I think it is a better store and I can check myself out.

Snow birds are coming - SNOW BIRDS ARE COMING

2011-11-05T10:43:00.002-05:00

Over the past couple of weeks, I have noticed a smattering of license plates from Ontario, Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois. Now that November has begun, the numbers of "snow birds" plates are increasing. We have been in a "tourist" drought which is normal for this time of year. The waitress at our favorite lunch place said that business will pick up soon as the "snow birds" will be here. Last Wednesday I went to my local barber for a hair cut and beard trim. I went at a time that I have determined results in minimum wait time. I do enjoy the time listening to the local "good ole boys" talk about solving world problems. As I left Tommy said to me, I don't know how well I can take care of my local customers, you know the "snow birds" are arriving. Yep, I replied I know. I smiled to myself as I left. Only a few years ago I was a "snow bird".

"Gilligan" Hat

2011-10-30T09:13:00.005-05:00

It took some searching, but I finally found a primary care doctor here in Panama City Beach that was not only taking new patients but also accepted Medicare. Last Tuesday I had my first appointment. I was and still am impressed with how much time she spent with me. She echoed the Rhode Island doctor's directive to have my mole removed. I made the appointment and saw the dermatologist last Thursday. I also had two "age" spots that I wanted them to remove. All of the above were normal spots of no consequence. Almost as an after thought, I mentioned that every morning when I brushed my hair that I knocked the scab off a sore. She gave me a long name of what it was that I don't remember. The bottom line is that it is a form of skin cancer that can be invasive. It was removed and I must wear a hat in the sun. No more breezes flowing through my (thinning) hair with the top down on the convertible. I have plenty of baseball caps, but they make my head sweat. I have a Tilly hat, again it makes my head sweat. I told Carol that I wanted a hat with a small brim that was kind of floppy. I went to several tourist shops - no luck. I went to J C Penny and was told that they were on clearance as summer was over and they were sold out. Hmm, I thought, it still 80 + outside. I stopped at a place that sells golf clubs. He said you want a "Gilligan" hat. Yesss I said. He sent me to the Holiday Golf Club clubhouse. I found what I was looking for there. They actually call them "bucket" hats. Whatever they are called did not matter. I bought two. I will now wear a hat in the daylight. I am pictured below with my "Gilligan" hat.

Our typical week in Panama City Beach

2011-10-22T12:44:00.008-05:00

We started the week by going out for breakfast at our favorite place, The Pickle Patch.
It is as much a social event as it is breakfast. I have been accepted as a local and Carol and I always sit at "the" table. It is usually the same cast of local characters. Donna is the Sunday waitress and Carol's coffee was poured and my diet coke was delivered without being ordered. It was good to see Mitch who has been working on a project and has not been around for lunch in a while. He was enjoying a lazy Sunday morning. The weather has stayed unseasonable warm and we had been in the high 80's and actually slipped into the low 90's on Monday. We all were looking forward to Tuesday. The weather folks were forecasting an all day rain event. Our area so badly needed this rain. It seems like the scattered showers always seem to skip over the beach. We put Tuesday to good use and completed house hold chores. In the afternoon we rode out to Destin to Barnes & Noble. I had bought Carol a color nook when her eye sight was poor. I decided that I would get a nook also. I chose the original black and white nook. It works just fine for me. I have already read Stephen J. Cannell's Vertical Coffin. He is one of my top five favorite authors. The weather cleared and we drove back home in sunshine.Wednesday the cool front passed and we now have day time highs in the 70's. Its great, no A/C and no heat. Low energy days.

The boys all got baths this week. They hear the "bath" word and they all look for a place to hide. Below, Gizmo is getting his chin whiskers scrubbed. He gets a little wild eyed during this part. I think it would be easier to wash a rattlesnake than to brush his teeth. He is due for his yearly checkup and I think I will have the Vet clean his teeth.

Pictured below is our little rascal being dried. Carol has said that it was easier to wash a nine pound cat than to wash him. For a little guy, he is amazingly strong.

Tiny and Pillo are enjoying the Florida sun after their baths. Tiny is over 18 now and really showing his age.

This past Thursday, Carol had her last quilting lesson. She is making a "picket fence quilt". We picked out the fabric together (2+ hours). I eventually went and sat in the truck. These places should have a "husband" sitting area. We wanted something that represented our lifestyle here on the beach. Below is her work in progress. we met for lunch at the Pickle Path after class. Mitch was there again and I gave him two Cross pencils. He seems to be one of the few people that I know who likes a 5mm mechanical pencil. When we left, Janet's Caddy would not start. Its old and tired. She called a tow truck and I drove her home. Apparently they are used to Janet calling and she left the keys on the floor and I drove her home. She called me the next day to thank me. She told me the mechanic delivered it to her home and she was once again mobile.

Close up of the center section.

We drove with the top down out to Freeport, Florida yesterday. We found this neat fabric place off the beaten path. Carol had signed up for another class in two weeks to make a hanging Christmas tree quilt. She needed reds and greens. It was a great day and I enjoy helping to pick out the colors. It was also great riding with the top down.

I purchased a grill late last week. The local Lowe's had some nice looking ones all made in China. Their delivery charge was quite expensive in my opinion. I went out to Ace hardware and found a nice grill with more features made in Canada and they offered free delivery. We have grilled every night this week except for our ravioli night. This was our week in what we call "paradise".

Sam's Porch

2011-10-16T15:52:00.012-05:00

Sam's Porch designed by Hugh constructed by Hugh with support from Ed, Manuel, and Roy. Pictures by Ed.

Sam's Porch is a fulfillment of a request that Samra made of her husband Hugh. Earlier this year Carol and I spent two weeks with them as our home was remodeled. At the time, I said I would come and help. I really have no experience with power tools, but I could be a good helper and gofer. The project was slated for October. We headed there October 7Th from Florida, Manuel and Zella came from Louisiana. Manuel was also a Navy buddy from long ago. We arrived mid afternoon. Manuel and Hugh had two walls up by then. Roy is a friend from church. He was there Saturday morning. The remaining wall was quickly erected as pictured below.

Hugh and Manuel admire the progress.

Manuel attaches the supports for the rafters.

Roy and Hugh discuss the project below .

The rafters are in place below.

Another view of the rafters.

Sunday morning we started to install the stringers. The metal roof would be screwed to them. They also provide additional strength to the entire porch.

Once all the stringers were in place, Hugh made final measurements for the metal roof. We all sat down to an excellent mid day meal. Manuel and Zella left shortly after dinner for home.

Early Monday morning Hugh and I left for the approximate 100 mile round trip to the plant that would produce the metal roof panels. Roy and I would pick up a 36 inch by 25 foot 6 inch panel and guide it over the edge of the roof and give it a good shove so it landed on the rafters. Hugh on the rafters would systematically guide each panel into place. It was important that each panel was exact. We did not want the trailing edges to be uneven. Below Hugh is drilling starter holes in the tin so the metal screws could then be driven into the stringers.

I am pleased to say that I was up on the roof driving screws for awhile until Roy returned. He was more adept at it than me and thus the roof was finished quicker. I must also say that my leg was cramping badly and I was very happy to see Roy return. This phase of the project was complete Monday afternoon. Hugh will bring electrical out for a ceiling fan and light. Hugh has to build the support for the two screen doors and Sam will be painting all the studs. Hugh is planning on installing a bead board ceiling. The final item will be to completely screen in the porch.

Every part of the project was completed precisely. All walls are square, level and aligned. You can see the trailing edge of the metal roof. Perfect. We remained an additional day to relax and visit before leaving Wednesday morning. It was not all work. We had a roast over an open fire, good conversation with dear friends. We talkedabout where our next get together should be. I was pleased to be a part of the project.

Crepe Myrtle Trees

2011-10-01T10:55:00.002-05:00

We were walking our dogs one morning when Carol said she would like a crepe myrtle tree. We see them quite often. They line a good portion of I 95 in the Carolina's. I have never really liked the shrubs that came with the property. I contacted the landscape company that has the contract for the community that I live in. below is the before picture.

Crepe Myrtle come in various colors and Carol wanted the red. It was decided that we would get two and also a King Sago palm tree for me. I have wanted a palm tree since I moved here. Carol and I went to Lowe's and bought several types of flowers. The picture below does not do the color in the flowers justice. The trees will not flower until next year. It will also take about a full year before they start to take shape. My little palm is a hardy variety and will do fine. Its not a catalpa but it will do!

In the spring we will again plant additional flowers that will bring more color to the garden. Some of what we planted may not survive the winter. I believe this is the last project for this year. We replaced the rugs and the existing tile with porcelain tile throughout. Our central air needed to be replaced and that was completed.

A/C Issues

2011-09-12T18:31:00.004-05:00

We have a combination air conditioner / heat pump. The heat pump is used to heat the home in colder weather. I have had the process explained to me several times. As such, this unit works through out the year. We are also affected by the salt air which causes corrosion on the outside compressor. The life span seems to be 10 to 12 years. Our home was built in 2002. I am aware that several of the neighboring homes have already replaced their unit. It seems like every time we leave for a trip, we come home to A/C issues. The first time was a year ago and the compressor unit had failed due to short in the cable and we needed to check into a local hotel for a night while we waited for service. Recently we left while the house was being re-tiled. The A coil leaked and the drip pan was rusted. The contractor soldered the leaks. The system could quit at any time. I contacted several places for quotes. I was pleased to learn that if our unit failed an efficiency test that the local power company would contribute $600. towards a more efficient model. Yep, the unit failed the test and we qualify for the contribution. We must install a unit that is minimum 14 seer. This we will do. If we had waited until the unit failed completely it could not have been tested and we would not have qualified. I believe we will have the new unit installed before the end of the month. This unit will be considerable more efficient and we should notice a decrease in electricity usage. Time will tell.

Vicksburg Battle Memorial Park

2011-08-27T15:37:00.012-05:00

While we were spending time with our friends in Mississippi, we went to tour the Vicksburg Memorial Battlefield Park. Following are some of the pictures that I took that day.

The inscription on this monument reads:

Here brothers fought for their principles Here heroes died for their country and a united people will forever cherish their legacy of noble manhood

Here I am beside a cannon with the Mississippi River in the background.

The following picture depicts the rolling terrain of the battlefield.

One of the monuments dedicated to soldiers from Illinois

Another Illinois monument

Along the road many markers depicted the location of troops and their movements. Blue for the Union, red for the Confederate Army.

Below is my good friend from our Navy days. He is pictured with his Great-great Uncle who died during the battle. He was quick to point out that he had relative who fought for the other side.

The following monument is dedicated to African Americans who fought for the Union during this battle.

The following monument is dedicated to the men from Rhode Island, my home state.

The USS Cairo - below

The inscription on the above monument reads:

To the Arkansas Confederate soldiers a part of a nation divided by the sword and reunited at the altar of faith.

We all enjoyed the visit and we were limited by constraints of time. We all agreed that we would like to return and perhaps hire a guide so that we would fully appreciate the history of this area.

Mom

2011-08-25T08:10:00.004-05:00

I was talking to my mom awhile ago when she asked me when I would be visiting Rhode Island again. I said next summer. She then told me that she would not see me again as she was tired of living. Mom will be 96 in November and she has outlived all her generation of relatives (save one) and friends. My dad died in 1998 and she misses him.

I decided that I would make a quick trip there to see her just in case. She is in good health but you never know. Carol stayed in Florida as her eyes are still a problem and she wanted to be near her doctor. I was not in RI for my 70Th birthday and decided to have all my kids, grand kids and favorite niece and her family together for a belated birthday celebration.

These are my comments about that trip. I left on a Monday morning and covered 802 miles. Too much driving for one day. I hate to lump all New York drivers together but the ones I encountered both ways like to park themselves in the left lane and refuse to move over. In some cases they were not even doing the speed limit. The second day I completed the trip. I only had about 650 miles, but the day was longer due to traffic and accidents through New Jersey, New York and Connecticut.

I spent quality time with my mom, took her out for lunch one day to EATS for our favored wienies, a variation on the hot dog, but much different. I visited the A T Cross Company store and purchased three pens. I am a retiree so I still get the employee discount. I took my sister in law and her husband out for breakfast and good conversation.

On the Saturday we had the cookout and my niece hosted the party. Her husband was the grill master, her daughter made my birthday cake. It was yellow with chocolate frosting that was so light and tasty. She is a very accomplished baker. My niece's home has a beautiful recently redone 16 X 40 in ground pool pictured below. My great niece, nephew and some of my grand kids are pictured enjoying the pool.

I was leaving the next day. Once again mom said I would not see her again. I told her she was a great mom, a good friend and if it was so, I would miss her and think of her every day. I also reminded her that it was up to God, and I was planning on seeing her next summer.

I did not want to do the drive in two days home. I stopped in Virginia and then in Pembroke, Georgia and stayed with a Navy buddy . I am fortunate to have made such great and lasting friends so long ago.

Home away from home

2011-08-04T18:25:00.003-05:00

We had planned on wondering about Mississippi and bordering states while our house was being worked on, we ended up spending the entire time with good friends in Mississippi. Their hospitality was on the highest level and we all enjoyed the time. Hugh has done an amazing amount of work on both the grounds and the house. His carpenter skills are at the highest level.

Below is a picture of one of the two ponds on his property. In the evening we could hear the cacophony of the multitude of bull frogs, during the day turtles would be sunning themselves on the exposed logs. Early morning and at dusk, beavers could be seen swimming. They are a nuisance critter as they strip off the bark around the trees eventually killing them.

This is a view of the rear of the house from near the edge of the pond.

Early in the morning we would walk our dogs and we could hear the rooster across the pond greeting the new day. The across the pond neighbors dogs would alert the world that strangers were about. Occasionally we would hear the stallion, picture below, announcing his displeasure at being separated from the mares.

Hugh's wife, Samra managed to prepare many wonderful meals while we were there. We were well rested and well fed. It was a wonderful time with friends who welcomed us as if we were family. Carol and Sam have become fast friends. Hugh and Sam took to our dogs. In fact I told Sam we might have to sue her for alienation of affection. Pillo spend many hours in Sam's lap and she provided Gizmo with his first taste of bacon. No wonder that Gizmo stood by her side every time she was cooking.

We decided that the four of us and the three dogs would take a day trip to Vicksburg before we headed back to Florida. That blog will follow soon.

Seventy

2011-07-28T13:02:00.002-05:00

Monday July 25Th was my 70Th birthday. It is a milestone of sorts. The strange thing is I don't feel 70. Actually, I am sort of surprised that I am 70. Where have the years gone? I sometime think its not possible and I am still that scrawny kid running up to the bow on the aircraft carrier to wait for my plane to land. Reality sets in when I reflect on the important accomplishments in my life. A great married life, three great children, nine grandchildren and now my wife Carol. I know that I have been blessed. I was blessed to have made wonderful dear friends back in the Navy days that I am still close too.

I was greeted at breakfast with a birthday card, and after Hugh said grace, Hugh, Samra and Carol sang happy birthday to me. I received calls and or email from my kids, niece and step daughter. Hugh and Sam took us out to lunch and we then spent a quiet day at Hugh and Sam's home. It was a great 70Th birthday.

As a footnote, I had parked my truck near an ant hill and there must have been some dog food crumbs on the rug. When I tried to brush them out of the truck with my hand on Monday morning, I found out they were fire ants. Nasty little things. I stopped at Ace hardware for spray. I am happy to report that the truck is now ant free and Hugh tells me that the welts from the bites will soon go away.

Hot Coffee, Mississippi

2011-07-26T09:13:00.004-05:00

Friday, Hugh was feeing much better and he asked if we would like to go to Hot Coffee, Mississippi. I checked Microsoft's Streets and Trips and found no listing. Well, off we went. It was a bit of a drive until we spotted the roadside sign for the turnoff. As soon as we turned we saw the first sign for the general store, the only store in Hot Coffee.

Immediately we came upon the combination general store and gas station. We had arrived at McDonald's store.

Following is a picture of the store.

We all went in to browse. It was a wonderful collection of postcards, preserves made by the owners Aunt. There was assorted food items, ice cream, work clothes and souvenirs. A section was devoted to hunting and fishing supplies. I purchased a jar of that the owners aunt had preserved "mayhaw jelly" and also a jar of peach jam. I bought the most expensive post cards that I have ever purchased for the respective children's families and of course my favorite niece. I could not resist a baseball cap that has Hot Coffee, Mississippi printed on it. Carol added a kitchen towel and a magnet with the same inscription.

When we left the store it was almost time for lunch. Hugh and Samra said we would go to Mama Alma's Mexican restaurant for lunch. Keeping with the days tour of country towns, we arrived in Petal, Mississippi for lunch. Let me say that I rarely go to Mexican restaurants. The reason is I don't know what is in the selections. I won't eat rice or re fried beans. Everyone pointed me to a steak burrito, which turned out to be a good choice. Mama's daughter was our waitress and Mama came over to see us and sat with us for a few minutes. She is quite an upbeat personality and may be as much a reason to visit as the excellent food.

We then returned to hosts home for naps. Supper was definitely going to be light.

Gypsie Tour Continued

2011-07-22T09:02:00.002-05:00

We are staying with friends in Mississippi for what was going to be three days.

Tuesday we went to the coast and drove along the beach. This area was hit especially hard by Katrina. We stopped at the post exchange at Kessler Air Force Base. My old Navy pal is a retired Navy Chief and thus has base privileges. We ate in the food court and walked around the exchange. I was kind of looking for a Nook or a Kindle. They were out of Kindles. It was a nice excursion. I talked to the contractor and the site preparation is complete and he stated that he would start laying tile on Wednesday.

Wednesday we did very little. Hugh and I went to Purvis so he could run an error. We all stayed close to his home. The heat that covers the better part of the United States is also here in the country. We are enjoying the company of good friends.

Thursday my buddy Hugh was not feeling well. After lunch I went to Hattiesburg with the ladies shopping while Hugh took an extended afternoon nap. Hugh's wife has really taken to Pillo the one year old Chihuahua.He sits in her lap while we watch TV at night. She also has Gizmo following her. He got bacon one morning while she was cooking breakfast. As of this writing we have not determined when we will head out and leave.

Gypsie Tour Day 1

2011-07-19T16:02:00.002-05:00

We met the contractor at nine AM yesterday. We gave him a key and told him he had two weeks. He said that he would call if we could come home sooner.
Two weeks ago Carol saw her retina specialist and her left eye was 20 / 20 and she could discontinue the drops. This past Saturday she awoke with intense pain in her left eye. Sunday the pain was gone and eye sight was rapidly deteriorating. She called her doctor and he was on vacation, Carol explained that we were heading out of town and could she start the drops. She was referred to the doctors partner in Tallahassee. Carol was told that she should see someone before doing anything. When we arrived at my pals house we explained the situation and he called his eye doctor who referred us to a retina specialist in Hattiesburg. They agreed to see Carol. We arrived and they fit her in. Yes, we waited awhile, but it was worth it. They gave Carol a complete workup. Her eye sight in the left eye was now 20 / 80. When the doctor came in he spent a good deal of time explaining everything. He directed Carol to start the drops and we should see her doctor in Panama City as soon as possible after we get back. He did explain that over time this situation will clear up. Hugh and Samra were great and drove us back to their home and we had a late supper and good conversation. Day 1 was a success. We had an uneventful drive saw a great kind and knowledgeable doctor and began our visit with great friends. While we are here, neither of us have cell phone service.

How Time Flies

2011-07-14T14:26:00.002-05:00

It has been over a month since I wrote that my Northern home had sold. I had about 2 1/2 weeks to empty the house and ready it for the closing. First let me say that I could not have accomplished this task without my wife, Carol, daughter, Jill and niece Janine. I had not worked that hard for years. There were 9 rooms full of 43 years of living and collecting. The furniture was the easy part. All we had to do was label everything as to first stop and second stop. I had collected about 1500 assorted toys and maybe 40 or so pieces of collectible display glass. My wife had collected signed pottery and hand painted Santa Clause figures. Some were hand painted others not. Cats Meow buildings, etc. There were three cast bronze wind chimes hanging on the outside of the house. Each child got one. I have an F150 with the standard bed. I filled that bed three times and delivered to Salvation Army. My niece took a number of collectibles and is going to try E-Bay. We'll split the money. My long time neighbor had us over for a small dinner party and another neighbor took us out to dinner. I have great neighbors in Rhode Island and great neighbors in Florida.

Along the way we met the prospective owners. They are a great young couple who Carol and I immediately liked. They both love the house. I felt so much better that they are so happy and love the house and plan on raising a family there.

The closing went well as planned on Friday June 24Th. Carol and I were exhausted. We had checked into a local hotel and waited until Sunday to leave for Florida. We had decided to stop three nights on the road rather than our normal two nights.

We did take the opportunity to stop and visit Carol's sister, Pat, in New Jersey. They had not seen each other in 25 years. Pat's two daughters and a grandson also were there. It was a nice visit that will be repeated.

I enjoyed the leisure drive afforded me by the extra day on the road. We did stay in the Savannah area and had a nice dinner with my Navy buddy from years ago. I am fortunate to have made such great friends so long ago and that we still stay in touch.

When we bought the Florida home, we said that someday we would rip out the carpets and replace with laminate or tile. Well that time has come. We (Carol) settled on tile and we picked out a beautiful porcelain tile made in Italy. We also decided to replace the existing tile. There will be a lot of dust, dirt as the thin set under the tile is ground off the cement slab. Also the tile needs time to set and then the grout. So we have to be out for two weeks. The contractor wanted us to deal with breakable non- replaceable collectibles. Once again we have packed and moved more stuff as we approach out move out date. I tried for a condo rental in the area, but they are all booked or do not allow pets. So next Monday we will become gypsies. We will begin in Mississippi at another Navy pals home for a few days. Then, it depends on where the wind blows.

Bittersweet Times

2011-06-03T14:11:00.005-05:00

I had met a lady in Florida a few years ago and we courted and married. We decided to buy a home on the Florida panhandle near the Gulf. We are within walking distance to the beach and can hear the surf on a clear night. I also have a house in Rhode Island that I had built in 1968. This is where my wife and I raised our three children. This is where with trepidation that I watched each of them drive up the street alone for the first time. I am a big believer in letting my kids become independent and driving was a major step in that direction. The living room is where we took the obligatory pictures of the kids and their prom dates. This is where I cared for my ailing wife before she became so ill that she needed to be moved where she would receive around the clock skilled care.

I originally put the house on the market last year with no luck. So early this year, the house went back on the market at a lower price. There are benefits to carrying two homes. I have a summer place near my children and grand children. I can see my mom who at 95 still has the means to enjoy life. I have a Florida home where we are spending over 8 months of the year. Neither Carol nor I like the cold and snow and all the winter issues. I had just about decided that I would again hold the house another year as the market is so depressed, when the realtor called and said she had an offer. It is below what I had hoped for. However, I will no longer worry about the heating system in the dead of winter. I will no longer worry that the snow and ice will buildup on the roof. I will no longer worry that a limb will fall and damage property. My eldest daughter once said to me that she hoped a young couple would buy it and have children there as it was a great house for a family to grow in. We agreed on a price that was lower than I had set in my mind. They are a young (20's) couple about to get married and this will be their first home. The fact that they will probably raise children here swayed me in accepting their offer.

Although it is a small yard, it is alive with the plantings covering 40 + years. I am especially proud of my catalpa tree. It is a marvelous shade tree and pleasant to sit under on a hot summer day. In the corner is a pine tree that came home from kindergarten with my son. It was a little sprig in a milk carton. Today it towers over 40 feet. I have purple and white lilacs that always seem to bloom on Mother's day. Daffodils and crocus that poke up through the lingering snow in the early spring. Irises whose bulbs came from my fathers property. Their offspring bulbs are in my daughters yards, and the yards of former coworkers. The hydrangea that came from a brother in laws property. Pictured below are morning glory flowers which were planted by my wife before she became very ill. There are other flowers that the new owners will discover next spring.

Following is the front view of my Rhode Island home. It is a style called a raised ranch. The bottom level is partially below the grade.

Following is a side view of the house. Years ago, I was becoming more affluent and suggested that we sell and buy a larger home. I was met with loud opposition. The children did not want to change schools. I countered with the fact they would all rejoin their classmates in junior high. My wife was definitely not with me on this issue. So we added an airy California room to the house and the moving issue was never raised again.

Above is a view of the back of the house and the small deck that accommodates a gas grill that is connected to natural gas. Underneath the addition is a storage room with minimal heat. The wide door was to allow easy access for my motorcycle.

We will be heading up there next week. Although a lot of the accumulation of the over 40 years were cleaned out over the past few years, there is so much more to do. The new owners requested a June 24Th closing date. I will have about two weeks to deal with 9 rooms of furniture, pictures, tools, my collection of metal toys, crackle glass, some art work. My niece has made contact with the man who cleaned out mom's house when she sold. I also need a moving company. Furniture will be spread between family and Salvation Army. In my mind, I know how I will attack the cleaning process. My snow thrower will go to the neighbor who always cleared my side walk and driveway.

I will admit to some sleepless night since the sales agreement. It is the right thing to do and I am happy not to have the responsibility and the costs associated with that home. There are many really great memories there. I am sure that when I journey to Rhode Island in the future I will drive by the house and be melancholy.

Window Upgrade - Florida Home

2011-05-30T14:53:00.004-05:00

The front of the house in Florida has two windows with an eyebrow window above each window. Both of the eyebrow windows had damage. The window replacement installer told me that this damage is quite prevalent here due to the heat produced by the tropical sun. The material between the frame and the window below had started to expand into the window and was readily visible.

The mullion within the second window had separated and fallen. We considered these conditions to be unsightly and distracting from the front of the house.

I moved here from New England and felt the mullions in the front window did not appeal to myself and my perception of what Florida homes should look like. I felt it was too New England looking. We both wanted a cleaner look for the front of our home.

We contracted to have the windows and eyebrows replaced with out the mullions. We also ordered a heavier glass with UV protection coating. Below is the after look of the front windows.

Close up view of the new eyebrows. This front bedroom was always the hottest room in the summer and the coldest in the winter. So far we have noticed that that room remains cooler than before and we have already had a string of 90+ degree days. The installer told me that these new windows are a better quality and more airtight than the ones removed.

Carol and I are quite happy with the new look and the quality of the windows. Eventually, we will upgrade all the windows.

Eye Update

2011-05-18T11:19:00.003-05:00

Carol had a "leak" in the retina of her left eye. Last week her right eye started to hurt and her vision slowly decreased. Last Monday we went to the specialist. Happy to report that the left eye is back to 20/30 and there is no longer a "leak". Carol has a regiment of drops for the left eye designed to slowly withdraw that eye from the medicine. The right eye suffered a "leak" from a vein in the retina and her vision was off the chart. If you have ever seen an eye chart, Carol could only distinguish the biggest E. The doctor gave Carol a steroid injection in that eye. She also has a regiment of drops in the right eye and Carol will see him again on June 6Th. The good news is that there will be the light at the end of the tunnel and both eyes will once again be in sync.

My eyes are fine. Before the surgery, I really could not see well beyond my finger tips without glasses. However, I could read well enough without glasses. Now, I need reading glasses. Small inconvenience, I know. Its just that I am not use to carrying them with me. I was in the market and needed to read a label and could not. I asked another shopper if he could read the contents for me. He laughed and asked me how long it was since the surgery. He said it was a good year before he started carrying them. Carol carries hers in her pocketbook. I do have a pair in the truck and one on my computer. I just have to remember to take them into the store. I did not realize how bad my cataracts were until they were removed. All the colors are so bright and vibrant.

Puppy Bath Day

2011-05-18T10:45:00.005-05:00

Our dogs need to have their baths weekly and some times more often. Gizmo, my Yorkie seems to need baths more often. Terriers are known for rooting into underbrush, deep grass and any place else he can stick his snout. Once in a while I will take him to a dog friendly beach where he loves to run along the surf and burrow his snout into the sand and often misjudging the incoming waves. He is quickly bathed upon arriving home. Carol feels if Gizmo is going to be bathed, then Tiny the 18 year old chihuahua will also get done at the same time along with Pillo the 9 month old chihuahua. Gizmo does not like his face washed, Tiny does not like getting wet and Pillo fights the whole time. Carol told me washing a 10 pound cat is easier than washing Pillo. Pictured below are the "boys" wrapped in their towels as they were removed from the bath.

Gizmo's face and eyes says it all. He always has this irritated look after his bath.

Pillo is just happy to be done with the water part.

Tiny is happy the wet part is done. He seems to like being wrapped up and held. He has a contented look.

After they are towel dried they find their favorite spot to recover from what they perceive as an ordeal. Tiny likes to burrow into a soft blanket.

Pillo loves to be held by Carol.

Gizmo has his afghan on his favorite chair.

Youth - Revisited

2011-05-07T15:17:00.002-05:00

My dad always had a large garden until he could no longer take proper care of his vegetables. He would always, in his younger years, have at least 125 tomato plants, 100 pepper plants, hills of cucumber, assorted squash, eggplant, string beans, several varieties of lettuce, and the most wonderful rare ripe onions. My mom would can tomatoes, string beans and would can the best pickled peppers that I have ever had in my life.

Many times during the summer when the tomatoes were ripe enough, mom would send me to get a couple of decent sized tomatoes and a bunch of rare ripe onions from the garden. She would slice the tomatoes, cover with cut up onion and add olive oil and salt. A good piece of Italian bread for sopping up the juice. Loved it! There is nothing like a fresh picked tomato.

This morning Carol and I went to the Farmers Market located at the St. Andrews Marina. First this is a beautiful location with the docked sailboats, fishing boats, and some power yachts. One of the fishing boats was selling fresh shrimp and blue crabs. We went to get farm fresh eggs, having enjoyed my daughter's chickens output while in Rhode Island, we wanted more fresh eggs. We also bought fresh picked asparagus, string beans, tomatoes, my rare ripe onions, and a small basket of peaches. Pictured below is the lunch I had earlier today. I needed to meticulously remove all the seeds as I can not consume the seeds due to a medical condition. The only missing piece was the Italian bread. The bread here just does not do it for me. I enjoyed my lunch and the fond memories of mom and I having our summer lunch together years ago.

Carol made the place mats. She loves butterflies and if you look closely, you can see them.

Lillian Marie

2011-04-21T15:50:00.003-05:00

Lillian Marie

Born April 4, 2011 at 5:30 AM
7 pounds 3 ounces
20.5 inches long

Carol and Lillian

Lillian with her mom, who requested no picture yet.

Carol smiled a lot when she had the baby

I did get a turn

We left Florida on Wednesday April 6th to see our new gran daughter. Lillian is my bonus grand baby as I did not believe there would be any more. Our trip to Rhode Island was uneventful and we arrived Friday afternoon. We unloaded the truck and went to see the baby. The beaming new parents were very generous in allowing us to hold her as long as we wished. We did see her several different times over the eight days that we were in Rhode Island.

We had a full week visiting all the grand kids, my mom, my favorite niece and of course, my sister-in-law Ev and her husband John. We had supper with my eldest daughter, a marvelous mustard based marinaded chicken on the gas grill and Jill's chocolate frosted brownies. Pillo and Sylvie became fast buddies. Jill send us home with eggs from her chickens. Amazing how yellow the yokes were in comparison to store bought eggs. We had supper the next night with my niece, Janine and her family. Wednesday night we had dinner with Ev and John and Ev taught Carol the art of making "calzones"

My mom is 95 years young and her favorite restaurant is Twin Oaks in Cranston. I asked her if she could get in my truck and if so we would go to Twin Oaks, She is pretty agile for her age and she had no problem. Her fried scallops were perfect. Carol had Sheppard pie and I had the senior fillet steak.
One day we went to EATS for classic wienies. One night we had Willow Tree chicken pot pies. We had the eggs with ham and toast our last night home.

We left Rhode Island on Palm Sunday morning. I figured traffic would be light as Palm Sunday is an important day for a lot of families. We sailed through New York City and across the George Washington Bridge. We hit the New Jersey Turnpike and we found all the traffic. I was amazed at the long lines for gas at all the rest stops. Later watching TV we got the answer. Gas pricing is regulated on the turnpike and they were talking about the New Yorkers who were going there for fill ups.

We did see some of the damage in North Carolina from the tornadoes. Apparently they skipped over I 95. Mother Nature can be awesome and scary. We had supper with BJ and Marsha the last night on the road. BJ and I were in the Navy together. We were close then and closer now. He has a restored WW II military jeep. He took me for a ride. It brought a new meaning to "harsh ride".

We had a great trip and we were happy to be home. We unloaded the truck, walked the dogs, connected the battery on the convertible, put the top down and went to dinner. We benefited from great hospitality, great food, greater company, and now we are on diets!

Florida Division of Motor Vehicles

2011-03-26T12:41:00.002-05:00

Now that my eyes are healed, I went to the Florida DMV to have the "lens correction required" removed from my license. Ordinarily I would dread the experience having been exposed to the Rhode Island DMV where a trip there can and usually does require hours. Not so here in Panama City Beach. I took my passport and went. I waited five minutes for a free clerk and soon found out that I needed more forms of identification. Either a passport (check) or a birth certificate. Then a social security card or a W2 /1099. Then two of the following, registration, deed or rental contract, or two current utility bills. I was told that the medicare card was not acceptable.

Home I went to dig out all the necessary documents. I told Carol that I was told that if we get pulled over with the restriction on the license and we could not prove we had lens implants, we could be restricted from driving the vehicle then and there. Carol immediately produced her passport and Social security card. I retrieved my 1099. We got our respective auto registrations. Now for the utility bills. When we bought the house, we put the electric bill in Carol's name as she had a history with the company and they waived the deposit. The water bill is in my name but I went paperless and have the total paid via a bank draft. No paperwork, good citizen. The cable bill was paid and shredded. I did have the HOA bill which had both our names on it.

So the next afternoon we headed to the local DMV office. As I went to take a number, we heard, I can help you. We passed our eye tests and produced the paperwork along with our licenses. Pictures were taken, fees paid and then we waited for the computer to kick out our new licenses. The longest part of the approximately 20 minutes total was spent waiting on the computer. Carol's license has "Safe Driver" printed on it. Mine does not. Apparently Virginia transmitted the speeding ticket to Florida.

We were soon on our way. Visiting the local Florida DMV office is a breeze.

Hat and Shoes

2011-03-19T15:13:00.003-05:00

Earlier this week Carol and I went to the Silver Sands shopping center in Destin. It is a pleasant 40 mile drive from the house. I specifically wanted to find a small bottle with a cap. I have found a restaurant that makes a great cheeseburger, but they don't have vinegar for my fries. I also wanted socks from the Jockey store. We always have lunch at the Chao Italia restaurant. On the way there we saw the Sunshine shoe outlet. Carol wanted to try on the Vibron Five Toes shoes. We had a great lunch. Carol had meatballs and spaghetti and I had the chicken parm with spaghetti.

After lunch on the way back we stopped. While Carol was trying on the shoes , I wandered around the store and saw the Tilly hats. I am pictured below sporting my Tilly hat. The hat comes with a four page owners manual. It floats, repels rain and blocks UV rays. Best of all, its not made in China. It is made in Canada. Why would I want this hat. Well this winter (unfortunately) I have lost more hair than weight. I need to protect my head and face from the sun. I have had a thing removed from my nose a few years ago. Please note the shear curtain in the background. Carol made the drapes and the blackout behind the shear. She also created the same for the double window in the dining area. Those are palm trees on the shear. Very tropical Florida and I love the curtains. The blackout also helps to keep the house cooler in summer.

The shoes Carol bought are pictured below. Each toe has its own space. It does take Carol an extra minute or two to put them on. She tells me how comfortable and light they feel. She is planning on wearing them on our trip North in April. They look like they will be great for travel. They come in some wild colors but this is the pair that fit best.

There are socks that are made to be worn with these shoes. Carol asked me if I would be embarrassed to go out in public while she wears them. "Absolutely not" I said. I think they are great.

20 -20

2011-03-08T10:56:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Carol went for her combined one week appointment for her right eye and her three week appointment for her left eye. The good news is Carol's left eye is 20 - 20. Her right eye is still healing and yet it tested as 20-30. Carol still has pressure that the Doctor deemed too high and he gave her drops to alleviate the pressure. This pressure is causing Carol a good amount of discomfort in that eye. There is no reason to believe that Carol's right won't heal and also be 20-20. The new drops are already helping with the discomfort. The Doctor cleared Carol for full activity. This morning she is busy sewing the shears for our dining room.

We decided to go out for dinner to celebrate. We had driven by O' Charley's yesterday and decided to go there for dinner. We walked in and there were three or four couples waiting. I did not give it a thought as I could see the dining room looked empty. The greeter told me there would be a wait of about 10 minutes as they were waiting on the servers to arrive, and would that be OK. I told him it would not be OK and we left. It was already after 5:30 PM. I told Carol on the way to the car that if they can't schedule the servers properly, how do we know the kitchen is staffed properly. We backtracked and went in the local Outback. We had a great meal. This is the second time we have left a restaurant and ended up with a great dining experience.

Our Dogs Pillo - Gizmo - Tiny

2011-03-06T12:42:00.008-05:00

Pillo (pee-lo) is our newest addition. We acquired him last October when he was 2 months old. His parents were each 4.5 pounds and we expect (hope) he will not surpass that weight. Pillo pictured above is sleeping in the sun with one of his favorite toys. He is a bundle of energy and is usually involved in mischief. He playfully attacks Gizmo my Yorkie or he is running throughout the house with one of our socks or with one of Carol's skeins of yarn. He finally managed to jump high enough to get on the furniture. He managed to get a knitting needle and chewed the tip off. Carol remarked that he must have an amazing digestive system. He has the run of the house. He wants to play with Tiny our 17 year old chihuahua who tends to sleep a lot and has little patience for romping with a puppy.

I managed to catch Pillo and Gizmo sitting on my recliner when the sun was shining in the back sliding door. Pillo has several shirts as he is not yet 3 pounds and needs the added warmth. The red bib like thing around his neck is actually a harness for walking him. We tried a collar but he pulls on the leash and we are afraid he will hurt is trachea.

Carol has started teaching the "boys" tricks. Below Gizmo is playing dead. Pillo is waiting his turn as he and Gizmo each perform their repertoire. Tiny does not nor will he do tricks. He just gets his share of treats automatically. It has a lot to do with his seniority. Lately Carol can not do the routine while she recuperates from eye surgery. I tried to fill in but they have me pegged for a softy and I give them the treats without them really performing.

Carol ordered a doggy playpen recently. It gives us some relaxing time without worrying what mischief he is doing. We also plan on bringing it North as that house has stairs and a railing that he would easily fit under. He has a number of toys in the playpen and he will stay happily in there until he decides to howl his displeasure.

We can not imagine our home without him.

X/treame Lawn Care

2011-02-27T11:03:00.004-05:00

We live in a community where our HOA covers lawn care. We have been here two years. The current company is the third lawn care company since we bought here. The first did a good job but I think they priced themselves out of the market. The second group lasted a short time and apparently were ineffective. The company we have now (in my opinion) does an outstanding job. They inherited a failing and poorly designed sprinkler system and grounds that were in poor shape. They have steadily improved the look of the entry from the main road, properly trimmed shrubs and palm trees. They also have to deal with the stones that were placed around all the foundation of each house. Pictured below is an example of these stones. They have caused headaches for every lawn care company. Windows have been broken, vinyl siding cracked and screens pierced.

Now that the weather has warmed up, the guys started cutting grass and trimming. Unfortunately, my new sliding door was shattered by a stone that was send flying by a weed whacker. This door was special ordered to withstand high impact hurricane winds of at least 135 mph. It also was treated to protect from UV rays of the sun. Pictured below is the result of the stone hitting the door.

We were out for lunch when this happened. I saw the door immediately as I entered the house from the front door. I was livid to say the least. As I approached the door, I could hear the glass crackling. I told Carol don't touch the door. I called the management company and they were talking to the owner of the lawn care company. They accepted full responsibility for the repair and a man from the glass company was on the way. The owner of Xtream called me and said he would see me within an hour. He never did come and for that I am disappointed in him. I judge a man by his word. As the glass continued to crackle, it started to fall in on its self. The picture below shows the process

The gentleman from the glass company came. He quoted a price to the lawn care company and he was awarded the job. He did an outstanding job of cleaning up the broken glass. We are not afraid to bring our three dogs out there. Because the door was a special order, the replacement will not be here until the middle of next week. While he was here, I asked him to quote on replacing the two small eyebrow windows in the front of the house. They have slats within the window and one has fallen in the window and the other has the rubber casing inside visible. I would like the front of the house to look right. Time will tell if the door will ever be right.

Surgery Updates

2011-02-23T14:58:00.003-05:00

Carol saw the doctor yesterday morning. Her left eye previously 20/400 uncorrected is now between 20/25 and 20/30. She is experiencing balance problems because the two eyes are so much different and also her lens is different from mind to correct her astigmatism. The doctor agreed to move the surgery up a week and Carol's second eye will be done on March 2ND.

My left eye was operated on yesterday and this morning I had the one day checkup. My eye is more swollen than he wants so I have some extra drops for two days. My distance vision is good both eyes, but my closeup vision is blurry today. All in all, good progress and good news.

We both will be finished with surgery and all followup appointments before the end of March. We will be cleared to leave for Rhode Island as soon as the new grand daughter arrives.

Eye surgeries and odds and ends

2011-02-21T12:01:00.004-05:00

Carol's eye is doing much better. She is seeing distance well with the other eye closed. When both eyes are open she has trouble with balance. A neighbor who also had astigmatism correction with her cataract surgery told her that having the second eye done was the key. She too had the imbalance and trouble focusing before the second surgery. Carol sees the doctor tomorrow and told me she will beg and grovel to have the next surgery as soon as possible. We know the Doctor is taking a weeks vacation sometime in March. Depending on the week, she may have to wait an extra week.

My second eye will be done tomorrow afternoon. I am also eager to get that done. Once our eye surgeries and followup appointments are completed, our new granddaughter should have entered the world. We will head up to Rhode Island then.

Gizmo was chasing Pillo and they both leaped over Tiny. When Gizmo landed he sprained his lower left front paw. We took him to the vet the next morning and he was given an anti inflammatory shot and I have a script for him. He does not like taking liquid from a syringe. Its easier with a pill wrapped in cheese.

We took Tiny in this morning. His skin is in poor shape and he scratches so hard he cries. We are afraid that the quality of his life is diminishing rapidly. He received two injections that are time released and we will monitor him closely over the next week. If he shows improvement, he will need two more regiments every 10 days. He continues to lose weight and no longer wishes to be held. He is 17 years old and has lived a great life since Carol rescued him 15 years ago.

Pillo has passed the 6 month birthday and has started lifting his leg. Once Carol has a date for her second eye, we will figure out a good date to have Pillo "fixed". He continues to amuse us. He struts around the block as if he is the biggest baddest dog out there. He menacingly charged a frog until it hopped and he then ran the other way. Also he has started to jump up on the chairs where Gizmo sleeps. No rest for Gizmo. He has managed to jump in the basket where her yarn is kept and was running off with a skein. He also managed to chew an end off a knitting needle. Carol is considering buying a playpen for him.

The weather on the Panhandle has finally warmed up to normal temperatures for this time of year. We have been spending time in two of our favorite state parks. I mentioned to my son that I had to run the A/C in the truck and it affects my MPG. He said he was freezing his you know what off and had no sympathy for me.

The realtor had an open house in RI and two parties showed interest. I will hope for the best and what will be - will be. If no buyer, we will spend the summer there.

The eyes have it

2011-02-17T14:14:00.003-05:00

Carol's surgery was scheduled for 1 PM Tuesday the 15Th. To say she was nervous was an understatement. To add to the anxiety, we sat in the waiting room until 1:30 PM before she was called. Carol was having more extensive surgery than I had. Carol agreed to have her astigmatism corrected at the same time as cataract surgery. This required a special lens and two additional incisions. Tuesday night Carol's vision in her left eye was no more than a blur. She could not see. Wednesday morning her sight was no better. She complained that I was able to read the paper the next morning. We are all different I said trying to calm her. We were at the the eye doctors for an 8:25 AM appointment. Carol's vision was a disappointment. The doctor told her that her eye was very swollen and dry. The lens was perfectly placed and that the dilation would wear off later that day. We needed to get lubricating drops for the dry eye. Carol was told that her vision would be changing over the next few days. This morning she could read without glasses but her distance sight is still poor. The doctor told her that they expect her to have 20 - 30 vision once the eye heals. Part of Carol's anxiety is due to the fact that my vision drastically improved within 48 hours and hers has not. I truly expect her vision to rapidly improve as the swelling goes down and the dilation finally fades. Carol will see the eye doctor next Tuesday morning and I will have my left eye done that afternoon.

Changing subjects, Carol and I enjoyed our Valentine / wedding anniversary on the 14Th. We added to Carol's pandora bracelet. We enjoyed a nice steak dinner utilizing an Omaha steak that was part of my sons Christmas present to us.

Yesterday, I was called by the company that administers one of my credit cards. Apparently someone in Illinois tried to charge $300.00 at a Home Depot. The card was denied because the experation date was wrong. They then called me. We closed the account and a new card will be sent. I reviewed all my charges over the last few months and the only time the card was out of my sight was at an Italian restaurant in Old St. Andrews. All the other charges were at the market and the gas station where I use all my cards on a rotating basis. So hard telling. I'm glad they have good detection software.

20 - 25

2011-02-07T14:23:00.002-05:00

I had my one week visit this morning. My right eye is now 20 - 25. The healing process will continue. I can also resume normal activity. I will not have to tape the plastic shield over the eye. I can bend, stoop and lift within reason. My left eye is now scheduled for February 22nd. I can hardly wait. I am seeing so much much better with one eye, I know it will be even better.

Carol goes for pre-op tomorrow and her first eye will be done on the 15th. It will be my turn to do the bending and lifting for her. Pillo still requires an early (3 AM) trip outside. I don't look forward to that but it will have to be done. By the time we head North for the new grandchild we will both be seeing so much better.

Surgery Update

2011-02-02T19:53:00.002-05:00

The surgery was yesterday. I arrived 10 minutes early for my 1:30 PM appointment. I was taken on time, prepped for the procedure. Drops were placed in my right eye to numb it. I was hooked up to a heart monitor and given a small dose of a drug to relax me. The doctor came in and spoke to me, checked my eye for dilation. A few minutes later I was moved to an operating room. My head was strapped in place. I was told to stare at the light and he began. He told me what he was doing every step of the way. I was finished within 10 minutes. I was wheeled into recovery, provided with a drink of apple juice and I was given two pictures of my eye in different stages of the procedure. Carol came in and got me. Total time there 90 minutes. Last night I was amazed at the vibrant colors on the TV. My sight had been deteriorating for awhile. Now the hard part, no bending, stooping, or picking up anything over a few pounds for 7 days. I must sleep with a shield over the eye. Carol is hovering over me watching my every move.

This morning I went for the day after surgery appointment The eye looks good just a little swelling around the incision. As the dilation fades, I am seeing so much better. I am looking forward to having the next eye done.

We had previously made an appointment this morning for Carol as she was due her yearly checkup and she wanted another scrip for contacts. Carol also has cataracts and we scheduled her first surgery around my next procedure. This way one of us will be able to drive the other, and provide care during the sensitive 7 days after surgery.

Eye Surgery

2011-01-29T09:40:00.002-05:00

I went this past Wednesday for my pre-op appointments. First at the eye doctors where I saw a video on how to prepare my eye before surgery and what to do after surgery. Then my eyes were measured and "mapped" if you will for the implants. This was all very impressive with the process and the equipment. I saw my doctor and I was given my kit. In there are samples of the drops, a shield that I will tape over the eye to sleep and a pair of dark sunglasses that are more like the safety glasses that needed to be worn in the factory. I also received prescriptions for the three drops needed twice daily per a prescribed schedule. I had previously visited the Walgreen's and found out the cost and decided I did not want generic. After all I only have these two eyes.

My next stop was the surgery center a short distance from the doctor's office. There I waited for 30 minutes to see someone for less than 5 minutes for pre-op instructions. I must bring my kit and wear a button shirt ( I have one) no food for 6 hours and no liquid for 4 hours before my appointment.

I dropped off the scrip and assumed everything would be good. The next day, I went for my drops only to find out that one (Bromday) was not filled and also not ordered because my plan would not cover any of the $170.00 cost. I told her I knew that. Why was I not contacted, these are needed for eye surgery. The whole pharmacy department looked as if they were deer in the headlights. I guess customer service at Walgreen's is severely lacking and the insurance company has more clout than the customer. I finally got the drops the next day. I am evaluating if I want to continue doing business with Walgreen's.

Tonight I start washing the eyelid and lashes on my right eye with diluted Johnson's baby shampoo. This will be done for three nights. Tomorrow morning I will start the twice daily regiment of one drop each of the three prescribed drops. One drop is for ten days, another for three weeks and the third for about two weeks. I have a chart.

Tuesday is surgery on the right eye. I will have to wear a shield over the eye for a week while the implant heals. This will stop rubbing of the eye in my sleep. Frankly I am worried about this part. I'm told you rub your eyes in your sleep. Must be very careful. I have purchased a pair of sunglasses as my prescription sunglasses can no longer be used.

I am looking forward to having the second eye done. I know my vision will be tremendously improved.

A memorable week

2011-01-22T11:28:00.005-05:00

We had a very nice and interesting week that just ended. It began last Saturday when my good pal from my Navy days arrived with his wife and grand daughter. They were spending the long weekend with us. The weather was sunny but not the warmth we had hoped for. Temperatures have been running about 10 degrees below normal. After lunch we went and walked out the Bay County pier. It is 1500 feel long and is a pleasant walk and the sea was a beautiful blue. We also went to St. Andrews State Park that afternoon. I had prepared a large pot of sauce, meatballs and Italian sweet sausage on Friday for our Saturday evening meal. Carol prepared wheat pasta. Carol and I started with the wheat pasta as a healthy choice and like it. Sunday the ladies went to Pier Park shopping after lunch. I took Hugh for a tour of historic old St. Andrews, the marina and other points of interest. Monday morning was spent relaxing over breakfast with my commitment that we would go to their home in Mississippi sometime in February.

Tuesday we waken to heavy fog and decided that we would see True Grit. It was an excellent movie. The young lady that portrayed Maddy stole the movie. Jeff Bridges was great (but no John Wayne) Matt Damon is a better Bourne than a Texas Ranger.

The sailing ship Peacemaker is spending the better part of January here in the Panama City Marina. They offer free tours from 10 AM until 4 PM each day. Donations are accepted but not mandatory. It is crewed by members of Twelve Tribes. Carol and I decided to tour the ship on Wednesday afternoon. I finally picked a dentist here and went for a cleaning in the morning.

The woodwork aboard the ship is just magnificent. I was really impressed with the condition of this vessel. Carol is standing in front of the bridge where all the modern equipment is located for guiding the ship while underway.

This is not a good picture of us but it does have the bow in the background and shows some of the rigging. Followed by a picture of one of the crow's nest.

Members of the crew produce pottery as a means of making some money to defray expenses. The pieces were very beautiful and were signed. I bought Carol a tee shirt and also bought the last four postcards. I had on my URI baseball cap and a young lady told me she was born in Providence. She asked if she could pet Pillo and I said she could hold him. She told me she was fourteen and I asked if she ever went aloft. Absolutely and my two sisters also go up to help furl the sails. I was quite impressed with her.

Another picture of the top of two of the masts.

I have been wanting to have dual exhausts installed on my F 150. Thursday morning I went to Mad Hatter on 23rd street and had a magnaflow one into two muffler installed. While I was doing this Carol went to see her primary care physician. She had a good check up and below is a picture of the exhaust pipes. I love the look and I am getting use to the sound. It is a little loud especially in low gear. On the highway the sound is barely noticeable.

Earlier in the week I made an appointment with Dr. Hasty. He was highly recommended by my barber. I have been having increasingly more difficulty seeing with my right eye. I really like the doctor. The scale for cataracts is from zero to four. My right eye is between 3 1/2 and 4. My left eye is close to 3. I have agreed to have the surgery and I will also have lens implant. The right eye will be done first and the left eye 3 or 4 weeks later. I will not have to wear glasses except maybe for reading. I have been wearing glasses for a long time. I am looking forward to this process being completed. I will periodically comment on the progress.

Clink - Clink - Clink

2011-01-08T10:30:00.002-05:00

Not too long ago, I was reading the local paper while Carol was showering and getting ready for a shopping trip with her good friend, Victoria. I heard her exclaim in a panicky voice, Oh S@*%t! Oh honey something horrible has happened. I jumped up thinking something happened to Pillo our newest Chihuahua who likes to lay on Carol's robe while she showers. I rushed in and immediately saw Pillo also looking upset. What is the matter? It was a most horrible sound as she began to cry. What sound? "Clink-clink-clink' she said. I was cleaning my diamond earring and that is the sound it made going down the drain in the sink. I hugged her and asked her not to cry as I do not like to see women crying. It will be OK, I said trying not to laugh. Stay calm, I will get it back or else we will have the jewelry store make another with a matching quality diamond. "I only want that one she sobbed, they are special you bought them for me when we started to get serious." I told her to finish getting ready and go shopping and do not run the water. I looked under the sink and realized I did not have the proper tools. I had met a local plumber when he worked on my neighbor's water line. I called him and a few hours later he came. Within five minutes he had the diamond. When I asked how much, he said no need we do this all the time. I thanked him and I then called Carol and told her I had the earring.

DeFuniak Springs Christmas Light Display 2010

2010-12-30T08:52:00.005-05:00

The community of DeFuniak Springs does a Christmas display of lights surrounding the round lake near the center of town. This is the third year that Carol and I have visited the display. Each year, it seems, additional lighted displays are added. Last year there were 6.5 million lights. I estimate that close to 7 million lights are in this years display. The cost is $3.00 per person and you are allowed to drive around as many times as you wish. Last night we drove there to view the lights. We invited Janet to come along. Janet is a dear sweet lady that eats lunch at the local restaurant that we like. She is alone and we like her. She also spent Christmas day with us.

Following are some of the pictures that I took.

Many of the local homes along the drive are decorated. There are a number of Victorian style homes located here.

We always enjoy the display. Christmas carols were played over speakers located throughout the display. A wonderful clear night, well worth the approximate 90 mile round trip.

2010 - A great year in review

2010-12-27T11:33:00.002-05:00

2010 was very good to us. We quietly welcomed the New Year (kind of). We watched the ball drop in New York City and that was fine with us. We are in the central time zone so we slept through our New Year.

February, we celebrated our first wedding anniversary. The Rhode Island home went on the market. I believe the realtor was overly optimistic and the house was probably priced too high for the times. It did not sell and we spent the summer there.

In April we hit the road. Neither of us had seen the Grand Canyon and it was high on my bucket list. Along the way we saw the White Sands of New Mexico, Sedona, Tonto National Forest, Oak Creek Canyon and Hoover Dam. We also stopped in El Paso for a long awaited visit with Carol's son, Bill.

Summer was spent in RI and my son and I went to Gettysburg to tour the battlefield. He arranged for a tour guide to spend 4 hours with us. It was fantastic. I enjoyed it so much that I took Carol there on one of our trips North. We had made a quick trip south to take furniture to the Florida home and went North via Shenandoah National Forest.

We both traded vehicles. I had been wanting a truck for several years and I finally got a 2010 F150 extended cab. Carol's 11 year old Chevy convertible was showing signs of age (repair$$$) and she stepped up to a 2007 Pontiac G6 hardtop convertible with under 17k miles. Very sporty and more powerful than the Chevy 4 cylinder.

We returned to Florida in September for the winter season. We did do a long weekend in Gulf Shores, AL with some of my Navy pals from long ago. We had a good time visiting. I may be prejudice but Panama City Beach is far more beautiful than Gulf Shores. In October, Carol found a chihuahua puppy and Pillo has become part of the family. Never did I think we would have three dogs. They will travel with us.

Christmas was great and we are looking forward to 2011 with anticipation. The RI home will soon be on the market again and Carol and I are working on the new bucket list for our major trip in 2011 as we continue to explore the United States and Canada.

Hurricane straps

2010-12-27T10:37:00.005-05:00

I am not a do-it-yourself type of guy. I will attempt some small "safe" projects. Ones I think I won't mess up. Carol dislikes blinds and we have started to hang curtains. I felt that I would be able to install the rods. The first room was the master bedroom. Carol wanted the curtains to not block the window when open. Therefore the rods would be of sufficient length to accommodate the width of the curtains. I measured, leveled, measured, leveled and drilled the holes for the brackets for the rod. The picture below is the result.

The next project was a valence over the kitchen window. Piece of cake - right. I placed the bracket over the window and moved it as directed by Carol to the "perfect" spot. I drilled the first hole and the drill hit a solid object. Good I thought, a stud. I applied pressure and still nothing. I'ts not a stud it is the metal hurricane strap. I now know that every window and door opening has them. It provides added structural support for hurricane protection. I knew that I did not have the right drill bits to punch into the strap. I immediately called Jeff, the local contractor that has done work for us. He came over and he had some difficulty punching through, but he got it done. He installed both brackets and the valance was installed. The finished project is pictured below.

The bedroom window rods were sufficiently wider than the window and therefore I was away from the metal straps. I continue to learn more about this home in Florida.

Authors

2010-12-14T12:30:00.003-05:00

Somehow I ended up on the Harris poll email list. Periodically I get a request to complete a survey. Earlier in the year, I received one concerning authors and the type of books I read. Mostly I read mysteries and novels that I view as cleverly written. I was also asked how I read. My answer to that was strictly hard covers and usually purchased new. I like the feel of a hard cover and rarely even look at a paperback. Perish the thought that someday I will only be able to read on an electronic tablet.

I was asked to list my top five favorite authors.

1) Stephen J. Cannell
2) David Baldacci
3) Janet Evonovich
4) Sara Paretsky
5) Robert P. Parker

Mr. Cannell and Mr. Parker both passed away this year. I will miss their writings. Parker had worn out the Spencer series, but I was enjoying the Jesse Stone series.

Last Saturday Carol and I went to DeFuniak Springs to visit a very wonderful and unusual "used book store". I was looking for hard cover books by Cannell. The only ones they had, I already owned. I did find a semi hard cover book with two of his books and I did buy that. My other selection was a hard cover History of Civilization. When I was in high school the most passionate teacher I had taught ancient history. I remember more of that class than most others.

I tend to donate the books to the local library when I am finished. I do keep books by Cannell, Baldacci, and Evonovich. Not sure why, I just do. I know I will miss Mr. Cannell. His books never disappointed me.

Illness - Our 12 days of Christmas

2010-12-08T10:17:00.004-05:00

Carol and I woke up the Saturday after Thanksgiving with horrible sore throats. We were congested with runny noses and a mild cough. We did not have fevers and we figured it was a cold and we would muddle through it. Fortunately the sore throat lasted a day and was replaced by blinding headaches for four days. When I am sick I tend to eat more, Carol had little appetite. We were and are doing over the counter stuff, increased liquids and rest as best we could. Today is day 12 and neither of us is a hundred percent. I believe I am closer than Carol. She has a cough that seems to rack her whole body. No time is a good time to be sick, but there is so much to do this time of year. A simple trip to the local market exhausts us. We both have shopping to do for Christmas. Carol has a sewing project to complete. We have a small tree and that required part time effort over three days to complete. I have lights for the outside shrubs and I have no energy to deal with it.

On the bright side we have a warm home and have each other. We will get the shopping done and soon will feel back to normal. Hopefully this is our one and only illness this winter season.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-26T14:10:00.002-05:00

This is written the day after also known as "Black Friday". Yesterday we went to Carol's daughter's home in Tallahassee. Its about a 110 mile trip each way. Carol likes to get there early so as to have chat time with Joylene. We walked the dogs who cooperated by completing all of the duties hoped for. Tiny and Gizmo would be left home. They are quite loud and menacing if anyone comes to the door. Together they may weigh 11 pounds. Small but fearsome. Pillo comes with us. At three months he is not fully trained and not able to hold it for several hours. Besides, I thing Connor and Kyrsten are happier to see Pillo than us. Pillo is very good with them and showers them with kisses and attention. Connor at 14 months is so gentle with Pillo.

We managed to load the car with our contribution to dinner and the dog stuff and we were on the road before 8:30 AM. That is real good for us. November has been warmer than normal and we have had early morning fog lately. I was thankful that there was no fog. We live in the central time zone and they live in the eastern time zone. We always deal with the hour difference. I have to know whose time zone when they say dinner is at a certain time. I need to plan as I sometimes get woozy if I go too long without eating. I usually have a package or two of the Lance grilled cheese crackers in each vehicle. Yesterday we took the truck as its easier on my back than Carol's sporty convertible.

Our hosts had ordered a smoked turkey for the main course. They had mashed potatoes, a sweet potato souffle, string bean casserole made with home made cream of mushroom soup, cornbread stuffing, two kinds of cranberry sauce, gravy and Carol's candied sweet potatoes. We also brought Hawaiian rolls from the market. The candied sweets and string bean casserole were fantastic. The dark meat from the turkey was moist and tender. I also had a leg and that had the smokey taste. I enjoyed it. there were three homemade pies, pumpkin, apple and cherry along with a pumpkin custard. I skipped the sweet potato souffle as it had nuts. Needless to say, I did not leave hungry. In fact, I never ate another meal yesterday. I was not looking forward to the drive home on such a full stomach but I never did get drowsy.

Today it is 80 degrees in the city and a little less here on the beach. The weather is supposed to change overnight and we are fore casted to cool down to the high 60's or low 70's. We will see. They fore casted rain for today, but it is what we call "a chamber of commerce day". It is just beautiful.

I hope everyone had as nice a day yesterday, as I did.

Lowe's and Home Depot - Big disappointment

2010-11-18T11:57:00.002-05:00

I recently had a sliding door and storm door installed. (previous post) The process was not without difficultly caused by a lack of attention to detail by both stores. Granted I only dealt with the stores closest to me here in Panama City Beach.

First I went to the local Lowe's near me and bought a storm door for the front of the house. I paid in full and was told that I would be contacted by an installer in so many business days. I waited and waited and finally went to Lowe's and asked for my money back. They were so surprised no one had called. I pointed out that the door was probably in their inventory and someone should have been on top of their installers. I was assured that they would get right on it. I said I would go elsewhere.

My next stop was Home Depot which was also nearby. I picked out the storm door and also the slider. I figured I would go through this process once and be done with it. I paid the fee to have the installer measure the opening and then the "right" size doors would be ordered, delivered and installed. I asked how long it would be for someone to measure. I was again quoted the number of business days. I waited and waited. How I miss my northern contractor. The local contractor who has a good reputation was working three doors away. I asked him if he could do the job. Yes, was his answer. I told him if Home Depot did not call by Wednesday the job was his. On the Friday, I received a call from Home Depot asking me if anyone had come to the house. Don't you know, I asked. Apparently not. I told him I was going a different way and would come in for my deposit. The next Monday I went to Home Depot and saw the manager. She told me no wonder no one came the order was cancelled the day after the order was placed and a Home Depot gift card for the amount was created. I assured them I did not have it. The manager gave me a cash refund on the spot. It did leave me wondering who got the gift card - an honest error or???

My contractor and I went to Lowe's (his choice) and we picked everything out. The screen for the slider was ordered and would be delivered in 10 days. The contractor showed up on the agreed upon day and did a great job. The screen came in but Lowe's ordered the wrong one. Lowe's is now supposedly ordering the right screen. I have no faith in either company. The good news is I now have a contractor here who I trust and who does good work.

Life is fragile

2010-11-12T19:15:00.002-05:00

Every morning Gizmo and I head out the door long before the other dogs are moving. We have a set route around the complex. The majority of mornings Bill is out on his porch having a morning cigarette. He has a miniature poodle that is well trained and allowed to roam without a leash. The dogs play while we chat. Bill had been a care giver for several years and recently his wife went into a nursing home. Bill told me of several short trips he wanted to complete. Lately we talked about the Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola. Bill had never been there. This morning he and I talked about trucks. His is a 2005 Ford F150. The last thing he said to me was that today had the makings of a fine day.

I went to take trash out this afternoon and smelled smoke. I then saw the emergency equipment and went to investigate. Smoke was pouring out of the back of his house. I went closer and saw the firemen giving CPR. Soon after they covered his body. He did not make it. The dog also was lost.

I will miss seeing Bill in the morning. He was a fine gentleman and I always enjoyed talking to him. Rest easy, Bill.

Apalachicola

2010-11-10T14:45:00.003-05:00

Carol and I have been back in Panama City Beach for almost two months. We have talked about a day trip to Apalachicola the past two weeks. We decided that we would go Tuesday the 9Th. Apalachicola is a quaint fishing village. Apalachicola is especially noted for their oysters. The Apalachicola River empties into the bay and the movement of the tides and the influx of fresh water produces a pure wonderful tasting oyster. As long as I have been coming to the Panhandle, I have been coming here for the oysters.

Papa Joe's is off the main drag. so to speak, and I found it by accident. This is where a number of locals come. We went for lunch. We chose to sit at the bar. We ordered drinks, and I asked for a dozen on the half shell while Carol read the menu. She ordered the house salad with grilled grouper. When I was asked what my main course would be, I said another dozen. The oysters were of good size, ice cold, sweet and served with a wedge of lemon and a small cup of horseradish. Cocktail sauce was available. Carol's lunch was superb. The grouper looked like a picture in a food magazine. As I finished my second dozen which was really 14 to an order, I was asked if I wanted a third. I had to admit I was running out of gas, so I settled for 1/2 dozen and received 8 oysters. It was well worth the 90 minute drive on a brilliant sunny day. Below is a picture of Papa Joe's. The building sits well back from the road and if you don't know its there, it is easy to drive by the gravel driveway.

After lunch, I drove a short distance to the docks where a number of fishing boats are tied up. Across the canal is a small pile of oyster shells. They are crushed and used for a variety of uses. A popular use that I am aware of is for driveways. The shells are visible in the background. Some of the fishing boats are also pictured.

We then went into the small village. If you saw Ulee's Gold, you may recognize the restaurant below. It was in an early scene of that movie. There is a large poster in there that Peter Fonda signed.

We went into an old time soda fountain for a scoop of ice cream. They still make the fountain drinks just as it was done when I was a small boy in Greenville, RI. We both choose cherry vanilla ice cream. A perfect finish to our day trip before heading home.

One last picture of Carol as we walked to the truck.

Upgrading the Florida Home

2010-11-03T13:14:00.004-05:00

Carol and I will have owned this home 2 years this coming March. We bought the house fully furnished. We have made a number of changes to the furnishings. First we changed the bed to a king with a memory foam mattress. We each bought a desk at the same time we bought an entertainment center. Originally the second bedroom was an office. All that stuff was donated. We put a queen fold out couch and a long table for Carol's sewing machines. Recently we changed the dining table and chairs and replaced the coffee table and end tables. I am happy to say that all the old furniture and the stove either went to Goodwill or Habitat for Humanity. Please understand there was nothing wrong with the stuff, it just wasn't our stuff or style.

Recently I have been looking at the outside of the house. When I watch TV at night I sit near what was kind of French doors. The were in poor shape and I could see daylight in one corner. Additionally, there was no way to add a screen for air circulation. Also there was no current storm door in the front. A local contractor was working on the street and I asked him if he could do some work for me. We all went to Lowe's and picked out the new slider for the back of the house and a storm door for the front. Below is a before picture of the rear entry way. You can see that there was rust on the door and it generally looked "shabby". There was also some rot. The next picture is after the slider was installed. Oddly Lowe's had to order a screen door. You would thing they would be in stock.

Below is a picture of the front door. It is functional but no real eye catching appeal. With an interest in staying within a "I can pay for this in cash" budget, we opted for just a storm door with a hidden screen.
The screen is in the top of the door and pulls down as you lower the top panel. If you look closely you will see a small portion of screen at the top. The lower white bar is the frame for the top panel and when the screen is fully closed that bar aligns with top bar.

The final piece to yesterdays change were new outdoor lights on either side of the garage door. The old lights (sample below) were dull and really added nothing to "curb appeal".

Below is a picture of one of the new lights. The brass matches the brass on the front storm door. This in my opinion gives the front of the house a "fresher" look. Now the brass house numbers look dull. Do I get brass polish or just buy new numbers.

We have recently planted some flowers in front and want to add some more. I have one more front project. I need to replace the eyebrow windows in front. And maybe a spiffier front door. Carol is out looking for the "RIGHT' curtain rods for the slider and dining area window. We have the fabric for the curtains. We still have a couple more "wants" but they will have to wait.

Coral Cactus "Cristata"

2010-10-23T16:51:00.004-05:00

Carol and I were walking through the garden shop at Home depot. We had ordered a front storm door with hidden screen and a sliding door with screen for the back of the house. I would like to take advantage of the cool breezes. With three dogs we can't leave the doors open. We went into the garden shop as I wanted a shovel. We have begun planting some mums and petunias. On the way to the register, Carol spotted a table full of many types of cacti. She picked out a Coral Cactus. We have never seen one. The pictures below are of both sides. It will live on the kitchen window sill.

Carol asked me to remove the blinds from the window. This was quickly accomplished and after washing the window inside and out, the Cactus has a bright window to reside in. I think it is neat.

Early Voting

2010-10-21T08:18:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Carol and I went and cast our ballots for the mid term election. This was the first time for me voting in Florida. Rhode Island never had early voting while I voted there. I have not missed an election since I have been eligible to vote. We went to our local library which is only three blocks away. I have to say that I was very impressed with the procedure. I showed my drivers license, I was checked by a computer, signed an electronic scanner and was given a receipt which I then handed to the next person. She printed out my ballot and I went into a booth and completed my choices. I then fed my completed ballot into a machine and the process was complete. Florida has come a long way since the "hanging chad" problem with the first Bush presidential election.

One interesting note (at least to me) every Florida Supreme Court Justice name was on the ballot with the question "should they retain their job" We could vote yes or no. In Rhode Island once the person is confirmed to the RI Supreme Court, they serve until retirement, death or disgrace.

Usually my voting decisions are well defined and thought out. My vote for Governor was a difficult decision. Neither the Republican nor the Democratic candidate seem worthy of the position in my opinion. I choose what I considered to be the lesser of the two evils.

Now all I have to do is wait until November 3rd for all the nasty political adds to be done.

A walk in the park

2010-10-20T14:35:00.004-05:00

Carol and I live close to St. Andrews State Park. I buy a yearly pass good for all the Florida state parks. St. Andrews is the one most visited. Sometimes five times a week. The park never fails to please us and in some way add to our already pleasurable days. Recently we decided to visit the park and wander around our favorite spots. That day we visited one of the several areas where swimming in the Gulf is permitted. The picture below was taken as we approached the beach. Ample boardwalks are provided to access the beach as much of the dunes are off limits to protect the fragile grass and sand dunes.

Next we went over to the Alligator Pond. It seems weird that a fresh water pond would be so close to the salt water. Several alligators are purported to live in this pond. I have only ever seen two at a time. There is a path that will take you along the waters edge. Some days an alligator might be spotted swimming or sunning along the shore. It is just a matter of luck.

Even though is was quite warm that afternoon and there is soft sand part of the way, we decided to walk along the path that borders the edge of the pond. We came upon the area where there is a small bench for sitting and viewing and we were rewarded with an excellent view of a decent sized alligator. I was willing to walk within four feet of it and took several pictures. This was the last taken. It almost looked like he was smiling as I approached. If left alone, they will ignore humans here.

Our final stop was the small fishing pier near the boat ramp. There is a much longer pier on the Gulf side. Carol and I have seen dolphins here, but never when we had a camera. We were rewarded.

We believe he / she was putting on a show for everyone there.

I must have taken 20 pictures.

Over the years we have been blessed with many varieties of birds, deer, owls, sting rays, turtles and alligators. All with in a beautiful park available for all to enjoy. There are hiking trails, beautiful white sand beaches and even an old Turpentine Mill. Marvelous!

PEPE

2010-10-18T07:35:00.003-05:00

Carol has been talking about getting a Chihuahua puppy for sometime. Recently she did some research on the Internet and last Monday we went to visit two breeders who had puppies ready to be sold. We set off in the truck as the directions to the first location included dirt roads. We eventually drove over 228 miles on the Panhandle including several miles on dirt roads that did not deserve to be called roads. The first puppies we saw were cute, but the parents were stocky and Carol was looking for a svelte puppy that would grow to less than five pounds. So off we went on the next quest to find the "puppy". Lets just say, I did not think there were such rural spots at the end of several miles of unpaved wash board roads. Carol was rewarded. As soon as she held this puppy, I knew our search was over. He was the perfect color, the parents were both only 4.5 pounds. Carol made the financial arrangements and we were off. As we drove we started with the alphabet trying out names. We eventually narrowed it down to Chico, Jake, Pepe and Slade. Pepe stuck.

He looks so sweet. Right! No one slept the first few nights. Now his crate is next to Carol's side of the bed during the night. He has become a little terror. He loves to jump on Tiny our 17 year old Chihuahua as he sleeps in his bed. He ducked under Gizmo our Yorkie and bit him on the stomach. I believe Pepe was looking for his mom's equipment. Last night Tiny was wagging his tail and I saw Pepe moving his head following the tail. Yep, he struck and bit Tiny's tail as it wagged.

He likes to drag stuff around the house. This morning I watched Carol's sandal move across the living room. Later I watched the power cord to my laptop move from under my desk. The two older dogs have started sleeping on chairs so they can have some peace.

I told Carol we missed the boat on naming him. We should have called him "Attila". He has become Carol's puppy. He follows her around and comes when she calls his name. He is adorable and I think he knows it. Carol is pleased and so am I.

Shipmates

2010-10-14T12:38:00.003-05:00

I joined the Navy in January of 1964. After boot camp and jet mechanic school, I was flown over to the Mediterranean to catch up to my duty assignment. I was assigned to VA 36 aboard the USS Saratoga. During my time in VA 36 I made the dearest life long friends. I was blessed to know them, serve with them, and remain in touch with them to this day. There is a small group of shipmates that try to get together once a year. We are all in our late 60's and early 70's now. We still enjoy each others company and share a bond that was forged on the flight deck night crew so many years ago. There are some shipmates that we have tried to find and have not yet. We recently lost one ship mate to cancer. This year we spent several days on the Gulf Shores in Alabama in rented condos. It was planned that most meals would be in the condo together. The ladies went shopping during the day and the guys spent our time talking and around the outdoor pool. We had the occasional beer. On our last night we went to Lambert's (home of the throwed rolls) for dinner. Lambert's is an raucous experience wrapped around good food.

From left to right. Mike originally from Denver, now he splits his year between Denver and Mesa, AZ. Manuel originally from Louisiana and still lives there. Hugh originally from Texas and now lives in Mississippi. Hugh retired from the Navy. Myself originally from Rhode Island. I now split my time between Rhode Island and Florida. BJ originally from Georgia. BJ also retired from the Navy and still lives in Georgia.

Here we are with the ladies, Hugh and Samra, Carol and Ed, Marsha and BJ, Manuel and Zella, and Mike a single guy. We all had a great time, we talked and ate too much. We left two ideas on the table for next year. Gettysburg or the low country of South Carolina, possibly Charleston.

I am so lucky to have served with them.

Crackle Glass

2010-09-25T12:38:00.002-05:00

While I was working a co worker got me interested in collecting crackle glass. He and his wife easily had 500 or more pieces. Supposedly, the first piece of crackle glass was a mistake. The glass blower plunged the piece into water to cool it and it formed a number of cracks. He then immediately put it back into the glory hole and finished the process. As the story goes, he took it home to his wife as it was considered a second and would not be sold. She liked it and other wives asked their husbands to bring them a piece of this glass. Crackle glass as a product was born. I started collecting rather late in the life span. By the time I started several books had been published on collecting and the factories that manufactured them. I actually did visit a couple of the factories in West Virginia back in the early 80's. Crackle was becoming harder to find at prices I was willing to pay. I still have a number of pieces yet to bring down here. Below are pictures of some of the collection.

Two pieces on the top shelf are not crackle. The cruet on the left is ribbon glass and the one on the right is millefiori (thousand flowers). They both date to the 1890's.

The three pieces below are sort of unique. The salt and pepper shaker are collectible in two categories, crackle and as a salt and pepper set. If you look closely at the middle shelf above you will pick out a small blue salt and pepper set. The middle piece is very collectible because the stopper is still with the piece. Apparently stoppers are easily broken. The third piece is collectible because of the height and shape of the piece.

A closer view of the millefiori and two crackle pieces.

The keen observer will have noticed the toy Harley Davidson motorcycle with sidecar. I also collected toys and have several hundred transportation oriented toys. It is a eclectic collection of whatever caught my eye.

Off handed negotiation

2010-09-22T11:53:00.003-05:00

Carol and I came down to our home in Panama City Beach for two weeks this past July. As hot as it was here, it was hotter in Rhode Island. Carol's 11 year old Chevy Cavalier convertible sputtered and back fired and basically ran horrible. The day before we were heading back North the check engine light came on. I said we would deal with it in September.

Once here I reconnected the battery and Carol started the car. It started smoothly and ran well. The A/C was weak and we detected a howl when ever the A/C was on. Carol has always liked Mustangs so we went and looked. Used Mustang convertibles are scarce and the new one was way above her budget. The following day, Carol was having a yearly medical test and I went to the GM dealer to see if they had any convertibles. The salesman did a search and said he could find a few Pontiac G6 hardtop convertibles. I took Carol there to look at the images on the internet. She chose a 2007 Crimson Red Pontiac G6 with 17,800 miles. It had to be moved down from Augusta, GA. A final price was negotiated. I was using a Cross pen identical to the one below. I retired from Cross 7 years ago. This pen was delivered to me today from the Cross Company store. The salesman asked me what he had to do to get the pen. Flippantly I said take another two hundred off the price. He did and I gave him my favorite pen.

The car arrived and Carol took delivery of her new convertible pictured below. We went in two vehicles to pick it up. I wanted her to drive it home. There is nothing (my opinion) like that first drive in a new vehicle. It has a satellite radio (free 3 months) and she played it loudly on the way home.

A post script to an earlier post. The temporary fix to the house A/C is still working. Unfortunately another part has failed. We are patiently waiting for the A/C person to come and look at it. We have decided to bite the so called bullet and replace the whole system.

Our Journey South

2010-09-15T15:03:00.004-05:00

We were able to leave on a timely basis. Only a small delay getting onto I 95. Once we were in range of New York City, I picked up a station that does the traffic every 10 minutes. As all the Hudson River crossings were in decent shape, I choose to use The Cross Bronx Expressway and the George Washington Bridge. It is the most direct way. AAA does not recommend this route due to the uncertainty of traffic congestion. We sailed across never dropping below 40 mph. The day was without problems and we arrived in Exmore, Virginia in a timely manner.I like to go down the Delmarva for several reasons. It avoids D. C. and we like the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. The hotel also takes dogs for a small up charge per pet. That first night we went to a diner adjacent to the motel. I had a roast turkey dinner. The food was very good and I like the stuffing. It had an interesting flavor. By 11 PM I felt like I was on speed or something. This feeling got worse during the night and I was worried about my health and then could Carol drive my truck with confidence. By morning I felt better and although I was tired and a little shaky, we set out on our second day. I must have been allergic to a spice.

We were on the bridge within 30 minutes . Such a beautiful view. the bay was vivid blue with a gentle chop. The sport fishermen's boats were bobbing on the water as the anglers fished. It must be a good spot as there were a lot of boats near and under the bridges. For those not familiar with the bridges, there are two bridges of two lanes, one southbound bridge, one northbound. However the tunnels are only two lanes wide. Traffic slims down to one lane each way. The tunnels are needed so the Navy can enter and exit the base. The rest area has recently been remodeled and the restaurant is gorgeous. We will plan to eat there when northbound again. The downside to this route is getting back to I 95. Most of the route is rural over SR 58. Once on I 95 we were able to make good time. In South Carolina we hit three violent rain storms and when we crossed into Georgia another. We arrived at the motel and found it without power. The whole area was without including all traffic lights. The desk clerk had our key prepared so we went to the room and someone was already in the room. Once it was fixed , we walked the dogs, and then Carol and I went to visit close friends and have dinner. We arrived in the pouring rain and later drove back in the pouring rain.

The next morning was sunny and dry. The free breakfast was decent and we drove South into Florida. We stopped at the visitor center. They have orange and grapefruit juice for the weary traveler. Just before Jacksonville proper we got on I 295 towards I 10 west. Traffic came to a halt three miles shy of our exit. As we moved slowly along we could see about eight Florida State Trooper cars blocking the right lane. Shortly we could see a badly smashed pickup truck against a tree about 50 feet from the highway. I could see that the truck was a mess and as we passed we saw that the cab had been covered with yellow tarpaulins. It was a sobering moment and we were both thankful that our trip had been uneventful thus far. Our route takes us through Tallahassee and we always stop at Joylene's (Carol's daughter) home. We arrived and were welcomed warmly. The older children gave us hugs. Connor now is walking and not so very interested in being held. We were surprised when we were presented with a wonderful grandparents card and a special lunch. Hughie made us pear tarts for our desert. We were thrilled with our stop and reluctantly said our good byes and headed to Panama City Beach.

As soon as we opened the door, we knew something was wrong. The A/C had a failure. We did get a technician to come but the needed parts were not available until the next morning. We all spent the night in a local hotel. The A/C is now working with a stop gap measure that may last a week, month or years. We have opted to run it as is until it dies. we will deal with it then.

Bottom line, we are home in Florida, its been three days and we are still unpacking and putting stuff away. I have no clue where my mailbox key is nor do I know where the year pass to state parks is. Carol knows where her embroidery hoops are. They are in a closet up North.

Going South

2010-09-09T15:45:00.004-05:00

Summer is over. It has been a good summer with good warm weather unlike last summer. It is now time to head south to our winter residence. We have been staging stuff (lots of stuff) the last two days. Today we loaded the truck. From sewing machines (2) to Carol's office chair, printer, assorted cooking implements, clothes, documents, and on and on. We still must put our shower kits, bag with pillows and medicine bag in the truck bed. In the morning our laptops, cooler and snack bag will be placed inside the cab. The back seat is reserved for our pets, Tiny and Gizmo.

As I write this, all I can think about is that this needs to be unloaded in four days. This is what has been loaded today.

I am looking forward to the drive south. We love the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. I will watch my speed in Virginia. We will have dinner with BJ and Marsha (old Navy pal) Saturday night in Georgia. Sunday will be lunch with Carol's daughter and family in Tallahassee. Then on to our home in Florida.

Winter well my Northern family and friends. Lord willing we will be back in the spring.

Ralph D'Atri - Shipmate and dear friend

2010-09-06T14:34:00.004-05:00

I was in the Navy back in the early 60's. I made the dearest friends back then. Some of us managed to hook up and stay in touch over the years. A small group of us try to get together once a year. Sometimes we, as individuals, will stop and visit in one anothers homes. We worked on the flight deck of an U S Navy Aircraft Carrier. It was both a dangerous place but one that was exciting. We bonded as pals doing a difficult job.

Ralph was a shipmate and friend. We worked together and pulled liberty in various ports in the Mediterranean. Ralph was an easy guy to like. He was fun loving and game for any escapade that was dreamed up. Ralph lost his battle with cancer on September 3, 2010. He was 68 years old. Too young to go. He will never be forgotten as long as one of us is alive from that night line crew. Rest in peace, Ralph. Your suffering is finished.

Waiting On Earl

2010-09-02T14:52:00.002-05:00

Just about every one knows that Earl is moving up the East coast. The local news stations are doing their best to dramatize the situation. The consensus is that the Rhode Island coast will receive a glancing blow and have heavy surf and wind with beach erosion. Inland we are expecting tropical force winds and heavy rain Friday night to early Saturday morning. Rhode Island is expected to miss the brunt of the storm. Yet some weather persons on the local news keep harping on the fact that if the eye moves 20 or 30 miles eastward that we would be in for it. So stay tuned for the latest forecast. Their dire prediction is designed to scare people (in my opinion) into continuing to watch their station.

Today, I was going to stop at a local independent meat market for a few items from their deli for lunch. The parking lot was packed. I don't do well with lines, so I kept driving and we went out for lunch. Let me give a little history lesson on why (again my opinion) that Rhode Islanders have this panic mind set and must stock the larder as any storm approaches. In February of 1978, a Nor'easter storm stalled over this area. Some spots received over 50 inches of snow in a relatively short time. It caught everyone flatfooted. By the time companies and schools shut down, it was already too late. Snow removal crews were also slow to be activated. Route 95 in Providence became a parking lot. Cars were abandoned on the highway. Some folks did not get home for days. Some school children were stranded at churches and fire stations for several days. The state literally shut down for a week. The Georgia National Guard was flown up to help with first removing the cars from the highway and then opening up the roads. Side streets needed front end loaders to clear the snow. Ordinary snow plows could not move it. People had to go to the Providence Civic Center, wait in line to find out where their car was towed too.

So, that may be why the markets are packed. We had a nice lunch at a local favorite spot. This afternoon, I raised the awnings, took down a bird house and placed the trash barrels inside the storage area. I am now storm prepared. I hope the storm tract stays off the coast as most predict. I plan on getting my storm updates on the Internet.

Quilting

2010-09-01T15:46:00.002-05:00

Carol decided that she would like to learn to make a hand made quilt. We had been planning on going to Keene, New Hampshire to visit Sandra, a cousin and good friend. I told Carol that Sandra would be a source of information and direction as Sandra is a quilter. When Sandra found this out, she said we would take a short drive to Chester, Vermont to visit a fabric shop that caters to quilters. This is the shop located in the village.

I was amazed at the amount of inventory in this shop. Every where there were bolts of fabric, "fat quarters" and supplies. Carol had this look that reminded me of a kid in a candy store. It was at that point that I decided to wander around the village. I knew this store was going to need an ample amount of time. This is just a small sample of the inventory. They had one section just devoted to fabric with a sports theme, another on transportation, etc.

Needless to say, we had a great time in Chester, me, I walked around the village. Carol and Sandra, they enjoyed the shop. We went back to Keene, and had a nice lunch. We visited on Sandra's front porch and caught up on family news. It was a great day. The "stash" that Carol purchased is for a project that is in the "imagination" stage.

Since then, Carol and I spent a morning in another fabric store. She decided her first quilt would be for a young grandson. It takes time to pick out several complementary fabrics for a quilt. We picked out several bolts only to return then to the bin. They had to be perfect. I enjoyed the process and was vey patient. The lady who cut the fabric commented that I was good man.

This is Carol hand sewing her first project. She borrowed the hoop from my eldest daughter. Carol is still searching for the "proper" thimble. I think she has made great progress. There are two more quilts planned. Then there is the knitting, and oh yeah, a lady called from Panama City Beach this morning to see when we would return. She has this little sewing project for Carol. It a good thing we are retired. We sure don't have time for a steady job.

Yard Sale

2010-08-26T10:18:00.002-05:00

I recently participated in a multi-family yard sale at my niece's house in North Scituate. I had my home on the market but it did not sell. I think the realtor started too high. I let him pick the price as he is an "expert". I'll try again in the spring. I asked my children what they would like from the house and almost everything has either been spoken for, or already moved to their homes. I still have lots of stuff. I have lived in this house over 40 years. I collected crackle glass, transportation toys (over 500), lead crystal and some artwork. My wife collected pottery and Santa Claus figures, some hand painted and signed and some that were inexpensive. My niece and Carol helped me wrap and box those items that would be sold. It is not an easy thing to do. I guess it took a couple of hours. The day of the yard sale took another six hours. For this I ended up with $42.00, good conversation and Ray made me lunch. I also saw a gal that I went to grade school with over 55 years ago. I took some stuff home with me. The rest was wrapped and boxed and went to Salvation Army. In retrospect, I felt that the whole process left me depressed. If it wasn't a dollar or less, it was not looked at. I had a hand painted vase made in Dublin by the Tara company. It was probably a fifth of its worth. Did not sell. I have promised myself that I will not do a yard sale again. I will either donate or send it to the landfill.

Carol's Craft Bags

2010-08-17T14:30:00.003-05:00

Carol supported her family as a self employed seamstress. Her main source of income came from local interior designers. Carol would tackle almost any project. Carol "retired" when we decided to become a couple. Now her former occupation has become mostly recreational. During the past winter she made the most beautiful drapes for the guest bedroom. A soft green with palm trees. Just perfect for Florida. This past year Carol taught herself to knit with some guidance from my daughter Jill. Carol bought a pattern for a craft bag. She made one for herself and one for Jill. Below is Carol's craft bag used for her knitting. There are pockets inside and out.

When Carol gave the bag to Jill, her eldest, Lilia, exclaimed how much she liked the bag. So Carol decided to make a smaller bag for Lilia. Carol also said that Sylvie (3 years old) would also have a bag. Sylvie has become quite attached to Carol and Carol to her. Carol decided to design a version of the craft bag for the girls. Both bags have pockets on the outside and inside. Naturally the bigger bag below is Lilia's and the other is for Sylvie.

Carol has now moved on to her next project. She has decided that quilting will be the next new challenge. Last week we went to two quilting fabric stores for the supplies. Her initial comment was "I thought it would be easier to pick out fabric". Some day I will post the end result.

Travels with Tiny and Gizmo

2010-08-08T09:52:00.003-05:00

Tiny

Gizmo

Carol had Tiny when I met her and last October I rescued Gizmo. I did try to get him to answer to a different name. He had none of that. Traveling around the country with the "boys" has been an experience. We have their beds, crates, food dishes and a water dish. Plus a bag with shampoos and assorted doggy needs. We need a cooler for Tiny's liquid thyroid medicine. He and I have a sluggish thyroid and we take the exact same medicine only mine is in pill form.

Not every motel is "pet friendly". La Quinta, Motel 6 and the Drury hotels all accept pets with no extra charge. Other hotels will accept pets with up charges ranging from a fee/pet to set charges. Most are $5 to $10 per pet and I have seen a place that had a one time fee of $75. We did not consider that hotel. AAA sells a book listing "pet friendly" hotels. As a member, I was a little upset that it was over $12. The Internet is also a source. Carol and I have met a lot of great people (almost all seniors) traveling with their pets.

During a recent July trip we either left the truck locked and running while we went to restrooms or sandwich shops for take out or we went one at a time. The truck has a button code on the door for unlocking. We met a very nice lady at a motel with a schnauzer. She said I leave it running and unlocked. Pity whoever tries to take the vehicle.

Tomorrow we are going on a day trip to Keene, NH to visit a favorite cousin. She has graciously also included our pets. In preparation, Carol bathed the dogs this morning. I have washed all the bedding and blankets and they are hung on the clothesline. We want them fresh and clean. Gizmo will not be allowed to run wild in my fenced yard today. We want him clean. Yorkies are little ratters and he seems happiest diving under bushes and plants and rooting in the earth. Later the crates will be put in the vehicle. At one time they slept in the crates at night. I bought them beds and now they mostly sleep in the beds. The beds will be put on the back seat tomorrow. Tiny sleeps mostly while we are riding. Gizmo likes to look out the window.

I can't imagine our life without them. They each have a distinct personality and they give us pleasure and they do amuse us.

Ford F150 and Big Brother

2010-07-31T15:22:00.002-05:00

If you follow my blog, you know that bought a 2010 Ford F 150 truck in mid May. I have now driven it up and down the coast three times in a short period. In mid July we were once again heading North. I was eastbound on I-10 and could see for quite a distance. I had the radar detector on and was running with a loose pack at 90 mph. I have always driven every vehicle over 100 mph at least once except for a 1996 Sonoma that had a speed limiter set at 95 mph. So I decided to go for my one time over a 100 mph in my new F 150 with the V8 engine. You can imagine how upset I was when the engine semi quit at some where between 95 and 97 MPH. My GPS always read 2 mph below the speedometer. I did not swear but tried a second time. Same thing. You don't lose power steering, but I am sure the break lights do not come on and the speed drops suddenly. In my mind this is not acceptable.

I called the service manager at Cook - Whitehead Ford where I purchased the truck. He called Ford Engineering and after three days, I called again. I'm sure he was counting on me not pushing it. The very next day, I received a call. Ford does not publish the speed limiters on any of their vehicles, but every one has it, and if you hit that limit a code is put in the computer on your vehicle. They did say that the limit was between 92 and 98 mph for the truck. Why bother having a speedometer that goes up to 120 mph?

Not happy, I told him I was thinking of having a sign made for the back window that says:

NOT FORD TOUGH - BUT A FORD WIMP

I doubt I will do it, but hell even the Honda Ody van let me do 110. Apparently I am the first truck buyer to inquire as the service manager had to ask Ford. The bottom line is, I still love the truck and love driving it.

I would be even more upset if I bought a new Mustang with 400 hp and could not drive well over 120 mph.

Grilled Salmon

2010-07-26T17:26:00.003-05:00

This morning as we lay in bed, I asked Carol what would you like for supper. After some thinking, she said "grilled salmon'. OK, I replied we will go to the local fish market and buy salmon. On the way there she said she might like to try halibut. Once at the counter, I asked about halibut. There was none and when the Boston Fish Market has it, it is at least $15.00 a pound. He explained about the over fishing and the fact that it is so good there is a big demand. I asked about Chilean sea bass and was told it sometimes runs over $20.00 a pound when he can get it. We decided we would buy the salmon.

I at one time was a charcoal only guy. For years I did the grilling on charcoal. A few years ago when I needed to cook quickly and I could not find a replacement grill, I bought a gas grill. At the time I was having my lower level redone from scratch. I had all of the craftsmen here and I decided to have a natural gas line installed on my deck. This eliminated the need for bottles. So for the last four years I have been using a gas grill. I bought Bobby Flays book among several others and used the Internet for tips.

I think I have the grilling pretty well down now. Occasionally I will mess something up. Grilled sweet potatoes comes to mind. They were like lumps of charcoal and so hard they were immediately discarded. The next time was much better.

Tonight the grilled salmon was served with grilled summer squash along with a side salad and buttered steamed carrots. Salmon is a delicate fish so I don't mess with it, turning it over just once. Hence only one set of grill marks. Carol said the plate was picture perfect.

Here was our main course.

Birthdays

2010-07-24T10:09:00.004-05:00

This weekend I will celebrate another birthday. This will be the last one beginning with a 6. I have been thinking about birthdays for a few days now. I am not dismayed that I will soon begin my 70th year of life. In fact I am quite pleased. There was a time that I did not believe I would live past 30. I worked the night shift on the flight deck of a Navy Carrier. Hell, there were a few nights on the flight deck that I did not think I would make it to dawn. I did lose a close friend up there one night and I think of Don often and the others that I did not know well who also died on the deck that night.

There are some birthdays that stand out for differing reasons. Sixteen, how I wanted to be 16 and get my drivers license. I remember how badly I wanted my own car. I had to wait almost a year before my Dad told me to get a car. I think he was tired of me beating on his car. This could be why my children all got something to drive at 16. Twenty one was not that big a deal. I was in the Navy and spent at least 6 months of the year in the Med where anyone with the price could drink. In the states I had a false ID.

Thirty was traumatic for me. In fact I went into a funk. The hippies were demonstrating against the Viet Nam war and the establishment. I remember that they were saying that no one over 30 could be trusted. As a veteran, I believed in my country, but I was beginning to doubt the need for that war. I was depressed and not very happy to be 30! I could no longer be trusted. To me this was very definitely middle age and back then I thought half my life was over.

Forty was a different story. The company that I was working for was slated to be sold by the conglomerate that owned us. I had opted not to accept the job offer by the new owners and took the package and joined the unemployed. I was confident that I would be hired as soon as I looked for a job. The family was looking forward to a summer off with dad. The first item was for me to ride my motorcycle to Georgia to visit my Navy buddy. I was riding back to Rhode Island and celebrated my 40th on the road. We all spent the month of August touring everything that was worth seeing in Washington D C. That was a good summer.

The years sped by living life and when I celebrated my 62 nd, the company was downsizing and the packages were very favorable. So 6 days after, I retired. Its been a bitter sweet seven years since I retired. Life is good.
Looking forward, I believe that next year will be a nice milestone (Lord willing). Seventy has a nice ring to it, don't you agree?

July trip North

2010-07-22T17:45:00.006-05:00

Carol and I talked about our route back to Rhode Island. We have done the I 10 - I 95 trip so often that we wanted a different view so to speak. I had been to Gettysburg a few weeks ago with my son and I had told Carol about the new visitor center. I started looking for a good route there from Panama City Beach. We were committed to an evening in the Savannah area as we were going to have dinner with my Navy buddy and his wife. That became our jumping off point. I mapped out the trip and decided to include the Shenandoah National Park. As it turned out, our friends were sick and we ate at an Applebee's and sat at the bar. The bar tender / waitress was funny and we had great conversation and good food.

The morning of the second day we headed up I 95 until we picked up I 26 inland. We drove through South Carolina, North Carolina and into Virginia. That night we stayed in Waynesboro, Virginia. The desk clerk recommended the River Grill a locally owned eatery. The meals were good, but the desert was to die for. They had their own version of bananas foster. We split one and not quite finished it. Waynesboro is the jumping off point for North bound Shenandoah National Park. 105 miles of twisty roads traversing the Blue Ridge Mountains. The ranger at the entrance told us to allow 3 1/2 hours. It took us 4 hours. We stopped often for "photo ops".

Below are a small sampling of the pictures I took in the park. We also saw several deer along the road side. Carol managed a couple of pictures of them while I was driving. They all had such beautiful coats. The mountain scenery was awesome!

Gizmo liked the view also. Mostly he stayed in the truck. Every time I took him on the leash he wanted to run after whatever he saw or smelled.

After we left the park, we drove into Gettysburg and checked into the motel. We unloaded, walked the dogs, fed them and we went to the Battlefield Museum Visitor Center. Carol took a moment (my request) to sit by Abe for a photo. We had to wait our turn as there was a line ahead of us.

If you purchase the ticket after 4 PM it is valid for the following day. We did this and went immediately into the theater for a short movie which gave a short overview of the battle and history leading up to the succession of the states that formed the Confederate States of America. After the movie we were directed up an escalator to the area where the cyclorama is located. 373 feet in circumference and 43 feet high. It is hung in a manner that provides a 3 dimensional illusion. The room darkens, the sun rises, cannons erupt. The use of sound and lighting on the painting gives one the feeling that you are there. The show lasts several minutes and depicts "Picket's Charge" during the third day of the battle.

The next morning we were at the center at 8 AM and we did the portion of the museum that takes you from the day before the battle begins through the actual three days of the battle. There are short videos, written panels, maps, pictures. The tour book said to allow an hour. We took two hours. Carol and I were totally immersed in the museum. We saw every video, read all the panels and looked at all the static displays. After we left, I drove out to just a small portion of the battlefield for Carol to see a few of the monuments. There are over 400 monuments to states, divisions, generals and soldiers from both sides.

Below is the monument to the soldiers from Pennsylvania who fought at Gettysburg. Each one has his name listed on one of the many plaques mounted on the side of the base.

We quickly rushed back to the motel as we had to check out. We then headed to our Rhode Island home. First let me say how much I dislike I 95 in Connecticut, especially the New Haven area heading north bound. Lately I have avoided the Connecticut thing. Instead of that route I turn north towards Albany and pick up the Mass Pike. Yeah, I know, it adds 120 miles to the trip. It is a pretty ride and usually uneventful. But not yesterday. As we heading upstate through the Catskills, we were treated to a stunning lightning display. As the sky darkened and the rumbling got louder, I thought of Washington Irving and his tales of the area, especially Rip Van Winkle. Then it hit, a blast of wind which I think had to be wind shear hit the drivers side of the truck. I thought for a split second that the truck was going to roll. Both Carol and I still think that the drivers side wheels were lifted off the pavement for the briefest part of a second when a blast of wind hit the passenger side of the truck. The downpour was blinding, the truck was being hit by hail and tree branches. Fortunately a state trooper had passed me a couple of minutes before. He put his blue lights on. Through the heavy downpour I could see those flashing lights and that was my beacon to follow. At the time when hail and junk was hitting the truck, I said to Carol that the tonneau cover was fiberglass and would not dent, I also said I did not care about the roof as I was not tall enough to see the roof, but I damn sure don't want the hood dented. We drove like this with flashers on for several miles until we drove out of the worse of the storm. I guess this storm spun off a tornado that landed in Maine and about 50,000 folks in Connecticut lost power when trees were toppled by wind and lightning strikes. We and the truck are no worse for wear. It was dicey for a while. We are here for now.

I have begun planning our next adventure. Hmmm, is the best way to Florida, via Michigan???

Panama City Beach - Additions

2010-07-13T10:56:00.003-05:00

Carol and I left Panama City Beach the third week in May for our Rhode Island home. The following two projects were still in the process of construction. The below "Wonder Works" upside down building houses another attraction aimed at the tourists dollar. It is across the street from "Ripley's Museum" housed in a replica of the sinking Titanic, a totally obnoxious building.

I found the on going construction of this building fascinating. The crews worked 7 days a week in order to complete the building prior to the summer season. We drove by the site almost every day this past winter. We had seen a picture of what the front would look like. I have to admit that the finish product is quite striking and I find it attractive to the eye. Judging by the parking lot, business is good. I am curious, but I will wait until our return in the fall to visit there.

The second building is our new Panama City Beach library. The library was almost complete when we left. In fact they had started moving the book collection as we were leaving. We have visited the library and updated our library cards. The inside is very nice and well laid out. There is about a dozen PC's with Internet connections. The day we visited the stations were all in use by young adults looking for job openings. Carol has decided to learn quilting and she borrowed two books on the subject. I donated a hard cove mystery novel that I purchased new and read. It was an OK story but not one that I would want to reread. We have since returned a second time to borrow two movies. It was not worth activating our cable TV or Internet for two weeks.

Following is our new library.

Panama City Beach

2010-07-08T18:17:00.003-05:00

Carol and I had heard differing accounts as to the status of the beach where we spend most of our time. The twins that we take care of on Fridays during the summer were going to be otherwise occupied on July 9Th and 16Th. We decided to take a trip down to see for ourselves. It would also give us an opportunity to check on our home there and to carry some furniture and my collection of crackle glass. It also might be the last time to swim in the water for some time.

We originally had planned to leave on Tuesday the 6Th, but my son pointed out that the traffic would be much lighter on the Monday. So we left early Monday morning. I always prefer to cross the Hudson on the George Washington Bridge. Traffic was light and we approached the bridge at a steady 50 miles per hour. The previous week my son and I traveled this same area at a stop and go pace, happy when we could go 20 mph. The outside temperature was hot. At one point my external temperature display registered 102. Carol and I travel with her chihuahua, Tiny and my Yorkie, Gizmo so we needed to be aware of their needs. At roadside rests we tried for a shady parking spot and while one went to the restroom the other stayed in the truck with the A/C blasting. The first night we stayed in Exmore, VA a favorite spot just 30 miles north of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. A new restaurant (much needed in this area) opened recently and we were able to walk across the parking lot to it. It was very good. Carol enjoyed the stuffed peppers and I had the prime rib special.

We were up early and on the road by 7:30 AM. Crossing the bridge is always a highlight and a
U S Navy Destroyer was heading out to sea. We watched it sail over the tunnel that we had just driven through. In a way I envied the sailors as I always liked the crossing of the Atlantic when my aircraft carrier left for the Mediterranean. Compared to the ship I was on, this ship looked so small. I have always been glad I was on a carrier. We spent the second night near Savannah, GA at the intersection of I 95 and state road 204. After dinner, Carol and I went out to Pembroke and visited with BJ a navy buddy and dear friend and his wife. BJ is just about two weeks with his new knee. He is moving with a cane and will start rehab soon. It is always good to see him and Marsha. The conversation flows freely between two old and good friends who shared a few years in the Navy. We made plans to have dinner with them when Carol and I head North . We also talked about a planned gathering of the old line crew in Alabama at the Gulf Shores. in Late September.

We were once again on the road before 7:30 AM. Its not that we are early risers and well organized, its that television is so bad that we were in bed by 10:15 PM each night. Our third day on the road would be broken into two parts. We were stopping in Tallahassee at Carol's daughters home for lunch. Hugh, Carol's son in law came home from work to join us for lunch. It was a good visit and for desert, Joylene made a cake for me as my birthday is later in the month. They all sang "Happy Birthday" to me. I was touched. The children all call me grandpa. Conner who is not yet one year old, let me hold him. Mostly as I am the only person he sees with a beard and he likes to pull it. Hugh went back to work, I went to the recliner and napped while Carol and Joylene enjoyed mom and daughter time together. A short drive later and we were back in Panama City Beach. Its good to be here for a few days. I want to swim in the Gulf.

Yesterday we went to the beach. When I started coming here as a winter "snow bird" I rented at the Dunes of Panama. The good folks in the rental office became friends over the years. I am always welcome to visit and park my vehicle in the gated parking lot and walk down to the water or use the pools on the grounds. I like to do so as there is plenty of parking, and I always stop in the office to see them. Right now the building is full. August does not look so good, but folks call to check on the water oil situation and have been coming at the last moment. So they continue to hope for the best. As we were leaving to go swim, Annette cautioned me that the sting rays were many as they have migrated here ahead of the oil and to be careful. I never did see any and I swam out fairly far as I was hoping the deeper water would be cooler. The gulf water is warm.

We will head North on Sunday the 18Th. I have decided to cut inland and pick up the Skyline Drive in Waynesboro, VA and continue North to Gettysburg and then home to Rhode Island.

Gettysburg National Military Park

2010-06-24T12:53:00.003-05:00

When I returned from Florida in late May, my son asked me if I would like to go and revisit the Gettysburg battlefield. He wanted to leave on a Monday in June. My first Monday was June 21st that I had no appointments. I am fairly sure that the last visit was in 1982 when the whole family went. Todd arranged for a tour guide for four hours on Tuesday.

We arrived at the visitor center just past 4 PM on Monday. When he bought our tickets we were told that because it was after 4 pm, the ticket would be good for the following day. The visitor center is new and in a different location than in 1982. That one having been razed.

We immediately went into the theater and watched a movie regarding the battle. As soon as the movie finished we were directed up long escalators where the Cyclorama is displayed. Painted in the 1880's it is 373 feet in circumference and depicts the third day of the battle. The following picture is just a small part of the painting. The painting was first displayed in Boston about 1913.

In another room, there is a miniature of the painting with a numbered directory showing where each of the armies were located and which officer was in charge there.

On Tuesday morning we arrived and toured the static museum. As you move from exhibit to exhibit there are videos explaining the ebb and flow of the battle starting with day 1 and ending with day 3. Our guide was scheduled for 11 AM so we had something to eat in a well equipped cafeteria. The corn bread was excellent and freshly baked.

Promptly at 11 AM Tony met us. He usually does the tours for folks in the military who are studying tactics. He was a great guide especially since Todd has read extensively about this battle and the Civil war. Tony came with an armful of maps and a wealth of knowledge. He drove Todd's van and methodically took us through each day starting with day one. He would stop and point out where the different armies were what their orders were, what they did and did not do. He showed us what tree lines existed and which building were there. He talked about the weather, the resources needed. Tony talked about the amount of water needed each day for horses and men. The water was almost exhausted the first day and guards were posted at wells.

The number of dead and wounded from each battle was horrendous. Every house became a make shift hospital. He methodically took us through each day. At some locations we sat in the car while he pointed out the movement and or the location of the armies and who was in command. His maps were color coded and he used them to show us what and where was happening. Who had the high ground, who wanted it etc. At some locations we dismounted from the car and walked about the field. Viewing the terrain almost made the events discussed to come to life. Todd and he were able to discuss behind the scenes events and decisions made because of Todd's knowledge of the battle. It was amazing how fast the four hours flew by. The vast majority of the four hours was devoted to day 1 and 2 of the battle. If certain actions or in actions had not occurred the battle might have had a different outcome. I learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed the four hours. The guide was outstanding.

Along the roads traveled and the fields that we visited during the tour are monuments to the various armies, and men who fought, died, commanded and survived. Following are just a very few.

First is General Robert E. Lee on his horse Traveler. The men at the base depict those who joined to fight, a professional, farmer, young boy, etc.

A tribute to an artillery division.

LT. General James Longstreet CSA. He was quite imposing aboard his steed.

15th New York Battery

General George S. Greene, originally from Rhode Island. He was a Civil Engineer and he had a series of moats and mounds constructed that were instrumental in the battle defending his position.

I took more pictures than displayed here. It was a wonderful time spent with my son doing something that we both enjoyed. This is a very busy place. Tony told us that over 1.5 million folks pass through the visitor center every year.

My Truck

2010-06-04T07:57:00.004-05:00

In 1996 I bought a GMC Sonoma pickup truck. I drove that truck for 8 years. I have wanted another truck ever since. Life style demands dictated that I drive other types of vehicles. I was in Florida for the winter months on the Panhandle when I started with "truck envy". I started seriously looking in November of 2007. Having always been a GM guy I went to the local dealer that sold GM vehicles. I was quite specific about the truck I wanted. Even with a dealer search a truck could not be located. The dealer in Panama City did not want to order. For some reason, I had to take a truck already built. I came back to Rhode Island for Christmas 07 and went to a dealer in Putnam, CT that I had called from Florida. Again I was quite specific about the truck I wanted, it had to be a 2 wheel drive and an extended cab. I was willing to order and pick it up in April. The owner started double teaming me with his brother. A 4 wheel drive truck has better resale, this is snow country you can't have a 2 wheel drive and make it in the winter. I was adamant. Finally he said I will give you this much for your van if you take a truck today and he gave me a very low figure if I ordered and took delivery in 12 weeks later. I left, thinking no wonder GM is in trouble, their dealers stink. Over the next couple of years I would stop at the GM dealer and look at trucks, never finding one I liked or was equipped to satisfy my needs.

Early last may, Carol and I went to get a copy of her daughters birth certificate. She needed this to apply to nursing school. I saw the Ford dealer as we went by and asked Carol if she minded if I stopped on the way home. I was greeted by a salesman as we stepped out of Carol's convertible. After the normal name exchange I said I want extended cab, 2 wheel drive, no black no white. Give me a minute and I'll bring one out here for you. He brought this candy apple red truck out. He asked me if I wanted to drive it. Nope, you drive, I did not want to fall in love with the truck.

We left and I said I would think about it. I told Carol that I wanted to see what the GM dealer had as I was loyal to the brand. I told their salesman the same criteria and they showed me a leftover 2009 truck loaded with extras. It was black. I did drive it, but it was black. They did not even offer to do a dealer search.

Later I went back and drove the Ford. I also walked along the line of new F150's and noted the variety of colors available. We negotiated price and I walked away to sleep on it. I initially called the next morning and said nope. Then Carol talked to me, and I called my son who said buy the truck. I even called my friend who owned a Pontiac dealership for his opinion. He did have a Ford dealership once. I called the Ford salesman and said I was coming to talk. Below is the truck. The matching locking hard tonneau cover had not been installed when the picture was taken.

Carol and I drove the truck to Rhode Island two weeks after I bought it. I love the truck. The ride and comfort meets all my expectations. Besides the cover, I had the bed liner sprayed in and also added a bug shield. As cash permits, dual exhaust will be added. I hope to drive this truck for many years. As luck would have it, this truck has the 6 speed automatic transmission along with the higher output 4.6 engine. A nice combination for power and decent gas mileage.

Every time I start the truck, the digital display flashes "Built Ford tough" and I smile every time as I hear the throaty roar of the exhaust. That is how my neighbor described the sound. He is a truck guy too.

Master of Divinity

2010-05-30T09:24:00.003-05:00

The Andover Newton Theological School held its commencement on May 22, 2010. Carol and I were honored to be among the guests for the ceremony. It was a little over three years ago that my son-in-law decided that he wanted to pursue a career in the service of the Lord. This was quite a heavy decision. Michael and his family needed to make a commitment. A Master of Divinity requires a heavy work load over a three year program. I can attest to his dedication, research, the pondering over the computer as his papers were written. I know that Michael struggled early in the program as he began his research for the many papers that needed to be written. Not every graduate completed the program in three years. Michael did earning high honors and was inducted into the Jonathan Edwards Society. Not every one who attained honors became a member.

A number of individual awards were presented to the graduates for their outstanding work in the areas of study or leadership. The Massachusetts Bible Award for Excellence in the Public Reading of Scripture is given to the scholar whose passion and tonal quality during the reading maintains the attention of the audience by his presentation of the scripture. The winner is Michael Hall. I heard a gasp from the front of the church which I recognized as my daughter. Carol and I rose from our seats in the back and loudly cheered and clapped. Below is Michael accepting his award.

A reception was held after the ceremony "up the hill" from the church. It was a half mile walk up a steep hill. It was a fairly warm day and I worked up a sweat during the walk. As you can see, so did Michael.

Carol and I had a wonderful time participating in Michael's day. I am so proud of Michael. I know he will find satisfaction in his new calling. I have watched him for many years and I know how good he is with people and helping them.

I must comment on the ceremony. It was held in the First baptist Church of Newton. We were early for the two PM graduation. I was driving my new truck, I wanted a safe parking spot, I am not familiar with Newton, and I wanted sufficient time to walk down the hill. We were seated about 20 minutes before and we were treated to the music of the Lakeside Brass Quintet. They were fabulous. The music made me feel like I was on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. In fact when the Professors led in the graduates that is exactly the music that they played. It was fun procession with them dancing and clapping as they made their way to their seats. Truly a grand celebration to honor those who worked so hard to be there that day.

Paradise - Threatened

2010-05-14T10:01:00.003-05:00

By now most of the world is aware of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Hundred of thousands gallons of oil have spewed forth and continue to do so unabated. There is no doubt that BP is trying. Its just that they are not any closer to stopping the flow than they were the first week. As a resident of the Florida Panhandle less than a third of a mile from the water I am concerned. The area is noted for the miles of white sandy beaches with clear water of the gulf. Our local economy is driven by tourist. Snow birds, spring breakers, the bikers for Thunder Beach and the Ironman competition along with family vacationers. The local beach rentals are receiving cancellations for the Memorial weekend. The summer season is also bleak. All this is occurring even though the oil has yet to threaten the local beaches of Florida.

I have been swimming everyday lately and the water is clean. It is sad to see the beaches so deserted. I only hope that these beaches will escape harm and if not, that the cleanup will be successful. I feel for the local business people, the fishermen and charter captains. No matter where the oil lands, the environment, the wildlife and the Gulf will suffer for many years.

I was dismayed that the BP CEO was interviewed in England and said that in comparison to the size of the ocean, its a small leak. Well its not his ocean, its our ocean and its not a small leak. He also stated that he is concerned how Americans are viewing this spill. You see the largest sales area for BP is in the United States. There are two BP stations close by my Florida home. One is priced at the local level - $2.96 gallon while the other is $2.79 gallon. Such a large disparity. I have seen a chain email urging the readers to boycott BP gas. Probably started by another oil company in my opinion.

The @%$& Census

2010-05-06T12:12:00.002-05:00

Our address here in Panama City Beach was one that popped up on the list for a personal visit by a census taker. David, a very amiable young man, came to the house. We answered the questions asked, and David went about his business. I understood that he needed the wages and was doing what he needed to do to bring in some earnings. Little did we know what we were in for from the damn census department.

A few days later, I received a call asking if someone had actually visited our home. I guess the government does not trust their census workers, but we have to trust that they will honor our confidentiality. I gave the person from the Tallahassee Census office the young mans name and confirmed that he was actually here. A couple of days later, same idiot from Tallahassee called to ask if the house two doors down was unoccupied. I confirmed that was the case. I am beginning to regret being a good citizen.

Several days later, Carol and I were driving through Texas on vacation when the cell rang. I answered and lo and behold, another census manager from Tallahassee called and wanted to do a 7 minute survey. I explained I was driving in heavy traffic. He started whining, and I told him to call back at 8 PM that night or call on the date that I expected to return home. He started to demand that we do it right then. I hung up on him.

Today, Carol and I returned from doing errands and there was a car in my driveway. She explained that she was on a followup from the census. I started to be vintage Ed when Carol reminded me that she was just doing her job. In fact she had been out of work for 18 months. we did answer the questions but I asked her to note that I felt like I was a victim of discrimination and perhaps racial profiling. I am Portuguese and my last name might be construed as Latino. In fact AARP send me their magazine in Spanish, but that was another story. I also told her that I will not talk to anyone else. She related that she was hearing the same complaint from several of the people that she has on her list.

I have read that the returns from Florida were below average. I wonder if the government hacks in Tallahassee are just making work to justify their budgets while they aggravate the folks that did comply and participate in the census. I am sorry that I did.

Thunder Beach

2010-05-01T14:47:00.002-05:00

This week is the spring visit for "bikers" called Thunder Beach. Starting last Monday, bikers of all types started rolling into Panama City Beach. Each day the numbers grew along with the crescendo of the exhaust pipes. Thursday I was in my favorite lunch place and the waitress told me that starting on Friday they would be crushed with diners. That afternoon I parked off Front Beach road and watched as hundreds of bikes rolled by. I was told that a minimum of 50,000 bikes would be here. Yesterday the numbers visibly increased along with the constant volume of vibrating exhaust.

I happen to like the biker scene and enjoy watching and listening to the sounds. Every conceivable make of bike along with eye catching customs can be seen just by sitting along the road. I estimate that close to 10% are women riders. I heard that the original estimate of 50,000 might be way low. The roar of the exhaust is constant with no letup. The roads around the beach are jammed. Roadside vendors are hawking their wares. It is a colorful scene filled with colorful characters.

So far no one has been seriously hurt and I am pleased by that. While they are a wild crowd there is not the drinking that was part of spring break. I will look forward to their return next year.

Next major event will be the Iron man Triathlon. They are definitely a much quieter group, but one that I don't look forward too. When they are practising they will ride 6 and 7 across tying up a lane. They cause me more inconvenience than the bikers. However, they come and spend and help the economy. One can only hope that our white sand beaches be spared fro the ever increasing oil spill.

Southwest Epilog

2010-04-23T10:12:00.002-05:00

We enjoyed our time with Hugh and Sam. Their son and granddaughter are also there. We all meld well and everyone seems to love the dogs. Tiny readily jumps onto their laps for his measure of loving. Richard takes Gizmo for a daily run.

Hugh retired from the Navy and he takes us all to the post exchange at Keesler Air Base. Huge, bigger than a super Wal-Mart. It recently reopened as the prior exchange was wiped out by Katrina. The gals go one way and we head to electronics. Hugh wants a digital camera. They are out of stock but I buy a GPS. I won't get lost the next time I visit Hugh.

We all decide that we should stay an extra day. We drive through Hattiesburg and visit. The following day we head back to Panama City Beach.

15 days 4878 trouble free miles. We saw more than planned and skipped the Alamo and the Texas lighthouses. I ran out of energy and was quite willing to pass them by and go to Hugh's home and relax and rest. Pictures do not seem to do justice to the Grand Canyon or Sedona. Carol and I have wonderful memories and between us we took over 600 pictures. They will remind us of the awesome beauty that we were privileged to view.

There is so much to see in America. The Columbia River Gorge and the Red Wood trees are high on my list. Now. . . when can we work that in??

Southwest Day 12 - Purvis, MS

2010-04-22T12:30:00.002-05:00

We awaken early, shower, load the car and we are on I 10 at 5:45 am. Traffic is already heavy and we are ahead of the rush hour. The speed limit is no longer even a suggestion. Traffic is moving about 20 mph over the posted limit. I am glad as we leave Houston city limits and slow down to the speed limit. The sun is coming up and we have a great jump on our day. Our goal is to reach Hugh and Samra's home. Hugh and I were in the Navy ages ago. Sam and Carol have become fast friends. We are planning on staying two nights. Their mailing address is Lumberton, MS but live close to Purvis. No post office there.

I call ahead to let them know we are running way ahead of schedule. I try to follow my directions from Microsoft Streets and trips. I must have taken a wrong turn. I call Hugh and he gets me back on track. It is so good to be at their home. It is a pleasant peaceful setting. His back yard has a small pond on his property. I am so glad that I will not be driving tomorrow.

Carol and I kid about her daughter, Darlene, living in the middle of no where Elsie, MI. Well, at least we have cell service in Elsie. I have A T & T and Carol has Verizon. Neither cell phone has service. In a way, I am glad.

Southwest DAy 11

2010-04-22T12:18:00.002-05:00

We are on the road in good form. I plan on stopping in the outskirts of Houston. I had originally planned on staying in Galveston to view a lighthouse. I decided to skip it. The miles are starting to add up and I am tired. The driving in the mountains in Arizona with the twists and rapid turns required tremendous concentration. There were a lot of miles where there was no room for error. I am undecided about the Alamo. It was on the list.

The traffic in San Antonio was heavy and I missed the Alamo exit. I was not upset. I surely did not want to get lost in San Antonio. We find our exit in Houston and check into our hotel. I make use of their laundry and wash all the dogs bedding and blankets. Carol is giving them a bath as we are going to our good friends in Purvis, Mississippi. The dogs definitely do not like the bathtub but it is our only choice. No nifty spray hose like at home. Carol and I eat at Denny's which we walked too. It was good and I go back at 9PM for take out dessert.

When I checked in the desk clerk told me either get out before 6 am or after 9 am. Houston rush hour is very intense.

Southwest trip Day 10

2010-04-22T12:08:00.003-05:00

We meet Carol' s son Bill and Gus for breakfast. We all return to Bill's and visit until its time to go and see Lisa's home. It is a very pleasant home and remarkable cool considering the outside temperature. Carol has personal time with her son, granddaughter and great grandson. Time does fly and soon Lisa leaves for work, Bill tends to his grandson. We say our final goodbyes with a promise to return to El Paso in the near future.

Carol and I hop onto I 10 and continue our journey eastward. We have a short day driving planned due to our early afternoon start. Our goal is to return to the same hotel in Fort Stockton that we stayed at on Easter Sunday. I will retrieve my pillow that I forgot when i checked out. I also left a laundry bag (pillow case) in Phoenix. The hotel there will be sending it to the Florida address.

We arrive after a four hour drive. The desk clerk returns my pillow. Carol and I return to K-Bob's for dinner.

Southwest Day 9 - Eastbound

2010-04-20T12:49:00.004-05:00

We spent a leisurely day yesterday in Mesa at Mike's home. This morning we are off fairly early. We will lose an hour when we leave Arizona. We have a committment to be in El Paso early afternoon. We are going to see Carol's oldest son, his two daughters and their respective sons. It was an uneventful drive and we are there in time. Once in El Paso we check in to the hotel and make contact. Bill and Gus his long time friend will come to the hotel and we will follow to their home where we will meet the rest of the family. There is a pleasant patio partially shaded and visiting begins. It is a peaceful setting and the family begins the catching up on family news. I am greeted warmly. I now have met all of Carol's children, almost all of the grandchildren and great grandchildren. Music is playing, family talking, drinks are available and the sun is warm and comforting. All the ingrediences for a most pleasant time. A cookout is planned and a family dinner.

It is dark as we say our goodbyes. We will meet Bill and Gus for breakfast and return to Bill's house then. We will also be visiting Lisa's home in the morning.

Carol discovers that the room refridgeator is leaking water. I call the desk and I am dismayed that a very young clerk is the only employee in the building with 120 rooms. I deal with the water and will talk to management in the morning.

Southwest - Cacti

2010-04-20T07:48:00.009-05:00

These are pictures of the different cacti that we saw during our time in New Mexico and Arizona. I don't know the proper name of each one. I just found a southwestern beauty in each one.

The first two were taken in Mike's yard.

The following two were taken in Mike's neighborhood as Carol and I walked around looking at the different yards.

The following four pictures were taken on the roadside as we traveled from Hoover Dam to Mike's home in Mesa, Arizona.

This picture was taken in Kingman, Arizona.

This was on the roadside as we traveled up to Jerome, Arizona.

These three were taken at the New Mexico welcome center.

Southwest Day 7- Hoover Dam

2010-04-19T17:07:00.008-05:00

We walk across the motel parking lot and have a nice sit down breakfast at Calico's. The pancakes are good and very filling. We then head straight to the Hoover Dam. This is the last major attraction on our list in Arizona. Major construction projects are underway. This route is a major connector from Las Vegas to Phoenix. The traffic can be heavy at times. A major bypass is under construction. In the picture below you can see the new bridge currently underway.

We follow the walkway to the ticket office. Everyone we have met tells us the same thing. "Take the dam tour". Well we have decided that we will take the full tour. Apparently there are two levels and we have opted for the full one.

After a brief movie we begin the tour. Immediately we take elevators down over 500 feet deep into the internal workings of the dam. The tour guide begins by telling us the facts and figures that were associated with the building of this project. The dam was completed ahead of schedule and all loans were repaid as agreed. Contrary to rumours, no one is entombed in the cement. However 96 men were killed on site during the construction. The amount of information was overwhelming.

Carol and Mike are paying close attention to the guide while I take their picture. The folks who will separate from the group for the full tour have yellow hats.

Above are the generators providing electricity for several states.

Carol overlooking the generators.

Above one of the many tunnels within the dam. The interior is amazingly spotless. I must admit I was impressed with the design and the forethought that was included in the original design decades ago.

Following are pictures taken after the tour as we walked to the parking garage. below the Columbia river continues on its course.

The view with the new bridge spanning the gorge.

Lake Mead is about 2/3 of its capacity.

Some of the traffic heading South. Nevada is to the right where our car was parked.

We retrieve the car and head back to Mesa and Mike's home.

Southwest Day 6 - Grand Canyon

2010-04-18T12:59:00.007-05:00

I took the dogs out for the morning walk. It was cold. The windshield was iced over. Mike tells me to remember that we are in "high country". Mike has determined that we will go up route 89 north and then take route 64 into the east entrance to Grand canyon National Park. It seems like we are always climbing higher. The scenery is breathtaking and we have a ways to go to reach the entrance. We see an overlook and decide to stop. This is part of an Indian reservation. There are a number of women from the tribe setting up booths with jewelry, vases, blankets and assorted products. Mike goes and asks permission to enter so we can get a better view of the canyon.

Below are three pictures from this overlook. Absolutely gorgeous and we are still a distance from the Grand Canyon Park entrance. You can see the Columbia River in the third picture. We thank the ladies as we leave. Mike tells us that they often charge a fee to enter. We are early in the day and it is not yet prime tourist season.

We arrive at the park and my Golden Eagle Passport allows us free entrance to the park. We stop at every overlook listed on the guide and several not listed. This is not a place to rush. My pictures and the purchased post cards, while nice, do not do justice to the landscape that nature has painted for us. Mike takes our picture as he will do often.

At one of the many overlooks I offer to take a picture for a couple. I can tell they are from France. When they thank me, I answer them in France and haltingly explain that I have limited knowledge from school. They were pleased and I believe a little stunned. Miss Wood would be pleased that I remembered any thing from French class. During our time there, I speak to a couple from England and another couple from Marseilles. They were surprised that Mike and I had been there and Mike remembered the red tiled roofs. There were a number of Europeans there spending the "euros".

We finally reach the west and most popular entrance. We were going to go to the main visitor center, larger than the one at the east end, but after circling several parking lots we leave. It was not long after that we stopped in the first town for lunch. There was an even larger and reasonable gift shop. We enjoyed lunch and began our drive through beautiful scenery to Kingman, Arizona where we will spend the night.

Kingman is a neat town, Route 66 runs through the center. As we check in there is a small toy train on the desk (not for sale) and the clerk explains that the Union Pacific tracks are nearby behind the motel. Yes they are! We could hear the haunting train whistle often and throughout the night. I found the sound nostalgic and romantic reminding me of a long ago era.

There is a museum nearby and we walk there and spend a good hour looking at the exhibits and reading the history of the town. Here too, mining was important at one time as was ranching. The local boy who made good was Andy Devine. The part of route 66 that runs through Kingman is named Andy Devine Drive. Below is the saddle that was given to him and the one that he used for many years when he participated in the Rose Bowl Parade on New Year's day.

We were fortunate that Calico's Restaurant bordered the motel parking lot. The food was great. When I filled up with gas, I have the car washed.

Southwest Day 5 Jerome and Sedona

2010-04-16T15:15:00.011-05:00

We have a big day planned. We will be accompanied by one of my close friends from my Navy days from the early 60's. Mike is from the Denver area and winters in Mesa, Arizona. He will be with us over the next three days as we tour the area.

First we are going to Jerome located at 5200 feet on top of Cleopatra Hill between Prescott and Flagstaff. Jerome is the historic copper mining town founded in 1876 and was once the fourth largest city in the Arizona territory.

Below are some pictures of the wonderful scenery as we climbed the road leading to Jerome. Yes there was still some vestiges of snow on the shaded side of the mountain. We were blessed with wonderful weather on this trip and the air was a bit crisp, but the sun was warming.

Jerome has had a rebirth and is now a thriving artist community and also a tourist favorite. As you can imagine parking is at a premium. We were lucky and readily found a spot. We walked around and visited a local museum dedicated to the mining history of the town.

The homes here are perched on the mountain side and the view from them must be awesome. Below is the local firehouse.

The local hotel below has been updated. The original hotel was destroyed by fire long ago. This is a picture that was taken from near the fire house.

The following picture taken from a higher level in town is the home that the mine owner built for himself and his family during the boom times in the 1800's.

Once we left Jerome we traveled to the Sedona area. My son, years ago, told me it was far prettier than the Painted Desert. Following are a sampling of the pictures that we took. I have to admit that the pictures do not do justice to the natural beauty of the area.

The above rock structure has been named Cathedral Rock.

The town is below us. It must be a mixed blessing to live with such natural beauty, however the traffic is bumper to bumped most of the year.

We finished sightseeing in the Sedona area and headed for Flagstaff our overnight location. To get there we drove through the Oak Creek Canyon area passing by the Slide Rock a natural waterchute. The driving through out all the mountains with the sharp curves and hairpin turns required intense concentration. By the time we arrived in Flagstaff, I was beat.

When we arrived at our hotel for the night Mike and I went in to arrange for our rooms. Carol opted to stay in the car. I told the clerk that we had rooms with queen beds reserved. I was more than dismayed when she told us that she had updated her computer system that day and it had crashed. She did not know who was in what room and what was available and it would be awhile before it would be fixed. I told her it was not acceptable and I wanted rooms then. She said she would call a sister hotel and arrange our room. She asked me if we really wanted a queen bed or two doubles. I smiled and said we need two rooms both with queen beds as my wife was in the car. OOH she said, I see. When we got back in the car, I asked Mike if he picked up on the fact that the clerk thought we were a couple. We all had a good laugh. We were able to check into the second hotel. It was adequate.

Southwest Adventure day 4

2010-04-15T16:09:00.004-05:00

Another warm sunny day as we leave Las Cruces for Mesa and Mike's home. He and I were in the Navy in the early 60's. We planned on stopping at the Arizona welcome center. We were very disappointed that it was closed. We later were told that Arizona closed all but three rest areas due to cost cutting. We turn north on route 70 so we can drive the Tonto National Forest. The scenery was beautiful but there were few places to stop to take pictures. In most locations the guardrail was on the roads edge and the drop was immediate. The road followed the contour of the mountain. It was the type of driving that required constant attention.

Below are a few pictures that I was able to take. Unfortunately I was not able to take pictures of the most beautiful and rugged scenery.

We ended the day at Mike's home in Mesa.

South West Day 3

2010-04-12T21:00:00.005-05:00

Today we finally will leave Texas. It seems like I 10 is forever. Our goal for today is Las Cruces, New Mexico. The name means "The Crosses". It came about when the crosses for all the dead were viewed. The Apaches massacred the settlers then many years ago. We also plan a side trip to the White Sands National Park.

Below is the New Mexico welcome center. I do believe that it is the prettiest welcome center that I have ever visited. The sky was picture perfect and the weather just great.

This is another view from the visitor center. The air is very dry, but I still felt the heat.

We stopped along the road to take pictures of the scenery. We start to appreciate the beauty of the Southwest.

White Sands National Park is located in New Mexico. The U S Army does its missile testing in the area and sometimes the area is closed. The dunes are a type of sand that gypsum is made from. The loop within the park is 16 miles long. As we drove towards the entrance we were able to see the dunes on our left. Some are 30 to 40 feet high. As we approached the entrance to the park, we had to pass through a border check point. U S Border Guards were checking every car to insure that we were U S citizens. The drug sniffing dog sat by the check point. This was a new experience for us. We were happy that our dogs slept while we were being checked.

My Golden Eagle passport was the only card needed for entry. Anyone over 60 should have one.

We decided to climb a dune and walk along the nature trail. Although it was very sunny, the sand was not unusually hot. However the sun beating down and reflecting off the sand could easily cause sunburn.

This was the start of the climb to the hiking trail. Following are sample pictures from the many that we took.

The visitor center rents plastic sleds and you are allowed to slide down the dunes. If you look closely you can pick out the sled marks. We saw several kids enjoying themselves on the dunes. Carol and I decided that it was a young persons sport.

That night we stayed in a La Quinta Inn in Las Cruces. I was initially dismayed to find several bus loads of high school students staying in the same building as us. They were with FFA. (Future Farmers of America). We never heard them during the night. However they wiped out the continental breakfast.

The desk clerk recommended a Mexican restaurant for us to try. Carol was hankering to have Mexican food. We went to La Posta. It was elegant in a Mexican way. I did try some of the dip, and had a plain steak while she had a wonderful Mexican meal. I did introduce her to sangria.

Another wonderful day on our South Western adventure.

Southwest Adventure DAy Two

2010-04-10T19:07:00.003-05:00

Happy Easter

Easter morning and we are up fairly early. The dogs are walked and I begin packing the car. Carol and I went to the breakfast room. We were pleasantly surprised at the quality and variety. The hotel clerk gave me good advice on passing thru Houston and San Antonio via I 10. As it turned out, I received excellent advice. Beyond San Antonio the landscape became what I expected of Texas. I stopped at a rest area and was surprised and taken aback by the sign below as I headed for the puppy area with Gizmo.

Well, I am in Texas. The sign made me aware that I must think about this type of stuff. We did make our goal of Fort Stockton. The 80 MPH speed limit sure helped. Jessica checked us in and gave us directions to K-Bobs steak house. We had a nice Easter dinner and each had a drink. Carol white zin and I had a Bud light draft. All in all, a nice Easter Sunday on the road.

Southwest Adventure Day One

2010-04-10T18:37:00.002-05:00

Day 1

Carol and I left for Mesa Arizona on Saturday April 3rd. Our goal was to make Vidor, Texas. There was a La Quinta there. I also planned on stopping at the Texas visitor center for maps and information on the Alamo in San Antonio. Seeing the Alamo is on my "bucket list" for this trip, but a definite low priority this coming week. I was 15 minutes too late arriving at 5:15 PM. After a pit stop and a walk for the dogs we proceeded to the motel. The exit and on ramps were under construction. Quite a mess. There was damn little to pick from for dinner. The Papa John's closed the dining room because several skipped their work shift. We settled for a Chinese buffet. Horrible, easily the worse meal in recent our past two years traveling. It is probably just as well. I had a follow up appointment the day before with the doctor I have picked in Panama City Beach. I have two areas that I must address with diet and exercise. We went to bed early as Sunday was a long day and I wanted to cover 600 miles plus and stay in Fort Stockton, Texas.

Spring Break

2010-03-16T14:10:00.002-05:00

Spring Break is in full speed here in Panama City Beach. This is really the third week. Week one is mostly the Canadian College students. They are a quiet group and we hardly knew they were here. Last week there were a number of Mid-West students here. We had 8 Michigan State students two houses away for a week. They were a really nice group. When they went clubbing they left their cars in the driveway and took one of the many shuttle services that seem to materialize each year. Traffic is definitely an ordeal that must be dealt with. The scooter rental agencies are doing a booming business. The kids roam the beach roads in packs with the scooters buzzing an annoying hum as if it was a thousand bees swarming. So far we have had two balcony falls. One the railing broke free when one person leaned on it. The other was a man who tried to jump from a fifth floor parking garage to a fifth floor balcony. A distance of four feet. He misjudged and he bounced off both walls on the way down. Treated and released. God must love drunks and fools. The local police have been averaging about a hundred citations a day for underage drinking. They expect that number to increase as the police chief stated Auburn and Alabama will be here this week. My favorite so far is the young lady who fell asleep in the back seat of her Jeep. The car was towed and she woke up in the impound lot. She found a shed and took the bolt cutters and cut the lock and walked away. She readily admitted what she did when she came back for her car. The tow driver never looked in the back seat So far no one has died unlike last year. The last week of March is when the high schools in Florida and Georgia are out. I'm told a good number of parents also come with the kids. Next week should be the heaviest based on bookings. All in all, I enjoy this time of year. I like seeing young college folks who are still enjoying their youth before they graduate and have to enter the work force. The vast majority are respectful, full of fun and enjoying the sun and clubs. There will always be a few like the idiot from Tennessee that was in the back of a pick up truck when he flipped his empty beer can. I did manage to make them all nervous when I leaned on my horn and held up my cell phone as if I was dialing.

St Andrews State Park - Wildlife

2010-03-04T11:34:00.011-05:00

Carol and I visit St. Andrews State Park almost every day that it is not raining. We take our cameras hoping for a picture of an alligator. We will also walk the two mile loop for exercise. Following are various pictures that I have taken during our many visits.

Naval Aviation Museum

2010-02-27T12:30:00.007-05:00

The Naval Aviation Museum is located on The Pensacola (FL) Naval Air Station. It is about a two and a half hour drive from Panama City Beach depending on the route that you take. Access to the Navy base only requires a valid drivers license. Admission to the museum is free. This area and the Navy base sustained substantial damage from hurricane Ivan. All of the aviation "A" schools are located on this base. When I was in the Navy, the "A" schools were located on a landlocked Navy base in Millington, TN near Memphis. The "A" schools were shut down due the damage for a period of time. This did cause some problems in the fleet as the pipeline of qualified sailors was disrupted. The Pensacola Lighthouse is located on the base along with Fort Barrancas both of which can be visited. There is ample parking and the museum does attract a large number of visitors.

This Navy jet fighter is just outside the main entrance. Bronze statues of a plane director are part of the display.

Just inside the main entrance is an A4 Skyhawk. This is a later version of the aircraft that was in my squadron when I was a plane captain. This is also the type of plane that Senator John McCain was flying when he was shot down over Viet Nam.

Another view of this aircraft.

This is the cockpit of the Skyhawk. The real seat has been removed. Originally it had a RAPEC seat which was a rocket assisted personnel ejection control. The picture does accurately depict the size of the cockpit. I spent many a cold night sitting in the plane waiting for the flight deck crew to finally spot the plane after flight ops were over for the night. I still believe part of my knee problems were caused by the cramped position in the cold. I was on two winter med cruises.

This is a cut a way of the Pratt & Whitney J-65 jet engine. This was the engine I was specifically trained on in "B" school which was in Jacksonville, FL. I actually spent more time as a plane captain than I did working in the jet engine shop. I was always happier working the line crew as we were called.

These are two views of the main floor taken from the balcony.

There are quite a number of Naval aircraft from the early days to present.

The Navy Blue Angels team flew a version of the A4 Skyhawk for a number of years and these planes are suspended from the overhead in formation.

Throughout the museum there are many items of Navy memorabilia. One room is dedicated to painting of Naval aircraft and carriers throughout the years from WW I to present. Carol and I took a "simulator" of an actual carrier takeoff and a mission flown in Desert Storm culminating in a carrier landing. This was our third visit. The first when we were dating. The second on our honeymoon when we were unable to enjoy the entire museum because the King and Queen of Spain were coming. There is a wonderful and very colorful cafe inside the museum. The walls are filled with plaques of Navy squadrons from all time with the mascots. We were the "Roadrunners" Naturally we finished our visit in the gift shop.

Topsail Hill State Park

2010-02-24T14:27:00.002-05:00

I purchased a year pass good for all of the Florida state parks. While we go to St. Andrews State park 4 or 5 times a week, we occasionally visit other parks. We recently went to Topsail Hill State Park. It is noted for its 3.2 miles of secluded pristine white sand beach's with majestic dunes over 25 feet high. There are three rare coastal dune lakes that provide excellent freshwater fishing. The parking lot is about a mile from the sandy beach. A pram is available or you can bicycle or walk a well paved trail. Carol and I chose to walk.

As we got closer to the beach we were treated to the outstanding dunes on both sides of the trail. A system of elevated boardwalks were built traversing over the dunes.

The red caution flag was flying the day we visited as the waves were higher than the normally calmer Gulf. The sun shining on the sea and the virtually deserted beach created such a peaceful setting. Carol and I lingered along the beach for awhile before beginning the walk back to the parking lot.

As we slowly ambled back along the trail, Carol spotted a white tail deer in the sand dunes. We watched the deer bounce along the dunes.

It was an excellent way to spend part of the day. The beaches along the Florida Panhandle are so pristine and beautiful. I am thankful that so much of the natural beauty is being preserved.

Biloxi Lighthouse

2010-02-12T17:58:00.003-05:00

The Biloxi Lighthouse was completed in 1848. It was the first lighthouse in the south to have iron plates bolted together around forming a outer skin surrounding a brick core. The construction proved its mettle by surviving numerous hurricanes. Originally the lighthouse was 29 feet off the shore. Today the lighthouse stands in the median strip of rout 90. This is the result of shifting sand and mankind reclaiming land from the sea. The American flag has flown on the tower since hurricane Katrina symbolizing the spirit of the citizens.

One big step

2010-02-06T19:49:00.002-05:00

I have been mulling over a decision to sell my home in Rhode Island over this fall and winter. Prior to leaving last September I talked to several real estate agents. I decided on one and told him we would talk in February. This is the home that Marie and I had built. Our styles were included in the design and decor. We moved into this home in November 1968. Our second and third children were born while we lived here. It is a great neighborhood. The school system was more than adequate. All three went on to college. I have been blessed with great neighbors. This is the home where I became a care giver as Marie fought her unsuccessful battle with cancer.

My life has taken a new turn. I am remarried to another wonderful gal and I am spending more and more time in the home that Carol and I bought together in Florida. I feel it is a shame for such a nice home in a good neighborhood to be vacant. In the back of my mind I am always wondering if the heat is working, is the house safe?

A few days ago I spoke to the realtor and I agreed that the house would be listed. Today I took the big step and signed all the papers. They will be in the mail Monday. I know its a tight market, but I am optimistic. I don't need to sell so I can endure the long haul. I will still spend time in New England. My three children and eight grandchildren live there.

50 Years ago - January 27, 1960

2010-01-27T08:55:00.004-05:00

Fifty years ago today I rode the 6:30 AM train from Providence, Rhode Island to Boston. I was going to be sworn into the United States Navy at 8:30 AM. A moment that would change my life forever.

First I will try to recap the events that shaped my decision to join the service. I graduated from a high school that only offered a college course. Latin was required. I enjoyed my high school years as I went to a school full of what would be classified as nerds. We were all expected to go on to college and beyond. In September of 1959 I started in the Engineering curriculum at the University of Rhode Island. My dad was an engineer and I was told that was the path for me. Well I was unhappy for many reasons there. I was not motivated by any of the instructors or the material. I managed to pass all the main subjects with marginal marks. I never really figured out the slide rule, mostly I didn't care. I was good at Math but did not really like doing it. I could not see myself doing this the rest of my life.

I wanted to switch to Business and my dad said no. So two days before the second semester began, on a whim I went to the Federal Building and shopped recruiters. Thankfully, the Army and the Marines had met their quota for January. I walked into the Navy recruiters office and asked if they had an opening and could I leave the next day. He said if I was not running from the law I could leave in two days. He explained that if I was a high school grad and could pass the test I would be guaranteed a school. I told him I was dropping out of college and I immediately took the test and got a perfect score. I looked up at the list of schools and picked three from Navy Aviation. I would be attending one of those schools after boot camp. He sent me to take a physical while he called the Chief of Police in my town. I asked him to tell the chief not to tell my father as I would do that.

When I went home that afternoon and told my mom that I joined the Navy, she teared up and told me to wait until after supper to tell him so we could have a peaceful supper. My dad was disappointed and upset. He was sure that I had ruined my life and would end up a bum. My dad came to this country as a young boy, learned English in 6 months. He worked a year in the mills in New Bedford after high school to save money for college. He dug ditches during college to support himself and his education. Here I was throwing it away. He did agree to drive me to the train station. He hugged me as I left for the train.

So at 8:30 AM EST I took the oath for the U S Navy along with about 30 young men from New England. We were scheduled to take a plane out of Logan airport at 1 PM. We got to the airport in light snow and shortly the snow came down hard and Logan closed we were all bussed to a hotel in Sculley Square. In 1960, Sculley Square was called the combat zone. Several of the new sailors got tattoos, drunk and in trouble before they even got to boot camp. I was rooming with a boy from New Bedford and we stayed put. So began the greatest adventure of my life. After boot camp I went to Jet Mechanic school outside of Memphis, Tennessee, one of only two landlocked Navy bases back then. A tribute to the power of their U S Senators. It was a marvelous time in a young mans life. I was there for the Cotton Carneval and saw Elvis Presley in his Convertible. Beale Street was off limits but I managed to listen to the Blues. I had grits for the first time. I also experienced segregation for the first time.

I then went to training on a specific jet engine and was flown over to Europe to catch up to what would become my duty for the rest of my enlistment. I was attached to VA 36. The squadron flew off the USS Saratoga and when in home port we went to NAS Cecil Field outside of Jacksonville, Florida. I spent most of my time as a plane captain. Working on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier at night was the most exciting and dangerous place I have ever been. I made three Med cruises, was on the Cuban Blockade and saw and did things that I would never have had the opportunity to experience.

In retrospect, joining the Navy was the best thing I could have done. I grew up on that flight deck and the good times and the bad times made me a better man and a better husband and hopefully a better father.

It took me 11 years of night school to get my BS and MBA in Business Management after the Navy. I have always been proud that I volunteered, served my time and got an honorable discharge. My dad once told me that he was amazed at how well I supported my family without being an Engineer. I was pleased by that.

Mobile Point Light at Fort Morgan Alabama

2010-01-24T15:21:00.004-05:00

The history of the Mobile Point Light is intertwined with that of Fort Morgan. Alabama may have the shortest coastline of all the Gulf states, but it has the largest bay - Mobile Bay. During the war of 1812 the United States recognized the importance of this bay and took control during the war. In 1819, two years before ceded the region, work began on a fort to be constructed at Mobile Point the western most point of the peninsula that stretches across most of the bay. Completed in 1834, the fort was named Fort Morgan in honor of General Daniel Morgan a Revolutionary war hero.

The first of three lighthouses was completed on the point in 1822. The light was only visible 10 miles out at sea and ships had a difficult time detecting the beacon. The light was changed to flashing, but mariners were confusing it with the Pensacola Light. In 1858 a 200 foot tower was built on Sand Island three miles off shore from Mobile Point. The Mobile Point light was no longer needed as a landfall and was downgraded to a harbor light.

Upon the outset of the Civil War, Confederate troops took control of the fort. In August 1864, Admiral Farragut approached the entrance to the bay with 18 ships. After one of the ships hit a torpedo (at that time mines were referred to as torpedoes) Farragut gave his famous command "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead". During this battle the light tower was damaged. Farragut won the battle but lost 7 ships during the conflict.

After the war, a temporary wooden tower was placed near the crippled lighthouse and the old brick tower was demolished. A second 30 foot iron structure was erected in 1873 along with a new keepers house. In 1963 a modern steel tower was erected (pictured below) and the small iron tower was cut from its base and ended up at a scrap metal company where it remained intact. When I visited Fort Morgan I was told that it was being refurbished and would eventually become part of the exhibit at the fort.

There are several oil platforms just off the beach at the fort. The smell of crude oil permeated the air and was very noticeable during the visit.

The massiveness of the fort was evident everywhere we walked. The brickwork was outstanding and a tribute to the folks who labored here. Following are several views around the fort.

Lastly, another view of the modern light tower,

Big Brown (UPS) on a rainy day

2010-01-23T09:39:00.002-05:00

Carol and I had been to a number of local stores looking for a particular brand of shampoo. Several stores said they used to carry that brand, but no longer. We found a Internet site that carries that product. We ordered 6 bottles and they would be shipped via UPS. I followed the progress using the tracking number. Thursday morning (1/21) I saw that the package was on the truck to be delivered. Thursday was also a rainy day here and we had no plans that required us to be out and about. In fact, Carol was busy in the front room completing alterations for a neighbor. So when I saw that the tracking had been updated and the package delivered I was surprised because their had been no knock on the door. We went looking all around the house, no package. I called UPS and was assured that the package must be there. They were very apologetic and told me that I had to initiate a trace with the vendor. I was irate. I said I don't want your apology and I should not have to do all the work because your driver screwed up. Call the driver I demanded. We can't do that he is on the road. Well he damn sure updated your computer. At this point I was transferred to a higher source who immediately apologized. I again said don't tell me you are sorry, contact the driver. To make a long story shorted, they agreed and took my phone number and told me I would get a call back. A short time later, the UPS truck arrived and he told me right house number wrong street, I missed by one block.

My phone rang and it was a manager in the local distribution center. He told me that he was glad I got my package and you know, you have to understand its a rainy miserable day.

Yeah right! Apparently on rainy days any street will do as long as the house number is correct. I know UPS prides itself on doing a great job and they do. What rankles me is that I was the one they wanted to do all the hassle of calling the vendor and starting a trace for their error.

Tiny

2010-01-20T18:16:00.003-05:00

About eight weeks ago, Carol and I were afraid that we would have to have Tiny put to sleep. Tiny is at least 16 years old. Carol rescued him over 14 years ago and the vet back then estimated his age at 2 years plus. Tiny has been plagued by skin problems for over a year. He was seen by a vet in Rhode Island and three different vets here in Panama City Beach. Each time he would be put on steroids and or antibiotics. It would get better for awhile then flare up again. We bathed him with medicated shampoo and he had a special diet. Nothing worked long term.Then he started with walking difficulty and he could no longer make the leap onto Carol's lap. If she tried to pick him up he would cry out in pain. Sometimes he would cry just turning over on his fleece throw. We started taking our Yorkie that we rescued to a Doctor recommended by the Animal Control Center and we liked him. We decided to take Tiny to see him. Our primary concern was what would be best for his quality of life. The doctor looked him over felt his stomach and listened to his heart and lungs. Then he asked if Tiny had ever had a thyroid test. Well, we had Tiny tested and Tiny has a slow thyroid. He has been on the medicine for about 6 weeks. It is like the fountain of youth. Tiny is easily jumping onto Carol's lap. His skin has cleared up. He now prances down the street when we walk him and Carol can hold him without him crying. Tiny has been rejuvenated.

Dothan Alabama

2010-01-16T09:21:00.003-05:00

The local area around Panama City Beach is served by two local television stations. We do not have a CBS affiliate. We receive CBS from a station in Dothan, Alabama. For several winters I have seen their promos and have wanted to visit the area. I wanted to see a statue that is used in their lead in. I stopped at the Alabama visitor center and learned that that statue is actually in Montgomery. I knew about the many buildings with painted murals but not the content. It turned out to be a nice visit. Dothan is about 90 miles from our home. We discovered that the murals honor their culture, industry, history and favorite sons.

Dothan Riot

Dothan was the scene of a deadly altercation on October 12, 1889. The town fathers levied a fee on all wagons operating within city limits. Local farmers opposed this tax and formed a body named "Farmers Alliance" to dispute the levy. The arrest of some of the members led to a riot. The violence only lasted a few minutes but resulted in the death of two men and a number of seriously wounded. The local sheriff was arrested charged with murder and found guilty. His conviction was eventually over turned on appeal.

The following scenes depict the early industry of the local area.

Two favorite sons are honored. .

Sherman Rose

Tuskegee Airman

Johnny Mack Brown

Dothan is much larger than I envisioned. The traffic in and around Dothan was heavy. Dothan is home to the Dothan Opera House, Wiregrass Museum of Art, Botanical Gardens and George Washington Carver Interpretive Museum. Porter Hardware, the oldest operating hardware store in Alabama. The exterior and interior remain virtually unaltered since its opening 1889. The store still maintains a large inventory of hardware and hard to find items. Porter Hardware sign is on the side of the wagon in the Turpentine mural.

The ride from Panama City Beach to Dothan was a pleasant drive through rural countryside. Lunch was at the "Pig Out BBQ in Dothan. Carol had the pulled pork plate with cole slaw and potato salad. I had half a chicken with cole slaw and baked beans. We split a chocolate chip cookie for desert. Very nice. We will do this excursion again in the future.

Pensacola Lighthouse

2010-01-09T16:47:00.002-05:00

Pensacola is the second oldest city in Florida. Unlike St. Augustine, Pensacola was slow to highlight its ties to Spain, France and England. Five flags have flown over Pensacola. Spain three times, France, England, the Confederate States of America and the United States. When the United States acquired Pensacola from Spain the Florida Legislature petitioned for a federal naval depot at Pensacola. It was soon determined that a lighthouse was needed. In 1823 before a lighthouse could be built a lightship was sent from New Orleans. The lightship Aurora Borealis was on site by June, but problems arose and the ship failed to provide a proper navigation aide. The U. S. government designated Pensacola the site of a navy yard. Workers built a 40 foot lighthouse on a 40 foot bluff at the south entrance to Pensacola Bay. It was first lit in 1825. This was the first lighthouse built by the U. S. government on Florida's Gulf coast. The Mobile light 40 miles away created confusion for mariners. In 1858 engineers erected a new tower on the north side of the bay's entrance. This existing tower was first lit on January 1, 1859 providing the harbor the necessary beacon. Confederate soldiers shot out the light and it remained dark until 1863 when a fourth order lens re lit the tower. During the Civil War the tower was completely white but today the upper part is black.

In 1914 the federal government establish in Pensacola its first training base for naval aviators. Now known as the cradle of naval aviation the base has occasionally suggested that the tower be razed as it presents a hazard for the low flying planes. Local sentiment has caused the Navy to preserve the lighthouse. The Naval Station is also home to the Naval Aviation Museum and also to the Blue Angels. Admission to base is allowed and their is no charge for visiting the museum. The museum has a gift shop and a cafe. Allow at least four hours for the Naval Museum. A very pleasant day can easily be spent on the base.

St. Joseph Bay Lighthouse

2010-01-08T12:01:00.003-05:00

The St. Joseph Bay Lighthouses have had an interesting history. The first lighthouse was built in 1838. The town hoped to become the major center outpacing the rival town of Apalachicola. The future was promising until a ship came arrived in 1841 with yellow fever aboard and the the epidemic wiped out the town. A subsequent hurricane that year destroyed the houses. The lighthouse was abandoned in 1847 in favor of the Cape San Blas Light. The light disappeared and it was determined that it was washed away.

The area around St. Joseph Peninsula was a dangerous site and the lighthouse Board decided that a new structure should be placed on the mainland. This structure allowed the keeper and his family to live in the lighthouse rather than a separate building. On the top of the structure was a light that shone 96 feet above the sea level

The U. S. government discontinued the the light and the structure was left to the elements and was eventually moved to Overstreet Highway for use as a barn. The structure was eventually purchased by a resident in Port St. Joe and it was moved to its present location in Simmons Bayou and converted to a private residence.

I was able to take pictures of this lighthouse from the street. It is a private residence and one should respect his property. I do remember that the couple who own the lighthouse were part of a program on one of the cable channels which highlighted this beautiful lighthouse.

Florida frost and black ice

2010-01-07T15:38:00.002-05:00

The Florida Panhandle is experiencing abnormal extended winter chill along with the major part of the country. Our temperatures are running 20+ degrees below normal. I realize the vast majority of the northern states have no sympathy for us.

This morning I went out to walk my dog and the first thing I noticed was the frost covering my car and the frost on the grass shining in the early morning sun. The early morning commuters and joggers are complaining of the black ice. Most of the median strips have underground sprinkler systems. When the local public works department fail to shut the automatic timers off the water spray covers part of the road and freezes during the early morning hours. The same thing happens when the home owner fails to shut their home system off and the sidewalks become icy from the spray that freezes.

We are expecting precipitation tonight and the local weather man says we have the possibility to see some freezing rain. I feel for the farmers. They are rushing to harvest the strawberries and tomatoes. The citrus crop is almost completely picked. But they still must protect their trees.

The weather forecaster is predicting a colder than normal January. I skipped my New years day ocean swim and have not even considered a swim this year.