Max is needing to chew everything in sight. This includes shoelaces, pant legs, fingers, shirt sleeves, and anything he can get his sharp baby teeth into. He is being trained to the crate, and when he gets out of hand, he goes back into the crate.
Yesterday when I was walking Max, he saw another white dog reflected in some sliding glass windows. First he kept looking for the other dog, and then he barked because the other dog kept jumping about and then was quite mystified by the whole thing. It was exactly like a baby getting to see himself in the mirror for the first time. I enjoyed the whole thing. Max did not want to leave the interesting white puppy but quickly forgot about it and away we continued on our walk.
About 3:00 am he did not want to go outside and do his business and just kept jumping and crying or barking. It was probably in the twenties here. I tried walking him, but he would not settle down to the purpose of the walk. I tried about a half hour later and gave up and then at 7:30 we got that finally done so he could fill up on puppy chow and water and start the whole thing over. He is growing very rapidly already not fitting so well in clothes that HW2 is buying. We will get through this stage though. Already he does let me know if he had to go outside to do his business, which is a great step forward although there have been a few accidents. I am sure I am getting quite well-trained in any event. Happy travels.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Max comes home
We got back to Kerrville late Saturday afternoon but could not pick up Max until this morning. So on Sunday we had a third day free from Puppydom. We had joined the First Presbyterian Church by transfer of membership from our church in Omaha. This got voted on by the elders in our new church, and the Rev. John presented us to the church Sunday morning. We were asked questions which we answered and then were warmly welcomed by all. We spent the rest of Sunday talking with family and generally having a quiet day. In the evening we watched a movie version of the Last Templar which I had read this past year. Tonight we get to watch the second part of this movie.
Max seemed to be glad to get back home, and we have walked several times and let him play in his pen outside. The morning started out a bit wet but has ended up being a sunny day. On one of our walks, we stopped to talk with Gracie, who mentioned that she had told Don (our owner/manager) that HW2 would probably be a good person to hire to run the River Rock Saloon, since she had good "hooters," whatever that means. When I told Gracie's comment to HW2, she laughed and laughed. Apparently, Don laughed at the comment, too. Who knows, HW2 may get such a job. Do you think it might include short skirts and a halter top? Happy travels.
Max seemed to be glad to get back home, and we have walked several times and let him play in his pen outside. The morning started out a bit wet but has ended up being a sunny day. On one of our walks, we stopped to talk with Gracie, who mentioned that she had told Don (our owner/manager) that HW2 would probably be a good person to hire to run the River Rock Saloon, since she had good "hooters," whatever that means. When I told Gracie's comment to HW2, she laughed and laughed. Apparently, Don laughed at the comment, too. Who knows, HW2 may get such a job. Do you think it might include short skirts and a halter top? Happy travels.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
We Visit with Linda in San Antonio
Our niece Linda came to Houston, TX, to do some work for her company, which is outsourcing her job. When her work was finished, she rented a car and drove to San Antonio to see that city and to be close enough for us to get together for a good visit. We drove down Friday morning after putting Max in a kennel for the weekend. We call Max's visit, "Going to Puppy Camp." We got in the city about 9:15 in time to learn from Best Buy that one of our computers had totally died and could not be resuscitated. Then we caught up with Linda at the motel where she and we would be staying.
After a bit of consideration, we decided to visit the main one of the five mission churches established by the Spanish. Then we went to Guenther House, which was the home of the family that founded Pioneer Flour, for a great lunch. Following lunch we toured the King William District of old but beautifully restored homes. Then on to the Alamo where we again lucked out to find a tour guide, as we had done at the mission church, also. We really learned a great deal about the missions and this included the six flags of Texas. Can you guess the six flags that have flown over Texas? From past to present they are: Spain, Mexico, France, Confederacy, Texas and USA. Texas is one of two states that were countries in their own right before joining the Union.
After visiting the Alamo we walked to the area of San Antonio called the River Walk, which was begun by the WPA in the 1930's. Today this area is enjoyed by many locals and visitors alike, and there are many many restaurants and shops where one can look for treats. We decided to stay in the area, after exploring the La Villita old village nearby, and the high point of our day was Jazz at the Landing in the Hyatt Hotel on the River Walk. We enjoyed a light libation and dinner, and the Jazz was simply wonderful. Linda had been listening to this group for some time on National Public Radio and wanted to see them in person.
Back to our motel, and bed time for all. On Saturday we had breakfast at the motel and decided to go to Market Square for shopping and then antiquing in other areas of the city. We did manage to visit one antique shop, but several others were closed probably due to the sad state of our economy. Lunch was at Saltgrass where you can get a good steak or barbecue, and then we said our goodbyes. Linda was off to do some more shopping, and we went to CostCo and the drive back to Kerrville. We had a wonderful time with Linda and enjoyed being with her and showing her San Antonio.
Yesterday was so warm in the low 80's that we enjoyed eating outdoors. Today in the 50's it was better to be inside. Linda returns to upstate New York tomorrow morning, and we wish her safe travels!
After a bit of consideration, we decided to visit the main one of the five mission churches established by the Spanish. Then we went to Guenther House, which was the home of the family that founded Pioneer Flour, for a great lunch. Following lunch we toured the King William District of old but beautifully restored homes. Then on to the Alamo where we again lucked out to find a tour guide, as we had done at the mission church, also. We really learned a great deal about the missions and this included the six flags of Texas. Can you guess the six flags that have flown over Texas? From past to present they are: Spain, Mexico, France, Confederacy, Texas and USA. Texas is one of two states that were countries in their own right before joining the Union.
After visiting the Alamo we walked to the area of San Antonio called the River Walk, which was begun by the WPA in the 1930's. Today this area is enjoyed by many locals and visitors alike, and there are many many restaurants and shops where one can look for treats. We decided to stay in the area, after exploring the La Villita old village nearby, and the high point of our day was Jazz at the Landing in the Hyatt Hotel on the River Walk. We enjoyed a light libation and dinner, and the Jazz was simply wonderful. Linda had been listening to this group for some time on National Public Radio and wanted to see them in person.
Back to our motel, and bed time for all. On Saturday we had breakfast at the motel and decided to go to Market Square for shopping and then antiquing in other areas of the city. We did manage to visit one antique shop, but several others were closed probably due to the sad state of our economy. Lunch was at Saltgrass where you can get a good steak or barbecue, and then we said our goodbyes. Linda was off to do some more shopping, and we went to CostCo and the drive back to Kerrville. We had a wonderful time with Linda and enjoyed being with her and showing her San Antonio.
Yesterday was so warm in the low 80's that we enjoyed eating outdoors. Today in the 50's it was better to be inside. Linda returns to upstate New York tomorrow morning, and we wish her safe travels!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
River Rock Saloon Expands
Don, the owner/manager here decided to expand the River Rock Saloon. At this point there is not a big area. On the south side of the building was an area where wood was stored, and when that was cleared out, it created a large area which could be enclosed. First, the floor joists went in, and then the floor was covered with plywood. Today the men were extending the roof and putting up side walls with areas for windows so that patrons can have a lovely view of the Guadalupe River. I have agreed to create and install a stained glass window for decoration in the west wall. I guess that means I have more stained glass work ahead of me. It will be fun to have some of my work on display in the new area of the saloon. Happy travels.
Happy Birthday, Darrell
Linda and Darrell used to be work campers here at our RV park, and we have become good friends over the years. Linda asked HW2 to get some of Darrell's buddies together for a surprise birthday breakfast at IHOP today. So we asked Duane and Dot, Jerry and Cathy, Dick and Gracie to attend. We were there by 9:00am and surprised Darrell when he and Linda came in a bit later. Of course, we all talked non stop and didn't seem to mind the wait for food a bit. Darrell turned 60 this week, and Linda has been arranging something each day to extend his birthday celebration throughout the week. We all know and enjoy each other and loved trying to surprise him. Happy birthday, Darrell! Sixty seems young to me, He opened our cards and several small bottles of gin of the type you used to be able to get on airplanes. He even got two bottles of Blue Sapphire Gin, which we had introduced him too last year. We had to leave early to get HW2 to her physical therapy session, but breakfast with friends was a great way to start today. Happy travels.
Great Coffee Smell
Hollis and Byron walked over for coffee after we had been playing dime bingo. Hollis came up into the motor home and said, "What a great coffee smell, I love it, what kind of coffee is it?" How we laughed and then had to explain. Just prior to their coming over, HW2 was making the coffee, and I was outside with the puppy, Max, when she hollered. I stuck my head inside the door to see HW2 covered with coffee grounds from head to foot, looking like a cast member of a minstrel show. She really was quite a sight. "How did you manage to do that," I asked. Trying not to laugh, "What can I do to help you?" Then I rolled up our large kitchen rug and took it outside to shake the coffee grounds off, and HW2 followed me outside to do the same for herself. She had coffee grounds on her face, in her hair, and all over her clothes.
It seems that when she took down the can of decaffeinated coffee, the top came off of the can, and you have now heard what happened next. She got cleaned up and clothes changed. I shook out the rug and then after putting it back on the floor, got out the vacuum cleaner and gave the rug a final going over. So when Hollis entered, no wonder she encountered the smell of coffee. It had been everywhere. Of course we had to entertain Hollis with our recent adventure.
If you would like to come over for a cup of coffee we will try not to entertain you in exactly the same way. HW2 was a sight for sore eyes, and the next day in the shower she was still finding remnants of coffee. Strangely enough, you can still find coffee grounds outside, too. You might be able to find our parking spot by just looking for that lovely coffee odor. Happy travels.
It seems that when she took down the can of decaffeinated coffee, the top came off of the can, and you have now heard what happened next. She got cleaned up and clothes changed. I shook out the rug and then after putting it back on the floor, got out the vacuum cleaner and gave the rug a final going over. So when Hollis entered, no wonder she encountered the smell of coffee. It had been everywhere. Of course we had to entertain Hollis with our recent adventure.
If you would like to come over for a cup of coffee we will try not to entertain you in exactly the same way. HW2 was a sight for sore eyes, and the next day in the shower she was still finding remnants of coffee. Strangely enough, you can still find coffee grounds outside, too. You might be able to find our parking spot by just looking for that lovely coffee odor. Happy travels.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A Turning Point
Today we inaugurate our 44th President. Incredibly high expectations are being set, primarily through media hype. Mr. Obama is trying to settle these expectations down, but the hype continues. We get our local news from Atlanta, and people there are so pleased by his election and having the first black or bi-racial man elected. A majority of Black people are being reported to believe that Martin Luther King's hope for the future has arrived. Mr. Obama has much to strive for as he takes the oath of office. I can only hope that this country will work together to overcome our many difficulties. I wish this man well, as this is our country, and he becomes our President today at noon. Truly this is a turning point in the history of our country. Can we all come together to make our country a place where all can be proud to be Americans?
Five Crowns
Last night after dinner with Hollis and Byron, we played a new game that is a favorite of Hollis. It is called Five Crowns, and you start with three cards each and try to go out by playing your cards as a set of three of a kind or a run of three in a suit. Sounds fun, of course, but there are five suits. Each subsequent hand adds a card, so a four-card hand followed by a five-card hand, etc. You play until you get to a thirteen-card hand.
There are wild cards, which include jokers and a varying wild card by each hand. In the three card hand the extra wild card is the three, and in the four card hand the wild card is the four with the king card being the final wild card. You have to pay attention, or you will discard a wild card. It turned out to be a fun game, and we will look for the game and try to teach unsuspecting relatives and friends when possible. Apparently the game is no longer being made but can be found on the Internet if interested.
For dinner we had squash soup made with squash and leeks. It was accompanied with corn bread and then coffee and buttermilk pie for dessert. A simple but tasty meal. Hollis is a kick and is so delighted when when she gets a card she needs, that she almost jumps out of her chair. A fun evening.
We returned home and took Max for his last of the evening walks and off to bed wondering at what point he would wake up in the night. He made it to five o'clock!!! Soon we will go get the paper and let HW2 sleep a bit more. Happy travels.
There are wild cards, which include jokers and a varying wild card by each hand. In the three card hand the extra wild card is the three, and in the four card hand the wild card is the four with the king card being the final wild card. You have to pay attention, or you will discard a wild card. It turned out to be a fun game, and we will look for the game and try to teach unsuspecting relatives and friends when possible. Apparently the game is no longer being made but can be found on the Internet if interested.
For dinner we had squash soup made with squash and leeks. It was accompanied with corn bread and then coffee and buttermilk pie for dessert. A simple but tasty meal. Hollis is a kick and is so delighted when when she gets a card she needs, that she almost jumps out of her chair. A fun evening.
We returned home and took Max for his last of the evening walks and off to bed wondering at what point he would wake up in the night. He made it to five o'clock!!! Soon we will go get the paper and let HW2 sleep a bit more. Happy travels.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Max and Puppydom
Max may be taking over our lives. To keep him from accidents in the motor home, I have been frequently taking him outside to do his business or numbers. He seems to have gotten the idea, and as soon as he is put outside, squats down and does number one, and then sometime in his walking about usually gets to number two. This whole procedure seems to go on about every two hours all day and also about 2:30 am. At 6:00 a.m. this morning we were at it again, but this time the benefit was to see the Big Dipper constellation overhead and the waning moon. We usually get Orion here early in the evening and have had a few discussions as to whether it is the Big Dipper or not. I think I can put that discussion to rest now.
I had forgotten that puppies have to be curious about everything. Leaves are particularly interesting right now. It makes walking sort of "stop and go," but mostly stop. So I make an encouraging clicking sound and say, "Come on, Max," with occasional success as we then go on to the next leaf or stick. This routine gets interrupted by a puppy refusing to go at all and looking at me like I was from a different planet and why should I be hanging or tugging on the leash.
Then there is the chewing. All, I repeat, ALL is fair game for chewing. Toys from the store are not necessarily as much fun as the box they came in. Papers in the crate definitely need to be chewed. Shoe strings are fair game as are pant legs, zippers in jackets, fingers and anything within striking distance. We have been forced to clean up all items from the floor. A can of rug cleaner was used for the obvious puppy deposit and then thoroughly barked at when found on the floor. An especially appealing item is the comforter on the bed which hangs near the floor and really needed to be chewed, NOT!
To make things more interesting, puppies eat and drink as often as they can, which keeps the whole cycle going, so to speak. Do puppies bark? Absolutely and at surprising things such as odd shadows or big trucks or anything that moves.
To suggest that our lives have changed a bit here is to cause me to laugh out loud. Now, why was it that I wanted a puppy? Oh yeah, snuggling time, laughing at his antics, visiting with everyone who stops to see the puppy, and the endless joy of caring for this newest member of the family. Happy travels.
I had forgotten that puppies have to be curious about everything. Leaves are particularly interesting right now. It makes walking sort of "stop and go," but mostly stop. So I make an encouraging clicking sound and say, "Come on, Max," with occasional success as we then go on to the next leaf or stick. This routine gets interrupted by a puppy refusing to go at all and looking at me like I was from a different planet and why should I be hanging or tugging on the leash.
Then there is the chewing. All, I repeat, ALL is fair game for chewing. Toys from the store are not necessarily as much fun as the box they came in. Papers in the crate definitely need to be chewed. Shoe strings are fair game as are pant legs, zippers in jackets, fingers and anything within striking distance. We have been forced to clean up all items from the floor. A can of rug cleaner was used for the obvious puppy deposit and then thoroughly barked at when found on the floor. An especially appealing item is the comforter on the bed which hangs near the floor and really needed to be chewed, NOT!
To make things more interesting, puppies eat and drink as often as they can, which keeps the whole cycle going, so to speak. Do puppies bark? Absolutely and at surprising things such as odd shadows or big trucks or anything that moves.
To suggest that our lives have changed a bit here is to cause me to laugh out loud. Now, why was it that I wanted a puppy? Oh yeah, snuggling time, laughing at his antics, visiting with everyone who stops to see the puppy, and the endless joy of caring for this newest member of the family. Happy travels.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Max Sleeps Through the Night
Late yesterday afternoon we went to the movies and saw Benjamin Buttons which was ok allowing for a rather odd premise of getting younger rather than older. Brad Pitt did a good job and certainly got better looking as he aged younger. i think some serious makeup was needed though. While this movie would not be a favorite of mine it is worth seeing. Later we went to Chili's for hamburgers and enjoyed a night out. We came home to Max who had behaved himself and was glad to go outside before settling down for the night.
He slept through the night and then got to go to the vet this morning. He had a shot for Parvo and generally received a good bill of health. Then we took him for our morning walk or carry as it could be called. He did walk a bit though and provided much conversation as we met other walkers on our morning rounds. I firmly believe that if you are walking a dog, everyone wants to stop and talk and fuss over the dog. This seems especially true if your dog is a puppy.
HW2 has gone to physical therapy to get exercises and so I have a few minutes of quiet and can get caught up on this blog. Happy travels.
He slept through the night and then got to go to the vet this morning. He had a shot for Parvo and generally received a good bill of health. Then we took him for our morning walk or carry as it could be called. He did walk a bit though and provided much conversation as we met other walkers on our morning rounds. I firmly believe that if you are walking a dog, everyone wants to stop and talk and fuss over the dog. This seems especially true if your dog is a puppy.
HW2 has gone to physical therapy to get exercises and so I have a few minutes of quiet and can get caught up on this blog. Happy travels.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Maxwell Stiles Joins the Family
Yesterday HW2 went to her physical therapy session and thoroughly enjoyed the treatment and attention. She got electrical stimulation of her lower back, heat, and finally massage. When she goes back tomorrow, she will learn some strengthening exercises. She got home about noon, and we left for San Antonio to visit a Westie breeder. We had five males to pick from and brought the largest of this two month-old litter home with us. Enter, Maxwell Stiles into our family.
He is named after both of our fathers and will get to be called Max most of the time. He was not afraid and quite willing to explore his new surroundings. He got petted and fed and loved and put to bed in his new crate. At 2:00 am he and I shared an hour where he got to go outside after messing up his towel in his crate. He then stayed in the crate until this morning. All in all not a bad night for a two month-old puppy or for me, either, since I frequently wake up in the middle of the night. Now I have something to do besides watching the clock tick along.
This morning he got to go outside, eat a bit, and get loved some more by both of us. Max, you are welcomed
into our lives and family. H
appy travels.
He is named after both of our fathers and will get to be called Max most of the time. He was not afraid and quite willing to explore his new surroundings. He got petted and fed and loved and put to bed in his new crate. At 2:00 am he and I shared an hour where he got to go outside after messing up his towel in his crate. He then stayed in the crate until this morning. All in all not a bad night for a two month-old puppy or for me, either, since I frequently wake up in the middle of the night. Now I have something to do besides watching the clock tick along.
This morning he got to go outside, eat a bit, and get loved some more by both of us. Max, you are welcomed
into our lives and family. H
appy travels.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Tuesday's Update
On Monday it warmed up enough to be able to have lunch outside. It was very sunny, and we enjoyed eating in the good weather. Usually it only warms up into the fifties, and you can get your walk in but not eating outside. I finished up a smaller window for a friend here in the park that he intends to put into his front door. Last night we met friends Hollis and Bryon for dinner at an Italian restaurant that just opened this month. The food was good. We shared Veal Scallopini and had side salads, and that was quite filling so that we did not have dessert.
We also went to see a new back/joint doctor so that HW2 could be examined to see what to do for her aches and pains. He took her history and then had x-rays taken of the back, hips, and knees. He looked at the x-rays and decided to send HW2 to physical therapy to see if they can develop a program to strengthen her abdominal muscles and see if that helps control the pain.
HW2 is off to physical therapy today, and we really look forward to having her get some good exercises that will help. I have lost two more pounds and to celebrate this step forward, cleaned out my closet and drawers of unneeded clothes. It is sunny today and is supposed to warm up into the 60's but the bit of wind puts a sharp edge to everything. Happy travels.
We also went to see a new back/joint doctor so that HW2 could be examined to see what to do for her aches and pains. He took her history and then had x-rays taken of the back, hips, and knees. He looked at the x-rays and decided to send HW2 to physical therapy to see if they can develop a program to strengthen her abdominal muscles and see if that helps control the pain.
HW2 is off to physical therapy today, and we really look forward to having her get some good exercises that will help. I have lost two more pounds and to celebrate this step forward, cleaned out my closet and drawers of unneeded clothes. It is sunny today and is supposed to warm up into the 60's but the bit of wind puts a sharp edge to everything. Happy travels.
Monday, January 12, 2009
We joined the Presbyterian Church here in Kerrville
Yesterday we joined the First Presbyterian Church in Kerrville. Actually, we transferred our membership from Harvest Community Church in Omaha to here. We have been attending this church whenever we were here since around 2000-2001 and have thoroughly enjoyed the membership and worshipping in this beautiful church. When we first came, the church was held in a beautiful old building with wonderful stained glass windows. The minister at that time looked and talked like he was a clone of Harry Truman, and we thoroughly enjoyed hearing him preach. The congregation grew in size, and a decision was made to build a much larger church next door with the older church became the chapel.
HW2 and I were deacons in a church in Albuquerque for several years, and yesterday when they were ordaining new deacons and elders, we were happy to be able to stand while the new deacons were being ordained as the minister had asked all former deacons in any Presbyterian Church to stand. HW2 is delighted to be again in a church where women can take leadership roles and is looking forward to developing her interests here. I look forward to being a reader, greeter, or usher. We have already joined a Suppers Eight type group that meets for food and fellowship once a month.
At the end of their service we met with the elders and were voted in as members by transfer. When HW2 mentioned the roll of women, she was told that there were many activities where she could put her abilities to work, and this church always needed another woman leader. We felt very welcomed here and look forward to our new church home although will miss the wonderful fellowship we experienced at Harvest. The friends we made there will continue for the rest of our lives. Happy travels
HW2 and I were deacons in a church in Albuquerque for several years, and yesterday when they were ordaining new deacons and elders, we were happy to be able to stand while the new deacons were being ordained as the minister had asked all former deacons in any Presbyterian Church to stand. HW2 is delighted to be again in a church where women can take leadership roles and is looking forward to developing her interests here. I look forward to being a reader, greeter, or usher. We have already joined a Suppers Eight type group that meets for food and fellowship once a month.
At the end of their service we met with the elders and were voted in as members by transfer. When HW2 mentioned the roll of women, she was told that there were many activities where she could put her abilities to work, and this church always needed another woman leader. We felt very welcomed here and look forward to our new church home although will miss the wonderful fellowship we experienced at Harvest. The friends we made there will continue for the rest of our lives. Happy travels
Friday, January 9, 2009
Bowl Games and Bragging Rights
We have watched three college bowl games. In two of these games we watched our favorites, Nebraska beat Clemson and Texas beat Ohio State. In both cases the teams were quite evenly matched, and the outcome was in doubt till the 'fat lady sang'. Last night we watched Florida beat Oklahoma quite clearly in the second half. The teams again were evenly matched, but the turnovers cost Oklahoma at the end. We had wanted to have Oklahoma win, but two out of three picks isn't bad.
Of course, Texas will now play the "we should have been picked the number one" card, and played Florida for the title game." "Should haves" will not get them anywhere, but they are going to remember this, and it will all carry over into next season. Perhaps the Big Twelve need to agree on a better way to pick the winner for the season rather than the computerized system they now use which does not seem to be based only on win-loss statistics. Oh well, what do I know about such things. I enjoy college football and will follow closely Nebraska and Texas in the future. Wouldn't it be fun to attend one of their games? Happy travels.
Of course, Texas will now play the "we should have been picked the number one" card, and played Florida for the title game." "Should haves" will not get them anywhere, but they are going to remember this, and it will all carry over into next season. Perhaps the Big Twelve need to agree on a better way to pick the winner for the season rather than the computerized system they now use which does not seem to be based only on win-loss statistics. Oh well, what do I know about such things. I enjoy college football and will follow closely Nebraska and Texas in the future. Wouldn't it be fun to attend one of their games? Happy travels.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Lots of news
Lots of news here. First, Texas beat Ohio State in the last few seconds of the game with a winning touchdown. It was a great game with the score going back and forth. Now for Oklahoma vs Florida on Thursday.
I have met my goal of losing 15 pounds. Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now to work to keep it off. Maybe even lose a few more for insurance, just in case I eat desserts or something. HW2 is doing very well on her work to lose a few pounds, too.
Last night we learned a couple of new card games. First we met with others in one of the halls and played a card version of Bingo, which we had never played before. You get a quarter of a deck and lay out the cards by suits, and the person in charge reads out a card, and if you have it you discard yours. The first person to get rid of all of his/her cards yells "bingo." Your reward is a few dimes collected each time you start the play. Neither of us won any of these hands, but the last hand you do the same with the cards, and then all stand up. When the card is called and if you have it, you must sit down and you are out of the game. The last person standing is the winner. Darned if I didn't tie another man to be the last men standing, and we split the pot. It paid for our evening of fun bingo.
Then we went over to Dwayne and Dot's cabin. They are from Hastings, NE and come here each winter for 3-4 months and have been doing so since 1995. They are great fun and taught us a very different version of a game we like, called Midwestern Pitch. You play with two jokers and there are ten points involved in each hand. Bidding starts at five and can go as high as ten. High bidder names trump and you throw in all of your non trump cards. Dealer then gives you enough cards to make a hand of six and then you play out the hand. We enjoyed learning this new version of Pitch but need to play it some before we really catch on. Mostly we visited and learned much about each other's families and some history about this RV resort. Dot served us some pie and coffee, and we headed home for the night.
Finally, we have decided to stay here year around and in April will become work campers, working three days and being off four. We will not have to pay rent and will even earn real money for the hours worked. HW2 will work in the office, and I will work on the grounds mowing etc. We have been wanting something to do, and this fills the bill. We are really looking forward to this change. We have decided to transfer our church membership to First Presbyterian here in Kerrville and also to fly up to Omaha, empty out our storage unit, and transfer the stuff to a storage unit nearby. We are in the process of changing our doctors to this area as well. So, as I said, lots of news and changes this new year. Happy travels.
I have met my goal of losing 15 pounds. Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now to work to keep it off. Maybe even lose a few more for insurance, just in case I eat desserts or something. HW2 is doing very well on her work to lose a few pounds, too.
Last night we learned a couple of new card games. First we met with others in one of the halls and played a card version of Bingo, which we had never played before. You get a quarter of a deck and lay out the cards by suits, and the person in charge reads out a card, and if you have it you discard yours. The first person to get rid of all of his/her cards yells "bingo." Your reward is a few dimes collected each time you start the play. Neither of us won any of these hands, but the last hand you do the same with the cards, and then all stand up. When the card is called and if you have it, you must sit down and you are out of the game. The last person standing is the winner. Darned if I didn't tie another man to be the last men standing, and we split the pot. It paid for our evening of fun bingo.
Then we went over to Dwayne and Dot's cabin. They are from Hastings, NE and come here each winter for 3-4 months and have been doing so since 1995. They are great fun and taught us a very different version of a game we like, called Midwestern Pitch. You play with two jokers and there are ten points involved in each hand. Bidding starts at five and can go as high as ten. High bidder names trump and you throw in all of your non trump cards. Dealer then gives you enough cards to make a hand of six and then you play out the hand. We enjoyed learning this new version of Pitch but need to play it some before we really catch on. Mostly we visited and learned much about each other's families and some history about this RV resort. Dot served us some pie and coffee, and we headed home for the night.
Finally, we have decided to stay here year around and in April will become work campers, working three days and being off four. We will not have to pay rent and will even earn real money for the hours worked. HW2 will work in the office, and I will work on the grounds mowing etc. We have been wanting something to do, and this fills the bill. We are really looking forward to this change. We have decided to transfer our church membership to First Presbyterian here in Kerrville and also to fly up to Omaha, empty out our storage unit, and transfer the stuff to a storage unit nearby. We are in the process of changing our doctors to this area as well. So, as I said, lots of news and changes this new year. Happy travels.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Football or cards
Tonight we are watching the Texas vs Ohio State Fiesta Bowl and rooting for Texas even though HW2's dad played for Ohio State in his day. Max if you are watching, forgive our change in loyalities but when in Texas, root for........... On Thursday we plan to watch the Oklahoma vs Florida game and rooting for Oklahoma of course. We like the college games but do not yet seem to care much about pro football.
We could have been playing cards tonight but got the evening postponed till tomorrow night. We hope to play either Pitch or Pinocle both of which we enjoy immensely. We have met some lovely Nebraska people who like to play cards. They hail from Hastings and we have friends in common.
The welcome rain today was so needed but the weather keep in the thirties and I had to work indoors but got the window cut and ground and later began the copper foiling. Then watching the game became the priority and the rest of the glass work can wait until tomorrow.
The second half of the game has begun so I must leave this blog and pay attention. Happy travels.
We could have been playing cards tonight but got the evening postponed till tomorrow night. We hope to play either Pitch or Pinocle both of which we enjoy immensely. We have met some lovely Nebraska people who like to play cards. They hail from Hastings and we have friends in common.
The welcome rain today was so needed but the weather keep in the thirties and I had to work indoors but got the window cut and ground and later began the copper foiling. Then watching the game became the priority and the rest of the glass work can wait until tomorrow.
The second half of the game has begun so I must leave this blog and pay attention. Happy travels.
It Is Raining -- Yeah!!!!
The weather report promised rain in the night, and I woke up to hear it begin. Central Texas has been in and is suffering from a severe drought from quite some time. The river that runs through this campground resort is nearly dry, so much so, that the deer easily wade across each night to be fed here. The grounds are parched, and the dry grass is brittle to walk on. We have been under severe fire danger for months, and so we are thoroughly delighted to have it rain. Better yet, it is supposed to rain today and tomorrow.
Yesterday I tried to work on glass outside but it kept getting colder and colder, finally dropping below 50 degrees, and I had to give up and come in, finished for the day. The management here lets me work in their workshop when necessary, so I plan to do that today. Each of these windows seems to take longer than I expect it to, but that is fine as long as it gradually gets done.
We had some good news that good friends Joetta and Bill have moved into their new house on their farm in Iowa. They had the house built to their specifications, and it has a lovely view to the east of the rolling farm land of Iowa. We got a tour while it was being built. Now their son and his bride will move into the old farm house and make it their home. It is wonderful to see farm families living and working together, as they are stewards of the land.
When we went to see the rock collector people in Socorro over Christmas, we also learned that one of their sons lives on their left side, and a daughter lives on the right while his aging mother lives in the house in the back. It is quite the family compound, and they get together and share many family meals and undertakings. In our society today, you do not frequently see such togetherness. Our family seems to be spread all over the country, and thus we feel privileged to be able to visit them, but we wish some were closer on a regular basis. The years we spent in Albuquerque and Omaha gave us a chance to be near some of our kids and their families. A blessing for sure. Happy travels.
Yesterday I tried to work on glass outside but it kept getting colder and colder, finally dropping below 50 degrees, and I had to give up and come in, finished for the day. The management here lets me work in their workshop when necessary, so I plan to do that today. Each of these windows seems to take longer than I expect it to, but that is fine as long as it gradually gets done.
We had some good news that good friends Joetta and Bill have moved into their new house on their farm in Iowa. They had the house built to their specifications, and it has a lovely view to the east of the rolling farm land of Iowa. We got a tour while it was being built. Now their son and his bride will move into the old farm house and make it their home. It is wonderful to see farm families living and working together, as they are stewards of the land.
When we went to see the rock collector people in Socorro over Christmas, we also learned that one of their sons lives on their left side, and a daughter lives on the right while his aging mother lives in the house in the back. It is quite the family compound, and they get together and share many family meals and undertakings. In our society today, you do not frequently see such togetherness. Our family seems to be spread all over the country, and thus we feel privileged to be able to visit them, but we wish some were closer on a regular basis. The years we spent in Albuquerque and Omaha gave us a chance to be near some of our kids and their families. A blessing for sure. Happy travels.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Work Camping
We are seriously thinking of becoming work campers. Generally, it is providing work at a campground in exchange for staying at the site for free. Our friend Byron does this in Durango, CO, during the summer months, and we might be able to do it there also. We might be able to do the same thing here at our RV resort in Kerrville and plan to talk with the owner manager very soon and see what could be arranged and when.
Several years ago we did the same thing when we worked for Arthur at his B & B on Friday harbor in the San Juan Islands. It was good hard work, and we enjoyed it thoroughly. So we shall see what comes to pass and keep you informed for sure. Happy travels.
Several years ago we did the same thing when we worked for Arthur at his B & B on Friday harbor in the San Juan Islands. It was good hard work, and we enjoyed it thoroughly. So we shall see what comes to pass and keep you informed for sure. Happy travels.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
My Mosaic MeMe
This is my Mosaic MeMe, an idea from daughter Kristy. Try it!
Here’s how it works:
a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.
b. Using only the first page, pick an image.
c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd’s mosaic maker. Choose 3 columns with 4 rows.
The Questions:
1. What is your first name? Digger (Chuck only referred to sneakers!)
2. What is your favorite food? Pecan Pie
3. What high school did you go to? (or, What year did you graduate high school?) 1956
3. What high school did you go to? (or, What year did you graduate high school?) 1956
4. What is your favorite color? Blue
5. Who is your celebrity crush? Our Sandy... Sandra Bullock
6. Favorite drink? Gin and tonic (preferably, Blue Sapphire)
7. Dream vacation? Greece
8. Favorite dessert? Brownie with chocolate frosting
9. What you want to be when you grow up? Old
10. What do you love most in life? Miss Judy
11. One Word to describe you. Naughty
12. Your flickr name. (kid version: favorite animal?) No Flickr name, so I used my favorite animal, Opus, the Cocker Spaniel
Try it! It's fun, even if it does take a while... Check out HW2 for another or Kristy's blog for hers!
Back to stained glass works
I took a ten day break at the holidays from working on a big glass project. Sandy and Ed want a series of four windows which will be Icelandic Poppies for their main room of their ranch house. Before Christmas I completed the first window in the sequence and today started window number two. I really think a series like this will be neat to see and have and look forward to completing the work. Right now the design is cut out and glued onto pieces of glass and once this dries, I can begin the cutting and grinding process. Ass i complete each window I hope to insert a photo of the work into this blog and you can see the progress. Happy travels.
Resolutions
Resolutions are a sometime thing with me. Usually of late I have not made any but decided this year to only make one. Did you make any????? Mine is not real exciting but I will try to keep it in good shape. I have been getting too fat lately and decided about a month and a half ago to lose some of the weight, especially around my middle. I thank my brother-in -law Mike for the inspiration since he recently underwent a quadruple bypass. He is doing much better now and we are all proud of his great progress. My goal was to lose 15 pounds. To date I have lost 12 and now can get into one size smaller pants. How about that. I have not had a 36" waist in 30 years. So it goes. I have three more pounds to go to meet my goal weight and then shall see if I plateau or try to lose some more.
Yesterday I went to buy some new and smaller jeans. It was rewarding to be able to get them on. So on that happy note, we are off for breakfast at the Del Norte Restaurant with our friend Byron. Guess that means nothing more to eat until dinner. Happy travels.
Yesterday I went to buy some new and smaller jeans. It was rewarding to be able to get them on. So on that happy note, we are off for breakfast at the Del Norte Restaurant with our friend Byron. Guess that means nothing more to eat until dinner. Happy travels.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
She's Back!
From Happy Wanderer Two:
This is just to let you know that I have returned, and I need inspiration! Any topics I should write about? All suggestions will be welcome! Happy New Year!
This is just to let you know that I have returned, and I need inspiration! Any topics I should write about? All suggestions will be welcome! Happy New Year!
Husker Football on New Year's Day
We celebrated the old year out and the new one in by attending a dance with all kinds of things to eat and drink at the main pavilion here last night in the RV park in Kerrville. The music was provided by a live five-piece band who cater to us old folks with music from the forty's, fifty's and sixties. We danced a lot and are feeling it today. We visited with many friends, helped serve at the liquor bar for awhile, ate snacks, and finally finished it off with a bit of champagne at midnight.
This morning we walked to the office to get a local paper and then had a leisurely breakfast, followed by completing final setup concerns and putting Christmas decorations away. By noon we had the television on to watch Nebraska play Clemson in the Gator Bowl in Florida. Clemson was favored to win by a point or two, and it looked during the first half that the result might go that way. But our Huskers came back to win the game in the second half. When the game was over, we immediately called grandson James to gloat since he does not like the Huskers. "Bless His Heart," he took the ribbing in good stead. A nice way to start a new year. Happy travels, and may each of you have a happy and healthy new year.
This morning we walked to the office to get a local paper and then had a leisurely breakfast, followed by completing final setup concerns and putting Christmas decorations away. By noon we had the television on to watch Nebraska play Clemson in the Gator Bowl in Florida. Clemson was favored to win by a point or two, and it looked during the first half that the result might go that way. But our Huskers came back to win the game in the second half. When the game was over, we immediately called grandson James to gloat since he does not like the Huskers. "Bless His Heart," he took the ribbing in good stead. A nice way to start a new year. Happy travels, and may each of you have a happy and healthy new year.
Remembering the Ahart Family
For many years when we were growing up, we would go over to visit the Ahart family on New Year's Day. Ethel Ahart was a Warner cousin to our grandmother. Her husband Alton delivered the mail in Candor, NY. Since our Grandfather Roe also delivered the mail, we had that connection, too. They had five children, and several were our ages. Their oldest boy served in WW II, and we never really got to know Dick that well. Barbara was a college girl when I was in grade school but Alan, Carolyn and Rita were more our ages.
We always had a big dinner with way too much for everyone to eat. Ethel particularly liked to make sweet potatoes with marshmallows. Usually the meat was a roasted turkey with all of the trimmings, of course. Everyone brought dishes to pass, and the conversation flowed. We kids played and played before and after the meal and never wanted to go home.
The last time I had seen any of the members of this family was when Mom celebrated her 80th birthday. That was 16 years ago. I hope that they still get together for New Year's Day. Happy travels.
We always had a big dinner with way too much for everyone to eat. Ethel particularly liked to make sweet potatoes with marshmallows. Usually the meat was a roasted turkey with all of the trimmings, of course. Everyone brought dishes to pass, and the conversation flowed. We kids played and played before and after the meal and never wanted to go home.
The last time I had seen any of the members of this family was when Mom celebrated her 80th birthday. That was 16 years ago. I hope that they still get together for New Year's Day. Happy travels.
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