After spending 3 great days down in Southern Italy, we then headed back up to Rome for our last 4 days. As we had visited the Vatican when we on the cruise ship, we decided to visit the other sites around Rome. Have to tell you, Rome is great and we had a lot of fun. We saw the Forum, Collesium, Paletine Hill, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish steps, etc, etc. We were staying outside of downtown Rome and took the bus from our Hotel (good idea). Did a lot of walking and we just enjoyed ourselves.
On our last night in Rome, we found a Chinese (spelled Cinese in Rome) that was fantastic and a nice change for us.
So we piled all of our luggage back into the rental car and headed out to the Rome airport. Had a great ride home back to the states and said good-bye to Dennis and Cathy when we got to Dulles airport.
We had a wondeful trip and saw and did so much. After being gone for 2 months, it has been a little hard to get used to dealing in US Dollars, not seeing KM on the road signs and hearing English. We are glad to be back home and now I need to start working on those pictures we took.
We heard from Cathy and Dennis the other day and it looks like we are going to see them in January down in Monterey for a couple of days. So we will be doing an RV trip.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Saturday, November 6, 2010
The Island of Capri, Italy and Sorrento
After an afternoon in Sorrento we headed over to the Island of Capri for the day. Found this video and it sure helps explain the island and the fun we had.
No, I did not do the chairlift......
No, I did not do the chairlift......
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Well I drove the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy, so beautiful. Found this video and it gives a pretty good description of the area.
Sorrento and Capri
Well after getting some rest, we headed out the next day to Sorrento and Capri. You have to take a ferry over to Capri and we lucked out with great weather and some calm seas.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CCVXMLzGeE&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CCVXMLzGeE&feature=related
Back Off the Ship
Well we got off the ship in Rome on October 17th. We then lugged our luggage over to the Hertz rental place in the the port city of Civitavecchi after being dropped off by the cruise shuttle. We were keeping our fingers crossed that Hertz gave us a vehile big enough for all of our stuff. Yeah!!!! we got another Van this one was FIAT.
As Dennis had been chopping at the bit to drive, he got behind the wheel and we headed on our way down to the Sorrento coast of Italy.
We stayed at at another Holiday Inn that was right off the coast about 20 minutes South of Naples and about 25 minutes North of Sorrento.
It was funny having Dennis drive as he got a better appreciation of what I had been dealing with, scooters and/or motor bikes on both sides of you, how they pass and all. The best part was when we missed a turn and we ended up in this little industrial area south of Naples and all vehicles were fighting as to who was going get through the interesection first. And since he was so quiet while I was driving, so was I!!!! Think not!!!! Pay back was so much fun......
After checking into our hotel we decided to head into town and get something to eat.
As Dennis had been chopping at the bit to drive, he got behind the wheel and we headed on our way down to the Sorrento coast of Italy.
We stayed at at another Holiday Inn that was right off the coast about 20 minutes South of Naples and about 25 minutes North of Sorrento.
It was funny having Dennis drive as he got a better appreciation of what I had been dealing with, scooters and/or motor bikes on both sides of you, how they pass and all. The best part was when we missed a turn and we ended up in this little industrial area south of Naples and all vehicles were fighting as to who was going get through the interesection first. And since he was so quiet while I was driving, so was I!!!! Think not!!!! Pay back was so much fun......
After checking into our hotel we decided to head into town and get something to eat.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Tunis, Sicily and Naples
After we left Mallorca we then headed out to Sea for 2 days. This was cool as it gave us some down time.
Our first port after the 2 day sail was Tunis, located in North Africa. As we were not sure about traveling on our own in this area we did an organized tour. Oh my goodness what a wonderful city and area. We were cautioned about pushy vendors and all, of which we never encountered. We lucked out again and had a wonderful tour guide and so enjoyed what we saw.
After Tunis, we then headed over to Sicily and Naples. We again had a great visit and so enjoyed the various things we did. We did Marsala wine tasting in Sciliy and visited Sorrento and Pompei. This was great as it gave us a little heads up on where we were staying once we got off the ship in Rome. Pompei was so interesting and all.
Yes, yes, I will be posting pictures.
Our first port after the 2 day sail was Tunis, located in North Africa. As we were not sure about traveling on our own in this area we did an organized tour. Oh my goodness what a wonderful city and area. We were cautioned about pushy vendors and all, of which we never encountered. We lucked out again and had a wonderful tour guide and so enjoyed what we saw.
After Tunis, we then headed over to Sicily and Naples. We again had a great visit and so enjoyed the various things we did. We did Marsala wine tasting in Sciliy and visited Sorrento and Pompei. This was great as it gave us a little heads up on where we were staying once we got off the ship in Rome. Pompei was so interesting and all.
Yes, yes, I will be posting pictures.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Barcelona and Mallorca
After a very rough evening and day at sea we landed at Barcelona and were there for 2 days.
I absolutely loved Barcelona. On this side of the Med, we did not have as many organized ship excursions as we had on the Eastern side. So the four of us ventured out and toured around Barcelona on our own.
Of course we went and saw the Church designed by Gaudi. Oh my goodness it takes gaudiness to a new level. He started this church in the 1800's and never finished it.
We visited a museum which helped us to understand the Castellian side of Spain and all of their history.
Then we walked around the city and one of the main streets, vendors, mimes, people and such vibrancy. Can't say enough.
A couple of days later we then went over to Mallorca, Spain. Another great city and place to visit.
I absolutely loved Barcelona. On this side of the Med, we did not have as many organized ship excursions as we had on the Eastern side. So the four of us ventured out and toured around Barcelona on our own.
Of course we went and saw the Church designed by Gaudi. Oh my goodness it takes gaudiness to a new level. He started this church in the 1800's and never finished it.
We visited a museum which helped us to understand the Castellian side of Spain and all of their history.
Then we walked around the city and one of the main streets, vendors, mimes, people and such vibrancy. Can't say enough.
A couple of days later we then went over to Mallorca, Spain. Another great city and place to visit.
Cannes-Rough Seas
After leaving Livorna, we were suppose to head over to Monte Carlo, however, a good size storm was coming in and the captain told us the port over at Cannes was better protected. We encountered some rough seas on the way over. Additionally, some type of cold bug was going around the ship and it finally got to me.
With our day in port at Cannes, Dennis and Cathy took the tenders out and visited the city, while I rested on ship.
That night we left Cannes and boy oh boy, we hit some very rough seas.
Thank goodness I had some antibiotics as it sure help me to kick the cold and all.
With our day in port at Cannes, Dennis and Cathy took the tenders out and visited the city, while I rested on ship.
That night we left Cannes and boy oh boy, we hit some very rough seas.
Thank goodness I had some antibiotics as it sure help me to kick the cold and all.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Livorna, Luca and Pisa--Meeting up with an old Friend
Our next port of call was Livorna, Italy. A friend from high school who has lived in Italy for the last 30 years drove down and picked Ron and I up. Ambra and I hung around with the same group of people and it was so great seeing her after all of these years.
Ambra and her hubby Renato picked us up in Livorna and we headed up to Pisa and Lucca. We got to the see the leaning tower and she gave us a little history lesson on one of the churches by the Tower.
We then headed up to Lucca and visited the old town. We so like Lucca. Not crowded like some of the other older fortified cities we had been too and there were more locals walking around and all. It is so weird to be in a walled city and not even hear what is going on outside of these walls. Again, Ambra was a great tour guide and we had a great lunch. It was so great being with someone who knew the area, the roads and had so much history and information to share with us.
Renato shared with us how the Italians eat this sweet desert cookie with a sweet glass of wine.
It was also so nice to meet up with an old friend from high school. I keep saying there is something about that connection that continues for years and years.
Ambra and her hubby Renato picked us up in Livorna and we headed up to Pisa and Lucca. We got to the see the leaning tower and she gave us a little history lesson on one of the churches by the Tower.
We then headed up to Lucca and visited the old town. We so like Lucca. Not crowded like some of the other older fortified cities we had been too and there were more locals walking around and all. It is so weird to be in a walled city and not even hear what is going on outside of these walls. Again, Ambra was a great tour guide and we had a great lunch. It was so great being with someone who knew the area, the roads and had so much history and information to share with us.
Renato shared with us how the Italians eat this sweet desert cookie with a sweet glass of wine.
It was also so nice to meet up with an old friend from high school. I keep saying there is something about that connection that continues for years and years.
Cruise Part 2 Rome
Well we came back into Rome to pick up new passengers who were only doing a 10 day Western Med and letting off those who had completed their 10 and/or 20 Day portion. With a day in Rome we decided to do the Vatican, St. Peter's and overview of Rome.
The one great thing about doing a cruise excursion is you get to avoid the lines and all, however the negative side is that you don't get to spend a lot of time visiting something.
We got to spent about 4 hours at the Vatican and St. Peter's Basicilia. We had a great tour guide and have to say it was well worth the visit and all. I know we did not get to see everything in the Vatican and all but we saw quite a bit and as I said earlier our tour guide was quite knowlegeable on the various pieces of Art and History.
The Sistine Chapel was another WOW factor for me. But it is definetly a little smaller than what you imagine from the movies and all. Your neck gets a little tired from looking up and all.
We then moved on to St. Peter's and OMG that was another church that I was just so overwhelmed with. You just cannot describe how beautiful it is.
While we were there, the French President was visiting the Pople so as we were already in the Vatican they had closed it off to others entering and we also were lucky to be able to visit St. Peter's Basicilia as that had been closed off as well. We think we got some pictures of him and his entourage but not sure.
Our guide told us that 16k people visit the Vatican each day. As we were there in the early AM it wasn't too bad but by the time we left the crowds had deftinely increased.
Well we had our first experience with a tour guide who did not keep track of time. Our bus guide (who was different from the Vatican tour guide), didn't realize the time on the bus listed on like an hour off and so she lost track of time. We were suppose to be back on the boat at 4:15 p.m. and we were still touring around Rome at 4:30 p.m., and it is a 45 minute ride from downtown Rome out to our ship's port. She kept having our bus driver show us around Rome and then realized what was going on and have to tell you, our bus driver made it back to our cruise ship in about 40 minutes and because there were 38 of us, Holland held the cruise for us. We were about 90 minutes late and all of us had a good laugh on our experience.
The one great thing about doing a cruise excursion is you get to avoid the lines and all, however the negative side is that you don't get to spend a lot of time visiting something.
We got to spent about 4 hours at the Vatican and St. Peter's Basicilia. We had a great tour guide and have to say it was well worth the visit and all. I know we did not get to see everything in the Vatican and all but we saw quite a bit and as I said earlier our tour guide was quite knowlegeable on the various pieces of Art and History.
The Sistine Chapel was another WOW factor for me. But it is definetly a little smaller than what you imagine from the movies and all. Your neck gets a little tired from looking up and all.
We then moved on to St. Peter's and OMG that was another church that I was just so overwhelmed with. You just cannot describe how beautiful it is.
While we were there, the French President was visiting the Pople so as we were already in the Vatican they had closed it off to others entering and we also were lucky to be able to visit St. Peter's Basicilia as that had been closed off as well. We think we got some pictures of him and his entourage but not sure.
Our guide told us that 16k people visit the Vatican each day. As we were there in the early AM it wasn't too bad but by the time we left the crowds had deftinely increased.
Well we had our first experience with a tour guide who did not keep track of time. Our bus guide (who was different from the Vatican tour guide), didn't realize the time on the bus listed on like an hour off and so she lost track of time. We were suppose to be back on the boat at 4:15 p.m. and we were still touring around Rome at 4:30 p.m., and it is a 45 minute ride from downtown Rome out to our ship's port. She kept having our bus driver show us around Rome and then realized what was going on and have to tell you, our bus driver made it back to our cruise ship in about 40 minutes and because there were 38 of us, Holland held the cruise for us. We were about 90 minutes late and all of us had a good laugh on our experience.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Cruise Part 1
OMG, we went to so many ports and saw so many things. On the Eastern Med, would have to say that Ephesus and Sorentini were my favorites. Croatia was 2nd. What a WOW factor with Ephesus and the ruins. Defintely feel like Ephesus surpassed Athens as to the Wow factor. Athens was crazy and crowded.
Sorentini was another great port and we spent about a day and 1/2 there. I even went up on the tram, which was a great feat for me.
We had about 150 Aussies and about 80 New Zealanders on this portion of our trip and what a fun time we had with them on ship. Big party animals those Aussie's and Kiwi's. Met quite a few American's and made some new friends.
Have taken so many pictures, now need to work on them and get them posted.
We had great weather on this portion of our cruise. I'll add more information about Cruise 2 in the next blog.
Sorentini was another great port and we spent about a day and 1/2 there. I even went up on the tram, which was a great feat for me.
We had about 150 Aussies and about 80 New Zealanders on this portion of our trip and what a fun time we had with them on ship. Big party animals those Aussie's and Kiwi's. Met quite a few American's and made some new friends.
Have taken so many pictures, now need to work on them and get them posted.
We had great weather on this portion of our cruise. I'll add more information about Cruise 2 in the next blog.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Our thoughts and Getting on the Boat
We have had one heck of a good time driving around the countries we visited. The driving wasn't as bad as we had been told, although I have started not to look at the other driver as I am merging into their traffic. Just raise your arms and honk!!!!
The castles, old towns, forts and museums have been worth visiting.
Some of the other things we saw off the road are the ladies selling their services to the drivers. At first we weren't sure what they were doing and then we noticed them in more numbers when we were in a couple of port cities as they came over to our car. When they realized a woman was driving, they gave us a second look and so then went to the back windowns to find the guys. Ha-ha
We have had great food. Although today when we got into Rome, we found a McDonald's and that is what we had for dinner.
I am still trying to get our pictures uploaded but it seems I am either too tired or just not able to get to the internet.
Tomorrow, we head out to the port city and get on the big boat. While we have enjoyed all of this touring, we are ready for our clothes to be in one place and have someone else do the driving for us on the tours. However, we will lose the freedom we have enjoyed of changing our minds when we want to go somewhere.
I have driving up and down some very scary streets and roads, cussing those boys in the back seat who Cathy and I now call "Laurel and Hardy". One back road Ron got us on, it was a darn good thing the cliff was on Cathy's side.
We didn't get a chance to get into Florence and/or Pisa. On our last part of the trip after the boat, we are thinking of heading down the coast on the Adriactic side of Italy.
I will post when I can after we do some cruising.
CIAO and we miss everyone. I am off to have a glass of wine and relax for our next adventure.
The castles, old towns, forts and museums have been worth visiting.
Some of the other things we saw off the road are the ladies selling their services to the drivers. At first we weren't sure what they were doing and then we noticed them in more numbers when we were in a couple of port cities as they came over to our car. When they realized a woman was driving, they gave us a second look and so then went to the back windowns to find the guys. Ha-ha
We have had great food. Although today when we got into Rome, we found a McDonald's and that is what we had for dinner.
I am still trying to get our pictures uploaded but it seems I am either too tired or just not able to get to the internet.
Tomorrow, we head out to the port city and get on the big boat. While we have enjoyed all of this touring, we are ready for our clothes to be in one place and have someone else do the driving for us on the tours. However, we will lose the freedom we have enjoyed of changing our minds when we want to go somewhere.
I have driving up and down some very scary streets and roads, cussing those boys in the back seat who Cathy and I now call "Laurel and Hardy". One back road Ron got us on, it was a darn good thing the cliff was on Cathy's side.
We didn't get a chance to get into Florence and/or Pisa. On our last part of the trip after the boat, we are thinking of heading down the coast on the Adriactic side of Italy.
I will post when I can after we do some cruising.
CIAO and we miss everyone. I am off to have a glass of wine and relax for our next adventure.
Siena and Tuscany
We had a change in plans after leaving the Lake area and ended up in Siena and the Tuscan area for about 5 days.
Had a great time visiting some wineries and the old town of Siena. Lots of people but we visited a great Museum. In fact at one of the wineries we went too, we invited the wine maker over to visit with us as he is planning on coming out to California and I was telling him about the great wineries over in our area of Northern CA instead of Napa. Have to tell you, we understand why the Tuscany area is known for their Chianti and Sangiovese, OMG, unbeleiveably great.
Having wine with dinner is cheaper than having a coke, so I am enjoying giving Ron a hard time that for once his drink bill is more than mine!!!!
After leaving Siena, we headed up to the town of San Giamino (spl) and stayed in this small villa. Another great visit of their old town and all.
We are now in Rome and are getting ready to get onto the ship on Tuesday.
Had a great time visiting some wineries and the old town of Siena. Lots of people but we visited a great Museum. In fact at one of the wineries we went too, we invited the wine maker over to visit with us as he is planning on coming out to California and I was telling him about the great wineries over in our area of Northern CA instead of Napa. Have to tell you, we understand why the Tuscany area is known for their Chianti and Sangiovese, OMG, unbeleiveably great.
Having wine with dinner is cheaper than having a coke, so I am enjoying giving Ron a hard time that for once his drink bill is more than mine!!!!
After leaving Siena, we headed up to the town of San Giamino (spl) and stayed in this small villa. Another great visit of their old town and all.
We are now in Rome and are getting ready to get onto the ship on Tuesday.
Monday, September 20, 2010
French-Geman Border and Switzerland
After we left Wurzburg, we then headed over towards the French/Germany border and drove through the wine area known as "Alsace" area. We found a neat little village town called St. Hippolyte. What a real little gem of a place this was. We found a nice little hotel and after getting settled in, Ron and I walked into the little town square. You defintely have to be careful walking through some of these small towns as the streets are not that wide and the drivers are defintely on their way to somewhere fast.
Found a cool little bakery and checked out their sweets and all. Then we crossed the street to a little wine bar and had a couple of glasses of wine sitting with the other local folks watching all of the action going on. It was just so nice to do this.
The next day we went up to this really neat old castle just a little bit out of town and then headed over to Switzerland. This was our longest drive so far and we had a little bit of trouble finding a place to stay in Lusanne. So we drove on a little further and stayed in this town, that right now I can't remember and just spent the night there. It was an ok place and have to honest, Switzerland didn't impress us like the other places we have been too.
Found a cool little bakery and checked out their sweets and all. Then we crossed the street to a little wine bar and had a couple of glasses of wine sitting with the other local folks watching all of the action going on. It was just so nice to do this.
The next day we went up to this really neat old castle just a little bit out of town and then headed over to Switzerland. This was our longest drive so far and we had a little bit of trouble finding a place to stay in Lusanne. So we drove on a little further and stayed in this town, that right now I can't remember and just spent the night there. It was an ok place and have to honest, Switzerland didn't impress us like the other places we have been too.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
OK, I have to go there "The Toilet's"
Well if you don't want to read about toilets then don't read this one. What a riot some of these have been.
First, in some places you have to pay to use the facilities at the gas stations. Others, you share a room with the males. Good thing Dennis and I are good friends and we did have a wall separating us.
Then there are the ones, where the toilet, or what they call a toilet is on the floor. Yep, you have to stradle with your legs apart and figure it out. I saw my first one and decided, nope not trying this one out.
Lastly there are the ones with the spring loaded seats that you must first hold down to sit on. Then as you rise up, you get a little spray of perfumed air. That was a little shocking if I must say so myself.
And I just about forgot there are the second toilet, well it is really not a toilet but is called a "bidet", think that is how you spell it. They work pretty good,you just want to make sure you have the one with the hot/cold water that works. Tried that and can't figure out why we don't have these over in the US.
Also, these toilets have the best blushing mechanism I have ever seen. Swoosh and it is all gone!!!
First, in some places you have to pay to use the facilities at the gas stations. Others, you share a room with the males. Good thing Dennis and I are good friends and we did have a wall separating us.
Then there are the ones, where the toilet, or what they call a toilet is on the floor. Yep, you have to stradle with your legs apart and figure it out. I saw my first one and decided, nope not trying this one out.
Lastly there are the ones with the spring loaded seats that you must first hold down to sit on. Then as you rise up, you get a little spray of perfumed air. That was a little shocking if I must say so myself.
And I just about forgot there are the second toilet, well it is really not a toilet but is called a "bidet", think that is how you spell it. They work pretty good,you just want to make sure you have the one with the hot/cold water that works. Tried that and can't figure out why we don't have these over in the US.
Also, these toilets have the best blushing mechanism I have ever seen. Swoosh and it is all gone!!!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Wurzburg
We got into Wurzburg and hit our first hurdle of not being able to find a room. So we decided to drive a little out of town and see what we could find. Stopped at a gas station and they recomended a guesthouse for us. When we got there, we found out they were shooting the moving for another "Three Muskateer's" and they had taken up all the rooms around Wurzburg. However, the owner recommended another guesthouse about 12km outside of Wurzburg. He called for us and they had rooms. We thank him so much and headed over to our new digs. What another great little find. We then decided to stay a couple of days, 3 actually and tour around the area.
The 1st day, we went into old Wurzburg and toured the Palace, WOW, what a huge residence for the old family of Wurzburg. Had lunch in town, another great meal (no pizza!!!) and then headed back to our place.
The 2nd day we visited the Fort and took lots of pictures and did some wine tasting in town. We found out that the term "wine in a box" is not like we American would think but rather the shape of the wine. It is a stout bottle shaped oval and is only done in the area of Wurzburg and surrounding areas.
The owners at the guest house, the husband is the chef. He made pumpkin soup and it was so good. I totally understand now what Micah and Noelle talk about in Germany, pork, pork, pork. We talked with owners and found out the husband was born and raised in the small town where we were staying. He met his wife when they were working for a high end hotel in Munich. He trained for his culinary in Heidelburg and Munch. He is a great cook.
The last day, we drove outside of area and visited a quaint little winery. The owner's wife spoke a little English as she used to date an American. She was very gracious and let us sample
I am still driving and sometimes would like 3 muzzles to keep certain people quiet while driving. And we still have Laurel and Hardy in the back seat figuring out where we going and which way. You know, who is on 1st and 2nd and where do I go next.
The 1st day, we went into old Wurzburg and toured the Palace, WOW, what a huge residence for the old family of Wurzburg. Had lunch in town, another great meal (no pizza!!!) and then headed back to our place.
The 2nd day we visited the Fort and took lots of pictures and did some wine tasting in town. We found out that the term "wine in a box" is not like we American would think but rather the shape of the wine. It is a stout bottle shaped oval and is only done in the area of Wurzburg and surrounding areas.
The owners at the guest house, the husband is the chef. He made pumpkin soup and it was so good. I totally understand now what Micah and Noelle talk about in Germany, pork, pork, pork. We talked with owners and found out the husband was born and raised in the small town where we were staying. He met his wife when they were working for a high end hotel in Munich. He trained for his culinary in Heidelburg and Munch. He is a great cook.
The last day, we drove outside of area and visited a quaint little winery. The owner's wife spoke a little English as she used to date an American. She was very gracious and let us sample
I am still driving and sometimes would like 3 muzzles to keep certain people quiet while driving. And we still have Laurel and Hardy in the back seat figuring out where we going and which way. You know, who is on 1st and 2nd and where do I go next.
Friday, September 17, 2010
After Munich
We left Munich after visiting Dachua and stayed in a wonderful little place in the town of Danuworth. We so lucked out with finding this great little hotel. The owner was a character and very accomodating. There were some Russian pilots staying there as they were doing some training at a Helicopter company. They wanted to to know what brought some American's to the small town where they were staying. We told them, well we just needed a place for the evening and always went off the beaten path.
After dinner, we came back to the hotel and the owner sat with us and told us about his place and shared an after dinner drink with us. He had owned the property for about 35 years and previous to that was in the recycling businnes. He decided to sell his recyling business and then put some money into remodeling the hotel, bar and restaurant. He even had a camping site along the river. He gave us a brochure along with a DVD. We all decided if we were back in that area we would stay there again.
Wonderful little town where you walk with no cars and/or bikes.
After dinner, we came back to the hotel and the owner sat with us and told us about his place and shared an after dinner drink with us. He had owned the property for about 35 years and previous to that was in the recycling businnes. He decided to sell his recyling business and then put some money into remodeling the hotel, bar and restaurant. He even had a camping site along the river. He gave us a brochure along with a DVD. We all decided if we were back in that area we would stay there again.
Wonderful little town where you walk with no cars and/or bikes.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Oh the Autobahn and Munich
Well I am still driving and oh boy what fun. As we got into Germany and closer to Munich, Ron realized there was no longer any speed limitation. Boy, oh boy, I got up to about 155km in the auto and I have to tell you, I was sure wishing I was driving our 540I on the autobahn. It is such a neat experience, the road and how it is built you just can't explain it. But I do have to say, I was passed by many other Beemers and Benz drivers who left me standing at 155. I defintely paid attention to the rule you can drive in the fast lane but when you see someone coming move your butt over as they just zip by you so fast.
We made a change in plans and instead of staying a couple of days in Munich we only did 1 visit. They are getting ready for Octoberfest and they already were putting up barricades on various streets.
So what we did was visit Dachau. You read that this concentration camp is considered the "pretty one", well, not sure how you can say that but it was something we all wanted to visit and considering what happened there it was worth the trip to visit.
We then drove on out of Munich and again got on the autobahn (yippee) and ended up staying in a "pensioner" in the town of Donawurth. Oh, what a great find. The rooms were great and we had a great visit with the owner who shared a couple of after dinner drinks with us after we came back from town and dinner. The owner used to own a "reclying busines" and has owned this property for 35 years. Decided to sell his business and do the inn thing. They completely remodeled the hotel, bar and restaurant. He even has a camping site for campers as his property is right next to the river. He was quite a character. He gave us his brochure along with a dvd for this place.
We do have to say that we are so glad we have our gps lady as she has really helped us find places along the way, also has helped us to find out where we are going.
We made a change in plans and instead of staying a couple of days in Munich we only did 1 visit. They are getting ready for Octoberfest and they already were putting up barricades on various streets.
So what we did was visit Dachau. You read that this concentration camp is considered the "pretty one", well, not sure how you can say that but it was something we all wanted to visit and considering what happened there it was worth the trip to visit.
We then drove on out of Munich and again got on the autobahn (yippee) and ended up staying in a "pensioner" in the town of Donawurth. Oh, what a great find. The rooms were great and we had a great visit with the owner who shared a couple of after dinner drinks with us after we came back from town and dinner. The owner used to own a "reclying busines" and has owned this property for 35 years. Decided to sell his business and do the inn thing. They completely remodeled the hotel, bar and restaurant. He even has a camping site for campers as his property is right next to the river. He was quite a character. He gave us his brochure along with a dvd for this place.
We do have to say that we are so glad we have our gps lady as she has really helped us find places along the way, also has helped us to find out where we are going.
Internet and Salzburg
Ok, we have had limited internet access after we left Italy and Austria. So I will do a couple of posts so you can know what we have been up too.
We stayed in Salzburg for an evening and then headed over to view and visit "Eagle's Nest". This is the house that Hitler was supposed to of lived and visted if you believe all of the movie stuff. However, we found out and realized, there are no bedrooms up at Eagle Nest and Hitler only visited this place 14 times. Rather it was used for dignitaries and show. He actually lived down below the Eagle Nest location. We had a great tour guide who explained to us how all of the local people were asked to move out of their homes so the bad guys (Nazi's) could occupy their homes and all. It was a great visit and they had a wonderful museum there. We spent most of the day there and then headed out that late afternoon.
Driving through this area, I swear you would think you were in Northern CA and all sometimes. We found a great little place where after much sign language and laughing we found our room. We ended up sharing an apartment with Dennis and Cathy. We walked in to the village and had a great meal and beer.
Then we headed up towards Munich the next day.
We stayed in Salzburg for an evening and then headed over to view and visit "Eagle's Nest". This is the house that Hitler was supposed to of lived and visted if you believe all of the movie stuff. However, we found out and realized, there are no bedrooms up at Eagle Nest and Hitler only visited this place 14 times. Rather it was used for dignitaries and show. He actually lived down below the Eagle Nest location. We had a great tour guide who explained to us how all of the local people were asked to move out of their homes so the bad guys (Nazi's) could occupy their homes and all. It was a great visit and they had a wonderful museum there. We spent most of the day there and then headed out that late afternoon.
Driving through this area, I swear you would think you were in Northern CA and all sometimes. We found a great little place where after much sign language and laughing we found our room. We ended up sharing an apartment with Dennis and Cathy. We walked in to the village and had a great meal and beer.
Then we headed up towards Munich the next day.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Trieste and Udine
We left Venice yesterday and drove over to Trieste. It is a bustling city along the Adriactic coast and it was our first challengning moment of dealing with our gps lady. We found ourselves in the middle of city traffic and then trying to figure out how to get out of town. One back seat driver said turn this way and the other back seat driver said turn this a way and Cathy and I deciding to follow the gps lady. Well that was an interesting little trip. After a couple of turns and all, we ended up on this street that reminded of Lombardo Streeet in SF, cobblestones and all, except instead of being 1 way it was a 2 way street. We had 2 occasions where first I was not sure if the guy coming down and me going up were going to be able to pass each other. Then when the garbage truck came down, I decided to back up and let him pass me by. However, we made it up the hill and decided that was not a route we wanted to try again. It was one steep mother of a hill!!!!!
After Trieste, we headed North and went into a little town called Gorzio (spl). Visited this very old castle and walked around a little bit of the town and enjoyed some gelato and sitting out on the sidewalk.
We are now in the town of Udine. It is just a stop for us as we are heading up towards Salzburg this morning. Again, we got another great local restuarant recommedation. Truly believe we were the only English speaking customer's but we had a great meal. Wine with dinner is so cheap, we just cannot believe that part. And our meals, $4 to $6 for a litre of vino and the food prices have been good as well.
I am hoping to have some pictures downloaded in the next day or so.
After Trieste, we headed North and went into a little town called Gorzio (spl). Visited this very old castle and walked around a little bit of the town and enjoyed some gelato and sitting out on the sidewalk.
We are now in the town of Udine. It is just a stop for us as we are heading up towards Salzburg this morning. Again, we got another great local restuarant recommedation. Truly believe we were the only English speaking customer's but we had a great meal. Wine with dinner is so cheap, we just cannot believe that part. And our meals, $4 to $6 for a litre of vino and the food prices have been good as well.
I am hoping to have some pictures downloaded in the next day or so.
Venice
We made it to Venice on Tuesday and spent about a day and a half there. As we got into Venice late into the afternoon, we just kind of vegged and unwound from the driving. Still getting those smiles and looks as they see a female driving with the guys sitting in the back. However, those guys need to be quicker on the dime with their directions. And talk about back seat drivers, you would think that I had not been driving for 35+ or more years. So you know demure me, yep right, told them "just stick to telling me when to turn and make sure we are going in the right direction".
Along their highways they have what we would call "fast food" places located on the grounds where they sell gasoline. Let me tell you their fast food is fresh and very, very good. We decided that we like "Chef Express" the best. Great pandini,pastries and other things.
We ventured out in a local neighborhood from our hotel and went to a local restuarant recommended by the person behind the desk. He told us it was about 5 minutes from the hotel, 45 minutes later we found the place. Cathy and I asked for help and sign language sure works pretty good. The food was fantastics and we got to talking with the owners in our limited Italian and their limited English. We met a couple of guys from New York city.
On Wednesday,it was pouring down rain, Cathy and Ron were starting to come down with colds and Dennis needed a poncho to cover his sling. So they went shopping and I tagged along with the guys from NY and visited old Venice with them. Went to a wondeful museum and St. Mark's chapel there in San Marco square. As it had rained really hard that morning and high tide the square was flooded. It was fun to watch how people were walking through the water either with water shoes, plastic wrapped around their legs and/or barefoot. I followed the crowd and we walked along a high spot where the water was not so deep. You know, when in Italy, do as the locals are doing.
The rest of the gang came into old town Venice later in the afternoon and we hooked up. After walking around and seeing some stuff we decided instead of waiting for the hotel shuttle to pick us up that we would take the local bus back to the hotel. That was an experience. The bus driver nodded yes this is the one, we get on and after a little while and a couple of turns, I told them, this is not the right bus. So we got off and tried figuring out where the hell we were. Again, some local people helped us (have to tell you, this guy thing of not asking is killing Cathy and I) and we got ourseves on the right bus. We went back to the restuarant and had another great meal.
Venice has lots of little wine bars and the early evening there are lots of people out in the neighborhoods drinking coffee, wine, reading their books, papers or just visiting with each other. It is pretty cool to be experiencing all of this in these smaller neighborhoods.
And yes, we have tried Gelato, mmmmmm good.
Along their highways they have what we would call "fast food" places located on the grounds where they sell gasoline. Let me tell you their fast food is fresh and very, very good. We decided that we like "Chef Express" the best. Great pandini,pastries and other things.
We ventured out in a local neighborhood from our hotel and went to a local restuarant recommended by the person behind the desk. He told us it was about 5 minutes from the hotel, 45 minutes later we found the place. Cathy and I asked for help and sign language sure works pretty good. The food was fantastics and we got to talking with the owners in our limited Italian and their limited English. We met a couple of guys from New York city.
On Wednesday,it was pouring down rain, Cathy and Ron were starting to come down with colds and Dennis needed a poncho to cover his sling. So they went shopping and I tagged along with the guys from NY and visited old Venice with them. Went to a wondeful museum and St. Mark's chapel there in San Marco square. As it had rained really hard that morning and high tide the square was flooded. It was fun to watch how people were walking through the water either with water shoes, plastic wrapped around their legs and/or barefoot. I followed the crowd and we walked along a high spot where the water was not so deep. You know, when in Italy, do as the locals are doing.
The rest of the gang came into old town Venice later in the afternoon and we hooked up. After walking around and seeing some stuff we decided instead of waiting for the hotel shuttle to pick us up that we would take the local bus back to the hotel. That was an experience. The bus driver nodded yes this is the one, we get on and after a little while and a couple of turns, I told them, this is not the right bus. So we got off and tried figuring out where the hell we were. Again, some local people helped us (have to tell you, this guy thing of not asking is killing Cathy and I) and we got ourseves on the right bus. We went back to the restuarant and had another great meal.
Venice has lots of little wine bars and the early evening there are lots of people out in the neighborhoods drinking coffee, wine, reading their books, papers or just visiting with each other. It is pretty cool to be experiencing all of this in these smaller neighborhoods.
And yes, we have tried Gelato, mmmmmm good.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Rome --- We Arrived
Ok, I have no idea what language this will show up as, but we arrived in Monday, 9-6-10, ready and rearing to go, yeah right. Very long flight but we all made it through.
You all have been wondering about the luggage, well guess what, it didn't fit so we had to get a bigger car. Dennis and I let Cathy and Ron negotiate the upgraded car for us and we ended up with an upgrade with a very small charge. Everyone was happy!!!
Now Dennis can't drive, so yeah you are right, Lizzie is the driver. Let me tell you, I have now been designated as the "Kamikazee Round About Drive Queen", even Dennis was impressed. It is so funny watching the Italian men, when they see 2 females in the front and 2 guys in the back seat and one of the female is driving. Have had lots of comments about "the English girl" and lots of smiles. Hey Adrienne, no pitches yet, but a big "thumbs up" when they saw me getting behind the wheel. From what I hear, pinches are in order!!!!
Now, with me driving, the 2 guys are having to learn to not be back seat driver, but rather be good navigators. OMG, I have got 2 of them giving me 2 different set of directions. So after about 1 hour of listening to all of this differing opinions, we had a "pow wow", I asked them to make sure I was going in the right direction and at least be somewhat together with the directions.
Ok, I will have something for my friend Lyse in the next day or so. Lyse be forewarned, do not have coffee in your mouth in reading the next blog or two.
I'll post some pics of the luggage as well.
The first day we drove from Rome to Ravenna
All in all, they have been great.
We
You all have been wondering about the luggage, well guess what, it didn't fit so we had to get a bigger car. Dennis and I let Cathy and Ron negotiate the upgraded car for us and we ended up with an upgrade with a very small charge. Everyone was happy!!!
Now Dennis can't drive, so yeah you are right, Lizzie is the driver. Let me tell you, I have now been designated as the "Kamikazee Round About Drive Queen", even Dennis was impressed. It is so funny watching the Italian men, when they see 2 females in the front and 2 guys in the back seat and one of the female is driving. Have had lots of comments about "the English girl" and lots of smiles. Hey Adrienne, no pitches yet, but a big "thumbs up" when they saw me getting behind the wheel. From what I hear, pinches are in order!!!!
Now, with me driving, the 2 guys are having to learn to not be back seat driver, but rather be good navigators. OMG, I have got 2 of them giving me 2 different set of directions. So after about 1 hour of listening to all of this differing opinions, we had a "pow wow", I asked them to make sure I was going in the right direction and at least be somewhat together with the directions.
Ok, I will have something for my friend Lyse in the next day or so. Lyse be forewarned, do not have coffee in your mouth in reading the next blog or two.
I'll post some pics of the luggage as well.
The first day we drove from Rome to Ravenna
All in all, they have been great.
We
Friday, September 3, 2010
Ready or Not We are on the Move
Well the final days are here. Come Sunday morning, we will be on a jet plane heading over to Italy and other countries.
The time has come for us to finally realize it is here and if it isn't packed, well what the heck we'll just get it when we get overseas. Plus it would make our bags a little lighter. This 50-lb weight restriction can creep up on you sooner than you think.
Tonight I am opening us up a very nice bottle of Zindfandel wine from Luchessi Winery who is located up here in the Sierra Foothills. We just need to have a relaxing evening as Saturday will be full steam forward, no prisoners taken!!!!
So wish us a good flight and I'll check back in after we get over there.
The time has come for us to finally realize it is here and if it isn't packed, well what the heck we'll just get it when we get overseas. Plus it would make our bags a little lighter. This 50-lb weight restriction can creep up on you sooner than you think.
Tonight I am opening us up a very nice bottle of Zindfandel wine from Luchessi Winery who is located up here in the Sierra Foothills. We just need to have a relaxing evening as Saturday will be full steam forward, no prisoners taken!!!!
So wish us a good flight and I'll check back in after we get over there.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Packing Or At least Attempting Too
So we are starting our packing as we will be getting on a plane in about 6 days. Decided to start yesterday, as this would give me enough time to figure out what to bring and not bring. OMG, it is like way too much for me to handle at the moment. I sat down at the kitchen table and wrote up a "list" of what I needed to make sure I must take with me.
Then we decided to put the shoes we are taking into a separate small duffel bag, which gives me WAY too MUCH room left in the suitcase. I feel like I need to fill up the suitcase, however, we will be weighing our suitcases to make sure we don't exceed the 50 lb.
I did accomplish 1 part of the packing, the dresses, shoes, swimsuit, and pj's I'll be wearing for the cruise and around Europe.
Now laid out over a part of the bedroom floor are the tops, shorts, and capri pants. I am going to let them sit there for a day and rest my mind and retackle it again this afternoon.
Oh and I forgot, the clothes we need to take to the cleaners and have cleaned/pressed as we will those for the trip.......
Then we decided to put the shoes we are taking into a separate small duffel bag, which gives me WAY too MUCH room left in the suitcase. I feel like I need to fill up the suitcase, however, we will be weighing our suitcases to make sure we don't exceed the 50 lb.
I did accomplish 1 part of the packing, the dresses, shoes, swimsuit, and pj's I'll be wearing for the cruise and around Europe.
Now laid out over a part of the bedroom floor are the tops, shorts, and capri pants. I am going to let them sit there for a day and rest my mind and retackle it again this afternoon.
Oh and I forgot, the clothes we need to take to the cleaners and have cleaned/pressed as we will those for the trip.......
Monday, August 23, 2010
Count Down for the Big Trip
Well, our long anticipated trip is just about here. WOW, it seems just like October of last year that we started talking about this trip with our friends Dennis and Cathy.
We all researched the blogs, internet, books and all. So now that the time is here, we are all kind of like in a fog.
So in about 13 days we will be meeting them at the Dulles airport and we will all get on a flight that will take us over to Europe.
You may wonder how we will fare over there and being together for 2 months. Luckily, we've made long trips before with them and pretty much know each other moods. It doesn't mean we may not have a melt down or something. But we are good enough friends that we always make it through those this rough spots and we can laugh about them later on. Just ask Cathy about New Zealand and K-Mart with her and me!!!!
It's my plan to post about travels on this blog and also post some pictures. So check back often, leave comments and wish us luck.
We all researched the blogs, internet, books and all. So now that the time is here, we are all kind of like in a fog.
So in about 13 days we will be meeting them at the Dulles airport and we will all get on a flight that will take us over to Europe.
You may wonder how we will fare over there and being together for 2 months. Luckily, we've made long trips before with them and pretty much know each other moods. It doesn't mean we may not have a melt down or something. But we are good enough friends that we always make it through those this rough spots and we can laugh about them later on. Just ask Cathy about New Zealand and K-Mart with her and me!!!!
It's my plan to post about travels on this blog and also post some pictures. So check back often, leave comments and wish us luck.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Life is Good
I've been mulling over in my mind over the last couple of days, trying to figure out what to "title this latest blog" entry. Decided I like this title, and you know why, "Life is Good"!!!!
Last week, my cousin Ann and her husband Ed stopped by visited and stayed with us. It was so comforting and easy. Kind of like we had known each other for years and we just hadn't seen each other in a couple of months. You must understand, this is the 1st time that I met Ann and Ed. It was such a great visit and we showed them around our little town, did some wine tasting and then hit cruise night for a little while.
As I have said earlier, meeting my sisters and brothers from my Dad's side was easy as well and we do some facial similarities, with my cousin it was just as easy. Found myself getting a little emotional as there was so much more similarity with Anne and I. The same olive skin tones, cheek bones, hands and laugh. It was so interesting to see how similar our husbands are in temperment and personality. My hubby told me later that if we had met when we were younger and single, we could of gotten into some serious trouble with each other.
They were out here in their RV on a quick trip from CO to Las Vegas. So they kind of made a little out of the way trip to stop by and see us.
We shared pictures, laughed and shared some tears (good tears). We are planning an RV trip with them next year and we have already talked since they left to head down South.
Life has its ups and downs, secrets and surprises. However, right now for me "Life is Good". Family discoveries can either be positive and/or negative. You cannot make up for the lost years, and you don't want to do the "could of, should of, would of". But there is something about sibling/family bonding that is so darn hard to explain to others. It is amazing to me how the "gene thing" is a real thing and unless you have experienced it, you won't and/or can't understand it.
I feel pretty dam fornuate to have my health, family and friends whether these people have always been in my life for years or newly discovered and/or re-connected. So I like the title of this one because "LIFE IS GOOD"!!!!!
Last week, my cousin Ann and her husband Ed stopped by visited and stayed with us. It was so comforting and easy. Kind of like we had known each other for years and we just hadn't seen each other in a couple of months. You must understand, this is the 1st time that I met Ann and Ed. It was such a great visit and we showed them around our little town, did some wine tasting and then hit cruise night for a little while.
As I have said earlier, meeting my sisters and brothers from my Dad's side was easy as well and we do some facial similarities, with my cousin it was just as easy. Found myself getting a little emotional as there was so much more similarity with Anne and I. The same olive skin tones, cheek bones, hands and laugh. It was so interesting to see how similar our husbands are in temperment and personality. My hubby told me later that if we had met when we were younger and single, we could of gotten into some serious trouble with each other.
They were out here in their RV on a quick trip from CO to Las Vegas. So they kind of made a little out of the way trip to stop by and see us.
We shared pictures, laughed and shared some tears (good tears). We are planning an RV trip with them next year and we have already talked since they left to head down South.
Life has its ups and downs, secrets and surprises. However, right now for me "Life is Good". Family discoveries can either be positive and/or negative. You cannot make up for the lost years, and you don't want to do the "could of, should of, would of". But there is something about sibling/family bonding that is so darn hard to explain to others. It is amazing to me how the "gene thing" is a real thing and unless you have experienced it, you won't and/or can't understand it.
I feel pretty dam fornuate to have my health, family and friends whether these people have always been in my life for years or newly discovered and/or re-connected. So I like the title of this one because "LIFE IS GOOD"!!!!!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Summer is Almost Gone and New Discoveries
Well I just cannot believe that we are into August now. We have had the craziest weather from Spring to now. While we have had a couple of hot days not like in years past.
We have about 24 days left before we leave for our big trip. Checking out some of the different cruise excursions and trying to decide which ones we really want to go ahead reserve prior to our actual cruise.
About a 8 days ago, I talked with my 1st cousin Ann. Wow, it was so easy talking with her. My Mom had her secrets of which I will never understand why she did what she did and I cannot change the past but possibly from here going forward I can develop a relationship with that side of my family. It is tough and emotional as you go through all kinds of feelings but there is also a kind of calm that is very hard to explain. I found this cousin through her son (who would be my 2nd cousin, while I was doing family research on Ancestry. His name is Gary and he is quite the character. Gary was just as easy to talk with also.
I do have to say that I did follow and watch the program that was on earlier this spring called "Who do you think you are?". As each of the different celebrities found out information on their families they did not know about, I could so relate to how they were feeling. It made me want to find out more about my Mom's family.
Ann and her husband are going to be stopping by to visit with us next Friday. She told me that she is going to try and find some pictures for me of my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and 1/2 sister. I am little more apprehensive with this visit than I was with meeting my siblings from my Dad's side. Possibly because we did not know about each other until we started doing our own family research. My Mother's family knew of me but as my Mom broke all ties with her family they had no way of knowing where we lived or where we were.
So while I get a little nervous, I am also busy with getting ready for our trip.
Boy, I have always told my wonderful husband, life is not dull around here and it sure as hell hasn't been over the last 2 years. And yes, I have done family research on my husband's side. My side sure has been a lot more interesting with many surprises.
We have about 24 days left before we leave for our big trip. Checking out some of the different cruise excursions and trying to decide which ones we really want to go ahead reserve prior to our actual cruise.
About a 8 days ago, I talked with my 1st cousin Ann. Wow, it was so easy talking with her. My Mom had her secrets of which I will never understand why she did what she did and I cannot change the past but possibly from here going forward I can develop a relationship with that side of my family. It is tough and emotional as you go through all kinds of feelings but there is also a kind of calm that is very hard to explain. I found this cousin through her son (who would be my 2nd cousin, while I was doing family research on Ancestry. His name is Gary and he is quite the character. Gary was just as easy to talk with also.
I do have to say that I did follow and watch the program that was on earlier this spring called "Who do you think you are?". As each of the different celebrities found out information on their families they did not know about, I could so relate to how they were feeling. It made me want to find out more about my Mom's family.
Ann and her husband are going to be stopping by to visit with us next Friday. She told me that she is going to try and find some pictures for me of my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and 1/2 sister. I am little more apprehensive with this visit than I was with meeting my siblings from my Dad's side. Possibly because we did not know about each other until we started doing our own family research. My Mother's family knew of me but as my Mom broke all ties with her family they had no way of knowing where we lived or where we were.
So while I get a little nervous, I am also busy with getting ready for our trip.
Boy, I have always told my wonderful husband, life is not dull around here and it sure as hell hasn't been over the last 2 years. And yes, I have done family research on my husband's side. My side sure has been a lot more interesting with many surprises.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Father's Day-Did I miss out??
Boy this is a hard one for me to describe, but I'll try.
My Mom and Dad were married until I was about 11 and I saw him a couple of times after that and then he just kind of disappeared out of my life. So when Father' Day comes around I really don't know quite how to answer people's question when they ask "How are you spending your Father's Day".
My current husband was a step-father to my boys and since their Dad was always there for them when they were younger, Father's Day to them is for their father which I understand. However, as they get older I see they talk with my hubby about things they did not before. My husbands kids (now grown) always make sure their "Dad" loves them and all.
So Sunday will come and go and I just don't get too excited or sentimental about it. But then maybe I do and I have just blocked out the absence of a father so I don't get all sentimental and think about what I missed out on.
However, since my Dad wasn't around I really don't know if I missed out on anything or not. I turned out pretty good and you know what, I'll call my son who now has a daughter and he is turning out to be a pretty good Dad. I love watching how he watches out for her, shows her his love by not being afraid to give her hugs and kisses. He has no problem showing her the diference between right and wrong. As she grows and wants to spread her wings they will have their challenges but that is what being a parent is all about. So this Father's Day, I'll be proud to say that I am so happy to see what a "great Dad" my son is becoming. You can't wish for anything better than that, don't you think??
My Mom and Dad were married until I was about 11 and I saw him a couple of times after that and then he just kind of disappeared out of my life. So when Father' Day comes around I really don't know quite how to answer people's question when they ask "How are you spending your Father's Day".
My current husband was a step-father to my boys and since their Dad was always there for them when they were younger, Father's Day to them is for their father which I understand. However, as they get older I see they talk with my hubby about things they did not before. My husbands kids (now grown) always make sure their "Dad" loves them and all.
So Sunday will come and go and I just don't get too excited or sentimental about it. But then maybe I do and I have just blocked out the absence of a father so I don't get all sentimental and think about what I missed out on.
However, since my Dad wasn't around I really don't know if I missed out on anything or not. I turned out pretty good and you know what, I'll call my son who now has a daughter and he is turning out to be a pretty good Dad. I love watching how he watches out for her, shows her his love by not being afraid to give her hugs and kisses. He has no problem showing her the diference between right and wrong. As she grows and wants to spread her wings they will have their challenges but that is what being a parent is all about. So this Father's Day, I'll be proud to say that I am so happy to see what a "great Dad" my son is becoming. You can't wish for anything better than that, don't you think??
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Remembering Mom's
Well soon Mother's Day will be upon us. This is usually a difficult day for me, #1 my sons live enough of a difference they can't just drive over for the day for us to do something, #2-two special ladies.
On the first one, one son lives in Reno and the other in Santa Cruz. The one son who lives in Reno, now has a wife and daughter and the focus and meaning of Mother's Day has changed for him, as it should be. We've gotten together in the past but I do understand that he wishes to celebrate Mother's Day with his wife as she is now the Mother of their daughter. The other who lives in SC, is probably working that day. I'll get the phone call wishing me a "Happy Mother's Day" and I am thankful for that, it is just that I do miss spending the day with both of them.
On #2--two special Ladies are no longer here. One was my Mom. We always kind of had a distance type of relationship. My Mom was not the lovey-dovey type. As she got older she was but our relationship was never that close like I see of other friends of mine with their Mom's. However, my Mom did raise me to believe you could try and do anything you set your mind too and that you should never allow anyone to tell you that you couldn't do or accomplish something. She also made me realize how important it was to get an education and also not to be afraid. And she was right. I found challenging the status quo while not always the safe way to do something to my liking. In my work career there were many jobs where I was "1st or 2nd female" to be doing that job and that I could do that job as well as my male peers. And she was was also right about getting the education. As I look back now, I realize my Mom wanted me to be a strong and independent person capable of taking care of myself.
The other lady was my mother in-law (my Son's grandmother). God, how I miss her. We were extremely close and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't want to pick up the phone and call her. When I was a young wife and mother she helped me out so much, cuz I was pretty scard being a new Mom. She also helped me to sometimes not to fret the small stuff with raising kids. That kids will be kids and you sometimes need to take a step back and re-analyze how you were looking at a situation. After her son and I divorced, her and I remained close. While our interaction was a little hard at the beginning, we finally worked through those issues and remained close until she passed away.
Both of these ladies are gone now, Mom #2 actually passed away on Mother's Day and for Mom #1 we had her memorial service on Mother's Day.
I'll be in a little bit of a funk on Mother's Day morning and then I'll work myself out of it, talk with both of them and then get myself into a better mood.
So Happy Mother's Day to all the Mom's in the world. It is the little things you do that those left behind will always remember, reminiscence and cherish.
On the first one, one son lives in Reno and the other in Santa Cruz. The one son who lives in Reno, now has a wife and daughter and the focus and meaning of Mother's Day has changed for him, as it should be. We've gotten together in the past but I do understand that he wishes to celebrate Mother's Day with his wife as she is now the Mother of their daughter. The other who lives in SC, is probably working that day. I'll get the phone call wishing me a "Happy Mother's Day" and I am thankful for that, it is just that I do miss spending the day with both of them.
On #2--two special Ladies are no longer here. One was my Mom. We always kind of had a distance type of relationship. My Mom was not the lovey-dovey type. As she got older she was but our relationship was never that close like I see of other friends of mine with their Mom's. However, my Mom did raise me to believe you could try and do anything you set your mind too and that you should never allow anyone to tell you that you couldn't do or accomplish something. She also made me realize how important it was to get an education and also not to be afraid. And she was right. I found challenging the status quo while not always the safe way to do something to my liking. In my work career there were many jobs where I was "1st or 2nd female" to be doing that job and that I could do that job as well as my male peers. And she was was also right about getting the education. As I look back now, I realize my Mom wanted me to be a strong and independent person capable of taking care of myself.
The other lady was my mother in-law (my Son's grandmother). God, how I miss her. We were extremely close and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't want to pick up the phone and call her. When I was a young wife and mother she helped me out so much, cuz I was pretty scard being a new Mom. She also helped me to sometimes not to fret the small stuff with raising kids. That kids will be kids and you sometimes need to take a step back and re-analyze how you were looking at a situation. After her son and I divorced, her and I remained close. While our interaction was a little hard at the beginning, we finally worked through those issues and remained close until she passed away.
Both of these ladies are gone now, Mom #2 actually passed away on Mother's Day and for Mom #1 we had her memorial service on Mother's Day.
I'll be in a little bit of a funk on Mother's Day morning and then I'll work myself out of it, talk with both of them and then get myself into a better mood.
So Happy Mother's Day to all the Mom's in the world. It is the little things you do that those left behind will always remember, reminiscence and cherish.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Kent State 40 years Later-Has Anything Really Changed
40 years ago today, college students were gunned down by the US National Guard. Yes, I say gunned down. Who knows who gave the order but this is what happened. As I was just a 19 year old living out here in CA the news at the time was very minimal. You must remember this was before the internet and "instant news" on the TV. Many of us at that time believe the news organizations were controlled by the US Government and so we were not getting the whole story. It was a very awful thing that happend back there at Kent State. Ohio, is in the midwest and I have to believe after the "Kent State" incident many opinions about our government and their wanting to control what we saw, heard and believed were now being challenged. We had a war that was very unpopular. A lot of us were questioning why we were in a country none of us had heard about. Oh yes, the China issue and how they were going to take over the world. Did this happen?? Not really, but it was really sad to see how Saigon was taken over in a couple of days after we had spent 10 years plus there and lost about 58,000 of our young there. And we also never take into count the other countries who also sent their young over there. And to think, just last week, was the 35th anniversary of the fall of Saigon.
So, I ask myself, did anything really change? I don't think so. Often wonder how those National Guardsmen are doing today and what do they really thing about what happened. I don't trust the "news media" to really give us the true scoop. You wonder why I say this, well where were they when our previous President (Bush #2) decided to go to Iraq for those weapons of mass destruction. No one questioned this what so ever. Because they were afraid to challenge the statu quo!!!!
Now, about our generation from the 60's and 70's, did we really change anything when it comes to war? I don't think so. We got caught up in all that other shit of the 80's and 90's...... And now, oh my god, I just don't want to go there.
Young lives were taken and changed on that terrible day at Kent State 40 years ago. Now we should be asking ourselves, did we really learn anything from that and could it happen again today in 2010?
So, I ask myself, did anything really change? I don't think so. Often wonder how those National Guardsmen are doing today and what do they really thing about what happened. I don't trust the "news media" to really give us the true scoop. You wonder why I say this, well where were they when our previous President (Bush #2) decided to go to Iraq for those weapons of mass destruction. No one questioned this what so ever. Because they were afraid to challenge the statu quo!!!!
Now, about our generation from the 60's and 70's, did we really change anything when it comes to war? I don't think so. We got caught up in all that other shit of the 80's and 90's...... And now, oh my god, I just don't want to go there.
Young lives were taken and changed on that terrible day at Kent State 40 years ago. Now we should be asking ourselves, did we really learn anything from that and could it happen again today in 2010?
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
So what does a Mexican Look Like
I've pondered over this the last couple of days since the passing of stupid law in Arizona and secretly for a couple of years based on a comment made to me.
I will readily admit, I do not look like I am of Hispanic descent. Being my father was of Northern European and my mother of Spanish/Mexican heritage the blending of ethnic groups shows up differently with their children. As my Mom was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas she does not have very fond memories of growing up there. She wanted both my brother and I to assimilate as much as possible. In doing this, she also did not teach us either of us the language and/or its culture. However, there were times as we were growing up that she taught us some of the customs and holiday celebrations.
I asked her when I got older why she did not teach us the language and she told me, "because I did not want you having an accent as I did and that was the first thing people judged you on". People will make quick assessments of you because of this and think you are not educated or equal to them. As I thought about this at the time a little later, she was quite true in this statement.
My Mom had many secrets in her life time, and we sometimes had a difficult relationship, but she did teach me to be proud of who you are and that you can do anything you set your mine to do in this world. I can remember even when she boycotted the grocery stores during the Cesar Chavez days. As she got older she did share more stories of her background with me.
You wonder about the comment made to me. One day at work, someone saw a picture that I had of my Mom on my desk. They wanted to know if that lady was my Nanny. Knowing that I am an expressive person, after I picked my jaw off of the floor, I told them, "no that is my Mother". This person then told me, well, "I didn't know you were a Mexican, because you don't look like one". As I calmly asked this person to leave my office, I stewed over her comment and pondered it for a couple of days.
A couple of weeks later we were having a diversity training overview which I volunteered to present to our department. Yes, my subject was "What are we suppose to look like?" I gave a presentation on people's misconceptions on what they assume people of various backgrounds/ethnic/religious backgrounds are too look like and act. It was a very interesting and engaging conversation. I attempted to make the conversation as un-threathening as possible and once I put it out there about even some of my pre-conceived ideas (because we all have them, it is just if you want to admit to them or not), the conversation opened up. Was it worth it to do, you betcha.
So yes, I am proud non-speaking Latino person of Mexican/Spanish and Caucasian heritage. And even though I don't look like one of Hispanic background, don't worry, there are many more of us that are like this as well. And we could be of Asian, African-American, Indian mix as well. What is the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover"...............
I will readily admit, I do not look like I am of Hispanic descent. Being my father was of Northern European and my mother of Spanish/Mexican heritage the blending of ethnic groups shows up differently with their children. As my Mom was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas she does not have very fond memories of growing up there. She wanted both my brother and I to assimilate as much as possible. In doing this, she also did not teach us either of us the language and/or its culture. However, there were times as we were growing up that she taught us some of the customs and holiday celebrations.
I asked her when I got older why she did not teach us the language and she told me, "because I did not want you having an accent as I did and that was the first thing people judged you on". People will make quick assessments of you because of this and think you are not educated or equal to them. As I thought about this at the time a little later, she was quite true in this statement.
My Mom had many secrets in her life time, and we sometimes had a difficult relationship, but she did teach me to be proud of who you are and that you can do anything you set your mine to do in this world. I can remember even when she boycotted the grocery stores during the Cesar Chavez days. As she got older she did share more stories of her background with me.
You wonder about the comment made to me. One day at work, someone saw a picture that I had of my Mom on my desk. They wanted to know if that lady was my Nanny. Knowing that I am an expressive person, after I picked my jaw off of the floor, I told them, "no that is my Mother". This person then told me, well, "I didn't know you were a Mexican, because you don't look like one". As I calmly asked this person to leave my office, I stewed over her comment and pondered it for a couple of days.
A couple of weeks later we were having a diversity training overview which I volunteered to present to our department. Yes, my subject was "What are we suppose to look like?" I gave a presentation on people's misconceptions on what they assume people of various backgrounds/ethnic/religious backgrounds are too look like and act. It was a very interesting and engaging conversation. I attempted to make the conversation as un-threathening as possible and once I put it out there about even some of my pre-conceived ideas (because we all have them, it is just if you want to admit to them or not), the conversation opened up. Was it worth it to do, you betcha.
So yes, I am proud non-speaking Latino person of Mexican/Spanish and Caucasian heritage. And even though I don't look like one of Hispanic background, don't worry, there are many more of us that are like this as well. And we could be of Asian, African-American, Indian mix as well. What is the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover"...............
Saturday, April 24, 2010
What the Hell is Arizona Thinking?
I am totally disgusted with the Legislature and Governor of Arizona. How they could pass this immigration law they just did totally astounds me. Do they actually believe their law enforcement people are going to really know who is here legally and who isn't. Oh that is right, they will know who is here illegally based on "how they look, dress and talk". And this is not racial profiling, give me a break!!!! What else in the hell do you call it.
They are singling out only one particular group, those of Hispanic orgin. Now, don't we also have Asian, Russians, Arabs, Europeans, and other's in this country illegally? What about students, professors and professionals who have come over here to go to school or work and never returned back after they got done with school or their job. I get it that our borders need to be protected, but how in the hell did we end up with 12 million people here, who shouldn't be here? Someone is getting some payment at these borders and/or looking the other way.
We must do something about the individuals here illegally, but this law absolutely is not the way to do it. Unless they pass a law that says everyone must carry a National ID card which would prove you are a US Citizen or here under some other means (Work, School, Tourist Visa, Green Card, etc, etc.) Taking care of the illegal individuals means our lawmakers have to make some tough choices and also put it out there for everyone to know how they are going to vote on such a measure. But you know, they are too dam chicken shit to do this because they don't want to offend this group or that group.
I just hope the ACLU gets this new law over-turned and found to be illegal as it should be.....
Arizona, it will be awhile before I visit your beautiful state and spend money there. Others should think about boycotting Arizona as well.
They are singling out only one particular group, those of Hispanic orgin. Now, don't we also have Asian, Russians, Arabs, Europeans, and other's in this country illegally? What about students, professors and professionals who have come over here to go to school or work and never returned back after they got done with school or their job. I get it that our borders need to be protected, but how in the hell did we end up with 12 million people here, who shouldn't be here? Someone is getting some payment at these borders and/or looking the other way.
We must do something about the individuals here illegally, but this law absolutely is not the way to do it. Unless they pass a law that says everyone must carry a National ID card which would prove you are a US Citizen or here under some other means (Work, School, Tourist Visa, Green Card, etc, etc.) Taking care of the illegal individuals means our lawmakers have to make some tough choices and also put it out there for everyone to know how they are going to vote on such a measure. But you know, they are too dam chicken shit to do this because they don't want to offend this group or that group.
I just hope the ACLU gets this new law over-turned and found to be illegal as it should be.....
Arizona, it will be awhile before I visit your beautiful state and spend money there. Others should think about boycotting Arizona as well.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Why the Obsession??
Okay, I have ranted on about this with a couple of friends, however, I can no longer just wonder about this. What the hell is with the public's obession with Tiger Woods and other's marriage woes.
Tiger is a gift golfer, however, his private life is his private life. I don't care who he is seeing, bedding, texting or that his wife went after him with a golf club. Does his antics affect me or you, no way......... We seem to have this fascination with who is sleeping with whom. Then our TV lineup is all about this news for weeks on end. Just like Michael Jackson and others. Michael Jackson was also a gifted songwriter and performer however, he was a drug addict. His family had to have known what he was doing and they chose to look the other way. Now he is gone and he is made into a hero..... As to if he fondle little boys, I do not know. I would hope not, but it appears as if he did and his accusers accepted money settlements. So what do you say.
Maybe I am still in a funk on a comment someone made yesterday..... Now that comment and the hoopla that might create is just not worth putting into print. All I'll say is that everyone needs to understand we are all of different religions, colors, ethnic backgrounds and we should not judge one particular religious group based on the 15% who hate you because you will not follow their mantra.... If we did this, everyone who is not of the same religion or belief as the person who made these comments yesterday would not be allowed outside of their house. I can say that I told this person, "oh come on now, you cannot seriously believe or want this". Sorry to say they probably do. Which is probably why I consider this person more of an acquaintance than a friend... And then I have to say to myself we are entitled to our opinions and belief's, however, I learned a long time ago, you must say something if you feel that other person is being prejudicial. Because if you don't then we could go backwards.
Tiger is a gift golfer, however, his private life is his private life. I don't care who he is seeing, bedding, texting or that his wife went after him with a golf club. Does his antics affect me or you, no way......... We seem to have this fascination with who is sleeping with whom. Then our TV lineup is all about this news for weeks on end. Just like Michael Jackson and others. Michael Jackson was also a gifted songwriter and performer however, he was a drug addict. His family had to have known what he was doing and they chose to look the other way. Now he is gone and he is made into a hero..... As to if he fondle little boys, I do not know. I would hope not, but it appears as if he did and his accusers accepted money settlements. So what do you say.
Maybe I am still in a funk on a comment someone made yesterday..... Now that comment and the hoopla that might create is just not worth putting into print. All I'll say is that everyone needs to understand we are all of different religions, colors, ethnic backgrounds and we should not judge one particular religious group based on the 15% who hate you because you will not follow their mantra.... If we did this, everyone who is not of the same religion or belief as the person who made these comments yesterday would not be allowed outside of their house. I can say that I told this person, "oh come on now, you cannot seriously believe or want this". Sorry to say they probably do. Which is probably why I consider this person more of an acquaintance than a friend... And then I have to say to myself we are entitled to our opinions and belief's, however, I learned a long time ago, you must say something if you feel that other person is being prejudicial. Because if you don't then we could go backwards.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Old Friends
Well, over the last two years, I have reconnected with old friends and discovered family. Something must be in my karma lately as I recently reconnected from one of my oldest friends. Her name is Stephanie, aka Steff. We go way back. We've known each other since about 3rd or 4th grade. Went thru Jr High together and High School. We were kind of the odd ones in school as we came from homes where our parents were divorced and remarried. In the 60's that was so unheard of.
Even when I moved away (1963 to 1966) for a couple of years because my step-Dad was in the Army we still kept in touch by writing letters. Writing letters is probably old school to some but that is how everyone kept in touch at that time. We didn't always get a chance to talk on the phone because our letter writing was constant. We shared everything with each other in those letters, boyfriends, schools, etc. She would get my letters of being the new kid in school, being in a new location that I thought was so foreign. Today, I would call it a displaced Califorian living on a military base in Missouri and then Kansas. Stef was my savior to hear what was going on and what was "hip" in CA......
When we moved back to CA, she made fun of my new half-assed CA/Southern accent. I worked that whole summer to get rid of that accent. Even though I was gone for about 2 1/2 years it was like I had never left. Her Mom was still a character and Stef and I picked up our hanging out like it was yesterday.
Looking back on the things we did, boy we could tell some stories. However, we won't go into a lot of them.
I can share there is probably nothing worse than having a father watch over 2 teenage girls for the summer. Steff's Dad was the Harbor Master up at Lake Berryessa. This is where I learned how to ski. Looking back we probably gave him some more of his gray hairs than when we got there. But they were fun times.
We grew up, got married, had kids and then lost touch with each other. Over the years, I've wondered what she was up too and doing. As one of the last connections we had was my ex-husband, he had lost touch with them as well so I was not able to locate her. Well the internet defintely provides a way now for locating people and family. A couple of days ago, her name popped up on classmates.com finally. So I sent her an email and then also decided to check out facebook. Well, we have hooked up and I hope we are able to keep in touch.
Friends have history. It is also interesting to see how friends go through things that you don't necessarily go through with family. You also share things with friends that you probably don't with family.
I feel very happy to have reconnected with Stef and hope that we can regain our friendship again. Life is too short.......
Even when I moved away (1963 to 1966) for a couple of years because my step-Dad was in the Army we still kept in touch by writing letters. Writing letters is probably old school to some but that is how everyone kept in touch at that time. We didn't always get a chance to talk on the phone because our letter writing was constant. We shared everything with each other in those letters, boyfriends, schools, etc. She would get my letters of being the new kid in school, being in a new location that I thought was so foreign. Today, I would call it a displaced Califorian living on a military base in Missouri and then Kansas. Stef was my savior to hear what was going on and what was "hip" in CA......
When we moved back to CA, she made fun of my new half-assed CA/Southern accent. I worked that whole summer to get rid of that accent. Even though I was gone for about 2 1/2 years it was like I had never left. Her Mom was still a character and Stef and I picked up our hanging out like it was yesterday.
Looking back on the things we did, boy we could tell some stories. However, we won't go into a lot of them.
I can share there is probably nothing worse than having a father watch over 2 teenage girls for the summer. Steff's Dad was the Harbor Master up at Lake Berryessa. This is where I learned how to ski. Looking back we probably gave him some more of his gray hairs than when we got there. But they were fun times.
We grew up, got married, had kids and then lost touch with each other. Over the years, I've wondered what she was up too and doing. As one of the last connections we had was my ex-husband, he had lost touch with them as well so I was not able to locate her. Well the internet defintely provides a way now for locating people and family. A couple of days ago, her name popped up on classmates.com finally. So I sent her an email and then also decided to check out facebook. Well, we have hooked up and I hope we are able to keep in touch.
Friends have history. It is also interesting to see how friends go through things that you don't necessarily go through with family. You also share things with friends that you probably don't with family.
I feel very happy to have reconnected with Stef and hope that we can regain our friendship again. Life is too short.......
Monday, April 5, 2010
Luggage and 4 Adults
Well last week Cathy and Dennis headed out this way from NM and spent about a week with us. It was good seeing them as always and it also gave us a chance to talk about our trip.
As we are renting a car for our land travel portion we have been discussing over the last couple of months about what size luggage we need. At the beginning, Cathey mentioned they had 29" suitcases. When Ron and I went to check out that size we were blown away as those are really, really big suitcases. I looked at Ron and said "don't believe that would fit into our rental car" at least not 4 of em. So we have been discussing what size is it we really need.
So last week we headed down to the mall and checked out luggage. Now, I don't like to shop that much and Ron accuses me of being an emotional type of shopper, however, he will compare until there is no tomorrow. It gets down right embarassing sometimes with his comparsion shopping and all. Well, I was surrounded by 3 of these type of shoppers last week. Day 1 we went to Target, Wal-Mart, Costco, SAM's. Day 2 we went to Penney's, Macy's and a upscale luggage place. We found a good sale at both Penney's and Macy's however, the deal at Penney's was the best. We now have 4 27" pieces of luggage for our travels. Then after buying these pieces of luggage we went over to the VW and Mazda dealership's and yes you are right, we placed our luggage in the bag of these vehicles (which are similar to what we will rent) to see if they fit. They did, so we are now happy campers.
As we are renting a car for our land travel portion we have been discussing over the last couple of months about what size luggage we need. At the beginning, Cathey mentioned they had 29" suitcases. When Ron and I went to check out that size we were blown away as those are really, really big suitcases. I looked at Ron and said "don't believe that would fit into our rental car" at least not 4 of em. So we have been discussing what size is it we really need.
So last week we headed down to the mall and checked out luggage. Now, I don't like to shop that much and Ron accuses me of being an emotional type of shopper, however, he will compare until there is no tomorrow. It gets down right embarassing sometimes with his comparsion shopping and all. Well, I was surrounded by 3 of these type of shoppers last week. Day 1 we went to Target, Wal-Mart, Costco, SAM's. Day 2 we went to Penney's, Macy's and a upscale luggage place. We found a good sale at both Penney's and Macy's however, the deal at Penney's was the best. We now have 4 27" pieces of luggage for our travels. Then after buying these pieces of luggage we went over to the VW and Mazda dealership's and yes you are right, we placed our luggage in the bag of these vehicles (which are similar to what we will rent) to see if they fit. They did, so we are now happy campers.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Life is Busy
Well, it has been awhile since I did a post. Life has certainly been busy. Plus keeping up with all of these blogs keeps me busy as well. Today, I just realized I have 4 blogs. Like am I some kind of crazy person. Have 1 for knitting, 1 for photo's, 1 for cooking/grilling and this 1. Probably going to get rid of one (the cooking and grilling) but who knows maybe not. Each time I think about someone asks for a recipe I posted and so I refer them to that blog.
We are planning a trip over to Europe in the fall with Cathy and Dennis our traveling partners. The four of us went over to New Zealand and Austrailia in 1995 for 8 weeks. We had a great time and still look back at that trip with lots of good memories. Right now we are in the midst of figuring out where we wish to travel on the land. We pretty much plan a tenative itinerary and wing it from there. We are not into "organized tours", do a couple but that is not how the trip is done.
So more to follow and I'll keep remembering to update our latest happenings.
We are planning a trip over to Europe in the fall with Cathy and Dennis our traveling partners. The four of us went over to New Zealand and Austrailia in 1995 for 8 weeks. We had a great time and still look back at that trip with lots of good memories. Right now we are in the midst of figuring out where we wish to travel on the land. We pretty much plan a tenative itinerary and wing it from there. We are not into "organized tours", do a couple but that is not how the trip is done.
So more to follow and I'll keep remembering to update our latest happenings.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Where did the Decade Go?
OMG, I cannot believe 2010 is here and a decade has come and gone.
First Enron collasped (sorry for all of the employees), the big Honcho's turned federal evidence and got off with light sentences. 9-11 was a horrible thing to happen, so many innocent lives lost and others lives affected. We can never understand how 18 people could hate this country so much to do what they did. Then jobs start to go away, financial institutions who loaned out money they should never have start to crumble, stock markets around the world collaspe. Getting into a war that I will never understand why and/or agree we should be there. People losing houses, my god how much more worse could it get.
Had an election where never did I believe our country would vote for a non-white candidate. Makes me proud. While it is will be a tough road for him, we need to give him a chance. Heck, for some reason we gave Bush 2 terms and so it goes.....
We lost some close friends and relatives. They are missed and we think of them often.
However, want to look at the positive. My son married his long time girlfriend and now I have a beautiful granddaughter. Did I ever think I would become one of those over the top (well not quite over the top) grandmother, no way. But I love that little girl Chloe and she makes her grandfather and I smile and see things in a different way when she is with us.
My other son Jim has met someone who is great and seems to be a good match for him. Sure hope they get married and start having kids so we can have some more grand kids.
Retired and have met some wonderful ladies through my new passion of knitting. Who would of thought???
Reconnected with old friends whom I have not talked with or seen in years. And it is such a warm and comfy reconnecting. It is like we know when we are down and/or need someone to just shoot the shit with. Like a friend told me, it is because we have history and I have to say that is true.
We are healthy and life is good.
Looking forward to 2010 and our next decade to see what unexpected things it will bring.
First Enron collasped (sorry for all of the employees), the big Honcho's turned federal evidence and got off with light sentences. 9-11 was a horrible thing to happen, so many innocent lives lost and others lives affected. We can never understand how 18 people could hate this country so much to do what they did. Then jobs start to go away, financial institutions who loaned out money they should never have start to crumble, stock markets around the world collaspe. Getting into a war that I will never understand why and/or agree we should be there. People losing houses, my god how much more worse could it get.
Had an election where never did I believe our country would vote for a non-white candidate. Makes me proud. While it is will be a tough road for him, we need to give him a chance. Heck, for some reason we gave Bush 2 terms and so it goes.....
We lost some close friends and relatives. They are missed and we think of them often.
However, want to look at the positive. My son married his long time girlfriend and now I have a beautiful granddaughter. Did I ever think I would become one of those over the top (well not quite over the top) grandmother, no way. But I love that little girl Chloe and she makes her grandfather and I smile and see things in a different way when she is with us.
My other son Jim has met someone who is great and seems to be a good match for him. Sure hope they get married and start having kids so we can have some more grand kids.
Retired and have met some wonderful ladies through my new passion of knitting. Who would of thought???
Reconnected with old friends whom I have not talked with or seen in years. And it is such a warm and comfy reconnecting. It is like we know when we are down and/or need someone to just shoot the shit with. Like a friend told me, it is because we have history and I have to say that is true.
We are healthy and life is good.
Looking forward to 2010 and our next decade to see what unexpected things it will bring.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)