Florida 2019

 Florida 2019

Friday, December 28, 2018

My bags are packed, just to put my toiletries in my overnight tomorrow morning.  I was relaxing, watching TV, when I remembered that I had one piece of fairy food in my china cabinet.  I took one bite and broke my front tooth.  I called an emergency dental office, but at 8:30 p.m. there was no way that they could take care of me.  The receptionist suggested that I call tomorrow morning if there would be an opening, but with no guarantee; it is a walk-in operation.  I called Peter and we will just go with my broken tooth and hope to find a dentist in Bonita Springs.

Saturday, December 29, 2018  7:56 am.  Mileage, 16216.16

We are leaving on a bright clear day towards Jefferson to have breakfast before visiting Lilly.  We stopped for breakfast at 4 Sisters in Jefferson before visiting Lilly.  Peter had a plant to give to a very frail Lilly.  We had a nice short visit and were back on the road at 10:15 am.

Driving was smooth with no incident or misdirection.  Traffic was moderate and the roads were excellent.   We stopped for gas at the Hen House Restaurant expecting the menu to be loaded with chicken dishes.  The special of the day was pot roast, and there were maybe two other items that included chicken. We each had a hardy bowl of chili that should tide us over for a while.  I drove for the next few hours until it was getting dark when Peter drove the last hour to the Candlewood Suites in Paducah.  We had trouble finding our hotel expecting a Holiday Inn logo.  It was off the road that had very little lighting.  The room has everything for housekeeping, which we put to use.  We had beer, Polish sausage, summer sausage, salad, egg, cheese and apple, with Laura's cookies for dessert.

Sunday, December 30, 2018

We were up at 6:30 am, made coffee in our room, cleaned up and packed up the car.  After gassing up, it was already 8:00 am, and since we were in a hub with plenty of food choices, we had breakfast at a Cracker Barrel.  I started driving at 9:15 am, until a gas station 2 hours later when Peter took over the driving.   57 degrees at 11:30. Driving continues to be good, with some backups near larger cities.  We were rerouted near Nashville.  We had occasional stops, alternating driving with some occasional misty drizzle, but nothing of consequence.  We are getting hungry, having had only a light breakfast, and we're both looking forward to the Mandarin restaurant we were at last year.  As we were anticipating this great meal Peter noticed a Golden Corral, but "unfortunately " we were in the wrong lane.

We got to a very nice Holiday Inn Express in Macon, GA on the bypass.  We got to our room and located the Mandarin Chinese Restaurant 17 miles away.  It was worth the trip. While we were looking over the menu Janice called; she thought we were still at home.  I started out with a dry martini and ordered pea pod shrimp; Peter had green pepper beef.  I polished mine off with just some rice to spare, which Peter combined with his take-home.  We had a very enjoyable day. 

Monday, December 31, 2018

We were up at 5:30 and were down to breakfast by 6:15. There was a nice assortment to choose from.  We are on the road at 7:15, very foggy and dark.  There was a fog advisory from Atlanta to Macon.  With the fog was light mist, just enough to put the wipers on the lowest setting.  I drove when the skies cleared with stops along the way.  Even though the temperature was high enough for a picnic, we decided to pass on a wayside picnic.  We'd have to take things out of the car and set up our lunch.  Hamburgers at McDonald's would fit the bill nicely.  We got a call from Patti that we should not arrive before 5:30 PM.  We were making very good time so we'd have to figure out how to kill some time.  We got to Publix at about 3:30, got our supplies, then drove to Doc's to have a beer for Peter and a wine for me until sunset at 5:45.

When we got to the condo, the sunset group was still out, so we had a nice reunion.  It really is nice how we are welcomed.  What a transformation in our condo:  the entire bathroom is redone and we can't use the shower for 24 hours, that's probably why they wanted us in later.  New bed spread, and I think carpeting in the bedroom. As we are unpacking we had to go on the patio to watch the fireworks, what a great show.  I'm so glad we could come in a day early. I've got champagne cooling, but no way are we going to wait until midnight to welcome in the New Year after being up since 5:30.  So we popped the bubbly and enjoyed some snacks before hitting the sack.

Tuesday, January 1, 2019

I had a very restful night, the bed is very comfortable.  We had a light breakfast of cereal, because we'd be at the brunch at 10:00 am; I thought it was 11.  Peter said that couples were already taking down platters of food, so I got busy and made a platter of summer sausage, cheese spread and crackers.  We met Tom and Patti, and a number of other people that we knew.  We sat with Colleen, her son Terry and his wife Doreen, who was very talkative about her brother stationed in Germany, her German heritage, and suggested places to go while we're here,  especially Shark Valley and Tigertail.  We started putting chairs away and cleaning up  by 11:15 am.  I looked up some dentists that I'll call tomorrow.   I wrote to Annika.  We are having trouble getting the TV to work.  I managed to get one channel and we're afraid to turn off the TV for fear of not getting started again, so it was on all night.  

I went down to the pool and was in the water for an hour before Peter came down.  It was very sunny, the water great.  I read by the pool and moved in the shade until about 4:00 PM.

  Bob came to get our TV to work and it was simply pressing the very tiny TV button, not the power button.  We were using other remotes and never would have figured out such a simple solution.  We watched the Rose Bowl game and during half time warmed up Peter's take-home Mandarin Chinese dinner, which was sufficient for both of us with rye bread, grapes, cookies and hot tea.

Wednesday,  January 2, 2019

Another beautiful day awaits us.  While Peter was walking, I answered a knock on the door where two men offered us a doughnut, a very large piece of bakery; one of the men was John.  After an omelet with vegetable, yogurt with banana and a piece of the bakery, I called and was able to get an appointment at Pelican Landing Dental tomorrow at 8:50 am.  It is some distance away, and Peter suggested we ask Janet the manager if she could suggest a dentist when we pay our condo fee.  She made a suggestion, I called, left a message, called back and they could take me on Friday.  I'll keep my original appointment.  I spent time in and out of the pool on a gorgeous day.

Thursday,  January 3, 2019

We were at Pelican Landing Dental early to complete paper work.  The facility is very large with many dentists, receptionists and staff.  After the hygienist took X Rays, Dr. Eric assessed my damage and gave me some options of what should be done; I did not choose the implant for $7000, which would extend a couple of months of treatment.  I would need a root canal and fortunately the specialist was in today, if I cared to stay.  I definitely wanted to proceed.  We had breakfast at Early Start which confirms my aversion to having breakfast at a restaurant.   It was noisy and the Belgian waffles were soggy.  We had plenty of good coffee and water and good service.  We were back for the root canal at 11:20, with a lot of assurances that it should be no problem.  I had excellent attention and felt no pain.  We were leaving about 12:30.

We swam and stayed at the pool until it was time to drive to Lovers Key State Park for some music on the beach.  We parked and walked some distance to where a tram took us down to the beach where a large number were gathered.  We found a picnic table and Peter bought a couple of hot dogs while we listened to blue grass/folk music.  We watched the sunset, then walked back to the tram.  It was a nice little outing.

Friday, January 4, 2019

We have the most useless coffee maker.  The water doesn't flow through or else spills on the counter.  Peter thought he had figured it out, but we still had water/coffee messing up the counter.  We are planning to buy a different one.

Spent time in the pool on a sunny, warm, breezy day.  We drove to the dental office for my 3:30 PM appointment.  Good thing it was at 3:30 and not 3:20 as I thought, otherwise we would have been late because we were  following a garbage truck and we were barely moving on our road. I was taken immediately when I walked in by Terry, who got me ready for Dr. Eric.  The injections were more painful than the previous one for the root canal; he injected in the front and back.  Then came the drilling.....very, very long.  Both Terry and Dr. Eric said that I was a very good patient and Dr. Eric appreciated how I held so still.  I got out after 5:00 PM with a temporary crown and a numb mouth.  We went to Goodwill next to Winn Dixie and  bought a 12-cup Sunbeam coffee maker for $6.00; hopefully we'll have better luck. Then we went to Mel's Diner on Tamiami and waited about 30 minutes for a table.  That place was packed.  I ordered a $3.00 martini and Bay Shrimp; Peter had blackened salmon.  Mine was very tasty.  A woman across from us, who looked almost Iranian, asked if we got corn muffins.  She gave Peter one and said he reminded her of her father.  Then she gave us two more, which were very good.  When we got home I just rested on the couch.  My mouth is rather sore.   I took a few baby aspirins before going to bed.

Friday,  January 5, 2019

I had a restful night and my tooth feels as natural as my own, with no pain or discomfort.  We had oatmeal for breakfast.  The coffee maker worked fine, but I need to use a larger filter, also the plate does not keep the coffee warm.  Peter needed to pay his AAA credit card and thought it was the bill for our trip.  I checked my AAA account and my payment was rejected again.  I called customer service and I did not enter the entire account number.  The agent put in the correct numbers and I should be all set.

We went to the Farmers Market on a cool, windy day.  We bought a pretzel and squash; I was really looking for a larger zucchini for stuffing, and a woman said she'd have one next week.  Peter used the rest room at De Romo's and came out telling me what a great place it was.  It looked like a restaurant, but it had a deli, butcher, bakery and many special foods.  We bought a shrimp salad and a kale salad. 

We were on our way home when Peter had to turn back when he asked if there was anything else we needed.  Back to Publix for a few more items. 

The wind is pretty strong on the beach, Peter closed our balcony door.  I'm doing some laundry. That shrimp salad was really loaded with shrimp, no pasta, and the kale salad was good, too.  That, together with the pretzel, was a good meal.  I watched PBS, then we watched the Cowboys beat the Seahawks.

Sunday,  January 6, 2019

Up early with French toast for breakfast.  I programmed the coffee maker last night and we had good coffee when we woke up.  Church was packed, still decorated for Christmas.

We stayed later to take pictures.  One man took our picture and another noticed that the first man held the phone crooked and offered to take a better one. 

Cool morning,  breezy. The air was cool, but the pool is warm, where I swam for an hour and sat in the sun.  I got a little too red.  We watched playoffs and saw the Bears lose by a heartbreaking missed field goal.  We were watching the Golden Globes, but I could not relate to the people or what films were nominated or won.  Went to bed early.

Monday,  January 7, 2019

I slept like a log, got up well rested.   It is starting out as a beautiful day. We are considering a different location for next year, perhaps Alabama; shorter travel, later in February, and not an entire month.  We were in and out of the pool.  A very pleasant day, ending with sunset.

Tuesday,  January 8, 2019 

We did shopping at Ace for some hardware to take out the squeaks in the bed frame, Dollar Store for a couple of items and Publix for more groceries, including a broasted chicken.  We were in the pool until about 3:30 when I started to fix dinner.  Our meal schedule is difficult with irregular times and trying not to eat too much.  I found some nice properties in Alabama to rent by owner.  We joined the group for a lovely sunset.

Wednesday,  January 9, 2019

A clear, cool morning,  should not get up to 80 degrees.  I made reservations for two weeks in February, 2020, for a condo in Gulf Shores, AL.  Peter played bocce ball and his side lost by one point.  It was a perfect day to go to the Naples Botanical Gardens, slightly overcast and not too hot.  It was magnificent.  There were glass sculptures throughout the gardens balancing on balls in water. 

There were many horticultural areas: Caribbean, Asian, succulents, Florida and some outlying trails.  We walked until about 1:00 PM, then stopped for lunch at the café.  We each had a salad that we ate outdoors, and then we continued to finish our visit.  The sun got hotter, but it was an ideal day.  Peter really enjoyed it also.  Peter went down for sunset, but didn't stay long; not too many there and it was cold.  I made chicken sandwiches and we played dominoes.  Peter won by one game.

Thursday,  January 10, 2019

52 degrees at 8:00 am, sunny.

Good thing we did what we did yesterday.  It's good to capitalize on the day. Got up to only 60 degrees and very breezy. I stayed in all day; Peter ventured poolside late afternoon until it was time to go to Fig's Grill for the early bird special: two entrees with a bottle of wine. Peter had lentil soup, I had Caesar salad.   Peter had pasta with meat sauce, I had linguini scampi, I took a lot of linguini home.  It is a very long evening because we ate so early.  I'm having a hard time keeping my Kindle upright, Peter is watching TV in the bedroom.

Friday,  January 11, 2019

Today looks like it will be a lot warmer than yesterday.  Alice called to play pickleball at 1:00 pm;  it really warmed up by then.  There were only the three of us, so we just practiced hitting the ball back and forth with Alice and me against Peter.   It was a good workout for an hour.  The pool was pleasant enough to be in for almost an hour, then some sunning.  I fixed a light supper of left-over pork chops, a couple of fried red potatoes,  and watermelon before joining the sunset group, it was lovely.

Saturday,  January 12, 2019

We were out of the house by about 9:15, heading to the Farmers market.  We bought a lot of nice produce; I hope not too much.  Next, we went to the tennis and pickleball store and bought fanny packs to hold pickleballs.  Alice had one and they really came in handy instead of shagging balls so frequently.  We bought a newspaper at Ace, and finished our shopping at Pubix.  After lunch we sat at the pool but didn't go in.  I made a hardy chicken salad  that we had during Divisional playoff games. 

Sunday,  January 13, 2019

Another gorgeous day.  We went to 9:30 mass and stopped off for the paper. I returned Jay's call while he was running his car at my house.  He said that Dolly craves attention and won't stop circling his feet.  He also found a brush to groom her. I wrote to Annika and read the paper. We went to the Bonita Springs Art Festival, did a lot of walking through almost all of the stands. 

I bought a cute print of a toilet roll. 

We got home just in time to watch the Saints beat the Eagles 20 - 14.  Relaxed the rest of the evening.  It was a long day.

Monday,  January 14, 2019

Very cool and breezy.  Stayed indoors all day.  Had to escape to the bedroom when Peter Skyped with Lothar. They yell like they are trying to  communicate without Skype.  Played dominoes. 

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

Bright and breezy.  Played pickleball with Alice and Deanna. Did laundry, nothing much else.

Wednesday,  January 16. 2019

Peter played bocce ball, but obviously didn't do well because he came back in a grumpy mood.  Cheryl from AAA called while he was gone and apologized for not returning my call yesterday; she said she had problems.  Peter was on hold with Walgreen's for a very long time to have his prescription refilled; we decided to drive there.  We paid the balance of our Ireland trip.  It didn't take long to get to the pharmacist at Walgreen's, but there is a delay in getting it refilled.  We picked up a free paper at Ace, but that was the last "free" one.  Peter got a battery for his watch at Batteries Plus, then almost $100 of groceries at Publix. But that included beer, coffee and spices.  I think we should be tapering off in the future.  I made a big pot of TexMex chili that should provide a few meals.  We went to the Wednesday sunset group with a bowl of grapes.  There was a nice assortment of appetizers; you could fill up if you wanted to.

Thursday, January 17, 2019

A nice sunny day, we had to remove our jackets playing pickleball with Alice and her house guest John and Deanna. The game was testy at times with Peter's criticism of my play and my deriding his score keeping.  Alice wanted no talking during play.  We had a light lunch then headed to the Six Mile Cypress Slough in Fort Myers.  We paid $3.00 for 3 hours of parking.  We joined a docent-led tour, then realized it was only for people who signed up. I went back to the starting point and got a self-guided tour booklet that explained features along the way as we went from marker to marker.  It was an absolutely perfect day for this outing.  We walked along a boardwalk that went through wetlands, ponds, various vegetation, with sightings of wildlife along the way. 

A woman spotted a black snake that most eyes would have missed. 

The trail was about 1.5 miles, very level with outlooks at various points.  People with disabilities had no difficulty.  We were there about two hours before heading to the Three Fishermen Restaurant in Fort Myers.  It was early, but we each had a drink, taking advantage of Happy Hour; I had a Margarita, Peter a beer.  We sat outdoors, and it didn't take long for the place to fill up. We finally ordered scallops for me, blackened salmon for Peter with another round of drinks.  Mine was delicious except for the beans from the can; Peter took half of his salmon in a box.  We picked up Peter's prescription at Walgreen's and were home by about 7:00 pm.

Friday,  January 18. 2019

The day started out cool.  Peter took his daily walk before breakfast, then played bocce ball.  I drove to Pelican Landing Dental for my 11:40 am appointment.  After following a garbage truck at my last appointment, I took no chances and left very early  and got there at 11:20. I was taken earlier.  The hygienist had difficulty removing the temporary crown, and was pulling pretty hard, when Dr. Heisser took over by splitting the tooth.  The new tooth feels great and smooth.  There was some cleaning up and adjusting, also an X Ray.  But I am very satisfied. 

The shuffleboard tournament was in progress when I got back.  Peter played one round and he made it to the second, after which he was eliminated. We stayed until the finals past 3:00 PM.  By that time we were both pretty hungry, but didn't know if we wanted a light lunch or a hardy supper.  We settled for chili that I thinned with some V8.  We sat at the pool until a gorgeous sunset, but didn't join the group.

Saturday,  January 19, 2019

I was dressed too warm for pickleball; I got pretty heated up playing with Alice and her friend John,  along with Peter.  It was more laid back than last time, with no harsh words.  We played for little more than an hour.  We cooled off in our condo until we went to the pool.  I was in the water for an hour.  The air was cool coming out, with the sun hidden behind clouds.  The forecast for tomorrow is much colder, so we had to take advantage of the day.

Sunday,  Jan 20, 2019

It thundered during the night and Peter got up to close the outdoor blinds; we had a little water, but not much.  The rain stopped by the time we went to church but it was still cold and very windy. 

The waves were strong and the palm trees were bending. We did a little shopping.  I wrote to Annika, continued reading Financier that I downloaded yesterday.  It took longer than I expected since I had to enter the condo's wifi code.  We watched the Rams beat the Saints, but couldn't watch the Chiefs against the Patriots because CBS was still off our system. I used Peter's leftover salmon to make a hardy salad for supper.

Monday, January 21, 2019

A very cool day, made use of it by getting a manicure.  While I was making my appointment, Tom Breyer called about arranging payment and next year.  Before he had the chance to quote the price, I told him that we are making other plans for next year.  No further discussion.  We will pay our balance at the pot luck party on Thursday.  Peter took me to my 1:00 PM appointment to K & L Nails.  The operator convinced me to get a dipping powder manicure; I had no idea what he was talking about, but it was quite a different procedure.  Instead of putting polish on my nails, he first put a clear coat and dipped each nail in powder. He repeated this with a minute under a light for each hand.  It was a very nice job.

We sat by the pool for a while in the afternoon.

Tuesday,  January 22, 2019

Pickleball with Alice and John.  I sat by the pool before lunch; it was getting too hot.  After lunch  I went in the pool. it was too cold.  I was freezing in my wet suit and went indoors.  I made Oriental Beef which took a while, but should last a couple of meals.

Wednesday,  January 23, 2019

Peter played bocce ball and seemed pretty satisfied with himself. It got to 80 degrees by 2:00 PM, just as forecast.  I went in the pool before it got that warm, and the water was cold.  We sat at the pool after lunch until we took a ride to Fort Myers Beach and dinner at Heidi's. 

 We were warned of a 26 minute traffic delay.  It took us an hour to get there in extremely slow and completely stopped traffic. Heidi's is very neat and Heidi greeted us warmly.  I had a pilsner beer, Peter had a bottle.  The special of the day was Burgundy beef with spaetzli and red cabbage, Peter had meat loaf.  There was nothing left on my plate, it was so delicious. 

We also shared a strudel and took a cup of liver dumpling soup home.  We stopped for fruit on the way home.

Thursday, January 24, 2019

Stormy morning, a good day to do laundry.  The appliances are so slow it took me most of the day to do just four loads. It cleared up as the day progressed, but we stayed in all day.  There wasn't even enough time to go a movie.  Ended the day with dominoes.

Friday, January 25, 2019

Peter played bocce  ball. I sat at the pol with my jacket on and finished my 15th cap.  I made a celery salad for tonight's January party; I was pleased with the results, even though it wasn't Laura's recipe.  I paid Tom the $3500. balance for our rental.  We had a full table with Tom, Patti, Mary, Bob, Jean, Gaspare, and a couple from New York. We were there a total of two hours. I was comfortable with long pants, double jackets and shoes and stockings, not sandals.

Saturday January 26, 2019

Pickleball with Alice, John and Deanna.  Peter was really hot in one game, but fizzled when we played together.  The day was gray all day; we stayed in.  Heavy rains are forecast for the weekend with strong winds, but Wisconsin has dangerously cold weather.

Sunday, January 27, 2019

Rain going to church, after church, all day long, sometimes heavy.  We had to keep the blinds down which made our condo dark. We did some light grocery shopping after church, keeping our pantry on the slim side so we don't have to take too much back with us.  We watched the Pro bowl game and didn't do much else.

Monday, January 28, 2019

Cold morning; too cold for bocce ball. We took a walk and my calves hurt.  We played two games of shuffleboard and I won them both.  I was having trouble pushing far enough until I discovered that I had more power by taking a longer stride with my left foot. The sun struggled to come out, but we are escaping Wisconsin's record breaking freezing temperatures. 

Tuesday,  January 29, 2019

Very calm cool day for pickleball, but we were shedding our jackets as the games progressed, last game with our group. I told them that we wouldn't be back next year. I did some personal laundry then we spent time at the pool, but it was too cool to go in the water.  We had 7:00 PM reservations at Fresh Catch, and after the slow ride we had going to Heidi's the other night, we left at 5:45 to be sure we got there on time.  As luck would have it, there were were no traffic delays and we got there at 6:00 pm.  We were seated immediately at a table with a nice view.  If we came for 7 we never would have seen the beautiful sky.  I had a martini, Peter a beer and we had a basket of very crusty warm bread with olive and basil.  Peter ordered blackened salmon,

I had scallops done to perfection. 

We shared a key lime pie with coffee.  We stopped at Publix for a pizza for tomorrow's supper.  It was a lovely day.

Wednesday,  January 30, 2019

Worked on cleaning up the kitchen.  Peter was able to get in a game of bocce ball.  We each have our big suitcases packed and ready for the car.  The sun made a feeble effort, but nothing promising, but it did hit 70 degrees. Bitter cold grips the Midwest.  MPS is still closed. Peter put the big suitcases in the car.  We joined the Wednesday Sunset group with Kaukauna cheese and crackers. We got robbed of the sunset with heavy cloud cover, but it was still pleasant.  Just about everyone knows that we won't be coming back next year.  We got fond farewells and some gave us credit for being adventuresome.  We took showers before going to bed and put the towels and other linens in the washer.

Thursday, January 31, 2019

When I got up at 5:30 am I put the wash load in the dryer.  We stripped the bedding and did that wash also.  We cleaned out the frig and all last minute packing and are in the car ready to take off at 7:40 a.m., 56 degrees. We stopped at Perkins for breakfast and waited a long time for our coffee and longer for our eggs, which were cold by the time we got them.  They made them fresh with more coffee.  Somebody's  car broke down was their excuse. We got a 20% discount off our bill.  It was almost a one-hour breakfast. Peter compared this to the breakfast we eat at home. Peter drove until the Georgia welcome center, then I drove the rest of the way. The entire trip was very good with clear skies and moderate traffic.  We got to the Holiday Inn Express in Macon, GA at 6:00pm.  We were putting our bags on the cart when Pam and her husband pulled up at the same time.  This is their regular stopover to and from St, Louis to the Florida condo.  After three tries our card didn't unlock our door, so we were given a suite at no extra charge.  We found a Mexican restaurant and ordered a fajita quesadilla to share; I had a Margarita. The dish was cut in two and I think my half had a more generous helping of beef.  I got to bed early, and didn't have the energy to open my book.

Friday,  February 1, 2019

I had a restful night, comfortable bed.  We had a pretty good breakfast and were on the road about 8:10 am., with ice crystals on the windshield. The sky is clear and bright,  traffic light, so far. We switched driving at the Tennessee Welcome Center, and I drove with some light sprinkles.  We gassed up at a Pilot in Murfreesboro, and had fish sandwiches at Arby, my first time at an Arby's and I won't repeat the experience.  Why people support these places baffles me. We stopped at an unusual visitors center in Paducah before going to our hotel.  It was a restored mansion and not the easiest to get to.

We rested when we got to our room. We almost could have walked to O'Charley's where I had a delicious bourbon and bacon filet, Peter had a sirloin. We were back in our room at 7:45.

Saturday, February 2, 2019

Topped off the gas tank and were on our way at 8:22 a.m. driving in dense fog most of southern Illinois. I took over driving once it cleared up somewhere in Illinois and in that expansive flatland dining was scarce.  Peter wanted a family restaurant and we found Woody's Family Restaurant which was just what we wanted.  We each had burgers that came with soup, and we were very satisfied.  Once we got on I 39 we shut off the GPS because now all we had to look for was I 43.  I was driving and never saw it.  We were approaching Madison....Again!  Of course, I got an earful that I shouldn't have been driving so long.  We stopped at Lake Mills and switched drivers.  We should have been home two hours earlier.

Mileage 19679.

Bill Giearach

 December 26, 2018

Peter was at my house before 11:15 to go to Bill Gierach's funeral.  I said we could walk there.  Mission Hills had hardly any cars there.  Wrong Sass!  It was the Greenfield Chapel.  We made it with time to spare with a very full room.  We had a nice section for WAUC members with a lot in attendance.  Bill did not practice any religion, but his wife Monica was Catholic. 

A Mexican priest presided whom Peter knew from the First Friday Club.  He introduced himself to the priest who said the club was still going strong.  Peter knew Peter Zientek who also belonged.  So he knew my family before I knew Peter.  The service was rather brief.  We gathered afterwards at the Xavarian Mission on 51st & Xavior Dr. for a light lunch.  Peter took me home and I didn't waste any time getting to Southridge to get my 2019 Audubon  Calendar Diary.  While I was at Southridge I got Advent candles for next year and a candle snuffer.  I did some grocery shopping at Walmart on 76th, then had a pedicure and manicure.

I had some pierogi and Polish sausage for supper.

Christmas 2018

December 25, 2018 

Claude and I made 84 pierogi in about three hours.  We even had them for lunch with Polish sausage. In all the years we've been making them I never thought of sampling them for lunch.  We'd always have sandwiches.  We had the cripples, but they were still good.  We had more splits than previous years and we can't figure the cause.

Claude washed and I dried and put away all the preparing dishes; that was a big job.  I rested in the afternoon and went to midnight mass.  The church was less than half full.  What a shame that more people didn't come to hear the lovely choir.

On Christmas Day I had a light breakfast and started putting things in my suitcase.  It's so heavy without anything in it, and I'm sure I won't wear everything, and I'll wish I had brought something else.  Time went faster than I thought before it was time to leave to pick up Peter to go to Laura and Jay's.  He was ready to go with a bouquet of flowers for Laura.  He is so thoughtful.  We got there at exactly 2:00 pm and before we got out of the car he asked why are we the first ones to arrive.  He no more than said it when Claude pulled up before us.  Then we noticed the Dorns' car already in the driveway, which is unusual because they usually arrive last.  But Janice was making hot appetizers.  She had a wonderful assortment of stuffed mushrooms with a soy sauce, vegetables in wrappers, cheesy cauliflower biscuits and cream cheese rolled in dried cranberries.  We had these wonderful appetizers with a citrus cocktail of Laura's creation. It really beat the cheese and crackers that we normally have.  We visited until it was time for me to prepare the pierogi while the beef tenderloin was finishing.  The table was set so beautifully, as it always is, but this time our silverware was in cross stitched stockings.

I usually take a group picture when we are all at the table, but that takes time while food might be cooling off.  We were still in relaxing mood so I took our picture before we were ready to eat.

Besides the pierogi, we had a celery salad, roasted tomatoes and the most tender tenderloin imaginable.  Peter said it was like butter, hardly needed cutting.  It was magnificent.

Cookies were our dessert with coffee.  Janice felt so bad because she forgot to make one for Claude.  She took a lot of ribbing, especially when he looks forward to having his with coffee that he drinks only with a gingerbread cookie.  But Jay improvised.

Every cookie that I tried was delicious, and I had some to take home.

Austrian American "Brunch"

 December 16, 2018

Before going to the brunch I took pictures of Peter's house.

Peter and I were just about the first ones at the Silver Spring Country Club for our annual Christmas brunch.  We passed out song books at each table of eight; many were musty and moldy after being in Frank's barn.  We helped ourselves to mimosas while we visited and greeted each other. One couple said how much they enjoyed the Stoughton trip and hoped I'd plan another.  Later flutes of champagne were available. There were two other groups doing the same thing we were doing.  Frank announced that there were some changes from last year, and they were very significant.  He said that the club would be getting a refund.  But that wouldn't compensate for the disappointment for everyone with the meager offerings.  In my anticipation, I planned on starting with shrimp and smoked salmon.  I usually have a made-to-order omelet.  None of these was visible.  Scrambled eggs, cubed potatoes, fruit, pastries, french toast and sausage was all there was.  There were many complaints.  I had only one helping of what was there, and didn't finish the Danish, which was cold.  I checked out the rest of the facility and it was barren.  The main dining area that had many entrees, desserts, chocolate fountain and Santa was empty.  The other groups had the same thing we had.  I met Eileen in the restroom and she would not come if Frank booked this place again, neither would we.

Doug and John led the singing with some women adding their renditions of poetry, history and song. 

We introduced Santa with "You Better Watch Out"

We didn't plan anything else for the rest of the afternoon.  I was home by about 4:00 pm and got busy looking for the Macy's bill (in recycling, where I also found my Franklin tax bill.)  I paid bills and wrote Annika while watching football.  Packers lost earlier to Chicago 24 - 14.

Bakery Tour

 December 14, 2018

Today's event was a Hop on Hop Off tour of Christmas bakeries.  I got to Holey Moley Donuts in plenty of time, but finding a parking with sufficient time was another story.  I parked in a lot, but once I started walking I was totally disoriented.  The absence of street signs didn't help.  I turned on my GPS and it told me to go west, which I didn't think was right.  I stopped a young man and he pointed me in the right direction.  It was quite cold with a biting wind.  I was on Milwaukee Street all the while and very close to Holey Moley.  As I got to the bakery I noticed that my Humane Society bag was missing.  I must have dropped it when I was fiddling with my GPS.  We were supposed to bring a bag to carry any bakery we might purchase.  The store clerk graciously gave me a small paper bag.  We had a chocolate doughnut and coffee; I emptied the carafe.  I think there were about 23 of us on the trip.  We boarded a refashioned school bus painted green with various logos; the interior was in holiday decor.  Our first stop was La Flor De Trigo Bakery, where the owner passed around a tray of their homemade potato chips.  We also took with us a colorful bread and a chocolate pig cookie.

Our next stop was National Bakery where we stood in line for a Badger ham on a roll and some cookies.  The ham is further cured by National to bring out more cloves flavor. 

En route the leader gave us various ethnic Christmas traditions, some background on the bakery we would be visiting and the changing neighborhoods.  On our way back, each of us told of our Christmas traditions, mine was making pierogi.

Our next stop was Aggie's Bakery on Greenfield Avenue, where the Austrian American Society gets there pastries for Austrian American Day.  We each got a small bag of cookies.

Our final stop was on 68th and Wells where we could walk to the neighborhood shops: Simma's for a chocolate covered cheese cake, a candy store across the street for a chocolate covered pretzel where I bought some fairy food, a confetti carnation from Rose's Flower Shop and a small tart from La Tarte.  We also browsed other stores in the area: a plumbing store with a lovely window display and a toy store with games mostly for kids.  At each store some people bought something; maybe not at the first, since they didn't make tamales during the week, which many were interested in.  We were finished at about 11:30 am.  The event cost  $65, which I think was overpriced.  Each bakery gave just a small sample, except the Mexican bakery which I thought was the mostly generous.  The bakeries didn't make out too badly with many people making purchases.  I had no trouble getting back to my car where I found my bag in front of it.  The weather got a lot milder.

I headed out to Walter's on North for their Christmas party.  I arrived at about 4:15; Peter was there at 3:45.  He seemed to have some altercation with the owner's brother who said the Peter was hogging the table.  He also insulted a woman whom he called "Everywhere Bonnie"; just because everyone calls her that behind her back was not reason to say it to her face.  I held back on food with just a piece of chicken, some beans and raw beef on rye.  Peter spotted Ross Klish whom we visited with for a while.  We left at about 5:15 to get to dominoes.  I made a mistake an turned done Hwy 100 instead of keeping on North Ave.  There was an accident close to Burleigh which really slowed traffic.  I managed to make a U-turn and get back on North Ave. where I made better time.  Eunice, Nancy Janice, Peter and I played until Joy joined us.  Everyone won at least one game.

December Outing

 Thursday, December 13, 2018

I had my last class on the Current Issues of the Criminal Justice System, much to everyone's disappointment that it ended.  Jim Santelle was one of the most dynamic instructors in my memory.  He wanted to relate his Irani experiences with us by bringing in a rug with figures of Justice woven in, also bakery from a Dearborn MI bakery that makes Iranian bakery as close to the native product that Jim knows.  It was so flaky and delicious, three different kinds.  I feel comfortable parking my car, now that I know where to park and get quick access to the elevator and UWM.

When I got home and got the mail, the day was so nice and mild that I decided (after some debating) to call Peter to go the Christkindlmarket.  I originally thought of going next Tuesday, when I had nothing on my schedule.  But, who knows what the weather would be next Tuesday.  Peter was thrilled to take me up on that suggestion.  I think I couldn't have given him a better Christmas present.

We met at the SF P&R and Peter managed to find an un-metered parking spot not too far from the Fiserv Forum.  We walked through the stalls with hundreds of ornaments, clothing, jewelry, Christmas Nativity pieces, and food.  I bought some Danish licorice and Peter a bag of cookies.  We walked to the Wisconsin Cheese Mart and sampled cheeses.  I bought a Colby Swiss, Peter two different kinds and got a container of spread as a bonus.  We walked down the block to Usinger's.  I was interested in some wieners.  There were only a few customers in the store, and the service just didn't seem to be moving.  I wasn't that hungry, so we walked out.  I wonder what they did when there was really a rush.

Peter found another un-metered spot that we could walk to the BMO Harris Bank Christmas display.  They have stuffed animals that are used every year, but are dressed and arranged to fit a selected theme.  This year's theme was Dr. Seuss.  It was beautiful and imaginative.  It brought to life many of the books that I read to my first graders, especially my favorite, Horton Hatches the Egg.  I liked that book because it brought out the importance of being faithful and keeping your word.

MG Holiday Party

 December 5, 2018

Jay was over with a Honda he bought and will store in my garage.  I think it's for the boys at some future date.  I took Jay to the airport.  Since I was on Howell Ave., I thought I'd do my shopping at Woodman's.  Another big mistake, shopping at those huge stores.  The store does not have a pleasant appearance.  It is so massive and I was very tired going through all the aisles.  When I got home I made a cherry pretzel dessert for the WAUC party tomorrow.  I looked at my sugar canister and I have barely enough for the cheese cake for the Krumpus party.  So I still had to go to P & S for sugar and bananas.  I could have bought everything at that store with less energy.  Watched a lot of the funeral of George H.W. Bush at the National Cathedral.  It was very moving.

I took a nice rest in the afternoon with Dolly.

I picked Peter up at 5:45 p.m. for the MG party at Alioto's.  I took a lot of pictures.  We both had breaded pork chops, and took home boxes.  I don't know when I'll eat all this left-over food.  We sat with Michele and Greg, two Vagabonds.

Party Time

 December 4, 2018

Peter and I went to the MARTA luncheon at the Hilton, sat with Bonny and Chuck.  Peter and I both had beef for our meal.  An ensemble from the High School of the Arts performed.  The director knew Penny Goodwyn; I could feel her influence. Then we drove to Astor and Ogden to ride on The Hop. We rode to the Intermodal Station, then Burns Commons, then back to my car.  We thought of possible stops on the route, like the City Market.  We thought we could include the Christkindlemarket, but there wouldn't be enough time.  We had to pick up Helen Hankwitz at 4:30 for the caroling at Luther Manor. We picked up Peter's car at the State Fair P &R, drove to his house to see his decorations, then it was time to pick up Helen.
A nice group gathered, mostly in red; because I wasn't home, I didn't have time to change.  I had a powerful martini, and chicken cordon bleu, which I could take some home. 

On Tuesday, I went to the wake for Jim Hempel's mother at St. Paul's church on Norwich.  I drove by Mother's house since it was in the neighborhood; it looks run down with no improvements.
Went home to collect my book for book club.  We discussed Victoria.  I was in the minority not particularly enjoying the book, but Terry was in agreement of its not a real biography, too much contrived filler.  Joy, Terry S. Terry and I had lunch at Exploriun.  I had a Swiss melt with 4 oz. of beer.  Terry ordered a cookie dessert to celebrate Terry S's birthday.  
Didn't do much else the rest of the day.  TV coverage is mostly on the life of President George Bush. 

First Weekend in December

 December 2, 2018

Breakfast with Vagabonds was fairly well attended.  The wind was really whipping up.

I changed clothes and drove in the rain to North Point Bistro to have brunch with AAUW.  I sat at the window and watched the rain trickle down the window and the angry gray waves of the lake.  I was the highest bidder for a Haitian necklace, $40.  It should go well with a lot of colors.  The rain and wind continued, but since I was dressed for church, I went to 4:00 pm mass.  It was still raining when I got out and continued through the night.

On Sunday, I made an omelet, sausage, toast and blueberries for breakfast with coffee.  I was dressed in my most comfortable togs for my project for today: Christmas cards.  After I read the paper and watched Meet the Press, I went upstairs, took out the card table and assembled my materials.  I started by writing a letter to Annika.  Then I wanted to send a Hanukkah card to Carole Roberts and started searching for her address in my Road Scholar collection.  Success!  I found it.  And I'm sending her the card I bought last year, but didn't because I couldn't find her address.

It took me quite a while to compose my letter with what I wanted to include.  The same letter went to everyone, just changed the name/s.  That took all afternoon while I watched the Cardinals beat the pathetic Packers - at home!

Shopping

 November 26, 2018

We had our first measurable snowfall through the night; some areas hit harder than others.  Franklin measured 4", most coming from the south.  My driveway, sidewalk and roads were plowed, but because there was rain beforehand, it was icy going for the paper.  I had no problem getting to Osher, which had a full class on economics, a lot of graphs, but good explanation.

I really wanted to freshen up my wardrobe from all the dowdy clothing I've been wearing, so my plan was to head for some shopping centers, Chico's in particular with their huge cyber sale.  As I'm driving, I got a call from the Blood Center asking for my donation.  I explained my low iron, but since I was eating more turkey, I might have improved in my level.  So I dropped in.  It was still low; 11, not 12.  The tech said that I should go to the Vitamin Store and get an iron supplement, which I did.  Next I drove to Kohl's on Layton. I saw nothing appealing.  As a matter of fact, the store looked more like a discount store.  I went without buying anything.  Then I headed to Southridge and bought a $100 gift card for Colin's birthday at Dick's Sporting Goods.  I parked close to the store, not realizing that I could approach the mall from inside the store.  I got to Chico's, and even at discount prices, the clothing was more than I cared to pay.  I headed to Macy's.  I bought a boxed set of Obsession.  I found a nice jacket that I matched with a nice mock turtle neck, and another white turtle neck with gold snowflakes.  It was really within my budget.  They really have very nice tops.  Then with my bags, I had to head back to my car, which was near Dick's.  As much as I hate those new drive-up stores, I can see their value in saving a lot of walking through a mall.

Thanksgiving 2018

 Tuesday was declared shopping day.  I had my list ready and headed for Meijer's, thinking their produce was good and I'd get everything on my list.  I spent a lot of time in the produce section, then moved on to get the rest of my groceries.  The store is not familiar in its layout and I spent a lot of time searching for the sections I needed.  When I needed panty liners, they were in pharmacy, which was on the opposite cater corner from the groceries, plus I needed a 3-way bulb.  They didn't have fresh scallops, so I thought I'd get them from Empire, which would really be a trip.  But my shopping at Meijer's was very exhausting, and I'll not do that again.  Next, I picked up a fresh turkey at Ray's and also some frozen scallops in their freezer section.  That saved me a trip to Empire.  Putting away all the groceries was another chore.

I wasn't going to brine the turkey this year, but the Journal Sentinel had an unusual brine recipe with apple cider, the only ingredient the I didn't have.  I picked some up at P & S and did the brining before picking up Terry for Red Hat at Crawdaddy's.  We had eight show up.  I had a delicious shellfish etouffee that should satisfy me for the day.  At 4:00 p.m. I had a hair appointment with Rachel, then drove to Jimmy's Iguana for Over the Hump.  I should have my head examined for going out before a holiday when I had so much to do.  But the weather was pleasant, and I haven't been to one in months.  Peter ordered a quesadilla and I ate just one piece with a margarita. When I got home I made the turkey stock, so that kept me up until 11:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 22, 2018

I made the stuffing, washed the floor, did some pick-up cleaning before putting the turkey in the oven at noon.  I put my feet up on the recliner, and Hello Dolly didn't waste any time cuddling up.  She was in a funk for a couple of days; sleeping and hiding downstairs on the comforter, making herself scarce.  I was about to take her to the vet because she wasn't acting normal.  But she perked up yesterday and seems her old lovable self now.  I had to disturb her resting on my arm to baste the turkey that is coming along nicely.  Claude came about 1:45 pm and pulled out the table, brought up the chairs, set the table and fixed my hanging bird feeder with a loose string.  Peter arrived at 2:45 pm with beer and a beautiful fall bouquet.  The Dorns arrived shortly after 3:00 pm with a pressure cooker to make the potatoes.  The Sorensens arrived shortly after with appetizers and a dessert.  We noshed a cheese log, flavored pecans, deviled eggs and veggies and dip for awhile, then I continued to prepare.  The turkey was done before 4:00 pm.  I finished cooking the Brussels sprouts and carrots, made the gravy, carved the turkey and prepared the scallops in lemon butter sauce with garlic.  Janice cooked the potatoes and Claude put them through the Foley mill and Annika filled water glasses.  I had my camera prepared to take a group picture, but everything was so hastily put together that I didn't seem to find time.  The table was full with everyone around it except Jay who was in China on an airline seminar.  Everything was delicious,  if I must say so myself.  We cleared the table with most of the dishes in the dishwasher and Claude tackled the big pans and dishes that didn't fit in the dishwasher.  Brad and Peter dried, while I put away food. 

We relaxed for awhile before Laura presented her dessert, pumpkin Paflova.  I'm disappointed in this picture; it should have been sharper.

It was so light, with a touch of pumpkin.  A perfect finish.  I was so pleased to see all the grandchildren gathered in the living room, even though we were rather crowded.  They were on their phones, but still engaged.  Everyone left before 8:00 p.m, except Peter who stayed to watch part of a football game and read the paper.  He left before 10:00 pm.  He was going to the car while I was putting out the lights.  I was very tired and overworked.

Friday, November 23, 2018

I stayed in bed until 8:00 am.  Had breakfast and cleared out the dishwasher.  I made a huge pot of turkey stock with the carcass.  It really looks wonderful.  I plan to make some soup every week until I use it up.  Peter and I decided that we didn't have to go out to eat today.  I relaxed, knit and read.

Saturday, November 24, 2018

Breakfast with the Vagabonds; I had a nice bowl of oatmeal with my raisins.  After breakfast I went to Stein's and bought three boxes of Christmas cards and an outside tree decoration.  I stopped at Wild Birds for peanut butter and nuts.  I also picked up some fruit, Creamettes and creamed corn for the soup I plan to make today, vegetable turkey soup.  I had all the vegetables, plus the turkey and stock; all I needed was the creamed corn and pasta.  I used older stock.  That took a good part of the day, with all the cutting and preparing.  In the meantime, I assembled the outside tree, which wasn't too difficult, but still needed a lot of putting things together.  I went to 4:00 pm mass today because snow is predicted for tomorrow.  When I got home I had my soup, which could use a little sharpness.  I might add a tiny bit of Tabasco.

Galapagos

 Monday, October 8, 2018

I had a leisurely day, just putting things in order for the last minute check-up.  Hello Dolly was on my lap most of the afternoon and as I was leaving she was looking up at me with those loving eyes  I just hated leaving her.  I got to the Four Points Sheridan at about 4:15 p.m. and was alarmed that Carol would have to pay the daily rate for her car, since only one car is allowed per room.  I gathered my bags and as I was going to my room Carol Bospiro was checking in.  We couldn't have timed that better if we arranged it.  I was relieved that she was dropped off and didn't have a car. We sat in the lobby and met some of our group that was arriving.  I also realized that I didn't have anything to eat for breakfast. But I'm sure I'll survive until Chicago.

Tuesday,  October 9, 2018

I had a good night's sleep, even though I had a dream the bus left me in Munich while I was getting a sandwich at a bakery, really weird; Chet and Claude were also I  my dream. We got up at 3:00 a.m. and are waiting in the lobby for our bus that arrives at 4:15 and departs at 4 30.  We rode in the dark and I was able to catch a few winks.  I couldn't believe how fast we got to O'Hare with no congestion or back-ups.  Check in went smoothly with our group.  I had a bagel and coffee while waiting for our 8:35 am flight, and I saw the sun rise. Flight to Miami was smooth and pleasant.  I finished a cap before we landed.  The walk to Gate 42 was taking longer than I expected.  I thought a little exercise would be good, but this was getting ridiculous.   I got on the sky train, and should have taken it sooner, but I found the gate with some of our group already there.  There was about a 3- hour layover, but it passed.  The flight to Quito was a little bumpy at times.  We were served a sandwich with a lot of roll, which I managed to avoid. Arriving at Quito, going through immigration was a snap, and when the agent asked if I was here before and I said yes, she said that my name was in the record.  Baggage claim was fast and we waited to be greeted by Marco who took us on one of the buses for a 45 minute ride to the Hilton.  On the way he told us about the weather, water and what we should wear (long pants).  We have a very nice room with a small plate of cheese, that we thought was left by the prior lodger, but the porter said it was for us.  

Wednesday,  October 10, 2018

 I had a restful night on a comfortable bed. Breakfast was a nice assortment to choose from.  I had a couple of pancakes, cheeses, a small omelet, an apricot and tangerine.  We were on the bus at 9:00 a.m. heading for the Old City.  I spotted this lovely Arupo tree with beautiful flowers.

We walked to a square with brass plates embedded in the brick pavement showing some of the old buildings. 

Independence Square had a huge angel symbolizing independence and many ideas were incorporated from the United States independence, as were other countries. We went into la  Iglesia de la  Compania de Jesus a magnificent Baroque Cathedral with almost every surface covered in  gold gilt. 

Unfortunately   photos were not allowed, but it was amazing to see all the details throughout the church. I bought a set of postcards. 

We also went into a Franciscan monastery that I had been to before.

We walked up to the choir loft and could view a mass in progress and photos were allowed. 

We drove to an elevation where we could get a panoramic view of Quito and a very large statue of the Virgin Mary made of aluminum.   

On the way to our restaurant Marco gave us much information about Ecuador's economy, weather, agriculture, employment, main sources of income: 1. oil, 2. bananas, 3. shrimp, 4. roses and 5. tourism.  He was extremely knowledgeable and answered many questions.  We couldn't have had a better guide.

We got to the restaurant named The Crater as it is next to two volcanoes.   I had my picture taken with my traveling partner, Carol Borpiro, before going in to the restaurant. 

I had a lager beer, then we were served potato soup with an avocado garnish.  Because of the abundance of potatoes, they are incorporated in many ways. Also on the table were small empanadas with two different sauces and crusty bread.  The main course chosen by the majority of us was cooked pork combined with other ingredients.  It was difficult to cut and not easy to chew.  There were three pieces; I managed to eat two. They were pretty filling along with a fresh little side salad, orange potatoes, large white corn, plantain and a small empanada. Passion fruit mousse was delicious.  We took a group picture before moving on to straddle the equator. It was a rather long ride, but Marco kept us interested with his commentary.  At the equator site it was overcast and rather chilly.  Marco took everyone's picture with each foot on each side of the hemisphere. 

We took an elevator to an observation lookout, and took the stairs down where there were posters explaining the construction of the monument and other features. 

We got to our hotel shortly before 5, and after depositing extra items in our rooms we walked to the handicraft market.  Vendors were in your face with their wares, but they did get some sales.  The small purse I was carrying showed wear where the string was connected, and I didn't want to lose it, so I bought another small purse for $10. Before going to our rooms we decided to use our complimentary cocktail coupon at the bar.  I guess everyone had the same idea, and we kept the bartender busy making mostly pisco sours. At first he said he didn't think the coupon covered that drink, but after checking, he said it did. There were really a lot of Vagabonds gathered there.  We have an early wake-up call tomorrow,  so I'm charging electronic stuff, and going to bed early.

Thursday,  October 11, 2018

My clock did not automatically change time, so when I set the alarm to go off a 5:00 a.m. it actually went off at 4:00 a.m.  We had our bags outside our door by 6:00 a.m., and went to breakfast.  I had strawberry juice,  oatmeal with lots of raisins and some fruit.  Everyone was on the bus at 6:45 to the airport for our 9:35 departure.  On the way Marco talked about the problems with narcotics, where they  come from (Columbia)  and the devious ways they are transported.  Once we got to the airport,  Marco was there to guide us through the check-in process.  We had a counter dedicated to La Pinta.  We were boarding by about 9:15 for our 9:35 departure.  Ron boarded with a huge bandage on the back of his head.  Apparently,  he was taking a picture while the bus was moving when the bus made a sudden stop and he was thrown.  He got emergency care at the airport.  (A picture is worth 7 stitches). I thought that he was smarter than that.  We had a short layover in Guayaquil then boarded another plane with the same seat assignment for the 1 hour and 55 minute trip to Baltra Island. 

Once there, the temperature was noticeably warmer.  We went through immigration and customs, claimed our luggage, then boarded buses that would take us to La Pinta.  We were given life jackets and instructions how to board the pangas that would take us to the ship.  We had to grasp an assistants arm, while the assistant grabs ours and aids us getting in or out of the panga. 

Carol and I should be very comfortable in cabin 315.

There were artistically folded towels on our beds every night.

The first order of business was the safety drill, with a lot of explanations about why a certain procedure is done.  Then we gathered our snorkeling gear; even though I never did it, I think I'd like to try in shallow water on the beach.  Roz is planning on joining me.  We again boarded a panga to explore South Plaza Island with Sabina as our guide.  She was very thorough explaining the geology of the islands and pointing out sea lions,

a red crab

and yellow-green land lizards. 

We also saw a swallow tailed seagull. 

The pace was slow and careful over rugged, bleak terrain.  Claude's walking stick was invaluable; I never would have done it without it. 

As difficult as it was walking at the airport, I didn't feel any fatigue at all. It was starting to get dark as we were winding up our walk.  We didn't have much time before our welcome cocktail at 7:25 with little canapés.   We were introduced to the crew and were given the schedule for tomorrow.  There isn't a printed handout, but we have to refer to an announcement board.  We also get announcements through the speaker system.  Next we went to dinner.  I had an octopus appetizer with tiny cut up vegetables,  a delicious beef tenderloin that had a marvelous taste, even though it was well done, over mashed potatoes, and fresh fruit for dessert.  I also ordered a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon that the steward will keep for me.

Friday, October 12, 2018

I had a very restful night; Carol said she did too.  The boat is very steady, sea is calm.  All we hear is the hum of the engine, but not bothersome.

We had breakfast on the stern deck on a cool pleasant morning. 

We were warned last night of a very rocky terrain on Santa Fe Island  that we would be climbing and I was very apprehensive about venturing it.  I went out in the boat and would determine how brave I'd be once we got there.  We had a wet landing, which means we had to take off our shoes before climbing out of the panga onto a course sandy beach.  Once on the beach we dried off our feet with towels that we brought along and put on our footwear.  I shouldn't have been worried.  It was very rocky, but it wasn't a climb.  Paul led us on a slow walk as he pointed out and talked about the wildlife that we saw: a Galapagos hawk,

yellow warbler,

Galapagos dove,

ground finch,

Santa Fe iguana

and a blue footed boobie.

And some frigate birds.  Here is a pair.

We kept our feet bare as we climbed back into the panga until we got back to the ship where we could spray our feet of sand.  Our next event was a choice between kayaking or a ride in a glass bottom boat at staggered times. I went on the glass bottom boat at 10:15 with Sabina.  We saw a number of colorful fish and some huge turtles.

Then it was lunch at noon.  I had just a salad with some crusty bread with cheese and a mocha torte and creme brullee for dessert with coffee. I did some knitting in the lounge until 2:30 p.m when it was time to get into the panga for a 35 - minute bus ride  to the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Habitat on San Cristobal Island. 

Sabina was our guide and she must have spent about 15 minutes in front of a mural talking extensively about the islands, inhabitants, animals, etc. It was information overload.  We took a slow walk and observed a number of tortoises of various sizes.

also the San Cristobal lava lizard, endemic to this island.  They were relatively close to the path.

  Then we climbed a quite steep and rocky path to see immature tortoises being protected in cages and other enclosures until the would be released into the wild. 

Sabina also went into the egg hatching process and how the eggs are protected.  We then proceeded to the bus.  We were the first group to arrive and the last to leave, but no other group had a 15 minute lecture in front of that mural.  When we got to town we were able to do some shopping to support the local economy. We were to return at 6:00 p.m. I was looking for a tee shirt, but did not find anything that I liked.  I settled for some earrings. I passed members of my group a number of times, but when it was time to leave, I couldn't find anyone.  I thought we were to meet where the bus left us off.  I went back where I shopped, not a soul.  I stopped a cab driver to ask how to get back to the La Pinta, but he didn't speak English.  He said that I should find the police.  I went in search of one, when along came a man who seemed to sense my difficulty.  I think the cab driver was trying to explain it to him.  This chubby man said that the ship wouldn't leave without me because they had markers that keep track of the passengers.  He said that some of the crew of La Pinta would be waiting for me.  Sure enough!  He called to two men, one was the small black man the other a good looking guide, and said that they would take care of me.  One guide made a call to the ship that they found me and I got I to the panga for my ride home.  Needless to say, I had my story to tell, even though I was embarrassed to tell it. 

Markers: There was a large magnetic board near the front desk with each cabin number and disks for each person to slide their disk to the white when they leave and slide it back to the black when they return.  When one of the disks for cabin 315 was not in the return position, it was obvious someone was missing.  A couple of the crew went back to the island to retrieve the missing person (me)!

We had our briefing for tomorrow's activities,  then  dinner of a tuna appetizers,  soup, pork tenderloin  medallions and cheesecake. 

Saturday,  October 13, 2018

After our 7:00 a,m, breakfast, we had a wet landing at San Cristobal Island where we had a choice of either a very strenuous climb or a panga ride along the shore, which I did.  Afterwards, we could swim/snorkel on the beach or stay on the ship.  There was also going to be swimming and snorkeling in the afternoon, so I'd have a chance to do it then.  I stayed on the ship and did some knitting.  The people that came back from snorkeling said the current was too strong and it wasn't enjoyable, so I was glad I didn't do it.  After lunch we saw a video on the Galapagos Island, then a panga took us for another wet landing to Cirro Brujo's white coral beach.  We walked along the very fine sand where many sea lions were lounging. 

Walking on that soft sand was very difficult, plus it was sunny and hot.  I walked as far as I cared to, and walking back seemed more strenuous.  I decided to give snorkeling a try.  Getting the wet suit on was like putting on a straight jacket.  Then the flippers, safety vest and goggles. Sabina helped me get adjusted and I tried walking backward into the water.  I couldn't keep my balance, even though Laurie offered to help.  I hardly got wet, but took everything off and everything was full of sand, and my hiking shoes were soaked when a wave got up too far.  We took a group picture and then it was time to get back to the ship. 

Then all the snorkeling gear had to be rinsed of all the sand in large tubs when we got back on board.  I had my short experience with snorkeling that I don't plan to repeat.  We had a lecture on birding, which I don't think most people were interested in, even though they were taking pictures of birds. Then a briefing of tomorrow's schedule before dinner.  I bought a Galapagos tee shirt from the gift shop, which should just about exhaust my $100. certificate.  I had an appetizer, prawn bisque and chicken for dinner, plus fresh fruit for dessert. I sat with Susan, Maureen, Suzanne and Wally; Kaye joined us later.  We lingered until after 9.

Sunday, October 14, 2018

A cool and breezy morning, not a good choice to have breakfast on deck.  It was much too cool, unless one was wearing a jacket; I wasn't. At 8:00 a.m. We had a choice of a rocky hike or a shorter rocky hike. I chose the latter and it wasn't rocky it was bouldery! 

It was very precarious walking.  We stopped for a while at a sea lion nursery with pups in all stages of development,  some newborn and some newly born.  Pups were scurrying in and out of the water with mothers close by. 

There were also a lot of marine iguanas with mostly red coloring that would turn green during the mating season. 

We walked for quite a while over terrible rocks and I had some help, but decided that I didn't care to go any farther, because my ankle was extremely tender.  I told the group to go ahead and they could pick me up on their return.  What an egregious mistake.  They saw albatrosses with chicks!  But as luck would have it, I forgot my batteries and my Soni died.  My phone had a little life, but not much.  Pat was so kind to offer to walk me back.  I told him to go on; I'd be perfectly fine sitting on the rocks.  When he came back I told him how lucky he was that he didn't take me back; otherwise he would have missed seeing the albatrosses.  We had a lecture at 11:15 on preserving the ecosystem and the invasives that were introduced.  Before lunch one of our group was an assistant chef and helped prepare an Ecuadorian dish.  There was a whole pig that got cut up.  I had a bowl of the most delicious potato soup topped with chopped avocado, a small piece of the pork with some crisp skin and the special salad with squid, shrimp, a lot of other ingredients plus popcorn.  I had a very little dessert.  I can't believe how much people eat.  Their plates are full and in a few hours they'll be eating another meal.  I went for a ride on a glass bottom boat,  but it wasn't as good as the first one; not as many  colorful fish, although we did see a couple of sea lions swimming by.  We could take a panga and sit on the beach,  but it was too gloomy and chilly, plus it would be a wet landing which means taking a towel and getting full of sand.  I finished a cap, sat in the lounge until some snacks were served on deck, then a recognition the crew and briefing for tomorrow's departure.  During our stay the crew was taking a lot of pictures of us and they put on a slide show.  We could get a copy of the program by leaving our email addresses.  Many cruise ships take pictures and sell the CD.  I shared a table with Suzanne and Wally, and even though there were just three of us, we had a lively conversation.   Suzanne was also presented with a Birthday cake which she shared.  Our bills with tip suggestions were on our beds and we got busy packing.

Monday,  October 15, 2018

After breakfast we got into pangas that took us to Santa Cruz and a bus ride to a tortoise sanctuary.  We put on tall rubber boots to trek through the grounds, which weren't muddy, but kept our shoes clean.  Sabina told us about their mating and how the female goes down to the lowland to lay her eggs and how the hatchlings come back to this site.  Our bus had to drive around some tortoises that were on the road.

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