Shame on me for what?

This all started because I began a new side-job two nights ago. I've tended bar in the past, but this job entailed being a cocktail waitress. I was a little nervous about the fast pace and a lot terrified of dropping a tray and spilling the drinks all over customers! (I had mental images of a tray flying through the air with glasses overturning, landing in a lady's lovely coif!)

Happily, I truly enjoyed the experience! I met some wonderful people and I didn't drop the tray! Seriously, I felt very successful for not dropping that heavy tray! Those darned tall draft mugs are extremely heavy, you know. The mug itself is over a pound, but it gets really heavy when you add the draft!

So, I posted my happiness with my new endeavor on Facebook. It was one of those general "share the moment" posts that we see all over FB. You know the kind of post I mean. "I got a new puppy," "I colored my hair," or "I loved the new nail salon" types of posts are just for informational purposes used to share our world experiences with our friends and family. Our intentions are grins and giggles. Sometimes, they begin innocuous, enjoyable conversations. I tagged my oldest daughter because she's been a successful cocktail waitress in the past and I thought she would appreciate my experience, as well as my enjoyment of the new endeavor.

It seems like an innocent enough post, right? I received a few supportive responses and atta-girls from several friends and family. And, my daughter thought it was a hoot!

Well. It opened a can of worms.

I awoke yesterday to a personal Facebook message from a friend saying "Shame on you! Shame on you for lowering yourself like that! You are a teacher! You should know that you are better than this. Working in a bar is beneath you!" (Notice, I did not screenshot the message. I'm not going to "out" this person for the opinionated bigot that she just proved herself to be.)

She and I went back and forth for a little while about this. Finally, we had to agree to disagree and end the discussion. But, I guess I didn't meet her standards for friendship, because she de-friended me. Quite frankly, I'm not saddened by the loss of a so-called friend with such an imperious persona. I am, however, saddened that she has that worldview. I'm also saddened that she seemed to feel that I was, in some way, demeaning her in the process.

In a response to this. I wrote another post on Facebook.

I ended up received around 30-40 positive, supportive responses. And, we all seem to agree that no job is unimportant and all people who choose to work in any job deserve respect for that choice.

The whole little rant made me feel much better about society. Unfortunately, we all know that people exist who refuse to work a job they feel is "beneath" them. My own beloved mother supported me when I was young on a secretary's pay. In case you don't know, secretaries in the 70s did not make a lot of money. She taught me that being a secretary was honorable work and that no matter what job you do, you do your best. You work with what you have and (to paraphrase Tim Gunn) you make it work. I never really knew we were poor. (Thanks, Mom. You are awesome!)

She taught me to respect anyone who works hard. As a result, no matter what job I enjoy, I do my best at that job, no matter what it may be. The point is to have a good work ethic, no matter the job.

I recently met a man who holds an accounting degree working as a barista. I've met teachers who clean houses on the weekends, or waitress, or work at Pier 1. I knew a doctor who chose to work in restaurants as a chef rather than work in a hospital. By the way, he also had a band. He loved it!

"Choose a job you love and you will never work a day in your life." I've seen this attributed to Confucious, Marc Antony, Abe Lincoln, and even Henry Ford. No matter who first said it, it's a truth that we need to teach our children.

But, it's also true that employment well done (even if you don't enjoy it) pays more than sitting on a couch complaining about not having a job! If shame is to be allocated, shame on people who refuse to work because the job is "beneath" them.

No one is better than anyone else. However, I'll admit that I pity those who choose not to work because the job they can get doesn't meet their misguidedly high standards. Now THAT is a true shame.

I'm a Fraud

So now, you are asking yourself "What did she lie about?" or "What did she do wrong?"

I didn't and I haven't. I live an honest and truthful life, as much as I possibly can.

But, I'm still a fraud. Why? Because I'm not who everyone seems to think I am.

I go through the motions of life and I hear wonderful compliments from friends and family. These compliments are truly sweet and really make a girl feel good. Sometimes these compliments include such wonderful things as "you're so self-confident!" or "you really know what you want in life!" But inside, I know I'm not. And inside, I know I don't.

I also hear wonderful things about my life being "interesting" and "full of adventure." But, again, it's not. People making these compliments only see me through the virtual world of Facebook or Instagram or Twitter. They don't see my day-to-day existence. They don't see the struggle of a combined introvert/extrovert. They don't see me struggle in conversation when I don't feel comfortable. Shoot, they never even see me feel uncomfortable! In real life, I work very hard to appear comfortable in all situations and locations. And online? All they can see are my posts. And, I only post the fun tidbits or the interesting events. I do a good job managing my online identity.

In the Communications field, we have two concepts about "identity." One is the "perceived self." This is how we see ourselves. This is our own interpretations of the people we are in reality. The other is the "projecting self." This is the identity we try to project to the world as a whole. This is the world's interpretation of us, influenced by our behavior and actions. These two identities don't always match up. What we project to the world is not always accurate. What we project to the world is the manner in which we want to be seen.

But, the world doesn't see me the way I see me. This is true of most people, by the way. We all manage our identities in different way. So, the end result is that the world doesn't see me questioning myself and doubting motives or actions. And yes, I have many doubts. Most people do, right? When you become an adult, you can only depend 100% on your own self and your decisions. If you were to ask around, you would likely discover that we all have similar doubts. For example: "Have I made the right decisions about my job? Have I made the right choices with my children, my parents, my life? What about my love life?" In my case, my question is "What about being single? Am I making the right decision by choosing not to actively date and try to find 'the one'?" We all have doubts and concerns. But, only we see them and experience them daily. Only we feel the effects.

The world doesn't see me hoping, on some nights, for that phone call from a friend asking me to meet for coffee, dinner, or drinks. On other nights, I'm dreading that phone call from a friend asking me to meet for coffee, dinner, or drinks. Yes, I could be viewed as wishy-washy or indecisive.

That's the life of an introverted extrovert. Or, is it an extroverted introvert? I just know that I'm both, depending on the day and my mood.

I want to be around people, but I'm uncomfortable about half the time because I feel less funny, less intelligent, less pretty, less witty, less everything, than those around me. When I'm out? I enjoy myself for a while, then I usually end up wishing I was hiding in my room at home, watching my tv, playing on the computer, and/or reading a book. When I'm home? I wish I were out, mingling with friends and experiencing that enigmatic little concept of leading a full life.

So. Here's the truth. This is who I really am, when we remove the veil of cyber life. This is me.

I spend the majority of my life in my bedroom. True, it's also my home office and I really do have quite a bit of work to do. But, I can easily stay in my little comfort zone for days without interacting with actual people, other than talking on the phone or texting with my daughters or my parents. Sure, I chat online and have interesting virtual conversations, but I never have to leave the comfort of my little cottage. I safely hide behind a keyboard to conduct quite a bit of my social life.

On days that I'm not teaching (and I usually only teach 3 days a week), I commonly make myself shower and dress around 2 or 3 in the afternoon, just in case.

I get dressed just in case I get that phone call, just in case I decide to run to the store, just in case someone drops by to visit, just in case . . . anything happens. Things rarely happen.

I could wear the same clothes four or five days in a row and no one would ever know.

So there's the truth. This is who I really am on a daily basis.

I manage to take some trips with my camper on the occasional weekend, during some school breaks, and over the summer. But even then, my camper is set up just for me. I could easily live the same life in my camper that I live in my house.

I do need to clarify one concept here, though. Despite the basic solitary nature of my life, I am happy! I'm very content living my life. Maybe that contentedness is the cause of my discomfort when I finally go out? Sure, I sometimes wish that I had more friends and more opportunities for excursions and explorations and revelries. But, most of the time, I'm very happy.

So. There you go. That's the life of the introverted extrovert. Or vice versa. It doesn't really matter which way it goes, but that's who I am in real life.

No, I'm not quite as exciting or interesting as some people believe. But, that's ok! I have a good life. And, I think I plan to continue this style of life as long as I possibly can.

Washington D.C. and City Segway Tours

I started my day by hitting the train station in Fredericksburg. First off, parking was a royal pain! I really suggest researching the parking anywhere before having to use it. I think I rounded the block twice before I just decided to use a parking garage two blocks away. And, lesson learned!

Then, I went over to the train station. Here, I realized that I had no idea which track to approach. Stairs to the left or stairs to the right. So I, being me, stopped a complete stranger to ask questions. She was so kind and helped me out, but she was carrying such heavy bags. I offered to help several times, but she declined every time. Finally, we ended up sitting together on the train to D.C. Dana was very kind and helpful, especially after I found I had purchased the wrong ticket. Or, more specifically, I did not purchase a part of the ticket that I needed. What the heck is a step-up ticket?? So, once again, always do plenty of research before buying tickets. I discovered that some of the trains are VRE (Virginia Rail) and some are Amtrak. So when you buy a VRE but plan to use Amtrak, you have to buy a step-up ticket in addition to the VRE ticket because you are "stepping up" to Amtrak, so to speak. So, because we both had horrible cell service, she and I were both fighting for an actual human person from Amtrak. Finally, she got an actual human first, so I was able to take care of the ticket issues. Dana is one of those rare souls that are willing to step in and help. She's a garrulous, kind-hearted, helpful soul that needs to be acknowledged for her caring! Thank you, Dana!

Finally, we got to DC and parted ways with a quick hug. I really hope to continue communication with her in the future. I felt the beginning tugs of friendship. But, she had to work and  I had a tour to catch. So we went our separate ways.

Now, I've taken many tours in my life: bus tours, trolley tours, walking tours, boat tours, etc. But the best by far is the City Segway Tour!

Segways are really a lot easier to manipulate than you really expect. I was a little tentative at first, but by the time we had been 30 minutes into the tour, I felt like a pro! I'd also like to mention that Spencer, our tour guide, was obviously very experienced and extremely knowledgable! The best part? We all had radios on our Segways so he could tell us humorous anecdotes while scooting along. So while walking tourists are getting all hot and sweaty, we were zooming along with a beautiful cool breeze! Plus, we saw more in 3 hours than most people ever could in that time frame. It was fun and it was informative. Spencer shared anecdotes and stories about the locations that you just never get while playing solo tourist. But on a Segway? Oh, my. I will never take a normal tour again!

We saw all of the normal DC sights, but Spencer's informative anecdotes really helped us to understand some of what we were seeing and added humorous flavor to the history we've all learned. I had no idea Hoover hated the FBI Building and never wanted his name on it. Nixon, for spite, named the building the minute Hoover was no longer in office! We also learned that Andrew Jackson was a huge partier. He would through huge gatherings, serving whiskey and punch. The government finally stepped in and told him not to have those parties in the White House! Which was where we started our tour, then we moved up Pennsylvania Ave to the Capitol. We then we scooted all the way up the mall, stopping at various sights of interest, and ended at the Lincoln Memorial. I've been to D.C. several times, but I never managed to get there before. Unless you have been, you just can't comprehend the majesty and beauty of the scene. Nor can you comprehend the immensity of Lincoln sitting on his chair. According to our tour guide, the seated Lincoln is 19 feet tall. If he had been depicted standing, he would have been 28 feet tall! And, he is forever gazing at the Washington Monument, beautifully rising to the clouds.

With that final image, our tour ended and we had to return our wonderful Segways. I've already started making plans to find another!

Then, I got to fight the trains! I had to take the Metro back to Union Station. At rush hour. During one stretch, I was the salami in a human sandwich. It was funnier than it was uncomfortable, but it was tight in there!

Finally, yes, I ended up doing the whole 'sprint to get on the train" thing. That was also a memorable first. I really felt that I acquired a quintessential train memory during that sprint. But I did it. And, I made it.

I had a wonderful time in Washington. I suggest that anyone who only has a short time to spend and wants to fit as much as possible in their trip should call City Segway Tours. It's fun and it's memorable! It helps you fly comfortably through the sights. I loved it!! And I will definitely do it again!

Washington D.C. and City Segway Tours

I started my day by hitting the train station in Fredericksburg. First off, parking was a royal pain! I really suggest researching the parking anywhere before having to use it. I think I rounded the block twice before I just decided to use a parking garage two blocks away. And, lesson learned!

Then, I went over to the train station. Here, I realized that I had no idea which track to approach. Stairs to the left or stairs to the right. So I, being me, stopped a complete stranger to ask questions. She was so kind and helped me out, but she was carrying such heavy bags. I offered to help several times, but she declined every time. Finally, we ended up sitting together on the train to D.C. Dana was very kind and helpful, especially after I found I had purchased the wrong ticket. Or, more specifically, I did not purchase a part of the ticket that I needed. What the heck is a step-up ticket?? So, once again, always do plenty of research before buying tickets. I discovered that some of the trains are VRE (Virginia Rail) and some are Amtrak. So when you buy a VRE but plan to use Amtrak, you have to buy a step-up ticket in addition to the VRE ticket because you are "stepping up" to Amtrak, so to speak. So, because we both had horrible cell service, she and I were both fighting for an actual human person from Amtrak. Finally, she got an actual human first, so I was able to take care of the ticket issues. Dana is one of those rare souls that are willing to step in and help. She's a garrulous, kind-hearted, helpful soul that needs to be acknowledged for her caring! Thank you, Dana!

Finally, we got to DC and parted ways with a quick hug. I really hope to continue communication with her in the future. I felt the beginning tugs of friendship. But, she had to work and  I had a tour to catch. So we went our separate ways.

Now, I've taken many tours in my life: bus tours, trolley tours, walking tours, boat tours, etc. But the best by far is the City Segway Tour!

Segways are really a lot easier to manipulate than you really expect. I was a little tentative at first, but by the time we had been 30 minutes into the tour, I felt like a pro! I'd also like to mention that Spencer, our tour guide, was obviously very experienced and extremely knowledgable! The best part? We all had radios on our Segways so he could tell us humorous anecdotes while scooting along. So while walking tourists are getting all hot and sweaty, we were zooming along with a beautiful cool breeze! Plus, we saw more in 3 hours than most people ever could in that time frame. It was fun and it was informative. Spencer shared anecdotes and stories about the locations that you just never get while playing solo tourist. But on a Segway? Oh, my. I will never take a normal tour again!

We saw all of the normal DC sights, but Spencer's informative anecdotes really helped us to understand some of what we were seeing and added humorous flavor to the history we've all learned. I had no idea Hoover hated the FBI Building and never wanted his name on it. Nixon, for spite, named the building the minute Hoover was no longer in office! We also learned that Andrew Jackson was a huge partier. He would through huge gatherings, serving whiskey and punch. The government finally stepped in and told him not to have those parties in the White House! Which was where we started our tour, then we moved up Pennsylvania Ave to the Capitol. We then we scooted all the way up the mall, stopping at various sights of interest, and ended at the Lincoln Memorial. I've been to D.C. several times, but I never managed to get there before. Unless you have been, you just can't comprehend the majesty and beauty of the scene. Nor can you comprehend the immensity of Lincoln sitting on his chair. According to our tour guide, the seated Lincoln is 19 feet tall. If he had been depicted standing, he would have been 28 feet tall! And, he is forever gazing at the Washington Monument, beautifully rising to the clouds.

With that final image, our tour ended and we had to return our wonderful Segways. I've already started making plans to find another!

Then, I got to fight the trains! I had to take the Metro back to Union Station. At rush hour. During one stretch, I was the salami in a human sandwich. It was funnier than it was uncomfortable, but it was tight in there!

Finally, yes, I ended up doing the whole 'sprint to get on the train" thing. That was also a memorable first. I really felt that I acquired a quintessential train memory during that sprint. But I did it. And, I made it.

I had a wonderful time in Washington. I suggest that anyone who only has a short time to spend and wants to fit as much as possible in their trip should call City Segway Tours. It's fun and it's memorable! It helps you fly comfortably through the sights. I loved it!! And I will definitely do it again!

Quick Review of KOA Fredericksburg in Virginia

Located off of Jeffereson Davis Highway, the KOA-Fredericksburg lies at the end of a two and a half mile windy road (Guinea Station Rd) with many twists and turns. But, given that trees cover the road much of the way, the route is beautiful! Large RVs would need to be fairly careful, but I think the route is safe enough. It may be a little harrowing at night, though!

Guinea Station Road

KOA-Fredericksburg Holiday Park Entrance

The park itself is quite lovely! They have space for all forms of camping, from the largest of RVs, to trailer campers, to tents. They even have some really cute cabins for rent.

Just a few of the cabins available.

The pond from my campsite, with a few of some of the larger unit spaces.

Full laundry facilities available 24/7 in the building on the right. The pool is to the left.

A view of my campsite, with a few other sites visible.

The amenites include all services, though the wifi can occasionally become spotty but it's usually quite acceptable. The channel selections are fairly limited. But I have to say, it's so much better than several places I've stayed! At least they have cable!

I've had a wonderful time, here. They have a lovely pond with geese; many trees interspersed among the sites, very large sites with firepits, activities on the weekends for the children, a swimming pool and *mining* operation for children, and even bikes and paddle boats.

The pool area with a lovely gazebo.

The main building contains a shop, full restroom and shower facilities, and a Pizza Wagon to the left. Notice the rental bikes in the foreground.

The children's "mining" area and only one of several playgrounds.

The owners of this property include their entire family. They are all very involved, conscientious, and very helpful and kind! They have a wonderful little shop of necessities and tchotchkes, really cute stuff! Tuesday through Sunday, they even have a cute little pizza truck that they manage on the property.

Overall, it's a lovely little park close to all of the historical sites in Fredericksburg. It's a little on the higher price range, but it's definitely worth it.

Meeting Mr. Sunshine

Sometimes, you meet a person that just completely changes your outlook on the day.

When you are traveling, meeting these people are the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. You know you will see more rainbows. And, you know that more pots of gold lay at the base of every one you will see. Part of the fun of traveling is hunting for that gold. But for the moment, you are still happy at this one, at this time. For now, this is the one you want to remember.

Today, I met Mr. Sunshine.

I don't really know his name and I don't really need to know. But, I know that he was today's pot of gold.

Let me back up just a bit. I spent the day in a fairly relaxing manner. I slept in, then spent some time doing small chores around the camper. Even a small setup like mine needs regular upkeep! Then, I ambled down to historic Fredericksburg and went to Roxbury Farm and Garden Center. I discovered during my short jaunt there on Saturday that they carry craft beer and wine supplies! So, I happily gathered up the materials I'll need to start my first batch of mead! Finally, I was able to meet up with my daughter. My poor baby wasn't feeling well today. My first instinct is to hover and take care of her, but she's the independent sort of young lady that doesn't want to be doted on. She likes to take care of herself. My poor little mothering heart couldn't take it, so I left her to drowse and headed back "home," with instructions that she should call me instantly if she had any need at all.

So, feeling a little down and at loose ends, I departed. And then, I met Mr. Sunshine.

I stopped in at Rite Aid to do some basic supply shopping and an older African-American fellow wearing a very dapper brown suit, forest green vest, tie, and pork pie hat stopped me to say "hello!"

I replied in kind and he went on. "I'm the Sunshine Spreader! I'm here to make the world a happier, healthier, and nicer place!"

His smile was addictive and his enthusiasm was infectious. He told me that he loves to meet people and that he's been to five states all around Virginia, spreading sunshine on people who need it! He shared stories and tales about the people he meets an the happiness he shares. He was a treasure!

So I said, "well, you can add Texas to that list!"

He actually started doing a little jig in the aisle right there at Rite Aid! He announced that he had to go "get his book" and he boogied his way out the door.

I smiled to myself, thinking that he was a sweet, odd little fellow, and I continued perusing the electronics section. But I didn't peruse for long.

Mr. Sunshine was back, proudly displaying a book in his hand. He turned pages for me, showing me signatures and short messages from all walks of people, all over the place. People left many messages telling him that they appreciated his happiness and thanking him for sharing his joy!

You could tell that this book meant the world to this happy, dancing man. Sure enough, he turned to the first page and showed me that this was book number 20! He pulled #19 out of his prodigious jacket pocket and showed me a special message he had marked from a lady who had just turned 100.

Mr. Sunshine had found his joy in life. He shared his happiness and he draws his own happiness from others. I very happily left my own message toward the back of book #20, adding that I'm from Victoria, Texas. :)

He shook my hand and gave me a very nice hug. I do regret that I didn't get a picture of this unique man.

I departed the store smiling and laughing. :)

I had met Mr. Sunshine.

Traveling in My Little Gypsy Wagon

I'm on the road again. This time, I'm not traveling by car and staying in motels. This time? I'm hauling my little hotel behind me. My daughter calls my little camper a Gypsy Wagon. I rather appreciate the name. Names provide a form of self-identity. Calling my camper a Gypsy Wagon makes me think of adventures and escapades. It makes me imagine a merry wanderer exploring the world and experiencing new shenanigans. I like it! I have adopted it as an homage and I vow to live up to the high expectations.

This is my little wagon, all set up and ready for fun!

This is the map I use to keep track of my travels. The yellow route is the trip I took in Summer 2014. The blue shows the route I'm currently taking.

And this is why she calls it a Gypsy Wagon. I have a thing for zebra print. I enjoy the wild connotations of the print. It makes me feel untamed!

But, traveling by camper really changes the adventure. Before? If I saw a sign for something interesting, I could consult myself and decide whether or not to turn. I didn't have anything but myself and my little car to consider. But with a camper, those decisions take a lot more consideration and examination.

Now, I have to figure out whether my car and camper can take the detour. I have to think about the roads, the size of the roads and the layout, whether the roads have bridges under 11'7" (because my camper is 11'6" with the roof mounted A/C unit), and whether I have the opportunity to turn around. And, if I do, where? How? I can really turn around in small spaces, but not nearly as small as with a car alone.

I learned all of this the hard way.

The last time I took a detour, in Lousianna, I ended up almost getting creamed by a house! I'm not kidding!

As I was driving jauntily down I-10, I saw a sign. It read "Hold a baby gator!"

I didn't think. I didn't re-think. I just turned. I wanted to hold a baby gator!

Oops.

The baby gator place was closed with a gate across the driveway entrance. So, slightly disappointed but undetered, I kept going. And going. And going.

I saw side roads into homes and farms, but they were very narrow and I didn't know any of these people. I couldn't exactly just pull in, say "hello," and then turn around, right?

So, I kept going.

As I cautiously rounded a very narrow turn, noticing the complete lack of shoulder area and realizing that the road was narrow, a large semi came barreling around the curve hauling an oversized house!

Oh, my!!

I slowed as safely as possible in the few seconds I had left, tried to ease as far right as I possibly could, but this road had no shoulder! The truck driver looked shocked and tried to slow and correct to his right, but again, no shoulder!

As he passed with a look of horror on his face, I'm looking ahead and at my side mirror. I swear, the porch on that house came within mere centimeters of my precious Gypsy Wagon!

Imagining all of the horror at losing my precious camper and a possible survival while lacking a few limbs, I continued down the road breathing heavily and shaking quite a bit, I kept looking for a place to pull over. Berating myself for my overactive imagination, I took an additional five miles to find a gas station.

Needless to say, I gratefully pulled in and sat for quite a while drinking water and wishing I had re-thought my side trip.

I know that everything ended up just fine, but it really made me think about the necessity of considering all of my options before taking side jaunts and adventures.

My care-free Gypsy Wagon adventures may appear to be quite full of shenanigans and adventures, but I learned my lesson.

I consider all of my options now. I think of every problem in advance and I make sure to keep myself and my little wagon safe.

Now, I'm sitting in Fredericksburg, VA, safely parked at the KOA. I'm having a wonderful time and I've got many more adventures to go before I head back home.

But, those are adventures for another day. :)

I love you. I'll never leave you. You are all mine! With plenty of milk and sugar

My personal love affair with coffee began when I was very young. I used to watch my parents begin their days with multiple cups of this "coffee" substance. It always seem to make them happier and less tired. I wondered just what this magical elixir could possibly be! I remember thinking that I would do so much better in school if only I could start my day like theirs. If it worked for them, it would work for me, right?

My curiosity new no bounds or limitations. I tried getting Mom to provide this amazing cure for fatigue and instant energy in a cup, but she cruelly said "no." She also said that "coffee stunts your growth!" But, I loved to watch Mighty Mouse, so I knew that being small would not be a problem for me. I would have bet every penny in my pig that Mighty Mouse started his day with coffee. I had to get in on the fun! But my Mom kept denying me the opportunity. But, why?

I thought she just wanted to keep it all to herself. That had to be it! What a horrid person to hoard all of this magical substance known as coffee! She just wanted it all for herself! I just knew it.

So, I thought long and hard about my dilemma. Eventually, running on all of the little cylinders my under-aged body could muster, I developed a plan. This was a surefire gambit that I just KNEW would work!

Grandmas never say "no!"

Sure enough, the very next time I went to visit, I posed my question. And Grandma said "yes!"

I was over the moon with joy! I was finally going to experience this amazing drink for myself! I could barely contain my excitement.

Telling me that I must NEVER tell my mom, she fixed me my very first mug of magical elixir, sunshine in a cup . . . coffee. She used a LOT more milk in it than I remembered my Mom using. And she put more sugar in it, too! But, I didn't care. I had the magic juice.

And it was perfect. It was sweet and silky and oh! so yummy!

That began years of enjoying coffee with my Grandma, while thinking I could never tell my Mom. It was our secret, after all.

Many years later and a long time down the road, I still love my first cup of coffee made exactly the way my Grandma made it, with lots of milk and sugar. Though I appreciate other coffees and though I can drink it differently, I love the feel of that first cup made the way I remember from childhood.

I recently asked my friends on Facebook who likes coffee, how they like to drink it, and why. I got some truly amusing answers, from "Coffee is Love, Coffee is life" to "I love my coffee black and hot, like my soul!"

Very few of my friends state that coffee is not a part of their days. All I can conclude is that humanity's love affair with coffee is widespread and few people are immune.

Do they all drink it for the same reason? No. I heard a lot about energy and waking up, but I still think that the reason most people drink coffee is because of the connectedness is creates with the rest of humanity. We may not all have the same beliefs, social mores, or views, but almost everyone out there can appreciate the joy of a cup of coffee. It's the great social connector to each other and to the past.

And, it still helps us start our days a little happier and with a little more pep in our steps.

Well, what do you know? Maybe, it is magical.

So, tell me, how do you take your coffee?

No, you can't change 'em! You chose this person, YOU keep 'em!

What's the problem?

Do you ever start dating someone and think "I can put up with ____," and you fill in the blank. Maybe it's with the "the drinking," or "the stupid music," or even "the car obsession." Perhaps you fill in the blank with "the shopping," or "the huge obsession with the Kardashians," or even the "hiding the good snacks behind the diet drinks in the pantry."

It doesn't really matter what you put in the blank if you start off thinking that way. The fact remains that as long as you're still in the honeymoon, lovey-dovey stage, you can put up with anything!

Extra innings so we'll be late? No problem! Aren't you cute and so passionate!
Your socks landed two whole inches from the hamper? Sure thing! I loved the hook shot, so precious!
Hey, check it out! You almost made it to the sink with that mug! What a sweetie for trying!

And time passes.

When enough time passes, those things that you could put up with become bigger issues. Suddenly, they're not adorably cute anymore. They become little niggles in your gut and say "grrrrr."

When even more time passes? Those tiny things grow. Next thing you know? They are huge. You start thinking, "ok, If we're going to make this work, I have to change him/her."

But guess what? You can't!

And then, there are the folks who are picky from the start. They get into the relationship thinking that they can "change" those bits of their partners that they don't like.

Again. No. You can't!

Ack! So, how do I fix my partner?

Guess what? You don't! You can't. So stop trying.

Now stop whining and crying "why not"?

Think about it. If you truly fell for a person, you fell for the whole person: the good, the adorable, the bad, and the ugly. You didn't fall for their toes or their thumbs, you fell for the entire human, top to toe. That includes their minds and their habits.

Don't get me wrong, people can change. But you can't change them! They can only change when they see, feel, and recognize the need within themselves. You may be able to influence the need, but that is all. I'm sorry there's no instant fix, but that's life. And, life is not always fair.

But you can help. And remember, being helpful does not mean forcing the process! This is where good, honest communication comes in. You can't just cry about the problem. You can't just complain. You have to explain with a great deal of clarity why the offending behavior bothers you so much.

• To him, putting something beside the sink instead of in it might mean absolutely nothing. But, what if she grew up in a filthy household that traumatized her entire youth? The cup beside the sink may represent a lack of respect for her wishes, wants and needs. You didn't think of that, did you.
• To her, giggling with girlfriends about how "cutesy" he looks when he mows the lawn may be affectionate. To him, it may represent a lack of willingness to acknowledge how hard he works to keep your yard nice for you.
• She may not understand the trauma you go through everyday to watch the kids and keep the house and yard presentable while she works.
• He may not understand how hard she works to keep food on the table. 

Unless you can walk in your partner's shoes, you really don't know what he/she thinks. You can only assume. And, we all know what happens, then, right? (ass/u/me)

Communication is key. You may not always get the change you want, but you can possibly begin to understand what that change might entail.

Here's a perception checking method to help clarify any issues or statements that may be confusing or unclear in a relationship. We can only perceive what we see and hear, but what if our perceptions are wrong? Find out, first!

1. Describe the behavior observed or statement made. ("You said you didn't want me to cook because you couldn't deal with it.")
2. Give two possible interpretations. ("Did you mean my cooking is bad? Or did you mean you don't want to do dishes?")
3. Ask for clarification. ("I guess I didn't completely understand what you were saying, could you tell me?")

A shorter version of that is the clarification method:

1. "This is what I heard. (State what you understood in your own words.) Is that what you meant"? Key part: be sincere! Don't accuse, just state it.

And, here's a third method I teach in my Interpersonal Communications class. It's called the assertive message format. I usually try to reserve it for extreme behaviors that have been discussed repeatedly. The emotional component is key in this method:

1. Describe the behavior observed. ("I noticed that you were tailgating again.")
2. Give your interpretation. ("Either they slowed down quickly and you didn't see it or you didn't notice my discomfort when I was using my 'passenger brake'.")
3. Explain how either interpretation makes you feel. Again, be sincere! ("Really, I truly feel hurt that you don't seem to respect my fears because I thought you knew how scared that makes me and .")
4. Request clarification, explain the consequences. ("Did you know how I felt? Is that what you meant to do? If it's something else, please let me know. Because to be honest, if I continue feeling scared like that, I can't interpret it any other way.")
5. State your intentions. ("If it continues, I'm sorry, but I will have to find another ride.")

The fact is, folks, you cannot change another human being. All you can do is try and help them understand how you feel.

Communication is key! And remember the phrase "catch them being good"? How about giving compliments for the wonderful things they do! It's not just for children, you know. Everyone needs to feel appreciated every now and then. If you do, then when you have to use one of the methods listed, you will be heard that much more closely and your opinion will carry more weight.

Try it. I think you'll love the results!

Getting the Camper Ready for Transport . . . Wow! The things I never considered!

Yup! I'm planning another trip! I am hitching up the camper and going on a long voyage to Virginia.. Hopefully, I'll be gone about a month, if all works out right. I plan to do some genealogy in Jamestown and visit my with oldest daughter in Fredericksburg.

Sometimes, you just don't know enough to know what you don't know. That's where experience comes in!

But, I swear, there are things about camping that I never got from watching all the YouTube channels and reading the forums, things that regular campers already know but don't know they need to share! From keeping things from flying around during transport to finding a good toast method, the learning curve can be extensive!

Just a few things I've learned so far:

1) The distance between restrooms don't always work for me!
Experience can be cruel. I've been stuck twice needing facilities and there was nothing nearby. Cars move faster than I do pulling my little camper. And seriously, when a woman needs to go, she needs to go now! It worked out because I had bottled water in the car so I could use my little traveling hotel room. I guess you could say I got lucky. Honestly? This chica does NOT use a tree!

2) Keeping a level head is vital.
Before you travel, put a bubble level inside the camper and get it perfectly level. Then, stick a level on the hitch tongue set to the same level. Believe me, you get really tired running back and forth to check the level inside the camper while raising or lowering the front tongue jack. Yes, I have witnessed folks watching me and giggling a little bit at this little bit of shenanigans. Trust me, when you are setting up for the evening, you want the process quick and easy! The levels really help. And it keeps you from getting giggles aimed at you.

3) Mildew happens. Ick.
When you turn off your fridge at the end of your travels, open the freezer compartment and stick a block in there to prop it open.

I was quite surprised at the amount of cleaning I had to do after one month while prepping for this little jaunt. I had done everything right: I cleaned out the fridge and dried it. I emptied the ice trays and dried them. Then, I blocked the fridge open in the "storage" position. But the freezer? It still had moisture inside it, so I had some mildew. Gross!

4) I used to laugh at my Dad's 5-gallon buckets. No more!

Sometimes, you need to tie down your awning so it doesn't tear off or try to flip your trailer. Those hooks that you screw into the ground? They don't work really well in sand. And some campgrounds have really hard ground! So, carry a 5 gallon bucket. You can fill it with sand or water and that puppy will hold anything in place! 

A bucket is also a great washtub, step-stool, or even a stand for a grill (if you add a piece of wood). These are amazing tools for just about every purpose. And during transport? Use them to hold things for transport!

Ok, that's all I've got for now. But, I have no doubt I will be adding a whole bunch before the end of this expedition.

Trip updates as they happen! 

Everyone loves a good hack! Wax melt cleanup made easy

This is just a quickie hack for people who enjoy wax melts, but don't enjoy the cleanup!

I will be adding more hacks over time, so keep checking back!

Don't forget, if it's useful, click the G+, ok? Thanks!

Hey, Wanna go out?

Why do people (mostly men, but not all) automatically assume that my being "single" really means that I am "single but looking?" What is this mindset about? Personally, I think it's a reflection of their own wants and needs, rather than what they think is best for me. We, (society, that is) have this really weird habit of trying to fix others and trying to mash and mold them into the image we see as correct.

But really, who determines what is correct and what isn't? I think it's a personal choice that every human being has the right to determine on his/her own. My correct may not look like your correct. And, that's ok! But, that doesn't stop people from trying to mash you into their pre-determined image of correctness.

In the video, I talk about some of the hilarious one-liners I've heard through the years. But, it really gets a person thinking, right? I mean, where do these sayings come from? What prompts those beliefs? I found this graphic on my FB feed today:

Isn't this great? This really resonated with me because I realized that most of those crazy one-liners come from people who haven't learned to love their own existence and accept themselves. When they don't have a partner, they feel like they are missing out on something. Or, maybe they feel like failures in some way because they're not fitting in with some pre-conceived societal norm they think is correct.

But you know what? If you get into a relationship with someone who feels they need a partner in order to be happy rather than want a partner, you are setting yourself up for failure. You are a special person who deserves to feel wanted, not just needed. I mean, they need you in your job, but does your boss want you? Hopefully, yes! And, I say this because I know what happens when you become responsible for someone else's happiness. It sets the bar pretty high for your partner's expectations of you in the relationship. And, really, can anyone actually jump that high? Can anyone really live being that perfect person 100% of the time? Being needed is mighty burdensome, I must say!

And yes, relationships can be hard, but they can also be completely wonderful. Here's the clinker, don't go into one thinking that you need your partner. Go into it knowing that you absolutely want this person in your life. You'll be much more likely to collaborate and create a happy new existence with that person.

And, now that you know where I stand, the answer is still "no." I really don't want a date. Me, myself, and I are having way too much fun! But, I will take as many awesome friends as I can. This status quo may change one day, or not. But, it doesn't really matter either way in the great scheme of things because for now, I am very happy. :)


p.s. I would love to follow this up with another blog on the best and worst pick-up lines that people have either given or received. Please feel free to either message them to me using the form on the left or post in the comments. I'm sure it'll be hilarious reading through them!

Insurance Woes, Redux

And here we go, again!

I'm very tired of health insurance problems. My premium has doubled, my deductible has octupled, and I still can't get the only med I need for survival covered by my insurance!!

They want me to "fail the formulary alternative" before they will authorize my Armour Thyroid. But, since I've been without a thyroid gland for 18 years, don't you think it would be logical to conclude that I've already tried all of the formulary alternatives? And yet, the insurance company wants me to prove that I haven't failed one within the last 180 days.

Wow.

I'm a touch miffed.

And, now I feel better! Thanks!

Feel free to leave comments about our wonderful health insurance! :)

PowerPoints are for accent, not for the entire shindig!

As some of you may know, I am an adjunct Communications Professor. Yup, I really do teach people how to communicate in public. With five years behind me, I still find myself surprised by the sheer number of people who say they are afraid of public speaking!

Yes, it can be scary if you've rarely done it. I've seen people shake, turn all sorts of colors, and even forget to breath. That one astounds me every time. :)

Yes, it's at the top of the phobia list! More people fear public speaking then they fear death. :) I find that amazing, though I suppose I understand to an extent. And yet, in five years, I've never witnessed anyone dying from giving a speech. Promise!

What people need to understand is that the true underlying fear is not speaking, though. The primary fear is actually the fear of being judged. No one wants to be judged negatively and that influences the fear of speaking. After all, when you're speaking, all eyes in the room are on you! To this day, even with all of my experience, I still feel a touch of fear. I wonder if I have something in my teeth or if my clothes are on backward.

It's normal. Truly.

But do you know what really gets my goat? What really chaps my hide? People who use PowerPoint wrong!!

I know, it's an odd irritant, but if you've seen as many PowerPoints as I have, you would understand.

As a result of my irritant, I put together a short video on how to use PowerPoint effectively. Sure, it's a beginner's video. It doesn't include all the goodies and funsies that people can do with PowerPoint. But, it's a start.

I actually created this for my class, but I thought to myself: "self? Wouldn't other people benefit from the knowledge if they want it?" And I responded to myself: "Sure! Why not?"

So, here it is. :)

If you watch this video and find it useful, please comment! I'd love to know what you think.

Thanks!

Long Trip to Charli and everything in between - 2014 (Updated to July 31, 2014)

These are actually old posts I wrote almost two years ago on Facebook. I took a wonderful car trip all over the U.S., but looking up posts from the past on FB can be fairly difficult! So, I thought I'd just add them on here. There will end up being 2 posts, one long one about my trip to see Charli and another one about my trip the other direction to see Aly. I'll update these as I can. :)

-updated posts through July 31, 2014. I will change the date as I update the blog!

July 2, 2014    

I'm about to start my long-awaited travels! Teddy is taken care of (Thank you BJ!), along with the house. So here I go! And for those of you concerned, Yes! I have my towel! :) Bon Voyage!

Day 1: First stop is Discount Tire! My steering wheel was shimmying and shaking! It would have been a great massage, but not while I'm driving! Stopped to get the tires balanced, but I looked at the tires. Oh, MY! Getting tires instead! Rather be safe than sorry, and I was rather expecting to get tires eventually anyway. So, I'm in a holding pattern in Rosenberg right now. :D Just more of an opportunity to play on the Surface and meet new people!

Well, day 1 of my journey ends with me in a hotel in Jefferson, TX. Nope, I haven't even left Texas yet! :) I got a rather late start, 11:30. Then, I had to stop for new tires in Rosenberg. After that, I just kept going, but I ran into a Monsoon in Marshall! That kept me down for a little while. I just used it as a dining opportunity. :) I ended here at the Inn of Jefferson. It's a nice motel with big rooms and wifi. (yay!) But what really caught my attention? My room number is the same as my classroom number at school! Too funny.

I'm only uploading one pic today, but I this one really caught my attention in Houston! :D

July 3

Retirement at it's best-Day 2: Having trouble uploading pix, but I'll add some as I can. Today was great! I started out with lunch with some awesome people, Michael Downs and Debbie. I drove into Arkansas and made it to the Crater of Diamonds. The park is so beautiful! I spent quite a bit of time hiking up and down heavenly trails. Then, I decided not to dig for diamonds. :) It looked hot and too much like work! So, I went to the Diamond Old West Cabins and got my Saloon room! It's so cute! It's the smallest of the bunch, but I would recommend this place to anyone! Ever! I hiked down the Little Missouri River, then drove a winding road up to the dam. Beautiful area. Perfect for camping! The marina had houseboats for rent! (Something to remember!) I followed all of this up with dinner at the Rattler's Den. Fantastic steak and to-die-for fried squash. Now, I'm back in my cute little cabin, about to watch TV from the tub. A perfect end to a great day!

July 4 

Retirement Rocks! Day 3: Today was a traveling kind of day. I moved along from Murfreesboro, AK to Nashville, TN. On the way, a nice Arkansas Trucker and I saved a turtle. The poor thing was stuck in the road, so I stopped. The trucker behind me stopped, too! We couldn't figure out which way the poor baby was going, so we just picked a side of the road. The trucker was real nice. :) I caught some road pix, but then I got a little lost in Nashville and ended up touring the Opryland convention center. It is beautiful inside! But I forgot my camera in the car. Oops! When I left, I somehow found the Grand Ole Opry, purely by accident. I laughed so hard when I saw the speed limit signs in the parking lot . . . 24!?! At the Opry, I saw Riders in the Sky, Jan Howard, The Isaacs, Bill Anderson, Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, Mel Gillis, Connie Smith, and The Oak Ridge Boys! I really enjoyed it! I was late, but I somehow ended up on the 7th Row! Now, I'm relaxing and planning for tomorrow! Happy 4th, all! I missed Rockport this year, but I think my family understands. :)

July 5

Day 4: As I'm driving down the highway from Nashville, I see a sign and I think to myself, "self, let's see what that is!" And since I agreed, we followed the signs and ended up at Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It's in a tiny little valley and the walks were beautiful. Then, you get in a boat for the cave tour. It was short, but really neat. This place actually has a ballroom dating back to Prohibition, It was a hidden bar in a cave! I then went to Cave City, where I was supposed to stay in a Wigwam. All I have to say is . . . don't! That place was NASTY, so I'm currently in a nice, clean Days Inn. Lol! I followed this up by going on an Alpine Slide ride! :) You take a chair lift up the mountain, then take a slide back down. I haven't done that since I was about 10. I know I went a lot slower in my ever-so-much-more-than-10 years, but I enjoyed it! And the kids in line behind me got a kick out of it and started bugging their moms to go with them. :D A few did! Then, I took one of those old-time pictures, dressed as saloon girl, for the heck of it. I ended the evening with a fantastic meal and a HUGE (45 ounce) Pina Colada. I think I finished about 35 ounces of it, but wow! Charli told me today, "Mom, you're having the time of your life on this trip!" And you know what? I am! I have met some of the nicest people! It's been so much fun. And the joy continues tomorrow! Night, folks! (I've gotta sleep off a colada.) :D

July 6

Retirement Voyage Day 5: I am so exhausted! What possessed me, I'm not sure, but I decided to take not one, but TWO Mammoth Caves tours. (Me & Myself did not argue with I, so I'm a little miffed with them.) I'm still in Kentucky, near Cave City. I'm also sitting in a Mammoth Caves Hotel Cottage, attempting to stretch and move without pain. But the cottage is so cute. And the view out of my window is outstanding! The tours almost did me in. The first was a Historical Tour. It's 2 miles long (at a BRISK pace), with over 450 stairs, some of which require you to suck in your gut, bend over sideways, AND keep going! We became contortionists on that route! One man I was touring with cracked his head and dripped blood throughout the remainder of the tour! Crazy! But a fascinating tour, and he was a trooper. I didn't catch his name, but I called him and his wife "Fred" and "Ethel" in my head. I almost said it out loud, but I stopped myself! :). The second tour, only one hour later, was only 3/4 mile, but required the same type of contortionist moves UP and DOWN over 567 stairs. Just when I thought I was dying, it was over. Whew! After the tours, I became quite proud of my accomplishment and had a virtuous trout dinner, until she brought out homemade biscuits, butter, and blueberry jam to die for! Ah, well. I'll be virtuous tomorrow. After dinner, I walked the "Heritage Trail" on the property (only 1/2 mile) . . . Wow. Did I really just put "only"? Ouch! This place is so beautiful, it will be painful to leave. But onward and eastward. I will get to Charli eventually! :D

July 7

Rolling Down the Road, Day 6: Today was nice and relaxed. I made the decision to drive the scenic route from Mammoth Caves in Kentucky to Chattanooga, Tennessee. I'm glad I did! It was so beautiful. I grabbed a sandwich and had lunch at a roadside rest-stop with the most heavenly scenery. My decision to take the scenic route took me about 4 hours out of my way, but hey! Who's in a hurry, right? I had lots of time for contemplation and reflection. I decided that one of the first rules of travelers is *use a smaller suitcase*! Throw the giant one out! When you change rooms every night, it's just not worth it! 2) Write down the names of all the great people you meet. I have a list going onto two pages. I don't want to forget them. 3) Bring music or an audio book. Always. Anyway, back to the travels, when I came into Chattanooga, I attempted to find Ruby Falls and lucked into the cutest little hotel! It's called the Sky Harbor Bavarian Inn. My room has beautiful views of the city and the Inn is just so picturesque! I'll take more pictures tomorrow. Then I went up the mountain and found the Incline Railroad. I got onto the last round-trip run of the night. Wow! 72.7* incline and it goes one mile, from the top of the mountain to the bottom! It is amazing! I've got the pictures uploaded, but I know some people are having trouble seeing them all. It's easiest to go to my wall, then photos, then Long Trip 2014. It's not ALL the pictures I have, but the ones I've chosen that most represent the fun. :) You know, I like this place so much, I may try to stay another night. :) Have a great night, folks!

July 8

Ecstatic Day 7: Wow. Just wow. I really don't have any other words for Ruby Falls and Rock City. I actually took over 200 pictures today, but I didn't post them all (to your relief). But I was completely moved by both experiences. In Ruby Falls, I once again wandered a mile through a cave, but this one had so many different formations and rock strata, it was fascinating and beautiful. It was combined with a discussion of it's impressive history and founding. All I can say? Those were true explorers! Then, we came to the Falls. It's the world's tallest underground waterfall, over 1000 feet. They had music and lighting to increase the impact, and it did! I loved every second. I then went up to the observation deck and ate lunch looking out over the city. Wonderful views! Then I went hunting for Rock City. I was amazed to discover that as I crossed the top of Lookout Mountain, I also crossed the border. Suddenly, I was in Georgia! For some quick background, Rock City was the private garden and land belonging to a very creative woman in the '30s. Her family developed it and opened it to the public. Rocky City is like wandering around an above-ground cave! You have rock formations mixed with beautiful flora, fauna (deer), and gnomes. I expected elves to jump out any moment. It was beautiful, it was enchanting, and at times, it was ethereal! Dawn Spaur, I cannot thank you enough for the suggestion! I stood at one spot and looked over across 7 different states. I was so overcome with wonder and excitement! If anyone can get here, do it! Truly, if you have one aesthetic bone in your body, you will not regret it! :D Tomorrow, I'm off to Asheville, North Carolina. But I will never forget my time in Chattanooga. Never. :)

                                                                                                                                                           

July 9

Spirited Day 8: The day started calmly and serenely, hitting the highway at 11:00 and moving toward North Carolina. I went through the Cherokee State Park and had to stop several times just to breathe. The awe of the sheer beauty. I saw this tiny little island in the middle of the lake. On that island was a small tree with huge branches reaching up; and surrounding that peaceful little island in the lake was so many trees and forests and mountains rising so high, surrounded by clouds! It was breathtaking. Once I was breathing again, I continued on the Appalachian Highway. I then reached the Nantahala National Forrest and was taken away again, this time by white waters surrounded by mountainous terrain. So beautiful and so dangerously exciting! I stopped for lunch at a Whitewater place and tried the BBQ (Ok, I *am* from Texas, I had to compare). Lol. It wasn't bad, but I still prefer our pulled pork. Theirs was a little too sweet and the sauce wasn't quite thick enough. Lol! Sorry! When I exited the Forrest and finally made it to Asheville, I was so discontented by what I found. Yes, it was unique, but it was *so* crowded! So I got myself a little lost (on purpose) and found a hotel. In the lobby, I perused the brochures that all lobbies have about events and adventures to be had. One caught my eye. . . "Ghost Tours." Oh, yeah! I called and instantly reserved a spot. On the way to my tour, I stopped at a place called "Book Exchange and Champagne." I was amazed! Bookshelves everywhere, with comfortable (nice & classy) seating, an Indie singer, and yes... wine or champagne! So cool! Then I tried Fried Green Tomatos and fell in love with them. And then the Ghost Tour. The Guide, Cat Wilson, was extremely knowledgeable about the area's history and interesting tidbits of information. She made the tour so much fun! It started storming and raining like crazy, but no one wanted to stop. So we continued, soaked to the core, listening to her stories and trying to take pictures of everything we could. It was a wonderful time! Afterward, I met up with her at her husband's workplace for a few drinks. She is such a nice person and so very interesting. She really needs to write a book! :) Several books! But now I am back in my motel, needing a hot shower after the soaking, and thinking that I'm not going to upload pictures tonight. I'll do it tomorrow, but I will get them! :) Have a great night, folks

July 10

Destination Reached Day 9: It's been a long day, but a good one. I bypassed the Blue Ridge Parkway (for now) because I realized that I was only 6 1/2 hours from Charli! It's been a minute since I've seen her, so I drove directly in. I didn't even make any side-stops! I almost did, several times, but each time I started to turn aside, I thought of spending some time with my daughter and I continued driving through. In the second to last hour of the drive, I passed numerous ancient trees that had been uprooted and tumbled higgledy-piggledy, other tree lines that had been sheered off the way I would sheer the tops of bushes with a hedge-trimmer. And in more places, a tree lifted and flung to the side like a chicken bone, leaning against another tree, untouched except for the strain of holding the first. I found out later, it really was tornados. It was shocking and quite sobering. As I drove into the last hour of this stretch, the rain began as a whisper, growling more with each mile. I had managed to drive right up that nasty storm's rear end! But it dissipated as I moved farther in. Storms like that really make you appreciate nature's power. What kind of force would uproot a tree that hundreds of years old and fling it like a pixie stick!?! Well, I finally reached Charli's, safely. After our quick hellos and embraces, we set off to find dinner. We picked up her beau, Jaymes, and set off for Buffalo Wild Wings. It was enjoyable. Between the joking, the laughing, the storytelling, and the video poker, we had a fine time! We were going to go out again, but Charli looked tired and she *does* have to work tomorrow. :) So I told her to go to bed! Lol! Old times? But of course, we had to first do a bit of rearranging, because some of her Texas friends were here. Hi, Micah! LOL! I feel guilty about it, but he seemed happy to pick up and resettle his sleeping kit. :D What a trooper! What a sweetheart! Well, I told my daughter to go to bed again, very maternally, and she went. I think my bed is also calling. Have a great night! And may the adventures continue . . .

July 11

Dancing Day 10: :) Sometimes, it's just nice to do nothing. I spent half the day doing basic bookkeeping and the rest just doing laundry. It's interesting that a being can switch from *hotel check-out* time to normal time on a moment's notice. :) I appear to have adjusted just fine because I did sleep late, and it was wonderful! I spent the day doing very little of anything. Then, after Charli got off of work, we went to a mall. I know, I am *not* a shopper, but my first rule of traveling by car is *get rid of the giant suitcase!* So, we went to a mall and completely lucked out. We found small cases originally priced $129 for $39! Even I can't pass up that deal! After making our purchases, we went back to her place and then ended up going out to Charli's favorite hang-out. . . the Eagle's Nest. It was a very interesting place and a lot of fun. I discovered, however, that I'm a little old for a young'un hangout. Lol! They are active, loud, and dance the "Cotton Eyed Joe" as a line-dance! After picking up my jaw, I discovered that I prefer a small, dark, hole-in-the-wall hideaway to a large, well-populated dance-hall. But it is fun to venture outside of your comfort zone every now and again. :) And to really top it off, would you believe a young woman actually tried to start a fight with me? It would appear that she bumped into me and so it *must* have been my fault. I found it fascinating! I merely informed her in a very calm manner that "I'm old, retired, and have nothing to lose. Do you?" :) She backed away, quite confused, much to my relief, and left me with a story to tell. Lol! It has been a very interesting day, but I am so relieved to go to bed now. Everyone have a great night! And remember, no fighting! :D

July 12

Day 11: It's been another lazy kind of day. :) I saw Charli's dog Zeus do several high 5's. He is such a cutie! Then we went wandering about a touch to go look at some campers. I've really been just considering a Little Guy TAB, but I saw an R-Pod. It's a bit bigger than a TAB, but still cute. And I think it's very livable for 1 person. After all, even in my tiny house, I really only spend the majority of my time in limited spaces. I don't even use the whole thing! In addition to the campers, I went through several tunnels! :) I have no idea where this fascination for tunnels comes from, but I do love them. I really want to go to Europe to go through the tunnel connecting Great Britain to the mainland. Wouldn't that be a hoot!?! Finally, I've been taking the evening off. It turns out I've gotten rather used to being alone and I just wanted a night of nothing, so Charli and her friends all went to another hangout and I stayed here, just to have a quiet night. :) I've begun to truly appreciate my hermitage, even if it's on the road. Have a nice relaxing night, folks. :)

July 13

Day 12: We went to the zoo! :) The Virginia Zoological Park is not absolutely huge, but the care they lavish on their animals is evident in every step. The exhibits were huge and very well-oriented for the critters in them. The monkeys played like crazy and all of the animals seemed very content. We saw lions and tigers and bears (Oh, My!), and many other animals. They were mostly ready for dinner, but I managed to get some really cute shots. Then, as we were exiting the park, we spied a peacock making a beeline for freedom! He had purpose in his walk and you could see he meant it, this time! The zookeeper silently following him with a grin on her face said he did this every single day. They got in the habit of closing that particular gate a few minutes early every day to head him off. If they didn't, she said he knew how to open the second gate! But with his escape blocked, he would end up going around the kiosk and heading back into the park. Sure enough, I spied his little head poking around the corner and quickly ducking back. Then, he was off like a shot, heading back around and into the park! He was a hoot! I liked the fact that rather than confine him, they just found alternatives to his fowl behavior. :D After the zoo, we went to Charli's favorite coffee shop, which was very kitschy and comfortable. We followed that up with dinner. Although Charli said her ribs weren't the best, I truly enjoyed my brisket "burnt ends." They were wonderful! I laughed to see "Hopping John" on the menu, so I ordered it. But alas! It was not as my Momma makes it and I was dissatisfied. Mom? I think we need that more often than once a year! :) (Wink, Wink, Nudge, Nudge) I'm going to make another trek to Downtown Norfolk tomorrow and take a gander at some of the things that were closed today. It was a lovely Sunday excursion and now off to bed. Night, All!

July 14

By Land and Sea! Day 13: I went to the Nauticus today. It's a really neat Naval History museum here in Norfolk. It has some great exhibits, including the USS Wisconsin. Ok, I'll admit that I didn't crawl around all over the ship, but I still might! After the museum, I took the Victory Rover 2-hour cruise around the Navy Shipyard. Did you know Norfolk is the world's largest shipyard? I knew it, but you don't really *feel* it until you've seen it. I saw all kinds of huge ships, included the U.S.S. Cole. I was a tad disappointed that no aircraft carriers were in port, but the ship I *thought* was an aircraft carrier was actually smaller. Wow! I can't remember what it was called, but it could hold over 1000 sailors and another 1000 marines. Huge! Shoot, that whole place is huge! It was a great tour and lots of fun. On the return, I went into the lower deck to enjoy some A/C and wouldn't you know it? I sat down next to a couple from Austin! Small world, eh? Nice couple and very sweet. We had a grand time. After the tour, I roamed on down the road to MJ's Tavern. I went there because an old friend from high school, Larry Mireles, works there. And it's just no fair! I swear, he looks the same as he did in high school, plus a few more muscles and a tad less hair (military cut, not loss!). :) It was wonderful seeing him again and he's just as sweet as ever. And I'm proud to say that I'm the first Victorian to find him on his home turf! :) Yay, Me! I had a great time at MJ's and I just might have to go back! The people were awesome and the atmosphere was great! Plus, I tried Edamame for the first time. It was tasty, but I think I may have to try some more to know what I think for sure. Lol!

July 15

Homecoming, But Not Mine! Day 14: Charli took us to her ship's homecoming today. She had been assigned to the U.S.S. Nitze, a Destroyer. She was so excited and giggly to show off where she had worked, lived, and spent so much time! :D And these homecomings really are a huge deal. Families come from all over, bringing homemade signs and gifts for their sailors. It's very touching to see so much excitement, tears, and pride in the families' faces. I saw one woman holding a baby that couldn't be more the 3 or 4 months old, waiting to meet Daddy for the first time. Wow! Talk about an emotional moment. Then, Charli took us on board and we took a whirlwind tour of the ship, including where she worked, where she hung out, where she ate and slept, and (of course) napped. :D Just walking those narrow corridors helped to solidify what she had been telling us about ship life and created new meaning. It's wild, though. I've been on cruises, and there are windows everywhere! On a Naval vessel? To see outside, you go outside. And with narrow corridors, it must be a daily challenge to navigate in high seas! Although I know she's happy to be a civilian again, several people asked her if she missed it. She said "yes," I think because it was such a formative time in her life. I'm glad I got to go and see what an amazing place it is and meet some of the people who meant so much to her! :D

July 16

Revolutionary Retirement Day 15: What a great day! I traveled to Colonial Williamsburg and found a traditional room at the Market Square Tavern. Except for indoor plumbing, electricity, and wireless, this house is all original from the late 1700s. My room is right on the main street and I love it! I roamed around Williamsburg and went into shops and watched re-enactors. This is the Revolutionary-style Renaissance Festival! And I'm sleeping in the middle of it! I stopped at Chowning's Tavern three different times today! It's right across the street. The second time, I met a wonderful couple from Pittsburgh. They were so nice and we chatted for over an hour. Their names? Ken and Barb! They really were dolls! I also found my travel buddy! I was in a shop and an adorable turtle named "Whimsy" called to me. My Dad suggested a travel buddy along the lines of the Travelocity Gnome. Charli and I searched at the zoo, but I found him here. His name caught my imagination and now he's going to be my pictorial muse. :) This evening, I took another "ghost" tour, of sorts. We heard different ghost stories, told from the perspective of the "ghost." We went into three different original colonial homes, dimly lit and appropriately spooky. The ghostly story-tellers spun their tales with all seriousness and made for a wonderful evening! I rounded out the night with another visit to Chowning's for dinner. They had "gambols" going on in traditional 17th century fashion. Games, music, and singing made for a traditional tavern experience. Whimsy and I are going to roam down the other end of the street tomorrow, so I'd better get some rest. That turtle can move!

           

July 17 

Day 16 in Colonial Williamsburg, redux: Once again, a wonderful time. I spent the majority of my day getting to know people who live and work here. I lunched at the King's Arms Tavern, which was fantastic! The beef bowl reminded me of Mom's Seder brisket and vegetables. Absolutely wonderful! Then I went to Chowning's again and got to know the people a little more. Their historical knowledge is admirable, especially Vern's! I learned a great deal: that straws were invented by the Egyptians and that Thomas Jefferson spent a great deal of time in the rooms I am using. So interesting! I could have spent the entire day in their company, but I had to excuse myself for a "Pirates Among Us" tour, which detailed Edward Teach's interests in this area. I found it fascinating to hear more about Blackboard, as despicable a character as he was. Then, I spent the evening at Chowning's again, enjoying the "Gambols," games, music, dining, and entertainments. I was seated with a couple, Courtney & Mark, and another single traveler, Barry. We had a great time playing "Close the Box" and "Pass the Peanut!" These are fun games that have passed out of common usage, but I think I'll bring them back to modern usage when I get home. I had a great day and I will miss this place.

July 18

Day 17! A short post today. I sadly departed my wonderful Market Street Tavern mini-home this morning in Colonial Williamsburg. I moved on down the road to the Jamestown Settlement. That's a pretty nifty representation that truly makes you think about life in the 1690s. To have survived harsh conditions with dangers around every corner, these people overcame some serious odds. Amazing. Continuing down the road to the Jamestown Ferry (yay!) and Charli's apartment in Chesapeake, I took back roads, as is my habit, and spent time wondering why people are in such a hurry? Do they not see the beautiful scenery around them? How many times have they driven these roads and *not* seen the beauty that surrounds them? It makes me sad that these are the same people who likely suffer from stress, high blood pressure, hypertension, and various disorders. I wonder what would happen if they could just slow down and enjoy to journey? Ah, well. When I got back, we were treated to Micah Hillyard's outstanding cooking . . . the man is a master! The best spaghetti EVER! :D Like I said, a short post (LOL), but the journey continues on the 'morrow! Night, all!

July 19

Day 18: Today's post is really short! Supremely short! Amazingly short (for me)! All I did was laundry, try to help Charli rearrange her apartment, and find parking in NYC. :) But since that's where I'm headed tomorrow, I figured that I'd better get to it. :) I've really enjoyed visiting with Charli and her friends, especially since the tradition continues and she still introduces me only as "Mom." LOL! I've got so many pseudo-children, I'll never wear out of family. Plus, I swear, Micah Hillyard needs to hire himself out as a caterer or a personal chef! And although I thought about going out with them tonight and having some fun, I know that I wouldn't want to get up and get moving tomorrow! To solve the dilemma, picture an old-fashioned scale. On the left plate, we have going out with Charli and her friends, knowing that we will be going camping when I get back here and I will see them again. On the right plate, we have NYC, a place I haven't experienced in 26 years and I'm not likely to get to any time soon if I don't go now. The scales tip from side to side, slowly dropping into their final positions. It's close. It's very close, because I do love the kids! But yes, NYC won . . . this time. :) So tomorrow's post will be from the Big Apple. See ya there!
P.S. I didn't have any pix to upload today. But I'm sure I will make up for the lack. :D

July 20

:D I got the big question again. "Why are you traveling alone? Aren't you lonely?" Lol! It seems people find it odd to travel this way. But think for a moment, when you travel with someone, who do you talk to? Do you go out of your way to meet new people? Or are you only talking to your companion(s)? When I travel, I meet wonderful people everywhere and we chat, sometimes for a few minutes, sometimes for hours! But I'm meeting new people that I wouldn't meet if I were in a group. So no, I am not lonely at all! :) As my Mom says, "I've never met a stranger." :D

Day 19: A really great day! Ok, I know I spent most of it driving from Virginia to NYC, but it really turned out great! Other than the fact that Delaware is the parking lot of the U.S., the drive was easy. :) I swear, I spent more time in that state on the brakes than I did going anywhere! But once I got here, I found that I'm staying at an apartment that really screams "unique"! It's an AirBnB offer, but happens to be owned by a friend of a friend, so I got in with no trouble. Lol! It's a traditional 5-story walk-up. With NO elevator. And my room has a loft bed. :D This means I go up a ladder to get in under the covers! I'm giggling here. Once I got in and caught my breath after 5 stories, I went to my friend's workplace, the Planet Rose, for the evening. First, I actually got there! Hey, this was my first time on the subways in over 26 years! :) But I made it and we had so much fun. Planet Rose is a Karaoke bar, yay!! :D So, we sang several songs and enjoyed the atmosphere. Plus, I discovered that NYC bars can stay open until 4! Oh, my! My little Texas butt got a little tired and called a taxi home at 3:30. Oy, I must be getting old. I couldn't hang. Sorry! Anyway, I did get some pix, but I'm about to pass out, so I will share them tomorrow.

July 21

Day 20: NYC! This place amazes me! This town possesses an energy that I've never experienced before. It's electric! It's around every corner, hiding in every shadow, and reflected on the faces of everyone here! It's amazing! I got on a bus today and just rode, watching the people and the amazing structures from the top deck. I finally got off at Times Square and walked around. I lunched at Chevy's, I got on another bus, then decided to play on the subway! I hope people didn't actually *see* my excitement! I tried to exude *calm* as if I did this every day. Lola! I ended up at Union Square and decided to just start walking. I went up and down every block around it. The stores amazed me: a 4 story Barnes and Noble! I was in paradise! A 2 story Walgreen's, with a deli and sushi counter! I didn't even try to resist the urge. I started taking lots of store pictures, sending them to Aly. She would LOVE it here! I must come back and bring her! They even have an Organic Market on one side of the square. For some reason, I didn't expect to see such a "country" sight in NYC. Proved me wrong! I sat for a while and listened to a girl just sitting on a bench singing her heart out! Such a beautiful voice and so heartfelt. Then I got to see my beautiful niece, Danna Gonik, for dinner at yet another very unique restaurant, the Hu Kitchen, all organic and extremely healthy. Lol! A far cry from chicken-fried steak! Oh, dear, now I've made myself hungry for one. :) And now I'm like a kid at Christmas waiting to open presents. I'm going to Coney Island tomorrow! Steve said he'd show me the sights there! It sounds like so much fun! So I'm voluntarily turning in fairly early tonight, so I can rest up for tomorrow! Woo Hoo! Bring on Coney Island!

July 22

A very ACTIVE Day 21: NYC! Warning: It's a long post for an even longer day! :D It started easily enough, walking over to Times Square and catching a subway to Union Square. That's where the activity began. I may elaborate on some of this later, but WOW, did we do a lot today!

We went to Coney Island! :) I've been wanting to go since I was a child and it was wonderful! We walked up and down the boardwalk, walked in the water (the Atlantic!), and then we stopped at Ruby's. This is one of the original C.I. locations. Such amazing history! Then we kept moseying down and went to the Aquarium. It's a nice little aquarium and I enjoyed it. It was a shame that some of the attractions are still down from Hurricane Sandy damage. 

After the aquarium, we walked through the arcades and parks, then attended a traditional 10-in-1 Freak show. Lol! Definitely hokey, but a lot of fun. My favorite was the blockhead act. I'm still a little weirded out by the nail, then the ice-pick, in the nose. But the man (a littler person), really made it funny! Then, of course, we went to Nathan's for the original frankfurters! After Nathan's, we hit the subway again to Battery Park. This place is so neat, I enjoyed it! 

That led to the Staten Island Ferry, where I finally got to see and witness the lady herself, the Statue of Liberty. I was awestruck for a few moments, thinking of all the people who came to her. After the ferry, of course, we walked to the 9/11 Memorial. 

As we walked around, Steve told me his day on that day. He told me how NYC existed afterward. It was so hard for him, and for so many that lived here. The memorial was beautiful, but then I noticed flags and roses that family members placed in the names of those they lost. That's the moment I lost it, for a just a little bit, in memory to those honored at the memorial. It's a beautiful place with the water in motion, the infinity pool, the lights, the names, and the memory of its history. We walked rather slowly out of awe and respect. But then, he picked up the pace again. That boy can walk!! NYC is a city full of sprinters! He took me to John's Pizzeria. It would appear that this is also a classic pizza joint in NYC. They have such wonderful pizza! But don't ask for sweet tea! :D Of course, we finished it off with another visit to Planet Rose. It is such a fun place and one of the owner's, Johnny, is a real treasure. It was a super busy day! But a really good one and I will treasure its memory. :D

July 23

Day 22: I made it out of NYC! I have to say, I didn't meet one single person who was not personable and pleasant. Every person was helpful and really nice, but their driving absolutely terrified me! LOL! I was so proud of myself. I discovered a highway close to my car park, and I made it there without damage and only 1 taxi honked at me! :D I managed to make it out of NYC and through the Bronx in only 30 minutes! I left at the perfect time. I had been warned that Connecticut could be a parking lot, but I had no worries there, either, just a bit of a backup at a pile-up. On a side note, with a bit of humor, I was driving across the state and got a frantic call from Mom. She'd needed to go to my storage unit to retrieve something. While trying to leave the lot, the gate wouldn't open! Together, we tried to figure out how to get her out. Lol! Finally, the gate opened and we, laughing, ended the call! So, I soon made my laughing way into Massachusetts, where I found such beautiful scenery! I thought my GPS had decided to give me a scenic tour, but Dad assured me that this really *was* the closest route! But it was beautiful and I kept slowing down to look at scenery and gawk at the Moose-crossing signs. I will definitely be taking some scenic drives around here! But I got to Dad's just fine and he and Joan made homemade hamburgers! There's just something about home-cooked comfort foods that really make a person feel good. We chatted and visited and I got the royal tour of their beautiful house. They've really fixed it up nicely! Now, to plan the next 2 weeks to see what we'll do. But tomorrow, I'm going to rest up from NYC!

July 24

Wow. After the last month, getting an oil change seems so domestic. And Mom? Thanks for handing me that envelope of old papers for the Kia. Would you believe they require the registration, but not the insurance, just to get an oil change??

Day 23: Ah, to relax is wonderful! We took a lazy, slow day here in Athol, Massachusetts. :) All 3 of us got started fairly slowly, except for a furniture delivery. Dad and Joan got a new dresser, end-table, and headboard for the guestroom delivered. It looks really nice, taking after a Shaker fashion. They are very pretty pieces. After that, the slow continued. After the fast-paced beginning of the week, it was indeed lovely! We went to one of their favorite restaurants, 30 minutes away, and it was Mexican food! And, not just a northerner's guess at Mexican, not some Hodge-podge of Mexican food-like substance, but real, true, honest-to-goodness, awesome Mexican food! In Massachusetts! :D With very happy, very full bellies, we returned to Athol and took a small tour of the town. It had to be small, because the town is, well, small, with a lovely river running through it. :) Then we continued and just started driving around the hills around Athol (down home, we'd call them mountains, but now I know they're not). HeeHee. We found beautiful scenery, streams, lakes, 17th and 18th century homes hidden in verdant countryside, modern log cabins and larger homes tucked into cleared forest pockets, small villages that just pop up and then disappear just as quickly as we moved down the road. It was truly lovely! The only thing I really wanted to see, though, continued to be elusive. I really want to see a Moose. :) I keep seeing Moose-crossing signs, so now my little heart yearns to see a Moose! Despite the severe lack of Moose, we returned back to the house, and continuing in today's form, lazily watched some TV and continued being slow. All-in-all, a perfectly relaxing, much needed day. :D

July 25

Day 24: Once again, a slow day. I didn't realize how much I needed to rest and relax. But this afternoon, we again took a tour of the area. We drove over "The French King's Bridge," which has such a gorgeous view of the mountains surrounding a river! It was so lovely, we stopped and walked back over it, just to gawk like small children at the sight. Then we continued through several small towns, following a winding river (I believe the Connecticut). Dad's frustration at such a beautiful river lacking free access points was palpable! He's a fly-fisherman and really wants in that river! You can see the desperation in his face as he gazes at the river and talks about the need to be in it! We kept looking for entry points, but alas! Only a few were discoverable. We continued on to Shelburne Falls and looked at an amazing marble-strewn riverbed called Pothole Falls. The marble rocks and slabs creating the river bottom must have been shaped over the course of a millennia for the water to create the shapes and potholes in that we witnessed. Truly amazing sight! We then continued into a few of the cute shops in the area. It's a picturesque place with lots of adorable shops. I enjoyed it immensely, but I have to say, I am bitterly disappointed that the Moose drought is continuing. I've seen more Moose-crossing signs, but no darned Moose! Before I leave this area, I am determined to find this elusive creature - the Moose! :D I did make some more touristy plans today, but I think I'll continue this rest plan for a few more days . . . it's just too relaxing to pass up. However, I think I need a jacket. Massachusetts is cold for a southern girl!

July 26

Roaming Retirement-Day 25: Dad and Joan live so very close to New Hampshire that the temptation to travel made me itch. Lol! I drove up to New Hampshire, almost hitting an adorable little deer, and on through to Vermont! Don't worry, the deer was fine and so was I.

I was so obsessed with rubbernecking that I pulled over every single time a car came up behind. I let them pass so I could move at about 25-30 mph. LOL! I didn't get a pic, but that's ok. We've all seen deer, right? I continued on to Brattleboro, Vermont. Now, that's a hard word for a Texan to say! I've had trouble with it all day. Ah, well, darn the drawl. The town is an artsy-kitschy kind of place. I bought a shirt and had a fantastic coffee, walked up an annoyingly high hill to get back to my car, and roamed on back to Massachusetts. It was a beautiful drive that begged enjoyment! Upon returning, I enjoyed a fantabulous steak. Then, we talked about experiences from the past, some that we shared and some that we didn't. We shared stories and relived adventures. We laughed until we cried and commiserated about unfortunate events. It is times like this that really make a person feel close to family and enjoy the moment. We had a great time! I need to go on Walk-About up here more often

July 27
Day 26: You can't get any lazier than we did today. J No sightseeing or touring at all, unless you count the grocery store. With storms raging a bit, then quieting, then a spot of sun and back to rain, none of us really felt like doing much of anything! Sometimes, that's perfectly ok. We watched television, played on computers, and basically took the concept of Lazy Sunday to all new heights. These last few days have been a very nice change from the activity of the last month and a comfortable spot of change. I guess we could call them spa days without the spa? Why not! This is retirement! We shall see what tomorrow brings. Night, all.

July 28
Day 27: Relaxing once more, though I did take a nice walk around the neighborhood. I enjoyed some beautiful views and fantastic temperatures. It may have been over 100 at home, but I walked over a mile in the middle of the day, enjoying temperatures in the mid-70s! Lovely! I need to enjoy this while I can. J I spent more time planning a trip to Boston tomorrow and watching the news about a tornado that hit an hour or so away. Wow! So, a much more complete update will happen tomorrow, I'm sure, as the adventures of Whimsy continue. J

July 29

Day 27 in Boston: I took a commuter train to Boston today and had a blast! I discovered that Boston subways (the T) were even more crowded than NYC's! The stations were really neat and clean and the trains, too! But after fighting the crowds, I soldiered on to the Long Wharf, where I bought a Duck Boat tour ticket. Before my tour started, I lunched at the legendary Legal Seafood restaurant. I enjoyed the fabulous clam chowder, but I'll admit to the first and last time I will ever try clams. They call them "steamers." I'm glad I tried them, but I never will again! Something about that texture just really turned me off. Lol! But then, I grabbed my trolley to the Duck Boat. And this really was one of the original duck boats used during WWII! There are only 7 left in Boston. It's a vehicle, so we drove all around Boston and saw the historical sights, but it's also a boat! So, of course, we hit the water. It was really a neat experience. J I really enjoyed the history that the guide offered. He should be a social studies teacher! After the tour, I roamed around Quincy Market. I watched a girl singing and playing a piano, a magician holding a crowd's attention, a drummer drumming on everything BUT drums, another singer with a guitar, and so many more attractions! They had several really cute little underground bars (really underground!) and lots of shops everywhere! I spent hours roaming and I probably could have spent longer! Here's a hint, plan several days for Boston. The place has so much to do and see that it would take several days to even TRY to do it justice.

July 30
Day 29: A relaxing day in advance of my friend Willie's favorite tune, "On the Road Again!" Spent the day visiting with Dad & Joan and getting ready to hit the road. I must be back in Virginia in time for Charli's birthday! J It's been a great, very relaxing, visit and we need to do this again. Seeing the folks and their beautiful home, wandering around this gorgeous part of the country, and playing the role of tourist in Boston filled me with the need to do it again! Next time? I think I'll do a little more Vermont, a tad more New Hampshire, a LOT more Boston, and maybe a bit of Ogunquit, Maine. J It's been a beautiful respite in beautiful country with some wonderful family. I'll miss Dad, Joan, and, of course, Shelly the wonderdog, but the road calls.

July 31
Day 30! Wow! Have I really been gone that long?? Well, I must say, it's been great! I had to say goodbye to my Dad & Joan, which was difficult. We had a really good visit, but in the end, I left Athol, Massachusetts this morning and started making my way back to Virginia for Charli's birthday. I stopped at a few beautiful overlooks and took some pictures for an adorable young couple struggling to get a cute couple's selfie. This makes family #37! (I think) I'm offering to take pix for families, etc., that want a group picture with everyone in it. J Have you ever noticed that most family vacations leave 1 person out? Someone has to take the pic! So, I'm making it a point to help out in small ways. It makes me happy. Then, I made a few errors in judgment concerning the route and I ended up in a LOT of traffic in several locations, but I guess it worked out in the end. J As I passed into Maryland, I passed a sign that said "Hollywood Casino." Seriously? Casinos in Maryland? I had no idea! So, just because I can, I asked myself if I wanted to go. Myself was quite agreeable, so I turned in. I took $200 in with me and walked out 3 1/2 hours later with $400! I'd say the alternate route was worth it! And now, I must sleep, perchance to dream. So night, all! Remember, it's all about taking the chances and turning off the road! That's when you have the most fun!