May 13th

Left Durham, NC, about 9:00 AM and planned to drive as far as possible today. Think we drove about 350 miles in total. We kept looking at the mileage that was left to make it home, and seriously considered trying to make the drive all the way from Durham to Salem, NH, but after hitting traffic in Richmond, VA, and Baltimore, MD, we decided to stop for the night in Aberdeen, MD. Found a Day's Inn in Aberdeen and checked in for the night. We had had some great MD crab cakes the last time we were in MD, and the motel recommended a restaurant just around the corner. The crab cakes were to die for.

Still have about 370 miles left to drive tomorrow and we'll be able to sleep in our own bed for a change. It will be nice to be home again. We actually haven't been delayed by construction on this trip like we had been when we drove the Vette around the country last year. We also have only seen one accident that delayed traffickisic and that was in Atlanta on Wednesday. That delayed us for only about a half an hour. Definitely are going to turn in early tonight and will try to leave earlier tomorrow morning. Mercedes still running great, but can't wait to get home and get the Vette out of storage. K

As Ken says we're homeward boud!! Can't wait to get home and see family and friends!!! The trip has been a lot of fun,loved staying in Florida for the month, travel to San Antonio, graduation, travel to Vickis, but now just want to be home!! Talked to our daughter tonight, she's stranded in Detroit,had a business trip to Fort Wayne, then Detroit, unable to get a flight home. She's with another employee, they'll fly to RI, then drive home, will be getting home in the wee hours of the morning, know she's exhausted now in 6 more hours she'll be whipped.
Guess our travel plans are pretty easy compared to hers.

Had wonderful crab cakes tonight, ah the joys of Maryland!! Cars holding up well, Ken and I exit the car like Neanderthal man and woman, posture not upright, just need a club to complete the picture. Sitting in an upright mobile positon for long hours not conducive to good posture!! S

May 9th thru May 12th

We left San Antonio about 9:00 AM after finally getting the car packed. Grabbed a quick breakfast, turned on the GPS, and off we went. We had looked at various routes to go home, but some of the routes put us in the flooded areas of Tennessee, and we wanted to avoid any delays due to the floods. Finally realized that by going thru Newnan, GA, where Vicki lives, it was only 50 miles farther than going thru the flood area, so plugged in Vicki's address and off we went.

We managed to make it as far as Rayne, LA, on Sunday. Long drive, and found a clean Comfort Inn just off Interstate 10. After checking in and relaxing a little bit, I took Sheila out to the local gourmet restaurant for Mother's Day dinner. Well, maybe I have taken Sheila to better restaurants, but at least it was close to the motel. She could have also gone into the Frog City casino, but was too tired after the drive. This was not one of the nicer casinos we have seen, and they did appear to cater primarily to truckers. We didn't check out the casino, but I was told most of the waitresses had most of their own teeth.

On Monday, we took off early and made it all the way to Greenville, AL. The following day, we made it to Newnan, GA, found Vicki's home, and unpacked for a night's stay. When Vicki got home from work, we went out for chicken wings. Vicki's youngest son, Scott, and his girl friend came over to see us after he got off work about 9:30 PM. He was excited, as he just found out that day that he was to be sworn into the Air Force Reserves on Wednesday. He has also been selected for F-16 pilot training, so Sheila and I will have to make plans to attend another pilot graduation in a few years. Scott's Grandfather is looking forward to this graduation too.

Left Newnan on Wednesday morning after locating a Dunkin Donuts so we could get our ice coffee fixes. Had initially planned to arrive back in NH on May 15th or 16th, but decided to try to get back earlier, if possible. Drove all the way to Durham, NC, and checked into a motel. As it turned out, we stayed in the same motel we stayed in when we had the Corvette last October. Of course, we had to go back to the same BBQ joint we tried last October, and the food hasn't changed a bit. K

May 8th

Well, here we are, still trying to play catchup on our blog. After all of the festivities at the graduation on Friday, we were able to sleep in on Saturday morning. My sister Vicki was staying at the same motel, so when we finally managed to get up and around, we headed for the laundry room and started packing for the drive home on Sunday.

Matt was to pick up his mother for breakfast on Mother's Day and was to take her to the airport, so we would be able to leave for NH at a relatively early time. We all managed to get our suitcases packed, but would wait until the next morning to pack the Mercedes.

We had been invited to Matt's cousin's home for a BBQ that evening, and off we went to find their home. His cousin's husband is a hell of a BBQ cook, and they must have had enough ribs, chicken, and sausage to have fed 50 people.

His Aunts and Uncle and cousins were so much fun and what wonderful hosts. We had a great time, but had to leave early to get rested up for the drive the following day. His Grandfather was also there, and still hadn't stopped smiling. K

May 7th - Graduation Ceremonies

Well, the graduation ceremonies were finally happening. The graduation was held at the Hilton Hotel near the Air Base and the room filled quickly. One of Matt's guests was his Grandfather Lt. Col (ret.) Vic Morris, who wouldn't have missed this event for anything in the world. I believe he is 88 years old and is sharp as a tack.

Matt's grandfather was recognized several times during the ceremonies by the speakers and presenters. Vic had been shot down over Japan during WWII and was a Japanese prisoner of war until the end of the war. I think all of the officers who were present came over to honor and to speak with Vic. He never stopped smiling at any time during the ceremonies.

I had spoken with one of the Intel instructors, and mentioned how proud we were of Matt and his accomplishments and of the three awards he had received that afternoon for his bombing proficiencies. The Captain told me not to say anything, but those awards might not be the last award he would receive.

Sure enough, when the Captain got up to deliver his speech and make a presentation, he told everyone that there was a very special award that was to be presented to one of the students. This award was voted on by all of the instructors and the students and was to be presented to the student that they would most want to go into combat with. He then presented the trophy to Matt. Talk about tears of joy!

Here is a photo of some of Matt's friends from college. One couple is missing from this photo, but all the students agreed that Matt's guest tables had the best looking girls. These kids had all flown in on Friday morning for the event and were flying back the following morning. Quite a tribute to Matt.

Notice the shirt Matt is wearing. All of the students had their tux shirts modified with red and blue sleeves and the F-16 logo on the backs of the shirts. After they had graduated, they were allowed to remove their dress uniform jackets to "present the colors".

Quite a day for everyone and Sheila and I were so glad we were able to attend these ceremonies. K

May 7th - Matt's Last Flight as a Student

We have been so busy, we have had very little time to post our blog, but will try to catch up before we finally make it home. Friday was our nephew Matt's graduation day and also included his final flight as a student. We managed to find the Air Base after a few wrong turns and finally arrived at the main gate. We had to wait a few minutes until someone could come to meet us and drive our car in to the squadron. It was worth the wait.

Flight instructors and NCOs were so nice and they informed us that Matt was currently flying, but would let us know when he was landing so we could watch the landing. Two of Matt's friends from college arrived about the time we did and then Matt's father and his wife arrived. My sister Vicki, Matt's mother, was with us.

When Matt entered the landing pattern, they called us all out to the tarmac, put us in a van, and drove us out to the runway. We were only a couple hundred feet from the runway when Matt and his instructor made a high speed pass down the runway in their F-16's. Talk about goosebumps when they made that pass. Everyone had their cameras clicking and we were all smiling ear to ear.

Matt and his instructor finally landed and headed past us toward the maintenance area. The van driver, a cute little NCO, drove us right to the maintenance area and we saw him climb out of his F-16 for the last time as a student. Every one was so proud and so happy for him, but Matt had the biggest grin of all.

After his flight debriefing, the squadron had a BBQ for all the students, staff, and guests. Matt's two friends from college were joined by six more friends who had all flown into San Antonio just for his graduation. All in all, I think the total guest count for friends and relatives that came to see him graduate totaled about 23 people, by far more than any of the other student pilots. Quite a tribute to a great kid.

They made some presentations, speeches, etc., by both the instructors and students, and than they handed out some special awards to the students. They had three different categories for bombing proficiencies and the instructor passing out the awards said this was the first time a single student had won all three awards. Yup, it was our Matt. K

Ken has said it so well, I agree. It was very exciting seeing Matt fly and land this plane! We'll do another update on the graduation so we can include more photos, so more to follow. S

May 6th

Matt was tied up with training on Thursday and had to fly and prepare for his last training flight on Friday, so it was play time for Sheila, Vicki, and myself. We slept in a little bit late and then off to the Market in downtown San Antonio. Managed to find the Market without too much trouble, parked, and then off to, what else, a little shopping. The girls did check out a few shops and we went for lunch at a place called Mi Terra in the market. One of the best Mexican restaurants we've found in San Antonio. Did manage to have a couple of drinks there too.

Clever women, my wife and sister - Give Ken a couple of drinks and he's more than happy to go shopping. After some "quick stops" in various shops at the Market, we headed off to find River Walk. Again, we managed to find the place and even found the same parking garage that we used when we had the Vette down here last September or October.

It was about 90 degrees and high humidity, so we poked around River Walk for a little while and then decided to find some liquid refreshment. Hummm, we found Durty Nelly's and the place was air conditioned, so what the heck. Seemed like the place to be for a while. Eat your heart out again Joe Kelly! K

So nice to spend time with Vicki, a woman after my own heart, I believe shopping is her middle name as is mine.

Vicki admired a bracelet I had purchased in the market place last year so off to the same shop we went. Unfortunately no similar bracelet was found, however, I did find a lovely hand made sterling silver ring for my index finger, so of course I knew it was meant to be worn and enjoyed by me!!

Off to several shoppes, so much to see so little money. Lunch at Mi Terra as Ken says was wonderful. Vicki and I shared a vegitable dish, and the specialty of the day, some sort of beef dish. All delicious. Of course had to have desssert, home made sopapilla, with raspberry sauce and honey, no low cal here!!

Riverwalk is so beautiful, but so hot and humid, temp 90, humidity 90 so went to Dirty Nellies to cool off. The piano player asked if anyone had a request, I requested, " If you knock the L out of Kelley". He knew it and gave a great rendition, I loved it and was willing to stay till morning! Unfortunately Ken felt we had to drive back to the motel in somewhat sober condition so " Hoolie" ended.

All of us were full but wanted a bite of something. Had a Whataburger close to the hotel so stopped, Ken and I had salads with chicken, Vicki tried the Whataburger. After which we were full and ready for an early night. S

May 5th

We arrived in San Antonio after spending the night in Houston. Nice easy drive for the most part, but San Antonio has a spaghetti bowl of over and under passes that would confuse even the most sophisticated GPSs. Fortunately, the Benz GPS managed to get us (almost) to our motel. Couldn't fault the GPS software this time, as the motel was brand new.

We checked into the motel and a short time later, we headed for the San Antonio Airport to pick up my sister Vicki using the map provided by the motel. Found the airport with no problem, and after circling the arrival area for about a half hour, our daughter Nora called to say "Hi". She was able to check Vicki's flight status, and the plane was late. Vicki finally arrived and we were off to check her into the motel.

Our nephew Matthew was to graduate from F-16 fighter pilot training on Friday, and we were all excited to see him. He was still training in the afternoon, but we did manage to meet him and his room mate at their home and then out to eat with Matt for a quick meal. Matt had to prepare for a flight the following day, so couldn't spend too much time with him. Matt is a very impressive young man and what a nice kid. K

May 3rd and 4th

We spent Monday in New Orleans doing our "tourist thing" and had a great time. Had lunch in the French Quarter at the French Market. Sheila had a salad, and I had the crayfish. Those damn things are really spicy, but good. Also stopped in Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville and had a couple of drinks. The Mojitos and margaritas were the greatest!

On Sunday, we had eaten at a place called Murial's located just down the street from the hotel. It has now become our favorite restaurant in New Orleans. Last year we had eaten at a place called Irene's and couldn't wait to go back to eat there. Managed to get reservations, but we were disappointed with both the service and the meals. The meals and service at Murial's were outstanding.

Sheila continued to window shop and stop in the quaint shops throughout the French Quarter. We found one shop called the Idea Factory that had all sorts of unique things made from wood - Many of the things were made right on the premises. They had several unique mobiles made of wood, small machine belts, wooden pulleys, and were driven with clock springs. I would have loved to get some photos, but no photos were allowed.

Tuesday, we left for San Antonio which was about 550 miles from New Orleans. The GPS managed to get us out of the French Quarter and onto Interstate 10 with no mistakes or hiccoughs. We drove as far as Houston and pulled in for the night. We had arrived in New Orleans at the end of Jazzfest and had to pay the premium prices for our hotel room. We did manage to stay at our favorite hotel though, but because of Jazzfest, we had to change rooms on the second day we were there. Arrived in Houston and got the news that we got about the last room in the inn. Seems like they are having conventions in Houston and all the motels are booked.

Only have about 225 miles to go to get to San Antonio, so only 3 - 4 hours of driving to get there. Still running into highway construction, but no delays going west. Generally, we were running at the posted speed limit of 70 mph. Mercedes continues to run like a clock and what a nice ride. K

New Orleans is, as always, amazing!! I do wonder though, where did all the Dixieland jazz go?? A few years ago all the bars on Bourbon St had jazz bands, wonderful dixie land jazz, now it's rock and roll. Heard about a Dixieland jazz band at the Presentation Club next to Pat OBriens of Hurricane fame. Ken and I walked around after dinner last night and ended up at Pat O'Briens, Ken had a Hurricane, I didn't. To me they taste like Hawaiian Punch, my least favorite tropical drink. After our after dinner drinks we went out to the Presentation Club next door. The line was about 50 people deep, we waited about 20 minutes and did get in but for standing room only. Did I mention it was very hot and humid in New Orleans, temp about 87, humidity about 90%. Well standing in back of the club was like spending 20 minutes in a Sauna in a fur coat. Music was good but had to leave to get some air. Stopped for a diet coke at a local watering hole, and then proceeded on to our hotel. On the way back saw a musician playing music with crystal glassed filled with water, he did great!! He then had a few woman in the audience wet their fingers and then try to play the glasses, interesting but not successful.

Today in Houston, my first visit along with the rest of the free world. Tried several motels, all full, conventions and some sort of festival Houston days, it figures. The OMNI had 6 rooms left at $199, too rich for our blood after our New Orleans stay. Did finally luck out at La Quinta, got triple A rate, and last room in the inn. Our room is really nice, they have a swimming pool and Ken and I went for a great swim to cool down, then to a Mexican restaurant for yummy food.

Looking forward to San Antonio tomorrow. We'll pick Kens sister Vicki up at the airport in the afternoon. She says Matt is so excited as is she, and everyone else who loves him. Such an exciting time in this young mans life!!! S

May 2nd

Spent the night in Pensacola last night and awoke to overcast skies, high humidity, and temperature in the 70s. Since Pensacola is the home of the Naval Air Museum, we decided to see it before we left town. The museum is loaded with antique planes going back to WWI. They also had a static display of planes outside, but we wanted to get on the road for New Orleans. It was certainly a place to visit though. Can't imagine how they ever managed to acquire all those planes.

New Orleans is only about 230 miles from Pensacola, but I managed to get a little lost going from the museum to Interstate 10. Sheila was on the cell phone making reservations in New Orleans for tonight and tomorrow night and she hit the mute button on the radio so she could hear the hotel operator. The GPS voice shouldn't have been affected by the mute button, but it was, and we could barely hear the instructions. It finally straightened out and off we went.



We haven't hit the highway construction delays, other than those going from Homestead, FL, to Key West, on this trip like we hit last year in the Corvette. We have hit work areas, but no delays. Fortunately, we haven't seen any accidents while we've been traveling this year. There are certainly a lot of crosses and markers on the highways where people have lost their lives in traffic accidents however.

We have also seen a lot of road kills along the roads ranging fron the usual "wonder what that was" to a turtle the size of an Army helmet, armadillos, etc., but the biggest surprise was seeing an alligator about 4 feet long that had tried to cross Interstate 10 in Louisiana. Yuck! As luck would have it, I had alligator as an appetizer tonight. I will say, it was some of the most delicious mystery meat I have ever had.

Hit light to heavy rain about 100 miles from New Orleans, but just overcast when we checked into the hotel. Took a little walk around before we unpacked the car and got caught in light rain and were slightly wet when we got back to the hotel. We dried out, I got the umbrellas out of the car, and we walked around looking for a place to eat. Of course, it barely rained then, but since we got back to our room, if we had been doing our "tourist thing", we would have been caught in a major thunderstorm. K

April 30th and May 1st

Friday was a busy morning, what with getting the last of our things packed in the car and getting checked out of the condo. We sure managed to accumulate a few "extra" things on this trip, but I was able to finally get the trunk and both back doors closed.

Sheila turned wrong moving her small suitcase and apparently pinched a nerve in her back. She was almost down for the count. We were washing sheets and towels but it was taking forever for things to dry. We had to be out of the condo and on the road by 10:00 AM, but finally managed to get things dried, folded, and out the door. Sheila was feeling better, but not much.

We were finally on our way to see more old friends up near Ocala, FL. We hadn't seen Fred and Holly for several years. They had moved to Citrus Hills about 6 years ago after Fred retired. Fred and I had worked together at Raytheon since about 1972. He retired about 6 months before I retired.
Fred and Holly have a beautiful home, complete with a lanai and swimming pool. Fred also has a Corvette and after going for a ride in it, I can't wait to get home and get our Vette out of storage. We're going to bring our Vette down here instead of the Mercedes next year.

Fred and I went for a ride in his Vette and he showed me around Citrus Hills. What a beautiful community it is. We met the girls later for a drink or three, and then took another drive in the Vette to see a nearby beach. White sand and no surf - Quite a difference from the beach in Maine. The girls had gone off in another direction to do (what else?) a little shopping. (Who'd a thunk it?)

We met the girls at their country club for dinner (after Fred and I got caught in the rain with the top down). The girls were a "little" late, so Fred and I had a "couple" Manhattans while we were waiting for them. I think I will wait until next year when we see them again before I have another Manhattan. They sure went down easy though.

We spent the night at Fred and Holly's and had a wonderful time. Have already made plans for them to come down to Estero next year to spend time with us. So good to see them both and so many laughs. Didn't seem like it had been so long since we had seen them last.

After seeing Fred and Holly's home and Dick and Sharon's home, we can understand why people love it down here in Florida. Can't wait to get back here.

Left Fred and Holly's home about 9:30 or so heading for Interstate 75. Fred had us follow him to a shortcut to the interstate and they were even able to tell us where to find a Dunkin Donuts so we could get our iced coffee fixes before we hit the interstate. You were right Holly, Dunkies is next to the Cat and Dog sign in Ocala.

We made it all the way to Pensacola and checked into a Comfort Inn for the night. Plan to drive to New Orleans tomorrow. Only about 200 miles from Pensacola, so it will be an easy day's . K

Feeling so much better. Don't know what I did, one minute I was fine, the next minute, I had terrific pain in my neck and it was radiating down my left arm, and my left leg felt odd. I laid down for awhile. Started feeling better, by the time we took off, but my neck was really painful. We got iced coffees and headed down the road. After driving about an hour, the anti inflammatory med had kicked in, the coffee had made me feel human again, and I decided I was much better and was going to make it

So nice to see Fred and Holly again. As Ken says their home is lovely. They showed us around their area, Ted Williams home is in their area. Went to a lovely spot by the river for a drink then to their club for dinner.

Now in Pensacola, much cooler, and foggy. If weather permits will go to the navy base tomorrow, I've been before but Ken hasn't. Think he'll enjoy the museum and seeing the vintage planes.

We've gained an hour in time. Great if I could use the extra time to shop, however, Ken says anything more than a tic tac is too much as car loaded to max, due to previous great shopping bargains, oh well. S

April 28th and 29th

April 28th:

Only two more days left here in Estero, counting today. We were able to rent the same place for April of 2011 and will be glad to return. We have really enjoyed our stay here and have enjoyed seeing old friends and meeting new friends. Even the Mercedes has enjoyed this vacation, but in the Naples area, there are so many high-priced cars that Mercedes are like Toyotas back in New England.

Went to Ft. Meyers to the WalMart the other day and saw a Bentley coupe and a Rolls Royce pulling out of the WalMart Parking lot. Where else would you drive a Rolls or a Bentley???

I Managed to spend a little time at the pool, and then off for dinner. We had had lunch at one of the big outlet malls several days ago, and enjoyed the restaurant, so Sheila suggested we try another of the eating establishments.

I should have guessed that she had an ulterior motive when she suggested that place for dinner. Yeah, you guessed it, she had to do a little more shopping "since we just happened to be near Chico's". K

I want to make something perfectly clear I did enjoy a wonderful Greek salad at the restaurant at the outlets!! Yes the restaurant was close to Chicos but that was a fluke.

Went to the Coach outlet but purchased nothing. I say this to indicate I'm able to go to a store and browse but not buy. Good Sheila!!! Weak Sheila did take a spin around Chico's and found a beautiful grey blazer on sale for next to nothing, and it was my size. Fit like a glove and the sales person said I looked very fashionable, young and slim, well if any one of those wasn't enough to make me say, " just ring it up, I'll take it". S

April 29th:

Today we spent time getting packed and getting ready to hit the road on Friday morning. We also spent some time saying goodbye to friends at the pool and going out for dinner with our good friends Jean and Robin from Salem. The complex will be losing a lot of people on the 30th as monthly leases are over. We'll miss this place, but will be glad to get home again in a couple of weeks.

Called our daughter, but she wasn't home so I left a message saying "I want to talk to our cat" (she and her husband are cat-sitting for us while we're gone) and later on, I got a voice mail on my cell phone saying "Send two plane tickets to Florida or we will shave the cat!". So far, they haven't shaved our cat. Their own cat has a little "POTTY PROBLEM" and I'm afraid I can't say their own cat hasn't been trimmed a little with a shaver. K

Yes our daughters cat does hace some issues, and saying trimmed a little bit is like saying Frank Lloyd Wright was a builder. Poor Zippies, a cat that strongly resembles the cat Garfield, is now au naturel. shall we say for summer. On last conversation our cat still has his fur and no tickets for Florida had to be exchanged.

It seems like this month has flown by but it will be nice to head back home. First though to San Antonio, Texas for our nephews graduation from flight school. Such a nice event, but wasn't it only a short time ago I had him on my lap reading him a story? It's amazing how this kids can grow up right under your nose, and we adults don't seem to have aged a bit, well, maybe we have aged but do to our decreased mental ability still think we're in our 30's,40's, 50's????? We' re going to so enjoy seeing the graduation. One of our friends is a former army colonel, he said it's really very well deserved and impressive. S

April 17th

Well, we have really been slacking off on our blog. We have had a wonderful time in Florida and need to catch up with a few of our highlights. On the 17th, we went down to see Sharon and Dick Ziko who live in a beautiful home south of Marco Island. They haven't changed a bit in the 10 years since we last saw them.

The photo below is Dick doing his "What me worry" impression. The photo of Dick and Sharon is not a good photo of Sharon. She made a flaming dessert and the flames were getting a little out of hand for a few seconds when I shot the photo. The flames are not visible in the photo, but were clearly visible in the bowl and spoon Sharon was holding.

Dick and Sharon live about an hour south of Estero, so an easy ride to see them. They joined us in Estero the following Friday, so we managed to spend more time with them both. Looking forward to seeing them again next year.

April 14th and 15th

We're still a couple of days behind in our blog, so it's time to catch up with some of our adventures. April 14th, the second day in Key West, was a day of visiting shops, galleries, and of course, a couple of places to eat and to have a couple of drinks. Sheila's brother Paul had been in Key West several times and knows his way around the fun parts of the city.

We had lunch at Jimmy Buffett's Marguerita Ville restaurant after "one" of us did a "little" shopping. I did manage to wind up with a couple of shirts, as did Paul. Sheila stuck to the smaller items (i.e., jewelery), God love her. She's always thinking of the limited storage areas in the car to carry "stuff" home. Also spent some time at the hotel pool, where frozen margueritas were only $8.00 apiece.





In the evening, we went out for a seafood dinner at a place called Alonzo's, which was located near the hotel. Then a little walking around to watch the sunset at Duvall Square, which is located just behind the hotel. Everyone goes to the square to see the street entertainers and to watch the sun set every night. There were clouds on the western horizon, and we missed the sunset both nights we were there, but still enjoyed the sights and sounds and people-watching.

Later, we went to Sloppy Joe's for a couple of drinks and to watch the entertainment. Sloppy Joe's was a favorite hangout for Hemmingway, and the three of us had lots of laughs. People-watching is a popular pastime in Key West, and that night was no exception. When the band came on, the band warned everyone in the audience that after 8:00 PM, entertainment was adult only and was definitely not Chucky Cheese's in Orlando. A couple sets of parents apparently didn't believe the announcement and stayed with their kids - But not for long!

Got up on Thursday morning and planned to leave about 9:00 AM. Actually managed to get packed and on the way almost on schedule, but Paul wanted to show us a few places on the east side of Key West, i.e., some of the hotels and beaches. Nice places to visit, not walking distances from our hotel, but next time we go down there, we will plan to visit those areas too. Made it back to Estero about 3:00 after stopping for lunch and a pit stop or two.




When I looked out the hotel window before I left, I was surprised to see the "ASSBOTTOM BOAT" moored at the dock. Of course, I couldn't resist taking a photo. K

Hi all,

Yes I love Key West, such a fun place, so much to see and do. Yes I did buy both Ken and Paul souvenir shirts, they looked great!!!!

Wanted to go on another boat ride but due to high winds boats weren't going out, so spent time at the very lovely pool. Yes the Margaritas were 8$ but worth every penny, ah the lifestyles of the non-rich but fun-loving!!!!

Didn't buy too much jewelry, really limited purchases, secondary to buying so much on last trip, really don't need much. Need, interesting word, hasn't stopped my shopping juices before.

Tuesday will go to the jewelry store, "The Best of Everything" with friends. I'll be their jewelry consultant, model, competitive buyer, who said that? Me????

Really enjoy working out at our pool area at Estero, I've met some very nice, interesting people. One of whom is Betty, she moved here from Vail, is an artist, paints wall murals and wears pearls with her navy blue bathing suit. Very pretty, maybe a little Jackie O, maybe not practical, but as I said before, very pretty. I do feel underdressed in my Marshalls' special, no jewelry, but have seen first hand what chlorine can do to jewelry.




Also met Anne from Ohio. She swims 1 hr/day, mostly back stroke, she's given me some good pointers. I am swimming crooked as have no lanes to follow, Anne suggested focusing on some Palm trees, am trying. Problem with Palm trees is that they sway and so I swim, continue to have problems swimming a straight line. Wonder if other swimmers think I'm dyslexic too? S

April 13th

Today, we decided to drive to see Key West and to spend the night down there instead of staying in Estero. It is about a 5 hour drive with all the pit stops and construction areas. It was a nice drive though. Left Estero about 8:00 AM (depending who's telling this story) and headed for Key West. Hit Interstate 75 a couple of miles from our place here in Estero (after stopping for Dunkin Donuts coffees) and finally hit the Sunshine State Parkway with its multiple tool booths down in the Miami area.

Our EZPass doesn't work at the Florida toll booths, so stopped in a rest area and bought an electronic pass that you stick to your windshield. The pass looks like a safety inspection sticker, but is a transponder. It cost $4.99 and you had to call an 800 number to initialize it and to add money to use it. Thought we were all set to avoid stopping at toll booths, but NOOOOOOO - It takes 24 to 36 hours for it to be initialized. Still had to stop at the tool booths after all.

Drove through Homestead before getting into the Keys. I had been stationed at Homestead AFB on an Army HAWK site for two years, so thought about trying to locate the old HAWK site location. That area has changed so much, I couldn't recognize anything that vaguely resembled the Homestead I knew back then.

The ride from Homestead on to Key West varied from 35 mph to 55 mph and constantly changed. Seemed like local cops were sitting at every change in the speed limit signs for 100 miles or so. Still a nice ride and the water colors and sky were beautiful.

We finally arrived in Key West at a hotel Paul had selected, and it was really something. The address was 0 Duvall Street, so you know it was right on the water. Nice views of the ocean from our room and deck. Took a tour on the Conch Train around the city and many things had changed from when Sheila and I had visited Key West all then her birthday in January, 2001, after taking a jet ferry from Marcos Island. Had a ball while we were on the tour and then booked a sunset booze cruise that evening. Really quite a lot of fun.

While we were on the boat, two jets suddenly flew over at low altitude. We learned that the jets were part of the Blue Angels who had been performing earlier in the week. Quite a sight. Also was able to watch the Coast Guard training to rescue a couple of swimmers using their helicopter. Picked up two swimmers and it was quite a show. We enjoyed the day so much, we decided to spend another day in Key West. K

Key West is so beautiful!!! Our room is also very lovely, great view, large jacuzzi, makeup area, bath, and deck with chairs.
Took the cruise hoping to see the sunset on the water, no luck, very cloudy day. The legend is if you don't see the sunset in Key West you must stay another day, oh shucks if we have to. Had supper on the ship,plenty of food, but interesting cuisine, great for pulled pork fans. Before sailing off saw many beautiful yachts. One belonged to Dale Earnhart JR., very big and beautiful. Some of the yachts worth multiple millions!!
On conch train learned nice bit of history of Key West, a very fascinating city, millions of dollars worth of revenue built on shipwrecks. Did a little shopping to help the economy but realize I can't do it all by myself, well ok maybe I can make a serious dent. S

April 12th

We've been busy this week and haven't kept up with posting our blog, so have to delve into our memory banks and try to remember what all we did. Oh yeah, the 12th was the day Sheila's brother Paul came to see us. We were so glad he was able to take time off to join us in Florida for a few days. Paul is a great guy and a lot of fun to be with. He's also a great brother-in-law.

When Paul got here, we took him to Sanibel Island. Of course, we got stuck in a traffic jam that would make travelers on Interstate 93 in Massachusetts feel right at home. Barely got lost on the way, but finally found the road onto the island. Had to pay a $6.00 toll to get across the bridge onto the island, so figured we would take $6.00 worth of sea shells home with us. The sand where we stopped was almost pure white and we all found a few shells to take home to our granddaughters. Beautiful beaches and the water was beautiful shades of blue - So different from the ocean colors back home in New England. Also managed to look around the island for a while and Sheila managed to stop in a couple of shops to pick up tee shirts and some shells in a shell shop.

As we were leaving the island, I asked Paul if Sanibel Island was the high point of his day. Being the politician that he is, he replied, "It was nice, but the high point of my day was seeing you pay $6.00 to get over the damn bridge!" K

April 11th

Well, we woke up to a little liquid sunshine this morning. First time we've had rain during the day since we've been here. We've had several relaxing days since we last posted our blog. We've spent time most days at the swimming pool and reading. Sheila reads incessantly and uses her Barnes and Noble Nook a lot. I haven't sat down to read a book in a long time and am enjoying the chance to read myself. Of course, Sheila has managed to sneak in a little shopping here and there, but that's to be expected.

On Thursday night, we went to the Naples Philharmonic Center with our friends Jean and Robin from Salem. We got to see Jay and the Americans and Little Anthony and the Imperials. Both groups put on great shows, singing their old hits and bringing back a lot of memories of the 60s. Funny how all the words to their songs were so easy to sing along with.

Jay and the Americans (they're on their third Jay) were still good, but their age is apparent in their looks and voices, and while Little Anthony and the Imperials must be nearly 70 years old, they still have their original members and their voices were great. They were really the shows' stars. The entire show was enjoyed by all of us. We bought CDs of Jay and the Americans, but didn't stay to try to get Little Anthony and the Imperials' CDs due to the expected lines and traffic leaving the Center. I must find someplace to pick up some of their CDs. K

Hi all,

Enjoying every minute of our time in Florida. Haven't really done that much shopping, well, ok, haven't really done that little either. Returned something to Chicos, and made the mistake of taking a quick look around, did find another "must have" on sale.

Not very tan yet, keep using block so tanning slowly. Found a WalMart, tried to renew some Rx, unable as Rx a year old so have to call MD on Monday.

Jay and the Americans were terrific, Jean and I got to meet them at intemission. They had so much stage makeup on and still looked older than I remember. My favorite song they sang was Cara Mia, always thought if I had a daughter I'd name her Cara Mia, "my darling". When we came to name our daughter Cara Mia didn't win the top 1 vote, perhaps just as well. When I mentioned to our daughter Nora that I had wanted to name her Cara Mia, she was not impressed.

The Philharmonic was beautiful, many beautiful art objects to enjoy prior to the performance. Little Anthony and the Imperials were terrific too. The harmony was as beautiful as ever. Little Anthony mentioned that he'd like to be known as only Anthony now, "I"m a grown man", Imperials voted a unanimous NO!!!!!!

Plans for today kind of sketchy at this time. Will go grocery shopping, can't get over how much more expensive it is down here, good thing so many other things are on sale.

My brother Paul's arriving tomorrow, can't wait. Many to do things planned. First on the list is to drive to Key West on Tuesday, spend the night, then drive back to Estero late Wednesday. So many fun things to do here. S

April 7th

Still having a great time and still talking to each other too. We were lazy bones this morning. Had plans to get up early and go over to the boat dock to make reservations to take the ferry to the beaches, but it was just too good sleeping late. What a vacation! We'll try again tomorrow to get up early to get the reservations.

We've found Dunkin Donuts, only 3 miles from our place, so we drive down for our iced coffees every morning. I have been getting my scalp sunburned, and needed a ball cap, so down to Target to find a hat of some nature. They had a very small selection of hats and ball caps, but did pick up a ball cap for $15. Our next stop was Walgreens, and of course, they had ball caps for $5 apiece. It figures...

Spent more time at the pool today. Weather has been great - In the 80's almost every day, and sunshine, sunshine, and more sunshine. Supposed to get rain on Friday, so think we're going to go to a big flea market near here. Just have to figure out where it is. No Sheila, you can't fill up the back seat of the Mercedes with "treasures" to haul home.

Haven't seen any more damned snakes in the area, but did see one on the road leaving the complex. It already had tire tracks on it, and I felt a few more tire tracks were senseless. It was kinda messy anyway. For the last couple of evenings, we have seen a rabbit coming out of the brush and swamp behind the lanai. He sure can't be what ever has been making the noises after dark. We did hear people have seen armadillos all around us and they could be the source of the night noises in the brush. The noises sound like its something huge, and an armadillo big enough (and probably stupid enough) to mate with a Great Dane might actually be the source of the sounds(?). K

Hi all, another beautiful day!!! Tomorrow no plans but it seems as though we open our eyes and say," how about if we". Spoke with our friend Jean today at the pool she asked if we'd like to go to Venice some day, sounds like another fun field trip.

Ken found pool noodles in our condos storage closet so all set for advanced water aerobics on Friday, weather permtting.

This is a picture of the Miromar Mall, a place close to my heart and apparently Kens' too as he puts our photos in our blog. He'd have you thinking he doesn't even like the Mall, HUH!!

So far have read 3 good books, almost done another, it seems I have so much more time here to do fun things, wonder why?

Tonight for supper had Portobello mushrooms, and other vegetables, delicious. Made a fresh fruit salad for dessert, yummy. Fruit and veggies we've had above average! S

April 6th

Sitting in the living room last night trying to decide what to do today, Sheila was practicing her "southern" accent. I had to say "Why bother? Everyone you've met at the swimming pool, restaurants, stores, and during shopping forays in the malls have been from New England." I guess she figured I was right, 'cause now she's back to her normal accent.

Today was a "Let's see if we can get lost" day. I called an old neighbor from Salem who had invited us down to see them, so when Dick answered, I told him to come out in his driveway and help us carry our luggage in. There was a dead silence for a few minutes while he recovered from having unannounced house guests. We were actually in Estero. We hope to see them at some point while we're still here.

Decided to go south on Hwy 41 from Estero and went as far as Everglades City. Nice drive thru Naples and found a couple of places we want to visit in Naples the next time we head south from Estero. Want to visit the Historic District and a place called Tin City that's filled with little tourist traps, etc. We've been there before and enjoyed both places.

Continued past Naples, looking for a place to take an airboat ride thru the Everglades. Finally found a place and were really happy with the ride. The ride lasted about an hour and was well worth the $40 tickets per person.

While we were at the airboat place, our guide suggested that we go to a place in Everglades City to eat called the Triad Restaurant and we weren't disappointed. Great food and highly recommend the place. When you get to Everglades City, take a right at the Circle K gas station and follow the road to the restaurant. Those were the actual directions in their brochure. The city is small enough, you definitely won't miss the place. After today's excursions, we have now put 1005 miles on the Mercedes since we left Salem. That doesn't include the miles on the Auto Train. K

Hi all, really enjoyed the airboat ride in the Everglades. The area is very beautiful and seemed to have a spiritual quality. Our guide was native American, and when I asked how long he'd been doing this he said 15 months, oh well, better than 15 minutes.
He was very knowledgeable, said had owned a constructon business but with the decline in the economy came back home and started this business.
We shared the ride with a gentleman and his young daughter from Germany.
I asked what would provoke an alligator to attack, the guide said the color red, I said," it's a good thing I'm wearing orange." He said they have never attacked the air boat but then again no one has tried to make pets of them and feed them. Ken and I nicknamed these two Ken and Sheila.
After going to Everglade City we came back to Estero, changed clothes and went for a swim, it felt soooooo good, temp 86. Tomorrow temp is going to be hot 88 and humid, Thursday as well and then Friday to be rain. So far our adventure in Florida has been wonderful fun, which we hope to continue.
Tomorrow plan to find a cap for Ken, he's got a sunburned scalp, and a noodle for aqua aerobics for me. They have a formal aqua aerobics at the pool M-W-F that I'd like to take advantage off. After walking around Epcot I think the bursitis in my hips returned, pool activity makes it feel so much better. S

Day 6 - April 5th

Here it is, Monday already, and we are having a great time at our condo and in the resort itself. We haven't had time, most days, to update our blog, so bear with us... Our condo has 2 bedrooms, each with a flat screen TV, a dining room, living room with a great stereo system and flat screen TV, a nice kitchen, and a lanai. It has been in the mid-70s to mid-80s since we got here, with sunshine every day. They have a golf course (unfortunately, we don't golf), and several swimming pools, plus two club houses where we can go to eat or for drinks. Of course, there are some huge new malls close by to keep Sheila busy with her shopping needs.


We had dinner with friends at the main club house yesterday, and had a nice time and a great meal. It was the only day we didn't go to the swimming pool since we got here. The pool water must be in the high 70s or mid-80s and is like bath water. Have already gotten my first sunburn and am tanning too.

Saw our first snake today crossing the road as we were leaving to do a little shopping. As much as I hate snakes, it was moving too fast for me to put tire treads on it when I finally realized it was a snake and not a strip of tar. I'm sure I will have more chances to nail some of the little #@%^@!s while we're here though.

We have those little Geico Insurance reptiles crawling on the screens of the screened lanai, and fortunately, only one has made it into the screened sitting area. Can't figure out how it got in though. Also, can't figure out how it got out or if we will have a guest in our bed one of these nights. Sitting in the living room watching TV last night with the sliding doors open on the lanai, I heard something in the bushes that had to be larger than any Geico reptile. I can't imagine anyone walking out in the scrub brush in the dark, so figure it had to have more than two legs. Would be just our luck to have an alligator decide to visit us in the dark. K

Hi all, yes that's me emerging from Chicos outlet sale,such deals.!!! Have been swimming in the pool all days but one. Water warm, sky sunny, air warm but not hot, just lovely.

Condo is really very nice, appears to have been professionally decorated. Kingsize bed very comfortable. We're not too far from the pool but are the last condo in the group.

Really don't think we have a monster geeko, or geiko to fear, but did hear a neighbors dog barking, a very odd bark, might be something in the water? Dog sounds like a hound and we live around the corner from Baskerille Drive, but the hound of the Baskervilles, must be a coincidence.

Tomorrow plan to go to Naples and Marco Island and get a feel for the lay of the land. Today we went to the outlets, had to establish our priorities. Wednesday plan to take the boat to the beach for a few hours then home.

Thursday night plan to go to English Pub for supper then to see Little Anthony and Jay and the Americans with our friends Jean and Robin. During the day may just relax poolside. Pool area is landscaped so pretty, palm trees, greens, and flowers all around. Plenty of chaise lounges too.

Finally found a Dunkin Donuts about 3 miles away, Ken and I are delighted can now have our iced coffees.

Spoke with our daughter Nora today, our cat doing well, animal planet at her house under control for the time being. S

Day 4 - 31 March

Today, we spent the day in Epcot. We haven't been here in about 10 years or so, and it is as busy as it ever was. So many people, both kids and adults, of all ages, and everyone was having fun. We started off the day with the ride in the Epcot globe that takes you from the past to the future, and of course, the ride stopped for about 15 minutes just before the ride ended. Of course, you're in pitch dark, with announcements every 30 seconds telling you to stay seated. Heck, as dark as it was, we weren't going anywhere.

Got plenty of exercise walking around Epcot and did ride the General Motors Speed Track. The cars get up to about 65 mph, and it was quite a ride. Of course, it had to be a good ride after standing in line for an hour and a half. By the way, remember the shirt I'm wearing in the photo. It will never look like that again. More on that later... K

Yes we're on the road again, and having a ball!! Kens comment about his shirt, well and the one I'm wearing as well, is the result of doing laundry and mistaking the poorly marked bleach for the detergent. We are starting a new tie died fashion in Florida, Ken and Sheila, Hippie mode.
Walked all around Epcot for 12 hrs, both Ken and I thought we'd make the most of it. Well making the most of it resulted in us walking, limping, back to the motel with blistered feet, sore back, [Ken] and aching hips [Sheila]. We ran around this park with our kids and granddaughter, oh yeah that was at least 10 yrs ago.

Had Greek salads in a small food court style restaurant and dinner at France. Dinner was delicious both Ken and I had the salmon and ratatouille, with an ice cream puff for dessert, ummm. Did well and only indulged in spending in a place called Hoy Polloy, some really neat stuff. Oh and off course some Disney memorabilia ,Ken wanted mouse souvenirs, well maybe that was me. S