July 30th - Medical Monday

I tried to renew my prescriptions, even though there were no renewals left.  The pharmacy just calls the doctor's office and most of the time they do another month.  Not so this time, as the doctor said I had to come in for a visit. 

So, today was my visit.  Since they want blood work done while still fasting, I went in shortly after 8 to get that done.  Usually that is a quick in and out, but it took a while today.  They had quite a few other patients doing the same thing who all showed up when I did.  At least I got all the paperwork filled out.  It was my first visit this year and they make you fill out new paper work every year.

My actual appointment wasn't until 2, but that went really quick.  I only waited a few minutes before I was called in.  I didn't even wait all that long for the doctor.  This was a quick exam since it was just for prescription renewals.  Blood pressure was up a little bit, so I will have to go back in a month or so to have it checked by them again.  Everything else looked fine.  Of course, we will wait and see what the blood work says.  Six month ago, sugar was borderline, so he is looking at that again.  

Since I am now on Medicare, he added a couple of things that they pay for, so I got the pneumonia vaccine.  He also is sending me to another doctor for an abdominal sonogram.  It happens to be the same doctor that does colonoscopies, which I am due to get this year, so I guess I will take care of both.  I also need to get a mammogram and pap smear.  I will need to schedule both of those.  I have to get a new Gyn, since mine closed his office, so I have been putting it off.  I do know that there may be some minor surgery to repair a rectocele that he found last year.  It will be interesting to see what a new doctor thinks of it.

All in all, things look good for such an old lady - 65!  

July 29th - Wonderful Sabbath Day!

I always love Sundays and today was no exception.  President Black, from the Atlanta Temple, was a speaker in Sacrament Meeting and then he and his wife answered questions during the third hour, since it was a fifth Sunday.  It was all very good - as it always is when the temple is the topic of discussion.

The kids were at the house when I got home and it felt so good!  Last week they stayed home to recover from the trip back from Florida and it was so quiet.  Ashby had even been upset that they didn't go to Grandma and Grandpa's house - so today, everyone was happy!  Brooks was pulling the wooden block train around the house, Ashby was hiding under the crib so I would have to look for her, Lisa was resting on the couch, David was resting in the recliner keeping an eye on Brooks.

We finished up dinner preps and then put David to work grilling the plank salmon and veggie kabobs.  We also had sweet potatoes, water, and blackberry bread.  It was so good.  Bill managed to make it home as we were just finishing up.  Just before we ate, Brooks had gone down for a nap and Ashby was tired and just watched a video, so it was a much quieter dinner than usual!

When he woke up, Brooks was ready to play and they had the best time.  They played chase around the house and then went outside and played for a long time.  David and Bill were watching them, so Lisa and I sat, talked, and watched some olympics swimming.  It was the first I have watched, but they can't get it at home and she was really missing it.  They can't even get the "free" streaming from the computer at home, because you still have to have a provider - cable, satellite, whatever - in order to get it free.

When the kids finally came in, the women's gymnastics was on.  That prompted more excitement as Ashby wanted to do what the girls on the TV were doing - the vaults!  So David was helping her flip over and then she would come back up on her feet with he arms in the victory pose.  Brooks was the loudest cheerleader as she did the same stunt over and over - at least until he wanted to do it himself.  Needless to say, it was all very funny and they had a ball.

It seemed very quiet when they left, but it was a wonderful day.

July 28th - Saturday On-the-Run

Some days it seems like I do nothing but run around - I like the lazy days better!  Today was one of those running around days: went by Becky's to pick up soup and bean orders; went by Lisa's to return the stroller; went by the library to both return and pick up a book; went by CVS to pick up a couple of needed items; went by Chadwick's to pick up fresh veggies for Sunday dinner.......  Then I thought I was home for the day, but got a call that the rest of the bean order had come in and I had to make a run to Snellville to pick that up.  Whew!

Time at home wasn't all that lazy either - couple loads of laundry, change sheets, straighten up (never did get to actually cleaning!), planning Sunday dinner......  You know the routine.  Then I had to sort the soup and bean orders and email those who had ordered to please come pick it up since my living room is full!  (I could move it to the garage, but it is just too heavy.   I didn't want to sort it in the garage, because it was just too hot!)  I managed to sneak a little, very little, family history.

I got a lot done, but I am sure glad this day is finished!

July 27th - A Day for Partying!

Ashby had her birthday party today - a Princess Tea Party.  Lisa did a great job making it special for Ashby, who was so excited.  She had 3 friends from church plus her cousins.  They came dressed in their princess dresses, all ready for the big tea party.  They had so much fun and it was a delight to watch them.

In the evening, we went over to David and Nancy's for a farewell party for Taylor.  He leaves Sunday for a year in Germany on a government exchange program.  He will study the language for two months and then take college classes and end with an internship.  He is very excited to have been chosen for the program.  It will an incredible experience for him.

So, a day of parties!

July 26th - More of the Same???

I had such a good time getting lost in family history yesterday that I decided to do it again today!  Unfortunately, I did have to do a few other things to do around the house, like straightening up and doing 3 loads of laundry, and working on RS a little.  Even so, I devoted most of my day to family history and loved it.

Not much to tell - but it certainly felt good!

July 25th - Funny Mood

I had a long list of things that I planned to do today, but I was just in one of those strange moods where I didn't want to do anything!  Bottom line, I worked on family history the entire day.  I was totally lost in what I was doing and it turned out to be a great day - at least for my mood.  I sure didn't get anything else accomplished.

I did meet up with Lisa and kids for birthday dinner at Chic Filet.  Ashby is feeling better today and that was the place she chose.  It was fun.  This morning she asked her mommy if she was still four.  So cute!

I guess what could have been a totally useless day turned out to at least have some value.  Sometimes it just turns out that way, I guess.

July 24th - Happy Birthday, Ashby!!!!!!!!

Yes, today is Ashby's birthday, but her big Princess Tea Party is not until Friday.  It was probably good planning on Lisa's part since Ashby is not feeling well today.  By Friday, she will be ready to party hearty!  Or at least as hearty as a four-year-old can!

It is amazing how quickly four years can go by.  She is growing into a very lovely young lady.  She is sweet and loving, always with a big smile.  She is honest - it is cute how she comes and tells us when she does something she shouldn't have done.  She was naughty the other day and when they came over, she told me she had to go to her room because she was so grouchy.  She carries on very adult conversations and we sometimes are amazed at the big words she uses.  She has a huge imagination and can spend hours playing.  Sometimes she is so lost in her imaginary world that she doesn't even hear us speaking to her.  We have to do the old "look in my eyes, Ashby" thing.  She loves going to Sunbeam class and is very reverent in church.  She has even given her first talk in Primary and did a wonderful job.  She loves her friends and plays so well with other children.  She learned to swim under water while we were in Florida and couldn't get in the pool enough. 

So, how did we ever live without our little ray of sunshine?  I often say that the purpose of life is grandchildren.  And she proves the point!!!  Love you.  You are grandma's best girl!

(Picture from her May dance recital)

July 23rd - Whew! What a Busy Day!

So much for sliding back into the routine slowly.  I had a "to do" list that filled the whole page of a regular size notebook.  I managed to get much of it done, but there were plenty of things that went onto the list for tomorrow.

Most of the completed items were related to RS - emails, blogs, phone calls, etc.  I am glad I got those things all done.  I also had to straighten the house a little and did a load of laundry.  I am sure glad I had all the laundry done before we left and was able to get most of what we took done before we came back home. 

Lisa and the kids came over in the afternoon to pick up the stuff we brought back for them.  She said Ashby had been very unhappy when they left church on Sunday and went home instead of coming to Grandma's house.  The kids were so excited when they got here - you would have thought it had been six months since we had seen them instead of just two days.  I have to say - it made my day!  They were excited, too, because a package had come while they were gone and we opened it.  It was a Crayola art table and two chairs.  I had been looking for a small table and this one has the art top, but can also be used for eating.  They both drew some pictures to break it in.

After they left, I had to run a couple errands: library to pick up some things that had come in, gas so I could keep going, grocery store to pick up refreshments for Empty Nesters tonight.  I was so sleepy when I got back home that I actually laid down and took a 20 minute nap!  I don't often take naps (other than at the beach, of course), but sometimes...........

We went to Empty Nesters Family Home Evening tonight.  Bridgette had a pioneer day activity and we had a lot of fun.  The bad thing was that all three teams died before we reached the valley - no one had enough food!

So - welcome back to the real world!  Way too busy for me.  I prefer the call of the beach and the pool.  

July 22nd - Back to normal, almost

I was glad that our first day back was Sunday.  It is always the best day of the week, and I was so depressed.  Feeling so much better now.

I had to direct the music at the last minute again.  I am hoping they get that situation resolved sometime soon.  The regular music director has fibromyalgia, RA, and some other health issues and never knows until the last minute if she will even be able to make it to church.  She wants to continue to serve, but it creates a problem.  I think they should just call a permanent substitute.  Of course, it isn't my decision, so I will continue to help out when needed.

I always attend the Gospel Principles class to support any sisters who attend and we had a nice group this week.  The lesson was also good - about the importance of work and avoiding idleness.  I guess I needed to be reminded of that after my two weeks of relaxation!

The RS lesson was President Uchtdorf's talk about The Merciful Obtain Mercy.  It was a great talk about not offending people and learning to forgive.

It was nice to see everyone again after two weeks away and to feel the special spirit in the ward.

The kids didn't come over today, as they wanted a chance to rest up and veg out after church.  It was good for us to rest up, too, although we really missed having them here.  So that would be the "almost" - it would have been a normal Sunday if they had come.

So tomorrow we really have to go back to normal.  My list of things that need to be done is ridiculously long.  I am wondering if I could take another vacation and just throw away the list???  No, I guess not!!!

July 21st - Worst Day of the Year!

This is always the worst day - having to pack up and go home!  We were up at 6 am and got everything packed.  Bill had to run the crib over to Hazel and John's as they offered to return it to the rental place later in the day.  Then he had to start loading the van.  If it were only our things, it would have taken all of 10 minutes.  However, we had to take back a lot of stuff for David and Lisa (particularly the jogging stroller), plus we had to drop Vanett and Sydnie off at the airport, so there had to be room for them and their 3 suitcases.  I would like to report that everything fit, with a tiny bit of room to spare!

We took off shortly before 9 am.  We dropped Vanett and Sydnie off at the airport and then started north on I-95.  Bill hadn't filled the tank before leaving the beach, so the first order of business was to find a gas station.  We got that done and had only gone a little ways when Bill announced he was really hungry and wanted to stop for an early lunch.  That was fine with me, so we started looking.  We pulled off at an interchange that looked promising, but it turned out there was nothing except fast food and a Denny's.  We decided to try that, but after waiting to be seated for 10 minutes or so and seeing that people already seated were not getting waited on very fast, we just left.  That was fortunate, because the next exit up had a Cracker Barrell which is what we preferred in the first place!  By then, it was 12:15 - so much for an early lunch - and we hit the peak of the crowd.  They are good about moving people through quickly, though, plus there is all that shopping while you wait, so we made it in and had a great lunch.  The whole thing took forever, though.  We had to make another gas stop south of Atlanta.  So we made 5 stops (airport, gas, unsuccessful lunch try, lunch, and gas) on the trip home!  We only made two on the way down with the kids. 

We finally got home at 6:10.  It took us nine hours to make a seven hour trip.  I think we are getting old!!

Our classic statement as we left St. Augustine:  "Only 50 more weeks until we go to the beach!"

July 20th - Day 14 - Making the Most of the Last Day

I was up before 6:00 this morning to watch the sunrise on the beach.  It was the best one yet.  I also took a nice walk at the edge of the water, like I usually do.  Then I walked up the walkway and sat in the gazebo for an hour or so reading my book.  From that particular gazebo, I can see the ocean, so it was very nice.

I hit the pool at 9:00 when it opened.  The morning was very quiet, although Vanett and Brooks were out taking a walk and he got into the pool a bit.  A little later, David brought Ashby out for a while.  Then they joined almost everyone else down at the beach for the last day.  Since I don't like the hot sun at the beach during the daytime, I only did my early morning thing.   Eventually Gail and Martha showed up and we had a nice time until the sun finally reached my shady spot and I went in for a late lunch. 

After a quiet afternoon, we all headed out to the Seafood Kitchen for dinner.  John and Hazel treated the whole group - there were 18 of us.  Food was very good and we stayed until Brooks got restless and ready to down for the night.

When we got back to the condo, Ashby went to play for a while with Lizzie and some of the others went to the club pool.  I just went out to our pool and sat in the hot tub for a while.  I had a great time chatting with some other guests.  We had to leave when they kicked us out to close the pool.

So the last real day is over - I am so depressed!  I have had a great two weeks, but am still not ready to go home!

July 19th - Day 13 - Quiet? Busy? Another Day!

Another day of vacation - almost like every other day here.  Opened the pool and closed the pool. 

It was really quiet in the morning as everyone seemed to be off doing their own things.  I, of course, was holding court at the pool.  About lunch time, another quick shower came through, so I headed in.  And then things seemed to get rather busy around the condo.  David and Brooks came over for a while - everyone else was gone - and he turned on the golf tournament.  Then a heavy storm came though, the first we have had in two weeks.  Leroy had been on the beach and he stopped here, as we were the "nearest condo in a storm."  He watched golf while the storm passed.  These Florida storms are usually pretty quick and this one was gone in less than an hour.

I was again alone and sitting out on the patio reading when Martha showed up.  We chatted a while.  Then Bill showed up.  Martha decided to take a nap and I thought that sounded like a good idea, too.  Bill went off to do something else.  I never made it to sleep before Gail came in to use the bathroom and then head out to the beach for a walk.  I was just getting relaxed again when Bill returned.  Then Gail got back.  I think somewhere in all of that Lisa popped in, too.  Anyway, I think I dozed off for a total of 5 minutes the whole afternoon! 

Dinner was at Greg and Judy's.  It was Joyce and Hazel's birthdays.  Hazel had other plans, but we celebrated Joyce's at dinner.  We got back to our condo in time for me to make a quick dash out to the pool.  Bill ran down to see Hazel and a friend of hers who is visiting.  I managed to get some time in the hot tub and in the pool.  They didn't show up to close the pool until late, so I got enough time to feel ready to end the day.

Feeling really sad, because tomorrow is the last day.  

July 18th - Day 12 - Still the Same Old Boring Routine

Ahhhh, another perfect day.  What can I say?  I started the day by going out to the beach to watch the sunrise.  I had just gotten back when the kids came by with David and Vanett.  They had been out taking a walk, too. \

I  was a little late getting to the pool - didn't make it until almost 9:30, but I still got my prime spot!  I enjoyed my 10 minutes in the hot tub, and then "swimming" my 10 laps.  ("Swimming" consists of lazily going the length of the pool and then coming back lazily on my back.  I do have my arms and legs moving, but to call it swimming would be completely misleading!) 

Most everyone else made it by the pool for a while, as well.  I just sit in my lounge chair, reading in between chats, and act like I own the place.  A shower came through about lunch time, so the timing was perfect to go in and eat.  The afternoon was spent reading, having visitors, and taking a short nap.  I just can't handle the mid-day sun, but that doesn't stop me from relaxing.  I spent a good bit of time reading in the lounge chair in the patio.

For dinner, Lisa's crew and Bill went up to the pier because there was supposed to be food and then music - every Wednesday.  It didn't turn out so well, as they missed the food, which apparently wasn't much, and much of the play area was temporarily closed so the children were restless.  They came back, got me out of the hot tub, and we all went down to South Beach Grille for dinner.  Well, all except David who chose to stay in and put the kids down for bedtime.  We haven't gone out much to eat, so it was really good.

So, my same old routine got twisted around just a little, but it was all good!

July 17th - Day 11 - More of the Same, Ahhhhh!

Nothing new today.  Just more of the same wonderful things - opening the pool, closing the pool, reading, resting, relaxing, chatting......

Most of the "girls" went into town to shop - St. George Street is always fun.  I, however, chose to enjoy the quiet of the pool.  I have turned into such an anti-social personality!  Bill and most of the guys went golfing.  I chose to ignore that, as well.  Dinner was pizza at Lisa's. 

Such a boring life - wish I could live it all summer!

July 16th - Day 10 - Mellow Monday!

What can I say?  Life at the beach has become pretty routine - at least for me.  I choose not to go shopping or sightseeing, so my life is pretty mellow.   Lisa showed up first thing in the morning wanting to take the cinnamon sugar for Ashby to have cinnamon toast.  Then Brooks and David showed up while they were out taking a walk.  It is fun to have out back doors just a few feet apart - makes it easy to interact.

Let's see, today was mostly at the pool.  I didn't even make it down to the beach at all.  Gail came over and sat at the pool with me for a long time.  Then Joyce showed up about the time I was heading in for lunch.

I was at the pool again in the evening when David and Ashby were there.  Ashby loves jumping in with her tube on.  I commented that she was getting so good that pretty soon she would be able to do it without her tube.  A while later, she said she wanted to take the tube off so she could sit on a lower step.  After a discussion about always having a big person with her when she didn't have the tube on, she took it off and sat on the lower step.  The water came to between her mouth and nose - she was so funny.  And, I might add, very proud of not being afraid of the water.  After more practicing putting her head all the way in the water, she suddenly wanted to swim underwater.  She actually swam two or three feet to her daddy - over and over.  She was so proud, it was funny.  At one point, she almost yelled, "I gotta go tell mommy!"  They finally headed over to the club pool to meet with the rest of the family and so she could show off her new skill. 

I enjoyed the rest of the quiet evening at my pool alone.  I enjoyed chatting with some other guests and reading my book until I finally came in and had some popcorn to end my evening.

Ahh, so mellow!!

July 15 - Day 9 - I Love Sundays on Vacation, Too!

I always like Sundays and today was no exception.  We attended church this morning - glad we made it this time.  There was a beautiful full rainbow as we were crossing the bridge - I love rainbows! 

We attended the St. Augustine Ward and were surprised to learn that they had split the ward and there are now two wards in the building.  The other ward is the one designated for hearing impaired, so we missed seeing all the signing, etc.  Bill did get a chance to talk to one of the bishopric members of that ward to ask some questions about working with the deaf.  He picked up a couple of things that were good, but mostly he learned that our ward is doing things about right.

After church, it was time for a quick lunch and then the pool.  It was a beautiful day.   Then everyone met up at Joyce's for dinner.  She had ordered out from the barbecue place and it was good. 

I took a late swim and read for a while before finally coming to get ready for bed.  Many of the group went on a beach walk before heading to the club pool to swim.  That pool stays open much later than the condo pools.

It was a wonderful day - spent at church and with family.  And, since it is vacation, the pool and beach were added bonuses.

July 14th - Day 8 - Relaxing Saturday

Saturday is transition day, so it is relatively quiet at the pool.  Check out time is 10 am and check in is 4 pm.  Only the full-time residents, and those staying another week are around.  Ashby and I had the pool all to ourselves for a while this morning.  In fact, she didn't like it when some other people came to swim in "our" pool!

Lisa and David got checked into their unit in the afternoon and moved all her stuff over.  It makes our condo seem empty and quiet! 

Greg and Judy and family also got in.  That means everyone is here.  As soon as they had the car unloaded, we had all three girls at our door.  They were anxious to go around and see everyone's condo.  

Joyce had sandwiches at her place for dinner.  Then almost everyone met at the club pool for a late swim.  I chose to come back to our condo and swim a little in our pool/hot tub before taking a shower and washing my hair. 

So the second week has begun.  Everyone is so excited  and we should have another great week!

July 13 - Day 7 - Week One Already!

It is hard to believe that a full week is now finished.  One more to go.  I am wondering if we should consider three weeks???!!!!

I went out for the sunrise this morning.  It was pretty.  The cloud bank turned out to not be sitting right on the horizon, so as the sun came up, it peaked under the cloud and looked really pretty.  As it rose up behind the clouds, which were wispy, it looked like flames - pretty neat.

David got here about 8:00 - big surprise.  He drove most of the night.  At 9:00 I hit the pool and David and Ashby came out shortly after.  Ashby was so excited to see her daddy and clung like glue!  I stayed at the pool until I was ready to eat lunch.  David was napping on the couch and Ashby was "resting" on top of him.

They went to the airport to pick up his mother and niece.  I rested a little myself.  Martha came by and went out to the pool and I joined her a little bit later.  Eventually David, Ashby and Sydni showed up at the pool, as well.

We had everyone over for pizza for dinner and then took a nice walk on the beach.  It was the first time that Sydni had seen the Florida coast and she was amazed at how warm the water was.  After the walk, we hit the pool for one more swim before it closed.

So - a busy day.  I started and ended with time on the beach.  And I opened and closed the pool.  Can't ask for more!

July 12 - Day 6 - A Quiet Day

Our week has been so stressful that we had to have a restful day today.  In truth, Ashby was exhausted, running a very low grade fever, so she stayed in today.  I still was at the pool by 9 and stayed until 12:30.  That was when we had our first rain shower of the week.  I thought it was nice that it was timed just as I was ready to go in for lunch. 

I took a short nap, and laid there reading my book for quite a while.  We went over to Martha's for dinner around 5.  Hazel and John were there, as well as Joyce and Leroy who had just checked in to Ocean Gallery.  We didn't stay long, since Brooks was so tired. 

When we got back to the condo, Brooks got ready for bed and went down pretty easy.  Ashby and I went out to the pool for a night swim, which we both really enjoyed. 

And that about did it for another day.  It is hard to believe the week is going so quickly.  We are still enjoying every minute!

July 11 - Day 5 - It Just Stays Good!

Not much to write about - but the day was great.  I started by going down to the beach for sunrise.
Well, actually I was a bit late for actual sunrise, but with the clouds on the horizon, I watched as the sun rose above the clouds.

Most of the rest of the day was at the pool or resting in the condo.  Everyone had a great day.  Ashby and Brooks both got to jumping into the pool, so that was progress for them.

I can't believe that week one is half way done!  Good news is that we have reserved the same unit for next year, starting on July 6th, 2013.

July 10 - Day 4 - More of the Same

Some ruts are so good that you hope they never end!  That is where we are right now.  Today's "rut" was to be at the pool at 9 o'clock when it opened.  Ashby and I seem to be the pool nuts.  We finally came in for lunch, rested.  Then we were back to the pool in the late afternoon.  Then it was time for dinner.  After dinner, we took a walk on the beach.  Then it was back to the pool one more time.  We came in at 9 o'clock when the pool closed.  Ah, such a great day when you open the pool AND close the pool, with a beach walk in between.

Such a tough rut we are in!

July 9 - Day 3 - More Fun!

I got up planning to go watch the sunrise, but I got busy around the condo and never made it out to the beach.  Oh, well.  I will make it another day.  The kids slept in until around 7 and both woke up happy.

After breakfast and all the other morning chaos, I headed out to the pool.  Bill, Lisa and kids went down to the beach.  We expected that if they lasted an hour, it would be a miracle.  Turns out they stayed down there for two hours.  They both loved playing in the sand.  Brooks still doesn't  like the waves, but everything else about the beach is great.

When they got back to the condo, Ashby came out to the pool for a while with me.  Brooks got a quick bath and his lunch.  Then, when he was ready to go down for his nap, Ashby and I came in so she could lunch, too.  Leaving Grandpa in charge, Lisa and I took off for a little shopping.  We went by Target to get several things we needed and/or wanted.  They have a small food section so we were also able to get what we wanted for food right there.

On the way back, we stopped and both got manicures and pedicures.  Very fun and relaxing.  Now we both have lovely feet and hands.  When we got home, everyone was up and playing.  Ashby had taken a nap, too.  I think Grandpa even got a few winks.

One of the thing we bought was a new swimming doll for Ashby.  Her old one broke the other night and when we saw that Target actually carried them, we bought it.  Her face literally lit up when she saw it.  I don't think it has left her hands since.

She went back out to the pool for a short swim with the doll before we headed over to Aunt Hazel's for dinner.  We enjoyed seeing Stephanie, who is moving back to St. Augustine.  She will be able to deadhead from Jacksonville to Miami for her flights.  Allen and Lynn were also there.  We used to see them every year, but since they retired, they spend summers in NC and traveling.  They have a couple of grandsons with them for a few weeks, so they are in town this time.  It was good to see them and get caught up.

When Brooks started getting sleepy, Lisa and I came on back and left Bill to get a ride when he was ready to come home.  Brooks went on to sleep while Ashby and I went back out to the pool.  We stayed out there until almost 9 o'clock when she finally came in and got ready for bed herself.

It was a very busy day, but such a lot of fun!

July 8th - Day 2 - The Fun Begins

We had every intention of going to church this morning, but the first morning can be rather hectic and such was the case this morning.  It was finally decided that we would forgo attending this week.  We always enjoy visiting St. Augustine Ward, but it will be next week.

Instead, after all the breakfast and other morning chaos, we got everyone in swimming suits and headed out to see the beach for the first time.  Ashby was so excited!  We walked out to the water and waded.  She loved looking for shells.  When Brooks got out there, he didn't want any waves rolling up on him.  It was low tide, though, so there was a nice tide pool that he loved to play by.  Once the tide started coming in, and the tide pool disappeared, he was ready to come leave the beach.

Next stop was the pool.  Ashby had he tube on and couldn't wait to get in the water.  She started swimming across and was shouting, "I can swim!"  She was in the water for the next two hours.  Brooks loves playing with water, but isn't quite so sure about getting into it.  We finally got him to sit on the edge and play with some toys in the water.  Eventually, Lisa took him into the water and he did pretty well, just a little unsure.

We went in for lunch and naps.  Martha showed up about that time and we all chatted while the kids slept.  Once everyone was awake, we got ready and headed out to the pool again.  We were out there another couple of hours and Ashby was in the pool the whole time again!  Brooks had his tube on and eventually he got into the water and began to have fun in the water, too. 

Martha left when we came back in.  Lisa fixed the kids some chicken and rice and Bill ran out and picked up some dinners from the Oasis for us.  Both kids were so exhausted that bedtime was easy.  After getting everything cleaned up, we were pretty exhausted, too.  Early bed for me - and I didn't even read that much!

So, first full day was fun and will probably be repeated pretty much the same for the next few days.  I love the beach!

PS - I had some problems with the blog and couldn't get the entries to post.  At least they were saved and I think they are all posted now.  Just using a different computer sure can mess me up!

July 7th - We Made It!

We are here!  Need I say more?

Finished packing the car, got over to Lisa's, packed the rest of her stuff - and we were on the road by 9:15.  The trip went really well.  The kids were extremely good - no crying, fussing, fighting.  We only had to make two stops.  The first was for lunch.  We went a little off the highway into the Dublin Mall and had Chinese.  That gave the kids a place to run around in the cool air for a while.  They had a ball and ate well.

After a nap, our second stop was for gas.  There was a Sonic right next door to the station, so we went over to get some ice cream while Grandpa took car of the van.  They were able to run around again, so they were ready for the last leg of the trip.  We got it by 5:20.  Lisa drove the last leg and we made up some time - wonder how that happened???!!!!!

After unloading the car, Grandpa went to pick up the crib that Hazel and John had picked up from the rental place earlier.  He took a little too long chatting, and the kids were getting hungry, but he finally got back with pizza and milk.

After eating, Brooks was ready for bed.  Ashby followed shortly.  Meanwhile, Grandpa went out to pick up some groceries.  We had brought a lot with us, but the fresh, refrigerator, and frozen items sill needed to be purchased.  When he got back and everything was put away, we were tired.  But, everyone is really happy to be here.  For the next two weeks we will just be beach bums!

July 6th - Packing!

Today was the final day of vacation preps.  I did five loads of laundry, packed suitcases, went down my long to-do list to make sure everything was done.  We took the van in for some tune up stuff and finally picked it up in mid-afternoon.  We were delighted that it cost considerably less than we had anticipated - that never happens! 

We then went by Lisa's to pick up all of her stuff, other than what she will need tonight and in the morning.  When we got home, Bill had his own to-do list - things like lawn work and cleaning the van.  He finally got around to loading up all the stuff.  There was quite a pile and we really didn't think it would all make it.  The car top carrier held much more than we had expected, plus with the golf clubs and the stroller also on top, there turned out to be enough room for everything else, except the dryer racks, which were pretty low priority anyway. 

We were both really tired by the time we made it to bed.  Tomorrow we leave.  So looking forward to it!

July 5th - Preparations - & Counting Down

I spent today doing the last of the preparations for our vacation.  Tomorrow I do the actual packing.  I had to run a couple of errands, including a trip to the library to return a stack of books and a final trip to the grocery store.

I think everything is now ready to pack.  We are going to try to find room to take some of our food this year, as it is always a stressful grocery trip when we get there.  Bill will still have to go to the store, but will only have to get the fresh and frozen things.  Hopefully, we will be covered for the first few days.  That is unless the van is overpacked and some of the food gets left behind!

I also got the bag of toys ready.  Yes, toys.  There are a few things here that Lisa and I decided to take for the kids - like the little blow-up pool and the beach buckets and castle making molds.  Oh, and the Barbie dolls for the pool and the little cars to entertain Brooks, and......, and......, and.....  You get the idea!  I limited it to one mesh bag, though.

I have all the beach towels out and stacked.  The high chair is folded up and ready to go.  I have made some to-do lists for tomorrow's packing so nothing gets left behind. 

Did I say we were getting excited about Florida?  What was your first clue? 

July 4th - Lots of Celebrating!

Happy 4th of July!  And happy birthday to this great country!

Our day started with the ward breakfast.  The Elders Quorum and Bishopric did a great job of cooking bacon, eggs, and pancakes.  Everyone else brought fruit and juice.  Everything was tasty and there was a nice turnout.  We found a box of old decorations and put the girls to work making the cultural hall look very festive.  It was a lot of fun.

We were just lazing around when we got home when Lisa called and said if we weren't doing anything, maybe they would come over.  So that is what happened.  I ran out and picked up stuff to grill hamburgers and hot dogs, so we had a simple picnic type meal.  The kids played in the little pool for a long time and had a ball.  When they finally tired themselves out, they came in and played some more.  When they tired themselves out (again!), they took baths.  Once dressed in their jammies, and very tired, they headed home.

So, as it turns out, we spent the whole day celebrating.  We did not do any fireworks, nor did we attend any displays, but we heard plenty!  We never missed when the children were little, but we enjoy ending our day quietly now that we are "old!"

July 3rd - Surprise! Babysitting!

Lisa dropped the kids off mid-morning, so she could run some errands.  What a great way to spend the day - for me!  They played for a while, had some lunch, played some more, and then Brooks went down for his nap.  While he was sleeping, Ashby put on her swim suit and played in the little pool with her Barbie dolls.  Lisa got back while we were still out there.  Finally, Ashby was ready to go in.  By the time she got dressed and was eating her snack - chips and hot chocolate, at her request - Brooks woke up.  They played a little more and then everyone went home.

What a fun day!  I did do a few other things before and after, but who really cares?!!!

July 2nd - Finally, Another Quiet Day!

Today was a busy, but quiet Monday.  Besides straightening after the weekend and doing three loads of laundry, I spent some time starting to get ready for the Florida trip.  I am making lists and gathering "stuff" and getting it into boxes or bags or whatever.

I also spent some time on the computer, even did a little family history.  I have been emailing with a new distant cousin of Bill's that found me on Ancestry.  I am hoping to figure out just how she fits in, but she hasn't really given me much info yet.  She is so excited about finding family, though.  Her husband gave her a subscription to Ancestry for her birthday and she is just starting out.

I finished a book last night.  It was Come Home by Lisa Scottoline.  It was a mystery and was pretty good.

So, a relaxing day without much to retell!  But a good day, nonetheless.  I didn't even go outside, so I didn't have to deal with the 100 degree stuff today.  So thankful the AC is working!!!!! 

July 1st - Can We Have More Sabbath Days?

As usual, Sunday is such a great day.  I am wondering if it would be possible to have another one in the middle of the week????  Just saying....

I spent the morning getting things ready for RS and doing a little family history.  I also had to get dinner going, so we could eat as soon as I got home from church.  Church was good, as always.  Being the first Sunday, it was testimony meeting and there was a strong spirit today.  In Relief Society, it was presidency lesson and Melanie taught.  She did a great job talking about how part of the power of the Atonement is that our personal struggles, pains, griefs, and burdens can be given to Jesus Christ and He will help us carry them, bringing us peace and comfort.  Excellent lesson!

The kids were here when I got home.  Brooks had just gotten up, so I was greeted by two adorable grandchildren with great enthusiasm!  We put dinner together - crock-pot chicken, cantanelle pasta, mixed veggies, artisan bread.  Brooks was really into the chicken and pasta today! 

After dinner, we just sat around chatting and the children played.  It was our normal Sunday and I totally loved it!  We just need more days exactly like this.  Number one topic of conversation was the countdown to the beach - now at 6 days! 

June 30th - Another Day on the Run!

I like my quiet days, but sometimes they just aren't!  Saturday is also usually the day I finish up laundry, etc.

Today, however, we were on the go from the beginning of the day.  We ran the van over to Costco to get new tires on it.  We will be driving it to Florida next Saturday and wanted everything ship-shape.  When we got home, it was time to get cleaned up and ready to attend a wedding. 

Then we drove up to Winder to the Carl House for the wedding of Taylor Peterson.  It was very nice.  The wedding itself was outside (in 100 degree weather!), but fortunately the service was short.  The reception was a brunch in the dining room.  We enjoyed visiting with other friends who were there - in the air conditioning!  Taylor and Morgan both looked so happy and we were happy we were able to be there.  Our nicest compliment of the day was as we were leaving.  We had a chance to chat for a minute with Taylor and he said that since he doesn't have any grandparents nearby, he claims us.  We were glad to claim him!

On the way home, we ran by to pick up the van.  Then, during our short break, I got the first load of laundry dried and the second washed and into the dryer.  We then headed over to Lisa's to babysit the kids while Lisa and David went out to a birthday party for a friend.  Needless to say, our day ended nicely.  The kids were so good and loved having grandma and grandpa to play with.  They both ate dinner well and when it was time for bed, they both went down easily.  David came home before Lisa.  They had taken two cars, since the band Lisa used to sing with was planning to play for a while and Lisa was looking forward to singing with them again.  David was tired and was looking forward to sleep! 

So, a good day, but very busy.  I enjoyed it, but I am very tired.  I think part of that was being in the sun and heat for a while today.  I am very much looking forward to a quiet Sunday - or at least as quiet as it is with the kids over!