Home ......

Hello Everyone,  Well, we made it back to Canada in record time. We left on March 17^th and returned home on March 19^th.   Needless to say we spent long days on the road. As much as we did not want to stay in hotels we had no choice. We did not go to any restaurants and by the time we reached Minneapolis we noticed things were changing rapidly and most restaurants had closed. Some had take- out but life was shutting down.  Many hotels were closed and those that were open were no longer serving breakfast.  The hotel in Minneapolis which I believe was a Best Western Plus was very prepared for keeping people safe. There were wipes available and hand sanitizer. We had our own but it was good to know they took safety and health seriously. Their cleaning staff I noticed wore gowns and gloves. They provided coffee in the morning and a to- go bag with water and fruit , a breakfast bar and a muffin . We were very diligent in wiping down everything in the room as soon as we entered, but I am just glad that trip is over.

The border crossing went well with no issues at all. We were given our directions on our 14 day self isolation and headed directly home. Our wonderful neighbours and friends Joel and Lidia stocked our home with groceries before we arrived home so we were set to begin our isolation.  

I am thankful we left Florida when we did as things escalated quickly after we left, both here in Canada and in the USA.   All I can say is it is good to be home on Canadian soil. We do not mind doing our self isolation as it is the responsible thing to do to keep others safe and healthy. Everyone has to do their part to help fight this Covid -19.

We have made no plans for next year so we will see what happens in this crazy upside down world we are living in.  

Take care everyone and stay healthy. 

Leaving early....

Hello everyone, For those of you who do not know, we decided to come home early due to the Covid -19. We do plan to isolate for the 14 days so we won't see any of you for a bit. We leave early Tuesday morning March 17th . Most of our Canadian friends are leaving as well and it seems Tuesday is the day we all hit the road. From what we have heard the big exit from Florida has started and the interstate is full of Canadian plates. We do listen to the Canadian news and are encouraged by the flow of information. 

I will do a last and final post once we are home and tell you all about the adventure home.   I should have plenty of time over those isolation days. Please stay healthy and follow the public health guidelines.  Take care everyone and stay healthy.


The last post from my piece of paradise....
Carol

Into March....spring on its way.

Hello everyone, our time here is coming to a close very quickly. Only three weeks left in our sunny paradise.

Thursday we took our friend Brenda Riddell to the airport after a great visit here with us in Florida. Even though we were all down for a couple of days with colds and coughs we managed some wonderful pool time and shopping. We tried a couple of new recipes, a beef and a shrimp. Both excellent and I will make them again. Brenda and I enjoyed our margaritas on the balcony and creating our own happy hours! Sometimes supper was a bit late! Sorry Roger!

 The annual Murder mystery provided some good entertainment at the clubhouse evoking much laughter. You never what you will get when you get there but the potluck was great as was the entertainment.

Roger and I now continue on to our final weeks here. The golfing tournament is coming up for Roger this week. It’s a bit earlier than usual but they wanted to make sure none of the snowbirds had headed home before the event. The afternoons are warmer and sunnier later in the day now making for great late afternoon swims and visiting by the pool.

I feel sad to leave here but will be happy to get home and see family and friends. For now we will enjoy the sunshine and wonderful days in the water! Roger has been golfing regularly with a group of 8 guys and has enjoyed the camaraderie of the group. No special skill set required!

Will try and write again soon.

Bye for now. Spring is on the way!

Visit with Gavin and Greysen....

The past couple of weeks have been memory making ones. Our two oldest grandsons, Gavin and Greysen arrived in Florida to spend 11 days with us. We were so excited to have them come for a visit and it was truly a wonderful time. I must say the boys were real troopers to get up early many days so we could head off to our destinations. For those of you who have not raised teen boys, sleep and food are the mainstays of life! Boys must be fed every 60-90 minutes so plan accordingly.

We had many days on the go but evenings tended to be quieter with evening swims and a hot tub. Gavin loved the workout room/gym here and visited it most evening and occasional mornings.  Although Greysen tried the gym he much preferred the pool.

Luckily their first morning in Florida was a rocket launch which they were able to witness from our balcony. A great way to start a vacation.   The first big outing was to the Lion Country Safari in West Palm Beach. It consists of a drive through Safari and then has a walk through park with other animals and birds. The boys loved the experience and especially enjoyed feeding the giraffes and feeding the Lorry birds and budgies. I particularly enjoyed watching the sloth. The slow purposeful movements that look like slow motion seem to get them to where they want to be. We also got a close up look at a new baby Rhino named Bush.  After a wonderful day exploring and taking in the park experiences we started home with 2 tired teens.

Early the next morning we it was off to Kennedy Space center at Cape Canaveral. Roger and I have been several times but each time we come away with something new. It was very busy there that day but we managed get through the whole thing. There was a bus tour to the launch sites and viewing areas that Greysen thought was too long but once we began touring the building he livened right up.  Both boys enjoyed the rocket launch simulator as did Roger. I passed on it again as I am not much for getting my insides shook up. We ended our day in the rocket garden looking at  old rockets and space craft and then started our trek back to the condo. Of course this was not until we made stops at both McDonalds and Chick-fil A. 

The next day was a sleep in day for everyone. It just happened to be a cooler day so we lazed around and did a drive to the outlet stores for shopping. Greysen made the big decision to cut off his long hair so it was off to the barber for a Florida haircut. T  Bob was very knowledgeable and gave a great history of the area and all the birds and their mating and migration patterns.  

his was a big change for him but it looked fantastic.   It was an early night as we had another big day coming up. Sunday we headed out to the blue cypress reserve to do the airboat ride in the swamps. This was a really fun event and a prefect viewing day for the alligators and the birds. Captain

It was a quick turn around for us as we had to drive home, get cleaned up to go to a Super Bowl party. Our friends had invited all of us to their condo for the pre party and game.  The boys enjoyed the large array of food and watching the game, and even won a couple of prizes. We did not stay late as we all had to pack for the next couple of days in Orlando.

Monday morning hit the road for couple of days in Orlando to go to Sea World and Aquatica.  Luckily we were able to check into our room at 9:30 am so were able to unload our luggage before heading to SeaWorld. The day was fantastic and we stayed right up until closing. There were no wait times for the roller coasters nor for any of the attractions.  The joy on our grandkids faces was evident all day long.  We all loved every minute of SeaWorld. (and in case you are wondering I did not do the rollercoaster).

The next day we headed to Aquatica, a water park with some of the highest water slides in the USA. This was another great pick for the boys as we watched them fly down those slides.  I preferred the lazy river, Rao rapids and the wave pool.  These are rather tame for the boys but they were good sports and came along with me. By 4pm we were all tired and the boys said their legs were like jelly from climbing the stairs on the waterslides. Following a quick bite to eat we headed on home after a wonderful memory making 2 days. The boys said thank you over and over again and we could tell they really appreciated the experiences they had in Orlando.  Memoires for a lifetime.

Wednesday and Thursday were quieter days. We had a pool afternoon , followed by  quick supper and off to a movie. Thursday morning was a trip to the navy Seal Museum which never disappoints. Then a bit of shopping,some  laundry and packing up. Everyone was kind of mellow and the realization that the trip was almost over was sinking in. We chatted about what we all liked and the best adventures and who got what pictures.  With laundry done and suitcases packed we insisted on early bed as we needed to leave for the airport by 8 am.

We made sure they were fed and watered and then sent then on through security, but not before some really heartfelt hugs.  We watched the two brothers smile and joke with each other as they made their way down the line. Great memories for them as individuals, but also as brothers.  We feel very fortunate to have created these great memories with these two wonderful grandsons.

I am sure the kids will sleep away the weekend, but for us we are again on the go. Last night was Euchre with friends and tonight we have been invited to an Oscar party. The weather forecast looks great for the week ahead so I plan to get lots of pool time.

The weeks are passing quickly and before you know it we will be heading home.Take care all!

Back From Fort Lauderdale......

What a wild fun week it has been. We arrived in Fort Lauderdale around 11:30 on Tuesday January 21st. to spend time with some Canadian friends. We stayed in a lovely little Inn that had only 5 rooms, each with private entrances. It was  lovely and quiet and had fabulous pool right outside our door. The pool temperature was 88 F.. Perfect!!! Our friends rented a 7 seat  van to drive everyone around which was a great idea . Our plan was to go to a brewery tour and eat supper there but when we arrived they did not have a tour that day so we opted to go somewhere else. After a tour around the area we settled on a Greek restaurant recommended by the owners of the Inn. It was a unique place with doors that opened all the way to a outside patio which gave you the feel of eating outside even if you were inside. The food did not disappoint! The Greek salmon I had  was very delicious and everyone else said they enjoyed their meal immensely, so I guess the restaurant lived up to its reputation. Besides the bottles of wine were on special for only $10.00.

Day 2 we visited the Bonnet house and learned some interesting history of the area. This was followed up by lunch by the ocean at Casa Blanca. A great mahi sandwich did not disappoint, although the others said their burgers were delicious. Another great recommendation by the inn owners.  Although the day was chilly we did manage to wander out on the beach and walk the shops along ocean drive. We returned to our rooms for cocktails followed by a late evening supper. We were all ready for bed early after a day in the fresh air.
Day 3 was an  early start to the river front to start our water taxi cruise. We boarded at the back of the  Hilton hotel and began our day. The water taxis run through the canals of Lauderdale and have a hop on hop off feature much like the buses do in other cities. There is a guide that points out the special yachts and  homes of the rich and famous along the route. It is unbelievable that someone would have that much money. It is almost sinful when you look at the poverty around the world.

Los Olas Blvd

American social Pub

Wet Duckies

We chose to hop off at the Las Olas stop which is a famous blvd. filled with shops,galleries , and restaurants. First on the agenda was lunch at a pub that was fashioned after the Cheers pub. Both the food and the atmosphere were great. How can you go wrong with Mahi tacos. Yes, more fish for me! lol. Our time was tight but we managed to sneak in a few shops and the National Geographic gallery before heading to catch the water taxi home.  Just after we boarded the boat it started to rain,completely out of nowhere and not predicted. I will include a lovely picture of our bright yellow  rain attire.

It was a quick trip back to our rooms to get ready to leave for the evening river cruise. The jungle queen was a large river boat that took us up through some canals showing us the lights and home along the way. We arrived  at a  private island that was set up for dining and  evening entertainment.

The boat we went on for our evening boat cruise

It was an all you can eat BBQ ribs chicken and
shrimp plus coleslaw ,beans, fries  and buns. No one left hungry. Following the dinner was a live variety show that provided some good entertaining acts.
The trip back to the dock along the canal was pretty with all the lights but the rain picked up and the plastic window coverings needed to be lowered distorting the view somewhat. It was a a great evening and we were all tired so all was good. I think everyone was get to get back to our rooms and get to bed before our big adventure to the everglades the next day.

The trip out to the everglades Billie Swamp compound was about an hour and a half drive . The everglade tours were run by the Seminole nation. We arrived just after noon and booked our swamp  buggy for 3 pm. this gave us time to have lunch, explore the trail around the area and take a look at the animals and birds and reptiles the had set up much like a small zoo. There was 2 bus loads of kids from a school that day as well who seemed to be really enjoying themselves. We heard lots of squeals as they took off on an air boat  or swamp buggy. Our trip out in the swamp buggy was just the 6 of us so it was like our own personal tour. It was very bumpy but we saw lots of wildlife and different tress, grasses and swampy areas. We received info on how the Seminole Indians lived and used all of the surrounding nature to survive. It was all very interesting and fun. Our return home was quiet as I think we were all tired. Supper was sandwiches and then a swim in the pool followed by a couple of cocktails and then we all said goodnight and it was off to bed.
Roger and I had a lazy morning on Saturday. Breakfast was delivered to our room and then I had one last swim in the warm and silky pool. It was time to pack up and head for home. We said goodbye to our friends, wished them well on their cruise and headed back to home to Harbour isle. We had a very fun few days and it was great to see people from home. To Gary, Ronna, Clint and Betty ...Bon Voyage!

We now await our next adventure with our two oldest grand kids, Gavin and Greysen,  that arrive January 28th.  We are so looking forward to their visit and have some fun times planned. Stay tuned....who knows what we will have to post.!!!!
Take care everyone.

Beautiful orchids at the Bonnet House

Fort Lauderdale beach

Loving the pool day or night

Moving on in January...

Hello friends and family from sunny windy Florida. This year will certainly be remembered as the year of the never ending winds. The temperatures have been reasonable but there have been very few days where we have not encountered gusty winds. This unusual phenomenon has wreaked havoc on the tourist industry especially with fishing and boating in general.  Many bars grills and restaurants are suffering as most have outside seating which can’t be utilized due to the winds.  On those rare evenings of calm people are out in full force taking advantage of the beautiful evening air.  I know this is nothing compared to our Manitoba winters and we are thankful to be here but it has certainly brought a change to our usual life and routine around here. I must admit I have still been able to get a great tan!

Monday was my day to try Yoga…..ummmm….I think I like swimming better is all I will say. I am sure it has good benefits but my knees hurt like crazy during and after. The afternoon at the pool was a welcome relief.

This past week we wandered over to the clubhouse to play bingo. I was not keen on going but Roger wanted to so I went along. I am sure glad I did because I was a lucky winner twice to the tune of $111.00. Woohoo!!! We had a lot of fun and it filled a Monday evening.

Tuesday we were out for supper with friends to a great seafood restaurant. The Mahi was delicious as it was fresh caught that day. You can’t beat the fresh fish around here. Roger had some kind of seafood gumbo bowl which he said was also delicious. A little too spicy for my taste, but the guys seemed to like it.

My meditation class was good this week with the addition of some new mediators. I have really come to enjoy the group and our weekly guided journeys.  In the evening it was Y- Not -Wednesday at the clubhouse with a potluck and lots of chatter.  We met some of the new people that have arrived at Harbour Isle and caught up with some people we have not seen for awhile.  Another 3F evening, Fun, Food,& Friends!

Thursday was a full pool day as the temperature was 33C. . There was a wind but with the heat it was perfect. We did not leave until after 5. It was just one of those days you can’t leave the water.

Windy Friday was crazy but a group of us ventured to the pool as one of the ladies who used to come here was down for a visit. Some of you may remember Laura from Kentucky. We lazed away the afternoon and then gathered for happy hour and some good laughs. Rita and Bob were great hosts and were able to show off their new floors and designer area rug.

Who knows what the rest of the weekend will bring. On Tuesday we are off to Fort Lauderdale for a few days to meet with some Canadian friends who are down in Florida for a week before taking off on their cruise. I am sure the six of us will have a blast exploring the area. It will certainly be good to spend some time with some good old Canadian friends.

We think of Manitoba often and time is flying by very quickly. Take care all!

Carol

Oh, the holidays.....

The holiday season has come to an end and we all take a deep breath and prepare for another year.  We have had parties and BBQs, small gatherings and big ones to celebrate the Christmas season. There was no lack of celebration as we approached the end of the year. Of course, we missed family and friends back home, but since all five grandkids had the flu over Christmas ….well let’s just say I did not need that!

Christmas Eve was lovely and with our friends Karen and Terry as we nibbled on salmon, flatbreads, wings, meatballs, and cheeses. Christmas carols filled the background as we ate, reminisced and toasted the season with a bit of good cheer. Christmas day was a pool day followed by a BBQ supper of steak and chicken and various sides with friends. After a couple of rousing games of Euchre we called it a night, walked home to our condo, and that was Christmas for 2019.

The weather has continued to be very fickle here with rain and wind. Sun, cloud, rain and wind seem to cycle through every day. The temperatures have been sitting around 25C -27C , but the cloud cover has been persistent.

As we moved toward New Years Eve the sun has decided to shine! Yahoo, what a good sign for the coming year.  Sun bathing at the pool was a great way to finish off 2019.

New Years was fun with about 20 people here at our condo. We started at 6:30 with a huge potluck with the most delicious food brought by all. The talking and laughter continued until 10:30 when we had our first toast to the New Year. Champagne flowed and cheers erupted after our false countdown to ring in the New Year.  Over the next hour the crowd dwindled a bit as some headed home to bed.  The rest of us continued our festive celebration laughing our way until midnight. Yes, then it was round # 2 to ring in the New Year.  We watched the ball drop, toasted with more champagne and it was officially 2020!  The fireworks started immediately and we had a wonderful view from our Florida room. We opened up the curtains and the patio doors and watch a spectacular display of colour over the water.  By 1:30 the last of the revelers headed home. A couple of people stayed to help with a quick clean up and one last toast with champagne, (you can’t let it go to waste), and then it was off to sleep.

Morning seemed to come early. The annual New Year Turtle dip started at 9 sharp at the pool followed by aquasizes, coffee and breakfast. A little rest was needed before heading back to the pool for the afternoon.  We had a supper with our friends Karen and Terry, a quick game of cards and we were ready to call it a night. Sleep came easy and the first day of the New Year came to a close.

We never know what the New Year will bring but we can enjoy every day as it comes. That is my promise to myself this year.  Taking each day and living it fully engaged, the good ones and the not so good ones. I guess as you get older you realize that sometimes life is just what is. We can hope for better things but we must not miss the moments at hand.

We hope you all have a great 2020 with many truly special moments that make this year one to remember!

Carol