Friday Morning Dec 31st..Last day of 2021

Well at least I made it through to start the last day of this year despite at times thinking I wasn't. I've never ben so throughly dejected with my body to fight this virus and at times thinking maybe I should get the shot. God only knows what that would do to your DNA but I certainly do not want to go through this again as I have this past 10 days; and this strain is supposed to be so much milder. China needs to be bombed off the face of earth for unleashing this virus on humanity and take Fauci with them for his duplicity.

I'm off the meds for the coughing which were so full of side effects and while they helped for a couple days I decided to let the body handle it on its own. I'm walking around the house making several trips and then again outside hand watering. I feel a little stronger and I'm hoping to be able to catch up on some honey do's today as I go forth. According to the CDC I should be over this but like anything else they propagandize I'm not. They and CNN and MSNBC are all fake and a bunch of frauds in my book.

Nancy has been care giver and I'm so thankful as she encourages me daily. I did the same for her in September but thats been so long along I've forgotten how sick she was. She mad a huge pot of blackeyed bean soup with the ham bone from Christmas and wow is that ever delicious. I'm trying to stay on my feet as much as possible and not lay around despite getting tired very easily, LATER

Thursday Morning Dec 30th

Well its looking like the end of 2021 is going to have me down as this virus kicking my butt. My lungs are still congested and I'm coughing but maybe not as much as before I went to the VA. Supposedly this gel pill I take every 8 hours is supposed to help with coughing but 'm not totally convinced plus I'm still having chills at times and just have no energy. The 02 level is good at 95% which has taken some of the worry off my mind as all I can think of his those folks who end up on a ventilator and eventually the bone yard. 

I'm supposed to hear back from the VA today at the latest about the rest they came when they shoveled this swap up my nose to close my brain which really hurt, oh well. I'm ready for this to be over with. Nancy has been  big help as she seems to have built up antibodies and is not affected by these virus for now. I do not trust any thing this defunk CDC spreads especially coming from the useless Fauci. He is part of the problem and not the solution and should be held accountable.

Not much to report on except Nancy when by the library for me a picked up a couple new reads, LATER 

Wednesday Morning Dec 29th

Well after spending half a day at the VA which I did get a covid test and some meds for my coughing I'm still not feeling much better; of course I've only had three courses of this med which is supposed to relax the muscles that cause me to cough. I'm so over this and just want to get on with my life. Not much to write about except Amy had a rapid test which she brought and I tested positive while the VA said it would take 24 to 48 hours to get back their results. I'm just amazed as our friends who gave this to us is already on the mend and off on a trip whereas I'm stuck here trying to get back to where I can at least function. They of course had the virus before and the vaccine so maybe that does make a difference, oh Well, LATER

Tuesday Morning Dec 28th

Well I'm still fighting this cold or whatever it is and so far it has me down to doing nothing but surviving. I sure miss all of my physical activities especially pickle ball, but it seems that won't happen again this year. Hopefully I can get back to playing sometime in the next couple of weeks. I'm mostly laying around trying to stifle this cough which has my lungs and chest in a lot of discomfort, so I'm off to the VA this morning to get checked and hopefully see a doctor for some meds. I also hope they check me to see if I actually have the virus which would make it nice to let our friends and family know first hand as we were all together over Christmas. Not much else to write about except the weather has been very nice and the garden is growing along with the weeds which I haven't had a chance to hoe, oh well, LATER

Monday Morning Dec 27th

 Well Sunday turned out to be another nice day temperature wise with blue skies and bright sunshine. There was no service at our church so we watched a little on line. I'm still fighting this cold, flu or virus not sure which but I'm ready for it to get gone. Our friends we were with are in the same boat. Nancy had it first but now she seems much better as I'm still coughing and feel lousy, oh well.

We didn't do much except lay around. I read for awhile and then tuned into the NFL games and our Bucs beat the Panthers at their house in Charlotte. We pass by the stadium on our way to the cabin. We cleaned up some leftovers for our supper and they tasted as good as the night before. Not much to write about or report on except I did hand water the gardens a couple times during the day, LATER

Sunday Morning Dec 26th

 Well Christmas Day here yesterday was filled with tons of folks, delicious eatin' and beautiful weather. I was under the weather for most of the day as this bug has me some what subdued, but I did have a great time with the family despite not 100%. I'm beginning to think I may have to go and see a doctor as I'm just washed out with a lingering cough and a sore throat and no energy, oh well.

I started the day with my usual 6'ish roll out to my cup of tea and then a handful of vitamins and supplements. I slept real good and thought maybe I had turned the corner but by days end I could barely stay awake after supper. Thankfully Amy and Tyler helped with the cleaned up after supper as all I could do was sit in a chair and cat nap.

Bobby and his gang arrived just before 10 as he was making biscuits and gravy to go with our egg casserole, cheese blintz's which Amy made and were delicious and tater tots. After eating we opened the gifts and it was a fun time watching the twins struggle to open their gifts. Everyone left with plenty of bounty and the older grands get together so well. Eliza is like a little mother to the twins as well. I took a nap after they all left until Amy's gang came around 5'ish. 

We had a 13 pound rib roast which was way too much meat for just the 7 of us and besides it was still frozen in the middle much to our dismay so it was an hour late for the table; but it tuned out very good along with smashed taters, spinach casserole and corn. The meat was perfect medium rare. I'm still a little fuzzy due to sinus issues but I'm hoping this bug will eventually go away, LATER

Saturday Morning CHRISTMAS

 This is the most celebrated day of the year only Easter  ranks up there with the birth of our Savior and then of course with the empty tomb with His resurrection on Easter. Praise GOD for loving his people, all people with the birth of JESUS.

We had to cancel all of our usual plans with family and friends due to this virus which we may or may not have but do have the symptoms of a cold or the flu. I'm still not 100% yet but I did get a good nights sleep last night for the first time in weeks. I took a dose of some night time cough syrup just before bedtime and wow it was close to 7:30 before I awakened this AM. I'm hoping thats just what I needed to turn the curve on this malady. I still have a little sore throat which I didn't have before and a slight cough. Nancy seems to be responding great to the antibiotics while its taking me forever it seems.

I'm going to cut this short since I slept in and we are having both kids Bobby and Amy families here at 10 for huge breakfast. I need to get working, MERRY CHRISTMAS , LATER

Friday Morning Dec 24th Christmas Eve

Well Thursday was another day where I didn't do much except laze around with this cold, flu, virus or what ever you want to call with a runny nose, coughing, tired muscles and generally malaise or just not up to it, but that being said, it does seems to be a little better each day since Tuesday. Nancy actually did a video with her doctor and she prescribed some antibiotics and a nasal spray enough for two weeks so she shared one with me and while overnight it made a difference in turning the conditions favorable. She also made a huge pot of chicken noodle soup which I always think helps with turning colds out. Two of our couples we had supper with on Monday and then played game both tested positive for the virus and now have quarantined so we plan on delivering the soup and some cake to them this morning (Friday).

I've been catching up on my rest throughout the day reading 4 books this week, all non fiction from a murder case in Alaska to sailing in the 1800 with the whaling industry and the mutiny of the ships crew to WW11 and the not much publizied battles in New Guinea with the Japanese. Dreadful place for both fighters with the elements causing nearly as much death and injury as bullets. Great read titled THE GHOST MOUNTAIN BOYS. Its amazing how they over came starvation and diseases of this tropical island and I learned a lot about the glory seeking General MacArther who cared less about soldiers than headlines. The truth is hard to swallow about this man who sent men as cannon fodder to further his stature, oh well.

I did hand water the garden and while the morning temps were on the brisk and chilled side of 50's it did warm up to the upper 60's and nearly 70's with bright sunshine by days end. We have decided to cancel any in person evening services for the fear of maybe infecting someone by our illness. We aren't sure if we contracted the virus but since two of our couple we ate and played games with tested positive we decided to stay put. The Tracy's cancelled coming here as well later after the service so it will just be us and the Botbyl's and we will still have the large Christmas breakfast on Saturday will all of our family and then the family dinner later on Christmas day evening. I think Gus may back out but I think Betsy will still come and we will send plates home with her for them. Bobby's family will come for breakfast and gift opening but not for the dinner as they have to take Annsley and Gabe back to Jill, LATER

Thursday Morning Dec 23rd

 Well we are still some what under the weather with this cold. Both of us have runny noses, some hacking and Nancy has a sore throat which hasn't hit me yet. I was achy for a day or so but that seems to have improved as well as my low grade temperature is back to normal. We must of caught it from Bobby family or when we were at Busch Gardens on Saturday. 

I did harvest some greens for a salad and hand watered the gardens during the late afternoon. The cucumbers, tomato's and bush beans are blooming after that rain on Tuesday but the sandy soil had dried out enough it needed to be hand watered. I didn't do much except lay around and read the day away in hope's I'll be better come Friday evening as we have to work a Christmas Eve service at 4 and then attend another one at 6 plus we are having the Botbyl's and Tracy's afterwards for food and fellowship.

Bobby called on his way home from a business trip to St. Louis. It seems Huck has figured out a way to now get out of his crib so they had to purchased a tent type covering to keep him in until they come down and get them out. He is a stinker and much more active than Ryder with his inquisitive nature. I have a feeling he will be the ring leader of these two boys and probably will be the one to get into the most trouble or the most adventurous, LATER

Wednesday Morning Dec 22 nd

Well since yesterday was was the shortest day of the year we can start to look forward to the longest day in June which means we hopefully will be at the cabin. I seem to have caught some of Nancy's crud; congestion, so I didn't do a thing except lay around and read the whole day long. I certainly didn't need to water the garden after the monsoon like rain that fell during the morning with torrents of rain coming off the roof. We had a river running down our street which didn't allow for the soaking rain we needed. I'm going to take another day off from any physical activity due to this crud. I do feel a little better this morning but not 100% yet, LATER

Tuesday Morning Dec 21st

 Well Monday was another hot and muggy day but a front is on the way to bring us some much needed rain and temp change. Let's just hope the severe weather stays away from all of us. Monday found us back to our routines once again after a whirlwind weekend of activities.

I started the day with a before 6 roll out to my usual routines that start with the cup of hot tea while I post this ramble and then some quiet moments to give thanks and lift up several by name to my Creator and Lord for comfort and healing. Everyone seems to be as well as can be expected. I got ready and headed out on my bike for a couple hours of pickle ball at the Rec. We had 3 courts in action and the play was exceptionally good. I made a stop off at the library on the way home for a couple new reads.

I worked outside in the gardens hoeing everything a feeding all with a little 10-10-10 as I knew or hoped some rain was on the way. I moved some plants around and transplanted some seedlings as well as added some marigolds around my tomato plants. I noticed I have a Roma 'mater set about the size of a gum drop which thrills me. It's loaded with blooms as well as are the bush green beans. I noticed the radishes are starting to show some red as well and the leafy greens are ready for the salad bowl. The pole beans are nearly to the top of the 6 foot fence hanging on the chicken wire. Should be a banner year for green beans if the weather holds.

After a light lunch I made a Sam's Club run for gas at 3.03 and some products Nancy needed then a stop at Lowes for a couple items before heading home. I read the afternoon away and cat napped occasionally. We were picking up the Botbyl's around 5:15 for a trip to the Nymark's for supper and games along with the owner of the Chick filet in Seminole and his wife who attend BridgePoint. She is from the Charlotte area. We had a grand time playing Oh-ell and dominos until nearly 9'ish then it was back home. Nancy feels like she is coming down with some congestion after being around both Amy and Bobby who were having some sinus issues. We both loaded up on some Clear Guard before heading to bed which is natural supplement for congestion and I took some honey in my tea this morning along with my raw garlic, oh well, Later

Nancy made more cookies to share, oh well

Monday Morning Dec 20th

 Well Sunday found us once again with heat and humidity through out the day and evening. We are so ready for those cool morning and days of open windows and doors. We started the day out with our early rise as it was worship day at BridgePoint Church in Seminole with a great group of folks many from when we moved from the college but also many new faces who have stepped right in to volunteer. Our new campus has made those of us who worked each Sunday to set up the college somewhat lazy but we are a blessed group since now there is no physical labor involved. At times other than greeting and loving on folks I feel less than used.

The service was once again awesome and the message on the final or the beginning of Jesus's lineage started with his mother Mary, a teenager engaged but soon found herself pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Wow I seldom stop and think what must have entered her mind to be chosen to give birth to the savior of mankind; impossible we think but with GOD nothing is impossible. Great message and one to fill the Christmas season with hope and for all who are Believers.

I didn't do much after getting home from church except hand water the gardens and then read until the NFL started at 1 PM and I stayed some what engaged until nearly 11PM. The Buc's lost in a close game with no TD's scored as several of their star players were injured early in the game. They will definitely make the playoff's but its looking like the Packers have the inside edge on the top seed and most likely will be the team to beat in the big game. They looked balanced but Brady is a great QB and hopefully will have top receivers back for the playoff's.

We ate leftovers during the day and finished up the deer burgers and the collard greens. Tonight Monday we will visit the Nymark's along with the Botbyl's and another couple from BridgePoint for supper and card games. This should be a fun time as Sheri and Steve leave for the panhandle of Florida for the Christmas weekend with family coming down from Minnesota, LATER

Sunday Morning Dec 19th

 Well I must say Saturday was a fun filled busy day that started early and end late as we headed to Tampa and Busch Gardens until 3'ish and then to Brandon to celebrate the twins birthday with several family members on both side of the family. I did some rides that I had never thought would be so thrilling but totally dangerous and gut churning. The two rides had me upside down while dropping with such force my eye lids were bent back and the one steep drop off ride had be actually praying silently as we rode to the top of the frame where you could see for miles. Their names were African but the kids were loving it and it was the first time for Gabe and Annsley as well. These rides were nothing like what I was use to back in the days of the Ferris Wheel and Octopus. These were major gravity defying rides that put you in a state hilarious screaming while turning your body white. I've never experienced anything like the G Force these rides afford you while at the same time causing you to be frightened and if they malfunctioned you were dead.

It was a bit hot and humid as the day wore on as we took the twins or put them on several kiddie rides which there were plenty for them to ride. We saw some large wild animals, fishes, huge turtles that were hundred of years old and rode a train. I was disappointed several rides were closed especially the skyline ride that takes you over the whole park which is huge. The prices were outrageous for a bottle of water and the food and the parking was 30 bucks per car and preferred parking was 45 per vehicle. They do have a huge staff but with the price of a ticket and everything its a small fortune for a days fun unless you purchase a season pass then maybe its worth it. We saw maybe just 1/4 of the park and one of the shows for the boys called the Elmo Theatre which they were mesmerized by the characters in full dress and singing.  We got to rest while watching this show.

We got back to Bobby's and put up the jump house we purchased for them and they loved it as well as all the small kiddo there. Eliza came and along with the two Everett boys, the Korte grands they all had a great time. The jump house was very nice and rugged with the blower which quickly blows it up. They should have plenty of fun for days to come with it. Bobby ordered pizzas's and they were delicious and along with bagged salad from Publix we ate well. They had a huge birthday cake and then it was present opening time and they scored some great toys and clothes

It was a long day and we both were bushed so it was shower time when we got home around 8"ish and the I hit the sack around 9:30 and slept soundly until the morning. Nancy was whupped more so than me as she just can not handle the heat and humidity, LATER

Saturday Morning Dec 18th

Well Friday was a busy day that ended with us doing something we had never done before and that was attend a concert by the Florida Orchestra at Al Lang Stadium in beautiful down town St. Pete by the waterfront. What a beautiful evening to be outside under the full moon.

I started the day much the usual with a before 6 roll out to my morning routines that start with the cup of tea while I posted this ramble and then some quiet time with my Creator and Lord giving thanks and lifting several up by name, all seem well as can be expected. I headed out around 7:30 on my to the Rec. for some 2 hours of pickle ball and had a good workout before heading home. It was starting to warm up once again after a beautiful morning. I piddled around in the garden hand watering before our medicare advisor came by and signed Nancy up for when she starts in March. We both will be using Blue Cross Blue Shield as our secondary plan only she will now have a Plan G for her scripts. I'm so far blessed without needing those scripts except for the once for my eyes which is really a supplement but I get it half cost through the VA.

After he left we had some lunch and then I read until it was time to give the seedlings another small drink before getting ready to head out with the Nymark's and the Botbyl's to a new eatery in Sy Pete called Fresh Kitchen. It's bowls but you choose the contents and the highest price on the menu is 11 bucks and it all organic and free of all the bad stuff found in some restaurant foods. It was such a busy place and no waiting as you go cafeteria style and very delicious but the distance is so far from our house it would have to be when we take a trip down town. We left and then headed downtown to find a parking spot which is an adventure in and of itself. We finally found a 5 buck spot which is quite reasonable for the evening and most are at least double that but today we head to Bush Gardens where the parking cost is 6 times that at 30 bucks just to park, oh well.

We listened to the Christmas concert with just the brass section of the orchestra which was a little disheartening when we thought is would be the full group; but they were awesome as they played a variety of classical, hymns and Christmas songs and we the audience sang along with them with many of the songs they played. It was very entertaining especially after the intermission when we would know the music and what they were playing. The evening was beautiful with the full moon overhead. We got back to the house around 10'ish and then it was shower time and soon some horizontal lab.

Today will be another full day as we have to be in Tampa around 9:30 for 10AM opening to the gardens and then its a birthday party for the twins with several folks coming throughout the afternoon, LATER

Friday Morning Dec.17th

 Well Thursday was another hot day with high humidity. What happened to that week of cool morning and beautiful temps where we had the windows and doors open. The a/c hasn't stopped for over a week now. I started the day with a before 6 roll out to my usual routines that start with the cup of tea while I post this ramble and then some quiet time giving thanks and lifting several up by name for comfort and healing. All seem as well as can be expected due to health issues and ages.

I headed out around 7:30 for the Rec and got in two solid hours of pickle ball play with all advanced players. What a workout and I managed to stay on the courts with mostly wins and left with a wet shirt a little before 10. I stopped off at the library to pick up a couple of reads I had ordered then headed home on my bike. The temps were starting to warm up with the bright sunshine as the humidity was making itself present.

I did some hoeing and weed pulling before hand watering the gardens. The pole beans climbed another 6 inches over night onto the top wire I had attached to the fence and the cucumbers had send out runners for climbing as well. I'll train both of these to climb the high fence I had chicken wire attached to. Everything looked good and I sowed more Bibb lettuce seeds as I will soon have room from where the romaine lettuce is fading out. The beans will be blooming in another couple of days as will the cucumbers.

I read the afternoon away after a deer burger for lunch. Nancy was out shopping again for the kiddos and the spare bedroom is loaded with presents for the family. She has gone out of her way this year for some reason. She picked up a hundred dollar standing rib roast for Christmas dinner with Amy's family and Betsy family. Today Friday we travel with some of our life group out to dinner and then to an outdoor Christmas concert at Al Lang Field in St.Pete. Tomorrow morning we head to Busch Gardens early and then to Bobby's for the Twins second birthday celebration. Should be a fun time with family, LATER

Thursday Morning Dec 16th

 Well Wednesday was another warm one with temps in the upper 70's and even maybe an 80 or so. The humidity is ever constant during the mid day and afternoon but the morning are quite pleasant. The garden is loving these conditions. I harvested a nice mess of collards oh my were they ever delicious for our supper along with some ground venison into burgers on the grill.

I started the day much the usual with a before 6 roll out to my cup of tea while I posted this ramble and then some quiet with my Creator and Lord giving thanks for another day and lifting several up by name and thought. All seem as well as can be expected. I headed out around 7:30 for the Rec for 2 hours of pickle ball play and the knee is doing just fine. I had a good workout then headed home to work in the garden until lunch after getting the collards picked, cleaned and cut up for the pot. I had them simmering for about 5 hours then cut them off and let them set before warming them back up for supper around 6'ish. I used a half pound of hickory smoked bacon, a whole sweet onion and melded them together with chicken broth and then added the cut up collards, brought the pot to a boil and then turned them down to a simmer with the lid on for the next several hours. I added some dried red pepper flakes to my bowl when served, yeow so delicious.

After a light lunch of the last of the Zuppa I headed in to read the afternoon away as Nancy was shopping once again for Christmas for the kiddo's. I finished the book BRAVING IT by James Campbell which is a great read about a father and daughter and their trips to Alaska and the wilderness. I need to finish Shaara's book THE RISE TO REBELLION which is about the revolution in America against England and our gain of freedom from the crown. He is just a great story teller based on historical facts.

The ground venison neighbor Gerald blessed us with last fall was so good on the grill and its has become our top meal of ground meat. I have enough burgers leftover for lunch which fits me to a tee. The garden is doing quite well as the cucumbers are sending out runner along with the pole beans and sugar peas. I'm still waiting on the Roma's to set fruit and now I have onions up from seeds which will be a first for me if they make. I finally transplanted some marigolds which finally decided to germinate. Everything looks great and is maturing. I found out we are going to Busch Gardens on Saturday as we celebrate the twins 2nd birthday. Should be a fun day, LATER

This was our supper and so delicious.

Wednesday Morning Dec 15th

 Well Tuesday was another hot day especially towards mid day with bright sunshine and tons of humidity while morning was quite pleasant and by late evening it became very nice again. I was drenched with sweat while working in the gardens from 10 until noon then took the afternoon off and read until supper time. The a/c was on all afternoon. Nancy was off to a luncheon with several gals from church so I had the afternoon for a couple hours to myself, reading.

I started the day much the usual with a 6'ish roll out to my cup of tea while I posted this ramble and then some quiet time with my Creator and Lord giving thanks and lifting several up for healing. All seem as well as can be expected. I headed out for the Rec on my bike for a good hour and half workout on the pickle ball court. The knee is holding up quite well but I'm going to stick to a little less workout until I build it back completely and I'm now wearing my brace during play.

I piddled around in the gardens hoeing and weeding this stubborn grass which is so hard to get rid of but I'm finally starting to see some baby earthworms which is a must for a good garden. They seem to disappear over the summer months but are now becoming evident once again as I water daily. The pump is back to holding its prime which is a plus. The cucumber are sending out runners as well as are the pole beans. The carrots are showing color as well.

I harvested a nice mess of collards for Amy and now today I'm harvesting a mess for us as well for supper. The lettuces, Swiss chard, beet greens as well as kales are almost ready for the salad bowl. I did use kale from the garden in the last pot of Zuppa soup and some romaine for the salad but now I'll have plenty of greens without any from the store. The radishes are doing nicely as well. The Roma tomato plant is in full bloom and hopefully will start setting fruit. Gardening in Florida in the winter is fantastic. After supper I settled into the Lightning game and they came from behind in overtime to beat the LA Kings 3-2. What a game. It wasn't long afterwards I hit the shower and was soon ready for some horizontal lab, LATER

 

Tuesday Morning Dec 14th

 Well Monday found me back on the pickle ball court and the knee held up just fine and I even wore my brace which was probably more a psyche thing than anything else. I played hard and won most of my games but I cut it back to an hour and half instead of the 2-3 hours which I had been doing before.

I started the day with a before 6 roll out to my morning routines that start with the cup of tea while I post this ramble then some quiet time giving thanks to honor my Creator and Lord and then lifting several up by name for healing. All seem well. I rode out on my bike to the Rec. around 7:30 as several players were already there. The play was good with some long rallies and while I was cautious at times because of the knee it never gave me any trouble or concern. I was welcomed back by all.

I came home and worked in the garden until lunch time setting out the last two Celebrity tomato plants and then transplanting a couple dozen marigold seedlings that finally germinated from last years seeds. I hand watered after hoeing all of the veggies. I now have some of the onion seeds I sowed a week ago breaking ground. I've never grown onions from seeds but I'm excited to see how they do as they are the big sweet type. No one carries the onion sets or seedlings here anymore, just the seeds which I had my doubts but decided to give them a try.

I read after lunch and then we headed out to the Nymark's for supper and cards. Initially it was just the 4 of us but their close friends came late and we played two rounds of games. The guys prevailed in Euchre and the Oh _ell game was won by Steve. It was close to 10 before we headed out for the house. The chicken and dumplings that Steve made were awesome along with Nancy's fresh garden salad and Sandy dessert. What a fun evening. Its a busy week for us with the twins birthday on Saturday at Busch Gardens and an outdoor concert on Friday night just to name a few. Nancy keeps us involved with all these social outing, LATER

Monday Morning Dec 13th

Well Sunday was an awesome day of worship in the morning at BridgePoint in Seminole and then again in the early evening at Indian Rocks Church where each year they present an unbelievable Christmas Program, WOW is all I can say. What a great and worshipful event they put on for three different times on this weekend and we saw the last one which lasted an hour and half. The two thousand seat auditorium was packed and afterwards we headed up the beach to the Columbia eatery at Sand Key. It's Cuban food but the place is so noisy you can not hear your self talk. Valet parking is present as its in a strip store but we had Kathryn's who has a handicap sticker so we parked out front. The food is pricy for what you get but the authentic Cuban taste is there with yucca, plantains, black beans and yellow rice and I had the roast sliced pork at 30 bucks a plate and Nancy had a red snapper filet with rice and beans with some kind veggie at 25 bucks which was large enough to know it was a piece of fish. Mark that place off my ever to eat there again, oh well. It was packed with diners but since we had a 10 table you could not hear from folks across the table. We all agreed never again.

I started the day out much the usual with a before 6 roll out to my routines that start with cup of tea while I posted this ramble and then some quiet time giving thanks and lifting several up to my Creator and Lord for healing. All seem as well as can be expected. We headed out to bridgePoint around 8:30 and I ushered the first service which means standing at the entrance to the auditorium and greet folks with a smile, handshakes and even a few hugs. Lots of familiar faces and many new ones as well. The message is on the lineage of Jesus and there are some in there that should give all of us hope that since we have no control of who are our ancestor's and who we came from and that we need Jesus to intervene in our lives as an example. A man both human and GOD who changed the world.

I headed out to hand water the gardens after getting back from the early service and most everything is holding under these hot temps and seem to be enjoying some growth. I have collards to harvest for a meal this week and enough to bless Amy and family with as well. The Roma's are blooming and I'm hoping they will soon set some fruit as well. The Celebrities are growing and I now have a couple of sweet onions that I set out from leftover bulbs from the mountain garden showing green tops. I'll soon have beet and Swiss chard leaves to add to the salad bowl along with some kale. I watched a little of the NFL before we headed out around 3 to pick up the Botbyl's and the Tracy's for the concert except Patrick backed out at the last minute and stayed home with a sore shoulder; anyhow everyone had a grand time as I drove them to the concert and then to the restaurant, LATER

Sunday Morning Dec.12th.

Well Saturday was a busy fun filled day with the morning being full of the smells of cookie making and baking with all 7 grands, Bobby and Amy. Tyler and Katie were the only ones not in attendance as they has other commitments and I'm sure they didn't miss the candy balls, sprinkles and confections not being  under foot as the kiddos decorated tons of cookies. They ate as many as they decorated and all were on a sugar high so much so Bobby and I took the boys all to the Rec to play on the playground which was under shade for an hour or so after they lost interest. The girls all stayed behind with Nancy and Amy to continue with the decoration and more cookie making.

I started the day with my usual 6'ish rollout to a cup of tea while I did my morning routines that start with the posting of this ramble  and then some quiet moments to give thanks and lift up several for healing to my Creator and Lord. All seem well as we got a surprise by one lady we had been praying for for over a year as she was at one time in hospice but she was at our life group party last evening. Praise God and while she is out and about she is still battling stomach cancer but on the mend. I grilled dogs for everyone along with dips, chips etc for lunch and then everyone left around 2'ish and we put the house back in order.

I vacuumed up tons of decorations which were everywhere especially those little round balls, washed pans and put away toys. Everyone ate good and had a good time and played hard and once again the cousins all played well together. Eliza is like a little mother to the twins whereas the bigger kids play well together or now look at their devices separately but she is like a mother hen to the boys. It's so funny. I sat and rested watching a little football after cleaning the house and then we got ready to head out to our life group party at the Nymark's huge beautiful house. There must have been close to 40 folks who all brought something to share and the food was absolutely delicious and so plentiful. Nancy brought a pot of Zuppa which was the hit as everyone wanted the recipe. The lasagna made by a bachelor was one of the best every as his son is a chef in St.Pete.

Afterwards we played the dirty Santa where you can steal from someone upon giving up your gift. It was a hoot and there were lots of really nice gifts with lots of gift cards to various businesses. We donated our gifts to one of two needy families we were sponsoring as a group. Several hundred dollars were raised for these two families who were single moms with three children to help make their Christmas. We even took communion after the gift exchange and then called it a night. We were back home before 9.

Today Sunday is worship in the morning then attending a Christmas program at another church which always has a big production and then out to dinner with 3 other couples at an upscale eatery before calling it a night. Should be a fun day once again, LATER

 

Saturday Morning Dec 11th

Well Friday was another very warm and humid day with fog to start the day and then bright sunshine with high humidity until late evening when a sea breeze seemed cool down the temps. I started the day with my usual 6'ish roll out to my cup of tea and then my morning routines that always save some time to honor my Creator and Lord giving thanks and lifting several up by name. All seem as well as can be expected. I decided not to return to the pickle ball courts until Monday despite the knee doing quite well with no pain or stiffness. I did take a hurried bike ride just before supper for about 20 minutes of non stop pedaling through the hood and I gave no noticed to the knee. It felt great to get some cardio in, however I did work outside in the gardens after breakfast and worked up a sweat mostly from the heat and humidity.

I harvested my first batch of romaine lettuces, kales and collards for the salad bowl and for Nancy's Zuppa soups she made later in the afternoon. We have our life group Christmas party this evening and the main courses are Italian themes so she made a huge pot of Zuppa soup to share as an appetizer and enough for us to have for our supper. Delicious and a favorite of our family. She was in the kitchen most of the afternoon getting ready for the grands coming for the annual Christmas cookie decorating event. She made the dough up ahead of time and all they will do is cut them out and then decorate. There will be balls, sprinkles and colored decorations everywhere by the time they leave after lunch. I'll serve them grilled dogs and chips for lunch however I'm sure they will be full of cookies and sweet decorations as always.

I read the afternoon away helping with the dish washing from time to time as she made ginger snap cookies ahead for the grands as well along with the dough for the Christmas cookies. She was whupped by the end of the day and had Aunt Betsy come by for a load of cookies as well. I did eat a couple of the ginger snaps which were delicious and good for the yummy but not for the spare tire, oh well. After supper I did the clean up and then we settled into the evening news and this potus and his minions are destroying the country and leaving us open to war with both Russia and China with his inept leadership and with his administration. The dem party is setting up the midterms for their illegal ballots to be the deciding factor using this virus as the reason. Mark my words they will attempt to steal these elections but I do see many who are jumping ship, LATER

Friday Morning Dec. 10th

Well Thursday was one of those days where we weren't sure if we going to be throwing up or heading to the toilet as Nancy seemed to have passed her bug onto me. At times I felt both but never really did they ever come to pass; (no pun intended) just an uneasy feeling at times; so we stayed home, rested, read and ate sparingly. I did head out after a lite lunch of some peanut butter and celery to the library for a couple reads I had ordered.

I got up late and did my morning routines and initially thought about some pickle ball as the knee is back to normal as much as normal can be for 75 years of activity. It feels great and I was hoping to play when I felt this constant ache deep inside the gut thinking I might have got her bug which sent her to the toilet several times during the night before and day time, oh boy I thought I have let the bug get inside me. I immediately after taking my vitamins and supplements peeled a garlic clove and chopped it into small pieces and swallowed it whole which is an antibiotic. Well it did the trick and while I did have to take some ground ginger later in the afternoon to help settle the tummy, I never had any of the obvious effects Nancy had.

I did my quiet time giving thanks and lifting several up for comfort and healing to my Creator and Lord. All seem as well as can be expected. As the morning wore on I ate a crisp apple for breakfast which always seems to fulfill my desire for more food and I do believe they are so good for you. I bought a 5 pound bag of Fuji apples yesterday on the way home at Sam's Club and they are so fresh like I just picked them from the tree. Such sweet flavor. For lunch it was just peanut butter with some celery sticks and we ate lite for supper with some canned peas and egg rolls we had in the freezer. The tummy quit aching after a cup of Thai tea after supper which was delicious with some creamer. We watched the news after supper and saw where the actor was found guilty for creating another racial hoax to get attention and belittle real racial injustices that do and have occurred; basically there is no systemic racism except among the race baiters who use if for political or economic gain or who are always wanting something for nothing. I've worked both in the military and in law enforcement and have many friends of all races.

I read all afternoon and finished a great non fiction story that occurred in the 1800's of a sailing vessel that crashed in the Auckland Islands and how they survived with the 5 of them working together and were eventually saved and rescued. The title of the book is ISLAND OF THE LOST by Joan Druett. It's a real page turner from the journal one of those men kept throughout the ordeal and was preserved for her to write this story. Fantastic read and there is a parallel story of another ship wreck at the same time just north of them and how they fared when there was much division among the crew.

I did tune into the Lightning game in Toronto and they won against a tough team without many of their stars 5-3. I flipped back and forth to the NFL game and the Steelers were getting whupped by the Vikings. The playoffs are starting to become an issue for many teams and thus far our Buc's are looking good in their division. Maybe a repeat who knows, LATER

Thursday Morning Dec 9th

Well Wednesday was a busy day that started with a before 6 roll out to my morning routines that start with the cup of tea while I post this ramble and then some quiet moments to give thanks and honor my Creator and Lord while lifting up several for comfort and healing. All seem as well as can be expected. I spoke with my uncle Paw Paw who turned 94 on this day and he sounded lucid and in good spirits. The conversation was short as he doesn't hear because he refuses to wear his aids which are provided by the VA. Pat his daughter whom he lives with took him out to a local eatery where he had his fried oysters and a salad. He is a good eater and always has been. I spoke with our "mountain mom" who is just a few months shy of 94.  She lives alone and hears quite well but she is having issues with walking but still drives weekly for her hair appointment and to the grocery store.

I had to get my truck serviced at the Ford place and wow was it ever busy at 8 in the morning. I spent a couple hours there as they serviced it fully. I spoke with the sales lady whom we have become friends with and she talked up the hybrid F150 and I think I may try one next year when the micro chips become available to car manufactures. China seems to have the monopoly on this facet for vehicles which has several hundred in each vehicle. When will the USA become independent again from China and their attempts to undermine our country, Oh Well.

I stopped at Sam's for gas on the way home and its 25 cents a gallon cheaper than on the market, but they were out of paper products once again due to hoarding from this man made virus. There were tons of folks in line to buy gas which reminded me of the gas shortage back in the 70's. I did stop at Lowes and found a jalapeno pepper plant and some onion seeds both of which I sowed and transplanted into the garden. It looks as if most of the seedlings I transplanted will make and I'll soon have the whole garden in veggies. It really turned hot here during the day with a strong wind and it must have blown in some rain as it fell briefly just after dark. We sure could use a good rainy day as its very dry here.

Nancy is still having tummy issues as she was continually on the throne through out the day. I sure hope I by pass this bug as we are supposed to attend a Christmas concert this evening for Ava and Sam at a church in St.Pete, LATER

Wednesday Morning Dec. 8th

 Well Tuesday was another foggy morning and then by 10 it turned hot and humid. I went another day with out pickle ball as I want to give the knee another day of rest and actually I never noticed any pain or discomfort from it all day long.

I started the day with my usual 6'ish rollout to my routines that start with the cup of tea while I post this ramble then some quiet time with my Creator and Lord giving thanks and then lifting several up by name for comfort and healing. No news from any one which is good. Nancy needs some prayers as she has another bug or more irritable bowels. She nearly passed out at Ava's game last evening from dehydration after taking an imodium earlier in the day, plus she still has that deep cough. I'm wondering if her earlier bout with covid is still affecting her, oh well.

I worked outside all morning in the garden spading up several new areas for the 30 or so transplants into the garden. I transplanted beets, Swiss chard two kinds of lettuces, kale and cucumbers plus fed everything with some miracle grow. I was totally soaked with sweat after the fog burned off and was looking forward to some a/c the rest of the afternoon. After lunch I did read for a couple hours in the cool of the a/c until it was time to run some errands and head out to Keswick to watch Ava play ball. Initially Nancy was going stay home due to her tummy being not quite settled but decided to chance it. During the game she became weak and turned white and a bottle of cold water helped so we left earlier that expected and stopped off at Wendy's for a sandwich and the she wanted a cold frappe drink from the Dunkin Donut which I think didn't help; anyhow she was up and down most of the night with an acid tummy.

I tuned into the Lightning game in Canada and watched them win with just a few seconds in the game after being behind for all of the 3rd period to a good Canadian team. It wasn't long after a hot shower I was ready for bed by 10'ish., LATER

Ava's team lost by 3 points once again. She has a knee that isn't working great after falling several times and the rest of the team didn't play well either.

Tuesday Morning Dec 7th

 Well Monday started out foggy once again and on the way home from Ava's basketball game the fog rolled in again inundating the area. It was rather spooky driving home in traffic with such heavy fog and of course there are the idiots who drive with no care for fellow travelers. Some times I wish I had the patrol car again, oh well.

I started the day much the usual with a 6 ish roll out to my routines that start with the cup of tea while I post the day's activities. I'm off pickle ball for another week to give the knee some more rest but its doing much better but not quite 100% yet. I got my brace in the mail so I'll start riding my bike wearing it to see if the ligaments are strong enough to get back to playing. I have been on my feet working the gardens for hours at a time and it feels fine, anyhow I did my quiet time to honor my Creator and Lord giving thanks and lifting several up by name, all seem as well as can be expected.

Nancy was off once again shopping for Christmas gifts for the family and for a couple of needy families as well as for our Life group this weekend  where we will have a supper and then play some games with a small gift exchange. I watched a couple documentaries on Lost Civilizations during afternoon and the history of the beginning of great cities who are now covered in the earth and gone forever is amazing. The clay tablets that are recovered and deciphered of their existence is fantastic to learn about in the centuries BC. Much of the latter civilizations are recorded in Bible as well BC. It's so much more interesting than reading about them in a world history book or class I took years ago. The landscapes are also very beautiful and the relics which are just about gone except in a few areas.

We had our big meal around 1'ish as we knew we would be at the ball game until late and it was after 8 before we left. Ava'd team played a team which was better coached with very good players and while they lost by 5 points they played hard and she led the team in scoring and rebounds despite some very close calls which never went their way. We stayed and watched the boys and they got blown away by this school as well with players that looked like college players. We love watching the games and the crowd really gets into it as well.

Well that was about it for Monday as we continue to get ready for the holidays, LATER

Monday Morning Dec. 6th

 Well Sunday turned out to be another beautiful day after a foggy start but by 9 it had burned off and the sunshine was bright and beautiful with temps in the upper 50's. It did reach the high 70's by days end with little or no humidity. It was worship day at BridgePoint and there was a nice crowd with many new faces. We headed out about 8:30 to serve for the first service at 9 but when we got there the Blood Mobile was in the parking lot and I hadn't done my part for a year or more so I was the first to give my pint for mankind.

I made it to the service just as the message was being delivered via the internet on the big screen and once again it was the second message in a series on the linage of Jesus with David and his egregious behavior with the wife of one of his warriors who he had put him in a position to be killed in battle. The message was a gut churner when you think of how this man David was in the history of the savior of the world and how GOD used him and found favor despite his sins. There is hope for all of us with the belief in Jesus and the grace that flows from that belief for our unrighteousness.

We came home and I hand watered the gardens as we were meeting the Tracy's and the Botbyl's at the Texas Roadhouse for a delicious and filing lunch. Afterwards we headed out to Brandon to spend the afternoon and evening with Bobby, Katie and the boys. They were so cute when they heard our voices and came running calling out their rendition of grand dad and grand ma. We got lots of hugs and attention throughout the the rest of the day until their bedtime.

We read books, played outside in their play area which is fantastic with swinging, slides and batting the ball around. They both love being outside and were unhappy about heading in for their supper. They ate well but now love guacamole with chips as Bobby made tacos and a bowl of guacamole. After supper they played while we cleaned up then Katie headed out for a family meeting on her mom's side and then it was tub time which they both love and then it was off to bed after a book being read and prayers. They are so smart and just so cute together with each having their own personality. Huck is very quick to respond where Ryder takes his time and adjusts to the situation of whatever. Huck seems to push the limits on some things and they each correct the other on bad choices which is so cute and funny.

Well we got home after a jammed packed interstate ride around 8'ish. Bobby and I watched the second half of the Buc's win over the Falcons and then I watched the first half of the late game in Kansas City before calling it a day after a hot shower. We have a busy week this week with two of Ava's games in the evening, meeting with advisors on Nancy's up and coming medicare enrollment and then life group get together as well a cookie baking with the grands on Saturday. I'm going to lay off any pickle ball for another week as the knee is not 100% yet. I'm walking without pain but I can still feel some issues in the knee after long periods of being on my feet, LATER

They love their play area and both are very active. 

Sunday Morning Dec. 5th

 Well Saturday turned out to be another beautiful day after a foggy start with temps in the upper 50's and it reached the low 70's by days end. Gorgeous weather and the garden sure loves these temps as well. I started the day much the usual with a 6'ish roll out to my cup of tea while I post this ramble then some quiet moments giving thanks to my Creator and Lord and lifting several up by name. All seem as well as can be expected. The bum knee is doing better and I'm walking without pain but I'm going to take a few more morning off from pickle ball until I get my brace and then slowly work back to daily play. I just over did it and now I'm aware of how too much activity can get me down and thats no fun. I suppose I must accept the fact I'm not as young as I use to be any longer, oh well.

I headed out after a lite breakfast to hand water the gardens before we headed out around 9 to St.Pete Catholic where grand daughter Ava was playing in a "shoot out" basket tournament. They played at 9:30 and won by two points as she played great once again and was the high scorer of the game as well as the  most re-bounds. It was a tough team and at one time were behind by 7 points. The second game was much different after the 15 minute intermission. They won that game by 10 points and were never behind. Ava once again was high scorer and with the most re-bounds. She is very aggressive on the court and has become quite the ball handler as well. We love attending her games and she has two more next week. We have got to know some of the parents of her team member and they are fun as well.

We came back after a stop at the library for new reads I had ordered on line and then had a late lunch around 2'ish which held us the rest of the evening except for a bowl of pop corn done the old fashion way. In between college football which were all great games I hand watered the gardens as the sun was shining brightly. We watched games until it was shower time around 9'ish and then I watched the Lightning win in over time against a tough Boston team without a couple of their best players. if they continue to win without them then when they do return we should have a shot at another cup win.

Today is co[orate worship at BridgePoint/ Seminole Campus at 9 AM. I'll usher the first service then we will leave as we have a lunch date with the Tracy's and the Botbyl's as Dan turned 67 this week. He is just a kid as I tell them every chance I get. We have incorporated the Nymarks into our close circle but they are gone so much plus they have family here as well who keep them busy, LATER