As the days pass we see new things helping out people from a distance
ZOOM – which Sherry has been using since it first
appeared – for her network business in The Juice Plus Company.
Now – there is the weekly “HENS PARTY”
A group that has met the last couple years or so
onec a week for lunch and a movie.
Now it is a once a week ZOOM PARTY!
Of course you do not get all dressed up no make up hats – drinks and lots of laughs
Now – we await our second “FRIENDS ZOOM” on Friday nights
for “HAPPY HOUR”!
There are four couples – who have been friends for I guess 33 years & more!
So – we decided to “ZOOM” and it was new to them!
But – a happy hour with fireballs – some beer and Vodka & Tonics.
First one was themed
HATS & SUNGLASSES
Not sure what this one will be
But it turned into a THREE HOUR HAPPY HOUR!
It has been peaceful at home we walk – ride our bikes and take long country back roads rides.
We are trying to keep it as normal as we can.
Once a week we select a different vendor or eatery
and order for pickup or curbside
to help support them in this time of need
to keep them going – a little bit of ourselves to them
Since I am not allowed to do laundry seems I do not know what to put where I fold ( sometimes) and put my own clothes away I do the outside mowing – trimming in the SUNSHINE!
Family – this is the hardest for us – we are near the three youngest
The three oldest are a hour and half away
and they are in the age group now where they mostly do their own thing
19 – 16 & 13 – soon all three will have birthdays
Then the younger three – twins – 9 years old
and the youngest and only boy 5 years old
Bode – MorMor – Taylor & Cassidy Each night like clock work Cassidy calls her MorMor and Bode – whom hangs on every movement she does – Taylor – who is old before her day and talks to her MorMor
It is the hardest with these three –
but we have done FAMILY ZOOMS
and have seen them from a distance
laughing – ZOOMING the three oldest in their yard
and of course all the family at the same time
This has been the hard part for us
See – we are a family unit – constantly staying in touch
So the sign read & I had no idea who laid it on the porch!
Then Sherry got the text from a friend of hers
whom she networks with!
Just as I brought it inside –
She had left it and wanted to make sure we knew
before the high winds took it away!
Sherry and Papa
In all this Sheltering in place –
DAY# 31 to be exact for us –
The unexpected seems to become the norm.
Sherry class of ’67 Smethport H.S. NWPA
We have been saving newspapers for who I call
“THE CAT LADY” simply because she recuses stray cats!
Every two weeks during this time
we load the car with the paper bags
and drive the 8 miles to her house.
Where we take them and sit on her front porch
and then text her that they are there.
We also have been delivering to friends the face masks that Sherry has been sewing along with other personal items all the while never coming in contact with people staying yards and yards away.
This past Saturday – we drove 45 minutes to meet our oldest daughter
and one of the grand daughters
to give them our extra Tower Garden!
We have THREE producing and they had one.
Now – they will have two with one outside!
Tom (Papa) class of ’67 Otto – Eldred H.S. NWPA
I have found that in these times
The abnormal has now become the normal.
When we met up – Ella stayed in the car waving.
I transferred everything and we stayed a car length apart.
That was hard – but on the upside-
We had been in a quandary over how to buy our outdoor flowers
as we did not want to mix with people.
The abnormal has become the normal
The place we met – has flowers and only two shoppers were there.
Plus it was set up where you could not go inside to pay
We were able to select our flats of flowers
pay without getting close to anyone
and load them into the car!
EVERYONE LOVES YOU #inthistogether
As one gives – one receives – humanity practicing social distancing
Here we are – social distancing – sheltering in place –
searching google places we can buy food – SENIORS ONLY!
Our new way to ride our bikes and to take our daily walks on the 18 miles of trails we have social distancing giving wide berths and crossing streets to avoid people when possible
What has become a new norm – all in less than a months time!
Our motto has become this.
We have become puzzle experts –
Netflix bingeing on series!
Our way of still practicing Palm Sunday
Church now is live streamed
and we attend that way.
Our Tower Garden in the garage with grow lights
We will begin to harvest this coming weekend
The other two outside with all the vines and bigger vegetables
Today I read in the paper – Mega Church considering holding service
in Tampa Florida!
After the pastor had been arrested and the Goveernor issued
stay at home!
And I wonder why he had the TWO SERVICES he did?
This past week – we finally after two weeks had to go to the store
for PRODUCE!!!!
We had diminished our stock and it will not keep!
We eat a lot of produce and our growing season outside
with the Tower Gardens begins this week
But you never know about freezes.
So – last week we started our Tower Garden inside the garage
where we had it until we went away for the month of February!
The new Tower Garden in the garage with the grow lights.
One week of growth and we should have one more week
and we can start cutting off for salads!
This new unit – comes on a reduced base – 20 gallons to 13 gallons
of water – a float to tell you when to refill
and the grow lights with a built in timer!
We have it set for day time light and then dark at night
to let the plants rest!
There also is a timer for the pump –
and we have that set at 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off!
Mostly leafy vegetables inside we have two set up outside for our peppers- tomato’s and cucumbers and large things such as celery – eggplant- squash etc.
Going to the store is nerve wracking –
wanting to get in and out asap!
But – after the two weeks – we had to go.
Here – they have senior hour – 7 to 8 am.
You must show a ID – but maybe 30 people are in the whole store!
A lot better than the crowds and less stressful.
I hope all is well stay safe and stress free and also that this article helps you know the alternative to shopping and for more information http://www.sf.juiceplus.com My wife is a distributor of both The TOWER GARDEN And Juice Plus a whole food of plants fruits – vegetables & berries in a capsule or gummy’sSherry Senior Sales Coordinator Juice Plus Company
To let you know – I write and schedule these blogs ahead of time!
So – today we are now into our fourth day of SOCIAL DISTANCING!
And – we are doing okay – it has it effect more so on Sherry
than on me!
One of the ways to walk on the paths that we have close to us over 15 miles of different paths that we have!
Sherry is the one who moves the most
the one who inspires me to move!
So – we decided that we could and would walk
and still keep our distance from other people!
The paths are wide –
enough so that you can pass and stay at least
eight feet away or more!
Once we leave the street we begin our walk through the trees – bush and grass areas!
This path was almost three miles long
and had we not taken a short cut –
it would of been over three miles!
When leaves are out this becomes very shaded and cooler in the hot summer!
Our walk takes us through many wooden areas
and toward the very large pond!
At this point we can choose to walk the left side of the pond or cross this bridge and walk the right side of the pond!
Both left or right go completely around the pond
and there are birds – turtles and fish to be seen.
In the distance was the only person we saw that was walking the same direction as us!
Here you can see a row of houses to the right –
and we are headed toward the new
over 55 community
that is still being built!
In the far left distance is a section of over 55 communityThe community gets closer this is but a small part and I would say they are a good two or more years before they are built out!To the right are the townhouses four stories with elevators! And directly ahead the huge community center!The over 55 community center with both indoor and outdoor pools!Looking back from the direction from the way we had come and the housing on the left side of the pond path!These are all new saw several of these owls I suppose to keep the geese at bay!
The pond is up – although we have not had hard rains
but slow gentle ones!
I noticed these owls which before December
were not here!
Past the new what I call Brownstones!
We decided instead of continuing on the pond path
To walk the sidewalk past the over 55 Brownstones!
Notice no traffic on the highway! This is a four lane road with 40 MPH or faster and always full of traffic so much that we sometimes wait five minutes to see traffic decrease so we can cross!
I hope this shows just how a walk
can break that time spent inside during this time!
One of our adventures- Sherry Fitzsimmons – Cindy North McBride – William McBride and Tom Fitzsimmons on the inter coastal water way off North Carolina.
For the last 12 years – we have taken trips together – every other year in most cases.
We have been to Spain – Gibraltar – Morocco – we have toured N.H. – Mass. and Maine. We have been to the Niagara Falls , Ontario Canada wine region – tasting wine and brews !
We have revisited our roots back in NWPA and SWNY – playing a week of golf on the courses we played years and years ago. You see – we were neighbors and friends 37 years ago ! Then they moved South to N.C. and later we transferred South to NVA – all the while staying in close contact – visiting on vacations.
On Turtle Bay Oahu
We have visited Oahu together- covering the whole island in 10 days.
Playing golf in the mountains close to where they filmed Jurassic Park. We have stayed at their house in N.C. and played the courses around them.
Buck ( William ) and Tom riding the inter coastal water way.
We are planing and talking future trips – ( IRELAND ) back to our ancestors. Maybe a trip to Nashville – and my thoughts on Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Tenn. with a log cabin in the mountains !
Buck and Cindy in Oahu .
Now – we have committed to a trip out West – the far West as in Northern California – a drive and stay trip for 7 or 8 days ! Making our list pf places to see and when we get together – piecing all the information down – getting excited !
On the beach in North Shore Oahu.
We have now been retired for 7 years ( Sherry ) 6 years me. Sherry had a sales job ( outside ) – all of NVA – for the company she worked for for 32 years. The traffic and day to day stress was more than enough – so she started a part time job through The Juice Plus Company. When it grew – she decided at which point it was large enough to retire. At age 63 – she did it !
Today – we are able to both be retired – and will be celebrating – in the next two months – our birthdays – the big 70 !!!!
Back in NWPA- Sherry’s home – the Knizua via duct – bridge.
Red woods – Napa valley – Reno – Lake Tahoe – Sequoia’s – San Francisco – Alcatraz – Yosemite – Sonoma – Berkley – Glamping –
Just some of the things on our list – we shall see and compare. Close friends through all these years – still trying to get our other close friends to take a trip with us.
At Vanish Brewery near our home in NVA – October fest !
Where ever we go – when ever we go – there are laughs – there are adventures and sometimes golf ( we give no strokes as they are too good )
Sherry and Cindy – always something with their phones!
These two will always laugh and make us laugh – that is why we get along so well. Later this Summer – another road trip – to Northern California. A trip worth waiting for – another adventure in the making.
Stay tuned – waiting – excited – and NO STROKES – they should give us strokes! LOL
They asked to sleep over as soon as we returned home from Florida!
But first – a trip to Trader Joe’s! Taylor – who is going to be very tall! Cassidy – and Bode whom look like they should be twins!
The arrangements made – the bed of foam and blankets on the floor
in our bedroom – all three will not sleep elsewhere!
The older three – only Maddy – the oldest will sleep
in another bedroom!
The arrival bags shoes – boots and stuffed animals
They would spend the night – and next morning –
get them ready for early church and Sunday school!
Which meant on Saturday
A trip to Barnes and Noble
A stop at Trade Joe’s ( two small shopping carts)
And then back to the house for meals!
Eating snacks playing minecroft
They were really good – no fighting!
Taylor and her purse I think of all the grand daughters she will end up the tallest. Sherry is 5′ 9″ and she just may surpass that she now is a Harry Potter big time fan and riding horses!Cassidy – who does tons and tons of crafts all from instructions on the IPAD! And now is taking Tennis Lessons! and is a good roller bladder very caring and protective of Bode!Bode – all boy has just learned to ride his bike all about trucks big machinery and building things now has a putting puzzles together thing!
The three of them eat all the time!
No matter what time it is
and right after they have eaten!
Yet – they are not fat
but lean –
and so full of energy!
Bodes comfy place on the couch
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
Today is feel good to be home day
Cassidy arranges her place and she does this at night where she sleeps! everything has to be in order as is how her room is! She has a bag – just for all of this!
On the entrance to the beach just South of the old historical Saint Augustine!
We stopped at a red light and Sherry said
“Lets turn right here & see if we can see the ocean”!
Well – it happened to be the access road to the beach
and this bar sat right there on the left hand side!
The Beachcomber Bar and eatery had fantastic fresh caught RED SHRIMP! Very large steamed and peel! Along with a honey IPA!
We had no idea but it was time to stop
for a bite to eat!
Come to find out – both Debby and Tammy had been here.
Along with some friends of ours
and other friends said they also were going to stop!
It also happened to be the entrance to the beach and where you pay to drive on the beach there was a very small parking lot mostly for the Beachcomber and a guy sat on a camp chair directing people into and out of the lot
The shrimp were extra large
steamed and peel – with melted butter and hot sauce dip!
The beach street is called “A ST” And all the rules and directions to follow
While we sat outside – a lot of cars- trucks etc.
came and went in and out!
We actually ordered a half pound
and it was so good we ordered seconds!
Looking back from the beach to the entrance and the Beachcomber
We left our rental on Friday – the 28th at 8:45 AM.
But one last stop and picture
one of our walks we took almost everyday!
There was a blocks long park with a walking path right across the street from us. Either direction we went – trees – oak – palm and these yellow flowered trees! Everything was blooming and so green!
We decided that we would avoid the major four lanes
and drive the roads less traveled
even though it would take us through towns
red lights – and maybe a little longer!
We would end up at Jacksonville beach
for two nights for Sherry to attend a regional conference
for her Juice Plus Company – and our room –
was Ocean front – with a balcony!
Flagler Beach
The roads were straight – mostly four lane
speed limit 60 and hardly any traffic!
It was just peaceful and full of wonderful views!
And we made great time and were at 1A1 –
the highway that runs alongside the Atlantic Coast!
The first beach we came to was Flagler Beach-
very narrow but really a blue color to the water!
Hard to see the color but it was not the typical Atlantic color you see up and down the coast!Very narrow beach going in both directions no houses on the beach side all across the road!I do not know what it would be like in a storm not much space on the beach!
We then headed North and our next stop was at the
first Marine land!
I had no idea this was here And it was the location where they shot the old TV series SEA HUNT which I watched as a child! I actually met Lloyd Bridges and his wife at a airport as they were waiting for their flight. Somewhere I have a picture of them!
Many famous people have been here and at one time
it says there were more Dolphins than people!
This beach was much wider and the boardwalk and restrooms were very nice.At first I thought these boulders were put here but the sign says they are 100’s of thousands years old made from sand and other substanceA very nice boardwalk along the beach
And you can see where sand has either blown in
or washed in?
Not sure – but in the next picture – there was a lot of sand
There is a small community in North Western Pa. Just a few short miles from the New York State Border Situated in what are called THE ENCHANTED MOUNTAINS of The Alleghany Mountain Chain
Rolling green hills now -once as large as the Rockies
millions and millions of yearsago
now considered as just “Foothills”
Back in the late 1800’s or early 1900’s
The small community is well
a place where every one knew your name
you parents and exactly where you lived!
Coming into town on North Main Street from the border of NYS sits a junction known locally as The Kendall Bridge The Alleghany river runs beneath it as does the Rail road tracks and trains A span comes off it and a road runs under it.The Kendall Bridge looking Northward to the foothills of the mountains and New York State
The age to drink was 21 in Pa.
But 18 in NYS!
Traveled this road many times
to legally have a beer! LOL
And believe me – the adults knew!
Main Street Eldred Pa. and one of the reasons we moved South SNOW !!!!!
The post office to the left – the old red fire hall
to the right as I grew up.
And the building up farther in brick
The doctors office & the dental office
and also the Masonic Lodge!
I spent a lot of time there
Dental and Doctor!
Today the leading business of incoming funds The Historic World War ll Museum
A full size tank bursting through the wall
a Museum that also encompasses the next large building
Tour buses stop every day!
It is a quality sight to behold!
This little town had many WWll heros
Purple hearts -medal of honors
And I knew everyone of them!
King Street my stomping ground when we slept outside after curfew at 10 PM. Running and hiding raiding gardens Just growing up!The park where I played baseball tackle football and flag football Softball And everyday rode my bike to!The park below the tracks where in my 20’s we all chipped in and helped to get it started and mowed and tuned into a softball field! Playing our home games here and holding many tournamentsThe Catholic church I attended as a small child confirmed inAnother small church on King street
My older sister Donna on the right and my cousin Patty
Donna helped raise me
as she was 15 years older
and lived right down the street
and later on next door!
My best friend Bobby Goodman’s house spent many a night there on the porch sleeping out and he at mine we did not want to sleep inside!
My sister Donna -caught us one night
we had gotten into my parents whiskey!
And she came outside and there we sat on the curb in front
of her house and mine.
After so many questions
I had her almost convinced we were not drinking
Bobby not saying a word!
A car came down the street and we were in its headlights
And that is when Bobby got sick
and threw up in front of her!
Later she laughed and laughed
and always reminded me we did not fool her!
My brother in law Bill – was the police chief
and always took care of me and my friends
as long as we did not get into trouble or do anything bad.
Back after the war Eldred had a top notch soft ball team made up of many who came back from the war. My best friend Bobby’s father is at the bottom right I knew almost all these men later in life! They almost were all my fathers friends!Most of us joined The Explorer’s when we were 16 and took many a trip to Pro games here we took a three day canoe trip down the river which when I was in my mid 30’s I – along with our pastor took a youth group down the same river Bobby – far left and then meOak hill cemeteryWhere in winter we would ride our sleds down the hill between and around the tombstones!The high school where I graduated in 1967 Known then as it is today OTTO – ELDRED H.S. Home of the TERROR’SOur team on the varsity Bobby is number 83 and I sit to his left number 65 Those were the best of years.
each Winter – before they relocate to another one!
Sherry and Paul it wasn’t until we were half way back to Winter Haven that I realized I had not taken a picture of Janet or the four of us! OLD AGE HAS IT’S DRAW BACKS!
We spent hours talking at their fifth wheel camper
34 feet long and really nice
with a large awning and a comfortable seating
beneath the large old Oak trees!
They then took us on a tour of Winter Garden
a new upscale section of stores – shops
and places to eat!
It was here that I saw the beauty
Lake Apopka – a very large lake perserve
for hundreds of birds – and a nursery for baby gators!
Small gators do not know where the mother gator was!Big birds small birds ducks and turtles abound
The birds were loud – almost to the point it was hard to listen
to each other talk
but I loved it!
The beauty of the foliage and this was full of birds and ducks!Looking for gators and we found three!It is in these reeds where the gators reside small ones that we could seeA view of the water front and a trail that follows the shore!
We decided to attend this celebration at Lake Wales.
We love a parade – and they threw in the floats!
One of about a dozen floats and some were as big as this and others half this size but all were throwing beads! MADRE GRAS at Lake Wales , Florida!And we placed our chairs right on the curb in the grass and had a front row seat! The BEADS just came our direction and WE DID NOT HAVE TO DO ANYTHING to get them! LOL !!!!!Each float had a different theme and each float blasted their own music and each float parked side by side in the park each blasting their music! PARTY TIME!!!!!There was music there was laughter there were dancers there were cops there was booze OH I LOVED THIS PARADE Just sing it to Toby Keith! LOLA lot of work went into this on all of these floats!And of course for my wife a Float of a viking ship! Don’t know how the Swedes fit into all of this but there they were!The Grand Marshall I think!Lake Wales MADRE GRAS!They also had a stage with live bands and all the while in the park the floats had their own music and parties going on!The lake and pierThe entrance to the party by the lake before the parade after – we could barely make our way through here! Thousands of people converged and we managed to sit up our chairs to the left rear of the stage!A look back from the pier to the party like tents from Lake Wales.
Saturday night – 10-25-14 Blue Fin – Memphis Tenn. Daughter & Mother – connecting from the 50’s to Present !
How many of you out there have the pleasure of spending time with you children , bringing back the past into the future ?
How many bond in such a way that you are excited to be with one another and share that experience ?
That has taken place many times over the last eight years. Although our youngest daughter Tammy, was unable to be with us as she is having a baby and unable to travel , Debby is right by her mother’s side – sharing the moment and dressing up in 50’s outfit just as her mother is.
Now the normal questions are asked – what did they wear -how was their hair – do you have pictures – what shoes do we have – what about makeup – they were endless – but – in the end – they were adorable and so much alike.
Rock and Roll introduced us to the music of today – and before that the blues – but time has a funny way of bringing the Past to the Future – you could swap one for the other in time – and they would be the same.
Loving – caring – sharing – teaching – from one generation to the next – now I await a few years and see what Debby does with her three daughters and how she answers their questions – You wore your hair up like what? Do you have any pictures ?
YES WE DO – that is what Grand Parents do- they keep the pictures so grand children can some day immolate their parents!
ROCK AND ROLL – FROM THE PAST TO THE FUTURE – ONE GENERATION TO THE NEXT!
View from our front entrance facing toward the Old Town of Winter Haven Fla.
We could walk a block and we were
in a redeveloped park – with benches and lots of shade!
This section has all been upgraded
pastel brick painted
bright colors
The old buildings made of brick painted and trimmed out full of different storesOne of four different streets with the coffee shop and library at the end of the street
In this picture – the park is at the left
and in total runs a good four blocks
At the end of the park in the direction left is a lake where every third Saturday is a ski show put on by Cypress Gardens!A ski jump in the lake for the showPart of the area for the ski show
And YES – there are gators in these lakes!
However – we never saw any here!
I would not go swimming or wading here they say go to the middle of the lakes to swim or water ski but I will pass!
However – the views are awesome!
And we walked here often!
The trees are green with flowers almost all of themThis was laying on the ground and was really soft
In the opposite direction
we often walked more
simply because all the stores
bars and restaurants
saloons and barber shops
a lot of either one
and the smells of lunch – dinner
and music!
The entrance to the library to the right and our favorite coffee shop to the left Where Ella would have a chocolate chip cookie!
We would stop every evening
for a small coffee and ice tea
and just sit and watch the sunset
One of the many fountains in the park
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!
After our daily walk back to the confines of our rental and looking forward to our next walk!
Our vacation rental in the historic district of Winter Haven Florida! The entrance gate – some 20 feet high and locked – each time we leave the entire structure is block and stucco painted white like a fortress!
We rented this place through VRBO sight unseen
except in pictures and reviews
That is the chance you take
But – we took it and are happy with it!
As you enter – you are greeted by a long narrow hallway and a set of stairs to the second floor bedrooms full bathrooms and a small laundry room
You turn left into the dining room
with another narrow hallway leading past the kitchen
straight to the living room
with a half bath off this hallway to the right
The dinning room where I set up my office
and when we had company – ate our meals!
Off the dining room a narrow hallway with a half bath on the right and a doorway on the left to the galley kitchen straight a head is the cozy living room and beyond that a entirely closed in patio with 20 plus foot high walls!
The galley kitchen is narrow but has everything we needed!
View back toward the dinning roomView of the galley kitchen from the dinning room toward the living room
Although it was narrow – and not really a place for more than one
to work unless you were at opposite ends
it functioned well and we just got use to it!
The living room – very cozy with a log burning fireplace to the right which we used – buying those burning logs from the store the ones you just light and it burned for a good four hours! Ella – our grand daughter laughed at it saying it was a fake log but it did put off heat! And beyond – a enclosed patio with walls going up past the window on the second floor!
We were very comfortable in this room.
The furniture was white leather and very comfortable You can see in the other picture the enclosed back patio the walls went up above the second story bedroom window! We never used either patio it was too cool when we first arrived or we would get back home too late and after darkThe living room fireplaceThe front patio again with walls that went above the second floorAt the top of the stairs on the second floor the laundry room to the right and straight a head the guest bedroom and bath where Ella and later Sherry’s sister Debbie stayed.The spare guest room very comfortable as were all the bedsHuge closets that ran the whole length of the wall with lots of storage!The guest bathroom with a over head sky light that you did not need lights on during daylight!
The whole guest area was very comfortable and was entirely away
from the master bedroom!
The doors in the place were solid and very thick!
Even the doors to the stacked washer and dryer were solid and very thick All the door casings were made out of 2 x 12’s with 2×6 and 2×4 trimmed pieces! I have never seen this done before and all seemed to be rough cut!The master bedroom was large with a king sized bed and two very large closetsAnd also its own wood burning fireplace
Our bedroom was the biggest room in the entire house!
With its own TV and when the door was shut
you could hardly hear anything!
Master bath
Well – this was our home away from home!
And they told us that the next rental would be the last
through VRBO!
They were going to lease it by the year!
It was in a great spot as we walked almost everywhere
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
The stairway down to the front door notice the hand rail all the casings and trim were like this!
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
Front door to the gate and then the car parked right in front!
FIVE HOURS LATER – we hugged and said our goodbyes!
Friends for over 40 years Tom Sherry Lynda Fred
Fred and I graduated HS together – along with another good buddy
we had a lot of very great memories
and we rehashed a lot of them!
We met up at Crabby Bill’s in St. Cloud Florida!
We got there at 10 am. and we walked around
it was beautiful sitting on a very large lake!
With a boat marina
and launch – very windy out!
Fred Sherry Lynda
The ride to and from was not on major highways
and I enjoyed that – the major routes –
well they come to a stand still with backups
every day in both directions!
We have always shared like thoughts
Standing on the break wall Lynda and Sherry watching a wind sail trying to catch a breeze and get up out of the water We shared many a laugh just like old days somethings just never get old!Strolling the path talking and just enjoying the company
We had a lot of catching up to do
for it must of been a good ten years
we had come down then and spent a few days with them
We decided to sit talk – drink tea and coffee and true to form Fred spilled his! LOLLynda and Fred on the outside deck of Crabby Bill’s in St. Cloud Fla.
It got warm enough while sitting outside to shed jackets
and we sat there for three hours –
our waiter named Murph –
was fantastic and never once urged us to leave!
We ordered small finger food and shared
soups – tenders – avocado cream cheese things
one crab cake grilled
and lots of coffee – ice water and unsweetened ice tea
and desert – two types of cheese cake
of which I ate almost none!
Proud of myself!!!!
We then got up and decided to walk around
We were full
and it was still windy – but in the mid 70’s!
And then we laughed and laughed!
A captured one of those laughs I wish I could of gotten them all old times were remembered and it was as if no time had ever come between us!
Our buddy who is wintering in Az.
suggested to me that maybe next year
we can all do the same
close to where Fred and Lynda live
which is Little Palm Bay
on the Indian river
near Melbourne!
Sherry and I thought that to be a great idea.
Lynda is going to do some checking for us on rentals
I will reach out to Bob next month
and hoping we can pull this all together!
Thank you for reading Papa’s World
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!
We have friends and we are blessed sharing my life one day at a time
To a state park where there was a almost three mile
nature walking path –
Named Panther Paw point park –
because they spotted a panther there
sometime in the past!
” LIONS – TIGERS and BEARS OH MY” !
The loop ran trough the woods and then around this lake and the trail around the lake in some spots got very narrow with brush and reeds on either side!We read this before starting out and notice the pictures of all we might observe while walking we did see a lot of areas dug up like giant moles had been there my thought “WILD BOARS”!Here is a picture map of the several loops you can make This also is a place where people come to ride horses there were a half dozen horse trailers in the lot!Debbie and Tom the path leading into the woodsAs you can see stay on the path its a jungle out there!After walking through the woods you break out and start following the lakeThe first GATOR we saw just over the bank and right near the water I would estimate 15 to 20 feet from me! He was big – but not as big as the next one we saw still I was nervous standing there!Just down from the gator about 30 feet away that gator would of been one half the distance
The path itself was 10 to 12 feet wide
with the lake and reeds and bushes and trees on one side
the other side sometimes a fence with pasture
other times just marsh and a lot of bushes
I keep my eyes on the lake side!
And I never saw the gators until I was maybe 25 feet away!
Now- I never saw this fellow Sherry was following and she said here is a snake I had walked right by it! It was maybe 6 to 8 feet away She saw it – it raised up and she backed away and then she took this picture when I went back it was slithering away I told her it looked like a black snake but still I never saw it! I would say it was 4 or 5 feet long!Avery big hawk sitting on a gate this was pasture land on the right side away from the lake however there were sections that you could not see through and the path narrowed down to maybe 6 or 7 feet wide making me very nervous!This guy was huge! I would say 10 to 12 feet long those are the hind legs and the tail was maybe another four foot long He was really big around and almost black! This one was maybe 15 feet over the side of the bank – out of the water and in the bushes and reeds there was a trail down to him and I assume that is where he went back and forth!
This gator was really big – never moved – I learned later
at that time of day – they are not that active – plus the water
is only around 60 degrees –
They are night hunters and during the day -they warm up in the sun
and heat of the day and digest their food
from the night before!
This one was maybe 200 yards from the other one
which makes me think this was his territory!
It was a beautiful walk nervous at times hot in the sun a half dozen horse riders passed us I WOULD NOT WALK THIS AT TWILIGHT!The birds and ducks huddle together in the middle of the lake we have been told several times that gators do not attack in deep water That is why people swim in the middle of the lakes and water skiers are in the water in these lakes BUT I DO NOT TRUST THAT! That’s like telling me BEARS don’t bite in the woods! LOL
I hope you liked this little adventure It was a spur of the moment lark that we went on! SAW TWO GATORS AND A BLACK SNAKE! along with birds horses – riders – and where Wild boars ( pigs) dug up the ground or some very GIANT MOLES!
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Karen Lars ( from Sweden) Debbie ( Sherry’s sister) Sherry and Papa
We had planned this when her sister came
as she also grew up knowing them
They have wintered down here the last 12 years or so!
We decided to go and eat lunch at BOK TOWER!
A place the they took us to four years ago!
Entrance to the gardens
If you have not been – it is a rare treat!
Full of plants and flowers the lower garden before the walk up through the plants trees and water to the very tall Tower Flowers outside where we had lunch!Walking up the hill on the paths to the Bok TowerThe base of Bok TowerBOK TOWERSherry and Debbie on the grounds around Bok TowerSherry and Debbie walking back down the hill from BOK TOWERLeaving such a peaceful spot after listening to the Bells and organ and the green growth and mountain views of the surrounding country side!Outside the Cafe
We were invited to spend the day in Sarasota Florida.
And – we were scheduled to see the Botanical Gardens
I did not know what to expect
and was quite surprised at what unfolded
as we spent over two hours walking
a paradise of green lush gardens!
A tunnel of mangroves! Every corner we rounded brought something unexpected!A eye ball with a waterfall represented a exhibit by SALVADORE DALI along with EGGS and BUTTERFLIES!Huge trees with roots expanded outward to better balance the tree as there is nothing but sandAnther SALVADORE DALI tribute LIPS!A quiet water fall just the sound calming and lush with vegetationA piano in the pondA piano in the tree!
As we walked – I was amazed at just how everything just blended
into nature – how calming it was – and so shaded!
SALVADORE DALI HATCHING FROM A EGG!A building full of originals some not seen in 15 years!Ginger our friend Sherry and her sister Debbie
You would never know you were in the middle of Sarasota!
And you would find yourself gazing out over the water!
Sarasota BayBenches at the end of a path sit and lookout over the bay
I found myself in a calm state of mind
Hug a tree with the one you admireSeek shelterSpread your wings as a butterfly!
It was a thing I had never considered to do
and now thankful I did!
Peace – love and happiness!
Glass ” WATER”Sherry Debbie Ginger
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Elephant or Butterfly!
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WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!
Marie Selby BOTANICAL GARDENS SARASOTA FLORIDA !!!!
Then – a friend invited us “OVER” from Winter Haven
where we had booked a AirBNB for a month!
So – we made the nearly two and one half hour drive
AND I WANT TO GO BACK !!!!!
Lido Beach Very wide white sand beach
I was so mesmerized by the city itself –
that I did not take pictures until we walked the beach!
Right at the end of the main street which the locals call the circle
We walked the main street – full of shops
both sides of the street
and all the places to sit down either outside
or inside and have breakfast – lunch and dinner!
Shorts – colorful shirts – music filled the air.
The vibe is what I noticed – and we could walk!
Right to the entrance of LIDO BEACH!
Sherry and her sister Debbie with part of Sarasota in the back ground
The sand – does not burn your feet for some reason!
And is like powder in some spots
and a mixture of crushed shells in others.
The waves – hardly any at all –
Big expanse of sand bar –
with tidal pools that were warm from the sun!
Just gentle waves and very easy to walkThe wide expanse of white sand beach
I found myself just calmed – no worries-
and wondering “HOW DO I GET BACK HERE”?
Birds taking a bath they were not concerned about us and they would just duck under the gentle waves and wash themselves so calming!Sherry walking the beach looking for shells which she found big ones!
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If you want – put this one on your bucket list
A must see and do
SARASOTA LIDO BEACH a walk in the sandThe bay in Sarasota
her one birthday wish was to swim with the Manatee’s!
Since we were going to be in Florida
We made that wish come true!
Now – the second oldest last summer turned 16.
And her one wish was to see STAR WARS!
Ella our grand daughter who is a big STAR WARS FAN!!!!
So – we again were going to be in Florida
So we took her with us for a week!
In a State far – far away – the adventure begins!
Sherry and Ella in a Star Wars store at Hollywood Studios
Our trip was eventful – we spent a Monday – early to after closing
in the Hollywood Studios of Star Wars –
Riding almost all the rides – and seeing almost all the shows!
TEN IN ALL!
At the INDIANA JONES STUNT SHOW! Ella and SherryElla and Sherry about to ride the twirling saucers
It was a very long day – but so worth it
You can see it in her eyes and smile!
Then on Tuesday – Sunday we had done a giant Flea Market
We took her to our old stomping grounds
The Villages – where with my brother we spent three winters
before he passed away.
At Brownwood in the villages
We toured all three town centers
showing her everything we could
Ending up in Sumter Landing and listening to the live band and music
Watching all the old people like us
dance the night away!
I told Sherry I really miss it down here!
Ella and Sherry At Big Bend Power Park
On Wednesday – we took her to Big Bend Power Plant Park
To see the hundreds of Manatee’s
and then on to Clear Water beach and Sand Key Park to see the gulf waters
It was too cold to go into the water – although people were in the water
But she got to walk the white sand beaches
and see the Gulf!
Sherry and Ella seeing the sting rays at Big Bend park
Thursday was a down day – pick up groceries
and she watched the first two Indiana Jones movies
as she had never seen them
and after being at the stunt show
we decided to see them on Netflex!
Friday and Saturday – we spent both days until dark
exploring 7 or 8 Disney resorts!
Animal Kingdom lodgePolynesian ResortThe Dolphin ResortThe Grand FloridianThe finding Nemo resortSherry and Ella on the new Sky liner at Disney resorts
We parked for free – and rode the Mono Rail to four different stops
And the second day we went to Board Walk resort
next to Epcot
And rode the new SKY LINER
to Four more resorts!
We parked for free – and neither the boats
the Monorail or the Sky liner
cost anything!
Sherry Tom Ella
We spent all Saturday after noon at Disney Springs –
Again – no cost!
Ella and Sherry at Disney Springs
They had so much fun together – making memories.
BUZZ LIGHT YEAR with Sherry and Ella
I hope you like what you see here
and thank you for reading Papa’s World
Ella and Sherry
And Oh by the way – Ella loves to shop
And that fit right into Sherry’s purpose of life! LOL
WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!
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livinglifedoingitmyway.blog
Sadly – we say goodbye as she flies back home.
By the way – her return fight ticket – her one suitcase
I 