Grandkids

Papa’s World – More memorable moments.

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Early morning – on the beach walking –

This is part of our volunteer work –

The Protection for Sea Turtles.

We sign up to walk the East end of Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.

This stretch of beach is all dunes – sand and no houses.

The other beach is patrolled by an ATV and two volunteers.

Here you walk to see if any “TURTLE CRAWLS” have occurred overnight.

You also observe the erosion and any high banks that have washed out.

We also take plastic bags to pick up garbage.

It is a quiet walk into the sunrise –

Sometimes you see Dolphins swimming up or down the beach.

Often times fishing boats come out of the channel and head for the open ocean.

Walking into the sunrise is a magical part of the life at the beach.

Creating more MEMORABLE MOMENTS IN PICTURES!

My youngest son Shawn – has visited us twice since we moved here in 2020.

He owns his own Auditing and Energy protection company in NWPA –

Contracting with the State and Energy companies for energy efficiency for the elderly.

He covers the state of Pa. and some of WNY.

We hope they can get back down this year again.

Another MEMORABLE MOMENTS IN PICTURES!

How often do you see the Sunset from our backyard with snow and ice on the ground?

In the going on five years for us –

This is a first.

This storm came up from the Gulf of Mexico –

and it snowed in Florida on the coast – Ga.- S.C. and up through the Eastern coast.

Inland – no snow or ice.

This is a very RARE event and I captured it from my patio in the back of the house.

Thus creating another MEMORABLE MOMENT IN PICTURES!

In this picture,

I had just returned home from the oral surgeon who had done TWO IMPLANTS-

In the front of my mouth.

This was something I did not want to do –

But to be honest –

It went so smoothly – they were excellent!

Both were crowns but they had to take what was left of the teeth

and extract them and then put them in the implants.

Glad that it is now past history and everything worked out!

But it was $$$$$$$$!!

ANOTHER MEMORABLE MOMENT IN PICTURES!

We have a “SOLO FIRE PIT” just off our back patio.

Now – I am not so much into campfires –

but our grandkids and their parents are.

So – often times when they visit –

I start it up and they enjoy the Sunset – the stars and the

“SOLO FIRE PIT”!

Creating ANOTHER MEMORABLE MOMENT IN PICTURES!

LOL – and in our backyard we have bird feeders!

So – this little funny picture –

It is almost true as the DEER eats the birdseed,

and the squirrels clean up afterward!

Thus we might have a MEMORABLE MOMENT IN PICTURES if I could catch them! LOL!

Finally – a picture was taken of us on the North Shore of Ohau –

A vacation we took with our friends the McBrides some years ago.

Someday – we would like to return and do the other islands –

thus we would be able to –

Make other MEMORABLE PICTURES IN MOMENTS!

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Papa’s World – Memorable moments!

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When we lived in Brambleton, Va. –

we were only one mile away from Tammy – Marcus – the twins and Bode.

He was too young for school and the twins were at the middle school less than a block away.

So – for the most part – he spent his days with MORMOR and PAPA.

We had a cupboard that all the kid’s toys would fit into.

All of the grandkids played with these same toys!

Hours and hours!

The carpet on the floor – the fireplace on for the cold and snow outside.

The only time he quit was to eat!

I would sit and watch and sometimes join in!

The FARM SET was his favorite.

I miss these times but also have MEMORABLE MOMENTS in pictures of those times!

Along with shopping and him riding in the cart!

Now he is older – soon to be eleven years old –

Now he asks MORMOR to bake cookies so he can help!

This is now creating more MEMORABLE MOMENTS in time for us as seniors.

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Papa’s World – Pictures – Thoughts and Humor!

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This picture represents a four-decade plus of friends we have had during our 42-plus years of marriage.

Count your friends on one hand?

We would need two hands plus our feet to count all that we consider close friends!

These are the longest in that count.

Blessings to our life together have come in many ways – this is but one of them!

We have five grandchildren – FIVE girls and one Boy!

Today – the three oldest are adults –

Maddy – Ella and Sarah.

The three youngest are 14 – 14 and 10 – Taylor- Cassidy and Bode.

Being far away – they come down and we go back to where they live.

Another blessing in our life.

A picture of Ocean Isle Beach – in ten minutes we can be here from our house on the mainland –

crossing over the ICW!

In the middle of this picture is the park on the island.

From mid-May to the end of September –

Live open-air concerts are held free of charge.

Many different groups will take donations from the crowd –

supporting many area volunteer activities.

Free will offerings are a way to support their missions.

Sunset Beach is the other barrier island here –

And it is five more minutes away.

That also has free concerts that we attend.

Sunset Beach is Wednesday nights and OIB is Friday nights.

That is one “WHY” we moved her in 2021.

The “BEACH LIFE” – retirement dream!

Another blessing in our lives!

Have a sense of “HUMOR”! LOL!

A “GOOD THOUGHT” for the day!

WHO IS YOUR PURPLE?

Reach out – stay in touch – they are your PURPLE MARBLE in your life!

My hope is that today I will bring some “PICTURES” – “THOUGHTS” and “HUMOR” –

to start your day –

My site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

My blog: PAPA’S WORLD!

Thanks for reading and as always HGD!

Papa’s World – Off to Great Falls with the little ones !!!

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We decided that we would take the three little ones to Great Falls

They were off from school and we were watching them.

To say I was nervous would be a understatement –

They like to climb and Bode is fast !

Cassidy Taylor Bode
at the first overlook in Great Falls Va.

I did not have to worry – they were perfect –

listening to what we said and not climbing onto the ledge

It was a beautiful day – low 60’s – blue skies – white clouds !

History abounds here

Everywhere you look are interesting facts –

and Taylor already knew a lot of them !

We do as much now as we can
Bode on his way to the overlook
Learning from MORMOR !!!! LOL
Taylor
Bode and Taylor
at another overlook
Over the years
the different flood stages
and it goes up another 10 feet !

The flood stages are just hard to believe they would get this high!

Which from the bottom of the gorge

has to be 100 to 200 feet !

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

my blog site livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

my email fitztdf@aol.com

A tribute to George Washington
Taylor Cassidy Bode
The last two should of been the twins
they look and act so much alike
Taylor is so laid back
and is going to be tall
like her MORMOR!
Cassidy – the one who would
not leave MORMOR’s side
and held her hand the entire time

SHERRY – CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH

email ssherrylynn49@aol.com

web site

http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

Taylor Cassidy Bode

Papa’s World

A trip to Great Falls Va.

Taylor Cassidy Bode

WHERE FRIENDS MEET FAMILY

Papa’s World – Random pictures and the History Museum.

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Bode and Taylor at the History Museum in Washington, D.C.

We ventured by Metro into D.C.-

with the two of them –

We walked and walked –

Showing them the sights.

We did this while living nearby for twenty years –

with family and friends!

They were so excited –

and not once did they complain!

Bode was fascinated with life thousands of years ago.

He was full of questions-

and Taylor had most of the answers! LOL

These are some of the pictures Taylor took!

There is so much to see –

and little time to spend.

We need to go back for a week –

and take in something different each day.

This was such a learning experience for both of them!

Big sister-

little brother –

something they shall remember for a lifetime.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD-

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway. blog

BODE – RANDOM PICTURES AT THE HISTORY MUSEUM – WASHINGTON, D.C.

Papa’s World – MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Today we share thoughts –

laughs – kindness – gifts –

and cheer with family and friends!

The past memories come flooding back –

watching grandkids sitting on the stairs –

eyes wide and giggling.

Waiting for parents to get up out of bed –

And eyeing the stockings-

hanging from the stairwell.

Oh – how I cherish those memories of times gone past.

The innocence of youth.

The tree is all lit up –

presents are stacked neatly underneath it!

They giggle –

excitement in the air –

then the bedroom door opens-

and silence as they wait for their parents-

CHRISTMAS DAY HAS ARRIVED –

let the enjoyment begin!

Outside it is a “WHITE CHRISTMAS DAY”!

The wind is blowing –

and the trees shake their branches.

Inside the fireplace is on –

the stockings are on the floor-

between their legs.

The voices ring with excitement –

AFTER ALL – IT IS CHRISTMAS DAY!

To all of you – MERRY CHRISTMAS –

and hope for a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thanks for reading my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Papa’s World – A look around – see what I see!

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I love colors –

chimes and flowers!

The wind provides a calming effect when this chime –

which we purchased at a vendor fair near our residence-

It is a glass bottle –

decorated with a wooden round wheel –

as it swings from the wind – a musical sound –

and in the silence of sitting on the front porch –

it brings music to one’s ears.

The red bird bobs up and down and swivels around –

We also have on the other side of the house –

another set of the above although both are different in colors and wind chimes.

Made by different folks for sale –

A way to break the SOUNDS OF SILENCE –

while sitting on the porch in the glider!

The front porch –

a favorite of mine – I sit here daily –

saying hello to those who walk past-

Waving to friendly neighbors who pass in their cars.

Watching birds flying above – even eagles!

Sights – sounds – neighbors –

warm weather –

and even light rain with no wind!

A LOOK AROUND – SEE WHAT I SEE!

The dawn of a new day –

rising in the East – from the front driveway –

A hint or splash of color to come!

And then it is there – SUNRISE – the beginning of a new day –

In Cameron Woods Community –

Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.

We choose our lot for this reason –

A place to sit on a covered porch-

and a place to see both SUNRISE and-

SUNSET off to the WEST from our front driveway.

Just walk out the front door-

and look to the EAST – SUNRISE –

And as here to the WEST –

and the SUNSET!

We love the weather –

having lived in the Snowbelt for fifty years –

And another 21 years in moderate temperature in NVA-

It is here –

that I finally call home!

Sun – Sand and Surf are just minutes away.

A LOOK AROUND – SEE WHAT I SEE!

Tammy – mother to Taylor and Cassidy –

twins – all share the same birthday.

The doctor said it was time to be born –

and it just so happened to be Tammy’s birthday –

They were premature –

not quite two pounds a piece –

but healthy.

Today – Taylor is 5’8″ and Cassidy is almost 5’6″ –

The Swedish genes being passed down from their MORMOR –

Sherry who is 5’10” –

is Tammy’s mother.

MORMOR-

with the grandkids and Tammy.

Today we try to get home-

as often as we can.

And they in turn come down to spend time.

FAMILY – MORMOR and grandkids!

A LOOK AROUND – SEE WHAT I SEE!

MORMOR –

Family – daughters and grandkids –

Celebrating her 75th. birthday this past summer.

Tammy – Mormor and Debby –

daughters and their mother.

The three oldest granddaughters –

Sarah – 18 – Ella – 21 and Maddy – 24 –

MORMOR and daughter Debby –

Mother to Maddy – Ella and Sarah

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

A LOOK AROUND – SEE WHAT I SEE!

Papa’s World – Family Vacation!

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What could be more rewarding than spending time with all SIX grandkids?

A FAMILY VACATION!!!!

We have not done this-

since before the Pandemic in 2020!

At one point in time when they were all young –

we would take beach vacations together!

Now – the three oldest are –

one graduated from college –

One has one year left in college-

and one has one year left in H.S.

Two are going into eighth grade –

and the youngest is going to be ten years old.

This year – Sherry and I –

celebrated our 75th. birthday –

and her birthday is one day after the fourth of July!

A perfect way to gather the family together –

so they can celebrate their mother’s birthday together!

This year we also hit another milestone –

42 years of marriage!

We moved South for warmer weather –

while it is hot and muggy in the Summer –

But we both do not like snow- ice and being cold!

So – we decided to find a place close to the beaches –

so that when they visit –

either family by family – individuals or all together –

They would want to return time after time!

When they all leave-

and go back North –

Our dream life is-

“WE STILL ARE ON VACATION”!

We took a ride back to the vacation house-

to see if anyone had rented it?

And all the memories came back –

sitting on the deck in the shade –

Music playing softly –

rocking chairs and laughter.

Drinks – snacks and children both old –

and young enjoying their time together!

Golf carts sitting under the house-

clothes drying on the clothes-line-

Shoes – chairs and boards leaning against the walls.

This is what we envisioned when we moved South!

That time is now four years after the Pandemic.

And – already there is –

“WE HAVE TO DO THIS NEXT YEAR”!

YES – WE DO!

FAMILY VACATION HAPPENED ONCE MORE – THE FUTURE HOLDS MORE – GOD WILLING!

We shall return next year –

at least that is our thoughts –

after we moved South –

But this vacation time –

we all moved into a house together.

That in my mind –

“PRICELESS”!

Thanks for reading my sharing of my thoughts –

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Our FAMILY VIEW of the Fourth of July fireworks –

sitting on OIB –

in the sand –

listening to the sound of the Surf and booms of fireworks.

PAPA’S WORLD – FAMILY VACATION!

Papa’s World – Making Memories July 4th.

/ Tom / 1 Comment

We took the family-

who were here the week of July 4th.-

to the golf cart parade –

on the main street of Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.

Thousands of people lined the streets =

to watch as they came by for over an hour!

Our friend – Jim –

who lives on Second Street on a corner with the canal behind his house –

invited Sherry and myself and our family –

to come over early

and use his side lot to park and set up our chairs on the curb front.

Here are the chairs with Tammy –

and behind them is Jim talking with Debby –

You can see the lot with a parking area and grass –

he bought this lot for what he calls –

“SOCIAL DISTANCING” –

To keep it open so no one builds there!

Bode – Sherry – Taylor and Tammy stand by the chairs on the curb front –

The large multi-storied yellow house is where Jim lives.

He lost his wife two years ago to dementia –

And we became friends –

when we met him on the Protection for Sea Turtles Team.

He actually let Bode drive his boat on the ICW last year –

He has two full-sized docks on the canal –

behind his house and last Spring –

Debby – Ella – Sarah and Sherry came over –

and Kayacked while Jim and I sipped a beer!

Sarah and Cassidy walk from the lot where we parked to the curb with the chairs!

A few of the family stayed in the shade until the parade started!

For such a small community –

they came up big as a unit after the unit came by all decorated!

Here is most of the family –

the parade has started –

We had a wonderful time –

and could not believe so many carts all decorated –

and other cars – trucks – bikes-

and people who marched along the parade route.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – MAKING MEMORIES JULY 4TH.

Special note: Maddy is 5’61/2″ –

Ella is almost 5’10 “

as is Sarah –

Taylor at 13 is 5’8″ –

Cassidy is 5’51/2″and has gained one inch on Taylor in the last year

and Bode is going to be taller than all of them!

He is 9 years old.

The Swedish genes flow from Sherry through the grandkids!

Papa’s World – Early times – places – pictures!

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I remember the early days of golfing with Sherry!

But – she always hit the ball down the middle – me – not so much! LOL

I had a slice that made a right turn – around trees!

Those days were filled with laughter with our close friends the McBrides –

Buck golfed but Cindy didn’t!

Sherry and Cindy made fun of us for using the ball washer to clean the ball.

They would wear mittens with no fingers and laugh at us!

Those were the days of is – Buck and myself – “TEACHING” them to golf!

Today – in a scramble – us vs. them – they will beat “US”!

The early years are gone replaced by sighting the distance to the flag and selecting the ‘RIGHT” club!

I just grab the one I hit the best and go at it! LOL!

Those early years have turned into “US” years –

still playing with the McBrides but also going out by ourselves –

Our dream of living where we do is a reality –

Being together – sharing sun-fun and golf one day at a time!

While living in NVA – for about 20 years – we became baseball fans and attended many games –

We would drive into D.C. or go to the Metro – fifteen minutes away –

And ride it to the stop just a block or so from the stadium.

OUR PLACE IN THE SUN!

Beer – peanuts and hot dogs –

Some people think watching baseball is like watching “PAINT DRY”! LOL

But – we were there during the 2019 season and the WORLD SERIES run-

and the years running up to that magical year!

“TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME” still rings in my mind!

A picture of the early years back in NVA!

Cassidy and Taylor – now 14 years old – are here – The Brambleton town center –

most likely between 2 and 3!

Between houses for a year – they came and lived with us –

One day – I could not find them in the house-

the downstairs half-bath door was shut!

I knocked and they both said in unison – “HERE”! LOL

They had gone in and shut the door and set up the house with their dolls and toys!

That is an early memory I shall always carry with me!

So sweet and innocent – the early days of being close as twins –

having each other to play with –

I wish that could continue but growing up they had separate interests-

Taylor – riding horses and working in the barn and stalls!

Cassidy – gymnastics – arts and crafts and plays!

Both play the violin – both sing and both are different yet the same!

THE EARLY YEARS – MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – EARLY TIMES – PLACES and PICTURES!

Sarah – Cassidy and Sherry – MORMOR!

Papa’s World – Moving on from the early years of sports!

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For years and years, we followed these two granddaughters as they played soccer.

Today – our grandson is about to start his journey into sports and we hope to be there for him.

Loading the car up with cushions – chairs – food and drink –

driving miles and miles – rain – cold – snow and freezing ice.

We were grandparents who loved watching them play.

Travel teams to college – Maddy has graduated and Ella will be in her Senior year in college.

I remember them so fondly – cheering them on – heartbreak in losing – but regrouping for the next game or tournament.

Although I never played soccer – or was on a travel team – I did play baseball – football and softball –

later in life basketball and volleyball!

But watching them play – both ladies have talented skills in ball handling and passing.

Both were named Captains for their college soccer teams.

Ella will graduate as a four-year starter – being injured during her Junior year

with a leg injury.

Our early time of traveling to games came to an end when they both went off to college – Maddy University of Lynchburg and Ella to Randolf College.

But we selected games to go to for both of them – renting AIRBNB’S so the whole family could go and watch.

In two of the four years Maddy played – they won the conference title and advanced to the

Division III NCAA Tournament.

Ella has one more year to accomplish that!

Times we spent watching sports – and in the future one more grandchild to try and see as he grows older.

We have now moved on from those early years – I guess you could call us –

“THE SENIOR YEARS” LOL

But – we shall always cherish this time – living life in sports through our grandchildren!

Thanks for reading and as always HGD!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Good times with family and friends!

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LOL – it would not matter for me – it is not the equipment – but it is “ME”!

So many times we have golfed – and mostly with friends – both near and far!

Elaine and Steve from back in WNY –

Paul and Janet from back in WPA – (Janet Is the designated driver) –

Bob and Pam – when they stopped their RV for a week, we hit the links!

Jim and Dottie – and Buck and Cindy –

we try to get together with each other along with Craig and Debbie.

Just being together with friends – and sometimes just the two of us!

We now live close to each other – 35 35-minute drive and most times they come in our direction –

because of all the courses near us. BUCK and CINDY – our close friends!

And for years – the machine and Mike’s come out and they sing!

FRIENDS – BESTIES – living life to the plus – one song at a time!

Laughing – friendships – priceless!

Six grandchildren – they call Sherry “GRANDMA – MORMOR” and she loves it!

We try every so few months to travel back to NVA to see them –

and they also travel here to N.C. to see us.

Sarah – Ella and Debby with Sherry – Maddy had to work and could not visit.

Maddy has graduated with an environmental science degree and is now working –

as a Scientist – Geologist for a major national Environmental firm.

Today they are getting older – but our memories as growing grandchildren – PRICELESS!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – GOOD TIMES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Papas World – the angels of my life – looking down.

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I am the only one left now –

First was my brother Mike who left us way too early –

I do not have many pictures of him – but I have his image –

for as long as I live in my mind.

Curly headed little red head – always smiling –

giggling – I can still hear him.

And what a golfer he became –

the first one to hit that ball 300 yards or more.

On the old number one at Smethport Pa.

The one that runs along the highway – I was with him when he did it.

He drove past the green and into the yard behind the green!

That had to be 350 yards and a little grade uphill!

He was mostly a par golfer and had he been able to putt –

Well Gene Fazio once told me –

“IF I HAD HIS LONG GAME AND MY SHORT GAME – I”D TURN PRO”!

Gene was one of the finest golfers in our area and there were a lot of them.

My sister Donna – me – my brother in law Bill – my brother Roger and our mother Mary

One by one they passed away – first Donna –

my sister who was 15 years older than me-

Who rasied me until she she was married to Bill and moved out.

She was the most kind and considerate person I have ever known.

She always could see both sides and I never heard her say a cross word.

Bill – was second to go – a Korean War vet – a truck driver and Police chief

A Mayor and a wise brother in law – always funny –

he had nicknames for almost all the kids

but he simply called me Tommy or Tom.

We were more friends than brother in laws-

Then it was my Mom – who outlived all her friends –

two children and all her brothers and sisters – cousins –

She was almost 98 years old when she passed.

She was small – always a smile – and very kind.

She was a true baker – she could bake without following a recipe.

Cakes – Pies Homemade bread and rolls –

she did it all and everyone in town knew her.

She would sit on her front porch and they would honk

and holler “HELLO MARY”!

People would pull over and stop and come over and talk with her.

She was Mary – the kind lady – but she also was tough as nails.

She ruled the roost so to speak.

I always listened to her – I did not want to hurt her.

Roger

The last to pass in this picture was my brother Roger –

who as I grew up was my idol.

He was ten years older – but in the last ten years of his life

we became very close.

He always lived far away and I lived for any information from him

I would ask my Mom – “DID YOU HEAR FROM ROGER”?

He too played golf – although not as well as Mike –

he was always a little over Par – but always under 40.

He was very smart – having been named “WHO’S WHO”

while in college.

He was a ladies man – he knew how to be a gentlemen –

he was “IT” when it came to the ladies.

Now I am the last – my dad passed from cancer when I was just 19.

I have my two sons –

My sons Troy and Shawn

I have a niece Kelli and another Jen –

I have two great nieces and they have children.

And I have two grandsons from Shawn.

Ryan and Dylan

And I have my soulmate – Sherry – my wife.

Our extended family here whom I love dearly.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

“THE ANGELS OF MY LIFE – LOOKING DOWN ON ME”!

Papa’s World – Sharing pictures of family and friends!

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Back in Brambleton before we sold the house – six grandkids – five granddaughters and one grandson.

PICTURE OF A MEMORY GONE PAST!

Celebrating a neighbor and friend’s birthday – CHEERS – SHOTS and GOOD TIMES!

A very long-time friend – grew up in the same town – played softball together – and yes – we drank some beers together – this might of been one of those times! LOL

When friends visit from AZ. A day trip into DC. exploring – walking and taking in the sights and sounds!

Our friends from back in WNY – Portville – Kurt and Carol – still friends after all these years!

At our home in Brambleton – Cassidy and Taylor – now 13 and Sarah – now 17 – MEMORIES – PRICELESS!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – SHARING PICTURES OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Pictures – Good times and Memories!

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My family, I grew up with – now gone but always near – Roger – Donna and my mom – Mary-

My mom was almost 98 when she passed away.

Roger was ten years older than me and Donna was fifteen years older.

Roger and his wife Shala when they lived in The Villages in Florida.

Maddy – Ella and Sarah – at my 60th birthday celebration on Lake Anna in Va.

Maddy and Ella singing at my birthday!

Papa at his 60th birthday party at Lake Anna.

THE WHITE HOUSE ON THE HILL – we rented for my 60th. birthday party on Lake Anna.

Fon memory – PICTURES – GOOD TIMES and MEMORIES!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – PICTURES – GOOD TIMES and MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – A life full of memories!

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Thirteen years ago – Tammy gave birth to the twins – Cassidy and Taylor! MEMORY!

Our three oldest granddaughters – Maddy – Ella and Sarah – standing in our front yard in NVA –

I believe before we went to the metro to go into D.C. MEMORY!

Memories for us are of times we spent with the family!

Our close friends Cindy and Dottie – we manage to all get together a couple times a year! MEMORY!

Sherry’s mother – Barb ( GIGI) at the Dulles Town Center mall with the five granddaughters! MEMORY!

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PAPA’S WORLD – A LIFE FULL OF MEMORIES! livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Watching BEAUTY AND THE BEAST in camp for the three grandkids!

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Marcus – Taylor – Bode – Cassidy and Tammy – after the play was over – all three had parts.

Next year is THE LITTLE MERMAID and all three will be in that!

All three had parts – Bode in the junior production had two speaking parts.

The play is a summer camp with the production team coming from California.

This is the second year for the girls and next year all three will be in the same production of

THE LITTLE MERMAID!

Looking forward to returning to the stage – both girls will try out for their middle school production and that play is very good!

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PAPA’S WORLD – WATCHING BEAUTY AND THE BEAST IN CAMP FOR THE THREE GRANDKIDS!

Papa’s World – Ocean Isle Beach fireworks with grandkids.

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The moon shining over OIB before the start of fireworks.

It was a warm evening – and the kids were excited – we made our way onto the island and found a spot to park right across the street from the pier – we carried our chairs to a grassy area next to the roadway – we were about to have front row seats!

To our left is the traffic circle and it seemed like hundreds of cars and golf carts were still streaming in and around the circle – most going past in front of us.

Papa and the crew – this was in the other direction from the circle – and there was a constant stream of cars – I have no idea where they went because that end is the end of the island some three miles away.
The opening of the fireworks continued for a one-half hour!
The view – palm trees – and parking lot of the pier – and then the ocean.
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Ocean Isle Beach fireworks with the grandkids!

Papa’s World – Christmas Holidays 2021 – part 3.

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Taylor Bode Cassidy – 2021

Holidays – celebrations – cookies – presents – hugs – laughs – CHRISTMA VACATION – Chevy Chase!

To good health and nutrition

This the season – happy memories – trying to eat and drink healthy!

Celebrating with the three oldest – Sarah – Maddy – Ella and Sherry.

Seems like only yesterday they were small.

Now 15 – 21 – 18!

Christmas 2021 – daughters – mother and grandchildren!

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PAPA’S WORLD – Christmas 2021 – memories – Part 3!

THE FROG , THE PRINCESS AND THE BIG COUSIN – DRESS UP TIME AT MORMOR’S – with “MAXPANDA”

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2013-06-21 18.22.14            Taylor ,  Cassidy  &  big cousin  Sarah !

Every once in a while – the three of them get together and then the magic happens.  They seem to find everything and anything to dress up.

Be it as it may – I never cease to be amazed how well they get along. Hours and hours they will play.  Never a argument – always laughing and they adore Sarah!

I wonder how it will be in a couple weeks when the new brother for the twins comes along. “MAXPANDA” they call him already.  Already they walk around with little baby dolls , dressing “HIM” up , and when they come to “MORMOR’S” house, out comes all the old dolls of Debby & Tammy’s , along with all the outfits she made for them.

I can see it in the future – Taylor , Cassidy & Sarah all standing by the little brother known as “MAXPANDA” , looking down before they are off to DRESS UP once again.

A few years from now , it will be the three and BIG COUSIN Sarah – playing at PAPA & MORMOR’S – another adventure

in our lives to soon begin.

Can’t wait to see the outfits then – and my memory of them now will last for as long as I live. THE FROG , THE PRINCES AND THE BIG COUSIN – WAITING FOR “MAXPANDA” !!!!!!!!!

Papa’s World – My wife and soulmate – HAPPY BIRTHDAY

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The coincidence of birthdays –

HERS – 7 – 5 – 49

MINE – 5 – 7 – 49

MEANT TO BE – WIFE & SOULMATE

Tom & Sherry

She is a 4 th. of July baby – we always celebrate with family –

As the Holiday – it seems we all can get together.

This is who she is

They all respect her – they all love her – honesty is her essential being

Daughters and Mother

Ask either one who they admire – ask either one who they emulate

Ask either one WHY they followed her South –

Showing the little one how to play

They call her MOR MOR – Swede for Mother’s Mother –

Tammy – Sherry and the only boy – Bode

There never is a time when you do not hear “MOR – MOR”

with the little ones

Debby and Sherry

They follow her lead out of love and respect –

inspired by her –

Her compassion – her knowledge –

and leadership – passed down

Sherry – Ella – Maddy & Sarah

” GRANDMA” !!!

Then the laughter and giggles –

always from the three oldest .

She is a true leader to many –

she is a inspiration to all –

She is a builder of dreams –

she is a builder of teams

She is known by all as ” MAMA BIRD ”

gathering her chicks under her wings.

Some of her TEAM & THEIR DREAMS
MAMA BIRD

Beautiful inside and outside – she leads –

Her MOTTO to family – friends – and team.

BECAUSE OF HER – THEY ARE

Leader she is – mother she is – soulmate –

all to me.

Sherry – sisters Debbie and Bonnie

She is the oldest –

so much like her father –

Her laugh – her smile – her insight – her knowledge

Now the Patriarch of the family –

respected by all.

Always a sense of humor

She brings forth a sense of humor –

A compassion for all

never a bad thought.

Always caring for others

That is her

That is my reason WHY !

FRIENDS

For 32 plus years – friends –

get together’s – fun – laughter – singing

A celebration of life

For as long as we live

We live to celebrate life.

THE LIBRARY CLUB

For years it has been getting together –

sharing memories –

Friend – that is who we are

Tom – Elaine – Steve – Sherry

Friendship – love – laughs – good times – through the years.

THOSE SPECIAL TIMES TO LAUGH TOGETHER
FRIENDS
FAMILY
GRAND CHILDREN

WISHING YOU A HAPPY BIRTHDAY

SHERRY LYNN OVERBECK FITZSIMMONS

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WOMEN I KNOW BOTH INSIDE AND OUTSIDE

7 – 5 – 19 Not another fourth of July birthday – but her special day.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LOVE

SHERRY AND TOM

I hope you like my blog –

If you would like to read more

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Her email

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WELCOME TO PAPA’S WORLD THANK YOU !

Paps’s World – Taylor – Cassidy and Bode – first day of school and Marley walking to bus stop!

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On Wednesday – it marked the first day of school for fifth grade for Taylor and Cassidy and first grade for Bode.

It also was the first day for Marley – the new goldendoodle – to walk to the bus stop!

I think she has become Tayor’s to walk as she takes her all the time.

Taylor – Marley – Bode in the back and Cassidy!

At first Marley would not walk just plopping down in the middle of the sidewalk – where Taylor would pick her up and carry her – but I think she has gotten over the puppy stage now – and Taylor seems to be the one who controls her!

The three plus the dog walk a couple blocks down the street to where the school bus stops and picks them up.

We are headed there and by the time you read this will already been and came back home again.

The parents are going out of state to a wedding and we will fly home( using a few vouchers we had)

to stay with the kids and Marley.

It will be a extended weekend – and looking forward to seeing everyone including Deb – Mike and Sarah.

The other two oldest are now in college.

To think one year ago – we did the same thing – only we had sold our home and stayed there for two months until we moved to S.C. – going back and forth to Winmchester and Leesburg.

We helped out with the home schooling due to the pandemic.

The kids did well but need to structure of school and friends and classmates.

Taylor in the lead with Marley and then Cassidy followed by Bode – walking to the bus stop.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World – MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

My email for contact : fitztdf@aol.com SHERRY EMAIL: ssherrylynn49@aol.com http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

The kids really like school – making new friends and new teachers.

First day of school and walking Marley to the bus stop!

PAPA’S WORLD

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – The arrival of the “LITTLE ONES”

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Sherry on arrival at Myrtle Beach International Airport with Cassidy – Bode and Taylor.

Sherry flew back to NVA to watch the twins in a play and because both parents work – instead of them paying

for a couple weeks at summer camp –

they bought plane tickets instead and she flew back with them for me to pick up!

The parents were coming down the following week anyways for a in law family vacation about a hour South of us.

We spent the day yesterday with them – in the sun and the warm water of the ocean.

They were so excited and we planned a full week with them. A few dust ups as childeren will have –

But once we seperated the two –

Cassidy and Bode – it was fine.


Taylor – who is only ten years old – will be taller than her MorMor ( Sherry ) who is 5’9″.

They were so excited to do a number of things – being a gradparent can be exhausting! LOL
After seeing the POWER BOAT ride and wanting to go right away – the little guy got nervous!

I had purchased the tickets for he and I – and while standing in line he said to me –

“Papa – can we get a refund”?

“No” I said.

“PAPA – I am scared – will you hold onto me”?

OF COUSE and I did and he loved it – wanting to go again!

About to start out – Bode and I in the back seat – where it seemed all the water came in and on top of us!

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I will continue in part two the next blog – “THE ARRIVAL OF THE LITTLE ONES”!

BOARDWALK AT THE BEACH and ON THE BEACH – Ocean Isle Beach – N.C.

PAPA’S WORLD : livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – finally – we got a warm day for the beach and water – FAMILY KROHN!

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TAYLOR CASSIDY BODE

Once it was in the mid to high ’70’s and full sun –

Into the water they went!

Notice how protective Cassidy is of her little brother!

They fight and argue – but no one touches him according to her!

These two should have been the twins

they act and sound just alike.

She is so kind – loving and thoughtful.

Cassidy and Bode – two peas in a pod!
Taylor – or “TATTER TOT” as her cousin Ella calls her!

She on the other hand loves her alone time away from the other two! LOL!

She rides horses – and whenever around her MorMor – holds her hand.

She is the serious – studious one who quotes facts!

“AS AMATTER OF FACT” she says and then goes on to tell you!

BODE – after FIVE GRAND DAUGHTERS – he is the only boy and all boy!
Only six years old – and will be tall like Taylor!
Bode – cars – trucks – bikes – playing Army – running – riding – scraps – bruises – scabs – star wars – monsters – independent – never wearing shoes or socks and shirtless in the cold!

It was a very warm day in the sun – water to me was very cold – but they loved it!

Taylor is goin to be really tall like her MorMor – I think close to six foot!

They played and played in the water – coming out to run up and tell us something and then back they went!

For us – it was sit and take it all in – the sun was warm which is what I like!
Cassidy – small but a spitfire! Always calling her MorMor as does Bode! Love you Papa she says!

Yes – the sun was warm – the sand was also – yet the water was cold – but to them – it was their day at the beach!

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!

MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD

MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

CASSIDY BODE TAYLOR

PAPA’S WORLD livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – find a shell – tie a cord through it – DEB and GIRLS make a WISH – hang in tree!

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There is a place near the ICW – where there are hundreds of shells hanging from trees – each one is someones WISH!

We brought them – Debby – Sarah and Ella to Vareen’s Memorial Garden

Just as we did with their cousins – and here is a special place

to not wish upon a star – but a SEASHELL and the hang it form one of the Cypress Trees!

Sarah Sherry Ella Debby at the make a wish site.
Sarah’s hanging wishes for all her school friends!
The first make a wish tree – now there are many more!

Many people pass through here each day –

I watched two older women stop and do the same thing –

find a shell – write on it and then hang it from a tree!

Busy writing their names and making their wishes!
Debby’s shell – no matter how old you are – make a wish to come true!
Taylor’s shell in front of Ella’s shell – cousins!

It was a warm day – low tide so lots of shells to look at!

Sarah going to the ICW to look for shells.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

Sherry and Papa

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

Sherry Sarah Ella Debby

FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!

Wishing tree along the ICW!

MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD

MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

SHERRY SSC for The Juice Plus Company Debby QMND for The Juice Plus Company – Mother and daughter teaming up to bring health and nutrition to families all across the U.S.A.

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CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH HEALTH and NUTRITION

Leader of: TEAM GENERATIONS

Cassidy -cousin and grand daughter – make a wish on a seashell and hang from the WISHING TREE!

Papa’s World – when grand kids come to visit – love them all!

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Tammy Bode MorMor Cassidy Taylor

The first thing they wanted to do was walk the beach!

Now – wouldn’t you know it that it got cold and windy the day they arrived!

It was so warm the day before people were sitting on the beach and wading in the water!

So we pressed on and walked down and onto the beach.

The wind was the culprit – making it very cold.

Even Bode has enough even though he had no shoes on!

Cassidy Taylor Bode after he put his shoes back on!

We walked to the next beach entrance and exited!

MorMor Bode Cassidy Taylor Tammy

It was a very short walk – but they got to see just how close we are!

Tammy said the kids were great – she had told them she would not stop and she didn’t making the seven hour drive in a little over six hours and they never complained!

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS

FRIENDS MEET FAMILY!

And that night after the kids went to bed – we relaxed and watched a playoff game

We are all from Western New York

and were huge fans when Buffalo Bills made their four straight Super Bowls!

One of my favorite beers from back in Western New York!

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Papa’s World – Family – walking into a new year!

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Family

As we start the new year – 2021 –

Hoping that this year will be better than the last!

We now are officially in the South!

But – the family is spread now out more than ever!

Troy Papa Sherry Shawn Trisha

My two sons and daughter in law are all back in NWPA.

They run a energy – audit company that contracts with the state.

Very successful and ever growing

Troy runs the crews – Trisha the office –

and Shawn the audits.

This is all done with grants for the elderly

by both the state and the power companies that serve the elderly.

Three sisters – Sherry – Debbie – Bonnie

Sherry has two sisters – one still lives back in NWPA

The other outside Raleigh N.C.

Both are retired as is Sherry who also runs her own

network marketing company from where ever we live.

WWW.SF.Juiceplus.com

We are now across Pa. Va. N.C. and a possible Tenn.

The children of the three sisters – cousins – very close – growing up.

Kristy – Nigel – Bethany – Natalia – Nathan – Tammy – Debby – cousins.

The family has grown over the years –

today you see in the first picture that growth.

And now the grand children of the three sisters

As we age – it seems that get together’s get less and less.

Being so spread out and so diverse –

logistics and time make it almost impossible to bring it off!

Debby’s family – Ella Maddy Sarah Mike a number of years ago.
Tammy and family Taylor Bode Cassidy Marcus

2020 has been a tough year – a time of forced seperation

social distancing – less travel – moving away.

It also has brought us together with Zoom calls

text messages and phone calls.

But one thing is for certain –

family always remains strong.

My blog starts and ends with family.

PAPA’S WORLD

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!

FAMILY – WALKING INTO A NEW YEAR!

MY SITE: livninglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papas World – Good thoughts – give – pray – the World turns.

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In this time – Day#58 of Sheltering –

The World turns regardless –

Try not to read the bad news – or listen to the negative

Give of yourself – food to the hungry – clothes to the poor.

Even though you see and hear all things –

filter them out – for it is up to you and me

To make this a better place.

In our time of silence – in our time of isolation –

Think how the normal is now the abnormal

and how to bring the sanity back into our lives’

The World turns regardless –

Put your faith into whatever you believe in

and make it a better place.

Positive thoughts – positive well being – positive actions

The news is full of the negative – channel it out

there are good things out there

We are humanity –

Give of yourself – help less fortunate –

Those in need – those that are hungry

donate time – collect food – and help deliver it.

Laughter – zooming – tic – tock – video – messaging

stay in touch – drive by honk your horn

Sunday streamed service

walk – ride a bike – say hello from a distance

Faith – hope -charity – love and kindness.

Sheltering Day# 58

The little ones depend on us –

“Now I lay myself down to sleep “-

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

“Pray to the Lord my soul to keep”

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

Papa & Bode

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – a little place to eat on the river!

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MERROIR

Not sure just how you say this name –

I think it is French!

And it sits on what I think is still the Rappahannock River

or one of the many inland bays of the Chesapeake Bay.

My son in law had eaten here before.

But – where ever it is – I want to go back

As I had the best AHI TUNA I have ever eaten!

AHI TUNA

It must of been the seasoning – and it was done just right!

We had gone off the resort of The Tides –

because the day we arrived – their dining room was closed.

And Marcus and Tammy had been here before.

Not many people at all – we almost had the whole outside to ourselves!

And you could not sit inside.

SHRIMP & LOBSTER ROLL!

The little ones all had the shrimp and lobster roll along with Sherry.

She said it was very good!

Tammy and Marcus had the oysters as a appetizer

Now – I have never had a feeling to eat oysters

and I think that goes way back to my father

every Friday night – he had oyster soup!

And it just did not look good to me!

Bode almost made it

Bode wanted to try one –

but at the last moment gave it up to Taylor

and she ate it and gave it a THUMBS UP!

The view from our table

I think there were three other people there

but they also were doing a good take out business.

You could walk over and look into the kitchen from three sides.

And two ladies were busy cooking in there!

I recommend this place!

Sherry taking the three little ones to look into the bay where they saw a dolphin up close!
On the other side was a marina with tons of docked boats
Bode Taylor Cassidy

I would imagine this being a very busy place

if it were not for the pandemic

Marcus and Tammy said when they were there last year

it was packed.

I hope it stays – I most likely will never get back there

BUT MERRIOR on the bay – remember that

and if you have a chance – stop in –

The pan seared AHI TUNA was out of this world!

And the sunsets weren’t bad either!

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – The life of a grand parent!

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Times have changed – today it is IPAD – SMART PHONE

and they can do it better than I can!

In this picture there is Sherry and all six grandkids.

Soon – in a little over three weeks – we will be leaving.

Going South – for FIVE MONTHS

trying to think out our possibilities

Do we rent – buy – house – apartment – condo!

And WHERE?

Until then – next week – the three little ones start virtual classes.

Now – I can show them how to butter bread –

cut a piece of pie or cake

even use this as a screwdriver or the other end as a hammer

but – I know nothing when it comes to being a techie!

They all know more than I do!

It will be hard for them in not going to school.

Having interaction with other kids

and with the teacher face to face.

Not to mention – the parents who work.

Where this all ends – I do not know.

We are going to help them get all set up at home.

We will be here for the start up.

Being grandparents can be hard in this new age.

And now – the new norm for the time being.

In a little over three weeks – our new adventure begins

we have already rented and paid for five months.

Watching them last night when they came home

rushing down the stairs to see us

all three talking at the same time

It will be hard on them also

Life as a grandparent can be hard

life as a grandchild can be harder

life now as we know it –

well – we shall live that life one day at a time

For that we are grateful –

that is why I write – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

Going to miss them all.

Papa’s World – looking back – time and memories.

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GIGI Maddy Sarah Ella Cassidy Taylor
GIGI WHERE IT ALL STARTED
Sherry’s mother

We have always been family – getting together –

That comes from the close bond Sherry had with her parents.

Even though she left to go to college

and never moving back home

she always made it a point and time to go back.

Sherry Bonnie Debby
Barb Bill
Back row Tammy Kristie Natalia Nathan
front row Debby Barb Nigel Bill Bethany
Debby and Tammy

And she passed that thought onto her daughters – my step daughters

and almost 39 years later – they have passed it onto their children.

Barb ( GIGI) Debby (L) Tammy (R) and Sherry

When we moved to NVA 21 years ago – it was not long before both girls and their family followed and settled near us.

Debby’s Sarah Ella Maddy

Mike and Debby eventually settled in Lake Holiday – North of Winchester.

Cassidy and Taylor the twins of Tammy and Marcus

Tammy and Marcus have always lived within a few miles of us

Marcus has a residential and commercial carpet cleaning business.

Cassidy BODE Taylor

Now there is BODE – the only boy with five girls.

Sarah and her best friend Justin who lives next door to them
Maddy and Ella

Maddy is now in her second year at the University of Lynchburg

An Academic All American in her freshman year –

she plays college soccer.

Ella is now a senior – plays soccer on the Blue ridge travel team

and on the High School team of James Wood.

Maddy earned MVP on her HS team and in the same year

Ella was named MVP on her team.

Taylor now rides horses
Taylor loves horses
Cassidy and Ella and Sarah are our artists Ella now stands 5′ 8 1/2 ” almost as tall as Sherry and Sarah is catching up – Taylor will also and Bode!
BODE is all boy – trucks – bikes – balls – running
Taylor Maddy Cassidy

Cassidy just drew a picture of Maddy in her soccer uniform

and wrote her a letter to send to her in college

such a sweet thoughtful little girl

and she is our gymnastic and tennis player

Sarah is our dancer and going to NYC girl!

Ella is a extremely good artist and plans on playing soccer in college.

She has plans to become a PHYS ED teacher just like her father.

Taylor at one year old & her horses
Family has always been important to all of us
Maddy graduating from 6th. grade
Taylor Maddy Debby Cassidy
Cassidy and Taylor our favorite place to get together THE BEACH!

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

LOOKING BACK TIME AND MEMORIES!

GIGI WHERE IT ALL STARTED with little Cassidy

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – growing up the grand daughters!

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Sherry Ella Sarah

She had hoped they would choose to come with us!

The oldest – Maddy – decided to stay home and work.

She starts her second year of college

at the University of Lynchburg in August.

Sherry Ella Sarah

They have been a main part of our lives since they were born.

Maddy will soon turn twenty –

Ella just turned 17 and Sarah will be 14.

Ella Sarah Sherry

Sherry is tall at 5′ 9″ and Ella has nearly caught her!

Ella & Sherry

Ella now stands at 5′ 8 1/2 ”

and I do not know if she is done growing

it seems in the last year she has gained 4 inches!

Sarah

Now Sarah is growing fast – she already has reached her Mother’s height.

At 5′ 6 ” she I think will be as tall or taller than Ella!

Which means they both are almost Sherry’s Height!

Sherry Sarah Ella Papa

And then there is Taylor – one of the twin girls

for our other daughter Tammy.

Taylor looks to me that she will end up taller than all of them!

She loves horses and horse back riding and at 9 years old

Is already almost 5′ tall!

Sherry and Ella

But for now – it is Sherry and Ella.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – The house and quiet solitude!

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The first sun rise of a new day!
Our room King bed
Ella and Sarah’s room
Our bathroom we shared with the grand kids!

We were on the bottom floor – no climbing stairs with bags!

A small kitchen and game room on this floor and one other master bedroom
This floor went right out to the pool and bar!
The pool was large with the deep part right in the middle!

Our floor was so that we could walk right out to the pool or beach.

We also were a five minute slow walk to the stores

and places to eat!

The beach looking North toward Va. Beach
The beach looking South toward N.C.

There were hardly any people at where we were at.

The local beach was sevral blocks North of us-

And even there – people set up 15 to 20 feet from each other.

I saw a few masks but the breeze and open air

we were and felt safe.

The nearest people set up to us!

This for the time being – will be our vacation life

as we continue into the pandemic.

Selecting spots that are quiet – social distance

and friends and family who also took safe measures before coming.

Storm brewing!

Toes in the sand – drink in hand – life is grand!

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – always a home here – vagabonds!

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This home is full of HEALTH – NUTRITION –

and our three oldest grand daughters –

Maddy – Ella and Sarah!

Sarah Maddy Ella

Until recently – Maddy was the tallest – at 5’6!

Now Ella stands 5 ‘ 8 1/2 and Sarah is going to catch her!

Sarah at 13 – is 5′ 6!

Sherry – my wife and their grandmother – is 5′ 9!

The Swedish DNA is coming out and up!

These two are very close –

BUT – Maddy eats almost no meat!

Where Ella does.

All three have been on Juice Plus for almost 14 years

and Sarah is a Juice Plus baby!

Sarah with I think Maddy

Their parents Mike and Debby –

practice whole food eating – no dairy or gluten

and always reading labels –

all must be organic and no harmful additives.

Every year for the past 18 to 20 years

they have taken a vacation to Raquet Lake in upstate New York!

Where there is no wify or internet

unless you can search and find it!

Being unconnected as they call it.

Back to nature – canoeing – hiking the mountains.

And the girls love it!

We have been spending time with them since we sold our house.

Here in the Blue Ridge mountains of NVA

outside of Winchester Va.

At Lake Holiday.

Maddy will return for her Sophomore year

at the University of Lynchburg – playing soccer!

She was named as a Freshman

To the All – American Academic awards

with a 3.85 GPA!

And as a Freshman played in every game!

Ella is on the Blue Ridge United Travel Soccer team

and also the Varsity team at James Woods H.S. in Winchester Va.

Sarah is our dancer and a film & producer of small videos.

She wants to go to NYC!

And Sherry is going to take her!

Ella Debby Mike Sarah Maddy

We are blessed to be able to stay here

and interact with them all.

Soon – in the next day –

We are taking – Ella and Sarah with us –

To the beach in Sandbridge Va.

Maddy wants to stay and work –

as she will be leaving for college in early August!

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papas World – “AS EASY AS 1-2-3-!” The little ones!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

We are now living in the basement of our daughters house!

But basement doe not quite describe it!

We have a bedroom – a full bathroom – two living rooms with chairs and sectionals!

And a storage room where we have put excess items!

We are very comfortable and even another entrance if we choose.

But the one thing I have noticed is how close these three are.

Yes – tyey argue and Bode seems to be the agitator to his sisters.

Yet – they protect him as well!

He will snuggle up with either one and they also will do the same with him.

It all depends on who is watching what on the IPADS!

And they are allowed select time on them –

the rest is play time outside – riding their bikes to neighbors house

or playing in the back yard.

Each girl will retreat to their own rooms –

while Bode tends to play with his toys by himself.

Yesterday – the two girls got up and went outside

here laid Bode – on the back of the couch

he had fallen asleep!

Bode fell asleep on the back of the couch

I tried to get a picture of him – but Taylor going out the door woke him up!

Bode age 5 The twins – Taylor & Cassidy age 9

Our time here for me will be remembered as the song goes

“1 – 2 – 3 ” !

AS EASY AS!!!!!

Cassidy and Bode are much more alike –

yet each one has the traits of the others.

Papa and Bode

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papas World – a little bit of peace and quiet!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

We are now gone from our home –

and have set up a base camp

at our youngest daughters & husbands home!

It is a rather large neighborhood – with large homesites

and really spread out!

Lots and lots of flowers – landscaped -fenced in.

Beautiful sunrise and no one out and about!

My spot now to sip my coffee in the morning – the Sun rises from the rear

The gate to the back yard – kids playing – riding bikes – scooters

A happy place this is – also very quiet outside

you hear and see lots of birds and from behind the woods – Cows!

My coffee and my new spot to sip and watch – but – watching is difficult

as you very seldom see anyone!

The back yard patio and gazebo – two fire pits and PURPLE MARTINS!

The neighbor has a birdhouse for PURPLE MARTINS!

And you watch them fly – dive and swoop around – chasing insects!

A rainbow – with no rain – rabbits and beyond the tree line –

pasture & cows and tractor working the fields.

Peaceful noises in early evenings.

Every yard of every house is fenced in – some like these

and some with the black wrought iron fence.

All yards manicured – a couple they mow their own –

but I see landscapers here daily mowing lawns.

We have moved on –

to a quiet place with the grand kids & their parents.

Laughter and love – peace of mind

peace in the heart

and peace in the soul!

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

and the grand kids – well they capture my heart.

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papas World – The home base with the 3 little ones!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

We have sold the house and moved in with our daughter

and family.

These are our youngest grand children –

The twins – Taylor – the tallest – Cassidy the short one.

And our grand son Bode.

Bode and Cassidy are two peas in a pod!

Being the only boy with five grand daughters

he has become my little buddy!

We are here as sort of a home base –

and will also stay with our other daughter Debby

in Cross Junction Va. at Lake Holiday.

In Lake Holiday with Debby

The three oldest are Maddy – Ella and Sarah.

We will spend time with them but the older two work.

We have been welcomed with open arms –

But our plan is not to infringe – we will travel –

help out when we can and see where we end up.

But for now – I am in a warm fuzzy place

Watching and enjoying each and every moment.

The innocence – the watching them grow up.

And the quiet time of a IPAD –

With all three so quiet and focused.

We have landed in the right place-

Home base with the three little ones

and every so often with the three big ones.

Life is good and we are blessed.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papas World – a Mothers day to remember – covid19

/ Tom / Leave a comment

Sometimes – you just have to suck it up – still maintain –

And see your family!

That happened yesterday – Mother’s Day – 5-10 – 20

The year we were sheltering for COVID19 !

We decided after 58 days – and this being a special day

we would make the trip and see the families

while still social distancing.

We have not been to either set of family houses since Christmas.

We left for Florida the 28th. of January –

Came back home March 4th.

and 10 days later went into Sheltering!

The Tree little ones as I call them –

Bode – age 5 – Taylor and Cassidy – age 9.

We miss them terribly – as every day after school they would be here

until one parent picked them up –

and in the morning – Bode and his mother would be here

after she dropped the twins off at school

and wait until Bode had to be at preschool at 9 am.

Sarah – mother Debby – Sherry – Maddy and Ella

The three oldest – even though they are now older

the bond is still there

They live 1 1/2 hours away

But we always attend special events for them.

The social distancing is hard – you want to hug.

But just talking to them – well – it made this a very special day.

As we age – thoughts tend to get lost – memories fade –

but – I think this day because of the virus –

will always be remembered

and we caught it in a picture

to be talked about for years to come!

Mothers day – 2020 – MORMOR – meaning in Swedish – MOTHERSMOTHER!

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papas World – In the fading light of life- writing!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

I have lived my life – 70 plus years –

I guess I am allowed to make that choice above

But at my age – I choose not too!

But – in my youth – a glass of cold milk

and oreo cookies

That was so good!

I think about this often

I know that my years left are waning

So – in my mind I make my bucket lists

and I WRITE – for I want to leave a legacy of memories.

If you text me or phone me at this time of night

I will return it on my time – 5 am. !

I am not a evening person

I am a morning person

and at my age –

I am not going to change

a life time of habit.

For whatever reason – I can not spell!

I think it goes back to grade school

They changed how we were taught

from the standard sounding out words

to memory – I use both now

and I am a terrible speller!

After a couple years – they went back to sounding out words

I wonder if I am right?

If my age group is like this?

I do not think about writing –

I do it for myself!

I do it to leave my thoughts and happenings

to the generations coming

a diary of sorts with pictures

a book not published – but memories stored

Urged on by my wife to put it down

where it can be found and not lost in the Cloud!

The memories are mine -as I remember them

Today kids are on phones and Ipads

I wonder what the future holds

What inventions will come forth

This is a exciting time to be alive – to see

To live it and be a part of it!

The kids learn from the phones and Ipads

at least our grand kids do

They now are doing Minecroft

creating Worlds

And I am still trying to learn how to spell! LOL

I post every day on face book

something funny – to laugh

I post something good – to be positive

And I post a combination of the above

To make a positive feeling to start the day!

This is but who I am and why I write

I do not know most of you

my 183 followers

some of you I know

I have a little time left I think

and I plan to make the most of it

see places spend time with family

and write about it.

after all – in my family I grew up with

I am almost the last

My mother was almost 98 when she left us.

And she would often tell me

Of all the people she knew –

she was the last – no one was left

and I wondered about that

and how she felt –

I am beginning to understand her!

Sherry and Tom
MORMOR & PAPA

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

Hoping to be writing for a time to come

WELCOME TO PAPA’S WORLD

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papas World -packing up – going to Florida – Ella

/ Tom / Leave a comment

She turned 16 last July.

For her present – she would ride with us to Florida

and then fly back home –

You see – she is a huge Star Wars fan.

So – we will take her to Universal’s Star Wars!

Ella to the top left

When Maddy turned 16 –

we took her to Florida to swim with the Manatee’s!

We are going anyways to spend a warm month in Florida

and the opportunity was there for us to do this.

Sherry & Tom

We also have plans to see friends who live down there

and to meet up with other friends

who travel South for the Winter.

We will take in both coasts – staying in the middle

South of Orlando.

Some have been years and years since we have seen them

although we stay in touch through face book.

Social media is a great place to inter act.

Going to Florida with one grand daughter

making her birthday wish come true

Getting some warm weather – play some golf –

meet up with friends

But – not going to ride anything that goes way up and down

or around very fast

My life in the fast lane is WATCHING! LOL

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Papas World – family – sharing a holiday.

/ Tom / Leave a comment

We all live within 1 1/2 hours drive –

we try to share time together during the Holidays

Usually a overnight –

a campfire – a dinner – games and music.

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WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

Two daughters – their husbands
five grand daughters
and one grand son

A lot of planning goes into this as they also spend time with in laws.

But we find a way – and this time we all met at the Krohns

Tammy and Marcus’s house for a Christmas day and sleep over.

Mother and two daughters
Debby – Sherry – Tammy

Sleeping arrangements done – campfire going in fire pit outside

some drinks – music – and great traditional food.

Opening of presents –

laughter – toys – games

and putting together puzzles.

Sarah – Ella – Taylor – Maddy – Bode – Cassidy

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