living life to the plus

Papa’s World – Extended friends long weekend!

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FRIENDS – for decades –

getting together – playing golf – bantering –

and just generally enjoying each other’s company.

SIX of us are from WNY and NWPA –

all living within miles of each other –

three of us grew up in the same little town.

Four of us became friends in Va. Beach –

and now six of us all live in N.C.

Always it seems smiling –

But ready to put the dagger in on the golf course! LOL

They barter for “STROKES” and then beat us!

I keep telling JIMMY – NO STROKES!

But – this barter is all part of the fun-filled golfing for two days!

Warm weather, white clouds,

and good friends make for a fun weekend!

FRIENDS FOR AN EXTENDED WEEKEND GOLFING TRIP IN EDENTON, N.C.

PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – EXTENDED WEEKEND OF GOLFING WITH FRIENDS!

Papa’s World – We ended the Summer by golfing with friends!

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At the clubhouse where Jim and Dottie Brown live-

just a stone’s throw from.

Our group of eight friends have gotten together over the years to party –

Play golf (GALS vs. GUYS SCRAMBLES)

Dinner and just good times-

and conversations!

This time it was in Edenton, N.C. –

where our lifetime friends Jim and Dottie –

built a new house just a short time ago!

We vary the place of meetups-

by hosting the long weekends –

The next one will be at our home in OIB!

This course sits right on the water-bay –

and this is the clubhouse.

They live just a stone’s throw from here –

on the Par Three number two hole-

right across the road from their front lawn!

The gals shipping up to the green –

NOTE: They won the first 18 by two strokes-

and we won the second 18 shooting a 69!

The first course was at OCCANO –

about a half hour away.

That course – I would go back to that in a heartbeat.

I also liked this course,

and it is just down the street.

We always have such a fun time with a lot of “TALK” going on!

But – I will put it this way –

they are tough –

and between the four of them – if we win –

it is usually by a few strokes!

Jimmy is about to hit his shot into the green –

and the gals in the background!

And at either course –

we almost had it to ourselves!

The “GUYS” – PAPA –

in the cart – JIMMY and BUCK – standing – CRAIG!

We managed three under par in this course!

The “GALS” – SHERRY – DEBBIE – CINDY and DOTTIE!

They beat us by two strokes in the first course.

Golfing with friends –

getting together every four months-

LIFETIME FRIENDSHIPS!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

WE ENDED THE SUMMER BY GOLFING WITH FRIENDS!

MORE TO COME IN NEXT BLOG!

Papa’s World – Working in my early years.

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The day we were married on 6-25-1982 –

this is after both of us were married and divorced.

We met at AOTC –

I was working in shipping and she was working in payroll.

I had to walk by her desk-

to the traffic manager’s office to get paperwork.

By that time I had already worked here for 13 years –

starting June 5, 1967.

And she started a few years before we were married.

For as long as I can remember –

I always wanted to be near the sand – surf of the beach.

The first place we went on vacation together was to the Outer Banks.

But before I met her –

I worked in Body Prep for American Olean Tile Co.

First 6 1/2 years was on the second shift-

before I bid on a day shift job in the same department.

The new crew I worked with were –

Nick – Zeke – Clarence – Lynn – Walt -Bobby – and Big John.

This crew had worked in that department for years –

before I came to work there.

The Tile Plant was what I called a generation plant.

Grandfathers – fathers and sons –

all worked there.

When they finally closed the doors in 2012 –

It had been operating for 99 1/2 years!

I worked there for 32 years before we transferred out in 1999.

Sherry by that time was Logistics –

and I was a supervisor.

I had worked all over the plant –

and ended up running the two departments I started in.

Those early years were full of memories for me.

I worked with people who at the time I started –

had over forty years in!

I remember the original owner walking through the plant.

I knew every nook and cranny –

as when I transferred –

I was responsible for all the outside grounds –

Acres and acres needed to be maintained.

I would inspect the roof –

and report anything I saw to the head of maintenance.

By that time –

I headed the replacing of people on vacations for the entire plant –

those positions I had to have people who could replace them –

if they – the department –

couldn’t fill in the spots – and I had to do it with no overtime.

All this while filling in myself for other supervisors’ vacations or time off.

I needed a change –

I was stressed out – time to leave.

So when Sherry said she also wanted to leave –

we began searching for openings in the company.

Two jobs came up in NVA –

and we applied for them=

and we got them.

Transferring within the company meant that we carried our service years with us.

By the time we retired,

we had accumulated 79 1/2 years between us.

Those early years have brought us here to 2025 –

and living our life near the beach.

My and her dream has come true.

But – I fondly remember the early years –

the struggles and raising two sets of children.

Today I look back-

at that crew, I worked with all those years ago –

as far as I know –

sadly all but two are gone.

But – I cherish those days =

as they were with me growing up from 1967 –

a time of turmoil in the world –

to find security within those walls and earn a living.

Thanks for reading and HGD!

Papa’s World – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

SHERRY and PAPA – celebrating our lives together.

Papa’s World – A year in review!

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Tayor and Cassidy – first day of school – I believe first grade!

And in 2024 –

their first day of school is the 8th. grade – 14 years old!

Notice how Cassidy is slowly catching up to Taylor who is 5’8″!!!!

They are growing up way too fast.

A YEAR IN REVIEW!

This was our second full year volunteering for Sea Turtle Protection –

N.C. WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION – PERMIT – ST2402!

It was a mixed bag for us in 2024-

First I had two implants for my front teeth –

and then Sherry had one.

Then we think during golfing – she strained her L1 vertebrae resulting in a fracture.

This was followed by a blockage in the small intestine –

Then we both caught COVID!

This all limited us in our beach walking and nest sitting for 2024!

But we still did duties

and look forward to next this new year.

A YEAR IN REVIEW!

Finally –

after all the Pandemic years –

We were able to get the family all together-

for a beach vacation!

And we were able to celebrate both of ur 75th. birthdays!

Family Beach Vacation – 2024!

What a wonderful time –

renting two golf carts –

the grandkids loved that!

The older three drove them –

Being together once again –

A YEAR IN REVIEW!

My sons and their families.

While the oldest-

was not able to visit during 2024-

My youngest did!

Trisha and Shawn –

Hoping this year they all can make it down from NWPA!

A YEAR IN REVIEW!

Once again my grade school buddy-

and his wife paid us a visit.

This has become an annual visit for the last five or six years.

Bob and Pam –

who now tour the country as RVING –

Spending time on both coasts –

and in the South.

Life on the road – camping –

and warm weather either-

in Phoenix or The Villages in Florida –

Or summers in Maine and New Hampshire!

A YEAR IN REVIEW!

We have now enjoyed our new home for three-plus years.

As the sun rises on year number four –

We are happily living our dream –

of beach life and golf.

Shopping and exploring the area.

A YEAR IN REVIEW!

Our life still consists of old friends-

who have been a part of it for years!

Jim and Dottie – Cindy and Buck –

from back in NWPA and WNY.

Now we all live in the state of N.C.

Still friends for all these years!

A YEAR IN REVIEW!

I hope you enjoyed reading this –

as much as I do in remembering these events for 2024.

Here is to a new year – out with the old – in with the latest.

PAPA’S WORLD:

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – hiking with the grand kids – Veeren Memorial Park – S.C.

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Cassidy Bode Papa Tammy

We had driven past this park dozens of times as we went to golf and also after we bought our lot!

Always saying – we need to stop and check it out –

might be a good place to bring the grand kids as they all

like to hike and explore!

Papa Cassidy Taylor and Bode

So – we did and then when they came down – we went for a hike –

out through the marsh – into the trees – a sand trail – pathway –

I had a map as it splits off several times!

I guess in the warmer months you will see gators in the marsh!

The little ones are always curious – exploring – seeing and asking questions!

But – they also stay close – ever watchful –

and tend to hang with MorMor!

Sherry – ( MorMor) Swede for Mother’s Mother – loves to lead and show them – explain what everything is!
They also listen to her!

Cassidy Taylor Bode – walking the beach after the trail through the woods.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World

Next blog – MAKE A WISH tree with shells!

Bode 6 The twins Taylor Cassidy 10

WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

FAMILY MEETS FRIENDS!

PAPA.S WORLD!

Papa on the ICW waiting for everyone after bath room break!

MY SITE PAPA’S WORLD: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

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NEXT BLOG – MAKE A WISH TREE WITH SEASHELLS!

Papa’s World – New Years Day – the begining!

/ Tom / 1 Comment

Today is the beginning of the New Year –

a time for us to recommit to our lives.

Volunteer – giving – sharing –

love – peace and happiness.

A year in which to travel to families –

A year in which we welcome those same families to our home.

A time to renew friendships –

A time to gather with Friends –

both here and there.

To ignore the negative-

and welcome the positive.

Looking forward to making a change.

Renew our faith –

Greetings to others and love.

We both wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR –

and may it be fruitful-

and positive in your relationships.

Papa’s World is a blog of family –

friends – happenings –

and a journal to be passed down to generations.

From our collective families –

to you –

HAPPY NEW YEAR –

and may the best yet to come!

Papa’s World-

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – A new year to come!

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A view of the marsh in Vareen Gardens – Little River, S.C.

Walking the trails –

the wooden boardwalks –

across the marshes-

and through the pine and cedar trees-

We have been doing this little trip since we first found it in 2020!

It is quiet –

peaceful-

and wanders through forests and marsh to the ICW!

Once there –

you find shells decorated or signed or just plain hanging by string-

from the multiple tees in the area.

Sherry coming along the path-

from the wooden boardwalk –

onto another boardwalk –

that comes out on the ICW!

On a large deck,

fishermen try for fish as boats pass by.

The day is warm –

with a breeze –

We slowly walk the boardwalk –

the tide is almost high-

and the marsh is flooded.

Vareen Gardens goes way back –

as a family compound in the 1600s.

There is a family cometary here –

This land was turned into a park –

And is free to the public.

This time is a look forward –

to our fifth year being in the N.C. & S.C. area.

Our senior years are here now.

The new year to come –

Welcoming family and friends-

to our home.

From us on the ICW at Vareen Gardens –

Love – happiness and a life full of joy in the New Year.

Thanks for reading Papa’s World –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – My father – gone but not forgotten.

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Imagine my surprise when one day-

I happened upon a post on FaceBook –

Asking those of us from my hometown –

If they recognize anyone in the pictures they posted?

Must be they were cleaning out a home –

And came across an album that had many pictures –

But no names associated with them.

Just on a whim —

I clicked on the first one and then another.

They seemed to be back in the 50s –

and I just did not know who they were.

And then the second to last –

a picture of five men holding bowling balls!

I KNEW EVERY ONE OF THEM GROWING UP AND ONE WAS MY FATHER!

Now – I have very few family pictures –

my sister had them all –

And when she passed away –

they all went to my niece.

Boxes of them!

Then – she became ill – brain cancer –

and she hung on but then –

young – she passed away.

Those boxes remained in her home and a person –

who was not part of the family –

To throw them all away-

without asking anyone as far as I know –

If they wanted them!

That was gut-wrenching for me-

as all my family history was in those boxes.

So this picture came as a complete surprise to me!

The first man on the left – Bobby Bradt –

the second man from the left –

my father – Bob Fitzsimmons –

his real name was Clarence Robert Fitzsimmons –

everyone called him Bob or”FITZ”!

Then Don -(who owned the insurance business)

who every year I got a birthday card from him –

as I was born on his birthday!

Then Eddie –

who was the meat cutter in the Market Basket.

And finally – my father’s best friend – ELMER –

who passed away a few years after this picture was taken.

He owned the local dealership of Dodge cars.

My dad was about six feet tall –

and his father made him stay in school –

although he graduated as a Sophomore!

There was no place for him to go-

as that was shortly after the depression.

They were what I was brought up to say “DOWNHOMERS”!

Down in Pa. by Brookville and Corsica.

Grandpa was a teacher –

and taught way into his late 70s and early 80s.

Dad’s mother was a Kennedy –

and he was raised as an Irish Protestant.

She was as I remember very tall –

almost six foot and thin.

I remember going to their home in the coal country down there.

They had an outhouse and a pump in the kitchen sink for water.

One of Dad’s brothers lived next door

and his sister not far away on a huge chicken farm.

My mother also came from that area –

one of eleven boys and girls –

She was next to the youngest.

Her parents –

her mother was Pa. Dutch

and her father was Irish Catholic.

He passed away before I was born-

but my middle name (DAVID) was in his honor.

In this picture here –

my dad was a good left-handed bowler.

And I think they went to Buffalo and won something up there!

He was a supervisor for the South Penn Oil Company –

and when growing up during the summer –

would take me to work with him.

Those were days I will always remember –

riding the bulldozer with “PAT”-

who worked for my day – pulling the tool house behind us.

Dad also golfed with Elmer –

they had a name that they called themselves –

the foursome which included Eddie.

I forget what it was-

but I know after Dad and Elmer passed -it continued.

Dad passed away in 1969 –

a few years after his best friend Elmer.

Their families for years would go way North into Canada –

flying in and landing on water at fishing camps.

There were hundreds of pictures of them in the boxes thrown away.

On the old red barn in the backyard –

they had nailed dozens of muskie and pike heads to the front of the barn.

I knew every one of these men growing up –

My hope is someday in the future –

future generations of the family read my blogs –

Look at the pictures of our life together –

and form memories-

and maybe – just maybe –

ONE OF THEM CARRIES ON THE BLOG POSTS INTO THE FUTURE!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – MY FATHER – GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.

Papa’s World – From our front porch-Creating Memories!

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Our home on the left -we moved into the brand new build in July – 2021!

We each had one thing we most wanted in this home –
Sherry wanted a separate space for an office –

One side for her-

and one side for me –

and a double set of French Doors to close it off!

This new build had that!

The one thing I wanted was a front porch-

that I could sit on in the shade.

This home sits with the front-facing North –

And the rear-facing South –

This put the sun going almost directly over the side to side –

Thus giving me the shaded front porch!

Our new home was a place to start many new CREATING MEMORIES!

We also created the landscaping –

with rocks replacing the pine straw-

Pine straw-

I was told is a place snakes like to hide in!

It and mulch tend to harbor insects!

What worked for us and very little weeding –

This is what you see here and this continues around the whole house!

I would give this much thought – stay true to your convictions.

We also wanted a home –

where we could see both the Sunrise and Sunset from our front lawn.

Star gazing at night and the feeling of country!

We have all of that –

We have seen Turkey – Bear – Deer – Red Wolves –

squirrels – lots of bids-

The ponds hold alligators and we have seen all kinds of snakes-

The SNAKES bother me the most –

the others tend to stay away.

The DEER eats the flowers and bushes and the bird seed.

But in this quiet community –

2/3 of a mile off the main road –

offers views such as this in the early morning!

We are surrounded by protected wetlands –

Tall pine trees and oak trees.

Everyone seems to walk past our home-

and the front porch.

COMMUNITY – is what we wanted –

and we found it here.

New friends – greeting each other.

CREATING MEMORIES!

And then at night after a ten-minute drive,

we arrive at this –

THE BEACH at sunset on OIB!

This also was on our list of where we wanted to live.

We have the best of both worlds –

A quiet place to live-

and a beach to go to

All within minutes of driving!

Full Moon rising on OIB –

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

FROM OUR FRONT PORCH – PAPA’S WORLD – CREATING MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – A home with memories!

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Before we even moved into our new home –

we purchased a SOLO STOVE fire pit!

Now – it is mostly for family and friends –

as I am not that much of a campfire person.

Growing up I experienced all of that –

But this fire pit is a little special.

Once you get it going –

it seems to be smokeless!

Unless you burn lumber scraps that have chemicals –

I learned not to do that!

I put in the four cement blocks-

in the middle of the back patio.

The family when they come like it –

and many s’mores are done here!

SOLO STOVE – if you are going this route –

I recommend this one!

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

LOL – THAT IS ME!!!!!!!

Marley –

belongs to the family Krohn in Leesburg, Va.

Such a gentle girl –

they dress her up and she just goes along with it!

We consider her part of the family.

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Stepping outside at dusk –

a view East from Cameron Woods Community!

If you look at a coastline map –

you will see from Charleston, S.C. –

To Wilmington, N.C. –

There is a coastline curve –

almost like a quarter moon –

This is unique-

in that, our beaches face SOUTH!

Our house sits North in the front –

and South in the back

The sun goes almost directly over the house giving our front porch –

almost full shade most of the day!

One of the reasons we came to this lot

in the early afternoon –

and saw that we would have shade-

in the front all day!

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Sherry –

while volunteering as a nesting parent –

ST2402 – NC WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION PERMIT!

We volunteer to do this-

and also walk the East End Of OIB!

Looking for where a Sea Turtle has come ashore –

and made a nest.

This keeps us busy the whole summer months.

Did you know –

for every 1000 baby Sea Turtles that hatch –

ONLY ONE MAKES IT TO ADULTHOOD!

Today there are human footprints in trash –

predators in fox – birds – crabs – fish –

It is a wonder any make it at all!

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

We try to golf when we can –

with or without friends.

Living in this temperature allows us to golf year-round.

Buying the first tee card-

gives us a discount.

One of the reasons we selected this area to live in.

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Bob and Pam –

his wife and my grade school friend –

once a year on their RV trips –

they stop in-

and see us for a week or so,

All these years-

and still good buddies!

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Andrea and my son Troy-

when they visited.

They are trying to come back next summer.

Looking forward to seeing them.

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Reflection in Memories!

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Tammy is in the middle-

with the twins Taylor on the left and Cassidy on the right!

The twins were born on Tammy’s birthday –

making a set of three in celebrations!

How cool is that!!!!!

Now 14 the twins are in eighth grade.

Taylor loves horses and works in a barn.

Cassidy does cheerleading and gymnastics –

Both excel in school and play the violin!

REFLECTIONS IN MEMORIES!

The Kinzua Bridge –

is located just outside Mount Jewett, Pa.

where Sherry was raised in her youth.

This is a historical railroad bridge,

half of which was toppled in a tornado.

Today it is a state park –

but she has many memories here.

Her father rode his snowmobile across this before it toppled over!

REFLECTIONS IN MEMORIES!

A sunrise at Tammy and Marcus’ house outside Leesburg, Va.

Frost on the ground –

fire pit for early evenings under the stars!

REFLECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

Moon rising on Ocean Isle Beach-

while we were sitting for the nest protection of Sea Turtles!

evenings on the beach –

warm breezes –

stars – good company –

Volunteering – life on the beach!

RELECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

Kindness – love – peace and hope!

REFLECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

Troy – Papa – Shawn –

spending time with my sons!

REFLECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

The KINDRED SPIRIT MAILBOX ON SUNSET BEACH/BIRD ISLAND.

Many memories reflected here over the years,

A journal awaits you inside the mailbox to write your thoughts!

A place to sit and reflect.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

REFLECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – More memories in time!

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The KINZUA via duct – constructed in the 1800s –

to ship coal –

across the valley.

It stood over 300 feet from the valley floor.

Then – years ago – a Tornado ripped through the valley –

And took half the via duct down!

The state made this a state park –

with a state-of-the-art viewing center.

The half-bridge was saved –

and a platform at the end with a “WINDOW” floor –

You can look straight down over 300 feet-

to the floor of the valley.

The crumpled other half remains –

where it toppled over.

Today the bridge remains –

as a testament to days long ago!

This valley was part of the SENECA INDIAN NATIONS –

hunting grounds.

The reservation today stands some miles to the North in NYS!

A large CASINO was built on their lands and supports the Nation.

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

Two summers ago –

my sons with their partners –

came to visit and spend a week with us.

Shawn and Trisha have returned –

and next summer Troy and Andrea are trying to visit again!

The boys remained in NWPA-

and live there today.

Looking forward to seeing them once again.

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

This picture was taken in the early morning –

near the front entrance of our community!

This was what we thought to be a Coyote!

However –

it was later identified as an endangered “RED WOLF”!

We found out they are extinct in N.C. –

and the Wildlife Commission –

has released several back into the wild-

with tracking devices on them.

This one has been seen numerous times –

and we have seen it ourselves.

One person up the street –

spotted it with a black squirrel in its mouth heading into the woods.

It seems to stay away from people –

although we saw it one time from the car and it just stared at us!

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

LOL, I LIKE A SENSE OF HUMOR!

What has become a somewhat Thanksgiving tradition –

A stroll through the neighborhood –

by the folks who call this home.

CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY –

this was the third year!

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

Sherry on a trip to ASHVILLE, N.C. –

with our friends the McBrides.

We love exploring – seeing the sights –

and we have traveled the world to do this!

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD-

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

Papa’s World – Through time – memories in pictures!

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Trisha and Shawn – wife and husband –

my youngest son!

THROUGH TIME – MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Tammy and Marcus –

Sherry’s youngest daughter and son-in-law.

THROUGH TIME- MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

On the EAST end of OIB –

a new granite wall was installed –

900 feet out to the water –

with a 90-degree turn – a few feet.

Then dredging from the Shalotte waterway –

Sand pumped up-

and a new wide beach formed –

to save that street from underwater!

Today that beach remains but beyond that wall –

erosion is happening!

That is the part of the beach that we walk as volunteers to see if Sea Turtles –

Have come ashore –

and made a nest to lay their eggs!

It is a very fragile stretch of beach.

But that wall protects everything West of it!

THROUGH TIMES –

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Sherry is with her two oldest granddaughters –

Maddy, who is now 24,

and Ella, who is now 21!

THROUGH TIMES MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Being positive – loving – kind –

thoughtful –

has a profound effect on your life –

BE ALL YOU CAN BE!

Two of my best buddies –

On the left – Bobby –

from grade school –

we played football together –

growing up in Eldred, Pa.

On the right – Jimmy –

from Eldred-

we played softball together –

Both have been friends for years and years.

THROUGH TIMES – MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Family on our 40th. wedding anniversary –

Married 6-25-1982

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

THROUGH TIME- MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Papa’s World – Remembering the past!

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My two sons have made the long trip down here from NWPA –

This was two summers ago and one came down this fall.

The other is looking for next summer.

Always excited to see them.

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

Ella – whom we called “TINY” since she was born.

Here in her youth, she was a runner.

Today, she has grown to 5’10” and is in her senior year of college.

She will graduate with two degrees and play her senior year of college soccer,.

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

Debby – on rocks at Raquet Lake in the Adirondacks.

They vacation yearly in the wilderness of lakes – forests and small towns.

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

All six grandchildren – now Bode is ten years old!

Maddy is 24 years old – Ella is 21 and Sarah is 18.

The twins are 14 years old.

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

A storm is brewing on a morning Sea Turtle walk –

here we walk in the early morning on the East end of OIB-

To see if any Sea Turtle came on shore to lay her eggs during the night!

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

LOL – this is so true – posting the past – seeing the growth of all the grandkids.

This is our “SENIOR MOMENT IN TIME”!

Realizing we are in our GOLDEN YEARS yet we are living the dream we have had all these years!

Today – our life near the beaches of N.C. and S.C.

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

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

Papa’s World – Past Memories!

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When my sons and families visited two summers ago-

Troy is the oldest with Andrea his partner.

Sherry is next to Trisha –

and Autumn and Shawn in the back.

Shawn and Trisha have visited this past fall –

and Troy is looking to come next summer.

Looking forward for them all to come again.

PAST MEMORIES!

We have taken a pontoon boat twice on the ICW –

Here we are with friends and family –

always a good time but the big boats on the ICW-

cause havoc with their large waves!

And – I think they could care less!

PAST MEMORIES!

Tammy’s new location –

for her upscale kids consignment is in Leesburg, Va.

Much more foot traffic here-

on the main street!

This is the third location of her walk-in store –

and mail order!

PAST MEMORIES!

My good buddy Buck –

on one of our excursions –

We have traveled the World with him and Cindy!

PAST MEMORIES!

Ocean Isle Beach at nighttime!

We can be right here in ten minutes –

one of the reasons we choose our neighborhood.

Here is PELICAN PERCH –

One of our favorite places to eat –

and sip a drink –

A favorite of locals and great food!

PAST MEMORIES!

Sherry – Ella and Bode at the market in the town park –

this is a weekly market in season –

lots of vendors and homemade crafts.

This is also the place for Summer free concerts every Friday night!

PAST MEMORIES!

Be kind and welcome those who need a shoulder –

Sunset with our friends Adam and Peggy from our driveway in Cameron Woods Community!

PAST MEMORIES!

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PAST MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – A lifetime of memories in pictures!

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9-11 – the plane flew right over the building I worked in and hit the Pentagon.

Later – Sherry took family members to a place that they could view the damage.

While this is not the picture they took –

It is what they saw from that view.

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

These are our close friends –

we were neighbors in the late 80s and mid-90s in WNY.

Buck and Cindy –

we started playing golf back then –

and the gals would make fun of us –

It was a little chilly –

so they would wear MITTENS! LOL

Today – they beat us in scrambles!

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

We volunteer – helping others – Sea Turtles – Assisted Living and Food Pantry.

Troy – my oldest son – Papa – Shawn – my youngest son –

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Sherry with her two oldest granddaughters – Maddy and Ella!

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Here is the entrance to the community-

in which we choose to live.

We are thirty minutes to North Myrtle Beach –

and leisure – shopping –

Entertainment and walking the beach –

and the main street.

We are in the middle of thirty golf courses.

We are ten minutes to one beach –

and fifteen minutes to another –

Two other beaches are 30 and 45 minutes away.

Wilmington is 48 minutes away.

Big box shopping in less than twelve minutes!

Yet – we are in the middle of large pine trees –

and live oaks with abundant wildlife.

Gas and grocery shopping are five minutes away.

Scores of places to dine –

and entertainment.

We are living in our dream place –

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

The day Tammy and Marcus were married –

Today they have 14-year-old twins –

and a 10-year-old boy.

CASSIDY – TAYLOR and BODE!

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES.

Marcus – Taylor – Tammy – Bode and Cassidy – and of course MARLEY!

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

A LIFE TIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Papa’s World – Remembering WHEN!

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Shawn and Trisha – my son and daughter-in-law.

Two summers ago when they all came down for vacation –

They will visit once again and as I write this now –

They will have already been here.

THIS IS “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

It has been a couple years since they completed THE GROIN –

on the East end of OIB.

This granite boulder wall –

that stretches some 900 feet out into the Ocean-

and sand dredged up from the channel-

has protected the beach erosion,

which claimed the first and part of the second avenue.

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Sherry and I when we walk the beach –

on Turtle Patrol on the East End.

We not only look for Sea Turtles –

coming onto the beach to lay eggs-

But we also pick up trash –

on a mile-long strand of beach!

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Before we moved to N.C.-

and Cameron Woods Community –

Sherry was a runner –

even running with her two daughters and finishing –

the Cherry Blossom 10-mile race on the streets of Washington, D.C.

This is a 5K race she ran in Broadlands –

next to our development of Brambleton –

When she was 64 years old –

AND SHE FINISHED FIRST IN THE 60 to 64 AGE GROUP!

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Giving GRACE to those who are troubled –

leads to the KINDNESS of those who give the GRACE!

Ella and Maddy at their First Communion –

A day to remember in their Lutheran tradition.

This is a “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Back when they were two going on three –

Cassidy and Taylor lived with us –

until their new home was ready!

They are fraternal twins –

This is a “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

From two Baby Boomers who have lived through the 60s and 70s and the Hippies era.

And now are in our Golden years –

Senior living the dreams we have had.

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

I hope this little bit of our lives brings some memories for you!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Bode – Maddy – Sarah – Taylor – Cassidy and Ella – “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Papa’s World – Time to look toward Winter!

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Summer and Fall have gone and arrived!

Winter is just around the corner.

Looking back on why we moved here –

and forward to why I now love Winter!

A view of OIB from the Causeway Bridge over the ICW!

We can gaze at this view every day if we wish.

A generous ten-minute drive from our home to here!

Being this close –

and also just another five minutes to Sunset Beach –

offers walking the beach in Winter –

except when the wind blows and the sand stings!

Other than that –

a jacket and scarf is all I need –

NO SNOW – NO ICE and COLD THAT I CAN BEAR!

Summers can be hot – but the beach always has a breeze!

Here – we walked a little bit chilly to start with –

but with the Sun – the windbreakers soon came off!

Summer is fun –

family – friends and cruising the ICW!

Sherry won first prize in a raffle –

this pontoon boat for 8 hours on the ICW!

We also rented one when our close friends came for a visit

and we cruised the ICW –

spotting Dolphins and just general good fun.

Fall – Summer and Spring are beautiful here –

at least I believe so.

Golfing which we do year-round –

here I hit one of those shots that bring you back –

The ball carried the lake –

and ended up just off the green on the edge –

where we putt for birdie –

but made par!

I have always said –

it is the one shot that keeps my hopes up-

and playing another round!

In the heart of winter –

we will once again bundle up –

and walk the beach!

But – as I said – no snow or ice –

a little breezy –

but no blowing sand –

I can and do handle this!

Cameron Woods Community –

Fits my lifestyle of four seasons of living!

Thanks for reading my blog!

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Living in the South.

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Being located on the border of S.C. and N.C. – we are driveable to cities – this one is Charlotte, N.C.

Visiting them is a long weekend to happen!

We also stayed in the city’s center in an AIRBNB – giving us the freedom to walk wherever we went.

Getting our steps in each day – seeing the sights and sounds of city life.

When we lived in NVA – we often took the Metro into D.C. – walking everywhere.

Our love of golfing brought us here – 25 to 30 courses within 40 minutes of where we live.

Golfing as a senior gets us out and about.

Scoring isn’t as important to me as hitting that perfect shop to bring me back again and again.

It’s as true now as it was then! LOL!

Living here means warmer weather and hopefully no ice or snow – allowing flowers to remain longer.

Since we came from WNY – we know what winter is like and have no wish to be in that climate.

Sun – Sand and Surf are what we sought – and found here – only ten minutes to a beach and we are near two of them

We can walk in the mornings before it gets hot and in the fall and winter –

As long as the wind does not blow the sand – I am good!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD 0 my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – LIVING IN THE SOUTH – life to the plus one day at a time!

Papa’s World – We move to Brambleton!

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This is the second home we built and moved into!

Situated on a corner lot – two stories – almost 3200 SF.

A front porch with a second-story balcony off a guest bedroom.

The house was in a horseshoe shape –

and the middle of the horseshoe was a 400 SF. enclosed patio,

Very private with a tall fence.

The closed-in patio has two entrances into the house.

When we first moved here – there was one H.S.

After 14 1/2 years – we sold the forever house – they were just opening the 4th. H.S.

We had grown with the community –

watching street after street being built –

and now – after we have left –

It still is growing and building.

It was during that time that Tammy had twin girls –

although not identical – in many ways, they are the same.

Cassidy on the left and Taylor on the right.

Today they are 14 years old –

Taylor rides horses and Cassidy does gymnastics.

Both sing and dance in plays –

and all three – Bode who is 10 – sing at church!

Our home here was to be a forever retirement home –

But the stock market went down –

and the home values went up!

We decided to sell and see where it took us.

We stayed with family members through the summer –

and into the school year-

At that time we decided to go SOUTH!

And it was to S.C. North Myrtle Beach!

Here we stayed in a lakefront condo for nine months –

And we built our THIRD new home!

This time 16 miles to the North in Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.

In a place called CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY!

Brambleton, Va. started out as our forever retirement home-

But economics proved otherwise.

It was a beautiful home inside as well as outside-

We met many memorable people here –

We had 15 miles of walking trails and they added more since we left.

Loudoun County is the highest per Capita county in the country.

MEMORIES always will be cherished there –

But – now we are living our dream-

Near the beaches and golfing capital of the country.

Thanks for reading Papa’s World – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Soon to be here in another blog – We build our THIRD new home-

IN CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY – OCEAN ISLE BEACH – N.C.

Papa’s World – walking the trails of the Museum of the Shenandoah – Winchester, Va.

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The map of the trails – this whole area is in the City Limits of Winchester, Va.
When we go back to visit our family – we often come here to walk.

This preserve is acres and acres and is by the Shenandoah Museum.

It is full of sculptures and is part of the James Wood homestead.

He was the founder of Winchester in the mid-1700s.

There are sculptures throughout the trails.
There are planned wildflowers throughout the walk.
The property is full of natural springs.
Sherry and Ella – not sure just what this is – there was an explanation – but it was unique.
A lot of the trails wind up and down and through the forests!
The rocks and stones were used in the 1700s to make as natural an environment as they could – here is one of the springs.
Debby Ella and Sherry – walking the trails.

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WALKING THE TRAILS OF THE MUSEUM OF THE SHENANDOAH

Papa’s World – ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

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Celebrating our oldest granddaughter –

graduating from the University of Lynchburg.

Maddy has now almost completed her first year of working –

For a major environmental agency –

She is based out of Winchester, Va.

As a Geologist-Scientist –

Traveling a three-state area testing groundwater.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

Tammy’s store is on Main Street in Leesburg, VA.

This is her third location,

which allows much more foot traffic!

529kidconsignLoundoun

An upscale thrift shop with name-brand children’s clothes.

Mail order if desired.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

Spending time with my grade school – H.S. buddy-

Bob and wife Pam.

For the last five or six years –

they have come in their RV to visit –

Spending a week at a time revisiting –

Playing golf – hanging out and exploring the area.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

Cindy and Sherry –

on one of our get-togethers to golf local courses!

Always a fun time with dinner after.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

The ladies in our lives-

Two daughters –

Five granddaughters-

A friend of Maddy’s here –

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

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HERE SHERRY STANDS ON OCEAN ISLE BEACH –

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

Papa’s World – Summertime fun!

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We had a great summer –

family visited –

vacation – trip back to NVA –

Concerts in Sunset Beach-

and Ocean Isle Beach –

Endured a Tropical Storm.

Friends – golf – beaching –

I look around –

and I am amazed that we are here!

I always dreamed it-

but I thought it was out of reach.

We have made new friends –

Old friends have moved close by.

Other old friends come to visit.

We have watched the seasons come and go –

and we know this was the right choice for us.

The health care system for us is excellent.

Shopping – gas and food-

is only a couple miles away –

Yet when you enter our neighborhood –

Tall pines – lush undergrowth –

and yes wildlife exists here also.

We have a beautiful pool and community center –

we volunteer at several venues.

Ocean Isle Beach as seen from the Causeway Bridge spanning the ICW!

We are about four miles from this bridge –

We can come here whenever we want

We walk this beach for shells-

and Sunset Beach as it is more level.

We have open-air concerts at both beaches –

We have made friends here on the island.

We stay in contact each year with my grade school friend Bobby and his wife Pam.

We have visits with them for about a week every year.

LIFELONG BUDDIES!

Our old neighbors back in WNY-

and we now live some 38 miles from them.

We get together often for golf-

or just talking and dinners.

They were all friends back in NVA –

And now all are in either S.C. or N.C.

And close enough to come together –

for lunches and dinners-

or just visit each other!

We have made new friends with Diane and Steve-

who we found out

also, we are from WNY!

They have a cottage on Rushford Lake –

and knew the area we were from!

SMALL WORLD –

and now they are our neighbors here in OIB!

All these years –

and still to this day friends.

We are now all retired –

and still get together every four to six months!

We all now are transplanted from WNY & Pa. to N.C.

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

Papa’s World – KINDNESS is FREE!

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Hold the door open – KINDNESS!

Pick up something dropped – KINDNESS!

Offer a helping hand – KINDNESS!

KINDNESS IS FREE!

Watching over others- KINDNESS!

Offering to help – KINDNESS!

Sharing with others – KINDNESS!

Sharing times with friends – LOVING!

Kindness and Loving to me go hand in hand.

Life offers many – many forms of Kindness – Love –

Going into the future hand in hand –

Helping one another – throughout life – forming a relationship –

Friends forever!

I AM – striving in my life – to be kind – loving and caring – for all life –

Today I blog in hoping this has an effect on others –

To cherish each other –

Life is a struggle –

I hope to be of help to whoever needs it.

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PAPA’S WORLD – KINDNESS IS FREE!

Papa’s World – Living the Beach Life!

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Sunset Beach Causeway Bridge –

the Pier and the Beach.

We only live fifteen minutes from here –

an easy six-mile drive!

We prefer to walk the beach here –

as it is flatter –

and much easier to walk.

In the summers –

the Pier hosts on Thursday late afternoon – early evening –

Free open-air concerts on the pier.

People gather their chairs on either side of the sand –

it is a festive couple of hours of live music!

In addition on Wednesday evenings –

the town of Sunset Beach –

There is live music on the mainland side in the park Pavillion.

Hundreds of people attend both venues!

Crossing the Causeway bridge from Sunset Beach over the ICW!

Traffic seems much heavier on the OIB Causeway Bridge,

Sunset Beach is more residential,

and OIB is more commercial in beach rentals.

At least that seems that way to me.

Ocean Isle Beach is on the Causeway bridge –

and looking east.

On the upper left side is a canal system for OIB.

This beach is four miles from us.

There also are restraints on OIB –

This is where we belong to the OIB Sea Turtle Protection Program.

We do come here to walk –

especially parking at the community center –

where there is a building with a covered deck –

Bathrooms –

outdoor showers-

and a volleyball court on the sand.

Causeway bridge over the ICW.

We live near two beaches-

but also are close-

30 to 45 minutes to North Myrtle Beach in S.C.

Holden Beach is twenty minutes away in N.C. –

and Oak Island is about forty minutes away.

The city of Wilmington is about 45 minutes –

and our friends who live just outside Leland, N.C.

About 38 miles away.

Thanks for reading –

“LIVING THE BEACH LIFE”

of PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Our Beach Life is a dream we have had for years.

PAPA’S WORLD!

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

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Here we are at JINKS CREEK on OIB –

with close friends Buck and Cindy –

We get together at least once a month to either golf –

eat out or in –

and just have a great time.

They live 38 miles from us –

but always golf in our area.

We were neighbors back in WNY –

and have stayed in contact all these years.

Friendships are special –

To have them is one of the little things in life that are extradoniary –

in that,

it has lasted almost 40 years.

We live four miles from here-

on the mainland side of Ocean Isle Beach.

Friends and family –

we often bring them here to enjoy the BEACH LIFE!

Our family was on a beach vacation –

on OIB in the Summer of ’24.

Making memories –

Family times are the best –

In our senior golden years –

we hope to continue this as it stopped during the Pandemic.

Adam and Peggy have stopped –

and seen us for four years straight –

as they have always vacationed –

in this area –

and Peggy is from this part of N.C. – S.C.

Adam – Sherry and I all worked at American – Olean Tile in Olean N.Y.

in the early to mid-’90s.

I worked for Adam in Process improvements.

Getting back together –

as they now live in the Lancaster, Pa. region.

Adam has his own company nationwide –

as a consultant in Process Improvements in

major industrial companies.

Friends – living our lives as seniors!

Papa and Buck –

we were neighbors in the late ’80s to the mid-90s –

in WNY!

They moved to the Wilmington, N.C. area –

and we visited them often.

Sherry and I transferred to NVA in 1999.

They often would come up to stay and visit.

Today – we get together –

golf and have dinner.

Friendships going on for years and years.

Papa and Sherry are on the beach after walking.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

SPECIAL TIMES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Papa’s World – Walking Ashville, N.C.

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We came back here after some 12 to 14 years!

We wanted to see the city – we had visited once before but mainly at the Biltmore!

One of our stops while walking was the BASILICA of SAINT LAWRENCE – a Roman Catholic church!

It has a huge rotunda – free standing – and is quite beautiful – worth the walk-in and see!

Many stores we went into or walked past – walking the streets was easy – crossing the streets was also – it seemed once you pushed the crossing light – it was quick!

We chose this place for lunch and were surprised – I had a salad with salmon that was very good – it is a large beer garden and service was excellent!

Walking Ashville, N.C. – we ventured forth numerous times –

Pinball where for $13.00 you could play all day – a Comedy tour on a bus of all of Ashville –

We had a great time – and a tour of Seira Nevada Brewery!

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Papa’s World – Good times with lots of memories!

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Friends – who call themselves “THE HENS” –

All lived near us in NVA –

And they would all gather for a movie or lunch-

along with a couple more “HENS”!

Left to right – Ginger now lives just outside Leland, N.C. –

close to our lifetime friends the McBrides.

Nancy – the first to leave –

lives outside Charleston, S.C. about a 2 1/2 hour drive.

Sherry and I live close to OIB –

And Claudia just built a new home about three miles away from us!

The other “HENS” are scattered –

but all stay in touch through a weekly call on Zoom.

GOOD TIMES WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

Papa with his grade school buddy Bob and his wife Pam!

They now are in year six of traveling in an RV-

and back in New Hampshire as a base

for the summer.

About six years ago – we reconnected –

and have seen them every year since.

Always talking of old times – memories of youth –

And making new memories after all these years.

They are talking about still RV’ing but moving their base to N.C.

We shall see –

but the times we do see them –

Bob and I attempt to golf! LOL

GOOD TIMES WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

Our friends for years and years –

Cindy – Dottie and Sherry –

Buck – Jim and Papa.

All the times we have had vacations –

or just visiting each other –

The golf – dining – singing and laughter.

Friends still to this day!

GOOD FRIENDS WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

The little town I grew up in –

among the Alleghany Mountains in NWPA is close to NYS!

Eldred, Pa.

Here I lived until 30 plus years old.

On the streets,

I walked – roller-skated and rode my bike.

Sleeping out at night – hiking the hills –

A childhood I have lots of memories to share!

GOOD TIMES WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

Three oldest granddaughters –

now one graduated from college –

another one more year of college-

and the last one more year of H.S,

Always will be in my memories!

GOOD TIMES AND LOTS OF MEMORIES!

The Myers family

with the three oldest granddaughters from the above picture.

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GOOD FRIENDS WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Memories and Good Times!

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Throughout the time we have been together –

We have made so many memories –

both as a family and –

Where we have lived –

Four states – and six houses!

Living day to day in the early years –

Working paycheck to paycheck

Taking the kids on picnics –

Visiting family.

All the while making memories!

Our thoughts then-

and as they are today –

FAMILY – making the most of what we had –

FRIENDS – They have been a lifetime for us –

remaining after all these years.

THOUGHTS – dreaming – reaching –

We live our lives –

and always stay the course together.

The tradition of FAMILY continues after a break from the Pandemic.

Another Memory made –

Another outing taken –

And today we move on –

To make plans-

Another memory!

Today this blog reflects the times of the Past – Present and hopefully the Future!

HOPE – HAPPINESS – and GRATITUDE –

For the MEMORIES and GOOD TIMES WE HAVE MADE TOGETHER!

Picking up trash on the beach while walking for the Sea Turtle Protection Program!

Making another Memory!

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

Papa’s World – Life in the Carolinas!

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We choose to live near the beach – but on the mainland side of the ICW!

We are out of the flood zone – but within 10 to 15 minutes of two beaches – Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach – and near several more beaches.

We also love golf and are in the middle of 20 to 25 golf courses!

We have excellent friends who live about 33 miles from us and we try to get together whenever possible to golf!

We have known them since they were our neighbors back in WNY in 1988!

They first moved down here some 25 years ago and we have been in contact and on vacations ever since.

We have met new people where we live and have been to several parties. Here we are in our driveway – and the group went caroling around the neighborhood while I remained and watched the fire.

Our home is decorated for Christmas – we love it here – country but 30 minutes to North Myrtle Beach and just 15 minutes to Shallotte and Calabash.

We are close to theaters, amusements, Wilmington, N.C., and Southport.

We have been through a Category one Hurricane – and anything over Two – we will leave.

SUNSET FROM OUR DRIVEWAY – and we also see SUNRISES FROM OUR DRIVEWAY.

WHY WE CHOOSE THE CAROLINAS TO CALL HOME – NO ICE OR SNOW!

We are happy here in retirement – living our dreams and life one day at a time. We do go back to NVA often to see family –

and they all have been down even our family from NWPA!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog LIFE IN THE CAROLINAS!

Papa’s World – “WHO AM I?”

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I am ME – husband – father – protector – carer – counselor – driver – cleaner –

Watcher – golfer –

A host of things!

I worked all my adult life since I was 16 years old.

I had 47 1/2 years with the same company before I retired.

I have been married twice –

My second marriage has lasted 42-plus years.

I am a converted Catholic to Lutheran,

I am not registered with the Republican or Democratic party –

I am registered as an independent.

I am a father and grandparent.

I AM ME!

I love history – ancient civilizations –

I love exploring – seeing all types of land – country –

I love trips – friends – and family.

My thoughts are on God – Country and Family –

I defend my beliefs and those of my family –

I love my wife and our lives together.

I have dreams and some have come true.

I am where I am because I wanted to be here.

Today I AM ME – and I love being just that.

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

PAPA’S WORLD – WHO AM I?

Papa’s World – “I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING-

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“I wake up in the morning –

with NOTHING to do –

AND IT TAKES ME ALL DAY TO DO IT!!”

How many times since I have been retired have I been asked –

“What have you been up to”?

When I worked I took a vacation day –

mostly to mow my lawn!

It was relaxing for me –

just my ride mower – trimer – and me.

We had a three-quarter acre lot –

It would take 2 to 3 hours to mow –

weed whack and trim.

And I loved it!

Later – after we moved –

my yard work could be all done in forty-five minutes!

But – it was then –

I had to spend the majority of my time working!

I enjoy walking around and finding little things to do –

or turn on the TV-

and watch golf or some ball game.

Taking little trips with my wife for shopping –

She goes to the outlet-

and I buy a cup of coffee,

and people watch while she shops!

We make runs to volunteer –

tend to the flowers –

I no longer mow or trim the grass –

I just watch it grow!!!!!!! LOL

Sometimes we find a spot for a light lunch –

and watch the boats –

Other times we golf with friends-

or go and visit friends.

We are close to big box stores –

The beach is ten minutes –

To me –

it fulfills my retirement life.

“I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING-

I have a calendar –

where I write down –

what we have scheduled to do.

We take trips back to NVA to see family.

RETIREMENT –

may mean many different things to all people –

BUT TO ME IT MEANS

“With NOTHING to do –

That I get to choose each day –

what I want to do –

not a job to perform for a living!

“AND IT TAKES ME ALL DAY TO DO IT”!!!!!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Start your day BELIEVING!

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If you believe in yourself – if you have gratitude – kindness – helping others – then I believe you help yourself!

You can make it a better world – smile- greet and share with others – you will be appreciated.

A sense of humor – laughter – feeling good – peace – love – happy thoughts – it is all there to reach for – just try!

PAPA’S WORLD my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog my contact: fitztdf@aol.com SALT LIFE

Papa’s World – Thoughts – Kindness – Laughs!

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In our lives today – we have calendars to look at in the morning to see what lies ahead!

I am often asked by friends “What have you been up to”?

That question always leaves me blanked-

as every day seems to hold one thing or another –

that we do!

Running errands to the stores –

getting gas for the car – inspections, and maintenance.

Oil changes – tire rotations –

walking the yard looking for anything that doesn’t belong there.

It is the little things that take up our time –

And of course, a walk thrown in for good measure!

BEING BUSY without knowing the answer to that question –

Well – that is what I believe living as a Senior-

in our Golden Years is all about!

In our Community Center –

sits a plastic tub!

This is a collection tub for food to be taken to the local food pantry!

Sherry and I volunteer to gather this up when full –

and deliver it to the local food bank.

It takes about fifteen minutes total to collect –

drive and unload.

Sometimes it is open –

and we take it inside –

where it is weighed –

and recorded as being from Cameron Woods Community.

Other times – no one is there –

so we offload into a storage locker that has a journal –

where we record the number of bags-

and Cameron Woods Community!

We volunteer to do this as we also volunteer at the assisted living nearby-

To keep the library organized

-and Sherry does other things to assist in the residents day to day activities!

I do most of the driving –

and before we retired she did the driving!

So goes a day in retirement for Seniors!

Sherry has a shirt that says “BE KIND TODAY”!

Those who know her –

know that this is who she is.

Always helping out –

always sending a card

( which she makes herself)

We watch houses in our neighborhood for those who are part-time.

We dog sit – we water plants – we help others!

Cameron Woods is that type of neighborhood!

LIVING LIFE TO THE PLUS – ONE DAY AT A TIME!

My hope for today’s blog is to bring a little bit of laughter –

Good thoughts –

And Happiness to each and every one of you!

Volunteering for walking to look for Turtle nests while also picking up trash on OIB!

Thanks, today for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – THOUGHTS – KINDNESS – LAUGHS!!!!!!! livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Family times!

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Over the years,

the family has been so important to us!

Our thoughts on where to move-

were based on how long it took to return to NVA.

At my age –

looking at a 14-hour drive-

is something I do not want to do!

Reasonable was SEVEN hours –

It could be done in one day with both of us taking turns!

BEACH LIFE – when we want it –

being close enough to decide –

on the spur of the moment to just get into the car-

Drive ten minutes –

and be on the sand!

Storms do concern us –

Being prepared to both stay and depart.

We have experienced one category 1.5 storm –

It was higher-

but decreased as it came up the coast.

The main concern is if you leave –

not being able to return for a while!

Where to go?

These storms leave a wide –

and long path of destruction.

In 1972 – I lived in WPA – and it caused the floods of ’72!

12 feet of water on the main street of the little town I grew up in!

That is 12 to 14 hours from where we live now!

MAJOR STORMS –

I just do not know!

But – we knew this when we moved here!

The recent arrival of our youngest grandkids –

and their mother-father was here also.

They made it in 6 1/2 hours!

Getting up and departing early!

The young ones love it here-

and have been here by themselves!

Met halfway and one time Sherry flew back to NVA –

And they flew back with her!

Always looking for “STUFF” to do with them! LOL

A recent family get-together –

Sherry’s sister and her daughter and husband and two girls!

It has been years since a family reunion on Sherry’s side!

But – maybe one day it can happen!

We try to live our lives with compassion for those in need –

Volunteering – church – family and friends.

Sherry is a registered Democrat – moderate –

I am a registered independent – -moderate.

I hope this country can heal –

work together –

but I see and read so much discord.

COMMON SENSE can go a long way to work together.

Name-calling -slander and meanness –

We want nothing to do with that.

Law and order –

military strength –

and working on immigration –

Caring for our country – helping those in need –

Being fiscally responsible –

Honoring our Vets –

and maintaining the LAND OF THE FREE and the Constitution

Pride in who we are –

and why we are here.

All encompassed in one nation.

Family – friends –

neighbors – retirement –

Senior living!

Just another day in PAPA’s WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – FAMILY TIMES!

Papa’s World – PHOTO’S – family beach vacation.

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At long last –

we managed to all meet in one place –

at OIB – for a family vacation.

We had not done this since before the Pandemic!

We moved to the borders of N.C. and S.C. in 2020 –

leaving our domain of 21-plus years in NVA –

and the two families of grandkids.

We knew we wanted to only be 7 plus hours away-

and we managed that!

We do go back every few months-

and they also come to visit a couple times a year.

But – to spend time together for a week near the Sun – Sand and Surf –

well, that is what we used to do so long ago!

It was time and the plans were made – BEACH VACATION!

At our dear friend Jim’s house on the canals of OIB –

For the Fourth of July golf cart parade!

He invited us and our family to come and view it from in front of his home!

It lasted for over an hour and the family was excited.

We had front-row seats and thank you Jim for inviting us!

That night we went to the beach –

set up chairs and watched the fireworks!

Sherry’s birthday was the next day!

We celebrated her birthday along with mine-

which had been two months prior!

My birthday is 5-7-1949 and hers is 7-5-1949 –

numbers that we have in common!

Our two sons-in-law – Mike on the left and Marcus on the right.

Finding time to be all together takes a lot of effort.

But the rewards of family time far overcome all of that!

Out of six grandkids – five are girls –

and Bode is the only boy!

Sometimes leaving him out of the loop of all girls.

But – Ella especially bonds with him.

Here Ella to the far right stands next to Bode –

He attends her soccer games –

and is one of her biggest cheerleaders!

Our three oldest granddaughters –

Sarah – a senior in H.S. this year!

Ella – a senior in college this year!

And Maddy – a year after graduating from college!

The three youngest on top –

Bode -top –

Cassidy and Taylor are in the middle.

FAMILY VACATION!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – PHOTOS – FAMILY BEACH VACATION!!!!!!

MOTHER AND DAUGHTERS – Debby – Sherry – and Tammy!

Papa’s World – Conway, S.C. – the HALLOWEEN CITY!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

We took a little trip to Conway – about one-half hour away – we had been there two years ago – only on a Sunday

when all the stores were shut down –

We wanted to revisit when they were open and to our surprise – Conway is known as THE HALLOWEEN CITY!

Everywhere all the trees were decorated as were the stores outside and inside.

The trees seem to have grown pumpkins and as a store owner told my wife – when Hurricane IAN came through – not one pumpkin came down in the rain and winds!

Walking the streets – full of stores and a lot of historic churches.

A beautiful river walk – and a theater with blood coming over the roof and down the front showing the musical “CARRIE”!

Thanks for stopping by – CONWAY, S.C. – HALLOWEEN CITY! PAPA’S WORLD – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Laughter – Humor – Thoughts!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

LOL – Good day –

start your day with some laughs –

humor and good thoughts!

Every morning I have a routine –

I start by getting ready to take a shower –

Brush my teeth – take my Meds and Supplements.

Shave – Shower – and make my only cup of coffee for the day!

Then – check outside –

I have been moving plants in at night on the front porch –

and out again in the morning –

first rays of the sunlight!

WHY?

Because the Deer are eating all the flowers and buds!

No matter what I buy to stop them –

they munch them down to the stalks!

Then – I go into the office with my coffee-

and read the paper online.

Now – it is time to write my next blog after posting the days blog!

By the time I start writing –

Sherry is up and about.

My morning routine takes about two hours in total!

Then – off to make the bed –

and get dressed!

So – starting the day with laughter is the way I set the rest of the day feeling “GOOD”!

We have calendars to keep track of daily excursions.

Appointments – doctor – dentist – inspections – oil changes –

and tire rotations.

Haircuts – nails(SHERRY) – grocery stores (THREE OF THEM)

Gas – and trips into NMB or Shalotte.

We like to golf in the afternoons when we golf.

And we walk and exercise.

RETIREMENT is rewarding in different ways –

But the most I like about it –

I DO NOT HAVE TO THINK ABOUT RISING AND GOING TO WORK!

LIVE LIFE TO EXPRESS!

Our thoughts when we moved down to the borders of N.C. and S.C. –

was to go back three or four times a year.

And of course –

they come down a couple times a year.

We stay in contact with zooms –

calls and messages.

Our senior golden years are full of things we like to do.

Living as healthy as we can –

taking our supplements (19) years.

We are aging but we try to age healthy.

Living life to the plus and living life one day at a time.

Whatever you choose – make the best of it!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – LAUGHTER – HUMOR – THOUGHTS!

Papa’s World – Some GOOD THOUGHTS!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

LOL! Some humor to start the day off!

Getting older each day –

requires stress relief from some funny sayings!

But – also –

glancing outside at the first rays of the Sun-

Living here in the South-

mostly is shorts and tee-shirt kind of weather.

Which – I might say –

goes a long way in setting the day ahead for me.

I glance at my calendar –

This is the only way I have to remember –

what is in store for the day!

Other than every Tuesday gather the garbage –

and get it ready to set out that night –

for pickup sometime on Wednesday!

On this day in question –

my duty is driving the wife to an appointment.

Funny how small things in life become

‘WHAT ARE YOU DOING TODAY”?

And the thought crosses my mind every time I am asked-

“WHAT DO YOU DO ALL DAY IN RETIREMENT”?

Well – I answer –

“I REALLY DO NOT HOW I FOUND TIME TO WORK “!

TRASH DAY – just another sample of keeping busy in retirement –

Keeping an eye on the gas tank-

and the prices go up and down –

Knowing where to buy that next tank of gas!

Muldane as it is –

retirement has changed my outlook on life as a Senior!

I find myself waiting for thunder and rainstorms –

To enjoy the noise of nature-

and the after –

of the noise from the woods –

frogs and other insects making loud noises.

Isn’t retirement relaxing?

It is for me –

doing what I want to do –

Not what that job required.

Every day is different –

that is why I have a calendar on my desk.

Time to go and get dressed –

time to have my morning breakfast shake.

My wife is up –

and make the bed.

Check the flowers outside –

did the deer eat them?

Look at the trees blooming as in Crepe Myrtles –

Funny how different colors bloom later than others!

All these questions and thoughts –

“HOW DID I EVER WORK FOR 48 1/2 YEARS?

This is the GOOD THOUGHTS –

of retirement for me!

I hope today starts your day with livinglifedoingitmyway.blog day!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Memories of family vacation.

/ Tom / Leave a comment

We all gathered the week of the Fourth of July on OIB –

For a family get-together –

a birthday and a family vacation.

Something we had not done since before the Pandemic.

We had wanted to do this for a long time –

and it was Sherry’s birthday that week!

Cassidy hand-made this card for her MORMOR!

She is the one who calls her all the time.

She wrote a beautiful letter to her on the inside.

She is so artistic – we have several of her drawings and a painting she made – framed!

It turned out to be a perfect week – it rained on the Monday for a couple of hours –

but that brought the humidity way down

and it was beautiful the rest of the week!

Here is the house we rented – about 135 yards to the sand.

We had direct beach access right at the end of the street.

Ella and Maddy – the oldest grandkids.

The water was warm in the ocean.

They were in there constantly all week long!

We were to the West of the pier.

OIB is only 6 miles from our home on the mainland.

After dinner,

we went onto the beach –

and set our chairs up to watch the fireworks!

They shot them off on the pier at the top of the picture.

When they finally started – the beach was packed.

It was awesome sitting here watching the fireworks.

After – we all sat in our chairs-

and let the crowd thin out as it was dark without a flashlight.

But – we all headed back to the house,

and five grandkids had sparklers in the driveway.

This is at the front of the driveway and across the street is a neighbor’s house.

It was a wonderful moment –

hoping we can do this again next year.

We had a birthday party for Sherry who turned 75 and I had turned 75 two months before.

Ella – our granddaughter – designed and handmade every one of these shirts!

Our three oldest granddaughters – Sarah – Ella and Maddy!

It was a wonderful week – full of family time.

All six grandkids and MorMor and Papa.

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

PAPA’S WORLD – both 75 years old and living life to the plus – one day at a time!

Papa’s World – The solitude of morning coffee!

/ Tom / 1 Comment

I arise early – earlier than most – this perhaps is my favorite time of the day!

The solitude of the morning from our front porch

This is my vantage point – sitting sipping my cup of coffee – it is 6:00 am.

No one is out and about – we have a multitude of birds –

Purple Martins flying and diving about catching the bugs!

Birds chirping – in the distance a woodpecker

A crow chasing a squirrel across the lawn and then onto the street.

That I have never seen before.

The coffee is hot – I put the cup down – and a very large white bird flies across the sky – silence!

My seat on the front porch – my solitude for early morning coffee.

It is a quiet time except for nature – but also a time to reflect – a time to think.

Guess I had better either get a refill or get ready for the day!

Thanks for reading Papa’s World – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog fitztdf@aol.com

PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – Walking the beach looking for Turtle Crawls!

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We volunteer to try and save baby Sea Turtles –

on OIB, N.C.!

This entails early morning WALKING –

like at 5:45 am.!

We must be on the beach that early –

and walk the East end of OIB –

to see if there were any Sea Turtle Crawls overnight!

If you find such a crawl –

you immediately call the person in charge of the response team –

Who will come to the spot and find where the nest is.

They will determine at that time if the nest is okay to be left there –

or in danger of being flooded with “KING TIDES”!

These are exceptionally high tides –

and destroy the nests.

Then – our job is to continue the walk –

and see if any more TURTLE CRAWLS

have happened!

Looking in front of us to the far East end of OIB!

The Sun is rising and we walk toward it!

On this particular morning –

The forecast was calling for rain – thunder and lightning!

This is the view behind us from the West and the storm was approaching.

Sherry took this picture of me –

walking the dune line while she was closer to the surf.

We walk a wide area –

picking up trash as well as looking for crawls.

The storm was on its way –

and we wanted to be off the beach before it was upon us!

It took nearly one hour to walk –

and we made it back in time with our bags of garbage!

Papa and Sherry near the end of their walk –

two bags of garbage –

while it is seldom Sea Turtles come in on this section of beach –

It has happened.

Cleaning up the beach –

and walking almost two miles –

That was our mission that day –

and YES –

we did beat the storm as it opened up just as I started the car –

and headed home!

Turning 75 years old for both of us –

this type of volunteer work keeps us active!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Beaching it with family!

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We all journeyed to OIB –

for a beach vacation –

twelve of us all together once again on vacation!

Our last beach vacation was before the Pandemic –

This one – Sherry and I –

picked out a house just across the main road to the beach on OIB!

It had room to sleep in 12 –

and 3 1/2 bathrooms-

plus an enclosed outdoor shower under the house!

Here is the beach house we rented –

and the front deck was fantastic to sit on in the early to late evening!

NO SUN!

Underneath – we parked two cars –

and two golf carts.

We wanted to leave room to wash off –

plus put the carts on charge each night.

So we parked two other cars in the driveway –

and just off to the side.

Sherry and Papa celebrating together-

our 75th. birthdays.

Mine was two months earlier.

But – this porch was the center of family group time outside!

At the end of the driveway,

the kids had sparklers –

it was near here that we parked the other two cars

plus another car when her sister and her family visited!

Sherry’s birthday celebration –

Ella – she designed and made each shirt –

twelve of them!

She is so talented and will be a senior in college this year!

Family bonding time on the deck for cocktails!

All in all,

it was a great vacation time to spend with a far-away family.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – BEACHING IT WITH FAMILY –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – SAND – SURF and OCEAN!

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Fireworks over the Fourth of July –

reflect off the nighttime action of the waves pounding the shoreline!

This was on our Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.!

Water – warm during these months of Summer –

Attract both humans and fish –

Jellyfish – Man-of-wars and Sharks!

A big White Shark was attracted not far from this shoreline for several days in July!

But – the beach is crowded with thousands of vacationers this time of year!

and here on OIB –

you can rent golf carts to move around the streets of the beach community!

Restrictions are that you must wear seat belts –

have a driver’s license on you –

and as with the company we used –

DO NOT CROSS THE CAUSEWAY BRIDGE to the mainland!

You use the headlights at dark

and always the turn signals!

Here are Ella – Papa – Maddy and Sherry –

on the morning we checked out of the beach house-

we rented for the week of the Fourth of July!

We were the last to leave –

and ensured everything was neat, tidy, and locked up!

We decided to do a BEACH VACATION to celebrate my earlier birthday –

and Sherry’s birthday –

on the 5th of July!

We both turned 75 years old this year-

and we live one day at a time –

and we try to live life to the plus each and every day!

This house brought our families together-

in that we could sleep all twelve of us –

and it had 3 1/2 bathrooms!

We were a two-minute walk to the beach entrance –

and the surf and sand!

135 yards – not bad –

and the front porch was shaded for afternoon cocktails –

music – laughter and bonding time.

There was ample room to park four cars,

two golf carts,

and a car of the company we had for several nights

who visited us during the day!

We had a very large living room – kitchen and dining room all in one.

Two bedrooms- a full bath –

and a half bath on the first floor –

and two bedrooms –

and two baths on the upper floor.

A large area underneath –

with an enclosed shower and picnic table –

another table and four chairs we did not use –

and an outdoor BBQ charcoal grill which we used for one night!

All in all, it was a perfect fit for our families!

We celebrated on the beach the Fourth of July major fireworks –

no personal fireworks are permitted!

You were allowed Sparklers –

but nothing that exploded!

Here five of the six grand stood in the driveway with their sparklers!

SAND – SURF and OCEAN were our major themes for our vacation together in the OIB!

OIB – JULY FOURTH – PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

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 – Then and now – family beach time!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

Many years ago – we did a family vacation when all six grandchildren were little –

here is a picture of back THEN!

Now Maddy will soon turn 24 – Ella 21- Sarah 18 – Taylor and Cassidy will be 14

and Bode will be 10!

It seems like only yesterday we were here –

and now – years later –

we did another picture of the grandkids

on the OIB !

Maddy – Ella – Sarah – Taylor – Cassidy and Bode – 2024 – OIB!

We had a great beach week –

lots of Sun and they swam every day!

The water was warm –

calm in the morning –

windy all day to cool you off.

A storm came in Monday early afternoon

and everyone got off the beach –

rain – lightning – thunder –

and the temperature dropped 20 degrees and the humidity went away

for a couple days.

We sat on the beach after dinner every night-

And saw the golf cart parade

and fireworks on the Fourth of July!

Celebrated Sherry’s birthday on the 5th.

Welcomed her sister –

and the Jones family during the week.

A shout-out to our friend Jim Moore –

who invited us to watch the parade from in front of his house

and also gave us a place to park two cars-

and two golf carts!

The two families rented golf carts for the week and we went everywhere in them.

Family group picture with GIGI – Sherry’s mother –

who is in heaven smiling down –

on her great-grandkids!

We have always done family outings-

but Covid came along!

This is our first family vacation since before the Pandemic.

Celebrating Sherry’s 75th. birthday – with oldest daughter Debby!

Debby – Sherry and Tammy!

Ella – designed and MADE all the shirts herself!!!!!

Tammy – Sherry and Debby –

on the beach close to sunset –

Mother and daughters!

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Celebrating 75 years –

thanks to the kids for doing this-

and Ella for making all the shirts!

PAPA’S WORLD – THEN AND NOW – FAMILY BEACH TIME!!!!!

Papa’s World – Times with friends and family!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

The family arrived –

all except Maddy and Ella who came a few days later.

Here – we are in our community pool at Cameron Woods Community.

We would the next day move into the beach house we rented on OIB.

But – for this one day –

it was relaxing after a day of driving to get here –

and – we had the entire pool to ourselves!

The water was lukewarm but refreshing –

and later at the Ocean – it was warmer!

This was our first family vacation since before the Pandemic.

It also was to celebrate both Sherry and me turning 75 –

and our wedding anniversary of 42 years.

Being all together brings back so many fond memories of past vacations.

TIMES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

We have all been friends for years and years-

often getting together every 4 to 6 months-

At each other’s house for long weekends –

and playing golf.

Seeing movies – singing Karaoke –

just having Friends time together.

Now – we are all retired –

living our lives out in different parts of N.C.

Friendships that go way back for years –

PRICELESS!

TIMES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

It has been a long journey of 42-plus years –

but really –

how did that go by so fast!!!!!

We have given –

but we have received so much more from Family and Friends!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – TIMES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Papa’s World – BEACH LIFE IN OIB!

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The family came to spend a week with us –

this is Tammy and the grandkids and Marcus is here.

They came in a day early –

and so did Debby- Mike and Sarah.

Ella and Maddy came a few days later –

and we spent the week in a rental on OIB!

BEACH LIFE – Marcus asked me how many times we come to the beach in a week!

Well – it depends on what we have to do during the week!

I really do not know how we found time to work! LOL

I mean in five minutes-

we can be at the bridge or causeway –

then in another five minutes,

we are standing in the sand.

It is just knowing that you can do this –

A lot of times we drive over to Sunset Beach on the mainland side –

Go to the little park with our chairs –

and sit in the shade-sun in the grass –

and watch the boats go up and down the ICW!

Not exciting but we like to do it!

Other times we will go to OIB-

park and walk – looking for shells –

I mostly do not go over knee-deep in the water.

And at this time of year,

it is really warm water.

We sign up to walk the beach for the Turtle Patrol –

We walk the East End which has no houses –

and look if a Turtle has crawled in to lay her eggs!

This is part of reporting so that a quick response team can come and verify the nest –

Move it if needed –

and prepare it so predators can not get to it!

It is all part of being part of the group to protect Sea Turtles.

I was once asked,

“WHY – these Turtles have been doing this for thousands of years – why do they need protection and all that stuff you do”?

My answer is this –

Go back in time 600 plus years –

there was no one here except the Native Americans –

and they saw the need to protect and respect Nature!

They were the guardians of all the land and species!

Today – the last census – 2022 – 333.3 MILLION PEOPLE live in the USA!

Take the last 600 years and add up all the people who died –

and you have 600 years-

of garbage – trash –

and the changing of the environment.

The Oceans are full of trash that will be here for thousands of years without going away.

On top of that are predators – fish – birds – dogs – cats – foxes – HUMANS!

The answer to the question as to “WHY”?

IS US!

We – humans – have contributed to Sea Turtles diminishing in population.

Now – we are taught as a group that through studies done by Universities across the country-

That for every 10,000 eggs that hatch –

only 6 (SIX) baby Turtles survive to become adults!

And there are several species that are on the extreme list of extermination!

Education is needed to explain that our World as we know it-

is going through changes –

More floods – more drying up of rivers – heat – storms of destruction –

I had another person tell me –

” I DON’T BELIEVE IN CLIMATE CHANGE – BUT SOMETHING IS HAPPENING”!

Just look around and see the BEACH erosion-

some will be going away.

Hurricanes are more prevalent today –

Flood areas are there that were not there when I was growing up.

So – do we go to the beach every day –

or four times a week – NO –

But – WE CAN if we want to –

being able to see them every day is why we moved here.

Being involved in The Protection Of Sea Turtles-

is our way of trying to do something to help the World.

BEACH LIFE is more than living near the Water – Sand and Fun –

It is watching out for Nature – picking up trash –

educating children to be GOOD GUARDIANS of NATURE –

After all –

WHO else is going to do it-

and answer the question as to “WHY”?

Digging holes in the beach?

Please fill them back in as BABY SEA TURTLES can not crawl out of them –

and they are dangerous at night walking and you can really hurt yourself if you trip over them!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – BEACH LIFE IN THE OIB!

Papa’s World – YEARS of MEMORIES – not in our minds – but PICTURES!

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Cassidy and Taylor – when they lived with us between houses!

I think back to those times –

and how much gratitude we have to have been able to share

times like this are a picture –

and priceless memory!

They were always dressing up in costumes – playing house –

To see them once again brings a tug to my heart!

Ella and Maddy –

Oh, how they have grown and prospered.

Today Ella is 21 and Maddy is soon to be 24!

The BIG sister is now the LITTLE sister as Ella is 5’10”!

One more year of college for her-

and she will be teaching PHYS ED to young children!

Maddy is a Scientist-Geologist for a major environmental nationwide firm!

Here again are memories in a picture.

The main street where I grew up as a child –

middle of the picture toward the top –

a flag is waving and a green shingled roof is visible –

that was my home –

and today it still is in the family as my great-niece lives there –

85 years in my family!

A small town in NWPA –

on the NYS border called Eldred.

Many fond memories of that street and after H.S. –

I rented an apartment above the Western Auto–

next to the Post Office-

with the two flags on the left side of this picture for over five years!

Here again, are memories in a picture!

The day we were married 42-plus years ago on June 25th. 1982!

Seems this was only yesterday-

yet here we are all these years later.

Our life has taken us from WNY – to NVA – to S.C. – to now N.C.-

in those 42-plus years.

Living our retirement in Cameron Woods Community in OIB, N.C.

Today we are a destination point for our families –

for some it is a very long 14-hour or more drive –

for others, it is 6.5 to 7.5 hours.

But that makes for new pictures and new memories to be preserved!

Sarah – left front –

with the other granddaughters – now almost 18 years old –

funny and very helpful –

always lending a hand –

always a smile –

and sharing my interest in all things Paranormal!

The little girl here is all grown up and like Ella – is almost 5’10” tall!

Sarah – a beautiful young lady now –

full of spirit and loves classic rock songs –

A PICTURE OF MANY WONDERFUL MEMORIES!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – YEARS OF MEMORIES – NOT IN OUR MINDS – BUT IN PICTURES!

Papa’s World – LIVING LIFE

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GOOD MORNING

Gratitude to being alive –

which if you know me-

I really should not be here !

I can count four times in my 70 plus years

that it could of gone the other way.

North Main Street
Eldred Pa.The cluster of houses
on the left side
at the top.

I was perhaps 4 or 5 years old –

I was going to cross the street – between two parked cars.

I stepped out and I heard the brakes –

I looked up and a matter of feet to my left

was a car stopped

we locked eyes – the driver and me

I was shaking – he just gripped the wheel

I came within several feet of being run over.

That has stayed with me to this day & I still see him in my mind.

My car accident

I was 17 years old – senior in H.S. playing football.

I went to visit my girl friend

My father had one big car and one small car.

The small one was a SIMCA – 5 speed – it was not fast at all !

It was like a square VW !

I was going toward the state line –

I put my turn signal on to turn left – I was in second gear

Just as I turned – a car came up from my rear going really fast

and decided to pass me instead of slowing down

The right front bumper and fender plowed into the door right behind me

I was thrown to the right passenger seat – my legs still on the gas pedal side

The back of my seat was pushed into the steering wheel

I spent 51 days in the hospital – not knowing if I would ever walk again.

The mid to late ’70’s – I rode motorcycle for 6 1/2 years

I was on my way to Amherst N.Y.

I was at a red light – up the one block was another red light.

There was a young girl in a VW – just got her drivers permit.

She started out – I followed and had only gotten into second gear

when I realized she had stopped and no brake lights

Somehow she had stalled the car

and had not hit the brake – just sat there.

The only thing I could do was lay the bike down

and slid right up under the bumper

I had no serious injury but I decided that was enough near miss’s

After so many of watching out for other drivers – I sold the bike

and never rode again .

Five and one half years ago – I had a WIDOW MAKERS HEART ATTACK

I had FOUR BLOCKAGES –

they told me I should not be alive

but they also told me

I was the most healthy heart attack victim they had ever seen.

Less than 48 hours after open heart surgery

I was home standing in my living room

with FOUR by passes.

I OWE MY WIFE MY LIFE !

She changed my health 13 years ago – with out those changes –

I am convinced I never would of made it !

She still manages me day to day

and my tests this Summer show ZERO hardening of the arteries!

Sherry
CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH
http://www.sf.juiceplus.com
email
ssherrylynn49@aol.com

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livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

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PAPA’S WORLD ” LIVING LIFE “

WHERE FRIENDS MEET FAMILY

Papa’s World – Long ago times!

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For many – many years – Sherry ran 5Ks – even THE CHERRY BLOSSOM 10K in D.C.-

And crossed the finish line holding hands with her two daughters –

Debby and Tammy!

Here they are – Debby – Sherry and Tammy – Sherry no longer runs – but she competes –

in her age group back when –

and took first place in that age group!

Today – she works out in GERI-FIT at the senior center and walks 2 to 3 miles almost every day!

Our “MOTTO” – age as healthy as we can!

Living our lives to the plus every day!

She also works out in the pool during the summer months with a group of ladies –

Who call themselves “THE MERMAIDS” – an hour of movement in the water.

We volunteer for the protection of SEA TURTLES –

Collecting Food for the food bank.

Organizing the library at the assisted living –

Collecting books to put into FREE LIBRAIES in the area.

Life is short but volunteering and helping others is a passion for us.

Our three oldest granddaughters when they were young –

Sarah ( now 18) Ella ( now 21) Maddy ( now 24) or will soon turn those ages.

So many memories and time rushing by!

Many – many trips into D.C. – or hiking – vacations (Sarah and her MERMAID Club)-

One soon to graduate from H.S. – One to soon graduate from college – and one graduated from college!

Memories of long ago times!

Today we celebrate life – being married for 42 plus years – aging as healthy as we can –

living our dream in the South near the beach and golfing.

Having all our families visit us and tour guiding them in the area.

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

PAPA’S WORLD – LONG AGO TIMES!

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 – Early memories in pictures!

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Flashback to 2005 – our journey together began at NBC for your HEALTH in the convention center-

in Washington, D.C.

This is another vendor booth –

Here we found a supplement that I have not lost one day in taking for 19 years!

We have done dozens and dozens of booths at fairs for health as far South as Florida!

Being as healthy as we can and aging healthy has been a priority for both of us as –

We are both 75 years old!

Every day our bodies receive directly into the bloodstream – NUTRIENTS –

From 30 FRUITS – VEGETABLES – AND BERRIES in addition to OMEGAS made from

ALGAE and not FISH OIL and eliminates MERCURY from our bodies!

All of the above are produced on farms managed by producers for THE JUICE PLUS CO.

and NO PESTICIDES – tested FIVE TIMES for purity.

Here is Sherry who is an SSC for the company – at one of the dozens of vendor shows we have done.

AGING HEALTHY AND LOOKING AS YOUNG AS WE CAN AFTER 75 YEARS!

At 75 years old and going strong – Papa and Sherry share the dream of COASTAL LIVING in OIB!

FOR MOE INFO go to http://www.SFitzsimmons.JuicePlus.Com her website – no obligation-

just check it out and email for additional information and cost!

Before we moved to Cameron Woods Community – we lived in Loudoun County –

Just West of Washington, D.C., and near the Dulles Airport!

Because I did not run – I like walking –

Sherry did 5K’s!

She has always liked to run and here is her award for running the 5K –

Living life to the plus and living healthy through her supplement business – JUICE PLUS!

Given time – effort and comfort to those less fortunate – a MOTTO we live by!

The early years of Marcus and Tammy –

Though time has gone by – they still adore each other-

Now – three children – the twins Taylor and Cassidy and our family-only grandson – Bode –

They – the grandkids call Sherry – MORMOR – MOTHERSMOTHER! SWEDISH!

EARLY MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

The BESTIES in FRIENDS – DOTTIE – JIM – SHERRY – PAPA – CINDY – and BUCK!

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Papa’s World – Surviving a WIDOW MAKER HEART ATTACK – 56 hours after open-heart surgery!

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Sherry and Papa – this Valentine’s day.

All my life up to 16 years ago – I was a junk food addict!

I thought I was fit – playing sports until my late 40’s!

I ate all the time at McDonald’s – then something changed my life.

Sherry went to NBC for your health in Washington D.C.

I also went to the food court!

That is where she found a supplement that changed both our lives.

At first, I denied I needed it – then three months later I started to take it-

FRUITS AND VEGGIES AND BERRIES – JUICED – DRIED TO POWDER AND PUT IN CAPSULES!

NUTRIENTS OF 30 DIFFERENT KINDS EACH DAY!

It slowly over the years changed my life – I felt better – BUT – unknown to me – I had damaged my heart

from all those years ( 40 plus ) eating junk food and drinking cokes – mountain dew and gallons of milk.

I thought that was good for me.

EIGHT YEARS AFTER I STARTED ON THE SUPPLEMENT – I had a WIDOWMAKER HEART ATTACK!

FOUR ARTERIES INVOLVED – I almost did not make it!

I was rushed from work to the hospital where I had one artery 100 % blocked –

They put a stent in and the PAIN went away – but I was told I had three more that needed to be done!

It was too dangerous – I would have to have an open heart and four by-passes!

ONE WEEK BEFORE CHRISTMAS!

All this time I never missed a day of my supplements – even when I went into the hospital.

Over 40 published types of research from major institutions from all over the world – convinced me that I was doing something right and not to give it up!

So – on a Monday morning – at 7:30 AM – they started – by 3:00 pm. they closed me up!

At 5:30 pm. they called my wife and daughters.

By 6:30 pm. I was standing!

I never went to the step down – I went straight to my room –

And I was told by the nurses and doctors I was the healthiest heart patient they had ever seen!

They wanted me to do an interview for some kind of research but I declined.

Here I am – 56 hours later standing in front of the Christmas tree – I was home!

I had a 100% – 90% – 60% and 40% blockages. I walked the halls in less than 20 hours –

Everyone told me they had no one like that – I went home and the other people who had surgery

that day were still in the step-down units.

Sherry and Papa – I had a nuke stress test late Jan. I passed with an excellent grade.

I just had all my blood tests – everything was very good – I STILL TAKE MY SUPPLEMENT

of 30 fruits – veggies and berries and now OMEGAS!

SHERRY and PAPA

Sixteen years ago my life changed and in my mind and heart –

I believe – I am still here – and I STILL TAKE THOSE SUPPLEMENTS EVERY DAY!

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http://www.sf.juiceplus.com fitztdf@aol.com livinglifedoingitmyway.blog PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – Fun times – pictures turn into memories!

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Memories come flooding back when you see a picture!

“OMG – I completely forgot that!” when viewing a picture!

Yet – there it is in a picture!

After raising our children –

it was on to the next memorable part of our lives!

Being a grandparent to five granddaughters and one grandson!

We also have two grandsons from my youngest son –

but they live far away –

and just do not have much contact with them –

but – we would love to have them visit.

Watching the grands grow up –

playing soccer – gymnastics – horseback riding –

parts in plays – flag football – swimming – academics –

vacations – the whole interaction is priceless!

We are a close-knit family – her mother – GIGI – is now gone but never forgotten.

The Swedish genes from her are passed on down –

from mother – to daughter – to daughters to grandkids!

Our memories are there –

but seeing them come alive in a picture is –

well PRICELESS!

My blog is sort of a Journal –

a place for future generations to visit –

read and see our lives unfold!

I wish I had something like this from my ancestors –

but mine are mostly memories –

passed down by word of mouth!

The epitome of my life is to leave pictures of memories –

To further enhance the generations to come –

of who – what and where we came from.

My hope is someday –

someone else will take up where I leave off!

Sherry and Papa – married – 6-25-1982.

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my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – FUN TIMES TURN INTO MEMORIES FROM PICTURES! livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – The SKIES of Cameron Woods Community!

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A look toward the East at Sunset from our driveway –

a slight reflection of the clouds shows a hint of pink as the Sun sets in the West!

Our skies here have great Sunrises and Sunsets as we face North in the front –

and South in the back.

Because the coastline curves from Charleston to the Outer Banks –

our beaches face almost South!

Not the normal East as most beaches do!

Looking East from the road – gray cloud cover –

It is warm out at Sunset – no storms although it looks like it could rain!

Being this close to the Atlantic Ocean – clouds move fast in and out!

And then – I turn around and face West!

This is from the backyard – the house blocks the view –

so I step out front again –

The Western sky brightens up –

Here we are in all its glory of a sunset from the road in front of the house!

Our house on the left – and the sky from the West –

SUNRISES and SUNSETS from CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY – in OIB, N.C.

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

This area is growing so fast – a lot of new development is happening –

I guess we have been discovered –

Living the dream – Sunrises – Sunsets and Beach and Golf life!

PAPA’S WORLD – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – My early years after H.S.

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Eldred, Pa. Sits among the foothills of the ancient Allegheny Mountains!

About six miles to the border of New York State and Olean-Portville and Allegheny, N.Y.

Also this area in the ancient past – was part of the Seneca Indian Nation!

The Kinzua Valley and Chief Cornplanter –

Salamanca, N.Y. is now the reservation and has its own casino!

My early years were full of softball – basketball and football.

I also started golfing when I was ten years old –

my father had a family membership at Smethport Country Club.

My brother and I would go with him and he would send us off in front of his foursome.

Those early years of golf –

I did not know WHAT I was doing-

and of course, I used the old baseball swing!

Mike – my younger brother –

well, he was always breaking something –

He broke both arms at the elbow at different times.

One – he played he was shot and fell off a small roof –

at a neighbor’s house and his elbow hit a stone birdbath –

shattering the elbow and requiring surgery –

He had a pin in the elbow and his arm when held straight out – well the elbow was odd –

Sort of off-center.

Then later he fell off the railing on the front porch-

and hit his other elbow on a six-by-six –

and I will be darned – did the exact same thing!

Now – he playing golf – because of how his arms were when straight out –

he could drive a golf ball-

straight down the fairway and boy could he hit it.

This was back in the late 50’s and early 60’s –

He could drive past the old number one green at Smethport!

That is easy over 300 yards.

He became a scratch golfer and an excellent golfer in our area –

Gene Fasio –

once said to me –

“IF I HAD YOUR BROTHER’S DRIVES AND HIS OWN SHORT GAME – HE WOULD TURN PRO”!

Me – I still struggle hitting it straight –

although I am better now than I ever was!

I never went to Bradford, Pa. much –

I always got the feeling in H.S. – better to stay away from

all those Bradford lads!

Olean – that is where I went to work at 18 years old – June 5th. 1967.

Little did I know I would end up working for the same company for 47 1/2 years!

Those early years – 6 1/2 years to be exact –

I worked on the second shift –

3:00 PM. to 1:00 AM.

We had no breaks –

we “ARE ON THE FLY” as they say –

taking a break or lunch when we could.

We would all gather together on the back deck in Body Prep – there were four of us.

For 15 or 20 minutes we ate our dinner and then back to work –

We worked 10 hours and were paid two hours O.T. each day!

Back then – I was making $1.72 an hour and that O.T. was a lifesaver!

Then I bid on a job in the same department-

only on the first shift –

and continued the 10-hour days for another three years!

During my early time there I made many – many friends and it was an enjoyable time of my life.

But – my early life of marriage started to have cracks –

After a couple years on the day shift-

and in the Shipping department – I got a divorce.

I then met Sherry – and we have been married for 42-plus years!

On our wedding day June 25th. – 1982.

My early years were full of so many people and things we did –

Today – we are in our dream place living our life to the plus –

eating HEALTHY – Taking our supplements for close to 19 years.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog email: fitztdf@aol.com

PAPA’S WORLD – MY EARLY YEARS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL!

Papa’s World – Old – Older and now Senior!

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Growing OLD – seems only yesterday I was sitting on my grandma’s lap on the front porch –

in a little town in NWPA!

I was watching a neighborhood boy – he was in first grade –

and he was walking to school!

“Grandma – when will I be OLD enough to go to school”?

Now – looking back to that memory – I still can see him walking –

and me sitting in her lap –

I would recommend this to be some 71 years ago!

I was four years old.

That is my first memory of my grandma.

She was my mother’s mother

and she came to live with us.
Mike was either not born yet or was a newborn.

Her bedroom was at the top of the stairs –

straight ahead to the side of the house.

Later – this would become my younger brother and my room –

we slept in the same bed until my brother went away to college.

She had this picture of Jesus on the wall –

I still see it in my mind – she was Catholic –

Her mother was Pa. Dutch – but her husband was Irish Catholic.

He passed before I was born –

but I have his name for my middle name – DAVID!

He was a big man – 6’3″ – they had 11 kids.

My mom was second from the youngest.

During the Depression –

he would walk to neighbor’s houses

with produce from the farm to help

them out –

sacks of flour – whatever he could spare.

A KIND AND GENEROUS MAN WAS HE!

One day he was hoisting a hog up to the rafters in the barn –

he had a heart attack and passed away.

Leaving my grandma with all these kids – the older ones were gone –

the oldest – ROY –

had served in WWI.

I wish I had more early memories of my grandma.

She passed away at 85 years old.

I was around 10 years old and she had moved to my aunt Alice’s house.

My younger brother and I became too much for her!

It was like oil and water or a cat and dog with us.

If I could go back in time to make changes –

I would change this – he died way too young.

Now – I am older – a SENIOR in the twilight of life.

I have seen many storms –

I never had to serve in the military –

for various medical and child reasons.

But – I did start working at 16 years old

and continued straight for 48 1/2 years –

47 1/2 of those years for American Olean Tile Co. / Dal Tile Co.

When I retired – we had become part of MOHAWK.

I went through FIVE mergers – National Gypsum – Private – Dal-Tile – Armstrong and Mohawk.

Today we live on the border of N.C. and S.C. – living in the dream life we always wanted.

I think back to that day on North Main Street in little Eldred, Pa.

Sitting with my grandma –

wishing I could once again talk to her.

If only I could remember more –

but I have these memories as I pass into the night of being OLD – OLDER – SENIOR!

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

Papa’s World – Better Health and weight loss!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

My journey to better health and trying to maintain and lose weight is years into a better life journey!

All my life I have battled the weight gained – even staying at the same weight is very hard for me!

On top of all that – I am diabetic – and have to watch the sugars – starches –

I am on Metformin – and currently at 6.7% ALC and Glucose at 115!

My GP wants me “DOWN” to 6.5 or below and Glucose under 100!

On the Plus side – my Cholesterol is 108 – my Triglycerides – are 81 and HDL – is 33.

My VDL Cholesterol is 10 – my LDL Cholesterol is 59 and my LDL Cholesterol is 59!

My weight as of this blog is up and down – 189.6 lbs. to 192.4 lbs. every day!

NOTE: I graduated from H.S. in 1967 at 195 lbs.

I see my GP every four months for blood tests – I consume hardly any sugars –

I do not like hard candy and if I have cake – I do not eat the frosting!

I have for almost nineteen years taken a Food Supplement called JUICE PLUS.

This is where every day I get absorbed into my bloodstream –

nutrients from 30 different FRUITS – VEGETABLES and BERRIES!

All are grown on their own controlled farms with no pesticides.

I also take every day OMEGAS – four different kinds from ALGAE and not fish –

grown on The JUICE PLUS farms – no toxics or fish oil or mercury.

My journey is ongoing – each day – my day starts with coffee – one cup –

yes, I know caffeine may not be beneficial – so I limit it – I drink water the rest of the day.

NO SODA – NO DAIRY(milk) – very little butter or oils,

And I have cut drinking down to be – well – if we are by ourselves weeks at a time – no alcohol.

Going out by ourselves – maybe a draft beer – but most of the time water or unsweetened tea.

Even getting together with neighbors or friends – I have tended not to drink.

I also drink a SHAKE every day if I can – made out of COMPLETE – a product of JUICE PLUS.

A powder – French Vanilla or Dutch Chocolate –

I add crushed ice – water and a cup of Almond milk.

Put it in a blender and mix until the ice is gone –

This I substitute for a breakfast or lunch meal.

It gives me plant-based protein and a host of nutrients.

Eating as healthy as I can has given me control over my weight gain and loss each day.

In the four years I have done this on my own –

I have gone from 205 lbs. to the current 189.6 lbs. thru the 192.4 lbs. daily.

A gradual decline over the years.

This formula has worked for me in keeping it off and of course, there are times I treat myself!

Going out to eat – I almost always look for salads and add on of chicken or salmon.

But – there are times I splurge and cheat a little!

With friends cheating with ICE CREAM which I love – but this is rare –

My journey is my own – with help from my wife Sherry who also has her own journey of better health.

She is a tall woman – and watches what she eats every day and also for almost nineteen years-

has taken the health Supplements of Juice Plus and Omegas.

She also does a shake every day and a drink she makes to clean out the impurities – cleansing as she calls it – from both of our bodies.

We are both 75 years old – living life to the plus one day at a time.

My hope is this can bring hope to those who struggle every day being a part of the Baby Boomers –

and SENIOR population!

If you need a contact – mine: fitztdf@aol.com, and Sherry – http://www.sherrylynn49@aol.com

Our journey is not simple – but it is real –

I strive to age as healthy as I can into old age.

Thanks for reading and as always HGD!

PAPA’S WORLD – BETTER HEALTH AND WEIGHT LOSS – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Each morning – the dawn of a different day!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

Each day to me is so different – I ask myself –

“HOW DID I EVER FIND TIME TO WORK”?

And – I worked for 48 1/2 years!

Then – it was a routine – the first ten years I worked ten-hour days –

“EAT ON THE FLY” was how I had my breaks.

The overtime back then was great –

not so much the time spent!

This was back in the late 60s to the mid-70s!

My OT equaled in hours worked over those ten years to 2 1/2 extra years worked!

Today my routine is waking up between 5:15am and 5:45 am.

First I weigh myself to make sure I am either equal to what I was the morning before –

or that I have lost some weight.

Then it is the normal bathroom routine before I shower.

I get dressed and head to the kitchen –

where I make my first and only coffee for the day.

To the office I go – we each have a desk in the same room –

this was one of the musts for Sherry –

an office in the new house –

mine too plus a covered front porch where I sit in the shade!

Now is my time of the alone time I put in place for myself.

I subscribe to the Washington Post where I read it cover to cover –

esp. the Sports section.

I sip my coffee – after I am done –

it is time to go outside and water the front porch section of plants.

This year has been different in that we have deer munching our plants.

So each night I move them close to the porch wall to try to keep them safe.

Moving them back and then watering seems to have stopped them!

Now – it is time to write my blog –

I write each day – sometimes more than once –

and I schedule them to appear on my site at a specific time and date.

To get them on Facebook – I have to share on that site!

By this time it is Sherry getting up –

we talk and see what is on the calendar for the day!

We write everything down –

errands – walking – meet-ups with neighbors

and friends or events that we want to do!

Golfing – walking – beach time – all can be spontaneous!

What little yardwork I do now – here –

I no longer mow or trim –

it can get really hot in the sun and besides I sold all that yard stuff back when we moved!

I keep the floors cleaned in the house and the garage neat –

recycles are Mon. – Wed. – Friday!

Garbage is put out by Tuesday night to be dumped Wed.

We will do errands daily –

keeping doctor and dentist appointments.

We now have two sets of friends who have built homes near us –

one in Leland –

near our long-time friends

and one just a few miles from us.

Also- her sister lives 3/4 mile from us.

We visit them – it gives us a place to go –

we also try to see the beaches –

sometimes just driving over the causeway to park and sit on benches.

There are a great number of activities that are going on and neighborhood functions.

The pool on a hot day and the clubhouse to sit in on a rainy day.

We volunteer for groups and seek out a lot of small different side trips.

Our days are filled and what I like –

no timetable if we choose not to do any of them.

IT IS OUR TIME AND OUR SCHEDULE –

what I always envisioned retirement to be.

Our retirement life is now full of Thunderstorms –

sweeping in from the ocean –

and rainbows after –

in between sunshine – sand and surf –

being free to do what we want.

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

PAPA’S WORLD – EACH MORNING – THE DAWN OF A NEW DAY!