neighbors

Papa’s World – Looking back in time.

/ Tom / Leave a comment

Brambleton, Va. Where we lived for 14 1/2 Years.

At the time we built this home – our second one – we had planned on staying here for retirement.

It was a big house on two floors- almost 3200 SF.

Sitting on a corner lot – it was a mixed community –

made up mostly of commuters in government or state jobs –

into D.C. via the Metro.

One of our neighbors shortly before we sold was –

The Director of the Counterintelligence Division of the FBI.Worldwide.

One day I was sitting on my front porch when I observed a car pull up into the intersection –

And he – the driver-

angled kitty’s corner and rolled his window down.

He then proceeded to take a camera –

and take pictures of the Directors house.

In a few moments, he made a turn and sped away.

It all happened so fast that I did not even think to get the plate number.

Later that day in the early evening –

I walked across the street and greeted the Director.

We talked and then I told him what happened.

He asked several questions –

and told me about his wife observing a black SUV pull up

and park across the street.

She wrote down the plate number –

and phoned her husband.

He had the plate number run-

and it did not exist.

He then took out his wallet –

and gave me his personal card-

I have that card today.

He told me that he had been testifying before Congress –

on the Chinese Gov’t-

He did not go into details-

but said to keep an eye out –

and try to get the plate number-

If anything strange happens again.

His wife then bought a gun –

and took lessons and had a permit to carry.

About two years before we sold our home –

he retired from his post –

they sold their home –

and he became a security director-

for a major worldwide company.

We still are in contact-

and they now live in Texas.

Looking at the front of our home –

I was sitting to the right of the center of the porch.

Their home would have been to the far right-

across the intersection on the corner.

The road in front of the house is where I first saw the man in the car.

That was something I shall always remember-

as I can see it in my mind today.

Today that house has once again been sold –

for $220,000.00 more than we sold it for!

It was to be our forever home –

but times change.

We have moved on –

But this one memory is still present in my mind.

Thanks for reading –

and I blog to keep my mind sharp –

and my memory is strong!

I do not want to be picked up in the trash! LOL

This is about the time all that happened from my front porch!

Thanks for reading –

PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: PAPA’S WORLD livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

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Papa’s World – Visiting the past!

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We had our friends at our home for New Year’s Eve and day three years ago.

Here – we gather on the beach with our neighbors and new friends –

Diane and Steve –

Who just happens to be from WNY and still has a Rushford Lake cottage.

This Olean-Portville area is where we lived and raised our family.

Also present is our next-door neighbor Kathy –

We gathered on the beach close to sunset on New Year’s Eve.

A bottle of spirits and glasses helped us view the sunset and set the stage for our get-together –

back at the house!

Sherry is about to open the bottle and Jimmy hoping it does not flow out to him! (it didn’t)

Diane and Steve – from WNY – are now our neighbors in Cameron Community.

It is a small world as they also visit all the places we left behind in Portville-Olean, N.Y.

Jim and Dottie and Buck and Cindy are also from the same area –

and we have known for over Forty Years!

Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD – VISITING THE PAST-

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway. blog

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Papa’s World – Collecting food for WNC – flood victims.

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Sherry and I started collecting money through posts –

we had to buy items and take them to a

spot on the Sunset Pier in trucks and trailers –

This was in response to a post made by the owners of the Pier –

Who happened to be from the area in WNC MOUNTAINS –

And wanted to help the region –

Collecting water – food – health items clothes and blankets!

We spent over 100.00 dollars of our own money –

But – then after our posts –

other donations started coming in.

Close to $1000.00 and still coming!

Folks who donated staying –

and separating items to be packed onto the trailer and UHAUL!

Sherry is in the top middle!

Our neighbors Patrisha Donna and Pete are friends.

We ran into other friends and neighbors who also donated.

Soon – neighbors were dropping off boxes and bags for us to take over.

These were the first of FOUR TRUCKS and TRAILERS –

They collected for less than Two Days –

and filled them up!

On Wednesday of that week –

arrangements were made by the owners of the pier –

To park a friend’s Semi-tractor trailer-

to park across the street –

and the donations to continue!

Slowly the people came –

and then more and more –

Two more trucks were added –

in less than 48 hours – all four were filled.

A second site was announced –

this one at OIB – a parking lot near the park and museum.

This trailer had a weight limit of 1600 lbs.

The water was transferred to the UHAUL –

The owner of this trailer was a man named Danny –

A retired police officer who lives in Calabash and rides a motorcycle!

Papa and Sherry – we made four trips to the stores –

With the money donated –

we were able to go to the Food Lion twice –

the Dollar Tree once –

Plus neighbors dropping off supplies to our home.

We went to the home of a couple-

who had just purchased it in July –

They had spent this weekend of the storm there-

They were going back to the mountains-

and needed water –

and food to help their neighbors.

We dropped off three cases of water and a large box of food.

On this day –

after we made our fourth delivery –

We went back home with $25.00 left.

I posted the results –

and vowed to continue if donations came in.

That night we went to bed with $375.oo in the account!

The next day –

we will continue –

and go forward –

As long as the donations continue –

we will deliver –

and continue donating ourselves.

PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Cameron Woods Community!

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We chose this Community after –

we had gone house hunting with a realtor –

We had viewed several houses – condos in the OIB area –

and had not found anything that didn’t require changes inside the homes!

We had instructed her to start looking toward the Leland area –

and then after she left –

I said to Sherry that I had seen a big sign promoting –

CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY =

and it was close by!

So – we drove a couple miles –

and turned into this sign you see above –

And the model was right there.

We went inside-

and introduced ourselves to the agent on duty.

We started looking –

and Sherry whispered to me “I LOVE THIS”!

And we asked what was available-

and she told us a woman had come in that morning –

and had withdrawn her down payment –

and a lot had just become available to be built on!

Today – this is the view from our driveway looking NE –

none of these houses were here.

That day we went and walked the lot –

She wanted an office-

and I wanted a front porch to sit on –

The office had to have doors and walls-

the front porch needed to be shaded-

and protected from rain.

This lot provided what we needed –

We had found what we wanted –

to put the deposit down –

and make selections!

The start of a nine-month journey.

A view to the NW from our driveway –

the first house to the right-

and straight across from it –

and the street continuing up –

were there – most not occupied.

They were in the final stages of being built.

The entire build was less than half built out –

it would take three years to build –

the last section near the front-

is just being readied as I write this.

Wildlife is abundant here –

Turkey – Deer – Aligators – Snakes – Bear – Squirrels – Rabbits –

Birds of all types –

and Coyote’s!

A Coyote was captured early in the morning walking the road.

We are watchful –

and learning to live with the wildlife.

We also have several groups of neighbors –

that form different engagement groups!

Groups getting together to socialize –

Group walking on the beach during wintertime!

Gatherings outside at local restaurants.

There also are many other groups for exercise –

playing board games or dice -dominos!

Neighborhood driveway get-together –

Parties and fire pits!

We are about a ten-minute drive to Ocean Isle Beach –

and fifteen minutes to Sunset Beach-

Here is a view of OIB from the Causeway Bridge-

going across to the island.

The beach entrance- bridge-

and the pier at Sunset Beach.

We choose wisely I think –

And now resales are beginning –

Most are for over $100,000 PLUS more-

then they paid just a couple years ago.

A wise investment –

But our future is here-

in our Golden Senior Years!

We are happy with our choice –

just three years ago,

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY – OCEAN ISLE BEACH, N.C.

Papa’s World – Life at Pleasant Acres Drive!

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Our love and marriage – for five and one-half years – we lived on the East Windfall Road –

way out in the country.

A house came up for sale – it was being sold by a holding company – the previous owner transferred and his company bought the house in the move.

It was a beautiful – ten-year-old – two-story Colonial – with four bedrooms and two baths upstairs!

A full basement with cement floor – and on the main level – two living rooms – a dining room – a breakfast area and a large laundry room with an attached half bath.

A large two-car garage with a bump out for shelving and storage.

Situated on three-quarter-acre mowed lot – with a small grouping of trees in the backyard.

And right across the street were our dear friends – The McBrides!

Sherry and Papa – with Cindy and Buck McBride – later – moved to N.C. and about twenty-five years later –

we followed and now live some 38 miles from them.

We often get together to golf on weekends and then either go out or to one another home for dinner.

We lived in Pleasant Acres Drive for twelve and one-half years – Mike and Carol John lived next door – and we often played tricks on one another –

One time he snuck over and hooked up to my Christmas lights and would turn them off and on! LOL

Another time I remodeled the half bath – took out the old toilet – painted it Red – White and Blue –

I placed it behind a big pine tree where he could not see it – and I placed a sign on it –

“WELCOME TO MIKE’S JOHN”! LOL

To this day we still visit them and they visit us – they have since moved and built a large house near his business and purchased a large house on Chautauqua Lake that we have visited twice!

Our neighborhood there was fun – often, times we would line up the riding mowers and race to the end of the road.

There were neighborhood graduations – parties and just general good fun.

Buck and Cindy moved about four years before we did – sad days followed but we often would vacation down in N.C. with them

After twelve and one-half years – we decided as empty nesters – it was time to move on –

It would be sad but for me – I had enough of supervision – factory life –

and for Sherry – she had a college degree and couldn’t go no further –

she was head of Logistics – time to move on.

We had added on a very large two-level covered deck with a hot tub!

Also a firepit with white scotch pine trees and several birch trees-

Had the back of the lot graded and seeded into the lawn – added hot water baseboard heating

and a wood-burning stove in the basement and tiled part of that.

I hand-stained the woodwork with her father’s special woodworking – he was a master –

And that all is there today – we sold it to a close friend and they live there today!

We said our goodbyes to friends and neighbors – packed up and we both transferred to NVA!

We transferred within the company and took all our benefits with us –

We went from the middle of COUNTRY to ALEXANDRIA, VA. the middle of the city!

After two months of company housing – we purchased our first home –

In the Fairfax, Va. neighborhood of FOUNTAINSIDE DRIVE!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – LIFE AT PLEASANT ACRES DRIVE – my site: LIVINGLIFEDOINGITMYWAY.BLOG

Papa’s World – Remembering the GOOD TIMES!

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Papa – Sherry – Les and Ingrid taking the picture.

Les and I played softball together back in the mid-70s –

They had been on their way back to WNY and stopped at a campground nearby –

We got together for the day and here we are at Holden Beach –

We stopped at one of our favorite places to have ice cream –

THIS WAS GOOD TIMES once again revisited!

Tammy holding Taylor and Marcus holding Cassidy –

The twins were born on their mother’s birthday –

It was “TIME,” the doctor said!

They were so small – today at 13 Taylor is 5’71/2 inches and Cassidy is 5’5″ and gaining!

“GOOD TIMES ” revisited!

We have so much to be grateful for – living life to the plus – one day at a time!

Our neighbors who live but three doors from us – in Cameron Woods Community –

Diane and Steve – small world – they also are from WNY and have a vacation house –

On Rushford Lake – a few miles from where we lived –

And frequent Olean, N.Y. all the time as we did when we lived in Portville, N.Y.

New “GOOD TIMES” as new friends!

Bill and Marcea – our neighbors in Cameron Woods Community –

We took them to “FAT HAROLD” the “SHAG” club in North Myrtle Beach –

and they loved it – next time we go we will learn how to dance the “SHAG”!

New neighborhood FRIENDS – “GOOD TIMES”!

Solo Stove campfire in the back patio – with family –

“GOOD TIMES” in the making!

Not this extreme – but I have seen some that are! LOL

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

PAPA’S WORLD – REMEMBERING THE GOOD TIMES! Another day in our lives.

Papa’s World – OLD TIMES – memories – pictures!

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A little humor to start the day off! LOL

Papa – Sherry – Pam and Bobby – my best friend from grade school – High School –

We have known each other for years and years –

Now – once a year they come to a campground a couple miles from our home –

And spend a week or two –

We explored the area and played golf – which a long time ago we also played.

I always have a lot of memories growing up in Eldred, Pa.

And so does he – which makes this all the more memorable!

Pam and Sherry have hit it off – that makes for more memories!

Papa – Terri and Mike – my niece and brother.

They too – are gone now – way too young – but I have so many happy memories growing up with them!

My sister lived right next door and I grew up with her children. Rick and Kelly.

Today – Kelly lives in that house and my great-great niece – Brandi – lives in the home I grew up in!

The family has been in that home for 80-plus years!

LITTLE TOWN USA – Eldred, Pa. Northwestern Pa. next to WNY border!

This is how Sherry and I live our lives – trying to be helpful and giving –

Creating lasting memories for family and friends!

Sherry’s mother – Barb ( GIGI ) a beautiful lady – she stayed the winters with us –

Always loved going back to Mount Jewett in the summer for the Swedish Festival –

Barb’s mother came from Sweden – and Mount Jewett, Pa. was founded by the Swedes!

The festival is a grand four-day event held each year with a parade – carnival –

games – contests – music, and a game of chance at the Firehall along with chicken BBQ!

Vendors line the street – food can be purchased at different locations and a little

Swedish coffee shop serves great homemade breakfast – lunch and dinner –

and all kinds of pastries!

Barb was named Queen one year!

Papa – Sherry – Elaine and Steve – our long-time friends from back in Portville, N.Y. where we lived.

We played volleyball for years together – golfed and raised our families together!

They still come to visit both in NVA and in N.C.

We have known them since the mid 80’s.

FRIENDS AND MEMORIES – always will be!

Papa – Sherry – Cindy and Buck – we were neighbors since 1988 in Portville, N.Y. but knew them from before.

Today – we have since moved and once again have ended up 33 miles from them in N.C.

Today – once or twice a month – we get together and golf – we also go to live shows –

dinners or events.

MEMORIES OF TIMES GONE PAST – AND NEW MEMORIES OF TIMES TO COME – FRIENDSHIPS!

Sherry – on our honeymoon in June – 1982 – in the Dominican Republic – a long time ago!

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

We spent a week at this resort – first time out of the country for both of us –

A lot of funny stories while here but those are for another time.

PAPA’S WORLD – OLD TIMES – MEMORIES AND PICTURES!

Papa’s World – “SOUP and DESERT” Community!

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A COMMUNITY EVENT – a coming together of the neighborhood – where SOUP and DESERT –

was held as a way to promote neighborhood bonding together.

Some 30-plus neighbors brought SOUPS and DESSERTS for people to try.

Food – conversations and meeting new neighbors – although some people do not do social media – we have to find an outlet so everyone knows in advance –

This time in addition to Facebook -and our Community page- it was by word of mouth that some knew it was happening!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – “SOUP AND DESERT – COMMUNITY – NEIGHBORS!”

Papa’s World – A birthday party for Bill – 60!!!!

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Here is BILL – checkered blue shirt – talking to George – we went to Local on the Water –

Marcea – to the left – married to Bill – invited us neighbors to help Bill celebrate!

LOCAL ON THE WATER is in North Myrtle Beach and was the first place three years ago –

Sherry and I found to go to with live music – this was 2020 and during the Pandemic.

At that time – live music was rare but we could see in the future it would be a place to go to!

A salute of SHOTS for the birthday man – HAPPY 60th BIRTHDAY BILL!

A selfie of the group – live music inside is quite loud – we will be back when the music is outside on the stage – but the band was good and we danced.

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

PAPA’S WORLD – A BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR BILL – 60!

Papa’s World – “Swing Low Sweet Chariot – Betsy went home”

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I am writing this blog today with much sorrow.

A long time ago – we had to put down Samatha – our dog for almost 14 years.

Yesterday – our neighbors and dear friends – Diane and Steve Zimmerman –

Lost their beloved “BETSY” – a small black lab.

The day before when we found out she had gotten ill – we went to see her.

She always would walk up to us and wag her whole back end and tail – gently leaning against our legs-

And remain there for minutes at a time.

Going from Sherry to me over and over again.

This time she was on her bed on the floor – not moving much but she did move her head so I could scratch under her snout –

Her eyes never left mine – she knew we were there –

but she was so ill she could not greet us.

When we would DOGGY SIT – she would meet us at the door with her funny little guttering sounds –

not a whine and not a bark – but a low sound emitting from deep within her throat.

Steve and Diane – close friends and neighbors –

we have in common all of being from the same WNY area –

they still maintain a summer cottage on Rushford Lake –

and visit many of the same spots we did in Olean when we lived there.

I do not know where dogs go when they pass on – I would like to believe they go to heaven.

My faith – my want to believe it to be possible – makes me feel that we shall see them again.

dog paw trail in the sky clouds

Betsy was a favorite of all our kids and grandkids –

they would go up the street to see her if she was outside.

She would lay in the yard for hours – you could trust her – in the hot sun and then the shade.

She rarely barked – yet when you approached her she would stand and start wiggleing.

She would not run into the street and stay in the yard until you reached her.

She was black, not white – but this is how she lay in the yard.

Betsy was a gentle soul – all the neighbors knew her and would stop and talk to her.

We are going to miss her – it will be strange not seeing her in that yard as we walk by.

And even stranger when we walk with BETSY and DIANE –

Or see her in the truck with Steve –

She always had a ribbon attached to her collar.

She was the most gentle of dogs and our three younger grandkids always wanted to walk up and see her.

Today is a sad day as Betsy left yesterday – I will always remember my last visit with her

and those eyes looking into mine.

“SWING LOW SWEET CHARIOT – BETSY WENT HOME:

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – MEMORIES IN PICTURES – Part Eleven!

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Papa and two ladies in his life – every once in a while I can get cleaned up! LOL LOL!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

I thought this quite funny although this PBR is what I drank before moving to NVA!  LOL!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

From our American Olean Tile days – then Dal Tile – Adam and Peggy – when friends visit!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Diane and Steve – our neighbors in Cameron Woods but they also are from WNY and have a vacation home on Rushford Lake – a small World!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

When in North Myrtle Beach – one of our favorite hang-outs – “FAT HAROLDS”!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

A long time ago in Washington,D.C. – hanging out and exploring the Capital!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Hanging with neighbor friends in FAT HAROLD’S! Bill and Marcea!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

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

Two of my favorite ladies – PAPA’S WORLD – MEMORIES IN PICTURES PART ELEVEN!!!!!

Papa’s World – Exchange of gifts for the neighbors of Cameron Woods Community!

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Because of time constraints – the gift exchange was moved from the clubhouse to our home!

We had 18 ladies and 4 husbands who came to the house and all brought delicious treats!

Christmas music – everyone brought their own drinks – and stories of their times here in the neighborhood.

There was a gift exchange by drawing numbers and if you saw another – you could exchange on the first draw.

Much excitement and stealing another’s gift!

All in fun and everyone went home happy!

For a spur of the moment, moving the party to our house worked out just fine.

Thanks for reading – just another great experience living in Cameron Woods.

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Our third annual Turkey – Trot – Walk!

/ Tom / 1 Comment

Good day everyone – just a little humor to get some smiles going!

Our Community has had a Thanksgiving Day turkey-trot – Walk for the third time!

This time some twenty souls walked some 2.3 miles on a chilly morning – 9am.

But – with the sun it warmed up throughout the walk!

On our first walk had six people – each year it has added more people.

I hope that from year to year we keep this going adding people each year!

Families – friends and residents made up this year’s Cameron Woods Community walk.

Our neighborhood has expanded – up at the end of this road another 124 homes are almost completed.

When done we will have around 250 homes and garden homes.

A nice quiet neighborhood set off the highway –

Lots of trees – ponds, and roads for walking

A community center – pickleball courts and swimming pool.

Thanks for reading and from us to you – a Community we are proud of!

OUR THIRD ANNUAL TURKEY – TROT – WALK – CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY –

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – After walking the neighborhood – we came home!

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We are content – a new home – friendly neighbors – walking roads and paths -Cameron Woods Community!

We try to walk daily – sometimes in the neighborhood – sometimes on the beach and sometimes in the park across the road.

But – it is “HOME” we come back to each time!

One of my favorite places is the front porch – sipping coffee or a nutrition drink.

Watching neighbors drive by – saying hello to those who walk by!

My “COMFORT PLACE” even in the rain if not blowing in – this porch has shade all day long!

The shrubs and flowers – we picked this lot for a couple reasons – Surnrise to the right and Sunset to the left of the driveway!

We have protected trees behind us – and some wetlands – birds – yes – some snakes but I have only seen two in the backyard since we have been here.

I put snake be gone down and it seems to work.

I have seen deer and turkey back there.

Our ever bloom roses – we have weather where they are here almost all year!

The long grass-like plants have purple – pink ends.

Coming home after our walk – we have no regrets about moving here!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

One of three palm trees we have planted –

PAPA’S WORLD – AFTER WALKING THE NEIGHBORHOOD – WE CAME HOME – CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY!

Papa’s World – neighbors get together to celebrate July 4th.

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A group of neighbors met at the clubhouse to celebrate the 4th. of July.

A couple neighbors precooked hot dogs while others brought dishes to pass –

the screened room off the pool offered shade –

Everyone pitched in and a good time was had by all.

Tables and food and decorations – and following are pictures of the neighborhood get-together.

A little music and some fun dancing.

65 to 70 neighbors came to enjoy one another company – name tags so we could all get to know one another.

We do have a few children in the community – and of course, they went into the pool to cool off!

Bringing the neighborhood together.

Thanks to everyone who came to meet other neighbors and celebrate the 4th. of July!

PAPA’S WORLD my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

SHERRY AND PAPA – NEIGHBORS GET TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE THE 4TH OF JULY! HGD!!!!!

Papa’s World – Friends – Family – Neighbors.

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Golfing with our friends of many years – Cindy and Buck – dinners afterward – joining them in the Carolinas!

Just a little smile for the day! LOL HGD!

Neighbors – our senior community – most are retired – living the SALT LIFE!

Neighbors get together at Local On The Water – good times with good friends we have made since moving in here!

Humor – laughs and funny smiles in Papa’s World!

My son and partner – family good times on the beach – family memories.

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

FRIENDS – FAMILY – NEIGHBORS – PAPA’S WORLD!!!!!!

Papa’s World – We call CAMERON WOODS HOME!

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We have found this to be true here in the new neighborhood – everyone seems to get along and is really nice!

Moon over the EAST end of Cameron Woods – this section is complete – we now know most of the people here –

there have been several block parties and seasonal parties.

We are awaiting the community center to be completed – where we can meet and greet.

We find this community to be very welcoming – mostly retired people here but still folks working from home.

Some are second homes waiting for retirement or vacation homes.

We are fortunate that we can view sunsets such as this or a sunrise from the street end of our driveway.

That is one of the reasons we choose this lot when it became available.

Our home in Cameron Woods Community – not large but enough room for the company – and all on one level!

Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog contact: fittdf@aol.com

PAPA’S WORLD – We call CAMERON WOODS OUR HOME!

Papa’s World – A little dinner get-together with neighbors at Local on the Water in NMB!

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We had 13 peole who made it – good time – was very loud with the music – hard to hear – and we were spread out!

The music was country western and very good – I would go again to just listen and watch them.

The venue here is impressive – but if we come back I would want to eat in the back room where we could talk and visit – and maybe in smaller groups where we could see everyone and hear them.

But – for dancing and or just listening to the band – AONE in my book!

Our little neighborhood group – plus several could not make it – good times – good company –

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

PAPA’S WORLD – A little neighbors get together at Local on the Water – in North Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Papa’s World – Cleaning up after Hurricane Ian.

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While not major destruction, there were a lot of branches and some trees down.

We dodged a bullet – but it still was a force of a one when it hit , winds up to 70 mph.

It was more of a small problem but still needed cleaned up.
The beaches sustained some erosion.

It was scary watching the tree line and the trees bending side ways!

There were five of us who together blew off the yards and got rid of the branches and leaves.

It took us about five hours working together to clean uphe yards of five neighbors –

some of whom were not here!

All in all – our first experience with a hurricane –

deciding anything more than a two we will leave.

Sherry afterhe storm and all cleaned up!

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PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – From WPA to WNY – friends – still going strong!

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Carol – Mike – Papa – Sherry – Cindy – Buck – Dottie – Jim – all friends for over 35 years!

Mike and Carol and Cindy and Buck were our neighbors in Pleasant Acres – Portville, N.Y.

Jim and Dottie lived just across the border in Eldred, Pa. where I grew up.

Then we all went our own ways – Buck and Cindy to Magnolia Greens – Leland, N.C.

Jim and Dottie to Va. Beach, Va.

Mike and Carol to Chautauqua Lake, Jamestown, N.Y.

Sherry and Papa to Cameron Woods Community – Ocean Isle Beach, N.C. via NVA!

We all still get together after all these years – FRIENDS!

Jim – Debbie ( Dotties close friend) Dottie – Cindy – Sherry – Buck – Papa

Out for a beer tasting in Va. Beach, area!

Sherry Cindy Buck Papa – on a boat cruising the ICW in N.C.
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FRIENDS – golfing at Smethport Golf Course in WPA!

Papa’s World – Neighbors going North – saying goodbye on the beach!

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Happy hour on Sunset Beach – neighbors going North.

We gathered at 6:00 pm. for some snacks and cocktails on Sunset Beach –

it was very windy but warm and at that time of day – we pretty much had the beach to ourselves!

The wind was so gusty – it blew my chair over after I got up!
We were there for an hour and a half – talking – laughing – Cameron Woods Community

A small group as it was during the week and many people were not around.

The Sunset Beach pier – entrance and parking lot.

Neighbors come and go all week long – some work from home – others retired.

Diane – Steve and Betsey – going North and back again.

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PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – Cameron Woods – Ocean Isle Beach – Bookclub!

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OIB Surf & Java – where the book club met!

The book club has grown – from two book readers to now around 7 or 8 when all attend!

Each month a different book is suggested and read.

The meeting place is determined month to month – this time it was OIB Surf & Java –

right next to Lowes food market in OIB!

While some could not make the short hour-long discussion –

and it was not only the book discussed – but get to know your neighbors!

A comfy setting – great chairs and company.

This time I tagged along – I know this place has great coffee – and I just relaxed and read the paper.

I have belonged to another book club back in Va. – but my reading material differs from these.

I am more a Syfy or a good murder thriller reader.

But – I have collected some five books to help supply the future lending library!

This little library hopefully will be outside at the community center –

Where you can grab a book to read for free and if you have any – leave them there for others to read!

Inside Surf & Java coffee shop.

This coffee shop also has sort of upscale clothing –

sports (surf) equipment – shoes – men and women – and some are marked down.

Large screen TV and really comfy chairs.

View of the items for sale.

The book club is young – and growing – and the next meeting will be moved to another coffee shop to be announced on the Cameron Woods Community Facebook site!

Good company – good books and good coffee!

You can notify Diane or Sherry if you wish to come – to the site.

I will be going back again to just sit back – sip my coffee – read a paper –

and even maybe bring my own book to read!

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MY SITE: PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – Viewing the sunset at SUNSET BEACH – in the windy cold!

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SUNSET BEACH, N.C.

Just a little over a month later from our New Years Eve beach gathering and toast to 2021

We once again were back to see the sunset – only it was windy and cold –

far from the 65 degrees of NYE!

The approaching sunset peeking through the trees!
Papa – Diane and Sherry

We first parked and walked to the end of the street – here the last of the end of the houses –

and this then begins Bird Island – marshland protected and wide-open beach.

Our neighbor Diane

The tide was going out!

Here you see the last of the houses on the marsh and bayside – with the tide going out – This is the end of Sunset Beach and the beginning of Bird Island.
Sun setting – time to go to the beach.
This is where we gathered for NYE and drank a toast to 2021!
The pier and people walking the beach.
Sherry – braving the wind chill – it was cold.

As we looked out on the ocean – to think we can do this every night if we want to –

and there still is Ocean Isle Beach – living our dream.

One final look before we returned home – Sunset at SUNSET BEACH, N.C.

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PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – Singing the new year in! Karaoke – friends – NEW YEARS EVE – 2022.

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Party waiting to happen!

We had seen the sunset on the beach – had a fire in the Solo Stove – a putting and chipping contest.

Snacks – food – some drinks and now the TV was tuned into Karaoke with music and the words.

LET THE PARTY BEGIN!

Starting off as always – Cindy and Jim.
And along came Steve – our neighbor.

The night was young – over three hours to midnight – a lot of Karaoke ahead!

Cindy – Sherry, and Jim are about to sing!
To break the ice a group sing along!

That broke the ice and then the songs came – one by one!

Diane – our next-door neighbor – found her song!
Sherry – taking a drink and Diane singing.
Cindy – Dottie and Sherry singing.

It was a fun time – new friends and neighbors with our oldest friends.

Cindy – Sherry, and Jim

It was a happy night – full of friendship – fun and song.

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NEW YEARS EVE SINGING IN THE EVENING AND WATCHING THE BALL DROP IN NEW YORK CITY!

The chairman of the board – STEVE -singing “NEW YORK – NEW YORK”
PAPA’S WORLD – “SINGING IN NEW YEARS EVE”

Papa’s World – New Year’s Eve – continued on Sunset Beach, N.C.

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Papa – Buck – Jim – all together – over 100 years of friendship.

We gathered on Sunset beach – to one see the sunset and two to drink a toast to a new year!

These are my oldest friends – we have been together for a very long time –

Jim and I played softball together around 1978.

Sherry and I were neighbors with Buck and Cindy in 1988! But knew them from before.

Meeting our neighbors on Sunset Beach

Kathy – our next-door neighbor who gathers up our packages while we are gone –

Diane and Steve – who live three houses from us are from back in WNY where we lived!

We decided to do something as a group as our other friends came to stay for a long weekend.

The reason for the name “SUNSET BEACH”!

When we got there – people had been in the water – too cold for me – but it still was around 65 degrees out!

Diane and Steve – who live three doors up from us – were the very first people we met in building.

We found we had in common where we had lived prior to 1999!

They were from WNY as we were and now had their winter home in Cameron Woods –

and a summer cottage on Rushford lake – just a few miles from where we lived!

So we four have become friends in our new community –

walking in the mornings and watching the Buffalo Bills games together as they are big fans.

Kathy is our next-door neighbor – single and whenever we are away – and packages arrive – will keep them for us until we return.
Good question! LOL
About to celebrate the sunset and a new year!
Sherry and Jimmy

It was a fun time – friends and neighbors – new friends and old friends.

A time to get together – laugh and count our blessings.

A time to throw out the old and bring in the new.

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PAPA’S WORLD – 2022 – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog SUNSET BEACH, N.C.

Papa’s World – Our first Thanksgiving Turkey – walk-trot in Cameron Woods Community!

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Good day mates!

In Cameron Woods Community – Ocean Isle Beach – N.C. – there will be a lot of firsts!

COCKTAILS in the driveway – lunch at Riversedge golf course – picnic at the park.

The new book readers club and in the future the free book exchange library!

And now a new developer!

We have been sold to LENNAR – the number two developer in the country!

Things have changed and they are known for building spec homes – you get limited choices!

Different elevations – and one price has it all!

Whereas we were able to select almost everything! ( we are happy to have already built!)

We are hoping by Easter the community center is done! At least the main building!
Our new community center – slowly being built – the curbs have just been laid – pickleball courts are paved – and the pool has been in the ground for months – waiting to be finished!

It will be here that we will all come together as a community of neighbors – meetings – lunches and dinners. The free book library will be out front by the road somewhere I presume for access to exchange the books. We can walk to this easily! A workout room and kitchen and bathrooms.

And this year for the very first time – three families got together on Thanksgiving day – to walk!

8:30 AM. = we all met at the intersection of Waterway and Lindley – it was cool but bright sunshine –

led to a warm 3.7-mile walk!

The very first TURKEY TROT WALK-RUN!

A big thank you to Rob – who organized it by simply announcing it on the Community Facebook page!

And YES – the picture of the TURKEYS are from the neighborhood – on the cul-de-sac behind the

new community center -taken a few days before by Sherry!

The Zimmermans – the Sopers – and Fitzsimmons families!

We have heard from others who were away and could not join us in the first neighborhood

THANKSGIVING TURKEY TROT!

But – will walk next year!

We are a transit community – many people have this as a second home awaiting retirement.

A lot of people are here but working from home.

And a few of us old-timers ( us) are retired!

I think Sherry and myself are more the Grandma and Grandpa of the neighborhood! LOL

It is a community of many FIRSTS – waiting to be completed in a couple years.

CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY – OCEAN ISLE BEACH – come and join us – either if you already own here or want to build in the new Phase Three!

Cocktails in the driveway – picnic at the park – lunch meet and greet at the golf course

and now the first TURKEY-TROT-WALK!

Chrismas caroling is in the works and who knows what else is being talked about!

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PAPA’S WORLD – CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY – OCEAN ISLE BEACH – N.C.

Papa’s World – Cameron Woods Community – Cocktails in the driveway with old and new neighbors – JELLO SHOTS

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Our old company REALSTAR has now become LENNAR!

Welcome to CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY of OCEAN ISLE BEACH, N.C. 28469!

The GATED ENTRANCE

We are situated off Old Georgetown Road – across from Ocean Ridge Plantation – this also – parts of it – is Ocean Ridge.

Across that street is home to the BIG CATS golf courses of Ocean Ridge.

A large flock of turkeys just behind the new community center!

YES – there is wildlife here – I have seen Turkey and Deer – among the trees and houses here.

I have seen Gators in the ponds and some have seen snakes( I saw a large Blacksnake) while others have seen Copperheads.

I suppose raccoons and possums – I have seen Eagles and large hawks – a really big red-headed woodpecker.

While we are country – we are about two miles to three different grocery stores –

multiple bars and grills and many other shops.

AND – we are on the mainland side of the ICW and minutes away from Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset beach.

In other words – I think we have it all right here!

The ongoing build of our community center – pool and pickleball courts.

We all are hoping for a SPRING finish date – a place to gather – exercise and relax by the pool.

Until that is finished – we have had a few get together’s at outside sources –

The latest outside was at Rivers Edge Golf Course in Shallotte N.C.

And then we had a DRIVEWAY COCKTAIL PARTY at Diane and Steve’s house at the bottom of Waterway and Lindley.

The invites were neighborhood-wide through the Cameron Woods Community Facebook site.

About 24 neighbors gathered – on a cool night – the fires were welcome for warmth.
OH YEAH! manny naughty desserts and snack foods were present!
It was a chilly high ’50’s evening.
There were trays of JELLO-SHOTS – here are two of the four going around!
After an hour – all that was left of the JELLO-SHOTS!
We are a mixture of retirees – work from home – second homes – still working – to full-timers!

Cameron Woods is almost done with Phase Two – and an even larger Phase Three will begin under the new company LENNAR! There is guess’s that will not end there as some of the new roads in the next phase ends at the tree lines! No Cul-De-Sac – just like it will continue on!

PHASE ONE COMPLETE – PHASE TWO ALMOST DONE – ??!

Thanks for reading Papa’s World – CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY – OLD GEORGETOWN ROAD – 28469 – N.C.

WESTERN SKY AT NIGHT LOOKING TO END OF STREET WHERE PHASE THREE IS SOON TO BEGIN
WHEN NEIGHBORS GET TOGETHER – PEDICURES ARE DISCUSSED! LOL
CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY – looking forward to more neighbors’ meet and greets!
PAPA’S WORLD – MY BLOG: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – GOOD MORNING from Cameron Woods – N.C. SUNRISE!

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I opened the garage door to push out the garbage can – and this is what I walked out to!

It was a beautiful sun rise – the best I have yet to see here!

Everything was quiet – except the birds!

I went back inside and grabbed my phone to take a few pictures.

The sun comes up right there and that is where the Ocean is some three miles away.

We get really fantastic cloud formations from here and to the West.

As we learn the area driving around – we know we made the right choice to build here – when there is no construction – everything is quiet – and a lot of neighbors walk! So we are meeting people – I told Sherry we need name tags!!!!
The neighborhood bathed in a orange glow!

It will be a good year and half before they have built out – but most of that is away from us!

Each week more and more homes close – and people are moving in.

And I am surprised how easy it is to leave the Cameron Woods community and get onto the main road.

It is a good half mile stretch or 3/4 mile in both direction and is straight so you can see.

Only once have I had to sit and wait and that was only a minute of two.

Sherry on her way back into the garage – CERTIFIED HEALTH COACH – http://www.sf.juiceplus.com ssherrylynn49@aol,com

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PAPA’S WORLD – SUNRISE AT CAMERON WOODS – OCEAN ISLE BEACH – N.C.
PAPA’S WORLD

Papa’s World – another chapter on being homeless

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“THE GOOSE WHISPER”

You look out the window – and there they are – 50 to 100 strong!

“GET OUT OF MY YARD” he shouts!

And out the door he runs!

They can wreck havoc on your yard! Leave nasty deposits –

so when walking in shoes or bare feet

you can feel it as you step on it!

Carol and Mike

We moved in almost 34 or 35 years ago –

right behind them at our old home in WNY!

We were neighbors for 12 or 13 years!

Sherry and Mike

We shared many moments of laughter –

racing riding lawn mowers –

playing friendly jokes on each other –

and me trying to compete with his beautiful lawn!

Sherry driving Mike’s boat

He has his own business – starting by himself

and today his crews go nationwide!

Carol now works with him after retiring from the college scene!

Together with their son – they have built this business

into a first class operation.

They purchased this home a year ago and then the boat.

We have all gotten together at various times –

but this is the first time in WNY at the lake house.

And it is beautiful!

Long dock leads to the flags and then the house.

Friends all these years – jokes – laughing –

he will never retire –

he loves what he has started and adding to all the time.

Just like his lawn all those years ago –

not one blade of grass – out of place – no weeds –

green – manicured to perfection.

“THE GOOSE WHISPER – CAPTAIN MIKE”

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WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY!

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Papas World – I have a neighbor – his name is Dexter – a good dude.

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I started to mow yesterday – and I have always mowed my two neighbors lawns.

To the right of the tree and light post – Dexter’s lawn

He came out and I shut the mower down.

I have know him for almost 14 years

He has been going through hard times the last three years.

You see – Dexter has Cancer – he is young – early 40’s.

He sometimes rides his bike on the same trails as we walk.

He told me Susie had told him we sold our house.

Susie lives between us and I mow her lawn also.

He said it is hard to believe that soon there will be

No more Sherry and Tom – to talk to.

He has gone through a bone marrow transplant.

He is in pain a lot of times now with his back.

He has not worked in three years and is on total disability.

We sometimes send food over – he does not have much and is on a limited income.

He has always watched our home when we are away –

carefully attending the Tower Gardens.

Even before he became ill and the Chemo has eaten away at him

We would talk on the front porch or stand and talk out front

He has our code to the garage door

when we are away he checks and makes sure everything is okay

I started doing that after we had gone away

and had a major water leak that destroyed

our first level wood floors – causing us to replace 800 some feet

because we could no longer match the thickness.

Dexter is my friend – trusted neighbor – we talk

we laugh – I help him out –

Dexter is African – American.

DEXTER IS MY NEIGHBOR & FRIEND

BLACK LIVES MATTER

Going to miss him.

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WHERE FRIENDS MEET THE FAMILY

MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog