Papa’s World – Living Life – Humor and Laughs!

August 16, 2024June 2, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

In today’s world – seeing all the news – hearing all the news – I just have to have a way to relax-

and not let it bother me!

That is a reason I love golfing – out on the course in nature –

Here you see all types of critters and birds!

You learn not to pursue a ball if you see an unchained dog –

a fence or in deep grass where snakes are!

Water – leave it be – there are gators in most ponds!

My game and losing golf balls,

has improved if I stay in the middle of the fairway! LOL

Golf is my release for all the negative news of today – I do not watch cable news –

Just riding the cart – sun and warm breeze –

The next shot and if I make a good one –

well I will be back – if not a good one –

THEN I STILL WILL BE BACK! LOL

I am on Facebook – but I unfollow a lot of posters who are so political –

I do not need that in my life

and it is the far left and far right!

I enjoy reading people’s trips –

adventures and families!

I enjoy seeing different lands –

cities and countries.

It can be enjoyable without all the noise of political interference!

Staying positive – seeing nature

and the beauty of the world we live in!

This blog today is a positive blog –

one with humor and just being nice!

I hope this brings a smile to you –

and let you know that there is a life without negative thoughts!

Thanks for reading – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – LIVING LIFE – HUMOR AND LAUGHS!

Papa’s World – PLANT FLOWERS IN YOUR LIFE!

August 15, 2024May 31, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Papa’s World – a place of kindness – no politics – friendship – family & Friends.

I love flowers – planting and feeding them the water for life.

But – I also love making friendships – greeting people with a smile and a hello.

Life is too short – and we are now in the sunset of our own lives.

Our life is a mixture of planting gardens in others’ lives.

Being friends – walking – laughing – sharing thoughts.

The beauty of those plantings is it last and last through time.

One day and one flower at a time – FRIENDS – FAMILY – TOGETHER – making changes in the World.

Thanks for reading Papa’s World! MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Life in the CAROLINA’S!

August 14, 2024June 1, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Playing golf is a big part of our lives – we wanted to do that back in NVA –

but it was too expensive for us being retired where we lived!

Here – we can purchase what is called “THE FIRST TEE” card –

this has 52 courses on it and gives us reduced rates –

Usually after 12:00 o’clock – which is okay as we like playing then.

The other rule is you can only make tee times 48 to 24 hours in advance.

When I call up I say – “Do you have a tee time after 12:00 noon – they then will give me the first open tee time and that is okay with us –

We have never been told no.

Living so close to the border of N.C. and S.C. – it can and does get hot in the afternoons –

but take plenty of water – stay in the shade as much as you can – and ride the cart-

gives you a breeze – plus it rarely bothers me!

Most times you have the Carolina blue skies and puffy white clouds.

Springs and Falls are great times – winter – can be – sunshine – dress warm and you are good to go!

On our card are over 30 courses near us that we can play!

This area was our first choice to build a home!

Both because of the price and the location –

to the beaches ( two of them) and the courses – over 30 of them.

We are right in the middle!

And our friends of many years live some 40 minutes away –

and they come here all the time to golf!

There seems to always be some clouds at the beach and a lot of time when they call for storms –

it will pass by out to sea.

We are fortunate to be able to come to these beaches whenever we want.

Most times we find a parking space and walk to the beach.

There is paid parking ($10.00) all day at the piers of both beaches.

I think we have only paid twice in the four years we have been here!

Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach have been voted as the top beaches on the Carolina coast!

LIFE IN THE CAROLINAS – THANKS FOR READING – AND AS ALWAYS – HGD!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – LIFE IN GENERAL!

August 11, 2024May 29, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Here we are – 42 years later plus a few months – living in the South – both born and raised in Pa.

Although we lived a mere 40 miles from each other in the rural countryside – we never met.

Sherry did know one of my classmates – through Chorus – I found that out much later.

We attended competing H.S. – and both thought Olean, N.Y. was the big city while we were young.

Funny how life works out – we met when we were around 31 and married a year and a half later.

That was on June – 25th. 1982.

Life in general for the both of us began then.

We were divorced with children – her two daughters – four and nine – and me two sons – nine and fourteen.

We had no money – both working for American Olean Tile Co. in Olean, N.Y.

But we made the most of what we had – spending so much time with the kids – picnics –

day trips and weekend campfires where we lived.

Our friends changed from a few holdovers from our previous lives to a mix of both old and new.

But those old friends became lifelong friends to this day!

Dottie was there before we married for me and her husband Jim who I played softball with –

And less than five years after we were married – Cindy became our neighbor along with Buck –

her husband and we have traveled the world with them!

LIFE IN GENERAL would not be the same without them!

We have come a long way since that time in Pa. and WNY.

Via – Northern Va. – South Carolina and now North Carolina –

We all live in North Carolina now – Jim and Dottie are some five hours away –

and Buck and Cindy some 45 minutes away.

Any of the three places are great places to call home.

We still plan to get together and now all six of us are retired –

Sherry and I are the SENIOR retirees and we hope a lot of time remains –

but if it doesn’t – this journey of LIFE IN GENERAL has all the earmarkings of –

A LIFE WELL LIVED!

Here is to that well-traveled road – I wouldn’t change a thing and am blessed to have met and known all of these people –

and to my wife of 42-plus years –

Thanks for my and our LIFE IN GENERAL!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

HERE’S TO “LIFE IN GENERAL” and our old friends who have made it that way!

Papa’s World – Living in the Carolinas!

August 7, 2024May 26, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

BEACHES – WARMTH – BLUE SKIES and GOLF!

We made the move to eight miles to the border of S.C. – OIB – known as OCEAN ISLE BEACH!

Now in this expanse of eight to ten miles – in any direction except toward the ocean –

is about thirty golf courses!

Playing golf was one of the reasons we moved to Cameron Woods Community.

We both love to be out on the fairways and the trees and open air.

We purchased each year what is known as THE FIRST TEE CARD for $100.00 –

$90.00 if you buy it before Christmas each year.

On this card are 52 golf venues where you can make tee times –

but you can only make them sometimes 24 to 48 hours in advance and most are after twelve – noon!

We do not mind as that time most players want morning tee times-

thus it is not as crowded at 1:30 PM. Tee off!

So we play – mostly with our dear friends Buck and Cindy – once every week or two.

Other times – I have played with neighborhood friends –

and at times with my son-in-law when they visit.

There are times when our group of friends that we have known for years –

come to visit and we play guys vs gals and usually it ends up one stroke –

while we give them five strokes over eighteen holes.

Makes for a great afternoon – dinner and festive bantering!

We also chose this area because we are close to two beaches – here is the Sunset Beach Pier –

This is the beach I prefer to walk on as it is more level and easier for me to walk –

I have a sore hip joint – walking here in the surf is okay!

As you can see here – Sunset Beach at low tide is very wide – and not as rough as other beaches!

While I also am way past riding the waves – I do wade into knee-deep and that is enough for me!

Sunset Beach is known as its name suggests – brilliant SUNSETS!

A couple times a month they have live bands set up on the pier and everyone gathers in the sand

below for free concerts!

This is more of a residential beach and in less than fifteen minutes we are standing on the sand!

And then there is OCEAN ISLE BEACH – I like this beach because it has commercial places to eat and drink!

Also a very large open park with a covered stage for concerts – a mini golf course – and a playground with pickle ball courts – basketball – splash pool and various playground rides for kids!

Live free concerts begin at the end of May and run up past Labor Day!

Pelican Perch is one of my favorite bars and grills – my favorite draft is ‘RED OAK”!

There is also a second-level coffee shop and a wine and beer garden with appetizers!

Many surf shops and a community center with parking – a covered deck with picnic tables

and outdoor showers – and restrooms for the public.

We drive here often as in less than ten minutes we are standing on the beach –

we search for sea shells – sand dollars – starfish –

April is a big month to find Counch Shells!

Ocean Isle Beach pier – a lot of fishing from here – and you can see from the other pier on Sunset Beach-

it is rougher here!

We walk here also but it seems that my hip is more sore here than at Sunset Beach.

Both beaches have free parking for now – but both piers charge $10.00 to park in their enclosed lots

all day.

Living here near golf and beaches along with being warm in Spring and Fall is what we wanted.

Winter is bearable – no snow to shovel and hardly any ice – storms can be a problem but in four years we have survived that!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – LIVING IN THE CAROLINAS!

Papa’s World – Life with us in Carolina and before!

August 6, 2024March 11, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

This is our new Community center in Cameron Woods Community – OIB, North Carolina.

We now are residents of Noth Carolina – having moved here almost 3 years ago.

Coming from Northern Va. for the past 21 years and before that in WNY!

We are the product of the ’60s and 70’s growing up thru the 50’s.

Working in WNY and transferring to NVA – our lives have transformed into senior living and retirement.

Papa taking a selfie of our neighborhood walking group an Mondays and Fridays!

Our favorite pass time is beach walking -and golfing and walking with friends and neighbors.

Living life one day at a time and living life to what I call the plus!

Helping where we can – Memory Care unit – Book club – helping people out who have dogs –

Life is full of wonderful situations – positive things and getting rid of negativity.

Growing our own produce without soil and pesticides. eating as healthy as we can.

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

PAPA and SHERRY – living life to the plus one day at a time – Life in the Carolinas and before!

Papa’s World – A dream of living near “BEACHES”!

August 3, 2024May 23, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

We both love the BEACH – with its sunrises and sunsets!

Walking the surf – toes in the sand and cold water to sip on!

Our life now consists of two beaches that are close – one four miles and one six miles!

When we were first married – our dreams were beach vacations – but that was not always an option!

Money – we had to save what we could – taking four kids to the beach was expensive.

Our first “FAMILY” vacation was to a rental – off the beach – at Lake Erie!

I really do not remember much about the house – it was one level – sat on a bluff with lots of trees- and you could walk to an overlook and down below and see a small rock-strewed beach.

The boys would go down the side to the beach – the girls not so much.

Later – we would pack up and drive to the beach in New Jersey – having picnics on the way –

saving as much money as we could – Sherry was excellent at that!

The Outer Banks was our later goal in life and we managed to do that with friends and their families-

later my brother and sister and their families.

Today – here we are – Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach – within minutes we are on the beaches!

We also are within a half hour to forty-five minutes of Holden Beach – Oak Island –

and North Myrtle Beach!

Our dreams have come to be – we are now living the “BEACH LIFE” while on the mainland-

away from the storms – Hurricanes can and do have an effect on us –

But – we will deal with it at the time.

Ocean Isle Beach and the pier – this beach is not as flat as Sunset Beach –

but this beach also has a community center with bathrooms – outdoor showers – and free parking!

The Community Center has a large open-air covered porch with many picnic tables.

There is a nice beach entrance and a large volleyball net and court.

This beach is also where we shell hunt and the month of April is known for the large Counch shells!

There also is a large park with a stage and live music all summer long!

There are more places to eat and ice cream – slushes and stores here!

Sunset Beach is my favorite beach to walk on – it is flat and easier to walk – we often go here –

They also have live music on Thursdays with the band on the pier and you set up below on the beach!

It also turns into Bird Island – a protected area and where the “KINDRED SPIRIT MAILBOX” –

This is a mile and one-half walk from the pier –

and has been there for over forty years!

Two benches and the mailbox sit up near the top of a dune.

There are plaques for remembering those who first put this here and a large piece of driftwood-

with a plaque in honor of those two people all the years ago.

In the mailbox is a journal and a pen for you to sit down and leave a message.

these are collected-

and are at a University for recording the history of “THE KINDRED SPIRIT MAILBOX”!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – A DREAM OF LIVING NEAR THE BEACHES!

Papa’s World – POSITIVE THOUGHTS AND SMILES!

July 31, 2024March 11, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

I post every day on Facebook – GOOD THOUGHTS as my way to promote Positive feelings and sharing!

Helping others as much as we can – staying neutral – staying true to our beliefs – having good relationships.

Having a sense of humor – smiling – laughing – feeling positive and focusing on the life we lead – THE SALT LIFE!

Trying to leave a footprint on Positive changes for the good of humankind – is not easy but can be done.

A smile when many years ago our granddaughter took her first horseback ride – today she rides and takes care of horses!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – POSITIVE THOUGHTS AND SMILES! HGD!!!!!!!

Papa’s World – After all those years – dreams – the good life!

July 27, 2024May 14, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Oh – okay – it is not that bad! LOL! But a little humor is needed in day-by-day life!

In raising our family – to us, vacation meant “BEACH” – Sun – Sand and Ocean!

I always said while at the beach – “I WANT TO RETIRE AND SELL HOTDOGS ON THE BEACH”!

Well – we retired – all be it in NVA – and that was going to be it – UNTIL ——

Our lifeline was slipping away after the 401K took a hit – over 30% DOWN.

The UPSIDE – the housing market took off – real estate was booming –

IT WAS TIME TO LIST AND SELL OUR DREAM RETIREMENT HOUSE –

and move out of the costly NVA-Loundon County area.

SO WE SOLD – moved in with family for four months –

And then loaded up and went South – to S.C.

To be exact – North Myrtle Beach – and started a search just where we wanted to settle down!

But – the big BUT – in our price range we could not find anything that did not require updating!

In giving – unexpected returns come back – by chance – we stumbled into a new development –

We have always shared what we have – volunteering our services –

Giving what we can – not expecting anything in return –

But – this opportunity came to us – a woman that day had asked for a return of her deposit –

on a lot eight miles from the border of N.C. and S.C. – in Cameron Woods Community –

Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.

As soon as Sherry walked into the model – she loved it – and as soon as we visited the lot –

We put a deposit on it – we had found our new home to be built –

And it was going to cost us less than if we were to buy one already built!

We now had that dream I had of beach living without the hotdogs – being close to two beaches –

and our other dream was to be able to golf – at reasonable prices!

We could purchase what is called FIRST TEE CARDS –

Which give reduce rates on over 50 courses –

a majority of them within 15 to 30 minutes of where we were to build!

This is our story on how we got here – call it luck – good fortune – I call it BLESSED!

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

PAPA’s WORLD – AFTER ALL THOSEYEARS – DREAMS – THE GOOD LIFE!

Papa’s World – Happy thoughts and Happy days!

July 26, 2024May 13, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Golfing to us is a day to just enjoy the outdoors – good friends – and that one good shot that brings us back again and again.

Here we have so many courses near us and we buy the first tee card that gives us reduced rates

on over 50 courses.

Do we play every week – no – about every two weeks –

Usually with our close friends who live 38 miles away.

It is easy as the courses they like to play are in our area –

but they live on Magnolia Greens and we also play there.

We have been friends ever since we moved to Pleasant Acres Drive in Portville, N.Y.

back in the late 1980s.

We started playing golf there in WNY before Sherry or Cindy ever picked up a golf club.

So many laughs back then and it continues to this day!

They even wore mittens because their hands were cold!

They moved in the mid-90s to N.C. and in 1999 we moved to NVA-

but we stayed in touch and would visit one another.

We have another couple who also are close friends and we would visit each other three times a year they lived in Va. Beach, Va.

The three of them are just so funny when together.

Sherry – Cindy and Dottie –

I have known Dottie and Jimmy since the mid to late 70s –

Jim and I played softball together in the town we both grew up in and Dottie lived there also.

Papa – Buck and Jimmy – so many memories of good times together!

When we are all together it is HAPPY THOUGHTS and HAPPY DAYS!

Now – we are all retired – still visiting each other – still playing golf –

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

PAPA’S WORLD – HAPPY THOUGHTS AND HAPPY DAYS!

Papa’s World – Thoughts – words and memories!

July 24, 2024May 12, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

LOL! We – Sherry and I, have adopted a healthy living lifestyle almost 19 years ago!

First – I must say – I was a McDonalds addict!

Change did not come easy, but I gave those burgers, fries, and cokes up!

I also concentrated on dairy ( milk ) and sugar – I am diabetic – and it is a constant

every four months of blood tests to stay below type I – and for over ten years I have managed-

with our shots and taking Metformin.

I eat little sweets – my one vice is milk chocolate!

But – that is not often – I do not like hard candy – seldom eat frosting –

And contrary to the above – I eat a lot of veggies which I have always liked!

We try to walk every day getting in our steps! And also play golf at least once every two weeks!

Walking can be neighborhood and is around two miles – going to other places to walk (beach) –

And some of the large resort areas of NMB or Myrtle Beach!

We are now in our mid-seventies – and are doing GERI-FIT at the Senior Center –

This is a class of exercise for senior folks –

and is led by an instructor for 45 minutes – continuous!

It is for all the muscle groups while standing and sitting!

This is twice a week – and you do what you can do in each class!

Sherry – walking the path in our neighborhood!

My heart doctor told me – “The best thing you can do is “MOVE”!”

And that I try to do all day long!

I can get 4000 steps just by moving into the house and yard!

I use this to make my thought process alert and feel refreshed!

I also take every day OMEGS’S –

And over 30 fruits – vegetables and berries each day in capsules!

I write each day and post a blog daily – this helps my mind retain memories!

I use pictures as memory joggers and write about them – this keeps my mind active!

I also read the Washington Post each day online and sometimes go to my early newspapers

back in Pa. and NYS for news – local and international and country!

I very seldom watch cable news as I can tell they tend to slant the news.

PICTURES IN MEMORIES create me retaining all that I can!

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PAPA’S WORLD THOUGHTS WORDS AND MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Through the years – life!

July 22, 2024May 11, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Our wedding day – June 25th. 1982 – a second marriage for both of us – the start of a new life!

We combined her two daughters with my two sons – although my sons lived with their mother-

Almost every weekend they were with us in the country between Olean and Portville in N.Y.

We tried to have mini long weekends – traveling in our 12-passenger van.

Packing food – eating picnic style – providing what we could afford –

It was an unforgettable time in those early years.

We lived there for 5 1/2 years before moving to the other side of Portville – closer to my sons and still in the same school district for the girls.

A new neighborhood in Pleasant Acres Drive which would be home for 12 1/2 years.

From here both girls graduated from H.S. and the boys graduated from H.S. in nearby Pa.

We were now empty nesters –

In 1999 we applied for a transfer for both of us to NVA. staying within the company!

When we retired – we had 79 1/2 years of service between us.

In Northern Va., we became Washinton Nationals Baseball fans and are still that way to this day!

We bought our first condo in Fairfax, Va. – then sold and built another one also in Fairfax – a couple miles

from George Mason and the NRA building.

We sold again and built a house in Brambleton, Va. behind the Dulles Airport.

Here we lived for 14 1/2 years – the stock market went way down but the housing went way up – SELL!

We lived in NMB for nine months while building our current home in OIB!

Cameron Woods Community is now our home in Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.

We live near two beaches and a lot of golf courses.

We are 45 minutes from Wilmington, N.C.

And 30 minutes to North Myrtle Beach.

Today we are living our dream where it is warm – near the beach and golf –

We have made new friends and old friends visit us.

Family comes here and we go there.

Life is good!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – THROUGH THE YEARS LIFE!

Papa’s World – Time passes you – through the years!

July 19, 2024May 9, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

June 25th. 1982 – The day we were married – 42 plus years ago – time passes!

It has been a busy 42 years – kids are all grown up

and the three older grandkids are too

three younger ones – two in the teens and one about to be ten

We have moved six times – built three houses – and lived in four states-

Worked a combined 79 1/2 years at American Olean Tile- Dal Tile and retired from there.

We have traveled the world and this country.

Our honeymoon in the Dominican Republic –

Very hot there – all-inclusive – even cigarettes and cigars when we smoked!

A diverse country with no middle class.

I guess you can say we experienced a lot of different things!

But – we did it and have no regrets – just wonderful memories!

We have had friends – close friends for all of that time – laughter – good times – wine – beer and golf!

We still get together a couple times a year – friends for life –

and now – in a couple days – all will be retired!

We are grateful for the lives we have led –

Love – faith – family and friends!

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

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

PAPA’S WORLD – TIME PASSES YOU THROUGH THE YEARS!!!!!!!

Papa’s World – Weed and Feed – then irrigation!

July 13, 2024May 4, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

While our roses are doing really well – the lawn needs some care –

So – I have been every two weeks – doing a little ‘WEED and FEED”!

The centipede grass is slowly coming out of its Winter brown state!

But this year we have a lot of new weeds that seem to have made their presence known!

Above are the Swedish Pink Roses on this side of the house!

After spreading the Weed and Feed – it was TIME to run the irrigation system –

Giving the lawn a good soaking!

We are at the side of the enclosed lanai and the palm tree!

We have had all the landscaping done in the past 2 1/2 years and are done!

This is the backyard and we have six zones for irrigation!

The Crepe Myrtles were also placed in our landscaping.

The tree line is a protected area and will not be cleared.

We sold all of our lawn equipment when we moved here to N.C. –

Now that I am 75 years old – mowing is not at the top of my list –

So we hire a young man to mow – and trim –

He does lawn maintenance with fertilizer and pre-emptive growth-

but for some reason this year we have some weed!

We have had so much rain and really heavy at times –

this area gets like a small stream running through it and down to the woods.

It washes the sand out from underneath –

Trying to come up with a solution to remedy this!

But – this is the backyard with the trees put in place.

The outdoor patio with our Tower Garden is also here!

Finally the other side yard with the red roses at the top –

The lawn will come back – it will take time –

I now have the irrigation system on automatic.

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

WEED AND FEED – THEN IRRIGATION! PAPA’S WORLD!!!!!!

Papa’s World – Past times remembered!

July 11, 2024May 2, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Tammy holding Bode with Marcus – on this day – Sherry had her first grandson –

He has since been all boy – playing golf – soccer – ice skating and flag football.

Soon he will turn ten years old – and he sent us a text message –

“He was trying out for Travel Soccer” !

He later sent another message –

“Today at my travel tryouts – I scored Three goals and blocked Five goals – I think I’ll make it in travel!”

Almost soon to be ten years old – he is following in the footsteps of his cousins –

They also played travel – Maddy and Ella and then on to college where they also played!

PAST TIMES REMEMBERED!

On one of our many times to visit our NYS friends at Lake Chautauqua – Sherry rode the bow on a trip around the lake with Buck and Cindy.

Cindy and I had just gone riding a tube –

Many fond memories back in WNY!

PAST TIMES REMEMBERED!

Sherry tees off on a par three – one of our wishes was to move here to afford to play golf!

We purchased a first tee card that gives us discounts on over 50 courses-

Most are a short drive from our home in Cameron Woods Community!

Retirement in the South – beaches – sun – surf and golf!

PAST TIMES REMEMBERED!

Easter sunrise service on Ocean Isle Beach – since we moved South –

numerous times we have attended these services at sunrise!

PAST TIMES REMEMBERED!

When family visits for Spring Break – gather on the canal at a friend’s house on OIB to Kayak!

Many memories of hiking – exploring and sand and surf!

PAST TIMES REMEMBERED!

Boating the ICW with friends and family.

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PAST TIMES REMEMBERED!

Papa’s World – through time – family pictures.

July 9, 2024February 6, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

We have at times had group family pictures – not often – but a few!

The family is outside a fence in our yard in Brambleton, Va.

This one was taken right after our little Bode was born – the first grandson on this side of the family.

It was also the same time I got a haircut – scalping from a lady – before I could stop her – she just started to lop it off.

I had not had my haircut that short since my father cut it while I was young!

This one was taken at Debby and Mikes’s house at Lake Holiday – Cross Junction, Va.

It was a themed red dress-up for Christmas – we always spend Christmas together at one or another’s home.

And that still is the case even though we are far away – we travel back to their homes.

Living life to the plus – family – always tight – always sharing memories.

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PAPA’S WORLD: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – “Roses are red my love- PINK is for Sherry”!

July 8, 2024April 30, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Sherry received a homewarming present from two very dear friends – Dottie and Cindy –

“SWEDISH PINK ROSES” in memory of her mother whose own mother was born in Sweden!

Dottie – Cindy and Sherry – the three of them have been friends for years and years.

When Sherry’s mother – Barb (GIGI) passed away –

the two of them had “SWEDISH PINK ROSE PLANTS” delivered to her in Brambleton, Va.

We planted them right outside under the dining room window so we could see them every day.

Sadly – they remained with the house when we sold it and moved to N.C.

But – another two plants arrived after we moved into our new home in Cameron Woods Community!

They were planted to the left of the garage on the side of the house!

The left side is just before you get to the SWEDISH PINK ROSES!

Here they are in the early morning sunshine – facing toward the East.

They come and go all Sring – Summer and Fall – reminding us of her mother and her mother’s mother

(MORMOR) homeland-

SWEDEN – the Swede runs strong in the family – tall beautiful granddaughters and another going-to-be tall grandson.

And on the opposite side of the house – we have planted Knock out RED ROSES!

These face the West and get the afternoon full sun!

“ROSES ARE RED MY LOVE – “PINK” IS FOR SHERRY”

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“SWEDISH PINK ROSES – IN MEMORY OF GIGI – “BARB” PINK IS FOR HER!

Papa’s World – More memories in pictures!

July 4, 2024April 26, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

We always wanted to golf – and down here in N.C. we live close to over thirty golf courses!

We have very close friends who live within 32 miles of us and they like to golf in our area.

So – once or twice a month – we golf and then have dinner.

Sherry and Papa with Cindy and Buck – we were neighbors for years back in WNY –

they moved to the Wilmington, N.C. area,

and we would visit.

Back in WNY – we often would get together and golf.

Friendships across borders and now nearby.

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Here we are with friends – all of us are from the same area – and all of us have been friends for years!

When we get together – we usually end up on the golf course and do a scramble –

GALS Va GUYS and some strokes are given – not many because the GALS can beat us!

Here we gave them three a side and only won by one!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

LOL – with me, it would not matter – the PROBLEM IS ME!!!!!

We love our new life near the Ocean – Beaches and ICW!

It is what I consider warm here most of the year-

I am not a cold-snow-chilly campfire person.

Although we do have a SOLO STOVE – but that mostly is for family visiting!

Sunset from the backyard and the SOLO STOVE going for family time.

Being here in Cameron Woods close to the borders of N.C. and S.C. –

provides me with temps that I enjoy – but still in winter I bundle up while other people do not! LOL

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Positive thought- looking toward the sunshine of each day!

Sherry at sunrise on Ocean Isle Beach – sums up our new life near the Ocean and the beaches!

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MORE MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Papa’s World – Remembering the past.

July 2, 2024April 25, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

So many times in the past 18-plus years –

we have traveled across the country to attend the Juice Plus Conference –

held every six months alternating coasts!

Always a learning experience and seeing friends from across the nation.

The Pandemic slowed me down because of being in an airplane –

but when it is driveable – I will go.

I have had Covid twice – so I am as careful as possible.

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

SWEET BETSEY! She was the best dog and I miss seeing her in the yard or when we visit.

She belonged to our neighbors Diane and Steve three doors up from us.

She would greet us each time we walked by – her whole body wagged as she would rub against our legs.

She was never tied up in her yard and she would not leave the yard.

She made these little guttural sounds when we would watch her and go over to take her out.

I still find myself “SEEING” her when we walk by the yard.

SWEET BETSEY – REMEMBERING THE PAST!

Our LITTLE CASSIDY – who draws such wonderful pictures for us to frame.

Here is one she drew a couple years ago –

and I have another framed and hanging for me to see every day over my desk as I write!

She is so creative – this one was when she was ELEVEN YEARS OLD!

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

Tanny and Marcus and the first grandson – in November he will be ten years old –

Five granddaughters and then Bode.

Today he golfs- plays soccer and flag football!

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

All these past memories – bring joy to my heart!

Tanny and Marcus – with the twins Taylor and Cassidy – now going to be fourteen years old!

They were early – each weighing over one pound – so small –

Today – Taylor is almost 5’7 1/2″ and Cassidy is 5′ 5″ tall – she is catching up.

Both play the violin and Cassidy has trained herself to play the piano!

Taylor rides horses and would spend all her time with them if she could!

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

The day we were married – 6-25-1982 – a change in both of our lives.

We both committed to one another and remain that way today.

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

REMEMBERING THE PAST from PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa – Sherry and Les – whom I have known since the mid-70’s –

and we played softball together –

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

Papa’s World – Memories of the past – PICTURES!

June 30, 2024April 23, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

All our married life – we try to give and inspire others to do the same!

When we were about to be married – we both committed to the Lutheran faith –

Sherry was raised in the Swedish Lutheran church of her hometown in Mount Jewett, Pa.

I was raised in the Catholic faith by my mother and her mother.

I converted to Lutheran before we were married.

And we have made it our way of life ever since.

Today we live near two beaches – above Sunset Beach and at the top with the tall building-

Ocean Isle Beach.

We always dreamed of living near the coast – and today we are on the mainland –

Two miles to the ICW and then across the causeway to the beach!

We also wanted to be able to afford to golf – and we now live where that is possible

We purchase what is called “THE FIRST TEE” and get reduced rates at over 50 courses!

Some of our best friends for years and years live 33 miles from us and we try to get together

to golf and then dinner!

We now have two more couples who are friends now living close to us!

Makes for exciting get-togethers in our senior years!

Three generations – Sherry – her daughters Debby and Tammy and her mother Barb.

Barb has passed on – but the Swede runs deep in these ladies.

MEMORIES OF THE PAST – PICTURE!

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PAPA’S WORLD – MEMORIES OF THE PAST – PICTURES!

Papa’s World – Remembering the GOOD TIMES!

June 29, 2024April 22, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

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

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

Papa’s World – FUN TIMES in N.C.!

June 27, 2024April 21, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

True – but it seems it is always the last long shot I hit – that keeps bringing me back!

Golfing – we love to be out there in the air – green fairways and nature.

Mostly relaxing but at times frustrating! LOL

One of our many reasons for moving to the borders of N.C. and S.C.!

We both stand against RACISM – one of our core beliefs –

living here – we have seen it –

but – we also have seen the opposite –

giving our time to help others –

that is the way we are!

LOL – yes – this is true for me! But – I am also up to see the sunrise each morning –

I have been this way all my life – living life to the plus one day at a time!

We have so many memories with our friends over the years – we now all live in the South – in N.C.!

We try to get together every three or four months!

Friends since the 70s!

Two of my best friends – going back to the mid-70s and early 80s!

Many times we have gotten together – golfing and just talking!

Fun times!

Here is where we decided to live after searching – we found our “HOME”!

Quiet – five to seven miles of walking –

deer- turkey – and other wildlife –

yet we are close to North Myrtle Beach and Wilmington!

Our oasis in the South!

My son Troy and his partner Andrea – have been here once and will be back!

My son and his wife – Trisha and Shawn – have visited and will be back!

Family means a great deal to us –

one of the joys of our lives –

And FUN TIMES when they visit!

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PAPA’S WORLD – FUN TIMES – living life to the plus – one day at a time!

Papa’s World – Life near the beaches!

June 26, 2024April 20, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

When we discussed selling our home in NVA – we both had goals – Warmer weather – Golf nearby –

Entertainment within an hour – and SUN- SAND and SURF!

So – we moved to the border area of N.C. and S.C. on the coast – but on the mainland –

and close to the ICW!

Welcome to Ocean Isle Beach and Cameron Woods Community!

We are in the middle of over 39 golf courses and buy a card that gives us reduced rates!

Our besties have lived 33 miles from us for years and we often get together to play!

And enjoy the water views while playing!

We live in a neighborhood where the sunrise is from the SE due to the curvature of the coastline!

Walking Ocean Isle Beach at Sunrise on Easter Sunday!

We are about ten minutes to the beach.

We are thirty minutes from North Myrtle Beach in S.C.

This is the dance “THE SHAG” capital of the world!

Our dream list is true – golf – beach – entertainment and the Ocean!

Entrance to the Sunset Beach sand and ocean at sunset!

This entrance is about a 15-minute drive, and we are standing here!

Again – our wish list has been fulfilled.

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SUNSET BEACH – over the marsh –

PAPA’S WORLD – LIFE NEAR THE BEACHES!

Papa’s World – MARRIED – 6-25-1982 – life with SHERRY!

June 25, 2024April 5, 2024 / Tom / 2 Comments

This sums up our commitment to each other – our life is based on the foundation of the Church of the Rock –

That is what Pastor Dan – our minister who presided over that ceremony all those years ago said.

6-25-1982 – 42 years ago – the day we both said “I DO”!

Combining two sets of families into one – both divorced – her two daughters –

and my two sons who we had on weekends.

It was not easy – we had no money – both working for the same company –

but we had “FAITH”!

I converted to Lutheran from Catholic –

And we attended Bethel Lutheran Church in Portville, N.Y. where we were married.

Those were both hard years from the standpoint of money – but also fun years in trying

to take the kids on vacations – in a big passenger van!

Sherry – at the resort for our honeymoon in the Dominican Republic –

We had scraped and saved for a year and one-half to do this.

Neither of us had been out of the country and we drove from Portville, N.Y. –

to Toronto, Canada to fly out.

I shall always remember that week – and then back to reality –

Working and trying to save money.

Debby – Tammy and Sherry – after they went to college and started their own families.

My two sons after they started their own lives.

Our happiness is based on love for one another and those around us.

And now the grandkids – when they were little – love this picture as it was captured on vacation

at the beach – the way they sat all together.

Today – life with Sherry has gone 42 years of marriage.

6-25-1982 to 6-25-2024 – Happy anniversary my dear – it has been a whole lot of years –

and THE CHURCH OF THE ROCK still exists in our minds and hearts.

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PAPA’S WORLD – MARRIED – 6-25-1982 – LIFE WITH SHERRY!

Papa’s World – Our wall of ROSES – spring into flowers!

June 24, 2024April 19, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Good morning people – Spring is a time of planting – trimming – and seeing perennials come to fruit!

We have planted them so that they come back each year.

We also have potted flowers – and these I will try to save for next year!

Hanging baskets are also one of our favorites in the front!

We will add more as we get closer to the end of Spring!

We have always had flowers at each home we have owned.

But – this time we have a “WALL OF ROSES”!!!!

Here on the SW side of the house are these roses that bloom in the Spring and come back mid-summer!

On the opposite side of the house – they are pink – but this side blooms first!

Our “WALL OF RED ROSES”

Thanks for reading and later I will blog on what we add!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

The backyard bordering the treeline with my tree people looking back! LOL

Papa’s World – In todays World – Dare to dream!

June 22, 2024April 18, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Our family years ago – today we have moved on for our dream of living the SALT LIFE in N.C.

We have always taken beach vacations with the kids – beach houses – sand and surf and dreamed we could stay and continue – Today we are doing just that – living on the border of S.C. and N.C.

Four miles to one beach ( OIB) and Six miles to another ( SUNSET BEACH) which we can go to each day.

We now watch the vacationers arrive – spend the week and pack up and leave while we remain!

This is our family now – growing up – and they all have been down to visit numerous times!

Living the SALT LIFE through us – life to the plus one day at a time!

This is our life now in our senior years of retirement.

Here you can see our “WHY” in Sunset Beach from the pier!

Footprints in the surf to be covered – but knowing we can do this anytime we wish!

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PAPA’S WORLD – IN TODAY’S WORLD 0 DARE TO DREAM! livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Golfing THE PEARL!

June 21, 2024April 16, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

The Pearl has 27 holes – and not a single house on any of them!

Situated just minutes from our home –

It is nestled among Sea Trails – three 18-hole courses – Thistle – 27 holes and Sandpiper – 27 holes!

Here from one of the fairways is the view of the back of the clubhouse!

Gator on the bank of one of the ponds!

Down here in N.C. close to the S.C. border – you have to be on the lookout for Gators and snakes!

Sherry teeing off on a par three – each nine holes had three par three’s and three par five’s!

On the cart path to the tee and fairway – water on the right – course was in great shape!

Another par three – Cindy is about to tee off!

Cindy watches Papa about to putt and sees the line while Sherry takes the picture!

Sherry watches Cindy after she already hit her tee shot!

Cindy in form while teeing off – we had a great time – lots of water – sand and blue skies!

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PAPA’S WORLD – GOLFING THE PEARL WITH CINDY AND BUCK!!! FRIENDS FOR YEARS AND YEARS!

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

June 20, 2024April 17, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

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!

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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 – Our times in pictures!

June 19, 2024April 15, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Maddy – now 23 – soon to be 24 – Cassidy – now 13 – soon to be 14!

How time has flown by –

It seems like yesterday – OUR TIMES IN PICTURES!

Papa and Sherry – when we lived in Brambleton, Va. We were close to the Metro!

Often times we rode it to the station near the baseball stadium –

We both are Washington Nationals fans and enjoyed many games together at the ballpark!

OUR TIMES IN PICTURES!

My grandson Ryan – who lives in Tenn. We do not see him often – but he has visited

and we have visited him and attended his wedding.

A fine young man!

OUR TIMES IN PICTURES!

When we sold our home in NVA – we wanted to be warmer and near the coast and beaches-

Here is one of two beaches we are minutes away from –

This is Sunset Beach and in the distance by the tall building – that is Ocean Isle Beach!

OUR TIMES IN PICTURES!

We also like to golf – and where we live – about 30 golf courses are nearby!

We purchase what is called “THE FIRST TEE” card –

We can play over 50 courses at reduced rates!

OUR TIMES IN PICTURES!

Maddy being hugged by Ella on her first day of school in first grade!

Today – she is a scientist – geologist – for a large Environmental firm Nationwide.

Ella has completed her Junior year in college and will graduate with two majors!

OUR TIMES IN PICTURES!

Sherry and Papa – a few years ago on our tour of the California wine country!

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PAPA’S WORLD – OUR TIMES IN PICTURES!!!!

Papa’s World – A new bridge – a new pond and a new path!

June 18, 2024April 14, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

There are now three new ponds in Cameron Woods Community and a small pool of water behind our home!

Above is the pond that the pool of water flows into from the wetland!

These ponds are collection ponds for surface water.

This mulch-covered path comes from the cul-de-sac – between the common area and two houses –

To the new ponds and toward the new bridge.

In the middle of the treeline on the far side is our home which you can not see.

This treeline is protected wetlands and is right behind our property-

one of the reasons we chose this is for that barrier.

At the end of that walkway-covered mulch path –

is a new bridge going over a drainage ditch to what I believe to be the largest of all ponds in Cameron Woods.

There is another large pond to the right of the bridge but the walking path does not lead to it – instead, you would have to walk common ground in the rear of a couple lots!

After crossing the bridge you look back at the lots and houses on the cul-de-sac.

This is the last of the building inside of Cameron Woods Community!

This is the view of the large older pond that was here when we had our home built-

I do not know if it was here to begin with or was a catch pond for runoff!

Looking down the water to a corner and the pond goes beyond that –

a nice walk and covered with mulch –

I wish it was gravel like the other pond!

We saw one gator and it left the bank as we walked –

that is a good sign as they are afraid of us as we walk.

We are careful and on the look – out for gators and snakes!

Sherry walks back after we saw the gator and did not finish walking around the pond –

later we came back and walked all the way around –

and saw the gator in the middle of the pond!

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PAPA’S WORLD – A NEW BRIDGE – A NEW POND AND A NEW PATH!!!!!

Papa’s World – A pictorial history of our life!

June 15, 2024April 12, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

The first grandson from Tammy – two girls and Debby – three girls – little BODE!

FIVE granddaughters and finally a boy!

Things have changed but family continues on!

Maddy – soon to be 24 – Ella – soon to be 21 – Sarah – soon to be 18 – Taylor and Cassidy – soon to be 14-

And Bode – soon to be 10!

A memory in time – family history!

Papa and Sherry – for almost 19 years – living life to the plus – one day at a time.

We determined all those years ago – to age as healthy as we could.

It meant lifestyle changes and while very hard to be 100 % devoted –

We still are hanging in there and both of us are 75 years old!

Here we are at 74 years old – walking – doing GERIFIT twice a week and being active.

Soon we will be taking a new product that works on improving the “MIND”!

http://www.sfitzsimmons.juiceplus.com

How true is this – Sherry is really a target for bug bites!

But – we do what we can –

Playing golf – being outside – hiking – walking – just enjoying every moment we can together!

We live 1/2 hour away from North Myrtle Beach –

also known as “THE SHAGGING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD”!

For over 80 yearss – DANCING has been a way of life on the coastal town.

We discovered it ourselves when we first moved South-

For nine months we lived here while our house was being built!

BEACH MUSIC and CLASSICS from 94.9 THE SURF!!!!

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE – HE IS RISEN – once again since we moved here to the beaches –

we attended this service!

Just another reason we love it here!

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SHERRY and PAPA – A PICTORAL HISTORY OF OUR LIFE!

Papa’s World – Family in my blogs – a journal – memories!

June 14, 2024April 11, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

When little – Cassidy and Taylor – my reason for such a blog is to capture family history.

Also – it is my belief that putting down memories – keeps my mind active –

It is an exercise I use to help myself in memory games!

I share friends – family and experiences of times past –

writing as much as I can remember – here is Cindy and Sherry at our home in Brambleton –

we – as a group of long-time friends – every 3 to 5 months – visit one another –

And music plays a part – here singing –

Good times remembered!

Moving to N.C. has allowed us the pleasure of playing golf –

our close friends live 40 minutes away and we often meet up at a preselected golf course-

Enjoying 18 holes and then either out for dinner or back at one or other house!

Living in NVA – it was too expensive for us – here we purchased a FIRST TEE CARD –

This allows us to play over 50 courses at reduced rates!

Part of our life today is the SENIOR CENTER –

where we go twice a week for what is called GERIFIT EXERCISE!

40 to 50 SENIORS – forty-five minutes of continuous exercise –

crafted for SENIOR PEOPLE – men and women –

And – it is FREE!

Our son-in-law Mike – makes crafts for us – here is a fish he made and gave to us for the wall!

Here is a SURFBOARD towel holder he made!

And his latest gift – another fish – we have them all mounted on the walls!

Tammy holding Taylor and Marcus holding Cassidy – FAMILY MEMORY for generations to come!

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SHERRY AT SUNRISE ON SUNSET BEACH AYT EASTER!

FAMILY IN MY BLOGS – A JOURNAL – MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Daily life in OIB!

June 8, 2024April 4, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Cameron Woods Community – the day starts with the morning sunrise – the way the curvature of the coast

to the left is the East – and the right is the West – our backyard faces South and our front yard faces North.

Unique is what I call this – from Charleston, S.C. to above Wilmington, N.C. –

the coast curves in a crescent shape –

WELCOME TO OIB!

The Sunrise in the East from Sunset Beach – we can be on the beach in less than ten minutes!

Often times we hop in the car and come here to walk our steps –

It is flatter than OIB and I prefer to walk here as it is easier on my hip.

We are slowly shaping this area of our yard – the trees are protected and beyond are wetlands.

No – I do not venture in the woods – it is wet in there and we have seen sakes –

although it has been about two years since I saw them.

We do have Coyote’s around – lots of deer and turkeys –

raccoon and squirrels –

Huge Woodpeckers – and a multitude of species of birds!

We walk almost every day and sometimes venture a half hour South to Barefoot Landing-

in North Myrtle Beach –

enjoying the walking and people-watching for me!

We like to golf and try to get together with our besties – friends for years and years –

who live some 40 minutes away.

Always a good time with dinner afterward!

These are but a few reasons we live here and our daily lives!

Volunteering to organize the library at the local assisted living –

Our volunteer work for the Sea Turtles and protecting them.

From Sunrise to Sunset in Cameron Woods Community –

Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach –

PAPA’S WORLD DAILY LIFE IN OIB!

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Living life to the PLUS!

June 7, 2024April 3, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Sunrises and sunsets – from the same beach – SUNSET BEACH, N.C.

When we moved here to OIB at Cameron Woods Community – it was near a beach –

we are fortunate to be near two beaches – the one mentioned above and also –

Ocean Isle Beach!

We did not want to live on either Island – instead, we opted to live on the mainland –

and a short distance away is the ICW –

that long intercoastal waterway runs North to South for many miles.

Our thoughts have always been on the coast – sand – surf, and sun.

Being from the North ( WNY and NWPA) – we wanted out of the snow- ice and freezing cold!

Living our life one day at a time and living our lives to the plus!

We are separated by hours and miles from our families –

but they all have been to visit and we have gone back to NVA!

Our other family in NWPA and WNY are still there but have come down –

and are invited to come and enjoy our dream.

We also decided to play more golf – we belonged to Saint Bonaventure Golf Course –

when we lived just outside of Olean, N.Y. before moving to NVA in 1999 –

transferring – both of us within the company we worked for.

What we found was the expense of golfing in NVA –

so we did not play for years and years!

Occasionally we would go back to WNY and NWPA and take our clubs –

and play the courses we loved to play before we moved while we vacationed back North.

Today – family and friends visit often and as was in the Washington, D.C. area –

we are the tour guides once again!

In addition – several friends from the NVA area have moved into the area –

and we already had close friends who lived back in WNY already here!

Our close friends from WNY moved years before we did.

Our life has changed here – we are no longer in the huge traffic of NVA and out of that rat race.

We loved Washington, D.C. – either driving in or taking the Metro.

But that is a past life – one we have many memories of.

Today – it is SUN-SURF – SAND – and GOLF!

Thanks for reading “LIVING LIFE TO THE PLUS” PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

SUNSET ON SUNSET BEACH, N.C. – SUNRISES AND SUNSETS!

Papa’s World – Memories – what do they tell?

June 6, 2024April 2, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Marcus and Taylor – Tammy and Cassidy – across the street from our home in Brambleton, Va.

This was known in the neighborhood as “THE SLED RIDING HILL”!

During a snowstorm – they went over so we could get a photo!

They had sold their home and came to stay with us until they moved into their new home.

The twins were 2 and 1/2 years old –

One day – I heard them behind the closed door in our downstairs half bath.

Giggling – so I opened the door and there they were –

they had their dolls and were playing in the half bath.

That is a memory I shall always have as I see this picture!

It was our 40th. anniversary – so we returned to NVA. and the family gathered at a winery.

Even “MARLEY” – the dog of the younger grandkids!

It was a beautiful day – full of laughter –

and a day we all were together –

This picture reminds me of all the good times and family times back in NVA!

Sherry – grandma and mormor to all her grandchildren – MORMOR is Swedish for MOTHERSMOTHER!

Bode is the only boy with five granddaughters.

This picture reminds me of all the things we did as they were growing up!

We love to golf and here is Dottie – Sherry and Cindy – BESTIES for years and years-

Whenever we get together – maybe every four months –

usually, golf is involved – guys vs gals and a few strokes given!

This picture reminds me how they can and have beaten us –

and I keep saying “NO STROKES” LOL!

Sherry – sunrise at SUNSET BEACH – so well known for its SUNSETS!

Here she walks in the surf –

this picture reminds me of how she is always drawn to the edge of the waters!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – MEMORIES – WHAT DO THEY TELL?

ONE OF THE REASONS WE MOVED HERE IN CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY!!!

Papa’s World – Vibes – feelings – memories – GOOD!

June 4, 2024April 1, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

A picture drawn free hand by our granddaughter when she was 12 years old!

We had it framed and it sits on our dresser.

Always reminds me of a talented young person – Cassidy!

My son Troy and his partner – Andrea – are always in my thoughts – hoping they come for a visit this year!

My son Shawn and wife – Trisha – hope they return this year!

A little chilly sunset – offset by a Solo Stove firepit – good thoughts and vibes!

Being a SENIOR – no regrets – early to bed – early to rise – health and nutrition as we get older!

Freehand decorated by our granddaughter Sarah – another talented granddaughter!

Oh to have them once again young!

Granddaughters – now all grown – 23-20-17-and 13!

Bode with “Captain Jim” on his boat – he let him drive on the ICW – the highlight of his last visit!

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

JUNE – 1982 – the beginning of our life together –

PAPA’S WORLD – VIBES – FEELINGS – MEMORIES – GOOD!!!!

Papa’s World – In pictures – our life – memories!

June 2, 2024March 31, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

This is so true – that is me!

While I am up by 5am. – I am in bed by 8:30 PM.

That is just my natural clock – when I am tired – I go to bed –

And every morning – I wake up –

Have been that way all my life! LOL

We chose to move here in 2020 – the Pandemic made this place look almost deserted and it was.

We often came here to walk around and no one was here!

The stores were open – I felt so bad for them.

Today – it is different – and those stores that survived – are doing well.

Just one part of our life – living life to the plus!

Sherry has been twice – me once to Ohau –

I would like to add the BIG ISLAND to my bucket list and so would she!

Travel the world since we have been married.

Me – my niece and my brother – sad – I am the only one left – But I have memories of both!

On this day – 6-25-1982 – Sherry and I were married – the second time for both of us.

I had two sons and she had two daughters –

My sons – I had on weekends –

I raised her daughters –

Today – my sons are still back in Pa. while her daughters remain in NVA.

We have created many memories with all of them!

We choose to make our life-giving when possible- helping and being there for whoever needs us!

Steve and Diane – neighbors in our community – and we found out they are from WNY as we are –

and they have a summer cottage on Rushford Lake –

They go to Olean – Cuba and Portville –

All the places we lived and raised our family!

SMALL WORLD!

As we head into the sunset of our life together – we have created many memories and plan to create more!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – IN PICTURES – LIFE AND MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Feeling good – smiling – laughing!

June 1, 2024March 30, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

I saw this and laughed – both Sherry and myself – are going to the Senior Center –

Tuesday and Thursday – doing what is called GERIFIT!

It costs nothing – and anywhere from 40 to 50 Seniors are there –

It is 45 minutes of continuous exercise structured for Seniors.

You use a chair – weights – and a stretch band tied to the back of the chair.

All the muscle groups are used and no pressure – you do what you can.

At 75 years old – along with walking – this will hopefully keep us limber and fit.

This picture keeps me happy whenever I walk by it –

it so reminds me of something –

In my mind it is a “HALLMARK CARD” –

Why is it special and makes me smile?

Because it was drawn by Cassidy when she was maybe six or seven!

Its simple – but shows me “HER” as a little girl – and I smile when I see it!

Church is a big thing in our lives-

ever since we were married.

In the years we have been married –

we have been members of three different churches-

One in WNY – one in NVA and the latest and we think the last – in OIB. N.C.

All have special memories in our hearts.

In our time in N.C. and S.C. –

which is only 8 miles from us –

with North Myrtle Beach another 8 miles-

We have attended the Saint Patrick’s Day parade four times!

The first time was in the Pandemic and not official –

It brings happy thoughts to us and memories of family and friends who have gone with us!

A happy thought full of smiles for us!

Hanging on the wall in the front bedroom –

Is a drawing of our home in Brambleton, Va.

This is special for us and framed because our granddaughter –

“ELLA” drew it for us!

Again – when I see this –

it brings smiles and a memory of our home in NVA!

Today – I hope I have started your day with a smile –

a good thought and a happy day!

My way of doing that to you.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – FEELING GOOD – SMILING – LAUGHING!!!!

Papa’s World – Through my eyes – Living life – Senior living!

May 29, 2024March 27, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Spending the day watching Ella play college soccer – Senior living at our best!

Next Fall will be her Senior year – how the time has gone by –

She will graduate with two majors –

Her plan is to be an elementary Phys Ed. teacher-

Which is right up her alley as she is so good with children!

We try to live these words – caring – helping when we can – Senior living – one day at a time!

Time has passed since this retirement party for Sherry –

but we still maintain a healthy lifestyle –

walking – now doing physical exercises at the SENIOR CENTER – 45-minute sessions of non-stop exercise for seniors!

Living life to the plus one day at a time.

Being helpful to family – friends and neighbors – caring –

Visiting – reaching out –

volunteering at the Memory Care facility near our home –

Organizing the Library –

Living our lives and still helping others.

Staying in contact with our dear friends who now live 32 miles from us.

From back in WNY to now N.C. – playing golf maybe every two weeks.

This is what friendship is like in our senior years!

Part of living and part now of being a senior – but still maintaining a healthy lifestyle!

Papa – senior class picture – 1967 – a long time ago – now living another senior life!

Debby – Papa and Sherry – going to a JP event – living life to the plus!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – THROUGH MY EYES – LIVING LIFE – SENIOR LIVING!

Papa’s World – my maternal grandparents from my mother’s side – Nora and David Aiken.

May 28, 2024February 6, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

During my early youth – my grandma raised me as my parents both worked.

I remember sitting on her lap and asking when I could go to school to see a first grader

walking down the street – who was two years older than I!

I think this puts me at about four years old!

She was everything to me and I am sad that my memories are not more there about her.

These were my mother’s parents and he passed away before I was born – my middle name is after him.

Granma was 85 years old when she passed away and had 11 children!

She was PA. DUTCH – Maiden name of Schick,

and followed the lumber camps around –

cooking meals for all the lumberjacks in Pa.

She met my grandfather during that time.

He was Irish and English – a big man – some say 6’3″ –

They were both what we called down homers in Pa.

The Brookville – Corsica area below Dubois.

My grandfather was a farmer and produced his own flower – pork – beef – milk and vegetables.

It was said during the Great Depression – he would walk and carry food to the neighbors

to keep them from starving – never asking for anything in return –

as they had 11 children of their own to feed.

He passed from a heart attack as he was pulling a hog up to butcher.

Just a little family history to pass on to my kids – as there is not many left of my generation.

Thanks for reading – PAPA’S WORLD MY SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – A pictorial on family memories!

May 26, 2024March 26, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

On the West end of Sunset Beach – Bird Island – sits a MAILBOX –

On the outside are the LETTERS – KINDRED SPIRIT – and inside are a pen and journal.

This is a 1 1/4 mile walk from the last beach entrance –

and no houses – just dunes – sand and surf.

Put your imagination to a test – this must be what it looked like hundreds of years ago.

This mailbox – or one just like it – was put here over 40 years ago by a hippie and his girlfriend.

It was a favorite spot up on the dunes – where one can see in the distance Cherry Point.

The journal is collected by volunteers and turned over to I believe a University –

where they have been stored all these years – and all the paragraphs are written all these years by thousands of visitors.

A tribute to two people who have passed on – a couple benches to sit on –

a large piece of driftwood sits on top of the sand dune with a plaque –

as well as plaques on the bench.

“THE KINDRED SPIRIT MAILBOX” A walking destination of SUNSET BEACH-BIRD ISLAND”!

Sherry on OHAU – an unforgettable trip –

We have both said we want to go back and the next time take in the BIG ISLAND!

We traveled all over OHAU –

Exploring the whole island and staying at an AIRBNB on the North Shore.

A time in a picture bringing back unforgettable memories!

BETSY – our neighbor’s SWEET DOG – her whole body would wag as they came toward you.

Leaning against your leg you scratched behind her ears.

SWEET BETSY passed away – always to be remembered in our minds and pictures.

She would lay in the yard in the sun or shade –

never leaving and seldom barking –

She made little guttural sounds of joy when you petted her or we would watch her

while they were gone –

Waiting at the door and rubbing against us – so happy to see us.

RIP SWEET BETSY!

Pam and Bob – my grade school best friend and still friends after all these years.

So many stories I could tell her in those early years of growing up –

in a little town in NWPA in the Allegheny Mountains near the NYS border –

where in NYS – the drinking age was 18 vs 21 in Pa.

Camping out – roaming the streets – playing sports –

Canoe trips down the river for overnight camping.

A picture for me brings back all those memories –

FRIENDS FOR LIFE – now if we could just play golf! LOL!

A perfect picture on a very snowy day across the street at the park-sled riding hill –

at our house in Brambleton, Va.

Tammy and Marcus and Taylor and Cassidy –

they had sold their home and stayed with us until they moved into their new home.

I feel this picture is like a HALLMARK PICTURE!

The twins are now teenagers but here is a reminder of when they were young!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – A PICTORIAL OF FAMILY MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Who am I?

May 25, 2024March 25, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Papa – my niece Terri and my younger brother Mike.

I was born across the border in Olean, N.Y. at the Saint Francis Hospital –

To an Irish Catholic mother –

Mary (Aiken) Fitzsimmons and an Irish Protestant father Clarence (Bob) Fitzsimmons.

As you can tell – there were many dynamics in my family.

I had one sister – Donna – who was 15 years older than me –

A sister who died at birth –

and a brother – Roger – who was 10 years older than me.

Then there was me for over four years and then Mike came along.

We lived in Pa. – on the main street in a very small town called Eldred.

My father was a supervisor in the oil fields for South Penn-Pennzoil.

My mother retired from Alcas – which today is known as CUTCO –

A world leader in the manufacture of KNIVES.

My sister married and lived next door to my parent’s house – and my brother-in-law-

Bill – was both Mayor – Police Chief and drove a semi-tractor trailer for Ethan Allen.

Growing up I always had a dream of one day living on or near a beach!

Today – we have realized that dream – living in N.C. in OIB – Cameron Woods Community!

My mother Mary – my father passed away at age 59 from cancer – he was a heavy smoker –

my mother was almost 98 when she passed on.

Our home on North Main Street in Eldred – was a beacon to all my friends –

my two brothers’ friends and my sister’s friends.

Even after we had left and moved away – Mary had an open door to any and all of them.

I grew up there – when a senior was in a car accident not knowing if I would walk again –

I got married at 17 with my first son on the way in a wheelchair.

After I graduated from H.S. – with a child – no college for me – I had a family to support –

I started work at AMERICAN OLEAN TILE CO. – in Olean, N.Y.

For the next 32 years – I had another son – divorced – work many jobs in the plant –

and remarried to Sherry on 6-5-1982!

Above is our wedding picture we lived just outside Portville, N.Y. in the country.

We combined two families – her two girls and on weekends my two sons.

On our wedding day in 1982 – the boys had gone home. Debby holding her cousin and Tammy with her arms around her cousin.

We stayed in the Portville area until 1999 – when we both transferred within the company –

Sherry also worked for AOTC – which became DAL-TILE –

Our close friends Elaine and Steve during those years in Portville, N.Y. – to this day.

We golfed – played competitive Volleyball – took vacations together and raised families.

My two sons – Troy and Shawn – still live back in Pa. not far from where I grew up.

They have been down to N.C. and hoping they come back although it is a 16b hour drive!

1982 – our wedding day – growing up in Pa. and N.Y.S. –

beautiful in the spring – Summer and Fall – brutal in the Winter

as I am not a snow-cold and ice person.

We both retired from AOTC-DAL TILE – ARMSTRONG – MOHAWK –

With a combined 79 1/2 years!

Sherry and Papa – living our dreams at the beach –

Thank you for reading and as always HGD! My Site: PAPA’S WORLD: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – WHO AM I? SENIOR LIVING TO THE PLUS – ONE DAY AT A TIME!

Papa’s World – Family time when they were young!

May 24, 2024March 24, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Maddy holding Cassidy – Maddy is now 23 and Cassidy is 13 – seems like only yesterday!

The grands are getting older and so are we –

Both of us will turn 75 in a few months –

But the important part of all of this is we still see them all –

As often as we can – either going back to NVA or them visiting us here in N.C.

Yes – we were part of that age group so many years ago –

long hair – peace and working to make a living.

Cassidy and Taylor – now 13 – Taylor rides horses and Cassidy acts in plays-

both play Violin –

Little now big – Taylor catching up with Sherry and Cassidy going through a growth spurt-

catching up with Taylor.

Remembering when they were young.

Last fall – at the Myers house at Lake Holiday –

All six Grands –

We try to see them as often as we can and while we still can.

Life comes at you and passes you by –

but family is where it is at-

living life one day at a time to the fullest.

They were little now they are older and bigger –

but these memories are always in the back of my mind-

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoinitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – FAMILY TIME WHEN THEY WERE YOUNG!

Papa’s World – Mary and Fitz- Donna and Roger – my mom and dad – sister and brother.

May 22, 2024February 6, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Good day everyone – the beginnings of a new day.

I am guessing this picture I am about to show you were taken some 81 or 82 years ago!

My brother was some ten years older than I and my sister some fifteen years older.

I will soon be 73 years old!

In this picture are my mother Mary and my dad “Bob” Fitz.

Mary holding Roger with Donna standing in front of my dad Bob. He was over six feet tall.

Today if my brother had lived he would have been 83 years old

and my sister Donna would have been 88 years old.

My father passed when he was 59 years old and I was 19 years old.

He passed from lung cancer.

His full name was Clarence Russel Fitzsimmons –

everyone for some reason called him “Bob”!

FITZ was his nickname.

He was a supervisor for the South Penn Oil Company and many a time I remember him taking me to work with him.

Later after he retired from there he was part owner of the local Western Auto.

He actually graduated from H.S. when he was a Sophomore – but his father – who was a teacher –

made him take his junior and senior years over as he was too young to go find a job.

He played basketball and baseball and later would manage the local baseball town team.

He was an avid golfer and bowler – a mechanic and carpenter.

He loved fishing and would spend every summer two weeks –

deep into the far northern Canadian wilderness.

Mary my mother was Pa. Dutch from her mother’s side and Irish Catholic from her father’s side.

My dad was Irish Protestant and that made for quite the dynamics in the house.

There were many fun times in that house!

Dad’s ancestors came straight from County Tyrone in Ireland.

But mom ruled the house so to speak – she was not that big but she was a little spitfire.

She once thumped him on top of the head with a frying pan!

She lived to be almost 98 years old and everyone loved her.

She would sit on her front porch on the main street in little Eldred, Pa.

Cars would go by and honk their horns and windows rolled down, “HELLO MARY”!

She baked pies – cakes – homemade and rolls and bread.

My sister was 15 years older than I and my brother 10 years older than I.

So when I came along it was more or less a second family for them.

Then my younger brother was four years later.

They are all gone now but not forgotten.

I am the last of that family – I have two sons to pass the name on.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World – a little about my family –

MY BLOG SITE: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Thoughts – younger years!

May 19, 2024March 19, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

My mother’s name was Mary – she was Irish Catholic – my father’s name was –

Clarence -Russell – Everyone called him Bob.

I grew up on North Main Street in a little town called Eldred – in Pa. near the NYS border.

Bradford, Pa. was 14 miles as was Olean, N.Y.

Bradford was known for OIL – Pennsoil – Kendall –

Olean for Saint Bonaventure – BONNIES BASETBALL!

My father introduced me to those years of BONAS basketball – sitting at the kitchen table –

with a small radio – a sheet of lined white paper – and he would write the names of each basketball starter

for Saint Bonaventure down and those of subs.

It was the age of ROCK and ROLL – for my brother – turned collar – slicked back hair.

He was ten years older.

I would sit with my dad, listening as he did and watching him put down an X for a score.

At the foul line, it was a ZERO, and if made a line on a slant drawn through it!

I must say I went with him when he bowled – yes our small town had a bowling alley!

He taught me how to keep score often saying –

“ADD TEN – THEN SUBTRACT 3 IN YOUR HEAD TO GET THE CORRECT SCORE”

depending on what number you were using to add and subtract.

My dad, you did not cross the line but was also very dedicated to his family.

It was sitting with him during those games at our kitchen table –

in the mid to late 50s- that I became a BONNIE fan.

Then – we would drive down the street to the local watering hole – “SLAVINS”!

A bar- grill and all the men would meet there as RUSS was a huge BONNIE fan.

He had a radio for the bar and everyone leaned in to listen while sipping beer.

Our seats were just by the entrance as the bar top bends around so your back was toward the door.

That went on for several years and then he somehow got a hold of one season ticket at the OLD OLEAN ARMORY!

Now this place was crowded and tickets were so hard to come by

hundreds of fans around the whole court so that you could touch the players sitting on the bench or throwing the ball in !

IN OTHER WORDS – A LOUD PIT OF SCREAMING LOYAL BONAS HOMETOWN FANS!

I had to stay home with the radio at the kitchen table and that is when I took up keeping the scores with Xs and O’S with slanted lines.

He wanted to take me but there were no tickets.

Later in life – after the RILEY CENTER was built on campus – I got my own tickets.

Later – before we moved to NVA – Sherry and I had season tickets along with

a golf membership across from the University at their golf course.

To this day I follow the “BONNIES” – checking news stories – recruiting and transfers –

I no longer keep score – but I remember my times with my dad –

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

AND MARY – SHE RULED THE HOUSE – IRISH CATHOLIC – my dad – IRISH PROTESTANT-

That my friends is a whole other blog to come! LOL

Papa’s World – Our life – one picture at a time!

May 18, 2024March 20, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

All girls and one boy – Bode – a picture back in time with “GIGI”!

Sherry’s side of the family had all granddaughters until the first boy – Bode came along.

Here – Grandmother – daughter – her daughters – their daughters and grandson!

Mother and two daughters – as the generations continue – a picture for future generations!

I write this blog and others like it – to have for future generations to see who we were and how we lived.

Pictures of events – times – family and friends – stored here so there is a pictorial and written memories

to be here so they can read and see their family and friends!

Friends since the 70s – all living near one another – growing up – vacations – good times.

We have had the good fortune to remain friends after all these years –

many beach vacations – trips around the world –

And – later in life – still friends and golfing – “GUYS vs GIRLS” giving strokes and they “WIN”!

My sons – wife, and partner – are always in my heart although far away –

they have visited once since we moved to NC – loved it and look forward to the next visit!

SONS and WIFE and PARTNER – ever in our minds – always loved – there but not forgotten!

Always loved his music – ONE LOVE speaks for our life and the way we feel.

Life long best friend since grade school – playing sports – camping out and canoeing –

having a few beers – sleeping out – roaming the streets after curfew-

That’s what friends are for and now the four of us get along so well!

While we are in our SENIOR years – we hope to see many more sunsets-

Today is about family and friends –

history recorded for future families to read and see.

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

PAPA’S WORLD – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog OUR LIFE – ONE PICTURE AT A TIME!

Papa’s World – More unique memories!

May 17, 2024March 18, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Andrea – Troy’s partner – on the beach at sunrise with Sherry – A UNIQUE MEMORY FOR ALL OF US!

Our oldest granddaughter Maddy on the day of her graduation –

She received a diploma in ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE –

and now works for a large environmental firm as a SCIENTIST – GEOLOGIST-

A UNIQUE MEMORY FOR US!

Friends for years and years – Dottie – Sherry and Cindy – A UNIQUE MEMORY FOR US!

It is not a UNIQUE MEMORY FOR US! LOL!

Before Bode – all granddaughters at our patio in Brambleton – A UNIQUE MEMORY FOR US!

Two of my oldest friends – Buck and Jimmy – A UNIQUE MEMORY!

A WHY WE MOVED HERE – A UNIQUE MEMORY FOR US!

Debby – Papa and Sherry – at the ELTONS for JUICE PLUS – A UNIQUE MEMORY FOR US!

Our grandson Ryan and bride – A UNIQUE MEMORY FOR US!

Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD – MEMORIES FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS-

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

SHERRY and PAPA – ON THE ICW – A UNIQUE MEMORY FOR US!

Papa’s World – Precious Memories!

May 15, 2024March 17, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

My son Shawn – is a ranked pool player and has traveled to Las Vegas multiple times over the years

to compete.

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

We have known each other since the late 70s – friends from the same town and area.

Getting together often has created –

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

Sherry’s mother Barb (GIGI) – is gone now but always part of our lives.

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

No more – we have moved South –

so we play golf year around –

This is not a PRECIOUS MEMORY! LOL

Oldest son Troy – paying tribute to his best friend who passed away on this spot while in an ATV accident.

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

On a recent conference trip with team members and mentors – Sue and Bob- and Sari-

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

Sunset with SOLO STOVE in our backyard patio –

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

Cassidy – when very young helping to bag leaves at our home in Brambleton –

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

Taylor with her big cousin Ella at a vacation house on Oak Island-

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

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With friends Bill and Marcea at FAT HAROLDS in NMB –

PRECIOUS MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Memories in pictures – PRICELESS!

May 13, 2024March 15, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Trisha and Shawn – daughter-in-law and son – hoping they come back down this year!

Owns his own ENERGY-AUDITING business for the state and large corp.

A PRICELESS MEMORY FOR ME!

My mother – Mary – who was almost 98 when she passed – retired from CUTCO ( ALCAS) knives!

Always sat on the front porch in warm weather – people all the time would honk their horns –

and yell out the window- “HELLO MARY”!

All my brothers and sister’ friends would stop and see her even though we were long gone.

She baked for everyone – always a smile –

Gentle yet feisty when need be –

MARY – MY MOTHER!

We live within minutes to two beaches – I said the other day to Sherry-

“I LOVE OUR LIFE”! While crossing the Causeway to deliver homemade sourdough bread to a friend!

Andrea and Troy – partner to my son Troy – missing them – hope they return this year!

He can and does build anything –

A memory that is Priceless to me.

Granddaughters and one grandson –

they all have been to visit –

Making PRICELESS MEMORIES!

YES, IT IS and WE ARE THERE OFTEN – making our PRICELESS MEMORIES!

Barb – (GIGI) to the grandkids – Sherry’s mother who lived with us in winters –

Always smiling – always loving her family-

A PRICELESS MEMORY IN PAST TIMES!

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PAPA and SHERRY with our oldest granddaughter at her college graduation – MADDY!

MEMORIES IN PICTURES – PRICELESS!!!!!

Papas World – Family and friends in pictures of memories!

May 12, 2024March 14, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

When FAMILY visited – a tour of the canals – OIB – memory in a picture!

Elaine and Steve – friends from back home in WNY – a picture of a memory!

A fun trip to a JP conference – picture of a memory.

Friends who visited – one from my growing up in Eldred – best buddy – picture of a memory.

Neighbors and friends at a beach club in NMB – a memory in a picture!

An evening at SUNSET BEACH overlooking the marsh – a memory in a picture!

Family memory – plus Marley – a memory in a picture!

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

For years and years – two of my best friends.

PAPA’S WORLD – FAMILY AND FRIENDS IN PICTURES OF MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – A TIME FOR PICTURES AND MEMORIES!

May 10, 2024March 8, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

TRISHA and SHAWN – my youngest son and his wife.

Shawns son and my grandson Ryan – memories in time.

Granddaughters – Maddy and Sarah – memories in time!

Granddaughters – Sarah and Taylor – who will be as tall as Sarah and Ella! Memories!

Troy and Andrea – my oldest son and his partner! Memories!

Sherry – first-time visit to Charlotte- Memories!

Our open-air stage and park at Ocean Isle Beach – Memories – free concerts from May to October.

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A TIME FOR PICTURES AND MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Family heads to SUNSET BEACH!

May 7, 2024March 12, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

They went to the beach to observe the Sunset – this area is noted for brilliant skies at dusk!

Ella – Sarah and their mother Debby – standing at the end of the long walkway to the beach.

Both granddaughters are very tall – their mother is 5’6″!

Looking out over the marsh as they walk to the beach from the walkway.

A slight fog begins to roll across –

The sky is turning gold and orange!

The sun sets over the marsh and they continue along the walkway to the beach entrance!

At the end of the very long walkway – the handicapped ramp down to the sand –

and a couple people along the surf –

the sun is setting here at SUNSET BEACH –

Always a family trip to observe –

Back home we have a fire in the SOLO STOVE –

We also observe sunsets from here –

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FAMILY HEADS TO SUNSET BEACH!!!

Papa’s World – SMORES WITH GRANDDAUGHTERS!

May 6, 2024March 11, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

It was next to the last night they would be here before they left to go back to NVA!

I had started the SOLO STOVE firepit we had in the backyard.

It was around 60 degrees out and the stars would be bright in the night sky.

Time to bring out the marshmallow prongs – and make candy smores!

PEEPS and REECES PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE!

The fire would settle down in a few minutes – but first, enjoy the warmth.

Gaze up at the sky and see it full of stars!

Sarah preparing her SMORE to go inside the graham cracker!

It was warm enough by the fire to be in shirt sleeves.

A look before the sun went down – beautiful sunset.

We live minutes away from Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach in N.C.

So – it is beached in the daytime and SOLO STOVE FIREPIT AT NIGHT.

Ella – Sarah – Sherry and Debby wading in the surf of Sunset Beach.

Here it is – Marshmellow – Peep – Reeces Peanut Butter Chocolate on Grahm Cracker –

A nice way to end up a perfect March day at the beach and at home in the evening with the firepit.

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PAPA’S WORLD – SMORES WITH GRANDDAUGHTERS!!!!!!

Papa’s World – A lot of pictures of memories.

May 4, 2024March 7, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Sarah looking for seashells – on Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.

One of our favorite things to do – golf with friends!

The grandkids – when they were small.

Sherry and some of her team members of TEAM GENERATIONS – 18 years and still going strong.

Tammy – Sherry and Debby – mother and daughters.

Sunset at our home in Cameron Woods Community!

Our wedding day – 6-25-1982.

Before Bode – when they were little!

Our view from the condo we lived in for nine months at Ocean Keyes in North Myrtle Beach.

Where we built our house and now live.

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PAPA’S WORLD – A LOT OF PICTURES OF MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Kayaking the canals with family!

May 3, 2024March 7, 2024 / Tom / 1 Comment

For Ella’s Spring break – Debby – Ella and Sarah came for a visit – we have a friend who lives on the island –

His house sits on one of the canals and he has two docks.

He borrowed two Kayaks from the neighbors – plus the two he owns –

So Sherry, Debby, Sarah, and Ella went out just for about an hour in the canals.

Here they get ready to depart – the getting in and out was the difficult part –

Once in – they had an easy time of paddling.

On their way – the canal or channel is one of many before you go out on the ICW-

We told them not to go out on the ICW – because the rough water from large boats

could be dangerous.

They had an excellent time while my friend Jim and I – had a cold beer and sat and talked.

After nearly one hour they returned.

The return of four very happy ladies after their tour of the channels.

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PAPA’S WORLD – KAYAKING THE CANALS WITH THE FAMILY!!!!

Papa’s World – Collecting Sea Shells for decorations!

May 2, 2024March 6, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Our granddaughter Ella combed the beach in search of Sea Shells to paint and decorate.

She and her sister – Sarah and her mother Debby – spent her Spring Break with us.

Here is Sarah – the youngest granddaughter of the Myers family – looking for Sea Shells to paint!

Her mother Debby is behind her also looking for shells, it was around 60 degrees –

and later in the week moved into the 70s.

All three on the edge of the water – later in the week – Ella took a COLD PLUNGE in the water!

Ella’s shells were decorated – and she added a few more after this.

The above two pictures are Sarah’s shells – note the intricate designs!

DEBBY WALKING THE SURF AT OCEAN ISLE BEACH –

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COLLECTING SEA SHELLS FOR DECORATING!

Papa’s World – New Memories!

April 26, 2024March 2, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

Playing Winter golf – while it was almost 60 degrees – it was gray and cloudy –

Still – we had a good day and went for dinner after.

A new memory – good friends and fun playing golf.

Having all six grandkids on the beach for vacation –

a past occurrence forming a new memory in time!

After we sold our home and before we left for North Myrtle Beach –

a last hike with family through the forest –

A lasting memory for us!

When friends come to visit – we go to the marsh and do shots! LOL

A lasting memory!

Our 40th anniversary with a group family picture –

A priceless memory!

A Sunset at our home and the next day beginning a new memory!

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Papa’s World – Old pictures form new Memories!

April 25, 2024March 1, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

On one of our many seasonal trips to Florida – Sherry at a very old tree – OLD MEMORY!

Winter golfing with friends Cindy and Buck. We try to golf every couple of weeks – one of the reasons we moved to the South!

No snow or ice – a little chill in the air – good friends and “SHOTS” to sip on! LOL

The last time we were all together for a beach vacation – OLD PICTURE for a NEW MEMORY FOUND!

One of our many trips to National Park to watch a ballgame.

OLD PICTURE FORMS A NEW MEMORY!

When we moved South and found our new home and Community-

In the country but close to beaches and action – CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY!

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LIVING LIFE TO THE PLUS ONE DAY AT A TIME: PAPA’S WORLD – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Memories in Pictures of Life.

April 22, 2024February 28, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

A view of a sunset from our front yard – and turn around and you see the sunrise.

Our lot is positioned to see both – and behind – to the South –

is a line of trees and this is protected wetlands.

Soon – the construction of the development will cease –

except for the warranty work –

At the main entrance off Old Georgetown road-

Two story condos with garages will start in a few months –

Infrastructure is now being put in.

MEMORIES IN PICTURES OF LIFE!

Where we lived for nine months waiting for our house to be built was Ocean Keyes –

North Myrtle Beach – we would see these two swans daily on the lake.

We were a half-mile walk to the main street –

Also the beach – a nine-month stay that I will always cherish!

Before our grandson Bode was born – we had five granddaughters – cousins –

The twins – Cassidy and Taylor with their cousins Maddy – Sarah and Ella.

A lifetime picture for our memories.

Now – there’s Bode with his sisters and cousins – along with Sherry – MORMOR – Grandma –

All have gotten older but we have this as a lifetime memory picture!

On one of our excursions to Southport – we bought a raffle ticket –

Needless to say – we do not own a boat! LOL

But this picture and memory stay with us.

Best friends and buddies for years and years – Papa – Buck and Jimmy.

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

going back in time to the present-

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PAPA’S WORLD – MEMORIES IN PICTURES OF LIFE!

Papa’s World – Capturing Memories!

April 21, 2024February 27, 2024 / Tom / Leave a comment

When they were young we were at the museum in Winchester, Va.

Again – Cassidy protecting her younger brother!

A family outing with baby Bode and Sherry’s mother Barb( GIGI) creates lifetime memories!

FIVE GRANDDAUGHTERS ON A BRIDGE – creating lifetime memory!

A favorite place of ours is sitting on the channel off the ICW and on OIB!

Creating lifetime memory!

From the pier – a view of Sunset Beach and in the distance by the tall building – OIB!

We love walking Sunset Beach as it is easier to walk for us.

This was our dream to be near a beach and now we are near two beaches!

Our other dream was to be able to golf and here we can choose from over 30 golf courses near us.

FUN – SUN – SAND -SURF and GOLF!

We feel as though we are on vacation year-round!

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

PAPA and SHERRY – boating the ICW – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

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