Papa’s World

Papa’s World – A look back in time!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

It only seemed like it was yesterday –

Taylor and little Cassidy –

Carrying her umbrella!

Both had their name tags on –

and they were on their way to the school bus!

Cassidy and her cowgirl boots!

Taylor with her shy look-

and she still does that today!

Now they are 14 years old –

and in the eighth grade –

And little Cassidy is catching up to Taylor –

who is 5’8″ tall!

Takes after their MORMOR –

who is 5’10” –

Cassidy cheerleads –

and Taylor rides horses.

Cassidy does gymnastics –

and Taylor works in a horse barn.

A LOOK BACK IN TIME!

Here are two of my oldest buddies –

Buck – on the left –

we were neighbors in WNY –

many memorable times –

Buck and I took his wife Cindy –

and Sherry golfing!

They had never golfed before –

and made fun of us for cleaning the balls!

They wore mittens –

a lot of fun times

and since then –

we have traveled the world on vacations with them.

They moved to N.C. –

and when we moved to OIB –

we ended up 38 miles from them!

In the middle is Jimmy –

who also grew up in the same town as I did –

in NWPA – ELDRED!

We played softball together all those years ago.

He worked for the same company as did Sherry and I.

After we transferred to NVA –

He transferred to Va. Beach –

with the same company as we did!

Now – we are all retired –

and he and Dottie –

also moved to N.C. –

although 3 1/2 hours away.

We all still get together 2 or 3 times a year.

A LOOK BACK IN TIME!

A look at the KINZUA VIA DUCT RAILROAD BRIDGE –

just outside Mount Jewett, Pa. –

Where Sherry was raised.

Today it is a state park –

once when it was built –

was the tallest RR Bridge in the nation!

Today it stands as you see above –

It was almost destroyed by a Tornado –

Now it is a state park –

and you can walk out to the end –

A thick glass floor allows you to look down to the valley floor –

over 300 feet.

The other half of the bridge lays where it crumpled down-

as a testament to the construction back in the 1800’s!

Sherry’s father used to ride his snowmobile across it –

after the trains stopped using it!

This is the Allegheny National Forest-

and the Kinzua Valley –

An Indian name –

and the Seneca Reservation are about twenty miles away!

Today – hunting for bears turkey and deer.

A segment of FINDING BIGFOOT was filmed here!

Also, wild Elk herds are nearby –

And the town of Mount Jewett –

Has a Swedish yearly festival.

This whole town was settled-

and built by Swedish immigrants!

Mount Nebo Cemetary-

and the church still stands –

built in the 1880s by the men of Sweden.

Sherry has many relatives in that cemetery-

along with her mother and father.

A LOOK BACK IN TIME!

Second from the left – MY FATHER – Clarence Russel Fitzsimmons –

Known as BOB or FITZ.

A member of the school board –

and the town council.

Part owner of the Western Auto store –

and A supervisor for the South Penn oil company in NWPA!

An avid golfer and bowler.

Coach of the Eldred Town Team baseball.

He graduated from High School-

as a Sophomore-

But his father –

a teacher and superintendent –

Kept him in school for two more years –

as there was nothing he could do being so young!

He was a “DOWNHOMER” –

A term given to people –

who was from the Brookville and Corsica area in PA.

He met my mother –

who also was from that area-

and they married.

She was an Aiken –

IRISH CATHOLIC –

My dad was an IRISH PROTESTANT –

His mother was a Kennedy.

Made for many dynamic interchanges at the family dinner table.

But – although he was six feet tall –

and her a little over 5 feet-

She ruled the roost.

He passed away at 59 –

when I was but 19 from cancer.

Gone but not forgotten in my mind.

A LOOK BACK IN TIME!

Papa and Sherry on the ICW in Little River – Vareen Gardens – S.C.

Thank you for reading my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

It is but a little look back in time of our family –

friends, and places we hold dear in our hearts!

PAPA” ‘S WORLD – A LOOK BACK IN TIME!

Papa’s World – A new year to come!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

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

Walking the trails –

the wooden boardwalks –

across the marshes-

and through the pine and cedar trees-

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

It is quiet –

peaceful-

and wanders through forests and marsh to the ICW!

Once there –

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

from the multiple tees in the area.

Sherry coming along the path-

from the wooden boardwalk –

onto another boardwalk –

that comes out on the ICW!

On a large deck,

fishermen try for fish as boats pass by.

The day is warm –

with a breeze –

We slowly walk the boardwalk –

the tide is almost high-

and the marsh is flooded.

Vareen Gardens goes way back –

as a family compound in the 1600s.

There is a family cometary here –

This land was turned into a park –

And is free to the public.

This time is a look forward –

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

Our senior years are here now.

The new year to come –

Welcoming family and friends-

to our home.

From us on the ICW at Vareen Gardens –

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

Thanks for reading Papa’s World –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Some thoughts and memories.

/ Tom / Leave a comment

Thought for the day –

I started this blog at a request from my wife Sherry –

“You write on social media –

but it goes into the cloud never to be seen again –

you need to have it in a place where you store it”!

So – my WordPress blog began –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

This was a daily journal of our lives –

families and friends.

Now – today – it still progresses –

with 642 members worldwide.

Above was a snapshot-

of when I opened my blog and went to “STATS”!

My blog posts worldwide at midnight –

and I wake up –

and past midnight I copy and paste it on FaceBook.

at that time in the morning –

People in these countries have already read it!

I am amazed at this –

And today my journal on life continues!

Thank each and every one of you for reading this!

A memory from when I step out of the front door-

into our driveway and look East –

The sun is rising

and the beginning of a new day is arriving!

A new memory is being formed –

We selected this lot for this reason –

Seeing Sunrises and Sunsets-

from the front driveway!

MEMORIES BEING GREETED BY THE SUNRISE!

Two of my best buddies –

on the boat on the ICW!

Me to the far right –

Buck is to the left –

and Jimmy is in the middle.

Buck was my neighbor back in WNY –

And Jim and I are from the same little town –

and played softball together!

We have remained friends all these years –

and get together –

three or four times a year.

MEMORIES OF LIFETIME FRIENDS!

Trisha and Shawn –

my daughter-in-law and my son.

They are both from Pa. –

and still live near where I was raised as a youth.

They make the long trip down here to OIB –

some 16 hours –

driving and stopping.

Each time is a new memory in the making.

MEMORIES OF FAMILY!

Mother and two daughters –

Tammy on the left –

Sherry in the middle –

and Debby on the right.

The Swedish genes!

PICTURE OF FAMILY MEMORIES!

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD.

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

My oldest son –

Troy – and his partner – Andrea.

SOME THOUGHTS AND MEMORIES!

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

/ Tom / Leave a comment

Imagine my surprise when one day-

I happened upon a post on FaceBook –

Asking those of us from my hometown –

If they recognize anyone in the pictures they posted?

Must be they were cleaning out a home –

And came across an album that had many pictures –

But no names associated with them.

Just on a whim —

I clicked on the first one and then another.

They seemed to be back in the 50s –

and I just did not know who they were.

And then the second to last –

a picture of five men holding bowling balls!

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

Now – I have very few family pictures –

my sister had them all –

And when she passed away –

they all went to my niece.

Boxes of them!

Then – she became ill – brain cancer –

and she hung on but then –

young – she passed away.

Those boxes remained in her home and a person –

who was not part of the family –

To throw them all away-

without asking anyone as far as I know –

If they wanted them!

That was gut-wrenching for me-

as all my family history was in those boxes.

So this picture came as a complete surprise to me!

The first man on the left – Bobby Bradt –

the second man from the left –

my father – Bob Fitzsimmons –

his real name was Clarence Robert Fitzsimmons –

everyone called him Bob or”FITZ”!

Then Don -(who owned the insurance business)

who every year I got a birthday card from him –

as I was born on his birthday!

Then Eddie –

who was the meat cutter in the Market Basket.

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

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

He owned the local dealership of Dodge cars.

My dad was about six feet tall –

and his father made him stay in school –

although he graduated as a Sophomore!

There was no place for him to go-

as that was shortly after the depression.

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

Down in Pa. by Brookville and Corsica.

Grandpa was a teacher –

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

Dad’s mother was a Kennedy –

and he was raised as an Irish Protestant.

She was as I remember very tall –

almost six foot and thin.

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

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

One of Dad’s brothers lived next door

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

My mother also came from that area –

one of eleven boys and girls –

She was next to the youngest.

Her parents –

her mother was Pa. Dutch

and her father was Irish Catholic.

He passed away before I was born-

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

In this picture here –

my dad was a good left-handed bowler.

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

He was a supervisor for the South Penn Oil Company –

and when growing up during the summer –

would take me to work with him.

Those were days I will always remember –

riding the bulldozer with “PAT”-

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

Dad also golfed with Elmer –

they had a name that they called themselves –

the foursome which included Eddie.

I forget what it was-

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

Dad passed away in 1969 –

a few years after his best friend Elmer.

Their families for years would go way North into Canada –

flying in and landing on water at fishing camps.

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

On the old red barn in the backyard –

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

I knew every one of these men growing up –

My hope is someday in the future –

future generations of the family read my blogs –

Look at the pictures of our life together –

and form memories-

and maybe – just maybe –

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

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

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

Papa’s World – MERRY CHRISTMAS!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Today we share thoughts –

laughs – kindness – gifts –

and cheer with family and friends!

The past memories come flooding back –

watching grandkids sitting on the stairs –

eyes wide and giggling.

Waiting for parents to get up out of bed –

And eyeing the stockings-

hanging from the stairwell.

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

The innocence of youth.

The tree is all lit up –

presents are stacked neatly underneath it!

They giggle –

excitement in the air –

then the bedroom door opens-

and silence as they wait for their parents-

CHRISTMAS DAY HAS ARRIVED –

let the enjoyment begin!

Outside it is a “WHITE CHRISTMAS DAY”!

The wind is blowing –

and the trees shake their branches.

Inside the fireplace is on –

the stockings are on the floor-

between their legs.

The voices ring with excitement –

AFTER ALL – IT IS CHRISTMAS DAY!

To all of you – MERRY CHRISTMAS –

and hope for a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thanks for reading my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Papa’s World – CHRISTMAS EVE!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

The night before Christmas and all through the house—-

How many times have you heard that?

Christmas Eve –

a time of family – sharing and laughing.

Christmas Eve – services in a barn!

Gathering of family –

some drinks and cheer.

I remember the three oldest – waiting –

and outside was a hearty laugh –

dash to the big windows overlooking the trees –

and the backyard.

And there he was –

“SANTA” dashing through the yard!

Three little girls enthralled –

Those memories I shall always cherish –

and I know when they have children –

The above story will be related to those little ones!

The trip to bring home the tree –

Sometimes a journey into the tree farm woods –

to cut your own –

little eyes all aglow –

the smell of the pine sap-

and the snow on the ground.

Little hands helping-

and soon some hot chocolate –

was back in the kitchen’s warmth.

Time to set the tree up and decorate.

CHRISTMAS IS COMING!

NOT A CREATURE WAS STIRRING – NOT EVEN A MOUSE!

CHRISTMAS EVE –

PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Growing up in a little town.

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The sun came into the front bedroom window on North Main Street – Eldred, Pa.

It was my room now –

before that –

my older brother had that room –

and I shared the side bedroom with my younger brother.

My parents had a large rear bedroom.

It also had a single bed and a crib –

back in the right hand corner-

where my brother would sleep until he was three.

Right outside that front bedroom was the sidewalk –

then the curve and main street.

There were a few times I would be awakened –

The sound of a car crash right outside my window.

A drunk driver would run into the cars parked on that main street!

I could look out through the screen –

you know those single screens you place in a window-

And I could see the crashed car-

and then the police.

In the summer when it was hot –

I would raise the window and take out the screen –

Climb out onto the front porch roof and sit there –

Looking up at the stars-

and watching cars come past the house.

When that sunlight came through the window –

it would wake me up – early!

I almost remember-

that is why I wake up early each day – even now.

Also the sound of birds –

often times there would be fog with sunlight coming through.

We had a side yard and a backyard with a big old red farm barn.

At one time on the way back past –

it was a working farm barn.

Underneath were stalls for cows –

and I remember an old black sleigh-

this was the type to be drawn by horses over the snow.

I have no idea why it was there.

There was a set of stairs that went up overhead –

must at one time have been a hayloft.

My older brother and his friends put a basketball hoop up there.

I do not remember them playing up there-

as he was ten years older than me.

But – I do remember all of them being in our cellar –

they had a club down there –

in the back room.

My father and brother had drawn Disney caricatures on the wall –

I wonder if they still are there?

I also remember them having me put on boxing gloves-

so heavy –

I had a hard time keeping my arms up.

They would put their hands up –

and I would try to hit them.

I must have been around five or six at that time.

I was so skinny –

my mom made sure I did not take my shirt off.

You could count every rib and bone –

and blue veins on the chest and front.

She said people would say she wasn’t feeding me!!!

Eldred, Pa. with the main street –

I was raised in this picture on the upper left side where the houses are.

The main street ran in front of the house-

It is still there-

and my Great niece still lives there!

And the railroad tracks behind the house-

where the old red farm barn was.

The far hills are the Alleghany mountains –

and the Alleghany River ran to the left of the railroad tracks.

What you see in the far distance is NYS –

and Portville and Olean are maybe ten miles away.

The hill to the right –

I spent many a night sleeping out there –

and we would take cardboard boxes from Slavin’s furniture –

open them up and slide down the hill on them!

Until the fourth grade –

I had to walk that main street to South Main Street –

which you can not see in this picture –

To what was then the High School –

Grades One through Twelve.

I believe it to be almost a mile walk.

Also out of the picture frame was a bridge –

that passed over Barden Brook Creek.

I had just gotten Davey Crockett Coon Skin cap with a squirrel’s tail.

I was not tall enough to see over the railing –

so I took my cap off –

set it on top of the cement railing –

and poked my head through the opening to look down.

Well – that was a big mistake –

because when I stuck my head through –

My ears unfolded and I was stuck.

I embarrassed my brother –

and they had to call the fire department.

Here I was –

stuck with my head through the opening and my –

DAVEY CROCKETT COONSKIN CAP WITH A SQUIRREL TAIL SITTING ABOVE MY HEAD!

I have so many memories of growing up

in a small town in NWPA!

This is but a little that I have shared.

Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – GROWING UP IN A LITTLE TOWN!

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

/ Tom / Leave a comment

I love colors –

chimes and flowers!

The wind provides a calming effect when this chime –

which we purchased at a vendor fair near our residence-

It is a glass bottle –

decorated with a wooden round wheel –

as it swings from the wind – a musical sound –

and in the silence of sitting on the front porch –

it brings music to one’s ears.

The red bird bobs up and down and swivels around –

We also have on the other side of the house –

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

Made by different folks for sale –

A way to break the SOUNDS OF SILENCE –

while sitting on the porch in the glider!

The front porch –

a favorite of mine – I sit here daily –

saying hello to those who walk past-

Waving to friendly neighbors who pass in their cars.

Watching birds flying above – even eagles!

Sights – sounds – neighbors –

warm weather –

and even light rain with no wind!

A LOOK AROUND – SEE WHAT I SEE!

The dawn of a new day –

rising in the East – from the front driveway –

A hint or splash of color to come!

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

In Cameron Woods Community –

Ocean Isle Beach, N.C.

We choose our lot for this reason –

A place to sit on a covered porch-

and a place to see both SUNRISE and-

SUNSET off to the WEST from our front driveway.

Just walk out the front door-

and look to the EAST – SUNRISE –

And as here to the WEST –

and the SUNSET!

We love the weather –

having lived in the Snowbelt for fifty years –

And another 21 years in moderate temperature in NVA-

It is here –

that I finally call home!

Sun – Sand and Surf are just minutes away.

A LOOK AROUND – SEE WHAT I SEE!

Tammy – mother to Taylor and Cassidy –

twins – all share the same birthday.

The doctor said it was time to be born –

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

They were premature –

not quite two pounds a piece –

but healthy.

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

The Swedish genes being passed down from their MORMOR –

Sherry who is 5’10” –

is Tammy’s mother.

MORMOR-

with the grandkids and Tammy.

Today we try to get home-

as often as we can.

And they in turn come down to spend time.

FAMILY – MORMOR and grandkids!

A LOOK AROUND – SEE WHAT I SEE!

MORMOR –

Family – daughters and grandkids –

Celebrating her 75th. birthday this past summer.

Tammy – Mormor and Debby –

daughters and their mother.

The three oldest granddaughters –

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

MORMOR and daughter Debby –

Mother to Maddy – Ella and Sarah

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

A LOOK AROUND – SEE WHAT I SEE!

Papa’s World – Our life in the Carolinas!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

In 2020 –

we moved from NVA to the border of N.C. and S.C.-

Although we live on the N.C. side.

We can be in North Myrtle Beach –

and all the tourist attractions in thirty minutes!

We wanted that avenue to choose if we decided to see –

the shows – attractions yet be near the beach.

It was not as expensive 16 miles away in N.C.

We could build a new home for what it costs without renovations in the NMB area!

This is the house we had built in Camero Woods Community –

in Ocean Isle Beach.

1910 SF. One level – three bedrooms – two baths –

an office with French doors.

A dining area and a kitchen –

living room – a sunroom – a laundry –

An enclosed lanai and an outdoor patio.

And a covered-shaded front porch-

with a two-car garage and finished-off storage space above the garage!

A brand new neighborhood –

with a community center – pool and pickleball courts.

Here – we are two miles to gas –

four miles to two grocery stores and a third another two miles.

Two beaches – one four miles-

and the second six miles.

Big box store shopping – eight miles.

Scores of waterfront dining!

We have a SOLO STOVE firepit in the backyard!

We can walk the beaches – watching storms come in!

Walking the beach in the moonlight!

Our life here is far different than anywhere we have lived.

We have close friends –

within five to forty minutes.

And we can golf –

select from thirty close courses or dozens farther away.

Sherry above

we both wanted to be able to afford golf and here we are-

with the FIRST TEE GOLF CARD or just LOCAL RATES!

Living in the Carolinas –

I never thought this would become a reality –

However – 401K went down-

but the house went up –

SO WE SOLD – almost everything –

and moved to a warmer climate for our senior years.

CAROLINA FRONT PORCH LIVING!

All year –

no snow – ice –

some cooler weather which I can dress for.

This is the WHY we moved here –

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

OUR LIFE IN THE CAROLINAS!

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

/ Tom / Leave a comment

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

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

One side for her-

and one side for me –

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

This new build had that!

The one thing I wanted was a front porch-

that I could sit on in the shade.

This home sits with the front-facing North –

And the rear-facing South –

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

Thus giving me the shaded front porch!

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

We also created the landscaping –

with rocks replacing the pine straw-

Pine straw-

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

It and mulch tend to harbor insects!

What worked for us and very little weeding –

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

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

We also wanted a home –

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

Star gazing at night and the feeling of country!

We have all of that –

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

squirrels – lots of bids-

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

The SNAKES bother me the most –

the others tend to stay away.

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

But in this quiet community –

2/3 of a mile off the main road –

offers views such as this in the early morning!

We are surrounded by protected wetlands –

Tall pine trees and oak trees.

Everyone seems to walk past our home-

and the front porch.

COMMUNITY – is what we wanted –

and we found it here.

New friends – greeting each other.

CREATING MEMORIES!

And then at night after a ten-minute drive,

we arrive at this –

THE BEACH at sunset on OIB!

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

We have the best of both worlds –

A quiet place to live-

and a beach to go to

All within minutes of driving!

Full Moon rising on OIB –

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

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

Papa’s World – A home with memories!

/ Tom / Leave a comment

Before we even moved into our new home –

we purchased a SOLO STOVE fire pit!

Now – it is mostly for family and friends –

as I am not that much of a campfire person.

Growing up I experienced all of that –

But this fire pit is a little special.

Once you get it going –

it seems to be smokeless!

Unless you burn lumber scraps that have chemicals –

I learned not to do that!

I put in the four cement blocks-

in the middle of the back patio.

The family when they come like it –

and many s’mores are done here!

SOLO STOVE – if you are going this route –

I recommend this one!

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

LOL – THAT IS ME!!!!!!!

Marley –

belongs to the family Krohn in Leesburg, Va.

Such a gentle girl –

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

We consider her part of the family.

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Stepping outside at dusk –

a view East from Cameron Woods Community!

If you look at a coastline map –

you will see from Charleston, S.C. –

To Wilmington, N.C. –

There is a coastline curve –

almost like a quarter moon –

This is unique-

in that, our beaches face SOUTH!

Our house sits North in the front –

and South in the back

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

almost full shade most of the day!

One of the reasons we came to this lot

in the early afternoon –

and saw that we would have shade-

in the front all day!

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Sherry –

while volunteering as a nesting parent –

ST2402 – NC WILDLIFE RESOURCES COMMISSION PERMIT!

We volunteer to do this-

and also walk the East End Of OIB!

Looking for where a Sea Turtle has come ashore –

and made a nest.

This keeps us busy the whole summer months.

Did you know –

for every 1000 baby Sea Turtles that hatch –

ONLY ONE MAKES IT TO ADULTHOOD!

Today there are human footprints in trash –

predators in fox – birds – crabs – fish –

It is a wonder any make it at all!

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

We try to golf when we can –

with or without friends.

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

Buying the first tee card-

gives us a discount.

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

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Bob and Pam –

his wife and my grade school friend –

once a year on their RV trips –

they stop in-

and see us for a week or so,

All these years-

and still good buddies!

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

Andrea and my son Troy-

when they visited.

They are trying to come back next summer.

Looking forward to seeing them.

A HOME WITH MEMORIES!

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Papa’s World – Reflection in Memories!

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Tammy is in the middle-

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

The twins were born on Tammy’s birthday –

making a set of three in celebrations!

How cool is that!!!!!

Now 14 the twins are in eighth grade.

Taylor loves horses and works in a barn.

Cassidy does cheerleading and gymnastics –

Both excel in school and play the violin!

REFLECTIONS IN MEMORIES!

The Kinzua Bridge –

is located just outside Mount Jewett, Pa.

where Sherry was raised in her youth.

This is a historical railroad bridge,

half of which was toppled in a tornado.

Today it is a state park –

but she has many memories here.

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

REFLECTIONS IN MEMORIES!

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

Frost on the ground –

fire pit for early evenings under the stars!

REFLECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

Moon rising on Ocean Isle Beach-

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

evenings on the beach –

warm breezes –

stars – good company –

Volunteering – life on the beach!

RELECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

Kindness – love – peace and hope!

REFLECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

Troy – Papa – Shawn –

spending time with my sons!

REFLECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

The KINDRED SPIRIT MAILBOX ON SUNSET BEACH/BIRD ISLAND.

Many memories reflected here over the years,

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

A place to sit and reflect.

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REFLECTIONS OF MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Eating HEART HEALTHY!

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For the past 18-plus years – we have been on a quest to AGE HEALTHY!

The fountain of youth – well – as far as I know- doesn’t exist – so we do all we can to maintain our health – stay active and enjoy life to the fullest!

We eat the above every day – through solid foods and supplements!

We both are near our mid-seventies – exploring life and now living what is called here in the South –

THE SALT LIFE near the beaches and the ICW!

We practice the above every day – we do not smoke – have a few drinks here or there and live life to the plus.

Our daughter Debby is a QMND for Juice Plus Company – for almost 18 years we have been doing the Juice Plus program – eating and drinking the supplements.

Debby’s family – all Juice Plus users – living life to the plus one day at a time.

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

My HEART HEALTHY MEAL WITH NO DRESSING AND SALMON! PAPA’S WORLD!

http://www.sfitzsimmons.juiceplus.com

sherry.fitzsimmons18@gmail.com

http://www.sf.juiceplus.com

facebook.com/sherry.overbeckfitzsimmons

Papa’s World – More memories in time!

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The KINZUA via duct – constructed in the 1800s –

to ship coal –

across the valley.

It stood over 300 feet from the valley floor.

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

And took half the via duct down!

The state made this a state park –

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

The half-bridge was saved –

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

You can look straight down over 300 feet-

to the floor of the valley.

The crumpled other half remains –

where it toppled over.

Today the bridge remains –

as a testament to days long ago!

This valley was part of the SENECA INDIAN NATIONS –

hunting grounds.

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

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

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

Two summers ago –

my sons with their partners –

came to visit and spend a week with us.

Shawn and Trisha have returned –

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

The boys remained in NWPA-

and live there today.

Looking forward to seeing them once again.

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

This picture was taken in the early morning –

near the front entrance of our community!

This was what we thought to be a Coyote!

However –

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

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

and the Wildlife Commission –

has released several back into the wild-

with tracking devices on them.

This one has been seen numerous times –

and we have seen it ourselves.

One person up the street –

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

It seems to stay away from people –

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

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

LOL, I LIKE A SENSE OF HUMOR!

What has become a somewhat Thanksgiving tradition –

A stroll through the neighborhood –

by the folks who call this home.

CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY –

this was the third year!

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

Sherry on a trip to ASHVILLE, N.C. –

with our friends the McBrides.

We love exploring – seeing the sights –

and we have traveled the world to do this!

MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

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MORE MEMORIES IN TIME!

Papa’s World – Happy birthday Shawn!

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A big shout out to my youngest son –

Shawn –

today is his birthday!

He runs his own Energy Auditing business on one side –

He also has an insulation business for the state –

and energy firms on the other side of his two businesses!

He contracts with the state –

and energy companies to reduce costs for low-income –

and elderly customers.

He covers the state of Pa. along with parts of N.Y.S.

He is also a ranked pool player –

winning many tournaments –

and his way to Las Vegas!

He competes as an individual –

and in team competitions!

Married to Trisha –

they reside in NWPA –

Traveling down to Pittsburg to do audits –

and also up to Erie.

Happy Birthday my son –

and many more to come.

LOVE YOU – DAD!

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PAPA’S WORLD – HAPPY BIRTHDAY – SHAWN!

Papa’s World – Early years – memories!

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6-25-1982 –

the day we were married –

Looking back – we combined two families –

her two daughters and my two sons.

My sons – we would have on weekends –

the rest of the time they lived with their mother.

Her daughters would go every second weekend-

to their father.

Long weekends were our “VACATIONS” back then.

We had a twelve-passenger second-hand van.

Packing picnic lunches and dinners –

going to state parks –

visiting family –

rarely overnights –

Camping – her father had a fifth wheel!

Money – well – we had none.

We did what we did –

and what we could afford –

It was a memorable time –

Many memories – fun times –

and we were together.

EARLY YEARS – MEMORIES!

Sherry – Bonnie and Debbie –

sisters!

Barb and Bill –

Mother and Father.

We spent a lot of time at their country house.

Her father had a workshop –

and he taught me a lot about finishing.

He was a union carpenter –

who made many – many fine furnishings.

we still have the hutch he made for Sherry –

and he made each of her sisters one.

They had a fifth-wheel camper –

we had tents for us and the kids.

We would meet them at the campground –

And their camper became home base for cooking –

and getting out of the rain.

Many fond memories of back in that time!

EARLY YEARS – MEMORIES!

This is so true –

the innocence of a child!

College soccer – first Maddy-

and now Ella who has completed her soccer senior year in college.

Travel teams for both granddaughters –

H.S. teams –

Journey to Lynchburg to watch both play-

Maddy – University of Lynchburg –

And Ella – Randolf College –

where as a Freshman –

She became the first to start and play all games as a freshman.

EARLY YEARS – MEMORIES!

Living life in our new neighborhood –

making new friends and neighbors.

We choose Cameron Woods Community –

Being close to two beaches –

and over 30 golf courses.

But – we have found new friends –

a plus of moving here –

and one couple has a cottage-

back where we lived in WNY!

Small world –

good friends and good neighbors.

EARLY YEARS – MEMORIES!

Our home here in N.C. –

No snow or ice –

cold – yes but the Sun warms it up!

Living in the South after the first 50 years in N.Y. and Pa.

We have found our new home after all these years.

EARLY YEARS – MEMORIES!

Taylor and Cassidy –

when they first lived with us-

as they were waiting to move into their new home.

Now – fourteen years old –

and in the eighth grade.

If only we could go back in time!

THE EARLY YEARS – MEMORIES!

Papa – Taylor and Cassidy –

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THE EARLY YEARS – MEMORIES!

COME BACK OFTEN – IT IS FREE!

Papa’s World – miniature golf – Tiger Woods!

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Sherry and Papa at Broadway on the beach and the Pop Source miniature golf!

This is a 36-hole course all made out of artificial grass –

even the white sand traps!

It is unlike any miniature golf you have ever played!

It was fun – and challenging –

and they provided cold towels throughout the 36 holes!

Fans with a misting system.

You pick the course you want to play –

The BLACK course is not as challenging as the BLUE course.

We started there –

there are several bar areas and you can take the drinks onto the course.

You pay one price ( seniors discount) and you can play all day!

On Mondays, there is a reduced rate.

Buck and Cindy –

our close friends.

The holes are marked with the pars for each hole.

Hint –

you can putt through the white sand areas!

I found it easy to just putt and follow the curvature of the slight mounds!

Hint – try not to putt through to the edge – it will stay there –

and then you have just enough space –

to get your putter between the ball and the wall!

You can play 18 – leave –

come back –

keep your receipt –

you can eat there –

prices are good as is the food-

I HAD A TURKEY BURGER AND FRIES!

The BLUE course is more challenging!

Here is Sherry –

who had the only hole-in-one

and was on a par three!

Which is one of the harder holes!

You can see the edging of the longer ruff –

before the wall –

the ball will most likely hit the wall –

and then stay at the bottom in the long rough!

We did not buy any drinks for the course although we could have.

Being in S.C. in Myrtle Beach –

it was hot in the sun and a somewhat cooler day!

At each hole is a stand to hold drinks

and use as a table to record your score!

We will be going back –

taking family – friends –

neighbors and guests.

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my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

POP – SOURCE – A TIGER WOODS TRIBUTE TO HIS FATHER FRANCHISE!

Papa’s World – The way they were!!!!

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Taylor – Marley and Cassidy – the twins – 13 years old – now and back then!

They were premature at I think 32 weeks – just over three pounds each – Taylor was the bigger –

and the doctor said it was time as she was taking most of the nutrients –

But – Cassidy came home and Taylor stayed for an extra day or two!

When they were just over two years old – their parents sold their home and they all came to stay with us for a while.

This blog is during that time – if only we could turn back time!

Taylor on the left and Cassidy on the right were just fascinated with my laptop and would climb up and watch it for hours!

It was these times I miss the most – they were so little – now – Taylor is almost 5’8″ and Cassidy 5’5″.

Helping Papa pick up leaves – and they did just that – putting them in the bag – after bag!

Little Cassidy as I called her – smiling – such a joy – miss those times!

Taylor – such a good little helper – memories of times gone past!

In those early years, they were constantly together – today they have their own interests.

Taylor rides horses and spends all her time doing that –

Cassidy is an artist – gymnastics -both are exceptional students.

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Our front porch in Brambleton while they were with us –

PAPA’S WORLD – THE WAY THEY WERE – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

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

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Trisha and Shawn – wife and husband –

my youngest son!

THROUGH TIME – MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Tammy and Marcus –

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

THROUGH TIME- MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

On the EAST end of OIB –

a new granite wall was installed –

900 feet out to the water –

with a 90-degree turn – a few feet.

Then dredging from the Shalotte waterway –

Sand pumped up-

and a new wide beach formed –

to save that street from underwater!

Today that beach remains but beyond that wall –

erosion is happening!

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

Have come ashore –

and made a nest to lay their eggs!

It is a very fragile stretch of beach.

But that wall protects everything West of it!

THROUGH TIMES –

MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Sherry is with her two oldest granddaughters –

Maddy, who is now 24,

and Ella, who is now 21!

THROUGH TIMES MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Being positive – loving – kind –

thoughtful –

has a profound effect on your life –

BE ALL YOU CAN BE!

Two of my best buddies –

On the left – Bobby –

from grade school –

we played football together –

growing up in Eldred, Pa.

On the right – Jimmy –

from Eldred-

we played softball together –

Both have been friends for years and years.

THROUGH TIMES – MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Family on our 40th. wedding anniversary –

Married 6-25-1982

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THROUGH TIME- MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Papa’s World – New Memories of the Past!

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Here is Troy –

My oldest son –

at Vareen Gardens – is hanging his shell for a memory!

NEW MEMORIES OF THE PAST!

Sisters – Ella and Maddy –

as close in life as they are here!

NEW MEMORIES OF THE PAST!

A cup of coffee –

a view – a warm morning –

our life in N.C.

NEW MEMORIES OF THE PAST!

My blogs are to bring –

POSITIVE THOUGHTS TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!

A place to go to

and sip your beverage of choice –

sit back and soak in the World –

that isn’t full of negative –

unkind thoughts.

I hope this brings you back every day.

You can read this every day-

by just joining my site:

livinglifedoingitmyway.blog – Google it.

It is published each day worldwide –

and then shared on Facebook!

It is free – thanks for reading!

Over 640 members Worldwide!

Friends for years and years –

gathering to golf or just to have fun.

NEW MEMORIES OF THE PAST!

A trip to Charlotte –

Sherry’s team and group picture!

For going on nineteen years –

leading a team in health –

Across the Eastern Seaboard –

and down the coast.

TEAM GENERATIONS –

giving health to children –

Adults – families and friends –

FRUITS – VEGETABLES – BERRIES – OMEGAS –

one day at a time.

NEW MEMORIES OF THE PAST!

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NEW MEMORIES OF THE PAST!

Papa’s World – ST2402 permit – SEA TURTLES!

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It is an early evening in August –

the middle of the month –

Sherry and I are dressed in our orange shirts –

shorts and carrying our flashlight-

that beams red in the darkness!

We are carrying our chairs –

as we leave the boardwalk and step onto the sand.

Beyond the “TRENCH” for the little turtles-

who hatch to make their way to the ocean –

lies a deserted evening beach.

We are almost near the end of the “SEASON” for beach vacations!

we meet at the nest – NUMBER 21 –

there have been 36 nests on the beach.

The sun is setting –

casting an orange glow over the vacationers who have gathered –

News has gone up and down the beach –

THE TURTLE NESTERS are waiting for the hatchlings to appear.

The ten team members have been all given their assignments –

when the hatchlings begin the escape from the chamber-

that contains them!

We know that this one contains 142 eggs –

Because it was relocated from below the tidal line –

to closer to the dune –

to keep it from being flooded out!

This would cause the baby Sea Turtles to drown!

Then – a small crack in the center of the chamber –

about an inch long.

While we are talking – the “DROP” happens!

The previous night – a full moon –

but this night the clouds set in – darkness prevailed!

We all assumed our positions –

The edging was set up going to the water line –

it was not yet high tide but was rising minute by minute.

A large crowd has gathered –

standing beyond the rope –

a barrier we erected to keep the eager crowd back –

so we had room to crawl-

on hands and knees along the trench.

We had to keep the baby turtles on their journey to the water –

in that trench.

Mainly to ensure they reached the water.

You see –

they go towards the white of the waves crashing on the shore –

and the sound of those waves.

When the moon is out they head toward the water.

On dark nights –

the lights from the beach houses draw them toward the dunes.

They will perish if they do that.

Foxes – birds – stray cats – birds and crabs –

they are a feast for all of them.

Thirty-five minutes later –

the last has reached my position at the end of the trench –

I guide “HER” –

I have named her PEGGY –

In my mind only –

after a dear friend who donated to the Sea Turtle Protection last year.

Now we have to sit in the nest for three days –

we had what is called a “BOIL”!

That is when all of them seem to come at once.

If this happens –

the Wildlife Resources Commission of N.C. –

Requires us to sit for three days in case any are left!

So – we thanked the crowd –

who mostly reframed from using lights –

phones and cameras.

These would blind the little turtles –

and then they are lost.

After the three days were up –

we did what is called an inventory required by the Commission.

Here you dig down and recover the egg shells –

and any small turtles that did not make it!

This gives the Commission the data they need –

and also tells us if our count was correct!

Which in the darkness –

is hard to see.

After –

you tear down the nest –

fill in the chamber –

and dig another hole to bury the eggshells in.

The foxes know where the old chamber is-

but we try to keep them from digging up the shells-

that were left.

NEST NUMBER 21 is officially closed –

we were right on the count made by the relocation team!

A big shout out to –

NEST NUMBER TWENTY ONE’s TEAM OF DEDICATED MEMBERS!

All of us moved on to other nests –

and new team members.

A big thank you to LIZ in the middle of the trench as team leader-

even though she was pregnant – CHEERS!

As the moon comes up over the ocean –

another night has ended for our volunteer work-

Sitting on the beach at night from 7 to 11 pm.

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Papa’s World – Remembering the past!

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

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

The other is looking for next summer.

Always excited to see them.

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

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

Here in her youth, she was a runner.

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

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

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

Debby – on rocks at Raquet Lake in the Adirondacks.

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

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

All six grandchildren – now Bode is ten years old!

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

The twins are 14 years old.

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

A storm is brewing on a morning Sea Turtle walk –

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

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

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

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

This is our “SENIOR MOMENT IN TIME”!

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

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

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

REMEMBERING THE PAST!

Papa’s World – POSITIVE THOUGHTS AND HUMOR!

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Love this quote – we explore old roads – not knowing where they will lead.

We walk different trails – parks – beach – community –

Walking for health – to remain as healthy aging as we can.

We try to maintain a sense of humor – laughing and remembering “SMILES ARE FREE”!

The troubles of the World – our country –

All can cause so much unhappiness – so we balance that with positive thinking – maintaining

clear mental health.

Helping others – giving what we can – volunteering – working with those less fortunate.

PAPA and SHERRY – PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – GRANDDAUGHTERS – growing up!

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Our oldest granddaughter – Maddy – here with her mother – just turned 23!

Today – having graduated with a degree in Engineering Science from the University of Lynchburg – is here with her boyfriend Kendrick –

A lovely young lady – from that little girl playing soccer to a young lady with her future ahead.

Ella – now in her Junior year at Randolph College – studying to be a elementary phys ed teacher –

playing college soccer and growing into a beautiful young lady who has a heart of gold and kids just love her.

The last of three daughters – Sarah just turned 17! As is Ella – she is nearly 5’10” tall – taking after their grandmother Sherry.

A junior in H.S. gifted and always helping others – funny – witty and also a beautiful young lady.

The youngest granddaughters from Tammy – Tayor and Cassidy – Taylor loves horses and would spend all her time in the stables if she could!

Cassidy has a heart of gold – being recognized in her class as giving – thoughtful and caring.

Always helping others.

Cassidy is on the right with a friend – now in the seventh grade – gymnastics – singing – and straight “A” student.

Plays the violin – and calls Sherry every week!

Is quite an artist and crafter – we have drawings framed and on the walls in the house.

Tayor at her advanced high chair in the violin concert – and like her cousins is nearing 5’8″ at only 13 years old.

She also takes after Sherry!

The three older cousins – all beautiful young ladies. I hope they all visit next summer.

Maddy – once the tallest – is 5’6″!

Debby – mother of the three oldest – Tammy – mother of the twins – and Sherry – their mother.

When they were young – GRANDDAUGHTERS – GROWING UP – PAPA’S WORLD – livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Past Memories!

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When my sons and families visited two summers ago-

Troy is the oldest with Andrea his partner.

Sherry is next to Trisha –

and Autumn and Shawn in the back.

Shawn and Trisha have visited this past fall –

and Troy is looking to come next summer.

Looking forward for them all to come again.

PAST MEMORIES!

We have taken a pontoon boat twice on the ICW –

Here we are with friends and family –

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

cause havoc with their large waves!

And – I think they could care less!

PAST MEMORIES!

Tammy’s new location –

for her upscale kids consignment is in Leesburg, Va.

Much more foot traffic here-

on the main street!

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

and mail order!

PAST MEMORIES!

My good buddy Buck –

on one of our excursions –

We have traveled the World with him and Cindy!

PAST MEMORIES!

Ocean Isle Beach at nighttime!

We can be right here in ten minutes –

one of the reasons we choose our neighborhood.

Here is PELICAN PERCH –

One of our favorite places to eat –

and sip a drink –

A favorite of locals and great food!

PAST MEMORIES!

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

this is a weekly market in season –

lots of vendors and homemade crafts.

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

PAST MEMORIES!

Be kind and welcome those who need a shoulder –

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

PAST MEMORIES!

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PAST MEMORIES!

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

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

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

While this is not the picture they took –

It is what they saw from that view.

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

These are our close friends –

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

Buck and Cindy –

we started playing golf back then –

and the gals would make fun of us –

It was a little chilly –

so they would wear MITTENS! LOL

Today – they beat us in scrambles!

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

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

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

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Sherry with her two oldest granddaughters – Maddy and Ella!

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Here is the entrance to the community-

in which we choose to live.

We are thirty minutes to North Myrtle Beach –

and leisure – shopping –

Entertainment and walking the beach –

and the main street.

We are in the middle of thirty golf courses.

We are ten minutes to one beach –

and fifteen minutes to another –

Two other beaches are 30 and 45 minutes away.

Wilmington is 48 minutes away.

Big box shopping in less than twelve minutes!

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

and live oaks with abundant wildlife.

Gas and grocery shopping are five minutes away.

Scores of places to dine –

and entertainment.

We are living in our dream place –

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

The day Tammy and Marcus were married –

Today they have 14-year-old twins –

and a 10-year-old boy.

CASSIDY – TAYLOR and BODE!

A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES.

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

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A LIFE TIME OF MEMORIES IN PICTURES!

Papa’s World – Pictures of life!

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Shawn – my youngest son –

during a visit he made two summers ago.

PICTURES OF LIFE!

Friends – I am fortunate that I still have contact with my childhood friend-

Sherry – Papa – Bobby and Pam – his wife!

PICTURES OF LIFE!

I like to write my blogs so that they bring the above.

There is enough negative news out there –

I love history – ancient finds and SY-FY!

We have made and still stay in touch with many friends.

Sharing our life here near the beaches is a dream come true for us.

FAMILY – FRIENDS – NEIGHBORS and SOCIAL GATHERINGS –

these are what my blogs reflect.

Staying true to my values – those of our families and friends!

PAPA’S WORLD is a window into those values.

Bode – who soon will turn ten years old –

He was the first boy born on Sherry’s side of the family.

Bode – here on turning nine years old – now is ten years old.

PICTURES OF LIFE!

Mother and Daughters –

PICTURES OF LIFE!

Night time picture on Ocean Isle Beach of the Moon and Surf.

PICTURES OF LIFE!

The “KINDRED SPIRIT ” mailbox on the far Western end of Sunset Beach is known as Bird Island.

Here is where many – many years ago – a hippie and his girlfriend –

Carried a mailbox and shovels to install the top of a dune.

They put in a journal for people to write their thoughts.

All these years later – after many replacements –

It still sits there, with two benches and a memorial to these two people.

Well worth the 1 1/2 mile walk to sit and just observe behind the dune and the sand and surf.

The journals are kept and today new ones are supplied for future generations.

THE KINDRED SPIRIT MAILBOX!

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

Papa’s World – Memories – times in pictures!

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When my oldest son – Troy and his partner – Andrea – came to visit –

While they can not be here this year because of jobs-

they are hoping to be back next year!

MEMORIES – TIMES IN PICTURES!

Memories of life – family, friends – in pictures – hope – happiness and gratitude!

Celebrating a new year with dear longtime friends!

WOW – 40 plus years –

Cindy – Dottie and Sherry!

MEMORIES – TIMES IN PICTURES!

Our grandson Bode is performing in THE LITTLE MERMAID as a SEAGULL!

He danced – sang and several speaking lines –

MEMORIES – TIMES IN PICTURES!

Shine your persona to those who are in darkness!

Where we live nearby – Causeway Bridge from the mainland to Sunset Beach!

We choose our home location –

Cameron Woods Community – OIB –

because we can be at this bridge in fifteen minutes!

MEMORIES – TIMES IN PICTURES!

The year Sherry retired – the twins had just started walking –

We were on a beach vacation on Oak Island-

Little did we know then that we would live near here at OIB!

MEMORIES – TIMES IN PICTURES!

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

MEMORIES – TIMES IN PICTURES!

Papa’s World – Remembering WHEN!

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

Two summers ago when they all came down for vacation –

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

They will have already been here.

THIS IS “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

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

on the East end of OIB.

This granite boulder wall –

that stretches some 900 feet out into the Ocean-

and sand dredged up from the channel-

has protected the beach erosion,

which claimed the first and part of the second avenue.

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Sherry and I when we walk the beach –

on Turtle Patrol on the East End.

We not only look for Sea Turtles –

coming onto the beach to lay eggs-

But we also pick up trash –

on a mile-long strand of beach!

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Before we moved to N.C.-

and Cameron Woods Community –

Sherry was a runner –

even running with her two daughters and finishing –

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

This is a 5K race she ran in Broadlands –

next to our development of Brambleton –

When she was 64 years old –

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

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Giving GRACE to those who are troubled –

leads to the KINDNESS of those who give the GRACE!

Ella and Maddy at their First Communion –

A day to remember in their Lutheran tradition.

This is a “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

Back when they were two going on three –

Cassidy and Taylor lived with us –

until their new home was ready!

They are fraternal twins –

This is a “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

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

And now are in our Golden years –

Senior living the dreams we have had.

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

This is “REMEMBERING WHEN”!

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

Papa’s World – FAMILY TIME MEMORIES!

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Eleven years ago Maddy – Ella and Sarah – today Maddy is 5’6 –

Ella and Sarah are 5’10 –

What a difference time makes –
Maddy has graduated from college –

working as a Scientist-Geologist for a major Environmental firm nationwide.

Sarah is an H.S. senior and Ella is a college senior.

FAMILY TIME MEMORIES!

Sarah – Ella and Maddy today!

A very emotional Bode as he ended his role in The Little Mermaid.

Taylor – Cassidy and Sarah after their performance in The Little Mermaid.

The three – brother and two sisters –

went to a two-week camp to participate in The Little Mermaid.

This was the third year in a row they have done this.

FAMILY TIME MEMORIES!

Marcus – Taylor – Tammy – Bode – Cassidy and Marley!

Bonnie and Debbie – sisters and Sherry – the oldest.

FAMILY TIME MEMORIES!

Tammy with the twins – Cassidy and Taylor-

FAMILY TIMES MEMORIES!

A long time ago in a bar somewhere in DC.

SHAERRY and PAPA-

FAMILY TIMES MEMORIES!

This past summer – celebrating Sherry and my –

75th. birthdays with beach vacations with family.

FAMILY TIMES MEMORIES!

The six grandkids – FAMILY TIMES MEMORIES!

Thank you for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

June 25th. 1982 – Sherry and Papa –

FAMILY TIMES MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Time to look toward Winter!

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Summer and Fall have gone and arrived!

Winter is just around the corner.

Looking back on why we moved here –

and forward to why I now love Winter!

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

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

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

Being this close –

and also just another five minutes to Sunset Beach –

offers walking the beach in Winter –

except when the wind blows and the sand stings!

Other than that –

a jacket and scarf is all I need –

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

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

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

but with the Sun – the windbreakers soon came off!

Summer is fun –

family – friends and cruising the ICW!

Sherry won first prize in a raffle –

this pontoon boat for 8 hours on the ICW!

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

and we cruised the ICW –

spotting Dolphins and just general good fun.

Fall – Summer and Spring are beautiful here –

at least I believe so.

Golfing which we do year-round –

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

The ball carried the lake –

and ended up just off the green on the edge –

where we putt for birdie –

but made par!

I have always said –

it is the one shot that keeps my hopes up-

and playing another round!

In the heart of winter –

we will once again bundle up –

and walk the beach!

But – as I said – no snow or ice –

a little breezy –

but no blowing sand –

I can and do handle this!

Cameron Woods Community –

Fits my lifestyle of four seasons of living!

Thanks for reading my blog!

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Living in the South.

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

Visiting them is a long weekend to happen!

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

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

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

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

Golfing as a senior gets us out and about.

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

It’s as true now as it was then! LOL!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Papa’s World – Being thankful – humor and smiles!

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Our lives have been full of dirt paths – always exploring – always finding new things and adventures!

I live for the day – making tomorrow adventure filled and memories – blessed to be here – and always searching for new adventures!

Bring humor – life needs it – making funny memories!

I start every morning the same way – a cup of coffee – smelling the roasted flavor – life at its best!

I need to look no further than the mirror – but It is my passion – no mater how many trees I hit! LOL

THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE! LOL

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

PAPA’S WORLD – BEING THANKFUL HUMOR AND SMILES!!!!

Papa’s World – Living our lives together – to the plus.

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Giving – sharing – laughs – smiles – humor – kindness – feelings – life is full – be what you show.

Our life together is forty-plus years – always striving – always exploring and seeking adventures.

Celebrating our shared experiences with one another.

Laugh – sense of humor – smiles and funny moments – together – as one.

DREAM – SUN – SAND – SURF – OCEAN – LIFE – HAPPINESS – LIVING – all we have accomplished!

Life shared being together – walking – riding –

LIVING OUR LIVES ONE DAY AT A TIME TO THE PLUS!

INTO OUR SENIOR YEARS TOGETHER – thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Thoughts – Pictures and Memories!

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Year – 2022 – oldest granddaughter Maddy – senior captain on the University of Lynchburg women’s soccer team- celebrating winning the ODAC conference championship and attending the NCAA tournament’s first round.

THOUGHTS – PICTURES and MEMORIES!

Grandson Bode – nine years old – will be very tall like his sisters!

THOUGHTS – PICTURES and MEMORIES!

Friends for 40 years – Cindy and Sherry playing PINBALL in Ashville, N.C.

THOUGHTS – PICTURES and MEMORIES!

OUR MOTTO IN LIFE!

THOUGHTS – PICTURES and MEMORIES!

My oldest son Troy – such a kind man!

THOUGHTS – PICTURES and MEMORIES!

My two sons – TROY to the left and Shawn to the right – love you, Dad!

THOUGHTS – PICTURES and MEMORIES!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – THOUGHTS – PICTURES and MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Somewhere near Pawleys Island and Muriels Inlet – is “THE PIT”!

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You look for the mailbox – sitting near the main drag – if you were not looking for it –

Well, you would just drive on by!

You turn right there and enter a long gravel drive – and then there you are-

“THE PIT” bar and grill and dive bar – a “LOCALS” hangout!

Huge LIVE OAK TREES – and then you see DOLLAR BILLS on those trees and on the facade of the building!

An extensive outdoor seating area with what looks to be a stage for music-

This day – a Thursday late afternoon – no one was outside – it was late January!

But – my neighbors Steve and Diane said this is a happening place in season!

WALK THROUGH THE DOOR and experience another – well – sight to behold.

MONEY makes the World go round?

YEP – not one inch on the walls or ceiling was bare –

MONEY WAS EVERYWHERE – WELCOME TO THE PIT!

LIGHTS – FANS – TV – BAR – all covered in what seemed autographed “DOLLAR BILLS”!

Even around the edge of the bar – money everywhere!

License plates – and dozens of driver’s licenses – are plastered everywhere!

We truly have found a “LOCALS BAR ” and a bar that draws tourists like a magnet!

Steve – Diane and Sherry – sitting at the bar for a drink – I know sometime in the future –

I will bring people back here – about an hour away from where we live!

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

SREVE – DIANE – SHERRY and PAPA – CHEERS!

SOMEWHERE NEAR PAWLEYS ISLAND AND MURIELS INLET – is “THE PIT”!

PAPA’S WORLD!

Papa’sWorld – Carolina blue skies – and then some!

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CAROLINA BLUE – a phrase I had heard over the years – and I must say – now living here –

almost every day our sky is bright with sunshine with a backdrop of clear blue sky!

The clouds do roll in and out at times – mostly from the North and West –

so it makes for walking in winter – chilly but warmed by the sun.

The above picture is a sunrise I took from the driveway early one morning –

and the saying RED SKY IN THE MORNING – SAILOR TAKE WARNING turned out to be true!

Here we are on a typical day – walking around Barefoot Landing –

a few white clouds but the CAROLINA FAMOUS BLUE SKY!

Temps in the mid-50s – but warmer from the bright sun!

And then at sunset by the ocean at SUNSET BEACH almost every night –

the clouds roll in off the ocean and you get this beautiful sunset!

CAROLINA BLUE has turned into CAROLINA GOLD at sunset.

Golden rays of sun over the marsh – the blue has turned to gold!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – CAROLINA BLUE SKIES AND THEN SOME!!!!!

Papa’s World – My early years in Eldred, Pa.

/ Tom / 2 Comments

My mother was Pa. Dutch-Irish Catholic – My father was Irish Prostatant –

My mother had ten brothers and sisters – my father had two brothers and a sister.

My mother’s mother married an Irishman – named Aiken – last name – David’s first name.

On my father’s side – the story went that five brothers came over from Ireland – County Tyrone –

it seems once here they split up and never saw one another again.

That was in the 1800’s.

I had an older sister by 15 years and an older brother by 10 years.

Then a sister who died at birth was 5 years older than me.

My younger brother came a little over 4 years after me.

My sister – lived next door to our house and had three children – the oldest was a couple year younger than my little brother.

I am on the left – my niece in the middle( Terri) and my brother Mike.

All three of us grew up together-

By the time I was ten years old – both my sister and older brother had moved on –

Eldred was a small town – 800 to 1000 people –

It seemed I knew just about everyone.

The main street was prone to flooding in the Springs –

It was cool at night – just a fan sometimes or open windows with screens.

It was lush and green but there could be the dog days of August!

My early life was filled with riding my bike – skating on the sidewalks – playing with neighborhood kids.

Smoking corn silk!

Spending hours at the ballpark – throwing apples – sliding down the hill on cardboard –

Going to work with my father – he was a supervisor for South-Penn – Pennsoil.

Playing baseball or football at the park.

Trust came in be home before the street lights came on.

My grandma lived with us – I remember sitting on her lap on the front porch –

Seeing a neighborhood boy walking on the sidewalk across the street on his way to school.

He was two years older than me – and I asked her when it would be my turn to walk to school!

My early years were spent in that small town – not knowing much about the world beyond those

town limits – except when we would go for the Friday night fish fry at the Moose Club in Olean, N.Y.

Sometimes even a movie at the theater down the street from that Club.

“OLD YELLOWER” comes to mind.

Playing “JACKS” on our front porch with neighbor children and discussing –

“Grandpa on Lassie died” – real life.

Those were my early years and so much more I remember – another time and another place.

I worked for 48 1/2 years – all except one of those years for the same company.

Today I am far removed from that area and town –

although my two sons still live in that area.

I have a couple of great nieces and their children still there and a niece still there.

Everyone in my immediate family is now gone.

But I have memories of those early years and it seems I can still see those streets I roamed in my mind.

Now in my senior years – my memories are still bright and I write them down in case they dim.

That little town of Eldred, Pa. still holds a special place in my heart –

someday I shall return – instead of walking the streets, I shall drive.

Visit the graves and see the ballpark – gaze at the house I grew up in – my great nieces live there now which means that house has been in my family now for over 80 years.

Thanks for reading my little memory of my early years – with my wife – who also grew up some 40 miles from there in a little town of Swedish descent called Mount Jewett, PA.

Visit my blog on my ongoing memoir of our family lives.

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’sWorld – Golfing with friends!

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A good day at golf – friends – Priceless!

We moved here from NVA – but before that –

We lived in WNY and our neighbors were Cindy and Buck.

Then, they moved to Wilmington, N.C. for jobs.

and eventually to Leland, N.C., and Magnolia Greens!

This is a 27-hole golf course and my personal view –

One of the best courses we have played in N.C.

We try to get together once or twice a month to play.

Usually – we host dinner or they do or we just go out!

Every four or five months we get together with our other best friends –

And we play Gal vs. Guys – and a fourth couple joins us.

A lot of kidding around – bantering back and forth-

How many strokes are we giving them?

Well – we give them three strokes a side –

and sometimes they beat us by a couple strokes –

or we beat them by one stroke or a tie!

We live in the middle of about 30 golf courses and our friends –

Jim and Dorothy live on a golf course in Edenton, N.C.

About 3 1/2 hours away.

We visit each other every four months or so.

We have been friends ever since Sherry and I were married on 6-25-1982.
I played softball with Jimmy before that.

Other times Sherry and I go out by ourselves playing nine holes.

So many courses here and we get the “LOCALS RATE”!

We have 12 good months of golfing weather –

Winter it warms up by 11:00 am. and we can go.

On other days we watch for warmer weather and book tee times.

The Butterfly effect for me is –

Once during the round –

hitting that perfect shot and then it is “I WANT TO DO THIS MORE OFTEN”!

Until that next time –

“GOLFING WITH FRIENDS” a blog in PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Being warm in the Sunbelt!

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Even though the skies are gray –

storms are brewing –

windy – IT IS WARM!

I had open heart surgery ten-plus years ago –

And ever since then –

the cold has bothered me.

At night – I use an extra blanket –

When we walk in the Winter months –

I am bundled up with my jacket – scarf and gloves –

Even though everyone else isn’t.

So – I no longer want ice –

snow or cold

I will take warm – warm and warmer!

Visit NVA where we lived for over twenty years!

Yes – it was hot and muggy there –

but back on the East coast of N.C and S.C. –

with the breeze from the ocean –

IT WAS GREAT for me!

OIB from the Causeway Bridge over the ICW!

I lived for fifty-plus years in NWPA and WNY-

in the snow belts.

I shoveled my share of snow –

slipped and drove on ice –

Huddled up inside during a freezing Day-

on the end of bitter cold.

Worked outside –

navigated snow drifts –

I HAD ENOUGH OF THAT!

I do not own a snow shovel,

which is fine with me! LOL

In Fall and Winter and early Spring –

I am fine with some extra clothing –

that comes off when I get warmed up!

LIVING IN THE SUNBELT – my way of life now!

I am blessed to have been able to do this –

and my wife to share it with.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – We move to Brambleton!

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This is the second home we built and moved into!

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

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

The house was in a horseshoe shape –

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

Very private with a tall fence.

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

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

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

We had grown with the community –

watching street after street being built –

and now – after we have left –

It still is growing and building.

It was during that time that Tammy had twin girls –

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

Cassidy on the left and Taylor on the right.

Today they are 14 years old –

Taylor rides horses and Cassidy does gymnastics.

Both sing and dance in plays –

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

Our home here was to be a forever retirement home –

But the stock market went down –

and the home values went up!

We decided to sell and see where it took us.

We stayed with family members through the summer –

and into the school year-

At that time we decided to go SOUTH!

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

Here we stayed in a lakefront condo for nine months –

And we built our THIRD new home!

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

In a place called CAMERON WOODS COMMUNITY!

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

But economics proved otherwise.

It was a beautiful home inside as well as outside-

We met many memorable people here –

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

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

MEMORIES always will be cherished there –

But – now we are living our dream-

Near the beaches and golfing capital of the country.

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

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

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

Papa’s World – We built our first home – Ridgetop!

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It was 2002 or 2003 – NVA – Fairfax, Va. –

We listed the townhouse and sold it!

We had built our first new home –

A three-story brick fronted Townhouse –

with huge arched windows on the front!

Ridgetop Commons was just one block from Fountain Side Lane –

In a brand-new neighborhood,

we had ridden bike paths through the woods!

We took a giant step forward –

selling our townhouse –

And buying this one for more than we sold the first one for!

But – it was an upgrade –

in a growing neighborhood –

And a brand new town center was being built –

Dozens of stores and restaurants –

walking distance away –

and the ground had been broken for the –

FIRST WEGMANS GROCERY store in Va.!

I would walk and sit on a park bench –

and watch the construction of both the town center and the Wegmans.

The new townhouse was 2500 SF.

On three levels – a two-car garage –

a huge deck off the second level –

and an enclosed patio under the deck.

The windows in the living room were huge arched –

and went almost from floor to ceiling!

On that level was the living room – dining room –

kitchen and a step down to a half bath.

Downstairs was a second living-family room with a fireplace-

and a door out to the patio.

This is also where we had our office.

Upstairs on the third level –

were three bedrooms and two baths.

The master bedroom was huge!

Looking out the windows from the living room –

Was the only fenced-in playground in the community.

A great place for Maddy and Ella to play when they came to visit.

The community pool was a short walk away.

It was here that after living most of our lives in WNY and NWPA –

That we experienced the worst snowfall in our lives!

Twenty-seven inches in 48 hours!

We had company –

Jim and Dottie Brown –

We shoveled for hours –

until we had no more space to put it!

Then it was just sit back and watch it come down.

A huge grader came down the road –

But we still could not get out

We were stranded –

until the county and development came to dig us out!

That was my first time ever with that much snow and it was in Va.!

After that we would go to Florida to visit my brother on vacation-

I had enough of snow- ice and cold weather even in NVA!

We spent almost four years in the first house we had built –

In Ridgetop Commons –

But it was very busy and we looked toward the West –

To Loudoun County and a brand new area being built-

Churches – Banks – Stores – Movie theaters and restaurants in the middle of pastures!

On the back side of the Dulles airport –

BRAMBLETON!

A very large planned community –

But once there – almost no traffic!

Our end was in sight of living in Fairfax, Va. for seven years!

But – I will remember Ridgetop Commons with fondness –

THE VERY FIRST HOUSE WE BUILT TOGETHER.

June 25th. 1982 – the day we were married.

We would leave here and move to the SECOND HOUSE WE WOULD BUILD TOGETHER!

BRAMBLETON, VA. coming soon in a blog!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WALKING THE TRAILS OF THE MUSEUM OF THE SHENANDOAH

Papa’s World – Life at Fountain Side Lane.

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In June of 1999 –

Sherry and I transferred within the company –

To Northern Va. – to the Alexandria section –

just outside Washington, D.C.

We had two months of company-paid living –

in a block of condos.

We used this time for our new jobs –

hers in Dulles next to the airport –

and mine in Springfield at our Alexandria SSC.

We came from the country to city life!

In our spare time, we hired a realtor –

and started our search for a home.

We wanted a place that was halfway to work for both of us.

FAIRFAX, VA.!

What we found was a townhome in the Fountain Side Lane –

Three miles to George Mason University –

two miles to the NRA – building!

STICKER SHOCK – this town home was about 1600 SF.

On three levels – three bedrooms –

and two and one-half baths.

But was centrally located to both our jobs.

It would take me one-half hour to get to work –

and she is about twenty minutes!

It was a nice neighborhood –

walkable to a large town square with stores –

shopping and restaurants.

During our time there-

we rode our bikes on trails in a forest behind the house.

This whole area would become a planned TOWN CENTER –

With dozens of stores and bars and grills-

even a Ruth’s Chris Steak House!

We watched it being built –

and eventually the first WEGMENS in the NVA. area.

It was during this time her sister Debbie –

seen here in the middle-

Relocated from Wisconsin –

and stayed with us for a short time-

until she found a place in the Manassas area.

Her other sister Bonnie remains in NWPA in Mount Jewett.

We experienced two traumatic life-changing events-

while living here.

First was 911 – this happened while we worked in the area –

The plane that hit the Pentagon –

flew right over the parking lot where I worked –

And Sherry was right next to the Dulles airport

One plane took off from there,

and all these large tanks were holding fuel right next to her store.

For days the sound of silence ensued.

No planes –

we traveled to see the Pentagon –

and have a picture of the destruction.

This went on for days –

as no planes –

but the high military jets leaving their presence known-

in the trail of white contrails in the sky!

The next event was the DC. SNIPERS!

We were exactly in the middle of all the killings!

It was all around us –

and not knowing from moment to moment who would be next!

We lived in TERROR!

Always be watchful at the beginning-

of a WHITE VAN!

Rumors – going to work at 5am.

Stopping to get gas –

and crouching down behind the car door –

in the light from the overhead lights.

Here is Maddy –

about five years old –

and just a baby when we moved to the area.

I carried her in my arms –

while walking the streets during the quiet period after 911!

Looking at the jet planes so high in the sky.

Our home here –

we lived in it for three and one-half years.

Tammy moved in with us as she came from Rochester to be near us.

Later Debby and Mike moved down from the Syracuse area with Maddy!

It was here that both sets of parents came to visit –

before they passed away.

We have many fond memories of this first home in Fairfax, Va.

Soon – more family members made their way to this area of NVA.

While here –

we watched a new development –

just behind our house going up –

We liked the new townhomes made out of brick.

S o – we decided to sell –

and buy our first new to-be-built home – a block away!

RIDGETOP COMMONS – a 2500 SF. Town Home!

We would be moving up the hill!

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

Coming in another blog – RIDGETOP COMMONS!

Papa’s World – ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

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Celebrating our oldest granddaughter –

graduating from the University of Lynchburg.

Maddy has now almost completed her first year of working –

For a major environmental agency –

She is based out of Winchester, Va.

As a Geologist-Scientist –

Traveling a three-state area testing groundwater.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

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

This is her third location,

which allows much more foot traffic!

529kidconsignLoundoun

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

Mail order if desired.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

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

Bob and wife Pam.

For the last five or six years –

they have come in their RV to visit –

Spending a week at a time revisiting –

Playing golf – hanging out and exploring the area.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

Cindy and Sherry –

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

Always a fun time with dinner after.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

The ladies in our lives-

Two daughters –

Five granddaughters-

A friend of Maddy’s here –

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

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

HERE SHERRY STANDS ON OCEAN ISLE BEACH –

ONE LIFE TO LIVE!

Papa’s World – Summertime fun!

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We had a great summer –

family visited –

vacation – trip back to NVA –

Concerts in Sunset Beach-

and Ocean Isle Beach –

Endured a Tropical Storm.

Friends – golf – beaching –

I look around –

and I am amazed that we are here!

I always dreamed it-

but I thought it was out of reach.

We have made new friends –

Old friends have moved close by.

Other old friends come to visit.

We have watched the seasons come and go –

and we know this was the right choice for us.

The health care system for us is excellent.

Shopping – gas and food-

is only a couple miles away –

Yet when you enter our neighborhood –

Tall pines – lush undergrowth –

and yes wildlife exists here also.

We have a beautiful pool and community center –

we volunteer at several venues.

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

We are about four miles from this bridge –

We can come here whenever we want

We walk this beach for shells-

and Sunset Beach as it is more level.

We have open-air concerts at both beaches –

We have made friends here on the island.

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

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

LIFELONG BUDDIES!

Our old neighbors back in WNY-

and we now live some 38 miles from them.

We get together often for golf-

or just talking and dinners.

They were all friends back in NVA –

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

And close enough to come together –

for lunches and dinners-

or just visit each other!

We have made new friends with Diane and Steve-

who we found out

also, we are from WNY!

They have a cottage on Rushford Lake –

and knew the area we were from!

SMALL WORLD –

and now they are our neighbors here in OIB!

All these years –

and still to this day friends.

We are now all retired –

and still get together every four to six months!

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

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

Papa’s Wprld – Make your VOICE HEARD- VOTE!

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Today is the day to make your voice heard – VOTE!

Presidential Election 2024 in the United States of America-

And all other elections!

Cast your VOTE –

No matter what party you affiliate with!

Make a difference –

Not on SOCIAL MEDIA-

But at the Polls!

The choice is yours –

to cast your ballot –

Independent – Republican – Democrat – or other.

Young – older or senior –

The choice is yours-

Believe – make a difference –

This is your right –

Everyone –

have a safe and thoughtful voting experience.

“I AM – ME”!

Thanks for reading Papa’s World-

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Grandkids in LITTLE MERMAID!

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In late July and early August –

we traveled North to NVA-

To see the three grandkids in the performance of –

THE LITTLE MERMAID!

All three had singing –

dancing and speaking parts!

Bode with the Sea Gull hat on the right side of Cassidy –

Taylor – the tall one with yellow –

and Cassidy with yellow to her right!

Cassidy had a duet and Bode also –

Taylor had a speaking line and sang.

Cassidy singing in her duet.

Taylor before she moved to the microphone –

for her singing and lines.

Bode at the microphone dancing –

before singing

and speaking his lines.

Cassidy and Taylor are on stage in –

THE LITTLE MERMAID!

Bode on stage in THE LITTLE MERMAID!

Bode as a seagull in –

THE LITTLE MERMAID!

All in all –

it was a fun time to see-

what they accomplished in just two weeks –

of trying out and rehearsals.

This is a camp for the summer –

and crews from Calif. come in –

and help out-

on the production.

Bode was very emotional after it was all over –

and Tammy comforted him –

outside the stage door after it was over.

Ella – Maddy – Debby – with Taylor and Sarah and Tammy.

Taylor and Cassidy with Sarah their cousin.

It was a special time seeing them perform.

Family time together –

Taylor and Sarah –

The family came together –

to celebrate the young ones in the play.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – GRANDKIDS IN THE LITTLE MERMAID!

Papa’s World – KINDNESS is FREE!

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Hold the door open – KINDNESS!

Pick up something dropped – KINDNESS!

Offer a helping hand – KINDNESS!

KINDNESS IS FREE!

Watching over others- KINDNESS!

Offering to help – KINDNESS!

Sharing with others – KINDNESS!

Sharing times with friends – LOVING!

Kindness and Loving to me go hand in hand.

Life offers many – many forms of Kindness – Love –

Going into the future hand in hand –

Helping one another – throughout life – forming a relationship –

Friends forever!

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

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

To cherish each other –

Life is a struggle –

I hope to be of help to whoever needs it.

Thanks for reading this blog – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

PAPA’S WORLD – KINDNESS IS FREE!

Papa’s World – Keeping POSITIVE thoughts in these times!

/ Tom / 1 Comment

This can be tough with today’s constant bombardment of pointing fingers –

taking sides and the untruths that are out there.

But – I find that concentrating on the positive –

Thinking and planning ahead –

to just get your mind off of negativity –

goes a long way in reinforcing your positive side!

Planning a trip – vacation –

Family and friends – or just a getaway.

Walking the beach is a great way for me to lose myself and be creative.

Going to the local Home Depot or Lowes and walking around the garden centers.

Forming thoughts about where to put next year’s new flowers.

Greeting people with a smile – it’s FREE!

Meeting up with friends –

being on the golf course is a way for me to be positive!

I AM POSITIVE AFTER THAT GREAT SHOT THERE WILL BE MORE!

After all – that is what brings me back! LOL

Thinking – planning – seeing –

all combine to either make or break your day.

It is yourself that determines your thought process –

SMILE – HAPPY THOUGHTS – KINDNESS – HELPING –

Just a few reinforcements of POSITIVE THOUGHTS!

The Sun rises over the meadow –

flowers are blooming in bright vibrant colors!

Today is your day –

One to put your stamp on it!

This will be the start of a brand new day-

and new thoughts –

Make them positive –

Lose the stress –

BE YOU!

Come with me –

practice positivity –

look for the beginning of each day –

and mold it into a reflection –

of what YOU want it to be –

let go of the news outlets –

THIS IS YOUR DAY – MAKE IT YOUR DAY – POSITIVE BEGINNINGS – PEACE OF MIND!

MY POSITIVE THOUGHT FOR MY DAY – MY OLDEST GRANDDAUGHTERS SMILING AT SUNSET!

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

KEEPING POSITIVE THOUGHTS IN THESE TIMES!

Papa’s World – Living the Beach Life!

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Sunset Beach Causeway Bridge –

the Pier and the Beach.

We only live fifteen minutes from here –

an easy six-mile drive!

We prefer to walk the beach here –

as it is flatter –

and much easier to walk.

In the summers –

the Pier hosts on Thursday late afternoon – early evening –

Free open-air concerts on the pier.

People gather their chairs on either side of the sand –

it is a festive couple of hours of live music!

In addition on Wednesday evenings –

the town of Sunset Beach –

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

Hundreds of people attend both venues!

Crossing the Causeway bridge from Sunset Beach over the ICW!

Traffic seems much heavier on the OIB Causeway Bridge,

Sunset Beach is more residential,

and OIB is more commercial in beach rentals.

At least that seems that way to me.

Ocean Isle Beach is on the Causeway bridge –

and looking east.

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

This beach is four miles from us.

There also are restraints on OIB –

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

We do come here to walk –

especially parking at the community center –

where there is a building with a covered deck –

Bathrooms –

outdoor showers-

and a volleyball court on the sand.

Causeway bridge over the ICW.

We live near two beaches-

but also are close-

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

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

and Oak Island is about forty minutes away.

The city of Wilmington is about 45 minutes –

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

About 38 miles away.

Thanks for reading –

“LIVING THE BEACH LIFE”

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

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

PAPA’S WORLD!

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

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Here we are at JINKS CREEK on OIB –

with close friends Buck and Cindy –

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

eat out or in –

and just have a great time.

They live 38 miles from us –

but always golf in our area.

We were neighbors back in WNY –

and have stayed in contact all these years.

Friendships are special –

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

in that,

it has lasted almost 40 years.

We live four miles from here-

on the mainland side of Ocean Isle Beach.

Friends and family –

we often bring them here to enjoy the BEACH LIFE!

Our family was on a beach vacation –

on OIB in the Summer of ’24.

Making memories –

Family times are the best –

In our senior golden years –

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

Adam and Peggy have stopped –

and seen us for four years straight –

as they have always vacationed –

in this area –

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

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

in the early to mid-’90s.

I worked for Adam in Process improvements.

Getting back together –

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

Adam has his own company nationwide –

as a consultant in Process Improvements in

major industrial companies.

Friends – living our lives as seniors!

Papa and Buck –

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

in WNY!

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

and we visited them often.

Sherry and I transferred to NVA in 1999.

They often would come up to stay and visit.

Today – we get together –

golf and have dinner.

Friendships going on for years and years.

Papa and Sherry are on the beach after walking.

Thanks for reading PAPA’S WORLD –

my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

SPECIAL TIMES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Papa’s World – Walking Ashville, N.C.

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We came back here after some 12 to 14 years!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Friends – who call themselves “THE HENS” –

All lived near us in NVA –

And they would all gather for a movie or lunch-

along with a couple more “HENS”!

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

close to our lifetime friends the McBrides.

Nancy – the first to leave –

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

Sherry and I live close to OIB –

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

The other “HENS” are scattered –

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

GOOD TIMES WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

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

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

and back in New Hampshire as a base

for the summer.

About six years ago – we reconnected –

and have seen them every year since.

Always talking of old times – memories of youth –

And making new memories after all these years.

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

We shall see –

but the times we do see them –

Bob and I attempt to golf! LOL

GOOD TIMES WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

Our friends for years and years –

Cindy – Dottie and Sherry –

Buck – Jim and Papa.

All the times we have had vacations –

or just visiting each other –

The golf – dining – singing and laughter.

Friends still to this day!

GOOD FRIENDS WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

The little town I grew up in –

among the Alleghany Mountains in NWPA is close to NYS!

Eldred, Pa.

Here I lived until 30 plus years old.

On the streets,

I walked – roller-skated and rode my bike.

Sleeping out at night – hiking the hills –

A childhood I have lots of memories to share!

GOOD TIMES WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

Three oldest granddaughters –

now one graduated from college –

another one more year of college-

and the last one more year of H.S,

Always will be in my memories!

GOOD TIMES AND LOTS OF MEMORIES!

The Myers family

with the three oldest granddaughters from the above picture.

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

GOOD FRIENDS WITH LOTS OF MEMORIES!

Papa’s World – Memories and Good Times!

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Throughout the time we have been together –

We have made so many memories –

both as a family and –

Where we have lived –

Four states – and six houses!

Living day to day in the early years –

Working paycheck to paycheck

Taking the kids on picnics –

Visiting family.

All the while making memories!

Our thoughts then-

and as they are today –

FAMILY – making the most of what we had –

FRIENDS – They have been a lifetime for us –

remaining after all these years.

THOUGHTS – dreaming – reaching –

We live our lives –

and always stay the course together.

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

Another Memory made –

Another outing taken –

And today we move on –

To make plans-

Another memory!

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

HOPE – HAPPINESS – and GRATITUDE –

For the MEMORIES and GOOD TIMES WE HAVE MADE TOGETHER!

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

Making another Memory!

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

Papa’s World – Life – Love – Thoughts!

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Her nickname growing up was “TINY” –

given to her by her father!

Today – Ella is almost 5’10 ” tall –

and will compete for her senior year in college-

On the pitch in soccer.

She has started every game as a Freshman and Sophomore –

As a Junior,

she battled through a leg injury –

As the coaches monitored her game-by-game –

to not cause the injury to keep her from playing at all!

She was made captain in her Sophomore year –

as she battled her sister Maddy –

In games with the University of Lynchburg!

This year she hopes to recover enough –

to finish her college career!

She will graduate with two degrees –

and will be a physical teacher to young elementary students!

“TINY” has blossomed –

and my little one – well –

I will always have a place in my heart for her!

LIFE –

As we travel through LIFE –

MEMORIES are Made to be cherished!

In today’s World –

so many negative views –

I honestly wonder where –

COMMON SENSE has gone.

So many nasty thoughts –

Where does this come from –

a nation divided – a country amiss –

Name-calling – brother vs brother –

and sister vs sister –

Families torn apart.

Where has GRACE gone?

Today – I pray that this heals –

That sense will make sense.

Democracy must not die –

but be the shining light in the darkness.

I hope that this blog helps in that aspect –

Sharing GRACE through peaceful words.

LOVE makes the World go round!

LOVE is the only thing some people-

have to hold onto.

LOVE is here and there –

LOVE is in the air.

My hope is that LOVE shines bright enough-

to dim the darkness of the land.

YES – LOVE DOES MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND – LETS SHOW IT!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – LIFE – LOVE AND THOUGHTS!

Papa’s World – Life in the Carolinas!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Papa’s World – “WHO AM I?”

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

Watcher – golfer –

A host of things!

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

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

I have been married twice –

My second marriage has lasted 42-plus years.

I am a converted Catholic to Lutheran,

I am not registered with the Republican or Democratic party –

I am registered as an independent.

I am a father and grandparent.

I AM ME!

I love history – ancient civilizations –

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

I love trips – friends – and family.

My thoughts are on God – Country and Family –

I defend my beliefs and those of my family –

I love my wife and our lives together.

I have dreams and some have come true.

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

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

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

PAPA’S WORLD – WHO AM I?

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

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“I wake up in the morning –

with NOTHING to do –

AND IT TAKES ME ALL DAY TO DO IT!!”

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

“What have you been up to”?

When I worked I took a vacation day –

mostly to mow my lawn!

It was relaxing for me –

just my ride mower – trimer – and me.

We had a three-quarter acre lot –

It would take 2 to 3 hours to mow –

weed whack and trim.

And I loved it!

Later – after we moved –

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

But – it was then –

I had to spend the majority of my time working!

I enjoy walking around and finding little things to do –

or turn on the TV-

and watch golf or some ball game.

Taking little trips with my wife for shopping –

She goes to the outlet-

and I buy a cup of coffee,

and people watch while she shops!

We make runs to volunteer –

tend to the flowers –

I no longer mow or trim the grass –

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

Sometimes we find a spot for a light lunch –

and watch the boats –

Other times we golf with friends-

or go and visit friends.

We are close to big box stores –

The beach is ten minutes –

To me –

it fulfills my retirement life.

“I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING-

I have a calendar –

where I write down –

what we have scheduled to do.

We take trips back to NVA to see family.

RETIREMENT –

may mean many different things to all people –

BUT TO ME IT MEANS

“With NOTHING to do –

That I get to choose each day –

what I want to do –

not a job to perform for a living!

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

PAPA’S WORLD – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Papa’s World – Peace – Love and Happiness – HIPPIE!

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Yes – there was a time I had long hair –

Rather – long curly hair –

imagine Carrot Top!

And – yes – I did ride motorcycle –

the mid 70’s to early 80’s!

I played softball –

on league teams –

and in the industrial league –

basketball for a radio station –

I once bought a church –

and renovated it into two appartments.

I was married at 17 with a son.

I was in a car accident prior to that –

and spent 51 days in the hospital –

In a wheelchair for two months – then crutches.

My life has been rather colorful –

more so than normal.

But more than that –

I have always believed in PEACE – LOVE and HAPPINESS –

Not quite full fledged HIPPIE –

But – a moderate – Independant sort of person.

I believe in a strong military worldwide –

law and order and equality –

I have always encouraged my wife –

with Women’s Rights.

I am not a racist –

nor a white Christain Nationalist

I believe in God –

Family and Country –

the Flag and the Constitution.

I look at immigration –

the need to control that –

but I also know that with no immigration –

My ancestors back in the 1800’s –

I would not be here.

I look at the need to fill jobs-

that no one else wants to do-

And how we still are recovering from the effect of the Pandemic –

in the need to fill those jobs.

I see business’s that close one day a week becasue of the labor shortage.

I see the turmoil of the country –

in politicans who inject anger –

slander –

and voice upheavel as a course of action.

In this democracy in 2020 –

I was in disbelief-

as I watched the storming of the Capital –

The intrussion on a dmeocraric process –

And I want to see “PROOF” of what is being said!

I am a registered INDENPENDENT –

I sell my vote to no one.

In the past I have voted all three –

Republican – Libetarian and Democrat.

I am a American – Citizen –

and Loyal to my Country.

I believe in PEACE – LOVE and HAPPINESS –

and in my heart of old –

a somewhat HIPPIE!

I respect the flag – country –

and the democratic process of law and order.

I am a citizen of what I precieve –

as the greatest country on Earth.

This is me – this is who I am –

This is PAPA’S WORLD – my site: loivinglifedoingitmyway.blog

Thank you for reading and as always HGD!