Thursday, November 27, 2008

Christmas Survey

Christmas Survey

Getting Ready

Do You Look Forward to Christmas?: Always

Do You Prefer Real or Fake trees?: Real

Which Do You Have?: Fake, have you seen a fir tree in Southern Arizona?

Do You Hang a Wreath?: Always made door swag out of bottom branches of real tree.

Do You Hang Lights On Your House?: Not always

Do You Play Christmas Music?: Yes, its Thanksgiving so I can start today

Do You Hang Stockings?: No

Do You Get Ornaments Every Year Like Hallmark Ornaments?: Did for kids when they were at home

Do You Hang Mistletoe?: Have in past

Do You Put Candy Canes On Your Tree?: No

Do You Use a Tinsel Garland or Strands of Tinsel?: yes

Favorites

Christmas Candy: Chocolate covered mountians my Dad always bought,
can only find out Vermont Country Store now and they don't taste near as good at $19.95 lb.

Christmas Cookie: Any homemade

Holiday Food: Turkey & Dressing

Holiday Dessert: Pumpkin Pie

Holiday Drink: None really

Candy Cane Flavor: Origional peppermint

Santa's Reindeer: Rudolph

Christmas Carol: Any Statler Brothers Song

Christmas Movie: None

Christmas Color: Blue & Silver

Christmas Activity: Getting together with family and friends.

Do You Believe In Santa?: Yes

Do You Like Fruitcake?: No

Do You Like Eggnog?: No

Do You Go Caroling?: Have you heard me sing!!

Do You Drive Around and Look at the Christmas Lights?: Yes

Do You Do Christmas Baking?: Not as much as in the past.

Ham or Turkey for Christmas Dinner?: Turkey...if the crowds big enough ham also.

Do You Set Out Cookies for Santa?: No

Do You Leave Carrots for Santa's Reindeer?: No

Do You Have a Family Christmas Dinner?: Have in past

Do You Read T'was The Night Before Christmas Every Year?: No

Do You Open a Present on Christmas Eve?: Eve, always went to parents house Christmas Day.

Do You get Photos Taken With Santa?: No

Do You Go To Holiday Parties?: Sometimes

You Host a Holiday Party?: Seldom

Do You Prefer to Give or Receive?: Give

Do You Drink Hot Chocolate?: Yes

Marshmallows or Whipped Cream?: Whipped Cream

Do You Send Christmas Cards?: Yes

Would You Want a White Christmas?: In Arizona, get real.

What Do You Do On Christmas Eve?: Usually stay at home now

Do You Have Any Special Family traditions?: All have changed since parents passed away in 1999

How Early Do You Wake Up on Christmas Morning?: Same as usual, about 6-7 am

Monday, November 24, 2008

Hawaii

Wow...Great.....So lovely.....what more can I say.
Arrived the afternoon of the 4th November, picked up rental car and short drive to Keauhou Beach Resort in Kona. As we were checking in the desk clerk looked at Don taking luggage out of car and said "he is big, just a moment". In less than a minute she said "I changed your room it was a double and he needs a king size". It could not have been a better room, 3rd floor over the turtle bay on the left corner of the building so we had a balcony on two sides with a small table and two chairs (one side you had to stand it was so narrow but you could look over the pool and watch sufers)looking down you could see fish in the water and green sea turtles, needless to say we spent lots of time sitting watching sunsets over the water and left the sliding glass door open to hear the waves wash in at night.
Took the Big Island Grand Circle Island Tour (know locally as the 13 hr tour)and yes it did take 13 hrs. Picked up at hotel and visited coffee factory, volcano, macadema nut factory, chocolate factory, black sand beach and drove through a rainforst, desert, mountian and valleys.
Included a luaua, Hilo Hatties,trip to Hilo, Greenwell Coffee Plantation (it had been in the family since 1850's), stopped at Kimura Fabrics which has a great selection of Hawaiian prints (and has been in business for 60 years), even tried our hand (body) at snorkeling...twice...loved the beautiful fish.
John & Steph and family invited us to a wonderful lunch at the yacht harbor, which turned out to be a treat from Trudy next door. Was suprised to see Pat & Jodie Schatz owners of Crane Prarie Resort in the High Lakes Region of Oregon at the next table. John & Steph also had us to their home for pupus and hang out time till our plane left at 11:45pm the last night.
Have pictures but still haven't gotten them from the camera to computer so that will be a later post.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Viva Las Vegas

Wow we had our "girl weekend", what a wonderful time I had. Did lots of talking, laughing, drinking, looking, seeing, and don't forget the walking.
Thursday met Patty at the airport and got her luggage and put it in the car, then Chris arrived so got her luggage and got checked in. Did some sight seeing, people (and bar tender)watching and gambling.
Friday found a pharmacy for Patty who was coming down with a doozy of a cold, had breakfast (wasn't it about 10:30am by then)...Oh well 3 sharing a bathroom, blow dryers, curling irons and etc brought back FOND memories..Now I know why I left for work before they had to get ready for school! Checked out Ethel's an outstanding chocolate factory (and cactus gardens that was not near as interesting to the two Arizonians). It has started by the son of the man who started the Mars Candy Company. Stop by if you get to LV. Parked at one end of the strip and checked out casinos and etc. That evening we split up about 7pm with Chris attending a LRPG with friends and Patty and I attending the show of "Tony and Tina's Wedding" It was lots of fun, got kissed by father of the groom (you know that slobbery smack smack smack) who had been hitting the bottle during the pre wedding. Lots of inter action with actors because we were at one of the tables next to the "dance floor" "alter".
Saturday took a taxi to the opposite end of the strip from where we started Friday (and this way no one had to forgo their Margarita's because they were driving). Checked out more stores, casinos and etc. Found a great upscale hamburger place for dinner then back to hotel to see Cirque Du Soleil Mystere Wow Patty great seats you picked. Second row middle, action right in front of us, right above us, and all around us when they were in audience. A MUST SEE SHOW if you ever get a chance.
Thank you so much Chris and Patty, I have two lovely wonderful daughters!!!!!

Friday, October 10, 2008

More ABC's

More ABC's
A is for age: 66
B is for beer of choice: McMenamins Ruby
C is for career right now: Retired
D is for your dog's name: Don’t have one.
E is for essential item you use everyday: Refrigerator
F is for favorite TV show: Dancing with the Stars
G is for favorite game to watch:
H is for Home town: Salem, Oregon
I is for instruments you play: Radio count?
J is for favorite juice: Tomato (best as a Bloody Mary)
K is for whose butt you'd like to be kicking: I take the 5th.
L is for last place you ate at: home or Cocopah Casino Buffet
M is for marriage: Yes 48 yrs this fall
N is for your name: Marlyn Marie Newburn
O is for overnight hospital stay: Birth of 2 daughters
P is for people you were with today: Husband, staff at Yuma Gastroenterology
Q is for what's your best quality: Faithful
R is for what are you currently reading: Star Light Star Bright; HAWAII the Big Island Revealed.
S is for relationship status: Married
T is for time you woke up today: 6:15am
U is for the type of underwear you have on: Yep I do have it on!
V is for vegetable you love: Cucumbers, Cauliflower, Carrots, etc, etc.
W is for worst habits: Holding a grudge.
X is for x-rays you've had recently: Bone density
Y is for something candy : Black licorice gum drops or jelly beans
Z is for zodiac sign: Leo

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Project Linus

Went to a meeting today to help plan sewathon for Project Linus Oct 28, 29 and 30. They supply blankets for children in crisis. Our local chapter has dontate 2868 blankets to Yuma Regional Medical Center Pediatrics, Labor and Delivery, Child Protective Services , Children's Health Service, Catholic Community Services Safe House, Children's Village, Arizona Children's Association, Hospice, Cocopah Social Services, California and Arizona Highway Patrol, Yuma Fire Department and our Fallen Hero's Children including Military and Law Enforcement.
If you have some time and can sew, crochet, knit or support those who do please check out the Project Linus in your area.

"The Best Kind Of Sleep Under Heaven Above Is Under A Blanket Handmade With Love"

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Food

Nom Nom Nom!

1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these instructions.
2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.
3) Cross out any items that you would never consider eating.

1. Game from an animal that someone in your family killed. I grew up on more venison than beef.

2. Ice cream from a dairy farm that makes their ice cream on the premises. Bonus points if you can eat your ice cream and see the herd of cows that it came from. Living on a farm (but not dairy)with cows and making our own homemade ice cream count!!!!

3. Wild berries that you find, pick and eat yourself.

4. Something deep-fried that was never meant to be deep-fried. Dill pickles.

5. Pizza from a NY City pizzeria that's at least 40 years old.

6. Bread made from scratch, still warm from the oven. Preferably that you've made yourself.

7. Food from a street vendor. Bonus points if you and that vendor don't share a language in common.

8. Fish you have caught and cleaned yourself.

9. Birthday cake (and frosting!) from scratch.

10. Salad from someone's garden.

11. Homemade salad dressing.

12. Baseball park food. Bonus points for a Fenway Frank. Beer doesn't count.

13. Homebrewed beer. I didn't like it tho!

14. Something baked in an EZ-Bake Oven.Oh what we do for our kids!

15. Slab bacon from a butcher shop or meat market. From a pig we raised also.

16. Real maple syrup.

17. Astronaut ice cream (purchased from a gift shop on a school field trip, if possible).

18. Something you didn't think you would like, but you tried anyway. Like to try new stuff.


19. Yuengling beer
20. Mastroianni Brothers bread
21. Bueon Y Sano burrito
22. Guiness draft
23. Haggis (not for taste, for bragging rights!)
24. Beets
25. Avocado
26. At least 10 different kinds of sushi
27. Something you've grown from seed
28. Something with the head still attached when it was served
29. Crawdads/Crayfish (Bonus points if you caught/cleaned them yourself)
30. Alcohol that was older than you were

If you want to add this to your LJ, go ahead, and feel free to add more specific foods!

Saturday, September 6, 2008

Low of 79

No that is not my golf score. Just the weather forecast for tomorrow. It is so nice to have the door open and fresh air. When you get up and it is 81 inside (with air set at 80) and 85 outside you don't get much fresh air.
Going to the pool at 8:45am, a group of us meet most mornings between 9 and 10 to "exercise".
Working on plans for trip to Las Vegas Oct 16 to 19 with both daughters, have tickets to two shows. Also on vacation to Hawaii (Big Island) Nov 4 to 11, have an island tour 5th, thought this would be a good way to see highlights and then we know where we want to spend more time during the rest of the week.
"Snowbirds" are starting to return so life will be much busier for the next 6 plus months.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Oregon Trip

Arrived home safe from almost 3 weeks in Oregon Friday morning.
Had a good visit with daughter Patty and family. Dominick and Savannah and I did Enchanted Forrest (which they loved at 2yr and still enjoy at pre teen. Great B B Q Aaron and thanks for finding the Ruby Ale for Don. Patty thanks for the photo album of my parents 50th Wedding Anniversary, Jerry & Lynda and Melba and Jim said they had never seen the pictures.
Had lunch with a square dance friend Betty McCollum who reminded me that it was Wednesday and the Wednesday Marathon Hand & Foot Game was at Dan & Ginger Allen's. Was able to arrive about 7:30pm just in time for a great dessert provided by Cathy and Dale Burnett, then the 7 of us switched to a card game called Baseball.
Darlene Johnson a friend I worked with had a nice luncheon (and I got the recipe for her wonderful sandwich). Enjoyed catching up on the life and families of Patti Baker and Clarene Myers along with others they had seen or heard of lately.
Spent 4 days with my Brother and wife. My sister and husband also came for a couple days, did the Elk's picnic (why was it more fun when we were younger?) and played Hand & Foot plus lots of yacking and catching up.
Monday before I came home had lunch with Al & Lovena, Dorris & Bob and Doris (all Aunts and Uncles) plus Jerry & Lynda & Melba & Jim. Looked at the photo album and got names that I had forgotten in the 18 years since the celebration.

Friday, July 25, 2008

Birthday Suprise

Yesterday I had a wonderful 66th birthday.
First my great husband invited about 15-20 friends to meet us for lunch at El Cafe Del Coyote. Then he let me know what he had done. About 11:30am we arrived and within the next 15 minutes people started showing up. Had lots of laughs and nice cards, Pat Shaver handed me the phone and our nieghbor Sandy Dalziel from Iowa (who winters next door) was singing happy birthday. Then she hands Don 1 more card and he gives it to me and says scoot your chair back against the wall (now doesn't that send shivers down your spine!). When I opened it I found 2 plane tickets to Kona Hawaii for 11-04 08 to 11-11-08 (for those who are not informed 11 11 is our anniversary, this year it will be 48 yrs). Then he gave me an envelope that shows reservations at Keauhou Beach Resosrt on Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona. Needless to say I am VERY EXCITED.
Also recieved a nice package from Patty & Aaron (Margarita Mix, Salt, Guacamole Mix and Chips....Yum Yum) Got calls from Brother Jerry, Sister Melba..but it was a voice mail..and Chris & family.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Update

Don saw doctor yesterday. Doctor was very pleased with his progress. He can now go without the sling at home, lift 25 lbs with both hands, take shower, and is to have physical therapy 3 x wk for 6 wks. Well when we went to make the appointment the company is changing billers and can not accept Medicare patients...this is a company that has 3 offices in Yuma. So got recommendations from friends we know who have used therapy in town and he will be able to start a week from today. (Remember when we were young and were getting recommendations for babysitters not doctors and therapist!)
It is staying about 110 to 114 here during the days. I and two other women use the pool for about an hour (walking/talking/moving) about 9:30a daily. It is usually
80ish by 7am so walking is not really comfortable.

Friday, June 27, 2008

Update

Sucess.....Don slept all night last night in the bed. Ever since surgery it has been in the recliner or on the couch or a mix of all 3. Last night he started in bed (as he has the last 3 or 4 nights) and was able to stay all night.
He is doing very well, doing the small circular exercise the doctor allowed him. Can drive the car, play cards (but not shuffle). Does get bored but we have went to the casino and gambled, played bingo, met friends for a meal.....
Yesterday we took Pat Shaver and went to Burgers and Beer. Celebrated our neighbor Sandy's birthday.....Only thing is Sandy is only a winter visitor so she was in Iowa.




Thursday, June 19, 2008

Surgery

Don has his shoulder surgery yesterday. Got home about 3:30pm and ate a bit, rested and iced shoulder. It is quite painful (Yes, Jerry he is taking his pain meds on time or even maybe 30 minutes early). Dr. Krishna was very pleased with the surgery and said maybe 80% recovery (over 70% he felt from MRI). Goes back in Monday the 30th for follow up.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Surgery

Got a call from the Same Day Care center. Don is scheduled to go into surgery Wed 6/18 at noon. They say 45 min surgery and 45 min in recovery then home.
We spent the last 3 days in Laughlan ignoring the future and enjoying life.
Will let you all know how he is doing and things are going tomarrow.
Good wishes and hugs to all
Mar

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Schedule for Don's Surgery

Went to Don's ortho (Krishna) this morning. Well he wasn't in so no questions answered. His nurse??/office gal scheduled surgery for 18 June. She said she did not think it would be arthroscopic. We will go to see Dr Krishna on the 10th to get some questions answered (both mine and Dons) like what can he do, how much, and Don's big question "How so can I go back to work".

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Don's Shoulder

As most of you know Don fell a couple months ago and hurt his shoulder. MRI showed a tear in the tendon and bone spur. His orthopedist felt exercise and a cortisone shot should help and wanted to see him in a couple months. All was improving until end of April when we went to Laughlin. He got up one morning and could not raise his arm to his waist, when we returned home he called the orthopedist and went in and was told yes you will need surgery but we need a release from you medical and/or cardiologist. Medical doctor was on vacation till 15th, saw him then cardiologist, new stress test, rest test etc and he finally goes back to orthopedist on Thurs. We know he has to be off Plavix for a week so will find out where and when Turs. (Somewhere Don got the idea it would be arthroscopic but yesterday when he was talking to nurse she said she doubted it very much).
I got back Sunday June 1 from a week with Autumn in Bisbee, Chris and Patrick were in Seattle. She had just gotten home about 2pm May 26th from Toronto, Canada and they left Tuesday 27th at 8am to go to airport in Tuscon to fly to Seattle. Autumn and I had lots of fun and I had my first try at Sushi...it was okay and I will try it again (stayed with veg and shrimp, crab).
Today I am going to a Linus Project to help make quilts. It is a group I sewed with this spring and was invited to join the Yuma group.
Will report more after doctor appt. Thursday.

Monday, April 28, 2008

Layers of me.....

LAYER ONE:
Spell your name with animals.

M-Monkey
A-Ape
R-Racoon
L-Lion
Y-Yac
N-Neutria

LAYER TWO:
Name: Marlyn
Birthday: July 24
Nickname: Mar
Current Location: Computer
Eye Color: Hazel
Hair Color: Grey
Right or Left: Right

LAYER THREE;
Shoes you wore today: None yet
Your perfect pizza: Everything but anchovies, with extra onions.

LAYER FOUR:
Best Holiday: Family Reunion
Most missed memory: Family Reunion's

LAYER FIVE:
Pepsi or Coke: Diet Pepsi
McDonald's or Burger King: Burger King
Adidas or Nike: Reebok Clasic ONLY
Lipton Ice Tea or Hot Chocolate: Ice Tea
Chocolate or Vanilla: Chocolate

LAYER SIX:
Curse?: Seldom
Do you sing?: NOOOO
Want to go to college?: Alway love to learn..but not full time!
Get motion sickness?: Seldom since being an adult.
Think you're a health freak?: Nope but should be more of one.
Play an instrument?: No

LAYER SEVEN:;
In the past month.......
Drank alcohol: Yes
Gone to the mall: Yes
Eaten an entire pizza: No not even personal size
Been on stage: No
Gone skating: No
Made homemade cookies: Yes

LAYER EIGHT:
Have you ever....
Been in big trouble with your parents: No
Lied about your age: Yes
Used a fake ID: No

LAYER NINE:
Age you hope to be married: For ever
Number of Children: Two

LAYER TEN:
In a girl/guy...
Best eye color: Brown/Hazel
Best hair color: Dark
Short hair or long: Short

LAYER ELEVEN:
Number of people you could trust with your life: 4
Number of CD's you own: About 70
Number of tattoos: None
Number of piercings: 2

April Update

It has been almost a month since I last updated. It has been a quiet month except for many good bye's and must go happy hours. I have also been the recipent of many food items that do not travel well or hold over till people return. Have recieved milk, bread, muffin mix, pancake syrup, mayo, butter, oil, olive oil, mustard, catsup, salad dressing, bar-b-q sauce, coffee, flour, noodles, spagetti, and Don was the recipent of a roll of deer sausage (but think that was just 'cause he hinted...Right Sandy!). Needless to say our grocery bill should be less for awhile.
We have started the summer schedule on cards and Don is playing pool more often, we get together for dinner and games one day a week with Chuck and Patti Stange & Herb and LaDonna Barrett.
That's about all the April news.

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

70TH Birthday

Don turned 70 on March 28 but on the 29 had a party for him and Wes McCarthy who also lives in our park and was born the same day.

Harlean (Wes's wife and I started back in November planning a party to celebrate both men turning 70. It turned out great... had 94 guests and lots of fun. Patty, Aaron, Savannah and Dominick arrived Thursday 27th after spending 3 days in Las Vegas visiting Aaron's brother and family and doing the dinner at Excalibur with the jousting and the horse back ride thruough red rock canyon.
Weather co operated with high 80's so pool was enjoyed. Chris and family arrived Friday night so the cousins (except for Nathan and Niclole!!!! we missed you plus Nathan's wife Launi) had a great time visiting and were LOTS OF HELP with the party.
Sunday was family picture day before Chris and family left for Bisbee. Patty and family went to Mexico with us (Sundays are quiet and end of season is upon us). We had lunch, margarita's and looked around some. AARON WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH THAT SOMBRARO!!! ! It has to go on carry on!!!
Monday Patty and family left early for Las Vegas to fly out about 5:30pm.. Our low's in Yuma are near their highs so we layed at the pool and hopefully she and family went back with a bit of a tan.
Oh it was so nice to have family here.
Love you LOTS CHRIS, PATTY, PATRICK, AARON, AUTUMN, SAVANNAH, DOMINICK AND THE MISSING LINKS NATHAN, NICOLE AND LAUNI....

Last night went to a square dance and helped celebrate Al Westphall's 88th birthday.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Family

Saturday 15th my Brother Jerry and wife Lynda arrived shortly after noon the Sister Melba and husband Jim arrived late afternoon. We played a nice (well boy's won so maybe not nice) game of hand & foot and did lots of visiting. Sunday went to swap meet, lunch at Lute's Casino and Monday in Mexico. Tuesday morning Melba and Jim left to drive to Los Angles and fly out the next morning for Cobo. Jerry had fell over a laddar before leaving home and and was having some pain/stiffness in knee so on Wednesday he and Don did a few things on their camper and Lyndia and I went shopping, looking for a place to color copy a design from her shirt (wanted by a guy who sells shirts at the swap meet in exchange for 2 of his shirts). After lunch Lynda and I went to the pool and enjoyed the sun then all 4 to the club house by 4pm for the Farwell Dinner. Came back to the park model and played cards. Lynda got a phone call her mom was not doing real well so they decided that they would leave Thursday morning and go on to Ft Hood, Texas to take the camp trailer to Troy and Corrine.....so now it is Thursday 9am and very quiet.
Later today I am going to the swap meet and take the copy to they guy to get Lynda's 2 shirts (pick up 2 for Melba) and cutting boards for both.
Might even go back to the pool this afternoon.

Friday, March 7, 2008

The Saga of Pork Chops

Don was hungry for Pork Chops so after his dr appt (he had a cortisone shot in L shoulder) we stopped at Wal Mart and got a batch of pork chops and shake & bake.
Don went down to the Jam about 1pm and played his drum and sang, about 3:30pm I made scalloped potatoes and put in oven. About 15 min later went into kitchen and oven is going click, click, click. We are out of propane....but one of the beautiful things about living in the park is you have "pantries on both sides" or sometimes even elsewhere....So I go next door and ask Sandy have you had dinner or do you have it planned. No she states so I say....Well can we use your oven, I have shake and bake pork chops for dinner and no propane. So she turns it on to 425. I tell her I have salad, scalloped potatoes and broccoli to go with so we will have dinner together. She says she has made fresh applesauce, then we call Pat a widow lady and she come up. So we end up with a great dinner and companionship for dinner tonight.
This is what is so great about Desert Paradise. Now on to Bingo tonight.

Laughlin

Just got back from Laughlin yesterday about noon. Left on Tuesday morning with Ed & Connie Becker (who live in our park but have a home in San Diego).
Had a great time, Ed & Don played a Texas Hole "em Tournament while Connie & I walked the river walk. Well we got all the way from Aquarius to the River Palms and started back when they called to say both were out. Met again at Colorado Belle and had dinner then Connie started to WIN. She had recouped all she had lost by about 8pm....Needless to say it was not the story for the other 3. Did have a great time.
Now in July on Marlyn's birthday we may do another trip (Yes there are not many in the park at that time to take advantage of the free room for a friend)
My Brother and Sister and spouses are to arrive March 15th. Not sure how long each plans to stay, know my bro is talking about a week and has his camper with him, Sis was bringing quads and only week end but not sure if that is still correct.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Rosarito Beach, La Bufadora, & Puerto Nuevo

The bus of travelers from our park arrived back about 4:30pm on Tuesday tired but well filled with shrimp, lobster and Mexican scenery.
We loaded on the bus Sunday and drove to Alpine where we stopped for late breakfast or early lunch. The sun was hidden behind clouds and a heavy mist was falling. By the time we arrived at Rosarito Beach Hotel where we unloaded our luggage. Weather was just a mist so we continued to Puerto Nuevo an area well known for it's lobster. After shopping and drinks we returned to the hotel to find our luggage in our rooms and regrouped as desired for a walk on the beach, drinks and dinner.
Monday found us with sunny 70ish weather. We drove to La Bufadora a sea geyser (It was more impressive for the ones who had not seen the one at Depot Bay Oregon). On to La Cetto, one of the largest winery's in Mexico. This was a full day so after returning ate and retired to our room.
Tuesday loaded on the bus about 10:30am and was taken to an area next to where part of the Titanic was filmed. It is where the locals dock after getting shrimp, lobsters and fish. We purchased what we wished, iced it in the chests and our driver "backed" the bus out about 1/4 mile because the area was so small you could not turn around.
As stated earlier arrived home tired but with lots of memories.

Had a message from Don's doctor Thursday after 5pm that yes there is a problem that showed up on the MRI and he needed to contact the surgeon. Don talked to the surgeons office Friday and the first available appointment for a consult was March 31st. He is planning on calling his own doctor this morning to see if he can find out more information and maybe hurry up the chain of events. He does not like taking pain pills to function.

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Awsome week and it's only Wednesday............

Sunday was in the rec. area and was asked to play darts because they needed one more to make the teams even. I could do no wrong, my partner and I won the badges for the day.
Monday caught the tour bus at 5:45am with 10 others from our park (had 54 women and one man on the bus that were quilters). Went to Los Angles area to see Eleanor Burns author/quilt maker/tv personality "Quilt in a Day". Her shop has material, supplies and books. Shopped, then she gave a seminar on "The Magic Vine" appliqué quilting. Next was lunch and shopping time then another seminar on "Trip Around the world" "strip quilting". She and her staff have outstanding personalities plus many hints on quilting.
Tuesday met in the rec room to do some quilting (as we do almost every Tuesday).
Today went to Mexico early (8:30am) to get some medication for Don. Was on our way out by 9am with no line!!!! Then had the ladies luncheon and fashion show at noon.
Right now Don is having a MRI on his shoulder. Fell on it about 6 weeks ago and it is still bothering him so having it checked out.
Leave next Sunday for Rosarita Beach for 3 days with a bus load from our park. Then us and another couple from the park go to Laughlin the next week for 3 days.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

Yuma Festival

Had a great time this week end square dancing again. Wonderful (and talented) friends (Roger & Linda Putzler)from Oregon was one of the featured callers. Danced Friday night, Saturday afternoon and night. Renewed lots of friendships with other Oregon, Washington dancers and had Jim & Betty McCollum staying in our park ..till today.. so they rode & had dinner with us...just like old times when we traveled together for many square dance week ends (and a couple cross country trips).
Having lunch with them, Jim and Annette Basset and others today at "Crazy Earls"
Hope to see more of you across a square soon.

Thursday, February 7, 2008

52 Random Questions

stoled from daughter Patty.....

52 Random Questions

52 random questions

1. Would you forgive your best friend for sleeping with your wife or husband?Not a chance!

2. Where were you on your 17th birthday? Wow...no idea.

3. Have you ever seen a live bat? Yes

4. Is there anyone you hate? Yes Sir

5. How much are you on the phone daily? Just answering it

6. Do you like the color orange? only if it's light, soft and called "sherbet or such"

7. Do you find it in your heart to forgive? Sometimes

8. Have you ever seen a prostitute? Yes

9. Have you ever seen a real redneck? Other than sunburned yes.

10. Do you like tattoos and piercings? Not on me

11. What size shoes do you wear? 10

12. Whats your favorite season? Fall

13. Do you care if people talk smack about you? You bet

14. Do you like someone? Yes

15. Does your dad call you a nickname? He passed away in 1999 but I was always blondie

16. Are you in a good mood? Most of the time

17. Do you think people will exist forever? I'd love to find out

18. What is your sign? Leo

19. Do you believe in luck? Yes

20. Would you rather sky dive or bungee jump? Okay what are my other options???

21. Do you like snakes? NO

22. Where is one place you would like to visit? Ireland, Scotland, Costa Rica, Oh you said one!

23. Do you like waffles? There ok

24. Anything you are looking forward to? Each day

25. What clothes are you wearing? Jammies...after all it's 4AM

26. Do you watch TRU TV? No

27.Be honest, do you like people in general? Generally yes

28. Big or small dogs? Stuffed are better.

29. Do you like Big Macs? I like ALL hamburgers

30. Did someone bother you today? No..look at 25!

31. What do you think about death? I wonder if it is an ending or beginning?

32. Sometimes, do you wish you were someone else? No

33. Does someone love you? Yes

34. Do you know anyone named Dave? More than one

35. Name a friend whose name starts with an M? Does a sister count..Melba

36. Has anyone ever mistaken you for a family member? Yes..my sister.

37. Got any nicknames? Mar

38. What color is your hair? Grey

39. Do you like starbucks? No

40. Are you named after anyone? No

41. Say you were given a drug test right now. Would you pass or fail? Pass

42. How tall are you? 5'5'

43. Are you taller than your mom? Yes

44. Do you like the color blue? Royal

45. Who was the last person to send you a AIM? Chris

46. Last restaurant you went to? Last night, Happy Greek Chef

47. What do you order at Outback Steakhouse? after the bloomin' onion...?

48. How do you like your steak cooked? Ran thru the tenderizer twice and med well

49. Last voicemail you receive? Hope & John asking us to be at the square dance center at 6am to dance for the local TV station.

50. What is the first thing you would do if you won five million dollars? Give each of my kids a million. Make reservations to travel....

51. How many hours did you sleep last night? 6

52. Any upcoming concerts you want to attend? Lots, have tickets to a series here.

Friday, February 1, 2008

unemployment

After working most of my life I have been fired for the first time.
Many things have happened in the park the last week that I will not go into. But I worked Thursday (management wants the two parks to run alike in preparation of being one park so people will go back and forth to cross train)morning at Cactus Gardens, the assistant manager said "Are you going to work 4 half days per week" I said "No". About 3:30pm the manager came to my house and said I understand you will not work 4 half days per week. I told him that was correct and so he stated I was no longer needed they would start looking for someone who was available.
Jim and Betty McCollum are to arrive today in our park for 9 days. Roger and Linda Putzler are flying in Wed 6th to do the Yuma Festival (Square Dance. I have a ticket to go to San Diego 18th with other women in the park for a class with Eleanor Burns (Quilting Show on TV). 24th Don and I are going on a bus trip to Rosarito Beach Mexico with others from the park....So now I have more time to play.

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Viejas

Wednesday January 23 over 50 people from our park went on a bus trip to Viejas Outlet Mall and Casino near San Diego. We had a great time. Played some slots, bingo and shopped. Left here about 7:30am and returned about 8pm. Work today, have tickets to see The Diamonds tomorrow and Gene Gebo Show Saturday.Next Friday expecting Jim & Betty McCollum from Oregon, hope to get a LOT of hand & foot played.

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Marine Base Tour

Just returned from a tour of the Marine Base here in Yuma. About 50 from our park were able to spend 2+ hours asking questions, looking at planes and etc. First visited a squadron and see the repairs doing on planes. Then we were bussed to another squadron which flies the planes to train the others on fighting. (They were the BlackSheep and play the "bad guys", our spokesperson said he flew about 3 time a day, each one had about 30 min of briefing, then 1 hr flying and 30 min debriefing. Really enjoyed it.
Park is really getting full now. Lots of activities going on. Took Trudy with us to the tour then out to lunch/dinner at Cocopah casino. Not bad I made $5. She made $6. and Don only lost about $10 (plus buying dinner). It has been a cool fall/winter for Yuma. Highs mostly in 60's with a low 70 sent in every couple weeks. My 3 pair of long pants are getting washed, worn and washed again. Yes I could go for a 115 day again..

Saturday, January 5, 2008

San Diego

Just spent 3 great days with Chris & Autumn in San Diego. Left early Wednesday morning and drove straight to Sea World (with a short stop at Vejas Outlet Mall which was not open yet and I then remembered it was the outlet mall in Laughlan I found the wonderful sale on stuff.) Arrived about 10:30am California time and walked & looked....yes they do tell the truth when they say the splash zone is 14 rows up. We were in row 2..wonderful view of the dolphin show but also they could spot us and scoop us the water with their tails. Left about 4pm and found we were a very short easy drive to the hotel. Crashed on the bed without shoes, after a bit of rest and talk ordered pizza to be delivered and relaxed.
Thursday found us up early and breakfast at Denny's before leaving for the Zoo. Arrived just at opening (9am) and headed straight for the new Panda that is only on show from 9am to 11am and just started about a week ago. We saw her..asleep in the tree and "mommie" eating bamboo. then on to other sights (Autumn and Chris can name most of the animals but to me they were more deer, cats, monkeys and birds. Beautiful to see but my memory does not keep up with the country or name. Know one smells like popcorn when surprised (much better than skunk). Rode the air tram over the park, planned on another trip but ran out of time. About noon feet got tired so we took the bus tour of the park riding on the upper deck. Nice view and lots of information about different animals. Lunch then more walking and looking. About 3:30pm we decided time to think about heading home so headed for exit, somewhere to a wrong turn and ended up at top of zoo again, but saw some things we had missed so no trouble. Caught the bus and took it to elephant area then walked back down to exit. Easy trip back to hotel except it was 5 o'clock traffic and had to go from 4 lanes to 1 in merging traffic. Swim, short rest then dinner at the mall hooked on to Doubletree. I then rested and read while Chris and Autumn went to a gaming store nearby.
Friday found us at the two other museums in Balboa Park. One was having The Dead Sea Scrolls but in addition to the requirement for reservations it was $28 additional so I gave it a pass. Many hands on exhibits but we still feel OMSI and Portland Zoo are more spectacular.