Flicra Meeting (2008)

Nov. 11, 2008  Pensacola – Lake City
After an impressive Veteran’s Day service, we left Azalea Trace at 2 p.m., and drove 300 miles in 5 hours.  We spent the night at the comfortable Best Western.
The trip was not without a little excitement!  At our first rest area, it was my turn to drive.  The engine would not start, but with a little prodding it started.  It was then that we decided we would keep the engine running all the way to Lake City.
We took turns using the restroom while the other one stayed in the van.  It worked!

Nov. 12, 2008  Lake City – Ft. Lauderdale
The Best Western was an exceptionally good choice.  We had a good night’s sleep + after a hearty breakfast of cereal, yogurt, juice, coffee + donut (a no-no), we left at 8:30.
Bert was the driver on the first leg of the trip on Rt. 75, then I took over + continued on Rt. 75 until we reached the turnpike at Wildwood.
We filled the tank for $34.00 as gas was a bargain at $2.07 + it was at least $0.20 more on the turnpike.
The turnpike driving was a dream, little traffic + no trucks to speak of.  The cruise control was set between 70-75 mph and it was smooth sailing until Ft. Pierce where we got off the turnpike and took I-95 because it was cheaper.  (The toll was $10.50.)
If we had it to do over, we’d probably paid the turnpike fee and opted for it rather than battle the I-95 heavy truck traffic.
We had sporadic heavy cloud bursts + I happened to be behind the wheel, so we were glad to exit at 33 and head for our night’s lodging at the Hampton Inn.
Our accommodations here are very nice – two queen size beds, plenty of towels, a computer desk + wi-fi equipped, so we had no complaints.
We cruised around town looking for a new journal + this is the best I could find at Office Depot.  The paper is a little thin, so I’ll just write on one side.
Dinner tonight was across the street at Duffy’s Diner where the lasagna servings were too large.  Would you believe we brought enough of the leftovers home + Hampton got us a refrigerator for our room.  What accommodations.
Mileage now is 653 from Pensacola – 353 miles today.

Nov. 13, 2008  Ft. Lauderdale
We took advantage of an easy schedule today by sleeping in till 7 am.  Had a filling breakfast, then read the U.S.A.  Today. Bert discovered he was reading the wrong schedule for our meeting so we hurried to John Knox Village where we were a half hour late.  It was a good meeting with Bennett Lapier in charge.
We broke for lunch which was quite good – Shepard’s pie, peas, corn + sherbet for dessert.  Back to the conference room where we learned about various CCRC’s throughout Fl.  After hearing from various speakers relating their fees, etc. we decided we have the best deal at Azalea Trace.
After our meeting we adjourned at 4:30, returned to our hotel, Hampton Inn, Ft. Lauderdale, which is just about 4 or 5 miles from John Knox Village, Pompono Beach.
We’re glad we came down for this meeting + we look forward to tomorrow’s meeting which will be over at 2 pm – too late to take off for Jax.

Nov. 14, 2008  Ft. Lauderdale
Our busy day started at John Knox Village at 8:30 after a Continental Breakfast here at Hampton Inn.
The chapter delegates were seated on the stage and there are eight regional directors of Flicra [(FLiCRA/Florida Life Care Residents Association)].  Bert represents region one + he had a good report on what it involves.  We have 92% of our residents who are Flicra members.
Amendment 5 is dead, and we had to spend $40,000 to defeat this.  What’s coming next?  The bed tax, and this we’ll remain neutral.  AARP also remains neutral, and this includes Medicaid + they get money from the federal gov’t.
Bennett Napier is our executive administrator, and he talked for one hour explaining the purpose of Flicra’s importance of CCRC’s relationship with management.
There are 71 CCRC’s in Fl. Only 44 have Flicra chapters.  Although Azalea Trace has 92% of members who are Flicra members, we’ll strive for 100%.
Lunch was served in the dining room + Marian Johnson, the Exec. Director of Fl. Chamber of Political Institute gave an interesting account of Fl’s election results.
We heated our left over lasagna in the microwave for dinner + got organized for our trip home tomorrow.

Nov. 15, 2008  Ft. Lauderdale – Jacksonville
Our day began as usual at 8:30 after a delicious breakfast and packing for our trip to Jax.
Traffic on I-95 was much lighter than coming down Thurs.
Other than the rest areas, we made few stops – one at Vero Beach to get some grapefruit and to fill the tank for the low price of $1.99.
At Titusville we had lunch at MacDonalds, then made a call to let the kids know what time to expect us.
Following I-95 really got us to Jax ahead of our expected time. In fact, we had to call them on our cell phone to let them know we were here.  They were shopping, but gave us their combination number + we came through the garage and made ourselves at home.
For dinner we went to Brucci’s and had a delicious 16” pizza which we shared.  It was a real treat because we seldom get pizza at A.T.
We switched clothes because a cold front + drizzly rain have changed from the warm sunshine + tropical breezes of South Florida!

Nov. 16, 2008  Jacksonville
This was a relaxing day spent with Kent & Tamiko.  After lunch in the German restaurant, Schnitzel Haus, Tamiko and I went shopping, but first I should mention what I had to eat.  It was a large helping of German potato salad, sauerkraut – tasty but sour and 2 bratwurst – enough for two meals.
Tamiko + I checked out Bealls.  She bought a nightshirt, but I couldn’t find anything.  Then we went to Drapers + Damon’s where I found $100.00 worth of clothes for $80.00 – some deal!
The guys watched the Jaguars – Tenn game.  The score was?  The Titans won big time.

Nov. 17, 2008  Jacksonville – Pensacola
We got away at the usual time 8:15 our time.  Nothing unusual happened to report.  It was “smooth sailing” all the way home + people were glad to see us.  Somehow they seemed to think I just made the trip to Ft. Lauderdale to shop.  I really enjoyed the meetings and learning how all the CCRC’s work.  It was good to get back home to A.T. after our 1300 mile trip!

Boston and Baltimore (2008)

[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]

9/3-7/2008

This is the last trip recorded in my "book."  The rest of our events will be found in the diaries I have kept.

We were enroute to Boston for our Eigth Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] reunion.

9/3/08 Pensacola – Knoxville, Tenn.

We got away at the usual time 8:09, took 9 mile rd to Rt. 29 – Century + Flomaton.  Clear skies + light traffic.  We saw a number of caravans from Ga. Power coming from the Gulf area.  Traffic picked up as headed north, all returning to their homes in La. + Miss.

We stopped at Chick-Fill-A in Prattville + had a delightful lunch – chicken strips + tossed salad.  It was especially clean!

We followed Rt. 65 through Birmingham alternating drivers.  We followed Rt. 59, then 24 to Chattanooga + picked up a lot of traffic there, then Rt. 75 to Knoxville.

It was a little farther than we expected + we were delayed in traffic trying to find the Clarion, a nice 5 story motel with very nice accommodations.

We found a convenient deli just a few blocks away where we had sandwiches + iced tea.  Then we treated our selves to a Baskin-Robbins one scoop cone.

Bert filled the tank so that we could get away early in the a.m.  Gas was 3.57 + it cost $70.00!  Wow!

We watched the Republican Convention for a little while to hear Sarah Palin – what a woman!

9/4/08 Knoxville – Staunton, Va.  511 mi

It was 8:34 when we took off for what seemed to be an easy driving day.  I was driving at Exit 44 when it appeared we had a flat tire.  We pulled off to the shoulder, dialed AAA, and waited for someone to advise us what to do.  A man checked for a spare tire which we discovered wasn’t there so we waited 2 hrs for a wrecker who hauled us to Exit 59 where it was determined we needed 4 new tires, so we waited another hour while they changed tires + we were on our way.

The beautiful scenery in Virginia made up for the inconvenience of the tire problem.  It was heavy truck traffic, so we had to take turns with the driving.

We arrived at the comfortable Comfort Inn in Staunton at 5:30 – not bad considering the delay in tire changing.  The mileage is now 832 + we’re going out to eat, then watch the Republican Convention.

We went to the Waffle House as it’s just across the parking lot – just fair.  Showered + went to bed early.

9/5/08 Staunton, Va. – Danbury, Conn.

We started out today as usual at 8:06 and arrived here at Danbury about 9 hours later.  Gas was $3.47 + we filled the tank - $67.00.

We traveled through 6 states today!  From Staunton we followed 81 through Harrisonburg, Strasburg along the Shenandoah Valley.  Left Va. + followed Rt. 81 into W. Va., across the Potomac into Md. a short distance, still on Rt. 81 into Pa.  Chambersburg, Harrisburg + the Susquehanna River, on past Hazelton, Wilkes-Barre + Scranton – still on Rt. 81.  Then Rt. 84 at Scranton.  At Paxtonia is where we got gas.  At the Pa. Welcome Center I was escorted to the handicap rest room by a polite little man who wanted me to have my “own private room.”  (I must have been limping!)  N.Y. was a welcome sight.  So was Conn.

It was beautiful scenery but I liked the rolling hills + beautiful farms in Va. best of all.

Our accommodations at the Comfort Suite is par excellent + our meal was elegant at the Cortina Cuisine with Middle Eastern flavor – we splurged but it was special.

9/6/08 Danbury – Boston  Milage 1466

Since we had a shorter distance to drive today, we slept a little longer + left at 9:06 after a very delicious breakfast.  I drove most of the way today and the windshield wipers got a busy workout due to the remains of Hurricane Hanna.  Fortunately we made it to a rest area for a dry spell.  We traveled part of the way on the busy Mass. Turnpike.  The rest of the time it was Interstate 84 + 90, I think.

We arrived 5 hours later at the Holiday Inn – Somerville, and just as we were unloading, the Cs arrived.  They flew, then rented a car.  We checked in, unloaded, then drove around bumpy streets trying to find something to eat + settled for a Burger King milkshake – then tried to find our way back to the hotel.  Trying!

We had a bar + light supper in the Hospitality Room where we gathered with 7 other squadron members - 25 in all. Pearl + Chris C were in charge + they reviewed the events for tomorrow.

Retired early.

9/7/08 Boston

This was an interesting sight seeing day.  After a filling breakfast at our Somerville Holiday Inn, we boarded a local bus for a four hour trip of the area including: Cambridge was settled in 1636 + was named Newtown.  Harvard was the first college in the U.S. MIT, Radclif and Wm B Rogers were the other 3 + thus the name IV Ivey League colleges.  We saw Fenway Park, Back Bay, Newberry St. + Copley Square all very prestidious areas.  The beautiful Boston Bay area included the Mary Baker Eddy Christ Science Church.  Charlestown 1st settlement 1634 – Boston Common area.  Quincy Market was our last stop – before boarding the bus we enjoyed out Italian ice cream + people watched.

What a treat to visit with Kyle who drove over from Providence to see us.  We “treated” him to a meal in the hotel.  Poor food but great visit with him + the rest of the squadron in the hospitality room.  The Van Hs came late from N. Jersey + Peg got us all involved in our 15¢ card game.  We all enjoyed that including Kyle.  This was a fun day!

9/8/08 Boston

Another interesting sight seeing day, but very different.

After a nice breakfast, we were picked up by four cabs + driven to the site of the Science Museum where we boarded a “duck” vehicle which was driven by a very colorful driver/narrator who showed us all of the Cambridge area as well as more of Boston.  Then he drove the “duck” into the Charles River.  This type of vehicle was used in WWII and built in Mich.

When we returned to the Holiday Inn, several of us enjoyed a Greek restaurant across the street for a meal of ethnic foods.

Bert helped me with the laundry, then he went to the business meeting where the guys decided the recruit Mel B to host the group in Milwaukee next year.

After cocktails we had a delicious dinner, then the gals congregated for our usual card game – cost 15¢.  (Even Kyle enjoyed it last night!)

I won $2.55 + will have to take it to Milwaukee next year – God willing!

9/9-11/08: Boston – Baltimore

9/9/08 Boston – Mt. Laurel, N.J.

We started the day by singing “Happy Birthday” to Bert.  The waiter brought a cupcake with a lighted candle.

We filled the tank for $16.65 at a Hess Station in the Boston area at $3.53 a gal.

Rain was forecasted + did it ever!  I'll never forget driving miles and miles in pouring rain on the Mass Turnpike.  It let up long enough around noon for us to make a mad dash into a charming family restaurant at Middlebury, Conn.  Delicious.

I drove from there to the Garden State Pkwy via the Tappan Zee Bridge.  Traffic was heavy, especially trucks.  Then came the N.J. Turnpike + I hope I never have to drive it again!  We were happy to get off at Exit 4, and our Comfort Suite is a welcome treat in Mt. Laurel, an upscale community.

Bert went out to replenish the bar.  He sensed we both needed something to relax!  The mileage is now 1831 miles.  We drove 350 miles today but it seemed much farther.

We made hot chocolate + that was all we needed before retiring.  Mt. Laurel is a beautiful area.  Our handicap room is well equipped for anything that ails you!

9/10/08 Mt. Laurel – Baltimore

The mileage is now 1966, so that means we traveled less than 100 miles.  Can’t believe it!

We traveled the N.J. Turnpike from Exit 4 to 295, then 95 and it was sunshine + cool temperatures all the way.  We crossed the Delaware + Chesapeake Rivers into Md. and to Erich’s + Vivian’s house on E Clement following Map Quest.

Since Erich was working, we went over to his restaurant + visited for awhile.  It’s a very high class place + an attraction for celebrities.  After an appetizing lunch at an Italian restaurant, we went over to visit with Vivian + Dylan.  His little friend, Griffith, was there + they were so cute playing together.

We followed 95 to the Comfort Suites where we’re spending two nights.  It’s a really first class place + we’re experiencing TV problems as I write this but a repairman is here trying to give us a better picture.  After 2 innings, the Tampa Bay Rays are ahead of the Red Sox 2-0.  That will never do!  The TV was repaired with a new cable + we’re now in business!  Yeah!

9/11/08 Baltimore

We left the Comfort Suite about 10:30 + drove over to Erich’s + Vivian’s.  Erich had the day off, so he was baby sitting Dylan while Vivian was baby sitting Griffin.  Erich ordered pizza for us + it was delicious.  We went to the park + played with Dylan and his friend + shot a whole roll of film trying to catch them in action – mostly on the slides.

After the park we took Dylan home + Vivian joined us later.  Erich ordered tiramisu for Bert's birthday instead of a cake.  It was wonderful.  Dylan licked the icing from the candles.

We filled the tank at the lowest price we’ve found so far - $3.39 – 17 gal. + a little over $60.00.

I made a reservation for tomorrow night at the Holiday Inn Express in Abingdon, Va.

9/12/08 Baltimore - Abingdon, Va.

This was an easy 400 mile drive once we got out of the heavy Beltway traffic.  We followed Rt. 95 – 295- 66 to Rt. 81 near Strasburg with Bert driving all the way in sunny weather.

We stopped at the Va. Welcome Center + got some literature on Historic Sites, etc. including apples now in season – at Winchester + she gave me an apple which appears to be a fuji.  This was at Manassas.

The scenery today was my very favorite on the whole trip – Va. with its rolling hills are breath taking.

Our room at the Holiday Inn in Abingdon is nicely furnished with a queen size bed hi-speed internet and a few dollars less than the $100+ we’ve been paying.  We stopped at the Wendy’s across the street for a frosty before unpacking.

We had dinner at a nearby Cracker Barrel + our waiter reminded us of Bob Newhart’s employees Darrel + Darrel brothers of Larry – so solicitous!

Good day!  Mileage 2,382

9/13-14/2008: Abingdon – Pensacola

9/13/08 Abingdon – Montgomery

What a delightful little town + excellent accommodations at the Holiday Inn Express.  The breakfast was especially good + friendly waitress + guests made it even better.

We got off about 9 o’clock + arrived at the Comfort Inn at 4:30, or 5:30 ET.  We stopped at the Ala. Welcome Center + the lady there in charge of reservations called the Comfort Inn in Montgomery + got us a nice room with a discount of about $30 or $40.  (I’ll know better after we checkout!), but it was in a poor section of town, not a high rent district.  We slept there anyhow.  We drove around looking for a restaurant + settled for a McDonalds in the area – had a hard time explaining what we wanted.  We drove over to Narrow Lane Rd., our old neighborhood, but couldn’t find our house!

We came back + got caught up on the news.  The Hurricane Ike is awful – the people in Houston + Galveston have really suffered terrible losses.

The mileage was 2857 when we arrived here.  Gas has spiked because of the hurricane.  It was $3.99 gal. + we filled the tank for $74.00.

9/14/08 Montgomery – Pensacola

The mileage today was 2872 when we started at 8:02.  The Comfort Inn was not the greatest, but the price was right – just about half of what we’d been paying - $50.00 + tax.

We went south on 65 to Exit 69, then Rt. 113 through Flomaton, Rt. 29 to Century + Cantonment.  We almost missed 9 Mile Rd!  The mileage on this last trip was 3,027.

After unpacking, I did some laundry, + we went down for dinner about 5:30.  It was good to be served such a lovely meal!

We had a number of phone calls to make and it was amazing how much mail had accumulated.

Several of our friends are in health care, so I went over to visit them for a little while.

We both agreed we’re so fortunate to be able to travel so comfortably in the van.  It’s so much better than flying with all the tales we hear about the airlines.

We’re so grateful for this beautiful country + we hope to be able to make the next reunion wherever it may be!

This was probably one of our last long trips in the van.

60th Wedding Anniversary (2008)

[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]

Our 60th wedding anniversary was our big event in 2008.  All sixteen of our Ss + Ws made it!

6/5/08 Pensacola – Chiefland

We drove out of the driveway at 8:15, headed out on Hillview – University to Davis – I-10.  The traffic was light + we cruised along leisurely at 70 mph.

Our first rest area was 82 miles + we switched drivers – still very light traffic until Tallahassee where there was alot of construction + traffic.

We stopped at our usual Wendy’s on Rt. I-19 + another stop at the clean + comfortable rest area after Perry.

We stopped at the comfortable and clean Best Western in Chiefland for the night.  It was just a 6 hr drive, so we just relaxed + had a crispy pizza next door at Pizza Hut.

Tomorrow we’ll be ready for Friday’s busy traffic to St. Pete.

The mileage is 317 miles.

6/6/08 Chiefland St. Pete – 317 miles

Breakfast in the Conference Room was plenty – juice, coffee, Danish, cereal + egg patty – talked to Kent + left a message for Mike.  Will check later to let everyone know of our whereabouts.  Everything fine so far.

We stopped for gas at Springhill + paid $3.83 – steep, sure that we would not find anything cheaper.  We went a little farther + the price was $3.79 – oh, well!

Our next stop was at Port Richey where we had lunch at McDonalds - salad for me $1.00 + chicken for Bert.

The drive to Indian Rocks Beach was a little longer than we’d expected because we missed the 688 turnoff.  Mike directed us to the Rental Office + then to the Reef, which was a welcome sight.  We are in #408 + when the Jax Ss arrived they took #410.  Then we welcomed Erich, Vivian, + Dylan.  Kyle was with them in a rental.  Lance came in for a short visit, then Ryan + Aria arrived.  Mike + Donna did so much + filled both refrigerators with lots of fruit, veggies, etc. so it looks as though we are all set for a good visit.  Mike made many trips with his busy schedule.  It was heart warming to see our great family.  Mike has lost 40 pounds + looks great!

P.S. Dan took time off from studies + was here for several hours!

6/7/08 Indian Rocks Beach

Mileage 454

Tamiko and I tested the pool from 7-8 am - great!

Everyone is helping themselves to breakfast + lunch.  The Reef is very nice - well stocked, clean + everything so far has worked out beautifully.

Action took place in the afternoon!  Everyone started pouring in - Lance + Trista, Dan, Mike + Donna arrived with more goodies galore.  The timing for picture taking took place at 3 o’clock on the beach with Tiffany Godfrey – a slight delay awaiting the arrival of Ryan + Aria.

Dinner included Sonnie’s delicious barbecue, with everyone pitching in to decorate.  Food was delicious + the cake from Publix topped it off.  Mike + Donna were perfect hosts.

Gifts from the whole family included: Godiva chocolates from Trista + Lance, flowers from Lucy + Ace – Donna + Mike, shirts + pins made by Tami from Jax Ss, + the surprise of all – cards + notes from long “lost” friends with Mike responsible.  What a surprise outpouring of love.

What a blessing to have such a loving family!  Thank you God!!  Happy 60th!

6/8/08 Indian Rocks Beach

Tamiko + I started the day with our pool exercises from 7-8 a.m.

Dad + I had breakfast + the rest of the day we relaxed.

In the afternoon we went on a 2 hr boat trip starting out at St. Pete Beach and traveled canal areas + then out to the Gulf.  We saw a mother dolphin + her baby – that was exciting because they were so close to the boat.  We had 14 of us on board + the cost was $350.00.

We heard from the Rs + we knew they were dropping by, we didn’t know when they were coming.  We put the Sam’s lasagna in the oven + luckily they came when it was just about ready to come out of the oven.  They stayed for dinner + luckily the larder was still full + we had plenty + some left over.  Very informal.

Bill + Anne were just toddlers when I was a teenager + I babysat them.  Ironically, their mom, cousin Mary, babysat my brother Bob, + me when we [were] little + they (Phyllis) sat us.  What fun!

6/9/08 Indian Rocks Beach

Most of our family left today.

Today we said “good-bye” to the Jax Ss as well as Kyle by plane to R.I.  He rode as far as the Tampa airport with them + they called us when they got home in the middle of the afternoon.

Bert + I made a shopping trip to Publix and got some groceries.

Ryan + Aria left for their flight back to Calif. at 4 pm.  Mike drove them to the airport.

One by one the crowd is thinning out + although it’s relaxing, we loved the excitement + all the conversation with everyone.

Our darling Dylan came over with his mama + daddy, Vivian + Erich + we heated the leftovers for supper.  He was not his happy little self so we went over there (408) and sat on their porch + watched pelicans swoop by + took pictures of the beautiful sunset.

Both Kent + Mike called to thank us + to tell us what a great time they’ve had but Mike + Donna were not able to come over as she’d had a number of deliveries + was very tired.

6/10/08 Indian Rocks Beach, FL

Kent's birthday today, which we celebrated last week because they had to leave yesterday.

This was another busy but relaxing day.  We made sandwiches + took them to a nearby park.  Dylan liked the slide.

Except for my daily water aerobics from 8:00-8:30, I didn’t get much activity.

Erich made dinner today - grilled chicken, corn on the cob + delicious potato salad.  What a guy!!

Vivian’s brother came from Tampa + we watched the Celtics-Lakers game at 408.  Then she + Collin went swimming.  Mike dropped in for awhile.  Donna tied up at the hospital.  Mike had two interviews by phone today, and will know the results in a couple weeks.

We received more anniversary cards that came to their place + he delivered them.  We must have about 70 anniversary cards now + they all sent such heart-warming messages.

This has been the BEST vacation we’ve ever had!

6/11/08 Indian Rocks

Tamiko + I did our water aerobics from 7-8 am while they were here, then Vivian + Dylan joined me at an early hour the other mornings.  Today the caretaker asked me to leave before I stuck my toe in the water as the hours are 9-dusk + if anyone saw me in the pool at that time, they’d all start coming earlier.  So be it.

This afternoon Bert + I shopped at Publix for dinner + breakfast + I bought Dylan 2-3T outfits at Bealls Outlet.

They came over for dinner Erich cooked on the grill – made delicious cheeseburgers for us, + we had baked beans + salad.

Vivian’s brother + lady friend came over + joined us, interesting couple – he’s a doctor + she’s a nurse.  They’re moving to Albany, N.Y.

Mike had an interview with PJC and it went very well.  He’s going up for an interview on 6/25 + we’ll get him a guest room at the Trace.  Hope it works out!

6/12/08 Indian Rocks

This is the big day – the reason we’re here celebrating our 60th anniversary with the family.  The only ones left are Erich, Vivian + Dylan.

Mike came over for a short visit in the afternoon.  I did 2 loads of laundry so I wouldn’t have to tackle all the dirty clothes when we got home.

I used the pool from 9:00 – 9:30 + spent the day relaxing + getting things organized to take home.

We met Donna + Mike at the Pub + they treated us to dinner.  It was delicious + even little Dylan enjoyed it!

The kids came up + collected all their food.  We did a pretty good job cleaning up + getting organized for packing tomorrow + heading north.

It’s been a great celebration!

6/13/08 Indian Rocks – Tallahassee

Wake up call was early because we had to clean the condo + pack.

We did O.K., but thought we’d better check 408 to see if the kids were up + getting ready to “clear the deck.”

We knew we had to be out by 10 a.m., so we checked on them a little after 9 + they assured me they would be ready.  Amazingly they were.  We hated to say good-bye to them, especially the baby because we’re not sure when we’ll see them again + babies change so fast.

We turned in our keys at the rental office + were on our way by 9:15.

It was slow moving from all the little towns along Rt. 19.  We stopped at Springhill’s Publix + got USA Today + a loaf of breakfast bread.

We had lunch at McDonalds in Chiefland + shared our seat with the State T-Ball Champs.  What a noisey bunch of rug rats!

We checked accommodations in Perry at the Hampton Inn + it was over $100.00, so we went on to Tallahassee + are comfortably housed in a Comfort Inn for half the price + will just have about 3 hrs tomorrow.  What a great vacation!  We had a wonderful 60th anniversary with all the family.

Home tomorrow.

6/14/08 Tallahassee – Pensacola

The Comfort Inn at Exit 199 is one to remember.  Everything was quite satisfactory – quiet, clean, comfortable king size bed, and better breakfast than most inns for the price of $63.00. We’re heading home!

We left the motel at 9:30, and had a little traffic for nearly all the way home.  Because we ate a large breakfast, we didn’t stop for lunch.

Just as we were nearing the I-10 bridge, the traffic was going at a snail’s pace, so we opted to go through Milton where we stopped for gas.

Arrived home at Azalea Trace.  We got two carts + a dolly to unload our gear.  We got everything unpacked in good time, picked up the mail, and that's going to keep us busy for awhile!

We went downstairs and had dinner with Barby R, the Ls, the Ms + Billie C.  The steak + salad were delicious.

It’s good to be home after a super anniversary with the best family in the world!  Mileage 460

Ohio and Indiana (2007)

[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]

9/19/07 Pensacola – Brentwood, Tenn.

It was a pleasant 7-1/2 hour trip to the Comfort Inn in Brentwood – the same place we stayed last year when we went to Peoria.  This year was a month earlier + we didn’t get the benefit of the colorful leaves.  Gas was $2.69 this year + the motel was the same price as last year - $69.00.

We enjoyed our box lunches that we picked up in the kitchen.  I had ham + cheese on wheat, Bert had turkey + swiss on rye.  Our dessert was a delicious slice of cheesecake,  I had an apple + Bert chose a banana.  We had chips + beverage also – lemonade + Pepsi. We stopped [sic]

Because Panera Bread is within walking distance, we ate there this evening.  I had chicken noodle soup + Bert had pizza – both good choices.

We watched the Braves/Fl game before retiring at 9:30.  Even though I have the sniffles, I’m feeling well + was able to do a lot of the driving – even to our motel in Brentwood – that’s Nashville, you know!

Braves won 5-1

9/20-22/2007 Cleveland

9/20/07 Nashville, Tenn. – Dublin, Ohio

After flooding the bathroom, we survived, and had a full breakfast at the Comfort Inn.  (The shower was not cooperative.)

We got an early start and headed north on 65 to Louisville, then Cincy + finally to Dublin.  It was a pleasant 7 hour drive – the mileage now reads 826.  Gas in Nashville was $2.59 which is the cheapest we’ve seen so far.

When we arrived at the Hampton Inn in Dublin, we were really treated to a big welcome by the reservationist who called to make sure everything was O.K.  It’s a beautiful large room + the bathroom is very well equipped.  Bert’s happy with the wireless for the lap top.

We had a good meal at Bob Evans Restaurant which was close to the motel.  Bert had waffles + I had chicken parmesan – very good + very reasonable.

Our room has a 27” TV in a maple cabinet, matching desk, 2 night stands, a desk – all in attractive maple, gold brocade chair + ottoman, plus a desk chair.

The room is worth $99 + tax.

9/21/07 Dublin – Westlake

969 miles

It was interesting to note that the Infiniti Used Car lot was across the street and there were quite a few well dressed Japanese men staying here.  The toaster-oven directions were written in Japanese!  After a hearty breakfast, we were on the road to Cleve.

As soon as we got into the Cleve. area, we began getting excited seeing our old stomping ground.  We found the Hampton Inn in Westlake + found that it was very similar to the one in Dublin.  Nice!

I called Anne from our room at Hampton Inn in Westlake, who came + picked us up + we toured Harrison School.  It’s gone hi-tech with the latest state of the art equipment – loads of computers, beautiful gym + library bldg.  Quite an improvement.

We had dinner at Anne + Tom’s + she’s quite a gardener + excellent cook.

It’s amazing how well Lakewood has maintained the yards + homes are in this neighborhood.

We noticed how much Westlake has changed.  I’ll write about it tomorrow after we tour the new shopping area.  We filled the tank on the way back from Es.  Price was $2.74.

9/22/07 Westlake

After breakfast we drove over to Rocky River + Lakewood.  Our old neighborhood looked about the same.  Good!

We came back to the motel + read the Plain Dealer, then drove over to the Promenade + Crocker Park where we really saw changes – very ritzy with all the famous stores.  We bought flowers for Helen at Trader Joe’s, then drove over to the Health Center where we visited Helen S here for two hours - took her flowers.  In spite of her health issues, we were amazed at how alert she is, and we really enjoyed her.  She showed us her collection of pictures from Ed I + brought us up to date with the family – a truly amazing lady of 95+ years!

We stopped at Wendy’s for a frosty, then came back to the motel for a fresh up + changed clothes.  We went back to Rocky River for a visit with Ray + Marie McN. We went to an interesting restaurant, Salmon Dave’s where we had a delicious dinner – Sue L + Warren S joined us.  It was an interesting mixed crowd of nicely dressed Blacks + multi cultural people.  The West side has changed.

9/23/07 Westlake

This was an interesting day!  We started by going to our R.R. Presbyterian Church where we met the McNs.  The minister had taken a group of 31 folks to Scotland so we didn’t see many people we knew.  A lot of improvements have been made, all making the church look much better.

Since we had a big breakfast, we skipped lunch + donned our workout clothes + went over to Gold’s Gym to get some much needed exercise.

I made some phone calls + made some plans for meeting friends which will be making our coming week fun.

Anne called + invited us for dinner, so that will be a full day.  Her meal of stuffed peppers, salad, beets, + peach pie ala mode.  I took advantage of her laundry.  Now we have clean clothes to last us all week.

When we got back to the motel, we had a call from Jim LeR who’s in town visiting his mom, so we answered the call + made plans to visit Jeanne LeR for lunch Tues. in Painsville.  I talked with Jackie M + we’re going to see them tomorrow.  Also talked with Dottie Gilbert + we’ve plans to see her Wed.  Everything is falling in place.  Yeah!

9/24-25/2007 Other areas of Cleve. Wickliff, Eastlake, + Fairport Harbor

9/24/07 Westlake – Wickliff

We loaded the van around 10 a.m. and headed for Eastlake to visit our friends, Jackie + Vic McI.  What an interesting couple.  We’ve been friends since Kent State + they’ve visited us in Pensacola + Marco Island.  Vic graduated from high school with me + he became coach in Kent State, then on to Wooster where he met + married Jackie.  Then he became a coach in Eastlake + we’ve kept in touch.

After we had a nice meal in Willoughby at Bob Evans, we left for our motel in Wickliff at the Comfort Inn.  After 3 nights in the lovely Hampton Inn in Westlake, this definitely looks like low rent.  I’m hoping the bed is comfortable because we plan to stay here tomorrow night.

We watched the movie by Ken Burns “The War.”  It’s incredible how realistic these pictures of war are.  War is truly hell.

The bed was comfortable.  I guess we’ll stay here another night.

9/25/07 Wickliff - Comfort Inn

The breakfast was O.K.  Had a bagel, yogurt, raisin bean, juice + coffee – no fruit so we’ll buy some today.

We’re going to Painsville to spend the day with Jeanne + Jim LeR.

It was a great afternoon with Jeanne + Jim!  We were treated to a surprise lunch at the Lake Erie College, Jeanne’s alma mater.  Jeanne was very instrumental in the restoration of the Skinner organ, a beautiful instrument from the years Jeanne was a college student there in the 40’s.  We met Mark, an outstanding organist who’s a recent hire from Salt Lake City.  He’s originally from Germany + he and a young German student joined us – Jeanne – Jim – Bert + I for a delicious lunch at the Student Union.

Then Jeanne drove us to the Grand River Harbor where they’re starting to make a park + capitalize on the location.

Afterward we went back to her condo which is very attractive.  Fairport Harbor was a great choice for her.

So far we’ve driven nearly 200 miles in the Cleve. area visiting friends in very beautiful weather.

9/26/07 Wickliff – E. Liverpool

We had a little rain driving out of the Cleve. area heading for Dottie G’s in Bath.  We followed all the route signs + had very little trouble finding Medina Line Rd. + Dottie.

We stayed about two hours + she’s doing O.K. since Jim’s death.  In fact she’s remarkable relating his lengthy battle with non Hodgkins Lymphoma + the heroic part Hospice played in the final hours.  Jim was 87 + we were able to talk to him in July – by phone.  We were close friends of theirs for 17 years in Marco + continued our friendship after 2003 when we sold our condo.

Coming through Salem, we got confused with the route signs as so much had changed, but we found Rt 9 going south through Columbiana County + found our lodging tonight, Amerihost Inn + Suites in Calcutta which is E. Liverpool with little trouble.  This area has really grown + was I surprised to see how luxurious this motel is.  It’s the nicest one we’ve stayed in so far on our trip.  I used the pool + hot tub + really enjoyed both.  Our meal at Bob Evans was really good.

9/27/2007 Wellsville/E. Liverpool – Blue Ash/Cincinnati

We started out in beautiful autumn weather.  Our first stop was Wellsville where we viewed the lovely murals that were painted on the flood wall depicting all the notable presidents from Ohio.  We noted all the Ohio presidents, namely: Harrison, Grant, Madison, McKinley, Garfield, + Hayes (all the schools in Lakewood are named for them).  There was a picture of the old theatre, the chimney kiln, + the Delta Queen as well.  Then we visited the cemetery where mom + dad are buried.  The town is pretty sad lacking any industry to boost the economy.

The drive along the river to Wheeling along Rt. 7 was awesome!  The National Rd (Rt. 70) through Cambridge + Zanesville would’ve been interesting but the weather was grey + cloudy.  It was raining so hard from that point, I pulled off (this was in Zanesville) + we filled the tank + had an Arby’s sandwich.  It rained off + on on our way to Cincy, but we found our Holiday Inn Express O.K. + we relaxed before going out to dinner.  We stopped at a nearby diner for Skyline Chili.  Was it good!!  It’s the famous Cincy chili we all love.  We had the 3 Way – spaghetti, chili + cheese.  I called Helen T + we made plans for lunch with them tomorrow.

It was 278 miles + we’re ready for bed.  Very nice accommodations here.

9/28-29/2007: Cincy Area

9/28/2007 Blue Ash – Cincinnati

This has been an exceptionally great day!  The weather was bright + sunny with temp. in the mid 70’s.

We checked out Kenwood Plaza – got a little walk in + bought some cards, then went to have a lovely visit with Helen + Ace in Terrace Park.  How that place has changed – a whole new street behind our house which had been torn down + a new one being built, not as pretty but larger.  They drove us all around the area, + treated us to a delicious lunch at the Mariemont Inn.  All the homes in Indian Hill + the Terrace Park area are highly priced – anywhere from a million up.  It was a great visit with Helen + Ace.  Lots of money in that environment but they’re still the same - great!

We also visited Hyde Park - Mom and Dad’s grave – buried in Laurel Cemetery in Madisonville and we found their markers + took a picture of it.  Mom - 60 yrs. old, Dad - 80 years old when they died.

From there we went over to Hyde Park where drove by Besuden Ct. his [Bert's] old homestead, then all around the area + back to Kenwood – Blue Ash area to our Holiday Inn Express which is our home until Sun.  We added a lot of mileage to day.  A fun day!

9/29/2007 Blue Ash – Cincy

This was another beautiful day.  We started out at 9:30 to go to the Union Terminal.  During WWII it was a major departure point for troops.  It is now the site of two museums – a history museum where we spent three hours + a children’s nature museum where we spent a short time.

We spent a great deal of time just cruising around mainly looking for a Kroger’s store.  We came back to the motel + decided to look up the nearest one + go there after we got a bite to eat.

I wrote 5 thank you notes while Bert was on the computer.

We went to the Kenwood Plaza where we got a Chinese dinner.  It was pretty good.  Then we located Kroger’s behind Macy’s, + bought a few items for our trip.

I gathered up our dirty clothes + plan to go to the laundry so we can start out tomorrow with clean clothes for the rest of the trip.

We’ve driven 385 miles from E. Liverpool.

9/30/2007 Cincy – Nashville, Ind.

We were on our way about 10:00 AM.  It was a pleasant 2-1/2 hr drive.  When we arrived here, we couldn’t find anyone from the squadron, our room wasn’t ready, so we just walked around.  The streets were crowded with weekend visitors as this is a tourist area.  The Artist Colony Inn is where we’re staying and the decor is very rustic.  There is no closet, no hangers, and just pegs on the wall.  We have two beds – four posters + I’ll have to climb up on a stool.  It’s probably 1900 vintage.  I just looked it up + it is 100 years old!

We really had fun this evening.  The sandwiches, fruit + veggies were all delicious.  Our party room was in the basement.  About 25 folks showed up + there were 12 from the squadron.

The gals picked up where we left off last year with our 15¢ game.  I was the big winner + came back with 75¢!

10/1/2007 Nashville, Ind.

After breakfast we took off for Edie + John H’s.  We followed her directions and got there without any trouble.  They have a lovely home on a lake with several acres in a beautiful setting just 6 miles from here.

They took us on a tour of the area and we visited their church in Bloomington as well as a tour of the I.U. campus.  Wow, what a large, impressive college.  We stopped at a winery where we sampled some of the wines + bought one - a sweet red wine to take home to Marge + Jimmy A.  It was Oliver’s Winery.

The evening entertainment was really good.  We walked down the alley to the Coachlight Musical Theatre.  The show was America the Music.  It was a musical celebration of the spirit of the American people.  All the cast had really good voices.  Some were university students.

We played cards a little before retiring.

10/2/2007 Nashville, Ind.

There were two big events today.  The first one was the half hour train trip around the town.  We boarded it about 11:30 after having a delicious home made peach ice cream at Fannins.  We stopped at all the motels to take on passengers.

Then when we came back we formed car pools and went out to the Bare Feet Sock factory.  It was a 2 hr tour of the knitting plant.  It’s amazing how much faster the installation of computers has changed the process.  One sock from head to toe can be made in 2-1/2 minutes.

We had a delicious pork dinner at the Colony Inn Restaurant where we’re staying.  After the lengthy business meeting, we voted to go to Boston next Sept. for our reunion.

Of course our 15¢ card game was the grand finale + I won again.  I have $1.50 in nickles.  Too bad there’s no casino!

10/3/2007 Nashville, Ind. – Nashville, Tenn.

We left the Artist Colony Restaurant about 8:30 after a hearty breakfast + saying adieu to the Van Hs + Hs.

We took Rt. 46 to 65S + stayed on it all the way.  We ate our lunch in the car – apples + crackers.

After a series of curves + Hills, we found Marianne’s about 12:30.

In the afternoon Marianne + Al went on some errands.  She had to take Gene to the doctor’s + they were gone a few hours.  In the meantime Sherrie + Steve came over with their 5 month old Claire + 3 year old Cooper – darling children [to visit with Mary J + us].

They ordered Papa John’s pizza + it tasted very good after almost a whole day without much food.

We talked all evening catching up in the good old days in Wellsville + Salineville, and we all agreed we made the right choice by moving out for greener pastures.

When she [Marianne] visited us in Terrace Park in the 60’s, she knew then that she’d never vegetate in Salineville.  She’s a great gal, an RN charge nurse + works 3 days a week 11 hrs a day.

10/4/07 Nashville, Tenn – Pensacola

We left Mary’s at 8:30 and the mileage was 807.  Our first stop was at Krogers to buy a USA Today.  The routes we took were 40, 840, then 65.

It was a pleasant day + we just took our time, alternating the driving + stopping frequently at rest areas.

About 12:30 we stopped as a Cracker Barrel in Birmingham.  We called Marge A + told her where we were so they’d know when to expect us.

The whole day was pleasant weather, just a sprinkle coming out of Montgomery.  Bert drove from Birmingham to Montgomery + I drove home.

We arrived at Azalea Trace about 6:00 pm + figured the mileage – 475 miles today.  The total for the entire trip was 2550 miles.

We unloaded the car, raided the frig + found an apple, crackers, + ice cream for our “supper.”

We had 85 E-mails + 7 phone messages awaiting us.  They had to wait for another day.

We found our way to a comfy bed + folded at 9:30.  We thanked God for a wonderful, safe trip.