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.

Dan’s Air Force Graduation (2007)

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

6/28/07 Pensacola – Montgomery

The drive to Montgomery was uneventful – the usual route 29 + 65 with pleasant rest rooms after we passed Flomaton.

Our destination, the Historic Capitol Inn in downtown area had a lot to be desired, but we’re here + Mike’s room is just four doors down.

This is the second time in a few days we’ve been deprived of flushing/showers, etc. but we’ll survive.  The bed feels comfortable, the TV works, and the air conditioning has cooled tempers.

We had a bite to eat at Ruby Tuesday’s, then drove back to our motel.  The plumbers were still there, + our room was still without water, so we moved to two other rooms.

We were given a $10 discount plus a free breakfast.  Things do have a way of working – keep the faith!

(It’s still a mystery how Mike got here before us!!)

6/29/07 Maxwell AFB – Pensacola

The day started with a delicious breakfast at the Capitol Inn.

Because of the inconvenience of moving, the breakfast was free, and we had a hearty apology from the General Manager.

We arrived at the base at 9:00 AM + waited for Dan + the parade to start + it was right on time at 10:00 AM.  About 200 young AF officers gave an impressive ceremony + we were mighty proud of Dan.

After a presentation in the flight room of their certificates, Mike helped Dan load our car, then transferred it to Mike’s car as he’s going to drive Dan to the airport after lunch.

Lunch was at the Cracker Barrel where hungry Dan ate a huge breakfast + another dinner of chicken fried steak + the trimmings.  He was famished after all that running around.

It was unbearably hot + we were happy to turn up the air in the Toyota + head for Pensacola.

This was a rewarding day for all of us – Mike, for instilling in Dan the potential + guidance + Dan's acknowledgement of the fine "Dad" he’s been + the role models we’ve been as his "grandparents"!!!

Calloway Gardens (2006)

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

Nov. 17, 2006 Pensacola – Callaway Gardens

It was a beautiful, crispy day to begin our trip to Callaway Gardens.  We had our luggage down in the lobby by 8 am and we left at 8:45 by bus driven by Frank – 26 hearty souls.

Callaway Gardens is on Hgwy 18 in Pine Mtn, Ga., 60 miles SW of Atlanta.  We arrived here about 3:45 + it was an easy trip, stopping in Montgomery at Wendy’s for lunch.  Enroute we stopped at Priesters for a rest stop + a browse through the store after sampling the pecan candies.

Our room at the Mountain Creek Inn was nicely furnished – two standard beds and the furniture is attractively decorated in pine.

Dinner tonight was a scrumptious buffet consisting of “real” turkey, cornbread dressing, sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberry relish, and pecan pie + choc. cake for dessert.  Salad was Caesar – the real stuff.

We had plenty of reading to catch up on, so we retired early to get ready for tomorrow’s activities.

11/18/’06 Calloway Gardens

From 9-12 this was our itinerary spent visiting the various gardens:

1) Cecil B. Day – Butterfly Center – most spectacular!  Over 1,000 tropical butterflies from more than 50 species in a glass enclosed conservatory.

2) Horticulture Center – Native + exotic plants within a rock wall garden, fern grotto, + outdoor garden setting plus 22’ indoor waterfall.

3) Memorial Chapel – Gothic style architecture stained glass windows depicting the four seasons of the Southern forest.  Moller pipe organ

4) Azalea Bowl – 3400 blooming azaleas

5) Mr. Cason’s Veg. Garden – Victory garden as seen on TV.

6) Overlook Garden – 700 varieties in the spring.

Home for lunch, then we rested + watched the exciting Ohio-Mich. football game – Ohio State 42, Mich – 39!  Yeah!

After dinner we boarded our bus and drove to the fantastic Fantasy In Lights.  We went on the 5 mile ride on our bus. 8 million lights decked the winter wonderland – 731 miles of strings.  Swirling snowfall, Santa’s workshop, magical garden + best of all including the inspiring Nativity scene.

Now we are packing our bags for the trip home tomorrow, a wonderful worthwhile trip!!

8th Combat Cargo Squadron Reunion in Peoria (2006)

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

In October 14-19, 2006 we had the 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] Reunion in Peoria.

10/13/06 Pensacola to Brentwood, Tn.

We rolled out of the driveway at 8 a.m. as planned.  It was a cool day + we had a few sprinkles enroute to Ala.

We followed I-10 to Rt 29 to Flomaton where we picked up Rt 65 which took us all the way to Brentwood which is south of Nashville.

The leaves are changing color although not as vivid as we’ll expect tomorrow.

At the Tennessee Welcome center we saw the EMS working on a man trying to survive him.  A large crowd was gathering, so we moved on + hopefully they were able to survive him.

Our Comfort Inn is quite adequate + while Bert is on the computer, I’m planning to read.

I called both the Jax kids + Largo Ss to report in + found everyone at home ready to eat.

Our meal tonight was at Panera Bread where everyone was doing there “thing” on computers + cell phones.  I’m glad we‘ve lived long enough to experience this “new age.”

Oh, our meal was very tasty after a long 8-1/2 hr drive – Soup, salad + sandwiches.

I’ll check the mileage tomorrow.

10/14/06 Brentwood to Peoria, Ill.

Our mileage was 435.  We started our trip today at 7:30 and it was a great move!  Driving through Nashville at 8:30 on Sat. a.m. was good planning.  We just sailed through town on Rt. 24 and stayed on it to Paducah, crossing the beautiful Ohio R.  The scenery we saw today was magnificent seeing how cities like Clarksville grew from the power generated from the Cumberland R. + Barkley Dam.  Hopkinsville is one of the leading dark-fire or slow-smoked tobacco markets in the nation.  Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers miles of hiking.  From this area we were routed on 57 passing miles of flat farm land into Champaign + Urbana (home of the U. of Ill.) where we picked up Rt. 74.  This took us to Peoria where we arrived here after a pleasant 8-1/2 hr. day.  The mileage was 907 when we drove into the Hampton Inn parking lot.

People who had already arrived + were here to greet us were the Van Hs – Peg + Van, the Ts (hosts) Betty + Chuck, Scotty W, + Emil M who drove together from Columbus. Shack S + his caregiver came from Dallas – wheelchair + all, in time to go to a fine restaurant for dinner.  Retired about 10:30.  Lovely day!

10/15/06 Peoria

After a good night’s rest and a hearty breakfast, we spent the a.m. catching up on the news via TV + lap top.  The weather wasn’t conducive to outdoors activities.  A few of us gathered at the casino to check out the machines.  We used the $5.00 free comp, then met at the buffet for a 2 for 1 meal.  It was fair.  The Par-a-dice casino has a lot to be desired!

Betty + Chuck T are excellent hosts + put on a great spread – salad, sandwiches, vegies + dip.  They also had a birthday cake for Ed M who arrived late from Ariz. but in time for the celebration.

Since no entertainment is planned for tomorrow, we decided to make copies of the Twelve Days of Christmas + hopefully everyone will take part in it.

The gals gathered around the table for our usual 15¢ card game + the guys rehashed old war stories.

Another fun day with a great group.

10/16/06 Peoria

Today’s big event is the bus trip to Springfield to the Abe Lincoln Museum.  In spite of a drizzling rain the entire day, it was a very pleasant trip.

We boarded the bus at 9:45 + arrived at the museum, a distance of 66 miles about 1-1/2 hrs later.

Seeing this museum is a once in a lifetime experience.  In four hours we experienced the rustic Indiana cabin, the horror of slavery, to the 21st Century technology of the modern-day television.  We drove through the area where the Lincolns lived during their stay in Springfield.

The café inside the museum served soup + salads where we joined the rest of our group for a light lunch.

Our driver took us on a scenic view of Peoria on Grandview Dr. where we saw beautiful homes + spectacular trees + flowers.  The colors are unbelievable.

As usual we met in the hospitality room after a buffet dinner at the Pa-a-dice Casino.  Fun! Fun! Fun!

10/17/06 Peoria

I started the day at 6:15 at the pool where I did my exercises and enjoyed the whirlpool.

Our trip today to Tanner’s Apple Market was the highlight of the day.  It’s located 28 miles north of hear + we had fun sampling all the various types of apples.  We bought a bushel of mixed: Golden delicious, Fuji, and Golden Gala.  I talked with the owner, Mrs. Tanner who’s the second generation of the Tanner family + she hopes their children will continue the store.  It certainly is extensive + very interesting.

In the evening we enjoyed the dinner + say our “good-byes” to our wonderful friends.  We gave a tribute to our dearly departed at the dinner.

Had a few games of cards in the hospitality room with the gals before retiring.

It’s been a very successful reunion – 23 brave souls returned.  Hope we’ll all make it next year!

10/18/05 Peoria – Brentwood, Tn.

We arrived here at the same Comfort Inn where we stayed enroute to Peoria in the same room!  How’s that for planning!?  (We called + made the reservation at the Tn Welcome Station.)

Our departure time was 7:50 am after having breakfast with Rose + Harold H, and hugs from Peg Van H.

We didn’t stop for lunch.  Just snacked on cookies (Marge Anderson’s) + an apple from Tanner’s Orchard.  So we made it here in 8-1/2 hrs – that’s 476 miles coming in on I-65, using the 155 by-pass.  The traffic wasn’t as hectic this time.  Maybe it’s because we’re more seasoned drivers in the Nashville area!!  We paid $2.05 for gas + I thought that was a bargain until I read what it was a few years ago at 98¢ a gal.

We stayed at this *** Comfort Inn in Brentwood en route to Peoria so we decided to stay here going home.  Not that it was plush – specially equipped + only $68.00.  Had another meal at Panera Bread next door.  Interesting seeing all these young people with their laptops!

10/19/06 Brentwood – Pensacola

There’s not a lot to report today.  It was a direct I-65 route from Brentwood to Pensacola.

We got a 9 hrs sleep last night so we were on our way a little after 8 am.

The weather was in our favor in Tenn. + we enjoyed the brilliant color of the leaves.

Bert drove us out of the city traffic + I took the wheel in Ala.  From the time we left the Welcome Center through the whole state, it poured, especially in Birmingham, but I drove carefully + we made it home safely in 8-1/2 hrs.

After unpacking the full 2 carts, we cleaned up + went to dinner. Jane W + Keener T joined us.

We caught up on the news here + read part of our mail before retiring at 10 pm.  Wonderful trip!

8th Combat Cargo Squadron Reunion in Wichita (2005)

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

Another 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] Reunion this time in Wichita.

10-5-2005 Pensacola – Greenville, Miss.  396 mi.

This was an easy drive – miles and miles of cotton being picked, stacked in rectangular piles with colorful tarps of orange, blue, yellow + green ready to be sent to the terminal for processing.  From Mobile we followed Rt. 98 to Hattiesburg where we saw a lot of damage from Katrina.  I drove from there through Jackson on Rt. 49.  We drove on through Vicksburg on rt. 20 to the Ark. Welcome Center where we stopped and enjoyed our box lunches we brought from the Trace.

It was very confusing which state we were in.  Was it Ark., La., or Miss.?  Those states all converge into one land mass.  Was it any wonder we thought Greenville was in Ark.?  Anyhow we crossed the Miss. River into Greenville + bedded down for the night at a ** Comfort Inn which had one “holey” chair – used – comfortable bed + a $55 + Tax price tag.  No bargain.

Ate at Wendy’s, then watched the Division Playoffs.  The Braves lost to Houston 10-5.  The White Sox are beating the Red Sox.  May as well call it a day!

10-6-05 Greenville, Miss. – Tulsa, Okla.

Mileage 819

The only rewarding feature about the Comfort Inn last night was we had a comfortable bed, and the shower was hot.  However our breakfast of cereal, biscuits – gravy, juice, waffles, Danish etc. was above average.  Our gas tank was filled at $2.89 a gal. costing $46.00.  I pumped while Bert cleaned the windshield.  We were off at 7:30 – drove 425 miles + arrived at the LaQuinta Inn in Tulsa at 3:15.

The drive here was very scenic.  We crossed the Miss. River into Ark. + from Pine Bluff into Little Rock we had little traffic along country road – 2 lanes.  We made good time on Interstate 40 stopping at a pleasant city – Conway – where we stopped at a Target to wash up + eat a lunch in the van.  From Ft. Smith we crossed into Okla. + stopped at the Welcome Center which was nice + clean.  I drove from there into Tulsa following Rt. 40 + the Muskogee Turnpike.

We bedded down for the night at a clean, comfortable LaQuinta for $58.00.

Dinner at Denny’s was quite ample + cost was $17.00.  Had a good night’s sleep after watching the Braves take the Astros 7-1.

10/7 Tulsa – Wichita

Gas - $1.74 – Filled tank $46.76

After several wrong turns, we made it successfully to Rt. 244 which we followed to Rt. 35 and the Turnpike into Wichita.  We arrived in town shortly before noon + had a bite of lunch at the mall.  They were giving flu shots + since we would be missing ours next week, we opted to have the nurse give us ours there.  The only problem was my long sleeve blouse wouldn’t roll up far enough so she shot me by taking my shirt off my shoulder.  Blood shot out from the vein + covered the top of my shirt.  She apologized + I forgave her.  I washed it when we got back to the hotel.

It was great seeing every one again.  The Cs had the Control Tower reserved for us + we had fun catching up on the news.  At least 15 of the guys + their ladies were here.  We had a few libations followed by a nice spread of cold cuts, beans + salad.

The ladies – 10 of us – went next door to play our card game of “Boogie your neighbor.”  I lost my 15¢ early on + Lois V was the winner.

Peg Van H + I decided to make a date for in the a.m. to go work out in the pool.

It was difficult getting to sleep because of all the excitement.

10/8 Wichita

Peg + I met + tried out the pool.  It was cold, but we managed to get in a half hour’s activity.

Met in the Control Tower for a nice breakfast + interesting conversation.

At 4 o’clock we boarded a school bus for the Prairie Rose, a fun evening with tasty barbecue and very talented Western musicians.

While there – because we arrived early – we had time to visit the Hopalong Cassidy Museum and movies.  How those movies kept our interest – on the edge of our seats is hard to believe.  We went back a few years + reminisced when our little guys wore those little cowboy boots in the 50’s was a trip back in time.

Our barbecue wasn’t ready so we had time to see a movie of Roy Rogers + his horse Trigger.  Wow!

It was a packed house – 400 - + within minutes we were all served.  This was an outstanding fete!

After a 40 min. drive back to the hotel, we were all too tired for much activity.  One thing I forgot to mention was the 2 hr movie in the afternoon of the 8th Combat Cargo Group [Squadron].

10/9 Wichita

Mileage – 1,031

This was a lazy day.  After breakfast of bagels, juice and coffee in the Control Tower, we visited with friends.  Later we went to lunch with Peg + Van + had time to watch the Braves/Astros play off before going to our meeting at 4 pm.  The guys included us ladies this time deciding where we’ll have our next reunion.

Two people volunteered to be in charge in ’06 – the Hs in Ind. + the Ts in Peoria.  After much discussion, lead by Paul V + Bert, we decided on Peoria for ’06 + Ind. for ’07.  It sounds good.

We had a great dinner here in the hotel of filet, chicken, potatoes + vegetables/salad/dessert white cake + cherries + cheese cake.

The gals played card + the guys met in the Control Room for our final farewell.

We thanked Sandra + Earl C again for their fine job caring for [us].  This was a wonderful reunion!!  Our bill at the hotel was $267.00.

10/10/05 Wichita – Pine Bluff, Ark.

We left the hotel at 7:30.  Filled the tank in Tulsa @ $2.49.  Everything went well until we got to Tulsa + went round and round looking for the Muskogee Tnpk, dropping coins in the wrong turnpike.  Confusing markers, or was it us??  Anyhow, all went well for us through Ft. Smith, Little Rock + finally to our final day’s travels, beautiful Pine Bluff and understandably properly named.  Miles and miles of beautiful pines for miles leading into this city of 55,000 people.  The Hampton Inn next to the new Pine Mall was our *** choice because of the attractive add in the AAA Book.  We have a comfortable room with two double beds, an ECB (extraordinary continental breakfast) + most important, a Wi-Fi for the laptop which is entertainment for dad while I watch Yankees-Angels game.

We ate at the Shanghai Buffet in the mall + had more than we could eat, but it was good.  We had coffee in the room which is fair, but I’m looking forward to the real stuff tomorrow with our ECB.

Well, that’s it for now.  Good trip.

10/11/05 Pine Bluff – Pensacola

The mileage today is 535 miles.  After an exceptionally good breakfast, we got off at 8:20.  We followed Rt. 65 along the Arkansas + Mississippi river Delta regions which is noted for the production of cotton livestock, lumber + agricultural products.  We kept on going past the Welcome Center as we’d been there before.

At Tallulah we followed Rt. 20 to Vicksburg and on to Jackson.  From there we followed Rt. 98 once we found it.  The signs were confusing + we figured 198 would get us from Hattiesburg + we were right, although it was confusing and we added a few extra miles here.  It was pretty driving through the DeSoto National Forest Area, and also seeing the campus of Southern Miss U.

It was a breeze driving from Mobile to Pensacola on Rt. 10 and the Pensacola sign was a welcome sight.

It was 1,009 miles + we made it safely in 9-1/2 hours.  A wonderful trip and we’re happy to have such a nice home to come home to!