Family and Friends

Since being here in Ohio for the last 2 weeks, it has been a whirlwind of meeting new friends and seeing family for Thanksgiving holidays.  Of course the highlight of all this was seeing my granddaughter,  my son and daughter in-law as well as my beautiful daughter. I want to put them in my pockets and keep them close forever, but alas... After they left I wondered when the next visit will be and hope that we can see all in a month or two.  Because I'm here for a while, at least until Christmas, I made a search for instant friends and worthwhile things to do.  The natural place for me to look is at the local Grace Brethren Church.  They offer instant friendship through small groups during the week and plenty of things to do for the holidays.  Friday I along with members of my Real Life group will serve Korean school children a special meal.  I have to admit I miss having kids around to play with since retiring from teaching.  I'm looking forward to meeting the kids with their smiles and energy.  My heart will sing.  So with this and the group's Christmas party coming up I will be well entertained.  Of course, sprinkled in for good measure the occasional concert and Nutcracker ballet.

Kentucky by the Backdoor

Well here we are again.  Kentucky, the black hole of the United States?  At least that's what we thought the first time we were here and it didn't take us long to leave this place of no connectivity to TV, cell or computer.  This time however, we are camping at Green River Lake State Park.  They have internet, cell connection, but still no TV.  We can live without TV - there's always movies to rent.  The biggest plus is the view of the lake and surrounding hills.  Today is very dark and overcast so I'll take a picture when the sun is out.  Don't like to complain but this bronchitis is lasting way too long.  I'm ready to be well.  Mind over matter, mind over matter.

Pooh

Ya know I've noticed a definite change in my outlook on pooh.  Not the exclamation used to express disgust but, by definition, excrement.  Since traveling we have had to leash our dogs and walk them so they can pooh.  Prior to this we had woods the dogs could go into and pooh to their hearts content.  I didn't have to see it or smell it.  Now several times a day, Millie is very poohy, I have to bag their pooh.   I will now  use the definition of pooh to express intense disgust.  "Oh, pooh."  You'd think I'd be most used to it by now, however, after a particularly strong odor this morning I almost gagged.  There really is no solution to this pooh issue except to get over it.  Well, I'm trying but still...

Time

Time is not my friend.  Just because I've slowed down doesn't mean time has to speed up.  It seems that October has come and is walking out the door before I had a chance to notice.  Not like I'm doing anything to take my mind off what is going on around me, but here in Livingston it is easy to just mosey and let days turn to weeks.  I mosey on up to get the mail, walk the dogs, read a book, talk to friends.  Yesterday we had a long laid back lunch with friends at the Hitching Post. Outdoor country eatin' at its finest.  Today I notice I have 10 days to enjoy my favorite month.  Maybe I'll go out and take more pictures. 

Gentility is not Dead

We visited Fayetteville, Texas this weekend.  Our friend arranged for us to stay at his inlaws Bed and Breakfast country home.  Although Kendall and Sherman had only met us once before, their graciousness made our stay most enjoyable.  Not only were we comfortable but we were made to feel that our company was desirable.   Two well fed and well behaved Schnauzers greeted us as well.  Including our dogs,  Phoebe and Millie, who were welcomed into the house, we had four dogs sharing the country chic home and expansive, beautiful yard with us.
Saturday the Lick Skillet fair was held on the town square.  No one could come up with an explanation for the name except it was an excuse for a good time.  That night we listened to a great band and watched people dance the waltz and two-step.  I even got asked to dance one dance.  My partner tried hard to teach me how to dance to country music. I think I'll need many more lessons especially after I stepped on his toes several times.
To top it off  several quaint restaurants in out of the way places offered  good eatin'.  Good food, good company, good times.

Rainbow Drive

A sweet little enclave of like minded spirits, our campers and RVs huddle together.  What brought each of us here presents as many stories as there are people.  Setting up the camper is down to a science now, giving me plenty of time to allow my eyes to roam while going about the business of hooking up. As I stood gazing about to check out the neighbors, I saw a shadow flitting across the window of the 5th wheel next door. I stared at the movement to see if the neighbor was checking me out, and indeed he was.  I couldn't hear what was emitting from its open mouth but as my eyes adjusted it appeared I was staring at a monkey.  But wait, not one but two monkeys.  Now a lot of people think monkeys are cute and all but the creep-o-meter I mentioned last post was showing an  8 or 9.  Never understanding what people saw in the little creatures, I shivered and ran to Vic telling him of our misfortune.  He only shrugged  as if it were an everyday occurrence.  My precious little neighbor, Nancy, from in back of us was standing nearby and tried to console me in my time of incredulous shock.  She brought me pictures of her introduction to  the monkeys and assured me the owner was very careful and never let them out of the trailer unless on a leash.  I have yet to meet the owner, but what a story he must have, huh? 

Home again, home again, jiggety, jig, jig

Goodbye Campbellsville, Hello world.

We're on our way.  Tuesday morning we left Campbellsville, Ky.  Monday Vic picked me up at mom's in Bath, Ohio.  My visit  there was two weeks short and I was reluctant to leave all except the secret boarder. A very large tarantula that resides in my brother's room.  A ten on the creep-out-meter.  (Click on"Leaving a Trail" in the right hand column of this page to see the pictures.)  Got back to Campbellsville, packed up and  headed out for Livingston, TX by way of Birmingham, AL.  and camped at Oak Mountain State Park.  We spent a glorious time with kids and grandkids and did some hiking at the park.  Again, more pictures.  Now in Somerdale, AL  and cruised today to see the sights.   Fort Morgan beach with its pristine,  white,  bright sand and great, roaring surf served up a portion of tranquility much needed at the moment.    Orange Beach offered Thunder on the Gulf boat exhibit.  What exquisite  beauty and power.  I only wish we could watch them race but this caravan is heading west tomorrow.

Talking to Myself

When I write these blogs, it's like talking to myself.  These words float around in cyberspace like so much space junk forgotten and neglected.  There is one redeeming quality to writing this blog.  One person reads it, my mom.  Like an astronomer carefully monitoring a newly discovered star, mom reads every entry and mentally takes note of my brilliance as only a mom can.  I've had the extreme pleasure of spending time with mom these last two weeks here in Bath, Ohio.  She is a spry 84 years old carrying on with courage and faith after dad's death last December.  Her faith, an inspiration and example makes me proud to be her daughter. 
Autumn has clearly arrived here in Bath, the trees greeting the season waving leafy banners in bright colors.  The chill in the air energizes the senses and even slogging through all the rain we've had raises gratitude in my heart for the time I've spent here.  Returning to Texas in a couple of days, I'll transition back to summer again, where rain and chilly air are a distant memory for its residents.  As a southern girl I'll welcome the shirt-sleeve weather but look forward to returning to Bath in the near future for a true winter experience.  Thanks mom.

Making the Best of It

Went to Mammoth Cave the other day.  It was something to do on a rainy day.  It was  a nice tour, but the highlight of our trip was the gift shop.  We found a miners hat for our grandchild Thomas.  He is 2 1/2 and is all about pirates, treasure and hats.  We also got him some shiny rocks to put in the treasure chest we sent him from the coast of Texas.  I'm sure he will use the hat with enthusiasm as he does with all things. 

Out part of Texas is burning.  Hopefully the fires are extinguished before they hit our neck of the woods.  We are keeping an eye on the news the best we can without internet or tv.  Thank goodness for the Droid phone we bought or we'd be totally in the dark. 

Unfortunately for me, I was working with elance on the internet putting in for writing jobs.  This will not happen now that I can't even get connected at the library except for 2 hours a week.  I know it has to be something to do with our browsers and apple computers, but alas, I am not a computer geek and have no earthly idea how to get connected.

Vic continues to work at Amazon.com and says it's a real sweat shop.  But we can do anything for 4 months - or can we? 

Unbelievable

We have been in Campbellsville a week and what a week.  First of all no internet service so we were in panic mode due to the fact that the internet is how we stay in contact with friends, family and those we owe money.  Paying bills online seemed the smart thing to do being on the road, but what happens when there is no internet service?  Well tonight just for the heck of it I got online because supposedly this camp ground has wifi.  The internet connection is working!  Hopefully for good but I'll take tonight. 
What have we found here in Campbellsville?  Beautiful rivers and lakes.  We visited a marina today and some Corps of Engineer campgrounds.    We are considering moving to one of these parks due to proximity to the water as well as large areas for the dogs to explore.  Sacrificing full hook up to sewer gives pause but to be in the midst of such beauty may be worth it.  We also found a gem of a restaurant called Garcias.  Not the usual  Mexican fare but fine cuisine for a reasonable price.  Yum. 

Where Does This Go?

Looking through the gate to Campbellsville, Kentucky an opportunity might be seen.  Gainful employment is nothing to scoff at.  Here at Indian Ridge RV Park, we found our spot for the next few months.  Situated on a ridge overlooking some of the most fertile land in the country, its possible to see what made the residents stop to rest and live.  Long ago the Shawnee told stories on this bluff of their hunting and fishing exploits in the dense forests and along the Green River winding through the valley.  Rich history abounds and below in the distance tales of civil war battles echo among the fields of corn and soy beans.  A little step back in time is here in Campbellsville.  To an observer from the outside world, it appears slow and backward.  What? No internet connection at your fingertips?  No cable for TV?  How are we going to stay in touch with news, stocks, weather, our friends and family?  Well maybe cell phone is enough.  Snail mail isn't that slow.  There are still post offices around.  At least we don't have to rely on a Pony Express.  Coming to Campbellsville almost brought us to a screeching halt to life as we know it,  but then this is an adventure to experience life in the USA.  We remember we are in God's design.  What mosaic has HE planned for us here?  Already we've had rain, something we haven't seen in two months. It is actually below 100 degrees - more like 70s.  WE fouExciting isn't it?

WILD CHILDREN of the BOOMERS - LOVE 'EM ALL

Wow, what  a great day with all our boomer AA friends.  We discovered the quintessential AA group here in Livingson and most are boomers like ourselves.  Had a great meeting spiritually and then went to lunch at the Texas Pepper.  We extrapolated information from our new friends  who turned out to be  x-truckers and exchanged war stories.  Here's one for ya relayed in true Texas fashion.

"We was drivin' hot and heavy south of Phoenix and pulled off the road to get some rest.  Now, there ain't anything like a truck stop or gas station down thar, so we was just off on the side of the road. Pitch black outside so we hunkered down for the night.  Towards daylight I hear this clicking, ticking sound outside and couldn't figure what it was but I gave it no mind.  I just flung the door open to take a whizz and there it was - the ground crawlin', movin' couldn't figure til my eyes adjusted, my willie still hangin' out, I Saw the damndest thing, thousands of Tarantulas migrating, skittering all around the truck and as far as the eye could see.   I decided I didn't need to piss after all, slammed the damn door and got the hell out.  Ya ever hear a such a thing?"

Tarantulas can be found worldwide. They are particularly common in the American Southwest, South America and Central America. More than 30 species of tarantulas reside within Arizona alone.
Among these 30 species are spiders with leg span measuring up to seven inches. Their bodies may be black, light or dark brown in color and can weigh more than 30 grams. Due to the leg span and hairy bodies of these arachnids, they appear menacing. However, tarantulas dwell underground and prefer to live, eat and hunt alone. Specimens are rarely seen in the open, although males do roam in search of potential mates.
Tarantulas in Arizona may also emerge at night in search of prey. Unlike other spiders, tarantulas do not build webs as traps. Rather, they hunt and ambush prey, making use of their size and speed. Tarantulas consume beetles, grasshoppers, small spiders, reptiles and rodents. They may be prey to skunks, wasps and scorpions.

Do I NEED to  be concerned?  

Backdoor Musing

Since retirement in June, only two months ago,  trying to find out who I am now is quite a journey.  For years I was THE TEACHER and practically nothing else. I totally immersed myself in that identity almost 24/7.  Unfortunately, the politics of teaching, and maybe too many years in special education burned out any desire to stay in touch with the teaching community.  I thought for a minute that I could possibly write but as I explored the idea, I found the desire isn't there.  For weeks I floundered feeling useless and less than everyone around me; comparing myself to my many talented friends and family.  Fortunately that didn't last long.  After a lot of soul searching I decided I am who I am and that is perfect for me.  I'm an appreciator of all the talent around me.  Someone has to appreciate all the beautiful literature, art and music created.  That's me.  I love reading, gazing at a gorgeous painting and listening to favorite tunes.  I love the feel of gliding through the water at the beach or in the pool.  Meeting new people is fun.  It's great to hear their stories and experiences.  Of course I can't leave out movies - real fiend I am.  The best is living in God's world.  He created beauty beyond imagination just for me to appreciate and be part of.  To just BE is the key.  I take care of business and enjoy the daily chores around the camper.  Time is at my disposal to keep in touch with family and friends, to take joy in their accomplishments and in my grandchildren.  Oh how great it is learning about Keylee, Thomas and Jacob as they grow and flourish.  Now, soon another chapter in my life begins.  Vic has accepted a job in Kentucky for the next 4 months and I will again discover exciting new people, and vistas.  I love traveling.  Just a gypsy at heart.  That's me.

Gems

Tonight we saw Cowboys and Aliens(the movie) at Fain Theater.  A small town theater, it shows 1 movie 3 times a day and charges 5 bucks a person.  We walked in and the lobby was tiny with a very small concessions stand.  A rack of t-shirts lined one wall my favorite being "cowboy up or go sit in the truck."  We got a Coke out of a machine and watched in delight as the visible mechanical arm slid up, grabbed our Coke and then dropped it in a chute to our hands.  To get to our seats we went through deep red velveteen curtains that open directly to the theater and we walked down the aisle to our seats.  No climbing stairs or walking up ramps.  Ambient light shone during the movie so we were not totally in the dark.  Everyone was glued to the action in the movie, no wailing kids or loud crackling of snacks.  All in all it was  a delight. 
We also opened an account at the local bank, 1st National of Livingston.  No other branches except in Livingston.  Tasteful, western art hung on the walls and the decor inside was very modern but homey.  The gal that helped us was referred to as a "personal banker."  She spent 30-40 minutes with us walking us through the online banking site and taking care of all other matters.  She was very friendly and we actually had a great time.  Nothing near the experiences I've had with other banks.  This bank celebrated its centennial in 2002.  It has been in business since 1902.
We've lived in and visited small towns in the past and have never had the pleasure of true small town hospitality. Today was a good day.

Friends

Livingston has actually become home.  It's because of all the familiar faces I see when we return from a trip.  No one here is a stranger.  We are welcomed into any group activity and conversation is always at a premium.  We met old friends today at the pool and it was a great time.  They have daily pool exercise group twice a day and you can show up or not what ever floats your boat.  The people we meet always seem glad to see us.  Good feelings.  I feel safe and secure here and participate in the activities - especially tomorrows ice cream social.  The Escapees Escapade is at the end of August in Gillett Wyoming and we will be there.  A thousand sites are there for the week long event held for all Escapees everywhere.  I am so looking forward to it.  Most of the folks around here volunteer here at the park or Habitat for Humanity or the SPCA.  I decided to do my part and start washing dishes at the Escapees Care center Monday until they hire someone.  The Care center is for elderly Escapees who need meals, some medical care, rides to doctors etc.  Their campers are parked around the Care building and many people volunteer to keep the center running.  I think it is a great service and am grateful to be part of such a wonderful group of people.

Back home

It feels really weird to say, "I'm back home."  But Livingston, Texas is my address so we have returned home for a few weeks.  I have to say all our beach adventures were spectacular.  I love the coast.  It is very hot everywhere now, but at least at the beach the breezes blew continually.  Since we're going to be here a while, I may take the opportunity to volunteer my services and the Care Center.  These are elderly people who have been full time work campers and need care in their elderly years.  The center is staffed mostly with volunteers who stay here in the park.  So tomorrow I will trek up there and see what's up. 

Vic and I always complained of yard work and house maintenance.  "We'll go on the road so we won't have these worries."  Ha, ha, ha and laugh out loud.  Everyday presents us with challenges, be it truck repairs, camper repairs or finding out how to get medication and doctor care on the road.  There is always something that pops up to keep us learning our way through this experience.  So here we are at home base getting ready to find insurance agents, a bank and doctor.  Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining in the least.  I'd much rather be out here roaming around and taking care of business too.

Through the Gate to Corpus Cristi

 Rockport is a great little seaside town.  We have enjoyed every minute of our stay.  One good thing is that it is only 30 minutes from Corpus Cristi.  We traveled the distance the other day and were delighted with our experience.  We visited the Lexington, a WWII aircraft carrier.  They've set it up for guided and self-tours.  Vic and I toured on our own and were well rewarded.  Lots of walking and climbing up and down, so we definitely got our workout for the day.  After a brief rest we toured the Texas Aquarium.  Delightful and beautifully designed are the words that come to mind.  It's only minutes from the Lexington and affords a view of the bay and the city skyline.  Of course we saw all the critters and fish but watching tankers, shrimpers and schooners come and go was a great side benefit.  We also watched the dolphins frolic with their trainers at the aquarium's outdoor arena, then watched the wild dolphins in the bay trail the shrimp boat as the nets were hauled in.  We laughed with the children who screamed and squealed in the water park, as buckets of water splashed down on their heads and as rays of water came at them from the water guns. All in all we had a ball.

Dog joy

Phoebe, our yorkshire terrier, knows no fear.  On our evening walks on the beach she has no problem swimming out a ways  to examine some flotsam or other.  Tonight, much to the consternation of a very seasoned fisherman, she decided to fetch his net back to shore.  Thank goodness Vic got to her before she could snatch the net.  The fisherman with a frown quickly drew his net to shore to avoid the dog mischief. Darn tourists.   Throwing things into the water for her to fetch is a great game, but  tonight was a different story. She did her business on the beach. Not wanting to leave it for others to step in, Vic covered with sand then threw it out in the water.  Before he could stand up, she was swimming out to bring it back. Vic had to wade in to stop her. What a hoot. I usually bag it but no bags tonight.   Her biggest joy is chasing any and all birds in her sight. Tonight she decided to pick on a huge wading bird. Running lickity-split with ears flying, her tongue in the wind she got close before the bird flew off with a squawk.  She gets wet and sandy and brings the sand into the truck and the trailer.  But who can deny a little dog her joy.

Rockport

Arrived in Rockport, Texas today.  The RV park is huge but under new management.  As a result the registration office was chaotic.  We finally got a site under the live oaks.  This particular tree winds and wends its way through growth creating graceful bends in the trunks and branches.  The canopy offers respite from the blazing sun so we're happy with the site.  We thought the small lake attached to the park would be fun to swim in.  However, to our chagrin, alligators lurk in the lake and warning signs are posted all along the shore.  So I guess Phoebe won't go swimming.  We did find enough to do all week - museums, art galleries, bird trails, and the beach of course.  It's a beautiful area so we're excited.  Unfortunately we did find that the cell signal is poor and we have to leave the park to make a phone call.  Also our computer is extremely slow so I'm not sure I can even publish this post.  I'll try to keep in touch  with everyone the best I can.  Happy trails.

Waving Goodbye

Well we didn't expect to see the shrimpers leave today, but that's exactly what they did.  Not all at once but at a leisurely pace, each prodigious ship with their rugged crewmen sailed out of the harbor every ten minutes, their horns blasting announcing that shrimping is about to begin.  As the crews stowed their gear and readied for sail yesterday I heard them joking and spied a few rough-housing together.  A huge excitement permeated the air and their camaraderie, almost tangible, caused a slight grin on my part in appreciation for their exuberance.
Vic got a picture last night of the harbor with all the lights blazing and the ships lining up.  We didn't realize at the time that all the activity foretold their departure for today.  If you look on Vic's facebook page you can see the night time shot.
Tomorrow is our last day here in Palacios.  We probably stayed longer than we should have given the lack of things to do if you don't have a boat or fishing tackle(which we do but sadly not with us).  Saturday we'll wend our way further west along the coast and stay in Rockport, which promises many activities to keep us occupied. We've explored every nook and cranny of this area, and the pool is hotter than the air so until then the five books we bought today should help us out through tomorrow.  The bookstore by the way is very quaint and has a coffee bar so I'll be there tomorrow morning to chat with the locals.

Observations

I have added a page called Glimpses.  These are pictures of where we are in our travels.  Take a moment and have a look.  Click on the word Glimpses on the right hand column.
Today I  watched charter boats come in across the channel.  A beautiful family of four, two little boys, flew onto the pier and excitedly unloaded their catch.   Mom took pictures while dad and the boys stood next to one flounder and three big trout.  I know they will remember this day for a long time. 
We chatted with a woman who asked if we knew anything about one of the sail boats for sale.  We didn't but a passerby on the dock said that an elderly couple lived there but that the man had fallen ill.  Later this afternoon I happily observed the young couple, 84 years young returning to the same sail boat.  How marvelous it is to know that you can live a dream at any age.
We took a side trip to Matagorda beach.  Very nice small beach town.  All about fishing and we were wishing we had our boat with us. 

Gateway to the Gulf

Actually we are on Palacious Bay.  All the shrimp boats are in until July 16th, then out they go. A tidbit of information - the port authority called a moratorium on shrimping to give the brown shrimp a chance to mature.  That way no waste when small shrimp are thrown away during early shrimping. So from our window we can see 100s of shrimp boats ready to sail next Saturday.
Today is dad's birthday.  He left for better shores in December but how can I forget all the family get-togethers for his birthday every year.  I have so many photos of those times with his big smile. I remember  his laugh amidst all of us joking and  carrying on.  Happy Birthday DAD, I miss you and love you. 

Meeting new challenges and people

Well we still have a few more loose ends to clear up for our new residence and future jobs.  So we'll stay here in Livingston one more day possibly two.  We are beginning our Escapee network and meeting a ton of people who have done exactly what we have.  They are full of great information so if we have a question we just go to our next door neighbor or the club house and find what we need. 
The next part of our odyssey is Palacious, Tx down on the coast.  We'll be right on the water at the harbor where all the shrimp boats come in and out.  I always feel at home when I'm near the water.  Depending on how we like it we may make it an extended stay.  But that's the way this life is.  The biggest problem we have is deciding where to go next.  Living life one day at a time.

Day to Day

This morning we went into town to get a few things including some flags and bows to decorate our camper home for the 4th.  Tomorrow we will watch a parade of decorated golf carts(there's a plethora of carts in the park)and then go to the social at the clubhouse.  Happy 4th everyone. 
Everyone here is friendly and helpful.  Vic became very helpful when a couple approached us asking if they could try our key in their door lock on their RV.  We have a camper but we agreed since both were made by Coachman.  The key didn't work so we all stood around wondering what to do next.  The couple told us they had a small window used as an escape hatch but only a small person could fit through. (Not much  of an escape for them.)  Vic decided he may be able to get through the window that on this RV was almost 2nd story high.  They put up a ladder and what do you know, he squirmed his way through and opened the door.  No drama at all except I let out a little giggle when all we could see were his legs sticking out the window while he put the toilet seat down so he wouldn't end up in the can. Ha.  Come to find out later Vic was "going commando" and worried that he would flash all of us standing on the ground looking up.  I assured him that I didn't see anything but could not speak for the other two.  Do you think that's why they left soon after?  Just kidding. 

Musing

The other day sitting outside on the chaise lounge, I decided to listen.  I heard doves cooing, crows cawing, birds singing merry little tunes, roosters crowing.  Peaceful and satisfying.  Settling in to enjoy, a distant bellow came wafting into my consciousness.  I strained to identify the sound only to hear a louder version.  I envisioned a huge monstrous being crashing through the woods, teeth gnashing, slobber gushing from its mouth.  Expecting it to appear any moment, I dipped my toe into reality for anchorage and listened again.  A huge bellow resounded through the trees, aha, reality serving me well I identified the sound as a bull from a nearby field. 

As the day passed, I traveled with my husband to town to register our vehicles.  Silly me I expected to get this chore done in one day.  However, the clerk at the tax assessor's office, patiently but mechanically informed us of the paper work, and certificates we were going to need.  I have to admit I allowed a dark cloud to appear over my head as we exited the building.  My husband was unscathed.  He calmed me down and reminded me of the real monsters of this world that attacked the twin towers in New York City on 9/11.  Because of the scars left from the evil of that day, the licensing agencies in the USA have insisted on real and substantial proof of citizenship.  Yes, it will take more days to complete our mission to become Texans, but I know that the teeth gnashing monsters from the east, will be deterred.  God Bless The USA.

Through the gate and to the next gateway.

Last night found me participating in a  writers' get together held at Jerry's Restaurant in Onalaska, TX.   I met the most amazing people with a passion for writing.  We all brought something we wrote, and someone in the group read each piece aloud.  When someone saw something that needed correcting, they would speak out and make suggestions.  They spoke out every other sentence on my story, but the suggestions were valid and thought provoking.  I learned more from this group in one night than I did taking 2 years of writing classes and joining a writer's group in McDonough.  I am excited about what I learned and can't wait to make the major changes on my story.  One woman there was a total ninja editor and helped me with my grammar and punctuation.  Unfortunately, I'm not using the suggestions on this blog but as I learn from others the writing will come.  Life is good.

Down the Path

Well I must eat my words about Livingston.  If I keep myself open to opportunities placed in front of me things do happen and in the most unexpected places.  Vic and I met the most interesting couple at the pool today.  She was going on about her writing and how successful it had become because she found a niche and provides people with information on gaining custody of their kids.  One thing has led to another and she now has 4 or 5 books on the subject.  She sells these on the internet.  She and her husband invited us to a Mexican restaurant for dinner and we all had very interesting conversations.  I talked with Charlotte for a long while and she encouraged me to continue my writing.  She led me to realize I have several niche's that I could address.  She invited me to a writers workshop tomorrow night.  We used to say in the program that there are no coincidences.  Because I am seeking God's direction for my life, I believe he will and has put people in my life to guide me on this new journey.  I say it again, If I observe and listen, I will find the direction.  Is this a direction for me?  Authoring something purposeful has been my wish, perhaps wishes do come true even in Livingston, Texas.

Jumping Up and Down

Got an email today informing me of my nephews college graduation.  He graduated magna cum laude.  It is refreshing to know that our family is carrying on the college tradition.  This was some great news from the family. 

New Adventures

New Adventures, a set on Flickr.

Peering through the Gate

Livingston, Texas is an unremarkable town.  However the campground is good.  We have everything we need.  This is where we had our mail is forwarded so we decided to visit.  Have a lot of business to take care of. Texas actually got some rain, a good soaking as a matter of fact, but did little to ease the drought unfortunately. 
Listening to the Eagles album East of Eden.  The title song is stunning.  One good thing about living in a camper, surround sound puts me in the heart of the music, the heart of my soul.  From classical, opera, jazz, classic rock, to gospel, blues and new age, I love it all.  It calls out parts of my brain that exercises abandonment of inhibitions.  Much needed in my case since I get so uptight about everything.  So music is a good friend, a big smile, a settling of the mind and soul. 

Sitting on the back step

Studying the clouds today, I was hopeful for rain but none came.  Texas is in an extreme draught and it has been hard on everyone.  Day after day of high 90s to low 100s teaches flexibility to change a schedule so instead of sleeping in, I get up and get the chores out of the way in the cool of the day.  The dogs stay in most of the day with brief walks about every two hours.  Phoebe is restless today and this evening chased the ball a dozen times ears flapping in the wind with a smile around the ball in her mouth.  Millie took a couple steps and flopped on the ground panting hard.  Vic comes home tomorrow and I have missed him. 

Gates Open for Round Top

My horizons expanded today.  I know I raved about the town I'm in, LaGrange, but had no idea that I was so close to the International Festival-Institute of Round Top, a small town population 90.  Students of music come from all over the world attend six week seminars to learn and play with accomplished musicians and conductors.  Every Saturday they have a concert - all classical music.  The Hall, as they call it is an architectural wonder.  When I stepped inside my breath was taken away.  I have never in my life seen anything more beautiful.  Every inch from floor to ceiling is covered in rich, deep colors of  expertly carved wood in designs that absolutely fascinate the eye. The ceiling seems to go on forever and it is said the acoustics are perfect.  This is one place I will revisit to give it a fitting appreciation.  The Hall is just one of many architectural designs on the campus of 200 hundred acres.  The architecture is inspired by Moravian and Czechoslovakian influences in the area. A very old world look.  If anyone can get to this area, your heart and soul would be greatly enriched. 

Sitting Still in the Gateway

What do you do in 103 degree heat?  Sit in the shade.  That's what the dogs and I have been doing today.  Sometimes it feels good to just sit still and feel the breeze push the heat over my face and through my hair and see the sway in the trees like feather dusters sweeping the sky.  Most of the time I'm in the air conditioned camper.  Well you really do have to be realistic in 103 degree heat.

My thoughts turn to Dad since tomorrow is Father's Day.  I miss him desperately.  Many days like today I just want him back so I can see his smile, laugh at his jokes and wonder at his latest project.   I learned the basics of taking care of a car from him.  I can change all the fluids, jump a car,  tighten a belt or change the oil.  I respected his steadfastness, spirituality, kindness, gentleness and patience.  But when he flared his nostrels I immediately did what he asked. Because he was a man of God, I'm assured that he is in a much better place.  So Dad, on this Father's Day I send you my love.

Back door musing

After teaching special education for 28 years one tends to, in a sense, become what you teach.  Now that's not a put down of my students it's just that my vocabulary lacks the vibrancy it once had and spelling is a challenge.  I even type words backwards.  My once shining ability to use metaphor and simile is dull and lackluster.  So when I want to describe this amazing little area I am visiting I'm at a loss for words. 

Who would have thought the middle of nowhere Texas had amazing, talented artisans and musicians.  The little shops, night spots, bistros, and cultural activities are all enough to keep the population busy on a daily basis.  The resident stained-glass artist is sought after world wide, and the Czech heritage is displayed in a small group of buildings from the settlement days along with their gorgeous quilts.

This gives me pause and then exciting expectations for further experiences everywhere we go.  Today I celebrate the individuality of every person here and worldwide. 

The Gateway of Rebuilding

This morning I am enjoying the freedom of rediscovery and reinvention of  mind and soul.  How easy it is for me to lose sight.  I have always lived within boxes.  The box of earning a living, the box of being a partner, the box of motherhood, the box of spirituality  all separate and apart.   The tasks of each box required completion before I could go on to another.  Overwhelmed describes the feeling because I never could really finish the tasks of one box to move on.  Obviously multitasking, not a strong point.  Simplifying, downsizing and retiring from teaching has given me the chance to throw away all the boxes and to look at my foundation.  Crumbled as it is,  I am standing here looking to see where to start.  The gate is open.  Anything and everything is at my disposal, for it is the mind and the soul that is ready to be rebuilt.  No more boxes only open spaces.

Hmm.  First step to rebuilding, start listening.  I was making a list in my head of all the little things I could do today, but there on the table was The Daily Bible.  The reading for today is Jonah. Listening for a truth I heard remember the gators in the pond and the whale who swallowed Jonah.  Perhaps the first new brick to add, stay away from gators and whales. Ha, it's up to you to figure that one out.  Me, I'll stay on the path.

The river is flowing fast today.  Or is it just the refreshing breeze that is a constant around here?  Physically moving is another brick in the foundation.  I had stopped moving, doing or thinking.  So Phoebe, my little Yorkshire Terrier and I took a walk on the river path.  She wanted to go in after the turtles and frogs.  How cute, I thought.  She loves the water and wanted to jump in.  I realized then, that if she did  the current may take her away.  I could just see me jumping in after her and both of us floating down the river.  But no harm, no foul.  People tube the river frequently.  Who knows where the river would have taken us.

Leaving a Crack in the Door

Having to leave a crack in the door for now.  Leaving teaching was the easy part but beginning a new lifestyle not so easy in these days and times.  We join the woes of middle America leaving a house still for sale in Georgia.  Our new home, the Chapparal Lite travel trailer fits us perfectly.  We had to downsize considerably but it was a conscious choice to delete all the unnecessary flotsum and jetsum that one accumulates over the course of years engaged in home ownership.  We are bare bones and I love everything about it.  Not being ones who enjoy housekeeping or yard work, we now enjoy pursuing our real interests and hobbies.  Of course we still have to put food on the table but as we roll along, opportunities seem to come our way.  Our first place of residence is LaGrange, Texas.  A very quaint and likeable town.  We also have friends here who are more than willing to show us the quirks and highlights of the area.  We are camped on the Colorado River in a very quiet and beautifully kept RV park offering all the amenities you could ask for.  I am learning to live one day at a time, and make the most of the time I have. 

Going through this gateway has relieved me of tunnel vision.  Emotionally and physically weary from my teaching job, I came home and crashed. I saw nothing, spoke only when spoken to,  then went to bed  just to get up the next morning hoping I had the energy to get through the day.  Decidedly not a way to live.  Out here in the wide open spaces I can take joy in the people I meet and the diversity everywhere I look.  Who'd a thought it, while walking my dogs at a gas stop we round the back corner and there sits an old man, beard to his waist in full lotus position.  I thought I'd been beamed to India.  I smiled, he smiled then said, "Better watch that pond thar's gators init."  I'm still deciding if those words had any cosmic or karmic meaning.  Yesterday we met a couple who are bicycling across the USA.  Get this, they are volunteering as they go, did you hear me, volunteering!  That is the greatest concept of the week.  Go safely Kristine and Kevin you have definitely inspired me.  Their web site is karmicproliferation.org if you're interested. So you see what a wonderful, diverse place we live in.  What a gateway, ya'll.  and I'm just peering through at the moment.