Monday, January 10, 2011

PARIDISE COVE LUAU

Enjoying the luau.

Juju arriving at the luau.


Look close and see the submarine in the distance.


Juju doing what she does best.


Hula Dancers

Friday, January 7, 2011

ALOHA

                                        
                                                   
                                                    BEACH IN FRONT OF OUR CONDO


                                       

NORTH SHORE
    

DOLE PLANTATION

      

                                                      SUN SET FROM OUR LANAI

      

                                                               ARIZONA MEMORIAL

      
Juju goes to Hawaii. Yep we landed in paradise Dec. 30th our 41st anniversary. So far we have been to the north shore, pipeline, Pearl Harbor, Dole plantation, Waikiki, Diamond Head, drove to the end of the road hwy.  Lots of sightseeing.  Hanging out on the beach and being mesmerised by the awesome sunsets.  Also having a total wipe out with the rough surf. 
We watched the surfers on the pipeline trying to catch the perfect wave. The waves 12 to 15 feet.  The surfers flew through the air like birds, dancing on the waves, showing off their skilled acrobatics. The crowds on the beach cheer each one on and never disappointed with their talents.
Pearl Harbor is not just a Memorial it is a cemetery. As you pay your respects you can't help but notice how some people are disrespectful. It is so difficult to understand the magnitude of destruction. A normal Sunday morning not knowing all Hell will break loose.  All Americans knows the history of December 7th the day that will live in infamy. We have sent many men and women to the front lines of harms way.  I wonder if I am appreciating the life that the soldiers are so willing to sacrifice for me.  The privileges of freedom a selfless act of a true solider.  
The Dole plantation is in the midst of paradise and one might think you have arrived in the Garden of Eden. So many tropical plants, the perfume of the flowers give your scents a relaxation of a true night slumber. We shared a pineapple float and fresh pineapple slices fresh from the field. Sweet, juicy, and just plan delicious. OMG to die for. The world being so mobile we are able to get the same tasty treat at your local Kroger's, Safeway. You should have a serving of fruit everyday.
Waikiki is a very busy tourist town. We drove the Hawaii's version of the Rodeo drive. The Gucci's, Coach, Ralph Lauren, etc. everything you would want. We just kept on driving.  No need to let someone get rich from my money. The best about Waikiki I can say is been there done that!!!!
We drove the north shore of the island and ate at one of the local lunch wagons. Harry got the shrimp scampi and I got the spicy shrimp.  Yummy but oh so very very hot.  Yep almost to hot for me. A tourist from Japan got the same plate as I and his first bite brought tears to his eyes, and the surprise on his face was totally worth the drive over to the beach.  Priceless!!!
Diamond head a very long hike and lots of stairs to climb. The view from the top is truly spectacular. Too bad I could not take the climb.  I know I have a new knee, but it does give out on 3 sets of 90 plus steps.
Lets talk beach. Your feet sink into the light sand. Trying to walk is fun but you can loose your footing. This being winter for Hawaii the waves are huge and fierce.  I had such a wipe out in the water. I have decide to plant my butt on the sandy shore and soak in the Hawaiian rays.  Much safer than the water. Harry being a good swimmer he has a little difficulty.  More fun watching the locals surfers and the children play. At sunset the residents of the condo gather to say farewell to the days end and in Hawaiian tradition of blowing the conch shells. A true Hawaiian art.
We still have much more to do and see. I shall update again.
Be safe.
Juju

Saturday, December 18, 2010

December 18th


Nick Suites Pool Side



The Family


The Train to Hogwart


Harry, Cody, Homer and Marge


Cody in one of the Pool Games
                                        
                                       

Cody getting slimmed


Hogwart Castle
Good morning!!! How is everyone this chilly Saturday morning. Dec 18th just 7 days till that jolly ole fat mans long anticipated visit. Having checked his list twice and found out who's been naughty and nice. Gathers his reindeer's with Rudolf in the lead he shouts on Dancer on Prancer, Donner, and Vixen with speed of light he has begun his annual trip around the world.   All the children snug in their bed and deep in slumber will soon awake with anticipation that Saint Nick visited them during their long winters nap. 

A few short weeks back our family made a trip to Orlando FL. An early Christmas gift to one another. The girls, Harry and I still enjoy that ties that binds our family. We have so very much stuff  that we enjoy our family vacation and time chillin as a family.
However Cody and Ryan will still find those long wished presents.
We flew out of Intercontinental airport. We boarded a 50 seat  plane. I believe sardines had more room. Well to my surprise the flight was very good. Nice and smooth take off and landing. The flight attendants generous with the peanuts and pretzels.  All was good.
We landed in Memphis then on to the next plane a lot larger and of course full. We're off once again to the wild blue yonder next destination Orlando FL. Another smooth landing we hailed a cab and on our way to the Nickelodeon Suites.  This place is awesome so family friendly. The resort has thought of everything to make your stay great. Just souper dooper!! We had a two bedroom suite, a small kitchen, living room. There is a mini mall, for your convenience, with a hamburger, pizza, subway, and a coffee and sweet treat fast foods to satisfy your picky eaters.  Then they have a nice restaurant, you may order off the menu or choose the nightly buffet.  Every morning is a Breakfast buffet. Absolutely no need for anyone to go away hungry.
During the week we stayed the many activities included Nick Live poolside, casting, Mass Slimming, Meet the many nick character , such as Dora the explore, Sponge Bob, Krabby Patty, Sandy Cheeks, so many more kids favorites. In the evenings they celebrate winter in park with Let it Snow poolside then soar down a 55 foot long ice slide, splash in the pool, snack on tasty holiday treats, warm coco, snowflake cookies, popcorn. Enjoying all with large snowflakes fall from the tropical Florida skies. Then head indoors to warm up to a family game of Slime time live, or family karaoke. No way should you go home rested. As the clock ticks trust me there is always something going on. Maureen, Lisa and the boys were selected to be on the family Slime time live. You competed with another family answering nick trivia. The team winning would get slimmed.  They did not win but Cody was able to hit one of his team with a pie in the face. He picked his Aunt Lisa and yes he smashed her in the face with a large whipped cream pie. I just wonder what Aunt Lisa will get Cody for Christmas.
Monday we spent the day at Islands of Adventure, had breakfast at Harry Potter's Broomstick pub. You could choose the traditional American Breakfast, pancake breakfast or the English Breakfast, smoked salmon, Canadian bacon, pumpkin juice, blood pudding muggles eggs. After a hearty breakfast off to Hogwarts school. As we walked to wait our short time of 75 minutes to take our turn on number 9 1/2 train. The highlight of our much anticipated ride was all we hoped it would be, thrilling and exciting. To share such fun with our children and grand children as they say priceless. Afterward we wanted to roam the land of Harry's world. We shopped the many specialties boutiques,  Gladrags, Wizardly clothing, J Pippins, potions, the Cauldrons shop. Then it was time for some refreshments a large glass of butterbeer, or pumpkin juice. Don't turn your nose up; very tasty. Butterbeer is cream soda with butterscocth schnapps. Pumpkin juice is just that a sweet pumpkin nectar. Made a quick stop at the Owl post to mail our post cards. The Land of Harry Potter making it's debut in June is very crowded with so many mugglers anxious to experience Harry's world you need to expect long waits in line. I will say once you are there it is very worth it.  I know I will go back. When the went to the Jurassic Park ride a short 30 minutes wait this is a water boat ride as we began to board the boat the skies opened with a down pour of heavy rain. We continue on the ride we were drenched but just the perfect mood setting for the ride.  Tuesday we hung out again at the nick resorts. We rented a cabana and again chilled around the pool. Enjoying the Florida sun, swimming, and just snoozing poolside sweet.  Wed. we were back to Universal studios. This side of the park not as crowded. We rode all the rides E T, Jaws, Frank Kincaid master of mayhem disaster studios.  I was cast as a grandma in a very very short production. My film career short lived but I did bring in the box office hits.
Off to Dr Seuss land and Shriek adventure. We closed the parked. We decide to our dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe. Food is OK and musics way to loud but the boys had such fun.       
Thursday came all to fast and time for us to head home where did the week go. Made our flights home safely and being that it was Thanksgiving we choose Kelly's restaurant for traditionally holiday dinner. If you must eat out Kelly's is the closest to home cooking as you can get.
Well that's all I got to say about that.
If I don't get a chance to blog before Christmas, I would like to wish all a very Merry Christmas and very safe Holiday Season.
XOXOXOXO
Juju

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Just a Quickie

Hey guys just thought I would give you a Quickie.  Been a little busy and I have neglected my post.  As we know anticipation makes the waiting so worth it.
First we had some such a nice surprise.  Marty and Duff came into town and spent a week with us.  We meet them at Farragut this past summer and we quickly became friends.  Harry and Duff  both have the love of ice cream. With that said you get the picture. They were heading to the valley for the winter.  They are from Iowa and they did not want to spend another snowy winter in the corn belt. 
Harry and I put on our tour guide hat, and had a lot of fun showing them the highlights of Galveston County.  We drove them out to Brazos Bend state park and walked around the five mile lake scrawling for the famous alligators. As the sun warm the afternoon we began to spot several of them enjoying sun bathing.  The park is only an hour drives from T C. Once you are there and set up you will have such a good time.  On Saturdays the park has an observatory and many amateurs bring out their telescope and share with the public. Now the park has three huge power telescopes and you are welcome to view our amazing solar system. Folks this truly will melt  away any stress you may have to gaze upon our heavens.  Give yourself that inner peace and you will look forward to the Monday blues.
The park has it share of critters and when the sun begins to fade you see the fat racoon's inching every so slowly toward your camp site scavenger from crumbs. The many herds of deer heading to their resting spot for the night to bed down. The squirrels scurrying to their nest high in the tree tops. You know it's time to gather your family and friends for a nice warm camp fire.  Oh the many tall tales
you share, and outrageous stories that will always be place in the memories. As they say priceless.  Enjoy our parks, have a picnic, take a short hike on the many trails, go fishing, a nap is always sweet. Just do it you will be glad you did.
The four us enjoyed the day in Galveston walking the strand, and you cannot past La Kings and old time soda parlor, candies you will  want to try  each flavor from hard candy to soft fudge.  Candy cigarettes to pop rocks, and oh the taffy. After eating your salt water taffy no place better than a lazy walk on the beach. With the gulf spray you and waves dancing at your feet. Yep again no stress. Just the simple pleasure of life.
The next day the Kemah boardwalk. We were very fortunate to get a good parking spot. As the locals will tell you get there early or be prepared to walk and walk and walk. We wandered through the amusement park being old farts just could not muster any rides.
We also strolled the waterways watched the speed boats and the pesky seagulls scoop generous crumbs from the people.
Before you know the week had end and our friends pulled out of Dickinson and headed to Brownsville.  They arrived safe and Marty in her gown and Duff in his kerchief they have settled in for a long winter's nap.
I do have much more to chat with you.  However this is my day off and like most working girls I have errands to do. I do want to chat with you about our fun trip to Orlando FL.  We had such a great time.  Also my dear friend Deb thanks so much to continue to spoil me with your homemade Texas trash, may be made in Oregon but still has that Texas thang. Harry and I had our traditional Christmas dinner with Kerrie and Rogers. A bottle of wine and grilled steaks tender enough to cut with a fork.   Kerrie always amazes me with her unique Christmas gifts.
Love to all, and to all have a safe Christmas.

Hmmm I lied about the quickie. Now you know why Hartley always
smiles.  
xoxoxox
Juju

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Sunday Nov.7

Never guess what I have done.  Well I went to work.  Yep you read right.  I got dressed one morning went to our local Mall filled out an application and Wa La I got a job.  I am now part time employed with Palais Royal.  I work about 13 hours a week. Now I am not sure what I may have gotten myself into.  First people just don't make a purchase. You can purchase gift cards, gift receipt, pay on your accounts, then you have coupons, and  exchange items. The list is endless and of course there is a function key for everything.  Which means Juju is working with a computer.  Oh ya we all know about Juju and the great world of computers. You ask why am I working?  Very simple I get to play dress up.  I have a wardrobe of clothes, shoes and lots bejewels that dazzle me. [Harry after working many long shut downs some 45 to 66 days in a row he would always surprise me with a new piece of jewelry]  he has spoiled me.  I am seeing and chatting with friends I have not seen in such a long time. It is true I don't need to work and be assure my salary is certainly not for the money. I have something to look forward to.  We  do know I have an attitude and I am not afraid to use it.  Shop at your own risk, better still come and lets chat.  LOL
 I shall let you know how this works out for me.

A few weeks back me and two of my sister we went to New Orleans, oh yes the Big Easy, the Crescent City, don't matter how you say it Naw Leans is a blast. We had beignets at Cafe' Du Monde,  soft shell crabs, gumbo, fried green tomato's at K Paul's  and BBQ shrimp and banana foster at the Court of Two Sisters.  Hurricanes,  Cyclone,  Bloody Mary's,  dancing,  singing, at Pat O Brien's. We walked the quarter,  Jackson square,  downtown,  river front and Jax Brewery Mall. The many sights we saw on Bourbon, Royal, St Charles. The quarter is again alive and waiting to entertain you. Jazz band marching down the streets, artist, and street mimes all the flavor you expect from the city. Our hotel was Mason Dupry on Toulouse in a word gorgeous. Cocktail hour in the courtyard and platters of appetizers to get you started.  We had lunch at Willie Mae's Scotch House.  She's been on the food network, Emerill's,  and Diner, Drive in and Dives.  This family is famous for their fried chicken.  You will not be disappointed. The food is served family style and hot from  the kitchen.  Believe me you will have to wait in line so get there early, visit with the locals and the many visitors waiting to get in, be patient you will not be sorry. They close at 3:00 P M so you snooze you will loose.  We are planning another trip early spring going to San Antonio and enjoy the river walk. Who knows you may find the sassy sister in a town near you.  We are girls that wanta have fun, love that song!!!
My hubby while I was having fun in New Orleans was busy planning a special trip for us. We will celebrate 41 years this Dec.  So Harry booked a two week trip for in Hawaii. Yep he did.  We had talked a little about going but I never gave it much more thought. Well my man said oh yes baby I am taking you.  We will be there for our 41st anniversary, new years eve and Harry's 64th birthday. We have a condo on the beach. Very romantic sunsets with a glass of wine.
Speaking of vacation our girls and grandsons and us will be flying to Orlando FL. in a few weeks during Thanksgiving break.  We are big Harry Potter fans, read the books, seen the movies. Now it is time to enjoy the new theme park at Universal Studios.  Yes us muggles will hop on the flying train at the 9 1/2 terminal to Hogwraths School. We shall get our lesson in witch craft and wizardly.  You can only guess what spell I am going to learn hmmm!!  Your right I want to be tall and have good feet so I can wear high heals. 
 
So excited to share this with you. Last Sunday my grandson Cody was baptised.  He has been asking lots of questions about Church, and Jesus. He actually was inspired this past summer during Vacation Bible School. Also my nephew Drake he was baptised the same morning him and Cody being cousin just made Sunday such a blessing.  Many aunts, uncle, granny's and grandpa's were beaming with pride.  That little light was shinning. 

Now that I have bored you with my bragging. I shall say good night,
be safe and don't forget to smile.

xoxoxoxox

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Good Morning again.  I know two days in a row.  Cover your head the sky is falling, the sky is falling.  I always liked Chicken Little.
We did vote yesterday. Of course you are swamped by all the solicitors wanting to get your vote for their candidates. As you approach the precinct the first thing you notice is all the signs for candidates. Amazing the amount of money each person spends on their campaign. You got the TV ads, billboards, flyer's they put on your car windshield while your in Wal Mart.  All of them have the promise to do what is good for you and our country. I truly wish that was true.  I am still waiting for that perfect candidate.  You are right what am I thinking. Do go out and vote for the politician of your choice they are counting on your vote. Then you can have something to talk about.
Sunday evening we met some friends at Chili's.  They are full time RVers.  They have spent most of the year on the east and mid west.
On the first of November they head to CA. They have a son and daughter n law that have 6 months of sea duty for our beloved Navy.  Mary and Lannie will babysit for their grandchildren. Such a sacrifice for both families. Let's continue to keep our brave military in our prays.
Last night on PBS was a great documentary about Galveston Island.
A two hour program on the history of the island from the days of pirates, through hurricanes, gambling, and the famous red light district. So much information and very informative. Being a BOI
[born on the island] I was very happy to continue my education. Many facts and myths were answered. I know many of the people who talked about the island. The passion they have for their island truly is heard through the many fond memories they shared. I too have many. I can suggest the island is a good place to vacation. There is many hotels from 5 star to fit the most limited budget. The waters are not always blue only because of the Mississippi rivers churns the gulf waters.
Don't let that stop you enjoying a stroll on the seawall or a much needed refreshing swim on a hot Texas summer day. The strand district has so many fun shops to browse and many unique island souvenirs to remind you of vacation. Benches to people watch and  sip a cool drink "don't worry be happy".  
Then there is the awesome and many restaurants. You have abundant choices. Seafood is the most popular and never a short supply to please your palate.  Italian, Mexican, Cajun, Chinese. A few of my favorites, Rudy T &  Paco, Fisherman's Wharf,  Shrimp n' Stuff,  Mario's on the seawall for Italian,  Di Bella's Italian, Queens BBQ,  Sonny's Place.
The Grand 1894 Opera House a variety of plays,  Tuna Christmas, Menopause, River Dance,  comedians,  Jackie Mason,  music The  Lyle Lovett, Glen Campbell.  Again something to please all.
Lots of interesting homes to tour, Ashton Village,  Bishop Palace, Moody Mansion.  Don't forget the many festivals,  Mardi Gras, Dickens on the Strand, Moody Gardens.  So come to Galveston, as you come across the causeway shed your tie, loose the heels, relax Island style. You deserve a mini vacation.
Hmmm maybe next time I can give you info about the Mainland.
Be safe xoxoxo
Juju

Monday, October 18, 2010

Oct 18.2010

I suppose you think I have forgotten about updating the blog.  Sad to say I have been lazy. No excuse. This being a Monday morning let me begin with my week agenda.  Early voting is on my must to do today. Harry has lodge tonight and they have dinner first. Which means family is invited for the dinner. Tuesday night is Ryan's football game.  Wednesday First Baptist Church has family supper night.  Early Thursday morning me and two of my sisters fly to the Big Easy, the Crescent City, yep we will have a couple days in the fab city of New Orleans. May be a short trip but we (the sassy sisters) are not a force to be reckoned with. They just think Katrina was devastating.
We shall walk Bourbon, Royal and Canal streets, the French Quarter. Fresh beienets and strong chicory coffee at the famous Cafe Du Monde. Sitting and people watching in Jackson square. Stroll the streets with a Pat O'Brien's Hurricane. Listening to jazz of Pete Fountain, and Al Hurt. Then we have Harrahs casino were Mardi Gras is everyday and beads thrown like pennies from heaven. The night life Laissez les bon temp reoule, let the good times roll. 
Saturday upon my return I must rush to the Masonic lodge.  Harry will be honored with his 40 year pin. He joined the Masons at the young age of 24. He does not like to brag so I shall do the honors. He has been Worshipful Master of the Lodge, District Deputy, District Instructor,  received the Golden trowel award and holds an "A" certificate in the work.
These accomplishment are achieved by dedication with many hours of hard work and studying. Along our many travels he has a goal of visiting a lodge in each state. He is true to his word with 10 visit under his belt.
We have been enjoying are grandsons. Cody has a smooth scam, he likes to call me and says he needs to be spoiled. His brother and mother just does not understand him. I of course can't resist his plea's, go get him and wa la the spoiling begins. He has been told about Hershey PA. and now is planning summer vacation for us. Ryan hearing about this and stated he is interested in going. Which could not please me more. My 13 year old wants to hang out with his grandparents. How cool is that. Sunday we attend church and afterwards we have Sunday lunch, watch the football games. Just old fashion family day. Cody shall be baptised Oct. 31. He made his confession of faith a few Sundays back. Now that is what I call a true blessing of a treat. A wonderful early birthday gift for Maureen.
We have a plan family vacation in November. Maureen. Ryan and I have read the Harry Potter's series patiently waited the midnight showing of the movies. We are headed to Universal Studios in Orlando Fl. for the Harry Potter theme park. Granny and Papa going to walk a hundred miles, stand in lines forever,  sweat like pigs under the tropical sun of Florida. Life is so sweet and for my family I will be happy to do whatever possible. 
I do have much more to say we know I am never a lost for words. However, I need to start my scratch off on my to do list.  Early voting #1.
Be safe xoxoxox
Juju