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

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 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

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

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

August 24, 2010

Good morning my friends.  Our 6 day drive from Athol ID. to Boerne TX, was so worth the experience.  Even haven driven this route already a couple of times, it truly seems like the first.  From the beautiful mountains to the scorched desert. North Idaho polished and rustic with sophisticated comfort and urban charm. With the great south west having the spicy influence of our native Americans. Driving in the comfort of your car and being able to make stops along the many historic sites learning American history.  The landscape transforms to the many agriculture areas we so depend on for daily food supply.
Fields of bright green corn stalks, the beige of wheat gently swaying in the breeze. Acres of soy beans, oats, pecan groves, peach, apple, and cherry orchards, and fields of brilliant yellow sunflowers. The stalks sturdy and stretching to the sun.  Then we have the small farmers that sell their fruits and veggies on the side of the road. Which by the way is always best fresh from the farm. 
American livestock that graze upon lush green grass. Dairy cows, sheep, cattle, deer, elk, and horse's. Remarkable the dedication of our farmers. They work the soil sun up to sun down, preparing the ground, planting, and harvesting.  Not to mention the many acts of nature that could make or break the growing season. Draught, excessive rain, harsh winds, and prolong winter season of ice and snow. So many unpredictable factors that cause mayhem on our nations food supply.  So have you hugged a farmer today. 
You have heard me whine and complain about the drastic change of climate. The crisp mountain air to the smelting heat. It is like flipping a switch from comfy cool to stifle hot. Need not say anymore.
Time to sign off for today. If I remember next time I will share the many different cuisine.
Be safe xoxoxo
Juju

Texas

We are now in San Antonio. We arrived a day early.  However glad to have the driving behind us.  Our youngest Malissa was so excited to see us. She wanted to take Monday off.  Her and I love shopping, and hanging out. We have a few movies we liked to see, I think we can fit all into our schedule. We shall be here 11 days before we head to Galveston. 
Well that old saying what comes around goes around. Very true, while in Athol I would brag to people back home about the comfortable temp.  Always gave them a smug daily report of the super nice weather conditions. Of course my sarcasms has come back to haunt me.  Temp here in San Antonio is 103. No rain, no cool down, in the near future.  I am now in Hell. We are having to run both AC's our ceiling fan and a box fan. We did get a little lucky with our RV space.  We have a small tree and we get a very late afternoon shade. Gosh being in the shade just cools us down a cool 1 degree.
Looking so forward to taking a dip in cement pond, water temp is a boiling 90. Yes being a Blondie I don't always make good choice.  I REALLY MISS ATHOL IDAHO the high there today is 67.
Would like to share some good RV parks we stopped at along our route.  First stop Dillon MT.  South side RV park I give it a 9. Pull through, super clean, lots of trees, level
sites, laundry rooms, showers, cable TV  with Showtime and HBO. Easy in and easy out. Second stop. Springville  UT.
http://www.eastbayrvpark.com/  I also give the park a 9. This park had a pool, WI-FI, a beauty of a sunset, a good stop for a full days drive. Yes we will go back.  Third stop Sleeping Ute Mountain  R V Park  (970) 565-6544 or 1-800-889-5072.  Again a good park had all you need. This one located on Indian Reservation, complete with a Casino.  Did not get to go and check it out.  That was the day of my vertigo attack. Harry being a sweetheart would not leave me alone.  So sweet how he worries about me. 4th day 229 miles to Rio Rancho NM. we stayed at a KOA been there many times and as always very pricey. They do offer pancakes for morning breakfast. Our favorite is reason for stopping is the Mexican burrito with green chilies, too die for.  Yes we would absolute go outta our way for this burrito. Also I was able to get my green chilies to take home, love Mexican food.
Day 5 was a short drive to Roswell NM to Town and Country RV Park.  Again we have been at this park many times very comfortable plenty room for any size rigs and
accommodations for alien space ship. They do ask that you do not smush their pets, tarantulas. Day 6 leaving Roswell very early Saturday morning leaving behind pleasant temp of 73. We crossed the border into TX and was hit with a heat wave.  We had 6 days on the road and gonna make it home tonight. Kept the wheels rolling till we got to Boerne. A nice surprise Jay and Stella were returning from dinner, great to see them again. They have just returned from a Colorado vacation. Trying to adjust to the heat.  Will have some time to catch up with each travels.
Our boomers RV buddies will have a 10 year annv. party Labor Day weekend. Gonna be a big party.  Lots of happy campers for a 3 day weekend.
OK my friends will chat again soon. 
Be safe xoxoxo
juju