Mon - 20 Feb/17

Another nice day weather wise! - C.C. of yesterday with less clouds.

Today was just a mess!

Literally!

Today we decided to re-arrange, re-sort and re-pack the "Stuff" that stuffed the RV compartments. this took from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. That is when we decided to call it "Quits" for today.


Now the compartments above the bed are now totally "Stuffed" and will not need to be opened until we arrive back home. Much in there will then be removed as they are items that we bought or Charlotte made for gifts. There is also a decent supply of K-cups in a variety of types and flavours for home use.

 



Charlotte packed the 8 Picnic Placemats into a box. It will have to go outside as it is too large for the upper interior RV compartments.

Then she reorganized her "Sewing Stuff" which freed up 6 containers which will return home when we get back. They are also now in the compartments to above the bed.

The four upper compartments on the Driver's side were also re-arranged. Games have moved from the bedroom to the first pair of cupboards above the kitchen table. Breakfast cereal is also above the table as are Charlotte's PrismaColour Pencil Crayons and Colouring Books. This puts them close to where they will be used.

In the second pair of cupboards above the Sofa (Bed) we placed the materials for Charlotte's Swedish Weaving and Hardcover Books. This is where they will be used. The Pyrex bowl sets (and lids), vegetable steamer and Corning Ware (Bowl w/lid) are also there as the cupboards above the kitchen counter are already full with the everyday cups, glasses and plates. This at least puts the bowls close (across the aisle) to the kitchen workspace. The remaining portion of this pair holds cookies, popcorn, nuts and other treats.

The larger bags of Potato Chips, Ripples, Fritos and Nachos are on the top ledge above the refrigerator and pantry. This area will also hold the fresh bread and bakery items when they arrive.

At 3 p.m. we called it quits for the arranging session even though there is an equal amount still to be done. The remainder of the work (tomorrow?) will involve the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen and outside compartments.

Charlotte then began working on making a pair of the little cosmetic type bags similar (except for colour) to the neat pink one she made a few days ago.

While working we watched random TV. Of note was the TMZ coverage of comments of Donald Trump made during a campaign-style rally held in Melbourne, FL last Saturday. With thousands of supporters gathered in an aircraft hangar, Trump used his speech to talk about migration in Europe and linked it to terror attacks in Brussels, Nice and Paris. He then added Sweden to the list, incorrectly stating that an attack had happened there on Friday.

Trump told supporters: “We’ve got to keep our country safe. You look at what’s happening in Germany, you look at what’s happening last night in Sweden?"

Trump continued; “Sweden, who would believe this? Sweden. They took in large numbers. They’re having problems like they never thought possible. You look at what’s happening in Brussels. You look at what’s happening all over the world. Take a look at Nice. Take a look at Paris.”

In response (since there was no attack) the former Swedish prime minister Carl Bildt tweeted: “Sweden? Terror attack? What has he been smoking? Questions abound.”

Again on Monday (today) morning, Bildt tweeted again: “Last year there were app 50% more murders only in Orlando/Orange in Florida, where Trump spoke the other day, than in all of Sweden. Bad,”

This is right up there with comments made by Kellyanne Conway, one of his senior advisers, who,
at the start of February cited the fictitious “Bowling Green massacre” in an interview backing the "Travel Ban" imposed on visitors from seven Muslim-majority countries.

Will Trump call his own comments (when covered on TV or in the papers) "Fake News" by the "Enemy of the American People" (meaning the Press)?

OK - Rant Over!

(I'm sorry - I just couldn't resist)

Just the regular Monday Night TV to end the day.

Sun - 19 Feb/17

The sun will be breaking through the clouds today. It will probably actually get above 80 F today as promised (yesterday - same promise - different result).

We finally made our decision about next year! We will not be reserving an RV site. That doesn't mean we will not be coming - it just means we will not be reserving ahead of time. The rules changed last year. A 3 month (or more) reservation requires a 1 month deposit (non-refundable without a doctor's note) and the remaining 2 months had to be paid on arrival. We are at the stage of life whereby we no longer make long range (more than a day away) plans and "cast them in stone". We are no longer invincible!

There is a waiting list at OMS for sites in Jan/Feb/Mar; however we probably will come next year (anytime) from November onward. There is a good chance sites will be available for Nov/Dec. At least we won't have to worry about a reservation next year. We will come when we can (if we can). We will be "Playing it by Ear".

We will go home in a month when our reservation (here) is up. Instead of returning in a week or so and staying until May we will remain at home.  We will probably go somewhere in the summer (maybe get to the 6 contiguous U.S. states or the one province (NL) we haven't been to yet?). Next year we may come in early (Nov) and return for Christmas (while leaving the RV in storage at OMS). After Christmas we then would return and then go to LA/TX/CA/AZ/NV (any or all)? for the last 3 months.

Our road trip for today was to The Villages. This is the last day for the Craft Festival at Lake Sumter Landing. There were over 200 Artisans assembled on the roads around the main square. Several thousand folks were there to shop the festival booths. I tend to think many were from The Villages as almost all the parking spots around the square were occupied by Golf Carts Cars (That's what they call them here).

It streets were totally packed!

Charlotte had a hard time deciding on the cat pictures at this booth. She finally went for the one with the glasses.

There were plenty of opportunities to snack. There were dips ... (food – not people – grin)

...Balsamic Infusions

...Cream Cheese mixes, etc., etc.

Then we came upon the Jon Jahraus booth. Jon has created numerous (and humourous) black and white cartoons depicting events that make up the human condition.

Our first step was to pick a cartoon. This was not an easy decision - it's like choosing wallpaper - there were so many great cartoons to choose from!

Jon then personalized our cartoon choice. He recorded our answers on his basic questionnaire form.

Next he masterfully (and quickly) colourizes the cartoon. He then  cleverly incorporated the information we provided onto the cartoon.

The cartoon quickly proceeded towards completion as we watched! Soon it was done! Then it was matted and framed.

...and "Voila!" We were now in possession of a unique, one of a kind creation that will become a "Forever" memory.

Jon made the whole procedure such a pleasure. It was a memorable and fun experience!

Moving on to the Lake Sumter Landing Dock we purchased tickets and within a few minutes were on a cruise of the lake. We have done this previously. I thought it would give us some relief after all the walking (a few hours) in the mid-afternoon heat (mid-80's F and sunny).

The trip lasted less than 30 minutes. It was informative (Lake Sumter History) as well as being quite humourous. (courtesy of the 1st. Mate and Tour Narrator).

After being rejuvenated by the cruise we continued along the "Dock Walk" (it rhymes - grin) to Cody's "Original" Roadhouse for lunch.

This was our first time at Cody's. It is huge and always "packed" and now we know why! Great Food and Great Prices will do it every time!

We enjoyed the weather by returning to the motorhome on the "Back Roads" (with the top off the Del Sol). An extra treat was getting a whiff of Orange Blossoms in the air - that has to be the world's greatest olfactory experience!

I thought I'd end today's blog with a linguistic flourish (grin).

Sat - 18 Feb/17

Back to dull weather. It was supposed to get into the mid-80's F today; however lucky if it got above 70 F because of the cloud cover.

This morning I removed the compartment door and installed the TV amp. It was a spider's web of about a dozen cables. It took a bit to sort them out and route the wiring. There appeared to be an improvement in the picture although the signal still fluctuates. I think the signal disruption is the caused by the airport directly behind the RV park (on other side of Lake Pearl).

Tomorrow I will have to find room in the outside storage compartments for "Stuff" both acquired for gifts or no longer needed inside the motorhome. That'll be fun!

There were 2 car shows on today; however we decided to pass because of the cloudy and cool weather and occasional light rainfall.

Our road trip today had the Ocala Camping World (which is actually in Summerfield, FL) as our first destination. I don't know if it was the weather; but I have never seen so many folks shopping at any Camping World (anywhere, anytime). Camping World had an overflow of RV's of every type available on display.

The primary purpose of our visit was to buy "Cafeteria" trays to be used when we attend "Pot Luck" dinners. The compartments make it easier to "Load" several selections. (There are always so many tempting choices to make - grin) onto the plate. We bought 5 - one of each colour available.

Note: "Colour" is the correct Canadian spelling (like harbour, etc., - please do me a "favour" and enjoy the "humour". Canadians try to personalize these words by putting "u" into the spelling even if it is a little "off center".

While cruising the aisles in case there happened to be something ..."We didn't know we needed", I noticed a couple (from Jacksonville, FL) checking out the sewage "Dump" hoses. As usual, I offered my unsolicited opinion (grin). I suggested they consider "The Sewer Solution" instead of the usual sewer hoses and kits. This is what I have used for our RV from "Day One" (in 2004). In my biased opinion this is the best solution available.

I explained the finer points:

     - easier to use and store
     - breaks up sewage with a water jet
     - self-cleaning (and doesn't stink)

etc., etc. (ad nauseam)

Actually, their approach to RVing, was very intelligent and quite refreshing. They are planning on buying a 5th Wheel Camper; however they are really "Doing their Homework" first. They are actually camping at a KOA in a tent. There they are seeking advice from RVers on every facet of RVing, such as:

     - what they like or dislike about their RV
     - what accessories to buy

etc., etc.

(REALLY SMART!, EH!) (The "Eh! is Canadian for - RIGHT ...and you must nod agreement!) (another grin)

I then rejoined Charlotte and found a few of mt own "didn't know we needed" items to add to her likewise items.

Now it was "Morris Time". You know, as in "Din-Din Morris" - OK - that comment was a bit "Catty!" (groan). (Did you remember that commercial?)

On leaving Camping World Charlotte thought I was taking a different road back to the RV park; however I was headed to the "Eaton's Beach Sandbar and Grill " on Lake Weir in Weirsdale, FL.

There are actually several choices (checkout the sign) in the same establishment.

We decide on staying upstairs on the large indoor deck for the "Louisiana-Style" cooking.

We were able to get a "Window Seat" (for the view).

Charlotte's Bloody Mary was a meal in itself. It had the usual celery stalk as well as an olive, a lime slice, a lemon slice and a pepperoni stick.

 We ordered two items to share:

     - Bayou Fondeuax (Menu spelling - not mine)...smoked crayfish and catfish in warm goat cheese dip w/tortilla chips.
     - Andouille Po-Boy...Andouille (sausage) w/peppers and onions on a French Roll w/lettuce, tomato and house remoulade served w/shoestring fries and cole slaw.

We know enough to share and although we hoped to have room for dessert - no such luck!

After the great meal we left to return to the RV Park (OMS = Olde Mill Stream RV Resort). On the way out the popularity of this restaurant was evident. The 3 parking areas at the restaurant were full and so was the "Overflow" lot a block away!

Our last stop was at the Family Dollar in the shopping plaza across from OMS. I wanted a short TV cable. Then it happened again. Another case of TWDKWN struck without warning. (TWDKWN = Things We Didn't Know We Needed!").

Charlotte picked up 3 more of the large mugs she likes using for her coffee. She also picked up 4 cutlery place settings for the Picnic Placemats she recently made as gifts. I also picked up a bag of Mini-Snickers in case I have of a "Chocolate Fit".

A few minutes later we were back at the RV and unpacked. We watched TV for about an hour before walking to tonight's show, “One More Time”,  in the Rec Hall.

We had the pleasure of sitting with a lovely couple from Erie, PA. They have been coming to OMS twice as long as we have. We = 4 years...you do the math (grin).

One More Time, Larry and Melissa Beahm, are a Musical/Comedy Duo who have been travelling the RV park and 55+ communities entertaining boomers and seniors with upbeat, happy and funny show tunes, standards, novelty songs and top pop hits from the ‘20s through the ‘70's.

Tonight, their several costume changes ranged from depicting Groucho Marx to Sonny and Cher.

Larry sings and plays keyboard with the best of them.  He has performed for and with people ranging from Johnny Cash to .38 Special. Tonight all the drums, bass, and other orchestrations we heard accompanying their performance were recorded by Larry (not store-bought karaoke!)

Melissa, on the other hand, attended the music program at Mansfield University in Mansfield, PA, graduating with the coveted Janice Baker Award for Outstanding Vocalist and a bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy. This excellence was evident in her vocals.

The show was most enjoyable and entertaining.

It rained (at some time) during the show as made evident by the puddles on the road; although it was now dry on our walk back to the motorhome.

"On and Off" light rainfall later occurred throughout the evening.

Rain on the roof is always a good way to "Nod Off" and end a busy day.

TTFN! (Ta-Ta For Now)

 

Fri - 17 Feb/17

Charlotte and I were on the road before 9 a.m. This would be a day with many stops.

Our first stop was at the office to pick up tickets for tomorrow nights show "One More Time" in the Rec Hall tomorrow night at 7 p.m. I also picked up a list of available lots for rental at OMS for next year. We will check them out being we were "Bumped" from our lot earlier this week.

The next stop was for an appointment at Sew What? in Umatilla, FL to use the Long Arm Quilting Machine. We arrived exactly on time at 9 a.m. (A new experience - grin)

Norlina was super helpful and soon Charlotte was set up to sew. Step One: The quilt bottom ends are pinned at both ends to rollers that tension the material.

Step Two: The batting is then place over the bottom of the quilt and pinned to it in only a few spots.

 

Step Three: The quilt top is then placed and aligned over both.

 

 

Step Four: Get the Long Arm Quilting Machine in position.

 

 

 

Step Five: Guide the Long Arm Quilter and Stitch - in Freeform - any pattern you wish!

 

 

Great Job on the Cat Quilt! It was completed in a little over an hour. I'm sure the cats will like it.

 

 

It will go on the bed in the Sewing Room.

 

 

Our next stop was Jo-Ann Fabrics in Tavares, FL to pick up "Heat N Bond". Charlotte wanted to replace a piece another crafter lent her yesterday. Charlotte's material was bondable only on one side and a two sided bond was needed. Mission Accomplished.

 

 

Then we were off on Hwy. US-441 to Home Depot in Leesburg, FL. I wanted to get a UHF/VHF Amplifier to see if I could improve TV reception. They didn't have the type I wanted; however I did save a planned trip to Radio Shack by picking up a UHF/Lightning connector for my iPhone. This will replace the one that has started to fail.(Caused problems last night trying to connect the computer to the iPhone).

 

 

Our next stop, still on Hwy. US-441 in Leesburg, was Rural King. 

 

 

This store was huge - even larger than a Walmart SuperCenter.

 

 

I picked up a reflective safety jacket.

 

A few more blocks down US-441 and we were at Harbor Freight.

 

 

There I bought a set of screwdrivers for the car and Charlotte got a plastic container box. Using coupons I received by email we each picked up a free 25' Tape Measure and 20% off our purchases.

 

Again, on US-441, (on the same side and across the road from Harbor Freight) we arrived at the Leesburg Walmart.

 

Like Home Depot, they did not have the TV signal amplifier I wanted. This item appeared as an online item for these stores; however it appears that it is not stocked in the stores. To ease the pain of the disappointment we walked the aisles (grin).

Charlotte found zippers, "Fats Quarters" and other items so she can make more of the really cute utility pouches she just finished yesterday. We also picked up other items we didn't think we needed.

At the checkout I spotted some PEZ collectibles and phoned (while in line) (daughter) Liz (the PEZ Collector) at her office.

I named items available. Some she already had (a big collector - eh!); however I was able to pick up:

 

 

Peanuts

 

 

Dory

 

and

 

 

WWE

 

Collectibles.

 

Then, still along US-44, we reversed direction and headed back towards OMS; however we were not done with our stops.

 

 

I pulled into Lowe's and was able to purchase a TV amp. It is not the one I wanted; but I can return it if it does not work to my satisfaction.

 

 

By now it was time for "Chow". Just a short distance, again on US-441, was lunch at Ichiban (Japanese/Chinese?) Buffet. This is our favourite Oriental buffet in this area. As usual, we left stuffed.

We arrived back at OMS by late afternoon. After unpacking everything we took the available lot list I picked up this morning and spent the next hour driving around and checking out the available rental sites for next year.

 

We made a tentative list of choices based on lot size, location, orientation and trees. We prefer being in the area with trees rather than in the complete open. The long term renters have made their choice. Those renting for 3 months will be able to make their choice starting at 8:30 a.m. on this coming Monday. Only 15% of the lots are available for rental. Rentals will be on a "First Come - First Served" basis. We heard that some folks lined up at 5:30 a.m. for the 6 month rentals last week.

We have picked (a few) lots we like from those available and put them in a priority arrangement. We probably will go over everything again tomorrow and finalize the choices. There are only a few of the 15% available that we really want. It will still be a "Crap Shoot" on Monday. If someone in line before us picks our choice we will be out of luck.

Since all the other lots available are equally undesirable for us we may not reserve for next year at all? We may take a chance on something becoming available next year. Every year there are a few that cannot return for various reasons. That decision is still to be made.

Again, just a TV evening. That's it for today.