Bug Invasion? More Shopping, Kitchen Gadget Store, Pool on a Hot Day, A Very Special Birthday

On Wednesday, Feb. 27^th I had one important thing on my mind. Unfortunately, waking up at 6:30 isn’t a good time to call back to Ontario (2 hours ahead of us) to wish our youngest grandson a Happy Birthday. Nathan, my son’s only child, turns 9 today. He is a handsome, smart and very tall and slim young fella and would already be at or on his way to school by the time Grandma got her butt out of bed.

Good morning Wednesday

So, after making my tea (knowing I was already too late), I sat and texted Patrick. I wanted him to know that Nathan was at least thought of first thing. A man of few words, especially when he is working, he responded that he would let him know tonight. He suggested a good time for me to call tonight and have a Facetime with the young lad. I just have to remember 2 hours earlier.

And there he is, my youngest grandson
Happy Birthday 9 year old!

I slipped out for a walk and Bill dozed in his chair at 7:30. He was up with Clemson at 4:30 for a piddle and then up for good an hour later, I think. Again, I am so grateful for my sleep habits. We finished our drinks and since our little guy was fast asleep again on the bed, we slipped out and into town. Fry’s was our first stop to pick up the remaining 6 or 8 items there and then on to Wal-Mart for another handful of things.

pretty skies to the north west so I knew the clouds
would move off today

The last stop, just before returning home, was at the AZ Minimall to the Kitchen gadget store. It has another name but that is the name that was suggested to us. It is actually a lot of stores in one area with merely a painted line on the floor separating them. Kind of reminds me of Less Nessman from WKRP. It was indeed a fun store and I’m glad we stopped enabling us both to wander through. Bill found a couple of things and so did I. Some prices were higher than Southwest Exchange but some were lower.

Adding decor to the Event Centre/Office
I think we might have paid for these

Back at home, I was starving so while Bill loaded a propane tank in Black Beauty, I got stuff out for breakfast. He wanted to get right back in before they closed for the noon hour. Off he went and I put things away and would start cooking in half hour, hoping to time it close to his return. You just never know how big the line-ups will be at the propane stops. I changed into my bathing suit in the hopes of securing a lounge chair when I went back to the pool after lunch. Eat and run, yah.

And these critters are starting to appear by the dozens around the front of the park

 Bill wasn’t too long getting propane and by the time my poached eggs on toast was ready, he walked in the door for his. Good timing. After we ate, he shooed me off to the pool, offering to clean up the dirty dishes. I didn’t waste any time, grabbing my pool noodle and setting off. I don’t usually ask Pat to join me since she doesn’t like the sun sitting part BUT she does love the water, so I debated. When I arrived and there were only about 5 sunbathers in attendance, I found a chair and texted her. I could save the lounger beside me if she was coming.

Especially in the games area - yeuch!

Pat replied in the negative which surprised me on this hot day, thinking she would have loved a dip and then she could sit for a bit before heading back. I enjoyed my time there though, and actually got a lot of my book read.

The views from my chair

There ensued a water volleyball game around 2:15 which got noisy but because I’d learned to take ear plugs with me, it didn’t interfere with my reading or dozing one tiny bit. At 2:30 I left the area and it was interesting that all chairs were filled. I’m glad I went early.

Water volleyball
They were having a great time and still left lots of
room for others to swim at the ends

Back home, Rob was sitting out at their site and my sweetie was sitting out at ours, both with their books. He told me that Clemson hadn’t moved off the bed for supper yet so rather than disturb him, I sat and read some more in the shade with Bill. 

What have you got for me Mama Pat?

 At 3:15 he was ready to eat so Bill fed him and we accepted Rob’s invite to Happy Hour today. That is the kind of day we had, warm even in the shade at 78F. I wanted to Facetime with Nathan at 7 so at 5 settled myself on my laptop.

Clemson likes Happy Hours at Rob and Pats

Patrick, my son, was later getting home from work so things were set back a bit and the video call was placed at 5:45. It was nice to see Patrick’s face and then Nate’s. He was involved in his new present, Bumblebee the transformer car. I, at least, knew who that was! Sometimes they talk about things we know nothing about but I was on the ball with this one! It was a very cool toy and I understand his excitement to have it after seeing the movie.

Another early morning picture of the promising sky
The sky cleared right on time around 10 am

For supper, it was simple, with just loaded bacon cheeseburgers and a piece of cake for dessert. This cake goes on my ‘favourite’s’ list since other than cheesecake, I’m not a cake lover. I took a couple of pieces over to Rob and Pat for their dessert as we’ll need help eating it. Dishes didn’t take long to clean up and I worked on my blog post. With only a day left here, Bill went out to put some fresh water in our tank for Friday’s travel day. We’ll be ‘on the road’ Friday night at a Walmart.

I do love the sunbursts

The rest of the evening was with our books and in front of the tv. My crochet project is in the final stages so I may leave it alone tonight. This has been a wonderful day, I’m happy to get a couple of pool days in before we leave. I hope you are also enjoying this fantastic weather.

Thank you for your visit.

Los Algodones – Last Trip for Me, New Cake Recipe, Happy Birthday, Buddy!

I woke early on Tuesday, Feb. 26^th and noticed that Bill was up and lights were on downstairs. It wasn’t even 5 am yet but all he was doing was turning the heater on low and turning the hot water heater on. We had a busy morning and time was of the essence. Bill came back to bed until 6:30 when we got up together. Clemson remained where he was, snug under the covers.

Well, now isn't that pretty?

I skipped my morning walk, instead reading blogs then hopping in the shower first, before having my tea. Our Canada Pension Plan deposits arrived in the bank overnight so Bill worked on our banking. He had his shower after me and we each had a piece of toast with jam for breakfast. I finally finished the Aljoe’s homemade rhubarb strawberry jam. I made it last as long as I could and later returned the empty jar.

Mexican workers hard at it in the field

Bill and I left in Black Beauty at 8:10 for Los Algodones but took a detour first of our own choosing. We stopped at CVS and withdrew some spending $ to take care of a few things today. When we arrived at the border and parked in the $6 lot, we walked first to the Yellow Courtyard (my own name for it). I wanted to choose something kind of ‘perfect’ for our buddy. Pat was celebrating a birthday today and this was the perfect opportunity to find something special. Usually we are all together in Mexico which poses a problem when trying to surprise someone.

Green and purple vegetation
Must be lettuce

After I found it, It kind of jumped out at me once I started looking, we each got a 10-minute haircut. Bill’s cost $4 + tip and mine $5 + tip. It doesn’t matter that I only wanted an inch trimmed on my hair but what does matter is that the $5 sure beats the $18-$20 I’d pay back home for the same cut. We were both happy and made it to Dr. Eva Urena’s office by 9:25 for Bill’s appointment at 9:30. Rob and Pat were already there, he had an 8:30 appointment. They were out of there by 9:45.

Yesterday I began 'the cake'
It is a Tres de Leche (3 milk cake)
We first tasted one at Ridgeview RV Park and loved it

Step 2 was to pour and soak it in the 3 milk blend
filling holes and cracks - LOTS of liquid

And when cooled, mix the topping and ice

It was unfortunate for Bill that Dr. Urena had just returned yesterday from a week’s vacation. Unfortunate because, she had so many patients that it put her an hour behind schedule. We hadn’t counted on that but at the same time, we were happy that we took care of the shopping and hair cuts pre-appointment. I waited inside the office with Bill until just after 10 and then took my book outside and read in the sun on her beautiful courtyard patio. He will have to return with Rob on Thursday for the final work. Almost done for this year!

another picture of Dr. Urena's outdoor waiting area

Finally, around 11 Bill came out and we walked back to the Purple Pharmacy where I bought some more shingles medication ($7.99/50) and Omega 3 capsules ($5.44/60!). With a quick price check in the Liquor store side of the Purple store, we got in the 'busy enough' line to cross back into the U.S. It was 11:30. We chatted with other travelers from Oakville, Ontario and the wait time moved much quicker. 

I picked up 2 more bottles of Shingles meds and when we discovered 60
capsules were so cheap, I bought 2 Omega 3's
Bill and I both take these and had run out a month ago

It was funny to me to see that our Border Guard was the same one I had last time. So serious until I asked him ‘how are you today?’ His answer was ‘I’m working at “joyful” today’. Priceless, I enjoy his humor as he ‘tried to keep a poker face offer.’. We were through within half an hour which we didn't figure was too bad around the noon hour. A lot of visitors are doing the same thing. Getting the last dental work taken care of, hair cuts, glasses, shopping and one last Mexican meal before getting outta Dodge.

Not a complaint but Bill and I had the A/C on for our drive home

We walked back to the truck and when we got our phones back on, Pat had texted to let me know that our little boy was with them. What a blessing they are and I’m sure a nice visit for Pat on her birthday. They do love Clemson and visa versa. His second parents. We had some errands to do in Yuma so it was great not to have to worry about him especially with the extended time away from home.

He doesn't seem to be any worse for wear in our absence

We stopped at Discount Liquor to stock up on some wine (4 for $10) and Bill's Appleton's rum and then to Sam’s Club to pick up some groceries. We’ll do the remainder of our grocery shopping tomorrow morning at Fry’s. We were tired and ready to get back. We unloaded food, picked up our happy, spoiled pooch and while I had a coffee, Bill had a wee snooze with Clemson. We were expecting Kim and Ken for Happy Hour today.

I sprinkled some shaved chocolate on top and popped the candle in before serving

They had checked in at the sister park next door today for a few days. Taking advantage of a Quartzsite ‘free’ stay coupon like we did last year. We were happy to have them near by again. At 3:15 we gathered next door at the birthday girl’s site for H.H. 

Pat took a BIG breath and blew the candle out
We didn't have to help her :)

After about an hour, Bill and I slipped home to get her birthday cake with one lonely tea candle (it was all I could find in a pinch) for her to blow out. The cake was a hit so I was very pleased about that. Everyone (all my guinea pigs) approved of the result.

Ken and Kim
So nice to see these guys whenever we can

Rob and Pat

We chatted until near 5:30 before saying goodbye for now. Time for supper. Bill grilled 2 chicken thighs for us and inside I made him a salad and some mixed vegetables to share. That was a great filling meal and we shouldn’t need any dessert, since we had it at 4 o’clock. After dishes, we watched FBI and then The Voice. This was a very full day and I’m glad that Clemson let us take his sweater off today. It got over 70F even without full sun. A very nice day.

Pat modelling her new jewellery
Her earrings blend into her blue chair

He was finally warmed up but he seems to be having some breathing issues, off and on. Other than giving him attention and taking him out into the fresh air, there isn’t much we can do. When he is sleeping it doesn’t seem to bother him. It is something we’ll just keep an eye on in the days to come. One last note and that is to wish Pat a very Happy Birthday. We hope you liked your Quintet singing to you in Yuma, Az on your special day.

Supper was good

Thank you everyone for stopping by today. Your comments are always welcome.

Dash to Fry’s and Goodwill, Sunbathing Day, Busy TV Night

On Monday, Feb. 25^th we got up together around 6:30, all 3 of us. Clemson went back to bed for a little while after his piddle and at 7 I slipped out for a walk. 

Hello Monday - looking to the southwest

But the sun also rises

I got distracted at the Dog Park when I saw 9 pooches running around. Some were playing, having fun, others were barking and having no part of it. It was cute watching a couple of them as they greeted each ‘new’ friend. Even in the dog world ‘there are no strangers. They are only friends who they haven’t met yet’.

 

This was one of 'twins' having the most fun

It was hard to catch them, they were enjoying themselves

Told ya! Twins!

I moved on to continue on my walk and once more I got distracted by going into the puzzle room and pool area. The way the sun reflects on the water is so pretty and for the first time, there was no one in the pool or the hot tub so I felt comfortable taking pictures. I had to stop and check on the peacock puzzle since we hadn’t been back for a couple of days. It was finished as was another nice one that I would have enjoyed working on. The only one left unfinished was a Disney one of about 250 pcs. Seriously?

Someone finished it - phew!!
I'm just pleased that I contributed to such a challenging puzzle

I would have enjoyed helping out with this one
but it was done quickly

With a stop in the Card Room, I perused their books with a more casual eye than I did on my first visit. I found 4 books that we haven’t read so brought them back. 

It was so peaceful at the pool this morning with no one claiming the still waters
except the sun

At home, I went through our cupboard and sorted through the ones that I’ve read and determined which ones Bill likely won’t read. That gave me 3 books that I can take back up this afternoon in exchange. We got cleaned up and I bagged up the rice cooker and Bill’s clothes along with my old beach towel. Still in great condition.

From the outside looking into the puzzle room
a place where I've spent a fair bit of time

Bill and I drove into CVS where we were able to use the Allpoint ATM. We are so happy to have found these machines as with some rough calculation, we probably save between $7 - $10/month and $35 - $50/winter. That is a big chunk out of our pocket. After getting some cash, we drove down the road to Fry’s and took advantage of our fuel points. The price of diesel at the Chevron was $2.79/gal, Flying “J” was $3.33/gal and Fry’s was $2.67/gal. We had .20¢/gal built up so got it for $2.47/gal. Just from buying groceries!

Today's selection

A good breakfast this morning

Now that is two things worth smiling about! Our last stop was at the Goodwill Store on S. Frontage Rd, just around the corner to drop off the 3 bags. While Bill found a parking spot, I took quick walk in the store (quick is right, I was in and out within 10 minutes!) to look for one thing in particular. It is a beautiful store and I would have loved to poke around more but with Bill waiting, I am never comfortable doing that. We returned home just before 11, in time to grab a coffee before the timer on our Keurig kicked off.

It was supposed to be a full sun day
Hmmm, what went wrong?

I had 3 of Murray’s Sugar Free cookies left so I had those. Bill prefers his Nutter Butters. The clouds were changing my mind about going to the pool. It is mainly for the sun that I like to go. I like my brief swim/float around and then I like to sit out and read. The temperature is certainly warm enough at 67F/19C with low 2 mph winds but we’ll see. I may just walk up to the puzzle room and then I may just sit outside here with my book.

This little ball is our baby, and this is where he remained from
7:30 until 2:30

Our little boy is in his sweater, wrapped in his blanket
in the sun

Rob and Pat went into town before us this morning and by 12:45 they weren’t back yet so I might just wait for her and then decide about the afternoon activity. When Bill sat back in his chair with his book and soon dropped off, I made my decision. It was 1 o’clock and that sun was fighting for control with the clouds again. This goes on often this winter. However, it reached 70F and I grabbed my book and crocheting bag and walked back.

Although I didn't swim, I enjoyed my time at the pool

The 3 puzzles were finished, no new ones started, so I walked to the pool and snagged a lounge chair. There were only 3 empty chairs, placed close to someone else. I chose one where the people beside me were more into soaking up sun, reading or sleeping than chatting. Because that was what I wanted to do too. I hadn’t put my bathing suit on, I wasn’t into swimming just relaxing in the warmth. It was an hour and a half later when I walked back.

And the sun won control a few times

Bill was sitting outside on the patio reading and greeted me with a smile. I asked about our little boy but Bill said he still hadn’t moved off the couch. When he woke through the night, he sneezed 8 or 9 times and then 3 or 4 times this morning when he got up at 6:30. Oh-oh. We know dogs can get colds too and when he hopped up on the couch, shivering even after I put his wool sweater on, we assumed he had caught a chill.

A nice supper tonight

Rob moved his truck as instructed to

 Bill covered him in his blanket before we left at 10 am and when we returned and for the rest of the morning and until I came back from the pool, he remained there, sound asleep. It was 2:45 when he went for a walk around the block with me (in his sweater) and had his supper just as late. He seems to be feeling somewhat better and no more sneezing. Even though it is warm to us, we will leave his sweater on overnight.

Bill moved Black Beauty as well

We joined Pat and Rob between the sites at 3 and caught up from the day at Happy Hour. While sitting there, one of the staff came around and asked the boys to move their trucks to the front of our units. There is an event here tonight, a Tribute to Chicago and 400 people are attending. They need the room to park so at 5 Rob and Bill took care of that before starting supper. We had barbecued Italian sausage with salad and leftover dressing.

and I caught the sunset tonight

 After dishes, we started watching our Monday night programs. First, we watched the premier episode of The Voice while recording Magnum PI. This has been a great day. The weather has turned around for us and we got a couple of things taken care of and crossed off our list for this last week. I hope you had a good one too.

Good night all!

Thank you for popping in!