tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83578431300554485492024-03-13T15:50:41.793-05:00Have Retirement. Will Travel.He's Wayne and I'm Antoinette. Since July 2010 we've been traveling North America, living full-time in our motorhome (see it at page bottom) with two rescued dogs. Our adventures are chronicled as a virtual retirement and travel memoir. Click a tab below to see our camping history, get answers to full-time RV questions, see our travel map, our dogs, favorite places and things we've noticed along the way. Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.comBlogger682125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-55372196537754225982017-10-10T10:49:00.001-05:002017-10-10T10:49:11.663-05:00Making The Best of Hurricane Evacuation <i>From River Town Campground, Vicksburg, Mississippi </i> This is where we stopped in our hurricane evacuation. Not so much as a drop of rain or a puff of wind was noticed here last night while Hurricane Nate came ashore near Biloxi late in the evening.<br />
<br />
We arrived around 4 p.m., hot, sweat, tired and stressed. The campground has gravel roads which Lexie and Ozzie simply cannot walk on, but the campsites are clean, open, quiet and right on Highway 61, just south of Vicksburg. The bedroom slide struggled to go out so we just left it in and worked around the lack of space. It's probably going to get worse and we certainly don't want to get stuck here in need of a major slide-out repair.<br />
<br />
Wayne's clothes had been soaked and dried in perspiration at least two times today but he insists he isn't as tired as he looks. The worst part of the day for him, I think, was missing the 11 a.m. Auburn / Ole Miss game. He did catch part of it on the coach radio as we rode. It was a nice 44-23 win for the home team.<br />
<br />
Our plan had been to explore Vicksburg -- something we hadn't done since our automobile visit here in the early 1990's. We have good memories of that time and thought it would be fun to do again.<br />
<br />
But the heat and stress took more out of us than we realized. Sunday morning came and neither of us had an appetite to unhook the truck in the sweltering heat. Even the thought of touring the civil war battlegrounds and the historic city couldn't motivate us. Instead, we watched hurricane coverage on television and stayed inside the coach.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a4_wp7A8-OM/Wdzq4H6as_I/AAAAAAAA1zQ/k0gyK7CKqD0lUwkKxTKcTXz46xZJ7C-KwCKgBGAs/s1600/MAX_WEB_TROP_ATL16_storm_info_1280x720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="650" height="350" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a4_wp7A8-OM/Wdzq4H6as_I/AAAAAAAA1zQ/k0gyK7CKqD0lUwkKxTKcTXz46xZJ7C-KwCKgBGAs/s640/MAX_WEB_TROP_ATL16_storm_info_1280x720.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We did stay a second night but headed back to Foley Monday morning. While we didn't encounter rain evacuating on Saturday, we certainly got our share going back today. It was nice to settle back into our sweltering temporary campsite at Bella Terra around 3:30 Monday.<br />
<br />
I am really tired of hurricanes. We've wrestled with some measure of worry over four systems that affected our area this season. T.S. Cindy, Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and now Nate.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_kUrNZVsrZ0/WdzrQ7hlvlI/AAAAAAAA1zU/wvbYuHjVCWcE-dTYg81-qBsult8I2pQmQCKgBGAs/s1600/2017-four-us-hur-landfalls_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="650" height="350" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_kUrNZVsrZ0/WdzrQ7hlvlI/AAAAAAAA1zU/wvbYuHjVCWcE-dTYg81-qBsult8I2pQmQCKgBGAs/s640/2017-four-us-hur-landfalls_3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-90370642470328422032017-10-07T10:36:00.000-05:002017-10-10T10:49:31.744-05:00Hurricane Nate Evacuation <div dir="ltr">
<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama </i> Our friends are gone but the summer heat remains. The morning weather reports are depressing as local meteorologists keep us up to date on the latest news from the tropics. The system to watch this week is referred to as "Invest 16" which is "weather talk" for saying "this is the 16th weather system being investigated this year". Oh joy.<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Today, Invest 16 was given the name Nate -- and Nate is heading north from the Yucatan peninsula. It's a small but fast moving tropical depression. We've been put on notice that Nate is coming in for a visit as a Category 1 (possibly 2) hurricane. No one knows exactly whose door will be darkened though.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5OdqvUYq70c/WdzntdZhC-I/AAAAAAAA1zA/7DwPxxUob4kuj2PFooQxbcWrzOlIxfRywCKgBGAs/s1600/20171007_103000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1394" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5OdqvUYq70c/WdzntdZhC-I/AAAAAAAA1zA/7DwPxxUob4kuj2PFooQxbcWrzOlIxfRywCKgBGAs/s640/20171007_103000.jpg" width="553" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As we exit, NBC News trucks come in. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wayne and I will take our pups and our home and evacuate. There's no good reason to remain in Foley for damaging winds, torrential rains and possible tornadoes. We've watched the "cone of uncertainty" associated with Nate to determine which direction will get us out of harms way and made the decision, Friday morning, to travel in a north-northwesterly direction. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQ-YZJg26ro/WdzntQVaS2I/AAAAAAAA1zA/QEpV4Tl541UQXNgt7CHWQM9q-YKeblzlgCKgBGAs/s1600/20171008_104841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1310" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQ-YZJg26ro/WdzntQVaS2I/AAAAAAAA1zA/QEpV4Tl541UQXNgt7CHWQM9q-YKeblzlgCKgBGAs/s640/20171008_104841.jpg" width="521" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQgx_mvoHeU/WdzntSgE1hI/AAAAAAAA1zA/Elw5jBJN_9IfVx1BTyMbZXOdMLfHuJPIACKgBGAs/s1600/20171008_104340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1589" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQgx_mvoHeU/WdzntSgE1hI/AAAAAAAA1zA/Elw5jBJN_9IfVx1BTyMbZXOdMLfHuJPIACKgBGAs/s640/20171008_104340.jpg" width="633" /></a></div>
<br />
Not sure how far we would go, we kept watch on weather radar. Shreveport, Louisiana is not out of the question but that is a long way.</div>
Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-79332765359628261932017-10-05T15:08:00.000-05:002017-10-08T16:55:12.722-05:00Welcome Friends!<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama </i> There's nothing better to reduce construction fatigue than to spend time with friends! We've been looking forward to September when Joyce, Charlie, Pam and Ernie would come to Bella Terra! <br />
<br />
Joyce and Charlie arrived midday on September 20th... just in time for a torrential downpour! We sat it out in the gazebo on their site.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hd2hkEdXu9g/WdpP6V5GWwI/AAAAAAAA1rg/h3wqiMvOwx8Bmowaum0jWPROA9I-YcSBwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170920_125901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1404" data-original-width="1600" height="560" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hd2hkEdXu9g/WdpP6V5GWwI/AAAAAAAA1rg/h3wqiMvOwx8Bmowaum0jWPROA9I-YcSBwCKgBGAs/s640/20170920_125901.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joyce in the gazebo... waiting out the rain. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
By late afternoon the same day, Pam and Ernie arrived and set up in their site beside Joyce and Charlie. Our temporary site is two rows behind them. Within minutes we ban the celebration!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gQDSaTngeaw/WdpLoMC338I/AAAAAAAA1q0/X3qPVCg2xBQrf0klG9kwqNElF7pvpwb-ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170920_164700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1568" data-original-width="1600" height="626" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gQDSaTngeaw/WdpLoMC338I/AAAAAAAA1q0/X3qPVCg2xBQrf0klG9kwqNElF7pvpwb-ACKgBGAs/s640/20170920_164700.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pam and Ernie ready to pull in while we wait at their pergola </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-phy1pOVd1ck/WdpLoO1QUnI/AAAAAAAA1q0/q_4Gje6LJFMzfgpQHNNrL_4m4jDX1xm8QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170920_172316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1375" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-phy1pOVd1ck/WdpLoO1QUnI/AAAAAAAA1q0/q_4Gje6LJFMzfgpQHNNrL_4m4jDX1xm8QCKgBGAs/s640/20170920_172316.jpg" width="548" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three friends work to get a good selfie... again. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x-akgXr6PEM/WdpLoBG7PbI/AAAAAAAA1q0/ISY2kiQQfk4Jl2T5OBtE_RdCM6JDdm1tACKgBGAs/s1600/20170920_172127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1490" data-original-width="1600" height="596" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x-akgXr6PEM/WdpLoBG7PbI/AAAAAAAA1q0/ISY2kiQQfk4Jl2T5OBtE_RdCM6JDdm1tACKgBGAs/s640/20170920_172127.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizza was ordered and delivered within an hour of the reunion.<br />Let the eating begin! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Despite the oppressive heat and humidity, the next two weeks would be filled with activities and friendship... beginning the next afternoon...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WxDoReQxQsk/WdpRozlfMLI/AAAAAAAA1r4/Tj0uIMpakQoMekB2pvHMu29MVrjpuydrgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170921_160602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WxDoReQxQsk/WdpRozlfMLI/AAAAAAAA1r4/Tj0uIMpakQoMekB2pvHMu29MVrjpuydrgCKgBGAs/s640/20170921_160602.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early dinner at Bahama Bob's in Gulf Shores. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j8bWAiLgsGo/WdpRo-E6L1I/AAAAAAAA1r4/PJHFE6OTOQYJU-ah5mwZiKdRjJxNnO7CACKgBGAs/s1600/20170921_152904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1086" data-original-width="1600" height="432" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j8bWAiLgsGo/WdpRo-E6L1I/AAAAAAAA1r4/PJHFE6OTOQYJU-ah5mwZiKdRjJxNnO7CACKgBGAs/s640/20170921_152904.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wait staff surely hate these picture requests but we can't resist.<br />Notice the Gulf's reflection in the window. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S3oEQxZ7nho/WdpRo-4r9dI/AAAAAAAA1r4/VtBJta_ya7U9kGGucMbs9vU9k9VnMlR4ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170921_160618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1296" data-original-width="1600" height="518" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S3oEQxZ7nho/WdpRo-4r9dI/AAAAAAAA1r4/VtBJta_ya7U9kGGucMbs9vU9k9VnMlR4ACKgBGAs/s640/20170921_160618.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before our food came, Joyce needed to feel the sand between her toes. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FEybT4A4a_k/WdpRoyBclCI/AAAAAAAA1r4/Vl0VJRiZ1hU72sYpEEmMTQ31woxC8PJIwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170921_161113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1582" data-original-width="1600" height="632" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FEybT4A4a_k/WdpRoyBclCI/AAAAAAAA1r4/Vl0VJRiZ1hU72sYpEEmMTQ31woxC8PJIwCKgBGAs/s640/20170921_161113.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ernie and I ordered this great pecan crusted fish plate. Umm Humm..... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The evening was still young after our early dinner so we stopped in at The Royal Oyster for drinks and music....<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TDCrCJ3_Kh4/WdpRo0wljWI/AAAAAAAA1r4/KzzOv3qAlvEj3luCL-gFnyFU_grwGdnEwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170921_184729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TDCrCJ3_Kh4/WdpRo0wljWI/AAAAAAAA1r4/KzzOv3qAlvEj3luCL-gFnyFU_grwGdnEwCKgBGAs/s640/20170921_184729.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-djc6Kvbxy-E/WdpRo-15UjI/AAAAAAAA1r4/taPnlQZXrKAywuN4Ws2o5a_1b5eDyVoLwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170921_171912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1438" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-djc6Kvbxy-E/WdpRo-15UjI/AAAAAAAA1r4/taPnlQZXrKAywuN4Ws2o5a_1b5eDyVoLwCKgBGAs/s640/20170921_171912.jpg" width="572" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...and a whirl at hoola hoops for Pam and me. So fast, we are but a blurrrrrrr......</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Having friends along to kick-start a workout routine, I finally began to use the on site gym at Bella Terra. Tara Merrihew showed Joyce and me how to properly use the various pieces of equipment.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hk8mK6sD3RE/WdqItS-GxgI/AAAAAAAA1uA/PuWxZvnPqWQdKwt7GOWsMJG7MZPG33EygCKgBGAs/s1600/20170926_083550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1418" data-original-width="1600" height="566" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hk8mK6sD3RE/WdqItS-GxgI/AAAAAAAA1uA/PuWxZvnPqWQdKwt7GOWsMJG7MZPG33EygCKgBGAs/s640/20170926_083550.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pam on the elliptical, Joyce on the treadmill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8AoYbWnR3eY/WdqItbLnJFI/AAAAAAAA1uA/AHn4B5obd6w3tofwJKLWoxRw-wJtshQ9ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170926_083609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8AoYbWnR3eY/WdqItbLnJFI/AAAAAAAA1uA/AHn4B5obd6w3tofwJKLWoxRw-wJtshQ9ACKgBGAs/s640/20170926_083609.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
But, as friends point out on occasion, our favorite pastime always is to eat and drink. Our first cookout would be hamburgers and hotdogs cooked at Pam and Ernie's site... eaten at Joyce and Charlie's. Our site is considered "inhospitable" as it is in direct afternoon sun, without shade. Alas! Not even a picnic table. This leaves us happily out of the "host" circle. Joyce and Pam do a superb job at hosting!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAFKdgxdi0w/WdqJyFVvpnI/AAAAAAAA1uU/9eu9mfGRhiI4kUUmPPudC0K9GopqNZrAQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170922_184005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAFKdgxdi0w/WdqJyFVvpnI/AAAAAAAA1uU/9eu9mfGRhiI4kUUmPPudC0K9GopqNZrAQCKgBGAs/s640/20170922_184005.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Joyce and Charlie's comfortable and shady site. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mt1R4qX0msA/WdpSr81_mqI/AAAAAAAA1sM/qOTKSWB9X9IfUJpZo1YigIWCa3BkVnQxgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170922_184415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1294" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mt1R4qX0msA/WdpSr81_mqI/AAAAAAAA1sM/qOTKSWB9X9IfUJpZo1YigIWCa3BkVnQxgCKgBGAs/s640/20170922_184415.jpg" width="516" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our good friends, Beverly and Frank, joined us for burgers and dogs. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6HAJuwk85XQ/WdpSr3X-N6I/AAAAAAAA1sM/uBIUXd0leQAifXJeSWKALb7xruD0VsqTQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170922_184022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1090" data-original-width="1600" height="434" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6HAJuwk85XQ/WdpSr3X-N6I/AAAAAAAA1sM/uBIUXd0leQAifXJeSWKALb7xruD0VsqTQCKgBGAs/s640/20170922_184022.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lexie and Ozzie joined us for the cookout. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our group would participate in one of the organized sessions of pickleball at Gulf Shores Cultural Center. Wayne and I played a few times here last spring. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FNrYfDK6hEg/WdpTasaFQqI/AAAAAAAA1sU/iWX9DYpG0f0rQhppqN6CeZBFUg-TTECAwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170925_094633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1099" data-original-width="1600" height="438" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FNrYfDK6hEg/WdpTasaFQqI/AAAAAAAA1sU/iWX9DYpG0f0rQhppqN6CeZBFUg-TTECAwCKgBGAs/s640/20170925_094633.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ernie and Pam in the far court, against Frank and Wayne. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Joyce, Pam and I enjoyed several visits to the Bella Terra swimming pool during the first week too.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ssR97D3SJg/WdpT9p31TVI/AAAAAAAA1sc/dib4sNOLhesiIBFmK29s47whD9u7mDgSACKgBGAs/s1600/20170921_123312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1138" data-original-width="1600" height="454" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ssR97D3SJg/WdpT9p31TVI/AAAAAAAA1sc/dib4sNOLhesiIBFmK29s47whD9u7mDgSACKgBGAs/s640/20170921_123312.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joyce on the left. Ernie on the right. The guys avoided the pool, but we gals enjoyed it. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then came Pam's birthday on September 23rd. We kicked off the day with a breakfast cooked by the birthday girl herself. The sun was hot already, but we each found a bit of shade and enjoyed a breakfast casserole, hash browns, fresh fruit, warm breads and Joyce's mimosas! Yay!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rK7A4GFm4G4/WdpTy4w_5pI/AAAAAAAA1sY/ELRS4S515iM9Im3IZ8yaZSmJJIN-c71EgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170923_093834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1059" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rK7A4GFm4G4/WdpTy4w_5pI/AAAAAAAA1sY/ELRS4S515iM9Im3IZ8yaZSmJJIN-c71EgCKgBGAs/s640/20170923_093834.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joyce, Wayne, Pam, Ernie and Charlie serving up Pam's Birthday Breakfast! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ri94H_m5V4/WdpTyxKincI/AAAAAAAA1sY/uonawgVGjIQxPiuiPDdUgPBm1l_ZFaRsQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170923_104448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1595" data-original-width="1600" height="636" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ri94H_m5V4/WdpTyxKincI/AAAAAAAA1sY/uonawgVGjIQxPiuiPDdUgPBm1l_ZFaRsQCKgBGAs/s640/20170923_104448.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Birthday Girl </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wayne and I aren't big on birthday (or any holiday) celebrations, but Pam does enjoy a party so we obliged by giving our best effort to arranging a non-surprise birthday dinner in her honor at Nolan's Steakhouse in Gulf Shores. Girls attire included the wearing of a tiara... a tradition started several years ago when we all first met in Fort Myers, Florida. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UU0kdAyt_u8/WdpTy4--g4I/AAAAAAAA1sY/3sIZfbWJfU8bjQCb4ne8Pue9sdwzZ8PLgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170923_172648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1436" data-original-width="1600" height="574" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UU0kdAyt_u8/WdpTy4--g4I/AAAAAAAA1sY/3sIZfbWJfU8bjQCb4ne8Pue9sdwzZ8PLgCKgBGAs/s640/20170923_172648.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne looks almost regal in this one. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JLQgdH86Gdg/WdpTy3B5orI/AAAAAAAA1sY/rM1r9pczlX8U5jdbRCGY3s5bI5Pp4jx4QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170923_172655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1361" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JLQgdH86Gdg/WdpTy3B5orI/AAAAAAAA1sY/rM1r9pczlX8U5jdbRCGY3s5bI5Pp4jx4QCKgBGAs/s640/20170923_172655.jpg" width="544" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An added surprise for Pam, we included her friend and former co-worker, Patricia and her husband Art, in her birthday dinner celebration. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K49wAuPZ11Q/WdpTy1VKgiI/AAAAAAAA1sY/XlGqpYXIeYw4nfHYoM2qdwzLZlyMpl8ggCKgBGAs/s1600/20170923_175530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1094" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K49wAuPZ11Q/WdpTy1VKgiI/AAAAAAAA1sY/XlGqpYXIeYw4nfHYoM2qdwzLZlyMpl8ggCKgBGAs/s640/20170923_175530.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patricia, her husband Art and Joyce. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our daily morning exercise routine continued but not without a little something to balance the pain with gain. Joyce, Pam and I finished one morning workout with a short ride to Kitty's Kafe for mimosa breakfast. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rFQsJuvQMa8/WdqNFRrOA4I/AAAAAAAA1uo/R4uinXcomqcr1TO30sT6x8zOgKHirqp2gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170926_094950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1180" data-original-width="1600" height="470" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rFQsJuvQMa8/WdqNFRrOA4I/AAAAAAAA1uo/R4uinXcomqcr1TO30sT6x8zOgKHirqp2gCKgBGAs/s640/20170926_094950.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eACdQZ74yE8/WdqNFcq0DsI/AAAAAAAA1uo/HvJ-0f53FZERlEmPPqVJMXVzNnd0AIH6ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170926_104848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eACdQZ74yE8/WdqNFcq0DsI/AAAAAAAA1uo/HvJ-0f53FZERlEmPPqVJMXVzNnd0AIH6ACKgBGAs/s640/20170926_104848.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And we didn't even try to resist a stop at Old Mill Pottery to browse the wares.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OzJzvRnIXOQ/WdqNFdvPk8I/AAAAAAAA1uo/EecNAVmgO-UlPaz3IDwJC3SpbVL_B3eEQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170926_104905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1134" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OzJzvRnIXOQ/WdqNFdvPk8I/AAAAAAAA1uo/EecNAVmgO-UlPaz3IDwJC3SpbVL_B3eEQCKgBGAs/s640/20170926_104905.jpg" width="452" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We never tire of posing among the blooms! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx2rTbR0Fgw/WdqO-301EiI/AAAAAAAA1u8/xQRcGbiZ0fwWvZJAbO60Eum1K1dflTRLACKgBGAs/s1600/20170927_152417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1306" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx2rTbR0Fgw/WdqO-301EiI/AAAAAAAA1u8/xQRcGbiZ0fwWvZJAbO60Eum1K1dflTRLACKgBGAs/s640/20170927_152417.jpg" width="522" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another afternoon we spent at Tanger Outlets --shopping and laughing. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sisjfwmp3nY/WdqO-0U9uxI/AAAAAAAA1u8/AYdVIGUHf74L6vxsf-3aPPfETt0MhK0DgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170927_160146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1097" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sisjfwmp3nY/WdqO-0U9uxI/AAAAAAAA1u8/AYdVIGUHf74L6vxsf-3aPPfETt0MhK0DgCKgBGAs/s640/20170927_160146.jpg" width="438" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final purchase for Joyce. I'm happy to lend an encouraging word in support of the purchase.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Following our shopping spree, husbands had to feed the shopping beasts at Wolf Bay Lodge where the laughter and horseplay continued. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GTDrU2FbIYc/WdqO--y6shI/AAAAAAAA1u8/RBaUWhY7DhUEqAwJr0rF-x6x0gg_jCcsgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170927_165450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1194" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GTDrU2FbIYc/WdqO--y6shI/AAAAAAAA1u8/RBaUWhY7DhUEqAwJr0rF-x6x0gg_jCcsgCKgBGAs/s640/20170927_165450.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Another evening we all met at Cosmos. After a short happy hour on the patio, we enjoyed dinner.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7AQ-4ByoJX0/WdqQH4x_0cI/AAAAAAAA1vM/8g-if1Ev-LIy1eLR8LbEH7bOVOyBTBpFgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170929_164044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7AQ-4ByoJX0/WdqQH4x_0cI/AAAAAAAA1vM/8g-if1Ev-LIy1eLR8LbEH7bOVOyBTBpFgCKgBGAs/s640/20170929_164044.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne at Cosmos patio bar. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IpJQPKuOhMA/WdqQH0Q1WAI/AAAAAAAA1vM/K43s8FtEn24n70pauoSPpkm_zt-bQv0ewCKgBGAs/s1600/20170929_164119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IpJQPKuOhMA/WdqQH0Q1WAI/AAAAAAAA1vM/K43s8FtEn24n70pauoSPpkm_zt-bQv0ewCKgBGAs/s640/20170929_164119.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good selfies continue to elude me... but I do keep trying. I just need one more arm. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Nl_kD6J7ZY/WdqQH7GrDtI/AAAAAAAA1vM/YvB89YJ_ozA4fLM8PlPExt7DJSQMzf0GwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170929_165039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Nl_kD6J7ZY/WdqQH7GrDtI/AAAAAAAA1vM/YvB89YJ_ozA4fLM8PlPExt7DJSQMzf0GwCKgBGAs/s640/20170929_165039.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy hour for the Mighty Six. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hVVc4n7625I/WdqQH7DWZTI/AAAAAAAA1vM/1HwpesLRq2MxkhhMfLV6l7_ydVy20X1xwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170929_174313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hVVc4n7625I/WdqQH7DWZTI/AAAAAAAA1vM/1HwpesLRq2MxkhhMfLV6l7_ydVy20X1xwCKgBGAs/s640/20170929_174313.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seated in Cosmos Restaurant. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Our group attended Pensacola's Annual Shrimp Festival too. Most memorable was (1) the time it took to find parking, (2) the heavy smell of marijuana, (3) the overpriced food and drink and (4) the weather, which, to our surprise, was cool and pleasant.<br />
<br />
Ernie bought a shirt. I always wonder, after, why we bother with festivals. They are (1) all the same, (2) crowded and loud to the point of agony and (3) nasty. Maybe this will be my last one. I say that every time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1YLYQYNzkpY/WdqRY3y-7cI/AAAAAAAA1vY/3uNVCCD0e6g3xMvT_MdpWAy9FzQI2RLgwCKgBGAs/s1600/20171001_135216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1YLYQYNzkpY/WdqRY3y-7cI/AAAAAAAA1vY/3uNVCCD0e6g3xMvT_MdpWAy9FzQI2RLgwCKgBGAs/s640/20171001_135216.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WPdLYwMK2e0/WdqRYzS7dCI/AAAAAAAA1vY/-Ipfnwycz8kDxrsykzUY7HU1gNB0FvHxQCKgBGAs/s1600/20171001_142626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WPdLYwMK2e0/WdqRYzS7dCI/AAAAAAAA1vY/-Ipfnwycz8kDxrsykzUY7HU1gNB0FvHxQCKgBGAs/s640/20171001_142626.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A popcorn and beer feast. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-26EbUZS0Q/WdqRY3Ru1gI/AAAAAAAA1vY/TTCX3kfQf_U8EakkiGNzEIxNVP3SS6asQCKgBGAs/s1600/20171001_145729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="933" data-original-width="919" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-26EbUZS0Q/WdqRY3Ru1gI/AAAAAAAA1vY/TTCX3kfQf_U8EakkiGNzEIxNVP3SS6asQCKgBGAs/s640/20171001_145729.jpg" width="630" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soft serve for Joyce and apple dumpling for Charlie.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uqlW7R4foDg/WdqRY6lqYQI/AAAAAAAA1vY/PLrvogK476If63V61NaqgI9gDDG_uz_nQCKgBGAs/s1600/20171001_151739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uqlW7R4foDg/WdqRY6lqYQI/AAAAAAAA1vY/PLrvogK476If63V61NaqgI9gDDG_uz_nQCKgBGAs/s640/20171001_151739.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The festival food looked better than it tasted.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3CXEcCeL_a4/WdqRY_QLY9I/AAAAAAAA1vY/X47FIAFPBVEf-8qJo8B0vr5kg8R6FjNHQCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1506909260098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3CXEcCeL_a4/WdqRY_QLY9I/AAAAAAAA1vY/X47FIAFPBVEf-8qJo8B0vr5kg8R6FjNHQCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1506909260098.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But awwwww..... Maguire's Irish Pub root beer float. Heaven in a plastic cup. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQm_RL1543w/WdqRY6wRbjI/AAAAAAAA1vY/LgbBmUDHldcFbxiTAY4alC-bNAOSBRF-gCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1506909286240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQm_RL1543w/WdqRY6wRbjI/AAAAAAAA1vY/LgbBmUDHldcFbxiTAY4alC-bNAOSBRF-gCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1506909286240.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every last drop is delicious as I follow Joyce in ignorant bliss. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjyjaRpWybY/WdqRYz_wgQI/AAAAAAAA1vY/yePTZBk-Y2Mr0zFOljhOUKM_PSOBzFZOQCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1506909342701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjyjaRpWybY/WdqRYz_wgQI/AAAAAAAA1vY/yePTZBk-Y2Mr0zFOljhOUKM_PSOBzFZOQCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1506909342701.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the table we nearly had to wrestle away from another group.<br />I thought of selling lottery tickets for these chairs when we left. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8HmaIvwxhWw/WdqRY3aE_BI/AAAAAAAA1vY/OU4oC53mwfE2GzthceYJGM47WbLrKv4NACKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1506909303727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8HmaIvwxhWw/WdqRY3aE_BI/AAAAAAAA1vY/OU4oC53mwfE2GzthceYJGM47WbLrKv4NACKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1506909303727.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to go now. Bye bye. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Each day ended with a walk across Bella Terra to see our construction project. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fZb1daw9AE/WdqT76VGCtI/AAAAAAAA1vs/3nfSDpfSaL4CUvZpqWAO4-4eMWGe89AhACKgBGAs/s1600/20170924_113526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1122" data-original-width="1600" height="448" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fZb1daw9AE/WdqT76VGCtI/AAAAAAAA1vs/3nfSDpfSaL4CUvZpqWAO4-4eMWGe89AhACKgBGAs/s640/20170924_113526.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aDQsmoLSOHI/WdqT7_TNelI/AAAAAAAA1vs/d35_2xjrbNoEkMVMT77IGMkk0s9nNaLtwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170926_165449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1197" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aDQsmoLSOHI/WdqT7_TNelI/AAAAAAAA1vs/d35_2xjrbNoEkMVMT77IGMkk0s9nNaLtwCKgBGAs/s640/20170926_165449.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L7LuiVUW-jk/WdqT7wEIdwI/AAAAAAAA1vs/ziGQMPohBP4JMV7sIjaC-aNW4yroR-a3ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170927_182012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L7LuiVUW-jk/WdqT7wEIdwI/AAAAAAAA1vs/ziGQMPohBP4JMV7sIjaC-aNW4yroR-a3ACKgBGAs/s640/20170927_182012.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eK4I0r0T1g8/WdqT77NEYaI/AAAAAAAA1vs/ACQeodF7c28yr2WW8mVQfYiT75ZQehhMACKgBGAs/s1600/20170927_182140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1187" data-original-width="1600" height="474" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eK4I0r0T1g8/WdqT77NEYaI/AAAAAAAA1vs/ACQeodF7c28yr2WW8mVQfYiT75ZQehhMACKgBGAs/s640/20170927_182140.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KQ3sdY--xw8/WdqT7xAZe2I/AAAAAAAA1vs/e_EQpygAbxo8dre02gb495DZlpz9_IV4gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170927_183119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KQ3sdY--xw8/WdqT7xAZe2I/AAAAAAAA1vs/e_EQpygAbxo8dre02gb495DZlpz9_IV4gCKgBGAs/s640/20170927_183119.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, we can find some progress here among the chaos. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UlxOI7aAaaM/WdqVq3eYsoI/AAAAAAAA1wA/HZpmgvAzXXws4sfC-aIt7TP0fb-nnzczwCKgBGAs/s1600/20171004_181259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UlxOI7aAaaM/WdqVq3eYsoI/AAAAAAAA1wA/HZpmgvAzXXws4sfC-aIt7TP0fb-nnzczwCKgBGAs/s640/20171004_181259.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lot on Wednesday, October 4th... just after Pam and Ernie left. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A1vTBPg48hM/WdqT720gXtI/AAAAAAAA1vs/1Sb0YXmppmQ-xpNuPmR7jfQ0JYZoMmDUwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170928_161246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A1vTBPg48hM/WdqT720gXtI/AAAAAAAA1vs/1Sb0YXmppmQ-xpNuPmR7jfQ0JYZoMmDUwCKgBGAs/s640/20170928_161246.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another happy hour visit starts at Pam and Ernie's lot... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9gn_HznS99k/WdqT79BjzcI/AAAAAAAA1vs/F4m9JEB5y5YonfdUAHsvB7lset3FPoQTQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170928_165421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9gn_HznS99k/WdqT79BjzcI/AAAAAAAA1vs/F4m9JEB5y5YonfdUAHsvB7lset3FPoQTQCKgBGAs/s640/20170928_165421.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">... and then moves into the shade of Joyce and Charlie's site.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rBXxjV8kRiU/WdqTlS3rd9I/AAAAAAAA1vo/ChsFw5VNP0EdJSbXCewc261OA1NvGFemQCKgBGAs/s1600/20171002_175252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rBXxjV8kRiU/WdqTlS3rd9I/AAAAAAAA1vo/ChsFw5VNP0EdJSbXCewc261OA1NvGFemQCKgBGAs/s640/20171002_175252.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner at Franco's Italian Restaurant at Gulf Shores. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our group's last evening out began with a seemingly good idea from Wayne. He had heard of a local haunt and was eager to check it out. Pirates Cove, near Josephine, is a quaint, picturesque place for locals... But it was a little too "quaint" for us. The pictures hold the detail....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MdjLzxf7bPI/WdqXcMeIp6I/AAAAAAAA1wM/sZsoz5HHCOYRndcb3YpvUuc7az7gjgNhACKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_161139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1091" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MdjLzxf7bPI/WdqXcMeIp6I/AAAAAAAA1wM/sZsoz5HHCOYRndcb3YpvUuc7az7gjgNhACKgBGAs/s640/20171003_161139.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Hmf4Qfgb2U/WdqXcD-GGBI/AAAAAAAA1wM/HfM3Syo5hIAIm0kKl0FwtoIqVS-5fAlMgCKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_161233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Hmf4Qfgb2U/WdqXcD-GGBI/AAAAAAAA1wM/HfM3Syo5hIAIm0kKl0FwtoIqVS-5fAlMgCKgBGAs/s640/20171003_161233.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bar matron surely failed the "restaurant salesmanship" course. That's why she is working here, I guess. <br />She gave "one word" answers to all questions. Sometimes she just pointed. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56WkLRO78PI/WdqXcEqj9uI/AAAAAAAA1wM/c5Rzcca7yiMBAPDjLgHvkt_ywI6k9cA-QCKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_161533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1423" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56WkLRO78PI/WdqXcEqj9uI/AAAAAAAA1wM/c5Rzcca7yiMBAPDjLgHvkt_ywI6k9cA-QCKgBGAs/s640/20171003_161533.jpg" width="568" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to the kitchen at Pirates Cove. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eErmdFJPifA/WdqXcPrsnTI/AAAAAAAA1wM/L8ZC8sa3xX8utF4jNL6Pv7oWYixfKzpUgCKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_162958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eErmdFJPifA/WdqXcPrsnTI/AAAAAAAA1wM/L8ZC8sa3xX8utF4jNL6Pv7oWYixfKzpUgCKgBGAs/s640/20171003_162958.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice shady lot on the water though. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fdEpkN32_4/WdqXcM_YbeI/AAAAAAAA1wM/SrqeHp1qtaMu1uxBmyz53_No58uywllkQCKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_161012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fdEpkN32_4/WdqXcM_YbeI/AAAAAAAA1wM/SrqeHp1qtaMu1uxBmyz53_No58uywllkQCKgBGAs/s640/20171003_161012.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the back of Pirates Cove</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sik5elLGhP4/WdqXcAd-TGI/AAAAAAAA1wM/8KDD78dpA80OUS4nFIKZTubxfXyWtfedwCKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_161002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1249" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sik5elLGhP4/WdqXcAd-TGI/AAAAAAAA1wM/8KDD78dpA80OUS4nFIKZTubxfXyWtfedwCKgBGAs/s640/20171003_161002.jpg" width="498" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some fair sized boats tied at the Pirates Cove dock. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-myhiBe5wAeg/WdqXcIPjiJI/AAAAAAAA1wM/B70QTQ4NK7M-Yo7Ugqpgy_rNWKQ5C40XgCKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_160850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1146" data-original-width="966" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-myhiBe5wAeg/WdqXcIPjiJI/AAAAAAAA1wM/B70QTQ4NK7M-Yo7Ugqpgy_rNWKQ5C40XgCKgBGAs/s640/20171003_160850.jpg" width="538" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pirates Cove liquor cabinet. Most unusual. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeWe5xdCFfE/WdqXcD0PzRI/AAAAAAAA1wM/2YVywutg2G8Fhgy2piARfnhe_fb85I6agCKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_161441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OeWe5xdCFfE/WdqXcD0PzRI/AAAAAAAA1wM/2YVywutg2G8Fhgy2piARfnhe_fb85I6agCKgBGAs/s640/20171003_161441.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Fire Marshall's nightmare. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QSwueV-T56A/WdqXcBaw3uI/AAAAAAAA1wM/Rdjq0RuKq3Et9kTB85jKDW2FUtlT_NCVACKgBGAs/s1600/20171003_163017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1049" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QSwueV-T56A/WdqXcBaw3uI/AAAAAAAA1wM/Rdjq0RuKq3Et9kTB85jKDW2FUtlT_NCVACKgBGAs/s640/20171003_163017.jpg" width="418" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'd call this one "the best of the worst"... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We didn't stay at Pirates Cove for dinner. Instead we drove back to Cactus Cantina for Mexican fare. The night was perfect for this last good meal together. We all forgave Wayne for the Pirates Cove suggestion....<br />
<br />
The fun, festivities and visit were destined to end and our group would go our separate ways. Pam and Ernie left on Wednesday morning, October 4th headed south into Florida for winter. Joyce and Charlie stayed on another day and pulled out Thursday morning, October 5th heading back to Kansas after a few stops to visit family. We miss them all.Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-71168435194809237852017-09-19T17:08:00.001-05:002017-09-19T17:08:45.008-05:00Bella Terra: The Flurry<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama </i> David thinks we'll get this horse into the barn by the September 27th contract deadline. I am too realistic to believe it but too optimistic to dismiss his prediction. A flurry of activity has begun. From here, I'll just post pictures with dates and brief descriptions. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VVJeExMpzmo/WcGPlrOoAtI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/KyOqGnaRxK899U-3XM9V8uXrKTmDxtjaQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170912_081701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VVJeExMpzmo/WcGPlrOoAtI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/KyOqGnaRxK899U-3XM9V8uXrKTmDxtjaQCKgBGAs/s640/20170912_081701.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Porch ceiling completed. Kitchen ready for stone. September 12th<br />Doors yet to be installed. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VcDJEtslvGg/WcGPlgtZJwI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/nJPQBcuzT3QVUlLvCf1qbnF6KHKPTK8agCKgBGAs/s1600/20170912_082013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VcDJEtslvGg/WcGPlgtZJwI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/nJPQBcuzT3QVUlLvCf1qbnF6KHKPTK8agCKgBGAs/s640/20170912_082013.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheetrock going up.... mud work too.<br />This is the kitchen window. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GD5z46A5xZk/WcGPlr1liXI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/DOCI5FgeHv4ueTbOprRBhKsal211yurRwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170913_115748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1248" data-original-width="1600" height="498" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GD5z46A5xZk/WcGPlr1liXI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/DOCI5FgeHv4ueTbOprRBhKsal211yurRwCKgBGAs/s640/20170913_115748.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kevin Trussel's rock guys were in and out in two days. Sept 13 and 14th. They did a nice job. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LY4VtlH3Naw/WcGPlpav1MI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/9WCuQnxe4yMXAQVIc5ZZAS5egFODYOZWACKgBGAs/s1600/20170913_160855_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LY4VtlH3Naw/WcGPlpav1MI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/9WCuQnxe4yMXAQVIc5ZZAS5egFODYOZWACKgBGAs/s640/20170913_160855_001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the kitchen rock workers.<br />In the foreground, the gazebo pad has it's final stain application. <br />It will be rinsed and readied for gazebo installation tomorrow morning. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0qQ0A_k60Sc/WcGPlp6vhxI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/zSgIwypUFAQ4mSv1r0IfqIIefF9U0pHrwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170913_161013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0qQ0A_k60Sc/WcGPlp6vhxI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/zSgIwypUFAQ4mSv1r0IfqIIefF9U0pHrwCKgBGAs/s640/20170913_161013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dale (on the scaffold) and Bill (moving the scaffold) continue sheetrock. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PsJeo-xlLeg/WcGPlrX7TVI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/K-6p1teFyaQub_53vCvSNAOwdJ58-muFQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170913_161018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PsJeo-xlLeg/WcGPlrX7TVI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/K-6p1teFyaQub_53vCvSNAOwdJ58-muFQCKgBGAs/s640/20170913_161018.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sidelights finally arrived. They and the big front doors are installed. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n2gczBKU3V4/WcGPlgiweVI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/2pzAdfAwDqQxpyHTa3ZA3KSn2muYhSL9ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170913_161345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n2gczBKU3V4/WcGPlgiweVI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/2pzAdfAwDqQxpyHTa3ZA3KSn2muYhSL9ACKgBGAs/s640/20170913_161345.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill and Kevin's kitchen rock guy, whose name I failed to get. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mp0PvWZ2E0M/WcGPlrqg_dI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/VyMV0FYWwKM1-Xv_6a5xDfi5Pu_g0VODQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170915_184038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mp0PvWZ2E0M/WcGPlrqg_dI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/VyMV0FYWwKM1-Xv_6a5xDfi5Pu_g0VODQCKgBGAs/s640/20170915_184038.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">September 15th. The gazebo is up. Still lots of finishing touches to be added to it though. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xHxcgUZPIWk/WcGPltR9mlI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/zoLu9hDa1VUA2lDO_3RBd1_mv0YpFTbogCKgBGAs/s1600/20170915_184217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1052" data-original-width="1600" height="420" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xHxcgUZPIWk/WcGPltR9mlI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/zoLu9hDa1VUA2lDO_3RBd1_mv0YpFTbogCKgBGAs/s640/20170915_184217.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The porch ceiling is stained now... September 15th. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fhZk01tLc4g/WcGPlkBS-4I/AAAAAAAA0Ws/vu07FQleajkoh3hPPRVO01_uPz75pefrwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170915_184758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1142" data-original-width="1600" height="456" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fhZk01tLc4g/WcGPlkBS-4I/AAAAAAAA0Ws/vu07FQleajkoh3hPPRVO01_uPz75pefrwCKgBGAs/s640/20170915_184758.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On Septmber 17th, Rico and Marco began preparing the firepit area for the paver and seating wall.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yv12wdky5Nw/WcGPlp9HcSI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/12flk8-NrMgxnclS3P1wBSwXOkCaJLtnwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170919_130033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yv12wdky5Nw/WcGPlp9HcSI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/12flk8-NrMgxnclS3P1wBSwXOkCaJLtnwCKgBGAs/s640/20170919_130033.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stain applied to the radius area in front. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bzj6ouAJlqo/WcGPlnQDFPI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/83ZGNZhjaEcAr_fWgTar61RXmg3bM3PZQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170919_134837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bzj6ouAJlqo/WcGPlnQDFPI/AAAAAAAA0Ws/83ZGNZhjaEcAr_fWgTar61RXmg3bM3PZQCKgBGAs/s640/20170919_134837.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marcus setting circular tiles while Marcus transports the heavy pavers. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I met this afternoon with Brandon of Kent's Landscaping to review and modify the original plans we made in June. Stands to reason, the days I want landscaping service are in conflict with the local "Parade of Homes" landscaping days. I wanted to shake Brandon by the collar, but thought better of showing my impatience. After all, I've been waiting only <i><b>six months</b></i>.<br />
<br />
Pam, Ernie, Joyce and Charlie have moved their arrival up a day and will be here tomorrow, September 20th. Wayne and I are so ready to spend some time with them. I do hope to be near completion, though I don't expect to be on the new site while they are here. Bill told me that David still feels we will finish on target.<br />
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-65531485228332194712017-09-11T16:37:00.000-05:002017-09-19T16:38:58.711-05:00Bella Terra: Irma On Approach - Construction Continues<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama</i> With Tropical Storm Cindy swiping us in June and then Hurricane Harvey fresh in memory, talk of a new storm system, now named Irma, began last week. Irma is a Category 5 boasting the distinction of being the strongest recorded hurricane in the Atlantic Basin. She has her eye set on Florida -- all of Florida. Irma's punch for several days was fueled by center winds speeds of 185 mph supported by gusts of 210 mph and some of the lowest pressures at 914 millibars. It is anticipated Irma will slam into Florida, via the Keys and move straight up the peninsula, starting this weekend. Adding insult to injury, a third hurricane, Jose, has now developed along Irma's same path. Jose is expected to take a northward course before reaching Florida's peninsula though. Small consolation.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kIJ_kEeNIgY/WbQTwtnv8XI/AAAAAAAAzxE/g20gpqMPoQMT3DdwnsxvSWgZL7iezx9dACKgBGAs/s1600/6105.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kIJ_kEeNIgY/WbQTwtnv8XI/AAAAAAAAzxE/g20gpqMPoQMT3DdwnsxvSWgZL7iezx9dACKgBGAs/s200/6105.jpeg" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too red! <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Sept 6th </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Through all of the nervousness Irma is causing, Alabama's Gulf coasts appears to be outside her reach -- at least for now. As a matter of fact, we are having surprisingly pleasant, sunny weather with lower humidity and temperatures. Even the daily rainstorms have stopped.<br />
<br />
A welcomed hum of construction activity began on our project this week. It started when the dark brown concrete stain color I chose was not available. On Wednesday, a runner-up stain was selected but it proved to be much too red.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6SgqU4gB3ZM/WbRhrdT6FqI/AAAAAAAAzzA/gya_cKIef2g_bOG1dLC3jl8coYaUwZiTQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170907_095817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1430" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6SgqU4gB3ZM/WbRhrdT6FqI/AAAAAAAAzzA/gya_cKIef2g_bOG1dLC3jl8coYaUwZiTQCKgBGAs/s200/20170907_095817.jpg" width="178" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Then the good folks at Sherwin Williams created a custom color that was near perfect and it was applied to the gazebo pad. I do like it. Hopefully, gazebo assembly will begin soon. David and one of his Gulf Coast Construction guys, named Bill, assisted and encouraged me with the process... Bill even drove me to the Sherwin Williams store.<br />
<br />
Our non-standard and elusive eight foot double front doors still hadn't arrived and that is holding up interior progress. David managed to get the framing inspection passed without the doors but he's hesitant to press our luck by requesting the insulation inspection without them.<br />
<br />
Then, to our surprise, the doors arrived on Sept 7th! But alas!... No celebration. The sidelights were not included. My heart fell to my feet. David did go ahead with a request for insulation inspection and to our delight..... IT PASSED -- pending door installation, of course. I'm impressed.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v-0jG0CeZZ0/WbRjKETWcfI/AAAAAAAAzzM/GmwiwYLct8EyfC3DX65Hjv-bBAvmBO51QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170907_123509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v-0jG0CeZZ0/WbRjKETWcfI/AAAAAAAAzzM/GmwiwYLct8EyfC3DX65Hjv-bBAvmBO51QCKgBGAs/s640/20170907_123509.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Doors.... no, not <i>those</i> Doors. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Bill applied the newly custom mixed concrete stain to the gazebo pad Friday, September 8 and it was perfect. My only instruction to Kelley at Sherwin Williams had been to make it as near the original dark brown color as possible.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FWgmuIOuiUw/Wbqwr7pEZiI/AAAAAAAA0Ig/JwYv_yPauOswNu0FkkUMyfaBnmP3HghXgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170908_085421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FWgmuIOuiUw/Wbqwr7pEZiI/AAAAAAAA0Ig/JwYv_yPauOswNu0FkkUMyfaBnmP3HghXgCKgBGAs/s640/20170908_085421.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sept 8 -- David (R) and Bill (L) are eager to see my reaction to the new concrete stain. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ypGXkarw1g/WbqxO6FzIDI/AAAAAAAA0Is/GolKkN-9FmMOhYN788mXWx0lPql7Ur_bQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170908_090620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1148" data-original-width="1600" height="458" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ypGXkarw1g/WbqxO6FzIDI/AAAAAAAA0Is/GolKkN-9FmMOhYN788mXWx0lPql7Ur_bQCKgBGAs/s640/20170908_090620.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect color concrete stain. Remnants of the first stain can be seen on the edge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We are ready for sheetrock inside the casita now and we are waiting for the stone workers to begin work on the outside kitchen. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a6zPF6jc4OA/WbqxO29NCHI/AAAAAAAA0Is/zdE1fRe4GMIlw1V6dyCnkqYjS9x0-jcGgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170908_090659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1330" data-original-width="1600" height="532" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a6zPF6jc4OA/WbqxO29NCHI/AAAAAAAA0Is/zdE1fRe4GMIlw1V6dyCnkqYjS9x0-jcGgCKgBGAs/s640/20170908_090659.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill and David planning the sheetrock installation - September 8 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
To our dismay, the perfect color stain developed bubbles by next morning. Bill and David were baffled. An explanation and a remedy from Sherwin Williams would be needed. It would take several days and several applications before Bill determined that whatever was causing the bubbles, it would take a cooling of the concrete before stain was applied to keep it from happening again and again.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jpB4npOZRZc/WcGA5ZpDjVI/AAAAAAAA0UQ/1GvgBxP5p4M8bis-uFK27i7uLkZhFV2PQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170908_183545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jpB4npOZRZc/WcGA5ZpDjVI/AAAAAAAA0UQ/1GvgBxP5p4M8bis-uFK27i7uLkZhFV2PQCKgBGAs/s640/20170908_183545.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Late afternoon on Sept 8. The tongue and groove porch ceiling is started. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Construction stood still September 9 - 11th, which was stressful for me. Our travel friends Pam, Ernie, Joyce and Charlie will visit late in September and I'd really like to have more to show when they are here. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rsGFsf6N3OA/WcGLTo9qEsI/AAAAAAAA0WQ/4qDrQ-DUeyUgP1x_Z-JnE4r9sTNoIqquACKgBGAs/s1600/screenshot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="898" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rsGFsf6N3OA/WcGLTo9qEsI/AAAAAAAA0WQ/4qDrQ-DUeyUgP1x_Z-JnE4r9sTNoIqquACKgBGAs/s640/screenshot.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2TlWGFDMeY/WcGLTuA-yRI/AAAAAAAA0WQ/M5sWWzd9OTEx1qMubuxvMsokDrM_0azbwCKgBGAs/s1600/screenshot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="898" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2TlWGFDMeY/WcGLTuA-yRI/AAAAAAAA0WQ/M5sWWzd9OTEx1qMubuxvMsokDrM_0azbwCKgBGAs/s640/screenshot.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">September 10, noon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4OgQjvhOXfU/WcGLTm7PdrI/AAAAAAAA0WQ/ZYIeHfebx4wI_kYpINR1sRPGFDn2UQM0wCKgBGAs/s1600/screenshot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="898" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4OgQjvhOXfU/WcGLTm7PdrI/AAAAAAAA0WQ/ZYIeHfebx4wI_kYpINR1sRPGFDn2UQM0wCKgBGAs/s640/screenshot.png" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Septemeber 10th 8:40 p.m.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Nrz6Ls4x10/WcGLTpmlYZI/AAAAAAAA0WQ/tT9DK3hUGKAXh8HTTEqhU1Tp2v8JmTaeACKgBGAs/s1600/screenshot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="898" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Nrz6Ls4x10/WcGLTpmlYZI/AAAAAAAA0WQ/tT9DK3hUGKAXh8HTTEqhU1Tp2v8JmTaeACKgBGAs/s640/screenshot.png" width="358" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Once again, we've been spared the hardest weather, getting only a few gusts of 25 mph winds and a few showers. Hurricanes Lee and Maria are being watched in the Atlanatic but they are too far out to worry about at the moment.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-89019165324574422362017-09-09T10:54:00.002-05:002017-09-14T11:55:28.472-05:00Bella Terra: Patio Kitchen Frame<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DgatHtPJ3G4/Wa7IjH01iwI/AAAAAAAAziY/B_QKEhXkEqAEdubkseKAoWSH59Qajk-WQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170815_100450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="596" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DgatHtPJ3G4/Wa7IjH01iwI/AAAAAAAAziY/B_QKEhXkEqAEdubkseKAoWSH59Qajk-WQCKgBGAs/s320/20170815_100450.jpg" width="259" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kevin Trussel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama</i> <br />
<br />
The casita porch (notice I use the terms "porch" and "patio" interchangably) is probably my favorite part of our Bella Terra buildout. A mental image of this cozy shady space filled with comfortable chairs, a large dining table, friends at the bar, burgers on the grill and football on the television plays in my mind all the time. There's a chance, this space is starting to take some real shape now.<br />
<br />
Murphy's Law would dictate that after waiting all these months to reach this point, Kevin (the outside kitchen guy) would be taking his annual week long vacation. He's gone to San Diego to visit his son stationed there with the Navy. Kevin's associate, David Foshee, will begin the kitchen install, I am told. <br />
<br />
I use the terms "kitchen, bar and counter" to describe the same item too. That's just me.<br />
<br />
Kevin brought the frame for the outdoor / patio kitchen counter / bar on August 31st -- the day the foam insulation came in a day early. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qLVjC3Cxf_s/Wa7HMZMSpPI/AAAAAAAAziA/51h1GR1hcfQoEVjHyF3F7Fg4lMvAhA2BwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170831_151403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1409" data-original-width="1600" height="562" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qLVjC3Cxf_s/Wa7HMZMSpPI/AAAAAAAAziA/51h1GR1hcfQoEVjHyF3F7Fg4lMvAhA2BwCKgBGAs/s640/20170831_151403.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Without space needed to install it, Kevin left the patio kitchen frame here on the gazebo pad. It's in two parts.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQFaSUFfSJ8/Wa7HMamx1ZI/AAAAAAAAziA/3y_SLf-DbG8gVCRIs-182USMGIMPqyjkgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170902_084318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQFaSUFfSJ8/Wa7HMamx1ZI/AAAAAAAAziA/3y_SLf-DbG8gVCRIs-182USMGIMPqyjkgCKgBGAs/s640/20170902_084318.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The inside wall to the porch is covered in Hardie board and ready for the counter frame.<br />
The two windows are covered. One will have to be eliminated and the other will be slightly enlarged, I think.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yumQmBnA4Tw/Wa7HMQhfrKI/AAAAAAAAziA/qpbKrHqSt-oSowdIbHV3rLtjIaGqQccSACKgBGAs/s1600/20170902_084430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yumQmBnA4Tw/Wa7HMQhfrKI/AAAAAAAAziA/qpbKrHqSt-oSowdIbHV3rLtjIaGqQccSACKgBGAs/s640/20170902_084430.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another box of cultured stone is delivered with the kitchen counter frame. The counter base will be covered in them. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On Labor Day, David Foshee began the installation. Looking left to right, the counter will have an undercounter refrigerator and sink. The right side will hold a grill and a burner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uUSkuq6TAdY/Wa7HMYNpEmI/AAAAAAAAziA/5IL9tY2uYV0IXTJSj7IG1ZVSwYYAPOx2wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170904_160056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1241" data-original-width="1600" height="496" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uUSkuq6TAdY/Wa7HMYNpEmI/AAAAAAAAziA/5IL9tY2uYV0IXTJSj7IG1ZVSwYYAPOx2wCKgBGAs/s640/20170904_160056.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WVXV1YtTbPU/Wa7HMeaUj6I/AAAAAAAAziA/K7X_hEbCSoYHqg7qnLlE0Kdj3Z4ufDWeQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170904_160122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1369" data-original-width="1600" height="546" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WVXV1YtTbPU/Wa7HMeaUj6I/AAAAAAAAziA/K7X_hEbCSoYHqg7qnLlE0Kdj3Z4ufDWeQCKgBGAs/s640/20170904_160122.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
David Foshee completed the Hardi board cover on Tuesday, Sept 6. Stacked stone will cover the entire bar and granite counters will go on last. Easier now to see where the appliances will fit.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tiP67AGKS2g/WbAIGbd6KPI/AAAAAAAAzkk/6a5M7OsZC7UOamevAnDXOHqO-SMlQn2-ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170905_143036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tiP67AGKS2g/WbAIGbd6KPI/AAAAAAAAzkk/6a5M7OsZC7UOamevAnDXOHqO-SMlQn2-ACKgBGAs/s640/20170905_143036.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of space for barstools now. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hfZsZWB2zkw/WbAIGbgcDPI/AAAAAAAAzkk/TFKwFrrWchcuuyBRTQ34xBMZvxZmQXvFACKgBGAs/s1600/20170905_143051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hfZsZWB2zkw/WbAIGbgcDPI/AAAAAAAAzkk/TFKwFrrWchcuuyBRTQ34xBMZvxZmQXvFACKgBGAs/s640/20170905_143051.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Evidently the illusive painter stopped by sometime during the day as more exterior yellow paint had been applied when I was there mid afternoon. I've never seen him. He seems to stop by, paint for a half hour and dissapear...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6SPdpI2Tuaw/WbQORYLwdYI/AAAAAAAAzwo/3izrPhvm9VUedYOWqsM3fVSnZQ_UjLaZwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170905_143153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6SPdpI2Tuaw/WbQORYLwdYI/AAAAAAAAzwo/3izrPhvm9VUedYOWqsM3fVSnZQ_UjLaZwCKgBGAs/s640/20170905_143153.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm ready for the next steps. September 27th is knocking at the door....Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-62067346092183700572017-09-01T10:46:00.000-05:002017-09-02T14:46:35.399-05:00Bella Terra: The Beat Goes On....<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama </i> On Friday, August 22, Category 4 Hurricane Harvey roared ashore near Corpus Christie, Texas. Harvey's torrential rain kept us on edge for almost a week before circling, making two more landfalls, drowning Houston, Beaumont and countless small communities. The week of flooding was, by far, the most newsworthy item 'round these parts and everyone here kept one eye to the sky and the other to a weather app.<br>
<br>
During the first half of Hurricane Harvey Week (August 22 -31), weather in Foley was hot and dry and our construction project proceeded at the usual slow pace. Outside stone work continued, painting began and the garage doors were installed.<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cszYMsiMbt4/WamKfdpQJ4I/AAAAAAAAzFY/t5xj6sejYsgHqSHCn_mWVZ0Vuh9_Yk_0ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170827_093324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cszYMsiMbt4/WamKfdpQJ4I/AAAAAAAAzFY/t5xj6sejYsgHqSHCn_mWVZ0Vuh9_Yk_0ACKgBGAs/s640/20170827_093324.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stone work almost all around the base of the casita.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-neeVe4LIxkw/WamKnYKmTqI/AAAAAAAAzFc/kWqhfOAJKOwkWX_fUq_9i4m-xXTaeAXXQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170831_092308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1159" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-neeVe4LIxkw/WamKnYKmTqI/AAAAAAAAzFc/kWqhfOAJKOwkWX_fUq_9i4m-xXTaeAXXQCKgBGAs/s640/20170831_092308.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standard Bella Terra yellow base paint application begins. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pxHsx_CL7wA/WamKwaZ0HnI/AAAAAAAAzFg/3gePAu8R67wdSElAP-kaSTy6P1rCojE6wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170825_183820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pxHsx_CL7wA/WamKwaZ0HnI/AAAAAAAAzFg/3gePAu8R67wdSElAP-kaSTy6P1rCojE6wCKgBGAs/s640/20170825_183820.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double garage doors installed and wood trim goes on around them.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
By August 29th, Hurricane Harvey, now downgraded to a Tropical Storm, began delivering a final blow to the gulf coast with outer bands training over Gulf Shores, Foley, Summerdale, Robertsdale, I-10, Bay Minette and points north. <br>
<br>
In his construction progress report of August 29, David said he and Kevin Trussel had met again to finalize the corrective changes to our outside kitchen which they hope can be done at the end of the week. The wall side of the bar is shortened enough to increase seating space and I can stop visualizing friends falling backward, cracking their heads and bleeding crimson onto the concrete patio.<br>
<br>
All our inspections to this point have passed -- framing included; pending installation of the large 8' double doors to the casita which we can't seem to get delivered. We talked about aborting the order but decided to work around this delay for now.<br>
<br>
David happily announced foam insulation, which normally requires a two week wait, can be squeezed in on Friday or Monday because we are a small job. Good news like that makes me smile but I also feared we might get pushed back because we <i>are </i>so small. To my surprise, on Thursday morning, August 31st, the foam installers arrived -- a day early! The installer wears something that resembled a Haz-Mat suit. I wasn't quick enough with the camera to capture him in action. In the blink of an eye, he disappeared into the casita and didn't re-emerge. Hope he's not still in there somewhere, packed into a wall, covered in foam...<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T12p46mSgLQ/WamLnnX2YWI/AAAAAAAAzFs/zFzu7TOA64wJh0Sz5RrnHTxtCe-M9djuQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170831_092219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="988" data-original-width="1600" height="394" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T12p46mSgLQ/WamLnnX2YWI/AAAAAAAAzFs/zFzu7TOA64wJh0Sz5RrnHTxtCe-M9djuQCKgBGAs/s640/20170831_092219.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foam insulation being sprayed from the big box truck.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
Rain subsided by the end of the day and the moment I saw the box truck leave I rushed out to see the result. Looked like a great snowstorm had blown through the little casita.<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rd9Z-YEOAvc/WanU4CGJfMI/AAAAAAAAzK0/TEtTKvKs-BQ4A4kt2JPI_mKkCLmyTR67QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170831_151207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rd9Z-YEOAvc/WanU4CGJfMI/AAAAAAAAzK0/TEtTKvKs-BQ4A4kt2JPI_mKkCLmyTR67QCKgBGAs/s640/20170831_151207.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing in the doorway looking through to the garage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-shw8NnyuVT0/WanUmB7vEbI/AAAAAAAAzKw/rutapJZ1NgYxiH9riOxm8J2ZhyTfgCP4ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170831_151907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-shw8NnyuVT0/WanUmB7vEbI/AAAAAAAAzKw/rutapJZ1NgYxiH9riOxm8J2ZhyTfgCP4ACKgBGAs/s640/20170831_151907.jpg" width="480"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing in the garage looking back the other way, out the double door opening.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IUem5aUCMMo/WanUmBs2hcI/AAAAAAAAzKw/H61K84rTYtQTtMXH0GflUD9YZI7_jrgZACKgBGAs/s1600/20170831_151159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IUem5aUCMMo/WanUmBs2hcI/AAAAAAAAzKw/H61K84rTYtQTtMXH0GflUD9YZI7_jrgZACKgBGAs/s640/20170831_151159.jpg" width="640"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bathroom on the left, kitchenette on the right. Garage to the far right. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br><div>
I suppose sheet rock comes next for inside the casita. Meanwhile, the outdoor kitchen frame installation got pushed away as did completion of the inner side of the porch's privacy wall. <br>
<br>
Clearly, I am restless. We've been at Bella Terra since April 7 -- twenty-one weeks. We signed the lot purchase contract April 13 and closed on it April 21st. We are almost to the end of week nine and slightly over four weeks from the contract completion date of September 27th... But obviously, that ain't happening. </div><div><br></div><div>We will see what the shortened next week brings. <br>
<br></div>Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-77281435757870625832017-08-30T17:13:00.000-05:002017-09-02T10:27:08.585-05:00Bella Terra: Built With Chicken Wire<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama </i>Three larges boxes of cultured stone were delivered to our lot on August 16th. David's text to tell me was thrilling. As the daughter of a building contractor, the smells of construction and the sight of building materials are as exciting to me as going to a potluck dinner at a southern country church. I couldn't wait to see the stone and examine them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FdmpaLolIzs/Wac4fzZOEfI/AAAAAAAAy7A/ZLBNuSPhyJw4NnZQolVchUMI0acaDGwLQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170819_114347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FdmpaLolIzs/Wac4fzZOEfI/AAAAAAAAy7A/ZLBNuSPhyJw4NnZQolVchUMI0acaDGwLQCKgBGAs/s640/20170819_114347.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Straight stones in the red stripe box. Corner stones are in the blue stripe one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oxIhfcq9Nxk/Wac4pfQpCnI/AAAAAAAAy7E/inAIdDaWwNQDI4dkiGNVb3r3HwyEZlwyQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170817_085748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oxIhfcq9Nxk/Wac4pfQpCnI/AAAAAAAAy7E/inAIdDaWwNQDI4dkiGNVb3r3HwyEZlwyQCKgBGAs/s640/20170817_085748.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Content of the boxes! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Stone installation for the casita began on August 22nd. David explained that the stones aren't real but cultured. They look real! Some are "L" shaped for use on corners.<br />
<br />
David's stone workers use a unique application technique for adhering the stone to the Hardie board...<i><b> chicken wire</b></i>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sl0wxj4rLrU/Wac6-osJbCI/AAAAAAAAy7Q/u-PpnmzBIysBoL8WcbCoSILct58DRkz6gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170819_113908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sl0wxj4rLrU/Wac6-osJbCI/AAAAAAAAy7Q/u-PpnmzBIysBoL8WcbCoSILct58DRkz6gCKgBGAs/s640/20170819_113908.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken wire is attached to the Hardie board.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MKH2QVGA80E/Wac4pZcSRCI/AAAAAAAAy7E/E6EQCeyu1jgVqm19GItUCmPpbBZe9wjCACKgBGAs/s1600/20170822_092255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MKH2QVGA80E/Wac4pZcSRCI/AAAAAAAAy7E/E6EQCeyu1jgVqm19GItUCmPpbBZe9wjCACKgBGAs/s640/20170822_092255.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rico is the master of stacked stone application.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YrpSPxVrMqo/Wac4pSUI4SI/AAAAAAAAy7E/L8ngOkcRWXcxlPrDHrVw-rmaex09xF60wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170822_092319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1096" data-original-width="834" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YrpSPxVrMqo/Wac4pSUI4SI/AAAAAAAAy7E/L8ngOkcRWXcxlPrDHrVw-rmaex09xF60wCKgBGAs/s640/20170822_092319.jpg" width="486" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marcus attaches the chicken wire to the Hardie board. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kb7XS3b-Axw/Wac7GU0wUXI/AAAAAAAAy7U/AGRka4VtrAwSQsJMQxl9yj1m5ItBvi-LwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170822_084730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1175" data-original-width="1600" height="468" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kb7XS3b-Axw/Wac7GU0wUXI/AAAAAAAAy7U/AGRka4VtrAwSQsJMQxl9yj1m5ItBvi-LwCKgBGAs/s640/20170822_084730.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first of the stones are set.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-440c4kBcNK8/Wac4WC-wcnI/AAAAAAAAy68/Y1jj8EcbwEoAGOQVjInt_RG4aROSk22YACKgBGAs/s1600/20170819_113930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-440c4kBcNK8/Wac4WC-wcnI/AAAAAAAAy68/Y1jj8EcbwEoAGOQVjInt_RG4aROSk22YACKgBGAs/s640/20170819_113930.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Before" stone application</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The contract is well beyond the half-way point with a targeted completion planned for the end of September. I sure don't see that happening.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-3491103617563899462017-08-30T17:07:00.003-05:002017-08-30T17:07:42.669-05:00Bella Terra: The Devil In The Details<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama </i> It is hot in Foley. Every day. Not just hot in the sun but <i>sweltering hot,</i> even in the shade... with unbearable humidity. My clothes are soaked with perspiration within minutes of stepping outside... sun or shade. Thunderstorms roll in regularly and that adds to the awful humidity. Some days I swear I smell mildew outside. My morning walks are a faint memory. I wouldn't dream of even trying it in this heat.<br />
<br />
We are shut-ins most days until after dinner when it's cool enough to venture out for a golf cart or convertible ride. Lexie and Ozzie are becoming less stressed in the convertible. The wind bothered them the first few times but I've cut their hair to keep it from whipping around their faces and Wayne's short, low-speed routes are helping them adjust.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krUGSJF4Jc0/WaboUADFE_I/AAAAAAAAy5w/8hhuX7LKZ28-FPNp9egKcCd_hFnV0UL1wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170807_191415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krUGSJF4Jc0/WaboUADFE_I/AAAAAAAAy5w/8hhuX7LKZ28-FPNp9egKcCd_hFnV0UL1wCKgBGAs/s640/20170807_191415.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pups and Pops ready to roll out for an evening ride to the beach.<br />
The video below was taken before I cut their facial and ear hair. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/gPA39ygxPnM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gPA39ygxPnM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
But all that's outside the realm of the real summer project: <b><i>Construction</i></b>. It continues at a fairly steady pace that I think is slow but David, the contractor, doesn't. Work that's hard to see: metal strapping, outside trim, reinforced joists, beams and the like are important but not easily seen, though on close look, the frame has a tighter, more finished look.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzGJOKjpY-4/Wabm0rn_eHI/AAAAAAAAy5U/RBhr5PsWMmwuH0hZZbfzRNNvBDMgpx_HgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170815_100450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1046" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzGJOKjpY-4/Wabm0rn_eHI/AAAAAAAAy5U/RBhr5PsWMmwuH0hZZbfzRNNvBDMgpx_HgCKgBGAs/s400/20170815_100450.jpg" width="261" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kevin Trussel<br />
Grill Island, Pensacola</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Kevin Trussel, of Grill Island in Pensacola came by Tuesday morning, August 15th to see what modifications will be needed to the outside kitchen. It is time to build the frame and attach it to the porch wall. This will be done in late August. Then while he is on vacation the first week of September, stone workers will cover the frame in stacked stone. Once Kevin returns, plumbing, gas and electric will be attached and the granite will installed.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The bar will be a backward "L" shape along the porch wall with the grill centered. An exhaust hood has been added between the windows. Kevin measured the 12 foot length and examined the gas, water and sewer lines already in place. We are good for liftoff.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tHdNe8CoSWY/WZcRJ_fbyyI/AAAAAAAAyNA/Skgy9Mcb4pksgqkTRGMcq9jo3C1Hf_0SACKgBGAs/s1600/20170812_095905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tHdNe8CoSWY/WZcRJ_fbyyI/AAAAAAAAyNA/Skgy9Mcb4pksgqkTRGMcq9jo3C1Hf_0SACKgBGAs/s640/20170812_095905.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grill hood will be centered between the windows. Gas, water and sewer lines are in place. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next day, Wednesday, August 16, Kevin returned with this revised diagram. My excitement was short lived when he pointed out that we had boxed ourselves into a problem with the devilish details. The diagram below shows placement required by the already cut windows and power for the exhaust hood.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V3He48XTxZ4/WZcSEdV8VsI/AAAAAAAAyNQ/7r-cF_HkQKUJWho9SGDK1oV9VPHDu30UACKgBGAs/s1600/20170818_104321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1156" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V3He48XTxZ4/WZcSEdV8VsI/AAAAAAAAyNQ/7r-cF_HkQKUJWho9SGDK1oV9VPHDu30UACKgBGAs/s640/20170818_104321.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once the 24" counter and an additional 12" of raised bar space are added to the outer edge of the outside kitchen,<br />
a mere 18" of space is left for seating. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In centering the windows and exhaust hood on the porch wall, we backed ourselves out to the edge of the porch at the bar. Here's how: The porch is a 12' extension on a 4" raised portion of the concrete pad. The grill hood outlet was placed halfway, at the 6' point with two window openings cut equidistant from the point of the grill hood.<br />
<br />
The grill hood would dictate placement of the grill directly below and that would force the bar out so far that a mere 18" of bar stool space was left. I had a mental picture of friends on bar stools falling off the the tiny 18 inches of seating space. How could we remedy this error? I spoke with David by phone. He was calm and unflappable. Later that evening he sent "<i>It's all good! We'll take care of it</i>" in a reply text.<br />
<br />
And so the problem was remedied. After several seemingly good ideas we settled on this: We will take out the window nearest the casita and enlarge the other one. With a simple snip, the water lines can be shortened to fit farther in and the gas line is flexible. This should reduce the wall side of the bar by a foot or more. David and Kevin will meet to confirm it will work. <i><b>That was easy</b></i>.<br />
<br />
But then I thought about how nice a couple of hanging pendant lights would look over the bar and conveyed that request to David. No sooner asked than done! I ordered the pendant lights and the electrician installed the wiring.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uc0EIRVjdH4/WaczVIQ6rDI/AAAAAAAAy6g/4PEFS1yHBs0LWh0eRZWIAU5seeztTCH4wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170819_114015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uc0EIRVjdH4/WaczVIQ6rDI/AAAAAAAAy6g/4PEFS1yHBs0LWh0eRZWIAU5seeztTCH4wCKgBGAs/s640/20170819_114015.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right window was completely removed. Left one will be enlarged slightly. <br />Water, sewer and gas were moved to the right. <br />Portals for pendant light directly over the bar are added but might have to be moved a bit. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aAB4B0eqf-U/Wacz_VLmvCI/AAAAAAAAy6s/bYh5SQLZ1bI1WDJWa9ZoId8talYl7X-MQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170819_114108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aAB4B0eqf-U/Wacz_VLmvCI/AAAAAAAAy6s/bYh5SQLZ1bI1WDJWa9ZoId8talYl7X-MQCKgBGAs/s640/20170819_114108.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a bit easier now to see how the vaulted ceiling will look. <br />HVAC tubing has been installed over the shower stall. Metal plates were added where the wall joists meet the roof. <br />This will protect our little casita in 140 mph winds... I hope. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPtR6B8ww4A/Wacz_UJtVkI/AAAAAAAAy6s/uQrZmKOGV3Yj_mKjI28U7VGR0Ys4_A54wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170819_114131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oPtR6B8ww4A/Wacz_UJtVkI/AAAAAAAAy6s/uQrZmKOGV3Yj_mKjI28U7VGR0Ys4_A54wCKgBGAs/s640/20170819_114131.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The living area wall. <br />18 inch metal straps are attached with at least a dozen nails. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
...and so progress does go on and on. Even the tiny, hard to see details.<br />
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-66902267063459822852017-08-18T13:09:00.002-05:002017-08-20T08:39:39.616-05:00Bella Terra: More Casita Roof, Windows and No Doors<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama</i> Window installation began on Monday, August 7th. What a thrill. Here are a few of the most exciting pictures.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wIecbrb5FtQ/WYoV_ywKDQI/AAAAAAAAxr8/M7y_OiDQ-tQxgMwMXhN2YEgy4coL1dF1gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170807_191858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wIecbrb5FtQ/WYoV_ywKDQI/AAAAAAAAxr8/M7y_OiDQ-tQxgMwMXhN2YEgy4coL1dF1gCKgBGAs/s640/20170807_191858.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monday, Aug 7. Living area and garage windows are in! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4c3Bby8Yf8I/WYoV_7RZ0WI/AAAAAAAAxr8/gL6Ld_mCI6QYWnxDglQ_gTpyRkEgCM3TgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170807_191929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4c3Bby8Yf8I/WYoV_7RZ0WI/AAAAAAAAxr8/gL6Ld_mCI6QYWnxDglQ_gTpyRkEgCM3TgCKgBGAs/s640/20170807_191929.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bathroom has just a tiny horizontal window. It faces south... toward the preserve.<br />
It will not require a hurricane shutter. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
All casita windows except the small bathroom one will require hurricane shutters. The casita itself is built to withstand 140 mph wind. The hurricane shutters will be attached to the frame just below the small top window. I'm told they are heavy and difficult to install but look nice and are adjustable.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EudhjZkJ4A0/WYoV_1iUcXI/AAAAAAAAxr8/mWC9mKOuafcqT86iWyfR70e6Luedo7PGACKgBGAs/s1600/20170807_191936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EudhjZkJ4A0/WYoV_1iUcXI/AAAAAAAAxr8/mWC9mKOuafcqT86iWyfR70e6Luedo7PGACKgBGAs/s640/20170807_191936.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kitchen window also faces the wooded preserve to the south.<br />
The storm shutter will be affixed just below the upper section of glass.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fBL_Ez9q8k/WYoV__uLlQI/AAAAAAAAxr8/zqWLds2vOaon4ucgYKLd6NflGvm0t9Z0gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170807_192040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_fBL_Ez9q8k/WYoV__uLlQI/AAAAAAAAxr8/zqWLds2vOaon4ucgYKLd6NflGvm0t9Z0gCKgBGAs/s640/20170807_192040.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The garage window opens to the west. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The shower stall was delivered Monday too. It's lying on it's stomach in the grass a and looks like a big dead elephant. It's embarrassing but I'll live with it.<br />
<br />
The giant 8' front glass double doors and sidelights are expected to be delivered any day. Without the doors, the impending framing inspection will fail. David said today, however, that he will move forward with the framing inspection even with the failure to give Steve (the carpenter) time to remedy any other items found in the inspection.<br />
<br />
Windows have been cut into the porch wall now too. These will have wooden louvers -- no glass and, of course, are not required to be hurricane proof. An "L" shaped bar will be built against the wall -- a gas grill will be on the side counter and an exhaust fan will be attached to the wall over the grill.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-55S2cygSmWE/WYoYEEr9AdI/AAAAAAAAxsI/IibbLlNM_lgROwDVDWelz7yfq5HLdgO-gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170807_191923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-55S2cygSmWE/WYoYEEr9AdI/AAAAAAAAxsI/IibbLlNM_lgROwDVDWelz7yfq5HLdgO-gCKgBGAs/s640/20170807_191923.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So this is our "look" for today, Tuesday, August 8. Metal roof installation is expected be complete next weekend.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w1QIvRe4yWs/WYoYEFnAWaI/AAAAAAAAxsI/k875aOuXjOwGyDKnf3e8MJgqGIQtWDBUACKgBGAs/s1600/20170807_192105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w1QIvRe4yWs/WYoYEFnAWaI/AAAAAAAAxsI/k875aOuXjOwGyDKnf3e8MJgqGIQtWDBUACKgBGAs/s640/20170807_192105.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A last minute electrical addition was made today to add two downward lights on the sides of the outer window. <br />
The preserve behind us is home to coyotes and we are afraid they catch us by surprise at night with the little dogs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I snapped the window pictures while Wayne waited in the topless car with the pups (in the picture below). Bless his heart, he is so "not interested" in the building process. Gnats were really bothersome so I hurried back for our late afternoon ride in his convertible. Gee he loves that little car.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Aaguw7VX9k/WYoblyhACiI/AAAAAAAAxsU/k3rR1s5EDCQH53UNtreE59ulR-PRaBTFQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170807_191952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Aaguw7VX9k/WYoblyhACiI/AAAAAAAAxsU/k3rR1s5EDCQH53UNtreE59ulR-PRaBTFQCKgBGAs/s640/20170807_191952.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The shower stall was removed from the yard and installed in just a couple days. It's a tiny thing -- about the size of the one in the coach.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ocSx1GNaDg/WZNTWpiQQDI/AAAAAAAAyF8/WlzT8pXTtn0i6qDFBJXR7lgj9w45k0NqQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170812_094306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ocSx1GNaDg/WZNTWpiQQDI/AAAAAAAAyF8/WlzT8pXTtn0i6qDFBJXR7lgj9w45k0NqQCKgBGAs/s640/20170812_094306.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honey! the bathroom is shrinking!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Then on Monday, August 14, the huge Gazebo kit was delivered. It is as large as a pickup truck! It will be erected on the raised pad at the bottom of the picture. The pad will be stained before the gazebo is built.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJlGPjQgXCw/WZNTl6iTupI/AAAAAAAAyGA/3u-eoqp7ICA9xl_xJP2LT4aS3TPJlG2fQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170815_100409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1266" data-original-width="1600" height="506" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJlGPjQgXCw/WZNTl6iTupI/AAAAAAAAyGA/3u-eoqp7ICA9xl_xJP2LT4aS3TPJlG2fQCKgBGAs/s640/20170815_100409.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The roofers returned Friday and resumed the application of metal roof panels but it still is not complete. Wayne and I began looking around at furniture and appliances to get an idea of what we'll want to buy when the time comes for that important finishing expense... er... I mean "touch."<br />
<br />
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-24594204975195902462017-08-07T10:08:00.001-05:002017-08-20T08:43:03.832-05:00Bella Terra: Electric and Plumbing <i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama</i> Wednesday, August 2nd marked the end of the fourth week of our contract construction. The sheathing inspection by the City of Foley was done today and passed -- I don't know what "sheathing" is. Framing is nearly finished but I was wrong (in the last post) about the next phase of casita construction. My final sentence in that post was that we'd be getting roof, doors and windows next. In reality, the electric wiring, plumbing and roof would be next. That's whats covered here.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-miHxiKZxwtw/WYMrpUDISuI/AAAAAAAAxIw/MjutWG9pcrMua00Ro9L7vo-m963V6RaPwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170731_185905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-miHxiKZxwtw/WYMrpUDISuI/AAAAAAAAxIw/MjutWG9pcrMua00Ro9L7vo-m963V6RaPwCKgBGAs/s640/20170731_185905.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 31st. See the light coming through the roof? That plywood gap resulted in Steve firing of one of the framers. Surprisingly, he didn't see to the remedy right away. I sent this picture to David who will see to the remedy.<br />
Guess the inspector will catch it if it isn't repaired properly. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64BHwsY2BU4/WYMrpS3FZnI/AAAAAAAAxIw/UjYsPry5jvslQyzx5-vVflf_4WaDizfOQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170801_185727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1230" data-original-width="1600" height="490" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-64BHwsY2BU4/WYMrpS3FZnI/AAAAAAAAxIw/UjYsPry5jvslQyzx5-vVflf_4WaDizfOQCKgBGAs/s640/20170801_185727.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The casita roof is covered in a product that has thick black adhesive to hold it onto the plywood.<br />
A TV will be mounted in the shaded corner of the porch. Another will be inside the casita.<br />
This will bring our total TV count to six -- seven if we put one in the gazebo. Way too many.<br />
I cannot operate any of them.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The electrician began stretching electric wire through the rafters and down the walls August 2nd. I made an executive decision to determine location of the porch TV. Considering bar, grill and window placement, seating and late afternoon sun, I chose to forfeit one porch light and hang the TV in the eastern corner. As always, Wayne isn't interested in making the decisions, but expects I'll make the right ones.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-__6JE4_0ZJg/WYMsoFQ5H0I/AAAAAAAAxJM/O_82fU9O6pUYlFFtOuR7ItVayw-GUg0fwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170802_185914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1073" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-__6JE4_0ZJg/WYMsoFQ5H0I/AAAAAAAAxJM/O_82fU9O6pUYlFFtOuR7ItVayw-GUg0fwCKgBGAs/s640/20170802_185914.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 2 -- The Island Electric truck remained on site this evening.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hH-ea4-fEJo/WYMtMiRj7SI/AAAAAAAAxJQ/NiVto1Csmigql3jqkMjwHaHAv6bgfKw-gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170802_190217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hH-ea4-fEJo/WYMtMiRj7SI/AAAAAAAAxJQ/NiVto1Csmigql3jqkMjwHaHAv6bgfKw-gCKgBGAs/s640/20170802_190217.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On August 2 the recessed can lights were mounted into the vaulted ceiling of the casita. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iOkK5k-kvMA/WYMtMu2adpI/AAAAAAAAxJQ/K13l9cnzmA0yZO9B3iVJLTs_oqoWNPqHACKgBGAs/s1600/20170802_190222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iOkK5k-kvMA/WYMtMu2adpI/AAAAAAAAxJQ/K13l9cnzmA0yZO9B3iVJLTs_oqoWNPqHACKgBGAs/s640/20170802_190222.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 2 inside the garage. I suppose the electric box will be to the right on the white paper. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5xz7LJSnFIU/WYMtMg_fjlI/AAAAAAAAxJQ/k1CP0NeNlQU1h0fYlESyUNmfgjFbPm4FwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170802_190239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5xz7LJSnFIU/WYMtMg_fjlI/AAAAAAAAxJQ/k1CP0NeNlQU1h0fYlESyUNmfgjFbPm4FwCKgBGAs/s640/20170802_190239.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne is standing in our single closet August 2.<br />
The tiny closet measures just 2.5' x 2.5' and opens from the bathroom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ovqbC5hw_mY/WYMtMhyqhLI/AAAAAAAAxJQ/iMnK6ogwlM8nbo8kHgnnQ_7noa83fMxjwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170802_190418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ovqbC5hw_mY/WYMtMhyqhLI/AAAAAAAAxJQ/iMnK6ogwlM8nbo8kHgnnQ_7noa83fMxjwCKgBGAs/s640/20170802_190418.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We will forgo the porch light on this side of the door to mount the television. <br />
Two windows will be cut into the wall and an exhaust fan will be mounted in the center over the grill.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
On Monday evening, David sent a text to say plumbing would commence Thursday and the roof installation was scheduled for Saturday. HVAC work is expected sometime in the next few days too.<br />
<br />
We enjoyed a string of three days without rain but the next four days brought showers, including a near full day of steady rain on Friday, August 4th. It would be Saturday evening before we stopped in to see the progress. Here's what we found....<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gGikaYhKAXA/WYclOZBV3CI/AAAAAAAAxSY/WznezkEEZLs8LAxRtfu-Hzqp6megfsxDACKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_183943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gGikaYhKAXA/WYclOZBV3CI/AAAAAAAAxSY/WznezkEEZLs8LAxRtfu-Hzqp6megfsxDACKgBGAs/s640/20170805_183943.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saturday, August 5 - Here's what's cooking on the porch... <br />
Water, electric, sewer and gas lines for the still-to-be-built bar. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BO8E8gmL3lU/WYclOZfxp6I/AAAAAAAAxSY/n-tHzlx9Uz8XYxVMcKWTllwh2Q_f-rsNgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_184025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BO8E8gmL3lU/WYclOZfxp6I/AAAAAAAAxSY/n-tHzlx9Uz8XYxVMcKWTllwh2Q_f-rsNgCKgBGAs/s640/20170805_184025.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 5 - electric box has been installed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oqO0Xlinz4U/WYclOb8JKuI/AAAAAAAAxSY/lSJGAvxsIHI_9Y4wm5C20Bbknq0g-t3dwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_184044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oqO0Xlinz4U/WYclOb8JKuI/AAAAAAAAxSY/lSJGAvxsIHI_9Y4wm5C20Bbknq0g-t3dwCKgBGAs/s640/20170805_184044.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washer and dryer connections are complete by August 5 too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BNyli3hhSuM/WYclOWo21hI/AAAAAAAAxSY/-e1kWtfd6KYWpcK4kW9QXPXauBXP2I3FACKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_184050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BNyli3hhSuM/WYclOWo21hI/AAAAAAAAxSY/-e1kWtfd6KYWpcK4kW9QXPXauBXP2I3FACKgBGAs/s640/20170805_184050.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitchen plumbing - also August 5</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9Jw7-1LR3w/WYclOXgZ4kI/AAAAAAAAxSY/JdInqDGc4EAR14d3V5CcZhpGtRkUwLMMACKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_184152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9Jw7-1LR3w/WYclOXgZ4kI/AAAAAAAAxSY/JdInqDGc4EAR14d3V5CcZhpGtRkUwLMMACKgBGAs/s640/20170805_184152.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 5 Lexie and Ozzie join me for a visit to the location of the toilet. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jy53sHXYx64/WYclOW4grTI/AAAAAAAAxSY/-LVQOXsCKJcms8MB_nH8AClFXDOxwrEAQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_184525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jy53sHXYx64/WYclOW4grTI/AAAAAAAAxSY/-LVQOXsCKJcms8MB_nH8AClFXDOxwrEAQCKgBGAs/s640/20170805_184525.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 5 - The exterior is covered with Hardie Board. <br />
A light mounted on the southeast corner will show onto the wooded area behind us.<br />
There is an ever growing coyote population in this preserve. They howl when emergency sirens go by.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L-tz_nMKMWY/WYclOT78lDI/AAAAAAAAxSY/kfy_U8c4hlAome5IoYDDuXYdU3OW_mzzgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_184715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L-tz_nMKMWY/WYclOT78lDI/AAAAAAAAxSY/kfy_U8c4hlAome5IoYDDuXYdU3OW_mzzgCKgBGAs/s640/20170805_184715.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 5 - two fan mounts and six recessed lights are mounted in the porch ceiling.<br />
NOTE: The gap in the roof plywood appeared to have been remedied when this picture was taken.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The roofing crew came in on Saturday, August 5, despite the 70% threat of rain which finally gave way to fair weather. Appears the job requires just two guys, accompanied by two pre-teen boys who look to be more trouble than worth. Nevertheless...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OwqU0ChIGaA/WYcoNNJmgBI/AAAAAAAAxSw/Vir5P0YgKcY7BeCtKvMeL5QkEw_mwv0fQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_114435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1596" data-original-width="1392" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OwqU0ChIGaA/WYcoNNJmgBI/AAAAAAAAxSw/Vir5P0YgKcY7BeCtKvMeL5QkEw_mwv0fQCKgBGAs/s640/20170805_114435.jpg" width="558" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saturday, August 5th -- Sheets of metal are going onto this side of the roof.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5OJ70vpLfA4/WYcoNP2HCGI/AAAAAAAAxSw/TM5T8jHDmLsV2i6QEJ_kPtiGWZ_ebJ1uQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_152521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="831" data-original-width="1102" height="482" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5OJ70vpLfA4/WYcoNP2HCGI/AAAAAAAAxSw/TM5T8jHDmLsV2i6QEJ_kPtiGWZ_ebJ1uQCKgBGAs/s640/20170805_152521.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front has roof panels a few hours later</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dw6tA_MrKks/WYcoNGVA_bI/AAAAAAAAxSw/Ih6fLybSmMcxxoW4y4TTG3x7B-rPcE7pgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_184634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dw6tA_MrKks/WYcoNGVA_bI/AAAAAAAAxSw/Ih6fLybSmMcxxoW4y4TTG3x7B-rPcE7pgCKgBGAs/s640/20170805_184634.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 5 at the end of the day. Still incomplete though.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-323D3LdnCPg/WYcoNEV11SI/AAAAAAAAxSw/bpA_eBtI5xQ0FurdZ6x_-k4rHTzdn7RqACKgBGAs/s1600/20170805_184805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1015" data-original-width="1600" height="404" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-323D3LdnCPg/WYcoNEV11SI/AAAAAAAAxSw/bpA_eBtI5xQ0FurdZ6x_-k4rHTzdn7RqACKgBGAs/s640/20170805_184805.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view across part of the lake from our site</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A 40% rain chance remains for the next two days, followed by three days of 30% chance. It keeps the grass green anyway. <br />
<br />
At this point we are pleased with David Thompson of Gulf Construction in Fairhope. The construction pace seems steady and well managed. We are approaching the point of the first construction draw which occurs once the utilities are roughed in. Not to be confused with the first payment to the contractor: A deposit was made prior to commencement of construction.<br />
<br />
I am happy... hope to remain so.Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-87144430891885126642017-07-28T12:28:00.000-05:002017-09-06T09:45:00.854-05:00Bella Terra: Framing The Casita<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley Alabama </i> Framing of the casita began on Friday, July 7th, four days after the concrete pour. We signed the casita building contract with David two days earlier, July 5th. The contract was drawn and approved way back on June 16 -- before my angry outburst described in gruesome detail on an earlier post. I guess everyone was afraid of me -- with good reason. Nevertheless, we are all legally bound to proceed with this endeavor now. <br />
<br />
After a great deal of urging from me, David reduced the fourteen week construction period to twelve... though I know that deadline really is not likely to be met.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j25SiQzoTfw/WWefR8Mt2LI/AAAAAAAAwWw/xxapgc0BY3szFrBFGqwnVDoOK0RksSA8QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170706_164628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j25SiQzoTfw/WWefR8Mt2LI/AAAAAAAAwWw/xxapgc0BY3szFrBFGqwnVDoOK0RksSA8QCKgBGAs/s640/20170706_164628.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final "all horizontal" view of our lot as first material delivery happened Thursday, July 6th.<br />
There's no power to the pedestal yet so the framing crew uses a generator. Bet the neighbor loves that.<br />
The framing contractor, Steve, seems a likable and dependable fellow. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kYTJcxQhOCU/WWeg2vlEgOI/AAAAAAAAwW0/6ZHbMxS-It8z7iESkTbuBvK4qhP4i10wgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170707_160350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1428" height="504" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kYTJcxQhOCU/WWeg2vlEgOI/AAAAAAAAwW0/6ZHbMxS-It8z7iESkTbuBvK4qhP4i10wgCKgBGAs/s640/20170707_160350.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then on Friday, July 7, we built a wall! <br />
The framing crew is much too small for my liking -- a mere 3 guys the first few days. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1iA3wqWozbk/WWefR1l3quI/AAAAAAAAwWw/lmQYkOhP0cod1oH30wOOhK0Hs0GCSUXrwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170708_132525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1329" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1iA3wqWozbk/WWefR1l3quI/AAAAAAAAwWw/lmQYkOhP0cod1oH30wOOhK0Hs0GCSUXrwCKgBGAs/s640/20170708_132525.jpg" width="530" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saturday, July 8th -- three walls!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ES40fE41ybw/WWefR_Ct04I/AAAAAAAAwWw/F4GsP52ywqUqVES9frMSuLln_NB5ymeiwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170710_171447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1499" data-original-width="1600" height="598" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ES40fE41ybw/WWefR_Ct04I/AAAAAAAAwWw/F4GsP52ywqUqVES9frMSuLln_NB5ymeiwCKgBGAs/s640/20170710_171447.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 10th -- the garage framing is added (right side). There's David in blue shirt and ever present flip flops.<br />
I worry ... don't want him to be injured. (Might cause construction delays.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I1boM42YNZ0/WWefR7jM45I/AAAAAAAAwWw/aVwXQXdRc7oyjyTOzP91RO38knJGVh-6ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170711_185224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I1boM42YNZ0/WWefR7jM45I/AAAAAAAAwWw/aVwXQXdRc7oyjyTOzP91RO38knJGVh-6ACKgBGAs/s640/20170711_185224.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 11th - Wayne's standing in the golf cart garage. <br />
We will have space for shelves and washer and dryer too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-89wzZ8bdGus/WWefRwPy1MI/AAAAAAAAwWw/ZQcH9EczbE0LPwFJvDPqdQhtLB5gcAeygCKgBGAs/s1600/20170711_185318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-89wzZ8bdGus/WWefRwPy1MI/AAAAAAAAwWw/ZQcH9EczbE0LPwFJvDPqdQhtLB5gcAeygCKgBGAs/s640/20170711_185318.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 11th - Hard to see but the boards in the middle are porch support posts. <br />
Three or four are needed to support the 12' forward section and 8' sides of the porch. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5IR2uHkQOQQ/WWefR_NBqWI/AAAAAAAAwWw/ok10gPULMRc1jifagQhUMonc9QUwlh-eACKgBGAs/s1600/20170711_185357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5IR2uHkQOQQ/WWefR_NBqWI/AAAAAAAAwWw/ok10gPULMRc1jifagQhUMonc9QUwlh-eACKgBGAs/s640/20170711_185357.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the rear. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5eMxyLGQEUA/WWefR3ob_zI/AAAAAAAAwWw/pmgAxP8Kii0AfS0_3ad1Dv-A4Csf6FqvACKgBGAs/s1600/20170711_185524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1055" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5eMxyLGQEUA/WWefR3ob_zI/AAAAAAAAwWw/pmgAxP8Kii0AfS0_3ad1Dv-A4Csf6FqvACKgBGAs/s640/20170711_185524.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lexie and Ozzie enjoy exploring their new place.<br />
Can you see them there on the right... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CurWOyyvbnk/WWefR1_Tu3I/AAAAAAAAwWw/V25a5Wdbb8gmbGQJFiZOnrfb5f7Dz2bUgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170711_185556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CurWOyyvbnk/WWefR1_Tu3I/AAAAAAAAwWw/V25a5Wdbb8gmbGQJFiZOnrfb5f7Dz2bUgCKgBGAs/s640/20170711_185556.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The area in front of where Ozzie is standing will be laid in circular patterned pavers -- it's the fire pit area.<br />
Lexie is standing on the raised pad where the screened gazebo will be built.<br />
The concrete will be stained once construction is complete. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mVstUBNSHxY/WWenfbizOYI/AAAAAAAAwXU/AetZIpCvuQc6sKzt56eNmuetQxpTI76XgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170708_132633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mVstUBNSHxY/WWenfbizOYI/AAAAAAAAwXU/AetZIpCvuQc6sKzt56eNmuetQxpTI76XgCKgBGAs/s400/20170708_132633.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
The power pedestal wiring was inspected on Wednesday, July 12th and we established the first utilities account we've had in seven years. (Insert icky face here)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KvBlwyLcAIQ/WWefR3Hq3gI/AAAAAAAAwWw/dzjT_cUllew12faYGS4XOHY36t8DAzmgwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170712_184011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1312" data-original-width="1600" height="524" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KvBlwyLcAIQ/WWefR3Hq3gI/AAAAAAAAwWw/dzjT_cUllew12faYGS4XOHY36t8DAzmgwCKgBGAs/s640/20170712_184011.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Porch framing started - July 12th</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IuLzShsWUpk/WWvLLI_kj7I/AAAAAAAAweQ/k5Lw2_cooAss2MPQAnPk9vT5nX1qB2hegCKgBGAs/s1600/20170716_085046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1012" data-original-width="1600" height="404" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IuLzShsWUpk/WWvLLI_kj7I/AAAAAAAAweQ/k5Lw2_cooAss2MPQAnPk9vT5nX1qB2hegCKgBGAs/s640/20170716_085046.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On Saturday, July 15th, the roof was started. Gee, it looks big now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our typical pattern for watching the construction process is to take a ride over in the golf cart after dinner every evening, after the workers are gone. As I do love seeing construction, this is sometimes difficult for me...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ca4Kr8MJxbU/WXYVsTgGINI/AAAAAAAAwxY/pGBDwd1niB8TX5tc1MCtZPjePDhopOh5ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170719_090243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1328" data-original-width="1600" height="530" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ca4Kr8MJxbU/WXYVsTgGINI/AAAAAAAAwxY/pGBDwd1niB8TX5tc1MCtZPjePDhopOh5ACKgBGAs/s640/20170719_090243.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front porch roof decking was started on Wednesday, July 19th. Steve found a few more framers, though some of these had to be fired. Seems he is able to keep a few going all the time though. I like Steve so far. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We were "weather lucky" through the first two weeks of framing. Fast moving showers come almost daily but we didn't have any complete wash-out days until Monday, July 24 when a long train of thunderstorms lasted from before dawn until lunchtime. In early afternoon, some clearing came and progress continued.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Umc0tqaRWSw/WXtu1XA8-vI/AAAAAAAAw8I/S7TTt3vhuYkA0Ut_fStAhxXwQ8mXut30wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170720_191443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Umc0tqaRWSw/WXtu1XA8-vI/AAAAAAAAw8I/S7TTt3vhuYkA0Ut_fStAhxXwQ8mXut30wCKgBGAs/s640/20170720_191443.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 20th. Standing in the doorway, the full bathroom is on the left.<br />
Kitchenette is on the right with a pocket door into the golf cart garage where we'll have laundry space too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eAnu6mjXb7w/WXtu1fSL73I/AAAAAAAAw8I/mUDGLGjHX38RePB5mVTzHkI6VnZ-s7LWACKgBGAs/s1600/20170720_191454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eAnu6mjXb7w/WXtu1fSL73I/AAAAAAAAw8I/mUDGLGjHX38RePB5mVTzHkI6VnZ-s7LWACKgBGAs/s640/20170720_191454.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 20th. The golf cart garage and laundry. There will be a double door here. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XAnT1WkEHOE/WXtu1aeGsZI/AAAAAAAAw8I/jb1T93XXawYvanAsoU3a9pvy-OKwz7e4QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170724_184500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XAnT1WkEHOE/WXtu1aeGsZI/AAAAAAAAw8I/jb1T93XXawYvanAsoU3a9pvy-OKwz7e4QCKgBGAs/s640/20170724_184500.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By July 24th, the roof decking was coming along nicely and it's easier to see the porch area. <br />
Still a couple of posts to be installed. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8MaxkxQrtmA/WXtu1fMUeHI/AAAAAAAAw8I/SS6ljEdrT2kTS7sTjwEAB_P_88lkqVMBwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170727_191311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8MaxkxQrtmA/WXtu1fMUeHI/AAAAAAAAw8I/SS6ljEdrT2kTS7sTjwEAB_P_88lkqVMBwCKgBGAs/s640/20170727_191311.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 27th from the vacant lot beside ours. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AlzpJRb_6lU/WXtu1UNQjdI/AAAAAAAAw8I/nX3jO8sCQ5s9MWzKDkcM-SGxb5lqXyx9gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170727_191337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AlzpJRb_6lU/WXtu1UNQjdI/AAAAAAAAw8I/nX3jO8sCQ5s9MWzKDkcM-SGxb5lqXyx9gCKgBGAs/s640/20170727_191337.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 27th. Our neighbors are gone now and this angle gives a good look at the comparative size of our casita alongside theirs. The porch and garage make the pitch of the roof higher. Our screened gazebo will be placed similarly to the neighbors and the paint colors will be the same. Our concrete stain will be darker than theirs. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-beLatMAbxCM/WXtu1a1DACI/AAAAAAAAw8I/z1pNak1mIAUenis3EJynpO7rnV5FIqeYACKgBGAs/s1600/20170727_191413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-beLatMAbxCM/WXtu1a1DACI/AAAAAAAAw8I/z1pNak1mIAUenis3EJynpO7rnV5FIqeYACKgBGAs/s640/20170727_191413.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 27th from another angle. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjPZasfU068/WXtyKmQeIyI/AAAAAAAAw8g/jVvzXttvPegs7VkMKUaqjl_FUrOCuEiyQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170728_114857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjPZasfU068/WXtyKmQeIyI/AAAAAAAAw8g/jVvzXttvPegs7VkMKUaqjl_FUrOCuEiyQCKgBGAs/s640/20170728_114857.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">July 27th David, the contractor. No, he hasn't been to the beach.<br />
He continues to impress me with his positive attitude, attentiveness and courtesy. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m7gFlqfCPHI/WXtyzqKBAxI/AAAAAAAAw8s/nJW3__dOICcxIiLnJoAfgHmimJLAuDIbACKgBGAs/s1600/20170728_114400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1449" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m7gFlqfCPHI/WXtyzqKBAxI/AAAAAAAAw8s/nJW3__dOICcxIiLnJoAfgHmimJLAuDIbACKgBGAs/s640/20170728_114400.jpg" width="578" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve on the roof and one of his carpenter helpers, below. It bothers me that they work in the oppressive heat.<br />
They are finishing the roof decking and making way for the roof to be installed in the next few days. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CzYiApvGfPk/WXtyjL_asAI/AAAAAAAAw8k/fxmooZyPKEg0MIVWXg2YVrweMvxvGmotgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170728_114440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1428" data-original-width="1600" height="356" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CzYiApvGfPk/WXtyjL_asAI/AAAAAAAAw8k/fxmooZyPKEg0MIVWXg2YVrweMvxvGmotgCKgBGAs/s400/20170728_114440.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve's girlfriend comes along some days. It's cool on the porch and they have a radio blaring. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
David continues to feel the project is moving along at a good pace and despite the daily showers, we aren't being washed out. This concludes the casita framing post. Next, we'll watch the metal roof, doors and windows go in. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0101 Viabella Terra, Foley, AL 36535, USA30.3468495 -87.660007100000033.0293475 -128.96860110000003 57.6643515 -46.35141310000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-13339091059547591762017-07-24T16:31:00.002-05:002017-07-24T16:35:54.549-05:00Going Topless<i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama</i> The neighbors beside us here in the temporary RV site have a Mustang convertible that they keep under a canvas cover when they aren't here. Richard, the neighbor, calls it his "fun" car. <br />
<br />
I didn't realize it but the Wayner was developing a secret desire to have a "fun" car too and seeing Richard's Mustang intensified it. He confessed to me a couple weeks ago when he saw a red Mustang convertible with a "For Sale" sign in the window out on Highway 59 in Foley. He stopped. He looked... but the red Mustang didn't meet his stringent standards......<br />
<br />
So.... we began looking for pre-owned convertible makes and models online. I helped him with research of convertibles. We looked at everything from TrueCar to Carfax to Car Trader to dealer sites to Craigslist. He broadened, then narrowed his convertible car choices to Ford Mustang, BMW, Lexus and Mercedez Benz. He prepared a list of pre-owned convertibles for sale in the area. Last Monday we drove to Mobile to see a Benz, Lexus and Mustang. Tuesday we drove to Destin to see a BMW. Wednesday was Pensacola Day where he checked another Mustang, another Lexus another Mercedez Benz and another BMW. It was hot and tiring work, but we kept going, Lexie and Ozzie in tow every mile.<br />
<br />
Thursday was a day of rest from the physical car search, but not from the mental one. He doubled down on his research and made more phone calls. By Friday evening, he had decided on the BMW he saw in Destin. Of course, that would be the car.... the farthest distance but it was a good price, with low miles and in fine condition. It's a 328i hardtop convertible. He bought it from a widow from Birmingham, now living in Destin. Strike up yet another Craigslist success story for us.<br />
<br />
Here we are, about to go topless.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/q4cMcWvj-0Y/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q4cMcWvj-0Y?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
A couple more pictures....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RFaVHFbXShk/WXZkixKm2KI/AAAAAAAAwyc/dQk2Hkb0H3sxLyW_I0b1IQIW1t_3-NkFgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170722_183255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1008" data-original-width="1600" height="402" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RFaVHFbXShk/WXZkixKm2KI/AAAAAAAAwyc/dQk2Hkb0H3sxLyW_I0b1IQIW1t_3-NkFgCKgBGAs/s640/20170722_183255.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mnvYqwp5jRg/WXZki-Ax7hI/AAAAAAAAwyc/xe_hy0Qw2SkV72fm06dlzyBeNC_Ar2oHQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170722_192508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mnvYqwp5jRg/WXZki-Ax7hI/AAAAAAAAwyc/xe_hy0Qw2SkV72fm06dlzyBeNC_Ar2oHQCKgBGAs/s640/20170722_192508.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for an early evening ride in Pop's new car. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-35595288799862978152017-07-14T11:47:00.001-05:002017-07-14T11:47:04.615-05:00A "New To Us" Golf Cart<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JZcO6Os9P0A/WWjysxVhjLI/AAAAAAAAwbY/5oZtykaHOksqjf-blqMO8EkpomYBQI7kgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170706_142450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JZcO6Os9P0A/WWjysxVhjLI/AAAAAAAAwbY/5oZtykaHOksqjf-blqMO8EkpomYBQI7kgCKgBGAs/s320/20170706_142450.jpg" width="240" /></a><i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley Alabama </i> <br />
<br />
<br />
We bought a golf cart last week. It's used. Craft Farms golf course was rotating their fleet. We are not members, but a local friend is and he arranged to have this one offered to us ahead of some other members for just $1,750.<br />
<br />
The cart seems to be in good operating condition -- a 2 person, 2008 Club Car with all new 48 volt batteries, charger and tires. It's not equipped for city driving but we plan to only use it within the confines of the resort.<br />
<br />
Our friend, Frank, and one of the golf pros at Craft Farms even delivered the cart to us here at Bella Terra! That's service, friends.<br />
<br />
We removed the golf club cover wedge from the back and I ordered a rain enclosure, rainproof cart cover, rear view mirror and extra keys (came with just one). We gave her a good washing, waxing and wiped the black plastic with one of those rejuvinating products to bring the color back. We're feeling pretty smug now, wheeling around with the pups between us -- and it sure beats pedaling a bicycle.<br />
<br />
A second seat can be installed for about $300 and we are giving that some thought, but for now, we'll settle for a simple, inexpensive ride for just us and the dogs. In time, Wayne might decide he wants a newer one. We will see.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ycivsLdNkcw/WWjy29-LpLI/AAAAAAAAwbc/rpB112GzXEoAqpxHqafwyp6-xg4qB9AmQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170708_132805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="998" data-original-width="1400" height="456" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ycivsLdNkcw/WWjy29-LpLI/AAAAAAAAwbc/rpB112GzXEoAqpxHqafwyp6-xg4qB9AmQCKgBGAs/s640/20170708_132805.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
Lexie and Ozzie enjoy the evening ride.</div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
Another late thunderstorm is heading our way!</div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
That's a laundry/shower house in the background with more available Phase III lots all around.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So now we take "after dinner" golf cart rides to check the lot's building progress and tour the neighborhood.<br />
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-10061809585312169182017-07-13T11:11:00.001-05:002017-07-28T14:10:02.983-05:00Lucky Seven!<i>From Bella Terra Motorcoach Resort, Foley, Alabama</i> July 4th marked the end of our seventh year as full-time RV'ers. Year seven RV travel totaled 4,977 miles over ten states: Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama and Florida with a passenger vehicle trip through Idaho into the eastern edge of Washington State. Total miles driven this year is 5,187. Total RV miles since retirement total 59,435.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O60-2XB1huM/WWeZyCfCkmI/AAAAAAAAwWQ/RhJr-tqmAR0CYWzvRCsFb0M6df3LtYyqQCLcBGAs/s1600/Seven-Dice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="560" height="97" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O60-2XB1huM/WWeZyCfCkmI/AAAAAAAAwWQ/RhJr-tqmAR0CYWzvRCsFb0M6df3LtYyqQCLcBGAs/s200/Seven-Dice.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
Major personal, non RV events of the seventh year included the many aspects of Lexie's illness, attending my 45th high school reunion, a record five month stay in Port Charlotte, learning to play pickleball and to line dance. Of course, the purchase of our RV lot and the resulting commencement of construction is the greatest highlight though.<br />
<br />
It goes without saying that our RV lifestyle is changing. While we still love living in the coach, the pace is slowing, destinations are more definitive and campground selection is narrowing. With the completion of our RV lot, we expect to park ourselves for several months in spring and fall with travel to warmer places in the coldest winter months and cooler trips in summer.<br />
<br />
So with this, we welcome the next 12 months by declaring, <i>"Eight Isn't Enough"</i>...Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-40384263281439474812017-07-11T21:16:00.000-05:002017-07-13T12:35:58.640-05:00Bella Terra: The Concrete Phase<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<i>From Bella Terra Motorcoach Resort, Foley, Alabama</i> We arrived Friday, April 7th and toured Bella Terra the very next morning. We knew before we arrived that we were likely lot buyers if we liked what we saw. We selected a site during the next three days, signed a contract to purchase it on Thursday, April 13 and closed on the following Friday, April 21. The lot we chose is one of about 30 in the final phase of the development. It's what they call a "Terraced" lot that's adjacent to a heavily wooded area recently designated an Alabama Preserve. </div>
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EACvajQmtUM/WTLevfiwOKI/AAAAAAAAsyE/DfSRyuMB_JYW1jTW7J6U_SqWV3YhXwKwgCKgB/s1600/20170414_142228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EACvajQmtUM/WTLevfiwOKI/AAAAAAAAsyE/DfSRyuMB_JYW1jTW7J6U_SqWV3YhXwKwgCKgB/s640/20170414_142228.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April 13, 2017<br />
Lot 35-464 Portofino Loop, Bella Terra of Gulf Shores. The ground is dry. It's been weeks since rain has fallen.<br />
Ours is one of just two remaining Phase III Terrace lots along the south side which adjoins this wooded preserve.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
By the following Tuesday, I had drawn a first draft of what we wanted built. Measuring 50' x 90', our site is large enough to built any of the available coach house plans. Wayne and I decided on a small Rizzo model with full bathroom and kitchenette. A 12' porch and outside kitchen/bar area will extend from the front door of the casita. A screened gazebo will be built in front of the porch and a campfire area will be near the street with tall privacy foliage in front of it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aqN1DuYZ4PY/WUfqfP0WJNI/AAAAAAAAvyY/NvU6SHOKpEwT1MRjUMEhj_tQyJAmoKb6ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170427_114832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1210" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aqN1DuYZ4PY/WUfqfP0WJNI/AAAAAAAAvyY/NvU6SHOKpEwT1MRjUMEhj_tQyJAmoKb6ACKgBGAs/s640/20170427_114832.jpg" width="482" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Several modifications would be made to this first pencil draft. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Despite the best efforts of Courtney and the staff at Bella Terra, drawing of the architectural plans became a distasteful experience. Robby Miller, the draftsman, took six weeks to produce this small project on paper. It's a two day project at best.<br />
<br />
Two and a half weeks would pass before <i>any</i> lot improvement would commence but here is a picture of the first soil scrape. An "ah ha" moment for sure. David Thompson, the builder, sensed my desperate need to see <i>something</i>....<br />
<br />
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fyk7pAVZ6sc/WTCJW97IphI/AAAAAAAAsrM/sObVpfPdoEsZHgOvLMxTCxUYypyiEPTCgCKgB/s1600/20170510_191641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fyk7pAVZ6sc/WTCJW97IphI/AAAAAAAAsrM/sObVpfPdoEsZHgOvLMxTCxUYypyiEPTCgCKgB/s640/20170510_191641.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">The ground is broken! May 10, 2017 </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Rc85MaF2Y4/WTCJW9cUDSI/AAAAAAAAsrM/9b_-aZzutgg9-1nL_kVJx_itKHChkAOXQCKgB/s1600/20170515_133829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Rc85MaF2Y4/WTCJW9cUDSI/AAAAAAAAsrM/9b_-aZzutgg9-1nL_kVJx_itKHChkAOXQCKgB/s640/20170515_133829.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May 15, 2017<br />
Starting the construction footprint.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkzebG7wgb0/WTCJWy32XhI/AAAAAAAAsrM/CsyuGECeQG4BWTeREfujHhcn8dFuYNi2wCKgB/s1600/20170526_083300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkzebG7wgb0/WTCJWy32XhI/AAAAAAAAsrM/CsyuGECeQG4BWTeREfujHhcn8dFuYNi2wCKgB/s640/20170526_083300.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May 26, 2017</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But the thrill from the first scrape of dirt was short lived as something surely angered Mother Nature. In the last half of May she unleashed weeks of rain onto south Alabama. The first two weeks weren't terrible -- rain fell all around but seldom directly onto us. In early June though, the daily rains began and wouldn't stop. Four rainy weeks came and went. Each morning we watched local weather... most days carried a 40% to 70% chance of rain.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-17C_lIwa0CI/WUAWc-ZNkZI/AAAAAAAAuz4/lETSCDs0gfkQDMm6mm0w9tNUHgv4wgp4ACKgB/s1600/20170602_091142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-17C_lIwa0CI/WUAWc-ZNkZI/AAAAAAAAuz4/lETSCDs0gfkQDMm6mm0w9tNUHgv4wgp4ACKgB/s640/20170602_091142.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 2, 2017<br />
Concrete framing begins, but then.... rain delays the progress.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The architects plans were finally completed on June 5 and the construction permit was issued Friday June 16th. David (the builder) is hopeful to get concrete poured the next week.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aTop7l4LjBQ/WUfdvzujnwI/AAAAAAAAvyA/lGaOp2BXnFMpCtYS9orR1VOkSnwBcmW9gCKgBGAs/s1600/4062.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aTop7l4LjBQ/WUfdvzujnwI/AAAAAAAAvyA/lGaOp2BXnFMpCtYS9orR1VOkSnwBcmW9gCKgBGAs/s640/4062.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep. Flood zone. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
On Monday, June 19th, Tropical Storm Cindy developed in the Gulf of Mexico and had the Alabama coastline in her crosshairs. Hours before the rain began, though, plumbers were on site and got the stubbing done. Within a couple hours, the first of Cindy's countless hours of rain began.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e-iL1k-chdI/WUlAWQl1-DI/AAAAAAAAv0g/URF-CsVoHtMnHjJHgTslLX9tkTo0JK7GgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170619_141522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e-iL1k-chdI/WUlAWQl1-DI/AAAAAAAAv0g/URF-CsVoHtMnHjJHgTslLX9tkTo0JK7GgCKgBGAs/s640/20170619_141522.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 19th. Rough plumbing complete and ready for inspection.<br />
Rain thwarted inspection which was now delayed until June 29th. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The deluge Cindy dumped reminded us of our personal Murphy's Law: <i>If it can happen, it will happen</i>. It did happen. One five day period of dry weather followed the rain but construction stood still. I don't know why. I stopped walking and biking in the resort. Construction on our site was being watched and discussed by the summer resident/owners. I was stopped often and questioned as to why we can't move as fast as another site also under construction. I grew frustrated. I got mad. Wayne's spirits were no better and we began to rethink our plan. We gave serious though to selling the lot without going into the casita building phase. Life is too short to worry with construction. Word of a single rant to a neighbor spread quickly to management who carefully waded into my angry world. They only made matters worse with lengthy email timelines and useless lectures about the perils of construction, south Alabama weather and the importance of being a good follower. Ick. Enraged, I fired a scathing email right back and heard no more. I was satisfied but still in favor of aborting the plan. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xxxK38zQtq0/WWV5NdAUXhI/AAAAAAAAwTM/sgxzuJ1xmOgNStZdSm4AzY6CGM0p9Y8fgCKgBGAs/s1600/4251.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xxxK38zQtq0/WWV5NdAUXhI/AAAAAAAAwTM/sgxzuJ1xmOgNStZdSm4AzY6CGM0p9Y8fgCKgBGAs/s640/4251.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 30th. Casita foundation is prepared and forming continues in the mud. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
By June 29th David was finishing the concrete forms for concrete. He asked if I wanted to show him where to lay out the freestyle landscape islands I had planned. I bristled but rode my bicycle to the site to tell him we were not going to move forward beyond where we were legally bound. We would sell the lot. I told him as much. He asked why. I told him. He didn't argue but asked more questions. We talked on and on, reversing the timeline all the way back to the delay caused by the draftsman. It felt good to have someone specific to blame for my frustration. I reassigned my anger.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J_LoeSxGP_Q/WWV730EnXII/AAAAAAAAwTk/cy7sxfbEOGs9UMEfqrKmtWYDtKYZuWIigCLcBGAs/s1600/Lot%2B35-6.29.17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J_LoeSxGP_Q/WWV730EnXII/AAAAAAAAwTk/cy7sxfbEOGs9UMEfqrKmtWYDtKYZuWIigCLcBGAs/s640/Lot%2B35-6.29.17.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 30th. Look closely to see standing muddy water halfway up the lot. It's almost a foot deep on the front slope.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On June 30, our lot was a giant mud hole. David said he would pump it out and he did. Rain came sporadically. The plumbing passed inspection. So did the soil compaction test and the foundation test. David planned to pour concrete on Monday, July 3. His talk reinvigorated my enthusiasm. I rode my bicycle home and told Wayne. Bless his heart. He's happy when I'm happy. And when I'm unhappy.... well... he is too. Lord, how I love that man.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vz-cuGr2wRE/WWV5VgkrHEI/AAAAAAAAwTQ/TrXJhw6Zv5EONG1lHNV3_hGZXhdbAKRTwCKgBGAs/s1600/4256.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vz-cuGr2wRE/WWV5VgkrHEI/AAAAAAAAwTQ/TrXJhw6Zv5EONG1lHNV3_hGZXhdbAKRTwCKgBGAs/s640/4256.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our version of "Draining the swamp". Pumping nearly complete. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Monday, July 3, concrete trucks began rolling into the resort and the beautiful grey liquid poured into the forms. David invited me to oversee placement of the landscape islands he had formed. I stayed and watched the concrete work all day. My spirits soared. The rain seemed to have subsided -- for today anyway.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0o9H0l0zITc/WWV9xGxIXWI/AAAAAAAAwTo/paGJ8zIzz-MMGOrfn690ZhxgHiR-rdY1gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_074037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0o9H0l0zITc/WWV9xGxIXWI/AAAAAAAAwTo/paGJ8zIzz-MMGOrfn690ZhxgHiR-rdY1gCKgBGAs/s640/20170703_074037.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First truck load of concrete.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-scpr1ni6q_4/WWV9xGJQR4I/AAAAAAAAwTo/w1djUbNQ2YEzypfTPDEzGlgWhFo_GcWLACKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_080807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-scpr1ni6q_4/WWV9xGJQR4I/AAAAAAAAwTo/w1djUbNQ2YEzypfTPDEzGlgWhFo_GcWLACKgBGAs/s640/20170703_080807.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A total of five concrete trucks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ljpp3SlvsqA/WWV_ynWr-tI/AAAAAAAAwUA/FsgZnJTXkOEqJpI82Gw43NcOHC3ggNo9QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_101113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ljpp3SlvsqA/WWV_ynWr-tI/AAAAAAAAwUA/FsgZnJTXkOEqJpI82Gw43NcOHC3ggNo9QCKgBGAs/s640/20170703_101113.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The casita, golf cart garage and slab for the gazebo are poured first.<br />
David is in the red shirt. He's forming the landscape islands.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gyrfq5p0L6g/WWV_yrgFM5I/AAAAAAAAwUA/_tjYnPmf23Ib6rdf55E6MJAOZ_xec09YgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_102508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gyrfq5p0L6g/WWV_yrgFM5I/AAAAAAAAwUA/_tjYnPmf23Ib6rdf55E6MJAOZ_xec09YgCKgBGAs/s640/20170703_102508.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two ramps were built by hand. They are needed to get the golf cart into the garage.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TamwTw4ACgk/WWV_yrr16WI/AAAAAAAAwUA/qOVmxBO075U21QeQ3LtEWtLF8AABSGXDACKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_104033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1282" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TamwTw4ACgk/WWV_yrr16WI/AAAAAAAAwUA/qOVmxBO075U21QeQ3LtEWtLF8AABSGXDACKgBGAs/s640/20170703_104033.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On concrete pouring day, Wayne came by to check on the progress but didn't stay long.<br />
He just wants to see the end result.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTx2YxyE7vQ/WWV_ygigK3I/AAAAAAAAwUA/PRZY8N_BOfwzaFVjWiPDecYnwMhMuAkjwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_114407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTx2YxyE7vQ/WWV_ygigK3I/AAAAAAAAwUA/PRZY8N_BOfwzaFVjWiPDecYnwMhMuAkjwCKgBGAs/s640/20170703_114407.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost finished. Rumor has it these are among the best concrete crews in the county.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mdYm9-2-zb8/WWWBIc9H2DI/AAAAAAAAwUE/LgJ1C6OKEdUEsg9YTYHjVYUM58nkPS4_gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_125834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mdYm9-2-zb8/WWWBIc9H2DI/AAAAAAAAwUE/LgJ1C6OKEdUEsg9YTYHjVYUM58nkPS4_gCKgBGAs/s640/20170703_125834.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Landscape islands can be seen in the middle. One is kidney shape -- the other is round.<br />
Trees will be planted to add character and shade to the concrete pad. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DQ8MSriLiBc/WWWBIVQKlvI/AAAAAAAAwUE/pH3iQoM25-4_ZvKgJKwW1iL1QmLfJA7uACKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_131751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DQ8MSriLiBc/WWWBIVQKlvI/AAAAAAAAwUE/pH3iQoM25-4_ZvKgJKwW1iL1QmLfJA7uACKgBGAs/s640/20170703_131751.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The concrete crew was great. Finished by mid afternoon.The guy on the right apologetically popped a beer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYJHpRNm79o/WWWBIZqo41I/AAAAAAAAwUE/VZ6m5ZsHMSc0n5SYLerF3cDYjHW5dcGvQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_131800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYJHpRNm79o/WWWBIZqo41I/AAAAAAAAwUE/VZ6m5ZsHMSc0n5SYLerF3cDYjHW5dcGvQCKgBGAs/s640/20170703_131800.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exhausted but still smiling. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RMMerkzJyRQ/WWWIhcLLKgI/AAAAAAAAwUU/DkYfSoVSpcIJ-pIomdRL_RLZrnpnFYx6QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170703_102758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RMMerkzJyRQ/WWWIhcLLKgI/AAAAAAAAwUU/DkYfSoVSpcIJ-pIomdRL_RLZrnpnFYx6QCKgBGAs/s640/20170703_102758.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David. Flip-flop wearing Auburn University Alum with Masters Degree with undergraduate d<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">egrees in Biology and Finance. Age 27. Unrelenting optimist. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And that concludes the first part of construction on July 3rd. Construction of casita comes next. Still a long way to go.... firepit area, gazebo, porch, outside kitchen, landscaping and lighting. It will last all summer and fall, I fear, though the contract completion date is Sept 28th.</div>
Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0101 Viabella Terra, Foley, AL 36535, USA30.3474254 -87.6599433999999753.0299519000000004 -128.96853739999997 57.6648989 -46.351349399999975tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-18334223809387442182017-06-02T15:48:00.001-05:002017-06-19T09:15:37.438-05:00Bella Terra: The Players and The Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXRvSSRBVPU/WTHERVB1boI/AAAAAAAAsv4/T9kSXsI-y8ck_U7rUTzEdLcFKfVQnKqPgCKgB/s1600/20170602_140637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1353" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXRvSSRBVPU/WTHERVB1boI/AAAAAAAAsv4/T9kSXsI-y8ck_U7rUTzEdLcFKfVQnKqPgCKgB/s200/20170602_140637.jpg" width="168" /></a></div>
<i>A Who's Who and What's What at Bella Terra Gulf Shores</i><br />
<br />
Jenny's was the smiling face that greeted me the day we arrived at Bella Terra of Gulf Shores. Seems she is always behind this desk making everyone feel welcome.<br />
<br />
Our chats are infrequent as much of her time seems to be taken up with telephone customers. I guess it's only natural her picture includes a phone.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EGTyWEXtQcE/WTHEayVcelI/AAAAAAAAsv8/-cvoqoiEkBo-3olZP2eyacMoPqoKqGX0QCKgB/s1600/20170516_155856-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="922" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EGTyWEXtQcE/WTHEayVcelI/AAAAAAAAsv8/-cvoqoiEkBo-3olZP2eyacMoPqoKqGX0QCKgB/s200/20170516_155856-1.jpg" width="115" /></a></div>
Denise is our Bella Terra Realtor. She toured us around the property our first morning and drew up our contract six days later.<br />
<br />
We looked at all the lots available, including unsold lots in the first two phases, resales and newly developed sites in the final phase.<br />
<br />
If one had been available, our first lot choice would have been a resale with construction already in place, but there were none *.<br />
<br />
We chose one of the Phase III terrace parcels that backs up to a heavily wooded preserve.<br />
<br />
<br />
* Not to cast a shadow on the process, I must say that Wayne and I <i>do not</i>, I repeat <i>DO NOT</i> have a stellar record when it comes to buying a.n.y.t.h.i.n.g. we can't touch at the point of sale. Things ordered can go wrong will go wrong when we're involved.<br />
<br />
Having said that... we are optimistic that our luck can change. I kicked off our project by drawing an idea of what we wanted and shared it with Courtney Osborne, Bella Terra's Operations Manager.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r9OCgtrr9HQ/WTHEjE3uaCI/AAAAAAAAswA/teUtdFkETSU_O3zGUsHjwoYNA2JmUX76ACKgB/s1600/20170602_101851%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1265" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r9OCgtrr9HQ/WTHEjE3uaCI/AAAAAAAAswA/teUtdFkETSU_O3zGUsHjwoYNA2JmUX76ACKgB/s200/20170602_101851%257E2.jpg" width="158" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Courtney. A constant smile and tremendous presence in a "4 foot something" sparkler. She's been with Bella Terra since the beginning. She knows the ropes... and the players.<br />
<br />
She is the lighthouse in our project.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yzWfQ7rSny4/WTHEsunK9BI/AAAAAAAAswE/H0ixn4X6lgEBZ4ZyYiw0dRDuojtE9ukFwCKgB/s1600/20170602_144502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yzWfQ7rSny4/WTHEsunK9BI/AAAAAAAAswE/H0ixn4X6lgEBZ4ZyYiw0dRDuojtE9ukFwCKgB/s200/20170602_144502.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
Robby Miller of Coastal Designs will eventually convert my pencil drawing to blue prints. We've never seen or spoken directly with him.<br />
<br />
He has remained illusive and is, by far, the most unimpressive player in this game. His picture, therefore, shall be a black box.<br />
<br />
Momma said if I can't say something good, I shouldn't say anything...</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1MoZjEwhlU/WUKnusrsa2I/AAAAAAAAvow/bqqr7TREcJACggiD4huQQqcoVXjmphmUgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170615_101955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1MoZjEwhlU/WUKnusrsa2I/AAAAAAAAvow/bqqr7TREcJACggiD4huQQqcoVXjmphmUgCKgBGAs/s200/20170615_101955.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Activities are the lifeblood of every resort. Retirees and RV'ers love having fun things going on. That's where "<i>Can Do</i>" Katie comes in. Always smiling and open to suggestions, Katie keeps Bella Terra involved in both on-site programs and area events. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx9REVkRt-Y/WTHE27FqqqI/AAAAAAAAswI/BZAUkSQzs_8cY2_Opw3Z1wbvGB_rU04sQCKgB/s1600/20170602_135142%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1139" data-original-width="1600" height="141" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx9REVkRt-Y/WTHE27FqqqI/AAAAAAAAswI/BZAUkSQzs_8cY2_Opw3Z1wbvGB_rU04sQCKgB/s200/20170602_135142%257E2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Another effervescent and happy face at Bella Terra belongs to beautiful Tara. While we don't interface with Tara in the construction process, she appears to "float" around the property during every activity and makes sure Wayne and I are introduced to everyone who happens by.<br />
<br />
Shy about photos, Tara reluctantly allowed this photo with Courtney (who loves the camera).<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y_6KApXMVhg/WTHE9Mg9B3I/AAAAAAAAswM/Z05MSfDoyaMOKL5NjVMvWUHyz0JoHKfmgCKgB/s1600/20170602_092102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y_6KApXMVhg/WTHE9Mg9B3I/AAAAAAAAswM/Z05MSfDoyaMOKL5NjVMvWUHyz0JoHKfmgCKgB/s200/20170602_092102.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Billy is another great asset to Bella Terra. As maintenance supervisor, his overwhelming and never ending responsibilities do not rattle him. Always... this. man. is. calm. and. positive.<br />
<br />
Billy's role in our project is to be our eyes and ears in a construction world where we are novices.<br />
<br />
He has a calming effect on my Type A temperament.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N8rg_JB9MQ0/WTHFnTRIuPI/AAAAAAAAswU/kxk9DXywIJURRScpm3w1cblW2TsghtNJgCKgB/s1600/20170516_160620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N8rg_JB9MQ0/WTHFnTRIuPI/AAAAAAAAswU/kxk9DXywIJURRScpm3w1cblW2TsghtNJgCKgB/s200/20170516_160620.jpg" width="111" /></a></div>
<br />
Bella Terra is the brain child of this man, Chuck Smith who, according to local folk lore, got the idea of a motorhome resort from his RV'ing parents. He's taken Bella Terra from conception to completion through good times and bad (think RV boom, oil spill, economic downturn, RV boom, bust and boom again). An impressive, friendly fellow one can't help but like. <br />
<br />
He splits his time between south Alabama and Colorado these days.<br />
<br />
For detail about this dream of Chucks, check out <a href="https://www.bellaterrarvresort.com/">Bella Terra Gulf Shores</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0W4V0_jRO-U/WTHIm8rpfZI/AAAAAAAAswk/HRctQCgLsFU-by_mOeYmoZ7xuoUSlzGUwCKgB/s1600/20170513_101431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0W4V0_jRO-U/WTHIm8rpfZI/AAAAAAAAswk/HRctQCgLsFU-by_mOeYmoZ7xuoUSlzGUwCKgB/s320/20170513_101431.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, that's Lexie and Ozzie in the stroller</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Still another participant in our project is the all important, construction contractor. That would be David Thompson.<br />
<br />
While he looks much like a very young Sean Penn (reminiscent of "Fast Times At Ridgemont High"), his casual, surfer look doesn't fully reflect the serious entrepreneurial sharpness he seems to possess. So far, I like his attitude and am growing accustomed to his flip-flops. He's an Auburn alum too. (Smiley face)<br />
<br />
<br />
Our outside kitchen will be built by Kevin at Grill Island. He builds almost all the patio kitchens at Bella Terra. Kevin listened to my ideas, showed me a few kitchens he built here and put it all into a cohesive package. I don't have a picture of Kevin but will include one if and when I get it. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Z-dnkR0Drg/WTHGAv9wLYI/AAAAAAAAswY/o-0k4dtZFMw1xwOdlJZhceiVt4kYI0snACKgB/s1600/20170602_105410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Z-dnkR0Drg/WTHGAv9wLYI/AAAAAAAAswY/o-0k4dtZFMw1xwOdlJZhceiVt4kYI0snACKgB/s200/20170602_105410.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Brandon will be in charge of the last of our major site projects: Landscaping and outdoor lighting. He's with <a href="http://www.kentslandscaping.com/">Kent's Landscaping</a>.<br />
<br />
Several weeks ago, Brandon and I rode around the resort looking at landscapes. I pointed out what I like and I pointed out what I don't like. From that, Brandon put together a beautiful landscape plan for us.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I've left out a couple of people as I don't have info and/or photos. I'll add them later.<br />
<br />
As of this week, forming for concrete has begun and I am filled with excitement. Once underway, we are about 10-12 weeks from completion. Weather and other factors could cause delays though.Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-69449312752112636422017-05-31T15:29:00.003-05:002017-06-04T09:22:51.651-05:00Encephalitis! Lexie The Wonder Dog<i>From Bigfork Motorcoach Resort in Bigfork, Montana, </i><i>Bella Terra Motorcoach Resort of Gulf Shores and points between. </i><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1pAsVunJ780/V28NIqufHaI/AAAAAAAAfO0/4OcWxdTQChU4bbVxBhxDymLsxoJ0uMS0QCLcB/s1600/Mar%2B2014%2BLexie%2Band%2BOzzie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1pAsVunJ780/V28NIqufHaI/AAAAAAAAfO0/4OcWxdTQChU4bbVxBhxDymLsxoJ0uMS0QCLcB/s200/Mar%2B2014%2BLexie%2Band%2BOzzie.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our girl, Lexie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is a hard to write post. I started it in August 2016... finished it in May 2017. It's long too.<br />
<br />
As far back as March 2016, we anxiously searched to find out what was wrong with Lexie. It began when she lost enthusiasm over the raw carrot treats she gets when I make dinner salads. That evening she seemed unable to maneuver going up or down her foam rubber steps to the sofa seat. We sought veterinary services but no abnormalities could be identified from xrays or ultrasound. Her blood work showed elevated Gobulin which indicated there was some inflammation and it was determined she had an infection and was started on Clavamox. With an abnormally hard abdomen, a sign of a pain, she was also treated with prednisone and a low dose of tramadol with a suspicion that the pain was in her back. Within 24 hours, she responded to the therapies and life returned to normal. (Details of this are covered in a post dated March 24, 2016.)<br />
<br />
Less than a month later though, Lexie's pain returned while we were in Camp Verde, Arizona. Rushing her to nearby <a href="http://www.montezumavet.com/">Montezuma Vet Clinic</a>, Dr. Jennifer Boyd prescribed more tramadol and gabapentin to reduce her pain. A longer prednisone treatment was prescribed following blood tests and another ultrasound. Discussions of her painful history, her age and a common malady of her breed, Inter vertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) was suspected but couldn't be diagnosed with certainty. I researched IVDD, spoke with friends who had experience with pets suffering from it and felt certain it was Lexie's problem. I administered prednisone like clockwork so she could rest and recover.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s6U8qBnhYto/WS3ik0YUqwI/AAAAAAAAsk4/ETYUk4kiVKo4aeldcB2umAgYj9cGKDtoQCKgB/s1600/20160602_170353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1315" data-original-width="1600" height="262" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s6U8qBnhYto/WS3ik0YUqwI/AAAAAAAAsk4/ETYUk4kiVKo4aeldcB2umAgYj9cGKDtoQCKgB/s320/20160602_170353.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crate rest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The fourteen day steroid treatment was extended (with guidance from the vet in Camp Verde) long after we left the area. Lexie's painful symptoms reappeared within 48 hours anytime we stopped the steroid. Strict crate rest was started mid May (as instructed by the Camp Verde vet) while we were in Park City, Utah. Alternating day steroid treatments, along with rest, continued until the first week of June when we reached our summer destination at Bigfork, Montana.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yem6x_MPnaw/WS7vs8-fk1I/AAAAAAAAsm4/5SxodaUD7HYM3fN4Umso_WkvoDYBcbZuwCKgB/s1600/20160626_121133-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1192" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yem6x_MPnaw/WS7vs8-fk1I/AAAAAAAAsm4/5SxodaUD7HYM3fN4Umso_WkvoDYBcbZuwCKgB/s640/20160626_121133-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our comfortable site at Big Fork Village Resort and RV Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Eager to get a clearer diagnosis of Lexie's condition along with alternative treatments (in which I placed my hope now) I found a veterinarian who performed acupuncture at Calm Animal Care in Kila, Montana, 30 miles or so from our campground.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2jcleze4btA/WS3j4YdGaiI/AAAAAAAAslE/r-PX-3hPdz8XyvLVwT3tVU5D5RAmwJ-IgCKgB/s1600/20160824_143743-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1002" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2jcleze4btA/WS3j4YdGaiI/AAAAAAAAslE/r-PX-3hPdz8XyvLVwT3tVU5D5RAmwJ-IgCKgB/s640/20160824_143743-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calm Animal Care practices in the little brown building on the left. Just look at this lovely rural setting and Ponderosa pines.<br />
Owner of this Kila, Montana practice is Barbara Calm. Really, that's her name.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Early the first day at Bigfork, I called for an appointment at with Barbara Calm, DVM at Calm Animal Clinic. She is a well respected animal acupuncturist but she was out of the office for ten days. Unstable on her feet and moaning in pain, I asked if someone else could see Lexie. We went in immediately and saw Meg Gordon, DVM. That examination resulted in the removal of all steroids for 72 hours, then the introduction of Novox (an NSAID) in its place along with the tramadol, gabapentin and continued crate rest. A definite diagnosis still eluded us though.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jAEZYFuamz4/WS3j4TrSleI/AAAAAAAAslE/EE055E3N72Q_BldtYxS1ZmurYSetVwjVwCKgB/s1600/20160824_152120-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1229" data-original-width="1600" height="489" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jAEZYFuamz4/WS3j4TrSleI/AAAAAAAAslE/EE055E3N72Q_BldtYxS1ZmurYSetVwjVwCKgB/s640/20160824_152120-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The most humiliating part of the exam. Pop assists. "Mom, put that camera away!" </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We followed Dr. Gordon's instruction to the letter, but three days later, as Lexie's moans grew louder and her rear end grew less stable, we returned to the clinic for yet another examination. This time with Karen Hartle, DVM who called for another full compliment of blood work, xrays, urinalysis and ultrasound -- and the addition of a possible hernia and kidney stone diagnosis possibly exacerbated by luxating patella. Still the IVDD, suspected some 90 days earlier, couldn't be absolutely diagnosed upon close examination of the xrays. I scoured each picture alongside the doctor. In the end, Dr. Hartle referred Lexie to Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Pullman, Washington -- some 300 miles, 6 hours away. Crate rest continued.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sOQmlacDwlI/WS3l8CivDoI/AAAAAAAAslo/hbOj5nZXTvoLB9Qly8ilTDYDBqZzYca5QCKgB/s1600/20160609_112832-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1142" data-original-width="1600" height="454" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sOQmlacDwlI/WS3l8CivDoI/AAAAAAAAslo/hbOj5nZXTvoLB9Qly8ilTDYDBqZzYca5QCKgB/s640/20160609_112832-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The second visit to Calm Animal Clinic. Waiting for test results. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VbYq2toF1z4/WS7rydKDwiI/AAAAAAAAsms/IxZn25hogyE_96_qBpTASGlGv2IsRaLsQCKgB/s1600/20160614_105953-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1583" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VbYq2toF1z4/WS7rydKDwiI/AAAAAAAAsms/IxZn25hogyE_96_qBpTASGlGv2IsRaLsQCKgB/s400/20160614_105953-1.jpg" width="394" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ozzie and I sit for a picture with Dr. Angela Nguyen,<br />
She is an instructor, WSU Vet School ER and <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">ICU Critical Care Vet. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">She also is our WSU Vet School champion.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So on Monday, June 15th, three months after Lexie's first painful symptoms, Wayne and I packed a bag, loaded our entourage into the truck and headed to Pullman, Washington. Dr. Angela Nguyen in ER., ICU and Critical Care services listened intently as we described what we observed in Lexie. Dr. Nguyen proceeded to give Lexie another complete workup.<br />
<br />
We took a room at the local Holiday Inn for two nights while WSU's Internal medicine, orthopaedic, radiology, rehabilitative services and theriogenology teams performed exhaustive exams of Lexie. In the end, their findings were "urinary tract infection," some "possible mild muscle atrophy" and "decreased resistance to hip extension and bilateral Grade 1 luxating patellas." Lexie was given an acupuncture treatment. No test, except MRI, were spared to pinpoint Lexie's pain. We talked about having the MRI, but decided against it given Lexie's condition and age. Everyone hoped we were onto something now.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OFcA3FleoLs/WS8aJSna4nI/AAAAAAAAsnw/I1YPciQDx0YAywgBr7oM67wYkQKKU-69ACKgB/s1600/20160615_140651-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1378" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OFcA3FleoLs/WS8aJSna4nI/AAAAAAAAsnw/I1YPciQDx0YAywgBr7oM67wYkQKKU-69ACKgB/s320/20160615_140651-1.jpg" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jessica Bunch is a Certified Canine Rehab Therapist and DVM</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rgql7VzvK50/WS3lVcd7NiI/AAAAAAAAslg/1_gd73wTH_AnYnQGrLRlpXlc1qXYzf02ACKgB/s1600/20160615_140703-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1131" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rgql7VzvK50/WS3lVcd7NiI/AAAAAAAAslg/1_gd73wTH_AnYnQGrLRlpXlc1qXYzf02ACKgB/s400/20160615_140703-2.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mushtaq Memon, BVSc, Ph.D., Theriogentologist at WSU shares some humor with Wayne.<br />
Wayne needed some humor by this time. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
While at WSU, Lexie received one acupuncture treatment and laser therapy with recommendations to continue these sessions with Barbara Calm, DVM in Kila and to begin administering Chinese herbs. We returned to Bigfork with new bottles of omeprezol, tramadol, gabapentin, clavamox and a new NSAID, Metacam, making a demanding "every 8 hour" regime for Wayne and me. It wasn't easy administering all the meds... empty stomach, with food, every 8 hours and so forth. It was a challenge... and I hadn't even looked into the Chinese herb therapy yet.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H2cn7iWvjVo/WS3lVT9dZ4I/AAAAAAAAslg/Gr9mJINJznU06tJVPzKmgbfRACgbQKUwgCKgB/s1600/20160615_142754_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="358" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H2cn7iWvjVo/WS3lVT9dZ4I/AAAAAAAAslg/Gr9mJINJznU06tJVPzKmgbfRACgbQKUwgCKgB/s640/20160615_142754_001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ozzie always waits with us. <br />
Here, we're joined by Janne Lyngby, DVM, MS Small Animal Internal Medicine Resident who is charged with Lexie's case. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the fifth day after discharge from WSU, Lexie returned to Calm Animal Clinic, for her first acupuncture treatment from Barbara Calm who called us in 45 minutes late with an announcement that she is chronically late to appointments and is a musician. She attributed her tardiness to being such an optimist. Funny thing, I'm an optimist and I'm always on time. Dr. Calm followed the first statement by saying she was running late for a music appointment. I suggested we reschedule as Lexie's condition is the most important going in our life at this time. Dr. Calm realized our serious concern and insisted that we would not be shortchanged on acupuncture treatment visits. We visited briefly to review Lexie's history to this point in time and then Dr. Calm performed her first acupuncture treatment. She reduced Lexie's Metacam dosage by 2/3 and told me to start her on "Harominize the Qi" a Chinese dietary supplement. The acupuncture seemed to help.<br />
<br />
Crate rest continued... now into seven weeks.<br />
<br />
Lexie's walk was almost normal for the first few days after but 6 nights later I was awakened by the sound of panting and moaning. She was pacing all over the bed, walking across me -- something she never does, and had begun trying to bring her rear foot up to scratch her upper body every few minutes. Additionally she had begun gnawing at her groin / mammary area.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lMFkRB7axTU/WS3nHryTEjI/AAAAAAAAsl4/OKjuwysfLhMae5g0FRJUnYgU_eHAXN7BgCKgB/s1600/20160624_103058-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1171" data-original-width="1600" height="233" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lMFkRB7axTU/WS3nHryTEjI/AAAAAAAAsl4/OKjuwysfLhMae5g0FRJUnYgU_eHAXN7BgCKgB/s320/20160624_103058-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julia, our 4th year student gives Lexie's<br />
initial exam. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next morning, a consult call to Calm Clinic in Kila let to a second visit to the teaching hospital at WSU in Pullman. Lexie had a 10 a.m. appointment the next morning in the neurology department. As is customary at a University teaching hospital, we were again assigned a 4th year vet student. Julia examined Lexie and reviewed the history, comparing it to the file she had from our first visit. We shared details of Lexie's new symptoms and were in great hopes we would find answers.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hEixdYgNk3g/WS8hETxS2yI/AAAAAAAAsoQ/gYyRKPcBm9sbAKdYp-GJp3Ci4_Y3qANwQCLcB/s1600/jukier-tom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hEixdYgNk3g/WS8hETxS2yI/AAAAAAAAsoQ/gYyRKPcBm9sbAKdYp-GJp3Ci4_Y3qANwQCLcB/s200/jukier-tom.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom Jukier, WSU Neruologist<br />
Diagnosis: food allergy<br />
Wrong. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Upon examination by WSU Vet School resident neurologist Tom Jukier, Lexie was returned to our care with his surprise diagnosis of food allergies and luxating patellas. I gasped when I heard it but we listened intently to his explanation and felt our concerns were falling on deaf ears. Perhaps they all thought we were just crazy hypochondriac dog owners. We accepted the diagnosis, bought a few cans of Hills Science Diet Z/D special food allergy food and said we would discontinue all of the medications we had been giving Lexie, per the instruction. That was June 24th -- well into the third month since Lexie first showed signs of pain. We drove the 300 miles back to Bigfork wondering if we might have been wrong.... could this "food allergy" diagnosis be right? Wayne was beyond skeptical.<br />
<br />
<br />
Lexie ate only the Hills Science Diet Z/D food for the next few weeks but she ate it with her usual gusto. We ordered a case of the canned bland food and we both watched to see possible changes in Lexie -- good or bad. During this time, I made notes on the margin of my calendar noting that Lexie had begun walking sideways and was terribly unstable. She stopped drinking water and began to urinate and occasionally defecate in the floor. She fell of the sofa when left unattended and seemed to wander aimlessly on the floor, carrying her head low. She no longer barked. We waited and watched, unsure what to do.The only time we saw any trace of the "Old Lexie" was when she became excited at mealtime.<br />
<br />
Then, on on the morning of Thursday, July 7th, everything changed when Lexie froze in place with one paw extended upward, while out for a short walk. We jumped into the truck immediately and headed to Dr. Calm's clinic in Kila. By now, these three doctors had become our strongest advocates, though I felt sure they thought we were crazy. As Wayne raced along the country roads, Lexie had clusters of seizures, one after another. Her eyes were glazed and her little body was stiff during the seizures. As they subsided, her breathing was rapid and she panted wildly. When the seizures finally subsided, her body was lifeless except for her heavy breathing.<br />
<br />
Dr. Calm began an iv and did blood work within minutes of our arrival. She and her staff were bewildered and told us so. We recapped the two visits to WSU. Dr. Calm suggested the seizures might never recur and could have been triggered by almost anything. She explained the difference between petitmal and grandmal seizures and she gave us her best theory as to what was happening. We discussed, in amazement, the most recent food allergy diagnosis from the second trip to WSU. We all watched and waited for another seizure but no more occurred. Wayne, Ozzie, Lexie and I stayed all day in Dr. Calm's office but nothing else happened so we went home armed with three syringes and a tiny bottle of anti-seizure medication that I was to administer if Lexie went into seizures that lasted more than three minutes. There were no more seizures all that day and we almost breathed a sign of relief hoping it was a one-time event.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N1CUxhu9nAg/WS8c5mmUDSI/AAAAAAAAsn8/GzlL5H5RCBoA0_0kg4Wc6dJdLI0xNrdzgCKgB/s1600/20160630_131713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N1CUxhu9nAg/WS8c5mmUDSI/AAAAAAAAsn8/GzlL5H5RCBoA0_0kg4Wc6dJdLI0xNrdzgCKgB/s640/20160630_131713.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An afternoon in Dr. Calm's private office. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But that was too good to be true. That evening Lexie's seizures began again. One just before bedtime and four or five in rapid succession during the night. None lasted the full three minutes so the anti-seizure shots were not administered. The next morning, I called Dr. Calm. I was in tears. We had to give WSU another chance. There was nowhere else to turn and we were losing Lexie. Dr. Calm agreed. Next I called Sally Anderson, in the Neurology Department at Washington State University to tell her we were on our way. Sally made sure Lexie would be seen.<br />
<br />
The video below is Lexie in a full blown seizure. Be Warned. It is hard to watch and lasts 4+ minutes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/0K3ndKxzuig/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0K3ndKxzuig?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I pre-loaded the three syringes with the anti-seizure medication and we began our third 300 mile trip to Pullman, Washington from Bigfork, Montana. The ride was brutal. I kept a constant eye to the back floorboard of the truck where Lexie and Ozzie were riding. By now, we knew the route so well. The first 1/3 of the trip through Montana along the rivers edge to St. Regis, Montana where the journey's second third began along Interstate 90 west to Coeur de Alene where we encountered the hardest part of the trip along the mostly 2-lane road south to Pullman, Washington. To our dismay, Lexie did not have a single seizure during the trip and we reached WSU mid-afternoon of Friday, July 8th.<br />
<br />
The Emergency Room physician, Angela Nguyen, whom we had met in our first visit, looked at Lexie immediately and could hardly believe she was looking at the same little girl she'd seen less than a month earlier. Another thorough examination began and we all agreed on an MRI for Lexie at the earliest opportunity. Lexie was started on Levitracetam (Keppra) an anti-seizure medication at 8 hour intervals and the MRI was scheduled for Monday morning. I hoped an MRI would be done immediately, but the doctors assured us Lexie's condition was stable and she was no real urgent danger.They explained that fresh minds and hands and a full staff on Monday would be to our advantage. Lexie was returned to us for the weekend with the understanding that we could return to the hospital ER at any hour if she went into seizures. We checked into a hotel and settled in for the nerve wracking weekend. Lexie would sleep in her stroller on my side of the bed, in case of seizure.<br />
<br />
The video below was taken in the hotel room on Friday night after we left WSU. Note how Lexie's rear end lack of control. She still is loving that food though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/R6Qy9tGPK9I/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R6Qy9tGPK9I?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Sure enough at 11:30 we were awakened by the horrible screams of Lexie in the stroller. I frantically administered the anti-seizure shot as Wayne held our exhausted little girl. I called WSU and we rushed her back to the waiting medical team. The tech on duty assured me Lexie was okay though she sure seemed near death as I handed her near lifeless body over. In a few minutes a very tired Dr. Angela Nguyen emerged to let us know that Lexie was okay. She reviewed a few details of having Lexie admitted through ER for observation for the rest of the weekend. Wayne, Ozzie and I returned to see her Saturday and Sunday and each time she looked worse, weighed less and had less control of her rear legs. We all were suffering. Sunday was the worst day. We held her little limp body, tried to let her walk and attempted taking her for a ride in the stroller. This was almost more than we could handle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9eOtd3af0sc/WS2PmWaRAUI/AAAAAAAAskk/qy-fbCvqruY3laTU4LuRh9M6Zsbo3uxkACKgB/s1600/20160709_183400-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1386" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9eOtd3af0sc/WS2PmWaRAUI/AAAAAAAAskk/qy-fbCvqruY3laTU4LuRh9M6Zsbo3uxkACKgB/s640/20160709_183400-1.jpg" width="553" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pop with Lexie and Ozzie sit on the porch at WSU Vet School.<br />
Her foot isn't bloody. It's a red bandage holding the IV in her leg.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M1L1ocl5Myk/WS7ifSYFf1I/AAAAAAAAsmY/FCSUuwXUkaQNBLfaBGKppl8b-0OBvIlcACKgB/s1600/20160709_182100-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1307" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M1L1ocl5Myk/WS7ifSYFf1I/AAAAAAAAsmY/FCSUuwXUkaQNBLfaBGKppl8b-0OBvIlcACKgB/s640/20160709_182100-1.jpg" width="522" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unable to control her back legs, we tried to assist with a walking sling</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d743jZ7qQU8/WS7i5SYX6ZI/AAAAAAAAsmc/ErizB1ZNW7sP8WkF_dzK7ZUwYmxQtR7xwCKgB/s1600/20160709_184536-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1477" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d743jZ7qQU8/WS7i5SYX6ZI/AAAAAAAAsmc/ErizB1ZNW7sP8WkF_dzK7ZUwYmxQtR7xwCKgB/s640/20160709_184536-1.jpg" width="590" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The good news is that she never lost her appetite. She can't stand but she can eat. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M4vHgQcLayc/WS8hiINQYHI/AAAAAAAAsoU/Jg_2bG-GHtEjbLnLGcLcDfxG_p2HamXUwCLcB/s1600/sasha-dixon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M4vHgQcLayc/WS8hiINQYHI/AAAAAAAAsoU/Jg_2bG-GHtEjbLnLGcLcDfxG_p2HamXUwCLcB/s200/sasha-dixon.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sasha Dixon, DVM<br />
WSU Neruology</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Finally Monday morning, July 11th arrived. The MRI was scheduled for 10 o'clock. Dr. Angela Nguyen (who we really liked by now) called to let us know that Lexie was fine and the MRI was on schedule. Lexie did have a seizure a few hours earlier but it was controlled quickly. We held our breath and tried to busy ourselves riding around town, stopping in at one of the department stores and eating late breakfast. By 10:45, the Neurologist, Dr. Sasha Dixon called with the encephalitis diagnosis. A spinal tap had been done. The evidence was clear and undeniable. We were thrilled that it was not a brain tumor. The neurologist invited us to view the images and the white area of Lexie's brain was clearly visible. Now what?<br />
<br />
<br />
My joy turned immediately to devastation as the neurologist explained that encephalitis dogs lived, on average, two years, after diagnosis. She saw my horror I know and I think she regretted her bluntness. I concluded that the average two years could be expanded when coupled with our love, attention to medication detail and sheer determination.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4XnQnt15Yy4/WS8Wa6JeYLI/AAAAAAAAsnk/vyCmNe9rFUE2Ml6b3UikYLyoEhvSpteIACLcB/s1600/Vet%2Broutes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="794" height="444" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4XnQnt15Yy4/WS8Wa6JeYLI/AAAAAAAAsnk/vyCmNe9rFUE2Ml6b3UikYLyoEhvSpteIACLcB/s640/Vet%2Broutes.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The travel route -- Bigfork to Kila and to Washington State University in Pullman, Washington</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Two days later, Lexie left WSU in Pullman for the last time with a half dozen prescriptions. All four legs had been shaved and showed signs of having the iv tubes inserted. A small area at the base of her skull, her tummy and a 4" square swath on her back (near her tail) were shaved too. But she was beautiful. She weighed just over 6 pounds, a loss of more than 2 pounds. Negative fungal, bacterial and insect born test results allowed us to drop two or three prescriptions soon after but a hefty regime of meds for inflammation, pain and seizures will stay with us forever it seems.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0mPcaLg9JU/WS7z3SBB4BI/AAAAAAAAsnI/bLlYt2BwMikDv4t2cBJTxOoA_mhkNVcTQCKgB/s1600/20160712_123333-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1541" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0mPcaLg9JU/WS7z3SBB4BI/AAAAAAAAsnI/bLlYt2BwMikDv4t2cBJTxOoA_mhkNVcTQCKgB/s640/20160712_123333-1.jpg" width="616" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unable to stand easily without assistance, Lexie is clearly happy to be with Ozzie.<br />
Fourth year vet student Serena Swan, explains the meds and gives us a happy sendoff soon after this picture was taken. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zXrOfsaV5l0/WS71kCU2e5I/AAAAAAAAsnU/cnN9ZpTBq-IjEMTHEt9N8RV45b6zO_zqwCKgB/s1600/20160712_131431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1229" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zXrOfsaV5l0/WS71kCU2e5I/AAAAAAAAsnU/cnN9ZpTBq-IjEMTHEt9N8RV45b6zO_zqwCKgB/s640/20160712_131431.jpg" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An exhausted Lexie begins her journey to recovery with a mostly shaved body<br />
but I think she felt good the day this picture was taken. We were leaving Pullman for the final time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sEbfIvONiak/WS8jI9GoyYI/AAAAAAAAsog/0RjqpFwicsQmtAU6hM8SF_XjhKQB5kS3ACKgB/s1600/20160707_181726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1497" data-original-width="1600" height="598" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sEbfIvONiak/WS8jI9GoyYI/AAAAAAAAsog/0RjqpFwicsQmtAU6hM8SF_XjhKQB5kS3ACKgB/s640/20160707_181726.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A "onesie" will protect the pink skin on her back from getting burned by the sun.<br />
I cut a whole in the seat for her tail. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lexie's recovery was quick, beautiful and without incident. She regained the pounds she lost and never missed a beat on her short walks. So much prednisone caused her hair to thin but she recovered.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/daUnalrgbA0/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/daUnalrgbA0?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We stayed in frequent touch with the folks at Calm Animal Clinic as they would monitor Lexie's progress and communicate with the Dr. Dixon at WSU for the next 60 days or so. Finally on August 24th, we returned to Calm Animal Clinic for a final exam, including blood work, to be sure Lexie was well enough for our journey south where Auburn's Vet School would take over her care.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AD-mVvcA60A/WS7zZoESjbI/AAAAAAAAsnE/H61r4zT__bMdMkhhHH_Au1ekeoXTMWOIQCKgB/s1600/20160824_160111-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1505" data-original-width="1600" height="600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AD-mVvcA60A/WS7zZoESjbI/AAAAAAAAsnE/H61r4zT__bMdMkhhHH_Au1ekeoXTMWOIQCKgB/s640/20160824_160111-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Barbara Calm holding Lexie while Wayne holds Ozzie. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a long and frightening journey for us but in the end, Lexie and Ozzie both managed to lose their fear of the veterinarian office. This post, begun long ago, is finally finished this last day of May 2017. Lexie is well and happy. Ozzie too. Wayne and me too.<br />
<br />
Of particular peculiarity... I've read that encephalitis is common in Maltese yet none of the dozen or so veterinarians, including two neurologists, mentioned it's possibility. Fascinating and bewildering.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LknJCB3iGGY/WS8ngkKZnJI/AAAAAAAAso4/ZR-E2pf6KzA8cknDWiooREvP2eq1-APQQCKgB/s1600/20160831_192350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1381" data-original-width="1600" height="552" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LknJCB3iGGY/WS8ngkKZnJI/AAAAAAAAso4/ZR-E2pf6KzA8cknDWiooREvP2eq1-APQQCKgB/s640/20160831_192350.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleepy Pop and Happy Lexie -- two months after the diagnosis! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com1Pullman, WA, USA46.7319225 -117.154212119.414458500000002 -158.4628061 74.0493865 -75.8456181tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-18762499707503331602017-05-13T11:57:00.000-05:002017-06-06T10:23:15.459-05:00Old CMA Cadets Rule <i>From Bella Terra of Gulf Shores </i>A few of Wayne's CMA (Columbia Military Academy) friends have planned another reunion at Bob and Kim's house on Guntersville Lake. We decided to drive the truck, take the dogs and stay in a hotel instead of driving the coach. Rain was predicted for the region over the next few days and we don't relish the thought of driving the coach in bad weather. Our two nights were spent at Wyndham Garden hotel directly on the lake in Guntersville.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ovqwM_rHeCQ/WTQ4MjKRLaI/AAAAAAAAtmI/3Nx8k1mZuxwP2f4K1yRabsUNsfm22ZQOwCKgB/s1600/20170519_214104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ovqwM_rHeCQ/WTQ4MjKRLaI/AAAAAAAAtmI/3Nx8k1mZuxwP2f4K1yRabsUNsfm22ZQOwCKgB/s640/20170519_214104.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our room at Wyndham Garden Lake Guntersville. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Steve, Dan, Bob, Kim, Wayne and I met on Friday afternoon for pizza on the patio. As usual, Kim has a big smoked barbeque feast planned for the following afternoon. Their large patio is delightful with lots of tables and comfortable seating.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2GT4TITUF1A/WTQ4XaWK4cI/AAAAAAAAtmM/eBrM4lu82Is05qwKfIm10N6MJObvaCuwACKgB/s1600/20170520_170216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2GT4TITUF1A/WTQ4XaWK4cI/AAAAAAAAtmM/eBrM4lu82Is05qwKfIm10N6MJObvaCuwACKgB/s640/20170520_170216.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the patio of Bob and Kim's lake house.<br />
Francis, Becky and Donna share pictures.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As we all went our separate ways Friday evening, Bob suggested we all reconvene for breakfast Saturday. In the end, Wayne and I would join Steve, Bob and Kim for all three meals that day. Bob cooked breakfast, we bought fried chicken for lunch and the highlight of the day, Bar-B-Q and fixins' were enjoyed for dinner... A short while later, thunder, lightening and a hard, steady rain forced the group inside... just as it had done last time we were together here. Dejavue.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4PHpD-0eKHg/WTQ4XcFAWvI/AAAAAAAAtmM/JcZxJRgtY0oiAQJpCipWSZQZIokn3xCngCKgB/s1600/20170521_183946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1530" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4PHpD-0eKHg/WTQ4XcFAWvI/AAAAAAAAtmM/JcZxJRgtY0oiAQJpCipWSZQZIokn3xCngCKgB/s640/20170521_183946.jpg" width="610" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve Vagnier, Bob Bell and John Clanton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2LNS0sofekg/WTQ4XWdo7aI/AAAAAAAAtmM/hU0zGMEJGjQDiTQBIoZj-HFmnPTx8ufpwCKgB/s1600/20170520_170122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2LNS0sofekg/WTQ4XWdo7aI/AAAAAAAAtmM/hU0zGMEJGjQDiTQBIoZj-HFmnPTx8ufpwCKgB/s640/20170520_170122.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ozzie and Lexie enjoy a rare day outdoors without pens or leashes. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xsSzSP4O_Ck/WTQ4XY0Rz7I/AAAAAAAAtmM/Omwp5Qh66LgIoHRjXGjmZY1iuD5puX-AACKgB/s1600/20170521_184133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xsSzSP4O_Ck/WTQ4XY0Rz7I/AAAAAAAAtmM/Omwp5Qh66LgIoHRjXGjmZY1iuD5puX-AACKgB/s640/20170521_184133.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This year's group: Dan Duke, Steve Vagnier, Bob Bell, John Clanton, Phil Fikes and Wayne Smalley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXh-vl4c__Q/WTQ4XSJQE1I/AAAAAAAAtmM/IGPojtfW54wSve8zqK8Wp7Pl3xBBnPrjgCKgB/s1600/20170520_165634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXh-vl4c__Q/WTQ4XSJQE1I/AAAAAAAAtmM/IGPojtfW54wSve8zqK8Wp7Pl3xBBnPrjgCKgB/s640/20170520_165634.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jim Borum (center) with his young cousins, Chris and Jake joined us Saturday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FjJf8iOX1V4/WTQ4XZcQ-DI/AAAAAAAAtmM/T4Rk-Yj6WuMIZpS-xV-Q0AdYYVqlZPfpQCKgB/s1600/20170520_165442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FjJf8iOX1V4/WTQ4XZcQ-DI/AAAAAAAAtmM/T4Rk-Yj6WuMIZpS-xV-Q0AdYYVqlZPfpQCKgB/s640/20170520_165442.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh the stories these guys tell. Over and over.... bigger and more outrageous everytime. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cf8CuBZ6eyU/WTQ4XQ_kbTI/AAAAAAAAtmM/Lr8utFltILEC8ve4ys_0tS1Oh9qGN1D7wCKgB/s1600/20170520_131504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cf8CuBZ6eyU/WTQ4XQ_kbTI/AAAAAAAAtmM/Lr8utFltILEC8ve4ys_0tS1Oh9qGN1D7wCKgB/s640/20170520_131504.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John, Steve and Dan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RqyShor1CTY/WTQ4XWKQCiI/AAAAAAAAtmM/nLtozXZf4zoUkbQyVzji7DEYJQN_2NenQCKgB/s1600/20170519_175654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RqyShor1CTY/WTQ4XWKQCiI/AAAAAAAAtmM/nLtozXZf4zoUkbQyVzji7DEYJQN_2NenQCKgB/s640/20170519_175654.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve, Wayne, Lexie and Ozzie. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZG2STjGOGU/WTQ4XdZ063I/AAAAAAAAtmM/aS-Pga-3fps3Cdc4XgsKRG3AAP4RCz9GACKgB/s1600/20170520_100847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZG2STjGOGU/WTQ4XdZ063I/AAAAAAAAtmM/aS-Pga-3fps3Cdc4XgsKRG3AAP4RCz9GACKgB/s640/20170520_100847.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bob's wife, Kim is always the best hostess. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Until they all meet again, stay safe and well, cadets.Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-21593021463618063802017-05-09T15:14:00.001-05:002017-07-13T12:34:43.415-05:00Bella Terra: The First Month <div dir="ltr">
<i>From Bella Terra Gulf Shores </i> Today I had another (the fourth or fifth maybe) meeting with Courtney about when we might expect measurable progress to begin on our RV site at Bella Terra. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xc0_y3VV2ks/WS2HrUMjXQI/AAAAAAAAsjw/Ri0yRlgStU4t2X1TpoA4wz1nI7ucSciuQCKgB/s1600/20170502_094503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xc0_y3VV2ks/WS2HrUMjXQI/AAAAAAAAsjw/Ri0yRlgStU4t2X1TpoA4wz1nI7ucSciuQCKgB/s400/20170502_094503.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtney, Operations Manager at Bella Terra<br />
has been here from the beginning... 2008.<br />
Her smile is ever present!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wayne joined me for this meeting. He usually isn't involved and doesn't care about the mechanics of the process. As long as I am happy, he is happy. But today, Courtney caught up with us walking the dogs and invited us both in for a chat. We obliged.<br />
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Her invitation came after my reply to her email yesterday with preliminary lot improvement cost figures. We reviewed what Courtney calls "Lot Upgrades" which includes added concrete, staining of the concrete and the large screened casita. After an initial misunderstanding (about which I was wrong) over pricing of the casita, we paid the initial deposit and completed the agreement.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
That was the easy part. The really hard part of this construction project, so far, is the draftsman who clearly resents being bothered with our project. Our project literally cannot get off his desk. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br />
Unfortunately, with construction business booming, it's not easy to find construction support providers. I feel Courtney's pain -- literally. Make no mistake, her pain is my pain.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br />
In conclusion, I left Courtney with my candid and very poor impressions of this guy who seems illusive, signing his communications only as Robby Miller, Coastal Design Group, Structural Engineering, Planning & Design, Fortified Home Evaluations. I include it here so others can be warned. </div>
Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-66452904884148582192017-04-21T08:54:00.000-05:002017-05-04T16:22:43.335-05:00Real Estate Tycoons!<div dir="ltr">
<i>From Bella Terra Motorcoach Resort, Foley, Alabama</i> Today we became real property owners. It's been nearly 7 years since we held that title. But it's time now and we have feel absolutely no remorse at our decision last week to move forward with buying the lot at Bella Terra.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6JC7q2Tbo8o/WQnva4TYiLI/AAAAAAAAsXY/fxvJCpaGbeQbSZV2tq5H1gmnGKsiJ63GQCKgB/s1600/20170414_142228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6JC7q2Tbo8o/WQnva4TYiLI/AAAAAAAAsXY/fxvJCpaGbeQbSZV2tq5H1gmnGKsiJ63GQCKgB/s640/20170414_142228.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lot 35-464 Portafino Loop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
And so... this afternoon, in the resort office, we met with the closing agent from Crane Title Company to exchange money for our 4,500 square foot of coastal Alabama real estate.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fahZiui6lds/WP4EgKCfFnI/AAAAAAAAsRk/-9n6lnt782EKiwrz8lx0LglCO8DDgXEawCPcB/s1600/20170421_134610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fahZiui6lds/WP4EgKCfFnI/AAAAAAAAsRk/-9n6lnt782EKiwrz8lx0LglCO8DDgXEawCPcB/s400/20170421_134610.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne writes our check to pay for the new lot as Jessica shares in our happy day. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In a matter of minutes our lives began to transition as we ceremoniously placed a silver colored push-pin into the artist's rendered drawing of our lot within Bella Terra.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7_b1tmddvFc/WP4EdRCjg6I/AAAAAAAAsRk/7Wj9DczhAD0vgnS3WoWaJaBJda7ME9CiACPcB/s1600/20170421_140255-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7_b1tmddvFc/WP4EdRCjg6I/AAAAAAAAsRk/7Wj9DczhAD0vgnS3WoWaJaBJda7ME9CiACPcB/s640/20170421_140255-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to Right: Jessica, Courtney, Wayne, Me, Katie and Jenny</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6H0VwM9TMXA/WP4NpVEbGpI/AAAAAAAAsUQ/24U9a7meaLoR43g4NlqpCYebiziGOibagCKgB/s1600/20170424_092427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6H0VwM9TMXA/WP4NpVEbGpI/AAAAAAAAsUQ/24U9a7meaLoR43g4NlqpCYebiziGOibagCKgB/s400/20170424_092427.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our idea on paper... 1st draft.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next step is to nail down a design so construction can commence. I've created a rough drawing of the landscape, concrete pad design and structures we have in mind and we've submitted it to the architectural design company.<br />
<br />
<br />
Construction is schedule to be complete in about 90 - 120 days. Bella Terra management will oversee the work.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aRlAmaJhd7Y/WP4EXIdo39I/AAAAAAAAsRk/8rp1HiffT-k-UGuZqIUfjB0jcVAo-Y1HQCPcB/s1600/20170421_140359-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aRlAmaJhd7Y/WP4EXIdo39I/AAAAAAAAsRk/8rp1HiffT-k-UGuZqIUfjB0jcVAo-Y1HQCPcB/s400/20170421_140359-1.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne and Billy, Bella Terra's Construction Supervisor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We will remain here most of the time during construction. This is the developer site from where we'll watch construction for the next few months. Yes, it's going to get hot. Real hot.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FpkWe5GbCAw/WP4Ejz-GstI/AAAAAAAAsRk/4HdCao8o--0WOs2ojp01q_pQAwVcSeVNACPcB/s1600/20170421_132348-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FpkWe5GbCAw/WP4Ejz-GstI/AAAAAAAAsRk/4HdCao8o--0WOs2ojp01q_pQAwVcSeVNACPcB/s640/20170421_132348-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The site we call home while construction is ongoing. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now to remain calm and patient.... virtues I admit I just don't possess.<br />
<br /></div>
Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-28392556520138638702017-04-13T17:02:00.002-05:002017-08-23T11:11:55.931-05:00Bella Terra: Our Cure For The Seven Year Itch<i>From Bella Terra RV Resort, Foley, Alabama </i> In about 100 days, Wayne and I will mark the conclusion of our seventh year as full-time RV travelers. As a result, we developed the <i><b>seven year itch</b></i>.... the typical span of time it takes to need a little something new infused into our lives.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rfZShAjeqVo/WO_z-j7kG3I/AAAAAAAAsQ4/-59NBE3VL8sEz1GaccPUvx9zisz6q7fwACLcB/s1600/map%2Bof%2Bfoley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rfZShAjeqVo/WO_z-j7kG3I/AAAAAAAAsQ4/-59NBE3VL8sEz1GaccPUvx9zisz6q7fwACLcB/s200/map%2Bof%2Bfoley.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
To remedy our malady we decided to buy an RV lot at <a href="https://www.bellaterrarvresort.com/">Bella Terra of Gulf Shores</a>. The property is actually in Foley, Alabama -- a short hop from the maddening crowds of the Gulf Shores beach. It's a nice resort, 147 sites surrounding a beautiful (though man-made) lake. Our site is a large 50' x 90' unimproved plot situated alongside a tall stand of woodlands recently designated a preserve -- meaning it will stay a tall stand of woodland, for our lifetime, at least.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-noJcIMHMQzM/WO_yO0IOO-I/AAAAAAAAsQs/Y2OIgbvXKRcy94Zuehhq8l8ArBKoCbfEACLcB/s1600/Bella%2BTerra%2BLogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="80" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-noJcIMHMQzM/WO_yO0IOO-I/AAAAAAAAsQs/Y2OIgbvXKRcy94Zuehhq8l8ArBKoCbfEACLcB/s400/Bella%2BTerra%2BLogo.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4rFNDvInyc/WS2KAHhSC-I/AAAAAAAAskI/Cxz1lsjwg5gpuX6b7v1bwPkz9dqZqg_KQCKgB/s1600/20170516_155856-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="922" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4rFNDvInyc/WS2KAHhSC-I/AAAAAAAAskI/Cxz1lsjwg5gpuX6b7v1bwPkz9dqZqg_KQCKgB/s320/20170516_155856-1.jpg" width="184" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Denise. As sweet as she looks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We spent several days with Bella Terra Realtor, Denise Peoples, made a lot choice, signed our purchase agreement today and will close next week. Construction of our RV pad, a new "tiny" house, known in RV circles as a Casita (Spanish for small house), gazebo, covered outdoor kitchen and fireplace will commence immediately thereafter. Completion is expected within 120 days -- by mid-August and in time for football and the beginning of our eighth year. None of the improvements will replace our life in the coach. It will simply add living space to the lifestyle we know and love. I'll share more, including pictures, as time goes by.<br />
<br />
In the interim, we will split out time between Auburn, (seeing to Lexie and Ozzie at the vet school) Traverse City, Michigan and here at Bella Terra.<br />
<br />
We are happy and our itch is being scratched.Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-82177910448271089322017-03-31T10:10:00.000-05:002017-06-14T11:25:08.766-05:00Myakka Memories: January, February and March<i>From Myakka River Motorcoach Resort, Port Charlotte, Florida</i> The new year rolled around without much notice inside our coach since we didn't attend the New Years party. The next three months brought much the same fun as the previous two, except now there were more new people to meet. It was great. Covering 90 days here, I'll mostly let the pictures cover the highlights.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iAm1utjA9vQ/WUFG1eOiZZI/AAAAAAAAu7E/9PU_1PosBGwvSlfw0U3cpByz-rZTNSW6wCKgBGAs/s1600/20170111_143956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iAm1utjA9vQ/WUFG1eOiZZI/AAAAAAAAu7E/9PU_1PosBGwvSlfw0U3cpByz-rZTNSW6wCKgBGAs/s640/20170111_143956.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A day trip to walk Stump Pass beach in Englewood with friends.<br />Pam and Joyce take a rest after our beach stroll. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f7vp-mckzls/WUFG1QfMnxI/AAAAAAAAu7E/mtltV36smNcvFbFyIupbrOwDegHg2rGJwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170111_143952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="942" data-original-width="1268" height="474" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f7vp-mckzls/WUFG1QfMnxI/AAAAAAAAu7E/mtltV36smNcvFbFyIupbrOwDegHg2rGJwCKgBGAs/s640/20170111_143952.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nearby Englewood beaches are easy to reach. <br />Here, Charlie, removes sandy shoes after our walk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IOiedwCuALs/WUFG1ZXIrjI/AAAAAAAAu7E/6ICGhTXghR0Elb0S35AeM6t60W_MNQjygCKgBGAs/s1600/20170111_143949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="947" data-original-width="1600" height="378" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IOiedwCuALs/WUFG1ZXIrjI/AAAAAAAAu7E/6ICGhTXghR0Elb0S35AeM6t60W_MNQjygCKgBGAs/s640/20170111_143949.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ernie's shoes filled with sand during our walk.<br />This day the six of us ate lunch at Lock and Key Restaurant before strolling the beach at Stump Pass.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In mid January, Pam, Ernie, Wayne and I took our coaches to the 2017 RV Show in Tampa Wednesday through Saturday. We ran into several of our friends during the show. Joyce and Charlie came up for a day with us. The weather was perfect this year.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rxzAve1Psgs/WUFG1cMfm-I/AAAAAAAAu7E/hj0XVLLDYeIBqG17QPqjshGtwt8Qfl1VwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170119_084029-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1548" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rxzAve1Psgs/WUFG1cMfm-I/AAAAAAAAu7E/hj0XVLLDYeIBqG17QPqjshGtwt8Qfl1VwCKgBGAs/s640/20170119_084029-1.jpg" width="618" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On our way to the show, we girls discovered we had formed an unofficial "tan and black" group.<br />Cindy, me, Pam and ?? (forgot) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Golf. Lots of golf was played over the winter months. We even played in the resort tournament. A first for me. Just down the road from our resort, we played our favorite course, Riverwood and took a series of lessons from Bob Ridge, the head pro. Our lessons package included use of the superb practice facilities.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UoDSkrmJzQU/WUFG1V9NzyI/AAAAAAAAu7E/0ArOvjuKtSo5PYRadY-rcB5Jq6IusNUHgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170125_104203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1025" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UoDSkrmJzQU/WUFG1V9NzyI/AAAAAAAAu7E/0ArOvjuKtSo5PYRadY-rcB5Jq6IusNUHgCKgBGAs/s640/20170125_104203.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne getting a golf a "tweak" from Bob Ridge. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3qindFxYvA/WUFG1fWFPLI/AAAAAAAAu7E/B5QMRoKmTBQ5upy87AkB1B8UoJxt97ytgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170201_125116%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3qindFxYvA/WUFG1fWFPLI/AAAAAAAAu7E/B5QMRoKmTBQ5upy87AkB1B8UoJxt97ytgCKgBGAs/s640/20170201_125116%257E2.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A day in Naples with Joyce and Charlie included lunch at Snook Inn on Marco Island. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XYD8kqjJ48s/WUFG1ebLPuI/AAAAAAAAu7E/9xQ6kuptdNQbZuJnbAWvPI15jhsABpCDgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170203_095256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XYD8kqjJ48s/WUFG1ebLPuI/AAAAAAAAu7E/9xQ6kuptdNQbZuJnbAWvPI15jhsABpCDgCKgBGAs/s640/20170203_095256.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new neighbor and friend, Mary and her 15 year old Maltese, Tessa. <br />Sadly, sweet little Tessa would pass away in late April. I cried for days.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lgEFxOmS0wg/WUFG1RhmvbI/AAAAAAAAu7E/sESDwrX5pkUDXcodTWYr3v9YvebdCQjiQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170206_124101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lgEFxOmS0wg/WUFG1RhmvbI/AAAAAAAAu7E/sESDwrX5pkUDXcodTWYr3v9YvebdCQjiQCKgBGAs/s640/20170206_124101.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Myakka gators always provide sightseeing and photo opportunities. This big guy sunned himself here often. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oSdzJmrLuC8/WUFG1aWf1BI/AAAAAAAAu7E/7Bk17Po6KhIEJgSZuoHM3D7Xek14pM-2ACKgBGAs/s1600/1487695250569-8426f391-a673-4eba-941c-72e88f418738%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1502" data-original-width="1333" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oSdzJmrLuC8/WUFG1aWf1BI/AAAAAAAAu7E/7Bk17Po6KhIEJgSZuoHM3D7Xek14pM-2ACKgBGAs/s400/1487695250569-8426f391-a673-4eba-941c-72e88f418738%257E2.jpg" width="353" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Valentines Day picture. Thank you, Bruce.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Those who have known me for a long time know that I don't dance. No real reason... just never learned. But this season, Theresa Smart, a guest at Myakka, convinced me to participate in her line dance class. I had a blast... and after much effort, Theresa managed to teach four line dances. Our group showed off our skill at a pool party in February.<br />
<br />
There were always gatherings at Myakka that would include food, drink, music and dance. Pictures below are of the Oldies themed night, I believe.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mLLO7lK4ZAI/WUFG1elwnMI/AAAAAAAAu7E/BSBt_13JFU4bvLFSVDHi4zTM5qocrhh-wCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1488556772058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1152" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mLLO7lK4ZAI/WUFG1elwnMI/AAAAAAAAu7E/BSBt_13JFU4bvLFSVDHi4zTM5qocrhh-wCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1488556772058.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lou Ann in the foreground. Amber in the background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyb7BkEk3-k/WUFG1aOAP6I/AAAAAAAAu7E/JPX3tB94Qu8npPaW3SZ-HaOxyoYep0FEACKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1488556872092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="991" height="444" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyb7BkEk3-k/WUFG1aOAP6I/AAAAAAAAu7E/JPX3tB94Qu8npPaW3SZ-HaOxyoYep0FEACKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1488556872092.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, we can line dance. This particular party night, we invited Pam, Ernie, Joyce and Charlie to join us at Myakka. <br />Left to right, Cindy, Cathy, me, Pam, Sara, Jean and I don't know the last one's name. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c6QLOcfPZM4/WUFG1WMCWqI/AAAAAAAAu7E/IVDCpltt52s68PbrTTCNUVRKV18Tawg1QCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1488556923600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="850" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c6QLOcfPZM4/WUFG1WMCWqI/AAAAAAAAu7E/IVDCpltt52s68PbrTTCNUVRKV18Tawg1QCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1488556923600.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Participation is the key to insanity. <br />Here, Cindy and I try our hand at bongo drums while Pam sharpens her skill on the cow bell. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dlHPKbxilRM/WUFG1UdQdqI/AAAAAAAAu7E/zf4QJfYJ18E4shwIT7a2Oy25WaXyfQXuQCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1488557015039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="698" height="488" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dlHPKbxilRM/WUFG1UdQdqI/AAAAAAAAu7E/zf4QJfYJ18E4shwIT7a2Oy25WaXyfQXuQCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1488557015039.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pam and Ernie burning up the dance floor. Cathy looks on. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jtorro0wn6g/WUFG1d04uUI/AAAAAAAAu7E/wy4uzr5eUaIrJ5T9cj6yZcMbt-KF7T4rACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_0498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jtorro0wn6g/WUFG1d04uUI/AAAAAAAAu7E/wy4uzr5eUaIrJ5T9cj6yZcMbt-KF7T4rACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_0498.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our "old friends" day started with lunch on the Sunset Patio and swimming in the pool below.<br />L-R, Joyce, Scott, Wayne, Charlie and Ernie.<br />Dinner at Farley's on the Water and then the dance party in the clubhouse. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QFjsKyJC5_k/WUFG1dqzWAI/AAAAAAAAu7E/WKtVaw2ALxIpjfa6Bs9hcMa_OuzEGjFxACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_0496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QFjsKyJC5_k/WUFG1dqzWAI/AAAAAAAAu7E/WKtVaw2ALxIpjfa6Bs9hcMa_OuzEGjFxACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_0496.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A walk along Myakka dock with Joyce and Pam.<br /> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JA61pX0P464/WUFG1b6_9OI/AAAAAAAAu7E/_YAAfwXDTVseUEhKxx7RkBglTV10UMtAwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_0501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JA61pX0P464/WUFG1b6_9OI/AAAAAAAAu7E/_YAAfwXDTVseUEhKxx7RkBglTV10UMtAwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_0501.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This one was taken at Farley's On The Water. That's Joyce and me. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HfpWiYOeDkM/WUFG1STOp7I/AAAAAAAAu7E/CT7zOG6aRZkRgZMYQrqhY6yRCBlZYQyKwCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1488557506184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HfpWiYOeDkM/WUFG1STOp7I/AAAAAAAAu7E/CT7zOG6aRZkRgZMYQrqhY6yRCBlZYQyKwCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1488557506184.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's to friendship! At Farlows On The Water. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I did manage to remember to take a few pictures during one of our final Neighborhood Walk Around evenings. By this time, we knew almost everyone in the park.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ThQQ7dI_MAw/WUFG1UKEAiI/AAAAAAAAu7E/bn7Xutki0qgQDgTzOQ_Nbw-Bw_wpfLdLACKgBGAs/s1600/20170307_171617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ThQQ7dI_MAw/WUFG1UKEAiI/AAAAAAAAu7E/bn7Xutki0qgQDgTzOQ_Nbw-Bw_wpfLdLACKgBGAs/s640/20170307_171617.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pickleball pals, Shirley (who taught me so much) and Mary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DmFZw5WBLrI/WUFG1SCt54I/AAAAAAAAu7E/DY5eHLjmdSM0DioW8ZZ8im_9d-ptdLyPwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170307_171649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DmFZw5WBLrI/WUFG1SCt54I/AAAAAAAAu7E/DY5eHLjmdSM0DioW8ZZ8im_9d-ptdLyPwCKgBGAs/s640/20170307_171649.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard to see because of the sun overhead, but Wayne (yellow shirt) is riding "The Beer Wagon" which is his bike, pulling Lexie and Ozzie's wagon, filled with cold beer. <br />Others, (L-R) are Laurie and Bruce on the cart, Shirley, Cathy, Scott and Mary.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P5Gg6V4NoNQ/WUFG1ZObnbI/AAAAAAAAu7E/zyhJIAvVw9EvhRi670M_CV_pS0T-CZFrACKgBGAs/s1600/20170307_175607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P5Gg6V4NoNQ/WUFG1ZObnbI/AAAAAAAAu7E/zyhJIAvVw9EvhRi670M_CV_pS0T-CZFrACKgBGAs/s640/20170307_175607.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave, Cindy and Jean</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VS_7_Bj9Gxc/WUFG1fB37NI/AAAAAAAAu7E/1De0tIV_7XIBzVyXtM3A_gpqJDkF09sbwCKgBGAs/s1600/20170308_131803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VS_7_Bj9Gxc/WUFG1fB37NI/AAAAAAAAu7E/1De0tIV_7XIBzVyXtM3A_gpqJDkF09sbwCKgBGAs/s640/20170308_131803.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pool. Ahhh, it was simply fabulous at Myakka. A constant perfect temperature. We enjoyed it several times. A loosely formed Sunday water volleyball game was played on Sunday afternoons. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-plxoTaNs4K8/WUFG1Qc3wWI/AAAAAAAAu7E/AzG2ooTb1gMN5wMq0hYSRUmCcJDvO37LQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170312_125034-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-plxoTaNs4K8/WUFG1Qc3wWI/AAAAAAAAu7E/AzG2ooTb1gMN5wMq0hYSRUmCcJDvO37LQCKgBGAs/s640/20170312_125034-1.jpg" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golf. Mary is in great form.<br />She got new clubs for next year too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ax2iFTThxwU/WUFG1VEqEkI/AAAAAAAAu7E/3TUocHYqztUQ5SpJz0dLr8YmI2FblVYAgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170313_202516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ax2iFTThxwU/WUFG1VEqEkI/AAAAAAAAu7E/3TUocHYqztUQ5SpJz0dLr8YmI2FblVYAgCKgBGAs/s640/20170313_202516.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We made a change in our sleeping arrangement over these few months. After Lexie had three falls from the bed (two in her sleep), we began building the nightly fence to keep her safe. Wayne is a good man. He never complained.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BPsf85tT4zM/WUFG1RlvEsI/AAAAAAAAu7E/FXYmkcUN6nsacog9UJ0-VTMpCLpLlItOACKgBGAs/s1600/20170316_124903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BPsf85tT4zM/WUFG1RlvEsI/AAAAAAAAu7E/FXYmkcUN6nsacog9UJ0-VTMpCLpLlItOACKgBGAs/s640/20170316_124903.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We celebrated Joyce's birthday in early March by starting the day with a tour of Alligator Bay Rum Distillery.<br />The scent burned in my memory for days..... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wHukND1rKJ0/WUFG1Qw9bgI/AAAAAAAAu7E/bcoTlm8va0kdIMcWP1eOu_g6RgPNQy74QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170316_164248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wHukND1rKJ0/WUFG1Qw9bgI/AAAAAAAAu7E/bcoTlm8va0kdIMcWP1eOu_g6RgPNQy74QCKgBGAs/s640/20170316_164248.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once Joyce was properly adorned in her tiara, we took the boat ride from Leverocks across the channel to have lunch at Rum Bay. The celebration included her bucket cocktail drink from a nearby table. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then there was the St. Patrick's Day dinner of cornbeef, cabbage and potatoes. First I've ever eaten and it was delicious. Naturally, when the music started, our line dance group raced to the floor at every opportunity to use our new dance skill.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xU_5anR97UY/WUFG1SgGS5I/AAAAAAAAu7E/4cwLTicv-Q84WJXs2I5oIBfUeK6uz0OeACKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1489946362416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xU_5anR97UY/WUFG1SgGS5I/AAAAAAAAu7E/4cwLTicv-Q84WJXs2I5oIBfUeK6uz0OeACKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1489946362416.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Janice, Laurie (behind me), Jan and Bob. We're the die hards. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Another great group afternoon outing is the ride from Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island. Scott, Mary, Larry, Cathy, Tony, Wayne and I made a Sunday afternoon visit there for drinks at this beach bar and dinner at another great restaurant named, simply... Sisters.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZokbO2dvus/WUFG1RxZx6I/AAAAAAAAu7E/LJGpFjKWr0M5PWHydJxN1ZS0nGMRT_i0gCKgBGAs/s1600/20170319_161914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZokbO2dvus/WUFG1RxZx6I/AAAAAAAAu7E/LJGpFjKWr0M5PWHydJxN1ZS0nGMRT_i0gCKgBGAs/s640/20170319_161914.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting around the table, clockwise, me, Wayne, Cathy, Tony, Larry, Mary and Scott.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t0F3UMf-ZOE/WUFG1S-CIfI/AAAAAAAAu7E/6g6PVgC82UMqVMQBW2_H_gMxi4JfgphrACKgBGAs/s1600/20170319_185013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t0F3UMf-ZOE/WUFG1S-CIfI/AAAAAAAAu7E/6g6PVgC82UMqVMQBW2_H_gMxi4JfgphrACKgBGAs/s640/20170319_185013.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No pictures at Sisters Restaurant, but here we go directly from dinner to the ice cream store across the street. That's where I discovered my newest favorite ice cream flavor: Trash Can. That's Tony and Cathy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wildlife is abundant around Myakka. Along with alligators, our lakes held plenty of fish and a few otters. Lots of raptors, a couple bald eagles and a huge variety of shore birds.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zgmV3NippuI/WUFG1ZVjKNI/AAAAAAAAu7E/93XnWpF1SxEHcWoxfm8sghyUm4JTsyoxACKgBGAs/s1600/20170320_123151-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1419" data-original-width="1162" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zgmV3NippuI/WUFG1ZVjKNI/AAAAAAAAu7E/93XnWpF1SxEHcWoxfm8sghyUm4JTsyoxACKgBGAs/s640/20170320_123151-1.jpg" width="524" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A killdeer made her ground nest near our coach. Wayne protected her four large speckled eggs with a "Bird Nest - Don't Mow" sign taped to one of our patio chairs. The lawn guy laughed and took a picture. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pHPCpZzU5wQ/WUFG1bJ9g2I/AAAAAAAAu7E/hZEcIrlLu5gT-38pU0LHTQOMSPU8O2DkgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170320_165959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pHPCpZzU5wQ/WUFG1bJ9g2I/AAAAAAAAu7E/hZEcIrlLu5gT-38pU0LHTQOMSPU8O2DkgCKgBGAs/s640/20170320_165959.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More golf. This afternoon, I rode while Wayne and Scott paired up with two others for 9 holes at Riverwood. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-359TDwy95Ik/WUFG1eUzLsI/AAAAAAAAu7E/aXv30ILR6w0Mp28ckditv1QWZc9bxQ_igCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1490021670278-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="504" height="614" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-359TDwy95Ik/WUFG1eUzLsI/AAAAAAAAu7E/aXv30ILR6w0Mp28ckditv1QWZc9bxQ_igCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1490021670278-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Patty's dinner photo with our pickleball pro, Bob Oakley. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-haVWLnj-Njw/WUFG1SHMyNI/AAAAAAAAu7E/voXxOKEtHRE0Bc5gKLCK6L6iubjrbdh_ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_151528-1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="947" height="372" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-haVWLnj-Njw/WUFG1SHMyNI/AAAAAAAAu7E/voXxOKEtHRE0Bc5gKLCK6L6iubjrbdh_ACKgBGAs/s640/20170324_151528-1-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The killdeer and her nest... 4 eggs... to the far left... hard to see.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of our final March Friday evening Meet N Greet gatherings. I remembered to take a few pictures...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oYPgdOf5Dgk/WUFG1TU9lLI/AAAAAAAAu7E/pOl2NPvy5uMl03PmzQjRRWXuh3UgyLC4ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_165250-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1305" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oYPgdOf5Dgk/WUFG1TU9lLI/AAAAAAAAu7E/pOl2NPvy5uMl03PmzQjRRWXuh3UgyLC4ACKgBGAs/s640/20170324_165250-1.jpg" width="522" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mary and Ron Lee. They bought a lot here. They are from Wyoming. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r8uhVqoLglw/WUFG1Yr04HI/AAAAAAAAu7E/nhYdczpG9aATQ_VeDiH4kUj1ul4rQfQngCKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_173311%25280%2529-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1173" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r8uhVqoLglw/WUFG1Yr04HI/AAAAAAAAu7E/nhYdczpG9aATQ_VeDiH4kUj1ul4rQfQngCKgBGAs/s640/20170324_173311%25280%2529-1.jpg" width="468" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shirley and Ken are from Canada </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dE-i4-YJrHo/WUFG1bRSlcI/AAAAAAAAu7E/mXyXr-nvfpw7LEIaWb1no2RnRVFXCsAVgCKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_173424-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1298" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dE-i4-YJrHo/WUFG1bRSlcI/AAAAAAAAu7E/mXyXr-nvfpw7LEIaWb1no2RnRVFXCsAVgCKgBGAs/s640/20170324_173424-1.jpg" width="518" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Virginia and Cleve bought a lot at Myakka this year. They're from Vermont.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cUO3Vghb5jg/WUFG1TWoRCI/AAAAAAAAu7E/tzjh8xMsVskfOWhxvzcdoocb9pgjOeYMQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_173435-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1510" data-original-width="1548" height="624" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cUO3Vghb5jg/WUFG1TWoRCI/AAAAAAAAu7E/tzjh8xMsVskfOWhxvzcdoocb9pgjOeYMQCKgBGAs/s640/20170324_173435-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jan and Bob Oakley bought a lot too. They are full-timers. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BbdNXhYj5Pg/WUFG1b7CmVI/AAAAAAAAu7E/yo9sJ1CRS-okuOG0XhKjp31Cr7bRO0h-QCKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_173949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BbdNXhYj5Pg/WUFG1b7CmVI/AAAAAAAAu7E/yo9sJ1CRS-okuOG0XhKjp31Cr7bRO0h-QCKgBGAs/s640/20170324_173949.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Margaret. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gzsXL3G2Jc8/WUFG1S_jAnI/AAAAAAAAu7E/q1epUW8UyuQQL3h7RQdPe0vmhkNPQ3xggCKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_174931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gzsXL3G2Jc8/WUFG1S_jAnI/AAAAAAAAu7E/q1epUW8UyuQQL3h7RQdPe0vmhkNPQ3xggCKgBGAs/s640/20170324_174931.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruthie and Ron joined us late. From Michigan.<br />They both learned to play pickleball this year too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xjAI9mKlb4I/WUFG1Z_uQCI/AAAAAAAAu7E/fla38gM_rTUFgiZonZGlK6OW3BnG69p5ACKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_174936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xjAI9mKlb4I/WUFG1Z_uQCI/AAAAAAAAu7E/fla38gM_rTUFgiZonZGlK6OW3BnG69p5ACKgBGAs/s640/20170324_174936.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nan. Another fun pickleball partner. Her husband is Ron. They play golf too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AtFs6q2IDfw/WUFG1fAgQ3I/AAAAAAAAu7E/-fpX-ur4ZhwChQzrwuv2LVJzy_f_kWmcACKgBGAs/s1600/20170324_175429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AtFs6q2IDfw/WUFG1fAgQ3I/AAAAAAAAu7E/-fpX-ur4ZhwChQzrwuv2LVJzy_f_kWmcACKgBGAs/s640/20170324_175429.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave and Lou Ann are from Knoxville. He is my verbal sparring partner. <br />They have a lovely lot and casita at Myakka. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-blVVswqFDHU/WUFG1UkGq4I/AAAAAAAAu7E/s9NBD1ntEgU8wrrFZSr8zJfSRjpkmyDnACKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1490492224252-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="882" height="294" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-blVVswqFDHU/WUFG1UkGq4I/AAAAAAAAu7E/s9NBD1ntEgU8wrrFZSr8zJfSRjpkmyDnACKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1490492224252-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrimp boil. Afterward, a group of us went out for trash can ice cream.<br />L - R Bob, Jan, Phil, me, Wayne, Scott and Mary. Phil's wife, Theresa is the photographer. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZeQIlmlv97Q/WUFjFE1R5oI/AAAAAAAAu78/sR7I7XbGmogZtbBvm6avtleADgoTy5fwQCKgBGAs/s1600/20170325_191528-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1460" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZeQIlmlv97Q/WUFjFE1R5oI/AAAAAAAAu78/sR7I7XbGmogZtbBvm6avtleADgoTy5fwQCKgBGAs/s400/20170325_191528-1.jpg" width="365" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's Theresa, our dance instructor. <br />Not a birthday or anniversary. Just a piece of leftover lemon pie for Phil.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5WfirCfg5RI/WUFG1cSV-wI/AAAAAAAAu7E/8l139K_BvpoxI1LCdpWWA8vB_zWG-D1ewCKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1490492233797-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="542" data-original-width="529" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5WfirCfg5RI/WUFG1cSV-wI/AAAAAAAAu7E/8l139K_BvpoxI1LCdpWWA8vB_zWG-D1ewCKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1490492233797-1.jpg" width="624" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne and Mary at the shrimp boil </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of our last outings with neighbors was at Beach Road Wine Bar and Bistro in Englewood.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jxRyqLQfmLI/WUFG1VTA0cI/AAAAAAAAu7E/iPWYUwnEWQQeBG9dHFulz5Jf2gRqnTeHACKgBGAs/s1600/20170329_171206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jxRyqLQfmLI/WUFG1VTA0cI/AAAAAAAAu7E/iPWYUwnEWQQeBG9dHFulz5Jf2gRqnTeHACKgBGAs/s640/20170329_171206.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tony and Larry </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com014100 Myakka Ave, Port Charlotte, FL 33953, USA26.967948 -82.219275999999979-0.3495430000000006 -123.52786999999998 54.285439 -40.91068199999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-86387020524938446542017-03-18T11:23:00.000-05:002017-06-06T11:09:01.093-05:00Pickleball Addiction <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<i>From Myakka River Motorcoach Resort, Port Charlotte, Florida</i><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NDeiphFy4gg/WTbKOazdVSI/AAAAAAAAtz4/K46_cwNfsXwhPu-RhcNCMsohcpT9rcNLgCLcB/s1600/17240521_1221067197942993_6324679206133853352_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NDeiphFy4gg/WTbKOazdVSI/AAAAAAAAtz4/K46_cwNfsXwhPu-RhcNCMsohcpT9rcNLgCLcB/s320/17240521_1221067197942993_6324679206133853352_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myakka Activities Director, Carol Black. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In early November I was one of about four people attending one of the resort's first "Pickleball Basics" courses of the winter 2016 season. Pickleball was taught by Carol Black, activities director at Mykka.<br />
<br />
The winter crowd isn't here yet so the crowd is small. A group plays every morning around 8 a.m. and I decided to get in on this sport early enough to play all season. Everyone was helpful in teaching and coach me toward improvement.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aYyrXmhefVg/WTbLdDf3N_I/AAAAAAAAt0k/BKWFShYQauQOMo15A_F0RpRy1fvGrlOfACKgB/s1600/20161119_095713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aYyrXmhefVg/WTbLdDf3N_I/AAAAAAAAt0k/BKWFShYQauQOMo15A_F0RpRy1fvGrlOfACKgB/s320/20161119_095713.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first pickleball paddle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I played pickleball with a borrowed paddle the first few weeks. I also attended the next couple of "basics" courses to glean everything possible from Carol about the game. I loved it!<br />
<br />
Within a week, I knew I was hooked and after the second week, I ordered my very own paddle, carrying bag and a sleeve of balls.<br />
<br />
Ironically, I developed a tenderness my right knee and couldn't use my new paddle for about two weeks. I still went to pickleball every morning and watched the others play.<br />
<br />
Wayne isn't interested.<br />
<br />
The November group of pickleball players totaled about six people, sometimes more and usually included Carol and a few seasoned players who graciously took turns teaming up with me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It didn't take long for me to become addicted to pickleball. I played every morning and stayed as long as there were players with whom I could practice. The group was great, not too serious and eager to share whatever they could to improve my game.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rBG0OwsUJVE/WTQtlFt5r7I/AAAAAAAAtls/WeL4NoBPK2YbdYlW70zRMt7H5FPUuazxwCKgB/s1600/20161128_085027-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1600" height="328" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rBG0OwsUJVE/WTQtlFt5r7I/AAAAAAAAtls/WeL4NoBPK2YbdYlW70zRMt7H5FPUuazxwCKgB/s640/20161128_085027-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill and Ken are playing against Carol and Bruce</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Myakka has three nice pickleball courts. One is dedicated to pickleball and the other two other use the adjacent tennis court where two temporary nets are placed. It would be a long time before we used all three pickleball nets but by January, the pickleball group had grown to more than 15, sometimes 20 players.<br />
<br />
By January, I began hearing about Myakka's Annual Pickleball Tournament. I was all in. By this time, I was working on strategies and ball placement. Wayne still didn't have an interest.<br />
<br />
The day of the 2017 tournament finally came and the weather was perfect. I played well and enjoyed every game. Wayne didn't attend a single game in which I played. I was furious for weeks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QHanJdmdsfE/WTQuXokYTgI/AAAAAAAAtlw/m5hfy-PPBiwqtubLwIO8SmSfunK7MONNwCKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1489945810236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QHanJdmdsfE/WTQuXokYTgI/AAAAAAAAtlw/m5hfy-PPBiwqtubLwIO8SmSfunK7MONNwCKgB/s640/FB_IMG_1489945810236.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's me... Serving in one of the final matches in the tournament. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fl_-75Y5TKY/WTQuXsysy1I/AAAAAAAAtlw/RIChdKGVH3wKgt2x9HrPtV5czyOf82tUwCKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1489945777083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fl_-75Y5TKY/WTQuXsysy1I/AAAAAAAAtlw/RIChdKGVH3wKgt2x9HrPtV5czyOf82tUwCKgB/s640/FB_IMG_1489945777083.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Intense concentration -- keep your eye on the ball.</i> That's the secret.<br />
By now, I had a second paddle in hopes Wayne would play. I used it in the tournament.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Drt1DZHikvM/WTQuXlfc5FI/AAAAAAAAtlw/AnBybwdnat8frPdzebOa0dc4zIYiJn6fgCKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1489944224288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1569" height="292" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Drt1DZHikvM/WTQuXlfc5FI/AAAAAAAAtlw/AnBybwdnat8frPdzebOa0dc4zIYiJn6fgCKgB/s640/FB_IMG_1489944224288.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tournament participants.<br />
Ron, Big Bill, Phil, Carol, Shirley, Ken, Mary, me, Bob, Doug, Scott, Doug, Oscar, Cleve, Dick, Allen and Bruce.<br />
To the far left, Jan keeps score.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A potluck lunch after the tournament. Certificates were presented.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w6i0XdoJLBE/WTQvjwMsEoI/AAAAAAAAtl0/qJftoxdgxoUrw9d9I9H5Y3QJoXoZ4PO3ACKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1490196669977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w6i0XdoJLBE/WTQvjwMsEoI/AAAAAAAAtl0/qJftoxdgxoUrw9d9I9H5Y3QJoXoZ4PO3ACKgB/s640/FB_IMG_1490196669977.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carol, Bob and me. I'm one of four "most improved" pickleball players.<br />
Wayne didn't attend the awards luncheon. I steamed but did eventually recover. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bevIYmv232w/WTQvjxEt-LI/AAAAAAAAtl0/eAR0Eo5TNGomnkSYQITKzh89uQbByM9TACKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1490196709378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bevIYmv232w/WTQvjxEt-LI/AAAAAAAAtl0/eAR0Eo5TNGomnkSYQITKzh89uQbByM9TACKgB/s640/FB_IMG_1490196709378.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend, Phil was one of two mens "most improved" at Pickleball. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e148Kp2iI_4/WTQvj0uqgoI/AAAAAAAAtl0/2iUSM4FbV7EG6Od8rwkG-qCY-IlZEYd3QCKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1490196714890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e148Kp2iI_4/WTQvj0uqgoI/AAAAAAAAtl0/2iUSM4FbV7EG6Od8rwkG-qCY-IlZEYd3QCKgB/s640/FB_IMG_1490196714890.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scott was a "Most Improved" player too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYy96pzrlKs/WTQv0rAjtgI/AAAAAAAAtl4/Fn2UzyPb2E4oa-TY59Zq5Q7pzHSwaDblACKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1489945876670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYy96pzrlKs/WTQv0rAjtgI/AAAAAAAAtl4/Fn2UzyPb2E4oa-TY59Zq5Q7pzHSwaDblACKgB/s640/FB_IMG_1489945876670.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And my friend Mary won the coveted "Most Improved for next year" trophy.<br />
It's a pickleball stuck to the lid of a jar of pickles. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jP29l37zA-w/WTQx-Wqg0bI/AAAAAAAAtmA/0Z0DUI5sJt0OUJJU_lk7sFLuCR0cbVe9wCKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1489945869759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jP29l37zA-w/WTQx-Wqg0bI/AAAAAAAAtmA/0Z0DUI5sJt0OUJJU_lk7sFLuCR0cbVe9wCKgB/s640/FB_IMG_1489945869759.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was no surprise Shirley and Bob were the 2017 Champions.<br />
All three of these folks taught me to play better and to love pickleball! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8357843130055448549.post-66545324004508252052017-01-01T11:30:00.000-06:002017-06-13T12:38:17.804-05:00Myakka: November and December 2016<i>From Maykka Motorcoach Resort, Port Charlotte, Florida</i> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1sBQm6-WgBI/WTQkvJrJ3fI/AAAAAAAAtlg/fUXJJQckBMccb0SBDB6aeTKiYji6iUo4QCKgB/s1600/20161102_144645-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="1600" height="255" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1sBQm6-WgBI/WTQkvJrJ3fI/AAAAAAAAtlg/fUXJJQckBMccb0SBDB6aeTKiYji6iUo4QCKgB/s400/20161102_144645-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
In nearly seven years of full-time RV'ing Wayne and I had never committed to a five months stay in one location. We did this winter though -- November through March. Ray and Cindy Fleishel recommend Myakka River Motorcoach Resort to us a few years ago. This would be our first visit. Wayne thinks we're staying too long but I feel pretty good about the decision as I am eager to relax for a good long while.<br />
<br />
Pam and Ernie already had reserved their winter site for six months at Cypress Woods RV Resort in Fort Myers. Joyce and Charlie would make a last minute decision to stay at Seminole Campground in North Fort Myers. Wayne and I are about 40 minutes north.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k59lmRzZ9Us/WUAbLCHQAZI/AAAAAAAAu34/4AzBgDeWICsROWAntBlfm7hNQQ7037TRQCKgB/s1600/20170225_145039-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1224" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k59lmRzZ9Us/WUAbLCHQAZI/AAAAAAAAu34/4AzBgDeWICsROWAntBlfm7hNQQ7037TRQCKgB/s400/20170225_145039-1.jpg" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathy walking Scooter who's just outside the picture.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Neighbors to our road side checked in just ahead of us, Tony and Cathy and their friend Larry.<br />
They are from Louisville, Kentucky and travel together. We met them the first afternoon.<br />
<br />
Cathy and Tony have a Maltese named Scooter. He bites. Larry is a widower and travels alone.<br />
<br />
<br />
Our site is across the bridge in the photo below. We are between two of the three lakes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sR64ZWaK-fY/WTLd_UcZO5I/AAAAAAAAsyA/V0ECZia9P3kwJEDIvq0AQMDy5ehCUNvEgCKgB/s1600/20161102_144755-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1138" data-original-width="1600" height="451" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sR64ZWaK-fY/WTLd_UcZO5I/AAAAAAAAsyA/V0ECZia9P3kwJEDIvq0AQMDy5ehCUNvEgCKgB/s640/20161102_144755-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's our site just down the street. The sidewalk is perfect for walking Lexie and Ozzie. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I liked MRMR immediately. It's restricted to motorhomes and has just 99 sites. The developer/owners live on site. I had read nice comments about the park, its owners and the community. Far enough from the crime and crowds of Fort Myers, Port Charlotte has everything we want for a winter visit, including plenty of shopping, a good assortment of restaurants, a nearby Publix and lots of golf.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wM33T0OQCvk/WTbXcb2NgRI/AAAAAAAAt8Y/NVZbcz62ZGI13NBha2zFEXMI3skiMIgvQCLcB/s1600/Ralf%2BAmber%2BChristmas%2BDance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wM33T0OQCvk/WTbXcb2NgRI/AAAAAAAAt8Y/NVZbcz62ZGI13NBha2zFEXMI3skiMIgvQCLcB/s640/Ralf%2BAmber%2BChristmas%2BDance.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ralf and Amber (center) are the developers and owners of Myakka River Motorcoach Resort<br />
(This photo is from Myakka's Christmas party)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A casual "Meet N Greet" is held on the Sunset Balcony every Friday afternoon, during season, at Myakka. The balcony overlooks the large beautiful pool and deck and offers a fine view of the river and sunsets. During Meet N Greet, wine and German beer are served compliments of the German owner, Ralf and his wife Amber. There's always a little something to snack on too, but the best part is that almost everyone in the park attends, wears a name tag and has a good time. We rarely missed a Friday evening Meet N Greet. Here are some of my early pictures.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zVK_ZLCCIrA/WTLd_W6XydI/AAAAAAAAsyA/_ExlNlsoIn8Azht9vI3Xkn-UzTaW8yWVgCKgB/s1600/20161104_173011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zVK_ZLCCIrA/WTLd_W6XydI/AAAAAAAAsyA/_ExlNlsoIn8Azht9vI3Xkn-UzTaW8yWVgCKgB/s640/20161104_173011.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the first Friday Meet N Greet socials. The crowd is small and manageable now. By full season, the group spills over onto the pool deck below. In this picture I see Charlie, Sandy, Bonnie, Carlo and Bruce. Can't make out the others.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cL4dS112rjY/WTLd_f2lxGI/AAAAAAAAsyA/OmWpNYDSftMgz9lXpJtduCI3bwlMRzrxwCKgB/s1600/20161104_173029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cL4dS112rjY/WTLd_f2lxGI/AAAAAAAAsyA/OmWpNYDSftMgz9lXpJtduCI3bwlMRzrxwCKgB/s640/20161104_173029.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I see Amber and Ralf on the far left and there's Mallory (the Mayor) in the brown baseball cap on the right. Mallory's wife, Maryann in the bis bight blue shirt standing at the bar and Bonnie is sitting to her right.<br />
Laurie is seated on the far right of the photo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MMKhVFrESz0/WTLd_VADAAI/AAAAAAAAsyA/Ts0k9W2CkQQn73T7xs4Xg5dAK-9GY8QCwCKgB/s1600/20161104_182438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MMKhVFrESz0/WTLd_VADAAI/AAAAAAAAsyA/Ts0k9W2CkQQn73T7xs4Xg5dAK-9GY8QCwCKgB/s640/20161104_182438.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right, Debbie, Sara, Cindy and Ray. We're watching the sunset.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZ8Z3J3F3a4/WTLd_bT6PyI/AAAAAAAAsyA/0wc798TaCE4_aKTsFOKf-nYg8_UrhSTSwCKgB/s1600/20161104_183310-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1192" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZ8Z3J3F3a4/WTLd_bT6PyI/AAAAAAAAsyA/0wc798TaCE4_aKTsFOKf-nYg8_UrhSTSwCKgB/s640/20161104_183310-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The friendliest of the whole gang are Bruce and Sandy Moore</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WVtbQEhAIxE/WTSCHdPjytI/AAAAAAAAtrc/ZvlLN8_RKBcnX6MXLkBfBxJ1396kE5J_gCKgB/s1600/20161104_184108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WVtbQEhAIxE/WTSCHdPjytI/AAAAAAAAtrc/ZvlLN8_RKBcnX6MXLkBfBxJ1396kE5J_gCKgB/s640/20161104_184108.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the pool deck, Myakka River and the sinking sun. Taken from the Sunset Patio.<br />
The resort sites are around to the right.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The huge crowd won't arrive until after Christmas so there are lots of vacant spaces in the resort during November and December. It was easy to remember names when there weren't so many at one time. We made a point of trying to meet everyone.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KdQBYwtXN_w/WTLd_ZcYerI/AAAAAAAAsyA/pcKQQRE0d9s92h-b17ec0UA3gpr-2kGgwCKgB/s1600/FB_IMG_1480095987971-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="684" height="264" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KdQBYwtXN_w/WTLd_ZcYerI/AAAAAAAAsyA/pcKQQRE0d9s92h-b17ec0UA3gpr-2kGgwCKgB/s320/FB_IMG_1480095987971-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanksgiving Dinner at Myakka </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Several social gatherings were scheduled during November, including a neighborhood progressive eating social that called for everyone to walk around the resort, meeting others and eating.<br />
<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving Dinner was the first formal gathering in Myakka's clubhouse. Bruce took pictures and sent this one to me.<br />
<br />
I'm glad he did because I didn't take a single photo.<br />
<br />
Dinner was good.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Smi-7i2nZc/WTLd_WYUl7I/AAAAAAAAsyA/14W_9KWohfUL2XIizIQGKKttvtf2XUaOACKgB/s1600/20161125_062318%257E2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="983" data-original-width="1600" height="390" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Smi-7i2nZc/WTLd_WYUl7I/AAAAAAAAsyA/14W_9KWohfUL2XIizIQGKKttvtf2XUaOACKgB/s640/20161125_062318%257E2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First of many beautiful sunrises at Myakka. This one was taken the morning after Thanksgiving.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kVpp1eQF4Wg/WTgq8TJvn_I/AAAAAAAAuIg/DTWoxQaW_LMe84CGSIAmIS-TR31CjHnQgCKgB/s1600/20161227_105135-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="771" data-original-width="1080" height="456" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kVpp1eQF4Wg/WTgq8TJvn_I/AAAAAAAAuIg/DTWoxQaW_LMe84CGSIAmIS-TR31CjHnQgCKgB/s640/20161227_105135-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's our coach with the awning shade extended. <br />
Tony and Cathy are to the right and Larry is in the third coach.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XpF1gh2XmAQ/WTgrooLIhdI/AAAAAAAAuI0/PL6E0FCmSush_tx_cCVPW7BdmRx8eIu7gCKgB/s1600/20161126_123449-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="1334" height="506" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XpF1gh2XmAQ/WTgrooLIhdI/AAAAAAAAuI0/PL6E0FCmSush_tx_cCVPW7BdmRx8eIu7gCKgB/s640/20161126_123449-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The neighbors in this Prevost Featherlight drive a Bentley.<br />
They stayed only a few nights on the property though the coach was here all season. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There were hundreds of beautiful sunrises and sunsets during our months at Myakka. The weather was extremely dry and hot though. Our patio faced the south and was almost always really warm.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pmEvzxUN6Qc/WTLd_SbWXcI/AAAAAAAAsyA/GFUaN5XP6yUqQQmSONN-5N9QNKt3OLqYwCKgB/s1600/20161202_180503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pmEvzxUN6Qc/WTLd_SbWXcI/AAAAAAAAsyA/GFUaN5XP6yUqQQmSONN-5N9QNKt3OLqYwCKgB/s640/20161202_180503.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wZIbRKjjJ3c/WTSBHPtrffI/AAAAAAAAtrY/Y8u10GGh_BkYYXbeEW30Up5bPQq0t7pXQCKgB/s1600/20161126_175259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wZIbRKjjJ3c/WTSBHPtrffI/AAAAAAAAtrY/Y8u10GGh_BkYYXbeEW30Up5bPQq0t7pXQCKgB/s640/20161126_175259.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UY39L7e4w4Q/WTSBHGoGT7I/AAAAAAAAtrY/jnt_mrDXl_gP5IIFnrFZ_jhcIw0EHTIqgCKgB/s1600/20161202_165806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UY39L7e4w4Q/WTSBHGoGT7I/AAAAAAAAtrY/jnt_mrDXl_gP5IIFnrFZ_jhcIw0EHTIqgCKgB/s640/20161202_165806.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During this Friday Meet N Greet, I shared my hat with Laurie when she faced the sunset. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YCk7fhKyevI/WTSBHKeZEkI/AAAAAAAAtrY/ltB_mcutZF0wXdiO-9JzJAEN-QEa0HmFQCKgB/s1600/20161202_165450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YCk7fhKyevI/WTSBHKeZEkI/AAAAAAAAtrY/ltB_mcutZF0wXdiO-9JzJAEN-QEa0HmFQCKgB/s640/20161202_165450.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another time, I shared my hat with Princess Diana when the sunset was in her eyes. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uCUd6MJ-Wo4/WTSBHGls5VI/AAAAAAAAtrY/BhTp0p3sGkAyo6Hg0uC3eYz0KfuGoyZyACKgB/s1600/20161227_105144-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1600" height="270" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uCUd6MJ-Wo4/WTSBHGls5VI/AAAAAAAAtrY/BhTp0p3sGkAyo6Hg0uC3eYz0KfuGoyZyACKgB/s640/20161227_105144-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another good view of our lake. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IpnbvHx8U40/WTSBHBYvIuI/AAAAAAAAtrY/r3cpjc8-Hsk_KHQ0gV1amhF5GrGQrdCgACKgB/s1600/ContactPhoto-IMG_20161229_164953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IpnbvHx8U40/WTSBHBYvIuI/AAAAAAAAtrY/r3cpjc8-Hsk_KHQ0gV1amhF5GrGQrdCgACKgB/s400/ContactPhoto-IMG_20161229_164953.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ray</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was good to see Ray and Cindy again.<br />
<br />
We rarely see them and it's usually for short periods of time. This winter though, they were already at Myakka when we arrived and they remained another month after we left at the end of March.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyHxTHYIvK0/WTSBHCWdJTI/AAAAAAAAtrY/hhgxuu7bGwgAzoaO1FVwDFoDr68SITIIgCKgB/s1600/20170102_111027-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="1600" height="114" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyHxTHYIvK0/WTSBHCWdJTI/AAAAAAAAtrY/hhgxuu7bGwgAzoaO1FVwDFoDr68SITIIgCKgB/s640/20170102_111027-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back at MRMR from the end of the pier.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VsJEUIix_7s/WTSBHHWwZZI/AAAAAAAAtrY/yDlIcg4gEbgKLFh8jlSvswiVToxRTWwTgCKgB/s1600/20170102_111620-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="942" data-original-width="1600" height="376" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VsJEUIix_7s/WTSBHHWwZZI/AAAAAAAAtrY/yDlIcg4gEbgKLFh8jlSvswiVToxRTWwTgCKgB/s640/20170102_111620-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Despite the leash regulation, I did let Ozzie and Lexie off leash this afternoon on the boardwalk to the river. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WpqUjVDZyEY/WTSBHPDSXNI/AAAAAAAAtrY/exQPci9heoEQmpRaTYoRUW-USjygbt63QCKgB/s1600/20170122_150335-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1353" data-original-width="1600" height="540" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WpqUjVDZyEY/WTSBHPDSXNI/AAAAAAAAtrY/exQPci9heoEQmpRaTYoRUW-USjygbt63QCKgB/s640/20170122_150335-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our resident alligators could pose a problem. Better safe than sorry, Wayne carries pups when they are nearby.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQYe26s63Ok/WTSBHFsKO9I/AAAAAAAAtrY/8ZQ3-YgceXEnHZMgz3OlNbkjoSczhWXSACKgB/s1600/20170122_145527-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQYe26s63Ok/WTSBHFsKO9I/AAAAAAAAtrY/8ZQ3-YgceXEnHZMgz3OlNbkjoSczhWXSACKgB/s640/20170122_145527-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the biggest of our gator neighbors. He began taking liberties with the guests and had to be evicted. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nxLBnORaDfY/WTSBHNDT4dI/AAAAAAAAtrY/zsCXHUy50Bkqc74W9f7V6Kl09YptctlfgCKgB/s1600/20170220_091713-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nxLBnORaDfY/WTSBHNDT4dI/AAAAAAAAtrY/zsCXHUy50Bkqc74W9f7V6Kl09YptctlfgCKgB/s640/20170220_091713-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
By the time Christmas rolled around, we knew almost everyone in the park. Our Christmas dinner and dance party was well attended. The food was good and so was the entertainment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QI8W4NXxkLI/WTbZi9gES6I/AAAAAAAAt-U/M47puGjydRUxbiCbBXD3mUDs2yHrv0J7gCLcB/s1600/15541435_1147283771988003_3416038820663544980_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="360" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QI8W4NXxkLI/WTbZi9gES6I/AAAAAAAAt-U/M47puGjydRUxbiCbBXD3mUDs2yHrv0J7gCLcB/s640/15541435_1147283771988003_3416038820663544980_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right, Steve, Darlene. Carlo and Bonnie. Janice is in bright blue. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As an "ice breaker" at the Christmas party every year, each table of eight people is required to sing, at the microphone, the Christmas carol of their choice. Someone at our table suggested "Jingle Bell Rock"... and we did! It was the first time I'd ever sung kareoke and I had great fun though it's hard to tell from this picture.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L0Sj1gzMaBY/WTbZjOVYlPI/AAAAAAAAt-c/FHFSvebUxZYJFDTAJKS5EP3gELn3NnPnACLcB/s1600/Christmas%2BDance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="425" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L0Sj1gzMaBY/WTbZjOVYlPI/AAAAAAAAt-c/FHFSvebUxZYJFDTAJKS5EP3gELn3NnPnACLcB/s640/Christmas%2BDance.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jingle Bell Rock! Left to right, the singers are.... Larry, me, Howard, Laurie, Charlie, Diana and Cindy!<br />
"Rock The Night Away!" </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was no turning back after the Christmas carol ice breaker. Everyone took several turns singing and dancing broke out almost immediately. I think I've found my talent. Well.... maybe not.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HlDWvIesF70/WTbZjMRBNVI/AAAAAAAAt-Y/K0SqZFURjHse53V_XE6_YzwNT8Kb234bgCLcB/s1600/Christmas%2BDance%2BWith%2BCindy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="898" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HlDWvIesF70/WTbZjMRBNVI/AAAAAAAAt-Y/K0SqZFURjHse53V_XE6_YzwNT8Kb234bgCLcB/s640/Christmas%2BDance%2BWith%2BCindy.jpg" width="595" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cindy and I do some of our best steps in kareoke. <br />
A tiny solo cup filled with American Honey helped. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRjTnT8HEK8/WUAevrAQG4I/AAAAAAAAu5M/lw3MYdKHteEaEcZWR4vwNQMJQuNIHyhrgCLcB/s1600/Christmas%2BKareoke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRjTnT8HEK8/WUAevrAQG4I/AAAAAAAAu5M/lw3MYdKHteEaEcZWR4vwNQMJQuNIHyhrgCLcB/s640/Christmas%2BKareoke.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cindy and I continue to prove our lack of singing ability with "You're So Vain"....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9Z00mt8-WQ/WTbZjG8OyUI/AAAAAAAAt-k/w1vPF7tdgQILsSiZpstB8aqT68OtZYr1wCLcB/s1600/Diana%2Band%2BHoward%2BSing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9Z00mt8-WQ/WTbZjG8OyUI/AAAAAAAAt-k/w1vPF7tdgQILsSiZpstB8aqT68OtZYr1wCLcB/s640/Diana%2Band%2BHoward%2BSing.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howard sings his part of "Hit The Road Jack" as directed by his wife, Diana (in red).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Myakka also hosted a nice New Years party, complete with fireworks at midnight but we didn't attend. Ozzie got scared of the early party neighborhood firecrackers and we couldn't leave him.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Yellamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18360969261666769413noreply@blogger.com0