Rockport 35 RV Park

Pancake Race Coming Soon!

2012-02-18T13:03:00.000-06:00

by Keith

Tuesday, February 21, main street will be abuzz with activity! It'll be the second annual Rockport 35 RV Park Pancake Race!

I just wanted to alert you to this important and FUN! event so you could make plans to attend. More info will be posted here later.

BE THERE!

Domain Name Renewed

2012-02-18T12:52:00.001-06:00

by Keith

In case you were wondering how this whole website thing works, here's a bit of information which you might already know, which you might find interesting, or which you might not care one bit about.

I'll use an example to illustrate. Let's say you have a company named ABC, Inc. You very well might like to have a website named "ABC.com." You can't just go to the internet and create a website called ABC.com. It just doesn't work that way.

You must acquire what is called a domain name, which in this case is ABC.com. There are strict rules and a few organizations who are charged with enforcing those rules and distributing the domain names.

There are many companies which have been authorized to actually market domain names. I choose to use Go Daddy, mainly because when I bought my first one they were the cheapest place to get them.

Interestingly, the founder of Go Daddy began his internet businesses in Cedar Rapids. He built a new building to house is business which I drove past every day on my way to work. Then he sold his business, the building got rented to others and probably sold a time or two. A couple of years ago, Go Daddy established an office in that very same building, right there in Hiawatha, Iowa.

Essentially, one buys the rights to use a domain name for one or more years. Cost varies but usually runs from ten to 15 bucks for each year. No one else in the entire world will have the right to use that domain name.

In the example case, after one purchased the domain name ABC.com, he could create a website and establish it on the Internet for all the world to see.

The domain name for this blog is 35rv.us. It was about to expire next week. Yesterday, I renewed it for two years. That means the first step in assuring this blog is available for the next two years has been taken.

You can help with the next step: supplying information or encouraging me to keep it going!

Note:
A careful observer might say, "Hey, Keith, the blog isn't on "35rv.us." It's on "http://www.rockport-rv35.blogspot.com/." And you'd be correct.

The blog itself is created on a site called blogspot.com. I've put code on the site at 35rv.us to send any visitor who comes directly to the blogspot site. That's called a "redirect."

And now you know!

Comment!

Unanimous Vote

2012-02-18T12:04:00.001-06:00

by Keith

Gordon, best bacon fryer!

This morning at breakfast, our table took a vote.

We voted Gordon as the best bacon fryer ever!

The vote was unanimous. Good work, Gordon!!!

Comment!

The Info You've Been Waiting For!

2012-02-18T11:59:00.001-06:00

by Keith

This Rockport 35 RV Park blog is here to bring you the information you need, when you need it.

Here's today's info:

Feb. 17-18 rain: 1.2 inches

I read that as 1.2 inches. It is as of about 11am today and includes all of the rain from yesterday and last night.

If I were a farmer, I'd love it!

Comment!

Live! Watch Linda's Neighbors!

2012-02-17T11:38:00.002-06:00

by Keith

A pair of eagles built a nest just a few miles from Terry and Linda's home. There's a HD webcam trained on the nest so we can all watch!

As of this morning, there were two eggs in the nest. The sitter had moved off them temporarily so we could clearly see them.

Go here to see the eagles: alcoa.com/eaglecam/

Once you get to that page, click on the "Play" button (actually a big triangle) on the right side, down a ways from the top. You can make it fill the entire screen by clicking on one of the icons below the webcam picture.

The nest is on the property of ALCOA in Davenport, Iowa, and is near the Mississippi River.

Thanks, Linda, for telling me about this!

Comment!

A Great Day!

2012-02-16T08:11:00.008-06:00

by Dianne

The Doctors at University Hospital performed a procedure on Tuesday afternoon and found what they believed was the cause of Dick's bleeding -- a tumor in his liver bile duct. The success of their surgery would be confirmed IF his hemoglobin continued to increase on its own over the following 24 hours. We are thrilled to report that his hemoglobin is up to 13 this morning - a healthy range being between 14-16, I believe.

After three weeks and six days, Dick Carlson is coming home from the hospital. Rick left just minutes ago for the three hour ride to San Antonio.

We are happy beyond belief and want to thank all of you for your prayers for him and his doctors and most of all we thank God for his guiding hands and love for answering our prayers.

.

Not So Newlywed Game, 2012

2012-02-15T13:09:00.001-06:00

by Keith

Valentines Day! Always a great time to get together for a good time with not only your very own valentine but also with good friends and neighbors.

And here at Rockport 35 RV park, that's exactly what we did. The main event, for the second year running, was our version of the Newlywed Game. It was ably master-minded by Carol and Rick. Of course Carol had a band of behind-the-scenes co-conspirators, as do all major productions in the entertainment industry. That made it easy for master MCer Rick; all he had to do was do as he was told. That's hard for Rick, but last night everything worked out wonderfully.

The audience had a great time and was very appreciative of the four couples who volunteered (?) to be the active participants. As last year when Geoff and Pam were participants, this year's contestants took an an international flavor as Bob and Marie, also from Canada, were in the lineup.

Dale and Tootie are from Minnesota and are spending their second year here. Tootie was rather surprised that Dale would chose Hawai as a vacation spot with his lottery winnings. She would have bet on a fishing cabin!

Sandy and Fran are former full-timers who have settled in Wyoming but still travel in the winter.

"You said what?"

Wayne and Betty, our A1 source of pecans, hail from the SE corner of Kansas. Both agreed that their TV is on 24/7.

And the winners: Marie and Bob, from Canada! They looked quite dapper in their matching M&Ms shirts! And did well enough in the game to win the first prize!

You can see that not only the hall but the attendees were decorated in valentine colors! And you can also see that they enjoyed the live show presented before them!

Rick did a great job, and Carol is relieved that he got them through it. Special thanks is due Janet for providing the studs for his shirt!

Marv and Bev were participants last year, when Marv provided the laugh of the game with one of his answers. Last years winners were Brenda and Dennis. Marv kept a low profile this year and helped with the cleanup.

Once a mover of furniture,
always a mover of furniture.

Help Wanted: Poet

2012-02-15T12:01:00.000-06:00

by Keith

Is there poet amongst us? If so, I'd appreciate it if he/she would step forward!

I have an idea for a park-themed poem but do not have the ability to put it to verse.

Just in case the poet on the park whom you know is bashful and you fear he/she may not apply, please do not hesitate to volunteer them!!

Send an email (just click on Comment! below, in most cases) or stop by Site 80 and sign up.

Comment!

We're Wondering Too

2012-02-13T20:56:00.003-06:00

by Dianne

Wondering what the heck is going on with Dick? Well, we are too. Here's what we know and it's not much. The medical wheels are turning slowly. He did receive 1-2 units of blood last night and the bleeder seems to have stopped, maybe. He did swallow the camera capsule first thing this morning. Late afternoon he had another VQ scan, the first one at this hospital. Results are not back from either test. He is still on a liquid diet and scheduled for another artery-type test in the morning. Hopefully we'll have tests results along with a solution some time soon. Will keep you posted; until then.....

.

A Change in Plans

2012-02-12T21:50:00.003-06:00

by Dianne

Due to the bleeding and drop in blood pressure, they will stabilize him for the night and proceed with the camera capsule procedure in the morning. So.... we will try to get a decent night's sleep. Until tomorrow....

.

A Brief Update

2012-02-12T20:55:00.002-06:00

by Dianne

Rick received a call from his mom about an hour ago. They will be taking Dick into surgery as soon as they can assemble a surgical team. He has an active bleeder which needs immediate attention. She will call when he is out of surgery but we are not sure what time that may be. Until then......

.

Brrrr! It's Cold Up Here.

2012-02-09T22:40:00.000-06:00

by Keith

For those who are not aware, Pat and I left Tuesday morning for Council Bluffs, IA (across the river from Omaha.) We came to attend the funeral of Pat's 39 year old niece.

Here's a picture taken his afternoon.

BRRR!

Pat's ready to come back to the park! We plan to do just that, starting Saturday morning.

Comment!

Catching Up with Dick Carlson

2012-02-09T17:11:00.005-06:00

by Dianne

For those not currently at Rockport 35 RV Park, and those who are, here's to catching up with Dick Carlson and his long journey to locating those elusive bleeders that have been plaguing him since admission to Christus Spohn in Corpus on January 21st. He was released on the 25th but ended up being readmitted on January 30th to The Heart Hospital in Corpus. He's undergone multiple tests from EGD's, Colonoscopies, VQ Scans, MRI's, and a few other tests - all without an answer to where he is bleeding internally. Both of these hospitals have exhausted their resources with no results. Today he will be transported, by ambulance, to UTSA University Hospital in San Antonio, TX. Hopefully, they will have the advanced technology/equipment needed to identify the origin of bleeding and put a stop to it. To date he has had 23 units of blood.

As you can imagine, it is beginning to take a toll on Dick's sense of humor and easy going spirit. We are asking that you join us in our prayers that God our Father will guide the doctors to the source of his medical problems and allow his healing and the return to his family.

If you want to send a card to Dick, you can address it to the Rockport 35 RV Park address -- 4851 N. Highway 35, Rockport, TX 78382.

Rain Amount

2012-02-05T19:37:00.001-06:00

by Keith

The amount of rain reported by my John Deere Weather Station was 1.66".

We were not inconvenienced by it and I'm sure the farmers were thankful.

Calallen: Where is it???

2012-02-05T19:33:00.000-06:00

by Keith

One of the subjects covered by the after-icecream group tonight was the town of Calallen. We all hear it mentioned on the weather and news broadcasts, but what is it and where is it?

The atlas on the back table was no help. We couldn't find it.

Google to the rescue!

Here are some of the pertinent parts from an article The History of Calallen:

"The community of Calallen is on the Nueces River in the north central Nueces County. It is approximately 16 miles from Corpus Christi, Texas. You will not see a sign that says "Calallen" along IH37, nor will you see it on a highway map. ....

"Calallen did not bother to incorporate until they were threatened by annexation by Corpus Christi. The same day that incorporation vote was taken and passed so did annexation. Annexation took precedence over incorporation, so Calallen became a part of Corpus Christi in 1970. Since then, the area has again become a thriving community. ....."

The map below answers the question as to where the non-town of Calallen is located:

Calallen isn't a town but is here!

So now we all know.

This information is provided as another service of the Rockport 35 RV Park blog.

Comment!

Wood Carver's Show

2012-02-04T17:03:00.001-06:00

by Keith

Ann, first-chair ticket seller!

Two Award Winners
From Rockport 35 RV

This is the the big weekend for our in-park carvers—John, JW, Gordon, and Dale! You still have a chance to see the displays from 11 to 3 Sunday, the 5th.

Judging was just getting a good start when we left, but a bird category in which both Gordon and JW were entered had already been judged. Their winning entries are below.

JW's Painted Bunting

Gordon's 2nd Place Cedar Waxwing

John had several entries. This one featured a very unique mounting—a tripod of cattails!

The neat hummingbird in nest was also carved by John.

Here, John and JW discuss some of the finer points of wood carving.

Old neighbors from 5th Street

The show isn't just about carving! It's also a great place to run into friends from previous years, including Ted and Katie, Bob and Rhonda, and Rob and Pat. Many current residents of Rockport 35 RV Park attended to "cheer their team on."

Comment!

TV Channels

2012-01-31T15:01:00.000-06:00

by Keith

Do you understand all there is to know about TV these days —stuff like HD, converter box, channel 3.1, digital antenna, and so forth?

I didn't think so. Me neither.

But I learned something from Tom the other night. (Stick with Tom. He can teach you about 1015 onions, TV channels, and who knows what else!)

We have a digital TV in our trailer, as do many of you. What does that mean? Well, for one thing, it means that you can receive High Definition pictures. They're the wide ones. The width to length ratio is 16 to 9, while the "old' TV pictures are 4 to 3. But they are also broadcast in much higher definition!

In order to get ABC (channel 3 here) in HD, we were having to switch from cable to antenna to receive the HD version.

Then Tom told mentioned the "high channels." I tried it and learned that channel 98.1 is ABC in HD! CBS in HD is also up there somewhere! And others, too.

On our set (your mileage may vary), we normally could punch in 98, then push "channel up" to get 98.1. But that doesn't work, at least at the moment. We just push 98, then wait and it goes to 98.1 automatically. Also, normally one can get to the "point channels" by pushing "98" "minus sign" "1".

Of course that discovery generated curiosity so I went exploring. I found dozens of channels of music on channel 70.xx. For example, channel 70.33 is Classical Masterpieces. There are three channels of country music and goodness knows how many channels of rock "music." Take a tour and discover your favorite!

Thanks, Tom. What's the subject of the next learning experience?

Comment!

Baked Potato and Soup Supper

2012-01-29T14:57:00.001-06:00

by Keith

Happy diners!

Last night the park hosted another one of those wonderful evening meals. You know—good food, good friends, good conversation!

Janet (R) and Pat Cleaning Up

Every successful event depends on effective leadership. Here, we see Janet, the chairman, and Pat, helper to the chairman, engaged in tasks which they were unable to delegate, apparently.

Rather than commenting on each picture, I'll just go ahead and post them below. You probably know most people in them and what's going on anyway.

If you don't, come to Rockport 35 RV Park and be part of the fun!

A great crowd attended the baked potato and soup supper.

Jim, Bob, Keith

Movers and shakers from 5th Street

Betsy, Dianne, Sarah, and Elaine

Pam and Geoff arrived just a couple of days ago.

After eating and visiting, several adjourned to the game rooms for cards or pool.

Pool room monitors: Cleo, Geoff, and Dick

The usual group and the back table.

Kendall and Sheila in a tough game of "101"

There you have it, folks! Another fun evening at the park in a few words and lots of pictures!

Comment!

To Market -- Two Markets

2012-01-26T22:22:00.005-06:00

by Dianne, with info from Connie

Just a little reminder, if you're not doing anything on Saturday mornings, you can always go to the Fulton or Rockport Market.

The Fulton Market is on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th (if there is one) Saturdays down by Paws and Taws. Currently it is scheduled from 9 am to 2 pm.

The Rockport Market is the 4th Saturday of each month from 10 am to 5 pm. It is down by the Rockport Beach at Little Bay. You'll see it set up in the big grassy area.

The Market offers an assortment of homemade edibles (I like the free samples), arts/crafts, in-season veggies and fruits, etc. Last time we were there we bought some homemade BBQ sauce with a little kick to it.

If you do go, please stop and say hello to our own Rockport 35 RV Park friends Ron and Connie Perkins. Connie creates a wonderful assortment of greeting cards with beautiful pictures from their travels and from the local area. Inside you'll find biblical scriptures that are fitting for a variety of occasions. Ron and Connie just love having friends stop by to chit/chat too.

So, maybe we'll see you there this Saturday.

.

Painless

2012-01-25T10:40:00.003-06:00

by Dianne

As I look around the park I've noticed, and you probably have too, that there is a bunch of us who are getting older. It seems inevitable that as we age we tend to have more aches and pains anywhere from our necks, back, shoulders, hips, knees and/or feet. Well, the other morning I read something in one of those cute little emails that I want to share. It made me smile and feel grateful for life's little blessing. It said, " Aren't you glad wrinkles don't hurt?"

.

57 Years Ago Today----

2012-01-22T21:48:00.000-06:00

---Mary and Norman were married!

I don't know how they celebrated the other 56 anniversaries but they celebrated this one with a bowl of ice cream at the park!

Norman and Mary Sherman
Married 57 Years Ago Today!

Actually, there was more to it than that. They celebrated yesterday, too, by attending the movie Red Tails and dining with Virgil and Joy. (Virgil and Norman are cousins.)

Since their wedding, they've lived in four towns, in about 20 different houses, and had 7 or 8 cars and 2 airplanes.

They have two sons and four grandchildren.

Norman and Mary live in Coldwater, Kansas. They've spent several winters here at Rockport 35 RV Park. This year, they just arrived last week because Norman was busy driving the school bus.

Congratulations, friends!

Comment!

I Was Wrong About the Onion

2012-01-21T11:57:00.003-06:00

by Keith

The other day, Tom asked, "Why is the 1015 onion named the 1015?"

Having been to Mission and believing myself to be all-knowing regarding the question, I volunteered my answer: "It is named "1015" because it is grown alongside highway 1015 in the McAllen/Mission area."

I was wrong. Again.

Here's information on the 1015, including why it is called the 1015 and how it came to be.

http://www.sweetonionsource.com/varieties/texassweets.html

But for the record, here's Tom's and, apparently, the correct answer: The optimum date for planting this onion is October 15, thus the "1015" name.

You won again, Tom!

Comment!

Comment:

Leave it to an Aggie - 1015 -- so they don't forget when to plant it!

Now that should start a war between TX A&M and the Univ of TX!!

Helen

Experimenting

2012-01-19T12:09:00.000-06:00

by Keith

I was just experimenting with Connie's telephoto lens. It worked, to say the least.

Here's one result, looking up third Street:

Shinny Trucks on Third Street

Comment!

A Must-Do Event

2012-01-19T10:58:00.000-06:00

by Keith

Have you ever been to a belt sander race?

Don't worry, here's your chance:

Saturday, January 21, 2PM

Pickled Pelican

(that's about the first bar on the left

as you head into town)

If you've never seen one, you really owe it to yourself to attend, at least once. Your education will be incomplete without it!

Comment!

Events and Non-events

2012-01-19T08:58:00.001-06:00

by Keith

No Friendship Dinner Tonight.

The published calendar shows that there will be a dinner tonight. The board by the office shows there will be a dinner tonight.

The schedule has changed; there won't be one.

Here's another way to look at it: The schedule shows that next week, there will be no Friendship Dinner. This non-event has been moved forward one week!

Patriotic Concert

The annual patriotic concert by the Rockport-Fulton High School Music Department will be held Monday evening at 7PM. That's January 23.

The band and chorus will perform—that's about 200 students on stage doing there best!

Over the years, we've found that this is a very good concert; one not to be missed if you like band or chorus music with a generous dose of patriotism thrown in.

Go. Go early. Turn right at Jalisco Restaurant. The auditorium is the first big building on the right. The one with all the cars around it.

Admission is free. A free-will collection will be taken as you exit. Proceeds support music activities at the school.

Comment!

"Gittin"

2012-01-15T15:56:00.000-06:00

by Keith

Step 1: Git in line

Step 2: Git yur burger

Remaining steps not pictured; too busy building my burger and enjoying eating it to take pictures.

Enjoying the Sun!

2012-01-14T13:03:00.000-06:00

by Keith

It's a beautiful day here in Rockport! Lots of folks are outside, many just sitting in their lawn chairs, others sitting on picnic tables—all enjoying the sunshine with no wind!

Gary, Donna, and "family" enjoying Rockport sunshine!

Comment!

Eating ----and more eating!

2012-01-14T11:17:00.000-06:00

by Keith

Speaking of eating, there's breakfast served right here "on base" each Saturday morning from 7 to 9.

It's ably served by several unmanaged (inside joke!) volunteer cooks who live right here among us.

There's always great and plentiful food, plus the ability to visit with good friends and meet new ones.

Breakfast: $4.00

Friendships: Priceless

We won't gather again to eat until this evening at 6, when it's the 2012 Build-a-Burger event!

Comment!

Matt's Cherry Cobbler

2012-01-14T10:52:00.003-06:00

by Keith

We who choose to spend the winter in Rockport, and especially those of us at Rockport 35 RV Park, eat well!

Last evening the four of us (Tom, Dianne, Pat, Keith) went up the road (north) to Stevie Lew's BBQ. The Carls had not been there before, so this was a special outing for them. Here they are, at the ordering counter. They're helped by Carrie, the "mom" of this mom and pop establishment.

Carrie waits on hungry guests from Rockport 35 RV Park

But it's not just a mom and pop place. It is really a mom and pop and four kids place! And therein lies a large part of the joy of going there—watching the kids. They all work there, and appear happy to do so!

Enjoying Matt's Cherry Cobbler
at
Stevie Lew's BBQ

This week, our "prize" goes to Matt, the son. We learned that he's responsible for the delicious cherry cobbler dessert!

Way to go, Matt!

Was it good? You bet! (or if you speak Minnesotan, "Yea, you betcha!")

The dining room has been rearranged and redecorated this year and is very attractive. And it's close! They're open 10:00 to 7:00 Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

These folks understand customer service. Their smiles show it!

Comment!

International Look

2012-01-13T14:34:00.000-06:00

by Keith

The park took on a decidedly international look today when recent arrivals Bob and Marie displayed the Canadian and American flags.

Here we see four of our friends from Canada enjoying the nice Texas weather and hospitality.

Marvin and Jean from Manitoba
Bob and Marie from Ontario

Comment!

.

Scaredy Cats, I Mean Dogs

2012-01-12T16:01:00.009-06:00

by Dianne

Don't know why, but our two dogs, Buddy and Bandit, do not like it when I use my Pampered Chef Slap Chopper in the RV. I use it all the time at home but I'm always in the kitchen and they are usually in another room. Didn't realize it was such big deal to them.

Well, today when prepping food for our Friendship Dinner tonight I had to use the chopper and this was the results. Buddy was first and just a couple more chops Bandit followed. They're mighty brave when confronted in the park by a small dog but just get out the chopper and they run for protection from Daddy. Had to coax them from Rick's lap.

.

Bev's Hardware

2012-01-09T16:37:00.004-06:00

by Dianne

Last November there was a short article on Bev Nagelkerke's successful surgery to remove a screw from a previous back surgery she had in '08 which was pressing on a nerve and causing pain in her right leg. I guess there was more to it than just one little screw as shown in this picture.

I've heard of athletes bragging about their "hardware" (usually referring to a trophy or medal they've won) but when Bev offers to show you her hardware, she is talking about the real thing. These are the actual screws and other miscellaneous parts taken from her back - the culprit of her leg pain. Bev said there is another set just like this one still in place and, hopefully, will not give her any problems down the road. Amazing!!

Those of us who have returned to Rockport 35 RV Park know that Bev is doing great. Her leg pain is gone and she has returned to most of her previous activities. Although she is not ready to lead the morning stretch group yet, she is taking advantage of the pool to help strengthen her muscles as she continues to heal.

Bev, we are happy your surgery was a success and that you and Marv are back in the park. We so enjoy your company and friendship.

.

"Official" Rainfall Report

2012-01-09T09:34:00.002-06:00

by Keith

9:10: Just Under 1/2"

12:30: About 1.1 inches!

Comment!

Can't Wait To Share This Info!

2012-01-06T21:17:00.008-06:00

by Keith (of course ---Dianne would never publish anything like this)

I can't wait until the next time I go to early morning coffee, even if it is next Monday, to share this new-found information with someone! Therefore, you are the lucky recipient of this new-found knowledge!

Did you ever wonder what size "A4" paper is, and why it is that size? (A4 is the standard size of the typical sheet of paper used in an office in Europe, as a "letter" size is used in the States. The A4 is a bit smaller than our 8 1/2 X 11 sheet.)

The scheme is pretty simple—once you see it explained, especially if the explanation includes a drawing.

Here's how it works:

Start with a piece of paper one meter square. That's size A0.
Fold it in half and cut. That gives you two size A1 sheets.
Fold one A1 sheet in half and cut it. Now you have two A2 sheets.
Fold one A2 sheet in half and cut it. Now you have two A3 sheets.
Fold one A3 sheet in half and cut it. Now you have two A4 sheets.

This process continues at least through A7 size.

The A4 sheet is 1/16 of a square meter (but is not square.)

Want to learn even more? OK, but I'll pass it along anyway.

There are also "B" sizes. The same principles apply, but the starting sheet isn't one square meter. It is one meter on one edge, and 1.414 (the square root of 2) on the other edge. B sizes are often used for posters.

If you get asked questions to which the answer is here and you win millions, please remember that you saw it here first!

Comment!

Comment January 7:

Thanks for the info! Very interesting!

Sandy

Background:

We met Sandy and Gene four or five (?) years ago at a CoE campground near Potosi, WI. As it turned out, they were from the Cedar Rapids area and Gene and I both worked for the same company, although did not know each other there. (We each had about 6,000 coworkers.)

We both are members of Escapees. Each summer, Gene and Sandy run a computer workshop in Winterset, Iowa, (John Wayne's birthplace) which brings a dozen or two folks from all over the country to Iowa to expand their computer knowledge and skills.

I find it interesting that Sandy reads the blog for Rockport 35 RV Park! That is one example of the reach of the internet!

And I was amazed—and pleased!—that she found it interesting!!!

And finally, very thankful that she commented on it!

Comment January 10, by Dianne:

Keith, honestly, I’ve never wondered about A4 paper size. I suppose it could be an interesting topic, but it’s just never come up in a conversation or in anything I’ve read. However, it did peak my interest enough to do a little research and this is what I found. “By 1977, A4 was the standard letter format in 88 of 148 countries. Today the standard has been adopted by all countries in the world except the United States and Canada.”

PS Thanks for sharing.

Signs Seldom Seen

2012-01-01T16:58:00.002-06:00

by Keith

This sign was near Wales West RV Park, where we were in Alabama. I watched carefully for the other kind of hills, but never did see one.

It still is not clear to me what the real intent of this sign was.

That wasn't the only thing in Alabama which mystified me. Highway route numbers was another one.

As even a poor engineer can tell you, engineering is generally considered an exact science.

But this is ridiculous!

This sign was near New Orleans.

Finally, here's one you won't see many places! It's a mile marker along I-10, shot shortly after we entered Texas.

In the same general area, there was a sign "El Paso 847."

Texas is big. And interesting. We like it.

Because I just thought of it and like it, I'll quote Gov. Rick Perry, made while referring to The Current Occupant (as Garrison Keillor referred to George W. Bush):

"He's all hat and no cattle."

Sounds like a true Texan to me!

Comment!

Celebrating the End of 2011

2012-01-01T15:31:00.062-06:00

by Keith; photos by Dianne and Keith

The hats said "Happy New Year" and it was billed as a New Year's Eve party. It was, indeed, held on the eve of the new year. But what we really celebrated was the end of the old year, 2011.

I say this because by the time 2011 rolled past our time zone, the clubhouse was dark and all the revelers were tucked soundly in their beds so they would be refreshed and ready to greet the New Year this morning.

Regardless of what we were celebrating, we had a good time! The evening started by enjoying the fellowship of good friends (some long-time, some recent) and a pizza dinner with salad and cookies. And more conversation!

Joan organized (?) five tables (20 people) of the card game The Friendship Game. It's a multi-handed "tournament" in which the rules for each hand are different. It's a team game, but partners change with every hand.

Because of these factors, skill at cards has relatively little to do with winning—as last night's winner demonstrated. Getting a skilled partner for the those hands offering high-scores (+100 points, +300, +500, etc.) seems far more important.

Once again, it was an evening of good food and great fellowship at Rockport 35 RV Park!

Comment!

PS: Here's where some of the pictures came from:

Good Food, Good Friends, Good Visit

2011-12-31T16:05:00.000-06:00

by Keith

The last breakfast of the year, and our first breakfast of the season, was great—as usual.

A lively crew of men from the park cook breakfast at the clubhouse each Saturday. The rest of us can enjoy the fruits of their labor for $4.

Today, Rick served as maitre-d'-in-training as Marv had more pressing matters, having arrived just recently.

We enjoyed the meal, then enjoyed visiting with friends for another hour or so! Winter Texans at Rockport 35 RV Park certainly are friendly!

Tom serving scrambled eggs to Pat

A good breakfast, followed by great conversation!

Breakfast is served each Saturday, 7-9 AM. Next week: pancakes!

Comment!

Restaurants

2011-12-30T14:08:00.000-06:00

by Keith

Clearly, I'm not a food critic. To me, food is either Good or Bad.

In the last 74 years, I've had bad food twice—both times back in the 50s. All the other times, the food has been "good." Oh, I like some food better than others, but who am I to say that food at such-and-such a place is Good? Isn't it up to the individual? Each individual's taste may vary.

Nor am I a restaurant critic. But that doesn't stop me from mentioning a couple of our favorite places.

First, there's Pop's up in Lamar. Just cross the bridge, turn right, and it's the place with all the cars parked around it. When we need a good hamburger, we head for Pop's!

Second is Stevie Lew's BBQ Kitchen, just up the road and on the right. There are lots of changes this year, so thought this might be a good place to publish them.

Most importantly, they are back to their one-family operation so are open 10 to 7 Thursday, Friday, and Saturday only. (Last year, another family was involved in the operation so they were open six or seven days a week.)

This is a true Mom & Pop operation. Well, Mom & Pop plus 4 kids who are very actively involved in all phases of the operation. It's a neat operation, we think!

The dining room has been redecorated and looks very attractive. (Next time, I'll try to remember to take my camera so I can prove it.)

Besides the regular BBQ fare, they also offer hamburgers, carry-out, and "bulk" meat. And roasted-on-site coffee!

We enjoy going there; you might, too!

Comment!

Check out Venus!

2011-12-28T17:19:00.001-06:00

by Keith

Yesterday, soon after the sun disappeared behind the trees at the back of the park, I looked to the SE and saw a beautiful crescent moon.

Not far below it was a bright object. I thought it was an airliner with the sun glistening off its belly, or perhaps even the International Space Station. I convinced myself it was moving generally south.

Surely it could not be a "star" because it was too light out.

A few minutes later, I checked again. It was still there! It must be a planet!

On the Ch 3 news, later, they commented on the brightness of the planet Venus—located just below the moon.

What I had seen was Venus! You can see it tonight, too! As soon as it gets just a wee bit less light than it is in the late afternoon, take a look.

If you're with youngsters, this would be a great educational opportunity.

Comment!

Dec 30 ---first comment, from Dianne:

Is that Venus in Blue Jeans?

My Venus in blue jeans

Is ev'rything I hoped she'd be

A teenage goddess from above

And she belongs to me

Just remembering the hit song from 1962

.

News from Rocky and Carol

2011-12-25T17:27:00.002-06:00

by Rocky, via Keith

Carol Stammer

"Dear friends,

It saddens our hearts to announce that we are going to stay home for this winter season. There were simply too many elements and concerns to resolve, hence our decision to remain in our beautiful northern Michigan surroundings. We are faithfult visitors of the "Rockport 35 blog so we keep up with the latest news and views from the park, furthermore, many of you keep us up-to-date via texting, phone calls and e-mails. We will truly miss each and every one of you. Mother Nature is toying with us here in Cheboygan, Michigan, it is presently 37 degrees and no snow on the ground......Go Figure. If you guys find that the weather is much too favorable there in Rockport, simply fill some one quart canning jars, insulate the shipping carton and send them too us....."Smile"

Have a Blessed and Spirit filled Christmas and the very best of 2012

Rocky & Carol Stammer"

The above note arrived from Rocky just before our feast today. We're sorry they won't be coming, but understand that sometimes "ya just gotta do what ya gotta do."

We wish you a Merry Christmas, Rocky and Carol, and hope to see you next year.

Comment!

Dec 26 Comment:

Hi Carol and Rocky

Sorry to hear you will not be able to spend some time in Texas this winter. We will miss you on 2nd street. Hope you had a Merry Christmas and we wish you a healthy, Happy New Year. Hopefully next year a trip south will be in your plans. Take care ~ Dianne and Rick

Christmas at Rockport 35 RV Park

2011-12-25T16:20:00.020-06:00

by Keith and Dianne

Christmas is the time of fun, friends, and food here at the park!

Rather than spend a lot of time writing words which you might or might not read, we'll just post lots of pictures which you probably will look at.

The pictures cover the Christmas Eve finger-food dinner and following gift exchange plus the Christmas Feast began at 1PM Christmas day.

Few first-year guests attended these events, so you'll recognize most of the faces as friends from the past. But there are many of the latter which you won't see. Some have not yet arrived (Tom and Dianne, Marv and Bev, for example), others have left to be with friends or family for Christmas (Bob, Terry and Linda for two), and some will, unfortunately, not be coming (Rocky just advised that he and Carol will remain in Michigan.)

Celebrating!

2011-12-24T15:06:00.000-06:00

by Keith

We arrived yesterday, in time to get set up by noon.

It's great to be greeted by friends we've made over the previous six winters we've spent here. And we've already made some new ones this year!

Pat and the apple fritter!

So, it's time to celebrate, for lots of reasons:

We've arrived safely.
We have friends!
It is Christmas Eve, the
greatest reason for
celebration ever!

Oh yes, one more reason: There was ONE apple fritter left at the Rockport Bakery!

We're treating ourselves in celebration.

We'll probably do it again when Tom & Dianne and Marv & Bev arrive after Christmas. Surely their arrivals will be reason to celebrate as both have been delayed by health issues.

Comment!

Ineptocracy

2011-12-22T21:20:00.004-06:00

by Dianne

A new word for your vocabulary -- I was compelled to share.

Ineptocracy (in-ep-toc-ra-cy) - a system of government where the least capable to lead are elected by the least capable of producing, and where the members of society lest likely to sustain themselves or succeed, are rewarded with goods and services paid for by the confiscated wealth of a diminishing number of producers.

.

Headed Toward Rockport 35 RV Park Today

2011-12-19T07:49:00.000-06:00

by Keith, from Dale

This note from Dale and Tootie yesterday:

"Tootie and I plan to leave home for Texas Monday 12-19-11.
We'll take our time. May be at Rockport 35 Friday or Sat.
Dale & Tootie Facile"

They were our neighbors last year, living immediately N of Mimi.

Comment!

See, I Really Am Working!

2011-12-15T21:10:00.000-06:00

Some may think that we are here in Alabama just to enjoy the mid-70s temperature. But we really are working. Here's proof:

"Driving" the 7.5" gauge train

Aerial view of Wales West RV Park & Light Railway

The above picture shows where we are. It's near Silverhill, Alababma.

Welsh flag flying over Wales West

One guest is doing his patriotic duty and flying the flag of Wales. Guess who?

We'll leave here Tuesday and arrive at Rockport 35 RV Park Friday. At least that is Plan A. It'll be good to see you ---and enjoy those great Saturday morning breakfasts!

Comment!

All Roads Lead to Rockport 35 RV Park

2011-12-11T09:20:00.001-06:00

by Keith, with help

"We are in Dallas, Still on our way to Rockport. Hope its warmer in Rockport than it has been here in Dallas. But Dallas is better than Minnesota. We should be there about Dec 16th or about. Looking forward to seeing all our friends from last year."

Honestly, I'm not sure who sent the above note! My guess is that it is from Dale and Tootie, our across-the-street neighbors (next to Mimi) last year.

That's probably a sign that I should start learning last names instead of just first names. The truth is, I'm thrilled if I can remember first names and don't want to have that ability go by the wayside by complicating the process by adding last names.

Comment!

Readership Picking Up!

2011-12-10T19:44:00.003-06:00

by Keith

When I checked the statistics for this site tonight, it was obvious that the number of visitors to the site has been on a steady increase for the last few weeks. I suspects that is because more and more people are either showing up at Rockport 35 RV Park or are getting ready to leave home for the park.

Or maybe they're just anxiously awaiting the passage of Christmas so they can leave soon after and want to get a small sample of what's going on, hoping it will satisfy their appetite at least a bit. (I suspect Tom and Dianne might be in this category!)

I'm thankful for each and every visitor to the site! I'm especially thankful that there are a good number of visitors even though the news which has been posted of late is little and not very frequent.

Part of my excuse the last couple of weeks is that our wi-fi service here in Alabama is far from ideal. They've not made the investment Allison and Tony made at Rockport 35 RV Park to provide a top-notch wi-fi system to the park.

The good news is that I increased it's reliability for my use greatly last night. A few tricks from an old radio guy made great improvements.

Of course those of you on-site can always email news to me. Better yet, I suspect Dianne is there now, or soon will be. She's a great reporter; put her to work!

With the help of you and Dianne, the viewership will continue to increase!

By the way, Pat and I will be there by Christmas!

Comment!

Monday, Dec 12, update:

My suspicion has been confirmed to be incorrect! Rick and Dianne haven't yet arrived, but are getting closer day by day. They enjoyed a few well-spent days in Granbury, visiting friends including Willie and Betty. They also plan to spend some time in San Antonio enroute to Rockport 35 RV Park.

The bottom line: neither of us are there yet, but the time of our arrival is drawing nigh! See you soon.

Visiting with Friends

2011-12-10T19:05:00.007-06:00

by Dianne

Well we made it to Texas and our first stop was Granbury to visit with friends who used to reside at Rockport 35 RV Park - Willie and Betty Weiss. You may remember Betty as the park's resident Mahjong pro. Betty now lives in a 2 bedroom senior apartment complex here in Granbury. She had homemade brownies waiting for us when we arrived Friday night -- yummy. By the way, Betty is doing great.

Willie is staying at a long-term care facility. We met Betty there today and visited with Willie for awhile before we all went out for lunch. After our lunch we continued our visit back at Betty's reminiscing with her and Willie about great times from their past when they used to travel the country on their motorcycle and other great stories from their earlier retirement years.

Willie, too, is doing great. However, he did express a sadness about the fact that their lives have taken this unexpected turn, but he is accepting of it and they continue to share a happy, loving life. They send their well wishes to all their friends at Rockport 35 RV Park. We wish them the best and are so glad to have had the time to visit with them. Merry Christmas dear friends, our prayers are with you both.

.

Where's the Warmth???

2011-12-07T18:48:00.003-06:00

by Dianne

Just a quick note to let you all know that we left home at 9:30 this morning at 35 degrees. At 7:30 tonight we're in Terre Haute IN at a KOA and it's 31. I guess going south doesn't always equate to warmer weather. But just one degree would have made us feel so much better. Hopefully, tomorrow!!!

Note by Keith, Thursday morning:

Not here! It was 30* in Mobile this morning, and 33* on my thermometer.

The warmth is probably in Rockport! We'll find out soon!

.

A Different View Of Santa

2011-12-03T20:30:00.004-06:00

by Kirk Wood, via Keith

Kirk and Pam Wood have been friends of ours ever since we were all Workampers at a county park near Monterey, California. Their first gig as Workampers was at Fulton Mansion, a few years before we met them.

Kirk is active on some RV forums and has written articles for Escapees magazine. This article was posted on Facebook, so some might have already seen it. It's posted here with his permission.

Kirk grew up in rural Kansas, a few years after I grew up in rural Iowa. While I never had the same feeling toward Santa as he expresses, I can certainly understand it. And I can remember getting one major toy, plus some stocking stuffers for Christmas.

"Am I the only one here who does not really like the Santa Claus tradition?...

What I remember from the days that I believed in this was that we were poor so I really depended upon Santa to bring me some nice thing like all of my friends got. Since my friends were all from families with reasonably good incomes, they got some wonderful things each year which I could only dream of.

The year that I remember best, I started very early to work hard at being one of the nicest, best behaved, of all the children on his list! I think that I must have been about 6 years old at the time and while not perfect, I came pretty close for a small boy. Imagine my disappointment on Christmas morning, when I received my usual one small toy, new socks and a shirt. It was then that I concluded that for some reason Santa did not like me as well as he did all of my friends. That was the last year that I ever considered Christmas a good time of year. Fortunately it was not much later that I discovered the truth about Santa Claus and where presents actually came from, to my great relief. It was much easier to deal with being poor, than to think that Santa doesn't like me!

As far as I am concerned, Santa Claus as it is practiced in our country is a nasty tradition that by design makes the poor children feel even worse. Imagine how they must feel having to return to school and compare what gifts they got from Santa to those of their classmates! I could tell Santa what he should do with his list!

Christmas was, and should be a religious holiday which was given as much to the poor as to the wealthy. At my house, Santa Claus is not welcome!

Thanks for sharing, Kirk.

Comment!

Let It Snow ---back home!

2011-11-20T19:43:00.001-06:00

Pat enjoying Alabama

Finally all the routine doctor and dentist appointments were completed on November 15 and we were on the road at 7:20 the 16th.

Our first destination: Wales West RV Park and Light Railway near Silverhill, Alabama. We arrived there 4:30 the second day out. It was the easiest trip south ever. Great weather, including no headwind, and no huge cities to traverse made the drive pretty pleasant.

So now we are all set up at our new spot. And eager to explore the area. We note that there is a battleship in Mobile Bay calling us to visit it. And of course we must hit the Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola!

I'll be Workamping here for a month. Then we'll head further south—to Rockport 35 RV Park, of course—to spend Christmas and the next three months with the friends we've met and enjoyed there the past six years.

Actually, we met 35 RV friends here! Mike and Joy spent one winter at the park, a few winters ago. Then they headed off to Iowa to Workamp at Adventureland. Now they have "graduated" to running a CoE campground in Tennessee and are wintering here this year. It's much nearer to relatives with ailments than Rockport is.

Mike, Joy, Pat, Keith

This park is actually a mini theme park, the subject being narrow-gauge railways. They have a 2' gauge system and a 7.5" gauge system. The larger has a steam engine!

If I'm really lucky, I might become a real engineer during our stay!

Comment!

Where've You Been, Keith?

2011-11-20T19:01:00.001-06:00

I've been accused of not being very visible on my home-town blog. Of course those who read this blog are far to polite to make such a comment.

But it is true; I've not been writing much for some weeks. Why??

Well, certainly and thankfully not because I am not feeling well! I feel great, sleep well, and have had NO complications from the stomach surgery back in June. As far as I'm concerned, I'm fully recovered and that problem is fixed.

And it isn't because I've been working too much. But I did have a flight student in late September and early October who had lots of hours and no license. I worked with her for a couple of weeks; problem solved. She's now a Private Pilot and my record remains intact: NO failures with the examiner.

So what was I doing?? Well, first of all, I'm retired. Most of you know that it takes retired folks longer to do anything than it does busy, working, people.

And we did take one day off to meet Tom and Dianne for lunch and a tour of their new 5er. But that absolutely was NOT time wasted. Besides, I duly reported it right here in this blog.

We were anxiously awaiting this trip, so we were "getting ready" for a few weeks.

Hey, know what? There is no way that I can logically explain how "busy" I was and didn't have time to write. Maybe I just needed a little break, or some material; who knows.

But the winter season is now upon us. Perhaps I'll do better, with your help.

Comment!

On the Road with Good News

2011-11-19T08:24:00.005-06:00

by Dianne

A little update on Dick and Lucille. Dick had his follow-up CT scan and blood test this past Tuesday and the results are all good. The doctor called them on Wednesday and said she has never seen anything like this before, but then she said, she isn't God. The two tumors in his liver appear to be gone and there are no signs of any cancer in his blood. We thank God for the touch of his healing hands.

So on Thursday they hooked up the 5th wheel and headed out for Rockport. Talked with them this morning (Saturday) and they are in the Baton Rouge area. They said "we're not going to rush, going to take our time" but from the distance they've covered already we think our definitions of "not rushing" are totally different.

We pray for their continued safe travels and look forward to joining them in a few weeks.

.

Surgery for Bev

2011-11-15T10:26:00.003-06:00

by Dianne

For those of you who may not have heard, Bev Nagelkerke had surgery yesterday to remove a screw from a previous back surgery that was pressing on a nerve causing pain in her right leg. Marv said the surgery was a success and Bev is doing well and resting. At this point they're not sure if there will be any negative effects to the nerve area but they are hopeful it will relieve her leg pain. They actually took out 2 screws and according to Marv they resembled lag screws about 2 inches long -- stainless steel of course.

I've heard of lag screws but not sure if I'd recognize one so I Googled it. The definition I found -- lag screw - a heavy woodscrew with a square or hexagonal head that is driven in with a wrench. All I can say is OUCH!!

Bev, we're glad to hear you're surgery went well and that you are doing OK. We are wishing you a complete, speedy recovery with no negative results and looking forward to seeing you soon.

.

Carlsons are Busy

2011-11-10T09:32:00.000-06:00

by Keith, from Dianne

"Thought after my daughters wedding that things would settle down but that is not the case. I love having the kids and grand kids just 4 miles from us since it allows us to be such a big part of their lives and keeps me busy. Up at 6 to get the young ones ready for school so they don't have to go to day care before school starts, picking them up after school until dad can get them after work. They have soooo much energy. Doctor, dentist appts -- Mimi's taxi service is on the go. Outdoor fall projects to finish up with the yard/garden.

Had a strong wind storm that took shingles off the 14 yr old roof - found a close match and my brother did the repairs. He's a jack-of-all-trades.

Now it's packing time for the RV and getting ready for Christmas. Ours is Dec. 3rd and we'll be heading for TX the following week. Looking forward to that.

Got a question.... Do you have a picture of Bernie Cox? (Sadly, I do not. Sorry. Keith) We remember the couple who rode motorcycles but just cannot recall their faces. Just wondering.

Dianne"

Dianne Thought you might enjoy this video:

Keith's comment:

I've watched two extreme videos this morning. The one above shows the natural beauty of the California shore and of some of God's neat creations.

The other was of a robot, man made, actually riding a bicycle! Now that was a challenge! And would you believe that it was done by the Japanese?

Comment!

Party Well, Early Arrivees!

2011-11-03T18:09:00.000-06:00

by Keith

We who haven't hit the road yet will simply miss out on the Welcome Back party. It's this Saturday at six.

Some parts of Iowa had a bit of snow yesterday, so Helen missed out on that. But sooner or later, it is bound to come. We hope we're not here on that special day!

So to those already there, party well and have an extra sip of punch for the rest of us!

We'll be there by Christmas!

Comment!

Rockport Judge Makes National TV

2011-11-03T18:02:00.001-06:00

by Keith

Today and tonight, "a Texas judge" was shown on TV disciplining his daughter with a belt or something like a belt. I saw it on the ABC Nightly News at 5:30.

I noticed that the building in the background had the sign "Aransas County Annex" or something close to that. I go past that building every Sunday when at Rockport 35 RV Park!

Google, of course, to the rescue! The judge and his family (who don't live together now) are from Rockport.

Here's one of many, many, many, articles on the story:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2056582/Judge-William-Adams-beats-disabled-daughter-Hillary-16-YouTube-video.html

Comment!

Occupy Wall Street: An Explanation and Solution

2011-11-01T08:55:00.000-06:00

Do you understand what the Occupy Wall Street movement is all about? I don't either.

I thought it was just a bunch of folks who were against everything, and they concluded that corporations represented "everything" so that's what they were protesting.

Here's a 3 1/2 minute video in which one person gives his view. Better yet, he offers a solution!

http://www.youtube.com/embed/OAOrT0OcHh0?version=3&rel=1&fs=1&showsearch=0&s

Learn and Enjoy!

Comment!

Bernie Cox Dies

2011-10-30T19:48:00.000-06:00

By Keith, info from Allison

In 2009 and 2010, our next-door neighbors to the north (Site 81) were Bernie and Barbara Cox. They'd don their official motorcycle protective clothing, climb on their Honda, and head out for the day. We enjoyed having them for neighbors.

Allison reported Bernie's passing:

"Barbara said they were dancing at a senior's dance. Bernie said he didn't feel well and collapsed & died of a massive heart attack."

Here's the obituary:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/middletown/obituary.aspx?n=bernard-e-cox-bernie&pid=154229856

You can contact Barbara here:

Barbara Cox

541 Tremont Ct

Middletown OH 45044

513-425-7076

Comment!

Two Reasons We Go To Minnesota

2011-10-30T16:13:00.000-06:00

by Keith

Molly, Pat, and Leah

We try to go to Owatonna, MN, every month or so. Here's the main reason we go: to visit our two great-granddaughters!

We spent Friday night with them. A good time was had by all, especially us!

Molly, 3, is now going to pre-school two mornings each week.

Leah, 2, doesn't have to. She learns everything from Molly—the good and the bad.

Comment!

Bev & Marv Delayed

2011-10-25T10:34:00.001-05:00

by Keith, from Bev:

Bev & Marv

"Just an update on the Nagerlkerkes.

We will not be arriving as early as we normally do. A little medical problem I have to deal with which will require surgery. Three years ago I had back surgery with three fusions. One of the screws has gone through a nerve causing numbness and pain down my leg and weakness also. They are going to go in and remove the screw hopefully not damaging the membrane around the spinal fluid.

I will still have the numbness but hopefully the pain will be gone. Also I may have a dropped foot, which could require a brace. I think I can deal with that.

My surgery is the 14 of November with about three days in the hospital.If everything goes well with whatever rehab I will have to have, and I can ride, we will still be coming.

God is in control. I would appreciate your prayers.

Love from the both of us.

Bev and Marv."

Comment!

Fall Beauty

2011-10-24T09:28:00.000-05:00

by Keith

The peak of the leaf beauty has already passed. However, here are the trees I see when I look out my office window.

Fall Beauty in Iowa

Beautiful, aren't they!

Comment!

Happy Campers

2011-10-20T11:01:00.001-05:00

by Keith

Tom and his F-250!

And why would Tom not be happy?? He's sitting in his brand new F-250 Power Stroke pickup!

Tom and Dianne are camping at the CoE park at Thomson, IL, which is about ten miles NE of Clinton, IA. Pat and I took advantage of the nearness (110 miles) and drove over to visit them yesterday.

We missed them last winter, as they remained home in Illinois while Tom underwent medical treatments. I'm thrilled to report that "all is well" according to a recent checkup. They are hopeful that the December checkup will be equally positive. If so, they'll head straight for Rockport 35 RV Park!

Dianne and Tom Carl

Tom and Dianne recently traded their Winnebago motorhome for a Cougar fifth-wheel. They shared the warmth of it on the cold, windy, day.

It was great visiting these helpful and active friends from the Park!

Dianne, Pat, and Tom

The pumpkin pie was good, too!

First comment:

"Tom does not have right leg crossed. Dick C."

Keith's comment:

Dick probably meant to say, "...correct leg crossed."

Tom has always been a leader and, even though retired, sees no reason to change. In a few short months, the entire world will be putting their right leg over their left when crossing them.

It's good to see that three weeks in the hospital did not lessen Dick's keen ability to observe!

Comment!

Update from Marcus

2011-10-20T10:25:00.001-05:00

by Keith, from Marcus:

"I am in the healing process now but I have to endure one more surgery on my hand to add a bone graft on my little finger. I have two great doctors and hopefully I will be in good shape down the road."

Comment!

Joe and Carolyn On The Way

2011-10-20T10:22:00.001-05:00

by Keith, from Joe:

"We are just about packed and will be heading south this morning and will arrive at Rockport around the 10th of Nov."

Comment!

Testing a New Feature

2011-10-14T22:27:00.001-05:00

by Keith

Whoops!

I hit delete, with the intent of deleting one item. Instead, it deleted all three of my items, including this one.

I'll try it again in a day or two.

Comment!

Geoff Update

2011-10-12T14:38:00.002-05:00

by Keith, from Pam

Geoff is now at home & doing well.

He has a nurse come daily to change dressings etc,has to go to see the surgeon to take out staples & for a check-up on oct 24th.

We are waiting to see the results of two lymph nodes that were removed & praying they will be benign.

Geoff has a problem with not being able to do much around the house-but he's coping!!!!!!!!!!!!& looking forward to travelling south in the new year.

Thinking of our "winter Texans" & praying for all who have had health problems.

Blessings
Pam Weager

Comment!

Goeff's Surgery

2011-10-09T19:16:00.004-05:00

by Keith (Written by Pam a few days ago, forwarded by Allison, published by Keith)

Hi Folks,

Sorry haven't been in touch for a while-been hectic here.

Geoff Weager
Taken Feb, 2010

Geoff had his surgery on Thursday 6th & all went well(Praise the Lord) The surgeon managed to save the nerves, he did find two lymph nodes which he removed & has sent to be analized-which we won't have a report for 10-14 days-so we will continue to pray they are benign.

He is now in good spirits and continuing to improve & maybe home Sunday afternoon, we will know more when I visit today-he will have a nurse visit at home for a while & has to have a catheter in for 2 weeks.

I am waiting to go see a cardiologist on Oct 25th as I was having quite a lot of my "spells" as I call them(heart racing)My physician has put me on digoxin in the meanwhile & that and much prayer seems to be working.

How all this will affect us with the medical travel insurance, as yet we don't know-Geoff however says we are coming down anyway!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so that would be sometime in January-will keep you informed, as we know.

Hope all is well with you & Tony-will continue to remember you in Prayer.

Did check RV35 blog & have been praying for others.

Please feel free to pass our news along when you can.

I'll keep in touch when able

Blessings
In Christ's love
Pam

Note: Pam's email address is pweager@sympatico.ca

Comment!

Marcus in Auto Accident

2011-10-09T16:15:00.002-05:00

by Keith, with help from Allison and several others

September 20, Marcus was injured in an accident. Marcus was a Workamper at Rockport 35 RV Park for one or two years a few years ago.

Here's his report:

On date listed I was a passenger in this vehicle. Somehow I survived with a broken right leg and a badly crushed right hand. I have to go through two more surgeries next Wednesday. I move around on a wheelchair cannot use crutches because of my hand.
     I am looking at a long period of time to heal and rehab. I am typing with my left hand. Do not expect much email from me.
    The good Lord allowed me my life which I am thankful.
     My spirit is positive and will take one day at a time.

Tundra in which Marcus was injured.

The accident happened September 15 between Fredericksburg and Bandera as Marcus and Dan, owner of the Tundra, were returning from a golf outing.

Marcus was in the front passenger seat and was the most injured, which, given the picture above, is no surprise. The driver was not seriously injured.

An oncoming car was going to hit them. There was no right side of the road so the driver made a hard left turn to avoid a head-on collision. The other car, at the same time, made a hard right turn.

Other photos show that several airbags were deployed upon impact.

We hope that Marcus is able to hang onto his positive spirit and heal quickly and completely.

Comment!

Question---

2011-10-07T15:28:00.001-05:00

Earlier this week, I posed this question, a question I have asked several times but have never gotten an answer to:

How do you decide whether to use Seran wrap (or equivalent) or aluminum foil to cover something?

If you're not an engineer, this probably has not been a big issue for you. But for me ---well, you know the story.

I asked for answers, knowing that the Rockport 35 RV Park folks would certainly come through with some. They did!

But when I was posting them, either this website played a horrible trick on me, or I clicked the wrong button. In any event, the entire post was deleted so this is a reconstruction. (Guess which one of those events caused it!)

Here are the responses:

Dianne had this to say:

You are so right, Keith, I’ve never given it a second thought. Guess it’s just instinct to some extent for women. Actually, I usually cover leftovers with Saran Wrap that I want Rick to see. This way he can find them easier in the fridge when he wants a little something to munch on when I’m unavailable. However, foil works best to cover foods I don’t want him to get into, especially desserts – out of sight, out of mind. Makes perfect sense to me.

Then Rick commented:

Dianne asked me this question. I said use Seran wrap unless you are putting the dish in the oven. I think I got this question right.

I even heard from my buddy out in Oregon. We work together on the Hitchhiker Owners website. (He works, I do the "together" part.) He's a retired fireman. They do the cooking while on duty, so Gary is an expert cook. Leave it to him to come through with a technical answer!

"The answer depends on the food and how you'll reheat it."

Foil

What it's best for: If you're refrigerating something smelly, foil creates a stronger barrier to keep odors in. Just be sure to seal as tightly as possible. Foil is also ideal if you'll be reheating the food in a conventional oven, since it can withstand heat.

Tips for using: It's a good idea to wrap a snug layer of foil around plastic-wrapped foods you plan to freeze (like meat in its unopened packaging), because it keeps out oxygen, which causes freezer burn. Definitely don't use it in the microwave, and never wrap acidic foods, like tomatoes and berries, in foil. The acids react with the aluminum, leaving a harmless but unsightly blue residue.

Plastic

What it's best for: Acidic foods and other fresh foods, like sandwiches and cut produce.

Tip for using: To keep foods such as apples and avocados from turning brown, press the plastic against any exposed surfaces. And when you're using a dry marinade or spice rub, you can speed up the rate of absorption by snugly wrapping the meat between two sheets of plastic wrap.

There, now we all know! Aren't you glad I asked the question!

Comment!

Dick Carlson - Home, Finally

2011-10-01T14:44:00.003-05:00

by Dianne

For those of you who have not heard, Dick Carlson returned home yesterday after a lengthy stay at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit - four weeks actually.

Doctors removed one tumor and a bile duct but were unable to completely remove the second tumor. Pathology reports indicate that the samplings are cancerous.

His doctors from Henry Ford had a meeting to discuss findings and recommended follow up treatment. This report will be forwarded to Dick's family doctor to help in determining the best treatment plan.

At this point, they have not received a "staging" category and do not know when or what type of treatment will be initiated.

Dick welcomes phone calls from his family and winter Texan friends. And, as always, your prayers for his complete recovery are also welcome.

.

Joe's Boat Sank

2011-10-01T09:26:00.001-05:00

I received this email from Joe Eger yesterday:

"Last night we had winds around 60 mph all night as a result the waves came over the transom and down she went."

Here's the evidence:

Please note that the canvas awning is intact!

Comment!

Update - Dick Carlson

2011-09-23T07:57:00.003-05:00

Dick had surgery on Wednesday and is doing fine. Yes, he has been in the hospital since the last posting (24 days so far). Surgery was postponed because of an infection that needed attention first.

The doctors ended up taking out the bile duct along with the blockage. I understand there are 3 ducts to the liver so this shouldn't be a problem. Now, all that is needed is for everything to be working as it should and for him to regain his strength before being released. Hopefully, the middle next week.

He is up for short walks and that's a good thing. Will keep you posted as to his release.

.

Audrey Update #1

2011-09-14T21:25:00.000-05:00

from Allison on September 13

Al JUST called.

The doctors believe Audrey broke her pelvis and THEN she fell.

The good news is:

The break is clean so no surgery needs be done.

She WILL stay in hospital for 3 days and THEN 6-8 weeks at either

Oak Crest or Gulf Point Plaza.

She will be taught in Physical Therapy to bear weight on her LEFT leg--the opposite side to the fracture. THEN she will be assisted to gradually begin bearing more weight on the right.

They are feeding her today, the NPO sign is down (since no surgery)

and Audrey and Al are feeling better! YEAH!

Comment!

Show and Sell

2011-09-14T21:19:00.001-05:00

from Allison

Notice to Crafters, Woodcarvers, Painters

SHOW & SELL!!

Join us in hosting a craft sale

Saturday, December 3.

Bring all those beautiful things

you do so well!

We'll be kicking off Christmas—or

for some of you, the 'Holidays'—

Hope you'll join us!

We plan to post flyers at area RV parks
and businesses.

SEE YOU SOON!

Kathy Swanson

Carol Hanson

Carol Dietrich

Comment!

.

The Migration Begins Soon

2011-09-12T20:28:00.000-05:00

from Allison

Audrey Steffens fell in her house this morning and broke her pelvis! She is at Christus Spohn to stabilize and then we'll see what they do. This makes me SO sad!

Heard from Helen Fahlsing this afternoon—she'll be rolling in on Friday.

Connie and Ron will be here Oct 1 or 2.

Bob Foslien and Larry and Sherry Lammers will be here somewhere around the 15th.

Richard Burris will be back mid-Oct, as well.

The faithful are gathering ;)

Great News !

2011-09-11T17:23:00.003-05:00

By Dianne

I just spoke with Gelene who was so happy to share the great news -- Bob was released from the hospital. Just one day short of a long three week stay. Their son, Chad, and Gelene's brother are on their way to help get them home. They'll take the truck and 5th wheel and Gelene will drive Bob in their car.

Both are looking forward to being back home. As you can only image, they've missed their family and friends a bunch.

Glad to hear this great news. Have a safe trip home, friends.

.

Dick Carlson's Condition

2011-09-09T19:52:00.004-05:00

from Allison

Many of you may know that Dick Carlson has been in hospital because of a 1" tumor at the intersection of the bile duct. Lucille has, of course, been with him and, on Monday, several biopsies were taken to determine if the tumor is malignant.

Many prayers to our Master Physician have ascended on behalf of Dick and Lucille and their family. The verdict is in and the tumor is NOT malignant!!!

Hallelujah!

Doctors have inserted a drain to drain off the bile salts which are making Dick yellow and itchy.

Now, please pray for Dick to regain strength enough to go home where he will build yet more strength of body so he can have surgery to remove this growth.

Pray, too, for Lucille to be strong and held in God's perfect peace. Lucille has an appointment next week to see a doctor because of severe back pain. Please keep her lifted up in prayer.

Thanks to all of you prayer warriors.

Allison

God never said the journey would be easy;
but that the arrival will be worthwhile!

8:00 PM Update:

I just talked with Lucille via Skype. She said Dick is already showing improvement from the drainage. He's starting to get his sense of humor back and his arms are getting pink instead of yellow.

The surgery to remove the troublesome tumor is planned for next Wednesday or Friday.

Keith

Memorial Service for Donna Lackore

2011-09-06T08:59:00.012-05:00

by Keith

To listen to an audio recording of the memorial service, click on the link below. However, I suggest that you right click on the link, then select "Open link in new tab" or "Open link in new window." If you do it that way, you can remain on this page and look at the pictures, as the audio is on a different website.

Click here to hear a recording of the service for Donna Lackore.

The service was at Pilot Knob Lutheran Church, a small, very attractive, church out in the country between Clear lake and Forest City (home of Winnebago Industries). This building is only nine years old. The previous building was burned by an arsonist. It was one of four churches torched within a month in that general area.

Pilot Knob Lutheran Church

One of two display areas with family pictures

Floral tributes from Donna's family

The church was just large enough; six empty chairs!

The altar area

Gene bidding Pat goodbye

Comment!

Comments:

Thanks Keith for that very moving service for Donna.

Marv and I spent many winters with both Gene and Donna, and it brought back so many memories of singing in the church services,and other functions we enjoyed doing together.

When the service included the hymn, ''It took a miracle'' I couldn't hold back the tears as I remember the times that Allison and I sang that song.

I also rejoice in knowing that Donna is free and singing that very song.

God is faithful.

Love to you Gene.

Bev and Marv.

.

Donna's Obituary

2011-09-04T13:47:00.005-05:00

by Keith

An article yesterday noted the passing of Donna Lackore, former Winter Texan at Rockport 35 RV Park. Gene and Donna certainly were an active part of park events. Her illness gradually lessened her activities and eventually prevented her and Gene from joining us.

This picture shows Donna and Gene enjoying a dance together during the 2007 St. Patrick's Day party at the park. Whether it was announcing a dog show, constructing a building, or anything else involving the concept of "help," Gene was always there—supported strongly by Donna and vice versa.

Donna and Gene enjoying a dance, March, 2007

Below, the Lackores plus Pat in July, 2008, when they met us for lunch in Clear Lake while we were on our way to visit our family in Minnesota.

Gene, Donna, and Pat (L) July 2008

Here's a link to her obituary:

http://hosting-tributes-24339.tributes.com/show/Donna-Mae-Lackore-92293519

Gene's address is:

Gene Lackore, 195 W 4^th St., Garner, IA 50438

Pat and I are planning to attend the service.

Comment!

From the Dyers (Step of Faith):

Being human I morn, being a christian I rejoice to hear that such a sweet angel has made a safe journey home. God Bless and watch over all of her family and friends.

Love and prayers

Wayne and Dee.

---and News From Our Canadian Friends!

2011-09-03T21:18:00.001-05:00

from Pam Weager

Sorry to hear the news of Bob & Gelene- Rick too. We often pray and think of our Rockport friends,

However don't seem to get chance to keep in touch. This year has been extremely busy & somewhat "different' for us.

Geoff has been diagnosed with "low-grade' prostate cancer and is due for surgery on Oct 6th-this guy is never sick !!!!!!!!!

Please keep him in your prayers as we do all our winter friends.

Blessings,

Pam

Comment!

News Regarding Friends From The Park

2011-09-03T21:04:00.003-05:00

from Allison

I am so glad to know that Bob & Gelene and Rick and Dianne are on the greatly improved list. I list spouses together because when one is ailing the other is greatly affected.

Now it's PRAYER TIME:

Dick Carlson is in the hospital to determine what is blocking his bile ducts--perhaps they'll know that tomorrow. Please pray that God will enable doctors to easily deal with this blockage.

Willie Wiese: After bouts of nausea and vomiting, doctors have determined that he has a small aneurism at the aortic arch--not currently of concern. The greater concern is gallstones--for which surgery is contemplated. Please pray for wisdom.

John Martin is undergoing therapy and wound care for his legs. Please pray for healing.

Peggy Sutherland is doing therapy to release stricture in her neck, after healing from fracture.

Bob Swanson is finding it more and more difficult to do anything. Please pray for them.

Charlotte Patterson is still struggling with allergies that prevent her from socializing.

Jan Dane is awaiting results from her doctor to determine the next steps to get her on the road to health.

Al & Audrey had a good vacation, it's good having them back, they need ongoing prayers for strength & continued healing for both of them.

We need to pray for Bev's back, leg & foot to get in "line-up" they can return this season

Tony is having a 3rd CAT-scan to monitor spots at the base of his right lung

Thanks, and love to you all!

Allison

Comment!

Donna Lackore Passed Away Sep. 2

2011-09-03T20:55:00.002-05:00

from Allison

Donna Lackore went Home to be with Jesus last night: September 2.

She went peacefully with her whole family with her.

Gene said just before she left he prayed with her.

Now, she is standing tall and whole, walking those streets of gold

and worshipping at Jesus' feet!

God is FAITHFUL

Allison
God never said the journey would be easy;
but that the arrival will be worthwhile!

Service info:

Visitation with the family is at 10 a.m. this Monday (Labor Day)

Service immediately following at:

Pilot Knob Lutheran Church

(From Garner go north toward Forest City on US-69

Just before Forest City there is a cemetary on the left and a blacktop road that goes right: 330th St

Go 8 miles and church is on the left)

Gene's address:

Gene

Lackore

195 W 4^th St
Garner IA 50438

Comment!

Vacation and Hospital Should not be Used Together

2011-09-01T16:43:00.005-05:00

by Dianne

Spoke with Bob and Gelene Logsdon earlier this week and again today with Gelene. Bob is still in the hospital in Elkhart, IN, but is doing much better and hopefully will be released soon. They shared the following story about their vacation.

About ten days ago they headed to the Elkhart, IN area with plans to have a relaxing vacation while having some manufacturer warranty work done on their RV. However, Bob developed severe pain in his lower abdomen to the point that Gelene took him to urgent care. From there he was taken to a local hospital and tests confirmed a bowel obstruction which lead to emergency surgery. That entitled Bob to a week's stay and a yummy liquid diet. I think he prefers the beef broth over vegetable. No, they were not having fun just yet.

To make matters worse, Bob's potassium level dropped to the point that made his heart rate too fast and erratic. A defibrillator was used to regulate the rhythm. That gave the results they expected and he would be released soon - just needed to see how he'd handle soft foods.

Well, not so well at all. Returning abdominal pain puzzled his doctor and it was decided they'd take an exploratory peek to find his new source of pain -- a herniated bowel. So, another procedure was done immediately and Bob is on the mend, again.

And again, they are praying that he will be well enough to be discharged soon. Their plans are to stay at the campground for another week so Bob can regain his strength before hauling the 5th wheel back home.

Bob and Geleen when he was feeling really well!

Not quite the vacation they had planned on when they left, but certainly one they will never forget, I'm sure.

Hey, Bob and Gelene, please know that we all are thinking of you both and praying for Bob's complete, speedy recovery.

.

Patriot Guards

2011-08-28T20:01:00.000-05:00

Thursday Pat and I made what seems like our bi-weekly trip to Minneapolis to attend a funeral. This one was for a 51-year-old niece of Pat's.

She had been in the Army for a few years, then had received an honorable discharge some years ago for medical reasons. Interestingly, her current job was working for either the Army or the VA, I'm not sure which.

Because she was a veteran, the Patriot Guards were there to show respect for a fallen veteran. These words from their website state their mission:

"Our main mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family. Each mission we undertake has two basic objectives:
Show our sincere respect for our fallen heroes, their families, and their communities.

Shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by any protestor or group of protestors."

This was the first I had observed their presence. It was rather impressive!

There were 15 to 20 members, each holding an American flag and lining the walkways from the parking lot to the church's main entrance. It was a bright sunny day, so the red, white, and blue flags couldn't help but put patriotism in the hearts and minds of those attending.

I appreciated their presence. It provided a nice touch to the service for a departed veteran.

Comment!

Finally: Rain at the Park!

2011-08-27T13:12:00.000-05:00

From Allison on Thursday (25th)

We had RAIN today! It was so wonderful! I was up cleaning the pool and big drops

started about 8 a.m...growing quickly to a DOWNPOUR. It was great! I started to

stay and clean the pool--I was nearly done--but it was raining so hard I couldn't see

the bottom of the pool--so, I called it a morning. I walked slowly home, just enjoying

feeling the drops--Wonderful. So far, no mosquitos--but if it keeps raining

they'll probably awake with a vengeance.

Gotta run.....it's 5:30 pm and Friendship supper tonight.

Love to you...

Allison
God never said the journey would be easy;
but that the arrival will be worthwhile!

Comment!

Rick's Recovery

2011-08-24T21:54:00.005-05:00

by Dianne

No pictures just an update. Rick had a partial knee replacement on his left knee this morning. Everything went fine and his pain is being managed. They started exercising his leg with the auto exerciser just a couple of hours after recovery. I'm sure they have a technical name for that piece of equipment, but I don't know what it is, didn't ask. Tomorrow is his birthday and we'll be celebrating that along with his new knee. He sends greetings, as I do, to all our Rockport friends.

Take care friends.

.

Joe and Carolyn Went Fishing

2011-08-24T20:07:00.000-05:00

by Keith and Joe Eger

An email with this picture and complete report of the fishing trip arrived from Joe yesterday.

"Carolyn caught this 14" perch last night, and I got nota."

Thanks for the update, Joe. Looks like you should go fishing again!

Comment!

UNCLE BOB'S

2011-08-20T21:37:00.004-05:00

By Dianne

If you haven't tried this seasoning, be warned...it's addictive.

To quote our son, Jay, "If you're not cooking with Uncle Bob's, why bother."

Introduced him to Uncle Bob's earlier this year at a backyard cookout. Brought it home with us from Rockport, compliments of Al from the RV park.

Jay liked it so much, we gave it to him. We'll be sure to bring more home with us next time we visit.

.

Get-together in Michigan

2011-08-15T09:50:00.001-05:00

From Bev:

This has been one warm summer, but I'm not complaining. I love summer.

Thursday I received a call from one of our dear friends in Rockport, Audrey. She and Al have been in Michigan for the last few months and wanted to meet us for dinner before they leave to go back home. Also with them were Judd and Greta DeYoung from Pullman. We met at Cracker Barrel and had three great hours of reminiscing about the great times we had spent together for the past fifteen winters at our favorite RV park.

Its just amazing how many friendships you make that will last a life time. Marv and I cherish them all. Greetings again from Wyoming, Michigan.

We love you all.
Bev.

Comment!

Is this Inflation or Greed?

2011-08-11T18:11:00.002-05:00

by Keith

Pat and her sister Barb just returned from the movie. They excitedly reported that a medium popcorn and two medium drinks cost $17.50!

They chose to "go hungry."

Good for them!

Comment!

Comment from Dianne:

"I'd say a combination of both. They even charge more if a movie is in 3D. Family of four (my son's) cost $36 for admission tickets only. I know I'm dating myself, but I do remember when a movie cost 50 cents and may times that was a double feature. We went every Sunday after church. The good ole days....."

From Facebook

2011-08-10T20:19:00.000-05:00

by Keith

Joanne Hickman posted this on Facebook:

"Just to let everyone know, Mom passed away Sunday morning. I was with her till the end. I love her & will miss her always."

She would also have been Jim Capehart's Mother. Both families have spent winters at Rockport 35 RV Park.

Our sympathy to her families.

Comment!

News From The Park

2011-08-10T20:08:00.000-05:00

by Allison

We are not burning up down here. Temp is in the 90's--95 today; but we are so blessed with wonderful breezes. The evenings and mornings are more than wonderful! The mid-day is bearable; but shade is a good thing--or air conditioning. I really feel for those having the high temperatures and no wind. God has very much blessed us here. We have not had rain; but again, God has more than blessed us with well-water to keep things alive and fresh.

Several of us went to Wallbanger's in Corpus Christi last night for hamburgers--it was fun and the hamburgers were GREAT! I saw a testimonial wherein a woman said her 17 year-old son ordered the 3-pound! hamburger--nope! couldn't eat it all. So, they brought the rest home and fed 4 people for supper! Well, none of us opted for that huge burger. 1/3 lb is their smallest; but the half-pound is VERY shareable--if you're in the sharing mood. It was a pleasant night and then several mosied up SPID to Mustang Island--just for the view--and crossed via ferry to Aransas Pass--yes dolphin were playing. Our car stopped at the "Texas Stop Sign" for Ice cream and then--nearing the park--realized our gas tank was on sniffs. But, we did get home without incident. Tony put in 5-gallons gas he had in the shop--you know we'll be filling up soon!

Allison

Comment!

Mr. Five Time

2011-08-09T21:16:00.008-05:00

by Dianne

Last week Rick golfed in the 24th annual Witucki Open. What is the Witucki Open you ask? Well, it started in the mid 1980's by two buddies, Jim Witucki and Darrell Berry, when 12 working buddies took a half day off work to play golf. They each threw in $5.00 for prize money and the event was born.

Since then it has grown to 28 golfers and has become an annual outing they all look forward to, especially the bragging rights to the champion- ship and their name on the trophy. The inscription on the trophy sums it up this way, "The Witucki Open - Dedicated to Brotherhood and Beer."

Since Rick golfed only a few times this year, he was surprised and speechless (wow, twice this year) when he was awarded the trophy for the lowest net score of 64.

This is the 5th time he won, which I'm sure will result in a lower handicap for him next year. He's OK with that. These guys are like brothers and more than prizes and trophies, they cherish their annual day of golf, fun, and harassing each other. They especially like the harassing part....well the cold beer is great too, I'm told.

Until next August....

.

How To Get Rid Of A Parking Ramp In 16 Seconds

2011-07-31T20:50:00.000-05:00

By Keith

Storm Update

2011-07-30T20:37:00.001-05:00

Provided by Allison

We got thimble-full of rain--most here weren't even aware that it rained!

Comment!

Tropical Storm Don

2011-07-29T19:48:00.000-05:00

Submitted by Allison

All is well in Rockport!

We have been watching this system and hoping God will send us all the rain we need--but not one drop more! I remember Helen telling me her Grandfather stood out in his farm and prayed this way--it's a good prayer. I claim it!

We have rolled up awnings and battened down anything that might blow. No one has left the park due to rain; but some have come in early to ensure getting here before the rain starts. Rain is no deterrent--we all just might get out and dance in it!

We have had a white egret thrilling the folks and walking around the park--they love to eat ghekos--and we have a lot--as you well know. He was drinking--or maybe looking for fish--in my pond in front of the office. If it was for fish he was out of luck because the raccoon already beat him to them. Day before yesterday, we saw the tracks of the puma who lives behind the park. He probably jumped the fence to drink from the swimming pool. Tony & Chet put a trough of water north of the park, on the pipeline--but apparently, the animals can't read the signs directing them to it. Suffice it to say, all of Texan creation is waiting for The Creator to send rain.

Some of you know that, for three years, I have had a wonderful kitchen sink sitting in my bedroom (still in the box) waiting to be put into use in my kitchen. Two years ago, Tony and Son, Jason began putting down a ceramic tile floor (they were going to do counters, etc). Well, Jason left and Tony got too busy to do it. And so, my floor remained with the perimeter untiled. Last weekend, my grandson showed up to get my house in order--and it is looking GOOD!

Al & Audrey will be home about August 17,

Pattersons returned last week,

Helen is still in Iowa

Connie & Ron are still in Oregon--occasionally they send me picture or tell me about fun searching the Tidepools--trying to make me homesick for my growing up years--and Connie is have so much fun taking wonderful pictures.

I hope everyone is doing well and looking forward to a wonderful winter season!

We love you!

Allison
God never said the journey would be easy;
but that the arrival will be worthwhile!

Comment!

The Summer That Keeps on Giving

2011-07-27T21:04:00.003-05:00

by Dianne

Well, it’s been quite the summer so far. Not the summer we were planning before we left Texas but a good summer, all things considered. We originally put a hold on our trip to Alaska because of the fuel prices, but as it turned out, someone higher up had other plans for us.

I had a GI issue which required surgery and a 4-day hospital stay. We thank God that all went well and I am doing just fine now. The “boys” are happy too that we can again take them for daily walks. This at-home time gave Rick and I a chance to enjoy our flower beds in the backyard and watch our garden grow.

Rick’s dad was hospitalized 3 times. The latest ailment being a stone in his liver duct which put him in the hospital for six days. We believe this problem originated when he was hospitalized in Texas but was just not identified at that time. Again, he is doing fine now and we are thankful.

Not to be left out, and since we weren’t going anywhere, Rick had his painful left knee evaluated and is now scheduled for a partial knee replacement come August 24 – the day before his birthday. He can think of many ways to celebrate, but if you know Rick, you would also know that the hospital would not approve. Although he is not looking forward to surgery, he is preparing for it -- already has a walking cane to get around when he is able.

Our plans now, in addition to canning green beans, tomatoes, and salsa, are to take a long weekend to Kentucky, check out the Bourbon Trail, and enjoy some sampling.

Hope all our winter Texas friends are having a great, healthy summer and enjoying whatever plans you’ve outlined for yourselves.

Take care ~ Rick and Dianne

PS - Lucille is doing great. Of the four of us, she's been the healthiest this summer. Good for her!

No Beer for Dave Tonight!

2011-07-26T19:08:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago, David Enman discovered that he had some arteries with reduced flow. Today was the day for a fix. Here's a report from Sonia:

"Dave is resting comfortably this evening at St. David's Hospital. He had an angioplasty this morning. Dr. attempted to put in stents but the artery was too narrow. He is in good spirits and is wishing he could have his five o'clock beer. He should be home tomorrow morning. He is still excused from the honey dew chores for another 2 to 3 weeks.

See you all soon,
Sonia"

I didn't realize that you had your own hospital. The fact that you're a saint took me by surprise also.

Our wish for you, Dave, is that you get home and get well SOON!!

Comment!

Thanks Sonia for the update on Dave. We're sending bunches of well wishes to you Dave and hope you are feeling better real soon. We'll have that cold one for you. Dianne and Rick

.

Did You Know?

2011-07-18T06:05:00.004-05:00

by Dianne

Did you know Armadillos have four babies at a time and all are the same sex? A Giraffe can clean it own ears with it's 21 inch tongue? Rabbits like licorice? Licorice? Will have to test this one. Been unsuccessful in catching a rabbit in our live trap that comes into the back yard via a hole in the fence. We don't mind the rabbit, but he gets the dogs all worked up on a regular basis. Have a great day!

.