Crafty Grandma

2012-01-04T15:11:00.000-08:00

Scarlett shows us her new toys she received for Christmas.

2011-12-28T09:23:00.001-08:00

Santa just visited many houses.
Here's one in Florida: (Gabriel, age 7)

My littlest Santa is found in New Jersey:(also known as Nathan, 4 months)
Isn't he cute?

Here's Scarlett early on Christmas morning:

And here's Scarlett singing with Mary Jo and Ann Marie:

Christmas morning at Tom and Kelly's house:

2011-11-16T16:27:00.000-08:00

Scarlett had an important event today!

2011-09-09T17:15:00.000-07:00

These are my dear friends who I worked with for many years. We've all been retired now for awhile, and many of us are feeling the years. We get together for lunch every two weeks and every one who is able comes.

I'm excited because I'll be away for the next couple of weeks helping Tom and Kelly with the new addition to their family of three active little boys.

2011-09-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

I crocheted some "Angry Birds" or I prefer "Happy Birds" for Scarlett to play with.

Tuesday was the first day of school and here she is ready for first grade, so excited and happy.

Scarlett has learned to tie her shoes and is so proud of herself!

We had a lovely Labor Day weekend as Steve, Marta, Gabriel, and Alejandra came to visit us all the way from Florida. Saturday we went to the zoo.

I didn't take enough pictures! I need a picture of Marta here! Marta, do you have one? If so, please send it and I'll add it!

2011-09-03T05:47:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world, Nathan Stephen, born August 26, weighing 8 pounds 11 ounces. Adored by his big brothers, 4 year old Matt and 2 year old Tyler.

2011-07-24T15:50:00.001-07:00

2011-07-08T17:49:00.001-07:00

2011-07-03T18:50:00.000-07:00

Scarlett got a new bike 5 days ago. The first day we had to hold on to her as she wobbily tried to ride. Every day she gets better. This video shows her as she practices on our street under strict supervision.

2011-07-01T07:55:00.001-07:00

2011-06-09T15:36:00.000-07:00

My garden on June 9, 3 weeks after the previous post.

2011-05-20T15:54:00.001-07:00

We began to work on the garden about 10 days ago. Then we had several days of rain. I had started cucumbers and leeks inside about six weeks ago. The leeks appear to have survived all the rain but the cucumbers had to be replaced. The eggplants and cucumbers as seen in the video were planted today.

2011-05-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

Mary Jo and Ann Marie had a piano recital today. We enjoyed going to it and they played very well. We're so proud of them!

2011-03-27T17:13:00.001-07:00

We made a little trip to Steve and Marta's house last week, especially to see Marta's grandmother, Juana who is visiting from Spain. Juana is an active and aware 89 year old wonderful lady and it was a pleasure to see her again.

Alejandra now is 2 years old and has a glowing smile.

Steve and Marta are a cute and devoted couple.

We were able to go to a Japanese festival at the beautiful Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens near Boca Raton, Florida. It was a perfect day and here you can see Gabe posed in many sites at the garden. Gabe is almost 7 years old now, and a real delight to talk to and spend time with. I am a happy grandmother, especially when I am with my grandchildren.
Here is Gabe in the Japanese school room at the museum.

Marta is in the tatami room.

There was drumming.

Beautiful gardens with Gabe.
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2011-02-24T11:59:00.000-08:00

The Writer

Scarlett loves reading and writing. She makes her own books by drawing all the pictures, then dictates the words for us to write. Some recent titles include "The Chicken Makes a Noise" and "The Worm".

2011-02-21T17:14:00.000-08:00

This was a long weekend because of the President's Day holiday. Cathy and Scarlett arrived Friday evening and we had a nice time together. Saturday was sunny, cool, and windy, generally feeling like spring might be on the way. Then Sunday afternoon came and the snow began. It was wet and heavy snow, almost sleet, freezing on the road and on the car windshield. Then today, Monday, more snow began to fall. Spring teased us just a little but winter is still here.
Cathy and Scarlett left this afternoon for the long drive home, so I'm hopeful the driving wasn't too bad for them.

2011-02-17T15:35:00.000-08:00

Just this week we came home from Playa del Carmen, Mexico. We like to go to a warm beach when the February cold and snowstorms come to Michigan. It was a lovely week of relaxing, enjoying the outdoors, eating too much, and just having a nice time. We came home well rested and ready for the last few weeks of winter knowing that spring will come in a few weeks.

2011-02-17T15:28:00.000-08:00

My second winter trip was a visit to the New Jersey home of Tom, Kelly, Matt and Tyler. Kelly had a get together with high school girlfriends in Atlanta so I went for the weekend to help Tom with the boys. It was so fun and very busy! There was a lot of snow that Friday with mild temperatures so the boys enjoyed playing outside.

Matt and Tyler were happy to get Mommy back!

2011-02-17T15:26:00.001-08:00

2011-02-17T15:19:00.000-08:00

We've been very lucky to do a lot of traveling these last few weeks. First was a visit to South Florida to see Steve, Marta, Gabe, and Ale.

Gabe was surprised with a new bike from his mom and dad. Now he has very good skill with a two wheeler. In January in South Florida it is the perfect season for bike riding.

We enjoyed a visit to the beach. I love to see the ocean, walk in the sand, and feel the water on my feet. It is quite amazing to know that there is heavy snow and frigid temperatures in Michigan but people are enjoying the beach in South Florida.

2011-02-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

This is the view from our front window today:

2011-01-10T17:12:00.000-08:00

The Salad from Peru

Friday evening was our last night in South Florida so Steve and Marta took us to a sensational Peruvian restaurant. We had a wonderful dinner with all kinds of seafood. One of the dishes was a fabulous salad which I instantly tried to figure out how to make myself. Tonight I tried the recipe which is the result of my delight in this salad and my analysis of it. Basically it is a large plate of fresh greens mixed with hot lightly sauted vegetables, sprinkled with feta cheese, dressed with tomato vinaigrette dressing.

First I made the dressing: 1/2 cup olive oil, one sixth cup balsamic vinegar, plus garlic, one tablespoon tomato paste and 1 teaspoon honey and 4 basil leaves chopped.I put all the ingredients in a jar, covered, and shook until well mixed.

The salad greens are placed on a salad plate with a chopped tomato.

Meanwhile quickly stir fry various vegetables such as portabello mushrooms, zucchini, sugar peas, green onions, or any other vegetables as desired. When the vegetables are hot and fried maybe 5 to 10 minutes, mix them with the salad greens, top with the dressing, and sprinkle with feta cheese. Serve with crusty bread which can be dipped in the salad dressing at the bottom of your serving plate. Yummy!

2011-01-09T17:36:00.000-08:00

We just spent many lovely days with our family in South Florida, a refreshing break from the cold and snow in Michigan. One morning after a short drive we enjoyed some hours in the sand and sun on the beach. A three hour plane ride away from ice and snow can take us to such a warm and beautiful place where people are swimming in the ocean and enjoying the sunshine. We so enjoyed our beautiful grandchildren as well as spending time with their parents.

2010-12-27T15:08:00.000-08:00

We've had a lovely Christmas. Children are so excited and ready to enjoy the holiday.

Scarlett left milk and cookies for Santa, and was very excited when they disappeared during the night of Santa's visit.

Here's Cathy and Scarlett. Can you see Scarlett's excitement?

Scarlett also left food out in the snow for the reindeer because they had a long journey and got very hungry.
Next we're off to Florida to spend a few days with Steve, Marta, Gabriel, and Alejandra!

2010-12-14T12:54:00.000-08:00

My student Saiko and her husband will move to Japan this week. We will miss her!

2010-12-12T10:19:00.000-08:00

Scarlett writes to Santa.

2010-12-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

Tyler and Kelly enjoy some giggles!

2010-12-07T07:53:00.000-08:00

The "Turkey Pokey" performed by Scarlett and Friends

2010-11-06T16:03:00.000-07:00

Look who was at my house Halloween night! (Plus about 70 others!)

2010-10-24T17:47:00.000-07:00

Cathy and Scarlett came this weekend and we had a nice time. We went to Flavor Fruit Farms where Scarlett especially enjoyed the animals. She rode on a pony and was able to see a new litter of piglets. We had mild weather for late October so it was a lovely weekend.

Scarlett enjoyed trying on a unicorn costume:

The farm has a perfect spot for picture taking:

Scarlett especially loved the black horse and waited for a turn on him:

Scarlett's hair had a little trimming:

The baby pigs were so cute!

Here's Scarlett having her bangs trimmed on the back patio.

2010-09-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

Matt and Tyler eating dinner:

2010-09-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Tom, Kelly, Matthew, and Tyler plus Cathy and Scarlett visited. It was a busy time with many activities: going to the park, shopping, football game, eating, and going to the apple farm. It was so much fun and the weekend passed very quickly. Now our house is too quiet!

At the apple farm:

At the football game:

Pumpkins at the apple farm:

Enjoying the animals:

Grandma reads to the boys:

Scarlett and Tyler:

Three generations of football lovers:

The runner:

Cousins at the park:

2010-09-18T05:21:00.000-07:00

Here is Tony in his new jacket. There is a story about this jacket. Please ask me!

2010-09-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful Labor Day weekend when Steve, Marta, Gabe, Ale, Cathy, and Scarlett came. It was a very busy weekend!
Friday we went to Michigan State, had lunch with Carole and Keith at the International Center, and went to the museum.

Saturday the guys watched Michigan State Football, Cathy ran 20 miles, and Marta and I took the kids to Domino Farms in Ann Arbor to pet the animals. Then in the evening we went to the Chinese buffet.

Sunday was such a beautiful end of summer kind of day, with just a little chill in the air (finally after so many hot and humid days!) We were invited to the lake by Dee and Walt and enjoyed a wonderful ride on their new pontoon boat. Some of the little people got in the driver's seat and took a turn (with a little help) navigating the waters!

So much fun!!!

2010-08-30T11:20:00.000-07:00

Here is my student Michika who is moving back to Japan this week. She is lovely and kind, a very good student, and we will miss her. Good luck to Michika and her family!

2010-08-24T17:40:00.000-07:00

We just spent a few days in Northern Michigan. First we went to Mackinaw City where you can see the beautiful Mackinaw Bridge.

Then we went up to Munising and Marquette to spend some time at Lake Superior.

Then we went to St. Ignace where we like to go to Mackinaw Island and hike the 8 mile perimeter of the island.

It was a wonderfully relaxing few days away.

2010-08-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

More pictures of Scarlett from this weekend:

Good news! Steve, Marta, Gabriel, and Ale will visit us Labor Day weekend!! I can hardly wait.

2010-08-15T18:01:00.000-07:00

Here are three princesses: Scarlett, Anne Marie, and Mary Jo.

Chicken video

2010-08-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

Mary Jo, Scarlett and Anne Marie do the chicken dance.

2010-08-06T17:56:00.000-07:00

Today the mothers of two of my students plus a sister came to my house for a visit. Everyone was so kind. When the grandmothers of the world get together, there is no difference!
In this picture my student Sachiko is on the left. Next to her is her sister. Next to me is Sachiko's mother, and on the right is Sachiko's mother-in-law. Sachiko's husband is also my student.
We had a tour of my house, drank tea, and talked with Sachiko translating. She did a good job; translating is hard work!

2010-08-02T04:34:00.000-07:00

The last few days we've had a visit from my sister-in-law Barb, my brother Dean's widow, who is originally from Michigan and now lives in Mississippi with her daughter Kim's family. We had not seen each other for several years so it was lovely to catch up, reminiscing, talking about lots of things. In addition we saw Barb's extended family, including Kim and Merle, Jessica and Ben, their baby Bella who has beautiful reddish blond hair and big blue eyes.

2010-07-23T05:17:00.000-07:00

Five year old Scarlett enjoys the "Talking Tom" app on Grandma's IPad.

2010-05-28T10:43:00.001-07:00

It looks like summer has arrived at our house.

Our side yard:

Our front entrance:

The circle around the tree in our front yard:

2010-05-18T17:33:00.000-07:00

My student Sachie has studied the Japanese art of flower arranging, called Ikebana. Today Sachie cut and arranged some yellow irises that are growing near our front door. (Steve and Marta, you gave us these iris bulbs from your Michigan house!) I like the arrangement so much. It has simple pure lines.

2010-05-11T17:05:00.000-07:00

A Visit to Florida
We just spent several wonderful days with Steve, Marta, Gabe, and Alejandra in Southern Florida:

Alejandra is 15 months old, can now walk, and is a little doll:

Gabe Studies Tae Kwan Do and now has his green belt:

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One day we went to the beach:

After a very hot day, the backyard pool was so refreshing:

2010-04-09T17:27:00.000-07:00

Cathy is running a marathon tomorrow, the Martian Marathon in Deerborn.

2010-04-07T11:31:00.000-07:00

Lake House Visit

We just enjoyed a wonderful weekend with Tom and Kelly at the lake house. The most fun was playing with Tyler who just had his first birthday and Matt who will be 3 years old in May.

Tom and Matt play with the train

Tyler in the swing

At the park with Grandpa

Two boys on a rock

The weather was really beautiful so a visit to the park was a great idea.

2010-04-07T11:26:00.000-07:00

Kelly holding Tyler wearing an apron made by Grandma

We all enjoyed Easter together. The boys colored eggs and there were special celebrations at church including an Easter Egg Hunt.

Easter Party at Church

Egg Hunt

Egg Coloring

2010-04-07T11:21:00.001-07:00

Tyler

Matthew

Here are two happy boys after their baths. Their smiles are so beautiful.

2010-03-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

The Cookie Helpers
I had help making cookies Saturday evening! We have a little ritual when making cookies. First everyone has to wash hands very well. Next we have to taste the chocolate chips to make sure they are "good". Then I give a little ball of dough to each child to shape the cookie and place it on the baking sheet. When we finish, they can lick the sweet cookie dough that has lingered on their fingers while the cookies are in the oven baking. Last, the hands must be washed very well again. Later cookies and milk (or coffee for the adults) are enjoyed by all.

2010-02-24T10:58:00.000-08:00

Last weekend was sunny and spring-like. Then the weather changed Monday morning, as it sometimes does just as we think spring is on the way. It began to snow and almost everything was closed down that day. Tony often went outside to take care of the driveway but I was inside the house. Tuesday was a little milder and then this morning it was snowing again. Tony took some pictures:

2010-02-13T04:51:00.000-08:00

Winter in Michigan is very long so we like to get away to a warm place for awhile. Last week we spent in Playa del Carmen in Mexico. Our hotel was the Riu Playacar and it was excellent. The sea was so beautiful; food was delicious; such a lovely escape from the snow and ice at home. We spent our days relaxing, enjoying the sea, eating too much, taking long walks, and reading. Now we return to real life!

2010-01-25T06:27:00.000-08:00

We spent the weekend with Cathy and Scarlett.

Scarlett is very sweet with Grandpa

Scarlett and her mommy

We always like to read books together

2010-01-17T17:15:00.000-08:00

Today we went to the Auto Show in Detroit. The cars looked so beautiful! Ford and Toyota had especially impressive displays. General Motors and Honda looked good; Chrysler's cars were minimal with not much new going on. Here are some pictures of Tony enjoying himself. The Auto Show is kind of like a big toy store for men.

2009-12-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

We went to the park and Alejandra enjoyed swinging. Gabriel can be seen in the background.

2009-12-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

We're enjoying some wonderful days with Marta, Gabriel, and Alejandra. (Steve is on a business trip this week.) The weather is beautiful. It is usually 80 to 85 degrees in the daytime but there is always a comfortable breeze. Evenings are cooler, usually in the 60's. I think it's snowing at home!

2009-11-27T14:25:00.000-08:00

Memories of Thanksgiving, 2009

Gabriel in the teepee

The table is ready.

We had a very special dessert.

2009-11-27T14:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Here are some of our Thanksgiving foods.

2009-11-26T04:21:00.000-08:00

During the taekwando class the instructor invited the fathers to join their sons in a match. Steve is in a blue shirt toward the back of the group. He and Gabe enjoyed taekwando together.

2009-11-25T18:45:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed visiting Gabe's tae kwan do class. Here he is in his uniform. Doesn't he look awesome?

2009-11-25T18:42:00.000-08:00

Here's Marta modeling some new dresses. Isn't she pretty?

2009-11-22T09:20:00.000-08:00

We are so lucky to get away from Michigan's colder weather and spend some time in southern Florida with Steve, Marta, Gabe, and Alejandra.

I was invited to a Thanksgiving celebration at Gabe's school.

2009-11-16T11:26:00.000-08:00

The Runners

2009-11-16T11:21:00.000-08:00

Saturday was a beautiful day, warm and sunny for November. We enjoyed some time at Cascades Park.

2009-11-10T07:36:00.000-08:00

Tyler and Matt enjoy each other so much. Ty is almost ready to crawl and can either roll all over the room or pull himself by his arms. I was thinking that the next time I see them, Tyler will be walking. Kelly and Tom are really busy with these two delightful little boys!

2009-11-10T07:23:00.000-08:00

We just spent a wonderful weekend with Tom and Kelly at the lake house enjoying Matt and Tyler.

Wherever I go, I find children happy to help with cookie making:

Grandpa has a talent for getting babies to take their naps:

Matt and Tyler are so cute together:

The most beautiful smile in the world:

2009-11-02T05:48:00.000-08:00

My Grandchildren on Halloween:

Tyler, the elephant, with his brother Matt, the football player

Alejandra, the cutest ladybug!

Matt, the football player!

Scarlett, a banana!

Gabe. So scary!

2009-10-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

Scarlett rode a train at the farm festival Sunday.

2009-10-28T17:33:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from last weekend when we went to an autumn farm festival.

2009-10-19T04:48:00.001-07:00

Cathy ran the Detroit International Marathon yesterday. Tony was her "manager".

She did well and felt pretty good afterwards considering the distance. It was a very cool but sunny October morning. She said the most challenging part of the run was through the tunnel into Canada where breathing was difficult. The tunnel passes under water. The return trip from Canada is a run across the bridge.

Scarlett and I had activities going on at the same time including a visit to the park and baking cookies. Here is my good cookie helper:

2009-08-31T17:32:00.001-07:00

We just spent a little time visiting Cathy, Sasha, and Scarlett. We enjoyed taking Scarlett to the park, we all went for ice cream, we went to the mall, and we ate at a noodle house. Scarlett is a joy to be with. She is very well behaved, always agreeable about everything that's happening. She loves books and spent a lot of time with a Leap Frog learning toy that I got her at a garage sale.

2009-07-26T16:59:00.000-07:00

Lake House Visit
We just spent the weekend visiting Tom, Kelly, Matt, and Tyler. It was a beautiful weekend with both sunshine and showers. Projects were accomplished. Dinners were enjoyed together. But most importantly, I had time with my beautiful grandchildren!

Here are Tony and me with Matthew after church enjoying the riverfront.

Tom's project for the weekend was putting together a new dock which he has been preparing for a few weeks.

Kelly and Matthew together. Matt is a very sweet boy.

2009-07-21T04:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Ann Marie spent the afternoon with me because her little sister is in the hospital with asthma. She will be celebrating her 7th birthday next week so I enjoy talking to her and doing things together. I dug out my large collection of Legos left over from when my children were young. Legos are the perfect toy, creative with limitless possibilities. Here's Ann Marie with a house we made together. Soon afterward the house toppled and fell apart, but that's okay. With Legos you just make a new and better one!

2009-07-13T14:10:00.000-07:00

Come and see my garden!

2009-07-09T11:26:00.000-07:00

Visitors

Here we are with our little friend Sakiho who is four years old. Isn't she beautiful in her summer yukata?

My student Michiyo has two friends visiting from Japan, so they came to my house this morning for a little conversation. We had a good visit.

2009-07-09T11:13:00.000-07:00

Here we are approaching the Mackinaw Bridge from the ferry going to the Island.

2009-07-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

Every summer we like to spend a little time at St. Ignace, Mackinaw Island, and Mackinaw City. The island is 8 miles around so we like to hike its perimeter. This time our ferry to the island made a special pass directly under the Mackinaw Bridge---very interesting! It was a fairly cool day so it was perfect for hiking. Halfway around the island there is a park with picnic tables, so we always plan to eat lunch at that park. Mackinaw is certainly one of the most beautiful places in this state.

2009-07-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I blogged so I guess I have a little catching up to do here. We traveled so much in the spring that recently I've been enjoying lazy summer days at home. Our garden is doing well; I've been taking long walks usually during the morning; I've been knitting and reading, not accomplishing so much but just enjoying every day.
Last week we spent a day at Shipshewanna, a beautiful Amish community in the north of Indiana. You can learn more about Shipshewanna here. It is known for the beautiful farmland and countryside, hard working people with a cultural difference from mainstream America, and restaurants with delicious home cooked meals. We happened to be there on a flea market day so it was interesting walking around and looking at everything. It is a very nice place to spend a day.

2009-06-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

This is the finish line of Cathy's 10 km. race on Saturday morning in Woodstock, Illinois.

2009-06-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

The Runners

Cath and Scarlett are runners. Saturday morning Cathy ran a 10 km race and Scarlett ran in a 1/2 mile kid's run. It was fun to watch them. The morning was very hot so afterward many people cooled off in the water park. I had a good time watching everyone!

Sasha, Scarlett, and Cathy

2009-05-31T04:35:00.000-07:00

Going Home

We had a lovely visit with Steve, Marta, Gabe, and Ali. Today we are going home and I'm going to miss them all so much. The next time I see them, Gabe and Ali will have learned new things and will be at different stages of their lives. Since I last saw Gabe in January, he has progressed a lot in learning many things; he speaks knowledgeably about many topics such as dinosaurs and animals; he can tell long and interesting stories in two languages; he can write his name and is beginning to write other words; he understands a little about basic math. Ali at 3 1/2 months can laugh, communicate well with her eyes, let you know if she wants to be fed, changed or allowed to sleep. What will they be doing the next time we see them? I can only wonder.

2009-05-28T06:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Girl

Ali enjoys playing with her parents and now she can laugh out loud!

2009-05-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

The Swimmer

Steve exercises almost every evening in the pool. He has a harness which allows him to experience the exercise benefits of long distance swimming while remaining stationary. It is having a good effect because his shoulders and upper arms are increasing in muscles.

2009-05-26T09:08:00.000-07:00

Sleepy Time

2009-05-25T07:50:00.000-07:00

Smiles in the Morning

2009-05-24T07:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Grandpa!

Saturday was Tony's birthday so we celebrated with dinner in a special restaurant followed by delicious pastries. Gabe was helpful in blowing out the candle!

2009-05-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

Gabe and Ali

Ali is only three months old but already she and Gabe love each other.

2009-05-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

The Cookie Helper

I'm always looking for a good chocolate chip cookie helper and Gabe is an enthusiastic helper. He enjoys "checking" the chocolate chips sometimes when my back is turned so the quantity of cookie dough tends to disappear!

2009-05-21T07:45:00.000-07:00

Ali is a very happy baby. At three months old, she communicates well with her eyes; looking in her eyes you can see how she feels. She smiles easily and often, and she is very responsive. She is just starting to use her hands a little: she sometimes looks at her hands as if to say, "What are these? Where did they come from?" Ali is an easy baby and very undemanding. (Jack and Lib: the pink outfit that she's wearing is the one you sent! Isn't she cute in it?)

2009-05-20T04:39:00.000-07:00

Here's Gabe and Steve enjoying the pool.

2009-05-19T05:35:00.000-07:00

Gabe is 5 Years Old

2009-05-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

Florida!

Saturday I traveled to Florida to Steve and Marta's new house which they just moved into a month ago. It is very beautiful and comfortable with the unique style of Southern Florida.
Most importantly, I was there to meet Ali (pronounced Ah-leh), my newest granddaughter. She is 3 months old, full of smiles especially when she wakes up in the morning, very happy and easy. She loves her mommy and daddy and thinks her big brother Gabe is funny.
We celebrated Gabe's fifth birthday on Sunday. He had a beautiful cake and presents and was very happy. The five years since his birth have passed very quickly. Gabe and Steve enjoyed some time in the pool as you can see in the picture.
Marta is doing well, very busy with caring for the children and settling into the house. It is a pleasure to spend some time here.

2009-05-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

Traveling Again!!!
This spring has been a traveling time for me. I went to Tom and Kelly's house for two weeks to help Kelly with Matthew and Tyler. After going home for a few days, we went on our cruise. Now I've been home for a week and......guess what I'm doing on Saturday? Traveling again!

Where am I going? Here's a hint......I'm going to meet someone small, new and pretty. Also I'm going to see someone big, handsome, and interesting to talk to. Stay tuned and find out where I'm going next.....

(After this next trip, I promise to stay home for awhile.)

2009-05-11T16:56:00.000-07:00

May 6 Venice

Today was the last day of our trip and it was perfect! During the morning our ship was sailing through the islands approaching Venice. People gathered at the railing on the front of the ship to watch. As we got came near to the city, a small boat attached to the front of our ship and guided us in. We docked in Venice about 11AM so then were free to go ashore. We decided to walk to the city which took just a few minutes. Soon we could see wide and narrow canals with lots of different modes of water transportation: water taxis, small rowboats, motor boats, many kinds. Venice was more than I imagined: the central feature of water making it unique. We enjoyed walking through narrow streets next to canals. So beautiful.
This evening was one of my favorite experiences from the trip. We had an evening gondola ride through the city. First we went by water taxi to the gondola station. After a walk through the central section, we boarded our gondolas. To our surprise, our gondola featured the musical entertainment, an accordion player and tenor singer to serenade our group of gondolas as we rode through the narrow canals of Venice finally arriving at the Grand Canal. One of the houses that we passed had an inscription that it was Mozart’s house when he was living here in Venice. As we were enjoying our gondola ride, the lights of the city came on and it was truly charming.
Early tomorrow morning we prepare for our journey home. We will be transported to the Venice airport for a flight to Amsterdam, then continuing later to Detroit. It was a perfect trip. Everything went smoothly and was very enjoyable.

2009-05-11T16:40:00.000-07:00

May 5 Dubrovnik, Croatia

As I look out our window I can see a bay with sailboats and blue water surrounded by high mountains, the town of Dubrovnik with white stucco houses and orange tile roofs. It is a beautiful place full of tourists from all over speaking many languages. We Americans are a minority here but regardless I am always recognized as an American. I always wonder why that is; what makes me look American? I don’t know.
This morning we gathered for a tour called “Dubrovnik’s Riviera”. We went by bus out in the countryside along the sea to a small village named Cavtat, a very beautiful place. We had wonderful views along the way. We got out for awhile and had time to walk around. Always on the tours we have a native guide who speaks English, giving a lot of information about the history and whatever we’re looking at. Then we went by bus back to Dubrovnik stopping in the old part of town which dates back several hundred years to watch a folkloric show. The dancers had very colorful costumes and good dancing skill. (I have short videos to show on my blog later.) Then we could walk through the old town which featured a fortress like wall with moat and high gates. We have seen many seaside fortifications like this which included high walls for protection from invaders from the sea.
This afternoon we will be sailing to our final destination, Venice. Usually the ship is sailing while we are sleeping and during the day is in a port so we can get off and explore. The captain just announced that our speed will be about 23 mph and we will cover a couple hundred miles tonight.
We have a required disembarkation meeting in a while so they can explain to us what happens when we leave the ship in Venice. Also the crew will be saying goodbye to us. I think it will be a musical program with the crew singing. The Cabin cleaners and dining room workers are from Indonesia and the Philippines. They are always smiling and cheerful.

2009-05-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

May 4

Today we were in Corfu, Greece. It is a sunny town with a gorgeous bay filled with sailboats, yachts, ferries, and cruise ships. After breakfast we set out to explore the town. It is filled with all kinds of stores, some high end, lots of sunglass shops . Every town we’ve been to is congested with traffic so that it’s a little scary to cross the road. I’m finding things very expensive, maybe double or triple what I’d expect to pay, so I just haven’t shopped but enjoyed walking around and seeing things. We always go to a supermarket whenever we come on one to see the different items in that kind of store.
This is an eating cruise. There is a large buffet restaurant on the 9th floor of the ship where you can eat almost any time. The buffet has a salad bar, Asian corner with sushi, rice, noodles, a couple of entrees, an Italian corner, a sandwich line, a dessert line, and offering various main dishes like fish, chicken, vegetarian, all kinds of food. Also there is a special dining room where we can make reservations and be served as in a high end restaurant. Usually when we make those reservations we are seated with various other people so we’ve made new friends and had lots of interesting conversations. Last night it was two couples from Holland and a Korean American professor and his wife. This evening we had dinner with a lovely and interesting British couple. Also there are a few other places to eat on the ship. In fact you could almost eat for 24 hours and the food is quite good. (I feel kind of fat! I did walk loops around the deck this afternoon for 40 minutes but…….)

2009-05-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

May 3

Today we are in Katakolon, Greece. There is a very beautiful seaside community; the weather is warm and sunny.
This morning we had a tour called “Ancient Olympia and Zorba”. We got on a bus and rode for about 40 minutes to the ancient city of Olympia, the site of the first Olympics, which dates back several centuries before Christ. The ruins are there, some in not great condition because of earthquakes, destruction by various people, and fires. I actually ran (jogged) the length of the ancient stadium and I have a video to prove it!) for snacks and a Zorba show. The snacks included Greek wine (orzo?? Not sure if that’s spelled right), olives, meatballs, cheeses, bread, vegetables, and watched a show of Greek dancing. It was fun.
When we arrived back to our ship, we decided to walk through the town of Katakolon, a very touristy but beautiful place. I’m not doing any shopping, finding everything very expensive, but it’s fun to walk around and see everything.

This is a video of our tour group and guide.

2009-05-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

May 2

Today we are at Navplion, Greece. Tony has a cold/laryngitis and needed to take it easy so I was on my own in this small Grecian town. Some lifeboats were put down into the water and used as water taxis to take us to the shore as our ship is anchored out in the bay. I was surprised because I didn’t know the lifeboats were used in this way. I felt a little nervous being by myself for the day but I thought I should take advantage of the opportunity to see this town. Again the weather was perfect; sunny and just a little chill on the water but perfect temperature in the town. Navplion has a very high hill with a fortress on top; 1000 steep steps lead to the top of the hill, so of course the first thing I did was to climb the hill! The view from the top was outstanding! Next I hiked to a fortress located nearer the water. These ancient towns all had fortresses and protection usually in the form of high walls in case enemies were on the way. How lacking in protective powers a 15 foot wall is today! Next I walked all around the town, finding a very large farmer’s market active, being that it’s Saturday morning. All the fruits and vegetables looked so fresh. I especially noticed the artichokes which are so available here. Even though Navplion is a small town, the traffic was pretty congested through the winding and narrow streets. You have to about step into traffic in order to cross the street. One more thing I did which I always enjoy in a foreign country was to visit the “supermarket”. This is my second supermarket for this trip, having gone to one in Italy already. Supermarkets show what average people are buying and for every place it is a little different.
Almost every evening there is entertainment with professional level singers, dancers, and others. Last night was a dancing show; probably 10 young men and ladies provide a Las Vegas style show for maybe 45 minutes, twice in the evening, in a large theater area.

I sound pretty out of breath in the video because I had just climbed the mountain!

2009-05-10T15:50:00.000-07:00

May 1
Today we were at sea all day; it was a sunny and very relaxing day. The temperature was probably in the high 60’s; it felt good to wear a sweater or jacket. Every time I started to read my book, I dozed off. People were sunbathing, sitting in deck chairs, enjoying the view of the sea.
We were invited to a special lunch today hosted by the captain and his staff. It was a lovely lunch and we were seated with a mother and daughter from the Yukon, a lady from NYC, and a couple from somewhere else. Everyone on board is very friendly and it’s easy to meet people.
By tomorrow morning we will be docking in Navplion, Greece. It is a small town with ancient fortresses. From the map we were given, it appears small enough to walk around which we plan to do after breakfast.

Usually the sea was very calm and the waves were hardly noticeable, but this evening there was a rolling sea so I shot a video to show this. It is pleasant to go to sleep with the motion of the waves, like being rocked to sleep. I have not experienced seasickness.

2009-05-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

April 30

Today we are in Messina, Sicily, Italy. Our ship is docked on the strait of water between mainland Italy and the island of Sicily. It was a beautiful sunny day so it was exciting as our ship arrived just before lunch.
This afternoon we had a bus tour to Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. There was a 1 ½ hour bus ride (40 miles on the steep and winding roads) gradually going through towns and villages, edging up the mountainside, sharply navigating the hairpin curves of the road. I admire the bravery of the bus driver; so many times it seemed impossible to make the next curve. In fact, he would often blow his horn as the curve approached to let an oncoming car know we were there.
Mt. Etna is amazing. There is black rock for miles. It has erupted often, most recently within perhaps the last 5 years or so. Near the top where the bus parked, we walked around and it was so cold and windy! I had on three layers but was still cold. The wind could almost knock you over. From Mt. Etna you can see across the villages and countryside all the way to the Mediterranean. It was spectacular.
Tomorrow we are invited for a special lunch with the Captain (along with, I’m sure, dozens of other people?!?) We will be at sea all day on our way to Greece.

The video is very noisy because it was extremely windy up on the mountain; also it was very cold, the coldest I ever felt on this trip.