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HOLIDAYS BEHIND AND 2019 BEGINS

Written by Captain Mary on Saturday, January 19, 2019




A new year begins and we go through all the wishes to be smarter, thinner, more beautiful. The hopes of a stress free life, let me tell you about all those dreams after 60.
My current dream as I wake each morning is, "where did I put the aspirin", because I slept wrong again and my neck or my back is twisted. In spite of the old age pains in the ass, I get up and make another day fun for me in spite of it. I am more focused on going on trips and being with family at the same time. Nothing is better, the location isn't even that important. (Well, not really)
This year will be different as each one is. I am grateful for still walking on this earth and being loved by my friends and family.
None of us really can know how long we will have together on this planet and yet I am so sad to see people who don't understand this fact.
My last years resolutions included spending more time with family, this year I am going to bump it up even more, until they scream "UNCLE", and beg me to go away! Perhaps be a place for my grandchildren to go to keep secrets. As the grandchildren grow older, they really don't need their Nana, but I am so in awe of them.
 My legacy continues and it is beautiful and handsome, my children and grandchildren are my life's greatest gifts. I have no regrets in life and want for nothing more than to see everyone I love happy and fulfilled with dreams that will keep them in the clouds forever.
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2019
 

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MY HOLIDAY SEASON

Written by Captain Mary on Tuesday, November 13, 2018

To me the season starts with Halloween, this year a party at a friends house. So much fun to get together with old friends that have nearly disappeared from our minds. So nice when we can recharge the beautiful friendship that has withstood so many years.
 
Next, was once my favorite. Thanksgiving, not for its historic meaning or for anything except a gathering of my family with food, fun and cheer. Notice I said "was once my favorite". I have such mixed feelings anymore. This year is going to be sissy's turn to host and yet it will be at my brothers house. A large group of people expected, I believe the largest group yet. Not a bad thing at all, the more the merrier, the fun will go on for days.
The small issue I have is getting together with my children and grandchildren, for so many years rotating between myself and their father. Then the last few years it seems like more of a burden than a joyful explosion of love with family and friends.
I almost stepped away from my holiday, because of a guest who was invited whom I can't stand. So many reasons why, not important, I just make it a habit to be around people who enrich my life, not destroy it. Mixed emotions are the fact that my children love this person and they might think that I am not being reasonable, that I should be the one to sacrifice my family holiday for the sake of an outsider, who cannot control their drinking habits and say horrible things not only to me, but to my children and grandchildren. Not understanding how part of my life was spent just trying to survive his abuse. Years have gone by and we were able to put aside our past. Until, a couple of years ago when I found that the person I knew many years ago as an abusive husband had returned, and not only used his horrible words and his wrath on me, but my children and grandchildren. So, as the dilemma continues, I don't want to hurt my children's feelings either.
 I was pondering on this thought with only a couple weeks to go, to Thanksgiving.  I finally decided to call my x and ask him not to attend and give as many reasons as necessary to get him to concede. As I was looking at my phone with this intention a text came through from my daughter who somehow anticipated my needs, as always and made that call for me. I thanked her, but it had to be bittersweet conversation for her and her father. I am so sorry to hurt my child that way, I had agreed to go away while her father was in attendance at my families celebration. That was not acceptable to my daughter, I love her for understanding and I am so sorry to make her hurt her fathers feelings for the sake of mine.
 
The last holiday of the season is Christmas, and I think that it is time to say good-bye to this one. The kids are grown, the actual meaning is not important to me. I lost my father just before Christmas, it now seems like this holiday just isn't worth a celebration. I sound awful this year. All I want to do is leave the country, sit on a beach with a tropical drink in my hand and the sound of the ocean ringing in my ears. Soothing my soul and easing my worried thoughts. I want everyday of my life to be full of smiles and love. 

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28 DAYS, A SOUTH PACIFIC ADVENTURE

Written by Captain Mary on Saturday, January 27, 2018


While fresh in my mind, even though my mind isn't so fresh anymore, I want to tell you about my last trip. A big one, 28 days at sea, crossing the Pacific Ocean with my sister Cheryl and her husband Joe. Planning for more than a year this trip was already paid for and only needed money for the fun stuff. This is the way to do it. Boarding "The Emerald Princess" after my flight to LA., excited and yet only a couple of hours away from departure. Cutting it close my friends is the way I go. As all great adventures, it starts with a thought or should I say a dream. I have a Bucket List, which has gone through a lot of completions in the years. I put down in my mind where I would love to go and basically I go. On my list I wanted to complete all 50 states of the USA, this trip would allow that check mark on the Bucket List and Bora Bora was on my list also. Check and check again.

I started by what is always an opportunity in my book. In the mail I got the specials for upcoming trips with Princess Cruises. As I looked through the specials I see, for an amazing price, the destinations on my Bucket List. I proceed to call my favorite travel agent, Cheryl, and tell her to check out this special and book me on it. I didn't care about anything at the time but going on the next adventure. A couple hours later my sister calls back and announced that "WE" are booked. Much to my amazement, WE, she told me "That one of the destinations was also on her list, like hell I was going without her". Much to my happiness I now have a couple of partners in the adventure of a life time, once again. I keep saying that and I am blessed to have it happen time and time again. After 14 months or so of planning the trip is here.

Now standing on the deck of my ship, for what will be my home for nearly a month. It starts to sink in, I am on my way. Finding my sister and our room was the first part of business and the days ahead is the next. Thinking this is great, 4 days at sea to find my way around the ship and see what she has to offer. I don't know about you but time always speeds up when you are on vacation! Finding my favorite spots to hang out and finding the Casino were well established after our sea time.

On Friday the 13th, October 2017 we land in Hilo, Hawaii. Our 50th state on my list, check! Just coming into port your eyes, ears and senses are on overload. Off on our first excursion, I am going on a separate place, which I had hoped was going to end with a Helicopter ride, the weather ended that little dream. Oh well, too much to see in meanwhile.
 
 
Much of the foliage was familiar, yet because of the rich soil and beautiful weather the plants looked like they were on steroids. Enjoying the splendid landscape and some mushy trails, the group stopped along the Cliffside to enjoy a BBQ of native foods. Special in everyway, I had no idea at the time that each location the ship embarked would be better than the last. Our next destination was only a short cruise away, by the time we wake up in the morning we will be in Honolulu, Hawaii. From here on in I will be joined with my cruise partners on excursions. Cher and Joe selected this hike up to Diamond Head Crater, much to my surprise, the difficulty would earn us a certificate of completion.
 
 
Atop the summit of Diamond Head the city of Honolulu looks so small. It was a brutal climb but well worth the amazing vistas. Back to the ship, minus my reading glasses, somewhere in the crater lies my glasses and my vision of seeing anything close. Finding another pair will be part of my future adventure. Getting old sucks. Our next stop close by is Maui,(Lahaina) definitely a place to enjoy the water.
 

morning was a snorkel trip, but due to rough weather we had to go to plan B, which was in a cove protected by the waves, the underwater world was a bit murky, but the trip back gave us an opportunity to see whales and dolphins, which was an unseasonal gift. A great crew and despite the discomfort made us feel right at home. The evening was a delight of dancing and traditional Luau, we ate and loved getting together at a social event much like the native Hawaiians do. I do understand why people love going to this destination, the people are amazing and the scenery is never ending. Formed by volcanos it's hard to imagine that such turmoil of Mother Nature could turn out so beautiful. The next destination on our route will bring us to Kauai, (Nawiliwili), like I said each spot gets better and better.
 

 The beauty of this place is breathtaking. We traveled around the island from one beautiful spot to another. Mostly with our mouths wide open. Waterfalls, cliffs, landscape, blowholes and lookouts beyond our dreams.

 The next day will be on the far side of the big island, Kona. Another location full of beautiful landscape, river cruise, fern grotto and always local entertainment.
 
 
  The destination after 4 days at sea will be Pago Pago, American Samoa. While waiting to arrive at our next destination we enjoyed the art actions and my countless hours in the Casino, not doing too bad. I am a light weight when it comes to gambling, some people we met spent a fortune in that place. In the casino the noise and excitement is a special place even if your loosing, to live where possibilities are abundant. So much to do on the ship, it didn't seem like there would be enough time, between my visit to the spa (which were countless) and casino, art sales and just hanging out with the amazing people we met. The parties on the ship and just relaxing under the stars watching movies on the deck, time flew. Of course, trying not to miss the crazy drinks and happy hours that become part of our days at sea was part of this well rounded itinerary.

Gentle breezes and blue skies, almost daily dose of rainbows, how does it get better? Did I mention the food on the ship, well, I had no complaints and I am picky. The specialty restaurants were amazing and diverse, from steaks to pots of crabs, yum was the word of choice.

The beautiful small island of Pago Pago, was a treat in spite of it being a Sunday. In general the people do not participate in work on this day, that is their family day and church. Since they only get about 4 ships a month to their port, they were so gracious to give us the privilege of welcoming us in spite of their customs.
 
 
The people never worry about tourist taking over their island, for all the land is owned by family groups. They have their own gardens and each enjoy a life of peace and serenity. Only in dreams we wish this could be like America. This American island, isn't anything like America. A couple more days at sea before I get to check off yet another place on my list. You guessed it, Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
 

Snorkeling with sharks and rays who sometimes get under foot. The waters were crystal clear and the temperature was pretty good once the afternoon sun warmed it.
 
 
Who wants to leave this place, or you kidding me!  They will have to grab me kicking and screaming to get me back on the ship. Up steep roads to the top we made our way around by 4X4 vehicle. Each panoramic view better than the last. A couple more days at sea for me to savor the beauty that is now burned into my brain. Time for us to tell stories and have more fun with our friends, drink and dine till we drop. The next location on our tour through French Polynesia will be Papeete, Tahiti. The next morning we cross between beautiful reefs before we come to a stop. Hanging over our balcony rail, seeing a busy, bustling city. Perhaps a bit surprised at how commercial it was, yet there has to be a hub for supplies to the other islands.
 
 
Once we boarded our 4x4 vehicle we moved away from the hustle and bustle to see the interior of this beautiful island, with waterfalls, rock stacking, eels and so many other amazing sights.

Our last but not least stop along the islands of the Pacific lies a small gorgeous island called Moorea.
 
 
Cruises are definitely a place to see and get a taste of your dreams. Hoping to come back another day and spend all the time you can. Last of our on shore port of calls we begin our 8 day sea voyage. A little sad, but excited because now we can get ready for Halloween, spend time with friends and melt away any stress we might have. Personally I don't think I can find any stress. Catching up on those things I want to do on the ship, shows, trivia and so much more. Couldn't get bored without making an effort to do so. Sorry no effort just go with the flow.
 
Halloween now on the horizon, Cher and myself decide to make a day of it. We brought our costumes with us. So much fun to see the whole ship decorated the staff in costume. There was dancing and fun beyond fun. 
 
 
The mood on the ship was one of joy and our home away from home was virtually perfect. We traveled 11,531 statue miles in 28-Days. It seemed like a blink in time once we landed and we had to say good-bye to our wonderful friends. As the motto of Princess Cruises says "Come Back New". A trip of a life time over and now I feel so renewed I can't wait until my next adventure.

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THANKSGIVING 2015

Written by Captain Mary on Wednesday, December 09, 2015

My favorite holiday of the year. Even though I only get to cook once every 5 years, the food is always amazing. We rotate who hosts this wonderful event, giving us opportunity to travel to destinations for the holiday.

The weather was amazing, most of the time family and friends spent their time outdoors. The time was full of laughter and stories from the past, hopes for the future and the snickers of children looking forward to the time that the treats come out. Hours past as we enjoyed the food, fun, and friendship.

I look back now and it seems so far away as Christmas approaches. I wish that their was more time spent on this most amazing, free from commercialism, holiday. I have only a small wish for everyone out there, I wish that you enjoy your family and friends all year round as much as I do today and every Thanksgiving Day.

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AN EVENING OF FUN

Written by Captain Mary on Monday, October 31, 2011

I belong to this fantastic social group, The Upper Keys Sons & Daughters of Italy. Most everybody is Italian or of Italian descent. We allow a ten percent social membership, just for fun. And they are all fun. We have young members and old. This is our third Annual Dinner Dance and it is my second time attending. The group was only established a mere 4 years ago and our membership is over 200 strong. I danced the night away, the music was old and new, Italian and everything in between.


 I spent most of the evening dancing and enjoying the company of my friend Tony, my Dad and his friend Marlene, my sister and brother-in-law. Dad was my guest, but if you didn't know, he was just like a part of the chapter. We had the dinner at the Big Chill, a Jimmy Johnson restaurant. They do a fantastic job, the wine flowed like water, courtesy of the chapter. Our servers had to be the best, all you would have to do is think of what you wanted and it magically appeared. I danced so much that I lost the soles of my new shoes, they just flew off. By the end of the night, it turned into the old people version of Dirty Dancing. The best we could do with our decrepit bodies. Romance in the air, love and slow dancing. A night out for the chapter membership is without a doubt some of the best fun ever.


 The music was so familiar that one could not help to sing a-long, as you can see my Dad was doing. Everybody danced and sung, the best song had to be "We are family" by Sly and the Family Stone. Every person was on the dance floor, even the ones who didn't dance the whole night. This was the song to bring it on down!
I find it so easy to play the Italian way, it is an opportunity to be back where your heritage began, but in Key Largo. I remember when I was growing up and visiting Boston, where most of my extended family lives, there was always this closeness and family was always number one. Being in a community of Italians, is like going home. I will fondly remember the fruit carts and the accents along the city streets where all the Italians lived in East Boston. The Sons & Daughter of Italy is like that, are monthly meetings, full of food, special events, and bocce balls.That's not what happens when it gets cold, it's a game. I am still smiling from all the fun, I could use more days like this.

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ANOTHER BIRTHDAY DOWN

Written by Captain Mary on Tuesday, July 12, 2011

....HOW MANY MORE TO GO? What a crazy question. I look at my birthday now differently than I did before. I would fight the thought of them and leave the country every time my birthday came. My thought was, that if I wasn't here I didn't get any older and I held at 29 for a very long time. The last few years I have been home and well, when I look at my face in the mirror it looks like they all caught up in a very short time.
I did realize one thing, I do feel loved and that is more than anyone could ever ask for, in a lifetime of birthdays. My friends sent greetings and wishes, one friend even hid a gift in my truck, good thing it wasn't perishable! It wasn't really hidden, I guess I just wasn't expecting such a surprise.
My wonderful children and I went out for dinner, the place wasn't the best part of the evening. It was a great opportunity to have conversation with my two very favorite people in the world. I look into their faces and see what kind of people they have become. Their hearts are so beautiful, they love unconditionally and I am so glad that I am on their list. My children make me feel like the only person in the world that matters. I know that I am not, but I sure feel special when I look into their faces. I don't know if I really had anything to do with the way they turned out, but if I could take credit for perfect creations, they would be it.
I think about the birthdays that have passed and the places I have been, I don't know if it would really be fair to ask any more from my life, since I have had so much. I have so many fantastic friends and the best family ever, I go to sleep every night and dream sweetly, thinking about how special my life has been. Even the bad stuff doesn't really seem to hinder my thoughts. I can only hope that the next year will be as fulfilling, for as each day passes I love and learn.
Best wishes to everyone who has another birthday, its not just another day, its another opportunity. The years pass so fast, it always gives me something to look back at and encourages me to look forward to each and every day.

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MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, January 02, 2011

The holidays now behind us, with wonderful days of family and friends. Oh, how I wish it would last forever. So many cheerful happy people, well I am going to make that effort to keep the seasons jolly. We just don't smile enough.
My Christmas was delayed just a day or so, but it was well worth it. The most fun of the holiday was working with my grandchildren, while they created gifts for their parents. I know that this was a gift from the heart. Any parent who gets a homemade gift appreciates it. It really is the thought that counts! I was gifted by having the best kids in the world. No matter how many miles separate us, I always get a message from them that they are thinking about me.
I was busy for New Years with a great New Year's Eve party at the Sons and Daughters of Italy, we danced and had so much fun. Being separated only by miles, I spent time with my sister and her husband, both Christmas and New Years. I wish that we could all be together, but somehow I know that I am in their thoughts and them in mine.
My message and New Years resolution is to stay in touch with family and friends, just like it was the holidays everyday. This will certainly take some work, but well worth anything so important.
New Years Day was a great party too. My friend had his 70th birthday, what a bash. A beginning with a classic car cruise, through Coconut Grove and a party that had everything you could dream of. Even had some party crashers. I am so gifted to be able to share with my friends these special moments.
I wish for everyone to get things back to family and return the love that is special in hug or a kiss.
To a great 2011, it is up to all of us to put a smile on our faces and forget about the stupid little things that really have no meaning in the big scene. Love to all.

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THANKSGIVING

Written by Captain Mary on Monday, November 29, 2010

Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday. The traditional meaning holds no importance to me. I have found that the meaning of Thanksgiving is so much more than re-playing a historical event.
I anticipate the day each year whether it is my turn to cook or not. A chance, no, an opportunity, no, an honor to be able to look into the eyes of my sisters, brother, children, grandchildren, Dad and other members of the family and friends. To touch them and talk with them, we replay our happiest times in our lives. It is a time for me to remember the love this holiday brings to me.
For my family and friends that can't make the event, they are still thought of, we talk about the past Thanksgivings and the year in review. It is a time to sit around the dinner table and be a family. I remember that the dinner table when I was growing up, was the place where we would catch up on the events of the day and, of course, get the advice from the parents about life and the right thing to do. Thanksgiving was always the time I remember as a gathering of family and friends. We talk so much, it's a wonder we ever slow our mouths enough to eat anything. I love the walks between entrees to work off some of the stuffing, not the turkey stuffing but the people stuffing.
The days before Thanksgiving are full of kitchen gathering and helping each other. Enjoying the phone calls with each other making the arrangements for our ultimate meeting on Thanksgiving Day.
This year I missed my children and grandchildren, rotating between me and their father, I miss the young kids running around and the filling of their plates. The kids eyes so big and their plates so full, because they want to taste everything.
Anytime I am with my family and friends is a holiday, I love to watch their smiles and hear the stories, a time to catch up and feel love.
I wish everyday was Thanksgiving Day.

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LADY BEARS-MEMORY BEARS

Written by Captain Mary on Tuesday, September 28, 2010



(made from old Christmas dress)

CLICK HERE FOR OFFICAL SITE OF LADY BEARS

LADY BEAR'S
BY MONICA


PRICE INFORMATION

Each Memory Bear is handcrafted from your re-claimed materials.

Prices vary according to the material, some fabrics must be lined and require additional expense.

We do not wash your material in order to preserve the memory.
A $20 deposit is required with your order.


(made from baby blanket)

We offer one size bear, 18".

Prices range from $50 and up, depending on the material.

After receiving your material, we will call or E-mail you with a quote.

Please allow 2 weeks for completion of your Bear. (Except for Holiday orders, allow additional time).

ladybearsbymonica@att.net

for shipping address & information.
Standard shipping & insurance is $10.00 additional.

We also have already constructed Bears, at discounts, check our website to see what is available.

We offer quantity discounts, please let us know how many LADY BEARS you would like.

LADY BEARS are not infant safe unless requested.

We offer music boxes for an additional $10.00. (Great for Holiday Gifts)



Each Bear requires approximately 1 yard of fabric.

We are happy to create a bear from just about anything, wedding dresses, curtains, baby blanket, kids soccer uniforms, grandpa's old fishing shirt,

grandma's favorite house dress, old pillows, sheets, bedspreads, jeans, Christmas dresses, the list is endless....

Lady Bear's are soft and cuddly, crafted to cherish your memory for a long time.

Let your imagination be the guide.

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MEMORY BEARS BY MONICA

Written by Captain Mary on Friday, September 10, 2010

Mention a "Memory Bear" and not too many people know exactly what that is. Monica is starting a new business just in time for Christmas.
What is a "Memory Bear", well, it's a stuffed toy made out of a blanket your little one carried around for years and you can't seem to part with it, but it is stuffed in the closet somewhere. Well, drag it out for re-purposing, and watch the smiles. No kids, well what about Grandpa's flannel shirt he always wore when he took you fishing, you could give it to Grandpa as a memory of your time together. Maybe someone passed and you want a happy way to remember them forever. How about that christening outfit that is now so yellow and is stashed under a bunch of junk in the closet. How about that outfit you wore on your trip to the Islands on your honeymoon, your wedding dress, your kids soccer jersey they out-grew. Got a cap and gown from graduation, what a great memory, let Monica make you a cuddly memory. There are so many special times that can be remembered, what better than having a Cuddly Memory Bear by Monica.

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CHRISTMAS PARTY TIME

Written by Captain Mary on Monday, December 15, 2008





I have the opportunity to enjoy something that I had somehow lost in the years gone by. Christmas parties with friends. Last weekend was a fantastic gathering of friends and family, well friends that are like my family. I wish that the rest of my gang could all get together more often and have festive parties.




This party was my second at the Davis house and as always, the food was as festive looking as its flavor. Certainly I ate my share of that famous fudge, my fingers were covered in confections while placing them on platters and my resistance became weak. I savored every bite of chocolate and cookies and all the other goodies Shelah presented.




The most fun was just being with the gang, ever since I left my Karate school I miss my daily doze of these freaky friends of mine.



I am low on cash this year, but I wanted to give something to everyone, so I got out my crochet hook and yard and began making hats, scarfs, purses and also made some candles, I even made my own Christmas cards, out of recyled materials. I had so much fun and I enjoyed the appreciation of my small gifts. Everybody was wearing one of my creations and they looked adorable in them. I can never thank my friends enough for letting me be part of their fun.

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NANA CLAUS WORKSHOP

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, December 14, 2008




I have a special love for arts and crafts and want to extend that love to my grandchildren and friends when I can. I arranged a Workshop for the kids and collected all kinds of goodies and piled them on the table for them. The minute they walked in the door they began grabbing things and letting their minds go wild. The workshop started at 7pm and continued until I had exhaustion on my head at about 11pm that evening.

There was 7 children in the group and all their minds work in different ways. They created some fantastic ornaments and miniature Christmas trees made out of pine cones. They were most successful out of making a mess, but isn't that what makes it fun. It was nice that they exhausted some of my supplies that have sat in boxes and draws for far too long. Instead, they created things that will last for years and bring memories of the fun we had at Nana Claus Workshop.

The fun didn't end there, my 4 grandchildren spent the night so that their parents could get a little bit of a break. The next morning my son came over, because he had a school project that had to be completed. It turned out fantastic, Jason always comes by to do the kids projects, because I have so many supplies.


After doing some cleaning I realized that I had not made anything for myself. I proceeded to create a center piece for the table. I admit that I had as much fun as the kids did. I hope that this tradition lasts for years, it gives the kids a chance to get excited about the Christmas Season when they become part of it.

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THANKSGIVING WEEKEND

Written by Captain Mary on Thursday, December 11, 2008




I had a wonderful time with family and friends, the time was too short. The food was excellent, here are a couple of pics for your enjoyment.

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QUESTION OF THE MONTH

Written by Captain Mary on Monday, December 01, 2008

Thanksgiving has just passed and the question this month is "Did you eat too much?", just kidding! Really,
"Besides all the traditional food that is served on this wonderful Holiday, what did your feast have that was outstanding?"

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CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAY

Written by Captain Mary on Thursday, November 27, 2008

Sorry no posts during the holiday, I am out of town eating myself into a comma.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING

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TURKEY DAY IS COMING

Written by Captain Mary on Thursday, November 20, 2008

This has to be my favorite holiday, less stress, and more fun. I don't always get to be with my kids but that is alright, they rotate between parents. This is a holiday for traveling. This year, the turkey and trimmings are at my sissy's house in Central Florida. I have to find some clothing to wear because going north it gets cold. I am sitting here with my shorts on, the last couple of days have been a bit chilly in the 60's. It's all I can do to stay warm at night. Thank goodness my kritters have the same thought, last night I had about a half dozen kitties and my two dogs keeping me warm. When I woke this morning, I looked up to see bodies everywhere.
My family rotates the Thanksgiving Holiday, which is a great idea, between the four of us. Next year is my turn and there is no way to out-do my sister Cheryl, but I don't feel bad. I just look forward to the next one. Last year was at my brothers home with lots and lots of food and lots and lots of people. It's always different and it's always fun. After my turn is June's, she has the right idea, no stress, no mess in the kitchen, no exhaustion, she caters the affair and enjoys the fun. We all get a chance to visit the Keys, do a little fishing and sun-bathing.
All our lives have changed so much, the kids have grown, some have their own kids and their own celebrations, some people have to work and some are retired. No matter how the miles separate us, we still enjoy the time and the smiles we have together. Each day is special in our lives and knowing I have family and friends that I can call anytime I need one of those smiles, is precious.
Happy Thanksgiving.

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HALLOWEEN PARTY

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, November 02, 2008

Me as a Flapper




Kitty as a Classic lady of the Evening

It's been years and years since I went to a Halloween Party, but this year I did it! Not like my best friend, Shelah, was going to let me sit home anyway. She told me if I didn't get a costume she would. It started hours before the event with costume and make-up and keeping the dog from snagging my stockings. Best thing about dressing up, my daughter, Monica, keeps a hardy supply of costumes on hand.




Jesse and Carlo



Dave, Shelah and Father Jeff


It was a grand affair, with lots of people in great costumes, and my friends were awesome. The party was full of pirates, cowboys, immigrants, ghouls and goblins, gangsters and hoodlums, the costumes were great and the music was too. We danced the night away, all the way into daylight saving time.


Jesse and Luke's Grill


Sweet Charlotte

As the liquor flowed our brains turned to mush, but the fun continued. Even though some people had masks on, you could tell they were smiling. Halloween is a fun holiday where we get an opportunity to be something different, play roles and enjoy the gathering of great people.



Father Jeff

Can you find the Puppy?


A festival of fun and fantasy.




CLICK HERE FOR MORE FUN PICS

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THE SPOOKS WERE OUT LAST NIGHT

Written by Captain Mary on Saturday, November 01, 2008






My daughter came by with the kids to go Trick or Treating, but when she arrived my once fun neighborhood was dark. The indication as you well know is a light on at the front door. My neighborhood was very quiet, so we headed out in the car to find a better place. As we drove down the side streets full of darkness we happened upon a great neighborhood not far away.



My daughter had become very discouraged for this is her very favorite holiday, but then things began to light up and the Spooks came out, the boys, Max and Sam, were going from house to house, filling their bags full of goodies. Some of the houses were decorated in perfect Halloween fashion.



The evening became a festival of fun for the kids and I am so glad I got to enjoy their faces when the Spooks came out.

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BLACK BELT TESTING

Written by Captain Mary on Monday, October 27, 2008




I was in the zone while testing, which means my focus was to do the best I could and not let anything or anyone distract me. My friend Scott took some pictures because everyone who had a camera was also testing. After looking at the photos I was convinced that I did well, not to mention I didn't get the phone call that said I failed. My instructor did tell me that some of my timing on my hand movements were off. I will work on that for next time, the graduation ceremony is tomorrow evening and I have my speech ready to go. I will probably fumble through it, because this is something I am so nervous about, but I am also proud of my achievement. I will be there to cheer on my friends who have worked so hard to get their promotion too. I can't wait, tomorrow seems so far away.






This weekend I was also lucky to give a kitten away to a new home, a cute little boy, #5, I can't wait to find out what his new name is, thank you Emily for giving a good home to my little boy.


The kids had great fun at the first Halloween party of the season, hosted by Monica and Jeff. They wrapped each other in toilet paper to make mummy's, it was funny to watch and Monica had some of the greatest decorations, jars of eye balls, ghosts in a cup, a jar of lost soles, and everything she had was edible. Tis the season to get ready to spook and party, just the beginning of Halloween celebrations, all the witches will be out!

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HALLOWEEN PROJECT

Written by Captain Mary on Monday, October 13, 2008


It's the time of the year when all the spooks come out. The place to come is my house for your crafting needs. I have been collecting goodies for years and I have just about everything you can think of to make all kinds of crafts.

My son brought over his kids to create a Halloween project for school, we needed buttons, cardboard, fabric, hay, glue, and some miscellaneous items. It was a family project and what we created came out wonderful. Jasmine worked hard coloring and picking out just the right colors to go with her Scarecrow project, buy the time she had finished; with our help, it was just picture perfect.

I think Jason had more fun than the kids, for this was the first time he got to use a glue gun, and I don't even know how a home can run without one. I fix loose wall anchors, repair small items, fix my sparring gear, repair torn screens and a ton more of items with my glue guns.

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