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Aerojet Facility and Family Fun

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, February 24, 2013

Today we planned a bike ride, with my son, Jason, daughter, Monica, her beloved, Jeff and grandson, Max. We headed out on an amazing adventure to one of Florida's Abandoned Past. A place that is far down into Homestead, passing the farmers fields and just before the Everglades National Park. Down an almost abandoned road lies a facility that has long been forgotten.

The road access is limited, at the end of access are signs "Keep Out", but there is no one to tell us otherwise. It is a good place to explore. Along the roadways are many abandoned buildings. Most doors are welded shut and mounds of rock and soil are piled up, so that no one can access the buildings, but there are many ways in. It reminded me so much of my teens, when it was so much fun to find and explore abandoned houses, farms, fields and what ever else we could find. We would then explore, as if we were on an adventure or perhaps some place in the future where we were looking back into the past. Into the ruins of civilizations that have long past.

The Aerojet Facility has a long past, in the mid 1960's it was testing rockets for NASA, mixing solids and liquid fuels, experimenting until they got it right. After the 3rd launch the facility was forced to close after the toxins from the launch poisoned much of the Everglades, farms and ruined peoples homes and property. The Aerojet 260 rocket still remains at this facility over 100 feet below the ground, sealed off from most on-lookers.The history of the place was just a plus, the environment of the area is what has the most interest. I climbed over mountains of rubble to look at what remained. Darkened corridors made my mind wonder about what it was like some 45 years ago. Like a detective we all looked at gauges and hoses, each building had it purpose and our purpose was to figure out what it once was. Almost every wall was adorned with amazing graffiti, we all spoke of how these artist were wasting their talents on something only a few people will ever gaze upon.

We went into each building, some made sounds that made them very creepy. It was so interesting to see how nature eventually takes over these man-made structures. As the building crumble, they leave behind remnants of asbestos and who knows what other toxins. We looked deep into holes, that are now filled with stagnant water, only wondering what lurks beneath our view. Light fixtures still hanging from the ceiling and attached to the crumbling walls. Canals run along the back of the buildings, where once barges could transport rockets to the Space Coast.

As we entered one of the buildings we were delighted to see a very large Owl take flight, he had a very large wing span and was light in color. As we explored that building we found where he had his meals, little skeletons of rodents remain. The air was so silent I could hear a fly, literally. The only sounds we heard were the creaking of metal and the leaves moving in the wind. So far from civilization, looking at a once bustling facility, now abandoned and virtually forgotten. What remains is a nature trail now and a look into a past that very few will ever see or know about.

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HOLY MOLE

Written by Captain Mary on Saturday, February 16, 2013

Today, I spent much of the day doing yard work, looking around to remodel some of my landscaping. Working at a slow pace, but still having a little problem with snags. Snags??? Yep! I am talking about this annoying and hideous mole that I have on my leg. It is so large it sticks through my fish net stockings, and can't be hidden with just one band aide. I have had it with this thing. It has been snagged so often it is just hanging there, so every time I touch it I am in pain.

Couldn't help thinking about this thing. So, I finally decided that I was going to remove it myself. Yes!!! Self-Surgery. First, I gathered my supplies, Betadine solution, scissors, eye glasses (so I can see), face cloths, cotton balls and spray on anesthetic. Preparing the mole for removal and my tools for surgery, I began. There was just one problem, it is creepy cutting yourself. I started by just snipping a little bit at a time, cringing at the thought of hurting myself. I am not fond of pain! After a few minutes it was time to make the final snip.

I looked at this hideous ball of flesh, and wondered why it took me so long to cut it off. Again, disinfecting my little wound and bandaging it, I sighed in relief and look forward to wearing fish net stockings again. I continued my yard work without a snag or even thinking about the mole that ended up in my trash. I thought about keeping it, but pushed that thought right out of my head. I thought I would share this little tidbit with my readers, something a little gross and perhaps a bit crazy. I just wonder how much it would have cost to have the mole excised at a doctors office!

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A DAY IN A DAZE

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, February 10, 2013



A Saturday that was delightful in store for me. I was asked by my son if I was up for a bit of fishing along the canals near the Everglades. As always, I never say no to an adventure, no matter how small or large. If I think about the alternative of staying home watching T.V. or putting around the house, this seemed like a great alternative. Actually, I don't think that I really pondered on it too much at all.

Gathering up some fishing equipment and a backpack with some necessary supplies, I headed to Homestead for the days adventure. Not much of a drive toward our destination of a tree-lined canal. The day was perfect for a bit of a hike. The trail down the canal seemed endless and amazingly remote. It is great to live in South Florida, with a bit of a drive you can be alone without a soul around and immersed in nature. No sounds of traffic or people, just the creaking of branches and the ripple of the water. Some how a peace comes over me and I don't think about the walk or anything else. 

Casting lures over and over hoping for a bite or even a nibble. The water was clear enough to see the fish chasing the bait, but nothing big enough or hungry enough to make into the cooler. It didn't seem to matter much, as we watched buzzards circling and listened to the sounds in the swamp that surrounded us. Imagination getting into our heads as we thought about what could be lurking beyond our sight. Virtually alone down this abandoned road we enjoyed the day with its riches and surrounded by the sounds of nothing. Hours seemed to pass and without a thought in my head, it seemed like the perfect way to spend a day. 


Eventually, it was time to head down the road back to civilization. Instead we drove down some roads that had abandoned tree farms and canals, perhaps looking for another chance to throw a line out. We found a rickety old dock, down a rocky road, and an abandoned missile base. Another road to try on another day.  

Making another attempt at heading home, hunger struck me as we passed the "Gator Grill". We have passed this little hole in wall a bunch of times and never stopped. We walked in to this little place with this very pleasing menu. We ordered gator bites and frog legs as our starters. Ordered a couple of sandwich's and picked out or hot sauces among the counter full of them. Sitting outside on picnic tables we chatted and enjoyed the meal that was amazing. Perhaps the best tasting frog legs and gator that I ever had. 

Every time I hang out with my son, I find that I don't get home until after dark. I was surprised that we had arrived at his house while it was still daylight. We went outside to enjoy the late afternoon breeze and started playing word games and sudoku. Before I knew it the time was nearly 10 PM, an effortless day has passed before my eyes. I think everyone should spend a day clearing their head and enjoying what is really important.

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MY KITCHEN COUNCILOR

Written by Captain Mary on Wednesday, February 06, 2013

I don't have an exotic job, nor do I get up in the morning and look through my closet for the latest fashion trend to put on for the office. No make-up, just soap and water, and I look through my clothing for the worst looking, bleach stained things to put on my body to head out for a day of work. Granted, my self esteem is not assisted by my wardrobe choices. Instead my spirits our lifted by my customers, most of which, have been with me for over 10 years.

It doesn't seem awkward to just open the door and walk through as if it were my own home. What they don't know, is that I get more out of these relationships than they know.  These relationships started out as an exchange of work for money, then for some reason it became something I look forward to. Some customers are great friends, others are just like family, but I have one who by far has made a place for me to change my life. Just imagine how lucky I am to have counseling every week for over 10 years. Imagine the cost. When she is out of town, I miss her dearly, I have to work through my dilemmas on my own. I hear her voice in the back of my brain and work it out.

My Kitchen Councilor shall remain anonymous, if I reveal her name, I would have to wait in line and I wouldn't be able to have her all to myself. From the mundane, to the massive, she can tackle any problem that I can conjure up. When I bring my daughter to work with me, I can hardly get a word in, my counseling session is taken away for the day. I don't mind, because my Kitchen Councilor can put a perspective on a problem that gives you that moment of aha! Why didn't I think of that?

I remember how crazy I was and how I was very emotional, a bit brass too. I now take my time and have figured out what is really important in life. The things that seemly appear to be inconsequential, like smelling a flower seem more important than thinking about the bills that are due. A matter of fact the smell of the flowers reached more of my senses and made me feel better than just going through life not paying attention. Laughing and talking while scrubbing carpet stains, it doesn't get any better than that!!

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WALK IN THE WILD....

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, February 03, 2013


Working on sharping my photo skills and the fact that my son just got a new camera, we headed out with the kids on a family photo competition. We headed to the Everglades for some wild photos. I worked on some special effects and trying to capture a scene with my eye. The most unusual photo of my day was caught in a gators eye.
If you look you can see my family in the reflection of his eye. This was not planned, but it was a great effect.

The day was beautiful, nice and cool, we had hours and hours of good light for taking pictures and as always an opportunity to spend with the family. Once we got away from the crowds we could be more creative and take our time.

My camera has a setting called color accent, which I selected the blue of the sky in the reflection of the water. I think it brings something special to a normally boring photo.



I do like black and white, and took several photos, this one was one of my favorites.


This alligator was inches from the path, and I couldn't resist zooming in on his wonderfully white teeth. We all took photos, some with the same subjects, and then there were photos that surprised us. The kids were outstanding in their composition and their macro skills. Everything was done without a tripod and good timing.


It was extremely difficult to decide who pictures were the best, because everyone had an outstanding photo. Much to my surprise I would have to admit that the over-all winner of our family photo challenge had to be Jasmine. Max and Jonathan had some amazing photos and I hope to see them posted somewhere. Jason, by far had the most detailed and sharp photos, he had a definite advantage with his new camera.

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SIBLING WEEKEND

Written by Captain Mary on Wednesday, January 30, 2013

An opportunity was posted to me, and I believe that a person should never pass on an opportunity. My sister June was heading toward Orlando for a convention of sorts and asked if I would like to ride along. I had so much fun last time, even though I was alone during most of the time, I figured that my other family members were close by and I could fill my time with them.

June picked me up around one and we got on the road shortly afterward. The drive toward Orlando is about 4 hours, and it seems that we never run out of things to talk about. We were going to meet our other sister, the baby, Cheryl, in Orlando for dinner. As time passed we exchanged phone messages with Cheryl who arrived very early in Orlando. Cheryl passed the time by walking the mall, and June and I, made an effort to get there as soon as we could.

Arriving at the hotel, with Cheryl standing there with a big smile. The three of us together again, the feeling of all the pieces together, our different personalities somehow making one crazy family unit. I can't ignore the warm fuzzy feeling I get when I am with my siblings. Family, to me, is far more important than anything I could ever think of. Nothing even comes close to making me feel this good. I am always reminded of the times we had together, the adventures, the turmoil, and mostly the funny stuff. While Cheryl was waiting for us to arrive she located a great Italian restaurant for us to have dinner together. First, we got June checked into to hotel, and she introduced us to some of the members of the club. I stood there very proud to be part of this sisterly trio as June introduced us to her friends.

Off to dinner we went, a bit of a walk, but we laughed and talked the entire way. The restaurant was a bit unusual, we were asked if we would like a table in the kitchen. I said "No", right away. We walked through the kitchen like a mini tour before heading toward our table, stopping by a table with the revolving head of the "Pope". The atmosphere was joyful and had a great aura about it. Our server, a good looking young man, made us feel welcome and part of an Italian family. The festivities began and my voice tends to get loud, Cheryl says, "inside voice, Mary". Now, with my inside voice, my mouth runs on as I flirt with our good looking server, June says, "Catholic voice". Now, I am talking with my inside Catholic voice, yeah right, that lasted a couple of minutes. A couple of friends of June's showed up at our table because they heard we would be there. I felt like a celebrity, or maybe a freak show at a circus, no matter, we had a great time. The dinner was fantastic and the conversation was ours.

Time to depart each other temporarily, June remaining at the hotel for her meetings and I was to follow Cheryl to her house. A couple hours down the road ends and we make our way to Beverly Hills, Florida. Still talking, we finally had to end the evening, Cheryl had to work the whole weekend, although we have limited time together, it is special and we make the most of it.

I feel asleep on the couch watching T.V., I couldn't help going outside to try some night time photos before bed. It seemed as if my sleep went so quickly, before I knew it, the smell of coffee woke me and an opportunity to talk with sister before she went to work. I noticed it was still very dark, it wasn't even 5 am, but with 2 cups of coffee in me now, going back to sleep would be insane. A couple hours later my dad called and it was time to go and spend some time with my much cherish parent. This would be a time to spend alone with Daddy. We went out to breakfast spending our time reminiscing about the times we had together. The stories of our adventures together that were only ours. The hours passed so quickly and it was time to return to Cheryl's house.

Before Cheryl could return home, I got a call from my brother, who said he would pick me up and that after Cheryl got a bit of rest she could join us. I am certain that wasn't in her plans, but she is such a trooper, she came by and we talked and talked. After the evening Cheryl and I spend some girly time together, but the time again flew by and it was time to sleep, our last evening together. Again, falling asleep on the couch I was awoken with a kiss on my forehead. I got a warm feeling of love that made the rest of day full of joy. Got packed up and headed to my brothers house, upon my arrival the gate opened welcoming me. Hugs from my nephew is always a good start to the morning.

Charles and Mel had afternoon plans, a bridal shower, with friends. I was going to go along and meet their friends and crash the party. The morning we spent at what you would think as mundane errands, was a time for me and my brother to spend together, laughing and enjoying each other. Nothing serious in our conversation, just time to catch up and be brother and sister. Like the day with my Daddy, my chance to be his little girl again. Each moment with my sisters, brother and father warmed my heart, and filled that space that becomes a void after not hearing from them for any period of time.

Ready now for our afternoon out, being introduced to Charles and Mel's friends, I felt like a celebrity all over again. A great group of people and watching a young couple in love make the plunge to the next stage. Hope in their eyes and love in their hearts, I wish for them a life time of joy. I went outside the little wine shop to sit down and give my feet a break, camera in hand I couldn't help taking some pictures of the old little town, big city Crystal River. I was playing with some of the setting on my camera and took some really fun pictures. The evening just beginning we made our way to the Ale House, a place on the river surrounded by beauty, the sun just beginning to set, another opportunity for pictures and to meet new friends. Sitting outside on the rivers edge, the people here may be accustomed to temperatures in the 40's, but I would have to drink a lot to warm up enough to do this on a regular basis. The evening now over after much fun.

Morning once again, and time to pick up June in Orlando. She was really ready to go home and couldn't get out of there fast enough. Once we were on the road hours flew by and we were home in no time at all. Never running out of things to say my weekend filled with enjoyment and family was over until the next time. I am so happy, needed a break and sibling loven.

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MY FIRST ATTEMPT AT YOGA

Written by Captain Mary on Tuesday, January 15, 2013

I am feeling so great these days I don't know what to do with myself. I can feel my body returning to normal, if anything I do could be considered normal! Anyway, with encouragement from friends and a cancellation in my work schedule I made it to a class. Not certain what Yoga is all about, I figured it was slow enough for my old broken body. I have a genetic advantage, I am very flexible, which means I can touch my toes, even with my big gut in the way.

A few of my customers do Yoga and they are in excellent condition, they told me how great they feel after. I had not heard a negative comment about this exercise ever. So, I am at class and it starts out pretty simple, I could feel the stretch. As the class progressed the difficulty increased, it was then I realized that it takes strength to accomplish some of these crazy poses. I found my arms and legs shaking as I forced myself to hold it. It is very isometric, which works for me, since my lack of any kind of exercise has left me pretty weak. Today, was an eye opening experience. Just trying to keep my ass up in the air was a challenge in itself. I laughed at myself and enjoyed the class dynamic.

I botched one of the poses and ended up rolling on the floor and almost rolled on top of my Matt mate. The class roared with laughter, which is always good medicine for me. If you can't laugh at yourself than you are just too damn serious. The rest of my day was energized and happy. I don't think that I could stress about anything if I wanted to!

The class continued and we were almost finished with our work-out, when Shelah, our instructor, said that we should have a little fun and try a pose that is very difficult. I am always open for a challenge, it's my nature. So, her daughter got in front of the class to demonstrate this pose, I could not believe my eyes. I thought Shelah must be out of her mind, who could do this without a lot of attempts and crashes on their heads? Everyone in the class gave it an attempt and so did I. Several attempts later and I managed to get it done. It was a pose I could only hold for seconds, but the important part was that I got it done.

A boost to my ego, a good laugh, and an hour with friends. What a way to interrupt the work week.


One thing about this pose is my ass doesn't look as big as it is. Pretty impressive pose if I do say so myself. I guess you are never too old for Yoga.

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MUSIC TRIGGERS MY MEMORIES

Written by Captain Mary on Saturday, January 12, 2013

Ever since I can remember, music attached itself to my memories. When enjoying a song, I can recall the sights, sounds and even the smells when I hear certain songs. I have no car sound system and I don't know why, but I just haven't the urge to listen in quite some time. The right music helps the work hours fly and I always worked with my little IPod attached to my ear. Last week I came across my dusty IPod and charged it up. I have a collection of songs from the 60's to today. I selected them through my major CD collection and haven't changed them in years.

I put my ear buds in for my drive to Homestead to do a little work at Jason's. After awhile I remembered why I stopped using the IPod, because the ear buds and the wire and you know the story. Jason has this great speaker system, so I plugged in my IPod and started listening away. While working my mind can focus on a lot of things, because cleaning is very systematic and it doesn't take much thought. As each one of my selections began to play the memories began to pour out of the depths, deep freeze storage I imagine. Maybe I just didn't want to think about the past anymore.

An African song came on "Jambo", which gave me an enormous smile and I began singing along in Swahili, a memory of my amazing trip to East Africa. I remembered where I was sitting, who I was sitting with and the smell of the night air. How that night we stayed up and even got yelled at by the staff to keep it down!

Didgeridoo music came on, again I recalled being on top of a mountain at a quaint village in Queensland, Australia, sitting and listening to the actual musician play for me, accompanied by a flute.

Bob Seager and the Silver Bullet band, great memories of  living on my sailboat, meeting a past member of the group. Becoming friends and even going lobstering together on his Scarab. ZZ Top songs, a time when I was hired as a dive guide for members of the band, while they were in town for the "Recycler Tour". Took them diving and taught them how to drink beer underwater. I did such a good job, I got VIP tickets for the concert and T-shirts. So many places, people and pleasures to continue reminiscing.

I could go on and on, as I continued to listen some songs came on and the reminders made me miss being young, slim, or should I say rock hard body, and beautiful. I was popular, and never bought my own drinks anywhere I would dance the night away. I missed that and I couldn't help thinking that I am coming to a time in my life that doesn't allow that crazy lifestyle anymore. Honestly, I can't manage it and don't even know how I survived it. I started getting sad with this flood of memories from good times and bad. The music I selected has really painted a picture of my life and I didn't realize it until I started listening again.

Through my sadness I started thinking that I can't think of anything that I didn't do! Perhaps that is why we get older, so that we move on to different things and directions. I have traveled, loved, lusted (excessively), cried, lost and I honestly have "no regrets". It has always been my motto to do so, now looking back I really have done anything I wanted and more. While writing I have to stop myself, because this post would be hundreds of pages long. Oh, the stories I could tell. I have lived 10 lifetimes in one.

Each day gives me yet another fond memory, weather it is to music or simply stored in deep freeze in the back of my head. It is what a cherish and it is something that I can share to the next generations. Perhaps edited a bit for the younger ones. I will be listening to music again, it makes me happy and it picks up my spirits, not to mention it makes my body move. I don't even care how crazy I look!!! 


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KRITTER KAMP IS FULL THIS WEEKEND

Written by Captain Mary on Friday, January 11, 2013




Oh how I love my kids, I must! They are all off paddling on the Peace River while I stay home with all my grand dogs. Hanna, the Shepard: Barclay, the springer spaniel: Alley, the Shepard, husky mix: plus my two. I would say Kamp is full.

I was busy at work while Hanna and Alley were dropped off at my house, after work I went and picked up Barclay. I was pretty slick and came in the back door, so I didn't have any run aways. I left Barclay outside, so that the animal interaction was minimal, Bogey and Kiwi were safely locked away in my bedroom.

Much to my surprise I walked in to a major disaster, food bowl knocked over and food all over, mixed with dog pee pee. Alley is just a puppy and I guess she just couldn't hold it. That wasn't all, there were toys all over the place as if the toy box exploded. They were happy to see someone who was going to open the door to the great outdoors. I really couldn't get mad, I think I even giggled a bit, that was after I cleaned up all the pee pee. And thank goodness my delivery of orange oil came, the perfect time for a strong smelling deodorant cleaner and I can eat it if I want.

After a mere five hours Barclay and Alley finally laid down, poor Hanna planted by the front door awaiting her family's return. Kiwi was the one who was relentlessly picked on. Bogey, on the other hand got a few good bites in on ankles, enough to let them know who the boss was. I don't know what Jason is going to do with Barclay, he humps everything, he just hasn't figured out the right end of the dog to hump. Poor Alley is literally getting head. My feet are a sticky mess from all the drool and the smell of dog is so strong I can't smell the odor of cigarettes. I anticipated as much and this morning I picked up half a dozen odor absorbers. So far so good, I just hope that all the dogs leave me a little room in bed for sleep. Not that I let them, but Barclay always sneaks in and I don't know a thing about Alley, except she is funny looking.

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HOW TO FEEL ENERGIZED

Written by Captain Mary on Friday, January 11, 2013

For so long I have been dragging. In the past I was full of energy and for the last couple of years I became over-weight. I am still over-weight and started eating right only a week ago. I not only lost 6 pounds, but my energy level went through the roof. I guess KFC and MikeyD don't really contain the nutrients a body requires.

My habits are horrible, some small changes have made an enormous difference. I have several deficiencies in my daily diet, the first being my water consumption. I keep hearing about how many glasses of water a person needs to drink, I couldn't think of how much I consume until I did and experiment. I filled a gallon jug with water and took it with me everywhere I went. By noon I noticed that I don't even come close to consuming what I need to. Now, that gallon jug is my challenge, I make a conscious effort to finish that water by the end of each day. Noticing after only a week the improvements in my skin, that has obviously been dehydrated for a very long time.

My second bad habit is how many times a day I eat. I am having a hard time with this one. I have to make a lunch and again having to think about eating more often. I have always just eaten one meal a day, and it was enormous, after which I would pass out on the couch. Which then effected my sleeping habits. A late nap would prevent me from sleeping more than a couple hours at a time and not till after 2 am. I have somehow eliminated that nap, without even thinking about. I am not exhausted by 3 pm anymore. When I get home I don't sit down, but get all kinds of things done. I even spent some time scrap booking last night. Still bad about eating, I decided that juicing would be the thing to do. I can't possible consume the vegetables and fruits that are required, so I drink it. Juicing allowed me to consume this in a healthy way, instead of all these drinks they offer as meal replacements at the grocery store. I spent quite a bit on veggies and fruits, but I made over 2 gallons of juice. If I can drink at least 3 glasses a day I push my metabolism to the max. You must be thinking that it has to taste a bit gross. Well, I have figured a way to push the flavor button.

With some research I found the herbs that are super beneficial for my needs. I use cloves, cinnamon, ginger, parsley, oregano, sage, and rosemary. I put all these dry herbs through my coffee maker and made an amazing tasting tea, which I dumped into my juice. Now, I can't help drinking this fantastic flavored juice. I don't know why I didn't think of this before. Not only did I make a great juice, but I couldn't help thinking about all that stuff that goes into the compost pile after juicing, so again an idea popped into my head. I put all that gunk into a pot with water and more beneficial herbs such as garlic and red peppers, making an amazing broth for those late night craving. I put the broth into containers and froze them. Now, I can put something more into my lunch box with virtually no calories, and it was marked for the trash. I prepared all this stuff in one day and now have plenty for more than a week or so.

Which leaves the protein, ground turkey for the times I want to cook. On the day I did all the juicing I also prepared some chicken and boiled a bunch of eggs, everything now ready to eat. I make a great effort for easy and it now is. I still have a lot of bad habits, but just changing these two has made an amazing difference in the way my body feels. Diets suck, so this is not a diet but the right way to consume the food I need for energy and get all the important nutrients that I need. Wish me luck and a healthy day as I wish for you.

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THEIR HERE......BOOO!

Written by Captain Mary on Tuesday, January 08, 2013

A lot of people just don't believe in the after life. I have far too many experiences with people or even pets that have passed, and somehow get my attention. I may not get you to be a believer, but maybe I can get you to open your mind just a bit.

I think it would be rather silly to believe that it is only real if you can see it, look at all the people who believe in God, for example. That is not the only thing, but proven science allows us to receive sound through the air to our cell phones, radios and other devices, but not only that, we can see pictures, television for example. We don't see these things flying through the air, but yet they are there, all around us and perhaps right through us. O.K., perhaps your mind is just a little bit open, for the skeptics that is.

I want to tell you a story that happened to me a few weeks ago. I arrived at my customers house as usual, my original client, Nancy,  passed away over two years ago on Valentines Day. We use to spent many mornings sitting and chatting, before I would go on and do my work. I loved her so much, her stories were exotic and her talent in miniatures was amazing. I didn't think this day was any different than any other cleaning day, since her departure.

As I walk in the house, I walk over to Nancy's urn, that contained her precious remains, and touch it. I would say hello to her each time I arrived at the house. During the course of the day I would pass by and again touch the urn. This same day I was drawn to the urn over and over again, which seemed strange to me. I kept the information in my brain for now, because I believe each time you think of someone, they are thinking about you.

Progressing my cleaning to the next room, the miniature room, I dusted what I could, everything extremely delicate, I don't do much in this room for fear of wrecking hours of someones work. You can ask my customers, I am considered a bit of a bull in a China shop cleaning lady. I was strangely drawn to the closet door, which I had never opened before, because this room only got a lick and a promise.

I grabbed the handle of the door and pulled it open. Upon opening the door, I was shocked at what I had uncovered. So stunned that I jumped back and began to cry, standing there before me was a life size poster of my dear departed friend, Nancy, with an enormous smile on her face. After recovering from the initial surprise, I began to smile and had to say hello. I told my dear friend that I clearly got her message, and closed the door.

Finishing my work and heading home, still with her in my thoughts. I miss her dearly and I am reminded how much when I visit her home. But, that is not the end of the story. Every other week I go back to the house and this time her daughter, Sandy, was home ill. So, we chatted and I couldn't help talking about her mom, my friend, who we both had in common. I told Sandy the story of the closet. She looked at me with her head tilted to the side, as if she was thinking. Sandy, then asked me what day it that this happened. Not giving me any more information at this point, I continued with my story of the closet. I told her that I had always greeted Nancy by touching her urn, but have never opened that closet door before. Sandy smiled and said to me that it was her mothers birthday on that exact day.

I clearly understood that my friend, Nancy, was celebrating her birthday with me, perhaps this special occasion brought her home and low and behold I was there to see her smiling face on that giant poster. Which according to her daughter was put away in the closed laying sideways among other things, not facing straight ahead as if Nancy herself was standing in the doorway. Her daughter and I both astonished at the facts and after the goose-bumps went down on my arms I couldn't help smiling again. Because Nancy was always smiling.

A special thing happened that day and if I had ignored the signs and my feelings, I would have missed the visit entirely. If people would pay more attention to the thoughts that just pop into our heads, or the flashes we see speed by the corner of our eyes, I think we would enjoy so much more when thinking about the people who have passed ahead of us. I really believe that it is their way of saying hello or letting us know they are thinking about us too. Nancy I will see you again soon, even if it is in the closet. By the way Happy Birthday!


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A FRIEND LIKE NO OTHER

Written by Captain Mary on Saturday, January 05, 2013




 
As I get older I can't help thinking about people in my life that are important, my family, of course, is on the top of the list. I have a fantastic father, sisters and brother, children and grandchildren. My life is golden just to be able to say that, since now a days it seems the family unit is in a bit of a rough patch.

I also have a friend, who can read my thoughts and can finish my sentences as if she was my sister. I can honestly say that she is my most honored and oldest friend. We met in the early 1970's, when we both married into the same family. I don't know why but we were draw to each other, it was instantaneous. Both of us very different and yet we had so much in common.

We were very young, newly married women brought together in a family that did not really welcome the outsider. A Latin family that always made us feel as if we didn't belong, but we belonged to each other. At family gatherings we were always sitting together, somehow among the others looking in from the outside. After awhile it didn't much matter, it was a matter of routine to find each other at the family functions. We would laugh and have fun, in spite of the rest of the family. Our own little click, I guess.

A couple of years after being married, we moved into the same neighborhood. At home mom's was a great idea, but we needed some interaction with adults. We would get together on a regular basis, we would walk to each others home during the day, our kids playing together while we did crafts and created things. I knew right away that she was someone I could depend on.

One day, while my son was brushing his teeth, he decided to run around the house and fell, this impaled the toothbrush into his cheek. Instead of calling his father, I called my best friend and she got us to the hospital to have the toothbrush removed. When my husband and I had bad fights, she was the one I called to help out. Always with a cool head and a loving hand, she would make moments of terror turn into an everyday event.

Years went by and I was no longer involved in the family, due to divorce, but I still had my friend. I didn't think I had the right to call her my sister-in-law, but she didn't see it any other way. To this day I can't divorce that part of the family. The 70's, 80's, 90's and the new millennium passed and still my friend was there. The funny part is we did not have much time together, but our friendship never wavered. I can always call her out of the blue and talk endlessly. This friend is someone that I never had to lie to, never had bad feelings or as much as one fight between us.

Always looking to spend more time together, while telling each other about our hopes and dreams. We finally planned a trip together to Africa, which we bonded into one person, our thoughts seemed to mesh together. Everything we wanted to do was the same, and if it wasn't for her I probably would have been arrested for murder, killed by a lion or hippo. Those are stories for another time. We shared life altering experiences on that trip, which will forever keep us together.

Now, the effort to just spend an evening together is such a challenge, but when we do get together we sit and talk well into the night. I even made my spare bedroom hers, it is decorated to remind us of our trip to Africa. When I have over-night guests they all know that it is her room they are staying in.

This week we got an opportunity to get together for dinner, and as always our conversation flowed as if we had just talked yesterday. Again, finishing each others thoughts, hopes and dreams. A special person who I can call my best friend and my sister-out-law. We are planning a trip to the Big Cypress swamp for a photo journey, something we also love to do together. We have journeyed many a mile snapping pictures, I must admit that she has a fantastic eye for her subjects. I can't wait to go on our next journey together. We will have yet another opportunity to forget the world around us and dive into the fantasy of the adventure. My amazing friend lets me go to places that offer laughs, smiles and love like my family. I can honestly say that she is just like a sister to me, and if you ask my sisters they will tell you there is not enough sisters to keep me in line.

I don't have a lot of friends that are this special to me and I guess that is why she is the best, I love you Margo. To many years of picture taking and adventures until we are too old, but then again that is what wheel chairs are for. I can see us as friends forever, no matter how many days or miles separate us.

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NEW YEAR RESOLUTION

Written by Captain Mary on Friday, January 04, 2013

I am not going to do anything that I know I won't be able to complete. I do need to eat better, vegetables are not really in my diet lately. It has been Kentucky Fried Chicken, and McDoubles. I have been eating for someone on the run. I am planning a trip to Alaska this year and I really don't want to roll around on the ship. I figure I am about 40 pounds over-weight. It is horrify to me too. It has been three years since I was in nice slim shape. I felt so much better and I want to feel better again. I had so many excuses because I was injured and even in pain I still should do something to keep the rest of me in health.

I started eating better yesterday, thanks to my daughter who insisted that I buy food that is better for me. I can't really stand to eat a bunch of salads and vegetables, but I don't mind drinking them. I bought a bunch of veggies that are good for me and put them through my juice extractor. I figure I can drink as much of this stuff as I want, and I will be getting so much more than eating them whole.

After only one day, my body responded with the ability to sleep better. In just one day of drinking lots of water and vegetable juice, protein, and no carbs, I lost 5 pounds. It must mean that I was full of sh...t. Flushing out all the toxins in my body make take a few days.

The hardest thing for me to do is eat more than once a day. I really have to concentrate on making a lunch box before I leave the house. I should be able to work better and be happier. I know that my kids want to keep me around for awhile and if I felt better I wouldn't mind hanging out either. Changing bad habits are not so easy, but I can do it. I hope I can get the encouragement that I need by just feeling more energetic.

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2012 NOW IN THE PAST

Written by Captain Mary on Monday, December 31, 2012

I thought it would be nice to recap my past year, 2012. I know one thing that I thought couldn't happen was that I became closer to my children. Our conversations much more frequent and shared so many laughs together. I made them my priority, and made an effort to spend more time, even if only on the phone, with my siblings. I found that the more we spoke with each other, the more I loved them. Imagine that, just when I thought I couldn't love them anymore than I do.

We shared some amazing time with each other, Thanksgiving, Italian Club nights, Cruise to Mexico, well it doesn't get better than that. I really enjoy those "look who is coming to town" trips. Dad, Cheryl, and June, were great this year for pop In's. This new year, I am going to make an effort to pop-in on them.

I worked hard and often last year, my busiest of years. It seems that from time to time I actually put in 8 hours in a day. I also have had the joy of working with Monica, when she is on the clock with me, work seems to fly by. We talk and talk, sometimes I can't even remember working. Once a week I head to my sons house and spend some time with him. I also made certain that my grandchildren know who I am and love me crazy. It seems that the most fun I have with my family is working together, no matter what the project. Last year we certainly had a lot of projects around the homes of all of us.

The past year also brought in a new, old president. I am not certain about the country, all I can hope for is that I don't have to pay more to live in America. No matter what the politics are, my priority is survival and love for my friends and family. I don't need anything fancy in my life, just freedom to live my life in a happy state. Letting things that don't matter go from my thoughts, keeping the stress away. I learned many times that things always work out, to stress over it serves no purpose. I have been much happier in the face of turmoil and tragedy, because things just happen out of my control. I spent last year learning more and more about life and how to live in it. It is easier then you think to just be happy!

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WILD CAT BLUES

Written by Captain Mary on Monday, December 24, 2012

It was a regular pet sitting gig, so I thought. After working for over 10 years at this particular home I was asked if I could pet sit three kitties. One of the kitties is a yellow tabby, very old, perhaps over 18. I thought in my head "How hard could this be?" The old kitty, Wigloff, has diabetes and needs an insulin injection daily. The owner showed me how to do this procedure, and it seemed so simple.

The first day of the gig has arrived, with numerous instructions and duties I began my rounds. First watering the plants and checking for mail, packages and such. Next is cleaning the liter box and feeding the kitties. Placing water glasses and bowls all over the house while looking for the illusive Wigloff, whose is always hiding. He was standing in the door way of the office I simply picked him up, brought him to where I had prepared his injection and the job was done. Spending some time with the other cats petting and talking to them.

The next day was not as simple, but did the job. The third day, Wigloff had turned into a Wildcat. Searching for him was always the first task, found him in the closet and when I reached for him, he began to hiss and growl. I thought it was more bark than bite, because he was an old boy. Never one of the friendliest cats, but should be manageable. Much to my surprise, the cat lunged at me and bit the heck out of me. I couldn't give up on him, he needed his injection.

As the days went by, Wigloff became more and more vicious. I had to secure some thick leather gloves to protect my hands. I soon found out that the gloves would not be enough. My hands were safe for awhile, but my arms were shredded and bleeding. I couldn't help thinking that I was dealing with a bobcat or cougar. By now grabbing the cat had to be timed perfectly, because I only had so much blood to spare. Now, the cat had decided he was a crocodile and did the death roll. Finding a way to give Wigloff his much needed injection had become a life and death procedure, and it was my life I was worried about. It had become almost impossible to give Wig his injection. After wrestling with the cat, with leather gloves and long sleeves on, I took a deep breath. I took off my gloves over the kitchen counter and blooded poured out, I could only burst into tears and began shaking.

Shaking and tears running down my cheeks I could only think that no amount of money is worth the pain I am in to give an injection to a cat, who clearly doesn't want it. After trying virtually everything I could think of, I left the house completely defeated and horrified that something would happen to Wigloff due to the pure stress of the whole ordeal.

I went home thinking that the only thing I could do is to take Wigloff to the vet and let them deal with the cat. But, then I had not done the job that I was hired to do. The next morning I woke with a an idea in my head that could save the cat and myself from injury and stress. How about a net! I can't wait to try it out.

I was expecting the death roll once the cat hit the net and a tangled mess, but I thought it would definitely save my now swollen and infected hands. I brought with me my grandsons to aid in this now very scary, difficult task. I sent the boys to search for Wigloff while I performed my other numerous duties. Now, net in hand and heading to where the wildcat was hiding, I simply slipped the net over Wigloff and he remained motionless, which allowed me to give him his injection without event. A sigh of relief overcame me, for now the feeling of defeat has lifted and I felt like my job can now be done without risking injuries to myself and Wigloff. Wig, didn't know how close he came to spending the rest of the time locked in a kennel at the vets office. The ordeal over, the still growling kitty simply walked away after I lifted the net.

This is one smart kitty cat, I still can't help thinking he is going to wise up the net theory and find a way to tear me to shreds again. Still 8 days left to my grueling punishment I arrive thinking what way will the cat find to defeat me. This has become much more than a pet sitting gig at this point, it has become a challenge to complete a task with a wild animal. It is so much like entering the jungle with only me and the lion, and my survival depends on how I out smart the vicious feline.

More time passed and the smart kitty, became harder and harder to capture in the net, he hid in places that didn't allow me to make an easy netting. Once I got the net over Wig he became wild as they get, his little arms sticking out of the holes in the net, wanting to get a piece of me. Still avoiding damage to myself, I had to add a towel over his head to keep him calm until I was able to touch him without a vicious attack. I must admit I leave the house now with a feeling of satisfaction. Wig is eating well and definitely in good health. As I write now, there is only 1 more day left to my mission. Normally I think of pet sitting as easy money, but this time I have met my match.

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FIVE DAY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, September 23, 2012

A surprise party for my sister Cheryl, started over 10 months ago. I was contacted by my sisters husband, Joe, who wanted to make her day very special. The planning and keeping this a surprise was a big event. I must admit that I almost slipped up a couple of times, but it remained a surprise to the very last minute.
We took off on the Carnival ship Paradise for a trip to Cozumel, Mexico, but most of the adventure was aboard the ship. The sunrise marked the first full day at sea and the real beginning of fun. With Dad as my room-mate and some of Cheryl's friends we had a group of 8. The first day at sea we spent most of the time lost, but met up at events. We played Bingo, we went to comedy shows, we danced on the deck with the stars above. We even put on a Hip-Hop show, where Dad and Joe spent most of their time laughing at us. I must admit that I couldn't remember the moves at all, which made it all the more fun.
Woke up to a rainbow and everyday I wished my sister a Happy Birthday. I wish I could do this more often, that is, spending time with family, where the only objective was to enjoy each other and have fun. No worries about getting anywhere or having to cook or clean. Everything was taken care of by the staff. All we had to do was enjoy ourselves from September 13th through the 17th.

Our shore excursion was to see a beach and the ruins of Tulum, where the Mayan people once lived. A step into a long lost history. Of course, we had to stop off at a Tequila factory for some samples first. My first step into history had to be the fall off the tour bus, I think it had something to do with Tequila. I landed hard on my knees and heard a clunk of my camera hitting the pavement. The only thing I thought about was my camera, not the fact that I was laying on the ground still. I got myself up only after checking my camera. I am still sporting the bruises from the miss-step.

The guide at the ruins was very verbose, so I began wandering off to see the ruins on my own. As I began exploring I noticed that my sister had the same idea. Cheryl tried to wave the others over but they stayed and listened to the guide go on and on. We began our adventure and completed the entire tour alone. The Mayan people do have a lot of alters for their sacrifices. We continued our walk through the jungle that seemed like miles and finally caught up with the others at the gift shops.
After the tour we headed to a beach marked with sticks, they were protruding out of the ground all along the shore. The sticks were marking turtle nests, according to our guide there were 7 different kinds of sea turtles that made this area their nesting grounds. All along the shore I could see tiny tracts leading to the sea, where some of the turtles had made their way to the ocean. The water was beautiful and blue almost matching the sky. I only wish that we had more time to enjoy and explore, because the water is where I find myself the happiest.
Back to the ship for our journey home. We enjoyed our last day and night at sea. What a celebration for my sister. Fun was had by all in spite of the crazy tourist now and then. The weather was just perfect and our time at sea was smooth. As I drove home from Tampa after the cruise, I couldn't help thinking about my family and how perfect they really are. So many different personalities that make dysfunction fun. All I know is that there really isn't anything in life more important!
Now is time to plan the next cruise, more than 10 months from now, but as we all know time flies when your having fun.

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SIDE EFFECTS OF LANDSCAPING

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, September 09, 2012

A couple of days ago, I went to check on the fish in my pond and noticed that more than half of my fish had been killed. Some with heads torn off, others gasping for air from poisoned water. I immediately flushed out the water and saved what I could. I could only think that a predator had been looking for something to eat.

I suspected that it might be a raccoon, but with no evidence it would be hard to prove. Last night I caught this rascal climbing through the dogie door on to my patio, where he made himself at home eating the cats food. My cats sat on the table next to him just looking with confusion. I scared him off and he returned, again and again, in spite of one of my cats swatting him in the face. I finally sent in the dogs and that seemed to scare him off for the night.

I can only assume that my dense landscaping made a great home for him. Plenty of places to hide and climb. All the key ingredients for the perfect home, water, cover and plenty of food. I see advertising that says a home owner should make an environment for wildlife, birds and small animals, a perfect place for butterflies and a peaceful environment in the middle of the brick homes and manicured lawns. Of course, they didn't mention that I would also attract the larger animals, that damage the once peaceful environment. I think the advertisers should also mention the side effects of all the hard work to make this landscape environment into an Eco-system. All I can say is that I made a successful environment for animals, but how do I get rid of the raccoon?

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I PLANTED A SEED

Written by Captain Mary on Sunday, September 02, 2012


Less then two years ago, I ate a delicious avocado. I think one of the best, the qualities of texture, nutty flavor and it was big and beautiful. I decided to grow a tree from the seed. Sticking tooth-picks along the side and put it into a glass of water. As the days went by I would watch it on the window sill and anticipated the growth.

I had an avocado tree once that bore two kinds of avocados on one tree, it was an amazing and a great producer of fruit. Hurricane Katrina knocked it over, but with much effort and help with hydraulic jacks, we somehow got her back on her feet. Then along came Hurricane Wilma  and down she came again. It was too much of a shock for the tree and she was cut up and discarded. I missed having avocados and now it was an opportunity to try again.

As the weeks past the seed sprouted in the little glass on the window sill, leaves appeared and it was finally time to pick a location in the yard to plant the seedling. It was too big for the window, yet not big enough to stand alone in the yard. Planted my new seedling in a pot with my composed soil and waited.

You may ask why I get so excited about planting seedlings, well my yard is a jungle with a canopy that rises above the power line, perhaps 40 feet in the sky. When I moved in my house there was only a few plants, very few. Almost everything I planted as young plants or cuttings and now it is a jungle with vines, orchids, bromeliads and staghorn ferns among the now large foliage. If you look up my house on google earth you will see a jungle in the mist of an ordinary neighborhood. I began this jungle in 1998. It seems like a long time, but the joy is watching things growing into a vision I had in my head. Now my vision, even though, seemingly complete is a never ending challenge to make more dense.

Now that the little avocado seedling has reached a size that is ready to stand in its place in the jungle. It began to grow, in less than a year and a half it had reached a size of 15 feet. The blooms began and I was thrilled, but didn't think for a minute that this very young tree could produce fruit. Much to my surprise as the blooms fell to the ground, I noticed a single avocado. Very tiny and my thoughts were that it could not survive the wind and rain of the summer. I was wrong, the little avocado grew and grew, and only when the threat of thunder storm Isaac's did I pluck it from the tree. Not long after,I got to taste the most wonderful flavor of my new edible plant. My avocado stands among the other edible plants in my jungle. I have a Sicilian white fig, bananas, ginger, chives, monstero deliciousa, coconuts, and palm fruits.

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A SURPRISE FROM FAR AWAY

Written by Captain Mary on Saturday, July 21, 2012

A regular Friday and the end of my work week quickly approaching. Busy finishing the last bit of work and I receive an unexpected phone call from my sister Cheryl, who lives about 6 hours away. The funny part of the story is that I had been thinking about her, knowing she was in the area of the Aurora, Colorado shooting at the movie theater. I had left a message of concern, and asked when she was coming home on her FB page. I sometimes think that we share a bit of telepathy between siblings. We often call each other when we are thinking about each other. If I think long and hard enough they will call and the opposite applies to them.

Cher was at the Tampa airport when getting a call from a friend who needed to see her, and by the time she realized where her friend was staying she was only a hour from my house. A great opportunity for us to get together and an opportunity for her to have a bit of a pit stop before traveling again toward home.

After some small delays we headed out to dinner, after 9 pm, and had some of the best service ever. We enjoyed each others conversation. We talked about travels and experiences and some of the places we would love to go. A conversation right up my alley, I don't know if I could ever travel enough. Cher is quite the traveler also and we agreed that a trip to Alaska would be great. I was planning a trip to Alaska with my best friend Margo for 2013 and I see no reason not to add one more person to the fun. Margo and Cheryl are great travelers, both very close to my heart.

I can only hope that business continues and I can save enough for this quite expensive land and sea journey to Alaska. I have a great travel agent and she has never let me down.

Today, I did nothing much except think about a great Friday night with one of my sisters. I know one thing for certain, I never have enough time with my siblings, and I cherish every moment with them. The sound of their voice and an embrace makes my day. I wish for everyone to have a family like mine, love is a special thing between family.

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NO TIME TO BAKE?

Written by Captain Mary on Wednesday, July 11, 2012

I belong to the wonderful social club, "The Sons & Daughters of Italy". We have monthly meetings and we always bring something to eat, an Italian pot luck of sorts. I have an hour drive just to get to Key Largo, so after work, my time is limited to prepare something to share. This time I decided to prepare a dessert. While I was working I told my friend, Carolyn, she pulled her book out and suggested an amazing no muss no fuss recipe. She made a copy of the recipe for me and after work I headed to the grocery store. I wanted to be a bit creative and still follow the basic design. Kind of add and Italian touch to it.

A couple of angel food cakes, with filling, then covered with some cool whip, pineapples and cherries. I wanted to look for something special for the filling and while looking for mascarpone cheese I came across cheese cake filling, ready to use. Sounded great to me, I mixed the cheese cake filling with crushed pineapple and I created a very special dessert that the Italians went crazy over, this was the test. The club members don't hesitate to say if something is good or bad. Everyone who ate one piece came back for seconds, this wonderful no baking cake was just a matter of minutes to put together and was a fantastic hit.
Give it a try.

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