HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Sam's comments...32 days and counting!

Happy Halloween!  I can't believe it is already the end of October.  Where has the time gone?  Don't get me wrong...I am happy that we are getting closer to the time we leave for our journey south of the border.  We are usually a little more prepared for the little ghosts and goblins.  We better get our "rears in gear".

Normally we leave the big tall grasses up in front of our house.  Bob is known as "Mr. Joshua" at halloween time by the kids in the neighborhood.  The kids come up to the front porch and Mr. Joshua is hiding in the grasses to scare them.  Of course, the little boys have to jump on him and play for a while.  Well, this year because of our busy and hectic schedule, we already cut the grasses down.  I don't think the kids have noticed just yet.  Our plan is to direct the kids to the back of the house where we will have a skeleton tree decoration.  We have a stand-up dirt cellar.  I purchased a shower curtain that I am going to staple to the inside of the door frame to the cellar and cut it into strips so the kids have to walk thru it.  Then inside we will have some "Spider Web" that stretches to 130 square feet.  We still need to figure out what to do with Mr. Joshua.  Perhaps yours truly will be Mr. Joshua this year.  That will really freak-out the kids as Bob is standing outside the door!

In the past we have also carved pumpkins, but not this year.  I remember one year we were visiting our good friends in Ohio.  We all decided to carve pumpkins, and I carved a witch standing over a pot she was brewing...that was really cool.  OK...I dug through the archives and here it is!  It's the one on the far right...look closely!  Better get going...have a scary day.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES

Sam's comments...34 days and counting!

Today was a happening day.  First of all, both of us were up late last night and didn't sleep all that well.  We figured we could just sleep in because we didn't have any early appointments or service providers visiting us today.  Last week, I mentioned that Bob and I both went to the dentist for our semi-annual cleaning.  I was told I needed to repair a cracked filling and Bob needed to have a crown put on a tooth.  Well, bright and early (to us since we didn't sleep) the phone rang and it was Karen from the dentist's office.  Yep, you guessed it...today was that day.  They wanted to know if Bob could come in earlier for his appointment.  His appointment was changed to late morning and mine was early afternoon.  Just about the time he walked in the door from his appointment, I was walking out to mine.

While Bob was gone, another offer came in on his mom's home.  We did have a previous offer; however, the buyers got cold feet and walked.  There has been a flurry of activity with several showings.  Those individuals who are first time home buyers are running out of time as they need to close by November 30th to get the tax credit.  We are very grateful for this tax credit because it has certainly created a sense of urgency especially in this down economy.  So for the past several hours, Bob has been dealing with this issue...a good issue.  The buyers are going VA.  Lots of additional paperwork and potential inspections.  But, we are staying positive that we can make this all happen before we leave.  As they say, "Positive People Produce Powerful Results".

Bob is also preparing for a deposition tomorrow.  He came out of retirement for this one case.  It is supposed to go to trial the second week of November and only last a few days.  We are keeping our fingers crossed.

This morning was cool and foggy.  The cloud cover didn't dissipate like it was supposed to this morning.  It has been overcast and damp.  The original forecast called for today to be sunny and 64 F.  We are certainly glad that we filled the driveway cracks last week.  The things you have to do in a cold weather state.

Today was also laundry day...got that done.  It's a good thing we have some leftovers in the freezer.  It will be Shephard's Pie and wine for dinner.  Hopefully all of the numbness for both of us will be gone so we don't drool our wine on ourselves.

SLAP HAPPY?

Sam's comments...35 days and counting!

Did you ever wonder who comes up with some of the sayings we see printed on things?  Like in this picture:  "It's Sooo Good, Your Brain Will Slap Your Tongue Out".  A friend of ours dropped off some cider and donuts on Monday.  The donuts were absolutely delicious.  We normally don't buy them, so they were definitely a special treat and the cider was indeed "soo good".  However, I didn't get the feeling that my brain was going to slap my tongue out.  But while editing this note I realized that's exactly what happened!

Do you see why?

SCARECROWS BUT NOT TOO SCARY

Sam's comments...37 days and counting!

About five years ago, our community built a park and a pavillion in the downtown area.  The funds were a donation from a very generous donor.  On Saturdays, we now have a farmer's market.  Also the Downtown Development Authority co-ordinates all kinds of activities to bring shoppers and families to the area.

In October, they have a Scarecrow Contest; this year the theme was:  BOOKS AND NURSERY RHYMES.  Today I was running some errands and I brought my camera with me to try and get a few shots for you to enjoy.  It was a beautiful day today and I enjoyed the stroll.  I hope you enjoy the pictures.

SIZE DOES MATTER!!!!

Sam's comments...38 days and counting!

Last evening, we had some neighbors over for a dinner party.  We get together with our neighbors often.  We share the hosting and everyone brings something.  When we set this date, we requested that this particular get together be for adults only.  Two of the couples have children.  Don't get me wrong, we love children; however, it is nice at times just for the adults to be together, having adult time, and not being interupted by children.

Bob and I have been entertaining for years and we love it.  Early in our marriage and careers, we invested in Waterford crystal.  We have a 10 piece place setting of crystal along with many other pieces.  We set a great table for a sit down dinner.  We seem to be the "exception" in our circle of friends.  It seems like no one else sets a "formal" table anymore.  Perhaps we are showing our age?

The main event last night was the opening of a huge bottle of wine we have had on hand for about 5 years.  It was a 1999 Round Hill Cabernet Souvignon.  The bottle was equivalent to four bottles of wine.  We researched on the Internet for the proper time to decant the wine.  We were thinking because of its age, it should be decanted for a couple of hours.  However, to our surprise, it was just the opposite.  Young wines should be decanted for hours and older wines are usually decanted just to get out any of the sediment.  So we opened the wine about one-half hour before our guests arrived.  Take a look at the size of the cork!

The first course was sparkling wine with a smoked salmon platter with all of the fixings.  This was provided by Ian and Stacy.  Then we sat down to dinner with a great spinach salad with two homemade dressings provided by Lydia and Randy.  Lydia made a raspberry vinagerette and a dijon mustard, poppie seed and honey vinagerette.  Bob and I made a wonderful traditional shephard's pie with lamb, spicy green bean casserole, baked sweet acorn squash, and bread.  The cabernet wine was very tasty and excellent with the dinner.  It was dry, earthy, and smooth.

After some mingling, playing billards, and a nice roaring fire in the fireplace, we had wonderful cherry pie with frozen vanilla yogurt for dessert.  The pie was provided by Kathy and Marvin.    Once again, a good time was had by all and in this case...bigger was better!  And, size does matter!

FEELIN' LIKE ROYALTY

Sam's comments...41 days and counting!

Twice a year, Bob and I are made to feel like royalty.  Today was one of those days...yep...we were off to the dentist.  Why do we feel like royalty...because Kings and Queens have their "crowns" polished and so did we. 

The other reason we feel so special is because about 5 years ago, our dentists, who happen to be a husband and wife team, were building a new dental office and ran into some issues getting an electrical pole moved.  I was in for my semi-annual check-up and Dr. Carolyn was telling me about their building issues. The dead of winter was fast approaching and time was running out.  I made a phone call for them and "bang" someone was out to move the pole for them at a cost of $25,000.  Our dentists were so amazed that I did it in just one call.  They had been working on this with their contractor for weeks.

When they had their open house, they had my picture in their "scrap book" and a story about how I helped them.  As a reward, they gave Bob and I free moulds and teeth whitening for life.  Also, whenever we go into the office, Dr. Carolyn and Dr. Dave can't do enough for us.  All over, just one call!

THEY'RE BACK!!

Sam's comments...42 days and counting!

Yes, last night before dinner my ducks were back.  I had not seen them in a while because of the bad weather.  I thought for sure they had headed south for the winter.  They also joined me for breakfast this morning.  And yes, they are back again this afternoon.  Aren't they beautiful...all 21 of them. 

You must think that I am obsessed with my ducks.  Perhaps I am, they are like family.  It was nice to have them back.  How long they will stay no one knows.  I do know they will get to eat the rest of the bread that is in my freezer.  Lucky me and lucky them.

SO MUCH TO DO...TIME IS RUNNING OUT!

Sam's comments...43 days and counting!

Today we got to enjoy the other "joys" of fall.  We had the pleasure (not) of pulling all of our flowers, putting away our patio furniture, hoses, winterizing our fountain, etc.  We still have some more flowers and tall grasses to cut back.  One more day outdoors and we should be ready.

 We are still debating if we will have time to fill-in a crack in our blacktop driveway.  It will all depend upon the weather and the temperature.  We'll keep our fingers crossed.

One reason we are trying to get our outdoor chores completed is last Friday, Bob's mom's home received an offer and it was accepted.  We have been packing fools for the last several days.  Tomorrow is the home inspection.  We are saying some prayers.  It was advertised as a "handyman's special" and sold "as is".  Once we get past the inspection, then we have the appraisel.  The buyers have been pre-approved.  Once we close it is immediate occupancy for the buyers.  So we will continue with the packing.

Also, last week Bob was contacted and asked to come out of retirement for a former client.  So, we anticipate that he will be busy getting this work done by the middle of November.

As I said, time is running out...43 days and counting!

WHY WE LIKE MICHIGAN IN THE FALL

Sam's comments...44 days and counting!

When I think of fall in Michigan, I think about...apple orchards, cider mills, brisk mornings, blue skies, vibrant colors of reds, oranges, and yellows, pumpkin patches, raking leaves, hunters, college sports...harvest time.  There is always something to do in the "great outdoors".  The sights, sounds, and smells are breathtaking.  When I see the birds, squirrels, and other little creatures scurry, I know they are getting ready for winter.  And we too are getting ready.  We have a lot of yard work to get done before we head south.  Hopefully, this week we can get some things accomplished since the weather forecast is for a couple of days in the 60's.  Enjoy the colors of Michigan.

THE SUN CERTAINLY MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Sam's comments...45 days and counting!

Well, as you can see we had a very heavy frost over night.  By the time I got up and dressed to go outside, part of the grass already had the sun shining on it and the other part is in the shade.  It was quite cold this morning...in the upper 20's.  However, it didn't seem too bad because the sun was shining and there was no wind.  It is amazing how different we feel when there is sunshine.  The sun is supposed to shine and is in the forecast for the next few days.  Hurray for us!!

HAPPY SWEETEST'S DAY

Sam's comments...46 days and counting!

Today is Sweetest's Day.  It probably is another Hallmark Day...but what the heck...you can be nice to your sweetie for no cost at all.

Each year, Bob's brother and his wife have a bon fire and get together on Sweetest's Day.  Today was no exception.  A group of us gathered at their home on 10 acres.  They have a pond which you can see in the background.  Also, they are allowed to have an open fire.  Believe me, we needed to have the fire tonight.  It was in the 40's and a bit chili.  Speaking of chili, we had some tasty chili for dinner, along with hot dogs, wonderful mixed beans, mini corn muffins with jalepenos, bacon, onion, cheese, and sour cream, taco bean dip, cheesy potatoes, jello salad, and pumpkin pie.  A true "feast".

There was a hay ride, kids playing, dogs barking, music playing...a good time for everyone.  But, it was nice to come home and warm those toes, fingers, and ears.  And oh yes, nice to cuddle with my honey on Sweetest's Night.

Good night!!

"THE ACCIDENTAL MUMMIES OF GUANAJUATO"

Sam's comments...47 days and counting!

What a great opportunity for Michigan!  The Detroit Science Center is hosting "The Accidental Mummies of Guanajuato".  It is a scientific, medical, and cultural look at 36 Mexicans buried between about 1850 and 1950 whose bodies were unintentionally mumified in cement crypts.

This opening began on October 10, 2009, and will run until April 11, 2010.  Then it will tour the U.S. for three years.  This is the first visit abroad.  Bob and I first heard about this tour in the paper on September 30, 2009.  We immediately marked our calendars and stated this was something we would like to see.  Yesterday morning, I received an email from the Detroit News indicating if I was one of the first 200 respondents, I could qualify for some "Free Stuff".  One of the items was two free tickets to the showing of the Accidental Mummies.  I immediately responded with this item checked as my preference.  They ask for your top three choices; however, I only responded with one.  Last night, I received an email back saying I got the free tickets.  I should have them in my hand by the end of October.  We are really excited about attending this event.

For further information, please visit accidentalmummies.com

IMAGINATION...MAX THE CAT!

Sam's comments...48 days and counting!

Since we have been retired, Bob and I have been taking walks during the day in our neighborhood as well as the one across the street from us.  A couple of years ago, we noticed this little animal house.  We assume that someone has a pet but it isn't allowed in the house.  When we look inside, there is a dish for water and a dish for food.  Each year, this little house is getting more and more winterized.  Just like all of our homes.  Today when we saw the house, it now has some grey vinyl around the house for some additional protection from the outside elements. 

We are sure it is a home for a cat.  And the cat's name is Max.  Max is probably about 5 years old, white with black and brown spots.  Max is an excellent hunter, but he likes to come home at night for a good rest.  It looks like he a pretty hardy dinner last night.

That's our story and we are sticking to it!  It's nice to have an imagination.

FEELING THE BLUES

Sam's comments...49 days and counting!

Today, I am felling the blues.  This is not me.  Those who know me know I am a very positive and upbeat person.  However, the weather the past several days has been down right cold and overcast.  In my book, October in Michigan should be beautiful.  Yesterday, we took a walk and I had on my winter jacket, scarf, gloves, and ear muffs.  One of these days when it is sunny, I will share with you a beautiful fall day in Michigan with gorgeous fall colors.

Last evening I had dinner with a friend that I haven't seen in almost two years.  We have kept in touch via email.  In December 2007, her husband had a severe stroke.  Her life is taking care of Don.  His speech is very limited (almost non-existent), he uses a walker (very limited), and goes to therapy five days a week.  In addition to taking care of Don, her daughter and son-in-law were in a terrible accident earlier this year.  Her son-in-law was killed.  Her daughter has had numerous operations and is living in a rehab facility.  I don't know how my friend has managed to handle all of this.  She has so much strength.

I'm also longing for Mexico.  I read the various blogs from Mexico every day and it makes me want to be there.  I can picture everything that is being described.  One of these days, we will take the plunge.  I count my blessings every day for the life I have with Bob.  We are very lucky, and I shouldn't be feeling these blues.  Here is a nice sunny hug from my heart!

SOMETIMES IN LIFE YOU HAVE TO ...DUCK!

Sam's comments...51 days and counting!

We live on a beautiful piece of property in Michigan.  We are retired, and we enjoy it.  Too bad it is located in a bedroom community.  Most of our neighbors work during the day, therefore we don't have anyone to play with during the day...except for our ducks.  At the end of May, the baby ducks hatch and make their way up to our house.  You have to understand that we have been doing this for years...therefore, we have been feeding many generations of ducks.  We feed them all summer long and the families continue to grow.  This year we had about 30 ducks to feed twice a day...sometimes they wanted to eat all day long.  They just hang out on our property.  Mi casa is su casa!  They follow me all over the yard.  I will be in our vegetable garden, and they follow me inside the fenced garden.  They act like I'm their mother.  Last year, we ended up with about 70 ducks.

We go to the local Wonder Bakery outlet and purchase bread to feed the ducks.  We can get about 40 loaves of bread for $3.  Pretty cheap to feed my big family.  We put it in the freezer and take it out as we need it.  Well, the weather has changed very quickly this past week.  It is getting colder and colder.  The above picture is the last of the "die-hard" ducks.  This is the orginal family we started with earlier this year.  We can't believe there aren't more of them.  We hope they havn't flown south just yet...we still have bread in the freezer!

LIFE AND DEATH

Sam's comments...52 days and counting!

Life and death is ever complex.  Today, Bob's niece passed away at the age of 35.  Way too young.  Kelli was a nurse and collapsed at work.  Yesterday, she was found unresponsive after about 20 to 30 minutes.  She was a tiny and petite young lady. Kelli had some health issues but the family never ever anticipated this chapter of her life at this time.  She was one of nine children and never married.  Kelli was indeed a role model to many others, especially her siblings.

When we were at the hospital today, it was a very emotional time.  All of her immediate family were there, along with her many co-workers who loved her dearly.  She collapsed in ICU (that is where she was working) and that is where she spent her final hours.  The family agreed to donate her organs because that is what she would have wanted.  Kelli spent her short life helping others.  She would want to continue to do so.

Looking at life and death.  All of the family were grieving.  One of Bob's great nieces was also there; she is only two years old.  Obviously, she doesn't comprehend what is happening.  She sees all of the adults crying and hugging each other.  She had a bag of chips and wanted to share them with her papa (grandpa).  She took a bite and wanted her papa to take a bite.  It was a treasured moment as everyone saw the continuance of life.  Death occurs...life continues.

Life is to be celebrated.  Kelli had a wonderful life.  It was full of love.  Everyone knows that Kelli is in heaven.  She is the newest angel watching over all of us.  May she rest in peace.  We love you Kelli.

FRIENDS AND FOOD...A GREAT COMBINATION

Sam's comments...53 days and counting!

Yesterday afternoon we got together with some great friends for some fellowship and food.  We have known Joyce and James for over 29 1/2 years.  We lived just two houses apart for 4 years.  They moved first from the old neighborhood, and we followed two years later.  We have been living about 15 minutes from each other for the past 23 1/2 years.

We arrived at their home around 4:00 p.m.  See...retirees can do that on a Friday afternoon, or any afternoon.  We try and get together a couple of times per year.  It isn't easy to co-ordinate schedules because both couples have a very busy travel schedule.  Joyce and James are great people.  They are both retired teachers and are very talented individuals.  They are certainly enjoying their retirement.

We decided in advance to have a lamb dinner.  Whenever we get together, there is never a shortage of wine or food.  So we started with some wine and appetizers.  Our appetizers were an olive tapenade, sauteed shrimp with onion, red and green peppers, and slices of gouda cheese.  Everything was very tasty.

Bob's responsibility was to prepare three racks of lamb.  The lamb came from Costco.  He cut off all the excess fat...there is always a lot of fat on the racks.  Everyone agreed on double cuts so Bob did his magic with the knife.  I prepared the marinade.  It was made with fresh rosemary, thyme, and mint (all from our herb garden) along with lots of garlic, olive oil, and salt and pepper.  The aroma was wonderful.  We let the lamb marinate for about an hour.  More time to visit.

While Joyce and I prepared the rest of the dinner, Bob and James put the lamb on a nice hot grill.  As you can see it is already dark (a good thing we started at 4:00) and raining.  It has been cool and rainy all week.  This weather wasn't stopping the guys.  They were on a mission.

For dinner, we planned lamb, oven risotto, steamed vegetables, salad with candied walnuts and dried cranberries, and cheese biscuits.  I warned you...never a shortage of food.  And of course, we had to have dessert...Joyce's Key Lime Pie.  This pie isn't the same as my earlier posting...it it a whole lot better.  Sorry, no picture of the pie!  By then we were all fat and happy.

A good time was had by all...here's to great friends!!