Swinging and Sliding

As you can see from Una's excited little face, she enjoys swinging.  This is actually the first time she's swung on a "big girl" swing.  

Sally and I went to Home Depot on Saturday to get some materials for creating a raised bed in our backyard.  While looking around, assessing how much it would cost, Sally wandered over to the do-it-yourself swing set area.  After a bit of review she said, "I'd really rather spend the money on something Una would enjoy."  

SOLD

Load up the kit, add a slide, and off to get the required 4x4s.  Load up the car, and...well, we have a new project.  

There was no time to start it on Saturday as we were off to Nana  and Gramps for a little grilling, but when we got home on Sunday it was time to get to work.  The "one hour" project turned into about four, when I finally gave up the ghost.  We finished up the set after work on Monday and Una officially broke in both the slide and the swings.  

Here are a couple of more pics. I'll add some video soon.

[Edit:  Click on the pics to really see how happy she is (and beautiful, too.)]

 

Summer (Carnival Wednesday)

Over at a blog I follow called One More Thing, Kate is doing something called Carnival.  Basically, a set of topics is laid out for other bloggers to post about.   Anyone can follow along and see what other’s think when presented with a specific topic.  They call it Carnival Wednesday.  This week’s topic is Summer.

Here’s my shot.  It’s short, late, and somewhat thrown together so not very thought out.   (if you’re interested in other’s follow the link to Kate’s blog as she’s got a link to the others there.)

Personally, I like all the seasons.  I don’t think I really have a favorite.  Fall I enjoy the change of colors (being raised in the San Francisco Bay Area I never witnessed a true sense of seasons and Fall was just Indian Summer).  Winter I enjoy the cold and the snow (again I didn’t enjoy much of that growing up).  Spring lets’ me enjoy the new growth although I find myself getting impatient with Spring (buds just pop too slowly). 

Summer, in a nutshell, to me is vacation.  

I have fond recollections of Summer as a youth.  I always anxiously awaited that wonderful day in June – the last day of school.  The last day of school was often followed by a trip to the barber for a Summer crewcut.  I don’t think it was my idea, but my parents might disagree. 

Summer also meant my family’s annual trip to Los Angeles.  We’d either travel by car on US 101 or CA 1 (stopping to visit the Missions) or by train.  We’d visit Disneyland, Hollywood, and Olvera Street.  (I think I still have my velvet Peanuts painting that I spent my hard earned allowance on on Olvera Street.)  Every year was a great memory. 

During my youth I also fondly recall my Summer visit to my relatives in Santa Clara whom I would spend a couple of weeks.  My cousin Ginny and I were the same age and we’d do everything together.  Wander through the local orchards, climb the apricot and walnut trees.  Build treehouses.  Those were later followed with my joining them on their vacations (they were campers, my family was not.)  We’d sometimes camp and my folks would meet up with us, but they’d stay in the lodge.  The closest we came to camping as a family was Camp Mather near Yosemite.  Ah, Camp Mather, now there’s some fond Summer memories.  Camp Mather was really a bunch of cabins and a dining hall with cool outdoorsy stuff.  Swimming in the pond, catching tadpoles, pulling bark off the Ponderosa Pines in neat puzzle shapes, walks at night in pitch black trying to follow a double yellow line you could not see, up to the store which had a real working soda fountain.  Oh, and there were girls there, too.  I guess you could say Summer was crushes.

As I started my own family, Summer recollections move to what my girls were interested in.  Jenn loved Girl Scout Camp (Ashley did it a couple of times, but never really took to it.)  Ashley had cheerleader daily starting August 1st.  A trip across country as we moved from DC to the Philippines was another highlight.  Arizona is HOT in the Summer.  Memories of Summer life in the Philippines reminds me of monsoon and Leta making the girls Summer clothes.  Walking or golfing in the rain in shorts and flip flops.  The only drawback to the Summer monsoon season was being hot and wet and then entering an A/C building. 

Today Summers make me thing of the beach in Westport with Una watching crabs, running from the waves, and of course, sand in her food.  Una and Sally both love the beach.  I do, too.  I look forward to this year as Una is obviously a lot more mobile.  Should be fun watching Sally and Nana chase after her.  :-)  The other Summer highlight is “Paradise Found”, our vacationing at the “T'” house in Westport.  We had a terrific time last year and are booked again for this year.   We’re anxiously awaiting the end of June. 

Summer really is a wonderful season.  Each season has its pluses, but to me, Summer has vacation memories.

Annual Trip to Maine

We've recently returned from our annual Winter vacation to the Prospect Harbor Point Light.  We're lucky in that as a military retiree I qualify to stay at the lighthouse.  It is a wonderful treat for us.  This is our fourth consecutive Winter vacationing here.  It's Una's third, unless you make it four as she was conceived there.  

We spent a relaxing, as relaxing as possible with a two year old, five days at the lighthouse.  We had quite a variety of weather.  We arrived to frigid temps, temps rose to the 40s, then back to single digits the morning we left.  The weather gave me an opportunity to try out many different photo settings for various shots.  I've taken a couple of photography classes and am trying a few things out.  The slide show includes some of my favorites.  

We cooked (well, mostly Sally cooked, but I did make a good pancake breakfast one morning), we read, we hit The Big Chicken Barn (used books and antiques) where Sally found a wonderful commemorative plate of the Prospect Harbor Light, and I even managed to knit Una a scarf.  Yep, I've been trying to get Sally to knit for a few years and she's never found the time, so...I decided what the heck.  It was fun and I plan to do more.

Prospect Harbor is a quaint little Maine fishing village located on the Schoodic Peninsula.  If you ever get a chance to travel Downeast Maine, take US 1.  It's a wonderful and beautiful drive.  When we return we always take this route.  It's slower, but much more enjoyable.  Plus, it gives us the added benefit of hitting Freeport and L.L. Beans.

It was a great trip and we are already looking forward to next year.  Who knows, maybe we'll even try it in the Summer.

Playing with the Enemy by Gary Ward

My sister gave me this book for my birthday last July.  She thought I would enjoy it as it had a baseball theme, and was about a son and his father.  How right she was.  I finally found the time to read it.  What a joy it was.  What a thoughtful gift from my sister. 

Reading the opening chapter while on the plane from Denver, on more than one occasion I had to stop to dab the tears from my eyes.  The thoughts that passed through my mind were overwhelming.  I immediately wanted to write the author to thank him for inspiring me.  As I finished the book this evening, once again I was dabbing at the tears.  The author’s Afterword made me realize the thoughts I had at the beginning of the book were often felt by his readers. 

The story is told by a son about a portion his father’s life.  A portion he knew little about.  The son always wondered about this hidden portion of his father's life.  His father's brush with death forced him to address his questions he'd kept bottled up for so long.  As my own father just recently turned 81, I find myself with my own set of questions.  I have this sudden burning desire to visit my Dad and sit down to dinner to learn all I can.  Or perhaps vacation with him; see the Indy 500 he’s always wanted to see.  Watch another ballgame, something we always enjoyed doing together. 

It’s tough living 3000 miles away from people you love.  

Note:  I drafted this a few weeks ago, got busy and never finished it.  I'm hitting Publish today as it's a great book.

Merry Christmas, Jenn and Ashley

Each year I get excited about setting up the tree.  Sally and I have some wonderful ornaments we've gathered over our few years together.  Hanging them brings out some great memories of the wonderful times we had gathering them, and the great places we've been fortunate to visit.  This year is even more special as Una is old enough to appreciate what is happening.  She's excited about Santa, and enjoyed seeing the different ornaments as we pulled them out of the storage boxes.  Since she's told not to touch the tree, she's so cute in leaning in to smell it.  

Decorating the tree also makes me nostalgic in another way, and thus, somewhat saddened.  While I think of my two older girls (Jenn and Ashley) often, the pulling out of an ornament and glancing to see "Baby's 1st Christmas - 1981" or "First Christmas - 1983" really sends me down memory lane.  Good memories, each and every one.  No matter how hard I try, there is no stopping the choked up feeling I get.  Those memories make you think more intensely of the ones you miss and love.  And, not having them with you to relive the experience all over again...well...sucks.  We live in such a disbursed world it's so hard to be with everyone every year.  Texas, Ohio, California, Colorado, Pennsylvania.  Luckily, we do have the memories.

I've created this little slideshow of some special ornaments on the tree this year.  We have plenty more, but they are the ones that remind me of Jenn and Ashley.  I've inluded ones we have for Una so that Jenn and Ashley could see those, too.  

It's just my way of dealing, I think.

Merry Christmas

Meet the Grandparents

I'm a little late with this blog, but vacations have a way of putting you behind in lots of things.

We had a very nice visit with my Mom and Dad in the Philadelphia area recently. They were there as part of a "Historic America" tour. Sally, Una and I drove down from RI on October 27th.

We got to join my folks for a late dinner at Maggiano's, followed by a rainy windy visit of historic Philadelphia, and then a tour of Valley Forge. We wrapped up our short visit with a relaxing stay at home evening. It was a fun, but too short, visit.


We have some great memories to share with Una.










Since Sally's grandmother lives in the area we stopped in for homemade brunch with Grammie and Uncle Ted. Fun time, which included a trip to the Farmer's Market for some great Lancaster Valley treats (Sweet Lebanon Bologna...mmmmmmm. Oh, and a terrific peach pie)

As I said, a fun time, but too short.

Halloween 2008

I just have to share some photos from Una's Halloween 2008. This is the first year she really appreciated Halloween and she had a blast. She did things with Mom (made costume, carved pumpkin) during the day, visited friends for a little pre-Halloween party, then it was Trick or Treating in Westport with Nana. Here are just a few pics. We'll put more up on Picasa later. Enjoy...




Mommy and I carved a pumpkin. Isn't my Halloween dress cute, too?




Here I am with my friends. Dadda says we're all very cute.




Nana, me and Mommy (Lucy)Trick or Treat in Westport Point, MA

Barre Run 2008

We made our annual run to Barre, MA on Sunday. This is something Sally's family has been doing for many many years. I've joined in for the last four (Una three).

Barre, MA is where Sally's great grandparents settled after her great grandfather completed medical school. He and his wife lived the rest of their lives in Barre. He, Merle, was the local doctor, his wife Blanche was an artist.

Annually in October we make the hour or so trek northwest to this quaint New England town. We drive by the old homes that Nana recalls fondly (one is where her father was born). We stop in the town center, walk past the WWII memorial pointing out Buppa's name, snap pictures, and this year let Una run around playing with leaves. It really is a beautiful town square. We grab a copy of The Barre Gazette and the next stop is the cemetery where both of Sally's great grandparents are buried. We carry on the tradition of leaving shells from Westport at the grave site, as Sally's great grandparents were summer residents of Westport and enjoyed the beach there.

The final stop is the Barre Mill Restaurant for lunch/dinner (I guess that would be supper to some). Three years ago when we did this run, it was Una's restaurant debut. Sally was recalling how fearful she was that little two-week old Una would disturb the locals. She did fine, as she did last year. Now this year...well, if the service hadn't been slower than molasses perhaps Una would not have lost patience with sitting quietly at the table. Oh, well. I guess some waitresses just aren't accustomed to serving families with children. Seeing that 80% of the people entering for the Sunday noon to 4pm specials walked with canes, maybe that's understandable.

After Barre, it time to drive back home, but with one stop. It's late October and we need pumpkins. Annually we stop at Howe's Farm in Paxton, MA. This year, after rousing Una for a nap in the car seat (she tends to like sleeping in the car) we picked out 72 pounds of pumpkins for Nana and Gramps, as well as for us.

They have some of the largest pumpkins in the area, and even have one that Una posed on. Isn't she the cutest!!!


Another wonderful run to Barre. We're already looking forward to next year's adventure.

Five Wonderful Years

We reached another milestone yesterday. Five terrific years. The best ever.

Thank you Sally for being my best friend and my wife. You make my life complete.

Here's a little clip of how it all started:

Oktoberfest at Redlefsen's

On Thursday Sally and I joined her parents to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary. It's actually today, but Redlefsen's (located in Bristol, RI) has this great Oktoberfest dinner only on Wednesday and Thursdays in September and October.


It really was a traditional Oktoberfest with all the German food, German beers, OOM-PAH PAH Band, and Bavarian Dancers. It was a wonderful evening. Sally and I reminisced about our 2004 trip to The Christmas Markets of Europe which allowed us to visit much of Bavaria and experience this type of evening first hand.

The evening was really special. I've added to my stein collection with a nice Warsteiner "Das Boot" complete with neck lanyard.


Thanks Nana and Gramps, we had a great time.

Immigrants - An Appreciation

If you've followed this blog recently you probably already know that Sally and I have been on an ancestry kick. We've started a family site and have now documented over 700 members in our family tree.

As I've navigated through my branch of the tree I've found some wonderful documents which show when, where and how my maternal grandparents arrived in this country. As a child I knew my grandparents as elderly people who spoke no or only broken English. I was just a kid and they were old and talked differently. My memories include my grandmother always in the kitchen, always with an apron on, and the only word I remember her saying to me was, "mangia". My grandfather being tall, often sitting in his rocking chair, and his cardigan sweater on. The documentation I have found gives me more of a sense of who they are, but not a picture of how their early lives in this country might have been.

Surprisingly, not through my research through Ancestry.com, but rather through my garage cleanup work, I think I have a better view of their lives.

On Saturday as I was cleaning the garage I came upon an old, but large portable A/C. I put it at the street with a sign reading, "FREE (works)". It sat there for two days without a nibble. Monday I loaded it into the back of the wagon and off to the Salvation Army I went. "Sorry, we can't take that," was the greeting from the SA attendant. Back home with the A/C to sit on the front lawn again. While Sally and I worked outside an elderly man and woman stopped to look at the A/C. Sally hollered that it was theirs if they wanted it. Some discussion ensued (not in English) and then they started to carry it off. Now this A/C must weigh at least 75 pounds, is bulky and it's tough for two to carry. They got about five feet and I could see on the woman's face this was not going to work. I hurried down the driveway offering to help. She thanked me in a non-verbal way. "So, where are we going? Where's the car?" No car, apartment is a block away. Down the hill we go. The elderly gentleman and I take about ten steps and he starts to wheeze. "I have emphysema." Visions race through my head - none good. We eventually make it to the apartment and they motioned to just leave the A/C outside the stairs to the apartment. Figuring they had help there I did just that and headed home. 20 minutes later I'm feeling a bit concerned so I take a peek from the end of the driveway. There they are attempting to pickup the A/C unit. I whistled my loudest whistle and got their attention. "Put it down I gestured" and jogged on down to help. They had the window open and ready for the A/C. There was no way two people were going to make it into the apartment carrying the A/C so I volunteered.

I entered what I thought was going to be the living room. It was not. It was THE room; maybe 10x12 (there was a single door to a utility looking room which had to serve as closet and bathroom (I hope). ) Regardless, I got the unit in the window ready for their use.

The apartment was filled with religious ornaments. It reminded me of a room in my grandparents home. Madonna statues abound. As I left and walked back to our modest home I could not help but think that probably was how my grandparents lived when they first arrived in this country. Take whatever space they could afford. They managed.

My grandparents came to this country trying to build a better life for their future family. The couple I helped probably were doing the same only a century later. Good luck with that. I'll be peeking down the street to help when I can. It just seems right.

Happy Second Birthday, Una

Una, you're turning two today. Happy Birthday, Sweetheart.

Love, Mommy and Dadda

Four Generations

We had the good fortune to recently enjoy a long weekend at "Grammie's" just outside of Philadelphia. The visit was timed so that we could visit with Jeff, Jen and Emmett (coming from CO), as Jen had a conference to attend in Philly. Nana and Gramps make the trip south as well. In the picture from left to right is Grammie, Gramps, Jen, Jeff (holding Emmett), Sally (holding Una), John, and Nana.

It's difficult for four generations to get together when family can be so spread out. This is actually the first time all nine of us were together. The last time we all got together there were only eight (Emmett wasn't born yet), and that was nearly two years ago for Una's Christening.

"Grammie" is the last remaining "great" for Una. As we enjoyed face-to-face family interactions, browsing through old pictures, hearing stories of past family members, and even looking at Una's maternal family tree (back to the 1600's), it struck me that I am very delinquent in leaving a legacy for my descendants. I have therefore started work on a family website, including a family tree. I'll be taking baby steps in this endeavor as I'm aware of some very legitimate privacy concerns.

Grammie was nice enough to let me borrow a number of photo albums which I've begun scanning the photos from. There are quite a few and someday I hope to be able to caption and categorize them. I'll be doing the same with photos my parents have sent me, as well as old photos I have, and Nana and Gramps have, as well. When I open up the family website to others, I hope other family members will add treasured photos to share.

Along with the scanning project Sally and I have begun the process of documenting the family tree. We've just scratched the surface and already are having alot of fun in our detective work to find our ancestry. In just two days we've documented 223 family members. It can be quite addicting. I hope you don't see us on Intervention soon! I'm sure we'll be reaching out to many family members for help in this project. What's in our tree is often linked to yours.

We had a terrific visit with family and as an added bonus I left with a reinvogorated goal to document family history both in a timeline and in photos. I hope you'll follow along in our efforts.

Talk soon...John

Summer, Where Did You Go?

I was able to get out at lunch yesterday and enjoy a cool Summer day. It felt more like Fall. They even mentioned on the weather yesterday morning about it feeling like Fall. Where the heck did the Summer go? I know, I know, we've not even reached the "unofficial" end of Summer with the Labor Day weekend. But, when I pass daily the sign at the high school that classes begin in less than a week, I can't help but feel Summer is coming to a close.


We've had the good fortune to actually have a really nice Summer. Lots of time at the beach in Westport, work and play in our backyard, Sundays at Nana and Gramps for dinners on the back deck, and drinks on the deck at The Back Eddy. Oh, and who can forget our great vacation to Westport.


While the Summer has indeed been great, I've missed a few things. Not one round of golf, not one cast from the rod, and only a couple of trips on the boat. I'm not complaining (well, I'm complaining about how the boat has run yet again this year) as time with family and friends have been great. I've enjoyed tremendously watching Una at a point where she can really enjoy outdoor activities. If you read this blog regularly you already know he just loves the beach. And, she loves anything to do with a playground. Saturday night Sally didn't sleep well so when Una awoke at 6:22am (yes unfortunately I noted the time when I crawled out of bed) I got up with her so Sally could sleep. After a couple episodes of "Blues Clues" I thought Una would enjoy a walk. We made it down to the park at the end of Blackstone. We drive by this park often and a few months ago when Una first discovered swings, that was all she'd say as we passed in the car. I thought she'd enjoy some time on the swings, but found that she also enjoyed climbing to the top of the "big kids" slide. No little four step slide for Una. Noooo...she needed to climb the one that was probably ten steps and a foot over my 6'5" high head. She climbed with ease, stood at the top (the most nerve-racking) and then proceeded to sit and slide down. She slid slowly thanks to the rubber soled shoes she had on. At the bottom, turn and run for the stairs. It was a fun time. Did I mention that I found not one empty plastic juice bottle, empty frozen ice container, or any used diapers? (If you don't get that you missed my Aretha blog). Bravo to those that use this playground. Now, how about the Providence Parks Department doing something about grading so that the walkways don't become impassable for strollers due to mud with the slightest hint of rain? Oh, and can you turn on that lovely Art Deco fountain? Wouldn't that be an enjoyable site for local residents? (Wait: in searching for a link for the fountain I found this blog. http://www.savethefountain.blogspot.com/ Seems I'm not alone in my desire to see this fountain operating again.)

With Summer coming to a close Sally and I have our eyes set on a trip to Philly in September to visit Grammie. Jeff, Jen and Emmett will be visiting, too. We can't wait to see them. Una's all excited to see her cousin. Then October has another trip to Philly when my folks are there for a trip they are taking. Sally and I are also looking forward as Summer winds down to getting some things done to the house that we've not found the time to do with busy Summer schedules.

So, Summer you might be leaving us, but thanks to great family and friends, life is good no matter the season.

Talk at you all soon...John

Paradise Found

I have been blessed in that I have been able to experience many beautiful and wonderful places in my life. There are far too many to name here. I mention this because I just returned from spending ten glorious days in a rental home in Westport Point, MA. The terrific time I had there reminded me of so many wonderful memories of other places I've been fortunate enough to visit. From my experiences as a child with my parents and sister to Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Disneyland, etc., to my living overseas (Philippines) while in the Navy, to my cross country drives (southern and northern routes), to my more recent trips to Europe and Russia (Sally and I were fortunate to take my parents place when they could not travel for a time). So many memories of wonderful vacations are flowing through my head right now. And, it's all because of my most recent vacation experience.

Saturday night we were closing in on the end of our vacation. Sally and I enjoyed a quiet glass of wine while overlooking the moonlit Westport harbor. I took out a piece of paper to write down all the memories from the previous 9 days. I had planned to blog as I go, but the time was better spent just enjoying the experience. Not blogging as I went reminds me of early video camera operation. You had your eye to the eyepiece pointed in one direction. You never got to experience what you were filming. While the blog now will probably be less detailed, I got to experience more by not opening up the notebook computer.

Here's the list as it's scribbled. It's in no specific order at this point. It was just thoughts that raced through my head as I started the list.

Paul Cuffee, T-House, fishing boats, beach, corny, fireworks, Georgia, no TV, Summer breeze, wine/beer cash register, ambulance, books, antique tractor, lobbies, dangerous surf (lock the door), Golden Finch, moon, Handy Hill, bookfaire, rummage sale, outdoor shower, sharing with friends, kite, bubbles, Cinderella / What a Mess, Grover/Eva/William, Jenn With Two Ns, Ashley camping, Marian gifts, crying -- Kisses/Hugs, hand written notes, Blackie, Woodkins.

So, where to start? Let's start with arrival day. Our vacation started on July 3rd. After packing lightly (we were only 35 miles from home so we knew we could run home if we forgot something...plus we had to feed the cat) we headed for the rental. We had toured it a few weeks ago, but personally, I only vaguely recalled the complete house. It's really a three season home. There is no heat other than what a nice fire would provide in the fireplace. (We had no need for a fire, btw.) It had four bedrooms, simple beach house style kitchen, a nice outdoor shower (used that daily). a terrific screened-in porch, and a wonderful view of sail boats moored in Westport Harbor.

We had invited a number of friends to visit on the 3rd, hoping some might enjoy staying over for the parade the following morning. Only Tom and Michele were able to join us, but just for the evening. We had a terrific evening with Sally's parents joining us for dinner (we initiated the new charcoal Weber Sally's dad had purchased earlier in the day). We had to relearn everything about grilling!!!. Grilled salmon, burgers (some veggie), dogs, and of course, littlenecks. Grilled littlenecks have to be one of my favorite grilled foods. And so damn simple, too. Throw them on the grill, close the lid, check them once in awhile. When they open they are done. Mmmmm. I don't know the whole story behind the salmon, but something about salmon and peas being a 4th of July tradition. Not being a pea guy, I've not paid too much attention to that. Maybe Sally can chime in on that. (Honey, that means you can post a comment or blog her, too) :-)

Now, don't worry, I'm not going to review the menu of every meal we had while on vacation. It was the first, and thus a memory. Anyway, on to the 4th!!!

It's Time for a Parade!!

It wasn't Bristol, RI and their 223rd continuous 4th of July Parade, but it was darn good just the same. Besides, I heard the Bristol parade was 4-1/2 hours long. As my mother-in-law would say, "I'd rather stick needles in my eyes." The Westport parade was as Goldilocks would say, "Just right". Goldilocks? Enter the Woodkins mentioned above. You see, Una discovered at the rental house this really nice wooden toy called Woodkins. The family we rented from has small children (not as young as Una) and Una was fascinated with the big kids toys and some of their books. The Woodkins were a favorite. One of the characters was Goldilocks. I digress. The parade was excellent although Una did not appreciate like the firetruck sirens. Una loves firetrucks, but I don't think she'll want to hear another one for a long time. The parade was a perfect mix of floats, antique cars and tractors, fire apparatus, and military details, with hardly a spattering of politicians (that's always okay by me!)

Here a a couple of other pictures from the parade:
Dad trying to be patriotic with the blueish shirt and the redish hat. Una doing a GREAT job with the red, white and blue dress and the flag.



Nana all smiles (she always has that on when Una's around) and an inquisitive Una.

We could not have asked for better weather. During the parade it threatened rain, but held off. We even got to the beach the afternoon of the 4th. The only rain we had were a couple of nights. It was welcomed as it helped to clear out some of the humidity.

Did I mention the beach? We hit the beach evey day, but one, and that was by choice. Una loves the beach. Sally loves the beach. Nana LOVES the beach. I thoroughly enjoy the beach. I'm not one for laying around soaking up the sun, but I enjoy a good walk on the beach. I also enjoy frolicing in the water with Una. I've had success in Una coming to not fear the water. This can be a double edged sword. While I don't want her to fear the water, she has to learn to respect it. Sally reminded me of that one evening during our vacation. There can be dangerous riptides at the beach in Westport. Sally's summered her whole life at that beach and knows and experienced the dangers. While I know them, have not experienced them first hand. Sally was upset with me that I was not watching Una closely enough one day. She let me know how upset that evening. (it's the entry from the list entitled "dangerous surf (lock the door)". You might be wondering what lock the door has to do with dangerous surf. It's kind of simple. After Sally reminded me just how important it was to watch Una, then stormed off to bed, I reflected a bit about just how cautious I am about our daughter. I then proceeded to ensure the door was locked before retiring myself. It just struck me how the two concerns became linked.

7/21/2008:

I've been terribly delinquent in getting this post finished. I'm going to add a few more highlights of the trip then post.

We had a very nice visit with our friends Chris and Jen. They joined us for dinner, a night of catching up, then hit the beach with us the following morning. It was good to see them, and nice that they too could enjoy this wonderful spot.

We also got a chance to get together with Ellen and Bill. It had been way to long since we've seen them. They were gracious enough to invite us to see their remodeled home in Westport. It was a terrific evening. The remodel was terrific, the company the best, and Una loved Georgia. Every golden we see now is, "Georgia". :-) Oh, and Bill, you make the best Dark and Stormys.

I can't end this without mentioning the Church rummage sale and the Quaker book sale. Two events were were not going to miss. There were certainly bargains to be had at the rummage sale, and we now have another two boxes of books (mostly cookbooks) to sort through.

Lastly, here's an abbreviated version of an explanation of those items from the list above I have not touched on:

• Paul Cuffee: Real cool book that was in the home we rented. Seems Captain Cuffe was quite the Westporter. Nice story that his son wrote.



• T-House: The name of the house we stayed at. Every time Una approached the house she'd say, "T-house". She does so every time now as we drive nearby.



• Fishing boats: At the end of Main St is the Westport piers where many fishing boats tie up. As we walked Una in her stroller she always wanted to see, "fishing boats".



• Beach: Covered



• Fireworks: Oh, that was certainly a highlight I should have mentioned. Thanks to Uncle Jonathan and Aunt Nancy for inviting us to the 4th of July celebration. Una still walks around saying, "fireworks".



• Georgia: Covered



• No TV: Did I mentioned I lived without TV for 10 days? Yep. (well, I did spot a bit of Wimbledon as I waited at the base for a haircut).



• Summer breeze: The rental house is situated just right to almost always have a refreshing breeze.



• Wine/beer cash register: Quick story. As I was picking up a bottle of wine at the local Wine/Beer store the owner rang up my order, the cash register opened, and he walked over to grab a box or something. He came back and said, "Guess I couldn't do that in Fall River, huh?" It just struck me that Westport is that kind of place, one where you feel safe and trust your neighborhood.



• Ambulance: Like the Woodkins, Una found three Matchbox cars; a race car, a tow truck, and an "ambulance". She says is so cute, and says it to this day. Ambulances are now here favorite vehicles (well maybe second to "gabage truck").



• Books: Like the Paul Cuffe one I mentioned.



• Antique tractor: Una and I were in the yard on Sunday the 6th, when we hear this putt, putt, putt and look over the stone wall and see this antique tractor. The driver (with his son in his lap) sees us and hangs a U-ey, drives over to us to inquire about farming the field that was next to the house. It was a 1949 John Deere. We've passed on the info to the owners to see whether they'd like to see the field plowed in such a manner. I think it would be cool.



• Lobbies: We had lobsters for dinner one night with Nana and Gramps. Lobbies is the term Una uses to refer to to the real thing, as well as her stuffed lobster.



• Dangerous surf: Covered.



• Golden Finch: I was amazed at the number of Golden Finches I saw. They dart from bush to bush, tree to tree. They actually bounce. They flutter then glide. During each flutter you can hear their happy chirp.



• Moon: We went from a waxing crescent to more than half while on vacation. The last night Sally and I enjoyed the moonlit evening with a glass of wine.



• Handy Hill: A great creamery close by. Sadly, we never made it there while on vacation. We'll make up for it later this Summer.



• Bookfaire: Covered.



• Rummage sale: Covered.



• Outdoor Shower: I just love an outdoor shower. The one at our rental house was used daily. Only Una use the indoor tubby.



• Sharing with friends: Covered, but I'll reiterate, it was great to share our vacation with Michele and Tom, Jen and Chris, Ellen and Bill, and, of course, Nana and Gramps.



• Kite: I, in particular, had a blast flying Una's kite we purchased in Boulder, CO while visiting there earlier this year. What a blast. Una's still a bit young for a kite. She let go once, sending me scurrying to catch it before it ended up in the trees.



• Bubbles: Daddy and Una had fun making and catching bubbles.



• Cinderella / What a Mess: Two books Una enjoys over and over and over and...



• Jenn with Two Ns: I got an email while on vacation from my oldest daughter Jennifer. She's always been referred to as Jenn with two Ns. Here email came from her new domain -- withtwons.com Her soon to be blog will be there.



• Ashley camping: Being out of touch with limited phone and internet, I missed hearing how Ashley's (the youngest of my two older children) camping trip to MI went. I hope she had a good time. It certainly sounded like it was going to be fun.



• Marian gifts: When we went home to feed Pooter (our cat) on Wednesday there was a box from Marian with a B-Day gift for me, as well as a little something for everyone. Just another reminder of how lucky I am to be blessed with wonderful family. (Marian, here's Una enjoying the book you sent her.)



• Crying -- Kisses/Hugs: I probably shouldn't mention this one, but it meant alot to me. As I sat at the table Saturday night scribbling down the memories, the last three brought me to tears. If you've read this blog in the past you know how much I miss my girls. The same goes for my folks and my sister. Una sat across the table from me with this bewildered look on her face. What was making Dadda upset? She made her way around the table and gave Dadda kisses/hugs.



• Blackie: The large black stuffed bear at Nana's house, which made it's way to our rental house. Una just loves that bear!



• Woodkins: Covered

Well, there you have it. Our wonderful vacation to Paradise. I wish I had more time to explain it all in more detail. I want to savor it forever.

Here's one more picture which Sally took, that I absolutely love (click the pic to see a larger view. That's the Atlantic Ocean in the distance over my left shoulder. Unfortunately, you can also see a thinning spot in the back of my head) .

An Exciting Visit

For weeks now Sally and I have been telling Una that Uncle Jeff, Aunt Jen, and Cousin Emmett would be visiting soon. She's been excited and practicing her "Jeff", "Jen" and "Emmie". While she's not yet master the Uncle and Aunt part (sometimes Jeff becomes Aunt Jeff), she's gotten the Emmie to be Emmett with two very distinct syllables.

We had a terrific visit with lots of time spent in Westport as Nana and Gramps needed a good dose of their grandson. We enjoyed BBQs on the deck, and some time at the beach. Both Una and Emmett learned from their Mom and Dad, respectively, what a sand crab was. Una refused to touch one. Nana got a special treat when Sally, Jeff and Jen, and myself all decided to enjoy the nice deck at The Back Eddy. It was nice for the four of us to be kidless. I think it was doubly nice that Nana got to enjoy and pamper her two grandchildren.


Jeff, Jen, and Emmett left on Wednesday to enjoy some time in Boston and then to Maine for a friends wedding. They returned Sunday to celebrate Father's Day at our house. Una was quite excited to see her cousin. It was Jeff's first Father's Day and Nana and Gramps, of course, joined us for that celebration. Tuesday is Nana and Gramps' anniversary, as well as Jen's birthday, so we celebrated those special occasions, as well. I got to do a little Emmett cuddling. I think I still have the good calming vibes as he seemed to enjoy his time with me.

Jeff, Jen and Emmett were to leave today (I had to work), but their flight plans were delayed and thus changed. I understand Nana got another shot of "Emmett Time" as everyone was headed to East Ave Cafe for lunch. Yeah, I'm jealous.


It was terrific to have family visit. It's a shame visits have to be so infrequent. Sally's a terrific host. I know she fretted over having everything perfect, but rest assured, it all was. Una...well I think she thoroughly enjoyed all the extra attention heaped on her, and she enjoyed having another little person around. She seemed to enjoy the "big girl" role, too.

We look forward to the next visit, whether in CO or RI/MA.

"Gamps" Birthday

First it was Nana's turn, now "Gamps". Gramps Jeff celebrated his 60th on Wednesday and we made the trek to Westport to help in the celebration. Una did her part in making "Gamps" a poster, as well as a card. She also was his able assistant with opening presents (she's gonna love Christmas this year.)

Since it was a weekday and everyone worked, we did take out BBQ from LJ's in Pawtucket. It was a big hit. I hear the baked beans were great, but will admit I did not partake in those. The ribs, sauce and cornbread were just to my liking. Earlier in the day, Sally made Gramps his favorite cake (spice). Una really enjoyed her cake and ice cream. "Ceem" is always her favorite part of any meal!

Gramps got lots of neat gifts all focusing on sailing. Lots of accessories for Dory Days.

Happy Birthday, "Gamps". We all hope you had a wonderful special birthday.

Love,
Una, Sally and John

Memorial Day 2008

We did alot during Memorial Day weekend as we had a little mini vacation staying with "Nana and Gamps" in Westport, MA. Highlights include:

• Friday dinner with friends Dan and Ginger at Cork in New Bedford.
• Saturday a visit to see "Gamps'" new boat Dory Days
• Saturday was also "Gamps'" 60th Birthday Party celebrated at the Paquachuck Inn
• Sunday included a walk on the beach for Nana, Sally and Una, while Gamps and I took the first ride of 2008 in our boat, Sea Dog.
• A few BBQs with hamburgers, hot dogs, and ribs, of course.

I've skimped on the details because without the real purpose of the weekend, all of the above may not have been possible. On Monday we honored the true purpose of Memorial Day by attending the annual Westport, MA wreath laying ceremony and Memorial Day Parade.

As a former servicemember, I felt pride as I stood and watched servicemembers from WWII, Korea and Vietnam (and perhaps other conflicts, as well) honor those they may have served along side of. It was a small ceremony. Moving none-the-less. I'm happy we've initiated Una in honoring those that have served and given the ultimate sacrafice for what they believed in.

We moved from the ceremony to the parade. The pride I had felt previously that morning returned as I watched small town America turn out to honor America's Heroes. The parade included war veterans, police, and firefighters. There was a marching band made up of local schoolchildren. And, then there were the Scouts. Girls Scouts and Boy Scouts. Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, and Cub. Parents snapping pictures as their son or daughter passed by. More importantly, those parents cheered and applauded the servicemembers who proceeded their children.

I was moved by the flags, what they represent, and the honor shown them.

Well done Westport. You honored those that secured the freedoms that I and my family enjoy today.

Life Comes At You Fast

No, I'm not seeking ad revenue from Nationwide. I'm talking about real life.


As I go through life witnessing daily the changes in Una, I'm sometimes overwhelmed with emotion regarding my grown children, Jenn and Ashley. I want them to know that they are so much a part of our family. They'll get blogged about, too. :-)

So many of the things I'm witnessing today, I was fortunate to witness 25 or so years ago with either Jenn or Ashley. Sally sometimes asks whether Una at this age is more like Jenn or Ashley. To be honest I don't know. It's funny what you remember. Jenn sleeping in the crankup swing or the bouncy in the doorway between the dining room and the kitchen. Ashley sucking that finger or brushing her hair (she hated that). I remember the special things. I remember things I've had my memory jogged through pictures. Is it the fact that 25+ years have passed? Is it that I wasn't paying attention? Will 25 years from now the daily actions of Una be faded memories?

Life was so different for me then. I was 25 when Jenn was born. Was I mature enough to appreciate what I had a hand in creating? Did I appreciate those events the way I appreciate them today? Did I show my girls the pride I felt in their accomplishments as I do today with Una? I'd like to think the answer to all those questions would be "Yes".

I miss my girls. Sally can attest to that. Sometimes so much I simply cry as I think of them. Life comes at you fast. There they are as little children, then they are grown mature women who are thousands of miles away.

When Rick P, my grammar school classmate and friend, reached out to me after about 30+ years a couple of weeks ago (he had gotten my number by calling my Mom) he said this, "Your Mom says, 'Call your Mom!'" I now so often know how my Mom felt when I joined the Navy and moved thousands of miles away and travelled half way around the world. A bit of her was gone; had moved on. Pieces of me have moved on, too.

I called my Mom out of the blue the day before yesterday and she said, "What good news do you have for me today?" She just assumed that if I was calling mid-week it had to be for some other reason than to just say hello and check in.

Your children are your children whether they are 20 months or 25 or 27 years. They are your children whether they are down the hall in their crib, or thousands of miles away in their own homes. You love them all the same. You can just as easily lay awake concerned about your infant's latest cold as you can about ice storms in Texas or blizzards in Ohio.

Life comes at you fast. Call your Mom. Call your distant children. Tell them you love them. Ask for pictures to save the memories of the different stages of their life.

I love you Jenn and Ashley. This one's for you.

Fantastic Finds

So, Saturday started off another dreary wet weekend. Ugh! "But Wait!" the weatherman exclaims. The rain is past and the sun is waiting to shine according to Doppler and PinPoint Weather.

Seeing that everything in the yard was wet from the overnight and morning rain, we decided to cruise around. There's a yard sale we need to hit. Cruise on up Hope St and low and behold a large yard sale on a church lawn. Let's give it a whirl. Sally and I both spot it. Let's take a look What? $10? Let's get it. Una will love it. What is it? Can you guess?









It's a Little Tikes Workbench.

We now have our very own Toolbelt Diva on our hands.








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Despite the near $4/gallon for gasoline (thanks GW aka Dummy), we decided to hit the road again for more cruising. While venturing around the East Side of Providence, Sally mentioned that the Southside Community Land Trust 16th Annual Rare and Unusual Plant Sale was going on today. I had hit the sale a few years ago on my own when Sally worked on Saturdays. I had found the plant sale a fun experience and Sally recalled that. So, off to South Providence we go. No, map, no directions, just a vague memory of making the trip a few years ago. Suddenly, we find it. Tons of cars, lots of people, all there for one purpose, herb and plant finds. We browsed the grounds and game away with 14 plants and herbs. All for the not so hefty total price of $48.

Here are the plants that will find their new home shortly when I finish (well, start and finish, actually) the raised bed I'm making. Sally stacked them on the fence for watering and it made for a cool photo.

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Okay, two finds down. There must be another Providence find to find. So, more cruising (thanks again Dummy). We cruised over to the Armory district and Federal Hill, experiencing some stunning Victorian homes. As we cruised Federal Hill it dawned on me that it would be nice to grab a bite at Venda Ravioli and perhaps picnic in DePasquale Plaza (seen here).

So onto Atwell's Ave we go. We find a prime parking space. This is turning out to be our day. :-)

It's graduation day for Johnson & Wales University so the city and Federal Hill are abuzz with graduates and their families. The outside dining at Venda is right on DePasquale Plaza (you can barely see the tables on the left in the picture). Rather than grab sandwiches we decided to take advantage of the cafe dining. The hostess seated us and to Una's and our delight, right opposite the fountain in the plaza. I think we had the best seat there. Our Picasa photo album of our lunch experience can be accessed here. Needless to say, we had a wonderful lunch. Una showed her good Sicilian heritage by enjoying her plate of cheese ravioli, and of course the Italian bread. Mmmm.

It was quite the day. We'll enjoy these finds this year and future years. The memory of lunch on DePasquale Plaza will be one we will cherish forever. The look on Una's face as she watched other children play at the fountain will be one I will not forget.