Tuesday, April 5th Leaving Staunton VA

   Overnight we experienced heavy thunder storms and the temperature had dropped to 6 C.  This was the first day since March 1st that we dressed in long pants and sleeves with a vest and our sandals.  We hit the road at 830 AM in the rain.  Our trip on the I-81 through Virgina, West Virgina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York States before entering Canada.  Most of the day we drove in the rain and even experienced snow flurries in New York State.  The traffic was steady with lots of semi trucks on the road. We cleared Canada Customs quickly without any difficulty and now into Ontario.  We arrived home at 800 PM.  We drove 2370 Kms from Kissimmee to our home.

   I must mention gas prices.  Florida prices were $3.499 per gal, Georgia, $3.559 per gal, North and South Carolina $3.599 per gal, Virgina $3.659 per gal and the most expensive gas in New York State $3.899 per gal.  Still a bargain compared to the Canadian prices.  And the American complain, we Canadians just sit back and just pay. 

   A good month and a bit. It is good to be home and I enjoyed my bed.  We are happy the snow is gone and looking forward to warmer weather, which will come. 

Monday, April 4th Leaving Kissimmee

It was our departure day from Kissimmee Florida.  We planned on driving as far as Staunton Virgina.  It was another bright sunny day around 20 C when we hit the road at 730 AM. 

The drive took us through the State of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina  on the I-95.  Then, we were routed to the I-26 and I-77 in North Carolina (Columbia area).  In Virgina we connected with the I-81.  Monday's drive of 1350 Kms ended at 745 PM.  We checked in to the motel and were in time for "Dancing with the Stars".  Needless to say; we were a little car weary from the 12 hour drive.  Helene was glued to the TV and using the telephone and Internet service.  I headed out for a BBQ roasted chicken, Cole slaw and of course a bottle of wine. 

As mentioned, the day started out at 20 C and hit a high of 31 C and when the car was parked in Staunton VA it was 24 C.  The winds had picked up throughout the day and storm advisories had been posted for possible tornado's and thunder storms.

Sunday, April 3rd in Kissimmee

It was another wonderful Florida day in the Kissimmee area with friends. 

Vonnie, Albert and Helene headed out for church in the Celebration area.  The Dowling's son and his family were off to the Disney's water park for the day.  We enjoyed a brunch and chilled out around the pool.  Of course, we had to stay hydrated in the heat.

The whole Kissimmee gang headed out to Downtown Disney for the evening.  An area on the Disney complex with alot of commercial shops, Lego Land, Toy World, many restaurants, live music and filled with people, all happy and having fun.

After our fun filled evening in Downtown Disney we were off, with a final stop at Neil and Sue's for cinammon rolls before heading home.  A great day.

Saturday, April 2nd in Kissimmee

Just another outstanding weather day.  We spent the day by the pool. After a great BBQ supper the gang headed over to Old Town to enjoy the sights and sounds.  A carnival atmosphere with an antique car parade of 340 vehicles.  Some very nicely remodeled vehicles which made a grown man drool.

Friday, April 1st in Melbourne Beach

 A big change in the weather, the storm systems have move through the area and the typical Florida weather has returned. 

Helene and I were up early finishing off the packing and washing, linen and towels, vacuuming and cleaning the condo.  We had breakfast prepared by Barry and Shelia.  The packing and car loaded and we were off for Kissimmee.  We arrived at Vonnie and Albert's in the early afternoon.  We hung out around the pool and enjoyed the company followed by a BBQ. 

It is hard to believe a month plus has passed.  We certainly will miss the weather.  It has been a most excellent experience. 

Thursday, March 31st in Melbourne Beach

It was a wild and woolly day in Florida.  The weather was not hurricane strength but darn close, tornado warnings throughout the Volusia and Brevard County's.  We experienced strong winds with heavy rain and lots of thunder and lightening. 

Seeing that it was out last day at the condo in Melbourne Beach the weather did not effect out indoor activities of gathering, packing and cleaning.  We did enjoy lunch with Barry and Shelia.  The boys did make their afternoon trip to "Loggerhead's" for beer.  Ron and Arabella had us over for our last supper and we watched "American Idol" the double elimination round.  Leaving Melbourne Beach and hopefully returning next year.  We have spoken with the owner and stated our interest in returning. 

Wednesday, March 30th in Melbourne Beach

The forecast was for rain with thunder showers.  It was humid and the temperature hit 30C.  Then around the supper hour, heavy rain, thunder and a tornado watch.  We experienced only heavy rain with winds which did some tree pruning, no damage in this area,  The storm which came out of the west cut a path through the Orlando area through to the Cape Canaveral area and north. 

Helene and Arabella were in training and did a shopping run.  Ron, New Jersey John and I played golf at the Baytree National GC.  A great day, warm, sunny, humid, 30 C, then while waiting to T-off at the 18th hole and the skies darkening and winds picking up, an executive decision was made to skip the 18th hole and head to the clubhouse.  We each scored a "Birdie".  The winds continued to pick up and the rain started coming sideways as we arrived.  We dumped the carts and ran into the Pro Shop with our golf bags.  In the security of the Clubhouse and in the bar area, beer was ordered and of course enjoyed.  We waited for the weather system to blow through before returning to Melbourne Beach which is about a 45 minute drive.

The shoppers had supper ready for Ron and I upon our arrival.  We enjoyed watching the "American Idol" show together.  Another day just breezed by.  One day left to gather up, pack and clean the condo. 

Tuesday, March 29th in Melbourne Beach

The day started out dark, with another day of rain with thunder showers forecasted.  We dodged a weather bullet and it turned out to be a splendid day at 26C.

My day started early.  The Altima with its new transmission required a follow up to repair the power steering.  The electric power steering unit had a wire disconnected from the harness.  It was not a big job, more annoying having to return to the dealer again.  At the same time they rotated the tires and my lug nut locking key is missing.  I had them remove the locking lug nuts and replace them with chrome nuts.  I searched the car and I hope it is at home in the garage.

We gathered at Barry and Shelia's for a pot luck supper with, Ron, Arabella, Gail and Helene and I.  Gail is flying back to Ottawa on Wednesday morning.  Barry celebrates a birthday on Wednesday.  So there was an excuse to get together.  We also watched the first elimination round of "Dancing with the Stars".  It was unmanamous by our group that they eliminated the weakest couple.  Only two days left in Melbourne Beach. 

Front left, Barry, Shelia, & Helene, Middle, Gail & Arabella, Middle Back, Ron

Monday, March 28th in Melbourne Beach

The rain started around 400 AM with thunder and lighting which circled the area for a long period.  There has been no significant amount of rain for several months and what fell was most welcomed.  We did head out for a walk with our umbrellas which were used on our return. 

Barry and I headed over to the Rockledge, Melbourne area to pick up a boat he had purchased.  A 1979 Sea Ray 175 in excellent shape.

The neighbourhood peacocks were visiting our front walk looking for handouts.  We gave then a couple of crackers which I am sure they enjoyed.  The evening was spend watching Dancing with the Stars and another day ended.  Three days to take off. 

Sunday, March 27th in Melbourne Beach

Wow, the only way to describe yesterday is "hot, hot"'.

Brother John took this picture from his condo balcony and posted it on his BLOG.  I like the picture and have posted it to share with you. 

Yesterday afternoon I was the chauffeur and drove Helene and Arabella to Vero Beach to an Art Show. We viewed the displays and walked the area streets window shopping.  My treat was an ice cream which melted in the heat but I managed to devour the cone with the assistance of many napkins.  Helene was hunting for sheets to match a purchase made on another day and off to Palm Bay and Melbourne.  We stopped along the way at Jong's fruit and vegetable stand a small operation with good produce and prices.  Another day shot with only four (4) remaining. 

Saturday, March 26th in Melbourne Beach

We have been blessed with a month of beautiful weather.

The girls were off bright and early for the Saturday Garage Sale parade in the area.  Arabella found lamps, Shelia a bed shame, Gail a glass telephone pole insulator and Helene was shut out. 

Melbourne Nissan called to inform the Altima was ready for pick up.  The Ford Fiesta was topped up with gas and returned to Enterprise and a short walk down the road to the dealership.  The car was washed and ready.  Best of all the bill was covered totally under warranty.  There is a noticeable difference in the drive and handling of the car.

The boys went to the boat for an afternoon cruise on the river.  With the fantastic weather the river boat traffic was heavy and several little islands were buzzing with people enjoying the water.  The crab pots were checked but we were skunked.  Guess who the two "Arses" belong too??  After, a beer or two at the river bar with "Missy aka Loni" and her big frontal's, it was time to return to "Honest John's Marina" to put the boat away.  Another day, they are going by quickly. 

Two Arses

Friday, March 25th, in Melbourne Beach

Just another super weather day.

Sheila, Mea, Gail & Helene

Helene and the girls went out to lunch at "Dos Amigo's".  The restaurant features very reasonably priced Mexican food and .99 c Margarita's.  I am not sure if they went for the food or Margarita's??  I walked the area roads and sat in the back lounge with a good book.  Later, it was cocktail time at "Loggerheads" with the locals.  All good fun.  Judy called from Ottawa and we had a chat.

Thursday, March 24th in Melbourne Beach

It was another great weather day in Florida 18C to 30C, we could get use to this weather in a hurry.

A telephone call was received from Melbourne Nissan.  They informed that the transmission has been received and they will start the job today.  Needless to say, I jumped into the car and immediately drove to the garage.  They were very accomodating and provided a loaner from "Enterprise".  The installation should be complete Friday or Saturday at the latest. 

I returned to the condo with the rental, a new Ford Fiesta, a cute little car with all kinds of fancy bells and whistles for a base model.  It was large enough for three golfers; however, the long clubs had to be stored in the back seat.

 Ron, Big New Jersey John and I had a 139 PM T-time at Baytree National GC.  Three Swedes were playing in front of our group.  They are visiting and were heading to Tampa to see the Carolina Hurricanes play Tampa and then the Ottawa Senators play Saturday.  They were hoping that Daniel Alfredson would be in the line up playing and of course Eric Karlson.  They were also familar with Rob Lehner. 

While the boys were away golfing, Helene and Arabella, walked the beach and went for a swim in the pool and lounged around.  The girls ate supper together, fresh fish caught by Ron and Big New Jersey John on Wednesday.  Ron and I enjoyed spaghetti.  Ron also was into modelling his new $99 tuxedo he had just received from New York City.  Leave it to Ron, he meets a guy at "Lou's Blues" wearing the same shirt and strikes up a conversation.  He and Arabella receive an invitation to a Black and White, James Bond theme party.  So thats the need for a tuxedo.  Never a dull moment and not to much grass under their feet.  Life is good. 

Wednesday, March 23rd in Melbourne Beach

Tiger



Phil



VJ



Ernie



Sergio



Ricky



Kenny



Special Guest Golfer

   The day started out at 15C with fog.  Helene and I headed out early for Orlando to the Arnold Palmer Invitational Golf Tournament.  We arrived in Orlando in the sun at 21C and by 300 PM it was 31C in the Orlando area.  We walked the golf course and followed many of the golfers watching them Tee off and putt on the greens.  Here are some pictures from yesterdays adventure, I am sure you will identify several.

Tuesday, March 22nd in Melbourne Beach

It was another great weather day in Florida.

We did a little shopping at the "BEALLS" store in Melbourne.  It's hard to beat, 30% off most items and another 15% off as it was seniors day (50 and over). 

We hit the beach for a walk and returned for a dip in the pool.  Later in the evening we had Liz and Richard over for a BBQ.  All is well.

Helene has a nasty bite on her left back leg...done by a bug here called "no-see-um"....

WHAT IS A NO-SEE-UM?   No-see-ums are tiny biting flies that often live near water.  You often see many of themswarming together in a cloud.  Keep your mouth shut or you might breathe some in or swallow them!  (It won’t hurt you, but it will probably make you cough.)   Biting midges are called no-see-ums because they’re so tiny that it is hard to see ‘um.  No-see-ums are less than ¼ of an inch long.

Monday, March 21st in Melbourne Beach

Another special weather day in the Florida area.  It sounds repitious but it is just that.

Helene and Arabella were off to Palm Bay to shop.  I went for a long walk and returned to hit the pool for a swim and dry off on the lounges in the sun. Then a meeting with the locals at Loggerhead's for the afternoon wind down.  Today was a fauna type of day.

I followed up with the Melbourne Nissan service department on the status of the transmission.  The service person I dealt with last Friday was off and I was referred to another.  The transmission had not been ordered.  After several telephone calls they opened a work order and confirmed the order which will be in Thursday or Friday at the latest.  So it will be early next week before the work gets done and we are scheduled to leave on April 1st.  I can live with life's mistakes but imcompetency I can not tollerate;  'FIRED", a quote from the Donald. 

Sunday March 20th in Melbourne Beach

Another outstanding weather day in Florida.  We had a lazy start to the day after a late Saturday evening.  After a late breakfast we walked the beach and waded in the shore water.  No sea shells or glass treasrues were found.  The fishers were busy cleaning their catch and feeding the scraps to the shore birds. 

After our beach walk we headed to the community pool to lounge around with reading material and a swim in the 82 F pool water.

My brother John in Ormond by the Sea, just north of Daytona took this picture of the full moon which is special.

Saturday March 19th in Melbourne Beach

Helene's GS Treasure

HR says;  Did I mention that it was another wonderful sunny warm day in Florida.  I was up bright and early on the road with the girls doing the Saturday garage sale trip.  My treasure was a little pair of shoes. 

After returning home for a breakfast / brunch we went boating on the Indian River with Barry, Shelia and Gail.  It was a great day on the water.  Shelia had packed a shore lunch, we beached and enjoyed the warm water.  The Dolphins were out and about in the river.  Then there was a stop at the Treasure Island Bar for Margaritas and beer with a live band.  On the way back we stopped, pulled the boys crab traps and had one crab, which managed to escape while the boys attempted to capture it.
 

There was a special kind of  full moon which was quite large and orange in color.  We went down to the beach and watched it rise with several of the locals.  

Ron is still in the St. Patrick's Day mode.  The party goes on for three days in the Melbourne area.  So, Ron, Arabella, Helene and I headed to downtown Melbourne to "Meg O'Mallies"  to take in the reveller and enjoy the band, "Brian and Greg".  We caught a couple of T-shirts being tossed into the crowd and the girls, did not flash, but did get green beads.  The place was packed, the music loud and people were enjoying themselves.  Another day in Florida, we are running out of time, the count down is starting.