tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26445832789201153752024-03-14T01:55:18.946-04:00littlebusciagerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.comBlogger95125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-83600514697256244572009-06-07T20:14:00.022-04:002009-06-07T21:28:22.756-04:00busy weekThe week started out with a puppy injury. Bailey cut her paw pad. Poor little thing. I took her to work with me and she huddled under my desk. It took a couple of days but she is doing much better.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixYl7bwnmI/AAAAAAAABQs/SJHmNGpBqfc/s1600-h/60709+001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344744266414464610" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixYl7bwnmI/AAAAAAAABQs/SJHmNGpBqfc/s400/60709+001.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>I promised not to do this again this year. I KNOW, but I am a tomato addict. They are something I cannot resist. My husband and I worked the backyard this weekend. It is never ending. I can't imagine what it must be like for a farmer, we only have 1/3 acre.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixZoyyISmI/AAAAAAAABRM/u_p7zMOyqjw/s1600-h/60709+029.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344745415143606882" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixZoyyISmI/AAAAAAAABRM/u_p7zMOyqjw/s400/60709+029.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><p></p><p align="left"></p><p></p><p></p><p>I was serious about being addicted. I have no more space for my seedlings. Charles gave me three packs of heirloom seeds from a trip to California and I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">didn't</span> expect them to do so well. Even the back porch has been commandeered.</p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sixkx3qsLeI/AAAAAAAABR0/wZRFnTUBfIY/s1600-h/60709+008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344757665701309922" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sixkx3qsLeI/AAAAAAAABR0/wZRFnTUBfIY/s400/60709+008.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><p><br /></p><br /><br /><p align="left"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixZ7PRSfDI/AAAAAAAABRU/xB5FOwk6fdc/s1600-h/60709+008.JPG"></a></p><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>I am very pleased with the pond garden. But then I always am. Just reminds me of my mom. I actually enjoy weeding in there. Lots of time to remember wonderful days spent with her.</div><div></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixadwBvNgI/AAAAAAAABRk/f_I8rXsrE64/s1600-h/60709+021.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344746324936832514" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 390px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixadwBvNgI/AAAAAAAABRk/f_I8rXsrE64/s400/60709+021.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div align="justify">My friend, Linda, is a wonder with plants. I was the happy recipient of some of her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">perinneals</span>. She was thinning her beds. I always have trouble with that. She keeps reassuring me that it is healthy for the plants. I even had to have my husband cut back the new plantings. But Linda was right, new flowers have opened up. </div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixaM8OOIJI/AAAAAAAABRc/8wHjVnd6CFY/s1600-h/60709+020.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344746036152639634" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixaM8OOIJI/AAAAAAAABRc/8wHjVnd6CFY/s400/60709+020.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div> </div><div>My yard pleases me. There are a couple of quiet little areas for reading and talking.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sixay2i5HJI/AAAAAAAABRs/uEjoFUG859E/s1600-h/60709+016.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344746687463758994" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sixay2i5HJI/AAAAAAAABRs/uEjoFUG859E/s400/60709+016.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div align="left">This is one of the lavender plants I got at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">lavendar</span> festival with Margaret and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">JoAnne</span> last year. The festival is coming up again in a </div><div align="left">couple of weeks. Can't wait.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixZWROBc4I/AAAAAAAABRE/s4NC61HBFog/s1600-h/60709+032.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344745096896148354" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixZWROBc4I/AAAAAAAABRE/s4NC61HBFog/s400/60709+032.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left">We made a big change in the front of the house. We took out two big evergreens and three dying bushes and lightened up the look.</div><div align="left"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixZDcTLaJI/AAAAAAAABQ8/Dw95Y4TQTmE/s1600-h/60709+035.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344744773453047954" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixZDcTLaJI/AAAAAAAABQ8/Dw95Y4TQTmE/s400/60709+035.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The columbine are out. Alex's garden is in full bloom.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixYxYBNnYI/AAAAAAAABQ0/Z77kl6LAXRY/s1600-h/60709+014.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344744463066307970" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SixYxYBNnYI/AAAAAAAABQ0/Z77kl6LAXRY/s400/60709+014.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And sadly, we learned our favorite nursery, Carroll Gardens, is closing. It just can't hold on in these difficult times. We bought three lilacs today and planted them. The owner is so <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">knowledgeable</span> and helpful. Keep your fingers crossed for a miracle! Where will I get my vegetable plants and flowers?<br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-7913783747905448192009-05-27T20:22:00.018-04:002009-05-27T23:11:03.515-04:00tag you are it-challenged to name six<span style="font-size:180%;">unimportant things that make me happy</span><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>1. Tomato season- need I say more!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3kkchFNLI/AAAAAAAABPk/cYEnJ3dkXDE/s1600-h/71208+006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340676047912645810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 264px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3kkchFNLI/AAAAAAAABPk/cYEnJ3dkXDE/s400/71208+006.JPG" border="0" /></a>2. The refreshing taste of a lime <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ricky</span> every August after a hot night on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Wildwood</span> boardwalk.<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3kNrL6RqI/AAAAAAAABPc/PEB48mS1X1M/s1600-h/080608+017.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340675656713389730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3kNrL6RqI/AAAAAAAABPc/PEB48mS1X1M/s400/080608+017.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3_UY_1-ZI/AAAAAAAABQk/t-qqvnb4gbk/s1600-h/70208+032.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340705458903972242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3_UY_1-ZI/AAAAAAAABQk/t-qqvnb4gbk/s400/70208+032.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p><p></p><br /><p>3. Baltimore sports!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340680086671667314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3oPiERMHI/AAAAAAAABPs/p-vCNt8JfEE/s400/football+031.JPG" border="0" /></p><div>4. My mother's blue casserole dish for macaroni and cheese. Doesn't taste the same in any other dish.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340704630015658306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3-kJJeCUI/AAAAAAAABQc/J9s9U5mYBw8/s400/Blue+bowl+001.JPG" border="0" /> 5. Having a deposit work out correctly. Margaret and I post a lot of insurance payments at work. When you prove to the penny the first time-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ahhhhhhh</span>.<br /><div></div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:180%;">1+1=2</span> </div><div><br /><div>....and last but not least<br /></div><div>6. The dogs <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">greetin</span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3v3IAuFTI/AAAAAAAABQM/0rE4U019S8E/s1600-h/61108+039.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340688463453623602" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sh3v3IAuFTI/AAAAAAAABQM/0rE4U019S8E/s400/61108+039.JPG" border="0" /></a>g you at the door. Happy to have you home. Even if you just left five minutes ago.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-43029678892591576002009-05-25T18:42:00.013-04:002009-05-25T21:20:08.554-04:00i love this seasonAll is right with my world when my indigo comes into bloom. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Shs2S3npsLI/AAAAAAAABPQ/VzmpILPjl9E/s1600-h/05250+254.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339921480973660338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Shs2S3npsLI/AAAAAAAABPQ/VzmpILPjl9E/s400/05250+254.JPG" border="0" /></a> My husband and I worked the garden for the last three days. We cleaned the pond, weeded the lilacs, and tended the veggies.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Shs12nC6JBI/AAAAAAAABPI/VsE6mjMXQ8o/s1600-h/05250+286.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339920995488244754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Shs12nC6JBI/AAAAAAAABPI/VsE6mjMXQ8o/s400/05250+286.JPG" border="0" /></a> All the perennials made it through another winter. This is a memorial garden on the side of our house for our beloved golden <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">retreiver</span>, Alex.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/ShsndwJllHI/AAAAAAAABPA/ueiGw5IJ7LA/s1600-h/05250+261.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339905175272658034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/ShsndwJllHI/AAAAAAAABPA/ueiGw5IJ7LA/s400/05250+261.JPG" border="0" /></a> My daughter and I fill the other spaces of our property with flowers and herbs.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339897757152135026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Shsgt9f1R3I/AAAAAAAABOQ/UBrOjvRJXmY/s400/05250+294.JPG" border="0" />Our dogs enjoy this season also. They frolic in the backyard every day.<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/ShsiZla9KOI/AAAAAAAABO4/25V4UCcT8N4/s1600-h/05250+271.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339899606115100898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/ShsiZla9KOI/AAAAAAAABO4/25V4UCcT8N4/s400/05250+271.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is my Riles. Riley is getting up in years and weight, but still rules the yard.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/ShsiLCu84jI/AAAAAAAABOw/7cjq8ipWF6U/s1600-h/05250+274.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339899356285559346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/ShsiLCu84jI/AAAAAAAABOw/7cjq8ipWF6U/s400/05250+274.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is Bailey. She is a wonder. She leaps and runs and darts. She is quicker than any other dog I have ever seen. She is very shy, but is working hard to overcome it. She is my daughters, but I think we have adopted her. We have come to love her very much.<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/ShshxVBdRCI/AAAAAAAABOo/HRp4TRJLuos/s1600-h/05250+284.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339898914518418466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/ShshxVBdRCI/AAAAAAAABOo/HRp4TRJLuos/s400/05250+284.JPG" border="0" /></a> Hope everyone had a good Memorial Day. Thank you to all troops and veterans! <div><div><div><div> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-15113604973409875172009-05-13T20:34:00.019-04:002009-05-13T22:30:44.414-04:00DREAM COME TRUE<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sgttio8OHzI/AAAAAAAABNw/yaYcTu9POZI/s1600-h/ireland+204.JPG"></a>I have always been fascinated with Ireland. Like many Americans with Irish heritage, I have always wanted to visit the Four Green Fields. I finally got my wish. My brother travels a lot, but he promised to save Ireland for me(once my kids got out of college). We headed to the Emerald Isle on April 28 and spent the next 10 days exploring the country.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />It is a beautiful green, lush land. But the people are even more special. "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Cead</span> Mile <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Failte</span> which means one hundred thousand welcomes is taken very seriously there. Lost twice, people actually asked if we needed help. They are more patient in traffic and kinder in stores and hotels. They genuinely seem to appreciate life.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgttLjgpw6I/AAAAAAAABNo/wkpfzY9T8c0/s1600-h/ireland+050.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335478228828668834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgttLjgpw6I/AAAAAAAABNo/wkpfzY9T8c0/s400/ireland+050.JPG" border="0" /></a> We flew into Dublin and stayed in the Temple Bar district. It is full of Irish bars, shops, restaurants and historical sights. We stayed in a B&B right in the area. Our favorite place here was the Temple Bar. We visited the Guinness factory, Jameson's, and The Book of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Kells</span> at Trinity College. They have a beautiful park in the middle of the city. No <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Walmart</span> or Sears here, Dublin is full of little specialty stores<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335477446998624706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgtseC92CcI/AAAAAAAABNY/J7tJ5w8dHA4/s400/ireland+224.JPG" border="0" /><br />We then headed to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Killarney</span> by train. It was a holiday weekend in Ireland and the train was filled with many local travelers. The countryside was beautiful and just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">listenting</span> to the the Irish accents all around us was wonderful.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335472011727294626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgtnhrALUKI/AAAAAAAABMI/hucVE-spFT8/s400/ireland+083.JPG" border="0" /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Killarney</span> is a mid-sized city. They are famous for a National Park. It was willed to the city after the widow landlord died with no children. We walked the park for hours the first day. It is full of flowers, marshes, farmland, lakes, mountains and if you look closely, you can even see a castle.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335472422189155922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sgtn5kF6RlI/AAAAAAAABMQ/AqlosZnc2u4/s400/ireland+066.JPG" border="0" /> The second day we were smarter, we took a jaunty car ride--driven by a Barry Fitzgerald look-a-like. Boy was he a charmer. Dan was his name. The horse was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Pádraig</span>. This was one of the highlights of the trip for me. He told us stories of growing up in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Killarney</span> and some local lore. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335477893432773154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sgts4CECiiI/AAAAAAAABNg/CjxhaNoh0WA/s400/ireland+118.JPG" border="0" /> <div><div><div>In <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Killarney</span> I found my favorite bar and my favorite <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">restaurant</span>. The bar was called <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">O'Connor's</span>. Nothing fancy, but full of Irish song, drink and blarney. I think the IRA was meeting upstairs. Gaby's was a great <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">restaurant</span>. Everyone told me Irish food was not the reason people visited Ireland. But, we found the food absolutely delicious. Fresh seafood like I have never tasted before.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335473851759070610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgtpMxp8DZI/AAAAAAAABMo/cZy5ZrwHmec/s400/ireland+093.JPG" border="0" />....I have also given up on all red meat, just can't do it anymore....<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335474488352998082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sgtpx1JwgsI/AAAAAAAABM4/yK0OOxzsZSk/s400/ireland+142.JPG" border="0" />...May, so of course, so many baby lambs and calves.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335472954610382002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgtoYjhBdLI/AAAAAAAABMY/LYbiGi3vU3w/s400/ireland+090.JPG" border="0" />Tea is really taken seriously. Here is a cottage that offers teas and light meals. I was a coffee-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">holic</span> before I left, now I can't drink it. I am addicted to tea now.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgtqcKNpgTI/AAAAAAAABNI/ZHLOnlN6F5k/s1600-h/ireland+148.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335475215560966450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgtqcKNpgTI/AAAAAAAABNI/ZHLOnlN6F5k/s400/ireland+148.JPG" border="0" /></a> We were planning on visiting the Ring of Kerry, but it was closed for a rally. So we bused early to the seashore to Dingle. The scenery was really unbelievable beautiful. The land is covered with green fields, dotted with sheep, separated by stone fences. It does not freeze, so perennials are abundant. Temperatures range from 35 to 65. The seas are a deep blue green.<br /><br /><div><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sgtpfx3Fo0I/AAAAAAAABMw/O8nAcyNE490/s1600-h/ireland+136.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335474178231739202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sgtpfx3Fo0I/AAAAAAAABMw/O8nAcyNE490/s400/ireland+136.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is not out of focus. It is called the Upside Down Bridge. The water runs over the road to the sea. You actually drive on the road as the water flows across to the sea.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335479002689464114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sgtt4mXcZzI/AAAAAAAABN4/nR7RStfthNs/s400/ireland+169.JPG" border="0" />Dingle Bay. My favorite B&B was here. It was the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Benner's</span> Hotel. It was so charming. Full of little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">cubbies</span> for reading or quiet meets. They had their own bar and restaurant. First time for tea and scones. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Ohhhhh</span>, that fresh cream. The room had a window seat. Perfect to read, look outside to the mountains, and enjoy the palm trees outside. Yes, I said palm trees. We visited the shops, drank in the bars, listened to the music, ate great seafood, meet nice people, and chased after a dolphin.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335476970710183410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SgtsCUp1LfI/AAAAAAAABNQ/MSXY4ZGIB6Q/s400/ireland+165.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /><br />If you ever get the chance, go go go! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335499138850295186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SguAMraTDZI/AAAAAAAABOA/hwATBGsfDMo/s400/ireland+147.JPG" border="0" />gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-12202026960724608192009-03-15T16:54:00.011-04:002009-03-15T17:24:19.776-04:00Great Start to a St. Patty's Day<div>Charles and I had a wonderful Saturday. We spent it playing Scrabble and eating dinner with our dear friends, Linda and Tim. They were kind enough to introduce us to an Irish band named Barleyjuice. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313526467480515042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sb1wK37P8eI/AAAAAAAABL4/Aa-JgkK8NXw/s400/031609+052.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>A little Rock mixed with a lot of Irish tradition--that's Barleyjuice.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313522433117127890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sb1sgCwEBNI/AAAAAAAABLY/J8FhgMtE7RA/s400/031609+076.JPG" border="0" />I am a huge fan of Irish music. My brother and I are going to Ireland in April and I can't wait to experience more of this music.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sb1s0urB6zI/AAAAAAAABLg/LEogbbuBOb8/s1600-h/031609+063.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313522788504562482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sb1s0urB6zI/AAAAAAAABLg/LEogbbuBOb8/s400/031609+063.JPG" border="0" /></a> The band played a multitude of instruments. I am not musically talented, but I love to listen. How can one person play the guitar, keyboard, drums, bagpipe, whistle, accordian----?????<br />They do wet their whistle with the brew. Maybe that is where they draw their strength. Even the mascot Saturday was two fisted.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313528123639066706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 384px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sb1xrRmN8FI/AAAAAAAABMA/ydJh0Fh3Fck/s400/031609+072.JPG" border="0" /></div><div><br /><div>I could have listened all night.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sb1r8MVp2fI/AAAAAAAABLI/RK2y4GZzKDo/s1600-h/031609+070.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313521817215425010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/Sb1r8MVp2fI/AAAAAAAABLI/RK2y4GZzKDo/s400/031609+070.JPG" border="0" /></a> Visit their website and enjoy. My favorite songs are Celtic Girl, Weekend Irish and What's Up Yours. <a href="http://www.barleyjuice.com/">http://www.barleyjuice.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-6443835358794067562009-01-09T08:06:00.000-05:002009-01-09T08:06:00.167-05:00WEIRD OBJECT FRIDAYBaltimore's own Big Bird. Imagine the shadow this would cast flying overhead.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SWbAAKkcCNI/AAAAAAAABII/8E_SmG0C-sE/s1600-h/2008+030.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289125921462946002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SWbAAKkcCNI/AAAAAAAABII/8E_SmG0C-sE/s400/2008+030.JPG" border="0" /></a> Her nest resides five floors up at the American Visionary Arts Museum. I wonder if she has any eggs up there!<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SWa_o0EWoNI/AAAAAAAABIA/FULtB3FrRwc/s1600-h/2008+031.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-69820087636938956002009-01-08T21:58:00.002-05:002009-01-08T22:06:07.045-05:00IT'S DIET TIME!Day four, and still on track. For me that is a miracle. I have great motivation this year. We will have a wedding in September and my brother and I are going to Ireland mid year. Two events I want to attend 30 lbs. lighter. So far, so good. My son gave me "The Biggest Loser"(my request) for Christmas and I am following their guidance. I have never had so many fruits and vegetables, nor consumed so much water. Wish me luck and check back for progress.gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-33891776991133861532009-01-02T07:16:00.002-05:002009-01-02T07:16:01.180-05:00WONDERFULLY WEIRD WHACKY HAMDEN<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2iWFsBlcI/AAAAAAAABH4/7Rchr49FXU8/s1600-h/171.JPG"></a>There is a delightfully quirky, blue-collar neighboorhood in Baltimore called Hamden. It is most famous for two events: The hon festival(think John Waters' Hairspray) and our own Miracle on 34th Street. An entire block of row houses lights up the sky. Each house is decorated in it's own unique style. Vendors sell food and hot chocolate. It is definitely on the Baltimore to-do-list each Christmas season.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286552777495673490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2bveT7-pI/AAAAAAAABGw/-2zOsjUO6V4/s400/133.JPG" border="0" />A constant stream of cars moves down the street and the lines of people being welcomed by the neighborhood grows each year.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2hsc-19wI/AAAAAAAABHw/aU0OJ7XscJI/s1600-h/152.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286559322668922626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2hsc-19wI/AAAAAAAABHw/aU0OJ7XscJI/s400/152.JPG" border="0" /></a> You have normal Chistmas lights and then you have the lawn ornaments made from recycled tools in the shape of a crab of course. They even included the Old Bay.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2hsFX2fVI/AAAAAAAABHo/FYloa4-Cjfs/s1600-h/180.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286559316331363666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2hsFX2fVI/AAAAAAAABHo/FYloa4-Cjfs/s400/180.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />And who can forget the LP tree.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2gpHBq37I/AAAAAAAABHg/eyWsXJ98g2w/s1600-h/173.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286558165723963314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2gpHBq37I/AAAAAAAABHg/eyWsXJ98g2w/s400/173.JPG" border="0" /></a> Hamden is known for its pink flamingos. If you look closely you may find some on this fishnet tree.<br /><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2go5UkO-I/AAAAAAAABHY/FgNWdXz8LSg/s1600-h/149.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286558162045123554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2go5UkO-I/AAAAAAAABHY/FgNWdXz8LSg/s400/149.JPG" border="0" /></a> There are favorite Christmas characters...<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2fl_foP1I/AAAAAAAABHQ/jxBwC64MT9s/s1600-h/143.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286557012650901330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2fl_foP1I/AAAAAAAABHQ/jxBwC64MT9s/s400/143.JPG" border="0" /></a> along with old wheel snowmen. <div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286551701012173058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2aw0GRUQI/AAAAAAAABGg/WoQ0daqUXug/s400/187.JPG" border="0" />This house is showing it's Raven-mania!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2fImOgBtI/AAAAAAAABHI/c2r8NelfN1k/s1600-h/151.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286556507651966674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2fImOgBtI/AAAAAAAABHI/c2r8NelfN1k/s400/151.JPG" border="0" /></a> The beer angel and crab tree was a big hit.<br /><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2ctr1q53I/AAAAAAAABG4/dgYPdrIncys/s1600-h/195.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286553846278711154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2ctr1q53I/AAAAAAAABG4/dgYPdrIncys/s400/195.JPG" border="0" /></a>But my favorite and my contribution to weird object Friday is the hubcap tree.<br /><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2bvKFr7uI/AAAAAAAABGo/eoZkWJo_VBg/s1600-h/188.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286552772067192546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2bvKFr7uI/AAAAAAAABGo/eoZkWJo_VBg/s400/188.JPG" border="0" /></a> It is a sight not to be missed, hon! <div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-6694548967086831532009-01-01T21:43:00.007-05:002009-01-01T23:14:29.368-05:00HAPPY HOLIDAYSSometimes things just get in the way of good intentions. But I am glad I am back to blogging. I think it is good therapy and a great way to stay in touch with family and friends far away.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2I8HDWJcI/AAAAAAAABFw/epmIbq2dkU0/s1600-h/085.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286532103869441474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2I8HDWJcI/AAAAAAAABFw/epmIbq2dkU0/s400/085.JPG" border="0" /></a> We were blessed with a great holiday season. We had a wonderful time at parties-both with family, friends and co-workers.<br />It started at my brothers..<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286535244889242466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2Ly8Q0u2I/AAAAAAAABF4/J3z2dFZ4q64/s400/2008+010.JPG" border="0" /><br />....and then onto co-workers<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286524492284843394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2CBDsKVYI/AAAAAAAABEY/CeKiWrNUqVI/s400/2008+032.JPG" border="0" />and continued with more family traditions<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286524506994214882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2CB6fJh-I/AAAAAAAABEg/dWmIaOQcuCo/s400/2008+063.JPG" border="0" />My cousin, Pat, always has an open house for the entire family. Although usually celebrated Christmas Eve, she has it the Sunday before Christmas and follows the other <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Wigilia</span> traditions. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wigilia">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wigilia</a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286524485007685474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2CAolJt2I/AAAAAAAABEQ/F-jc_XW8Akg/s400/2008+065.JPG" border="0" /> My daughter was thrilled when she found the most perfect gift for her great uncle, Bernard. He is 88 and still ushers at the Basilica. It was an inside look at the Vatican.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286524523449700002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2CC3ycTqI/AAAAAAAABEo/m01ck7eVaU4/s400/2008+094.JPG" border="0" />..only she realized she didn't remember that wrapping paper. Turns out my sister-in-law thought it was perfect for Bernard also.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286535258372764386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2Lzufi8uI/AAAAAAAABGI/NlbTeWyozpQ/s400/2008+095.JPG" border="0" />Christmas morning was spent with my children. Niki and her Bailey.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2I7hkElkI/AAAAAAAABFo/lVTbHRYvky4/s1600-h/2008+137.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286532093806155330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2I7hkElkI/AAAAAAAABFo/lVTbHRYvky4/s400/2008+137.JPG" border="0" /></a> Sean came home from Austin. The best gift of all.<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2I64LCOaI/AAAAAAAABFg/4QFoD9c4870/s1600-h/2008+129.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286532082695289250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 373px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2I64LCOaI/AAAAAAAABFg/4QFoD9c4870/s400/2008+129.JPG" border="0" /></a> And speaking of good gifts. Those of you who have followed weird object Friday know that my husbands collects coffee companions. He loves facial mugs. Does this one remind you of anyone?<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286535247884395730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2LzHa7JNI/AAAAAAAABGA/E8Nlx6Yjuhk/s400/2008+133.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>And the dogs loved all their presents--but, they loved unwrapping them the best.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2I6YwU2II/AAAAAAAABFY/rGNldyAmbvc/s1600-h/2008+110.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286532074261764226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2I6YwU2II/AAAAAAAABFY/rGNldyAmbvc/s400/2008+110.JPG" border="0" /></a> I had a wonderful holiday and have such hope for the New Year. I am blessed with a great husband, kids I am proud of, a brother who is my close friend, older brothers that I love, and friends who support me. I thank you all for sharing this past year with me and hope in 2009 we all see peace and prosperity.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286535266828922450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2L0N_prlI/AAAAAAAABGY/QQULwVg06iA/s400/2008+182.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span>HAPPY NEW YEAR!<br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2CAtS93uI/AAAAAAAABEI/Xu1ExxbimHo/s1600-h/2008+003.JPG"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SV2AiRPgdlI/AAAAAAAABEA/fthGEKCVzis/s1600-h/2008+001.JPG"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-34302530074728396462008-11-21T19:59:00.006-05:002008-11-21T20:12:28.235-05:00weird object friday<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SSdbbMm6k_I/AAAAAAAABD4/wEThsvSwMAM/s1600-h/P1010096.JPG"></a>I was fascinated by this fish, yes I said fish, at a trip to the aquarium.<br /><div> </div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SSdbNx-tTMI/AAAAAAAABDw/UC6yz0O7wb4/s1600-h/P1010096.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271282181173234882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SSdbNx-tTMI/AAAAAAAABDw/UC6yz0O7wb4/s400/P1010096.JPG" border="0" /></a>You really have to search the tank to find it. The leafy looking parts of its body are great camouflage.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SSdbD2pEwbI/AAAAAAAABDo/PA5aQkCUuyM/s1600-h/P1010093.JPG"></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SSda2L8iyNI/AAAAAAAABDg/jdWLXQcHwAg/s1600-h/P1010094.JPG"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-88574016435481881922008-11-14T06:42:00.001-05:002008-11-14T06:42:00.343-05:00weird object fridayI love this brass sculpture. It is frightening and beautful at the same time...<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRzl_fy8YaI/AAAAAAAABDQ/Tv-iMzP6US0/s1600-h/100308+086.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268338543146328482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRzl_fy8YaI/AAAAAAAABDQ/Tv-iMzP6US0/s400/100308+086.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.pdphoto.org/jons/pictures/seaworld_6_bg_051901.jpg" target="_top"></a><br />....and how realistic.<br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268340246631334914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRznipxaxAI/AAAAAAAABDY/pNwuIuvcyJs/s400/seaworld_6_bg_051901.jpg" border="0" /></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-19737798295886079922008-11-13T21:53:00.002-05:002008-11-13T22:01:48.676-05:00margaret's challengeMargaret challenged us to think of 5 things you would NEVER catch coming out of our mouths.<br />Well, here goes:<br /><br />1. I am never going to eat another tomato.<br /><br />2. No, I can't do that for you.(although I am working on saying no)<br /><br />3. I am glad I don't have any dogs.<br /><br />4. Ice cream, no thank you, never eat it.<br /><br />5. I prefer Ocean City over Widlwood.<br /><br />What are your five things???????????>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-4941714000032490602008-11-10T07:50:00.004-05:002008-11-10T20:15:23.831-05:00relaxing weekend<div>This weekend was my annual "girls weekend". Each November we take the long drive to Western Maryland to meet at Rocky Gap in Cumberland. It is a wonderful drive--full of beautiful leafy scenery and mountains. I love to drive it.<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267011832572433282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgvWxxCU4I/AAAAAAAABBw/wLq-u0XjGZo/s400/110908+003.JPG" border="0" />Rocky Gap is a resort tucked away in the mountains. We get a lakeside room and have a slumber party. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267013499489405794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgw3zhAy2I/AAAAAAAABCY/75qsEkLL6sw/s400/110908+010.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267011841841014882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgvXUS1qGI/AAAAAAAABB4/Yx7eHrIX3no/s400/110908+007.JPG" border="0" /><br />Saturday morning we take a five mile hike around the lake. One side of the lakeside loop is basically level, but the other side is quite hilly. I love the walk but the back of my legs are talking to me this morning. We didn't see much wildlife this year, only a couple of chipmunks. We did see some bear prints, but thankfully missed those making them. We also saw evidence of busy beavers.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267201274840480178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRjbpxNZ-bI/AAAAAAAABDA/c93M7jPWlQs/s400/110908+031.JPG" border="0" /> <div><div><div>Part of the trail reminds me of Dorothy's walk through the woods in The Wizard of Oz.<br /><br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgvX5D-LbI/AAAAAAAABCI/dpBloT94n7Q/s1600-h/110908+022.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267011851710770610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgvX5D-LbI/AAAAAAAABCI/dpBloT94n7Q/s400/110908+022.JPG" border="0" /></a> There is a golf course that winds through the property. I am not a golfer but I am told it is a great course.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267013515705141842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgw4v7JSlI/AAAAAAAABCg/i-uxulRKOTM/s400/110908+015.JPG" border="0" />The lake is not a natural one, but you can't tell.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267011866420261090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgvYv2_MOI/AAAAAAAABCQ/Wjdj0n3Q1z4/s400/110908+027.JPG" border="0" /><br />At the end of the trail, is an aviary. They treat the wounded.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267013536300116882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgw58pXq5I/AAAAAAAABC4/FaluBFqmxZA/s400/110908+039.JPG" border="0" />My friend, Linda, has a special relationship with the birds. The ones below seemed to communicate with her.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267013526281494322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRgw5XUvnzI/AAAAAAAABCw/dO_zpAmKNhA/s400/110908+048.JPG" border="0" /><br />It was a fantastic weekend and I am thankful for the friends I shared it with.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-88453699987615634522008-11-07T07:34:00.004-05:002008-11-07T07:41:49.556-05:00weird object fridayLast weekend, my husband and I took a ride(the lower gas prices got us all excited) through Western Maryland. We meandered our way through all the little towns. One of them had scarecrows on every signpost in town. Local families had done them. This family just a got a little more creative. Can you imagine this in some cornfield? <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRQ2HrPIJCI/AAAAAAAABBo/w_tyPcHRCR4/s1600-h/110708+001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265893369796109346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SRQ2HrPIJCI/AAAAAAAABBo/w_tyPcHRCR4/s400/110708+001.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-75339355079408830252008-11-01T18:35:00.004-04:002008-11-01T18:58:37.678-04:00halloween luncheon<div><br /><div>We had a nice day at work yesterday. We took a short time out for lunch. Everyone brought in a dish and we re-energized.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzaql3Ci-I/AAAAAAAABBQ/dJY678cvdUM/s1600-h/cake+010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263822489741593570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzaql3Ci-I/AAAAAAAABBQ/dJY678cvdUM/s400/cake+010.JPG" border="0" /></a> We had our two favorite trick or treaters attend: Rylan the dirt bike rider and..<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzap9LSuuI/AAAAAAAABBI/ybb087GRcaM/s1600-h/cake+020.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263822478820686562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzap9LSuuI/AAAAAAAABBI/ybb087GRcaM/s400/cake+020.JPG" border="0" /></a> ....Penny Lane <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263825282064465058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzdNIEsPKI/AAAAAAAABBg/MQO9KXa_sOg/s400/cake+031.JPG" border="0" /><br />The whole office was in great spirits.<br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzaptHbbII/AAAAAAAABBA/7EDbp01ES48/s1600-h/cake+005.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263822474509511810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzaptHbbII/AAAAAAAABBA/7EDbp01ES48/s400/cake+005.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />A few weeks ago, I mentioned I was a good cook but a lousy baker. But, I didn't mention that it works out well in our family because I married a man who loves to bake. He made a peach upside down cake for a bake sale at work. My daughter took exception to that so he surprised her with her favorite, pineapple upside down cake. <br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzapEl4A3I/AAAAAAAABA4/Q8hAMizR3JA/s1600-h/cake+003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263822463631360882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQzapEl4A3I/AAAAAAAABA4/Q8hAMizR3JA/s400/cake+003.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-82449427884876628542008-10-31T20:47:00.002-04:002008-10-31T20:53:18.337-04:00weird object friday-halloween style<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQun8HLJijI/AAAAAAAABAo/a85aJSL6DJY/s1600-h/cake+022.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263485240672356914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 216px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQun8HLJijI/AAAAAAAABAo/a85aJSL6DJY/s400/cake+022.JPG" border="0" /></a> MMMMMMMMMMMMMM-Do you consider this a trick or a treat?<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQun7L4_LsI/AAAAAAAABAg/CAhs4LFlWII/s1600-h/cake+040.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263485224758488770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 259px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQun7L4_LsI/AAAAAAAABAg/CAhs4LFlWII/s400/cake+040.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263485249032027522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 272px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQun8mUP_YI/AAAAAAAABAw/-Ggf_eolU4A/s400/cake+047.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-8810196642615827382008-10-26T20:02:00.002-04:002008-10-26T20:25:29.871-04:00Are you ready for some footballWell the day didn't end up like I imagined, but it was a great day nonetheless. My daughter was supposed to be my football buddy, but she got called in on a client emergency. My friend, Karen, who is also a Raven fanatic, was kind enough to go with us.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQUGjd6UQZI/AAAAAAAABAA/B_wiVmsCNBs/s1600-h/football+081.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261618946046706066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQUGjd6UQZI/AAAAAAAABAA/B_wiVmsCNBs/s400/football+081.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div><div><div>The Ravens start every game with an honor guard. They have the same gentleman sing the National Anthem every week. Today they had a satellite hookup with a Maryland National Guard unit serving in Irag. The Guard did a flyover and the unit in Irag said a few words. Karen and I were all teared up. It was a very touching presentation.<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQUGiSu4yLI/AAAAAAAAA_w/rm10EcpV38c/s1600-h/football+008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261618925866109106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQUGiSu4yLI/AAAAAAAAA_w/rm10EcpV38c/s400/football+008.JPG" border="0" /></a> Next, come the fireworks. The opposing team first comes out and then the Ravens are welcomed onto the field with blazing fires and fireworks. Quite a production.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261618935716701394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQUGi3bc5NI/AAAAAAAAA_4/d-heheYSoso/s400/football+027.JPG" border="0" /> It was a great game. The defense has always been good, but this year we even have an offense.</div><div>Lets go, Flacco!<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261621505316510498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQUI4b7yWyI/AAAAAAAABAY/7MGdZogshcs/s400/football+078.JPG" border="0" /><br />Tomorrow, Sean heads back to Austin, but today he is all ours.</div><div><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261618957761694882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 343px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQUGkJjYzKI/AAAAAAAABAI/jxl31SoXsEU/s400/football+089.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-48913833583709316032008-10-25T17:12:00.004-04:002008-10-25T17:28:03.626-04:00rainy, but perfectToday it is pouring in Westminster, but I love that kind of day in the Fall. It is a nice day to stay in and cook.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQOMR6k1_EI/AAAAAAAAA_g/QpaKpTV0wRY/s1600-h/102708+001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261203029108325442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQOMR6k1_EI/AAAAAAAAA_g/QpaKpTV0wRY/s400/102708+001.JPG" border="0" /></a> Sean is home for the weekend. I woke up this morning to an argument downstairs between Sean and Niki. I couldn't wait when they were kids for them to grow up and stop the fighting. Our family has always been very vocal. They both, along with their father, would have been great members of a debate club. I loved the noise this time though--the intelligent back and forth sparring. I really miss Sean being home. I know his sister does too.<br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQOMRg5KjqI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/09CS4pi07E4/s1600-h/102708+007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261203022214237858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQOMRg5KjqI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/09CS4pi07E4/s400/102708+007.JPG" border="0" /></a> I am a good cook but not a good baker. I did give it my best shot though. A pumpkin cake. The rain outside and the warmth inside made for a great day. Sean's favorite meal is sour beef. That has been simmering on the stove all day. Ah, the delicious aroma of ginger, cinnamon and clove. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM</span>!<br /><br /><div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-85282882039882970042008-10-24T21:33:00.002-04:002008-10-24T21:37:45.513-04:00happy weird object fridayCould it be a Raven-0-lantern.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQJ3jIDoGVI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/NXKqcTBTTu0/s1600-h/102408+029.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260898760063981906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 327px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQJ3jIDoGVI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/NXKqcTBTTu0/s400/102408+029.JPG" border="0" /></a> This jack-o-lanterns combines two of my favorite Fall things--pumpkins and football. Hope it brings us luck on Sunday. Sean is coming home from Austin for the Ravens game. Bob, Niki, Sean and I are ready to say "Who let the dogs out". Go Ravens!<br /><div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-48311359170926486622008-10-21T21:23:00.000-04:002008-10-24T21:32:43.707-04:00<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQJ2Sqd1L-I/AAAAAAAAA_I/etGJHWtBx4Y/s1600-h/102408+018.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260897377731293154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQJ2Sqd1L-I/AAAAAAAAA_I/etGJHWtBx4Y/s400/102408+018.JPG" border="0" /></a> Charles and I had a great weekend. We headed down to Salisbury to the Autumn Wine Festival. I am always in search of a good new ice wine and I like to find the small out of the way wineries that you can't purchase at the local liquor store. Success. Three new ice wines from small Eastern Shore wineries. It was a nice afternoon. Wine tasting, nice food, and good jazz. We even ran into two old neighbors. <br /><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQJ1o97hzGI/AAAAAAAAA-w/82TU3rwNOV0/s1600-h/102408+019.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260896661401619554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SQJ1o97hzGI/AAAAAAAAA-w/82TU3rwNOV0/s400/102408+019.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-7682052778987806282008-10-17T06:39:00.001-04:002008-10-17T06:39:00.523-04:00weird object fridayMy brother, Bob, recently brought me back this wonderful souvenir from his recent trip. I even have him thinking about weird objects.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257919065672532258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPfhiFcqQSI/AAAAAAAAA-g/fQxCbtwM_IU/s400/101608+002.JPG" border="0" />It looks like a necklace and is beautifully colored.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPfhiD2a8SI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/70B9N_sdDVw/s1600-h/101608+010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257919065243709730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPfhiD2a8SI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/70B9N_sdDVw/s400/101608+010.JPG" border="0" /></a> But, the most beautiful thing about it, is it's sound...<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPfhihbWw7I/AAAAAAAAA-o/HKboGMfLhtE/s1600-h/101608+018.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257919073183253426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPfhihbWw7I/AAAAAAAAA-o/HKboGMfLhtE/s400/101608+018.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The Ocarina is an ancient flute like wind instrument. Bob purchased it from a young boy selling souvenirs while visiting Peru. And it is my new best friend, one whistle and the dogs respond right away.</div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-27349830623483203942008-10-15T20:28:00.005-04:002008-10-15T21:07:45.368-04:00Random thoughts<div>Puppy progress. Since Bailey has come into our lives, she has been hesitant to have anyone hold her. She occasionally lets you pet her, but only on her terms. She will come up and settle next to you, but don't reach out, she will jump. The vet thinks it is because she lost her mother so early. Well, for the past week or two she has liked being held and petted late at night. Niki has been patient with her and it is really paying off. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNI0ARD2I/AAAAAAAAA9o/KY0Wt7-y3xc/s1600-h/101508+006.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257544797539864418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNI0ARD2I/AAAAAAAAA9o/KY0Wt7-y3xc/s400/101508+006.JPG" border="0" /></a> I love this season. I trimmed back the front yard, and the remaining Autumn flowers ...<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNJfNn9wI/AAAAAAAAA9w/U4PzkP-JAiQ/s1600-h/101508+008.JPG"></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNJvKimMI/AAAAAAAAA94/BO97oPELTDc/s1600-h/101508+043.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257544813420648642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNJvKimMI/AAAAAAAAA94/BO97oPELTDc/s400/101508+043.JPG" border="0" /></a> ..have had lots of visitors.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNJ5hKvtI/AAAAAAAAA-A/d46D5DXeLIw/s1600-h/101508+048.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257544816199909074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNJ5hKvtI/AAAAAAAAA-A/d46D5DXeLIw/s400/101508+048.JPG" border="0" /></a> This little flowerbed welcomes bees, moths, grasshoppers and crickets.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257546684363158898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaO2o9_tXI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/wMCParvp0hk/s400/101508+047.JPG" border="0" />Charles and I had to take the RV for servicing. The trip to the dealer takes us through the beautiful Carroll County countryside. The colors are out and there is a nice crisp feeling to the air.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNKZ04rxI/AAAAAAAAA-I/MZ3d_T4lS_k/s1600-h/101508+056.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257544824872546066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaNKZ04rxI/AAAAAAAAA-I/MZ3d_T4lS_k/s400/101508+056.JPG" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257543331238638050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaLzdmz8eI/AAAAAAAAA9g/VezE6MqbI-o/s400/101508+059.JPG" border="0" /><br />My daughter Niki has a small tattoo on her hip. It is a little shamrock. Our last name is Irish and it was a strong personal statement for her. She had it done about 8 years ago. My mom loved lilacs and Niki wanted to add a couple of lilac petals around the shamrock in remembrance.We have talked about this for six years.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaLyH4w_oI/AAAAAAAAA9A/7rikleb0sVo/s1600-h/101508+011.JPG"></a><div><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaLyriFauI/AAAAAAAAA9I/rVP7s0iYVA8/s1600-h/101508+029.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257543317797038818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaLyriFauI/AAAAAAAAA9I/rVP7s0iYVA8/s400/101508+029.JPG" border="0" /></a> So when I asked her what she wanted for her birthday, she decided it was time to go for the lilacs. I wanted to have a lilac too, but never had the nerve. So I took her to Little Vinnie's, a shop we knew that was sanitary and had talented artists.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257543324093491170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaLzC_Rp-I/AAAAAAAAA9Y/Rs2Wz3cUuwM/s400/101508+031.JPG" border="0" />Chris created a design, but I am the one that ended up with the tattoo. Niki's artist had a bad day with a difficult client and they decided to put it off.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaLyxmHGTI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/EIj8IyhwttM/s1600-h/101508+030.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257543319424538930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SPaLyxmHGTI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/EIj8IyhwttM/s400/101508+030.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /> It was not a comfortable procedure, but not too bad. It takes a couple of weeks to heal. The picture doesn't do the coloring justice and it is still swollen, but I am happy with it. I know it sounds silly to a lot of people, but it is a nice reminder for me of my mom. The tattoo may be on my ankle but the remembrance leads straight to my heart.</div><div> </div><div>And lastly, but certainly not leastly: If you all could keep my cousin, Kathy, in your prayers. She is in Johns Hopkins and could use some positive energy. Thank you all. Gerry<br /><br /><div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-65618302068649227932008-10-05T21:32:00.004-04:002008-10-05T21:56:05.253-04:00Happy Birthday Niki!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsfnMZ1GI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/8HagwDpRllg/s1600-h/100508+019.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253849730657145954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsfnMZ1GI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/8HagwDpRllg/s400/100508+019.JPG" border="0" /></a> Today is my daughter's 27th birthday. Niki is a daughter to be proud of. She is independent, kind, intelligent, liberal minded, and fiesty. She has brought our family a lot of joy and happiness. You always have to stay on your toes when she is around. My birthday wish for her is a lifetime of happiness.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsfzBs3aI/AAAAAAAAA8g/3a-Gehb0tAc/s1600-h/100508+020.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253849733833481634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsfzBs3aI/AAAAAAAAA8g/3a-Gehb0tAc/s400/100508+020.JPG" border="0" /></a> All those candles really lit up the room, but she had enough air to blow them all out in one breath. Wonder what she wished for? <br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsfxtIiiI/AAAAAAAAA8o/hdJXG1Dqnxk/s1600-h/100508+028.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253849733478779426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsfxtIiiI/AAAAAAAAA8o/hdJXG1Dqnxk/s400/100508+028.JPG" border="0" /></a> She spent the afternoon at the Ravens game with friends. Too bad they couldn't deliver a win for her birthday, but it was a good game.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsgIersNI/AAAAAAAAA8w/m08jxoG1Y1A/s1600-h/100508+027.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253849739592184018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsgIersNI/AAAAAAAAA8w/m08jxoG1Y1A/s400/100508+027.JPG" border="0" /></a> Friends and family then arrived at our house for her requested birthday dinner of pot roast.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsgMy7Q7I/AAAAAAAAA84/vhw2oGPq804/s1600-h/100508+026.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253849740750832562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlsgMy7Q7I/AAAAAAAAA84/vhw2oGPq804/s400/100508+026.JPG" border="0" /></a> ... and we had enough hands to close up the pool for the winter.<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlryg7evhI/AAAAAAAAA7w/zXLnv-Vu2os/s1600-h/100508+001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253848955881438738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlryg7evhI/AAAAAAAAA7w/zXLnv-Vu2os/s400/100508+001.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlryzK_y9I/AAAAAAAAA74/_gVk8c0_PxM/s1600-h/100508+016.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253848960778357714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlryzK_y9I/AAAAAAAAA74/_gVk8c0_PxM/s400/100508+016.JPG" border="0" /></a> Doggie update: Bailey is growing up. She is losing that puppy look, although, she is still a bundle of energy.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlrzDtwpLI/AAAAAAAAA8A/LvpR5foFK38/s1600-h/100508+009.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253848965219132594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlrzDtwpLI/AAAAAAAAA8A/LvpR5foFK38/s400/100508+009.JPG" border="0" /></a> She and the other dogs are the best of friends. The three of them run around the yard until they are ready to drop.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlrzd3FfaI/AAAAAAAAA8I/TXQy5yUjlMM/s1600-h/100508+007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253848972237569442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlrzd3FfaI/AAAAAAAAA8I/TXQy5yUjlMM/s400/100508+007.JPG" border="0" /></a>That is when you usually will see Riley enjoying the sun and a good chew.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlrzfK0W8I/AAAAAAAAA8Q/DD_faevTI_w/s1600-h/100508+012.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253848972588768194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOlrzfK0W8I/AAAAAAAAA8Q/DD_faevTI_w/s400/100508+012.JPG" border="0" /></a> Hope everyone had as good a weekend as we did!<br /><br /><div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-37480347568689386142008-10-04T09:29:00.012-04:002008-10-04T11:43:58.050-04:00It's been a busy monthThe beginning of the month started out with a trip to Austin. My son tore him <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">labrum</span> and needed shoulder surgery. Erin my son's fiance has a new job and didn't have the time off so I offered to go down. I had never flown by myself. On previous flights my brother has always been with me, so I was a little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">trepidatous</span>. The flight was a bit bumpy but uneventful. I even rented a car by myself for the first time.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd8cptsd7I/AAAAAAAAA7Y/FQK3cHyaf4M/s1600-h/100308+103.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253304322026665906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd8cptsd7I/AAAAAAAAA7Y/FQK3cHyaf4M/s400/100308+103.JPG" border="0" /></a> The night before surgery, I took Sean and Erin to a local chain called <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Chuy's,</span> their favorite restaurant. It has the best Tex-Mex food I have ever tasted and the decor could make a weird object participant green with envy.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253296849247633010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd1prcVfnI/AAAAAAAAA5A/O1vsl9ZixP0/s400/100308+110.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>The surgery was more difficult than the doctor anticipated. The tear was larger. Sean is now the proud owner of four anchors in his shoulder. They evidently hold everything in place while it heals. He already has one in his knee from a torn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ACL</span>. Erin says he is slowly becoming a bionic man.<br /><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253296853489280786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd1p7Pn5xI/AAAAAAAAA5I/6AbNoa6kQ2E/s400/100308+113.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><br /><div>But a few days later, we went to celebrate his recovery at Cheesecake Factory.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253303150937944242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd7YfEYsLI/AAAAAAAAA7I/l6MnJ66slcA/s400/100308+117.JPG" border="0" />I had never been. But it was worth the trip. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>When your child lives far away from you, you worry a little more about them. Seeing them again reassures you that they are strong and happy and are doing fine. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253296857173694402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd1qI-Dl8I/AAAAAAAAA5Q/Uo7UYguTCuU/s400/100308+116.JPG" border="0" />I flew home at the tail end of Hurricane Ike. The pilot had to detour and it was very turbulent. If this had been my first flight, I wouldn't be flying again. We weren't allowed to get out of our seats or take off the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">seat belts</span>. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253296849476544386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd1psS6Z4I/AAAAAAAAA44/hUbszhV9o-A/s400/100308+106.JPG" border="0" />But I made it home safely being welcomed at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">BWI</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Thurgood</span> Marshall Airport by my husband and the Baltimore Crab. I considered adding this to the weird object gallery, but Margaret beat me to it with her crab object.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd5axZn-kI/AAAAAAAAA6o/BH_7GEbf0Ng/s1600-h/100308+127.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253300991195347522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd5axZn-kI/AAAAAAAAA6o/BH_7GEbf0Ng/s400/100308+127.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd5a9ADN2I/AAAAAAAAA6w/LpZ7WUJ0wW8/s1600-h/100308+128.JPG"></a>NEXT, My daughter works for a wonderful organization called The Sheridan Patterson Center. She is a social worker and they work with higher risk foster children and their foster and biological families. They had their first swim-a-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">thon</span> as a fundraiser. They take a holistic approach and provide a tremendous amount of alternative training and therapy. The suggest and teach healthier eating, aromatherapy, and meditating along with the traditional therapies.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd5bRBzoAI/AAAAAAAAA7A/tfcnTWHJjdA/s1600-h/81708+014.JPG"></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253310270990667122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOeB27VPTXI/AAAAAAAAA7g/4Hyn38FNaDU/s400/100308+130.JPG" border="0" /><br />So, Mom was enlisted to help at the ticket and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">registration</span> table. It was held at a YMCA that was built on the old Memorial Stadium site. Itwas not like any Y I have ever been in. It was truly a neighborhood resource. Beside the pool, they had a basketball court, fitness equipment and many meeting areas that could be used. You could see that it was heavily utilized by the neighborhood children. I wish I lived closer to it.<br /><br /><div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253299481504367106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd4C5XPwgI/AAAAAAAAA6g/-81MYRCELws/s400/100308+129.JPG" border="0" />The teams really had a good time--as did the volunteers and employees.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253299477393674450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd4CqDLkNI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/O9z9RuZAaPc/s400/100308+134.JPG" border="0" /><br />They had a VIP dinner at the end of the day for their sponsors. They are a wonderful organizaton and I am glad my daughter is involved with them.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253299471469209138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd4CT-rZjI/AAAAAAAAA6I/pDIzNIXT7ZU/s400/100308+155.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br />Then, Margaret and I headed to Ocean City, MD, for an office weekend. Nine of us in two rooms on the beach. It really was fun. I am a Wildwood girl, so Ocean City was new for me. The beach is shorter and the riptides were horrible but the waves were exciting to watch.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253298126271519330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd20AujmmI/AAAAAAAAA54/BTEaeLmXM2Y/s400/100308+177.JPG" border="0" />But there was a storm heading up the coast and the waves, I was told, were fiercer than usual. Surfers were everywhere. I waded in the water and even that was exhausting. You were fighting not to be pulled further into the water.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253299471654136178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd4CUqxKXI/AAAAAAAAA6A/O0zcKSkWLmM/s400/100308+171.JPG" border="0" />On the beach, we did see some sand sculptures. Margaret says this particular artist is always there and usually does religous themes.<br /><div></div><br /><div>On the last night, we headed to a local crab house... <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253298124754600674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd2z7E5QuI/AAAAAAAAA5o/w-IOZ13z_A8/s400/100308+202.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><div></div><div>...and made a new friend, although he didn't have much to say---a perfect man.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253298117515215746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd2zgG5A4I/AAAAAAAAA5g/ZQ_mNTbA5wU/s400/100308+201.JPG" border="0" /><br />It was a nice weekend and a great experience to get out of the office and just be friends.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253298123742303810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOd2z3Ti1kI/AAAAAAAAA5w/-v7Pi8ulueg/s400/100308+178.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2644583278920115375.post-5702500147794148312008-10-03T07:15:00.000-04:002008-10-03T09:26:13.659-04:00It is not the "what" that makes this my weird object this Friday....<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOYAAfjP0qI/AAAAAAAAA4g/iYSO32ZjpFc/s1600-h/100308+209.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252886023843599010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOYAAfjP0qI/AAAAAAAAA4g/iYSO32ZjpFc/s400/100308+209.JPG" border="0" /></a> ... it is the "where".<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOYAAtuR7BI/AAAAAAAAA4o/UFvluHhCubc/s1600-h/100308+210.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252886027647970322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yPDJK5O3RJ8/SOYAAtuR7BI/AAAAAAAAA4o/UFvluHhCubc/s400/100308+210.JPG" border="0" /></a> My 7-Eleven offers all the conveniences of home.....right on their front sidewalk. <div> </div><div>It is interesting how "weird object" has changed my life. I carry my camera wherever I go. You never know what your eye will catch.</div><div> </div><div>On the way home from the beach, Margaret and I pulled into the parking lot, lowered the window and quickly grabbed these shots. Two men in the parking were looking at us quite oddly. Margaret looks back at them and shouts "We REALLY like port-a-potties" and we drive off. We couldn't stop laughing.</div><div> </div><div>Everyone have a wonderful day.</div>gerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791566987939098443noreply@blogger.com4