Monday morning started with Paul going to his computer club meeting and Jane off to Stretch class. Jane then joined Paul at the computer club since the guest speaker’s topic was E-Books. Patty (our friend from the cruise) was speaking and demonstrating her Kindle. Very interesting way to carry and read books…… hmmm do I sense a potential gift here? – so I can lessen the weight in the trailer of course!!
The rest of the day we spent by the pool and then finally decided to go out for a quick Mexican dinner – since we had not stocked the fridge yet!
Tuesday Paul puttered around the trailer, putting the awning back up with all the straps and clamps needed to withstand the Texas winds which do gust up to 40 miles per hour. Jane skipped water aerobics since the pool heater was not working. But later in the afternoon, we both went for a dip which cooled us off nicely. That night we took our friend Doug out to dinner at the Longhorn Cattle Company. Yesterday (Monday) was his birthday, so we treated him to dinner, and the restaurant even provided a free dessert – but we spared him the pleasure of the singing waiters and wearing the longhorns.
After dinner we came back to Fun N Sun for the Las Vegas night. Doug was the big winner with two prizes, Jane didn’t win, and I used my dollar to buy an ice cream bar – so at least I got to eat my winnings.
Wednesday morning Paul skipped golf (40 degrees at 6:30am was not motivating) Jane went quickly to her Toys for Tots and then we both headed off with Doug to Victoria Palms RV Park for the 11:00 am Titanium Luncheon. About 140 people attended the luncheon. The food and conversation were excellent. We were glad to see our friends that we only get to meet at rallies and luncheons – and we made some new friends. We even met a couple from Silver Lake, On – they live right on Hwy 7, and have had a 2001 Titanium for sale all last summer. We have driven past this unit and it was fun to meet the owners. Apparently they had bought a new unit from Winter’s in Napanee, and he refused to take their 2001 unit as a trade. Hmm, does that make you want to buy there??
Wednesday night we were back at Fun N Sun for a dance featuring the Agency Band. It is really fun to have live bands playing several times a week here at the park. Our dancing may not be getting better, but we are having fun faking it… LOL
Thursday morning we went to the Koffee Klatch – to hear what’s new in the park for the upcoming week. This was followed by health exhibition and screening sponsored by the Valley Baptist Hospital. We both got our blood pressure read, cholesterol, and then we waited for an ABI test (Ankle/Brachial Index – which is a simple comparison of the blood pressure readings of the arms and legs, using a Doppler instead of a stethoscope. This is an accurate indicator of common circulatory problems in the extremities). Paul passed with flying colors, but not so for Jane – which may not be surprising with her arthritic knees and joints.
In the afternoon, we headed to Hildaglo – to Borderfest. This is the festival held by the border towns of Hildago Tx, and Reynosa, Mx. A real cultural experience – this year’s theme is Australia with animals and exhibits from down under. We enjoyed seeing these exhibits – especially the baby kangaroos. It was not as much fun as last year – probably the cold weather put a damper on staying out in the evening and not all the musical groups were playing. We plan to head back again on Sunday and will remember to take our camera with us.
Friday was overcast and dull. Paul finally washed the truck and we just took it easy during the day. Kind of a retired day. After supper we headed over to Harlingen to the Christian Fellowship Church for a Neil Diamond tribute. This act is from Branson which has been touring the RGV. The show was excellent – and we even got birthday cupcakes after the show to celebrate the star’s wife’s 50 birthday. During the door prize draws, Jane won free tickets to a show in Branson. Guess we will have to head that way either going home or coming down next fall. Yes we are coming back. We have put a deposit on our friend’s lot (Greg & Linda) – since they bought a manufactured home. Greg gave us first dibs on the site which Linda has landscaped. Guess I’ll have to hire her as my Mexican gardener!
Today started with an exhibition of all the arts and crafts and hobby groups at Fun N Sun. It is really amazing to see all the talent in the park, and to realize how many activities we can choose from to fill our leisure time. Our friend Doug took excellent pictures of all the tables, so I’ll “borrow” his link to let you see the pictures.
To see Doug's pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/collindo99/20100306001/
This afternoon, we are off to Brownsville – to visit a flea market we have not yet seen. Then it will be back to BBQ a steak and accompaniments.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Caribbean Cruising
Saturday Feb 20 – we left San Benito and drove 6 1/2 hours to Galveston. We checked into the Grace Manor bed & breakfast – an early 1900 building in the historic area of Galveston. Our friends (Pat & Paul- also known as "Tall Paul" due to his 6'7" frame) from Fun N Sun were also staying at this B&B, so after a great meal at Gumbo Bar & Grill, we got together for a nightcap.
Sunday morning started with a home cooked gourmet breakfast which was preceded by champagne mimosas. What a luxurious way to start the day. Before we checked out Pat used her laptop to check on our cruise – only to find out that the ship, Voyageur of the Seas, had not arrived in port, but was stuck in the fog out in Galveston harbour. Our thoughts of an early check in went out the window. After much delay and confusion at the port caused by two ships disembarking and embarking passengers, we did board around 7:30pm – and the ship did leave port around 3 am. This ten hour delay the captain was able to make up during our two days at sea.
Our first two days were spent at sea. Paul made friends with a deck chair by the pool and they got along spectacularly. Jane kept up her busy pace by attending the shopping show, exploring the ship and joining Paul by the pool – or more like the hot tub.
Wednesday morning we arrived at Roatan, Honduras. Since it was formerly a British Colony, all the residents speak English – which made getting around very easy. We headed off to a small resort in Half Moon Bay – with a rented van and driver. "Tall Paul" & Pat had been there before and we all enjoyed the day by the water.
Thursday morning we arrived in Costa Maya, Mexico. What a paradise! Again the four of us headed to the boardwalk area. Sheryl’s sister in law Diana had recommended a spot, and we spent the day at the Coco Corona Sports Bar & Cantina. They provided a table & chairs, plus four lawn chairs right on the white sand beach. As long as we consumed their food & drink (6 beer on ice plus 4 tequila shooters for $10.00) – the chairs were ours for the day.
Friday morning we arrived in Cozumel, Mexico. Jane had planned this as our shopping stop, so along with the passengers from 7 other cruise ships, we all hit the pavement of this little town. After a busy morning of walking for miles, we returned to the ship for a late lunch followed by Jane relaxing on the pool deck. Paul had to make a quick return trip to the shopping mecca to scoop up a deal.
Saturday was spent at sea as we headed back to Galveston. Unfortunately the winds were very strong and the seas were rough – so the captain closed the upper decks to all passengers. It was a shame to loose the tanning time, but it was not safe to be up there.
Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas was an impressive ship. We enjoyed our stateroom, the on board ice skating rink which featured a show, the daily evening entertainment, the casino, the dining rooms, and yes …… too much food! Our evening dining table mates were from Arkansas. Jim & Nancy were an interesting couple who have done a lot of cruising. At one point last year they went on seven back to back cruises. I don’t own that many outfits!! If Jane had this much trouble packing for our one week cruise – there is no way she would have survived packing for seven weeks. LOL.
Sunday we disembarked and headed back to San Benito, arriving at Fun N Sun by 5:30 pm. – in time for the evening ice cream social!!!
Today, Monday was a beautiful warm day at Fun N Sun, so we spent the day by the pool and just slowly getting back into the swing of things at the park. By tomorrow we will be back at all our activities.
To see our pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Sunday morning started with a home cooked gourmet breakfast which was preceded by champagne mimosas. What a luxurious way to start the day. Before we checked out Pat used her laptop to check on our cruise – only to find out that the ship, Voyageur of the Seas, had not arrived in port, but was stuck in the fog out in Galveston harbour. Our thoughts of an early check in went out the window. After much delay and confusion at the port caused by two ships disembarking and embarking passengers, we did board around 7:30pm – and the ship did leave port around 3 am. This ten hour delay the captain was able to make up during our two days at sea.
Our first two days were spent at sea. Paul made friends with a deck chair by the pool and they got along spectacularly. Jane kept up her busy pace by attending the shopping show, exploring the ship and joining Paul by the pool – or more like the hot tub.
Wednesday morning we arrived at Roatan, Honduras. Since it was formerly a British Colony, all the residents speak English – which made getting around very easy. We headed off to a small resort in Half Moon Bay – with a rented van and driver. "Tall Paul" & Pat had been there before and we all enjoyed the day by the water.
Thursday morning we arrived in Costa Maya, Mexico. What a paradise! Again the four of us headed to the boardwalk area. Sheryl’s sister in law Diana had recommended a spot, and we spent the day at the Coco Corona Sports Bar & Cantina. They provided a table & chairs, plus four lawn chairs right on the white sand beach. As long as we consumed their food & drink (6 beer on ice plus 4 tequila shooters for $10.00) – the chairs were ours for the day.
Friday morning we arrived in Cozumel, Mexico. Jane had planned this as our shopping stop, so along with the passengers from 7 other cruise ships, we all hit the pavement of this little town. After a busy morning of walking for miles, we returned to the ship for a late lunch followed by Jane relaxing on the pool deck. Paul had to make a quick return trip to the shopping mecca to scoop up a deal.
Saturday was spent at sea as we headed back to Galveston. Unfortunately the winds were very strong and the seas were rough – so the captain closed the upper decks to all passengers. It was a shame to loose the tanning time, but it was not safe to be up there.
Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas was an impressive ship. We enjoyed our stateroom, the on board ice skating rink which featured a show, the daily evening entertainment, the casino, the dining rooms, and yes …… too much food! Our evening dining table mates were from Arkansas. Jim & Nancy were an interesting couple who have done a lot of cruising. At one point last year they went on seven back to back cruises. I don’t own that many outfits!! If Jane had this much trouble packing for our one week cruise – there is no way she would have survived packing for seven weeks. LOL.
Sunday we disembarked and headed back to San Benito, arriving at Fun N Sun by 5:30 pm. – in time for the evening ice cream social!!!
Today, Monday was a beautiful warm day at Fun N Sun, so we spent the day by the pool and just slowly getting back into the swing of things at the park. By tomorrow we will be back at all our activities.
To see our pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Friday, February 19, 2010
Jenn's Visit
Jennifer arrived in the wee hours of Saturday – thanks to a flight delay in Houston. But we were up early for breakfast, followed by a quick trip to the Don Wes flea market – to visit the bathing suit lady (who remembered Jenn from last year!). The sun stayed out for this year’s Fun N Sun Mardi gras parade, so we enjoyed all the floats and decorated golf carts. We collected enough beads to open our own Mardi Gras store. Although it cooled down a bit, we went for a swim – just to test out the new suits. Paul cranked up the BBQ and we had a feast of fresh veggies and chicken while watching the Olympics on our Canadian satellite dish.
Sunday morning we headed off to the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle. We truly enjoy the mariachi band that plays at the 9:00 service. Breakfast was enjoyed by all at a local Mexican eatery. Paul & Jenn had their ‘divorced eggs’ while Jane had Mexican eggs. On our way back home, we stopped briefly at the Outlet mall for a quick power shopping trip. But the beautiful sun convinced us to head for the pool which we really enjoyed. Sunday night’s “Ice cream social” was followed by a Valentine’s Dance but we opted to watch the Olympics.
Monday was a cold cloudy day so we headed to Nuevo Progresso in Mexico following exercise class. We had lunch at the Red Snapper, shopped, and came home with some tequila. Monday night we attended the dinner show at Fun N Sun which featured The Redhead Express – a musical family with 7 children.
Tuesday we headed to South Padre Island. Unfortunately the weather got a bit cooler, so there was no sunbathing or swimming in the ocean. We did take time to drive along the shore and pick up a few shells. For dinner we went to Louie’s Backyard – a huge place with a multitude of dining options. Since it was Fat Tuesday, the upstairs Sports Bar was even busier than usual but the food and drinks were great. On our way home we stopped to shop and Jenn purchased a pair of running shoes.
Wednesday morning Paul went golfing with the men’s league, Jane was off to her Toys for Tots project, and Jenn went to exercise class. By 10:30 we all reunited and had light lunch, and then it was time to head off to the airport for Jenn’s flight home. It was a short visit, but we managed to pack a lot of things into a few days.
In the afternoon, our Titanium friends Bill & Margaret came by – Margaret & Jane visited while Bill, Doug & Paul were busy jacking up the trailer and testing the play on the wheel hubs. Wednesday night’s dance featured Walter Plante who sings and plays the keyboard – a real one man show.
Today it rained….. and rained so our lot is once again a mud field and our external carpet is floating. Oh well, it gave us some time to find our suitcases, and begin packing for next week’s cruise. Tomorrow afternoon we will attend the Canadian Club’s BBQ / Social. Then Saturday we are off to Galveston so that we can board the Royal Caribbean’s Voyageur of the Seas on Sunday for a 7 day cruise of the Western Caribbean. We will report back early in March once we return to Fun N Sun and our lap top.
To see our pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Sunday morning we headed off to the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle. We truly enjoy the mariachi band that plays at the 9:00 service. Breakfast was enjoyed by all at a local Mexican eatery. Paul & Jenn had their ‘divorced eggs’ while Jane had Mexican eggs. On our way back home, we stopped briefly at the Outlet mall for a quick power shopping trip. But the beautiful sun convinced us to head for the pool which we really enjoyed. Sunday night’s “Ice cream social” was followed by a Valentine’s Dance but we opted to watch the Olympics.
Monday was a cold cloudy day so we headed to Nuevo Progresso in Mexico following exercise class. We had lunch at the Red Snapper, shopped, and came home with some tequila. Monday night we attended the dinner show at Fun N Sun which featured The Redhead Express – a musical family with 7 children.
Tuesday we headed to South Padre Island. Unfortunately the weather got a bit cooler, so there was no sunbathing or swimming in the ocean. We did take time to drive along the shore and pick up a few shells. For dinner we went to Louie’s Backyard – a huge place with a multitude of dining options. Since it was Fat Tuesday, the upstairs Sports Bar was even busier than usual but the food and drinks were great. On our way home we stopped to shop and Jenn purchased a pair of running shoes.
Wednesday morning Paul went golfing with the men’s league, Jane was off to her Toys for Tots project, and Jenn went to exercise class. By 10:30 we all reunited and had light lunch, and then it was time to head off to the airport for Jenn’s flight home. It was a short visit, but we managed to pack a lot of things into a few days.
In the afternoon, our Titanium friends Bill & Margaret came by – Margaret & Jane visited while Bill, Doug & Paul were busy jacking up the trailer and testing the play on the wheel hubs. Wednesday night’s dance featured Walter Plante who sings and plays the keyboard – a real one man show.
Today it rained….. and rained so our lot is once again a mud field and our external carpet is floating. Oh well, it gave us some time to find our suitcases, and begin packing for next week’s cruise. Tomorrow afternoon we will attend the Canadian Club’s BBQ / Social. Then Saturday we are off to Galveston so that we can board the Royal Caribbean’s Voyageur of the Seas on Sunday for a 7 day cruise of the Western Caribbean. We will report back early in March once we return to Fun N Sun and our lap top.
To see our pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Friday, February 12, 2010
Bike Riding at Fun N Sun
We had a quiet weekend, deciding to pass on the Rodeo. Instead on Saturday morning we went to the health fair at the Harlingen hospital – there are lots of health care providers looking for business in this part of Texas. Then it was off to the Harlingen street market which was filled with “antiques and collectibles” although we have to admit that there was not much in either category that interested us.
On Sunday we tried a different Mexican restaurant in San Benito for breakfast – it was very good. We spent the afternoon around Fun N Sun and had an early supper so that we could watch the Super Bowl. It was amazing how quiet the park was and how empty the Ice Cream Social was although the Activity Office had claimed there was no interest in an organized Super Bowl party.
Monday afternoon turned into a beautiful sunny day. It was fun to see people out walking again and enjoying the pool. While Paul, Greg and Linda were riding their bikes in the park, the Valley Morning Times newspaper snapped their picture. Tuesday’s front page featured their picture under the caption “Enjoying the weather… while it lasts”. The clip read “Residents of Fun N Sun RV Resort in San Benito, ride bicycles Monday when the day’s high temperature reached 79 degrees. Temperatures are only expected to be in the mid-50’s today, with the mercury dropping to 37 tonight. The forecast for Wednesday and Thursday is a high of 53 and a low of 47 at night, with a chance for rain.”
Unfortunately the forecasters have been correct and we are now back to heavy sweatshirts and rain jackets. Of course, we know most of you are buried under lots of snow!!!
Since our Tuesday trip to the Pump House was cancelled, we headed off to Donna and had lunch at the Garcia’s sisters. This is a well known local eatery that is housed in a plain building with no signage. The sisters make a fixed amount of hamburger and once it is gone, that’s it for the day. The burgers are the size of the cook’s hand – which is the size of a baseball glove. A real cultural experience. After lunch we headed off to the outlet mall for some shopping. Sarah Getto was the evening’s entertainment – she is a 26 year old singer who plays the piano and fiddle despite being blind since birth. She has a beautiful voice and she gave a great concert.
On Wednesday morning Paul went golfing and Jane went to “Toys for Tots”. Wednesday evening was a 50’s & 60’s dance which was sponsored by the Fun N Sun group named “The CRABS” also known as Conservative Retired Adult Bikers. The evening started with hot dogs and root beer floats. We brought our own beer too! The live band “The Cruisers” played, and we had a great evening. Paul even came in second place in the yoyo competition. Jane tried the hula hoop, but no luck.
Thursday was a rainy day. Paul started his day at the local GMC dealership to get the oil changed on the truck. Good thing he brought a book, three hours later (and this was his third trip) it was completed. Ya gotta love the slower pace down here. mañana rules!
Today we are off to a nine year old’s birthday party at a local pizza restaurant. Later this evening Jennifer arrives and we are looking forward to her visit.
To see a picture click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
On Sunday we tried a different Mexican restaurant in San Benito for breakfast – it was very good. We spent the afternoon around Fun N Sun and had an early supper so that we could watch the Super Bowl. It was amazing how quiet the park was and how empty the Ice Cream Social was although the Activity Office had claimed there was no interest in an organized Super Bowl party.
Monday afternoon turned into a beautiful sunny day. It was fun to see people out walking again and enjoying the pool. While Paul, Greg and Linda were riding their bikes in the park, the Valley Morning Times newspaper snapped their picture. Tuesday’s front page featured their picture under the caption “Enjoying the weather… while it lasts”. The clip read “Residents of Fun N Sun RV Resort in San Benito, ride bicycles Monday when the day’s high temperature reached 79 degrees. Temperatures are only expected to be in the mid-50’s today, with the mercury dropping to 37 tonight. The forecast for Wednesday and Thursday is a high of 53 and a low of 47 at night, with a chance for rain.”
Unfortunately the forecasters have been correct and we are now back to heavy sweatshirts and rain jackets. Of course, we know most of you are buried under lots of snow!!!
Since our Tuesday trip to the Pump House was cancelled, we headed off to Donna and had lunch at the Garcia’s sisters. This is a well known local eatery that is housed in a plain building with no signage. The sisters make a fixed amount of hamburger and once it is gone, that’s it for the day. The burgers are the size of the cook’s hand – which is the size of a baseball glove. A real cultural experience. After lunch we headed off to the outlet mall for some shopping. Sarah Getto was the evening’s entertainment – she is a 26 year old singer who plays the piano and fiddle despite being blind since birth. She has a beautiful voice and she gave a great concert.
On Wednesday morning Paul went golfing and Jane went to “Toys for Tots”. Wednesday evening was a 50’s & 60’s dance which was sponsored by the Fun N Sun group named “The CRABS” also known as Conservative Retired Adult Bikers. The evening started with hot dogs and root beer floats. We brought our own beer too! The live band “The Cruisers” played, and we had a great evening. Paul even came in second place in the yoyo competition. Jane tried the hula hoop, but no luck.
Thursday was a rainy day. Paul started his day at the local GMC dealership to get the oil changed on the truck. Good thing he brought a book, three hours later (and this was his third trip) it was completed. Ya gotta love the slower pace down here. mañana rules!
Today we are off to a nine year old’s birthday party at a local pizza restaurant. Later this evening Jennifer arrives and we are looking forward to her visit.
To see a picture click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Saturday, February 6, 2010
It's February Already
On Tuesday February 2, we went to South Padre Island for the Snowbird show (sponsored by the Canadian Snowbird Association). The show was interesting, especially the talk by one of the CSA directors. We went to Pier 19 for lunch but didn’t get much a view from their waterfront dining room since the fog was quite thick. One the way home we did some exploring taking roads through citrus groves and pasture land although we saw very few cattle. While Paul was forced to slow down on one dirt road to allow a dog to get out of the road, I noticed two donkeys standing at the side of the road. Although they moved much more slowly than birds, I still had trouble getting a good photo from the truck window.
Wednesday’s heavy rain cancelled Paul’s weekly golf game but I was still able to get to Toys for Tots. In the afternoon we drove west to an RV park in Pharr to attend a benefit show for childhood cancer. The performers were Bernie and Red, a Canadian couple from Vancouver who are stand-up comedians and musicians. We thoroughly enjoyed their performance and would definitely try to see them again next year. Their jokes about traveling in their RV were certainly appreciated by the audience who could definitely relate to their tales.
Thursday afternoon we had a surprise visit from Jeannine and Leo, a couple we met last year from outside of Sudbury. They were at Fun N Sun for only two nights while they secured the insurance for their truck and 5th wheel that they needed to head to Mexico for several months. 8 of us went out to dinner to catch up and their news and to wish them well on their trip.
Our friend Doug arrived at Fun N Sun with his Titanium this afternoon although he has to stay in an overflow site until his site dries out enough for him to drive on it. The park maintenance was kept busy all day today delivering a crushed stone / sand mixture to the wettest spots in the park – including our parking spot next to our 5th wheel. Once the wind picks up again, things will dry out and the newcomers will be able to get settled.
We introduced Doug to a new vegetable when he came for dinner – jicama or Mexican potato or Mexican turnip. It is similar to a turnip but with a taste more like an apple or pear. We served it raw with chili powder and salt but understand it can also be cooked. We understand the Mexicans serve a lot of cactus so that will have to be our next culinary adventure.
As we are watching the weather tonight (Friday February 5), the rain we received this week seems pale in comparison with the snow storms / blizzards in eastern Canada and the U.S. Today was sunny with very little wind so it was great to be outside and to be able to get back into the pool.
This weekend there is a rodeo in the neighbouring town of Los Fresnos but we have not yet decided whether we will go or whether we will stay here and relax – and watch the super bowl game.
To see some pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Wednesday’s heavy rain cancelled Paul’s weekly golf game but I was still able to get to Toys for Tots. In the afternoon we drove west to an RV park in Pharr to attend a benefit show for childhood cancer. The performers were Bernie and Red, a Canadian couple from Vancouver who are stand-up comedians and musicians. We thoroughly enjoyed their performance and would definitely try to see them again next year. Their jokes about traveling in their RV were certainly appreciated by the audience who could definitely relate to their tales.
Thursday afternoon we had a surprise visit from Jeannine and Leo, a couple we met last year from outside of Sudbury. They were at Fun N Sun for only two nights while they secured the insurance for their truck and 5th wheel that they needed to head to Mexico for several months. 8 of us went out to dinner to catch up and their news and to wish them well on their trip.
Our friend Doug arrived at Fun N Sun with his Titanium this afternoon although he has to stay in an overflow site until his site dries out enough for him to drive on it. The park maintenance was kept busy all day today delivering a crushed stone / sand mixture to the wettest spots in the park – including our parking spot next to our 5th wheel. Once the wind picks up again, things will dry out and the newcomers will be able to get settled.
We introduced Doug to a new vegetable when he came for dinner – jicama or Mexican potato or Mexican turnip. It is similar to a turnip but with a taste more like an apple or pear. We served it raw with chili powder and salt but understand it can also be cooked. We understand the Mexicans serve a lot of cactus so that will have to be our next culinary adventure.
As we are watching the weather tonight (Friday February 5), the rain we received this week seems pale in comparison with the snow storms / blizzards in eastern Canada and the U.S. Today was sunny with very little wind so it was great to be outside and to be able to get back into the pool.
This weekend there is a rodeo in the neighbouring town of Los Fresnos but we have not yet decided whether we will go or whether we will stay here and relax – and watch the super bowl game.
To see some pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Basketball & Kites
Friday was forecasted to be rainy – but all we got was sun rays. After a bike ride, we did head to the mall to check out the sales. At 4:30 pm we boarded a charter bus that took us over to McAllen for the Viper’s Basketball game. Vipers are the NBA farm team for the Houston Rockets. Included in our tour package was a meal stop at the Outback Restaurant, tickets to the game, and a Winter Texan Club T-shirt. The game was fun – the vipers won, and the fan entertainment off the court was enjoyable. It was a real treat to be driven back home after the game – although it was pretty quiet on the bus.
Saturday was a slower day. It started with a garage sale at the park – not too many bargains. We ate dinner in, and called it an early evening.
Today (Sunday) we headed off to South Padre Island for the 10th annual kite festival. It is held on the beach and it was well attended. After a few hours, we left and made our way to “The Margaritaville of South Padre Island” – or the Palm St. Pier Bar & Grill. We had a “Steamer Pot” for two – king crab, shrimp, clams, red potatoes & corn – served in a Bud Lite Bucket. (See our pictures) – It was great, oh yea, we finished with a Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake. Then we headed back to Fun N Sun for the Sunday evening ice cream social and entertainment by Freddie & Shelia Pelletier, a Canadian group from Birch Hills Saskatchewan.
Think we need to hit the gym tomorrow……. :-)
To see some pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Saturday was a slower day. It started with a garage sale at the park – not too many bargains. We ate dinner in, and called it an early evening.
Today (Sunday) we headed off to South Padre Island for the 10th annual kite festival. It is held on the beach and it was well attended. After a few hours, we left and made our way to “The Margaritaville of South Padre Island” – or the Palm St. Pier Bar & Grill. We had a “Steamer Pot” for two – king crab, shrimp, clams, red potatoes & corn – served in a Bud Lite Bucket. (See our pictures) – It was great, oh yea, we finished with a Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake. Then we headed back to Fun N Sun for the Sunday evening ice cream social and entertainment by Freddie & Shelia Pelletier, a Canadian group from Birch Hills Saskatchewan.
Think we need to hit the gym tomorrow……. :-)
To see some pictures click here : http://picasaweb.google.com/pjkralik/
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Week Three News
Last Thursday we went to another Winter Texas Expo and Health Fair in Pharr, Texas. We were amazed at the number of health care providers there are in the RGV and we were also amazed at how our blood pressure readings varied as we went from booth to booth. This show was a bit disappointing – no freebies - so we left and headed west to Camping World for more supplies. I was also disappointed to find that a specialty shoe store I had found did not have size sandals I needed. So we headed back east towards Donna, for lunch at a hamburger place that was written up in one of the Winter Texan newspapers. That too was a bust – we couldn’t find the restaurant since the paper gave out the wrong address, and the burger pit does not have a sign. It wouldn’t have mattered, we were later told by a friend at Fun N Sun that you have to be there by 11:00 a.m. because they close up once they run out of meat. By this time it was 1:00 p.m. so we headed to Harlingen to a dairy bar that serves hamburgers and great banana splits. After a quick trip to the mall, it was back for a swim and a BBQ.
Saturday we went to the Customer Appreciation Day at Ron Hoover RV dealership. I fell in love with the 43 foot motor home but not even the sale price of $302,000 could entice us to make an offer. We then headed to Nuevo Progresso, Mexico to buy some Tequila – our first bottles of the season. Back at the park, neither of us felt like cooking after our late afternoon swim so we tried the nearby Longhorn Cattle Company – lots of meat and Texas style beans on their menu. It won’t be a restaurant that we will take Jenn to when she visits.
The Cowboy and Hobo show featuring Cactus Willie, Boxcar Bob and the Drifter was Sunday night’s free entertainment. We had thoroughly enjoyed their performance at the Chicken House Opry in Misson last March and they didn’t disappoint us this second time.
Monday, the 25th of January was the most beautiful weather we have had in the RGV – 76 degrees and almost no wind. Calm gentle breezes don’t happen very often so we took full advantage of it with several trips to the pool. I also enjoyed being able to read outside without being blown away. Fortunately we had not planned any field trips to take us out of the park. It is too bad that the winter returned again the next day.
The San Benito Chamber of Commerce sponsored Welcome Back Winter Texans on Tuesday January 26. The local merchants had displays set up and gave away a number of door prizes. There are actually more merchants than we realized – there are actually two independent pharmacies plus Walmart in this small town. The entertainer, Will Yancy, was warmly received by the capacity crowd.
The Wednesday evening dance was the exact opposite with only 60 people attending. We had a good time visiting with friends we made from Illinois but we did feel sorry for the entertainer, Ron O’Neil – party of one.
Thursday was a slower day. Despite the wind, we have enjoyed the pool and Paul played golf. However, he did purchase a larger set of awning “deflappers” to try to keep the awning attached to the trailer. The forecast for tomorrow is for rain and cooler weather on Friday so we will probably head to the mall.
Saturday we went to the Customer Appreciation Day at Ron Hoover RV dealership. I fell in love with the 43 foot motor home but not even the sale price of $302,000 could entice us to make an offer. We then headed to Nuevo Progresso, Mexico to buy some Tequila – our first bottles of the season. Back at the park, neither of us felt like cooking after our late afternoon swim so we tried the nearby Longhorn Cattle Company – lots of meat and Texas style beans on their menu. It won’t be a restaurant that we will take Jenn to when she visits.
The Cowboy and Hobo show featuring Cactus Willie, Boxcar Bob and the Drifter was Sunday night’s free entertainment. We had thoroughly enjoyed their performance at the Chicken House Opry in Misson last March and they didn’t disappoint us this second time.
Monday, the 25th of January was the most beautiful weather we have had in the RGV – 76 degrees and almost no wind. Calm gentle breezes don’t happen very often so we took full advantage of it with several trips to the pool. I also enjoyed being able to read outside without being blown away. Fortunately we had not planned any field trips to take us out of the park. It is too bad that the winter returned again the next day.
The San Benito Chamber of Commerce sponsored Welcome Back Winter Texans on Tuesday January 26. The local merchants had displays set up and gave away a number of door prizes. There are actually more merchants than we realized – there are actually two independent pharmacies plus Walmart in this small town. The entertainer, Will Yancy, was warmly received by the capacity crowd.
The Wednesday evening dance was the exact opposite with only 60 people attending. We had a good time visiting with friends we made from Illinois but we did feel sorry for the entertainer, Ron O’Neil – party of one.
Thursday was a slower day. Despite the wind, we have enjoyed the pool and Paul played golf. However, he did purchase a larger set of awning “deflappers” to try to keep the awning attached to the trailer. The forecast for tomorrow is for rain and cooler weather on Friday so we will probably head to the mall.
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