Catching Up

So it has been a while since I posted. Our trip to Disney World was exhausting but fun. We walked sooo much. Dinner at the Coral Reef was delicious and the service was wonderful. We took our time and really dined. The next night at Tony's Town Square was more rushed as this was casual dining not signature dining. A big difference in service as well as price. The food was good but next time I'll save the better restaurant for last.

I bought nothing for myself. That is a first in all of my visits. I bought Lou a Pooh Bear. When I showed him on Facetime he was excited and asked if he could sleep with it. Pooh Bear is on his way to Lou Bear.

We have been doing a lot of walking since we got back. Most mornings we take a long walk either on the beach or in different neighborhoods looking at houses. It feels good to be out and exercising.

I did lose weight the week we were away. This week has been hard. I am more hungry than usual. Maybe it is all the walking.

Today the weather was beautiful. It has been getting warmer again with cool nights. Our first visitors arrive next Tuesday. We are planning activities for them. Possibilities are a farmers market and a Segway tour and of course the beach and shopping.

Life is good!

A Bike Ride and "So Cute" Stuff

On Thursday Michael and I decided to try out the bikes. I haven't ridden a bike in at least 5 years. The last time I rode was in Ocean City, NJ. We were riding down the street when Michael yelled at me to stop because he thought I didn't see a car. I stopped so suddenly I fell off. That was the last time I rode.

We decided to go to a place that was away from traffic and pretty flat so I could get used to the bike. I hate hand brakes and it takes me a while to get accustomed to braking. The riding is fine but I am not always able to come to a sudden stop without thinking I'm going to fall. I just want a bke with coaster brakes. Tha is the only kind of bike I feel comfortable riding.

We made it the entire 2 mile trail without incident. Then I began to get light headed from too much sun. Luckily the bike I was riding has an electric power assist. I was able to zip back the 2 miles and get out of the sun and take a drink. Alls well that ends well.

Saturday we went to a craft festival and today we did a little shopping. This island is filled with so much stuff that is "so cute". I could buy stuff all day. Luckily all I bought was a shirt and a hat. I have decided not to buy anything unless I love it.

Tomorrow I start a new decade with a trip to Walt Disney World!

First Beach Day

We spent today on the beach. It was a gorgeous day. Hot and sunny. I took a walk and saw a ray doing flips. Talked to some women on the beach and no one had ever seen anything like it. Went into the water up to my knees. Not too bad.

We went out for dinner to the Gulf Drive Cafe. 2 for $25. Good deal. I finally got to the library so now I can start my reading.

Settling In

We have been here 3 full days now and have settled in nicely. Everything has been put in its place and we have stocked up on everything we need. Michael has been making wonderful dinners each night.

I am continuing Weight Watchers and have found a meeting in Bradenton. I'm down another 2 pounds for a total of 13. I'm doing some yoga, walking, and plan to start riding a bike.

Today we took a ride to St. Armand's Circle to do some strolling and window shopping. Tomorrow we hope to go to the beach as it will hit 80 degrees.

We met our next door neighbors and they seem very nice. Everyone here is very friendly. We are a bunch of grumps back home compared to these folks. When you go to cross the street drivers stop even if you aren't quite in the crosswalk. The folks in the supermarkets can't do enough for you. They will help you shop, pack your groceries and even walk your cart to your car.

The house smells heavenly with whatever Michael is making. That's all for today.

Home Away From Home

Well, we made it here. Three days on the road, all nice motel stops. Checked in at 3:00. The house is BEAUTIFUL. As nice as last year but a 3 minute walk to the beach. We can even see a scrap of the gulf from the back deck.

We took our first walk on the beach, 35 minutes. Will try to do a little more each walk. Tomorrow we will give the bikes a try.

Right now it is sunny and hot at 11:00 in the morning. Haven't decided what to do today. Michael needs to unpack then we'll see what the weather brings.

Leaving

In eight days Michael and I leave for Anna Maria Island, FL. This will be our third year in the Bradenton area. I am looking forward to the warm weather and the SUN. I love waking up each morning, opening the door and seeing sunshine. Friends and family will be visiting to enjoy the weather with us.