Holiday Newsletter 2007

Listen, the earth speaks wisdom, tells when and how to move. Sets a cadence for the rhythm of our days, our lives and unleashes the wildness within.

There comes a time in our lives when we are called to believe the unbelievable. If we allow ourselves to believe, we open the door to the infinite possibility of who we might become.

This is my first attempt at a Holiday newsletter. I tell you this with the hope you will grant me small license to indulge myself. Since keeping a blog for over two years, I questioned if this newsy draft was necessary. (Blog site plug: www.bearfootpath.blogspot.com) (There are pictures on it - I like pictures). Thanks to my small group of loyal readers, the journey and therefore, the blog continues.

As I sat outside the other morning with a cup of rich coffee flavored with vanilla, soaking up the warm balm of the Florida sunshine, the true reason for the season revealed itself to me. Nothing I didn’t really know on an unconscious level but here it was in the moment. Generally at this time of the year, I am taking antacids and sleeping pills as I fret over what to buy for each member of my family, how to ship it and how to pay for it. This year the dilemma has been removed from my hands. The extra funds are not in my wallet to make any purchases. A deep sense of love, peace and fulfillment washed over me that day. Remove the money and obligation from the Christmas equation and there you will discover the pure love and reason for the birth of Christ. Certainly not a profound or previously unexplored epiphany but one that, for me, brought me to this place of writing a holiday letter.

Naples, FL has been my winter home for the last several years. Breathtaking beauty, clean uncluttered beaches a short bike ride away, abundant art and music, dancing under the stars, a safe, friendly and supportive community and superb BIKING. Biking has become my passion. Three years ago, I bought a Trek. It has served me well once I found the appropriate seat for my tush. I managed to ride over a 100 miles a week while in FL. I rode with a group of riders (all over 55 years) twice a week but then rode alone or with a friend or two the remaining days. We rode to Santibel Island, Captiva, Everglade City, downtown Naples, Ft. Myers Beach as well as all the Naples beaches.

In April, Sebastian and I moved to Riverview (where I am now since Nov.29) to stay with our friends, the Harmon’s. Towards the end of April, I purchased an older motorcoach, a 38' diesel pusher bus. I still dream of the western trip and this coach has the power and the brakes to do it. As the time wore on and the punch list wasn’t completed, I left for the north with a promise from the service dept. that they would complete the work in the fall. (That work was just completed a week ago). My heart yearned for my family and I had two eighth grade graduations to attend. Bash and I motored up through the FL panhandle into western GA and into TN. There I visited with my dear friend, Marte in Maryville,TN. We hiked in the Great Smokies, laughed and laughed as we shared the fullness of our lives and consumed vast amounts of good coffee and rich dark chocolate. On to VA and a short visit with my grandson, Travis at Virginia Tech where he is now a sophomore in the Army Corp of Cadets. Continuing on to Ashland, VA near my daughter, Lisa and her family. Then we rolled on northward to Vermont in time for Colin and Emily’s graduations. Emily from Dorset School; Colin from LaSaille Academy.

Five months were spent on one side of the border or the other between Vermont and New York. Earlier this year I had decided to set ‘08 as the deadline for buying a permanent home somewhere in the bony ridge from Vermont to Tenn. My finances ruled out Vermont and Virginia, two states I hold dear. Tenn was a definite possibility since Marte would be nearby. It is still a long way from my family. Western NC, although beautiful, would be a lonely place for me since my friends are all on the Eastern side of the state. My eye condition worsened this year and I drove very little. One day while driving with my sis, Gloria, her hubby, Emory and my granddaughter, Emily, I had a true epiphany. “Why not settle right here”? Everything I am looking for is in the area; rural beauty, bike trails, an active art community and best of all, my family is within a hour’s drive. I also made a few dear friends. The only challenge would be the long winters (something I haven’t experienced in 20 yrs.) But the other mountainous regions also express strong cold winters as well. Following a few weeks of “shopping”, I found a cottage and barn situated on an acre and a half in the town of Hartford. The house had been renovated recently. I like things with history and this little house has a story. It seems it was two cabins up in the Adirondack Mts. Someone bought them and brought them to Hartford where they were put together in 1907. Of course, over the years various additions were made to complete the 980 sq. ft.

I had a storage unit in VA that I have been eager to empty. My friend, Pete and I drove a marathon run in one day to Goochland. The next morning I rented a Penske truck (very large and very yellow) along with a tow dolly for my car. We were joined at the storage unit by my daughter, Lisa, her hubby, George and my friend, Alice. We loaded that truck ‘til we could barely close the tailgate and it was dark. The next morning, Pete and I began another marathon drive back to Hartford arriving late in the evening. The following morning found us unloading the truck at my little cottage and into the barn. We had several people come by and lend a hand. On the morning of the 4th day, the truck was returned to the Penske people in Glens Falls, NY.

It was Christmas for me as I opened boxes that I had packed 4 years ago. I managed to sleep in my new house for 4 nights before moving back into the motorcoach, Bearfoot. Sebastian and I left in 29 degree temperatures for Virginia where we would visit with my family, the Taggarts as well as special friends.

A blown head gasket put the coach in the Cummins repair shop in Richmond while Bash and I luxuriated in comfort at the Spadora house in Rockville. Sebastian found new dog friends and spent the week romping.

Our first night out of the repair shop (a Friday night) found us tucked in tight with the “big dogs” at a TA truck stop near Emporia, VA. I don’t drive after dark and we needed to get off the road. We made our way the next day to Oriental, NC and the only “gaited” community in this town of 1100 sailing/fishing souls. Our trip south was highlighted by this special visit and Thanksgiving spent with my dear friend, Judi Wills. I also was able to connect with friends and neighbors from the past - I lived there for 11 years - John and Linda Hinners, Greg Bohmert and Marquerite Garrett.

We rolled on down to Florence, SC on Nov. 23. I experienced a flat tire which was promptly repaired by a man sent by my roadside assistance service. On down to Point South, SC near Savannah, GA, then on to Rally Park in Seffner, FL. The last day was a 370 mile day. I rarely cover more than 200 miles a day but I was coming down with an upper respiratory infection and wanted to get to where we were going. The coach was cold the entire trip from NYS all the way until the FL border. I suffered while dressed in woolen socks, ear muffs, a parka and lined wind pants. As we crossed the border into FL, the four-way flashers went on, I pulled onto the shoulder, raced to the back of the coach tearing my layers off as I went. There I pulled on a t-shirt and shorts. It was with no small amount of glee that I turned off the heat (that was ineffective anyway) and opened the drivers window.

The coach went in for that leftover warranty service while Sebastian and I visited with friends from Lake San Marino, Marion and Gary Gaffney. They had stopped at Rally Park for a few days to kick tires at the RV supercenter (Lazy Days). Within two days, we were bedding Bearfoot (my motorcoach home) down at a storage facility nearby. Bashey and I moved our necessities over to Brent and Sharon Harmon’s lovely home in Riverview where we will spend the next 3 months offering whatever support we can while they endure a challenge to Brent’s health.

I guess that sums it up for this year. Expect miracles no matter at what place life finds you.

Blessed Be,
Donna and Sebastian


Current address info:

Until March 1st -
c/o Brent Harmon
10504 Skylark PL
Riverview, FL 33569

After March 1st –

355 Shine Hill Rd
Fort Ann, New York 12827

Email: djlewis1992@globalweb.net
Cell Ph: 804 514 7825

December 10, 2007 Photos

Wendy - Yum yum card received and presently being consumed by two females. Can't decide which we like better - send more samples

December 10, 2007

Here are some great pictures for you to enjoy. Dogs - Sebastian, Chance and Sugar - at the park. Yours truly playing with the Llamas nearby at the Montessori school and a Great White Egret at Fish Hawk Ranch on my bike trip.

thursday, Dec.6,2007

I came to Florida to get sick! First a head cold, then chills, rash and itch in a place we won't mention plus general malaise. I am finally beginning to feel better. Doctor I saw said he thought it was all related to the auto-immune disease I have and stress. This getting old is not much fun yet. I think the fun will start anytime now. My car is in the shop today for its transmission flush at 50k miles (it actually has almost a 100 on it since I have dragged it up an down the coast) The rack and pinion in the front end is in need of repair. Big bucks! The car has never asked anything from me in 4 years except an OLF every 3k miles so I guess it is due for some TLC. I just wish I had more money to spare. This is coming at a bad time. But I have much to be grateful for and I practice gratitude prayer and meditation all day every day.

My friend whom I am staying with had a clear PET scan a week ago. Really good news! Sebastian and I are enjoying our stay with them. I haven't ridden my bike yet but hope to do so today for a short distance. The sunshine is wonderful.

By the way, this is our address for the winter: D.Lewis c/o Brent Harmon, 10504 skylark pl., Riverview, FL.33569

I plan to go up to Inverness on Monday to pick up Namaskar, my kayak. the Alafia river is only a half mile away from here with a great launch area. Brent and sharon want to learn to kayak so we may rent a couple more.

I made salmon cakes last night for dinner. We had guests. They really were tasty. Let me know if you want the recipe. We all need to eat more salmon.

Sebastian and I saw the male peacocks on our walk yesterday. they are in full colorful plummage. He wanted to chase them of course. We are here in a house with two large dogs. The female came into our bedroom yesterday and went through the closet stealing all of Bashey's treats. She shared them with the large dudley lab. She also chewed off Beaver's head (Wendy). We wanted to sew it back on but can't find the head. Tail is gone too. The dogs get along fine but I think there is a bit of jealousy here.

I bought some cards but don't hold your breath waiting for one to arrive. I haven't felt like writing them lately. Hope to get to it though. Been listening to Paul Todd's Praise and Worship CD from a Naples concert last year. Just makes me feel good all over. I had a balance on a B & N gift card from last Christmas so I broke down and bought, Eat, Pray and Love yesterday. That is the book Oprah's has been touting for a few weeks. It is a lovely book but what bothers me is it is all the things I have been teaching and preaching for years. The question is, "Why didn't I write that book?" I could have and I should have. Oh well, another missed opportunity.

I am headed out in the sunshine right now. May you be blessed with happiness, health and wisdom of the finest kind.

Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007

Sebastian and I are fully moved into our friends spacious home with a pool. We are living in luxury. After the coach, this is a treat for both of us. I cleaned out all the things in Bearfoot that would be subject to the heat, sprayed the ants around the tires (I'll buy some Borax and put that around later), installed some windshield sunshields, locked him up and left. I am a bit under the weather so getting the job done was harder than it normally would have been. The weather here is lovely warm and sunny with clear skiis and light breeze. We went for a walk in the park nearby this morn.

I watched the VT vs BC game yesterday on TV. What an amazing team Tech has this year. Many of them are seniors so it will be a challenge next year to replace those seasoned players. If I was feeling better, I would have driven to Jacksonville for the game. It is not that far away actually.

The warranty work on Bearfoot was done swiftly and efficiently in two days. We slept in the coach in the service bay one night. That was an experience let me tell you. The lights are on all night. I think they have 200 bays there and each one is full. Of course, there are the usual cables, water and grease around to watch out for. I could only put the slide room out a little way since there was a large ladder there. But I was pleased with the results - No Charge! I put the car on the back and pulled out of the yard through the security gate when I heard a loud scraping noise in the front. It sounded vaguely familiar but I thought it must have been a rumble strip. I went on up the road when it happened again and then again. I pulled into the ajoining campground, Rally Park and drove around several times. The noise was awful so I called my service supervisor and informed him I was coming right back in, meet me in the parking lot. As everyone knows, the noise would not duplicate while the service people were gathered in front of the coach. After several minutes of diagnosing, discussion and scratching our heads, several bare wires were found on the generator switch. It was shorting out and trying to start while underway. They taped them up and off I went. I am very grateful to my Angels who had the problem occur where it could be fixed instead of out on the road. A similar situation occured on the way down when I had a flat tire. My roadside assistance company was there within a half an hour and had it fixed. I think we are fixed now and ready to roll whenever I decide to do so. Right now, I am bone tired and need to rest and heal myself before I can tackle anything else.

Remember: Expect Miracles

I am posting some pics I took in NC of the fall colours. I hope you enjoy them.

Wed., November 28, 2007

We are in Tampa!!! Hurrah! It was cold all the way to the Florida border. When we crossed the border and finally got on Rt. 301, I pulled over, put the 4-ways on and raced to the back of the coach where I stripped off my two pairs of pants, wool socks and sweatshirt. I dug around until I found those tucked away shorts and t-shirts. The temperature jumped right into the 80's. The weather has been grand since we arrived. Sleeping with the windows open is a treat. The last day of driving, we left Point South, SC and drove straight through to Seffner and Rally Park which is just outside of Tampa. It was 370 miles. That is more than I have ever driven the coach in one day. I was hyped but very tired and sore. There was a lot of Thanksgiving traffic everywhere I went. Crazy drivers - I found myself wondering how they make it.

I met up with a couple of old friends from Lake San Marino, the Gaffney's. Actually, we were parked next to each other for two days. It was very pleasant seeing them again. Today, Bearfoot is in the shop for those pesky 30 day warranty items that were never completed last spring when I purchased it. I think it will be done today or tomorrow. Bash and I are sitting in the very fancy lounge here at Lazy Days. Free Starbucks coffee, free breakfast and free lunches. Today I had to buy a sandwich since they won't allow dogs in the dining room and I had no place to leave Sebastian. Normally, he will stay with my friends, Brent and Sharon in their offices while I eat but they are off today. I have been on the phone trying to find a storage place for my coach during the time I am with the Harmon's.

We are planning a tree trimming party for the three of us and our combined three dogs. We are focusing on the season, the hope, the cheer and the faith in the Light. The most recent tests have come back clear. They will still travel to the clinical trials they have enrolled in. I will stay with the dogs and watch the house. They are listing their big house as well as their motor home and boat. I think with my 20 years of experience in selling real estate I can help show their house. It usually takes life-changeing events to allow one to see the simplicity of their lives. We don't need all the trappings we strive to accumulate. I think they will move into a condo or some such. Me? I believe I will list Bearfoot for sale too. Now that I have my little house, a secure landbased place, I think the time is right. My eyes have been failing anyway. I have accomplished many things. I have regrets about not getting west of the Mississippi River but maybe I still will go but in a car. I love the RVing way of life. It is truly the way to go.

Sebastian will be happy to be in the same place day after day. He likes having a landbased home but will always be ready to go where I go. I have posted a picture of a flock of pelicans at Atlantic Beach NC.

I trust your Christmas preparations are going well. I love the music and play my cd's as often as possible.

Will continue to keep you all posted on our whereabouts.

Pictures of Oriental and area

Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2007

Sometimes what we are looking for is right there staring us in the face and we don't see it because we are so intent on looking elsewhere far and wide. That is the case with the WiFi. I just happened to put my wireless card in the computer while I was packing it up and viola, a long list of signals shows up. I have signed in with one of them and am able to be online at least for today. Tomorrow, I will be too busy anyway and Thursday will be occupied. I just made my scalloped oysters. They look yummy. So fresh and sweet. I made a blue hubbard squash from one I picked up at the local veggie mkt in Hartford, NY what seems like eons ago but actually was only about a month or so. I have always been fascinated by time since being a small child. Nowadays, time is always at the fore front of everything we all do. What fascinates me is the way life changes in a nano-second. I continue to observe and experience.

The trees are in full colour here in Oriental. The brillant reds and golds are better than anything we had up north this year probably due to more rain here. Although we are on water conserving and burn prohibition. The weather is grand, just right for me.

Bash and I had a lovely afternoon at the beach on the Emerald Isle near Fort Macon on the Outer Banks of NC. My friend Judi, Bash and I went over to shell and walk. It was a grand day. Bash chases the waves in and then out. He digs in the sand where the water was. Odd behavior but fun for him.

Here are the promised shots. Have a Thanksfilled Day.

November 12, 2007

I guess you realized I haven’t had internet service for a few days. I have been typing my blog text on Word Perfect and then copying when I have access. So you will see a couple of blogs all at once but with different dates.

Yesterday, we arrived in Eastern NC, Oriental on the Neuse river. I came here many years ago on a boat passing through, loved the area and came back in ‘89 to spend the winters. We rented a condo on Smith Creek, an estuary of the Neuse. I still have a few friends here in the area. I pull into the only gated community in Oriental, the mini-storage units. I have full hook up here and the rate just jumped up to equal some of the fanciest campgrounds on the East Coast so I don’t know how long I will be coming here in the future. There is nothing else around so they can charge pretty much what they want. I am here to visit with my friend Judi. I am having Thanksgiving dinner with her. I spotted a new seafood company today on the docks. I am going to make scalloped oysters for us. This is the freshest and best seafood anywhere. I will post pictures of the docks with the fishing fleet in. Capt. Garland whose boat was here back in the 80's when my grandson’s were here to visit and they fell into the magic generated by an 80' trawler. He has a different boat but still going strong. I hope the kids get to see these pictures.

I spent the night that I left Richmond and the Cummins Atlantic repair shop at an Amoco truck stop just outside of Emporia off I 95. I never got out of the yard until after 4 p.m. by the time I got the car hooked on and the coach ready to roll. I was nervous about the dwindling light so I pulled into the long line up at the truck stop about 5:15 p.m. It was comforting to be surrounded by the “big dogs” but they are very noisey. We slept but were up early the next morning. The drive from there was only 200 miles. I was exhausted when I reached Oriental. I still had a car full of stuff to unload, mail to go through and a smelly coach to deal with. Everything in this coach smelled like diesel fuel. I aired and smudged and then aired and smudged again. We were in bed early last night and slept in this morning. I went for a bike ride around town. Things have changed a lot. I stopped for coffee at the Bean, took pictures of the marina and the “Oriental Dragon” which floats permanently on the pond in the center of town.

The story goes that Oriental got its name from the masthead of a ship wreck off the outer banks. The young bride of the town’s founder picked up a piece of wood with the ships name on it and decided to suggest Oriental for the name of the small fishing village where pirates supposedly hid themselves and their bounty during the days of piracy off the coast of NC. The town is represented by the image of the Dragon. Therefore, the dragon in the pond and the parading of a huge paper mache dragon through the streets on New Year’s Eve. The paper dragon is supported underneath by numerous human bodies of various sizes to give the dragon the shape.

Before I left Richmond, I took several old 8 mm tapes to a videographer to be converted to dvds. I have been viewing them since I arrived here. The images have made me laugh and made me cry. There are so many memories of the grandchildren as infants and toddlers as well as pictures of my former life. Very poignant indeed.

More the reason to treasure the moments you have now.

November 5, 2007

Well it took me awhile to get here but at last I am here on this page. My computer is getting old and continually gives me a hard time. It is slow and keeps locking up. I think I need to spring for a new one. I have been saying that for sometime though and each time I get to the peak of my frustration, it begins working again. I guess that is the nature of all things mechanical. Bearfoot is in the big truck garage having his engine worked on. I took him down south of Richmond early Monday morning. Bash and I moved all our valuables out and loaded them in the car. We then motored back to Rockville and our friends the Spadora’s. They have very kindly offered us a place to stay until the repairs are complete which we hope will be sooner than later. The estimate is 3-4 days. Not that we are not enjoying ourselves living in a lovely home surrounded by autumn woods and birdsong but I am getting antsy about moving further south. I am looking out at a flock of cardinals, finches and sparrows at the feeder here by the window where I am typing. It is nearly dark. They must have come in for their last feeding before bedding down. There are 3 other dogs here. Everyone gets along fine. I will post some pics of them. Bash gets to run free and explore the 10 surrounding acres. He was not particularly happy in Ashland but he really likes it here in Rockville.

I had a grand reunion luncheon with my dear friends from Staunton and Charlottesville last Friday at the Gray Bear Grille. It is always a special moment in time when it is spent with them.

I had my hand injected a week ago. The pain was bad before but it sure was worse afterwards. It has only disappeared yesterday, one day short of a week. I went in today for a follow-up, sat for an hour, napped and finally picked up my bag and left. I have better things to do with my time than sit unattended in any doctors office. The long and the short of it is though, the joint in my thumb and wrist has deteriorated in just 8 mos. Time. It will require more injections to alleviate the pain unless I have a surgical procedure done to rebuild the joint. I think I will do that but will do it up in New York state in Albany where my daughter and son-in-law are. They know the doctors there and will see that I get the best. This arthritis is not inherited I don’t believe since neither my mother or father had any in their hands. I believe it is from using my hands in very strenuous and damaging ways over the years with the horses and farm chores. The years when I was doing Equine Sports Massage on the performance horses probably clinched the damage especially to my thumbs. I certainly have never pampered this body I was given.

I found all my 8 mm. Camera tapes when I moved my things. Today I took them to a videographer who will put them on dvd’s for me. I just hope they are visible and haven’t been damaged by age and environment. I have a few vcr tapes too that need to be transferred and preserved.

We had another rain storm up in NY and my friend reported that the water didn’t pour into the basement the way it did before my brother-in-law dug some drainage ditches. The water problem is stressful but there is no way we would have known about it while in a severe 8 mos. Drought which is when I bought the house. The sellers knew I am sure and they managed to cover up the water problem. Now it is up to me to try to get them to make it right.

Halloween, October 31, 2007

It is just now getting dark and it is Halloween Night. I have a small amount of chocolate just in case I have visitors but don't expect any. I will just have to eat it myself. That is why I only buy what I like. It has been several years since I have entertained any trick or treaters at my door. The last time was here in Virginia while I still had my house on Beacon Hill. My dear friend, Marte, had come for a visit and we had decided to decorate the house and ourselves. We spread those fake cobwebs all over the porch entrance along with a bag of black spiders. Then we donned multi-colored wigs over our white hair. We blacked out a few front teeth and outlined our facial wrinkles with black crayon. I must admit it was very frightening. Some little neighbor children came to the door but fled in fear when we appeared with our basket of candy. That is the last time.

We have been taking it easy all day today since I had my left wrist injected yesterday with steroids. It seems my joint has deteriorated in less than a year. My choices are to continue to receive the injections which are the worst pain and torture one can imagine or to have a new joint made surgically. I have elected the latter for this coming spring. My hands are too important to me to risk the discomfort and crippling pain of arthritis. I have to go back this week for another shot since it seems I have some tendinitis as well.

I slept last night though for the first time in a long while without pain. I wore the splint to bed and too two motrin for pain. Bash and I didn't arise until after 8 a.m. It felt very good to not be awakened in the night with pain in my hand.

I am still dealing with being an absentee owner of a house. A few problems have come up and I am finding it very challenging dealing with them from a distance. I have been an absentee owner twice before in my life and never really had any serious problems. I think it is because I didn't have much time to spend in the house before I had to leave for the south.

Thanksgiving promises to be a lovely day for my friend Judi and for me. We are making a dinner together that will consist of fresh turkey, chestnut stuffing, homemade cranberry relish, scalloped oysters and pumpkin pie.

The day after Bash and I are going to the beach for two days before rolling into Tampa for the winter.

Enjoy the fall wherever you are. We are partially releived of the draught conditions here in VA. The oak trees are beautiful. Weather crisp at night and warm during the days.

Blessed Be>

Monday, October 29, 2007

We are under freeze warning tonight. It is actually about time. Usually happens in October here in Virginia. Thanks be to God and my Hartford Angels, my heat is back on after being off for who knows how long. It was working when I left but the other day when my brother-in-law went to turn it up to paint, it wasn't working. I didn't shut anything off so I guess it will always be a mystery. I did experience flooding of one of my small basements though. the one with the hotwater heater and cold water pressure tank was flooded and my number one angel dug ditches in the yard to divert the rain water. The pump wasn't working and it turned out the water had gone over the top of the casing and shorted out the wires to the pump. I felt totally helpless and questioned why was I here when I felt I should have been up there. I am still not sure. My friends from Tampa have asked me to stay with them while they endure the challenge of cancer. I plan to go there in November but don't really know how long I will stay. I have found a place for my coach in NC. I may just drive back there, leave it and head for my little house in New York. I know I won't like the cold weather but the house is cozy. What an about face? Who would ever dream I would be talking about going north in the winter. More to follow on that.

I hope to go to Lake San Marino to visit with my sister and bro-in-law over Christmas. I will miss my many friends who winter there. But the good news is, if I decide to go in 2009, my place will be saved. Since buying the house, I have had many expenses that have drained the coffers. I plan to look for seasonal part time work in the Tampa area while I am there. There are many options open to me thanks to my good health and ability to travel.

I discovered that my coolant level in the MH was down each day I checked it. I felt I should have it checked by a Cummins garage. That was done and rather than a loose hose connection which I was hoping for, it is the more serious leaky head gasket which requires several days of repair, lots of money and Bash and I moving out. I have a warranty which I purchased. I am keeping my fingers crossed that it will cover the job. So I am here in Virginia until after the repair, maybe the 9th or 10th of Nov. I plan to spend Thanksgiving with my dear friend, Judi in NC before going on to Tampa.

Photo is truly a "dance with stars".

Actually, this is nice since it is giving me more time to spend with my VA friends and family. So that is the latest in the continuing saga of the Donna Dog and Pony Show. When the Universe rains down on me from all quarters as it is right now, I continue to ask "Why??" No answers are coming yet but I guess time will tell as it always does. Time doesn't keep secrets forever.

May you be blessed with happiness, love, health and unbounded joy -

Trying something new

Friday, October 26, 2007

Happy Birthday to Joseph! Oh dear and faithful readers of this blog, thank you. I have been stressed nearly to the max for the last month or so. It seems the challenges continue. I came to VA reluctantly (since I didn't really want to leave my little house) knowing I had to check my body out and close some doors. I have been to numerous doctors, two to go actually - a dermatologist and a hand doctor. My left thumb and wrist have been growling at me for several months. I had the thumb checked a year ago and injected. The pain miraculously (oh those steroids) disappeared only to come back with a vengance and extending into my wrist rendering my left hand almost useless. Those of you who know of my past work probably realize how much energy was funneled through that faithful left hand from others. Those of us who work in the lower energies of others generally suffer from some hand or wrist malady. Well, back to being in VA. It has been good to see my VA family. I spent sometime with my VT grandson and watched the Corp of Cadets parade on a gorgeous fall day in Blacksburg. I will get to see my granddaughter go on her first date, Homecoming dance at Patrick Henry this sat. night. She is a senior and a Hanover Scholar. I am very pleased with these two children. I will be staying with them at their home for a week while Bearfoot is in the care of the Cummins Atlantic people south of Richmond. It seems that I have a leak in the head gasket. It has to be removed and replaced. Not a simple procedure especially in an MH. The engine is under my bed. You can imagine, they will have to protect the entire coach inside from grease and oil. Please offer prayers that my insurance will cover this very expensive repair. I don't understand it since the mechanics all tell me what a nice clean engine I have and how it shows it has been cared for. Duh!!! So why is a head gasket worn out at only 31k miles?? I need to find out. Gene, if you are reading this, please email me with your thoughts. I certainly have not had the best luck with these machines. Maybe it is time to retreat and retire to my little cottage in the Adirondack foothills. I still have to be in Tampa to have the 30 day purchase warranty work done that they never got to do last spring. That appt. has been postponed later in Nov. After that, I will stay with my friends in Tampa who are in need of support and comfort right now. Good news is we have received at least 4" of rain in the last couple of days. It is exciting. You should have heard the thirsty birds singing the first day. I don't think any of us can realize the ramifications of this drought on the critters. I declined the botoxin injections for the first time in 9 years of receiving them every 3 mos. I pray my eyes will continue to improve as time goes on. It is kinda odd knowing as I do that stress is a huge contributor to this disease. Sooooo what is happening here? I think this stress I am going through now as bad as it sounds is something I deal with, it is the relationship stress and financial stress that seems to affect me the most. Don't get me wrong, I am quite lonely in my present state and certainly poorer than I have been in many many years but I feel confident in my Creator's care for me. Let me see if I can find a picture or two to post here before I check out. I have to buy the internet here at this park so have been only using it on a limited basis.Enjoy the pics of Virginia Tech and the video of the Highty Tighties.

October 9, 2007

Hey there, it is almost time for Sebastian and me to fly away south with the numberous Canadian Geese we see every day. I have mixed feelings about leaving since I haven't had a chance to stay in my house yet. I hope to sleep there at least once before I leave but the propane company hasn't delivered any fuel yet. It has been very warm here until today. Now it is rainy and getting colder. Bash and I are cozy in the MH. Tomorrow I will move the coach down to my house. I have tire trouble so must stop and get it repaired on the way. Luckily there is someone nearby who can fix it.

The little house looks really "cottagey" (don't know if that is a word). But it looks like somewhere one would like to live if you like small places. I like the colors I've chosen and my antiques look good there. I wish I could stay here for the winter but I need to be in Tampa by Nov. 5th for an appointment. Lots of catching up to do in Virginia before I go further south. Been sampling the fresh macs and the cider donuts which are abundant this time of year. The leaves are beautiful and subdued from the dry weather. I just realized yesterday that I had to find someone to plow the snow in my driveway this winter. Funny what you forget when you have been gone for 20 years.

I went out to the mall today and bought those little essentials every home needs - dishrack, drainer, paper towel holder, towel bar, towels, hot mitts etc. etc. When I think back to the number of homes I have set up since I was eighteen, I can't believe it. But even though I have been through this process many times, it is still fun. Actually, it has been like Christmas finding the things in the boxes that I wrapped up 4 years ago. Many things I thought I had sold or given away. I still have way too many things. My sis and I are talking about a lawn sale in the spring.

Had lunch in Salem, NY today at Steinbrinners where they make homemade chocolates. They have a delightful Cafe there as well. I lunched with my daughter-in-law and her grandmother who is 90 years old. We've been trying to do this all summer.
I need to take some pics for you all. I have been too busy with the move.

Lots of RV's on the roads south - just like the flocks of ducks and geese.

Expect miracles!

October 3, 2007

Much has happened since I last posted. I did close on the little house. I have painted the entire inside with much needed help from my bro-in-law who is an excellent painter. I rented a very large truck and tow dolly for my car in Richmond, VA, drove down with a friend in one day. The next day we packed up the truck totally full with the help of my daughter, son-in-law and a friend. The next day we left with the truck and car in tow for Hartford, NY. Got in Monday night at 8:30 p.m. Unpacked the truck the next day all day and again this morning. We then returned the truck to a Penske garage in Glens Falls today. My sister, bless her, washed all my windows and cleaned while we were in Richmond. I am fortunate to have a loving family. Bashey was also well cared for while I was away. Now I am unpacking boxes. After 4 years, it is like Christmas for me. I had forgotten the lovely things I have. Most of the things I have are gifted to me from others so there is a story with each. But I have too much bedding, too many towels in the wrong color and lots of stuff to sell in the Spring. My sister and I are planning a yard sale at my house since I have a large yard with excellent road exposure. Others are interested in joining us so it will be a big sale. Some of my children are taking some of the overflow things I have.

I have way too many paintings too. There is an active art community here in the area. I hope to get involved next spring. Maybe by then I will have some new ones done. My children have most of my best work as it is. That is as it should be though. Although I sure could use the money from sales.

I will post some pics next time. I just haven't had a chance to download the camera card on the computer. Off to bed only to get up and begin the unpacking again.

Be well, be in the loving Light of God and Expect Miracles.

Sunday, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2007

Greetings -
Fall has arrived but the weather remains lovely. Tomorrow is the closing on my little cottage here in Hartford, NY. I am going out today to buy a small sofa. There is a great sale in Glens Falls. Closing this late doesn't give me a lot of time to paint the interior but I am going to try to do so. A friend and I will drive to Virginia on Saturday to load up a rental truck. I hope to be back and unpacked by next Wed. Lots of work ahead. I've done this many times and I know what to expect. It is exciting to think about seeing my books and things again.

I went for a 12 mile bike trip yesterday to Argyle. It was more difficult for me since I haven't been on the bike in a couple of weeks. As I went by an old farm house and barn, a large dog came out of the grass and bit my foot. Luckily he got me in the canvas part of my shoe. I yelled at him and chased him up the drive. The owner came out and said he had been trying to break him of that. Just fine! I think his training is a bit too passive. I told him I would pepper spray the dog next time I went by.

I didn't get over to the Balloon Fest at the airport. Next year I guess. I did see 8 of them in the sky floating around in a red sunset. Very lovely.

I washed and waxed the coach and the car Friday in preparation for my trip to Virginia in a couple of weeks. It troubles me to think of leaving my little house so soon but I have an appointment in Tampa at Lazy Days RV sales to have some warranty work done on the coach that was not completed last spring. I also have a dear friend there who has been recently diagnosed with cancer so I want to visit with them. I may fly up north this winter if my finances permit. Have to wait and see.

We went apple picking a week ago. The crowd was huge. We couldn't even get donuts or cider. But we managed to get a few apples plus have a lot of fun. My daughter from Albany came up, my granddaughter, my sister and me. We then completed the day with a gourment pizza at Quack Ups, an experience in dining in Lake Casyuna. Great Pizza! The trees this year a laden with apples. Happy harvest ---

Friday, Sept. 14, 2007

Wednesday was an exciting day as I was able to travel to the site of the filming of Extreme Home Makeover in Athens, VT. My son and his wife volunteered their excavation business for the week to help build a lovely new home for a needy family. The program will air in November or December. It is on Sunday nights. Here are some pics. We were not able to get close since there had to be at least 5000 people crammed into a small space a mile or so up a one lane dirt lane high in the mountains near Grafton. We had to park down below and catch a bus. I saw Clay from a long way away. We did get to see the "fake family" as they are called. These were people of similar age and build who were used to prepare and perfect the camera shots. We got to yell, "Move That Bus" several times. It was interesting to note that the filming is done just like a movie. The pieces are all filmed separately and then put together in a studio somewhere. I did learn that 4 families are nominated from the same area then questioned and visited to see if they can conform to the requirements of the program. They also have to be able to handle the financial burden afterwards. I wonder about that aspect. The neighbors on the road are all of poverty level. The new house is very large and stands out "like a sore thumb" in the area. Athens consists of 200 souls who probably cannot subsidize the taxes etc. for the "lucky" family. Blessing or curse? Time will tell.

I have been picking out paint chips and planning colours in my new house. We haven't closed yet so I am unable to get in to work. I did buy some $2 chairs by the side of the road. Now I am painting them in a lovely soft off white. My table is an antique cherry pedestal. I think they will look quite good with some comfortable cushions. A friend and I are going to VA to pick up my stuff from the storage unit the end of October.

It is getting cooler and beginning to look like autumn up here in the mountains. We may have a frost tomorrow night. I want to go apple picking Sunday at the Hick's orchard nearby. I enjoy this time of year in this part of the world.

I am going to Rutland tomorrow for a soccer game. I get to see my granddaughter play and then bring her home with me for a couple of days. We always have fun together.

Friday, September 7, 2007

I have been slow about posting of late because I am preoccupied with organizing the closing and subsequent move into my house here. I had decided to use Cit Bank since they are the parent company of my investment firm. I mistakenly thought it would be easier since they have access to my savings. Well, it seems that the giant machine that is Citi Bank turns too slowly and is cumbersome. After a 10 day period of waiting, I went with the Coldwall Banker mortgage people. I can go sit down with a human being and get things done quickly. Hopefully we will make the closing date of Sept. 17 although I don't see how. I had rented a truck to bring my things up north but it is ok if I change the dates. I really think it will be the first week in Oct. I wanted to paint the inside rooms before moving in. It is much easier without any stuff in there. The house is so small, I could have it all painted in two days.

The weather here has been wonderful. Cool nights and warm cloudless days. We need rain badly. The trees have begun their annual transformation. Last year I saw autumn color in upstate NY and western PA, Ohio, Ky and TN for the first time in several years. I have never really missed it because we always had beautiful color in eastern NC and VA. I do enjoy the activities of fall such as apple picking and the desise to snuggle in and cook soul foods.

I am concerned about my photos that I had saved on the computer. It seems many are damaged now. I believe it occurred when I installed the new cameral software. I need help to recover them if possible. I have not printed them out because of storage shortage but have saved them on a flash drive. These are the ones that hadn't been saved yet. I hope they can be recovered.

I hope some of you happened to catch the Oprah show yesterday when she had Paula Dean on. Paula, in her wonderful southern drawl, was making a pound cake when she inadvertently dropped the spoon into the mixer blades. The batter went everywhere- on Oprah's face and hair as well as all over Paula's sleeve and on her cheek. It was a very funny segment. They went on after the laughter died down and Paula said she really didn't want to make that cake.

May you walk in the Light of Love and Laughter. Expect Miracles.
Donna

September 2, 2007, Sunday

It was chilly when Sebastian and I awoke this morning. Fall is definitely approaching here in the North Country of New York. I've switched my breakfast food back to the old fashioned oatmeal with maple syrup. I am looking forward to apple picking though. I hope I am still here for that event. The trees are heavily laden and should be an abundant crop. We are very close to Hick's Orchard where they have not only apples of many varieties but cider, cider donuts and their new "Ice Wine".

We went to the Washington County Farmers Fair over in Greenwich, NY. I always enjoy going to this fair where you have to dodge the cow flops as you walk around the booths. All the farm families are there showing their crops, cattle and crafts. The food is always great fun. I usually over indulge but I didn't this time. Watched the turbo tractor pull and the draft horse pull. That evening we attended a picnic in the village and I became sick. I was sick all the next day and most of the time I was in Maine. It was like Montazuma's Revenge which I had years ago in Mexico. I think it was some peppers I ate at the picnic that did it.

I went to Maine with a friend for 4 days. We stayed with several other couples from Hartford. We were one house from the beach in Saco Bay. The weather was fantastic. Lots of beach walking, searching for treasures of the sea and sitting in the sunshine. We did some antiguing one day. I found a beautiful pair of brass shell shaped scounces and a long wooden box that has been wood burned with a grape design. I will put them in my new house on each side of the china cabinet. Some site seeing brought us to Pemaquid Light in Boothbay Harbor. I have some pics to share with you. We had a delightful typical Maine lunch on a pier near Fort William Henry. That king certainly had many forts named for him. The climb to the top of the lookout tower was worth it for the impressive view of the bay stretched out in front of us with many anchored boats. We stopped at the Long Trail brewery in Bridgewater, VT for lunch on the return trip. A fun time. I missed Sebastian who stayed home with my family. He seems to thrive when I am away but is very happy to see me return.

I'm sorry I had to change addresses but there was a person reading and commenting that I didn't wish to hear from.

Last night we sat around a bon fire under the incredible stars. My friend and I went up to the fire alone on the ATV but then decided to go get Sebastian. I took the ATV alone down to my friend's house, put Bashey on the seat in front of me and gave him his first ATV ride across the recently chopped corn field. He was ok just a little shaky. It got very cold as the darkness dropped in on us, at least for me it was cold but I am a bit thin blooded after almost 20 yrs. in the south during the cold weather.

Happy Labor Day weekend to all.

Wednesday, August 23, 2007

This is a new set-up for my personal journal. I hope you like it. The change was made for security purposes. I hope you will continue to follow along. Please do not give out the blog address unless you truly feel it is important to do so.

Photo was taken at Stowe on the top of the mt.