Sunday - Left West, Texas around 10:00am on Sunday the 27th, headed for Ardmore, OK. Short drive today (2 hrs 51 min). We plan to stay at “Hidden Lake RV Park” just outside Ardmore. We really like this place and camp there whenever we’re in the area.
We had planned to fuel up at Gainesville, Tx but never did see a Murphys station so we drove on to Marietta, Ok. The gas gauge showed 1/8th of a tank as we pulled into a 66 station. Apparently the fuel gauge reads a little “off” as JW put 60.8 gal in the tank (it holds 75 gal) $3.29 p/gal, $200.00, Ouch!
On a non related note, JW thinks we have a battery going bad. When he shut the MH off to fuel, it wouldn’t start back up later. The station manager had some jumper cables and got the job done. (JW had bought a 1000 Amp Battery Pack in Corpus Christi, but it wasn’t charged up yet). JW has noticed that when we park the coach overnight with the shore power plugged in, the coach’s chassis batter is just fine, so will have to have this problem investigated.
Anyhow, we arrived at “Hidden Lake” at about 2:30 or so. Got all setup, had supper and watched one of our favorite shows, The Amazing Race. Tomorrow, Joplin, stay tuned . . .
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Monday – Once again, we left at 10:00am headed North. Pretty windy today (strong winds out of the west). We planned to fuel up in Sapulpa, OK, so JW exited onto Hwy 66 into Sapulpa and wouldn’t you know it, somehow he missed the Murphy station (This seems to be becoming as habit). Sooo, on to Joplin. (We finally gassed up at Miami, OK on the turnpike).
We arrived at the Joplin KOA at approx 5:00pm, setup and met John and Peggy Danner for vittles. John and Peggy are good friends of ours and used to work at Silver Dollar City with us. They took us to “Jim Bob’s Steak and Ribs” on Rangeline, where we ate and visited for a couple of hours. Back at the MH at 8:00pm. Tomorrow, Branson . . .
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Day 56 – Sat Feb 26 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Up and at ‘em fairly early. JW wanted to be out by 9:00 or so. We didn’t quite make it but did leave at 10:00, not bad. When I was checking out, one of the parks work kampers (Jack) came up to me and asked if he could check the air in my tires. Sure, I’d appreciate it. We really liked this park with the exception of the almost non-exsistent WIFI. Staff and work kampers were all great and very helpful;.
As we left, we just had to take one last drive down the “beach drive”. Got some pictures of the MH set against the Gulf. Looked pretty good. We opted to take the short drive off the Island, so instead of taking the ferry (which we really like), we went south to S. Padre and then North thru Corpus Christi saving about 20 – 30 miles. With gas at $3.20 plus a gal, we felt we needed to save as much gas as possible.
JW had planned to stay in Austin but it was only a 4 hr drive so drove on to West, Tx. Instead. 6 Hr total driving time. We had to stop for gas at Pleasanton (Birthplace of the Cowboy) $3.16 a gal. After a short fill up (51.8 gal, $164.00) and sandwiches for lunch, we were on the road once again.
After we went thru San Antonio, we started seeing signs that I-35 was closed in Austin and to take a detour. We thought it was really going to be a problem but it was four lanes all the way and not that far off course. We arrived in West, Tx at the KOA at 5:00. 7 hr after we left the Island.
Tomorrow, Sunday the 27th will be a very short day. We plan to drive to Ardmore, OK (2 hrs and 46 minutes) and stay at Hidden Lake RV Park. We have stayed at Hidden Lake now for a couple years and really like the place. Monday, we’ll drive to Joplin, Mo and stay at the Downstream Casino (free camping and “BUFFET”. Stay tuned . . .
As we left, we just had to take one last drive down the “beach drive”. Got some pictures of the MH set against the Gulf. Looked pretty good. We opted to take the short drive off the Island, so instead of taking the ferry (which we really like), we went south to S. Padre and then North thru Corpus Christi saving about 20 – 30 miles. With gas at $3.20 plus a gal, we felt we needed to save as much gas as possible.
JW had planned to stay in Austin but it was only a 4 hr drive so drove on to West, Tx. Instead. 6 Hr total driving time. We had to stop for gas at Pleasanton (Birthplace of the Cowboy) $3.16 a gal. After a short fill up (51.8 gal, $164.00) and sandwiches for lunch, we were on the road once again.
After we went thru San Antonio, we started seeing signs that I-35 was closed in Austin and to take a detour. We thought it was really going to be a problem but it was four lanes all the way and not that far off course. We arrived in West, Tx at the KOA at 5:00. 7 hr after we left the Island.
Tomorrow, Sunday the 27th will be a very short day. We plan to drive to Ardmore, OK (2 hrs and 46 minutes) and stay at Hidden Lake RV Park. We have stayed at Hidden Lake now for a couple years and really like the place. Monday, we’ll drive to Joplin, Mo and stay at the Downstream Casino (free camping and “BUFFET”. Stay tuned . . .
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Day 55 – Fri Feb 25 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today was a “work day”, getting ready to head to Missouri. Wanda defrosted the refrigerator while JW “Windexed” all the windows on the MH. JW also tried, once again, to get the new back-up camera working but to no avail (he’s not a happy camper about this).
We visited with our neighbors on both sides of us and soaked up some more of this South Texas Gulf sun. Ah yes, the good life.
We both donned our swimming apparel and headed for the Gulf waters. We can officially say, “We have now put our feet in the Gulf”. And that’s about all we did because the water was not very warm, cold as a matter of fact. Oh well, we had good intentions.
As this was our last night on the Island, we just “had to go” back to Castaways for their filleted Giant Tiger Shrimp on the half shell. Best shrimp on the Island. If you’re ever in Port A, be sure to visit the “Castaways”, you won’t be sorry.
Before heading to the MH, we had to go to the Islands one and only grocery store for some much needed supplies. When we got back to the MH, Wanda finished cleaning and putting up some clothing while JW continued for a while in preparing to leave, lawn chairs put up, check; Old Glory taken down and safely stowed, check; Ladder secured to the back of the MH, check; flat screen HDTV safely removed from the dash and stowed away, check; etc, etc, etc.
Beddie bye . . . stay tuned.
We visited with our neighbors on both sides of us and soaked up some more of this South Texas Gulf sun. Ah yes, the good life.
We both donned our swimming apparel and headed for the Gulf waters. We can officially say, “We have now put our feet in the Gulf”. And that’s about all we did because the water was not very warm, cold as a matter of fact. Oh well, we had good intentions.
As this was our last night on the Island, we just “had to go” back to Castaways for their filleted Giant Tiger Shrimp on the half shell. Best shrimp on the Island. If you’re ever in Port A, be sure to visit the “Castaways”, you won’t be sorry.
Before heading to the MH, we had to go to the Islands one and only grocery store for some much needed supplies. When we got back to the MH, Wanda finished cleaning and putting up some clothing while JW continued for a while in preparing to leave, lawn chairs put up, check; Old Glory taken down and safely stowed, check; Ladder secured to the back of the MH, check; flat screen HDTV safely removed from the dash and stowed away, check; etc, etc, etc.
Beddie bye . . . stay tuned.
Day 54 – Thur Feb 24 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Well, since we relaxed all day yesterday, we must do double duty today. Just two more days and we’ll be back on the road. We really like traveling, but wish we were heading for another warm location.
JW washed the Motorhome while Wanda went into Port A’s laundrymat. At 5:00 in the evening we went to La Playa Mexican Restaurant. Wanda had wanted to try some “fish tacos”. She said they were actually pretty good. She did say however, she liked the shrimp taco a little better than the fish taco.
As we returned to the MH along the beach road, we saw lots of folks fishing, flying kites and “kite surfing”.
JW washed the Motorhome while Wanda went into Port A’s laundrymat. At 5:00 in the evening we went to La Playa Mexican Restaurant. Wanda had wanted to try some “fish tacos”. She said they were actually pretty good. She did say however, she liked the shrimp taco a little better than the fish taco.
As we returned to the MH along the beach road, we saw lots of folks fishing, flying kites and “kite surfing”.
Day 53 – Wed Feb 23 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today we had planned to start getting things ready to head back to Missouri. JW was going to work on the camera. I was going to do the laundry, some special cleaning, and some computer work. We both decided we really didn’t feel like doing anything so we went to “Fins” for lunch, went to one of the shops here on the Island, but didn’t find anything we could not live without, then we came back to “On the Beach” and laid out in the sun for a while. We can’t seem to get enough of this relaxing. We are lovin’ it. What a life. The weather is beautiful and looks as though the warm weather is here to stay. We sure will miss it when we get back up north. Temperatures have been in the high 70’s for several days now.
Day 52 – Tue Feb 22 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
We left this morning, earlier than usual, to go to Corpus Christi for breakfast. We were out of milk and eggs so decided to eat out. After breakfast at IHOP we went to several different car dealerships to look at cars. We decided that was pretty hard work. We were both worn out by 4:00 so decided to give up on that and go buy a few groceries at Walmart, actually it ended up being more than a few. After a stop at O’Reilly’s we headed on over to Aransas Pass and ate at “The Butterchurn” then headed back to the MH. It was our first experience on the Ferry after dark. We had to wait while a big tanker passed by, that was also a first. A big tanker after dark, besides being dark it was quite foggy out. We could see the light at the front of the tanker and the light at the back and nothing in between. It was little scary.
Day 51 – Mon Feb 21 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today we got up and ate breakfast then just laid around doing basically nothing. We watched our usual daily TV, then about 1:15 we decided to take the ‘other’ Dolphin Sightseeing Tour. We had a “sold out” group. They could only take 20 at a time. We were just about out of the “No Wake” zone when a Jetty Boat came in at too high a rate of speed and drowned out one of the motors on our boat. We had to return to the dock. We went ashore and hung around until the mechanic arrived. It was bad news; they were going to do some repair work on another engine they had on hand, but would not be back up and running until Thursday. It sounded as if “Jetty Boat” was going to have to replace the drowned out motor. We aren’t sure if we will try again later or not.
We decided to drive over to Aransas Pass and eat dinner at “The Butterchurn”. When we got there we found they had closed at 2:30 for Iowa Day, so we drove back to Port A and ate my favorite food here on the Island, Tiger Shrimp grilled on the half shell, at “Castaways”. Then it was back to “On the Beach”. We had thought about looking at cars, but decided to wait until tomorrow.
We decided to drive over to Aransas Pass and eat dinner at “The Butterchurn”. When we got there we found they had closed at 2:30 for Iowa Day, so we drove back to Port A and ate my favorite food here on the Island, Tiger Shrimp grilled on the half shell, at “Castaways”. Then it was back to “On the Beach”. We had thought about looking at cars, but decided to wait until tomorrow.
Day 50 – Sun Feb 20 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Well, today was the last Sunday that we will be attending services at Grace Community Church. The services were very good, different, but good. Many people were ministered to and souls were saved. It is such a blessing to have the privilege of seeing the lost coming and accepting Jesus as their personal Savior. The Pastor had a sermon prepared on “Fallen Angels” but set that aside for another day and spoke on “Angels”. Today was Missions Sunday. I am always amazed to see how much can be done through one small group of people. This church contributes to foreign missionaries, a prison ministry, the food pantry on the Island and many other causes. They are a blessed church that has a heart for the Youth of the area. New programs are springing up weekly. We will miss the great times we have had on Sunday’s.
After lunch out, we came back to the MH to watch the “Daytona 500”, then just relaxed the rest of the day. The winds were pretty high today, so we just opened the door and windows and enjoyed the cool breeze. The temperatures started dropping early and I ended up having to put on a sweatshirt in the middle of the afternoon. We watched “The Amazing Race” and are looking forward to the rest of this season’s series (JW said, “Go Cowboys, I agree). We also watched “Undercover Boss”. And, believe it or not, we are going to bed much earlier than last night.
After lunch out, we came back to the MH to watch the “Daytona 500”, then just relaxed the rest of the day. The winds were pretty high today, so we just opened the door and windows and enjoyed the cool breeze. The temperatures started dropping early and I ended up having to put on a sweatshirt in the middle of the afternoon. We watched “The Amazing Race” and are looking forward to the rest of this season’s series (JW said, “Go Cowboys, I agree). We also watched “Undercover Boss”. And, believe it or not, we are going to bed much earlier than last night.
Day 49 – Sat Feb 19 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
JW got up early this morning because Chris is supposed to bring the propane tank back today, and he will have to raise the right side of the MH so the tank can be replaced more easily. I fixed French Toast, bacon and eggs for breakfast today. We don’t have that very often but do enjoy it every once in a while. JW hadn’t quite finished his when Chris arrived with the tank, so part of his breakfast was on the cool side before he ate it.
We pretty much stayed in all day with the doors and windows open and the fans blowing, but in the afternoon decided to sit out in the sun for a while, (almost too long a while). Around five o’clock we did leave to go to the Pizzaria for dinner. We once again just beat the crowd. They say they have the best Pizza in town (I think they have the only Pizza in town), but it was good. They had a salad bar and Pizza Buffet, all you can eat, for less than $8.00. We thought that was quite reasonable.
We drove along the beach on our way to dinner and saw a ship towing an oil rig platform out into the Gulf. That was a first for us and we were a little disappointed that we weren’t at the Park when they brought it out. We thought that would have been quite interesting. Following dinner we did our usual, returned back to “On The Beach” for our evening of TV watching. We stayed up way to late, “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” was on and didn’t go off until 2:15 a.m. Why do we always do this on a Saturday night when we know we have to be up early to go to church?
We pretty much stayed in all day with the doors and windows open and the fans blowing, but in the afternoon decided to sit out in the sun for a while, (almost too long a while). Around five o’clock we did leave to go to the Pizzaria for dinner. We once again just beat the crowd. They say they have the best Pizza in town (I think they have the only Pizza in town), but it was good. They had a salad bar and Pizza Buffet, all you can eat, for less than $8.00. We thought that was quite reasonable.
We drove along the beach on our way to dinner and saw a ship towing an oil rig platform out into the Gulf. That was a first for us and we were a little disappointed that we weren’t at the Park when they brought it out. We thought that would have been quite interesting. Following dinner we did our usual, returned back to “On The Beach” for our evening of TV watching. We stayed up way to late, “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” was on and didn’t go off until 2:15 a.m. Why do we always do this on a Saturday night when we know we have to be up early to go to church?
Friday, February 18, 2011
Day 48 – Fri Feb 18 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
We woke up to a sun shiny day and are hoping it reaches the forecasted temp of 75 degrees, beings that we want to take the Dolphin Sightseeing Tour today. I didn’t get all the cabinets oiled, but did get a good start. I guess I’d forgotten how many cabinets there are in such a small space. The ones that are finished really look good.
Chris got here about 9 a.m. and started removing the propane tank. I guess I won’t be using the cook stove for preparing breakfast this morning; and, for the next 24 hours, any hot water we want will have to come from the microwave. What did we do before we had all these modern conveniences?
Well, here it is 6:00 p.m. and we just made it back to the coach. Today was a very fulfilling day. We left here a little after 1:00 to go check out the Dolphin Tour. It was from 2:00 – 3:30 and we saw bunches of dolphins. It was great being out on the water. While we were out on the boat a large tanker went right by us and the Dolphins were riding the wave in front of the tanker. It was great to see them jumping out of the water and not having to go in circles. What fun! While we were on the Dolphin tour, we ran into an elderly couple from McPherson Ks. The lady (who was in a wheelchair) had not brought a jacket so JW took his jean jacket off and let her use it to stay warm. She was very appreciative.
After seeing the dolphins we went to Beaches for an early dinner, then on to Barnacle Bills to go out on the Pier. We saw four guys out surfing, a young boy and his grandpa fishing (and they were actually catching fish), and a very curious pelican. JW videoed a guy cleaning and filleting a fish and then feeding the carcass to the pelican. On the way back to the coach we drove by to see how things were going with the propane tank. It was all done and does it ever look good. You’d think it was brand new. So all in all, we have had a very satisfying day.
We enjoyed the Dolphin Sightseeing Tour so much that we have decided we will go out again, this time we go with a different company so we can compare. It is supposed to be in the 70’s the rest of the time we are here. We may get some rain next week, but think we can work the tour around the rainy days. One week from today we head back north. We’ve just about done everything we had on our “To Do” and “Want To Do” lists. JW says we still need (want) to go for a dip in the Gulf. We’ll (Brrr) see about that.
Chris got here about 9 a.m. and started removing the propane tank. I guess I won’t be using the cook stove for preparing breakfast this morning; and, for the next 24 hours, any hot water we want will have to come from the microwave. What did we do before we had all these modern conveniences?
Well, here it is 6:00 p.m. and we just made it back to the coach. Today was a very fulfilling day. We left here a little after 1:00 to go check out the Dolphin Tour. It was from 2:00 – 3:30 and we saw bunches of dolphins. It was great being out on the water. While we were out on the boat a large tanker went right by us and the Dolphins were riding the wave in front of the tanker. It was great to see them jumping out of the water and not having to go in circles. What fun! While we were on the Dolphin tour, we ran into an elderly couple from McPherson Ks. The lady (who was in a wheelchair) had not brought a jacket so JW took his jean jacket off and let her use it to stay warm. She was very appreciative.
After seeing the dolphins we went to Beaches for an early dinner, then on to Barnacle Bills to go out on the Pier. We saw four guys out surfing, a young boy and his grandpa fishing (and they were actually catching fish), and a very curious pelican. JW videoed a guy cleaning and filleting a fish and then feeding the carcass to the pelican. On the way back to the coach we drove by to see how things were going with the propane tank. It was all done and does it ever look good. You’d think it was brand new. So all in all, we have had a very satisfying day.
We enjoyed the Dolphin Sightseeing Tour so much that we have decided we will go out again, this time we go with a different company so we can compare. It is supposed to be in the 70’s the rest of the time we are here. We may get some rain next week, but think we can work the tour around the rainy days. One week from today we head back north. We’ve just about done everything we had on our “To Do” and “Want To Do” lists. JW says we still need (want) to go for a dip in the Gulf. We’ll (Brrr) see about that.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Day 47 – Thur Feb 17 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
I got up at 7:00 this morning. That is sleeping in for me. I got the finances brought up to date and got all my data entry completed, checked out what is going on with our bank account and checked the stock market. All is well and my stock continues to rise. JW slept in, he didn’t get up until about 10:30. I was able to get breakfast over before he was to meet the Maintenance man to get the camera hooked up. Dishes are washed and I’m going to try to get all the cabinets oiled today. We may take a Dolphin Sightseeing Tour. It is a bit cooler out today so we may wait for a warmer day.
JW, once again, had to watch his favorite “rerun”. Had a great breakfast and then went to work hooking up the rear camera. Let me tell you about this camera, “It ain’t cracked up to be what JW thought it was gonna be”. Worked and worked trying to get it to work, to no avail. Upon close inspection, found corrosion on the transmitter plug contacts. JW cleaned them as best as he could but still the camera would not work. Chris, the maint. Man showed up and we finally came to the conclusion that we needed to “cut out” the offending corrosion laden plug. Got the camera to work finally using a connection to the reverse light. JW and Chris will run a line from the coach battery on Saturday to make a semi permanent constant power connection. Stay tuned.
While Chris was here we talked about the propane tank’s paint job. Wanda and JW both feel that it really needs to be done, so we gave Chris authorization to remove the tank and do the paint job. Chris will start that job on Friday morning. Stay tuned for results on this.
No Dolphin tour today but JW says it is on the schedule for Friday. We’ll see. Guess we’re staying tuned for a lot. Well, stay tuned . . .
JW, once again, had to watch his favorite “rerun”. Had a great breakfast and then went to work hooking up the rear camera. Let me tell you about this camera, “It ain’t cracked up to be what JW thought it was gonna be”. Worked and worked trying to get it to work, to no avail. Upon close inspection, found corrosion on the transmitter plug contacts. JW cleaned them as best as he could but still the camera would not work. Chris, the maint. Man showed up and we finally came to the conclusion that we needed to “cut out” the offending corrosion laden plug. Got the camera to work finally using a connection to the reverse light. JW and Chris will run a line from the coach battery on Saturday to make a semi permanent constant power connection. Stay tuned.
While Chris was here we talked about the propane tank’s paint job. Wanda and JW both feel that it really needs to be done, so we gave Chris authorization to remove the tank and do the paint job. Chris will start that job on Friday morning. Stay tuned for results on this.
No Dolphin tour today but JW says it is on the schedule for Friday. We’ll see. Guess we’re staying tuned for a lot. Well, stay tuned . . .
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Day 46 – Wed Feb 16 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Woke up to 60 degree weather, light southerly wind and lots of sun. The beginnings of a great day. JW had plans to paint the onboard propane tank and install the new backup rearview camera. Wanda has plans to vacuum then shampoo carpets. First things first, 2 episodes of “In the Heat of the Night” and breakfast THEN, work. JW got all his stuff together to paint but found out that when he lays on his back under the MH, he gets really dizzy. So, he found a handyman here in the park that would probably paint for him. The handyman tells JW that the tank needs to be dropped out of the MH, wirewheel brushed to get rid of all the dead flakey paint and rust, then a rust inhibitor needs to be applied before he can paint. JW just thought this was gonna be a simple paint job. So much for JW’s plans. Wanda got all of her planned work done. On Thursday, Chris, the handyman is gonna help JW install the camera.
The propane guy actually showed up about 3 hours earlier today than he did a couple weeks ago. He also confirmed the thoughts about the propane paint job but, he said the tank wasn’t really in that bad shape. Propane was $3.00 a gallon today, down 11 cents from last time.
We decided to not go anywhere, it was 2:00 pm. We got a couple lawn chairs out and sat out in the sun, very relaxing. Light breeze and the sounds of the surf could be heard throughout the park. AND, tonight at 7:00 was the premiere of this seasons Survivor. That is just about our favorite TV show. Stay tuned . . .
The propane guy actually showed up about 3 hours earlier today than he did a couple weeks ago. He also confirmed the thoughts about the propane paint job but, he said the tank wasn’t really in that bad shape. Propane was $3.00 a gallon today, down 11 cents from last time.
We decided to not go anywhere, it was 2:00 pm. We got a couple lawn chairs out and sat out in the sun, very relaxing. Light breeze and the sounds of the surf could be heard throughout the park. AND, tonight at 7:00 was the premiere of this seasons Survivor. That is just about our favorite TV show. Stay tuned . . .
Day 45 – Tue Feb 15 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
I woke up early today and did some computer work. The WiFi is iffy today. Usually we can’t get reception in the daytime, but today I struck gold. It was the first time in a while that I have been able to check on my stock. I was quite excited to find that it is up. It’s back to where it was in Oct 2008. What a deal ! I got a lot done on the budget & the blog. JW found that we still had fairly decent WIFI so he got the Blog uploaded.
We went to Roberts Point and watched the Dolphins. There were a lot of them and they were really playful. We watched them for about 2 hours then it was Dinner time. We went to “Beaches Restaurant” but found out they were closed on Tuesdays so our next choice was the “La Playa Mexican Restaurant”. Back to the MH. One day soon, we want to go on one of the Dolphin Boat Tours. Maybe Thursday or Friday, stay tuned . . .
We went to Roberts Point and watched the Dolphins. There were a lot of them and they were really playful. We watched them for about 2 hours then it was Dinner time. We went to “Beaches Restaurant” but found out they were closed on Tuesdays so our next choice was the “La Playa Mexican Restaurant”. Back to the MH. One day soon, we want to go on one of the Dolphin Boat Tours. Maybe Thursday or Friday, stay tuned . . .
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Day 44 – Mon Feb 14 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Happy Valentine’s Day, everybody. Today is a beautiful day in S Texas. The Gulf is calm and the temperature is in the 70’s. We drove along the beach and saw some big ship’s getting ready to enter the channel. We hurried to the Park and saw two big tankers come in. One was the “Eagle Torrance” and the other was the “YA SA” both from Singapore. We left the Park to get in line to get on the Ferry to go to the mainland. Before we were able to board we had to wait on another big ship, the “HELLESPONT TRUST” from the US, that was going out into the Gulf. That was the first time we’ve seen that many ships that close together. They held up the auto traffic but it was a sight to behold. While sitting there,I realized that today would have been my father’s 94th birthday, I sure do miss him. "Happy Birthday Dad".
We wanted to check out the gas station at the Walmart in Portland to see if it had better access for the MH than the one in Aransas Pass for when we fill up on our way back to Missouri. We decided to get the oil changed in the car. We had some grocery shopping to do and JW needed to pick up the items he needed to hook up the backup camera and paint the propane tank. Timing was great. The oil change was finished just as we finished our shopping.
When we got back to Port A we decided to have the Early Bird Special at The Castaways for dinner. We both had the Grilled Shrimp with Rice, it wasn’t as good as normal, the shrimp was a little overcooked, but it was still good.
We got home early and settled in for another relaxing evening, I thought. However, we stopped by the office and picked up our mail. There was a bunch, forms that had to be filled out and returned to SDC, bills that are due, and the letter from Unemployment regarding my citizenship, or the lack thereof. Sooooo, I spent the evening filling out forms, digging through our records to get a copy of my birth certificate, and writing letters, in an attempt to get my benefits released. So much for a relaxing evening.
We wanted to check out the gas station at the Walmart in Portland to see if it had better access for the MH than the one in Aransas Pass for when we fill up on our way back to Missouri. We decided to get the oil changed in the car. We had some grocery shopping to do and JW needed to pick up the items he needed to hook up the backup camera and paint the propane tank. Timing was great. The oil change was finished just as we finished our shopping.
When we got back to Port A we decided to have the Early Bird Special at The Castaways for dinner. We both had the Grilled Shrimp with Rice, it wasn’t as good as normal, the shrimp was a little overcooked, but it was still good.
We got home early and settled in for another relaxing evening, I thought. However, we stopped by the office and picked up our mail. There was a bunch, forms that had to be filled out and returned to SDC, bills that are due, and the letter from Unemployment regarding my citizenship, or the lack thereof. Sooooo, I spent the evening filling out forms, digging through our records to get a copy of my birth certificate, and writing letters, in an attempt to get my benefits released. So much for a relaxing evening.
DAY 43 – Sun Feb 13 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
We awoke today to calm winds and beautiful waters in the Gulf. Services were great, as usual. I was so excited last week when we witnessed the baptism in the Gulf. However, it was made more special today when the Pastor told us how it came about. He and his wife were driving along the beach and he felt the Lord prompting him to enter a Bar. His wife asked, “Are you sure?” He said, “Yes”, so they went in. The place was near full and quite loud. There were only two empty seats in the place and they were at the bar. They took those seats, which were next to a 72 year old man who was down and out. His name was Marlin, a fisherman from Arkansas, here on a fishing vacation. The Pastor struck up a conversation with the man. As they talked, he told the man how Jesus loves him and how he can have eternal life. The man told him that he had been in church all his life but had never heard about the love of Jesus or the hope of salvation. The fellow asked the Pastor if he was too old to get baptized. The Pastor counseled with the man all week, he accepted Christ as his savior and was baptized the following week. What a testimony. The Pastor said it wasn’t because of anything he had done, but because of the grace of God. To me that was somewhat true, but it was partly due to something the Pastor had done. If he had not followed the prompting of the Holy Spirit by going into that Bar that man may not have come to know the love and salvation we have through Jesus Christ. It was another great day of praise, worship and hearing of the Word.
JW wanted to go to Corpus Christi to get a 12 Volt test probe, so after services we returned to the MH to change clothes, then we headed out. We had lunch at Olive Garden (JW had his usual – Spaghetti and Meatballs), and I must say I had my Olive Garden usual, Stuffed Chicken Marsala. JW ordered for me. The food was great. Following lunch we decided we really did not feel like shopping so headed back to “On the Beach” where we spent the afternoon relaxing and napping.
JW wanted to go to Corpus Christi to get a 12 Volt test probe, so after services we returned to the MH to change clothes, then we headed out. We had lunch at Olive Garden (JW had his usual – Spaghetti and Meatballs), and I must say I had my Olive Garden usual, Stuffed Chicken Marsala. JW ordered for me. The food was great. Following lunch we decided we really did not feel like shopping so headed back to “On the Beach” where we spent the afternoon relaxing and napping.
DAY 42 – Sat Feb 12 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today we stayed in again. I moved from Finances to Budget. A little late but not as bad as some years. I’m getting prepared for tax preparation and am about to complete another task from my “To Do” list. We are looking forward to tomorrow. We always enjoy the time we spend fellowshipping with the Grace Community Church family.
DAY 41 – Fri Feb 11 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today was a lazy day at the Wilks household. JW stayed up until 4 a.m. today, so he slept in this morning, until 11:30. I woke up early but stayed in bed till noon reading. One thing about it, I have spent quite a bit of time reading this winter. That is one of my favorite hobbies. I have accomplished several of the “to do’s” from my list to get done this winter, but I have managed to read four books also. I brought four more with me and will probably get them read before returning to SDC next month.
About all we did today was eat and relax. We had lunch at Virginia’s on the Bay, then went down to the Park to watch the boats come in, and watch the dolphins play. We left there at 5 p.m. and decided to have dinner at DQ. We are struggling to keep our weight in check with all the eating out, but so far have remained successful.
About all we did today was eat and relax. We had lunch at Virginia’s on the Bay, then went down to the Park to watch the boats come in, and watch the dolphins play. We left there at 5 p.m. and decided to have dinner at DQ. We are struggling to keep our weight in check with all the eating out, but so far have remained successful.
DAY 40 – Thur Feb 10 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today the temp was a little higher, around 40. We stayed in most of the day due to the uncomfortable weather conditions. It remained windy, but is supposed to let up some after the sun goes down. JW is pretty excited, his backup camera got here. Now he is waiting for warmer temps and calmer winds so he can get it installed. We left the MH at 3 p.m. and then drove over to Corpus to see “The King’s Speech”. It was a good movie, but I think we liked “127 Hours” better.
The weather remained cool and windy all day again today. We decided to eat at, (can you believe it), Taco Bell. I used to eat there every chance I got, but we don’t eat there much anymore. I enjoyed it but it wasn’t as good as the ones in Missouri. It was nice to get back to our MH and settled in for an evening of relaxation and TV.
The weather remained cool and windy all day again today. We decided to eat at, (can you believe it), Taco Bell. I used to eat there every chance I got, but we don’t eat there much anymore. I enjoyed it but it wasn’t as good as the ones in Missouri. It was nice to get back to our MH and settled in for an evening of relaxation and TV.
DAY 39 – Wed Feb 9 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today was somewhat a novel day. I believe it was the first day since we have been here that we had three meals, and furthermore, they were all at the coach. Today we also found out the cause of the pain we had been experiencing. It was very cold (for this part of the country), high around 33 or 34 and the winds were strong, 30+ with gusts (which seemed to be quite lenghtly) up to 50 mph, and it did not let up all day. I spent the day working on finances. I had five months information that had to be entered in the computer. JW played with his iPhone, watched TV and napped. We sure will be glad when it warms up and there is no more wind.
DAY 38 – Tue Feb 8 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today we had to get some things straightened out with Unemployment. JW wasn’t getting his check because he had to report to the Career Center regarding job search. I wasn’t getting mine due to “Pending Issues”. We spent a great deal of the day on the phone trying to get on the hold line and after about fifty attempts JW was finally successful. He talked with Amber, who entered his rehire date and released his benefits. When I talked to her she said my pending issue was “Proof of Citizenship”. WHAT? Proof of citizenship! I told her I had gotten UCB for several years and that yes I was a citizen and had been for the past 65+ years (since birth). She said I would get a letter and would need to follow the instructions on what to do. Well needless to say, JW was less than happy with that little deal, (or not so little deal).
We both have had more pain today, mine in my lower back and right leg, it feels as though I might have a pinched nerve; and, JW continues to have swelling and pain in his wrist. However, we didn’t let that slow us down. We decided to try out “The Butter Churn”. It is a buffet with home cooked food, (just like Grandmas). It was really quite tasty and the price is one of the most reasonable we have experienced since we got to S Texas.
We both have had more pain today, mine in my lower back and right leg, it feels as though I might have a pinched nerve; and, JW continues to have swelling and pain in his wrist. However, we didn’t let that slow us down. We decided to try out “The Butter Churn”. It is a buffet with home cooked food, (just like Grandmas). It was really quite tasty and the price is one of the most reasonable we have experienced since we got to S Texas.
DAY 37 – Mon Feb 7 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Today we drove over to Corpus Christi to eat breakfast at Cracker Barrel then we went to Century 16 and watched the movie “127 Hours”. We enjoyed both. The movie was based on a true story and was at some points quite gruesome, it made one wonder at the strength we can find within ourselves if we dig deep. It also reminded us of the importance of always letting someone know where you are or where you are going. And it is sometimes important that we indicate the route we plan to take to get there. Quite a movie.
Before returning to Port A we stopped off at Walmart in Aransas Pass to purchase a few groceries and bumped into a lady that works a couple of months a year helping with Crafts at SDC. It’s a small, small world. She introduced us to a new eating place, (new to us), The Butter Churn. We didn’t eat there today because we had previous plans to go back to Port A and “Virginia’s on the Bay.””
I have had quite a lot of pain in my right leg today and JW is suffering bunches with his wrist. I ‘spect we are looking at a change in the weather. When our bodies speak to us, who needs the weatherman? We had a cool, but very enjoyable day.
Before returning to Port A we stopped off at Walmart in Aransas Pass to purchase a few groceries and bumped into a lady that works a couple of months a year helping with Crafts at SDC. It’s a small, small world. She introduced us to a new eating place, (new to us), The Butter Churn. We didn’t eat there today because we had previous plans to go back to Port A and “Virginia’s on the Bay.””
I have had quite a lot of pain in my right leg today and JW is suffering bunches with his wrist. I ‘spect we are looking at a change in the weather. When our bodies speak to us, who needs the weatherman? We had a cool, but very enjoyable day.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
DAY 36 – Sun Feb 6 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
I woke up at 6:00 this morning and was thrilled to find that the cable was fixed so we are going to be able to watch the Super Bowl. I fixed BLT’s for breakfast before we went to church.
What a great service. It is so good to be able to meet together for praise, worship and teaching of the Word. The Holy Spirit is moving mightily here on the Island. Following services we were privileged to witness yet another baptism in the Gulf of Mexico. The weather was great and the Gulf waters were quite smooth. It is so exciting to see both young and the more mature accepting Jesus as their Savior and then following the example of Jesus by water baptism. It is such a blessing to be able to attend services on Sunday mornings. We are loving it and will sure miss it when we get back to Missouri, where once again we will be working on Sunday’s. It is great to work with Christians, but fellowshipping together is very important.
Following the baptism after church this morning, we went to Virginia’s on the Bay for lunch. I had the Cajun Dump (crab legs, Gulf shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob and new potatoes, I brought half of it home for another meal), JW had his usual, Mahi Mahi. We are now settling in, preparing for the Super Bowl.
The game wasn’t to start until 6:30 (we thought) so JW had the TV tuned to some old L&O reruns and at 6:00 decided to watch some of the pregame. The game was already going. JW thought the paper said 6:30 central but must have been eastern. We started watching just as the Packers made their first touchdown. The Super Bowl was pretty much what JW thought it would be, (he predicted Packers 27 – Steelers 24). Not a real exciting game and the halftime show was terrible. The Black Eye Peas butchered their own songs. We missed the first 12 minutes of the 1st qtr so missed the beginning of the game also, BUT thanks to FaceBook and local TV coverage, we were unfortunate enough to hear Christina Aguilera sing (and JW used that term, sing, very loosely) the National Anthem. In JW’s opinion, she disgraced the song. Her voice was all over the place, up and down and to top it off, she got the words wrong. Who hires these people anyway? The Blackhawk hockey player, Jim Cornelison, who sang the National Anthem at the start of the Green Bay-Chicago playoff game was a 100 times better than Aguilera. Just JW’s opinion.
Football is over, time to move on to more important stuff. After JW thinks about that for a while, he’ll tell you what it is. Stay tuned . . .
What a great service. It is so good to be able to meet together for praise, worship and teaching of the Word. The Holy Spirit is moving mightily here on the Island. Following services we were privileged to witness yet another baptism in the Gulf of Mexico. The weather was great and the Gulf waters were quite smooth. It is so exciting to see both young and the more mature accepting Jesus as their Savior and then following the example of Jesus by water baptism. It is such a blessing to be able to attend services on Sunday mornings. We are loving it and will sure miss it when we get back to Missouri, where once again we will be working on Sunday’s. It is great to work with Christians, but fellowshipping together is very important.
Following the baptism after church this morning, we went to Virginia’s on the Bay for lunch. I had the Cajun Dump (crab legs, Gulf shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob and new potatoes, I brought half of it home for another meal), JW had his usual, Mahi Mahi. We are now settling in, preparing for the Super Bowl.
The game wasn’t to start until 6:30 (we thought) so JW had the TV tuned to some old L&O reruns and at 6:00 decided to watch some of the pregame. The game was already going. JW thought the paper said 6:30 central but must have been eastern. We started watching just as the Packers made their first touchdown. The Super Bowl was pretty much what JW thought it would be, (he predicted Packers 27 – Steelers 24). Not a real exciting game and the halftime show was terrible. The Black Eye Peas butchered their own songs. We missed the first 12 minutes of the 1st qtr so missed the beginning of the game also, BUT thanks to FaceBook and local TV coverage, we were unfortunate enough to hear Christina Aguilera sing (and JW used that term, sing, very loosely) the National Anthem. In JW’s opinion, she disgraced the song. Her voice was all over the place, up and down and to top it off, she got the words wrong. Who hires these people anyway? The Blackhawk hockey player, Jim Cornelison, who sang the National Anthem at the start of the Green Bay-Chicago playoff game was a 100 times better than Aguilera. Just JW’s opinion.
Football is over, time to move on to more important stuff. After JW thinks about that for a while, he’ll tell you what it is. Stay tuned . . .
DAY 35 – Sat Feb 5 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
We got up late this morning and found we still did not have any TV. We had not gone to the grocery store so didn’t have any breakfast fixin’s. JW had decided we were going to Corpus Christi to a movie and he wanted to eat at Olive Garden. We got to Corpus Christi about 1:15 so decided to forgo breakfast and go straight to the movie. We saw “True Grit” for the second time, but from start to finish this time. So I guess we ended up having popcorn for breakfast and lunch. JW did not know where the Olive Garden was, but there was an Applebee’s right next to the theater so we decided to eat dinner there. It turned out being a really bad experience, but they did knock a good chunk off our check and gave us a free dessert. Some Applebee’s are good and some not so much.
When we got back to “On the Beach” we were informed that the cable had been cut between the Island and Corpus Christi and they didn’t know when we were going to have TV. Sure hope they get it fixed in time for the Super Bowl. We decided to watch a couple of DVD’s before turning in for the night. We watched “The Patriot” and “Glory”. I saw all of the first movie and about half of the second before I fell asleep.
The weather today was quite nice and made it enjoyable to be out.
When we got back to “On the Beach” we were informed that the cable had been cut between the Island and Corpus Christi and they didn’t know when we were going to have TV. Sure hope they get it fixed in time for the Super Bowl. We decided to watch a couple of DVD’s before turning in for the night. We watched “The Patriot” and “Glory”. I saw all of the first movie and about half of the second before I fell asleep.
The weather today was quite nice and made it enjoyable to be out.
DAY 33 – Thur Feb 3; DAY 34 – Fri Feb 4 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Yesterday and today were both quite cold days so we really didn’t do much. Yesterday we just stayed inside and watched TV, read, did some work on the computer, but basically just layed back and relaxed.
Today was a little warmer. I got the carpet in the bedroom and the hall shampooed. It sure looks good now. I will do the front of the coach another day.
Around 5 p.m. we were getting cabin fever so decided we would go out to Seafood and Spaghetti to try their Italian Food. I had lasagna and JW had his usual, spaghetti. He really doesn’t know there is some really great Italian Food out there, all he ever gets when we go Italian is spaghetti. Then he remarks that he likes my spaghetti better. Oh well, I guess some people are just not adventurous, I personally like to try different foods. Some I’ll eat again others I know not to eat again.
When we got back to "On The Beach" we could not get any reception on our TV. JW called the office. They said all the Island was in the same predicament. We decided to watch some DVD’s. That put a little different twist on things. They don’t know when the cable will be back up.
Today was a little warmer. I got the carpet in the bedroom and the hall shampooed. It sure looks good now. I will do the front of the coach another day.
Around 5 p.m. we were getting cabin fever so decided we would go out to Seafood and Spaghetti to try their Italian Food. I had lasagna and JW had his usual, spaghetti. He really doesn’t know there is some really great Italian Food out there, all he ever gets when we go Italian is spaghetti. Then he remarks that he likes my spaghetti better. Oh well, I guess some people are just not adventurous, I personally like to try different foods. Some I’ll eat again others I know not to eat again.
When we got back to "On The Beach" we could not get any reception on our TV. JW called the office. They said all the Island was in the same predicament. We decided to watch some DVD’s. That put a little different twist on things. They don’t know when the cable will be back up.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
DAY 32 – Wed Feb 2 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
Winter has come to S. Texas, 27 degrees this morning and cloudy. The winds have been blowing from 30 to 41, gusting to 46 mph, since yesterday morning. At least the winds have died down some now that the sun is up, even though we can’t see it for all the clouds. Temps are supposed to be near 40 today. Today will be spent in the MH as we have to wait on the propane delivery truck again. JW said he is going to get some of his repair work out of the way.
Propane truck showed up at 5:00 pm. Waited the whole day, but ya never know what time he’ll be here. I think everyone in the park needed propane. $3.11 a gal.
We saved money today by eating all our meals at home. JW got a large portion of his winter chores completed, while I worked on my Sudoku book. I did some pretty tough puzzles so not sure it was an extremely relaxing day. In fact, I ended up with a headache and tension in my neck and shoulders.
We just finished dinner and now plan to take in some TV and attempt to have a relaxing evening. We are going to have another cold night, low is supposed to be 25. Guess we’ll have to leave the water running again tonight. Corpus Christi is supposed to get ice and snow for the next couple of days, here on the Island, they are just forecasting lower than normal temperatures. It is supposed to be back up in the 60’s by Sunday. A productive and kinda relaxing day.
Propane truck showed up at 5:00 pm. Waited the whole day, but ya never know what time he’ll be here. I think everyone in the park needed propane. $3.11 a gal.
We saved money today by eating all our meals at home. JW got a large portion of his winter chores completed, while I worked on my Sudoku book. I did some pretty tough puzzles so not sure it was an extremely relaxing day. In fact, I ended up with a headache and tension in my neck and shoulders.
We just finished dinner and now plan to take in some TV and attempt to have a relaxing evening. We are going to have another cold night, low is supposed to be 25. Guess we’ll have to leave the water running again tonight. Corpus Christi is supposed to get ice and snow for the next couple of days, here on the Island, they are just forecasting lower than normal temperatures. It is supposed to be back up in the 60’s by Sunday. A productive and kinda relaxing day.
DAY 31 – Tue Feb 1 – Trip to Mustang Island 2011
We can’t believe it, only 25 days left before we head back to Missouri. They say “Time flies when you’re having fun”, that must be why the rest of the year goes by so slowly.
We went to Corpus Christi for supplies and to eat at iHop. JW actually decided to leave before his favorite show (In the Heat of the Night) even started, so we got away fairly early. We ate, went grocery shopping at Wal-Mart and H.E.B. Plus, then it was off to McDonalds to use their WIFI. H.E.B. stores are really big in Texas with most of them kinda like a small Wal-Mart. The H.E.B. Plus compares to a Wal-Mart Super Center. JW wanted to know what H.E.B. stood for and an H.E.B. employee told him it stands for the founders son, Howard Edward Butt. Their store signs say, “Here, Everything’s Better”. They are a good store but their prices are higher than Wal-Mart.
After returning to the Island and home, we rested for a while and prepared for the onslaught of cold winter air which is on its way to S. Texas. The Islands temperature was only to fall to the upper 20s low 30s but inland it dropped into the teens and lower up north. Around fiveish, we decided to try out a new seafood place (new to us), Fins Grill and Icehouse. Really good fresh seafood. BUT, we both decided that we think Virginia’s on the Bay is still the best so far. Only 20 to 25 more restaurants to try before we leave. Let’s see, where shall we go tomorrow . . .
We went to Corpus Christi for supplies and to eat at iHop. JW actually decided to leave before his favorite show (In the Heat of the Night) even started, so we got away fairly early. We ate, went grocery shopping at Wal-Mart and H.E.B. Plus, then it was off to McDonalds to use their WIFI. H.E.B. stores are really big in Texas with most of them kinda like a small Wal-Mart. The H.E.B. Plus compares to a Wal-Mart Super Center. JW wanted to know what H.E.B. stood for and an H.E.B. employee told him it stands for the founders son, Howard Edward Butt. Their store signs say, “Here, Everything’s Better”. They are a good store but their prices are higher than Wal-Mart.
After returning to the Island and home, we rested for a while and prepared for the onslaught of cold winter air which is on its way to S. Texas. The Islands temperature was only to fall to the upper 20s low 30s but inland it dropped into the teens and lower up north. Around fiveish, we decided to try out a new seafood place (new to us), Fins Grill and Icehouse. Really good fresh seafood. BUT, we both decided that we think Virginia’s on the Bay is still the best so far. Only 20 to 25 more restaurants to try before we leave. Let’s see, where shall we go tomorrow . . .
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