Maine - Day 9

It rained today; if it was going to rain today was really the best day for it as we needed to travel so I'm grateful.  We've really had really good weather on this trip.     The day overall I would say was good, I think we are getting tired though, and are ready for our own beds and creature comforts.  That being said we did get to do some fun stuff today.

We woke up and ate breakfast at the main house of the "lodge" we were staying at.  It was served family style with a lazy susan and we had another couple from the lodge join us.   We had eggs, bacon, toast, and jam - I must say it was quite good.  The bacon was super crispy and I don't typically like buttered bread but this was excellent.   Linda and Jack carried most of the conversation with the couple.   They asked about Atlanta and we shared what it was like.   I was grateful to not have to carry most of the conversation as I really don't find those situations comfortable.

After breakfast we headed to a waterfall on the property; the innkeeper told us where it was and advised it may be a bit treacherous so Mama stayed in the car.   The hike wasn't hard but it was very uneven with roots and then when you got to the bottom to really see it you needed to scramble over some rocks.   I was taking pictures and realized the really good pictures were from a rock island in the middle of the water so I sat there a minute and contemplated.... wade into the water and get the picture or regret not doing it for 20 years so my shoes came off and into the water I went.   It was soooo cold, but also worth it.  I had so much fun; almost fell a couple of times, but seriously fun.   After my mid-water excursion we walked a bit further up for some pictures (I stayed barefoot) and then went back to the car.  Once at the car Jack helped me clean off my feet (such a good man) and got me some clean socks and dry shoes.   

We then headed to the Robbins Hill Scenic area; we got out and walked a tiny bit but the rain and fog hid the view.  I bet on a sunny day it would be beautiful.  We then drove to Skowhegan, then onto Waterville where we saw a beautiful walking bridge, and also briefly visited Fort Halifax State Historic Site.   While walking there it really started to rain and most of us got fairly damp before making it back to the car.

I then somehow put it in the GPS to go to a set cross street given by the Maine book, not realizing it was back in Skowhegan...  So we drove back on different roads; saw gorgeous country and wondered where Augusta was, lol.   Once back we went ahead and stopped at Miller's Table at Maine Grains for lunch.  It was a small farm-to-table restaurant; Mama and I shared a pizza and it was excellent. 

After lunch, Jack picked up driving and we headed to Augusta to see the capital building.  Most of us took a mini-cap nap along the way.    We didn't get out at the capital other than to snap a quick picture; it was of course closed due to it being the weekend and with the weather we just took a picture and moved on.    

After the capital building, we came to the hotel; it's really a full resort, and spent rested for a bit before going to dinner at 7.  We ate at a restaurant owned by the resort - Cyndi's Dockside.  The service was good; most food was fried but options here are fairly limited.  I had a grilled shrimp salad and it was good.

We are now in the hotel getting bags flight ready for tomorrow.  We have a few things planned in the mornign before flying out tomorrow afternoon - here is praying for smooth flights w/o delays.    

Maine - Day 8

 Today we started with an excellent breakfast at 2 Cats Cafe.  Jack chose it because of the name, but the reviews were good and well-deserved.   We got there right at 9 and they were packed, but we were seated outside fairly quickly - actually, the family was seated before I even managed to park the behemoth of a car illegally in the paint store parking lot.  I had to kindly ask a gentleman to back his car up so I could park otherwise I may still be looking for a parking place... 

The same waitress we had at the Italian place last night was there this morning and she was again fabulous.   I had French toast with fruit and it was good; a lot of food - everywhere here is a lot of food, but it was good.   Mama said she wasn't feeling 100% so she didn't love hers, but I think it was her and not the food.  After breakfast, we headed to our reservation at Cadillac Mountain and headed up.  It was super foggy so we didn't really get to see anything.   The fog had its own beauty and everyone was laughing about how they needed to move from one spot to another to make sure they saw all of the fog.     We went to the gift shop; took a few foggy pictures and started to drive down.   As we did the sun began to come out and we got some great pictures of the fog sitting on the mountain. 

We then headed to the Bass Harbor lighthouse in Acadia.   We had to wait in line for a parking place and got to see a deer with antlers while we waited.   Linda and Jack went ahead and hopped out to explore.   Once parked Mama and I walked to the right side and got a few pictures and then she took a nap in the car while we hiked down the more strenuous side with steep stairs and rocks.   The hike was worth it.  When you got to the bottom it reminded me of an adult jungle gym and it was fun to climb around.  When you hiked down to the very bottom the view up to the lighthouse was absolutely amazing.   Beautiful!    On the way back up Linda fell, but luckily didn't hurt anything.  She kinda got stuck and Jack and another gentleman helped her up and then we headed back to the parking lot.

Once in the car, we drove over to a pretty mossy trail for a picnic; it was basically a wooded lot with lots of pretty moss.  It was very peaceful.

We then headed to the hotel which was a 2.5-hour drive west.   Overall the drive was uneventful with lots of great scenery toward the end; we stopped at a bridge and took pictures; took several of the leaves turning along the road and just enjoyed it.   We then arrived at this "lodge".  Of all the places I booked, this was the one I was least confident in, but there aren't many choices around here.   She had called earlier to confirm our appointment and breakfast.   When I told her 9 a.m. she seemed to question it so when I got here she again said 9 - I finally said you obviously want us to have breakfast at a different time; she said well the others are having it at 7:30 to which I promptly said no.   It was a cordial conversation but at the same time weird.   Checkout is at 10 and she was concerned we had another person staying in the lodge w/o paying the 20 fee - I don't mind paying a 20 fee; I find it odd given we have to pay for breakfast separately but ah well.    I paid the 35 and we'll have breakfast at 9 am...   The cabin itself is cute and functional enough for a night.  The couch smells a bt so I'm avoiding it and the bedrooms are a bit tight so we have the luggage in the living room, but for the price and one night, it will do.   The countryside is pretty so that's a win.

Once settled in we visited a while and then drove up to a local restaurant - Patrick's Restaurant and Pub.   You can tell it is a local place and the atmosphere was just comfortable.  I felt no rush; just a nice kickback place to eat.   Jack and I shared a plate of wings and they were really good.  The waiter was serving all the tables solo, but I never felt like I wasn't looked after.  I give it 4-5 stars...  I'd come again :)

Now we are back at the cabin and everyone is settling in for the night.  Tomorrow we head back toward southern Maine and explore along the way.   

Jack said he liked the rocks at the lighthouse; it was pretty.   He loved driving through the countryside, seeing the leaves and the countryside

Maine - Day 7

 Acadia, Acadia & More Acadia

So we met in the breakfast area of the B&B at 8:30 and had a good meal; most of us had waffles while Jack had steak.  They put a runny egg on his steak so that promptly went to Mama...   The innkeeper came over and chatted for a bit; she was a concert pianist in CA and also taught piano.  She then proceeded to tell us about her daughter who was an up-and-coming architecture person.   Linda was chatting with her so we learned a lot; not sure I wanted to know that much before the 2nd cup of coffee of the day, but ah well - it's what you get in a B&B - people.   Give me a faceless nameless chain any day.     I really should enjoy people more, but I simply do not - my people sure; relationships that can turn into something deeper than idle chit-chat, yes.  But random strangers and the small talk, carrying on a conversation no one will remember tomorrow - yeah I pass.

After breakfast, we headed to the grocery store for some snacks as lunch was going to be late today and then headed into the park.   We hiked Jesup trail and Hemlock trail; both easy strolls through the forest; we drove the Loop road several times and stopped to take pictures, climb on rocks, and take more pictures.   We stopped in meadows, got fussed at by park rangers for having a tire on the road and not in the gravel, drove around and hunted for parking, and took a few more pictures.   All in all, it was just an enjoyable day.

The fog was extremely heavy; especially later in the day so visibility was reduced, but it brought its own special kind of pretty.  

For lunch, we ate at the Jordon Pond House.  We had the pot stickers which are basically French croissants and had a fairly good meal.  Jack ordered lemonade and it came with no sugar - which was basically lemon juice in ice.   Their coffee though was really good as were the meals themselves.  I had a chicken salad wrap and it was good.  Not award-winning by any means but good, especially for a park restaurant. 

Once we left the park we came back to the hotel and Jack and I walked down to Bar Harbor and ate at an Italian restaurant.  Neither of us were especially hungry so we ordered a few appetizers and split them for our meal; it was perfect.   

Now I'm in bed about to crash for another full day tomorrow.   Sleep well blog land :)

Jack's favorite thing about the day was: Jack enjoyed listening to the rocks hit the waves.  Jack thought the Jesup trail, which was a boardwalk going through the forest was nice.  

Maine - Day 6

 Today has been a long day, but overall good.   I'm tired and writing this from a quiet B&B in Bar Harbor Maine; today was a good bit of time in the car, but we explored along they way.

We started the day at 8 with breakfast at Mae's in Bath.   The french toast was excellent; I ordered oatmeal and it was flavorless ghoul... and the service while friendly was exceptionally slow.  Not a place I recommend.   We then headed up to Wiscasset; the pretty village in Maine...  Let's just say they bribed some tour guides; there was very little here and the butter mold company we intended to see was super sketchy so we didn't even stop.   After a very brief walk in this town, we headed over to Edgecomb State Park.  This is an old wooden fort that is unique; the area was pretty, really just a quick hop out take a picture hop back in the moment.   Mama chose to stay in the car, but you could easily see it from the car; her back is not feeling great today so ...

Then we moved on to Boothbay Harbor which was really cute.   We parked at the top of the hill and walked down through the town, stopping along the way before ending at the footbridge that goes over the waterway.  It was really a quaint town that I enjoyed.

While on the footbridge Mama went to pull something out of her purse and her lottery ticket flew into the water.... let's just hope it's not the winning one.   It's gone forever and she mourned it for quite a bit of time.  She kept hoping it would come close enough to the shore to get it but it didn't and I wasn't going in after it...  After our walk, Jack went and got the car so Mama wouldn't need to climb up the mountain and we headed off to Ocean Point near here that the candy shop lady told Linda about I'm so grateful we did. 

It was really pretty and it had a trail that went through people's front yards (with signs stressing it was open to the public; probably because the owners would love to not allow people on the public land given it is literally in their front yard).    It was so pretty with rocks and water - worth the drive and I'm so grateful she told us about it.  The trail ended at this rock yard that was just gorgeous and boulder you could walk on; there was a house behind it - I can't imagine this being my front yard; I mean the view was just breathtaking.

We then headed to Pemaquid Light House.  We spent about 30 minutes here meandering around.   I hiked down onto the rocks and got some good pictures.   I did convince Mama to at least get out for a little bit; though she would have stayed in the car the entire time had I let her.  

We then went to Damiriscotta for some lunch at King Elder's Pub.  I had a hamburger that was pretty good; everyone else seemed to enjoy their meals.   During lunch I got a call from work and was told I got the promotion I had applied for to Project Manager for Cloud Services; transition time to be figured out after I get back, but it comes with a hefty pay raise and was just really great news in general, so YAY!

After lunch we then headed out to Camden State Park and drove up to Mt. Battie; the views were really pretty and we took the opportunity to get some good photos.  After this, we booked it to our inn at Bay Harbor where we are staying for the next 2 nights.  It was about an hour and a half drive and Jack paid DJ for Mama and Linda on the ride.   About 20 minutes before we got here we swapped drivers; my eyes were on fire and I was so tired.   

Once here we got Mama settled in and then ran down to Lompoc Cafe for dinner.  I had the steak and it was sooooo good - I emptied my plate. 

Jack enjoyed: The path that went by the houses and the rocks.  He also loved looking over the bay with all of the ships at Mt. Battie.  Jack also said he loved the way the sea gulls all lined up at the lighthouse on the rocks...

Maine - Day 5

 Maine Day 5 - Brunswick/Bath

So we began our day with a wonderful breakfast at Hot Suppa; it's a southern cafe and they were excellent.  I had French toast, grits, and sausage.  The french toast was great; the grits amazing; the sausage - not so much.  Linda had a fall harvest bowl that she said was really unique and yummy.   Most importantly; the coffee was amazing.

We left breakfast and headed out of Portland.  Our first stop was to see the Eartha Globe; it's the largest rotating globe and it's in the front lobby of an office building owned by Garmin.   It takes 3 stories to see it all and it was pretty cool.    After this we did another novelty shop at LL Bean to see a very large boot and have our picture taken; I know corny, but cool.

We then headed on to Brunswick MA.   We parked and did a roughly 3-mile trek through neighborhoods, across a swinging bridge, and then back across a pedestrian bridge  It was a really nice walk with beautiful neighborhood scenes, river scenes, and waterfalls from the dam, and was just enjoyable.  There were a couple of hills aka mountains Mama didn't care for, but it was nice.   We then went and ate at Big Top Restaurant; it was full of circus pictures.   I got a BLT with onion rings and it was excellent.  The staff was okay, not super friendly but not rude... you order at the counter and they call you for your food.   I'd eat there again.

We then headed to Bath and wandered around the Maine Maritime Museum.   We only had about an hour before our cruise; so we mainly looked at the outside stuff.   Mama rested a bit and walked around and looked at the old boats.   I wasn't really into the museum part, but Jack seemed to enjoy it.  I regret we didn't get to look inside more.   

We then left the museum on a 3-hour cruise down the river where we saw numerous lighthouses, bald eagles, a couple of seals, beautiful mansions, and the beginning of a pretty sunset.   It was a nice boat ride and it had some nice people on it from Maine who let Mama borrow her coat - she had one, but when the temperature dropped; it dropped fast.    They were really friendly and had an eye for finding Eagles!   At the end of the tour we rode up to the Bath iron works where they build destroyers for the Navy; that was pretty neat to see.   They had one they were going to launch today but something delayed it until tomorrow; not sure what.     The tour guide of our cruise was really knowledgeable and friendly.

After the cruise, we checked into the hotel where we all have apartment-sized suites that are really nice.   This is not a king-size bed though... they say it is, but it is not.  I actually measured from my phone because I am not crazy; I sleep on a king every night.  It's 4 inches smaller; which I think is a Cal King...   We will be cuddling close tonight.   The front desk clerk was not impressed by my measuring abilities.

After we checked in Linda, Jack, and I went to dinner; Mama wanted to go to sleep.   We ate at Kennebec Tavern and I enjoyed the atmosphere.   Our waiter was also extremely good.   Linda loved her tuna; I liked my pasta and they have no idea how to make a chicken pot pie... but we can't always win.  I'd go back to the restaurant but would probably order differently. 

Overall it was a great day!  Tomorrow will be super busy but should be good.

Jack said he liked the boat ride and thought a lot of the tools in the lumber yard of the museum were cool.   Had a sawmill blade that was huge.   

Day 4

 Day 4 - Portland

We got up this morning and headed to Becky's Diner; where we sat outside on the upstairs deck and had a really good breakfast.  The coffee was a little strong for my taste, but the French toast was delish.

We then headed out on the Portland Fire Engine tour.  Parking was highway robbery - $24 for 2 hours, then $7 for every subsequent hour...  The tour itself was great though.  It was a good orientation of the city and it was cool to sit in a refurbished fire truck.   Apparently, Portland has almost burnt to the ground 3 different times!    Once the fire engine tour was complete we walked back to the car to regroup.  The custom's house was a brief walk from where we were so we decided to walk over it for a few pictures; Mama elected to rest in the car so Jack, Linda, and myself headed out.

The customs house is quite pretty and I wanted to go in but it had a doorbell you needed to ring to be let in.   I never would have rang it; Linda on the other hand had no problem ringing it and asking to come inside.   A very nice customs officer - Jeff, let us in even though he wasn't supposed to and gave us a brief tour.   He was very knowledgeable of his building and went out of his way to share tidbits; it was really great and the building itself was beautiful.   He also gave us a tip to go on top of the parking deck for some great photos...  So, we did.  We left there and went to the Customs house parking deck; ignoring the no photo signs and proceeded to take a ton of great pictures.   The security guard walked by us and I just knew he would say something, but he let us be.     We then headed back to Mama but went through this ally way Jeff also told us about that had a great murrell painted on it; Jeff was awesome :)

Once we got back to Mama I was going to extend the parking; given it was only $7 at this point, but... we were 4 minutes late and it wanted me to pay $24 more; can you say HELL NO!   So we got in the car and drove to the East Promenade area to take some pictures; we then drove to the West area to take pictures and generally drove all around Portland stopping at random places to take a photo.   I eventually took us down to the Flatbread restaurant where we parked in the parking deck (another great photo op) and went and had lunch on their patio.  I had a custom-ordered pizza and lemonade; both were delish.   The server was great, the atmosphere was nice and I generally just enjoyed it.

After lunch we walked up to the Henry Woodsworth house that Mama wanted to see; it was only .7 miles and I thought it would be fairly flat.  So the plan was to walk to it; come back to the car and then drive to the Portland Observatory.   Well, the walk up to the house was nice; lots of random sculptures and neat things to take pictures of.   At some point, a gentleman tried to talk to Linda about the fact they are legalizing mushrooms for recreational purposes soon.... Yeah, we are hoping right on that 🤣  But what ti was not was flat; it had some pretty good inclines so once we got there we figured we would walk onto the Observatory given we had done the hills already...

How little did we know; the walk to the Observatory was another .7 miles but about 1/2 in we realized a good chunk of it was largely up a massive hill.   My Mama bless her did it; every step.  I carried her O2 most of the afternoon as we didn't have her walker (Portland streets are not exactly walker-friendly) so that had some comedy in itself.    We always get hung around a tree or one of us stops w/o telling the other one because we forget we are connected.  It's funny - at about 1/2 through Jack took my camera bag to lessen some of the weight on me.+    But we made it and we took pictures of the building, and then walked back down.  The walk back to the car was .5 miles and all downhill so that was good.

We were almost to the car and as we passed a man Mama barked; yes barked like a dog.  I thought she was barking at the man and about died; when she was actually barking because of the 02 and trying to make a joke; to say the least it fell really flat, lol.

Once at the car we got settled and drove to see the little bug lighthouse; it's at a park and we got there right as the sun was setting; it was beautiful.   A nice way to end the day.

We then came back to the hotel; and agreed on a meeting time for in the morning as no one is really interested in dinner and called it a day.    Jack and I went back out to grab Mama a new purse; the one she brought with her was falling apart and grabbed a couple of sandwiches for dinner.

I'm sure there are things we didn't see or do in Portland, but I think we saw most of it...   Jack said we walked a little over 6 miles! 

Jack's favorite part of the day was:  Jack liked the customs' house; he liked the history and the details of it.  Little things like the air quality in the building was bad back in the day due to them smoking and lighting it with oil lamps.  He loved the detail on the door where they changed the time at some point to 4:30 by sanding it off.   He liked the little lighthouse and observatory.  He said the firetruck road was fun; even though the road was bumpy.   Portland roads are all asphalt over old school dutch brick.

Maine Day 3

Today was non-stop, but great.   I am fighting sleep to type this before I forget :)

We started with breakfast at the hotel restaurant; Raspberries.  It was really good - I had French toast and fruit.   We then headed out to Kennebunkport.  I stopped at one bridge to take some pictures of of it's beauty only for a guy to point out two eagles to is - talk about a win :)  Then on to St. Anne's Episcopal church; it is this really quaint rock church that is right off the water.  It was a great stop and the view was amazing - that is pretty much the standard statement for the entire day; the view was amazing.  Waves crashing against rocks to create dynamic and dramatic views; I love it.   After the church, we drove down a bit to Colony Beach and walked out on the jetty to get some good photos.    And then we drove to the other end of Parson's Way.  Parson's Way is a 2-mile stretch trail off Ocean Avenue that is just breathtaking.   We stopped in several places to take pictures including stopping to see President Bush's house.  Parking was full so I dropped them off and made a couple of loops, but I had gotten a picture from another angel so it was all good  I turned around in some woman's circular driveway and she was standing on her porch - oops :) LOL

We then headed to the downtown area of Kennebunkport, walked around, and had lunch at an expensive restaurant called The Boathouse.   We almost got talked into a food truck and ate on a ship, but I really wanted a waiter.  My food was good; not worth the cost, but it was good.  Mama tried her first lobster in a lobster roll; she ended up eating my fish :)   Everyone else seemed to enjoy their meal - and don't get me wrong I did too; just sitting alone was worth it's weight in gold.

We then headed to Fort Williams Park, but we did stop and see South Congregational Church (I drove by while everyone took pictures), the wedding cake house, and Spurwink church.   Once at Fort Williams we parked outside the gate and walked in; very nice day.  When we got down to the water I realized there was additional parking so I went back and moved the car closer.    We spent a good 2 hours here at the park - the rocks, waves and two lighthouses made it worth it.  

I helped Mama get up into an area behind the old fort and we took pictures that were just unbelievable with sailboats and the Portland Headlight behind us.   We then drove up the lighthouse and walked around; it was really my favorite part of the day!

After the park we headed to the hotel; checked in and then Linda, Jack, and I went to grab some dinner; Mama stayed behind.   After a bit of research and false starts (I failed to research Portland restaurants) we found this really great one off a cobblestone street.   I just loved the atmosphere as we ate outside and enjoyed the conversation.   So very happy we ate here.  Afterward, we stopped for some amazing gelato and drove back to the hotel, where I am very promptly about to crash.  See you tomorrow :)

Maine Day 1 & 2

Day 1 - 9/29/23 - Travel Day

Jack and I both worked this morning; he was able to take some breaks to pack, but my morning was jam-packed and stressful.  We received notice mid-morning the Augusta flight was delayed so we left the house around 1 and headed to grab a bite to eat.  We had lunch at Cracker Barrell and then headed to the Augusta airport.   As always Augusta is a pleasant airport to fly out of; no stress; nice folks - it is just an all-around good experience.   The clerk that checked us in insisted I put Mama in a chair even though it's nothing like Atlanta; which did get us through security quicker, so blessing.

Once we flew out of Augusta we met up with Linda at the Atlanta airport.  I didn't even recognize her in the terminal- I looked right past her :(   The flight out of Atlanta was also delayed so we went and grabbed dinner at TGI Fridays.   Jack and I split some ribs and they were good.  The conversation flowed easily and before we knew it we were pressuring our waiter to leave so we could catch the flight. 

Loading on the flight to Atlanta I really wish I would have gotten the attendant's name - I would have reported her.   We do the preloading due to Mama's 02 and of course, Linda loaded with us.  She was behind us and went to scan her boarding pass, but accidentally scanned the receipt document they gave you instead and walked onto the tarmac.   Instead of the lady saying "Miss you scanned the wrong document - I need the other one" she screams "I need you to scan your boarding pass - if you get on that plane you can go to jail or I will have you put in jail" or some other nonsense.     I leave Linda with Jack and head down to continue helping Mama.  While Linda is looking for the other document her carry-on (which rolls really well) proceeds to roll down the loading ramp without her.  So a guy says "incoming" and here comes a piece of luggage just rolling on down.  It was SOOO funny!   I grabbed and the other passenger promised to tell the stewardess it was my mother-in-law because at this point I had Mama's Linda's and My carry on and we were only allowed 2.    I hear Linda ask where her bag is and the passenger who said "incoming" said the woman in front of me who I think is your daughter has it... if not a random stranger has it 🤣      When I loaded the stewardess just smiled and waved me on with all of my bags, I think she could tell they weren't mine and I was helping.      Everyone finally got on and seated...

The flight from ATL to Bolston overall was uneventful.    We had seen an amazing moon out of the airport and hoped to see it in the air, but that didn't work out.  I read a book, Mama played a bit on the inflight entertainment, Jack read/dozed and Linda was sitting behind us on her phone.   My bra may have been hurting and came off mid-flight while in my seat only to be reapplied while in my seat right before landing...  Quite an accomplishment with a sports bra and no one seeing anything :)

Once we landed in Boston the airport attendant met us with Mama's wheelchair and off to baggage claim we went.    Mama tried to carry on a conversation with him, but he couldn't understand her deep southern drawl and kept looking to us for translation... He was nice though.    Once at baggage claim I almost made a grave error and forgot Mama's walker but I remembered it at the last minute.  Thank you Jesus for the reminder.

We then took a bus to the rental car place, where Jack proceeded to wait in line for what seemed like and I think hours.   The three ladies relaxed on a bench and chit-chatted.   It was a long time... had to be at least an hour.   But when we got the car it was big enough; not really clean.  Mama found a full beer bottle and the seats needed some good beating to get crumbs out, but it's a big suburban, is comfortable, and meets our needs.   Driving from the airport to the hotel was an interesting endeavor; everyone was tired.  Jack is driving at dark and in the rain -  By the time the car was parked cuss words were stated, micro arguments were going on and we all needed to go to bed.    We finally made it to our rooms around 2 AM and I think everyone promptly crashed; I know we did.

Day 2 - Ogunquit Maine

This morning we got up and left the hotel around 9 headed for Maine.   It was a little over an hour and a half trip and largely uneventful.  Linda is having some trouble with her eyes and was in quite of bit of pain so mostly it was a quiet drive.   By the time we got to the breakfast restaurant in Ogunquit, she was feeling a bit better.     We ate at The Omelet Factory and I was not disappointed.   Linda and I played a bit of cornholl while we waited (which was a very short wait) and then we headed in.   The manager or owner was really nice.   The serving staff was great and the food was delicious.  I had the French toast with fruit, an egg white, and bacon - oh, and coffee.  We must not forget coffee!  It was really great.

After breakfast, we played a bit more cornholl before heading out for the day.   We parked near downtown Ogunquit and were given free parking due to Mama's handicapped sticker.   After a bit of a rough start leaving the car (Mama med issue, Lisa forgetting her camera, Lisa forgetting the batteries to her camera, etc...) we walked along the Marginal Way.  This is a roughly 1.5-mile paved trail along the coast; it is absolutely gorgeous with beautiful flowers, rocky outcroppings being hit by waves, a small lighthouse, and just an amazingly beautiful experience.   We took photos, climbed on rocks, rested on benches, and just enjoyed the walk.  It took us probably 3-4 hours with all the stops and starts, but the weather was perfect. 

We then ate at the Oarweed Cove which was right at the end of our walk in Perkin's Cove.   This restaurant was rated well, but I didn't love it.   The service was great and so was the view, but my crabcakes were a bit overdone and the tea was not great.   Everyone else seemed to like their meals, but no one raved.  I don't think I'll recommend it on Yelp.   

After lunch, we decided to Uber back to the car.  While we waited we took a few pictures of the bridge and the boats.   If I had realized how cool it was I would have probably paused the Uber for a few minutes, but at the same time, we were all tired.   The Uber ride was okay - the guy was nice enough, though he didn't offer to help us very much with the walker/getting in the backseat etc. I don't know what I expected him to do honestly, but it just was an ok experience.

Once at the car we rode to the hotel (a whole mile away) and checked in.   I kind of wanted to rest, but the shops close a bit early here and Mama wanted to walk around them so we headed down.   It was probably a mile walk (maybe 3/4) and that isn't much but I was regretting not driving by the end - we've walked a lot today.   But it was a nice stroll and cool to see all the buildings and flowers.  + I got ice cream so that's always a win.

We shopped a little; not a ton but some and then I decided to go back and get the car for Mama.    I get sidetracked on the way by a cute shop and buy a couple of souvenirs; only to get a text from Jack that he is at the theater... which was past me.   So - I didn't go get the car and we all walked back together.    Mama is really doing great physically; a few breathing issues but she handled today like an absolute trooper and I think is having a nice time; I hope so.

Once back at the hotel, everyone went to their rooms.  Jack and I ran out to the grocery store for some bottled water.   We also grabbed a sandwich for later because I was not going back out.  I need a good night's sleep.  On the drive back we stopped to clean the windshield and when we started to drive out again realized it was on the inside... of course no paper towels.   It was extremely hard to see and I finally just whipped off my shirt, cleaned the windshield from the inside, and drove to the hotel in my bra - nothing to see here folks, nothing to see...   In all fairness, my sports bras have more covering than a lot of people wear for clothes, but it was funny none-the-less.

We are now back at the hotel; I got myself a hot bath and as soon as I finish this journal I'm calling it for the night.   It's been a good but long 2 days; time for some rest before we go further north tomorrow.

When I asked Jack what his highlights were he said.  Great breakfast and the walk.  His favorite part of the walk was climbing on the rocks, watching the surf crash against the rocks and the fact the people we passed on the trail were all friendly.   He loved the scene when we came around the curve and saw buildings on the other side of the cove; he said it looked like a watercolor painting. 

Another memory I want to keep is that we were supposed to do a sailboat ride at 4:30.  I would have enjoyed it but they canceled due to the tide; I think it was Jesus looking out for us.   The day was great without it and unrushed - I still want to ride a sailboat, but I think today was a blessing it didn't work out.

July Vacation Day 7 & 8

Yesterday was day 7 and we did nothing.  It was heaven.  We had planned to go hiking but both of us just didn't want to, so we stayed here in this amazing house with the doors open, listening to the creek, reading books, snacking and just enjoying the day.  I slept quite a bit as well.  It was heaven.

Today we did leave the house and it was also a great day.  We woke up around 9, got ready, ate some breakfast, and headed to Ft Mtn State Park.   We did the Stone Wall, Stone Tower, and West Overlook trail; which is about 1.5 miles.  It was a nice trail; with lots of steps.  We were a little bummed the tower was closed and we couldn't go up in it but there were some nice views along the way.  There were also snails, huge snails!  I got a video - they were so cool.    We then headed down toward the lake area and ate a picnic looking over the water.

Across from the picnic area, we noticed another trail across the street - Big Rock Nature Trail.  It was only .5 mile but I'm so glad we did it.  A good portion of it was along this gorgeous cascading waterfall that was just so much fun.   It was the highlight of the park by far!   There was a family playing in the water and enjoying the day.   I have to admit I was tempted to put a toe in... if I didn't want to deal with wet feet again like the other day I would have.   It looked like fun.

After finishing our hike we headed back to the cabin, got cleaned up and rested a bit before heading to Ellijay where we met Shannon and Bradley for dinner.  We ate at a restaurant callted the Roof and after a rocky start it was really great.    At first I wanted to sit outside; it's the whole reason we went, but they don't have the awnings like it advertised so we would have been in teh direct sun for the entire meal, which would have been horrible.  I asked to be moved to a table in the shade, but they would not move us due to it being a 6 top vs. 4.   I then asked to be moved inside and the hostess said "let me ask teh server if they are ok with it' to which I replied "I move in or I leave... those ar your options."  We moved in and the waitresses had a little drama over our table, which I shouldn't have seen but did.   We go ta new waitress (our old one didn't want us) and after that everything improved greatly.  The food was excellent, I ate all of it and the company was better.  

We then walked down for some icecream, meadered around the town a bit and visited.   At the end Shannon and Bradley followed us to the house and we played cards adn visited some more.  I introduced them to Spades-Z because I still refuse to call it spades :)

Tomorrow is check out day... :( Sad, I could spend another week here, but life calls.  It's been a really nice relaxing vacation. 

July Vacation - Day 6

Today was largely a travel and rest day.  We got up, packed the car, and headed to Huddle House where we had breakfast with Donald and Sherri.   We then headed south to Old Fort TN to take a peek at some property.   It was not for us; way too hilly with a lot of unusable land.   We then headed to the cabin and got here around 3.   I'm not feeling 100%; some type of sinus junk or cold; I had taken some medicine earlier in the day and by the time we go to the cabin all I wanted to do was sleep.

So... I took an hour and a half nap which was very nice.  The cabin itself is amazing.  It is actually a house, not a cabin and it is breathtaking.  Open floor plan, amazing bathrooms, quartz counters, and screen doors that open right onto a bubbling creek.   I'm sitting here now with the doors open listening to the water rush by - it's AMAZING.

After my nap, we headed to Ellijay, which is about a 30-minute trek and got groceries for the week.  Next week we are starting a plan to get a bit healthier so we bought all the junk food for the remainder of our vacation :)   I think we may go back into town Friday and walk around a bit as it looked cute. Once we got the groceries we came back to our oasis.

We made hotdogs, and macaroni and ate it with some chips out on the deck.  After that, we lit the tiki torches and just chilled... I could get used to this.  I don't think I'd like to live where it's a 30-minute trek to the store, but the water, the beauty... yea I could get used to that :)

Time for some Nyquil and sleep.   May God bless you my blogging friends; sleep well.

July Vacation - Day 5 - Independence Day

We celebrated the 4th with nature and family and it was great.   Jack and I got up this morning, early, and headed to Dog Creek Falls over near Cumberland Falls.    We stopped along the way to grab breakfast at the Huddle House and let me just say they have upped their game.   They are much better than the Waffle House with a much broader menu; I was impressed.    After breakfast, we continued onto the falls.   I'm so grateful for All Trails and Google Maps because I never would have found it.  It's off on this dirt road in the middle of nowhere!

All Trails said the bridge to the trail was damaged and you could walk across the rocks; what they didn't say is that to walk across the rocks your feet would get wet.   I took my shoes off and went across.  Jack was standing on the other side and asked if I just wanted to go to Cumberland.  My answer as I was drying off my feet with my socks - No, come on.  So he went back to the car, grabbed the blanket to dry or feet with, and over the water he came.  The water was cold, but not too bad, and honestly, it just added to the adventure.  

We hiked to the falls; for about an hour 1/2 with some strenuous/slippery parts.  It was a beautiful, day and the woods kept it fairly cool  Magnolia trees were blooming everywhere and it was serene; we could hear water almost the entire trail in some fashion or another.

The falls themselves were cool with these gigantic rocks you could climb on and a nice cave-like thing to the side.   There was a pool at the bottom and several folks were swimming.   Jack and I meandered down a bit to a quiet spot with rocks and water rapids to chill.  We drank some water, ate a fruit strip, and I took my shoes off and walked on some rocks to see further out.  It was cool.  I didn't really see anything impressive by taking my shoes off and getting my feet wet, but I can say I did it.

We then headed back.   We ended up going back on a lower trail which was cool as we got to see some different scenery.   I'll say by this time we were both ready to get back.  I was sweating in the unmentionable places women do, I had to pea, Jack's shirt apparently soured in the wash and we didn't know it til he got sweaty ... so we were ready to see that car.   But it was a really good hike and I'm grateful we did it.

Once in the car, we headed back to Donald's.  We saw a Dollar General not too far from the falls and I bought Jack a shirt, some ugly yoga pants, and underwear, and both of us changed in the car.  I was dry and comfortable and Jack's shirt is in a plastic bag to hide the awful smell.   I have a picture of these yellow and pink pants  - they were the only ones they had other than camo.   I honestly didn't care, I just wanted to be dry...

We then stopped for gas and ate lunch at Wendy's before coming back to Donald's for a shower and a nap.  

After some rest, the 4 of us took a drive down a gravel road to see the river and just explore the area.   It was really pretty and peaceful.   We came back, ate some Spaghetti, and went to downtown Jelico to watch the fireworks.   They were nice; better than I expected for a small town.   We then got into some traffic coming home trying to leave the town... and by traffic I mean we had to stop for maybe 3 minutes to let some people out.... these people would die in Atlanta or even Grovetown.   

Now we rest.  Tomorrow we are heading to part two of our trip at the cabin in N. GA.   Until then :)

July Vacation Day 4

 Today was a good day.  We got up and Donald cooked us bacon, eggs, and toast - I could get used to being waited on :)  We then hopped on the 4-wheelers and road up through the woods.   The wildflowers were blooming so pretty.  We rode up to an old homesite with a family cemetery and relaxed for a bit.  It started a small rain shower so we waited it out under the pavilion and then headed back down, stopping along the way for me to take some flower pictures.  I like the 4-wheelers when we were going slow, like 10-15 miles an hour; when Jack started going faster than that or when we were going downhill my anxiety would spike a bit and I'd try to brake on his tummy; it was funny.

Part way down we stopped at a wildflower field and Sherry was pulling the flowers to try to get them to plant in her garden.  I stand by the leave nothing take nothing philosophy but that was falling on deaf ears.   Donald's 4-wheeler started leaking gas and wouldn't crank so we decided to tow it back using a rope he had brought... that did not go well.  The brakes were locking up on his and it was just bad... so we stopped and Donald left in the other 4-wheeler to go get the truck.

Sherry, Jack, and I stayed and waited for him to come back.  A few minutes later a neighbor drove up; someone Sherry knew and Sherry and I hopped a ride back home while Jack waited with the 4 - wheeler.  I think Sherry knows everyone up here.   He drove about 50 miles an hour down the mountain and I pretty much hid my face and tried not to panic while they chatted.   He never really spoke to me, but he asked her who I was and then said yea I knew I hadn't seen her before...   I'm sitting right there, it's ok to speak to me.  But ah well, I was just grateful for the ride home.

As we got home Donald was pulling out with the trailer to go get Jack.   They made it home not to long after, we ate some sandwiches and I took a nap.

When I woke up Jack had fixed the 4- wheeler or was very close to having it fixed. He finished up and we went to Indian Falls State Park and did a short .75 trail around a pond.  It was nice, but even at 6 o'clock at night it was plum hot!    Jack and I plan to go hiking tomorrow but I'm getting a super early start; this heat is no joke.

After our walk, we came home, had steaks, played some cards, and relaxed on the porch.  Overall a really good day!    

July Vacation Day 1- 3

Good evening, I haven't written a journal for this trip and started not to do one tonight, but I know I will regret it if I don't.  My memory is a fleeting thing and having a journal to refer back to is nice.

Day 1, 6/30/23

So Friday Jack was off, but I had to work til noon.  He got out of the shower and had his glasses broke when he went to put them on, so he spent the morning getting new frames and packing.  I had a client meeting and by 1 we were in the car and headed out.

We had a fairly uneventful drive, though the traffic was bad in a few spots.  Holiday weekend, rain, and Atlanta does not make the best combination, but it could have been worse.  We got to Cleveland TN around 6 PM and had dinner at Smokey Bones before heading over to see Brian.

Brian and his wife bought a new place in Cleveland a bit ago so after eating we stopped by to see it and just visit for a bit.  It's a beautiful piece of property.  They also have 3 dogs that are friendly and shed a lot!  I looked like a dog by the time  I left, but the pets were nice and lint rollers are standard carry for us with the cats.  

We then headed to Donald's but we took a detour to look at some land in Decatur TN.   Not for us, but it was a nice little side trip.   We finally made it to Donald's around 11:15 - I thought I might die on some of the roads coming this way.  Sheer drop-offs, at night, and Jack was driving.  I have control issues and don't do well when others drive a lot of the time - it was harrowing, to say the least, and I may or may not have pinched the seat with my rear end a few times. :)   But we made it.

Day 2, Saturday 7/1

We woke up around 9ish and Sherry cooked breakfast.  We had eggs, sausage, gravy, and biscuits.   True southern breakfast.  Don't plan to lose weight up here, that is for sure!  We then drove down to Jericho and walked around the little vendor fair they have, and went into a hardware store that has a museum.   Now, when I say it has a museum...   Donald went in and asked the owner if he would open it as it is closed.  It was a room over to the side, well really a very large size of a storefront with an upstairs with a bunch of old stuff.  It had been closed up and had that smell.  I'm not really a history person, but it would have been interesting if you were.   They did however have a resident cat that needed some good pets.

After that, we meandered down the street a bit.  I had my camera hanging off of me and some guy asked if I'd take his picture.  Odd, but ok...  We continued on.  It was an enjoyable morning of strolling, letting Donald share his town and just being.   No stress, just being.   We did get a homemade lemonade from the stand which was good.

We then drove up over the interstate and pulled off this section that has a great view of the valley.  We sat on the wall and took some pictures.     It wasn't on the interstate, but a section of road right off of the exit ramp you can pull off onto.  The view was amazing and you could see Donald's house down in the valley.

Donald then took me (Jack stayed at his house) down to a neighbor's.  He filled up spring water in water jugs from her spring pump.  She lets them for free and apparently, it taste amazing :) The neighbor also showed me their fish pond.  This woman came out, without us calling ahead, and greeted us. Not to mention giving Donald water.  She was genuinely happy (or faked it well) to see us and made it a point to feed the fish so I could see them.  They have a nice place and the fish were neat.  She has huge goldfish, brim, bass, and well... it was just cool.  But more than the pond the friendly nature of her and I guess people in general here just blows my mind.   Hint - don't show up at my house without calling first.  I need to be more like this woman, but I doubt I'll ever get there.

We then came back home and just relaxed.  I took a nap, hung out on the porch, had some burgers, and just visited.   One of their friends came for dinner and we played a version of Spade's I'm going to call Spades-EZ because to call it Spades is a front to the game, but it was fun.  Basically, the mechanics are the same with Spades being trump but you don't bid.   The first team to win 7 books wins the round and the first team to win 5 rounds wins the game.

At some point during the day we ran to the store to grab a bell pepper; it's about 10 minutes drive to the Save A Lot.   I was checking out and the man in front of me just started chatting. I assumed to the cashier but later realized he was talking to me.  He was inviting me to the cookout at the park; where they are raising money for the rescue squad.    The cashier then informed him she would be donating 10 pounds of chili the next day for it...  You wonder why I type this, but can I tell you in 42 years no one has ever randomly invited me to come to something (in a noncreepy way :) hee).  It is just how it is up here, everyone is friendly and neighborly.

Overall it was a great, relaxing day.

Day 3 - Sunday 7/2/23 

We got up this morning and headed to church.  They go to a small Church of God here.  The service was nice but not at all like what I'm used to.  They don't really have planned singing.  People choose what song they want to sing on the fly and they do performances.... it was unique.  That lasted about an hour.  Then the preaching.  He spoke for about an hour and I'm not sure he took a breath the entire time.  I know he preached on Saul,  the conversion on the Damascus road, took a detour to Noah building the ark, and ended up somewhere with Lazurus and hell.   I got lost...  2 hours after we started the service it was over and I headed outside.   Not my style, but nothing seemed unbiblical and if they are reaching people for Christ I'm all for it.  It sounds like they are doing some good outreach work and they have different style churches for a reason; so we can reach different types of people.

We then went to Mexican with Sherri's Son and his family.   The food was good.   Where we are you have to drive to Williamsburg which is about 30 minutes down the road to eat Mexican.  It's the loss of convenience with items such as this that make Jack and I question our desire for land in the country, but then we look around at the beauty... a good thing we don't have to decide today.

After lunch, we came back here and I laid down for an hour.  When I got up Sherri's Son and family were here.  Apparently, it's tradition for them to spend Sundays here visiting; they live about a mile down the road but with work, they really only see each other once a week.  A bit before 6 they went to church for the evening service, Jack, myself, and their grandson decided to stay here. 

After they left her cousin Joyce popped by to check in...just popped by.  I told her I'd let them know.  We hung out on the porch for a bit and then Jack and I decided to go for a drive.

We went to the dollar store to buy their kitten, Tiger some toys.   He is 6 weeks, if he's that, and is so sweet.  He was weaned way too early and still tries to suckle you if he gets sleepy or hungry.   It's a sweet thing though - when it isn't demon possessed trying to eat my arm.   I absolutely adore him had have played with him pretty much any and all the time.

We then decided just to drive around.  It's really pretty up here and it was nice.  We ended up on a dirt road that was really a road with a name.  I kept thinking it would connect back but apparently, it goes all the way to another town so we eventually turned around.   The nature here is gorgeous, but there is a pretty big disparity between the homes.  You will see a big fine home next to a single-wide that is not well taken care of and is full of junk, next to a double-wide that is obviously cherished and loved.   It's different... and I wonder how well the property value holds.  I wouldn't want to buy a 3000-square-foot house next to a trailer with trash strewn everywhere but it is common here.

We got back to Donald's around 8:30.   Sherry's son and family were here as well.  We ate fried green tomatoes, Donald and I played cards, I played with the cat and we basically had a quiet evening.  Family randomly visiting and eating whatever out of the fridge is weird to me but seems to be the norm here...

At 11 I came into the bedroom to do my journal and call it a night.  They were still playing chess and visiting...   

A different way of life up here...  better in many respects, but different.

Dominican Republic Day 5

 It's the last day of our adventure; tomorrow we head home.  I think we are both ready to be with our kitties - in our own bed, but it has been amazing.   We have thoroughly enjoyed submerging ourselves in God's beauty here and hope to do more so in the future.  Relaxing vacations such as this are certainly a repeat. While I love to go and see - going to be is also super nice.   

Today we got up, had coffee, read/studied a bit, and then ate breakfast at the buffet.  I wanted to see what their breakfast was like.  It was good and sitting outside with the birds was nice.  We'll probably do room service in the am though.   

After breakfast, we went for an hour's bike ride around the Cap Cana area.   May I suggest not going to eat and then going to take an hour bike ride in the sun when you are out of shape?  Jack loved it - I was trying not to vomit or pass out for much of it.  But he had fun and I survived so yay :)  It was pretty though - I'm just really really out of shape apparently.

After the bike ride, we came back and I cooled off in the shower and then laid down for an hour or so to recoup.   We then sat and read books and relaxed until dinner time.   Just sitting and being was so nice.

For dinner, we went to the hibachi place and got there a little early.  We were chatting with the hostess who works at the buffett during lunch and whom we have seen a few times.  She is 19 and hopes to go to school to be a teacher ... I'll be honest I thought she was much older.  When she said her age I was a bit shocked.   I pray she is able to complete her goals.   She wants a little girl and was shocked we didn't have children; it made her sad.   Whereas I'm jumping for joy not to have them... different people, different cultures.  But it was nice to hear a bit of her life and I pray the absolute best for her.

Hibachi was ok - we've experienced better, but it was fun and we then went to see the circus show they had.  I wasn't expecting much but man was I wrong - it was amazing.    The athleticism and strength of the performers were simply amazing and the "clown" was absolutely hilarious and so strong.  It was ... so good and I'm grateful we stayed.  Afterward, they said the party was continuing at the disco so I was hoping we could dance... so we came back, changed and went down.

It was dead - dead.  ANd Jack and I can't dance to bar music apparently - we tried a couple but as dead and as loud as t was we just came back to the room.   I"m not really sad about it - we had fun this trip and we get to dance this weekend :)

Tomorrow we'll have breakfast and head out around noon.  It's a full day of planes so I don't plan to write a journal unless something unique happens.   It's been an amazing trip - DR winter certainly agrees with me.   Till next time.  

Dominican Republic Day 4

Jack and I are probably the only people you will meet, or at least one of very few, that come to a tropical island and don't really get in the water.   I put my toes in the ocean today and drapped my legs in the pool just to say I did but really we are ok just being. 

Today was more of the same - rest - rest - rest.  I've loved it though I may try to do something tomorrow on our last day.  It won't be an excursion though; they are cra-cra with their prices and none of them scream at me to do them, but we may do something.   So enough about tomorrow what did we do today you ask?  Other than rest?  not much...

I got up at 8 and ordered coffee and fruit.  We sat on the deck, and ate, I did some time in my Bible and enjoyed the beauty.   We then meandered down around 11 and spoke with the excursion lady. She said 1000 for a boat ride and I laughed in her face.. not literally but close.   Yea NOT happening.   We then went to grab breakfast but missed the window and the restaurant was closed while they swapped over for lunch.  I read on the app that the ocean bar served snacks so we wandered up that way to get a little something to wade off the hangries.   

Well, they were also in the shift swap and couldn't serve.  So... I texted our butler and he brought us fruit.   This butler thing is nice - I could get spoiled :)   We ate, danced to the radio, and relaxed.   We then meandered down to get a real lunch and sat under the vines watching the birds.   I had the prime rib and it was excellent.

We then went back to the room where we sat on the deck for a bit before deciding we were hungry again.  I swear all I want to do is eat down here ... so we went to the pool and got another one of those Yaniqueque like we had yesterday.  It's just enough to stop the hangries while still being light.   We then did the obligatory toe in the ocean, legs in the pool before deciding that really a nap was more fun.   So nap time it was and it was a great nap - like 3 hours of napping goodness.

After our siesta, we headed out to dinner at the steak house.  We got the Ribeye and a Skirt steak; both were excellent, but the skirt steak was amazing.   After dinner, we meandered around a bit, got some hot tea, walked and just enjoyed the night.   We were going to do the magic show but it was so loud - I'm really not a fan of loud at all; neither is Jack.  So we came back to the room, which if I'm honest is where I wanted to be anyway.  I just want to cozy up in bed - listen to the waves and read.  This is what I want and I'm on vacation so... it's what we are doing.  Both of us are happy as larks enjoying the moment.

So with that buenos noches dear friends; my book awaits.

Dominican Republic Day 3

 Today was rest - rest - rest and more rest.  It was such a great day.  

We got up around 9 and had coffee and some danishes while enjoying the outside.   We then read books and I did my prayer/study time before having a full breakfast sent over around 11:15.  I had the omelet - it was so good.  I decided after eating to take a nap and Jack went to use their gym.  

The nap was heaven; 2 hours of just downtime.   We got up and read a bit on the patio.  At some point, the guy that fills the mini bar came by and I asked him if he had any juices he could stock it with to which he said no but room service could bring some.  I said ok and went on with my day - no biggie.  Well, a bit later here he comes bringing us OJ.   I mean just so nice - it made me so happy.   We drink our OJ, read, and just enjoyed the day.   Eventually, we meandered down to the pool snack bar for a mini lunch.  I had a Dominican Yaniqueque which is basically a hard taco shell with toppings.  I had beef, guacamole, corn salsa, and cheese.  It was yummy - I also had a hamburger because apparently, the sun makes me hungry... 

After lunch we went to the buffet we went to yesterday for ice cream and went to sit at some swings and look at the ocean.   We then meandered to find how to get to this pavilion they have built over the ocean - we found it and set in the big cushions they had for a bit...  By this time I kinda wanted my book so we meandered back to the room and back to our patio.  I have made me a little next in the bucket chair out there and before I knew it I was dozing a bit.   ... I told you rest - rest and more rest is the name of the day.

We then went to the seafood place for dinner.  I'll be honest it wasn't my favorite  - I'm still a bit groggy from the nap and that may have played a factor but it just wasn't all that yummy.  I ordered fried calamari for a starter and it's the first fried food since I went off of the detox; within a few bites I was my head was hurting so I think that is a no go for me.  Plus they had tarter sauce but no cocktail - he tried to make me a cocktail sauce; it was a wine sauce and I give him a+ for effort but man it was horrible.   They then brought me this full fish with EYES.  If you know me you know I don't do eyes.  Can we say Alaskan Cruise all over again?  I promptly cut the head off while cringing and put it on the other side of the table but the damage was done - I just... I wasn't feeling it.  So Jack ate his shrimp and we left.  

I came back to the room, grabbed some painkillers and we meandered the shops for a bit before going to the show for the evening.  We seriously considered skipping it and I'm so glad we didn't.  It was a singer and there was dancing.  Jack and I sat at the back and danced where no one could really see us as at the beginning no one was really dancing.  By the end, I thought about going to the floor as many people were out there but we had our spot and it was great.   We danced and made up moves and just had a good time.    I'm so glad we stuck it out ...  

Tomorrow we may look at excursions - or we may just stay here again.   This private patio is worth every penny  - it's so nice.  

Dominican Republic Day 2

Oh, today - it's so hard to recap in such a way that will make an interesting read, but at the same time, it was perfection encapsulated in a day.   We woke up super early - like 7:45 am; if you know me that is insane.  Now granted that is 8:45 EST but still.   I got up ordered a prebreakfast (coffee and fruit) and just relaxed.   I went outside and moved some cushions so I could enjoy the sun.  It rained last night apparently so most of the cushions were soaked.   

The guy came with the fruit and coffee - Jack and I sat in the dining room inside and ate while watching the water out the window.  Jack then went to lay back down to rest/read and I decided to spend some time with the Father.  I restarted, for like the 4th time, my study of Ephesians and just rested in him.  It was nice.  

Jack then got up, got a shower, and then we did yoga on the patio to Beachbody on my laptop.  I had asked the butler to have a second,  real breakfast arrive around 10:45 and we finished yoga just a few minutes before - it was a nice start to the day.  Breakfast was yummy and restful to just sit and relax in our little house by the beach.     We then shifted from inside to outside to sit/rest some more.  I know riveting reading, huh?  But it was so nice...

We then asked our butler to take care of a couple of things with the house.  The fans weren't working and we wanted them to come while we went out.  He also had the cleaners come.... so they came and we left.  We wandered around the property and explored.   We found hidden alcoves; places with amazing views and restaurants we want to try.  We smiled at the water or a bird sitting on a float - we just enjoyed it.

We then stopped at the buffet restaurant and ate.  She wanted to sit us in the sun and I asked if we could sit in the shade outside... she didn't have a table in the shade set up with dishes - no worries.  She moved and set up a new table.     Just so nice and accommodating.   The buffet was a little stressful in I wasn't sure what I wanted or what much of it was... and people were milling around and the wait staff looked at me expectantly like I should know what I was doing, but I got through it - ordered me some pasta with red sauce and peppers and went to sit at my table in the shade.   We watched the birds play in the vines overhead, watched them drink from the fountain, and just enjoyed... The view was stellar. 

We then meandered back to the room where I took a nap... Jack set outside and read.

Around 5 I got up and we went down for a salsa lesson.   They do it a bit differently here in that he instructs to start with the right instead of the left so that was a bit odd.  I think Jack and I will go back to our US version, but it was fun and a good little workout.

We then headed back to the room to rest and clean up a bit before dinner.   

Dinner was at the Italian restaurant and can I just say it was the best meal I've had in quite some time.  

We started with:

• Fresh Burrata - not so great... they swapped it out for the antipasto which was yummy.
• Dried Fruit and Shrimp Couscous - this was so good!

We then had the main course.  Jack had filet milanese which he enjoyed.  I thought it was ok.  I on the other hand had a sea bream filet and oh my!  it was amazing.  It was served with onion, chickpeas spinach with fennel raises, and pine nuts.  I'm telling you this is the best dish I've had in; well I can't remember when.  It beat any food I had in southern Italy last year.   It was so good! 

We then ordered desserts.  They were a little rich for me, but no worries - they have an ice cream shop nearby where we got sherberts at that were just light enough.   We wandered down - got the ice cream and then went back to the area overlooking the pools/ocean to eat and spend some time before the evening entertainment.

Then we went to the show. The staff did the 60s, 70s, and 80s musical show.  It had moments of cringe-worthy things - like you are embarrassed for them and trying not to laugh at them.  Think - people lip-syncing Grease and trying to emulate the famous Sandy dance with the black pants and cigarette.   Then it had ones that were really good and others that were just fun - it's raining men was just - I laugh and cringe thinking about it.  I gotta say - there were 3 guys dancing around shirtless and only 1 of them really should have been, but the other two were all confident and owned it.   It was all in good fun and you couldn't help but grin.  Oh and on some dances, there were 4 guys and one guy was really new - you could tell.  He kept watching the others and was a little delayed on all the moves.  It was so sweet; I wanted to put him in my pocket and check on him like a teddy bear.   

Most of the people in the show were armatures and probably do other things around here.   There were two thought that you could tell were professionally trained.  This one woman was amazing - her frame in her dance was solid and we've been around dance enough to know she had training.   It then became obvious when she and he stepped out to do a ballet number to the song from the movie, The Body Guard by Whitney Houston. They were truly talented. 

All that being said please don't hear me wrong - it was great.  I'm writing most of the little nuance things so I remember it personally; not to make fun or criticize.   I grinned through 90 % of it and Jack said he loved watching my expressions.   Their intent was to bring us joy and give us memories - they 1000% succeeded.

We then came back to the room and are about to go to sleep.  As I said, not the most riveting day to read about I'm sure but such a great day to live.   I'm grateful for this time of rest and rejuvenation.  I pray I carry it with me when I get home.

I pray that you all are well and that the Lord grants you a good night's rest and that he gives you joy in the morning that is unbeatable.   Sleep well, friends. 

Dominican Republic Day 1

Jack and I have escaped the winter and to just get some rest.  We are both on fumes for some reason.  So off to the Dominican Republic, we came.  In actuality, this trip has been planned since March or April of last year, but it came at the best time.   We are both just - tired.   I'm hoping a few days of paradise, mental resets, and quiet can help to put some more wind in our sails.

We are at a resort in Cap Cana called Sanctuary and it's beautiful.  Today was mainly travel with a 2-hour delay in ATL (the co-pilot was sick and they had to call a new one in on his day off), but it was a good day.   The Augusta Airport staff were absolutely amazing this morning - so friendly and kind.   The Atlanta staff kept us in the loop and were also kind.    The F concourse in Atlanta is so unique and I can't help but laugh now.   Jack went to get me some coffee while I got us seats... well I changed seats no less than 4 times to find the perfect one that didn't spike my anxiety, have too much light, have the best view, etc... Sometimes I'm so neurotic I can't help but laugh at myself.   

We got here, at the resort, today around 5 and were exhausted as we got up this morning at 4 am so we haven't explored too much, but tomorrow I am looking forward to getting out more.   So far it's super nice though.   We have a private villa next to the ocean with a balcony large enough to waltz on to relax - it's amazing!     

We arrived at the resort and they immediately met us at the bus with eucalyptus cool towels to refresh ourselves while they checked us in.  We then met our amazing butler Carlos and he gave us a brief tour while taking us to the villa.    We settled in; unpacked and then headed to grab some dinner.  There was a tiny wait so we walked around and then sat to listen to a Sax player while we waited.  I wanted to dance but no one was as I would have felt awkward - maybe tomorrow.    As far as food we didn't want a new experience tonight - save those for when we aren't so tired so we just did the steak house.   The food was ok - the appetizers and dessert were amazing.  Jack had this empanada that was really good and I had a tomato and strawberry glaze salad that was delish.  The main dish was just ok, but then I had a lime sorbet for dessert that was so refreshing.     Jack also had a virgin cocktail with watermelon, apple, cinnamon, and lemon - it was so yummy.  And they made me an unsweet tea (had to make it special) but they put a lime in it - oh .. it was amazing.  I'm going to start adding lime at home; it was so good! 

We wandered down to the beach party - they were playing limbo and while fun, we both voted for sleep.  Now we are sitting in bed, with the door open listening to the ocean; it's heaven.    I can't wait to experience it tomorrow without the fatigue of a long travel day.   

For now, though - sleep well dear friends. :)