Family | Peaches Prattlings

{March 25, 2024} I did not stop writing again and I did not forget about you!

I promise! I have been under the weather, then sick as a dog since we last spoke and I am sorry! There was a big event to tell you about and I could not even bring myself close enough to the pc to tell you about it! But I will…in another post!

I started to feel woogie on Wednesay, I taught a class, did a few things and decided I needed some Dayquil, then to sit down and rest. Now, normally, when I start to feel woogie, and yes, that is a technical term, when I start to feel woogie, I take a Dayquill or two, meaning two doses, the directed 4 hours apart, I know, I know, you’re shocked I actually follow directions! Well, usually, that works. Nope, not this time.

Thursday came, I started feeling woogier and taught my last class, oh and the cough decided to join me for class, gee thanks. There were a few ‘please hold, I have to turn off my camera and mic and choke for a moment’ moments, fun! But we made it through class, but by the time it was over, I was not doing so hot. I did what I needed to do to wrap up the day, but it was time to lay down, I don’t think I was even able to walk the dogs.

Now, as I said, I usually can take the Dayquil in a day or two, I’m right as rain, PSM says I have a really strong immune system, well, Mother Nature‘s storm front, the hot/cold/hot/cold days, Spring, and allergies all rolled up into one, did nothing for me! So…I got in bed by 9p, yes, you heard me, 9pm and I was done for!

I only got up a few times in the middle of the night, oh joy! Friday came and I was a zombie…I do not know how I made it through work. I finished everything I needed to for the classes I taught for the week, took a nap, went back to work and prepped for the next week, which started today, prepped for some classes I have scheduled in the future and at 430p, I was 100000% done. I took a scalding hot shower, because that sometimes helps, put on my jammies, fed the dogs, and I was under the covers by 6pm.

PSM came home with some soup, it wasn’t the best soup, but it was hot and it hit the spot, he even tasted it and agreed, but I love that he brought me soup and he took charge of me! Thank you! He then said we are switching to Nyquil, because you need sleep! Yes sir! I am down with that!

I took the Nyquil and then there was a new type of woogie feeling, but that faded into the back of my eyelids! I woke up at some point, took more Nyquil, oh, and did I mention the hot cups of tea with honey that kept coming? I am one lucky broad! There were several scalding hot showers, because they open my chest up, the steam clears my nose up and I feel warm and wonderful…for about an hour, but I will take it!

I also woke up sweating several times, so those showers were wonderful and refreshing. Back to bed, more Nyquil. Saturday was a blur! The last does of Nyquil came about 11pm, I fell asleep about 12am, woke up at 1am and I did not fall asleep again until about midnight Sunday. Oh, about 4am Saturday night/Sunday morning, I decided I was laying there long enough, I’m going on a trip Friday, I’m going to do my hair.

I didn’t do the best job this time, in terms of…if you saw the back of my neck, you might notice the giant blue and purple blobs! o m g! ha ha ha. There has been a great deal of exfoliating going on as we speak! I may be wearing a scarf on my flight if I can’t get the color off my neck! I am sitting here laughing hysterically as I write this! I am also reading this out loud as I write it and I almost never do that! I might still be delirious!

Yesterday, PSM was very wise to not let me do anything, even getting up to brush my teeth took a lot out of me! He was great, he’s taken the pressure off me to do things, he’s walked the dogs, fed them, put them up, all the things we share duties on, but he’s done them all, and I so appreciate him for that.

Today, still taking it easy, glad I work from home, I sat at my pc, worked, took breaks when I needed to, but didn’t move much. I did a little laundry, so I have what I need for my trip, but taking it very easy. I’m still not 100% and I don’t have much of an appetite, but I’m getting there, as my grandma would say ‘yiddle by yiddle’. I still have this cough, but my throat isn’t as sore and I have about 10 minutes worth of talking time before I start choking or get tired, so…

That being said, I’ve talked to you now for about 30 minutes and I’m feeling it! So…g’night!

{March 21, 2024} There is a 17 year old in the family! What?!

When did this happen? Yup, it’s true! March 21, 2024 EJS turned 17! Wow!

I’m sitting here trying to wrap my head around that! My baby sister, yes, she’s still my baby sister, not far behind me in age, but I still think she’s 9, I know, I know, she’s not, but I once wrote a poem/story, My baby sister is getting married, but she’s 9! Well… my baby sister is the mother of a seventeen year old!

I remember when my kids turned 17, so I have an inkling of what’s happening in hear head and heart, and as for me…I remember the day she was born. I didn’t get to meet her that day, she was about 7 days old when I finally got to meet her, hold her, hug her, nuzzle nose to nose, tell her all sorts of things, what I was going to teach her, what she was going to teach me, all the fun we would have.

She smelled so good, so tiny, this little thing with a head of black hair and a scrunched yup face, pure perfection! I teased my sister when she was born, one day, when she’s 16, I’m going to get a call “I hate her come get me!” it would either be my niece or my sister, and I’m happy to report, that never happened! When I asked my sister, ooh, can I buy the Halloween costume, she said you better, if you don’t there probably won’t be one! And so began my saga of being the one to get EJS, MGS, and all my grands their Halloween costumer.

For the longest time, I would buy something just plum adorable when I found it, oh, the monkey costume! Then as she got a little older I started asking what she wanted to be, and whatever she said, she got. Sometimes it was something she didn’t even know what it was, like the year she wanted to be a Power Ranger, she never saw the show, but she saw the costume, ok, so she was a Power Ranger. Then one year, she put the costume together herself, uh, sigh…ok… but…Auntie J, you can get me this for the costume, DONE!

I used to love finding creative gifts on my travels, doing creative things for her birthdays, now, I’m happy to send whatever it is she wants, as long as she tells me what she wants! When she was little I was there for either her birthday or birthday party, a promise I made when she was born. And until Covid hit in 2020, I was there, for every single event,. When I lived it Boston, it was great, I could pick her up from school, be a ‘class auntie’, put her to bed at night, take her to the movies, and be around.

She was so much fun to travel with as a wee tot, we’d play hide-and-go-seek, which was very creative in a hotel room! We’d run on the beach, play in the pool, take walks, take naps. As she got older, different types of activities, excursions, and experiences.

Now…she’s grown up and the conversations are different, she continues to amaze, and astound me every day. Very smart, amazing futbol player, good grades, driving! omg on that one! she has a job, and now she’s looking at colleges. I know whatever she does, she’ll succeed. And will make me an even prouder auntie. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for EJS.

Happy 17th birthday EJS, can’t wait to celebrate so many more experiences and happy moments with you. I love you.

{March 17, 2024} A walk, a ride, breakfast, a block shoot, and clean bikes

That was our Sunday, what was your Sunday like?

I decided the pups could sleep with me last night, it was great, until…Well, Ruby fell asleep next to me, Bee started in the crook of my left side, we were all good and then I woke up in the middle of the night had my beagle turned into a cat and was sleeping inbetween my legs! I felt like I was held hostage, I couldn’t move! ha ha. I moved her over to my left side, fell back asleep and woke up to her in the exact same place! No wonder I couldn’t pull the blanket over my legs, really?!

We stayed happy, cuddling, and content, until Ruby decided it was time to wake up, and by that I mean lick my face, and hand, and arm, and…until I gave up and got out of bed. I love the dogs, I do not love getting licked into oblivion! Ok, ok, I’m up! Got dressed and got them ready to go for a walk.

Came back from the walk, fed them breakfast and soon it was time for us to get some breakfast. On the bikes and off to Heisy’s Diner. We really like this place! I think I told you about it, it’s a train car that they just added and added to, it goes on forever! We sat at the counter, which we love to do, ate, drank coffee and tea, talked, laughed, planned, you know, the usual.

Back home we didn’t go into the house to get the dog’s hopes up, we just switched from bikes to truck and headed out towards Bethel, PA. In Bethel, we went to the Lebanon Valley Motorcycle Club‘s Bethel Grounds for a Block Shoot. It’s a cool property, they have a building big enough to hold several picnic tables with benches, riding lawnmowers and garden tools, there is a kitchen, and around back there are port-o-potties. They have a firepit and a lot of space. In the summer, if you want, you can camp for $10 per night. I’m not sure what other events they have there, but the block shoot happens twice a year.

So…if, like me, you were wondering what a block shoot is…at the core, you are shooting at a block of wood with an index card on it. Ok, more details…Everyone signs up, if you want to shoot, you can, if you don’t want to shoot, you can have sponsor someone to shoot for you, yes, you guessed it, that’s what we did. It’s $2 per shot, we each put in $10 for 5 shots each and someone was assigned to shoot for us, there’s a prize at the end!

When it’s time for the shooting to start, there is a target, it’s a wooden block with a white index card on it and you shoot from 50 feet away from the target. There is someone in the big metal box-type thing who puts the block with the index card on the pole, there is a red slider up in between each round, when the person who is setting up the blocks is ready switches the red slider to green and the person knows they can shoot. This goes back and forth until everyone who has put in money has either shot or had someone shot for them.

At the end of the round, or first shoot, they bring in all the blocks and the index cards are examined and the card, which has a number assigned to it/you, with the pellet closest to the center of the X is hit, that is declared the winner! Guess who won $25 for the first round? PSM! Go PSM! And he didn’t have to do anything for it except sponsor someone to shoot for him!

The next thing they do is called a Spinner Round. There is a giant circle with boxes in them with everyone’s number assigned and the winner of the block shoot round gets to shoot the spinner, which is spinning, as the name suggests and the number with the closest X is the winner, not us, sadly!

The clubhouse, as it were, opens at 11 for food, they had hamburgers, hot dogs, chili, drinks, cupcakes, all sorts of goodies. There was a firepit outside and everyone socializes until the block shoot starts. They continue to socialize, but it’s harder to hear if you’re in the back, but it doesn’t stop anyone.

There were other raffles, a 50/50 for our club, a gun raffle and a cash prize raffle for another club. There are all these opportunities to fundraise and help each other out, it’s nice. After the first round block shoot and the 50/50 raffle, it was time to head out and head home.

At the house, we let the dogs out, PSM pulled all the bikes out and we got to work cleaning them. They were in desperate need of baths. Please don’t tell too many people but…we hadn’t given them proper baths since we went on our 3-week trip out west over the summer. We are embarrassed! We’ve wiped them down, but not the given them the detail they really need. And the bugs on the windshield… O M G! We cannot do this to them again! Don’t they look all shiny and pretty?!

Next…into the house, sit down and breath! Oh, and practice my Duolingo, more on that another time!

Who ever heard of sitting still on a Sunday!? Dogs are in the crate, writing to you…g’night!

{March 16, 2024} A meeting, brunch, a mud sale, a new brewery

It’s Saturday, why did I have to wake up first at 2am, no idea. I fell back asleep, thankfully, then woke up close to 7a, in a slight panic, why didn’t my alarm go off?! Oh yeah, it’s Saturday! Wahoo!

I went downstairs, the dogs had stayed out, meaning out of the crate, so about 730a, I went downstairs and whispered to them, ‘who wants to snuggle?’, you don’t have to ask twice! They came upstairs and got in bed with me. I fed them, then took them for a walk, a little out of order, but they were happy, they love the snuggles and their walks!

After we got back, PSM and I got into the truck and drove out to the monthly IMRG, Indian Motorcycle Riders Group, Susquehanna Chapter 1903, meeting, great to see everyone, talk about future rides and getting back out there. The meetings don’t last too long, which is good, no lunch after this month. Very excited to get to ride with these guys again, gotta love Spring!

Then we went to Starbucks up the street to grab some drinks, we didn’t get to get anything on the way. I called DR, who I had reconnected with at the funeral, and we met him for brunch at the Lion’s Pride Restaurant in Red Lion, PA. It was a cute little town, the best part, there was a Red Lion on everything, including the street signs, I love that!

The restaurant was a good down-home place, pretty big with lots of room for a lot of people with several rooms to eat in. The food was good and the beverages were hot. Not sure we’d go back there for breakfast, only because it’s about an hour from us, and we like to do breakfasts a little closer, but it was very much worth it to see DR and introduce him to PSM, they had some stuff in common. Always helps when your friends can get along with your better half!

After brunch, we all went to a Mud Sale in Airville, PA, DR had told me about this, it was really cool! It’s basically a fundraiser to help the local volunteer fire brigades! It was like nothing I’ve ever experienced, it was auction city! Outside, in tents, in the firehouse, everywhere you looked, there was an acution! And the auctioneers…the Amish men themselves! First, it was odd to see them using technology, like microphones, but they were also fabulous auctioneers, just like you see, or hear, in the movies, could barely understand what they were saying! I can’t think how to explain it in words, just check out the video!

The first tent we went to was animals, and animals galore they had! They had started the animal auction at 930, we were there close to 11a and they were still in full swing! They had bunnies, oh my the bunnies, that’s what was being auctioned when we got there. Babies, full grown, medium, brown, white, black, you name it, you could find whatever type of bunny you wanted. PSM said no…you know I asked!

Then…squeal..squeal…squeal…voice goes up a few octive…they had BABY GOATS!!! O M G! I want one sooo badly. PSM said no…Please? No…we could get a color for it, like we have for the dogs and they can stay in the backyard! Please? no… oh well!

There were grown goats, big kids, little kids, there were fluffy sheep, lambs, big pigs, baby pigs, chickens, pigeons, peacocks, swans, like I said, you name it, they had it! As we walked around, it seemed like almost everyone was walking around with a chicken or a bunny! I don’t know who got the goats! Can I come and play?!

We went to the next tent, crafts, PSM thought he lost me, but I done good! It was a lot of Americana, wooden crafts, rabbits, bird houses, yard signs. Then on to the farm tools, then beautiful wooden furniture, into the firehouse where they were auctioning these amazing quilts, oh my word! They had it down to a science. Pull one up for all to see, highest bid wins, it comes down as they are hoisting the next one up, it was pretty cool.

There were food vendors inside and out. Back outside we went to the other side of the property and they were bidding on plants, sporting equiment, tractors, mowers, generators, tool chests, you name it, they probably had it and were trying to sell it! Oh, and if you buy a bunch or can’t carry what you bought, there were Amish kids there with their wagons to help you get your purchases to your vehicle!

Oh, and gotta love the buggy parking! One of my favorite things today! besides the bunnies and the baby goats!

After we walked to every auction, we decided to head out. Back to the vehicles in the corn field, the reason we didn’t ride the bikes, although it would have been the perfect day for riding. I appreciate PSM giving me an out to not ride in the flattened corn field, it would not have been fun!

We decided to find a local brewery to get some drinks and food. We went to Wyndridge Farm, a large beautiful space with a spacious and bright bar area, we sat right next to the tasting room, they also have an event venue, it was beautiful. I sent a picture to BJS because it reminded me of where she got married, great memories!

We had some grub, drank, talked, laughed, shared stories, and just had a really nice time. We talked about being able to get together sometime soon, I told DR about the Lebanon Valley Libations Trail and he has agreed, well, I twisted his arm, to join us at some of the breweries. ha ha. I know it will be tough, but he’s a trooper!

Afte we parted company, PSM drove us back home, we were about an hour away, and aside from the Amish cologne, that’s what someone called the fertilizer smell! It would have been the perfect ride. I’m hoping we can do it again!

Home, take the dogs for a walk, well, take Ruby, Bee got just past the driveway and decided she wasn’t going and dug her heels in, at that point, just like with a child, you pick and choose your battles, so…battle won for Bee, we went back, I deposited her at the house and Ruby and I went for a nice long walk.

Back home, feed the pups and then I went upstairs and decided I wanted to take a shower, but…I remembered at the Mud Sale, they had a claw foot tub, which I love, so I decided to take a not hot bubble bath and oh my word it was wonderful! I practiced my Italian, watched some videos, and all around just basked in the bubbles, the heat, and the steam. What could be better I ask you!?

And now, dear friends, I am sharing my day with you, as I love to do. So…shared! And now…g’night!

{March 14, 2024} Spring has sprung!

It was beautiful today, I think Spring has sprung!

Just like yesterday, I had to get on the bike, oh yeah! Well, first, I only needed a hoodie when I took the dogs for a walk around the block, a glorious morning. Then it was home to take a quick shower and get ready for work. Oh, did I mention that being that Spring has sprung, there is new life all around us. I haven’t seen any baby ducklings, wait, if they’re ducklings, which is a baby duck, do I really have to say baby ducklings? Am I alone in this one? I don’t think so, I think we all call them baby ducklings, because it sounds so much fun to hear and say, go on, say it, think it, baby ducklings. Ok, I am cracking myself up here, somebody stop me!

Anyway…so…there is new life in our yard, the crocuses are coming up and around the neighborhood, daffodils, robin red breasts are making an appearance, it’s a treat.

The VW dealership texted to let me know my car was ready, so before my class this afternoon, I hopped in the loaner Tiguan, headed to the dealership and traded it in for my beetle bug, Annie. I got in, dropped the top and the windows and headed home, life is good!

Then, today, for the first time in a few weeks, I took the dogs to the park. I asked ‘who wants to go to the park?’ I actually watched Ruby run and jump over something in the yard, oh boy! It’s been a while, not just because I didn’t have my car, but it’s been cold, rainy, and wet for the past few weeks, and I didn’t want to slip and slide through the park. We did it a few times, but just haven’t lately. Well, so glad we went today! People were out enjoying themselves, lots of cars in the different lots, but the park is big enough, you don’t run into many people.

We met a few dogs, got some lovies from kids and adults, saw some new flowers and growth and we saw some torguga, or turtles, on a log. Some ladies we passed told us about them, so we made sure to look and sure enough…tortuga! The girls were so happy to be back in the park, their old stomping grounds, sniffing everything like it was the first time! We made it around, back in the car and headed home.

Back home, they couldn’t wait to get out of the car and head inside…dinner’s about to be served. After dinner, PSM called and asked if I wanted to meet him somewhere, sure! I hopped on Charlene and went to meet him at Lebanon Valley Craft Breweing. I saddled up to the bar, ordered a tall glass of water and waited for my hubs. He got there, we just ordered an appetizer, they didn’t have the same grilled veggie wrap I had Friday, oh well.

We talked, laughed, planned, cajoled, and just enjoyed ourselves. Eventually it was time to head home, back on the bikes, he revved his engine, I revved mine and we were off! It was a little chillier for me on the way home, but it was still wonderful to be on the bike. Only 23% chance of rain tomorrow, 7% on Saturday, and 7% on Sunday…there’s more riding in my future! Only 3 months until our bike trip up north! Cannot wait!

And now, dear friends…g’night!

{March 13, 2024} I have our next Adventure/Journey!

You probably remember me telling you all about the Lebanon Valley Java Journey, you have to, I couldn’t stop talking about it, as much as you said, ‘stop, JJ, not another coffee house/adventure/story!’ well…we’re at it again!

This one we did last year, sort of, well, I say sort of because someone gave me all the codes, we didn’t have to go to each brewery, and they gave them to me on the last day, I got a hat and some coasters out of it! Well, this year, we’re gonna go! It is the Lebanon Valley Libations Trail! You know what that means…libations = beer, refreshments! There is a kick-off on April 4th, unfortunately, I won’t be here for it, but if PSM goes, he can represent! It runs from April 4th-June 13th, there are 18 craft breweries, brew-pubs, tap rooms, and so much more!

We have already been to a few of the places, some I’m super stoked to go back to, we already planned on some of them, and there are one or two I’m not too excited to return to, but…in the spirit of trying new experiences, and giving places a second chance, I’m willing to give it a go! Hey, there are prizes involved, you know I’m going to do it! Besides, I’m not drinking, I’m just the DD! Unless we’re on the bikes, then PSM is the designated drinker and I will support him!

But…like the Java Journey, we are trying something new, going to new places, and expanding our horizon and world. Don’t you fret none, I will be telling you all about it, of that I know you have no doubt! And…if you’d like to join us on this next journey, or trail… as it were, c’mon, you’re more than welcome!

Who’s with me?! And on that note…g’night!

{March 9, 2024} A fitting tribute

I was going to tell you all about my day today, it was full, but right now, I’m only going to tell you about one thing, an amazing tribute to a dear friend.

I told you yesterday that today I was going to Staten Island for the funeral of my friend AGM, who passed on February 14th. Here we are, on Staten Island, staying at my dad’s house for the night, so we can proprely toast, I’m not going to say ‘so we can say goodbye’, because we’re not really saying goodbye, not to AGM.

AGM is…wow…is, was one of those people who, the moment you met him, you were a friend, a sister, a brother, you weren’t just friends, you were family. He had an infectious smile, you couldn’t help but smile when you saw it, but when he laid it on you…then there was his laugh, yeah, you know it, don’t you…once you’re in, you’re in.

The service was at Scarmardella Funeral Home on Staten Island, not a lot of parking at all! We parked a few blocks away and walked in the rain, fitting for the day, don’t you think? When we got there, there weren’t a lot of people there, but we were there just at the time the funeral was called for, 2pm. We spoke with AGM’s sister and we all laughed, because during the planning, the funeral home was only going to give them one room. You’re wondering why we laughed, well…as I said it was only the start, and as the preacher said later, AGM was known as the Mayor of Staten Island!

We walked into the chapel room and the flowers, when we got there, were beautiful, and the urn his sister had picked, perfect. AGM was a huge superhero fan, and how fitting what she got for him, just look at the memorial card for him, what could be more perfect.

People started to arrive and I don’t think it stopped, ever! Even after we left, which was almost 6p when it was scheduled to be over, people were still coming. Some people stayed, like we did, some came in and out, but they came, in droves, that just says it all and when we went into the chapel room to listen to a few people and a preacher, it was truly standing room only, expected nothing less for him.

There were people I remembered and some I didn’t, people remembered me, and for that, I am so very humbled. Even if we weren’t sure who we were or the other person for that matter, we had a connection. ‘How did you know AGM?’, unless you knew the person directly or through AGM, that was the question of each moment, each minute.

Some of us knew AGM from PS 22, some of us knew him from IS 72, Curtis HS, Port Richmond HS, College of Staten Island [CSI]. Others knew him post school, Legends, Joe’s Broadway, The Red Spot, any number of bars down on Bay Street in Staten Island, The Rocky Horror Picture Show in NYC, cannot for the life of me remember the theater name, sorry!, CVS, and anywhere else you may have known this force of nature, and he was a force of nature, no one can tell me anything different, and I don’t think anyone would disagree.

We talked, we screamed when someone we knew walked in, and we knew them or recognized them, we hugged, oh wow, did we hug, we held on while we cried, didn’t let go, we held hands, we side hugged, it really was about having human contact, and at that moment, no matter what happened way back when, we were back in school, or wherever you see yourself, and we were in that moment, and we were with him. I told a few people, as we were standing there, I kept expecting him to walk through the door, the door to the chapel, the door to the funeral home, just walk in to where I/we were with that big, goofy grin, reaching in to give you the biggest, warmest, silliest bear hug you could handle, or maybe, like me, he scoops you up and you fall on the floor together laughing and say the same thing you always said ‘falls for me every time!’.

We spent three hours going through every emotion…greeting, hugging, smiling, crying, laughing, shock, some anger, you can’t have something like this happen and not be a little angry, I don’t have to tell you why, I’m at least hoping you understand and don’t judge us.

About 515p, they ushered those of us who were still there, and there were a lot of us, into the chapel and the preacher introduced three people who spoke, all from the heart, and all with such passion, and love, and, well, I was going to say more, but love is it, a story, an anecdote, made us laugh and cry, yup. Then the preacher spoke and the big one was ‘life is too short’, he said a mouthful. And those of us who reconnected, I have a feeling we’re going to stay in each other’s lives in some capacity and what more could you want?

When it was finally time to go, it was slow going. Say goodbye to this person, ‘are you going to Joe’s Broadway?’, say goodbye to that person ‘will I see you at Joe’s Broadway?’ hug him, hug her, ‘I’m so glad we saw each other’, hold this one tight, hold that one tight, ‘I’m so glad we reconnected, I’d really like to stay in touch, tell each other how you feel, that they matter, life is too short.

So, I say to you, dear readers, my dear friends, tried and true, steadfast friends, I appreciate you, I am so glad we’re talking again, I can’t see letting go again, and do you know why…life is too short.

{March 8, 2024} A visit, a new place for dinner, we got in!

A normal work day, in the afternoon MM arrived, picked up PSM at work, went to a new place for dinner, then a club meeting, a movie, nighty night!

MM came in because tomorrow, we’re heading to Staten Island to attend the funeral of a friend. I don’t know if you recall me telling you about the passing of AGM on February 14th, a good friend from high school, someone who comes in and out of your life and it’s like no time has passed and just thinking about him right now I’m smiling. Well…tomorrow is the funeral, and then following, the celebration of life.

Since MM lives in South Carolina and he was driving up, I suggested he stop here, it’s about 7 hours from here, spend the night and we go together. We further planned…we are going to go to the funeral, then the celebration, then spend the night at my dad’s, there’s a brunch on Sunday, then we drive back to PA.

So…MM is here, I drove PSM to work because the beetle bug is in the shop, so we went to pick him up, we came home, chilled out for a while, then decided to head out and get some dinner. We went to the Lebanon Valley Craft Brewery, now we’ve been there before, but they only had a giant popcorn machine and food trucks on occassion, now…they have a full kitchen! Let’s eat!

The place was packed, and when I say packed, I mean packed, there was almost no place to sit. I happened to see two spots at the bar, I asked the people at the bar if they could move down two spots and we could sit there, thank you! We siddled up to the bar and settled in, right behind the taps, not a bad place to be, I love beer taps, they are so creative!

PSM had joined the LVCB Bierverkosters, basically a beer club. For your entry fee, you get a discount on food and merchandise, you get a 20oz beer for the price of a 16oz pint, and you get to punch a timecard on an old fashioned machine, pretty cool! And even more…

We ordered food, it wasn’t bad, I ordered a grilled veggie wrap, my only feedback was that it was cold on the inside, it should have been a hot sandwich, but it was tasty. Would I order it again? Yup, I will definitely give them another chance on this! They had a few things I might be able to eat, a few salads, not sure about the spicy black bean burger…but they have options. PSM and MM both had burgers, said they were pretty good.

One thing that wasn’t a plus was how long the food was taking. We thought because the kitchen has only been open a short time and it was really slammed in the place, the kitchen got slammed, add to that, we were all hungry, not a great combination. But will we go back and go back for more than just drinks, we definitely will, it’s a local place for us, the drink selection is good for PSM, they have very salty popcorn, fun to have while you’re there, the staff is very nice, and now they have a full kitchen, what more could you want? I’m sure as they grow, they’ll get better and I’m willing to go on the journey with them!

After dinner, we headed over to the Lebanon Valley Motorcycle Club for the Friday Night Meeting. We got there shortly before 8p, walked in, we were greeted so warmly, they know us now, especially since we’ve been to a few meetings. They missed us last week, that feels good to know! The last meeting they had some desserts that we both enjoyed and I told someone that I enjoyed the cherry bars, tonight, she gave me the recipe! Someone else had a recipe for their cake last week, but we weren’t there. Way to make us feel so welcome!

When we went upstairs for the meeting, they announced that we had been voted in, which was read from last week’s minutes, we had missed that, but we had a rousing cheer for us! MM introduced himself, we all had a good time, laughing, learning, just the camraderie! The events are starting to happen and I’m excited to participate! Thank you LVMC, we are excited to be here!

We came home got comfortable and put on Harlem Nights, one of my favorite movies of all time, just a classic with Eddie Murphy, Richard Pryor, Red Fox, Della Reese, Danny Aiello, Michael Lerner, Jasmine Guy, and so many other great performers and comedians, I’ll tell you more about the movie another time!

Right now…gotta crash, getting up to get some brunch, then head to NYC for, well, you know.

Good night all, hug each other!p

{March 5, 2024} I’m in planning mode! Weehoo!

So…last year, I haven’t had a chance to tell you about this trip yet, but PSM and I went on a 3-week motorcycle trip with some friends, and made new friends. We enjoyed the trip so much, we talked about the next year’s trip while we were on that trip. And here we are!

It’s almost a year later and we are in planning mode for our 10 day trip for this June. We would have loved to be able to take a 3-week trip again, but some folks don’t have the time this year to take 3-weeks, but there’s always a next time!

So…what are we doing this year? Well, let me tell you… and you know I will give you a day-by-day of what we’re doing, complete with photos! I tell you just about everything now, don’t I?! Ok, so…JD is our ride captain, he plans the routes and found the hotels, maybe one day he’ll let someone else help with that! ha ha.

My job, as cruise director, Julie McCoy, that was the nickname they gave me on our trip last year because I ended up in charge of figuring out where we were going to eat meals, dinners, at least, communicating these details, along with the meet time to head to dinner, and KSU, Kick-Stands-Up in the mornings. And don’t know I love it! I might need a name badge, or at least a t-shirt with that name on it!

So… we are starting in Middleborough, MA, well, some of us are, since we’re coming in from Lebanon, PA, if we don’t ride to Middleborough, we’ll meet everyone in Bar Harbor, ME, this is about a 6 hour ride and 360 miles. Our plan is to watch the sunrise on Cadillac Mountain, you know that means an unseemly hour of the morning, I can’t wait, then ride to the ferry terminal in Bar Harbor to load our bikes and persons and sail 3.5 hours to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. When PSM and I were in Nova Scotia years ago, we found out it translates to New Scotland, when you look out over the landscape it looked like Scotland to those who named it, and after being there two years ago, I couldn’t agree more!

Our trip is along the Cabot Trail, so every stop is going to be a part of that, passports at the ready! When we land in Yarmouth, we are going to ride about 4 hours and 193 miles to Halifax, Nova Scotia [NS], I am so excited about seeing Halifax again, I loved it and wished we had had more time there! Then, day 3, yes we are only up to day 3, can you believe it?!…from Halifax, we ride to Baddeck, about 6 hours and 270 miles.

Days 4-5, we’re going to do day trips on the Cabot Trail, even staying at the Cabot Trail Motel. Day 6, we ride Baddeck to Tatamagouche, NS for the night where we get to stay in train cars! Cannot wait! Then Day 7, Tatamagouche to St John New Brunswick, about 5 hours and 200 miles. Day 8m we ride about 6.5 hours and 300 miles from St John New Brunswick to Freeport, ME, and we’re back in the US! The last day, sadly…day 9, we ride from Freeport, ME to Middleborough, MA, about 5 hours and 180 miles. Most likely, PSM and I will go from New Brunswick towards PA and then make our way home by June 16th.

I just sent out a spreasheet for us to keep track of everything and as I was filling it out/in, I was getting more excited! I cannot wait to share the trip with you, a daily recount, and as I promised, chock full of pictures!

But for now, dear friends, I am going to bid you a fare fondwell, wait, what?! no, that’s a fond farewell and bid you goodnight!

And…I have to tell you, I am so happy that I started sharing with you again, I have really enjoyed the past two months! O M G! It’s been two months and I’ve shared so much, being as consistent as I can, I know I’ve missed some days, but I’m not as worried about that as I used to be. But we’re talking again and that’s what matters!

g’night!

{March 2, 2024} Breakfast with dad, drive to Bahston, dinner with my sis

All is a day, of course!

I got up way to early for a Saturday, why can’t I sleep past at least 6am!? I decided to linger, I didn’t feel like getting out of bed, going out into the rain, and the bed got softer and I kept sinking deeper and deeper into the warmth and comfort of my childhood bed. Don’t roll your eyes, it’s a very comfortable bed, the mattress is just right, and the blankets were piled on and just cozy! It’s a twin, yup, you know how much I love a king or california king bed, but I grew up sleeping on a twin bed. You should have seen the number of pillows and stuffed animals I had, used to give people ‘hives’!

I got up eventually, got dressed, got the dogs out of their travel crate, and took them out for a walk. It was still raining, not too hard, but enough, hoping it wasn’t going to get too bad on my way to Boston, but I was not so lucky! We walked around the block I grew up on, back to the house, say good morning to paw-paw, fed them, let them hang out for a few minutes, then back in the crate and dad and I went to Z-One for breakfast. First, we tried to go to Zara Forest Grill, we saw they had breakfast, but it turns out they don’t open until 11am on Saturdays, that’s brunch, not breakfast!

I love my one-on-one time with my dad, we talk about everything and nothing, we reminisce, we plan, we strategize, we joke, we tell stories, it’s just that good!

After breakfast, we made a pit stop at Michael’s, it was for him, not for me! But who am I to stand in the way of creativity! I had so much fun crafting with him last night! When we got back home, I packed up the pups crate, food, and bowls, and of course, the dogs, got in the car, made sure the window cover was secure, plugged in the address of the hotel and headed out into the rainy day for parts, I can’t say parts unknown, I know where I’m going! ha ha.

It was about a 4.5 hour drive with no stopping, well, we know me well enough to know that’s not possible! With the rain, stopping for gas, and one or two potty breaks, I made it in about 5-5.5 hours, that’s not bad at all! I got the dogs out, walked them in the rain, got them into the room, unloaded the car, got the crate and their bed set up and then I got to work feeding them.

After a bit, I got in touch with GES and we worked out that I would go over to their house so I could see MGS, and we would order take-out, but if they bring it to you, is that take-in? hmmm…it was good, we had pho, and it was pretty good. I definitely had leftovers to bring home! We hung out, talked, played with Bailey, their dog, and Piper, the labradoodle they were dog sitting for the weekend. We talkd, laughed, enjoyed just spending time together, then EJS came home, and then ACS, the gang’s all here!

It was nice, I hung out until about 10p and I was getting a little tired, only because I knew I had to drive back in the rain, then drive back to PA tomorrow, with a pit or dinner stop at dad’s. I got back to the hotel, they let me park my car at the entrance, so hopefully the plastic holds and no rain gets in, thank you Romeo!

I’m back in the room, the dogs have been walked in the rain, I think I’ll let them sleep with me tonight, I have this whole bed to myself, and I know they would love the cuddle. I’ll love the cuddle, except for the part where they push me out of the giant bed! grrr…

Tomorrow, it’s a birthday party for Uncle A, I get to see PSM, and his whole family, celebrate, then drive to dad’s and then back to PA. I need a nap!

G’night!

Email Subscription

What was I thinking?