A 'THANK YOU' ADDENDUM

This is a tale of appreciation ..

In bringing you all up to date on the escapades of Jen & Jason's visit to Miami, I neglected to tell you of an episode that could have been a VERY sad day ...

We were all traipsing along in the hot sand at the beach; wading knee-deep in the surf; then putting our shoes back on to "pound the pavement" along the boulevard of South Beach establishments. We had stopped at an outdoor eatery to grab a bite to eat and try the huge tropical drinks being touted ...

After we had ordered and the menus collected, I reached for my napkin and noticed the diamond was missing from my engagement ring. I was devastated!!! ... all the places we had been - I figured there was no way it would ever be found - I was on the verge of tears.

Everyone was concerned and said we should at least look around the table. We moved glasses, silverware, napkins - nothing. I decided it was too daunting a task to retrace our steps; but, Jen insisted we at least search the immediate area since I had just moticed it being gone. Jen pushed back her chair and started looking all over the floor... After a few seconds, Jen said, "Here it is!"
Absolutely unbelievable!! That little diamond & she found it. Jason carefully wrapped it in a linen napkin & stored it in a zipper pocket in my bag.

To Jen, I will be forever grateful - for her caring concern, for her perseverance AND for her spectacular eyesight! "Thank you," Jen - your succesful "search & find" revived my saddened heart ...

After a very delicious lunch and spirits lightened by those mammouth fruit drinks, we wandered off to other vistas - I, at least, felt like we were walking on air!!

Marma

JEN ANN & SAVING GRACE

This is an addendum to my "Last Hurrah" posting. I absolutely do not know how I neglected to tell you about this "happening." It occurred during our Sunday outing at the beach ... you, know, when we were walkng in the sand, strolling ankle-deep in the surf, then ambling over to see the Versaci mansion and visit a few shops. Have told you all about our luncheon and our gigantic drinks!! ... and this is what I DIDN'T tell you ...

We had just ordered drinks and were perusing the menus when I folded mine and said I had selected my entree (or whatever). I looked down and noticed the diamond was missing from my engagement ring!! Needless to say, I was very disheartened. All the places we had been - even strolling in the sand - I could see no possible solution - wouldn't even know where to begin to look. Jen said, "Let's just look around here. You just noticed it; maybe it caught on something." We searched around the table top; pushed glasses around, shook napkins... Jen pushed her chair back and started looking round the floor. "Here it is!!" We all couldn't believe it... In her hand was this cute, little "sparkler", kind of chipped & forlorn; but I was so happy!! Jason wrapped it in a linen napkin; tucked it in a zippered pocket in my bag; and I began wondering how to get the empty ring off my finger.

I never take my rings off. The empty setting was very rough. It not only caught on everything, it, but it hurt when I touched my hands or face. Just turned it over toward my palm for awhile and started working on it next day. Tried cold water and soap - wouldn't move over my knuckle. Waited a day, and Jason said to try Vaseline. Cold water & Vaseline - that did it!! Finger was a little sore; but we wrapped the ring up, put it with the diamond, and will see if it's worth repairing. The ring is rather fragile from wear - I think a prong had worn off and the diamond was loose in its setting...

So-o-o, that's the story...Jen and her soothing persistence...I will be forever grateful...she is so caring and the gentlemen with us were extremely concerned...they kept telling me to be careful with the retrieved gem and they all checked again as soon as we got home. What could have been a "downer" to a great day was averted. Needless to say, we accepted that "buy one, get one" offer on the drinks!!

Gratefully,

Marma

THE LAST HURRAH

Can you believe it?? Left Miami on March 11th and it is now April - almost Easter. So many have asked me about those last days in Miami (with Jen & Jason) that I've decided to "clue you in." My computer "Internet action" was on the fritz, but thanks to Juluia (Jane's neighbor) and Jonferes (my own "go-to" person), I'm in business again. Let us move back a few weeks - - picture sunny skies, high 70's, clear blue water, relaxation - a-n-d -

Jen and Jason were scheduled to arrive at the Miami airport late Thursday evening (March 4th). Paul was in Orlando for a business meeting. Larry & I waited for the doorbell to ring - and it did! The couple arrived, told us about the cab driver taking them in the opposite direction miles out of the way - we commiserated, had a snack and retired for the night.



Friday, the three of us went to Dolphin Mall for a shopping experience. (Jen was suffering from withdrawal.) Stopped on the way back home to have lunch at a really cool Italian place Paul had told us about - really great food, wine even better!! Jason & Jen were to spend the night at the Doral Resort; so, after grabbing their suitcases, Larry drove us to the Spa Hotel for their check-in. Paul came home a little later. Tomorrow is another day...

Saturday was pretty busy...Paul & Jason scheduled nine holes of golf on the Red Course; Jen made an appointment for a lengthy massage; Larry & I went to the pool for sun & relaxation. The three of us had lunch at Champions; met up with Paul & Jas; toured the area a little; went back to rest a little before heading to South Beach for the evening.

We wandered a few of the side streets for awhile and then went to Esplanada - a two-block area set off on week ends from traffic. Really cool! A number of variety stands selling homemade crafts, apparel, jewelery, etc. Many eateries - all crowded - wanderers with drinks in hand. We decided to put our name in at a tapas place. Had many sangrias while waiting - par for the course,;after all, it WAS a Spanish atmosphere!! After being seated, we had fun picking dishes from the menu, but service was not as attentive as expected. Took a long time to "dine"; but we were seated outside and could see into the restaurant proper. Evidently, the background of the inside stage for the entertainers was the glass window just across from us. Such fun watching those flamenco dancers do their stuff, pulsating music and all... Homeward once again. Sunday is going to be a day at the beach.

As planned, we had a marvelous breakfast, then left for the white sands and hot sun of South Beach. Walked along the beach for some time, then decided to get something to eat and quench our thirst. Actually, we satisfied that thirst first...you buy one huge daquiri for something like $25 and get the second one free. Sounds great, but you can't share! Second drink goes to the same person - makes walking a little more difficult! Journeyed on down to the "main drag" and "people-watched." Went in and out of a few stores. Jen hesitated about purchasing a lovely necklace. After alot of prodding, coaxing, "it looks like you", etc., she gave in. I was glad...it will go with many of her outfits. (It was in the same shop Hillary fell in love with the sunglasses!) On Sundays, it seems, many of the restaurant tables out front of the stores are replaced with Market-type booths...fresh prduce, homemade salsas, dips, baked goods, etc. Quite interesting! Larry bought some delicious avocado dip and I bought some fresh tea leaves to try. Could have done a little more sight-seeing, but - onward - back to the domain...

Monday, we hit the Doral pools again - Jen has to get a little color before going home. Paul wandered by, in business attire, of course. Unfortunately, Jen has to leave this evening, so we went back to get her suitcase and eat before she leaves. We stopped at Latin Cafe - an informal place with good Cuban food -very good, but so-o filling. Upon leaving, Jason and I wanted to try their Cuban coffee...Larry said it was different but tasty. They serve it through an outside window in tiny expresso-type cups...very thick, strong but sweet, different coffee taste. Good! Drove Jen to the airport and reluctantly bid goodbye...

Jason is very excited. Today is the first day of practice for the golf pros who are playing in the annual Doral Open. We have our passes in hand, a little sunscreen and cameras at-the-ready. Going to be a long day, so, naturally, we HAD to eat. Stopped at the Chicken Kitchen, noted for their deluxe Cuban fare; filled our gullets to the brim & headed toward the Doral's Blue Monster.
We wandered wherever there was action and a golfer Jason would recognize. Tiger is supposed to show sometime and Paul is keeping us informed. Guess he is very protected, practices early before others arrive and then goes out again to practice drives or putts, whichever he deems needs more attention. We went into the merchandise shop so Jason could get a flag or something for golfers to sign. Thought about a hat but opted for the flag - and a felt-tip pen (nothing like being prepared). Paul informed us that Tiger was to have a press conference in the hotel just above the gift shop and if we hurried we might be able to get a picture. Jas & Larry hurried to the area just outside the conference room while I ambled, somewhat slower, up the stairs. There was somewhat of a commotion and I moved over a little as a group of guys came scurrying by. In the midst, less than an arm's-length away, was Tiger, with his "men", on their way to the press session. Larry & Jason had been shooed out of the area and we were all moved around the corner. One "gentleman" also told Jason (upon seeing his flag & pen) that Tiger would be signing no autographs. So much for THAT! At least we got to see him up close and personal...it was secretive, however; would've been a great photo-op if the watchdogs hadn't been so sttentive. That's okay - Jason just "flung his flag" at other pro golfers and let them fill in the space he had "saved" for Tiger.

It's Wednesday, March llth, our last day in the Miami sun!! We packed our suitcases, took a change of clothes for the plane and headed once again to Doral and the Open practices. More pros practicing today, especially on the putting green - even Tiger. Jason, with souvenir flag in hand, found an autograph or two to fill in the blank spaces. He seemd to be having a ball - told Ernie Els that he was Jen's favorite golfer...when Ernie asked "How come?", Jason said because he was always the pro golfer in her crossword puzzles. Ernie laughed and said that was a good enough reason!! We went to the Point across from the Blue Monster and had hot dogs & beer (at least for Jas)...mighty good, too. We met up with Paul at his office, went to change into our "Chicago" clothes, climbed into the car for our ride to the airport, bid our sad farewells, and went to await our plane..

Uneventful flight home. Jen is to meet us upon arrival. Took forever for our dumb suitcases to traverse the carousel; but, once we had them in tow, we went outside to meet Jen. What a rude awakening! Cold, cold, snowy, 22 degrees, wet - Jason had no coat - freezing. Jen arrived and threw his coat to him. Thank goodness her car was so warm. Glad to be home, but will miss that weather!!

Could bring you all right up to the present, but what do you care about going out to breakfast with Karen, grocery shopping, greeting Sheila as she comes in for her own personal errands, running into Jane & Laddie unexpectedly in downtown Elmhurst & going to Vine & Dine for vino. attending Isabel's Confirmaton & luncheon, journeying to Glen Ellyn for Hanna's "Bye, Bye, Birdie" play (excellent), on to Telanders where we almost forgot to go home...and this was all up until Sunday a.m. What a homecoming!!

... and now, we are all looking forward to getting together for Easter - I know I am! All kinds of sweets after a long "dry spell". Perhaps there will be more to "blog" about, hopefully with pictures, after that little happening. Sorry this is so late...and so lengthy...but you all kept asking, "What about when Jen & Jason were visiting?" Cheez!! Now you have it - such as it is...

Belatedly,

Marma

SURPRISE!!

Guess what!! There is activity in the house in back of Paul & Larry's house! It had been sold but just sitting there. We do know one thing - they have a little dog. Fence time?? One other thing I learned today & it only happens about every nine years or so - it's called "square root day" ... third month, third day, year-09 ... cool, huh?? But, onward -

Sneaky Paul said he was taking off early Friday because he has been logging so many hours (which he has) and to bring our bathing suits, meet him for lunch at Champions in the Hotel and then we would go to the pool. Larry and I did as instructed - dropped by Human Resources to see if Paul was ready (he wasn't); chatted with the "help" and then made our way up, out and into the restaurant. As we navigated the tables, Larry said, "There they are!" ... and, indeed, there THEY were - the Telander family, Brian, Bern, Nick & Hanna - in all their vacation garb - ready to eat and party on! What a surprise!!! Such fun - they kept razzing me because I didn't see them until I got right up to the table; but, come on ... I wasn't LOOKING for them, after all. Larry and Paul had known for a week or so and didn't say a word. It was a great and well-kept secret surprise.

We changed into our suits and went out into the bright, 80-degree, sunny poolside area and basked, sipped on various exotic coolers, and laughed. Telanders are going to shower, "clean-up" and proceed to South Beach. We, P, L & I are to meet them later ... and we did! Wandered along Ocean Drive, looked at restaurant menus, settled on an establishment, and - ate. While waiting for food, Brian spotted a shop just across the patio from us with Tommy Bahama shirts, Panama hats, etc. He HAD to investigate - came back wearing a cream-colored, fedora-styled straw hat and wore it most of the weekend. Kind of Jack Nicholson look, what with the sunglasses & cigars!! We didn't finish eating until 10:30 or thereabouts, so we walked a few blocks to our car and drove home.

Saturday was another beautiful day - thought we were going to South Beach to stroll the sandy beach, but decided to stay at Doral's Blue Lagoon and go into Miami later in the aft. While at Doral, Paul & Nick commandeered a golf cart to seat us all and we toured the area with Paul as driver-docent. Place is really building up for next week's Championship Golf tourney - high spectator stands, VIP & various sponsor tents, picket fences, etc. TV studios go in next week. Many golfers out to try the courses - lots of groups. Went back to our respective quarters to get ready for our second journey to South Beach and environs.

South Beach and shops and Lincoln Avenue with all the restaurants and outdoor seating. BUT, before we got to all that, Nick wanted to get his ears pierced - both of them - with small hoops put in. We turned the corner - wahla!! - tattoo parlor/piercing! Checked it out, made arrangements; but Bern, with her "gut feeling", thought they were being scammed because Telanders knew they would have to sign a release; but the tattoo proprietor said a notary was also required...an additional $20...when Bern talked with the notary on her cell, it went up to $25, cash only...they agreed on pre-set $20...ears were pierced...Nick was smiling...Bern was still quite p----d, because of her "gut feeling." We all laughed, but Bern kept reminding us -all evening - of the "scam."

So many shops and Hanna, especially, was in "hog" heaven - Nick even found jeans and a cool belt - Paul & Brian talked Rolexes as they went in and out of jewelry shops and Bern just sized up all the cool stuff and made mental notes. We toured the tables up and down Lincoln Av and opted for Dileos - Italian - very good. Wandered some more and then - home.

Sunday arrived - Larry & Paul made brunch for all - picked up Telanders; brought them back;
had mimosas, banana daiquiris, and so much food. After eating, socializing, etc, three Telanders were going to relax by the pool and P, L, Hanna and I took Hanna on yet another shopping look-see at really large mall. Later, we all congregated at "Windows" restaurant at Doral, conversed, ate, laughed and Bern reminded us of yesterday's scam! Such a pleasant time. Great food. Telanders are going back Chicago-way tomorrow - Nick is starting Lacrosse - Hanna has to start double sessions for Bye, Bye Birdie - Brian has to go to court to show off his deep tan - Bern has to phone her friends and tell them about "the scam."

Can't believe my winter visit is coming to an end and the weather is still snow-laden in Illinois. Jason & Jen are flying in late Thursday eve - Paul will be in conferences in Orlando until Friday aft - looking forward to more laughter and wine tasting, hot sun by the pool, general meandering, and catching up on any news from home area.

Miss you all, but will see you soon!! Until next session on the Blog,

Marma

TRAVELING SOUTH

Paul took this Friday off so he could treat me to the scenery of Key West! Guess it takes awhile just for the travel; so we packed our little overnight bags and decided to leave early. The neighbor, who has a great dane, said they would look after the beasties; so, off we went. Of course, we hit a small snafu not too far into our journey - construction - one lane driving. Fortunately, it didn't last too long, but did throw water on our enthusiasm.

I found it kind of fascinating crossing the expansive bridges taking us into Key West. We traveled the newer bridge & the old one was still in sight. They are used by joggers, bicyclists, and (Laddies, you would love this) many fishermen & women. They pack along the railings more so in some spots than others. Guess they know where the best fishing of the day is.

We commented on the fact that if you didn't fish, have a boat, own a trailer, fix machinery, sell surf boards or tiki products, you were just out of luck for a living. Many road side diners & eateries were either closed or for sale. Lots of touristy roadside places that used to sell souvenirs, etc. were closed. This is supposed to be part of the "high" tourist season but I guess people just aren't going South of Miami to look around...at least from outer appearances.

Beautiful day - bright blue skies; calm, shades-of-blue ocean; sun that was getting warmer by the hour- made our car ride very pleasant. Every few miles (or so it seemed), there were "Key" Signs - Marathon, Pine, Glades - and, naturally, Key Largo. Just seemed as if every little area that had a service station was a Key of some sort!

We entered Key West and went to check into our Fairfield Inn. Paul had been here before but said they had enlarged it, put in a nice outdoor pool, redecorated, etc. He also said the area had developed so much he didn't recognize it Other Inns, more eateries. We headed for downtown Key West - Duval Street.

Duval Street - to me - was alot like Bourbon street in New Orleans; not so much in looks but in activity. Now the tourists appeared and there were shops upon shops, bars, music from saloons.

kids holding parents hands and "kids" holding their beers & drinks. Took us a long time walking around because we went into lots of shops, just checking things out. (Lots of nasty signs & tee shirts, if anyone is interested). One shop had about eight or nine different pairs of Dame Edna glasses. Almost bought a pair, but what the heck! How many times am I going to appear as Dame Edna?

Stopped for lunch at Mangoes - we sat in the outdoor patio area and it was so chilly they had

those overhead heaters on. Paul had been catching a terrible cold and went out to wait in the sun after we were almost finished...food was excellent - large portions - Paul & I had frozen daquiris and since he was really frozen, we walked further up Duval Street to the town part of Key West - where the mall-type shops are. Paul purchased a neat light-weight gray top, put it on (after paying, of course) and we started our journey back to our car. Decided to take a rest at the inn before going out again, but Paul could barely breathe and he fell asleep. We were going on a ghost tour but when Paul called about it to see where to meet, he found out it was a walking tour so we opted out. Tomorrow is another day...

Paul, feeling much better but still not breathing too well, went to work out a little with Larry. Larry checked out the "free" breakfast and we decided to eat "in" because it was pretty good. We wanted to go to the Hemingway House and other places, so we checked out; getting warmer but still too cool for swimming.

Were among the first to arrive at Hemingway's House. Grounds are beautiful - the house itself is just that, not a mansion. Many, many five-toed cats roam the grounds - descendants of Hemingway's original cat, and are named for movie stars. We met Spencer Tracy, Charlie Chaplin (with a very distinct black mustache under his little nose), Rita Hayworth, etc. The guide told interesting stories about Hemingway and, of course, his favorite watering holes are still in business. White tents were being set up outside on the grounds. The guide said the location was very much in demand for weddings & banquets. Said this day's wedding was for 250 guests and showed us the other side where the ceremony was to be held - out under many big trees.

We were going to Truman's Key West White House, but decided against it and went to take pictures at the "Southernmost Point in the U.S." We kind of laughed though, because the original big hotel, nice restaurant, etc, which had "Southernmost" in their names had been replaced with an entire block of sites which had become "southernmost." Ate at an outdoor restaurant on the beach - conch appetizers (I had never had conch) very tasty, kind of like seafood hushpuppies. And, the BEST Key Lime pie I have ever tasted. We wondered at first because the menu said it had an Oreo crust - but very thin; pie was extremely light & tart; it was drizzled with chocolate. (Wish I had a piece right now, but I also remembered Lent started yesterday). Much warmer today - didn't need our jackets - walked around a little more. Started home.

Saw a sign near Key Largo that Paul & I got excited about. The African Queen was somewhere near the "100 Marker" and we wanted to see it. It was the boat used in the movie "African Queen" starring Humphrey Bogart & Katharine Hepburn. It was moored by the docks - very interesting - pictures taken - onward.

This Blog is turning into a travelog, so I'd best tell you all about Sunday and be off! The neghbors, Evan, Claudio and Amp, invited us over to watch the Oscars on TV. Lots of wine, good appetizers, excellent filet mignons roasted on the grill (with mashed potatoes, shredded veggies, half avocado atop tomatoes). We were so-o full, but managed to test more wine!! Checked ballots for Oscar winners - watched - ohhed and darn ited - as our predictions fell by the wayside. Evan checked my ballot - gave me a hug - announced that I was winner. (Paul brought our ballots home...thinks Evan gave me a couple of "passes"...poor loser!!)

Well, everyone, I see your Chicago weather is improving. Certainly hope Spring is nearing...it's almost time for my exit from the Sunshine State and I don't want snow around when I return. See what you can do about that, okay???

Love to you all,

Marma

CRUISING AROUND

Actually, we've just been enjoying the weather! Chicago seems to be in the
doldrums with chilly weather and snow. Guess I'd be considered a "snowbird," at least this year, since I'm here to escape that scene... After our Art Festival trek last Saturday, we decided to visit Ft. Lauderdale on Sunday. (Paul knew he had the next day off, so we traveled.)

I had been to Ft. Lauderdale once - the year I graduated from college. Needless to say, that was like never having been there at all!! We drove around a little and, after parking, found an oasis of sorts - the RIVER WALK. It was before noon so people were just beginning to congregate. An entire section along the riverfront was brick-paved, lots of trees and benches. Eateries, music venues, "street" musicians starting to set up for their own little shows. We decided to take a boat tour - cruise along the river which empties into the sea - and gape at the beautiful, beautiful million -to -billion-dollar homes built along the banks. The Captain's running narration was very informative...places that once belonged to Sonny & Cher. Lucy & Desi, Lee Majors & Farrah Fawcett plus newer places that belonged to the Blockbuster clan and other high rollers.

Along one marina space (make that three or four) was the most magnificent yacht I think I've ever seen. The Captain said to take pictures because that was the cloest we would ever get to it again...gleaming white, looked as if it had just come off the assembly line. The yacht belongs to the royal family of Spain and some family members were staying in a villa along the river while the yacht was being serviced; and, then, they were cruising out into the bright blue ocean for ports unknown to us peasants. What really intrigued us was the helicopter perched on the very top of the yacht - when you approached, you could barely tell it was part of the boat itself...just beautiful.

We enjoyed that tour for close to two hours - with a complimentary drink - and, after looking around a little bit more, headed out to find a sandwich place out of the area. However, there was a large. open Irish restaurant and bar that I'm certain all you "Irish" descendants would love. (Had to put that Irish bit in quotes because we do have a few Bohunks, Italians, Swiss, German, Lithuanian, etc. who like a bit of the ol' spirits!) It was just beginning to open up and the weather was so nice outside that we didn't linger. Journeyed around and found "Humpy's - paninis & pizza. Very good - somewhat less expensive than the River Walk - homeward bound. Watched a little TV and then bedtime. (Programs are an hour later here so if we want to see something that doesn't end until 11 or 12, we DVR it.) Could possibly spend the whole next day catching up - if we so desired.

Ed & Hill are coming this way at the end of March. Must say that Ft. Lauderdale looks like a fun and happening place. Jonferes left on a cruise from there Saturday a.m. Can't wait for reports on that voyage!!

For Valentine's Day, Paul arranged a visit to the Spa hotel for me and Larry. Don't know about Larry, but my treat was a haircut & style and a manicure. Such coddling!! Think Larry had a facial - we were scheduled at different times, so guess what, ladies...I put on my bathing suit and lingered by "our"pool. Paul was going to take us to lunch but had massive meetings with execs so we just went home and I spent countless hours running in to gaze in the mirror before my "do" was no more. Haircut is good - falls right into place so easily (no-o, guys, it doesn't fall OUT!!)

Friday and Saturday was a trip to Key West - more on that later.

Can't believe my time is running out here. I do hope that weather stays somewhat regulated in the Chicago area. This warm sun is surely habit-forming...but "natives" say the summer months are not so pleasant - just ask Paolo! The beasties, Copper & Molson, may not like it then either. Time will tell...

Until I get my Key West narrative going, I'm still, just

Marma

SUMMER RETURNS

Hate to continue speaking of the weather, but it was so unlike Florida last week that I can't help it!! Old age, thin blood, whatever, my goosebumps kindled goosebumps ... But NOW - The sun is hot! The sky is blue! The temperature has returned to 80s, so I'm happy again.

We were so entranced by the slow warm-up that we sat out on the patio, ate cheese and delicious fruit (umm, pineapple!) and slivers of coconut. Of course, Paul & I had to wash it all down with chardonnay. Very pleasent evening - even the doggies were docile and content to lay around the yard. (Larry was happy sipping his flavored water.)

Thursday, we went to Doral to have lunch at Champions - a more casual, sandwich & salad-type restaurant. You can also watch some of the golfers on the beautiful course. Moira and her friend, Sarah met us there. Moira is the cutest and liveliest Irish lady you would ever want to meet. She moved to the States from Ireland in the late sixties and still has the brogue to go along with her wit. She and Larry worked together at Mattiott Oakbrook Hills in the food & beverage services. (Moira was going to pick up a niece at the airport.) She just retired and has a small condo with her husband in West Palm Beach. She loves it because so many friends, especially from Ireland, stay there during the winter and you can "play a different game of cards every night." Just listening to her talk about all the things she does reinvigorates you - oh, well - back to my book and easy chair!!

Paul came home around noon on Friday - had to take a few "mental health" hours (right, Jane). He needs it!! We all decided to go to a movie - the last one on our "best picture" list before next Sunday's Oscars. Saw "The Reader," with Kate Winslet. Rather erotic to begin with, but as the picture and story progressed, it was quite good. While we were journeying there, Paul got a call and he had to go back to the office after the movie...he came home about four hours later. Larry, however, put the time to good use. He hung a wrought iron lantern-type chandelier in the front, outdoor entrance to replace the smaller one that came with the house. (Bern and Brian had given it to them - they had replaced it with another fixture at their house.) Looks great! Sheds more light and shows up the front of the house to better advantage.

Saturday, we left early to travel to Coconut Grove, FL. Art Festival. As we approached, you could tell it was an annual event. People selling flowers (also because it was Valentine Day), sun hats, souvenirs of all sorts; also many trying to get you to park in various lawn spaces for prices anywhere from $10 to $20. We opted for regular garage parking at a flat, all-day rate of $10 - safer and closer to festival. Next on the agenda - BREAKFAST & COFFEE!!

Walking along the brick sidewalk, Larry spotted a menu hanging on the side of an apparently open-air establishment that looked like an "early-opened" bar. We decided to try it because they served breakfast and we were hungry. It was absolutely great!! It was French - the waiters even spoke the language - somewhat different from the Spanish we hear so often around Miami. Very casual - find your own seating (lucky to find your own waiter). It was so "New Orleansy" it was unbelievable! I had an Omelette du Buchon...the name of the chef who opened the place about 4 or 5 years ago, coffee very strong, omelet ingredients fresh & tastey - we thoroughly enjoyed it. (Found out that this little section IS a French Quarter area - like Nawlins.) On to the Fest ...

It was truly an ART festival - very creative, original, expensive. The sculptures, large glass and sand-blasted-design vases, and huge, outdoor-type bronze works - all were very different. We especially like one artist's booth - bronze sculptures - table-top size to a little larger. They were so inventive. Parts of some items were hinged and opened to convey another aspect of the design. Larry took lots of pictures; so I'll just turn much of this Blog site over to him!

We did see some cute things before entering the Festival itself - Sheila! The big giraffes were awesome! Wish I could have shipped one to you - whether you like lawn ornaments or not. Hill! They had the funkiest, brightly- colored little cat - would have been perfect for home or school cubicle - only $675 - a steal!! There was a whole range of Humpty Dumpty art - why eggs I don't know; but some were laugh-provoking. Anything to get your attention, I suppose.

Tomorrow is another day and we may go to Ft. Lauderdale. Since you are all probably tiring of these Blog rants, I will carry on with tales of that city in the not-too-distant future. Also, my thanks to those of you who sent Valentine Day greetings - cards (Drahoks & Challacombes) and the "fun" phone calls and emails from others! Love you ALL!

MIAMI MALL MEANDERING

It's time for me to start envying you guys!! It's been COLD down here - not Chicago cold, but for Florida, when they talk about temps dropping to 30s, THAT'S brr-rrr-rring. Paul's Regional Execs were in this week, so he was noticeably tired when he came home. Said they the area managers just do not have the organzation and work ethic he's used to from Chicago & DC. The one thing that seemed to cheer him up was a call at the end of the week from he friends ( Amy, who replaced him at O'Hare, and Lisa, O'Hare's General Mgr.) They told Paul that the Exec reviewing them informed them that Paul was doing an outstanding job and not even to THINK of trying to get him back into the Chicago area. Paul, of course, has other ideas!!

Larry & I went grocery shopping at Publix grocery. Drives Larry nuts because the cashiers are slow and our gal was chattering away with her friend (in Spanish) the whole time. Since it's so unseasonably chilly, we went to a Mall to see if I could find an inexpensive sweatshirt (I do have to launder my ONE once in awhile). Guess what?? Seems there's no such thing ... even looked at Tommy Hilfiger, R. Lauren, etc in Macy's, looked in other stores including Champs sporting goods and Old Navy. They only sell "hoodies" - guess they figure if you're going to buy something "warm", you go all out. They had lots of fine knit, rather thin sweaters, but NO regular sweatshirts. (Em, Hanna, Izzy and Morgan - all the Spring things are in, plus many, many bathing suits; Forever 21 is one of the few stores in these Malls that have lots of shoppers in them. Clothing is quite funky, gauzy - lots of big, heavy, Spring-colored jewelery and large, tote-type handbags...and did you know that shades of gray are the "new" color?? Kinda dull for Spring, don't you think??)

Week end came. Visited different large shopping Malls (still chilly so the beach is not an option) on Saturday. The Falls is an outdoor Mall similar to OakBrook, but Paul thinks they should have a really big "dynamic" waterfall. They just have little rippling affairs with spouting fishes.

 We arrived before stores opened; so we purchased Sunday's paper and went into a '50s-type diner for breakfast. 

The place looked sorta authentic; but the food left something to be desired. Paul ordered biscuits & sausage gravy. When it came, it had thin sausage patties on each biscuit-half and the gravy had little lumps in it. The waitress, at Paul's request, asked the cook what it was and he said "sausage." We decided it was grits mixed in. They're so used to "grits" in Fla that the cook probably thought we were talking about something else entirely. Paul just picked out the little pea-sized lumps and ate the rest...said it wasn't bad.

We were going to a movie at this Mall, but the one we wanted to see didn't start until 4:00 pm; ones before that time were mostly kids' movies; so we drove further up the line to another great Mall - the Shoppes (yes, Jonferes - shoppes) at Sunset. Reminded us of Disney World. Had paved streets and the shops were arranged along them with cute storefronts and, of course, the chain stores had the same recognizable logos & facades. We ran in and out of them; tried various chairs & machines in Brookstone; punched all the "sound" gizmo buttons in most ot the stuffed animals at a "too expensive" children's store (Since Valentine's Day is coming up, the toy stores are trying to lure grandmas & uncles into buying anything that says "I wuv you" or something decidedly suggestive.) Bri'-boob, I won't relate what the gorilla had to say!!

The sun began to warm things up. We checked the 24 AMC theatre (yes, Jonferes - theatre) directory and our movie was starting in 30 minutes. Got our popcorn and went to see Frost/Nixon . Very good. Coming out, we saw that "Milk" was playing at the theatre down the line. As Paul got a "rock out of his shoe" and the Frost crowd disappeared, we filed into "Milk" with 7 minutes to spare. (Do not let impressionable children view this blog!) Another good movie
- we have two more to go before Oscartime ... Journeyed home, let the doggies out, ate chicken pot pies, watched TV for awhile,I retired to my room with my book.

Sunday dawned a little warmer. Walked to church with Larry & doggies; met P & L's neighbor there. She's cute, very nice Puerto Rican lady whose husband & daughter had gone to Orlando to visit. She drove me home from church & then Paul, Larry & I just sat out on the patio most of the day - in the warm sun; felt so-o nice after the cold spell. There were three b'day parties going on in the park. You can aways tell - big blow-up play structures and loud music with the "limbo pole" being a main event. I figure Jason will not sit on the patio when he comes to visit. He'll want to get in on all that hurauche music!! P & L say it's a weekly thing - party, party - mostly little kids.)

'Tis Monday morn and it's getting nicer & nicer weather-wise. Paul is going to take some time off this week & ramble around - see what's happening. There's a food & wine festival we hope to hit the week end of Feb. 19-22. All is well - sorry the blogging is mundane... But - Just wait!! Something exciting will most assuredly turn up - and then - Blogarama!!

'Til then, hopefully,

Marma