Wednesday, March 30, 2011
SATURDAY SIGHTS
The sun seemed to be brighter than usual; and, quite frankly, appeared a little earlier than the time on the clock indicated. Perhaps my mindset was somewhat stunted. Departure time was scheduled for 8:30 am and that's usually the time I start wondering what to eat for breakfast! It was Saturday; everyone off work and Ft. Lauderdale was the destination. The aforementioned breakfast (and coffee) was uppermost in our minds. We took two cars because Mary's brother, Frankie, was going with us. Occupants of OUR auto had the foresight to make coffee and take some along. Enjoyed the drive along the palm tree-edged highway ... relaxing, care-free and scenic. Lauderdale-by-the Sea, a little city spread along the beach, was our first stop. Our stomachs growling in anticipation of a morning feast, we walked a block or so on sandy sidewalks to Beach Cafe. This neat, open-air restaurant was aptly named. It was built right on the beach. After ascending a few wooden steps, we were seated at the front edge of a long seaside pier. It was a calm day and the oceanside was full of swimmers, surfboard students and children building sand castles. Many fishermen tried their luck along the rails of the dock leading out to the ocean. Very enjoyable! We left for the art museum in Ft. Lauderdale to view a collection of artifacts from the Vatican. Items were intermingled as far as paintings, church vestments, architecture history, altar vessels, etc.; but were arranged by reign of popes beginning with St. Peter. The last section dealt with Pope John Paul II and his journey to sainthood. The entire exhibit was interesting, informative and beautiful. Sunday was a day of preparation ... Hillary was to land, literally, around 3:30 pm and after church, we ran a few errands, went to the store and waited. She came strolling in around 5:00 pm and we began laughing, eating (naturally) and exchanging any news. She was absolutely thrilled with the new pool! We will be spending time there, I'm certain. Tomorrow, however, Paul is taking off work and we are going to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in downtown Miami. A description (probably lengthy) will be forthcoming. Until then ... Marma
Monday, March 28, 2011
MUNDANE ROAMING
This was a week that materialized without any planning. Monday always seems to be catch-up day ... laundry, emails, errands. One more pool inspector came to give Larry yet another task to complete. It appears that final okay gets farther into the future with each visit. Tuesday, hmmm, work-out time! Keep the ol' body going as long as possible. That gym visit and the daily evening walks with the doggies should help somewhat. The end of the week is nearing and no definite plans. Hillary is coming to visit, however, and that should jolt us from our sofa! Vivian from across the yard called and asked us if we would like to go to a Morrocan furniture place and then to lunch. The answer, of course - yes!
Vivian is searching for a desk for her home office. She has more of an idea of what she doesn't want than an image of the final product. The time spent in these warehouse-type export-import stores is fascinating ... more like a museum. Nothing purchased, our next stop was a fish market and cafe situated along the Miami River.
It was apparent, as we traveled the streets from one side of the river to the other, that we had entered an older section of Miami. Store fronts were from a different decade and badly in need of updating. Smaller shops were nestled row upon row,structure elbowing structure ... rather claustrophobic. Across the river bridge were a number of restaurants and cafes, all with the option of outdoor seating; most with a view of boats and small yachts heading out to larger waters.
Our choice: outdoor seating on the upper deck of a family-owned restaurant that had been around for decades ... well-worn, seaside theme with the smell of fresh fish cooking; small, organized menu with mostly seafood selecton in appetizers, soups, salads and entrees. Beautiful day, delicious luncheon, we left to gander at the fish market next door. Unbelievable!! Beautiful display of fresh fish in large, ice-filled cases; anything you could want just for the asking. Must keep names in mind ... this one, Casablanca on the Miami River.
The next day Vivian asked me to go with her to look for books for her new bookcase. We hit secondhand shops and a supersize Goodwill store. Made a few purcases of nice used books. She then decided she needed a big Atlas and some art publications ... off to Borders! Big purchase of many books here ...
We have all planned to go to Fort Lauderdale on Saturday to view Vatican Treasures at the art museum ... will go early and find a place for breakfast.
Sunday, Hillary arrives! Adventure awaits ...
Marma
Vivian is searching for a desk for her home office. She has more of an idea of what she doesn't want than an image of the final product. The time spent in these warehouse-type export-import stores is fascinating ... more like a museum. Nothing purchased, our next stop was a fish market and cafe situated along the Miami River.
It was apparent, as we traveled the streets from one side of the river to the other, that we had entered an older section of Miami. Store fronts were from a different decade and badly in need of updating. Smaller shops were nestled row upon row,structure elbowing structure ... rather claustrophobic. Across the river bridge were a number of restaurants and cafes, all with the option of outdoor seating; most with a view of boats and small yachts heading out to larger waters.
Our choice: outdoor seating on the upper deck of a family-owned restaurant that had been around for decades ... well-worn, seaside theme with the smell of fresh fish cooking; small, organized menu with mostly seafood selecton in appetizers, soups, salads and entrees. Beautiful day, delicious luncheon, we left to gander at the fish market next door. Unbelievable!! Beautiful display of fresh fish in large, ice-filled cases; anything you could want just for the asking. Must keep names in mind ... this one, Casablanca on the Miami River.
The next day Vivian asked me to go with her to look for books for her new bookcase. We hit secondhand shops and a supersize Goodwill store. Made a few purcases of nice used books. She then decided she needed a big Atlas and some art publications ... off to Borders! Big purchase of many books here ...
We have all planned to go to Fort Lauderdale on Saturday to view Vatican Treasures at the art museum ... will go early and find a place for breakfast.
Sunday, Hillary arrives! Adventure awaits ...
Marma
Monday, March 21, 2011
IDLINGS . . .
Idleness! Pure, unadulterated do-nothingness! Tends to make one feel like a slug; but at this stage of the game, reading and respite readily overcome conscience. Can't believe it's nearly time to return to Chi-town and, hopefully, a taste of Spring. From reading a few Facebook status gripes, it seems that most of you midwesterners are pining for a steady flow of sunshine and resulting warmth ... True dat??
This week has been mostly one of catch-up. Some tiles around the pool have sunken a little because the soil wasn't tamped tightly enough. The men are supposed to come for a re-do; but so far, nothing but promised dates with a "no show". Most of the time seems to be spent making calls to voice mail with no satisfaction. Suppose that's what happens when your paving bill is paid ... no nonpayment threats can be made.
Speaking of phones, Paul and Larry each have new Iphones ... they were waiting for their other contract to end. Talk about distraction! Paul had to transfer all his data and that took a day or two. Larry had a regular
cell phone before, with none of the gadgets; so his time was used trying apps and seeing what all his new phone could do. Each phone is also
equipped for Skype; so Larry had to get in touch with his sister to try it out. Then, both of them discovered the blackjack game and this new
phone has become a part of their anatomy. They are obsessed!
They did take a break long enough to make a leprechaun's leap to Flanigan's Pub on St. Patrick's Day. Thought the place was fairly new, from outside appearances; but that thought was banished as soon as we
walked in. Dark bar room with green twinkling lights and hustling
servers in outlandish garbs of the day. We were shown to another room,
apparently the restaurant side. Strictly pub atmosphere with shamrock decorations, all shiny green foil ... large garlands strung from rafter to rafter above the tables ... each table centered with a sprouting shamrock
"plant" in the same mandatory green foil ... the local Dollar store probably
made a killing when they aided Mr. Flanigan!
The waiters and waitresses went all out for the day. Each had their own
St. Paddy's Day costume ... wigs, large hats. light-up glasses, satin vests
with gold sequins, shamrock-print tights, even a fellow in black who wore no green at all ... he was a walking bottle of Guiness beer and his tall, black
hat had what appeared to be foam jostling around. They were the fun
part of the visit (around 4:00 pm). I can imagine what went on as the day
merged into evening! Paul met us at the pub, resplendent in his pale green dress shirt. We ordered our green beers, took pictures and ate an early dinner ... MINE was, of course, corned beef, cabbage, and boiled
potatoes ... surprisingly delicious, very tender meat.
Weekend days were spent running errands, watching the boys catch up on outside chores (Home Depot had 50% off mulch, so they HAD to take
advantage of that.) I bought another paperback or two; Molson and I
retreated to the lounge area outside and relaxed ... Copper thinks the pool is his alone ... he swims and splashes constantly (he apparently loves the
cold water). Cooked ribs and chicken on the grill ... just like summertime
in Illinois ... except I do miss the dessert, whatever it may be.
Can't shake my Hoosier habits ... been keeping tabs on the NCCA tourney.
Chose my brackets and haven't been doing too badly. Guess the media got
after Obama though ... seems he should concentrate on the problems at
hand and stop wasting time on such trivial matters ... to each his own ... he
could be monetarily betting on the outcome ... THEN they could complain!
Don't know about Irish day photos ... most of the fun was taken with the Iphone and may end up elsewhere ... check out Facebook from time to time ... that could be the "elsewhere" !!
O'Marma
This week has been mostly one of catch-up. Some tiles around the pool have sunken a little because the soil wasn't tamped tightly enough. The men are supposed to come for a re-do; but so far, nothing but promised dates with a "no show". Most of the time seems to be spent making calls to voice mail with no satisfaction. Suppose that's what happens when your paving bill is paid ... no nonpayment threats can be made.
Speaking of phones, Paul and Larry each have new Iphones ... they were waiting for their other contract to end. Talk about distraction! Paul had to transfer all his data and that took a day or two. Larry had a regular
cell phone before, with none of the gadgets; so his time was used trying apps and seeing what all his new phone could do. Each phone is also
equipped for Skype; so Larry had to get in touch with his sister to try it out. Then, both of them discovered the blackjack game and this new
phone has become a part of their anatomy. They are obsessed!
They did take a break long enough to make a leprechaun's leap to Flanigan's Pub on St. Patrick's Day. Thought the place was fairly new, from outside appearances; but that thought was banished as soon as we
walked in. Dark bar room with green twinkling lights and hustling
servers in outlandish garbs of the day. We were shown to another room,
apparently the restaurant side. Strictly pub atmosphere with shamrock decorations, all shiny green foil ... large garlands strung from rafter to rafter above the tables ... each table centered with a sprouting shamrock
"plant" in the same mandatory green foil ... the local Dollar store probably
made a killing when they aided Mr. Flanigan!
The waiters and waitresses went all out for the day. Each had their own
St. Paddy's Day costume ... wigs, large hats. light-up glasses, satin vests
with gold sequins, shamrock-print tights, even a fellow in black who wore no green at all ... he was a walking bottle of Guiness beer and his tall, black
hat had what appeared to be foam jostling around. They were the fun
part of the visit (around 4:00 pm). I can imagine what went on as the day
merged into evening! Paul met us at the pub, resplendent in his pale green dress shirt. We ordered our green beers, took pictures and ate an early dinner ... MINE was, of course, corned beef, cabbage, and boiled
potatoes ... surprisingly delicious, very tender meat.
Weekend days were spent running errands, watching the boys catch up on outside chores (Home Depot had 50% off mulch, so they HAD to take
advantage of that.) I bought another paperback or two; Molson and I
retreated to the lounge area outside and relaxed ... Copper thinks the pool is his alone ... he swims and splashes constantly (he apparently loves the
cold water). Cooked ribs and chicken on the grill ... just like summertime
in Illinois ... except I do miss the dessert, whatever it may be.
Can't shake my Hoosier habits ... been keeping tabs on the NCCA tourney.
Chose my brackets and haven't been doing too badly. Guess the media got
after Obama though ... seems he should concentrate on the problems at
hand and stop wasting time on such trivial matters ... to each his own ... he
could be monetarily betting on the outcome ... THEN they could complain!
Don't know about Irish day photos ... most of the fun was taken with the Iphone and may end up elsewhere ... check out Facebook from time to time ... that could be the "elsewhere" !!
O'Marma
Friday, March 18, 2011
THE WEEK THAT WAS!
Actually, I guess I'm still on vacation ... just not in the Bahamas! This week has passed very quickly. We arrived home around 5:30 pm Sunday
evening; unloaded our suitcases and ordered take-out from Macaroni Grill for our dinner. We watched a little TV and turned in for the night.
Mundane duties, such as laundry, mail-check, (both cyber and postal) and grocery shopping took up time our first day or two home. However,
Wednesday hung before us with ominous dread. Ceremonial ashes were an outside reminder of days to come; but both Paul and I are ALMOST
ready to forego our "give up" ... sweets and their associations! Why is it that ads on TV, the cooking channels, news programs - all of them - place
emphasis on the construction of desserts and show them, close up, in all their technicolor splendor? Satan forever at his job ...
Saturday was Costco day plus a side trip to a view plants at a nursery. The boys have plantings in mind for strips along the fence surrounding their yard; but they change back and forth between types. Do they go with low tropical plants or floral bushes such as gardenias or both? Have a little time to decide; still waiting for that final pool inspection before they can finish tiling closer to the fence.
Sunday, we ate breakfast at home, for a change. The Doral golf tourney was in its final hours and we had passes to go watch for awhile. (Tiger had a 12:30pm tee-time.) Plans change, however, and we went on a "window
shopping" tour of furniture warehouses in an off-road area. Oriental, Bahamese, Morrocan - many types and styles; mostly antique-looking pieces but much, much lower in price than retail. I enjoyed looking at
the accessories and accompanying small items. Saw a couple of things I'm sure Kristin would have been interested in ... cutest little, worn-looking set of table and two chairs that would have suited Henry and Millie for a year or two. Perhaps when they have larger quarters ...
No purchases! We moved to another district and a handsome storefront building called Victoria's Armoire. Now this was more like it ... beautiful furniture for every room, moderately priced to expensive ... wandered between two floors and three or four rooms for some time ... purchases WERE made here!
Vivian was our escort ... she has clients who give her the lowdown on where to get interesting things at interesting prices. She was looking for bookcases for her home office ... she bought four dark wood units, with a
movable ladder attached to a high rod for cohesiveness. Will fill an entire wall in her office ... looks like a small library, with that ladder (which I suspect is only for show!) Absolutely loved it!
In the showroom, sitting by the bookcase, were two large statues. Vivian and Paul each bought one. Their shape reminded me of a dressmaker's form ... no head, arms or legs ... resting on a rod in the center of a black base. They were very dark brown, almost like molten lava rock. Couldn't decide if they were sculpted or molded ... very heavy. Could have been a
mixed-with-color cement poured into a mold ... interesting, rough texture.
Vivian's statue was a female form and Paul's male; but they had scant
clothing that I would describe as Aztec. Really cool; difficult to describe.
(Maybe pictures later.)
Of course, my purchase was obscure compared with theirs ... a James Dean paperback book with many photos and scant text. Easier to carry home than a handsome statue! We were near Coral Gables so Vivian
introduced us to a new shopping mall, Merrick Park. Nestled among
newly-built condo buildings, it had two levels and was more like a park than a mall ... absolutely beautiful! Many stores arranged on the two levels, but all similar in looks. Even the new condos had to conform to the
Spanish look of Coral Gables. Large trees, flower gardens and large planters, fountains, benches and tables - some shaded by yellow or orange
market umbrellas. Just beautiful! Even had concealed escalators as a choice from stone steps. Restaurants in Nordstrom and Nieman-Marcus, as well as two larger eateries with indoor or outdoor dining. We opted for
Villagio, apparently Italian, but ate inside as there was a forty-minute wait
for oudoor. The four of us shared two large pizzas (homemade crust) with very fresh ingredients ... filled us to capacity ... even had a little left over.
That concluded our wandering weekend. I checked the news to see who won the Doral tourney and reported to Paul ... didn't want him to be embarrassed when he returned to work Monday morn not knowing the
winner!
Now, let's see ... Hillary's birthday the 14th ... St. Paddy's on the 17th ... a weekend comng up that Paul said "things HAVE to get done." We will see
what that entails; especially if more interesting invitations are submitted.
Nothing like procrastination ... as my blogs have indicated.
Until "the devil gets behind my back" ...
Marma
evening; unloaded our suitcases and ordered take-out from Macaroni Grill for our dinner. We watched a little TV and turned in for the night.
Mundane duties, such as laundry, mail-check, (both cyber and postal) and grocery shopping took up time our first day or two home. However,
Wednesday hung before us with ominous dread. Ceremonial ashes were an outside reminder of days to come; but both Paul and I are ALMOST
ready to forego our "give up" ... sweets and their associations! Why is it that ads on TV, the cooking channels, news programs - all of them - place
emphasis on the construction of desserts and show them, close up, in all their technicolor splendor? Satan forever at his job ...
Saturday was Costco day plus a side trip to a view plants at a nursery. The boys have plantings in mind for strips along the fence surrounding their yard; but they change back and forth between types. Do they go with low tropical plants or floral bushes such as gardenias or both? Have a little time to decide; still waiting for that final pool inspection before they can finish tiling closer to the fence.
Sunday, we ate breakfast at home, for a change. The Doral golf tourney was in its final hours and we had passes to go watch for awhile. (Tiger had a 12:30pm tee-time.) Plans change, however, and we went on a "window
shopping" tour of furniture warehouses in an off-road area. Oriental, Bahamese, Morrocan - many types and styles; mostly antique-looking pieces but much, much lower in price than retail. I enjoyed looking at
the accessories and accompanying small items. Saw a couple of things I'm sure Kristin would have been interested in ... cutest little, worn-looking set of table and two chairs that would have suited Henry and Millie for a year or two. Perhaps when they have larger quarters ...
No purchases! We moved to another district and a handsome storefront building called Victoria's Armoire. Now this was more like it ... beautiful furniture for every room, moderately priced to expensive ... wandered between two floors and three or four rooms for some time ... purchases WERE made here!
Vivian was our escort ... she has clients who give her the lowdown on where to get interesting things at interesting prices. She was looking for bookcases for her home office ... she bought four dark wood units, with a
movable ladder attached to a high rod for cohesiveness. Will fill an entire wall in her office ... looks like a small library, with that ladder (which I suspect is only for show!) Absolutely loved it!
In the showroom, sitting by the bookcase, were two large statues. Vivian and Paul each bought one. Their shape reminded me of a dressmaker's form ... no head, arms or legs ... resting on a rod in the center of a black base. They were very dark brown, almost like molten lava rock. Couldn't decide if they were sculpted or molded ... very heavy. Could have been a
mixed-with-color cement poured into a mold ... interesting, rough texture.
Vivian's statue was a female form and Paul's male; but they had scant
clothing that I would describe as Aztec. Really cool; difficult to describe.
(Maybe pictures later.)
Of course, my purchase was obscure compared with theirs ... a James Dean paperback book with many photos and scant text. Easier to carry home than a handsome statue! We were near Coral Gables so Vivian
introduced us to a new shopping mall, Merrick Park. Nestled among
newly-built condo buildings, it had two levels and was more like a park than a mall ... absolutely beautiful! Many stores arranged on the two levels, but all similar in looks. Even the new condos had to conform to the
Spanish look of Coral Gables. Large trees, flower gardens and large planters, fountains, benches and tables - some shaded by yellow or orange
market umbrellas. Just beautiful! Even had concealed escalators as a choice from stone steps. Restaurants in Nordstrom and Nieman-Marcus, as well as two larger eateries with indoor or outdoor dining. We opted for
Villagio, apparently Italian, but ate inside as there was a forty-minute wait
for oudoor. The four of us shared two large pizzas (homemade crust) with very fresh ingredients ... filled us to capacity ... even had a little left over.
That concluded our wandering weekend. I checked the news to see who won the Doral tourney and reported to Paul ... didn't want him to be embarrassed when he returned to work Monday morn not knowing the
winner!
Now, let's see ... Hillary's birthday the 14th ... St. Paddy's on the 17th ... a weekend comng up that Paul said "things HAVE to get done." We will see
what that entails; especially if more interesting invitations are submitted.
Nothing like procrastination ... as my blogs have indicated.
Until "the devil gets behind my back" ...
Marma
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
(APOLOGIES FOR FORMAT)
After posting my blog and turning off the computer, I just go about my business and don't check out the post all of you see. Today, I noticed how erratic the format is ... how sentences break in the middle or a new line appears a full space down. I corrected this problem in editing, but guess it didn't "take" when posted. Just want you to realize it wasn't set up that way and, hopefully, won't occur too often. Not a techie ... mea culpa!!
Marmaduke
Marmaduke
RETURNING TO REALITY
During Friday evening's dinner, the temperature had dropped considerably and the ocean waves were crashing against the shore with such force that sprays hit the heavy, clear plastic blinds lowered to protect outdoor dining decks. We decided to forego the fresh air atmosphere for indoor comfort. Our waiter from one of the previous night's dinners had told us they were not serving conch salad that evening ... come back Friday. We didn't think anymore about it ... Friday, we found out why. Our tall, dark efficient server from a previous dinner was now specialty salad-maker for the weekend. In Bahama and surrounding environs, you get "conched" to death ... kind of like French fries in the U.S. However, we decided to share a large conch salad ... most delicious combination we had tasted during our stay. He even came from the kitchen to ask how we liked it ... gave him that ol' Facebook salute ... a thumbs-up "like" !!
Saturday had been designated as "do it yourself" day. The three girls wanted to lounge by the pool or sun on the pier ... the boys and I wanted to go back into Nassau and see historic sites pointed out in the brochures. We had planned an early breakfast, then off to the city ... Port Charlotte, a beautiful cathedral, Queen Anne's steps (to nowhere, we'd been told).
It wasn't meant to be ...
Sometime in the wee hours of the morning, I made the first of many trips to my little outdoor bathroom. Personally, since I was the only one to get sick, I think it was my tempura shrimp. At the time, I began peeling the
coating off. The shrmp didn't taste firm and fresh; but there was no noticable taint. Suffice it to say, I was not feeling well enough to make a
day trip to Nassau. Paul and Larry insisted I take their room because of proximity of the facilities. I agreed and the rest of the day was spent in bed, chills alternating with fever.
The boys decided not to go sight-seeing without me. They spent the day in the sun, checking on me every few hours. At lunchtime (ugh), they brought hot noodle soup and tea. They also brought news that they were going to the casino. I bid them farewell and turned on the TV for audible company. I couldn't concentrate on the plot of programs, so I changed channels to a basketball game. Thus, MY evening versus theirs!!
The crew came back sooner than I expected. They were going to eat at
the lodge; wanted to know if I wanted to join them. (No, thanks!) Vivian won approximately $163; everyone else was in the loss column. They didn't go to Atlantis because it was farther away ... decided to stay in Nassau ... said the casino there was older, very smokey and that was the main reason they left sooner. I "won", however. The group purchased a nice "Nassau, Bahama" teeshirt, a bag of coconut coffee and guava jelly,
all for ME!! So thoughtful...
We were to leave Sunday at 1:25 pm. We met for breakfast (I had a pancake and green tea) and talked about our Bahama trip coming to an end. All of us embarked on a stroll along the shore of the ocean. Walking
barefoot, we followed a narrow cobblestone passageway behind a picnic hut, down sandy steps to the water. The white sand was packed tightly. Lots of seaweed had washed up with the tide; but the day was beautiful and we took many pictures of the scenery ... and of us.
Still time for more fun in the sun! We went to that wooden pier in front of our hut and soaked up the rays of the hot sun. Paul had said he wanted to jump off that pier before we left ... I thought perhaps it was wishful thinking. Two teenage boys tried it out ... they swam back to shore and made the jump again. Larry decided it was time for his jump ... a run, a
jump over the rope at the end of the pier ... success. Gabby, who is eighteen and had been here when she was nine or ten, wanted to try the leap but was scared. Larry coaxed her into going in with him ... she did!
Now, Paul's turn. He strolled out to the edge of the pier; and without a moment's hesitation, jumped in, holding himself "straight as an arrow".
They all said the water was cold and the swim back took alot of energy. I
remember days back in Indiana when we used to go to the stone quarries to swim. I was so very tempted to give it a try; but the sensibility of old age does set in. (Paul would call it "being a chicken"!) We decided to warm up in the hot tub; but, alas, it had ceased being "hot" yesterday ... went to our respective abodes to pack and head out.
The airport was only ten minutes away and we arrived a little early. We wandered around tasting samples of rum cake and jellies. Paul bought a tiny jar of the hottest pepper jelly ... just a smidge leaves a sting ... awesome!!
When Gabby came back from buying a coke, she said the Miami Heat and Bulls were playing and that the Heat had won. I was devastated. When she told me the score, I said it was too low for a final score. Thank goodness I was right ... Bulls won by one point, redeeming themselves from the loss we witnessed our first night here ... which, coincidentally, was by one point.
Our little plane landed at Miami airport; we retrieved our car and drove
home. Conservation was completely dominated by "dogs" ... how they were; how they were missed; how dogs missed them, etc., etc. Phone calls to dog caretakers; more conservation about dogs. I suppose all animal owners know exactly how they felt!
Bahama breezes are behind us now. (Except for the same-name restaurant! Right, Jonferes?) It was a delightful addition to this Florida visit ... will relish the memories even more if it is still cold in the Chicago area. However, Spring can't be too far away. There's all that talk amongst the grandkids and their parents about school vacation time. (Poor Wade!
He's out of that category now; but twins' kindergarten days are nearer than you think!)
Back in Miami ... bloggings will continue, but perhaps not so lengthy ... Hillarity is due here in a couple of weeks ... should make interesting tidbits for blogger perusal ... read on, frozen ones!
Marma
Saturday had been designated as "do it yourself" day. The three girls wanted to lounge by the pool or sun on the pier ... the boys and I wanted to go back into Nassau and see historic sites pointed out in the brochures. We had planned an early breakfast, then off to the city ... Port Charlotte, a beautiful cathedral, Queen Anne's steps (to nowhere, we'd been told).
It wasn't meant to be ...
Sometime in the wee hours of the morning, I made the first of many trips to my little outdoor bathroom. Personally, since I was the only one to get sick, I think it was my tempura shrimp. At the time, I began peeling the
coating off. The shrmp didn't taste firm and fresh; but there was no noticable taint. Suffice it to say, I was not feeling well enough to make a
day trip to Nassau. Paul and Larry insisted I take their room because of proximity of the facilities. I agreed and the rest of the day was spent in bed, chills alternating with fever.
The boys decided not to go sight-seeing without me. They spent the day in the sun, checking on me every few hours. At lunchtime (ugh), they brought hot noodle soup and tea. They also brought news that they were going to the casino. I bid them farewell and turned on the TV for audible company. I couldn't concentrate on the plot of programs, so I changed channels to a basketball game. Thus, MY evening versus theirs!!
The crew came back sooner than I expected. They were going to eat at
the lodge; wanted to know if I wanted to join them. (No, thanks!) Vivian won approximately $163; everyone else was in the loss column. They didn't go to Atlantis because it was farther away ... decided to stay in Nassau ... said the casino there was older, very smokey and that was the main reason they left sooner. I "won", however. The group purchased a nice "Nassau, Bahama" teeshirt, a bag of coconut coffee and guava jelly,
all for ME!! So thoughtful...
We were to leave Sunday at 1:25 pm. We met for breakfast (I had a pancake and green tea) and talked about our Bahama trip coming to an end. All of us embarked on a stroll along the shore of the ocean. Walking
barefoot, we followed a narrow cobblestone passageway behind a picnic hut, down sandy steps to the water. The white sand was packed tightly. Lots of seaweed had washed up with the tide; but the day was beautiful and we took many pictures of the scenery ... and of us.
Still time for more fun in the sun! We went to that wooden pier in front of our hut and soaked up the rays of the hot sun. Paul had said he wanted to jump off that pier before we left ... I thought perhaps it was wishful thinking. Two teenage boys tried it out ... they swam back to shore and made the jump again. Larry decided it was time for his jump ... a run, a
jump over the rope at the end of the pier ... success. Gabby, who is eighteen and had been here when she was nine or ten, wanted to try the leap but was scared. Larry coaxed her into going in with him ... she did!
Now, Paul's turn. He strolled out to the edge of the pier; and without a moment's hesitation, jumped in, holding himself "straight as an arrow".
They all said the water was cold and the swim back took alot of energy. I
remember days back in Indiana when we used to go to the stone quarries to swim. I was so very tempted to give it a try; but the sensibility of old age does set in. (Paul would call it "being a chicken"!) We decided to warm up in the hot tub; but, alas, it had ceased being "hot" yesterday ... went to our respective abodes to pack and head out.
The airport was only ten minutes away and we arrived a little early. We wandered around tasting samples of rum cake and jellies. Paul bought a tiny jar of the hottest pepper jelly ... just a smidge leaves a sting ... awesome!!
When Gabby came back from buying a coke, she said the Miami Heat and Bulls were playing and that the Heat had won. I was devastated. When she told me the score, I said it was too low for a final score. Thank goodness I was right ... Bulls won by one point, redeeming themselves from the loss we witnessed our first night here ... which, coincidentally, was by one point.
Our little plane landed at Miami airport; we retrieved our car and drove
home. Conservation was completely dominated by "dogs" ... how they were; how they were missed; how dogs missed them, etc., etc. Phone calls to dog caretakers; more conservation about dogs. I suppose all animal owners know exactly how they felt!
Bahama breezes are behind us now. (Except for the same-name restaurant! Right, Jonferes?) It was a delightful addition to this Florida visit ... will relish the memories even more if it is still cold in the Chicago area. However, Spring can't be too far away. There's all that talk amongst the grandkids and their parents about school vacation time. (Poor Wade!
He's out of that category now; but twins' kindergarten days are nearer than you think!)
Back in Miami ... bloggings will continue, but perhaps not so lengthy ... Hillarity is due here in a couple of weeks ... should make interesting tidbits for blogger perusal ... read on, frozen ones!
Marma
Monday, March 14, 2011
ATLANTIS ADVENTURE
Having viewed from afar the splendor of Atlantis on Treasure Island, Bahamas, we are all anxious to get there and see what so many have enjoyed. The night lights were magnificent. Can't imagine what daylight will bring. First, however, a few other things ...
Paul had given the front desk at the lodge a list of maintenance duties ... my outside porchlight bulb replaced, outdoor shower head cleaned or replaced, door lock on said shower secured. After all, cleanliness is next to godliness, or some such quaint quote. With towel, robe, soap and shampoo in hand, I tip-toed over stepping stones to my private little shower. Walaah!! Brand new shiny bolt-lock on the timber door. Stepped in, looked up and there was a beautiful new six-inch shower head, ready for testing. Slowly turned the faucet ... out came the steadiest, lovliest stream of hot water ... I basked in the luxury! The boys were surprised when I appeared at their door ready for breakfast ... they probably wondered if I had skipped a shower for the day!
Breakfast consumed, ever-essential taxi summoned, camera at-the-ready, we were off to the sea world that was Atlantis ...
Once again, we traveled along the left side of the spidery road (European travel mode, but steering wheel on the left per American autos) and approached the bridge to Treasure Island. We could see the twin towers of the huge hotel and I couldn't help wondering which one the Telanders stayed in when they vacationed at Atlantis. The place is huge! Large, red paver bricks arranged in spiraling patterns formed the road to the circular entry piazza. A fountain, the size of the one in Chicago's Grant Park, was resplendent with massive, intertwining golden dolphins spiraling into the air as water sprays playfully changed heights. We were gawking like country rubes (Hoosier?) from the very start ... couldn't imagine what would come next.
We went up the steps, opened large, old castle-like doors and disappeared into the gloom. After the bright sunlight, it took some getting used to. Before us was a large, circular marble booth with about eight attendants answering questions and dispensing tickets to different attractions. We all purchased a day-pass (excluding water park adventures), received pamphlets and general info folders; and headed through the vast casino. Only a few tables were open so early in the day; but there they were ... mostly men, smoking cigars, shuffling chips at the blackjack tables. A few women were caught up in slot machine mode. Whereas I put a few dollars into the dollar-machine (NO win), one lady inserted a hundred dollar bill and pulled the lever four times. We roamed around taking pictures and checking our itinerary ... as we retraced our steps, we saw the same gal, alone, cigarette in hand, still at the $25 machine. Hope she won something ... it was only ten in the morning!!
There were so many lagoon exhibits showing marine life in native habitats that we didn't know which to choose first. Across Neptune's lobby, with its gigantic, sculptured sea serpents dominating ledges and peering through sea-like greenery, we sighted a wide marble staircase with railings so expansive I was tempted to hop on and slide to the bottom. (Unlike Jason adventuring in Prague, I resisted the notion.) Down passageways into sunken treasure realm, we entered the Digs/Ruins Lagoon ... the largest open-air marine habitat in the world.
This magnificient aguarium defies description ... floor to ceiling glass walls ... open-air at the top ... sharks, baracuda, huge stingrays swim up to the glass. The sharks looked so menacing as they slowly glided by us, exposing sharp teeth and piercing eyes that seemed to be searching for prey. With the sun shining so brightly outside, illuminating the water, you felt as if you were actually in the ocean, co-habitating with these predators. There were waist-high troughs in the next room where you could touch the starfish and view "sunken treasures". We passed through
a long glass tunnel where these huge fish swam overhead as well as along the sides ... very eerie looking up and being able to "touch" the floating stingrays. There was another added attraction further along. People in swimsuits, visiting the Mayan Temple waterpark, floated down an enclosed water chute in large, clear plastic innertubes. Looked like great fun ... literally "swimming with the fishes" ... Chris S. used to say this was his favorite thing to do at Atlantis!
We left our caverns and went out into the grounds ... acres and acres of tropical foliage ... Mayan statues, water nymphs and seahorses cavorting
in strategic locales. Since we hadn't purchased water passes, we were not supposed to go into beach areas; but, I guess, rules were meant to be broken. We went to a large waterfall-pool-beach spot, sidled up to a refreshment stand; ordered drinks; went over to a smaller pool for toddlers; took off our shoes and sat on the edge with our feet in the water.
Refreshing indeed!!
Having escaped one security scrutiny, we wandered through the grounds.
Most everything is man-made but the stones, molten rock, lagoons, coves and deeper cays look as if they had been there for centuries ... there are places for scuba diving, swimming with the dolphins or gliding along side with a hand-held water scooter ... most anything you want to do. We crossed swinging rope bridges, climbed rock ledges to view the real ocean. Exhausting but exillerating!!
Way past lunchtime. We decided to eat outside the grounds and found Murray's Deli. We all ordered different sandwiches and they were HUGE!
Paul and I split a BLT and, I swear, there was a pound of thin bacon on there. Wonderful day ... taxi, again, back to Compass Point.
Not quite dinnertime ... we all met in front of P & L's hut and soaked in
the hot tub ... cleaned up for dinner at the lodge ... seafood, marguaritas, pina coladas ... cappachinos ... laughter ... replay of the long day ... called it a night!!
Wish you all could have been with us ... Atlantis is almost indescribable ...
literature doesn't do it justice ... until the next adventure ...
Marma
Paul had given the front desk at the lodge a list of maintenance duties ... my outside porchlight bulb replaced, outdoor shower head cleaned or replaced, door lock on said shower secured. After all, cleanliness is next to godliness, or some such quaint quote. With towel, robe, soap and shampoo in hand, I tip-toed over stepping stones to my private little shower. Walaah!! Brand new shiny bolt-lock on the timber door. Stepped in, looked up and there was a beautiful new six-inch shower head, ready for testing. Slowly turned the faucet ... out came the steadiest, lovliest stream of hot water ... I basked in the luxury! The boys were surprised when I appeared at their door ready for breakfast ... they probably wondered if I had skipped a shower for the day!
Breakfast consumed, ever-essential taxi summoned, camera at-the-ready, we were off to the sea world that was Atlantis ...
Once again, we traveled along the left side of the spidery road (European travel mode, but steering wheel on the left per American autos) and approached the bridge to Treasure Island. We could see the twin towers of the huge hotel and I couldn't help wondering which one the Telanders stayed in when they vacationed at Atlantis. The place is huge! Large, red paver bricks arranged in spiraling patterns formed the road to the circular entry piazza. A fountain, the size of the one in Chicago's Grant Park, was resplendent with massive, intertwining golden dolphins spiraling into the air as water sprays playfully changed heights. We were gawking like country rubes (Hoosier?) from the very start ... couldn't imagine what would come next.
We went up the steps, opened large, old castle-like doors and disappeared into the gloom. After the bright sunlight, it took some getting used to. Before us was a large, circular marble booth with about eight attendants answering questions and dispensing tickets to different attractions. We all purchased a day-pass (excluding water park adventures), received pamphlets and general info folders; and headed through the vast casino. Only a few tables were open so early in the day; but there they were ... mostly men, smoking cigars, shuffling chips at the blackjack tables. A few women were caught up in slot machine mode. Whereas I put a few dollars into the dollar-machine (NO win), one lady inserted a hundred dollar bill and pulled the lever four times. We roamed around taking pictures and checking our itinerary ... as we retraced our steps, we saw the same gal, alone, cigarette in hand, still at the $25 machine. Hope she won something ... it was only ten in the morning!!
There were so many lagoon exhibits showing marine life in native habitats that we didn't know which to choose first. Across Neptune's lobby, with its gigantic, sculptured sea serpents dominating ledges and peering through sea-like greenery, we sighted a wide marble staircase with railings so expansive I was tempted to hop on and slide to the bottom. (Unlike Jason adventuring in Prague, I resisted the notion.) Down passageways into sunken treasure realm, we entered the Digs/Ruins Lagoon ... the largest open-air marine habitat in the world.
This magnificient aguarium defies description ... floor to ceiling glass walls ... open-air at the top ... sharks, baracuda, huge stingrays swim up to the glass. The sharks looked so menacing as they slowly glided by us, exposing sharp teeth and piercing eyes that seemed to be searching for prey. With the sun shining so brightly outside, illuminating the water, you felt as if you were actually in the ocean, co-habitating with these predators. There were waist-high troughs in the next room where you could touch the starfish and view "sunken treasures". We passed through
a long glass tunnel where these huge fish swam overhead as well as along the sides ... very eerie looking up and being able to "touch" the floating stingrays. There was another added attraction further along. People in swimsuits, visiting the Mayan Temple waterpark, floated down an enclosed water chute in large, clear plastic innertubes. Looked like great fun ... literally "swimming with the fishes" ... Chris S. used to say this was his favorite thing to do at Atlantis!
We left our caverns and went out into the grounds ... acres and acres of tropical foliage ... Mayan statues, water nymphs and seahorses cavorting
in strategic locales. Since we hadn't purchased water passes, we were not supposed to go into beach areas; but, I guess, rules were meant to be broken. We went to a large waterfall-pool-beach spot, sidled up to a refreshment stand; ordered drinks; went over to a smaller pool for toddlers; took off our shoes and sat on the edge with our feet in the water.
Refreshing indeed!!
Having escaped one security scrutiny, we wandered through the grounds.
Most everything is man-made but the stones, molten rock, lagoons, coves and deeper cays look as if they had been there for centuries ... there are places for scuba diving, swimming with the dolphins or gliding along side with a hand-held water scooter ... most anything you want to do. We crossed swinging rope bridges, climbed rock ledges to view the real ocean. Exhausting but exillerating!!
Way past lunchtime. We decided to eat outside the grounds and found Murray's Deli. We all ordered different sandwiches and they were HUGE!
Paul and I split a BLT and, I swear, there was a pound of thin bacon on there. Wonderful day ... taxi, again, back to Compass Point.
Not quite dinnertime ... we all met in front of P & L's hut and soaked in
the hot tub ... cleaned up for dinner at the lodge ... seafood, marguaritas, pina coladas ... cappachinos ... laughter ... replay of the long day ... called it a night!!
Wish you all could have been with us ... Atlantis is almost indescribable ...
literature doesn't do it justice ... until the next adventure ...
Marma
Friday, March 11, 2011
PARADISE ISLAND
It's Thursday evening and we have had a full day. That doesn't mean activities are over, however. "Au contraire" ... evening approaches and we have reservations, courtesy of Vivian and Merrill Lynch, at One&Only Resort restaurant on Paradise Island. A famous chef from New York now heads the staff and reservations are hard to come by; thus Vivian and her connections. (Name of chef alludes me at present ... later perhaps.)
Getting ready for the evening could have presented logistic poblems ...
MY shower had not yet been rehabbed and working my way in, after, or between the ablutions of male prima donnas could possibly cause difficulties. However, being the gentlemen that they are, a choice was given and we managed to depart for the lodge at the same time. Now, for that always needed taxi ...
Six of us once again piled into a van and headed to Treasure Island, across the bridge from Nassau. We endured the monotony of previously seen countryside; but, as evening begain to set in and brightly colored lights dotted the horizon, excitement was evident in our chatter. Palm trees were taller and more stately; the gentle breezes were now turning
into mild winds. We had a scant glimpse of the giant towers of Atlantis across the waters and made a verbal agreement that tomorrow's journey would be a reconnaissance mission to check out the attributes of this sea world.
As we drew closer to our destination, those tall, stucco walls were no longer in sight. We could now see large, beautifully landscaped mansions set back some distance from the road. The lighting was low and soft, enhancing the grounds and the mansions without being garish ... so-o
pretentious! Just kidding ... envy doth provoke sarcasm!
Our taxi turned into a dark, palm-tree-lined roadway with a guard house at the gate of an expansive wrought iron fence. The driver told the guard that he had dinner guests for the evening. We waited for the gate to roll back and he continued driving through what seemed like a tropical forest. It was very dark; only the glow of hidden lights along the edges gave any hint of resort life. We pulled up the circular drive; doormen rushed to open our car doors and show us up the marble steps to more doormen standing by two-to-three story high columns. We were ushered into a beautiful foyer that did NOT resemble any hotel I've ever seen. No
reservation desk ... small marble bar, with modified Louis IVth bar heighth chairs, to the left ... chandliers and lighted candles in a variety of sizes in holders ranging from small to oversize, crystal, silver or bronze ... fresh white orchids were growing in stylish planters or resting in unique vases of varying heights ... floors graduated from marble at the entrance to dark, shiny hardwoods in the overly-large entry room to carpeting in the lounge area. Just mind boggling ...
It was early for our dinner reservation so Vivian talked with one of the Food & Beverage managers and he took us on a mini tour. It was very dark and getting windier and chilly ... what we could see, as we walked along brick pathways, was nature at its most beautiful ... the owners had built among the trees and planted native bushes, flowers, and tropical greenery where buildings had replaced original growth ... upkeep was meticulous. You could hear the ocean lapping in the distance ... would have been even more spectacular if viewed in the daytime.
One&Only had just finished refurbishing rooms and suites; the gentleman
offered to show us one of the rooms ... that was a misnomer, as far as I was concerned! We turned into a little brick patio-type doorway entrance; he knocked and we all went in. A "maid" was finishing her chores (she was wearing a stylish, navy blue pantsuit and her gold ID badge); we apologized for interrupting; she left and we roamed. Paul corrected me when I called this a suite; but, actually, that was what I would call it. The "room" had a very large living room area with a long sofa, two overstuffed chairs, mahogany desk & chair, small game or card table and a very large TV. The flooring was wide strips of dark, highly polished wood. French
doors led to a private patio with lounge chairs, small chairside tables, potted flowers ... we hadn't even entered the bedroom yet.
The bedroom was not closed off ... there was an open archway entrance from the sitting-room area ... another large TV ... the king-sized bed was gorgeous ... made up in beautiful all-white linens, filmy bedspread with a small vine of red roses delicately crossing one lower corner ... all the amenities, but enhanced ... the bath was huge, double everything.
Had large showers, whirlpool spa, a separate changing room with closet; drawers and cabinets lining the walls. I think you get the picture! Of course, the ever resplendent bar was located in a corner between the living room and bedroom, complete with liquors and nice glassware. Oh, the decadence of it all!!
Almost time for dinner. On our way back to the main lobby, our host offered to show us more of the resort. We declined, as the night air had turned very chilly and the wind had increased. He said he would be in tomorrow if we wanted to return ... we thanked him and headed in to the restaurant ...
The restaurant was in keeping with the rest of the resort decor ... dark woods ... floor-to-ceiling windows all along the right side as we entered ... small square tables to seat two or four, pushed together for larger parties ... partial glass walls on the left side gave a look into the kitchen activity... we were shown to our table; welcomed; presented with menus, wine list ... everyone had their individual duties ... a lady asked each of us if we wanted rosemary or chili flavored oil ... filled our individual containers, gave us sea salt to add. She left and returned with the most delicious warm herb bread. Paul and I wanted wine ... a sommelier appeared, recommended a nice pinot noir ... someone clears dishes, another fills water glasses ... there must have been five or six indviduals serving us and not one doing double duty ... I'm just not used to this untold luxury ... such "spoilage" ...
We all ordered many different things ... mine was a two-inch thick pork chop; Paul got red snapper; Vivian had a shrimp dish; Gabby finally got her deluxe conch salad; Mary and Larry ordered soup and pizza (?). Larry
said he could have had only the soup ... a coconut and chicken blend of thick chowder-type consistency. He said it was the best soup he had ever tasted. No need to describe our food ... absolutely delicious ... dessert seemed like a delectable addition; but there IS a limit! However, the Irish coffee sounded so good, I couldn't resist. It was also the faux pas of the evening, at least in our estimation ...
The extremely hot coffee was served in a brandy-type glass with no handle. The server had added a linen napkin. I used the napkin to grasp the glass; but everyone at the table was afraid I would mimic that ole lady in the McDonald's fiasco and spill it in my lap. Probably expecting the same, the server brought a cup and saucer for my use. Missed using my glass mug with the handle ... old Irish coffee habits die hard!
As we waited for our taxi, we roamed around, looking out French doors and "people watching" ... must have been plans for a weekend wedding as many apparent family members, young children, young adults all mingled and grew louder as cocktails were refilled. (Miss the family!)
Back to OUR resort ... through our multi-colored lodge, down the path all lit up with red, blue, green and yellow reflector lights. Really pretty against the surrounding palm trees and the ocean lapping against the rocks just outside our huts ... Atlantis isn't visible from here; but I feel as if Neptune were keeping us in his sights.
Crawled up into bed ... pulled the covers over my head ... fell promptly asleep ... probably dreaming of eating breakfast!!
Marma
Getting ready for the evening could have presented logistic poblems ...
MY shower had not yet been rehabbed and working my way in, after, or between the ablutions of male prima donnas could possibly cause difficulties. However, being the gentlemen that they are, a choice was given and we managed to depart for the lodge at the same time. Now, for that always needed taxi ...
Six of us once again piled into a van and headed to Treasure Island, across the bridge from Nassau. We endured the monotony of previously seen countryside; but, as evening begain to set in and brightly colored lights dotted the horizon, excitement was evident in our chatter. Palm trees were taller and more stately; the gentle breezes were now turning
into mild winds. We had a scant glimpse of the giant towers of Atlantis across the waters and made a verbal agreement that tomorrow's journey would be a reconnaissance mission to check out the attributes of this sea world.
As we drew closer to our destination, those tall, stucco walls were no longer in sight. We could now see large, beautifully landscaped mansions set back some distance from the road. The lighting was low and soft, enhancing the grounds and the mansions without being garish ... so-o
pretentious! Just kidding ... envy doth provoke sarcasm!
Our taxi turned into a dark, palm-tree-lined roadway with a guard house at the gate of an expansive wrought iron fence. The driver told the guard that he had dinner guests for the evening. We waited for the gate to roll back and he continued driving through what seemed like a tropical forest. It was very dark; only the glow of hidden lights along the edges gave any hint of resort life. We pulled up the circular drive; doormen rushed to open our car doors and show us up the marble steps to more doormen standing by two-to-three story high columns. We were ushered into a beautiful foyer that did NOT resemble any hotel I've ever seen. No
reservation desk ... small marble bar, with modified Louis IVth bar heighth chairs, to the left ... chandliers and lighted candles in a variety of sizes in holders ranging from small to oversize, crystal, silver or bronze ... fresh white orchids were growing in stylish planters or resting in unique vases of varying heights ... floors graduated from marble at the entrance to dark, shiny hardwoods in the overly-large entry room to carpeting in the lounge area. Just mind boggling ...
It was early for our dinner reservation so Vivian talked with one of the Food & Beverage managers and he took us on a mini tour. It was very dark and getting windier and chilly ... what we could see, as we walked along brick pathways, was nature at its most beautiful ... the owners had built among the trees and planted native bushes, flowers, and tropical greenery where buildings had replaced original growth ... upkeep was meticulous. You could hear the ocean lapping in the distance ... would have been even more spectacular if viewed in the daytime.
One&Only had just finished refurbishing rooms and suites; the gentleman
offered to show us one of the rooms ... that was a misnomer, as far as I was concerned! We turned into a little brick patio-type doorway entrance; he knocked and we all went in. A "maid" was finishing her chores (she was wearing a stylish, navy blue pantsuit and her gold ID badge); we apologized for interrupting; she left and we roamed. Paul corrected me when I called this a suite; but, actually, that was what I would call it. The "room" had a very large living room area with a long sofa, two overstuffed chairs, mahogany desk & chair, small game or card table and a very large TV. The flooring was wide strips of dark, highly polished wood. French
doors led to a private patio with lounge chairs, small chairside tables, potted flowers ... we hadn't even entered the bedroom yet.
The bedroom was not closed off ... there was an open archway entrance from the sitting-room area ... another large TV ... the king-sized bed was gorgeous ... made up in beautiful all-white linens, filmy bedspread with a small vine of red roses delicately crossing one lower corner ... all the amenities, but enhanced ... the bath was huge, double everything.
Had large showers, whirlpool spa, a separate changing room with closet; drawers and cabinets lining the walls. I think you get the picture! Of course, the ever resplendent bar was located in a corner between the living room and bedroom, complete with liquors and nice glassware. Oh, the decadence of it all!!
Almost time for dinner. On our way back to the main lobby, our host offered to show us more of the resort. We declined, as the night air had turned very chilly and the wind had increased. He said he would be in tomorrow if we wanted to return ... we thanked him and headed in to the restaurant ...
The restaurant was in keeping with the rest of the resort decor ... dark woods ... floor-to-ceiling windows all along the right side as we entered ... small square tables to seat two or four, pushed together for larger parties ... partial glass walls on the left side gave a look into the kitchen activity... we were shown to our table; welcomed; presented with menus, wine list ... everyone had their individual duties ... a lady asked each of us if we wanted rosemary or chili flavored oil ... filled our individual containers, gave us sea salt to add. She left and returned with the most delicious warm herb bread. Paul and I wanted wine ... a sommelier appeared, recommended a nice pinot noir ... someone clears dishes, another fills water glasses ... there must have been five or six indviduals serving us and not one doing double duty ... I'm just not used to this untold luxury ... such "spoilage" ...
We all ordered many different things ... mine was a two-inch thick pork chop; Paul got red snapper; Vivian had a shrimp dish; Gabby finally got her deluxe conch salad; Mary and Larry ordered soup and pizza (?). Larry
said he could have had only the soup ... a coconut and chicken blend of thick chowder-type consistency. He said it was the best soup he had ever tasted. No need to describe our food ... absolutely delicious ... dessert seemed like a delectable addition; but there IS a limit! However, the Irish coffee sounded so good, I couldn't resist. It was also the faux pas of the evening, at least in our estimation ...
The extremely hot coffee was served in a brandy-type glass with no handle. The server had added a linen napkin. I used the napkin to grasp the glass; but everyone at the table was afraid I would mimic that ole lady in the McDonald's fiasco and spill it in my lap. Probably expecting the same, the server brought a cup and saucer for my use. Missed using my glass mug with the handle ... old Irish coffee habits die hard!
As we waited for our taxi, we roamed around, looking out French doors and "people watching" ... must have been plans for a weekend wedding as many apparent family members, young children, young adults all mingled and grew louder as cocktails were refilled. (Miss the family!)
Back to OUR resort ... through our multi-colored lodge, down the path all lit up with red, blue, green and yellow reflector lights. Really pretty against the surrounding palm trees and the ocean lapping against the rocks just outside our huts ... Atlantis isn't visible from here; but I feel as if Neptune were keeping us in his sights.
Crawled up into bed ... pulled the covers over my head ... fell promptly asleep ... probably dreaming of eating breakfast!!
Marma
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
NAVIGATING NASSAU
As I lay in my little bed high in the rafters, the sound of the ocean waves told me it was time to investigate that outdoor shower. Darn near fell out of the thing when I first arose; forgot about the heighth and the stepping stool. As Paul often says, "She'll learn!"
With soap and towel in hand, I went down steps and into my cave-like structure. Now that was what I would call an "awakening"!! First of all, it was rather chilly as winds swept under the hut. Walls did not touch the ground; there was perhaps twelve inches of open daylight all around. The shower head was small; water dribbled from two or three openings; the lock on the door was rusted and wouldn't connect to the opposite side ... I took my soap and towel, unused, and went back to my room.
Paul knocked on my door to go to breakfast. When I related the news, he suggested I go upstairs and use their shower ... which I did ... ahhh, the wonderful feeling of hot, hot water washing away the goosebumps.
Breakfast at the lodge ... set menu of basic early morning meals ... very good eggs benedict. We went out front to wait for our taxi ... destination, city of Nassau.
The ride was a long one. The driver was very informative, explaining sites and how to get to tourist attractions. He showed us a mansion and grounds where a Bond movie was shot. The route was not scenic ... any homes were seemingly surrounded by stucco fences of various pink or yellow colors; so you couldn't see the ocean except a glimpse through squat palm trees. As we drew closer to downtown Nassau, however, things perked up a might ...
Large, well-known resorts, such as Sandals, began to appear. Once again, we were not treated to the gorgeous views advertised in magazines. The road winds behind the hotels, which are all constructed with ocean-front entrances; thus a picture of parking lots, tourists retrieving their luggage, pet owners walking their dogs. Those cement walls kept even that scant peek at a minimum.
Downtown Nassau ... highly congested ... old stone buildings in various states of disrepair ... no traffic lights. Traffic was directed by persons in full British dress uniforms - white trousers with red stripe down the side, short navy blue jackets with gold buttons and epaulet adornments, navy blue "guard-type" hats and white gloves ... very stately, almost like London's changing of the guard. Our taxi dropped us off at the Straw Market ...
The Straw Market is difficult to describe ... located on a corner in a warehouse-type, crumbly stone building; part of it was inside, part in areas with no roof or ceiling. Bahamaian crafters displayed their wares
row by row right next to each other, not even "elbow" space in between. If you stopped to look at any one item, you were practically attacked! "You lika dis." "I tell you how much." "Cheap. We bargain." They kept following you! Scary ! There were scads of souvenir items with the required "Nassau" logo; handcarved woods, some of which you see in most vacation areas. Many crafters were weaving fans, placemats, etc. out of local straws, palm leaves and fibers and some were carving larger pieces out of nice woods. Very interesting, but you had to know what you wanted and search it out. It's a permanent place; most of the occupants probably come every day; it's their livelihood.
Down the street was a museum on slavery. We stopped in. It was very small ... only one very large room. A few glass cases held actual artifacts found in the Southern states and in Africa ... mostly the iron chains and branding irons used to keep them in captivity ... interesting. We left and went in search of The Pirate Cove.
Aigh, matey!! Nicely done, this little attraction; but we were hoping for a little info on actual pirates and their exploits in the area in days gone by. Was more like a Disney show for kids ... dark passages, beautiful mannequins, nice ship-side lore, pieces from actual treasures, etc. Enjoyable, but we were getting hungry. Time to find a place to eat.
Vivian knew of a place that had fresh fish and good seafood salads and was well-known ... we decided to give it a go. Called "Twin Brothers", it was a typical Florida open-air seafaring type restaurant with a host informing us that we could pick our fish from the cooler and they would prepare it to order. We took a pass because we had reservatons for a deluxe dinner in early evening and didn't want to over-indulge at lunch. The place is a noted Bahaman eatery, but not too impressive from outward appearance. It was crowded and we wanted to sit outdoors; we were seated upstairs on an open porch. We ordered a seafood sampler plate and side salads; the girls had their own conch fritters and seafood fingerlings.
To make a long story briefer ... half the order came, wrong salad dressing,
and the waitress was serving full orders to people who arrived after us.
When she finally came to see what "else" we wanted, she said she had forgotten the other items. She gave us our bill with everything on it plus tip. Needless to say, a mild tussle began, the manager said to take things off and left the building. Even the head honcho didn't want to deal with such inept behavior. Always somethng!!
We then bartered with a raggedy taxi driver about taking us home ... he wanted a much higher fare than other drivers and his van was rather unkempt ... Vivian talked her Cuban street talk; we decided to take it, but had to crawl over seats because the door wouldn't open all the way. We griped the entire way back to Compass Point; but the night was to be one of the finer aspects of our stay. Just could not wait ...
We scattered to our individual abodes and made preparations for the evening ... wait 'til you hear!
Marma
With soap and towel in hand, I went down steps and into my cave-like structure. Now that was what I would call an "awakening"!! First of all, it was rather chilly as winds swept under the hut. Walls did not touch the ground; there was perhaps twelve inches of open daylight all around. The shower head was small; water dribbled from two or three openings; the lock on the door was rusted and wouldn't connect to the opposite side ... I took my soap and towel, unused, and went back to my room.
Paul knocked on my door to go to breakfast. When I related the news, he suggested I go upstairs and use their shower ... which I did ... ahhh, the wonderful feeling of hot, hot water washing away the goosebumps.
Breakfast at the lodge ... set menu of basic early morning meals ... very good eggs benedict. We went out front to wait for our taxi ... destination, city of Nassau.
The ride was a long one. The driver was very informative, explaining sites and how to get to tourist attractions. He showed us a mansion and grounds where a Bond movie was shot. The route was not scenic ... any homes were seemingly surrounded by stucco fences of various pink or yellow colors; so you couldn't see the ocean except a glimpse through squat palm trees. As we drew closer to downtown Nassau, however, things perked up a might ...
Large, well-known resorts, such as Sandals, began to appear. Once again, we were not treated to the gorgeous views advertised in magazines. The road winds behind the hotels, which are all constructed with ocean-front entrances; thus a picture of parking lots, tourists retrieving their luggage, pet owners walking their dogs. Those cement walls kept even that scant peek at a minimum.
Downtown Nassau ... highly congested ... old stone buildings in various states of disrepair ... no traffic lights. Traffic was directed by persons in full British dress uniforms - white trousers with red stripe down the side, short navy blue jackets with gold buttons and epaulet adornments, navy blue "guard-type" hats and white gloves ... very stately, almost like London's changing of the guard. Our taxi dropped us off at the Straw Market ...
The Straw Market is difficult to describe ... located on a corner in a warehouse-type, crumbly stone building; part of it was inside, part in areas with no roof or ceiling. Bahamaian crafters displayed their wares
row by row right next to each other, not even "elbow" space in between. If you stopped to look at any one item, you were practically attacked! "You lika dis." "I tell you how much." "Cheap. We bargain." They kept following you! Scary ! There were scads of souvenir items with the required "Nassau" logo; handcarved woods, some of which you see in most vacation areas. Many crafters were weaving fans, placemats, etc. out of local straws, palm leaves and fibers and some were carving larger pieces out of nice woods. Very interesting, but you had to know what you wanted and search it out. It's a permanent place; most of the occupants probably come every day; it's their livelihood.
Down the street was a museum on slavery. We stopped in. It was very small ... only one very large room. A few glass cases held actual artifacts found in the Southern states and in Africa ... mostly the iron chains and branding irons used to keep them in captivity ... interesting. We left and went in search of The Pirate Cove.
Aigh, matey!! Nicely done, this little attraction; but we were hoping for a little info on actual pirates and their exploits in the area in days gone by. Was more like a Disney show for kids ... dark passages, beautiful mannequins, nice ship-side lore, pieces from actual treasures, etc. Enjoyable, but we were getting hungry. Time to find a place to eat.
Vivian knew of a place that had fresh fish and good seafood salads and was well-known ... we decided to give it a go. Called "Twin Brothers", it was a typical Florida open-air seafaring type restaurant with a host informing us that we could pick our fish from the cooler and they would prepare it to order. We took a pass because we had reservatons for a deluxe dinner in early evening and didn't want to over-indulge at lunch. The place is a noted Bahaman eatery, but not too impressive from outward appearance. It was crowded and we wanted to sit outdoors; we were seated upstairs on an open porch. We ordered a seafood sampler plate and side salads; the girls had their own conch fritters and seafood fingerlings.
To make a long story briefer ... half the order came, wrong salad dressing,
and the waitress was serving full orders to people who arrived after us.
When she finally came to see what "else" we wanted, she said she had forgotten the other items. She gave us our bill with everything on it plus tip. Needless to say, a mild tussle began, the manager said to take things off and left the building. Even the head honcho didn't want to deal with such inept behavior. Always somethng!!
We then bartered with a raggedy taxi driver about taking us home ... he wanted a much higher fare than other drivers and his van was rather unkempt ... Vivian talked her Cuban street talk; we decided to take it, but had to crawl over seats because the door wouldn't open all the way. We griped the entire way back to Compass Point; but the night was to be one of the finer aspects of our stay. Just could not wait ...
We scattered to our individual abodes and made preparations for the evening ... wait 'til you hear!
Marma
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
VACATION VARIANCE
My goodness, how time flies!! Unbeknownst to most everyone, this week has been a little different. Instead of sitting poolside, reading and waiting for that Sunday breakfast, a surprise trip had been planned ... a flight to the Bahamas!! O-oh, how exciting ...
Early Wednesday morning, Paul, Larry and I plus "three ladies across the yard" (Mary, Vivian and her daughter, Gabrielle) loaded P & L's truck with luggage and took off for the airport. There we boarded a small, crop-duster-type plane for Nassau - total time about one hour.
Upon landing, we hurried through the small airport in search of a taxi ... most transportation here seems to be vans with native Bahamaian drivers. (The vans themselves can be in varying degrees of "fitness".) We all piled in and Vivian sat in front as co-pilot; she had been to this particular resort before and knew the ropes.) She informed the driver that we needed to make two stops ... liquor store and grocery store (and without saying, the driver seemed to know which was the top priority!)
After purchasing a couple bottles of wine, soft drinks, Patron tequilla, Bacardi rum and various tropical delectables, we went to the grocery store. There, we bought fresh fruit, chips and snacks. Laden with bags, we re-entered the taxi and traveled to our resort.
Aproximately fifteen minutes later, we arrived at Compass Point. our home for the rest of the week. A beach community billed as a resort, but not of the Sandals or Atlantis variety, we were taken to our huts ... aptly named ...
Compass Point is a collection of brightly-painted, irregularly-shaped, randomly-spaced dwellings sitting atop weathered pilings. Part of the hut fits into the rocky landscape and the section over the pilings forms a roof over a picnic area complete with table, benches, cobblestone floors ... a locked cupboard built into one rocky wall houses plates, plasticware, a few pans, and ice buckets. Especially nice since all the goodies could be stored in one place instead of carrying back and forth. Everything is oceanside ... a wide cobblestone walk leads from the lodge and winds through the area. Now for our individual abodes ...
Paul & Larry had a large hut with full bath & shower, TV, microwave,small safe, closet, large dresser, desk, multiple lights ... all rough woods (even the shower flooring was wooden slats) wicker chair & lamp shades ... very tropical. Wooden stairs led up to their room and the picnic space was below. Now, my hut ...
The attendant was showing us our space (the girls were sharing a hut about three doors down the path from us) and she turned to me and said, "This is your room" and "This is your toilet" and "This is your shower" ...
I really thought she was giving me a choice; but my room was small ... nothing but a bed and TV ... and everything else was outside, in a separate
area (the toilet and basin were in a room under P & L's room). A stepping stone or two away was an outdoor shower, cobblestone floor ... just a wooden hut ... I asked her if this was really where I was to take my showers (it can get cool with that ocean breeze) and she smiled and nodded. More on this later ... (seemed rustic but appealing) ...
We unpacked, met outside, ate a few snacks and toasted to our arrival. We roamed the vicinity and went to rest before dinner at the lodge. The wind was building into gale-like proportions and a chill was in the air. Just oceanic turmoil ... a storm had hit other islands, but so far we were okay.
Before the ladies arrived, Paul, Larry and I had a drink at the bar ... and on the big TV ... Bulls vs Atlanta Hawks. When we moved to our table, the TV in the room at the end was on something else ... the waiter heard us talking and changed it for me ... we were out on a deck but I could see into the inside room. Unfortunately, the Bulls lost by one point ...
Dinner was delicious ... I had fresh grouper. We planned to meet for early breakfast and go into Nassau the next morning. Around 10:30 pm or so, we retired to our separate rooms ... news comes on at 11:00 pm in these parts (same as Florida) so I caught up on a few happenings and turned out the lights. I climbed into bed for an anticipated night's sleep ... and I mean that literally. The beds are on a high platform and you have to use a stool to get in or pole vault! Don't think Karen will be making reservations here ... the rest of you would laugh, wonder and call it a night!!
As has been said before, tomorrow is another day ...
Marma
Early Wednesday morning, Paul, Larry and I plus "three ladies across the yard" (Mary, Vivian and her daughter, Gabrielle) loaded P & L's truck with luggage and took off for the airport. There we boarded a small, crop-duster-type plane for Nassau - total time about one hour.
Upon landing, we hurried through the small airport in search of a taxi ... most transportation here seems to be vans with native Bahamaian drivers. (The vans themselves can be in varying degrees of "fitness".) We all piled in and Vivian sat in front as co-pilot; she had been to this particular resort before and knew the ropes.) She informed the driver that we needed to make two stops ... liquor store and grocery store (and without saying, the driver seemed to know which was the top priority!)
After purchasing a couple bottles of wine, soft drinks, Patron tequilla, Bacardi rum and various tropical delectables, we went to the grocery store. There, we bought fresh fruit, chips and snacks. Laden with bags, we re-entered the taxi and traveled to our resort.
Aproximately fifteen minutes later, we arrived at Compass Point. our home for the rest of the week. A beach community billed as a resort, but not of the Sandals or Atlantis variety, we were taken to our huts ... aptly named ...
Compass Point is a collection of brightly-painted, irregularly-shaped, randomly-spaced dwellings sitting atop weathered pilings. Part of the hut fits into the rocky landscape and the section over the pilings forms a roof over a picnic area complete with table, benches, cobblestone floors ... a locked cupboard built into one rocky wall houses plates, plasticware, a few pans, and ice buckets. Especially nice since all the goodies could be stored in one place instead of carrying back and forth. Everything is oceanside ... a wide cobblestone walk leads from the lodge and winds through the area. Now for our individual abodes ...
Paul & Larry had a large hut with full bath & shower, TV, microwave,small safe, closet, large dresser, desk, multiple lights ... all rough woods (even the shower flooring was wooden slats) wicker chair & lamp shades ... very tropical. Wooden stairs led up to their room and the picnic space was below. Now, my hut ...
The attendant was showing us our space (the girls were sharing a hut about three doors down the path from us) and she turned to me and said, "This is your room" and "This is your toilet" and "This is your shower" ...
I really thought she was giving me a choice; but my room was small ... nothing but a bed and TV ... and everything else was outside, in a separate
area (the toilet and basin were in a room under P & L's room). A stepping stone or two away was an outdoor shower, cobblestone floor ... just a wooden hut ... I asked her if this was really where I was to take my showers (it can get cool with that ocean breeze) and she smiled and nodded. More on this later ... (seemed rustic but appealing) ...
We unpacked, met outside, ate a few snacks and toasted to our arrival. We roamed the vicinity and went to rest before dinner at the lodge. The wind was building into gale-like proportions and a chill was in the air. Just oceanic turmoil ... a storm had hit other islands, but so far we were okay.
Before the ladies arrived, Paul, Larry and I had a drink at the bar ... and on the big TV ... Bulls vs Atlanta Hawks. When we moved to our table, the TV in the room at the end was on something else ... the waiter heard us talking and changed it for me ... we were out on a deck but I could see into the inside room. Unfortunately, the Bulls lost by one point ...
Dinner was delicious ... I had fresh grouper. We planned to meet for early breakfast and go into Nassau the next morning. Around 10:30 pm or so, we retired to our separate rooms ... news comes on at 11:00 pm in these parts (same as Florida) so I caught up on a few happenings and turned out the lights. I climbed into bed for an anticipated night's sleep ... and I mean that literally. The beds are on a high platform and you have to use a stool to get in or pole vault! Don't think Karen will be making reservations here ... the rest of you would laugh, wonder and call it a night!!
As has been said before, tomorrow is another day ...
Marma
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
REASONABLE RUMINATING
'Tis another day and I have two new books to keep me company ... nothing earth-shaking ... just a Kellerman mystery and one more Tudor tale. (Any suggestions for a good read would be appreciated!) Went to the book aisle in Costco expecting to have difficulty selecting something to read because of the large number of books; but the real difficulty was findng enough books. The Illinois Costcos usually have so many paperbacks alone that looking at the cover, author and short summary could take hours. Not so here in "suburban" Florida ... perhaps there is not enough demand for "English" reading in this vicinity ... at least at Costco ... oh, well.
It's Tuesday already and a lot of Oscar rehash has given way to new celebrities appearing on "Dancing With the Stars" ... no matter the hype, just who ARE most of these people? They are to "trip the light fantastic" but I predict more tripping than anything else. But, back to Oscar night.
Mid-afternoon did indeed beckon the pina colodas ... just getting in the mood for a gala evening. We changed into our formal attire (clean
T-shirts, shorts and bare feet), scanned a table of appetizers, filled our crystal wine glasses with wine and settled in. Paul must have been expecting 50 people with all the food and the stack of ballots ... realistically, we were keeping it simple! Pencils in hand (should have been pens to eliminate cheating), we looked over the list of nominations and made our choices. Don't have to add the fact that Paul, especially, guarded his list of selections from prying eyes ... as if we would dare to cheat!
As the evening went on and each category winner was announced, there was an audible victory shout or a more perfunctory cuss word. All in all, it was a most splendid evening ... ballots were collected; correct answers circled; the winner was given a slap on the back and a "not again" salute...
Fourth year in a row, yours truly "Marma" took the top prize - bragging rights over Paul! Actually, there was only one point difference. Perhaps next year ... he will just have to rig the thing, that is if he wants to win ...
New month already ... March 1st ... Lent begins, St. Patty Day and green beer, basketball tourneys ... so much to do ... party on!!
Marma
It's Tuesday already and a lot of Oscar rehash has given way to new celebrities appearing on "Dancing With the Stars" ... no matter the hype, just who ARE most of these people? They are to "trip the light fantastic" but I predict more tripping than anything else. But, back to Oscar night.
Mid-afternoon did indeed beckon the pina colodas ... just getting in the mood for a gala evening. We changed into our formal attire (clean
T-shirts, shorts and bare feet), scanned a table of appetizers, filled our crystal wine glasses with wine and settled in. Paul must have been expecting 50 people with all the food and the stack of ballots ... realistically, we were keeping it simple! Pencils in hand (should have been pens to eliminate cheating), we looked over the list of nominations and made our choices. Don't have to add the fact that Paul, especially, guarded his list of selections from prying eyes ... as if we would dare to cheat!
As the evening went on and each category winner was announced, there was an audible victory shout or a more perfunctory cuss word. All in all, it was a most splendid evening ... ballots were collected; correct answers circled; the winner was given a slap on the back and a "not again" salute...
Fourth year in a row, yours truly "Marma" took the top prize - bragging rights over Paul! Actually, there was only one point difference. Perhaps next year ... he will just have to rig the thing, that is if he wants to win ...
New month already ... March 1st ... Lent begins, St. Patty Day and green beer, basketball tourneys ... so much to do ... party on!!
Marma
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