Another week races by…Why does time fly fast when we’re older…Living in the moment…More photos from Princeville Ranch…

Curly’s stories of building the ranch, its history, its activities, and the grass-fed cattle business were varied and interesting. In this shot, he was pointing to the sea. We turned around to see the beauty of the ocean at a distance, another fabulous aspect of the Princeville Ranch.

Why does time seem to fly by us quickly when we’re hunkered down, having seen most of the local sights, findings ourselves settled into a routine? When perusing online for various answers to this question, I discovered a few answers that attempt to satisfy my curiosity.

The horse ranch is often busy with tourists riding out on guided tours of the Princeville Ranch.

This answer from an issue of Psychology Today provided me with a few possibilities such as this writer’s comments as follows:

Tom was thoroughly enjoying our tour of the Princeville Ranch.

“So what is the key to time perception? The routine makes time go faster, unique, and memorable events slow down time. Although there is comfort in routine, it does make time fly. So, if you want to “slow down” time, and make your days last longer, change the routine. Create unique experiences for each one. You can also engage in greater mindfulness by focusing on and savoring each passing moment. The old adage of “live for the moment” is the key to slowing down those quickly passing years.”

This is the off-road vehicle in which we toured the Princeville Ranch.

This philosophy may actually hold true. For Tom and I, it feels particularly glaring, when our routine is one of frequent change, moving every few months. Adding the frequent exploring, meeting new people, having new experiences and one would think time would almost stand still for us. 

The scenery was astounding in every direction.

We often marvel at how quickly the time flies, as we say, “when we’re having fun” which we’ve surely had plenty of these past years. It was early in 2012 when we first decided to travel the world in our retirement. It’s hard for us to believe that it’s well into 2015 as we continue on, still so excited and full of hope for the future. 

The colors in this scene took our breath away.

Yes, the time has flown too quickly. But, the memories have been rich, the experiences action-packed, and the planning well into the future filled with anticipation and wonder.

A few days ago, in the background, I heard Tom repeat one of my favorite expressions, “Love the One You’re With,” a popular song from 1970 by Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young. If you don’t recall the song, click here for the video.

The sea at a distance.

Hearing him use this expression in a conversation with others made me smile as I quickly turned my head back to the person I was listening to. I was smiling over the irony of these simple words, prevalent in our lives in many ways, one in loving each other, letting the past waft away and two, in stopping to live in the moment wherever we may be, essentially, loving the one we’re with.

Another vehicle loaded with friends of Curly’s daughter, Karin were also on a tour of the expansive 2500 acre property.

It is through this appreciation of the moment, that time has the potential to slow down for us giving us the glorious opportunity to savor the moment, the place, and the experience for whatever treasures large and small it may offer for our taking.

A family was on a tour in another vehicle driven by Curly’s daughter Karin. When they exited the off-road vehicle, two toddlers took off running down a steep hill. The mom had to do everything to entice them to come back up the hill when they were having such fun.

As I sit here writing now with 59 days remaining of our time in Hawaii (I use this app to figure that out), I hear the roosters crowing, the birds singing, and see the clouds wafting about the mountaintops. If I step outdoors onto the lanai I can see Hanalei Bay and its aquamarine waters, a color seldom found anywhere else in nature.

Although there were trails such as this on the property we often went off-road to get a better look at the property.

And Tom, at the moment is across the street whale watching as he does several times each day, chatting with his new buddies, shooting the breeze as guys often do, I revel in his few minutes of freedom from me. He’s living in the moment.

A young calf checking out the forest.

Suddenly, the door flies open and he’s standing there with a big smile on his face greeting me with a sense of enthusiasm as if he’d be away for days and once again, I’m reminded, “Love the One You’re With” which he does with vigor each and every day. Then again, I do so as well.

An angry-looking bull stared at us as we drove by.  However, that angry look is nothing more than the structure of these bull’s faces. He’d showed little interest in me when I stepped out of the vehicle to take this photo.

Tonight, we’re out to dinner with new friends for the third time this week with one more social event upcoming with friend Richard on Saturday night.  Hey, Father Time, pay attention to the line from Simon and Garfunkel’s “Feelin’ Groovy,” which states “slow down, you move too fast.” 

Let us savor the moment!

                                             Photo from one year ago today, March 26, 2014:

It was one year ago that Samir and Mohamed took us on a tour of Marrakech to see various points of interest. Of course, seeing this baby camel was a special thrill. For details and more photos from part two of that tour, please click here.

A visit to the Princeville Artisan Fair…Showcasing local artists….Getting along…

In the event of rain, the various outdoor vendors had tents under which they displayed their products.

Why in the world would we go to an artisan fair when most of the products they sell are either for the home, clothing, or jewelry, none of which we can or will purchase in our travels?

Without room in our luggage for one more item nor having a home in which to hang a painting or photo, none of the products in these types of fairs are suitable for us.

In some cases, vendors fear photos being taken of the products to avoid the copying of their unique designs.

However, over these past 29 months of traveling the world, we’ve attended a number of these types of events out of curiosity and for an opportunity to highlight a local artist or vendor. With our huge and growing worldwide readership, it’s an opportunity for a vendor to have a little more exposure.

As a business owner for most of my career, I certainly appreciate the importance of marketing and advertising.  As in the case of this website, we don’t accept any money or gifts in place of a good review, a product, or mention of any skilled craft. 

Jake, with a vendor, seemed to be enjoying the attention from passersby, including me.

However, on many occasions, we’ve highlighted local shops, restaurants, vacation homes, and vendors as a way of giving back for the blissful experience of traveling the world as we do. From time to time, we’ve received feedback stating this exposure has proved to be beneficial for them in one way or another.

Today, we’re showcasing a few vendors we encountered at yesterday afternoon’s Princeville Artisan Fair which occurs at the Princeville Community Center on the fourth Sunday of every month from 1 to 6 pm. Here’s an article from the local newspaper, TGI, The Garden Island with details about the fair.

Colorful fabrics with Hawaiian patterns are often found in various sarongs, scarfs, and dresses.

Although Tom has little interest in looking at merchandise we have no intention of purchasing, he decided to join me to ensure I got a parking spot, a kindness he employs on a regular basis, always looking out for my convenience. He drops me off, then drives around looking for a spot. In this case, the closest possible spot opened up as we pulled in and we chuckled. 

He had the choice of sitting in the car or wandering about with me. He chose the latter. But, leave it up to Tom to find a great spot to sit for people watching, and within minutes he and another retiree were busily engaged in idle chatter.

I was fascinated with this handloom this vendor was using in making scarfs, shawls, and wraps. It looked like to fun activity that I’d have enjoyed in my old life. Unfortunately, I’d never have room for such a loom in my luggage. The quality of the work was exceptional.  For more information, click here for Skywoven’s website.

He never rushes me at such venues; shops, fairs, and farmer’s markets. He waits patiently, never making me feel rushed or worried that he’s waiting. On the other hand, I’m sensitive to the fact that he’s waiting, inspiring me not to take a moment longer than necessary.

I suppose this mentality is one of the many reasons we get along so well and our travels are filled with pleasure, not only getting along but getting along lovingly. That’s us.

Skywoven‘s finished products were beautiful. 

Off I went to explore both the grounds of the Princeville Community Center which had myriad tents and displays set up not too far from the building and then, inside the building which housed some of the smaller displays. 

This vendor, Kauai Curators specialized in shell-made leis and various pieces of jewelry of what appeared to be scrimshaw. This artist was so busy, I didn’t have an opportunity to compliment them on their work.

It appeared that 80% of the visitors were seniors like us and the remainder, tourists with families, some with dogs and young children. We easily blended into the welcoming environment as has been the case in every activity in which we’ve participated here in Princeville. The people are friendly and quick to say hello.

This vendor, Rooster Exotic Woods, specializes in utilizing the local wood of the islands including but not limited to Koa wood to make a variety of products as shown here and in the photo below.

In reality, if a senior chose to live in Princeville as a single person or as a widow or widower having lost a spouse or significant other, of which there are many in this area, there would be no lack of social activities providing them opportunities to make friends and to feel a part of the community. 

More wood products from Rooster Exotic Woods.

The only difficult aspect to this scenario is taking that first step to engage in conversation and if all goes well, to encourage a future get-together. We find this to be the case even for us as a couple. 

Pottery design and manufacture is the product of this vendor, Love Fate Studios

Both last night and again tonight, we are out to dinner with two separate couples Tom has met across the street at the ocean lookout. He took to the initiative to start up or participate in conversation which ultimately led to finding the commonality of interests. From there, gradually plans were made to get together out to dinner.

Mugs and pots from Love Fate Studios. Some of the vendors didn’t have websites, which we encouraged them to develop in order to enhance their visibility and subsequent sales.

Last night’s dinner was with Cheryl and Paul from Minnesota (coincidence) at Kalypso, a reasonably priced bar and restaurant located in the heart of the town of Hanalei. 

Us old-timers had to maneuver carefully when walking on these tree roots in the display area, often found on trails in Kauai. No point in spraining an ankle or breaking a leg.

It proved to be a highly enjoyable evening for all of us. The food and service were acceptable and at under $50 with tip and drinks for each couple, it was one of the better-priced meals in this otherwise pricey area. 

The entrance to the community center’s building where recently Tom and I had attended a party for seniors.

With the high degree of a delightful conversation, I failed to take photos of our food but, our meals were similar to other such restaurants we’ve visited in Kauai thus far.

These hibiscus located at the Princeville Community Center are the largest we’ve seen. They are the size of a cantaloupe.

Tonight, we’ve invited Brenda and Pat for pu pu happy hour at our place. Then, we’re off together in their car to Hanalei once again to the same restaurant we visited last week with Julie and Richard, Bouchon’s. 

The food and service at Bouchon’s Grill and Sushi Bar warranted a positive review at TripAdvisor for which I received a pleasant response to our review from the owner. If you’d like to read our review and the owner’s response, please click here.

This vendor had adorable handmade cards on display but no business cards or website to promote their sales.

Today’s a sunny day and once I’ve uploaded today’s post we’re heading to the Makai Club’s pool. Each time we visit, we find ourselves enjoying the company of even more people, whether tourists staying at St. Regis or Westin Hotels which provide access to the Makai Club, or locals, like our friend Richard who uses the pool and fitness center for a fee as we’ve done these past months.

Happy Monday! Spring is in the air.

                                             Photo from one year ago today, March 23, 2014:

It wasn’t always the best quality of products and often items were “knockoffs” of brand names but, the tourists gathered around displays such as this anxious to negotiate great prices. For details from that date as we counted the days until we’d see our family in Hawaii in December, please click here.

More to see, new and old…The wonder of it all never disappoints…Happy St. Patrick’s Day to those who celebrate…HB RL!!

Plumeria growing on a sparse tree.  Spring is in the air.

Recently, Julie and I have visited many locations I’d already seen with Tom. Kauai is not a huge island, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised when I’ve been equally ecstatic to see these points of interest yet another time. 

We arrived in Kapaa town around noon. After stopping at the local health food store to restock almond flour, the cashier explained that this resort across the street was definitely worthy of a visit and bite to eat. She was right in her assessment. The resort has great reviews on TripAdvisor.
The entrance to the resort was totally empty when we entered, although we saw guests by the pool, in the restaurant, and walking on the paths.

Never bored for a moment, my eyes peruse the same beaches, same scenes, and same popular spots with a renewed curiosity as to what I may have missed last time. And of course, we’ve discovered new spots as shown in today’s photos.

The beach at the resort is easy to access and pristine.

On each occasion, something new was to be discovered, to be photographed, with a totally different perspective. It’s funny how excited we can become showing someone we love, something we love. Over these past days, soon to end, we’ve seen a lot.

The resort’s grounds include easy walking paths parallel to the shoreline.

On Friday night, a mere three days from today, Julie returns to Los Angeles to an entirely different world, a world to which I no longer connect, nor have I for 50 years. 

Seating provided at the beach for resort guests.

I grew up in Long Beach, California, which is as far removed from my reality as anyplace I can imagine. The traffic, the people, the cost of living (Julie says not unlike here in Hawaii) is something I can’t imagine we’d ever want in our lives again.

The food in the Oasis restaurant at the resort was delicious according to Julie. Her lunch of fish taco was prepared perfectly and fresh. Unfortunately, there wasn’t one item on the menu that worked for me and I wasn’t hungry enough to ask for special modifications. I ordered an iced tea and was content to be with my sister as we looked out at the sea.

Looking back at the rush hour traffic, the long lines, the crowds, we now realize that living in any big city in the US or, outside the US, is not a life for us after living this simple life in the world in more remote locations, always anticipating a move to yet another exciting location.

A Kolea bird, common along the shoreline.

We can only work at good health and hope and pray that it will provide us with the opportunity to continue on in our travels for many years to come. We accept that not worrying about it is our best option, in actuality our only option.  Worry only creates bad health, not improves it. We both choose not to worry. 

More walking paths in the Waipouli  Beach Resort and Spa.

Sure, from time to time we suffer from maladies which even my diligent way of eating, which greatly reduces inflammation, cannot defer. We each have a few age-related issues that at any point could immobilize us. 

The pool’s waterfall.

With our healthy way of eating, staying active, walking a lot, exercising (me, only), and maintaining an upbeat attitude, we hope we can hold off the ravages of bad health commensurate with old age for a few years, extending the quality of life well into our 80s, 90s and more. God willing (or your choice of a higher power, or not).

A portion of the pool with a waterfall. 

Today is St. Patrick’s Day and a part of the world celebrates this day with merriment and celebration. Today is also eldest son’s birthday and that has always superseded St. Patrick’s Day in my mind on this particular date.  Happy birthday, Richard! We’re thinking of you with love and good wishes.

Beautiful beaches never disappoint.

Please bear with us over the next many days, in that we’re sharing new photos of places we may have shared in the past, considering the new eyes that beheld them with a renewed degree of excitement and awe.

Even on cloudy days, one will always find beachgoers, hoping for a bit of sunshine.  Often, the clouds clear, if only for a short while.

The world is an amazing place. We find that wherever we may be, there is always a treasure to behold right before us, whether big or small, scary, or gentle for which, we are always eternally grateful.

Have a safe playful day!

                                              Photo from one year ago today, March 17, 2014:

It was one year ago today, that we decided to stay put. The intestinal virus I’d acquired from the salad in the first few days in March upon arriving in Marrakech had gotten the best of me. It was time to begin taking the Cipro which I tried to avoid for weeks.  Getting weaker by the day, I began taking the antibiotic which began working in less than a few hours. For details from this date, please click here.

Today’s a very special day in our lives to share with all of our readers…

This morning as I sat down to begin to prepare our daily post I had little awareness of today’s date. Busily writing and posting photos, something was nagging at me.

When Tom, Julie, and I gathered together in the cozy living room of our condo, coffee mugs in hand, we engaged in idle chatter. For no reason at all, today’s date popped into my head, March 15, 2015. 

With a delightful squeal, I announced, “I think today is the third anniversary of our first post on March 15, 2012!”

They both looked at me in amazement as my fingers flew across the keyboard to hurriedly peruse the archives for our first post. Yes, there it was, our post from three years ago today on this very date.

The three of us looked at one another in amazement. I could easily have missed this date and yet, there was something nagging at me. It was this very date. 

I read aloud the post to Tom and Julie with tears in my eyes, in part, from sheer gratefulness and in wonder over the fact that we’re doing exactly what we set out to do with a mission and state of mind that has remained constant. 

Rather than place a link to that original post, we’ve decided to “post the first post” to share with all of our readers, many of whom have joined us part way through our travels during these past years. We share this today with much love and joy in our hearts and appreciation to all of our readers who have traveled on this journey with us:

March 15, 2012:
Changing clocks…changing life…

Sunday morning we both jumped out of bed at 6 am with a peculiar sense of urgency to begin the painstaking process of changing the myriad clocks in our home. Daylight savings began during the night.  

 Over the 21 years that Tom and I have joyfully enjoyed life together, we seem to have assigned ourselves, which clocks we each change, two times each year. We scurried about the house, mumbling to ourselves as we adjusted one clock after another, realizing that this will be the last time we will change clocks in this house, in this state of Minnesota, and perhaps in this country.  

 In 7 months and 22 days from today, our journey will begin. Tom retires on Halloween after 42 years on the railroad (I retired 16 months ago) and off we go to the adventure of our lives, time being relevant to us in the future only in terms of the time of our next cruise, the time of our next flight, the time of the next ferry, or the time when we move into yet another vacation home.  

As we each finished our last clock, oddly about the same moment, I said to Tom, “We need a domain name for our future website and blog.”  

He chuckled, and said, “Funny, I was just thinking the same thing.”  It’s equally odd how couples often have thoughts simultaneously.  We never cease to be amazed by this phenomenon.

 We had been mulling over some names the past month, as we booked our plans well into the future, knowing the time to document this process was coming near.

 Last year, I wrote my first blog, WorldWideWillie.blogspot.com as our beloved Australian Terrier, WorldWideWillie’s precious life came to an end, finding solace in the process.  With over 400 followers, we found comfort in their invisible, lurking presence as I wrote almost daily from Willie’s perspective, his final days, days filled with love, humor, and tears.  

When Tom returned home each night, I read him the daily postings, often crying a river through the sobs that welled up in my chest.  Tom cried with me, unashamed by his vulnerability, a charming aspect of his manly demeanor that which I have always adored.

We chose to honor Willie by using part of his name, WorldWide, by adding a 3rd word beginning with a “w.”  Sitting at our computers we looked up all the “w” words that may be available as a domain.  We stumbled across “Waftage,” a word that means “travel gently by water or air.”

How perfect a word when in fact this blog will be about us leaving our well-established lives here in Minnesota to travel the world, leaving our grown children, including our six adorable grandchildren, other family members, our longtime friends, our amazing neighbors, and all of our “stuff,” to be sold off at an estate sale… days before we leave on Halloween, 2012. 

This blog will document a journey that at this point knows no end, a journey meticulously planned to be affordable and yet rich in comfort, visually stimulating, surrounded by nature, filled with history, all the while enjoying that which we have enjoyed the most, simply being together.

We’re lousy photographers, but we’ll post photos. We don’t like tourist traps, but we will visit some. We don’t care to buy trinkets, but we’ll surely buy a few.  

Ironically, neither of us has ardently enjoyed “sightseeing” but, we will seek out those that appeal to us. We don’t like crowds, gridlocked traffic, loud noises, or waiting in line but, we will experience all of these.  

We are both gluten-free, wheat, grain-free, and sugar-free. We won’t eat bread, croissants, or pasta. I don’t drink alcohol, Tom drinks a little but doesn’t like wine. Tom doesn’t like to go for walks. I love walks.  Occasionally, we’ll walk.

Then why will we do this? 1. Because we have figured out a way to afford to make this possible with some creative planning, which we’ll share with you along the way. 2. Because we want to!  

More than the concept of world travel in itself, we relish in the concept of stepping outside the box;  getting out from behind our computers with fingers flying across the keyboard with our latest preoccupation; getting out of our comfy chairs while watching one of our big flat-screen TVs playing a popular premium hi-def series; playing another rambunctious competitive game of Wii Bowling or looking forward to the next great homemade meal.  

We have loved every minute of our lives, whether hanging out with family or friends or looking out the window for another delightful morsel Mother Nature throws our way: an eagle swooping into the trees outside our house, a beaver building a den along the shoreline, a pack of coyotes looking for “little dog lunch.” We have loved it all.

So…we registered our domain name early Sunday morning. We poured ourselves a cup of perfectly brewed coffee, topping each cup with a dollop of real whipped cream, and sat down at the bar in the kitchen. We both smiled, eyes locked on each other. The little crinkles around his eyes made a wave of something wonderful wash over me.

We both looked up at the same time to notice we hadn’t changed the time in the big clock in the kitchen. We both jumped up simultaneously and said, “I’ll get it!” We laughed. We have all the time in the world.

                                         Photo from one year ago today, March 14, 2014:
In the Big Square in Marrakech where the vendors and tourists gather for the sights, the sounds, the food, and the entertainment. Ironically, I’d failed to mention our two year anniversary of posting while wrapped up in life in Marrakech. For details from that date, please click here.

Stuff happens…And then sometimes, it doesn’t….

We stopped at the Princeville Airport to check out the helicopters.  This helicopter reminds me of the flies in Kenya.

With not enough room in the little car for three of us with Julie’s luggage, I arranged for a shuttle to pick her up at the airport for her 9:00 pm arrival last night.

Wouldn’t you know, Julie calls me from the airport in Lihue to tell me her shuttle drive had been canceled by someone named Mike. Go figure. Who’s Mike? I never canceled her shuttle.

We drove to the local airport to check out the helicopters. We’ve considered touring the island in a helicopter, but not quite sure we will do so.

Luckily, her flight was only six hours from Los Angeles. Can you imagine the frustration if it had been on a red-eye with 12 hours or more of flight and layover times only to find there was no transportation to one’s final destination? 

Although, we’ll never figure out what had happened and, I did see a credit on my credit card this morning and the fact she arrived safely by taxi, she wasn’t too much worse for the wear, arriving safely at 10:15 pm, after only a 15-minute delay at the airport. Oh, stuff happens.

This helicopter was being repaired. I don’t know if that’s a good sign or a bad sign.

It even happens with the most meticulously arranged plans that are made with the best intentions, only to go awry, often not due to anything we could have prevented on our end. It’s all a part of traveling, whether it’s a one week trip from LA to Kauai or part of a many year’s long journey such as ours, a journey to “everywhere.”

Although I must admit, we’ve been very lucky on most of our travel days finding everything to be as we’d planned and hoped to be. Traveling isn’t easy when one realizes it’s a series of events that must transpire in a timely sequential pattern with little room for variances with errors often caused by a human or mechanical error. 

Tom spotted these two chickens. “Must have been a double yolker,” Tom clucked as I laughed.

Even mechanical error is most often a result of human error, carelessness, or unintended negligence. Stuff happens.

That’s not to say that we’ve forgotten about the knife someone placed in our plastic bin when we went through security in Barcelona on May 1, 2013. Click here for photos and the details of that event.

We’ve wanted to check out the local airport available for charters only.

Then, there was the time our duffel bag, filled with over the counter vitamins, was confiscated by ship’s security in Belize City when we boarded the Carnival Liberty on April 9, 2013, which we posted on April 10th. We were treated as if we were drug dealers. Click here for that post with photos for Part One of Harrowing Experience, with Part Two the following day.

The Princeville Ranch is near the airport offering horseback rides, zip-lining, and other adventure outings.

It goes on and on; storms at sea, unexpected delays, last-minute flight changes. The situations are unavoidable. But, from many of these, we have changed the way we handle those travel days. Mainly, we’ve begun to assume that stuff will happen, not to be negative, instead, to be emotionally prepared.

The ranch’s horses were saddled and ready to go.

When all is running smoothly again, we feel lucky, fortunate, blessed with what we now call, “safari luck.” For those of our readers, new to our site let me explain “safari luck.

In the first 10 hours, while we were on safari in the Masai Mara in Kenya, we saw and took photos of the “Big Five,” the treasured and revered sightings of every safari attendee which includes the: Cape buffalo, lion, rhino, elephant and leopard.

Tom doesn’t care to horseback ride although I would and I wouldn’t care to zip line and Tom would.  We do neither, old-timers that we are. With my bad spine, it’s not worth taking any risks and be injured. Where would we go to recuperate, having no home?

Since that time in October 2013, we’ve called any good fortune we experience as “safari luck” of which we’ve had our fair share, even amid a plethora of oddball or difficult scenarios, managing to work our way through, grateful for a good outcome.

Speaking of grateful, we’re excited that Julie is here with us now. Most certainly, the next eight days will be packed with lots of sightseeing and lots of laughing, much of which we’ll share here each day.

This building is a part of the former Princeville Golf Club which has been closed for a few years. Recently, a billionaire investor from China purchased the property and will be developing a huge high-end housing development of homes, restaurants, and golf.

Thanks for reading our mindless drivel. Hopefully, over the next several days, we’ll ramp it up!

Happy Friday!

                                             Photo from one year ago today, March 13, 2014:

One year ago, we went out to dinner in the city in Marrakech, outside the Medina, and posed for this photo with the restaurant owner. For more details, please click here.

Busy week…Clouds prevail…Preparing for a houseguest…A year ago photo of the Medina at night!

The orchids in Hawaii are amazing.

With my sister arriving in a few days, Tom and I are holding off from heading out to sightsee over the next few days. Instead, Julie and I will wander about the island, taking more photos, seeing new sites, spending valuable time together after over two years apart.

The front entrance to the St. Regis Hotel is a short walk from our condo in Princeville. A few days ago, on yet another cloudy day, we took off on a walk to check it out.

Last night, we had a great evening with Richard watching the finale of The Bachelor after an early dinner, loving every moment of our idle chatter and hilarious comments during the show.

The lobby of the St. Regis.

We were all thrilled with the outcome of the show, although Richard came around to our side midway through.  It was comparable to watching a sporting event, cheering all the while. Tom would beg to differ with me that no reality show compares to watching the Minnesota Vikings, longing for a win.

This view is deceiving. Its across an indoor pond to the veranda dining area.  Since we didn’t go out to dinner on our anniversary, one night soon we’ll try the pricey dinner here as a special treat.

This morning, we’re heading to an event at the Community Center, for which we’ll share details later. Its a senior event that brings many retirees in Princeville together for games, snacks and conversation. 

Lanai dining overlooking Hanalei Bay.

Preparing for a house guest is important to me, although getting ready for a party of one is a lot easier than when our 12 family members arrived in Pahoa, Big Island in December.

Views over the lower level rooftops to Hanalei Bay.

Few people eat as we do, making it necessary to stock the house with “normal” foods such as bread, yogurt, fruit and low fat this and that, none of which we ever consume. I asked Julie for a list and chuckled after seeing it. It was the same list I’d have made for myself four years ago, before I started eating high fat, low carb, moderate protein, minus starches, grains, gluten and sugars.

There’s nothing that compares to a mountain and ocean view, typical here in Kauai.

Of course, I’ll keep my mouth shut and not preach or even extol the virtues of our way of eating. Nor will I offer up access to 1000 scientific studies supporting this strict diet we follow for reduction in inflammation, pain and general illness. 

They were preparing for a wedding in the outdoor dining area.  Tom is checking out the view.

With someone I love, its tough to keep silent. But, after knowing one another all of our lives, she knows if she wants more information, she can ask me. And, if I slip up, I know she’ll tell me to “drop it.”

We’ve moved all of the luggage that we’ve stored upstairs out of the way so she’ll have room for her bags for her eight day visit. 

As we walked the grounds of the hotel there was considerable vegetation.

The stairway to the loft is a little steep but has a good handrail. There are  no windows in the loft which may be a good thing with the roosters crowing early in the morning. But, knowing Julie, she’ll be fine, especially when we’ve prepared her so well.

There’s no chest of drawers or closet in the loft but with two beds, she can use one for storing her clothing, the other for sleeping. After all, visiting Hawaii doesn’t require an extensive wardrobe, especially for this short a period. 

Oh, a sunny day would be lovely.  Hopefully soon.

We each have one suitcase apiece filled with our respective clothing and it will get us around the world for years to come. We always chuckle when we see tourists, each with multiple bags for a one or two week vacation. That used to be us.

Preparing meals for the three of us will be interesting with our dietary differences but surely we’ll figure it out.  The important thing is spending time together sitting on the lanai, out and about sightseeing or lounging on a beach. 

We wandered through the area of the shops in the hotel with nary a thought of making any type of purchase. In my old life, I’d have been scouring the windows for a unique find. Now, I don’t care.

Tom, who doesn’t like sitting in the sand, will revel in the fact that Julie and I will be going to a beach without him. He’ll have some time to himself which he’ll certainly cherish.  

The little car is too small to comfortably fit three. If we go out to dinner, I’ll squeeze into the tiny backseat as long as we don’t plan to go too far. Years ago, I could never have maneuvered my body into that tiny space due to pain and discomfort. Now, with my way of eating and feeling so well for the past 3 1/2 years, I can easily manage squeezing into tight spaces. (There I go again).

A Cattle Egret, a common bird in the Hawaii Islands. This appeared to be a young bird. She wouldn’t stay still long enough for a good photo.

Today, we’re sharing photos we when took a few days ago when yet again the sun failed to grace us with its presence. It was in the 50s overnight last night, cold for Hawaii. Hopefully, soon the clouds will pass and Kauai will once again be warm and sunny.

Have a terrific Tuesday. Back at you soon!

                                             Photo from one year ago today, March 10, 2014:

A night in the Medina in Marrakech, Morocco. The sights, the sounds and the smells were astounding. For more photos from that evening out, please click here.

Part 2…Anniversary movie night at the extraordinary estate of new friends…Wow!…

Red Ginger plants overlooking an open area on the grounds of Bev and Sam’s property.

Before I continue with Part 2 of anniversary night’s visit to new friends Bev and Sam’s fabulous estate, I wanted to share the fact that my sister Julie is flying here on Thursday from Los Angeles for an eight day visit.

These organic, non-GMO, pesticide and chemical-free red grapefruit growing on Bev and Sam’s amazing property aren’t quite ready for harvesting.
How wonderful it would be to be able to head out to the orchard in the morning to pick a sumptuous red grapefruit for breakfast.

Although our condo is small, we’ll make it work. Julie will have the loft bedroom for herself and the three of us will share the one bathroom on the main floor. Our little dining table for four will work well as long as I don’t cook too many side dishes to pass. 

The former greenhouse has been converted to a movie viewing studio. We took this photo shortly after our arrival to Bev and Sam’s home before darkness fell.

Tonight, we’ll experience three people in our condo for the first time when friend Richard comes to dinner to watch the finale of “The Bachelor” with us. We’ve always enjoyed this show speculating on the outcome from the beginning.  So, like many other Bachelor enthusiasts, we’re having a little Bachelor party.

There was an area designated for the growth of papayas.
I’ve always been confused telling the difference between papaya and mango. Mangos grow on large trees whereby papayas grow on smaller trees such as shown here.

Our dear friend Richard, retired attorney, successful businessman, also enjoys watching every episode after which the three of us have shared comments and observations. 

The papaya trees were perfectly arranged and space in the papaya garden.

How appropriate that we’re getting together tonight at our place while I serve well seasoned barbecue ribs (no sauce), veggies, salad and low carb muffins.

There are thousands of varieties of orchids. Many can be seen here at this link and growing in Bev and Sam’s gorgeous property.
Purple orchids.

Now we’ll continue with Part 2 of Saturday’s movie night at the home of friends…

These white orchids are particularly appealing.

After our comprehensive separate tours of the expansive property, Tom and I reconnected at the greenhouse which Bev and Sam had converted to a tiered movie theatre with a huge screen, modern equipment and sound system.

This thick shag carpet-like grass was not only a different color than most grasses but was soft to the touch and very dense.
Banana trees from which Bev and Sam harvest each season for resale. With the help of their full-time gardener and groundskeeper, they are able to resell

Situated in comfortable chairs next to one another, high enough to easily see the entire screen, we gabbed with our immediate seatmates and shared a few tidbits of our respective tours of the property. 

Bird of Paradise, a favorite we’ve seen in many countries.

When we heard that the movie was “The Artist,” filmed in black and white with subtitles, we’d both cringed.  Neither of us cares to watch movies with subtitles and I’ve never liked watching movies filmed in black and white. Ugh, this was going to be a long two hours, we both thought. But, the opportunity to socialize was more important to us than the movie itself.

We’d never have guessed that this is a macadamia nut tree. 

Little did we know, that in the first five minutes, we were hooked! Honestly, “The Artist” goes on our list of favorite movies. Who would have thought? It is the most delightful, charming, heartwarming and smile provoking movie we’d seen in a long time. 

It will be mid summer by the time this avocado tree produces fruit.

The movie won five Academy Awards in 2012 including best picture and numerous other international awards.  The acting was beyond reproach. If you haven’t seen it, we highly recommend downloading it while serving some snacks to enjoy your own movie night. 

Aptly named a Bottlebrush Tree.  We’d seen a similar flower in South Africa which they call Sickle Bush.  Click here for the link.

Midway through the movie, Sam stopped the movie at an appropriate cliffhanging spot for an intermission allowing us ample time to meet and chat with other guests while many refilled their plates with the various pu pu’s.

An elephant statue in the tree as a reminder of Bev and Sam’s various trips throughout the world, able to see this magnificent animals.

When the movie ended well after 9:00 pm, we had another opportunity to chat a little more with the guests as everyone gathered their various pu pu platters and dishes, meeting several we hope to see again during our remaining over two plus months in Kauai.

More white orchids.

Thanking our gracious hosts, we made our way back to the car to head home with smiles on our faces. It couldn’t have been a more perfect night. Back at home, I nibbled on leftovers when typically the pu pu’s don’t include anything befitting my way of eating. I’m used to that and never give it a thought until returning home and feeling ravenous.

This beautiful Buddha type statue sits on Bev and Sam’s massive lanai.

It was a good anniversary. It was a good night. Our heartfelt thanks to Bev and Sam for including us in this fun event. We couldn’t be more appreciative to all of the friends we’ve made in Kauai, especially to our friend Richard. 

Moments before the movie began in the theatre.

Without his excellent “social director” skills, most of our socializing wouldn’t have reached this level. Thanks, Richard! See you tonight for our Bachelor party!

                                             Photo from one year ago today, March 9, 2014:

Our first night spent in the Medina as darkness fell. We were anxious to see the lights and festivities so typical in this popular area in Marrakech. The sounds, the smells and the energy was fascinating. We had dinner in a café overlooking the core of the activity. For more photos from that evening, please click here.

Part 1…Anniversary movie night at the extraordinary estate of new friends…Wow!…

Many plants and trees on Bev and Sam’s property produce various fruit such as in this pineapple garden, grown in such abundance that they are sold; all organic, non-GMO, without the use of pesticides and chemicals.

When new friends Bev and Sam kindly invited us to arrive early before we joined in on their regularly scheduled “movie night” that they host a few times a month, we were hesitant to disturb them before the others arrived.  

To maintain privacy for Bev and Sam we aren’t showing photos of their house. This is a tiny portion of their well-groomed grounds upon entering the property.

The movie was scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm and with our early arrival, we had plenty of time to tour their gorgeous, expansive property. 

Little did we realize upon entering their property, that they’d have this expansive ocean view.

They both welcomed us with open arms when we entered their gate. Sam took Tom on the tour of their botanical garden-like 3 1/2 acre property while Bev toured me separately through the breathtaking grounds with grace and ease.

Bev refers to this mountaintop as “twin peaks,” another fabulous view from their grounds.

We had the harsh reality of taking all of these photos between 6:15 and 7:00 pm as darkness fell, sacrificing quality and acuity in the cloudy darkening sky resulting in some less than ideal photos. Preferring not to use flash, I did the best I could as an amateur photographer.

This is the gardener and housekeeper’s quarters located in the 3 1/2 acre grounds. It would be impossible to maintain the pristine appearance of the grounds without full-time assistance.

Also, Bev who knows the name of every tree, flower, and plant on the grounds attempted to give me an education. Unfortunately, while the creative portion of my brain was busy perusing ideal photo ops using I was unable to easily memorize the names of the dozens of plants and trees of which I had little or no prior knowledge. 

Of course, they have a vegetable garden supplying most of the produce for their personal needs. They chose to use these planter boxes for easier maintenance and management.

I guess I’m unable to “walk and chew gum” when enthralled to the degree I was last evening while walking through the various gardens on their property. 

Every corner, every angle was meticulously landscaped and maintained.

As a result, and with a desire to not pester Bev and Sam today, some of these photos may not have a description if I’m not certain as to their name and variety. Let’s face it, I’m no botanist and although I love looking at vegetation, it will take many years of travel to learn enough not to seem foolishly ignorant.

Note the elephant and baby statues to the left.  Bev and Sam are experienced world travelers and they too, love wildlife. This serene area is the “meditation garden.”

I’m curious and find watching surgery on TV interesting but, I’m no surgeon. It’s the same with vegetation; a curious, appreciative observer but, not an expert. As we travel from location to location we find endless varieties of plants, trees, and flowers, attempting to learn as much as possible. 

At a distance, a new house is being built which takes longer to complete than on the mainland of the US.

After our tour, we made our way to the former greenhouse on their property which has been converted to a tiered seating theatre with a huge screen, sound system, and all the up-to-date digital equipment.

The ambiance of the grounds is enhanced by statues from various parts of the world.

As the guests began to filter in, a few of which we recognized from Wednesday’s Full Moon Party, all were carrying pu pu’s to share as we’d done as well, a common occurrence when Hawaiian residents get together, making the event a little easier for the hosts who have plenty of prep and cleanup.

A common lily.
There were numerous African Tulip trees on Bev and Sam’s property.

Bev and Sam were gracious hosts leaving us feeling welcomed by making a point of introducing us to many of the guests, ensuring we had good seating, and of course, taking the time to tour us through their astounding property. 

Seeming endless walkways and paths led to more and more delightful surprises.

It couldn’t have been a more perfect way to spend our anniversary. Thanks, Bev and Sam for providing us with a memorable 20th anniversary at your exquisite property.

Many paths throughout the property were paved such as this walkway and others consisted of individual stepping stones.

Speaking of our anniversary, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to our readers from all over the world for all the email, comments, and best wishes. How did we get so lucky? 

Bev referred to the red bamboo stalks on the right as Lipstick  Bamboo. We continued on the pavers set in the dense grass.

Usually, an anniversary is celebrated quietly by the couple unless it’s a major milestone. We had no idea that so many of our readers would join us in the celebration. Thank you!

Of course, there’s a putting green and small golf course on the property!

Tomorrow, we’ll share more photos and comments on one of the most fabulous movies we’ve seen to date at Bev and Sam’s “movie night,” a movie we’d never expected to enjoy for a few reasons we’ll share. Please check back tomorrow for more.

Purple Morning Glories.

Photos from one year ago today, March 8, 2014:

Madame Zahra has made us a special anniversary dinner which we enjoyed as she began the process of reducing the number of spices. After only the first week, we’d had our fill of the strong Moroccan spices. To see the remainder of the dinner and our first foray outside the Medina, please click here. Tom ate bread and fries. I didn’t say a word.

Today is our 20th wedding anniversary…Photos of us past and present and past anniversaries…

Waiting to board another cruise in January 2013. Look at all those bags and more don’t show in this photo. Thank goodness we’re now down to three suitcases, one duffle bag and one computer bag.

Twenty-four years ago Tom and I met in a bar in Bloomington, Minnesota, marrying 20 years ago today. We were polar opposites, him, a blue-collar railroad guy, and me, a somewhat stuffy white-collar type who lived a “linen napkin lifestyle” (per Tom). We had literally nothing in common other than the fact that we were humans.

“They,” say that opposites attract but, when I immediately noticed his slang language learned in North Minneapolis as a kid, I thought, “This is never going to last.” After all, I was the queen of proper language usage and elocution.

When I invited him to my house for dinner for our first official date and served blackened swordfish, mushroom risotto, baby asparagus and Caesar salad, I noticed a pained look on his face the entire meal as he suffered through his least favorite foods on the planet, included the dry red wine.

Another blurry photo of us aboard the Celebrity Century on January 14, 2013. We’d yet to purchase a real camera at this point.

Tom says, “That’s when I pulled up to her house in my four-wheel drive on a Saturday evening in June and saw the sprawling manicured lawn, blue water on both sides of the house, I thought, we’ve got nothing in common.  I’ll be out of here in no time and head back to that bar where we met to check out my other options.”

Ha!  Eight hours later we were still yakking up at storm finding reasons “why” as opposed to “why not.” Within the first hour, he told me the story about taking his mother on a month-long trip to Ireland and Rome to see the Pope before she went totally blind.” 

It was that story that peaked my interest. Any guy who’d take his entire year’s vacation from work to take his mother on a much dreamed of trip would definitely make a good partner. Either he was a “mama’s boy” or a good man and based on what I’d seen thus far, I had not suspected he was a “mama’s boy” for a moment.

Photo taken of us using my phone on October 28, 2012, the night of Tom’s retirement party.

In a funny way, I fell in love that night. I sensed he hated “hoity-toity” food, a passion of mine. He didn’t care an iota about red wine, another passion of mine at the time, and he rarely used a linen napkin, a must in my household.

It’s ironic that now I rarely eat hoity-toidy food, never drink wine, and mostly use a dishtowel as a linen napkin when there aren’t linen napkins in vacation homes.

It was a difficult courtship filled with doubt and mistrust, as often is the case in many relationships but in time we both came around to love, honor and trust one another when on this date, March 7, 1995 we were married by a judge in with our kids as witnesses at our side in downtown Minneapolis. 

Tom in front of the volcano, Mount Kilauea this December.

In time, the difference between us blended into a workable and agreeable “middle” and getting along beautifully was easy. For us, marriage hasn’t been a lot of work and compromise.  We rarely argue, mostly due to the fact that I don’t engage in arguments. I leave the room or don’t respond to argumentative comments. No one will fight if there’s no opponent in the room. You’ll never see anyone alone in a room yelling and screaming at themselves for too long.

Tom is your cave-dwelling kind of guy. He needs his space, his opinion and doesn’t like to be told what to do. I get this and grant him these needs mostly with my mouth shut. On the other hand, I’m a piece of work in my own right and he’s learned to tolerate me without a lot of fuss. 

Me in front of Mount Kilauea in December this year.

Also, there’s his “overly grumpy” personality at times when basically I ignore him and it passes quickly. And, I’m continually, “overly bubbly” which he tolerates day after day.

If I’m the person that has done these posts every morning to the point of over 900 individual posts. Can you picture the personality that precipitates that kind of commitment…shall we say, “a little obsessive?” 

So, we compromise from of a desire to make the other happy than to meet in the middle. If I want to travel to a location that’s important to me and he doesn’t care for that location, we go and vise versa. But, its more than just going along. It’s done with love, acceptance, and joy for the new experiences we’ll share together. 

In front of the White Mosque in Abu Dhabi in May, 2013.

Today, in the 20th year of marriage, we celebrate without cards, gifts, and hoopla. Tonight, we’re going to the home of new friends for their “movie night” again bringing a pu pu to share. 

Our anniversary photo from March 2013, the night we were injured on the collapsed steps in Belize. Click here for the link showing the steps that resulted in injuries.

Traveling the world and enjoying each other’s companionship, spending 24 hours a day together has proved to be nothing short of pure pleasure. We’ve loved the time together not only in experiencing adventures and also, but also the mundane aspects of everyday life.

Most retires couples occasionally go off on their own to visit with friends, shop, engage in tennis, golf, or walks in the mall. We are seldom apart for more than a few minutes while I work out or go to the grocery store. And yet, each time I walk in the door a warm hello and giggle over missing one another crosses our lips, along with a kiss.

In front of God’s Window in South Africa. Searching for photos of us made us realize that we need to take more photos of us together. We’ll do so going forward.

Happy Anniversary to my dear husband. May we have many more years together as we continue to revel in in this unusual life we’ve chosen. You are dearly loved and so am I.

On our first game drive in South Africa in December, 2013. It was very hot and humid.  We were dressed in our BugsAway clothing, sweating like crazy. By this point in time, we’d learned to tolerate the heat and humidity.

Happy Saturday!

                                             Photo from one year ago today, March 7, 2014:

Us on our anniversary one year ago today in Marrakech, Morocco.  For more photos from that date, please click here.

Clarification about our posts for new readers…One year ago, sick from a salad in Marrakech…

There it is, a section of Hideaway’s Beach we discovered when the sun appeared for a few hours, a few days ago.

When we were at the Full Moon Party a few nights ago, a few people we met mentioned they’d seen our site and were confused as to why people like us, traveling the world, we’re writing so much about Kauai, day after day.

For those of our readers who’ve been with us either from the beginning in 2012 or somewhere in between, it makes sense that we’re writing about Kauai every day. But, for those coming in at this point, it may not make sense as to why world travelers don’t talk about anything but Kauai.

The answer is simple, although we do understand why a new reader may have been baffled.  We always write about where we are at any given time. 

The final path down to Hideaway’s Beach, no longer paved.

On May 24th, we’ll begin writing about the cruise as it occurs on our way from Honolulu to Sydney for 18 days and then about Trinity Beach, Australia where we’ll live for 89 days. We’ll continue from there for our upcoming two-plus years in the South Pacific. Later, when we book beyond that period, we’ll post from wherever we may be at any given time

That’s how that works. At times, as you’ll see, we do mention other places we’ve traveled with links the reader can click to take them back to those other places and times.

For the new reader, we have archives of every single prior post from March 14, 2012, to the present, listed on the right side of the daily post, noting the years, months, and each post’s general topic. All that is necessary to read any of these is to click on the year, then the month, then the post. 

These above-ground roots are odd.

It’s easy to go back to the beginning and read, but you wonder how to note where you left off. You can bookmark the last post you read and scroll down to the next one when you return. If you have any trouble with this, please let me know and I’ll be happy to assist using bullet point instructions. Please don’t hesitate to ask.

As for the advertisers on our site, located on the right of any day’s newest post, we kindly ask our readers to click on any of the services provided if you have a need for any of these services or products. 

We use them frequently. The prices are the same as if you went directly to the advertiser’s website and we get a tiny commission if you book a trip, a hotel, rental car, or purchase products. Plus, you can use points, coupons, or any other discounts you may have available. 

Looking down from the last section of the path to Hideaway’s Beach.

We never intended to make a lot of money from these, nor will we, but the small revenue they generate helps pay a little of our web management costs. We appreciate any help we can get. Thanks to those of you who use them on occasion.

Posting comments is easy. At the end of each daily post, you’ll see what looks like a pencil after it says “Posted by Jessica” at so and so time of the day. Click that pencil and you’ll be able to post a question, comment, or tell us anything you’d like to share with our worldwide readers. If you choose, you can post anonymously without mention of your name. Of you may include your name. You decide.

As for our response to comments: Generally, we respond within 24 hours or less except on travel days when we may not have access to the internet for a day or so. Once we’re settled, we’ll respond promptly. We do not reply to negative ranting, politically motivated comments, or hate mail. This is a place of wonder and joy, and like my Facebook page (feel free to friend me) I avoid whining and complaining and never make negative comments, personal comments, or negative observations about others.

The seawater was so clear we could see little fish swimming in this tide pool.

Sending us email: Both of our email addresses are posted above the photo on the right side of the daily post, of us in Petra.  All email you send is kept confidential unless its something you’d like us to share. We always ask before posting specific email comments and await your response before mentioning them online. 

Receiving auto-email with our daily posts:  Below the “search” box on the right side of the page below the advertisers, is a box that says, ” SIGN UP TO NEWSLETTER.If you sign up here, you will receive each new post in your email each day. You’ll never have to look for our link again. You’ll click the link in the email and then delete the email. Easy. Also, you can use this email to send the link to a friend who may enjoy our site by simply forwarding the email to them with a short comment from you suggesting they read it.

The “Search” box on the right side of the page. Let’s say you are looking for every recipe or a specific recipe we’ve posted since the beginning. Go to the search box and type in “recipe.” You’ll see a list of every post we’ve written with the word “recipe” in it. Some may have been just a mention of the word recipe. But many will contain actual recipes. If you can’t find something, email us and we’ll locate it for you.

The few hours of sunshine was so exciting after days of clouds and rain. Today, the sun is peeking out and if it holds, we’ll soon head to the pool.

Please keep in mind that I’ve also posted some “not so good for you” old recipes of our that are not gluten, starch, grain, and sugar-free. Not everyone cares for our way of eating so from time to time we post an old favorite.

Copying our photos: On occasion, a reader asks if they can use one of our photos in one way or another. Feel free to do so but please, if possible, put a link to our site in case the observer is curious as to the source. This is not necessary for use of our photos as screen savers or for your personal use, only if you put it out there on the web for publication. We try to provide the same courtesy to other’s photos and videos we post, when possible.

Guest blogger: If you have a story to tell and would like us to post it, please let us know via email after you’ve written it and if you’d like it to be posted in a daily post rather than as a comment. We’ll review the story and if appropriate for our site, we’ll post it. The same with special photos you’ve taken or even videos you’ve made.  However, please don’t send us photos or videos belonging to others.

The waves were picking up while we were there.

Many new readers start at today’s post and continue from there, preferring not to go back to the past. However, some amazing experiences have been told and shown in photos in the past with many more yet to come. After all, health providing, we have an entire world out there we’ve yet to see which we’ll share every step along the way.

Some readers read several posts at once and come back weeks or months later to catch up or perhaps, not at all. It’s all personal preference and however, it works for you is fine for us. We often hear from readers saying that each morning they grab their cup of coffee or tea, sit down at their kitchen table, and read our new post.  Others have said they read it while doing cardio at the health club, or laying in bed at night reading it on their phone. We appreciate hearing how it works for you. Please, do tell.

Sharing our posts: Although our lives are not as “juicy” as a soap opera, the concept of a continuing story appeals to many. We’ve found that we prefer TV shows with a single story that continues through the season. 

These funny looking furry pods were all over the ground when we sat down on a bench overlooking the sea at Hideaway’s Beach.

As is the case with our posts, an ongoing dialogue, hence “blog” of the story of our worldwide travels without a home or a base to return to, owning no car, no storage facility and only three suitcases, a duffle bag (dirty laundry) and a computer bag. That’s all we physically own. 

This oddity may appeal to folks you know who are armchair travelers, curious as to the expenses of such travel, or world travelers themselves comparing locations and experiences. Please share our posts with those you know who may find it interesting enough for a single day’s read or perhaps a long term read.

Thanks to our experienced readers for letting us share that which you already knew from reading here and for reading here. And, thanks to our new readers for stopping by, whether for a day or for years to come. We appreciate every one of you.

It’s Friday, time to rev up for the weekend ahead. Whatever you may do, enjoy it with gusto. Tomorrow’s our 20th wedding anniversary but it will be like every other day, worth celebrating!

                                               Photo from one year ago today, March 6, 2014:

Foolish me. It was this salad I ate, the only item on the menu that fit my way of eating, in a restaurant in the Medina in Marrakesh, that caused me a dreadful intestinal illness lasting almost a month. Finally, I succumbed taking a round of Cipro. Within hours, as I felt my mouth become dry, I knew I was on the mend. Only a few days later I was totally well. Of course, I never ate another salad or raw vegetables in Marrakesh again. You’d think I would have known this when our prior six months were spent in South Africa and Kenya. But, in those countries, we only dined in fine resorts and never became ill. For details from that day’s story and some amazing photos, please click here.