Post Thanksgiving Day!

Well I had a spectacular Thanksgiving, two fantastic meals and lots of good company. Heard from everyone back home too so that was nice. I had my fill of food and drink and managed to sleep 12 hours til the contractor came this morning! It was cool for here today, in the 60s and in the 40s last night! I pulled out the sleeping bag on top of the covers and was just plain toasty! Bought a polisher for the trailer and will be having a polishing party soon to get her spiffed up. I'm excited to see how she'll turn out! The conch shell was blown at 4:30 and we had happy hour which was fun. I'm really getting to know some nice people here so it's great! Tomorrow we're having happy hour at my place so I'm going to make some homeade peach salsa; just looked up a recipe. All is well in sunny Florida. Miss you all!

Love,
TZ

Welcome to Season 2!!!

Hi everyone. I'm back in Florida for season two aboard my beloved Nellie. She fared well this summer in storage. I opened her up and she was just fine. Lost my whirligig (turbine) off the top and replaced that. Got rid of the bees nest in my hot water heater area and got that up and going. The trailer was on a tilt for a coule of days so I got that straightened out and I'm not longer listing. So we're functional and life is good! Weather is 80s and a little humid. Been to the pool every day since I got here. We're having a Thanksgiving feast this Thursday, turkey and all the fixins at 2:00 and then I'm going over to my boss's house for another round of eating and merriment. Should be a good day.

I've decided to put an awning and new floors in Nellie so I've hired a contractor to handle the work. I face the sun so the awning will come in nice and handy and the rug here is ancient so I'm going to put down laminate wood and some tile in the bathroom. I'm very excited about all that.

My friends from last year aren't here this year but I'm branching out and making new friends so it's good. There are probably 10 couples here already and the bulk will be coming after the holiday.

Well, the blog is officially open for business. I'll be taking some pictures and upload them soon.
Thanks for tuning in!

Terry

A Store About My Winter

I got delayed coming home and spent some time in the Tampa airport and decided to write a poem about my experience at Camp Venice Retreat. Here it is, I hope you like it!

A Magical Place

Once I dreamt of a magical place
Where people were friendly and took you for face
Where all of the days drifted together
And you couldn't possibly beat the weather.

I took a chance and bought a trailer
Named her Nellie and vowed not to fail her
I took her to that magical place
Where the people were friendly and took you for face

I couldn't believe what happened to me
A warmer place I never did see
Tom and Harry are wonderful and kind
Whatever you need they never do mind

There's gators and fish and armadillos and owls
Stick around and you'll hear their howls
There's parties and campfires and a"apple pie" and fun
There's a cool pool for spending the day in the sun.

There's Flo an dRick and the Traveling Vaughns
With them around there's never a yawn
There's Roger and Ginny and Big Mike and Sue
There's always happy hour and something to do.

But what make it rich, sweeter than sweet
Is the way it's a family, a close one to keep
We help each other day in and day out
All you have to do is let out a shout

I value so this wonderful place
That I'll come back to each year to be taken for face.
The time of a lifetime that I'll hold so dear
That I hope to be part of year after year.

I made some great friends that I'll have forever
Honest sincere people, who are the best ever
So when I think of Winter '09
It's the hearts I'll remember and the way they do shine.

The Party's Over...

Well, here I sit boarding up my windows for the season wondering where all the time went. And then I look at my blog and my photos and I read my journals and I know where it went this best winter of my life. It was challenging at times, joyous most times, full of new friendships, new experiences, getting to know Nellie and best of all enjoying the time I had here over this four months. I want to thank all my family and friends who supported me coming down here and hearing all my stories about living in Nellie and what that was like. I am a changed person for this experience, better I think, a little older and a little wiser. A day didn't go by that I didn't thank God for giving me this opportunity and giving me the kind and generous people I was surrouncded by all winter. I have decided to come back in November, I have a job waiting for me which is great, and I'm looking forward to a few extra months in the Florida sun. Thanks for coming on this odyssey with me. I am planning to visit friends I made here and will come on and put up pictures of them and my travels. So far I've been invited to Toronto, upstate Vermont, New Hampshire and I have one local couple in Stoughton Massachusetts. I will look forward to keeping the blog alive as these wonderful people touch my life once again. Thanks, I'll see you soon.

Love,
TZ

Last Minute Decorating

Got some chenille, light blue bedspreads yesterday for the bedroom. It was nice to have a made bed and the chenille is warm when it's cool at night. My bedroom is in good shape. Today I was up early saying good bye to Margo and Ray from Illinois. They have a park model (double wide) and they're driving home. He told me about an auto train where your car is on the train and you have a compartment to sleep, shower and sit. I looked into it; I'm not sure it runs from Boston but lets just say I've ridden enough trains in the northeast corridor! I could go to DC and pick it up from there. Your meals are included in the dining car. It takes 18 hours to get to FLA. We'll see. I like my set up right now.

I worked yesterday, got to do jewelry display and some organizing of the stock room. I know I've said it but I will miss this job this summer; glad I'm going back to it. Tomorrow is our time out at Sharkey's with the work staff. Have a pretty sundress that I got at Fifi's consignment to wear.

Lots of work to do today before I go to the pool with my friend JoAnn from Vermont. We have a lot of New Englanders here. I made friends with a nice couple from Stoughton, right near me. We are going to go out to dinner this summer.

Well, gonna go for now. Will be seeing you all in a week. Can't wait. Love you and miss you!

TZ

Where is Everybody?????

Hi guys. I wanted to give you a feel for how the campground has cleared out. This is in front of my trailer, just one camper, Rick and Flo. They're staying til May 17th. The camper on the far right is being stored, they just left today for New Jersey. I have enjoyed this time in the camp because I've gotten to know a lot of people I wouldn't otherwise have met. The whole other side of the campground.

This is a picture of the empty sites behind me. It's a little bright but you get the gist. It's normally wall to wall campers. There are about 12-15 campers left. My neighbors, Ron and Linda are staying for a while, they're two sites down so I don't feel alone. Today, I cleared out four trash bags of stuff off the trailer and started wrapping and storing glass. I also got rid of clothes and shoes, yes shoes that I didn't want.

I'm working tomorrow so I'll have a chance to take a break from the packing. It's really nice, there is hardly anyone at the pool so it's nice and quiet. It's been 86 and sunny, hot but nice. I hear there is some great weather in store for New England this weekend. You've certainly earned it!! I've already checked the weather for my return date on May 2nd and it's rain and 60. I've tempered my expectations and would be happy with 60s if I can get it.

This Sunday my boss is taking us to Sharkey's on the water for a send off for me and another gal that is leaving for the summer and to celebrate our success as a business unit. I'm really going to miss my job here but will be returning next season so that's good.

Well, I'm going to go outside for a while. Oh, here's a picture of Nellie from the side and I'll take another one when I'm all packed up. Also, my new footstool that I painted orange, of course, today. Love you all, see you soon!

Things Are Winding Down!

Hi everyone. Sorry I haven't written. I've been spending time saying goodbye to half the campers in the park. Here's a picture of how it has cleaned out. My neighbors are still here til the 27th, Jan and Curt, and Mike and Sue from Rhode Island are here for another week on the other side.

I've begun to get my arms around coming home, so happy to see all my friends and family. It will take me the better part of the next couple of weeks to get Nellie ready for storage, cardboarding the windows, cleaning out the fridge and putting newspaper in, believe it or not kitty litter in containers to absorb the moisture down here with all the humidity. I also accumulated a lot from yard sales so I want to weed through that too. Get my cabinets and bins in shape, etc. etc.

Been spending a lot of time by the pool; it's a great temp and not too crowded. For Easter, I'm making a lasagna for Curt, Jan and I. I was also invited to a coworker's house. Will miss my family on the holiday and going to my brother's mass.

Well, things are quiet but good. Heard the spring weather up there is not too hot so I'm happy to be here for now. Still working a couple days a week and that is going well. They're looking forward to having me back which is great. The whole staff is going out before I leave for a night out. Looking forward to that!

Well, all for now. Miss you and love you!

TZ

The Wallpaper is Up!

Hi everyone. Exciting days at Camp Venice. My vintage wallpaper came in from ebay and it was put up by Steve the wallpaper guy yesterday. He did a fantastic job; I really love the floral print. The original wallpaper was peeling so this is a major home improvement. The background is light blue so I ordered chenille robin's egg blue bedspreads for the twin beds in there.

Had a great day at work yesterday. I just love my job here and will be sorry to leave it. My boss and the team are great and yesterday, since we are the #1 store in sales for our big sale last week, we all got to pick out a jacket that we liked. Here's mine. It's a bright yellow sail cloth short jacket that I just love. We just got them in for spring. It will be great when I get home and back down here next season.

Let's see, what else is new. We are having a social by the pool tomorrow night with a dj and wine, beer and munchies. The last one was fun so I'm looking forward to this one.

People are starting to leave to head home so I bid on an autograph book on ebay so I can get some sentiments in there to remember this, the best winter of my life. It has been the best move for me. Nellie has been great, yesterday I cranked up the a/c, that was a treat. It doesn't take much time to cool it down in here it's so narrow. I'm working today because the owner of the company is coming in for a store visit.

Having fun with Curt and Jan. I had a gift certificate to a Cajun restaurant so we went the other night. I had jambalaya and it was very good. We try to go out once a week.

I've got about six weeks left here. I'm going to be sad to leave but happy to see everyone again. I've gotten very used to living with the basics so I'm planning on having a big rummage sale to pare down when I get home. Stay tuned! I love and miss everyone. Talk to you soon!

Love,
TZ

I'm Still Here!!

Feel like I've been out of touch for a while. Been very busy with work and my trip to Palm Beach Gardens for Michele's mother-in-law's surprise 80th birthday party. It was about a four hour ride over and I got to stay with Michele, Steve and Dylan at the Hilton on the beach! When I got there, Michele and I went to the beach right outside and ordered double pina coladas and margaritas and just sat in the chairs on the beach. The water was a good deal warmer on that coast so I went in but wasn't used to the surf because we don't have any over here. We met up with Steve's Mom and family for dinner. Saturday was a runaround day of party prep at the party store, balloon shop, etc. Saturday we went out to dinner for what Delores thought was her birthday party. Steve almost choked to death on a piece of shrimp so that was pretty upsetting, heimlich and all but thank God he's ok. The party went off without a hitch on Sunday--Delores was totally surprised and it was really fun. I drove home and had to work Monday so I was a little tired.

I also worked Tuesday and Thursday this week; we are having our biggest sale of the season so it's been very busy. Lots of new merchandise to check in, callouts to clients about the sale, etc, etc. I've been feeling a little disconnected with company and being away so I went to water aerobics today and got a good workout and stayed at the pool for the day. It was beautiful.

This weekend we're having a fish fry for the camp where everyone brings a dish and the men fry up fish for everyone. That's on Sunday. Saturday night, Curt Jan and I are going to the drumming ceremony at sunset on Nokomis Beach in the next town over. Bring a cooler, supposed to be really fun.

So that's the catch up. I'm doing really great and loving life here. I miss everyone and will be home in six weeks. Will go quick. Looking forward to seeing everyone.

Love ya,
TZ

Di and Me

There's me and Di during her stay here at Camp Nellie! We had a great time beaching and pooling it, shopping at thrift stores and rummage saling. I scored a vintage coat which I'll put up later for 50 cents! Di was happy to get away from the weather up north. Talked to her this morning at it's 30 degrees up there. I'm staying put. We had a great visit.

People will begin to start leaving early April. They say on April 1st the traffic is brutal going north; everyone going back from their winter homes. I'm coming back on May 2nd. Nellie is going into storage and I'll be back up. I still have another 7 weeks and the weather has been great, 80 and sunny, very little rain. Last night it was so nice I slept with the windows open. Nice air. It was about 60.

Talked to my boss at work about leaving to go north. She was very understanding and would be happy to see my back there so that was good. It's a great group of women; I feel very lu

Everything is good with Nellie. I've been sleeping on the couch which is a full bed when pulled out. Getting a little more room after the halfway mark of my stay. Went to cocktail hour last night and met some people from Rhode Island. There are a lot of New Englanders here. It' s great. Well, gotta get the laundry. Am seeing Michele this weekend for her mother-in-law's birthday. Will be driving over to Palm Beach Gardens on the east coast. Can't wait.

I'll be in touch soon. Love you and miss you!

TZ

Checkin In

So far March has been great; we had a little cool snap but we're into the high 70s for the next week and sunny. It's not too hard to take. My friend Di comes in tomorrow for four days so I'm excited about that. We'll have some pictures soon, I promise. Another airstream pulled into the park when Bob and Jim left, it's a '73. Course I went over and did the "show me yours and I'll show you mine" and when the owner Don came to my trailer, he showed me how to lower the table into the wall so now the living area feels twice as big. I put a little tray table there for my computer and I'm all set. I re-fell in love with my trailer with the new room.

Work is going good. I'm enjoying the boutique; it's nice people, beautiful clothes and a really positive environment. I'm going to be sad to leave but hopefully I can be their seasonal person for the winters. I do plan on coming back next year; it's been an incredible experience and done wonders for my mental health. I'm very grateful for this opportunity and feel lucky that I found Nellie and she's worked out so good.

Last night Curt and Jan barbecued steaks; their son is visiting so we had a great meal. I bought a key lime pie for desert that was really good. Tonight is the rib barbecue in the camp which will be great; it always is. They have big barbecue pits and they start in the afternoon and cook so you can smell it for an hour before you go. It really get's your lips smacking!

Couple of big rummage sales on Saturday, Jan, Di and I are going to hit those at 8 a.m. Probably beach it alot with Di, she's hungry for everything warm and summery after the winter they've had in New England.

I'm at the halfway point of my stay which seems impossible but I'm very happy; know I'm going to miss Nellie while I'm gone but I know I'll be back so it makes it easier. She'll be store safely and I'll be back before I know it. I bid on some vintage wallpaper on ebay to redo the bedroom walls where the wallpaper needs to be replaced. It's seventies with flowers, orange ones. Are you surprised? We'll see if I get it. Anyone gotta get in the shower. Take care--love ya!

TZ

Weather is Fine!

Hi everyone. Wanted to take a moment to bring you up to date. Went to the airstream rally and met some friends of Bob and Jim's as well as some vendors who could work on Nellie someday. It was amazing; there were about 500 airstreams going back to the 1950s. I saw a lot of trailers that looked like mine. Bought an airstream tshirt which I'm wearing now. Saturday was the craft show. It was amazing the talent in this camp. Lots of beautiful watercolors and woodworking also quilting and knitting. It was low key and fun; I got some very positive feedback on my jewelry and sold some too so that was cool. Sunday there was an Italian festival at the airport grounds so Curt, Jan and I went over with Radar their dog. It was kinda honky tonk so we left and went out to an Italian restaurant and had salads and yummy bread with tomato/parmesan spread. Monday I ran around during the day and there was a hor douvre and dessert party in the camp. I brought a chocolate creme cake and there must have been 30 hor douvres and 30 desserts. It was really fun and yummy.

Tuesday I worked which went well; did a lot of organizing and merchandising. No two days are the same which I like. My boss bought me lunch which I appreciated. Today I did some bookkeeping and then went to water aerobics at the pool. It's a one hour session and let me tell you I got a workout. I'm really tired tonight. Stayed at the pool all day; it was a beautiful day, 75 and sunny. I'm working tomorrow; switched my hours to 10-2 which gives me the afternoons.

Well, that's the update. I'll try and take some pictures soon. Di comes in next week which I'm looking forward to, next Friday. I hope you all are doing well. I miss you!!

Love,
TZ

Another Satisfied Customer!

Hi Everyone! It's been a busy week! Had Michele, Steve and Dylan in and we bunked in fine. It was great to have them here; the weather was good and we mostly relaxed. They loved Nellie so much they want to buy one! It's really a great lifestyle I must say. We went to Sharkey's Tuesday night and that was fun. Had pina coladas and great food literally on the beach. Watched Independence Day in the camper and then everyone settled in. Wednesday, we went into town for a little shopping. Michele loved my store and got to meet my boss and co-workers. She had a good shop in there. We hit Miami Avenue that has all the thrift stores too. That was fun; stopped for bagels and coffee. Then we headed back to the trailer. We were going to go to the beach but it was really windy so we just put on our suits and hung out by the trailer. We decided to meander to the pool which was nice and they left shortly after that unfortunately. Flew home yesterday.

After they left, I had drinks and dinner with Bob and Jim and their friend Gail who does jewelry and lives up in Siesta Key. Bob and Jim have the only other airstream in the camp and they've invited me in to theirs and given me lots of tips for fixing up Nellie. Anyway, Gail was a peach so we are going to get together and do some beading. She is going to show me Siesta Key up near Sarasota where they beach sand is like powder. Can't wait.

Worked yesterday and my boss told me she's really pleased with how I'm working out at the shop, getting along with co-workers etc. I really like her and the staff. She's from the UK, used to work in HR and is very good at motivating people and making them feel at ease. That made me feel good. Not working again til next Tuesday cuz I have Saturday off for the craft fair at the camp. Have to get ready for that too. But today is the airstream rally in Sarasota so I won't get much done today. Oh well. So happy down here. Feel great and love the weather and lifestyle. Missing you all up there but thankful for company. Di is coming in next in March. Here are some pictures from Michele's visit. Miss you and love you!

More Company Coming In!

I've been busy getting ready for Michele, Steve and Dylan who are due to arrive tomorrow. They weren't able to get a cabin so they're all bunking in with me! Should be lots of fun. I have a futon and two twin beds so we'll be OK for one night. I can't wait to see them! We're all going to Sharkey's on the pier for drinks and dinner tomorrow night, Jan and Kurt are coming too! Should be loads of fun. Today I have crafts at 10:00 and am going to make some jewelry for Saturday's show at the camp. Everyone who make something will be exhibiting and selling their wares. I've got a lot of jewelry so I'll be happy to clean out some inventory. Friday is the big airstream rally with lots of vintage airstreams for viewing and lots of vendors with information. I'm looking to add an awning on the right side of my trailer to keep the sun out. I'm researching the original kind of awning called zip dee; they're still in business and I'd like it to match the other awnings. Also want to look into carpet and wallpaper people if they're there. Other than those upgrades Nellie is doing fine, I'm showering on board now and the facilities are working fine. The only thing I haven't tested is the air conditioning, haven't had to yet. That will be soon.
Got a TV set with a VCR built in at a community center rummage sale last weekend and it works great. Got rid of the old TV and am watching movies. You can pick up VHS tapes at all the thrift stores and rummage sales. I'm currently watching Independence Day; never saw it!

This week we're also having a chicken barbecue on Thursday night. For $8 they literally give you half a chicken, corn and cole slaw. Everybody bring their own plate; I scored some large tray plates like campers use at a thrift store and I use those. Bring your own drink and you're all set. I met the man who blows the conch shell everyday; he's a hot ticket. Never fails at 4:30. Cocktail hour has begun! Well, things are going well. I like my new job; the people are really nice; it's a real team which I like. One of the women brought in Valentines cookies and coffee on Saturday which was a real treat. I went in on my day off and bought a few things for work, tops and used my 40% off discount. That was a treat!

Well, gonna start my day. I'm missing you all but enjoying the weather and lifestyle down here. I love living in my trailer; it's very comfortable and spacious believe it or not especially because I have the outside patio. I'll take some pictures this week and send them off to you. Take care.

Love,
TZ

New Friends and Good Work!

Hi guys. Just wanted to check in. The weather has warmed up nicely and the nights are much more bearable at 50 and 60 degrees. Started my new job and I really like it. I'm working in the back mostly checking in new merchandise, tagging and sizing and getting it ready for the floor. My boss and co-workers are really nice so so far so good.

Met Bob and Jim from Toronto, they pulled in in an 84 vintage airstream so I'm feeling good to have some brethren. They toured Nellie and liked her a lot and I saw their trailer which is really nice. They gave me all kinds of tips for awnings and lights and general info for the vintage trailer. But the best part is they told me there is an airstream rally in Sarasota next week. They'll have airstream vendors and vintage trailers for viewing and everything airstream. I can't wait! Today I'm going into work early cuz we got a lot of goods to be processed. I love seeing what comes out of the boxes! Plus I get a 40% discount; could be dangerous.

All for now. Miss you and love you!

TZ

This Way to the Beach!

Well, my first guest, Carol Adkins, left today and she found the accomodations very comfortable. At first it was different having someone here but once she settled in it was nice to have a roommate. We went out to dinner and to the beach, temperatures are back up in the 70s with 50 degree nights so I'm not complaining anymore. I've had requests for pictures of the beach so here they are. I start my new job tomorrow and I'm very excited. Well, that's all for now. Love you and miss you much!!!

Just so You Feel Better in New England!

Here I am this afternoon after we got back from the airport. I'm bundled up like a babooshka! I know I can't complain but it's 50 here and windy, one more cold night at 30 degrees and we'll be back in the mid 70s by the weekend. Lucky Carol gets to have a nice cool night in Nellie--she came prepared, gloves, hat the whole works! I just keep thinking about the beach and this will go away soon. I know you all have no sympathy for me so I don't expect any, just want to complain. Well, we had a great rib dinner at the camp barbecue; big rack of ribs, coleslaw and beans. Should be an interesting night! Oh, that''s a coconut I'm holding in my tropical picture from Florida!!!!!

Expecting Company and a Big Birthday!

Carol Adkins, my sister's sister-in-law is flying into Tampa tomorrow. I'm very excited to have my first visitor to Nellie. Today I cleaned and of course bought wine! Checked into some awnings options for the right side of the camper (left side already has them). The weather has been cool but I'm not complaining, 55 today and 30 tonight so it will be a little nippy. I bought this great heated mattress pad and it keeps me toasty all night with my sleeping bag. Took my herbs in and my geranium is in the car to avoid frost. Tomorrow will be another cool day but it will warm up on the weekend and next week, 70s in the daytime, 50s at night. I can definitely handle that. Well I'm excited for Carol to arrive and she's excited about coming. Will check in during the stay. Stay warm up there-I'll try here too.

Tomorrow is my nephew Tyler's birthday so we're going to try to use our webcams and see each other for the singing of happy birthday. He's turning 10 so it's a pretty big deal. I'll let you know how the webcast goes!

Love you much!

This Time I Really Got a Job!

Good news, I got offered a position with Patchington (website Patchington.com) and I'm so excited! I just got the call and I start next week. I'm delighted. The people are really nice and it's 12 hours a week so it's ideal. Will be good to have that structure.

A rainy day today. I am cooking cilantro chile marinated chicken breast with sweet potatoes in olive oil and rosemary along with some broccoli for my neighbors. Just about ready to go over for dinner but wanted to spread the news!

All for now. Love you all.

TZ

A Good Rainy Day

Today I woke up to rain and it sounds great on the trailer. Despite the ideal sleeping weather. I was up with the dawn today and off to Sarasota to the bead shop I was going to work at picking up my sample. Then to Michael's to get a woodburning kit to make a sign for Nellie. That's my next project. After that I went to a few yard sales with Jan and made my way back here. I found out from Stephanie that the shop where I might work was checking my references today so that's a good sign. I'm excited about that! Used my oven for the first time to make my usual Friday night pizza and it works great. By the way, member I told you that someone blows a trumpet at 4:30 for the start of cocktail hour. Well it's not a trumpet, it's a conch shell. I'm telling the truth! Everyone gathers around in clusters and has a drink and talks about their day. It's pretty cool. I'm meeting a lot of nice people here from all over North America. This experience is so great; it's almost like when I was boating, same idea, lots of cool people with a good outlook on life enjoying good weather and friends. That's what it's all about right? Anyway, I'm really happy, even when it rains. Love ya!

Never a Dull Moment!

Sorry I haven't written in a while, been waiting for the weather to warm up and it has. After the 30 degree morning I was a little discouraged with no heat but then it warms up so it's OK. Last night was almost 60 degrees and it was 80 yesterday so I went to the beach. Sun was hot and the water was 61 degrees so it was a little nippy but I went in 8 times to cool down. Been busy. The jewelry teaching job fell through last week so that was a bit of a disappointment. Then if I can be so candid, my toilet backed up for 2 days, thank God there was no smell. Got that fixed and am enjoying having that back. Then some good news. I had brought my resume into a nice dress shop in town in early January. They called and they have a 12 hour a week position doing stock and merchandising so I have an interview today, wish me luck. Also going on a bike ride with the camp today down by the waterfront. We ride for an hour and a half and then have a picnic on the beach. Supposed to be 78 today so it will be nice. I've got lots of visitors coming and room for more. Carol Adkins, Michele Marquis and Diane Rodriguez are all coming down in February and March. Couple more potentials. It's great down here. I'm so glad I made this move; it's the best thing I've ever done for myself. Living in an rv is like camping but much better with restrooms and running water and comfy beds. The people here are very nice and it's quiet til 10:00 in the morning so I've been sleeping til 7, 7:30 which I never do at home.

Just wanted to let you all know I'm still here and thriving despite a few bumps. Will get some pictures at the beach today and upload them. Love you all!

brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!

OK, it was 29 degrees this morning! Here's some pictures of the frost on my bike seat and on my car with a little message.

I don't have heat in the trailer so needless to say it was a little nippy. I was pretty good in my sleeping bag but early this morning I was hurting. I found an electric blanket on board and that's going on tonight! It's supposed to be in the 30s again and then the warming trend comes in over the weekend and next week. I know I shouldn't complain with all that is going on up there. Let's just say I have new empathy for people who can't afford heat and the homeless.

I refused to scrape my car in Florida so I let the defroster do it's trick. Went to Target for a chai from Starbucks and a little bit of shopping for the exterior of the trailer. Plus it's warm in there! Bought some royal blue fabric and white ric rac and made a nice tablecloth for my table seen here.

Sat out in the sun if you can believe it by the afternoon. That's how quick it warmed up and the sun was very hot. Go figure. Bracing for another cold night!

No photo today but big news. I've hooked up my potty and don't have to go across the way anymore!!! I know it sounds like a little thing but when it's 36 degrees like tonight, that is a blessing. We're still working on the hot water so I can take a shower on board. I don't mind doing that across the way cuz the water is really hot and you can spread out. I never thought I'd be sending out an announcement like this, but you have to relish the conveniences! Today I brought my bracelet sample up to Sarasota and they liked it so that was good. Also sat out in the sun for a while, it was sunny but in the 50s (I'm not complaining). Looked into some more decorative stuff for the patio, bought some royal blue fabric to make a table cloth with white ric rac on it. Also sewed a valance for my kitchen window today. Still on the hunt for a 10-hour a week job in retail. Most of the businesses are slow so it's a little tough going but I haven't given up. Oh, we watched the inauguration yesterday and I bought cake to celebrate. What a great moment for our country!
Well, I'll leave you now. Thanks for tuning in!

My Neighbors!

I've been spending a lot of time with my neighbors from Vermont, Curt and Jan and their wonderful dog Radar. I thought you'd like to see a picture of them I took tonight. They're really wonderful people and I feel like I've known them a lot longer than two weeks. I really lucked out in the neighbor department. The neighbors on the other side are from W. Warwick, Rhode Island so I'm in good company all around. Today was about 70 so I went to the beach to chill and chill I did so I came home after a mandatory visit to WalMart. Anyway, had a good day and fun with my new friends. Hope you all are managing to stay warm up there. Miss you much.

Gone Vintage!

Right now I'm listening to the music of the 50s on my built in radio. Last night I was sitting on the love seat and there was a compartment in the wall so I opened it. Inside was an am fm radio that pipes out of speakers in both ends of the trailer! Too cool! So I'm living the whole thing, trailer and all. Vintage all the way.

I scored this vintage tunic today for $2 at a Community yard sale. Got quite a few things, vintage ice bucket, picnic accessories you name it. We had fun. I'm pretty wiped out but wanted to log something on today. I've been here two weeks and I've really gotten around. Doing errands for the trailer, looking and getting a job, socializing etc. I really love this park, it's so quiet and well run.

Today was cold (I know it's all relative!) in the morning; about 40 and then it warmed up to 70 with a strong sun. I started some herbs on the picnic table and planted them up today.

Basically, I'm loving life. I miss everyone but I'm glad I made this move. It's been a good decision thus far. Well, gonna go but love you all. Stay warm.

Got a Job!

I landed a job teaching jewelry classes at an upscale bead store in Sarasota. It's every two weeks but I'm excited to teach again. Will likely start volunteering at one of the thrift stores to get some structure to my week. I'm going to be teaching an intro class, a triple strand bracelet which I taught at JoAnn Fabrics. Anyway I'm psyched.

It's in the 40s at night this week which is cold for here. Nothing like what you're having. Going to be in the high 60s for the next week and in the 40s at night. Thank God I brought my sleeping bag. It's really toasty plus I'm bundled up like a babushka!

Went to Italian pot luck last night. Met some new people which was fun. There are people hear from Ohio, Indiana, North Caroline, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont among others. Nice people. My next door neighbor on the other side from Jan and Curt is from West Warwick, RI!

Everyone is very nice and all happy to be in Florida. The food was outstanding. Tonight is the chicken barbecue so I'm having no problem eating well! Well, gonna get moving. Miss you all and hope the weather up there gets better sometime soon. Love ya!

Well, it's a cold Wednesday morning, cold for here. I saw your weather; just brutal. Going to be a chilly week. I'm headed to Sarasota today to meet with a bead store about teaching classes. Have all my samples ready to go so wish me luck. Inquired at a couple of thrift shops yesterday and they all are volunteer primarily. Still pushing for something though.

I did manage to hit the dollar rack at one store and scored a tibi skirt for 50 cents that had a $50 Leohmanns tag on it. Score! Also hit a second hand store and got this adorable collapsible cafe table and chairs for my outside. It's stenciled so I'll likely paint it blue to match the awnings on the trailer. It's fun getting second hand stuff for Nellie. I also got her a 1976 cloth kitchen calendar, the year she was born for $1. Going to put it up on the wall. Anyway, tonight is Italian Pot Luck night. I'm bring a mozzarella, tomato and basil salad. Bought basil and rosemary plants for outside yesterday. Starting to take form out there. Well, gotta get moving. Hope you're enjoying the blog. Miss you all!

Flower Power!

Hi everyone. It's Tuesday morning and it's a rainy day. I looked you up on the weather site and it's damn cold up there. Hang in there, spring is coming. Yesterday was another errand day, got all the utensils for the kitchen at the dollar store and got Tyler some more birthday presents (Tyler I hope you are reading this). Also got my flower power door mat; wanted you to see it. It's made out of recycled rubber. Trying to go green down here. Bought green cleaning agents, no smell or toxins. In a small space, the no smell is a good thing. Went next door and watched Poseidon Adventure last night; good movie. Curt baked an apple pie so we had a little of that. For the most part I'm sticking to my Body for Life eating plan and exercising a lot. Feeling pretty good. Went on monster yesterday looking for jobs. If I want to be a phlebotomist, I'm all set. Going to head to some of the thrift shops today and see if they have any paid jobs. Also ask at the office here, several people with trailers work for the camp. We'll see.

Also grocery shopping today. The produce down here is cheap and good so that will keep me eating healthy. Wednesday night is Italian pot luck night and Thursday night is the chicken barbecue so I'll get to meet some more people. I met a lovely woman in the laundry room; she's two trailers away and was planting an herb container garden yesterday. I think I'll plant some basil at least. It's really cool to ride around the camp and see how people have decorated their awnings and outside living area. Some of the campers have a cut out where a TV goes so they can watch TV outside. It's all pretty cool. Well, I've rambled on long enought. Stay warm and keep those comments coming. All for now.

Organization 101!

It's a lazy Sunday at the campgrounds. I was ambitious though doing two loads of laundry first thing this morning, then going to the pool. It was almost 80 today but the pool water is refreshing. Went on the nature trails afterwards; it's so preserved you feel like you are in another time. I'll take my camera next time and get some pics. Today I also cleaned out the kitchen and unpacked all my vintage kitchen items and got the organized. Still have a lot of work to do to get settled but I'm getting there. I don't feel the panic to get everything in cuz I'll be here a while. So the pace is good. As you can see from the picture. My living room is full of stuff since I'm still cleaning out cupboards and finding out where things go. It' really like being on a plane with overhead compartments and underneath storage. My first guest Carol Adkins, is arriving February 5th so I've got a couple of weeks to get it right. Anyway, I thought I'd let you see the real thing. Life in a trailer. You gotta love it! I do. All for now.

My Nightlight!

Well I got the camera working and here's a picture of me, taken by me, of the nightlight Jan gave me for going to the john at night. People have seen me with and they think I'm nuts but it's great light and your hands are free. Between the old trailer and the night light I'm making quite an impression. Never made it to the beach today, went to the pool instead. The 4:30 trumpet just sounded; it's officially happy hour at Camp Venice Retreat. Last night one group of campers were singing songs from the 80s and having a good old time. It's a very social place. Well here's my funny photo. All for now.There's one on my bike too! See ya!

Well it's early Friday morning and I'm up with the dawn. Heard from a lot of you over the last few days--that's been great! Today I'm going down to the beach; it's supposed to be 75 with a light breeze. Water is still cold but I'm not complaining. Had an oil change yesterday so my car is in synch after the long trip down here. Signed up for the Italian pot luck night and the barbecue next week. There's an antique show that I want to check out on Sunday and I need to do some more cleaning out of cabinets and unpacking my stuff. Included a picture of me so you won't forget what I look like. Been doing exercises on my mat outside the trailer every morning. Little nippy but I'm dressed for it. It's been in the 50s and high 40s at night so it doesn't warm up til the sun is over the trees around 9 or 10. I really like the campground; it's clean, well run, and has everything I want. I still can't believe I'm doing this but it feels like I've always been here in Nellie. Well I'm gonna take a goofy picture of me in the morning-Ugh! So much for the picture. My camera locked up. Let's see what else I have in the archives. It's not working so no pics for now. Talk to you later.

Checkin Out the Neighborhood and Visitors!

Had an errand day today. My appointment for jewelry teaching got postponed til next week so I ran errands. I wanted to give you some feel for the neighborhood. It's really pretty with low hanging trees over the river (blow that picture up so you can see by clicking on it) also the proximity of the trailers to one another. There's ample room to have a nice seating area next to your trailer and they provide a picnic table too. I'm on the hunt for a collapsible table and chairs that I can store in the trailer in the off season. Also a market umbrella since I'm not planning on fixing the awning this year.

And the big news is that Michele Dylan and Steve are coming February vacation for a couple of days. Yahoo!!! Dylan is the proud winner of the bike naming contest, her name is Emma. Nellie and Emma. I had a lovely Aunt Emma who was always smiling and when I look at my bike I smile so it all fits. Thanks Dylan!

Signing off for now. Heard the weather was icy up those parts. Be safe.

Love,

Nellie and me

Pounding the Pavement!

Spent today walking shopping district with resumes and a pen. Went into the nice shops, have a solid lead for a 10 hour a week job next month at a high end clothing store. Also a home accessories store might be interested in me. I walked into stores and said I'm shopping and looking for a job" Some people appreciated the humor. Anyway when I got back I called some bead shops in Sarasota and I have an appointment to show my samples tomorrow at 12:00 so we'll see what that yields. It was an upbeat day although I have no photos to post tonight. Watched an old Doris Day movie I bought at a thrift shop call The Glass Bottomed Boat" I recommend it; Doris Day is suspected of being a spy; it's very good with a great cast. Anyway, it's time to sign off. I've been getting a lot of comments from you guys--thanks for the positive feedback and all of your encouraging comments. I feel connected to you when I hear from you!

Free Wheelin!!!

I found the most fantastic bike today--an 80s Schwinn three speed. It looks great with the cool basket aileen gave me for the front. I spotted a Schwinn store and pulled in and there she was. I rode her around for 10 minutes and did the deal. She looks great doesn't she; rides like a charm. Looks good next to the trailer. That was today's excitement. Jan and I hit a few thrift stores; got some great vintage stuff for Nellie. Why don't you guys help me name my bike. I'd like suggestions. Signing off for now.

It's afternoon. I spent the morning looking for a job.
Went to seven places, one good lead. Went to the pool for a while with Jan. It was crowded today. Felt good though. Here's some more pics I thought you'd like to see. Stay tuned.

Whew, I made it!

Well, I made it to Florida, flight was bumpy and I was just happy to get out of the cold! Arrived on time, secured my car at the airport (thank you Larry) and I was on my way to Venice. An hour and twenty minutes later I was at Nellie. She looked so proud and shorter than I remember, surrounded by luxury campers most the size of buses. I went inside and there was stuff strewn all about so I got a little bummed at and decided to call it a day and go to Motel 6 and check in for the night.

I did and then said, gotta be on the beach for the sunset. Went directly to Sharkey's on the Pier and had a pina colada and portobello mushroom wrap. Things were looking up. I was up at 5:00 to a breakfast spot by 6:00 and at Walgreens at 7:00 getting cleaning supplies. I was at Nellie at 7:30 and immediately got her a little more organized and cleaned. My new neighbor Jan came over with her vacuum cleaner--she's a peach. She lost her parents young too and said she thought it was "courageous" that I was doing this all on my own. That was a nice thing to say.

After 5 hours of cleaning and unpacking, I locked her up at headed to the beach; water was cold but I went in; spend some time on the beach and then went to Wal Mart for a few items. Basically the pace is very slow. Most people just hang around the campgrounds, go to the pool, start happy hour at 4:30 and life is good. The actually blow a trumpet at 4:30 to let everyone know the hour has begun. What a hoot.

There's lots of activities here, pot luck suppers and canoe and bike trips. I'm going to see if I can teach a jewelry class. I'm not lonely at all. I'm surrounded by nice people and ole Nellie has a huge curiousity factor. Lots of people coming around to get the story. Been hanging out with Jan and her husband Kurt; they invited me over to a barbecue tonight.

One of the coolest things that happened is I looked up last night and there is an angel figure hanging from the ceiling. It's meant to be and I feel looked after if you know what I mean. Another cool thing is Nellie glows at night with the shades drawn cuz they are orange and she's all aglow outside. Tried to get a picture but it didn't come out.

Here's the inside with stuff still all over the place. Stay tuned!

Happy New Year from me and Nellie!

Well, it's January 1, the start of a new year and a new life in Florida. I want to thank all my friends and family for the fabulous send off and fun gifts I received for Florida. I'm so excited I probably won't sleep a wink tonight--I'm off to the airport at 7 tomorrow morning. I've been thinking today about the path I went to get to here and it's pretty amazing. I had a vision and somehow, with a little work, it came to fruition. I'm now on the eve of seeing my Nellie, making her my home for the next four months. About three o'clock tomorrow afternoon I'll be in the ole girl if all goes well. Just want to thank everyone who has supported me in '08 and always. I feel so blessed. I will miss all of you but hope that you find your way to me and Nellie in the next four months! Stay tuned!