The McClure's monthly update is a bit behind, but we have been a bit busy.  To continue from the last posting, I'll begin on Tuesday  February 5th.  We met our Heartland friends at the Bakery for breakfast.  That is always great fun!  Wednesday it rained -- and rained, so we just stayed inside for the day.  Thursday morning we did a Walmart and grocery store run.  The rest of the day was spent working on finalizing our "lists" for a big move we're making to Texas.

Sunday the 10th was a beautiful WARM day (80 degrees), so we decided to ride over to Port Aransas to fly our kite.  Have you ever been to the beach and not have enough wind to fly a kite?  Well -- it can happen out here.  So we just walked along the beach.  Found some new creatures that had washed up on the shore and died.  That evening there was a report on the local news because of the thousands that had washed up.  Turns out they were Portuguese man of wars.  They were warning folks not to touch them because they could still sting (picture to follow).  The ride back on the ferry was great --- lots and lots of dolphin!

After breakfast on Monday (11th) we worked on our moving  to Texas lists again.  We just kept thinking of things that had to be done when leaving/moving out of Chattanooga.  Finally set up the different lists in my computer, because the written ones were getting very messy!!!  For the next couple days we just spent running around and doing some maintenance/cleaning of the rig.  On Thursday the 14th all the Heartland folks went to the island (Port Aransas) to have a Valentine's luncheon at Port Royal.  After lunch we headed to Corpus Christi "just because". It was a beautiful warm day so we didn't want to waste it.  Went to the Academy, Wind & Wave and Bed, Bath & Beyond just to look around.  Lee broke a record as he didn't purchase one thing.

Saturday was Rockport Market Day.  That's held the 3rd Saturday of each month.  We don't miss that event.  There are many many vendors with some really neat stuff.  That's where we got that new Texas name sign (picture included in last months.  Sunday started out as a day of rest with a long walk in the afternoon.  The 19th we went back to the island for breakfast with the Heartland friends at Moby Dicks to discuss the Heartland Meet & Greet event we were having the following day.  That turned out to be a great success (30 couples attended).  Lots and lots of food and the Winter Texan Band entertained us.

We have now come up on our last weekend in Rockport (23rd & 24th).  After a grocery store run on Saturday, we just kicked back and relaxed both days and watched the races.  Monday the 25th was pedicure day.  Came back and took down all the yard art, rearranged the "basement" of the rig, and cleaned the grill.  Interesting weather ---- warm, with red flag warning.  Weather forecast estimated winds to be 55 mph....ended up being 65 mph.  You definitely DON'T fly a kite with those kind of winds!!!  Last year these winds (which occur frequently) concerned me, but after two years experience - it's just another day (LOL).

Tuesday the 26th we both went for a hair appointment, washed the truck and went to the island for lunch.  On the way back we started having truck problems.  Truck problems 3 days before leaving Rockport is NOT good timing.  Ended up being the alternator and had it back the following day.  Wednesday afternoon we loaded the kayak on the truck and did all the last minute things that could be done.  Our 5 month winter stay in Rockport was coming to an end.  Those 5 months flew by!!!!

Friday morning we hooked up the rig to the truck and pulled out at 8:45 heading to our new "home" in Canyon Lake, Texas.  Arrived at Bucees on I-10 @ 11:10 to gas up, get breakfast and coffee.  Arrived at the RV port @ 12:42.  WOW - 3 hours travel time compared to 3 days (to get to Tennessee) PRICELESS!!!

Saturday my sister came down and we went to Guene and met another couple for dinner at the Gristmill.  If you're ever in this area that's a must see place!!!  On Sunday we need a last minute check of all lists, packed and headed up to my sister's in Austin.  We did absolutely nothing on Sunday -- just relaxed and enjoyed the 86 degree weather.  Tuesday the 5th we were up at 3:45 am (OUCH - that's EARLY).  An airport shuttle was picking us up for a 7:00 flight out of the Austin airport.

We arrived in Chattanooga at noon.  A dear friend picked us up and took us directly to the Penske rental truck place.  We were not only bringing all out belongings back to Texas, we were bringing items of mom's back to Austin for Debi.   Straight to my step-dad's place, loaded Debi's items (in sheets of rain).  Headed to the high school to pick up the grandson, back to pick up step-dad, and met son for a GREAT dinner at Ichiban's.  Stayed with step-dad that night.  I believe we were both asleep by 8:00.....tired tired tired.

On Wednesday morning we left Chattanooga @ 7:15 heading to Spring City to load our belongings in the rental truck.  It was 32 degrees and SNOWING!!!!  Two friends of ours (Roger & Craig) met us there to help.  Don't know what we would have done without them.  They also came bearing gifts for us --- brownies, white chocolate covered pretzels and homemade bread!!!!  All loaded and headed out at 12:55.  Reached the Alabama line at 3:00 pm.  Miles and miles of orange barrels -- because they were paving the emergency lane. They should concentrate on the road - not the emergency lanes!!  I-59 is right up there with I-30 for be EXTREMELY 'RUFF.  We had to take Aleve - not from moving but because of sore spots from the horrible interstate conditions.  And you don't dare try drinking anything because you would be wearing it!!  We stopped for the night about 40 miles West of Tuscaloosa.  Up at 6:00 Thursday morning.  It was 31 degrees with a chill factor of 24.  Now I know why we go to Rockport for the winter!!!!

A bit of excitement occurred in Jackson, Mississippi.  A guy passed us going about 75 mph.  A turkey comes flying across the freeway.  He should have aborted his landing, but instead he crashed into the guy's windshield.  Lee slowed down  so the guy could get across to the emergency lane.  The windshield was caved in, but the guy was lucky that it stayed in tact.  At that speed he could have been hurt bad (or worse).

If you're planning a trip on I-20 thru Shreveport -- AVOID it if possible.  I cannot say anything nice (except worse than I-59) about that journey through town.  To add to the Shreveport road drama, 8 miles before the Texas line we came to a STOP - MORE orange barrels due to constructions.  It took us 45 minutes to go 4 miles.  Once we reached the "construction" area - it was 6 guys sitting on the side of a bridge DOING NOTHING.  Can you tell we were getting tired and antsy.  If you haven't had the experience of a rental truck let me warn you --- they are NOT air ride comfortable!  You feel every single "dent" in the road.  After a long BUMPY ride all day we stopped in Palestine, Texas for the night at 5:30.

We finally reach Friday - the last leg of our journey.  Left at 7:00 am with MUCH warmer weather (55 degrees).  Arrived at the RV park @ 12:21 (YEAH).  We had no more energy so we parked the truck, had lunch and took a much needed LONG nap. Saturday morning Debi and 3 other friends met us at storage to unload our belongings into our storage shed.  Afterwards we headed to Debi's to unload her things. All done and had the truck turned in by 1:40 Saturday afternoon.  I won't say never....but I'm HOPING we never have to do this again.  If so - I'm calling Texas Storage Wars (on t.v.) and have them come bid on the stuff ---- minus the Kayak and fishing stuff.  All total -- from start to finish we did 1,175 miles.  OUCH!!

                                          I-10 and 183  Rest stop and Diesel was $3.59

                                                     Portugese Man of War

                                                  Eating at the Grist Mill in Greune

                                             Dinner with the Family at Ichaban's

                                                                 Moving Day

                                                           The Original 4

                                                Just my luck it's raining in Tennessee
Take care until next time!

                                         Fishing at Port Aransas

                                              Flying a kite at Port Aransas Beach

                                                Maiden Voyage

                                           There she flies

                                          300 fresh oysters at $30.00 per hundred

                                         There were over 50 neighbors

                                       Raw, Fried, oven baked.   ummmm good

                                           The gulf was a little rough, see the ghost ship

                                      No fishing today

                                      91 degrees and the sand is blowing

                                        Only a few birds came out

                                       Old Sign and new Sign

Canyon Lake

Our new home

WOW - another month has passed.  Can't believe we've been here 4 months.  January started off a bit cool.  Got up bright and early on the 7th to head to the Bakery to meet the Heartland gang and it was 42 degrees.  That's cold to us since we have so many WARM days!

Tuesday the 8th was an ugly rainy day.  Stayed in most of the morning and worked on shredding a bunch of stuff.  I was still sick so we went to town for more medicine.  Took the long way home and rode around on the beach.  We both find that so neat regardless of the weather.  Started Wednesday the 9th with our walking/exercise class.  Spent the rest of the day house cleaning and packing up a few things because we were heading to my sister's in Austin on Thursday.

After MUCH consideration and MANY MANY discussions.....we have decided to take up permanent residence in Texas.  That's our reason for going to my sister's for the weekend.  We spend every day checking out RV parks to be our home base for the summer.  We found a spot in one of our favorite towns -- Canyon Lake.  That's located about 60 miles south of Austin, 30 miles north of San Antonio.  This is something we knew we were going to do in about a year and a half, but we feel the time is right to make the move now.  We will be leaving here (Rockport) on March 1st for Canyon Lake.  We will be there until the end of September at which time we'll come back to Rockport for the winter.  A positive to all this -- we only have to travel 3 hours to get there versus 3 days to get back to Tennessee.      This will be a new adventure for us, but we're excited to be going to the hill country of Texas.  We will be at the Guadalupe River which is a big advantage for both of us.  Lee will be able to do a lot of fly fishing and kayaking.  I will have my sister come down so we can tube the river.  This move will put us close to immediate family.  In May of 2014 we will all come back to Tennessee for Austin's graduation and help Michael and Austin move out here also.

Back to Rockport on Sunday the 13th.  Met the Heartland folks at Charlotte Plummers in Fulton for lunch on Tuesday.  Sat for a long time watching an oyster boat come in and unload.  Interesting how they catch so many in such a short amount of time.  After they unloaded they headed back out for another catch.  On Wednesday the 16th after our class, we set down and started making different lists pertaining to our move.  Thursday was a beautiful WARM day, so we took a ride to Corpus Christi.  On the way back we stopped at the beach in Port Aransas to watch the people, ships and birds.

Friday the 18th we went back to Fulton (this town connects to Rockport) to Alice Fayes to have breakfast with the Heartland folks.  We took the long way back to our rig, but once we got there we loaded the truck with a cooler, chairs and kite and went back over to Port Aransas.  FUN DAY FOR SURE.  Kite flying is GREAT when you're at the beach....more wind.  But - I'm glad our kite wasn't any bigger.  I'm afraid it would have lifted me off the ground.

Saturday was Rockport Market Days.  This is always enjoyable.  Many many vendors.  We took advantage of one of the vendors and had a new name sign made.  On Sunday Lee and John went fishing.  FINALLY caught some keepers.  They processed the fish and both were able to put some in their freezers.  Lee cooked some of his and said they were delicious. I wouldn't know because I don't like fish.  Weird I guess.

Tuesday the 22nd was our 31st wedding anniversary.  Celebrated by going our for breakfast and did a Walmart run.  Hey -- it don't take much at our age.  Wednesday was spent going to class.  After we had breakfast we started rearranging cabinets.  Then went outside to enjoy a beautiful 80 degree day!! Thursday the 24th was Lee's 68th birthday.  Celebrated by going to Moby Dick's on the island with our Heartland friends,  He started celebrating with an appetizer......a dozen oysters on the half shell.  He was definitely a happy camper!!!!  For his birthday he had ordered a "skirt" that goes around the front of the rig (picture will follow).  This is very popular with fifth wheels.  A great storage area, plus the bedroom is above it so it will keep the bedroom warmer in cold weather and cooler in hot weather.  He installed that on Friday while I cleaned "house".

On Saturday the 26th we went to the Aransas Convention Center for a craft show.  Sunday the 27th was another beautiful warm day so we rode to Padre Island to check out 2 beach parks.  Lots of people were out either fishing or surfing.  On our way back we stopped at the beach in Port Aransas to fly our kite for a while.  When we're there I always want to go to the jetty to watch the folks fishing.  Several blogs ago I mentioned a guy catching a stingray, well the catch on this day was a blow fish.  I guess they do catch regular fish (lol).

Monday the 28th was pedicure day.  That afternoon several folks here in the park had an oyster fest.  OH MY GOSH - that was a learning experience for me.  Never been to one.  They had hundreds of oysters which they shucked and cooked....or you could have them raw.    About 50 folks attended bringing other dishes.  Food was everywhere!!  We missed the first one they had because we were at Debi's.  They want to do this once a month.  I BET we don't miss the one for February.....per Lee!!!

Wednesday the 30th we went back to the beach.  NO - not to fly the kite, but check out the ocean and jetty.  It was 91 degrees....which broke a record, but the winds were 50 miles an hour.  That was a sight to see....not the waves, but the way the sand blows real low -- and looks like it's making waves also.

Other than our class we've been staying close to home and updating our lists.  There is SO MUCH to remember when we get to Canyon Lake, then in Tennessee and what all  has to be done once we get back.  We will be flying home the 5th of March.  We have rented a truck and car hauler.  We will be packing up our personal things and get my car and head back to Texas on the 6th.  I wish we could see some of you while we're there, but we'll have to do that later.  You are limited to the days you can keep the truck.

I'm sure there will be a lot of new adventures to tell you about, so we'll keep updating the blog.

Until next time.....take care


     

I'm not sure if it was good idea for me to take over "blog control".  Most folks update their blog weekly....I'm lucky if I get ours updated monthly.  I'm good at making notes though, but that's because I carry a notepad in my purse and truck. I have been "scolded" by several of our out of town friends because the blog is how they keep up with us.

Let's start back the first of December (3rd) when we met the Heartland folks for breakfast at the Bakery.  Came back to workout in the weight room, then made a Walmart to purchase hand weights.  We have now joined a walking exercise class.  It's held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday in our clubhouse.  The walking part of this class equals a 2 mile walk, with exercises included using the hand weights.  On Wednesday the 5th Lee and John went kayak fishing.  No luck with any keepers, but I told them to take pictures anyway and we could take the snaphots to Walgreens for a good photo shop update (LOL).  While they were gone I washed all the windows (inside) in the rig.

On Thursday (the 6th) we rode over to Corpus Chrsti to do some Christmas shopping.  On the way back we stopped at a kite shop in Port Aransas.  WOW - what a place!!!  Really neat stuff.  But - we shouldn't have stopped....we have added another flamingo to LEE's collection (picture to follow).  She's in a hammock wearing a yellow polka dot bikini, sunglasses, flip flops......and a belly button ring.  We are still having a discussion as to what we're going to name her.  She has definitely been a conversation piece here in the park.

Rockport Beach

Jelly Fish

Waiting on the Parade

 Even the Dogs get into the act

 Juat a few of the stuffed animals for the Police

 Banjo the neighbors dog

 The Belly Button Ring

 Ryders Christmas Tree

 Hilda the lazy Flamingo

 Ryders new ride

 What;s next?

 Daddy's new Yeti

 Buc-ee's and Buc-ee's nuts

 A thing of beauty  Thanks Karen and Dan

On Friday after attending our walking class, we put a roast in the crock pot and headed to the grocery store.  Lee's going to make a huge batch of chili to freeze.  Between the roast and chili, I don't know what smelled the best that evening.  We were able to put up 4 containers in our freezer.  Saturday we finished up our Christmas shopping, rearranged some furniture and got all the Christmas things wrapped.

After our class on Monday we just did a "kick back & relax" day.  I worked on a craft project and read a bit.  Lee played around on his computer.  A COLD front had moved in so we just stayed in where it was nice and warm.  A cold front here is the high 30's/40's at night and in the 50's during the day.  .But not to worry - a heat wave is headed this way.  Thursday (the 13th) was our Christmas program. Always a nice event. They also included a parade (pictures included).  It really doesn't take much to entertain us senior citizens.  On Friday we met the Heartland folks in Portland at Pepito's for dinner.  A great place for Mexican food.  Saturday (the 15th) was the craft show here in the resort.  Another great event.

On Sunday (the 16th) Lee and I went to the beach.  It was a beautiful WARM day (88).  We estimated we walked at least 3 miles.  Came back to the rig to watch football and take a nap.  Haven't done many of those since we're always doing something.  Attended walking class, a short run to the store.  Back to the rig to load the kayak on the truck.  Lee and John are going fishing on Tuesday.

On Wednesday (the 19th) we met the Heartland folks on the island at Moby Dick's.  Everyone brought a toy or stuffed animal.  Instead of giving something to each other we suggested the toys to help out the needy children here.  Lee and I have been involved in several of these events and it's always greatly appreciated.  On Thursday we went to the Rockport Sheriff's Department with the toys.  Needless to say, they were very happy.  Spent Saturday getting things organized and packed for our trip to my sister's in Austin for Christmas.

Headed to Austin on Sunday (the 23rd). This ended up being a very special Christmas for all of us!!  Michael and Austin flew in Christmas day for a week.  Started Christmas morning at Todd (nephew) and Chelsea's house because Santa Claus had been there for Ryder (18 month old great-nephew).  What a joy.  Back to Debi's to exchange gifts and fix lunch.  Debi, Chad (nephew) and I went to the airport late Christmas day to pick up Michael and Austin.  Back to Debi's to open up more gifts with them.  If I remember right -- we FINALLY got to bed at 2:30 a.m. on the 26th.  Should have been worn out, but was too excited.  We stayed with them until Saturday the 28th and headed on back to Rockport.  That gave all the YOUNG people time to visit, etc. etc. without the "old" folks.

We started the new year off sleeping in and doing a bunch of nothing. I got sick on Wednesday -- bad cold.  It got a lot worse as the week went on.  Spent two days in my comfy clothes.  I would say I was entitled....just don't answer the door if anyone knocks (LOL).  Feeling a bit better today (Sunday, Jan. 6th).  Lee and a neighbor installed a new window in the door of the rig.  Some dear friends of our got it for us when they were at a rally.  I don't think I need to even give a hint what it is.  Lee will include a picture of it.  Some will laugh, but OH MY GOSH, I HAVE to admit.....IT'S BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Well folks that's about it for now.  Until next time take care!!

Once again it's been a long time since I've updated the blog.  I keep a pad with me at all times to make notes of our events.  If I didn't do that - I'd never remember what all we've doing - especially at my age.  Let's start back on 11/9. We met the Heartland gang at the Bakery for lunch, then we all rode over to Camper Clinic RV Sales.  They were going to have an open house all weekend, and we were going to have a table there on Saturday so we decided to check it out.  Back to Camper Clinic on Saturday the 10th.  Stayed there until late afternoon.   Packed everything up and headed to a great Mexican restaurant for dinner. On Sunday Lee and I rode over to Flour Bluff (just outside Corpus Christi) for the Super Plus HEB (a grocery store on steroids).  There was an advertisement in the Sunday paper for flamingos with Santa hats and scarf.  You'll see those in pictures to follow.

On the 14th after working out, I sent Lee outside so I could "clean house".  It doesn't take long to clean the rig, but I like to have it by myself.  Late afternoon we took the ferry to the island to have dinner with John and Carol.

On the 16th went to get my hair cut (that was long overdue!!!!!).  After our workout we started packing for our trip to my sister's house in Austin for Thanksgiving.  Left bright and early on Saturday.      Stopped at our favorite place - Bucees for a coffee refill.  If you ever see one of these in your travels.....stop!  It's a great place to stretch your legs, shop for food, goodies, etc. etc. and fill up your gas tank.  We were very excited to hear that Texas had opened up another addition to their toll road leading into Austin.  The good news ---- it was only a few miles up Interstate 10 close to Bucees.  We are only approximately 195 from Austin, but with the toll road we can get there a lot quicker.....especially with the speed limit at 85!!!!  Now -- that's an issue with me.  I'm too old to go that fast, besides I'm not in that big of a hurry (LOL).  We did give it a try.  Glad we didn't put the windows down.....otherwise we would have a G-force problem.  Even when Lee slowed down to 80 it was still too fast.  With very little traffic and no traffic lights, you can sure move right along -- quickly.

Started our "vacation" with Debi having a Mexican breakfast.  She insisted on driving so she could get her car washed.  Now -- I included that bit of info because of the experience in the car wash.  First of all -- you SHOULD NEVER go to a car wash if you have a window that won't roll all the way up.  With much care - Lee and Debi pushed the window up and inserted a screw driver to hold it in place before entering. Lee was sitting next to that window because Ryder's car seat is on the other side.  I bet you can see where this is going.  Once the car is in place -- and the water starts --- the window won't hold up.   OH MY GOSH - we laughed so hard we could hardly breathe.  Lee is getting soaked. Luckily someone's jacket was in the back, which was used to block the water......but not before Lee got washed and waxed.  Pictures also to follow.

The following morning we all went to have a pedicure......so relaxing!!!  On the way back we stopped at their new Super Plus HEB (another grocery store on steroids) to do our Thanksgiving dinner shopping.  That was an experience.......half the population of Austin was there!!!  Back to the house to unload groceries and headed for the mall.  I needed to get some new tennis shoes.  Having problems with my feet, and with working out, I definitely needed shoes with better support.  We figured the mall would be fairly empty because most of the people were grocery shopping at the new HEB!!!  We were right -- and I got some new shoes (workouts much better now).

On Tuesday Lee and Todd (nephew) went to Cabelas and on to some property Todd's in-laws own to do some shooting (looking for those big awful looking hogs).  Debi and I headed to the airport to pick up Elmer (our stepdad).  Very excited to have him with us!!!  He'll be here for a week.  I think this helped all of us to be together.  It was just a little over a year ago when we lost mom.  Took it easy the following day.  We started preparing stuff for our Thanksgiving dinner.  Busy Thanksgiving morning preparing the finishing touches.  Turned out GREAT!!  After watching some football games and some taking a nap, we went to Todd's in-laws for dessert.  Busy and happy day had by all.

On Friday the 23rd Todd and Ryder came over and we all loaded up and went to the Oasis for lunch.  This is one of our favorite places.  Pictures will follow.  On the way Debi took to an area by the Oasis where we did many hours of boating in prior years.  Oh how sad!!!!!  Due to the drought over the years, there is NO water at all --- only weeds!

                                         Jim and Pat from Kansas

                                           John  and Carol from Charleston Tn.

                                                Dan and Karen From Michigan  Theyre UPPERS

Car Wash

l

                                            Hog Hunting

On Saturday we picked up Chad (nephew) and headed for Lukenbach and Fredricksburg.  Elmer had heard us talk about these two places a lot, so we wanted to show him around.  We forgot about this being Thanksgiving weekend.  Those folks I told you about in the HEB -- well --- they had headed for Fredricksburg also.  In other words, it was a bit crowded.  One of Lee's favorite places - Rustlin' Bobs was packed from wall to wall.....but that's where you can sample hundreds of sauces, jellies and jams. Lee can/and did consume his lunch in there. Lee picked up a new Cowboy Hat.   A fun time had by all.

On Sunday the 25th we packed up and headed back to Rockport.  We made our usual stop at Bucees and headed south.  The buffalo you'll see below were just north of Cuero, Texas.  Pictures don't do them justice.  Another huge by large animal in Texas!!!  On Monday we set out our Christmas decorations, along with the rest of the park.  Everyone was enjoying the beautiful weather -- 87 degrees.

On Tuesday we met the Heartland folks at the Beach House in Old Town Rockport.  This lunch was to discuss the Meet & Greet we're having in February for Heatland Owners.  Seems we think better at these meetings if we eat.

We had a great experience on Wednesday night.  We were invited to the island to a bon fire and to watch the sun set and the moon rise.  No big deal - right???  WRONG!!!  Every full moon a local couple go to the beach, dig a huge hole in the sand and builds a bon fire.  People come from all over the area.  He said as many as 200 people have attended this event.  The sunset was beautiful, but the moon rising above the ocean was breathtaking.  Including pictures....but again....I don't think they'll do the scene justice.  It's also a big night for what is called party boats.  That's the tiny lights you'll see below the moon.  Will definitely be going back for the next full moon.

We end the month of November by having lunch with all our Heartland friends at Trout Street.  It's hard to believe that another month has passed.  All the Winter Texans have now arrived.  The park is full.

Tonight there is a free Fish Dinner at the Fulton Convention center for all Winter Texans.  In the morning Lee, John and a new friend is going Kayak Fishing.  More on that one later.

Until the next time......take care!