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Well, I went the southern route to avoid the snow. I did avoid it, except for Christmas Day, when I woke up to a light snow, promptly ran out gas as the highway gas station I was counting on was closed. Triple A had me back on the road within an hour. I then limped into Amarillo, Texas, where my Axle/CV joints were clunking so bad that they were needing immediate replacement, and all the roads were packed in unplowed snow and ice. Checked into Motel 6 and waited it out until morning. Incredibly, I managed to find Danny, who had the parts, let me use some shop space (his mechanics did not show up that day), and provided me with the few tools I did not have, as well as over 30 years experience in doing the job. I was back on the road less the 24 hours after stopping with a smooth running, quiet Vanagon!
I did not stop for sightseeing, but did most of my driving during daylight hours, allowing me to take in all the different sceneries. Even with all that, the biggest notable that I saw was a “Daddy Car” when I was almost back in Seattle.
Glad to not have woken on the road again today!
Mark
Saturday, December 31, 2011 at 09:53:23 (PST)
It would have been better if I hadn't been holding on to the house keys, thus forcing just a leeeetle more driving before he could rest at home :)
Mona
Saturday, December 31, 2011 at 09:19:08 (PST)
Well done Mark! What wonders did you see? How is the van? I bet it feels good to be in one place again.
Paula
Saturday, December 31, 2011 at 04:11:08 (PST)
Hurray for you and Jerome and your 28-year-old vehicle! Rest up and then tell us more about your 8-day marathon.
Ramona
Friday, December 30, 2011 at 15:26:15 (PST)
I made it just in time to go get Jerome at the airport, now we are both ready for some year end rest!
Mark & Jerome
Friday, December 30, 2011 at 14:39:44 (PST)
Very almost! One last nap, and then the last 150 miles!
Mark
Friday, December 30, 2011 at 01:10:40 (PST)
Home yet Mark?
Paula
Thursday, December 29, 2011 at 16:14:53 (PST)
I decided to skip the sight-seeing, and headed right out to California. I am now somewhere on I-5, about 900 miles from Seattle. Should be there by tomorrow evening!
Mark
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at 11:20:15 (PST)
Happy Holidays!
mark mclaughlin
Sunday, December 25, 2011 at 14:24:51 (PST)
A Merry Christmas to all, from somewhere around Amarillo, Texas!
Mark
Sunday, December 25, 2011 at 09:15:19 (PST)
Merry Christmas to everyone in my wild and wacky family...I treasure each one of you...yes, even YOU!
Paula
Sunday, December 25, 2011 at 06:49:27 (PST)
Joyeux Noël à Mark, on pense à toi très fort. A very Merry Christmas to everyone wherever you are.
Thinking of you.
Sophie, Jerome and Vanessa
Saturday, December 24, 2011 at 09:27:15 (PST)
Merry Christmas Eve to all, in Seattle, California, France, Massachusetts and ??? Where are you now, Mark? Thanks for taking us along with you.
Paula
Saturday, December 24, 2011 at 06:21:28 (PST)
Wow, making good time!
Scott
Friday, December 23, 2011 at 20:42:26 (PST)
And now I am just past Johnson City, Tennesee, about to turn west on I-40. Smooth sailing, mild weather, and little traffic so far!
Mark
Friday, December 23, 2011 at 14:34:21 (PST)
Good job Vanessa! Happy Holidays to you and your mother and Jerome! As of 11 o'clock last night, your papa was somewhere around Scranton, Pennsylvania and still rolling. Roll on, dude!
Scott
Friday, December 23, 2011 at 05:24:39 (PST)
I arrived safely to france, and I am very happy to be with my mother ! Merry christmass and happy new years to you all ! Love from france,
Vanessa
Friday, December 23, 2011 at 04:51:33 (PST)
And now on to my little brother Scott...(I know, he is pretty big from my where I stand)...HAPPY DAY TO YOU!
Paula
Monday, December 19, 2011 at 05:28:23 (PST)
Happy big 60, big brother. I was happy to share it with you.
Paula
Sunday, December 18, 2011 at 16:37:44 (PST)
Happy birthday, Steve - hope you're having a great holiday!
Mona
Sunday, December 18, 2011 at 10:12:37 (PST)
Happiest of Birthdays and Holidays to my pal Steve.Buddy and Ramona put out a top shelf product. Hope you get everything you need and maybe something beezare on the side! love,Mark
mark mclaughlin
Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 22:23:33 (PST)
Let's get started "Once upon a time. 5. Transformer Ultimate Bumblebee. The Camaro that was launched in 2008 now changes into Transformer Ultimate Bumblebee. Although these fun baby toys are designed for babies, parent’s supervision is still the best.
MaryTenderLOS
Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 21:02:11 (PST)
Love it, Mona! Come for a ride!
Paulala
Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 09:08:56 (PST)
Jérôme arrived safely in France with a great spirit as always. The cookies are the best ones ever and are almost gone already!!! Thank you for making all this possible. Take good care.
Love
Sophie
Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 08:14:56 (PST)
Jérôme arrived safely in Nice. The cookies are the best ones ever and are almost gone already. Thank you.
Sophie
Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 08:12:43 (PST)
Jerome, where are you? Did you arrive safely in France?
Ramona
Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 05:02:28 (PST)
How are you liking it, Paula?
Mona
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 08:05:12 (PST)
MY CAR! IS HERE! HURRAY!
Paula
Friday, December 09, 2011 at 15:56:06 (PST)
Thanks for the birthday wishes! Josh and I spent the day getting a Christmas tree, and some new ornaments! It's our first tree together :) Love and miss you all!
Betsy
Friday, December 02, 2011 at 21:08:05 (PST)
Ain't Betsy the greatest? I sure think so...
Mona
Friday, December 02, 2011 at 21:01:40 (PST)
Happy Betsday!!!
Mark
Friday, December 02, 2011 at 12:29:34 (PST)
Happiest of Birthdays to Betsy! I know you have a gift for finding fun wherever you are, so make sure to do that today. And while you are at it, have a little half-birthday fun for me. You bring joy to us all. Love from me....
Auntie Paulala
Friday, December 02, 2011 at 07:26:47 (PST)
Happy Birthday to Betsy, way down yonder in Georgia! I hope you have a happy day with your kitty-cats and your sweetie-pie Josh.
Ramona
Friday, December 02, 2011 at 07:03:18 (PST)
Thanks to you all for your Birthday wishes and Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.
Sophie
Thursday, November 24, 2011 at 09:58:53 (PST)
Hey - remember last year when I was in Massachusetts for Thanksgiving? Yeah, me too ... that was fun. :)
This year in Kingston: no snow, no trips to the ER, nothin'. :(
Just kidding - it's perfect, of course. Friends and relations due to arrive a bit later, backup power and cooking source secured (we're supposed to be getting some weather later today), 4 days off work, so much to be thankful for. May all my family have good health and fortune today and laa year long - love YOU!
Mona
Thursday, November 24, 2011 at 09:11:23 (PST)
Happy Thanksgiving, one and all.
Ramona
Thursday, November 24, 2011 at 08:59:18 (PST)
Happy Thanksgiving to the Stylos Tribe.
mark mclaughlin
Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at 19:44:18 (PST)
I guess that is why the rats are jumping ship. It's so bad, Heidi left for the Enemy Lakers in a lockout ...
Mark
Sunday, November 20, 2011 at 19:28:38 (PST)
sure do miss the Celtics.....
Paula
Sunday, November 20, 2011 at 14:06:40 (PST)
...same as it ever was, I guess, Dad. I know Mark's pretty bummed about the loss of Heidi Whatley. :)
I've been kind of quiet here, as we've had to come to grips with the tragic loss of one of Paul and Betsy's close childhood friends last week. Very sad and sudden car accident took away our friend Chris, who used to come over to our house to play and go to Boy Scouts or cross-country running or to play video games or to go to birthday parties. He is sorely missed already. Betsy and Josh flew in on Wednesday for the memorial service, which was yesterday. A very bittersweet time to get to see them like this. I've been reflecting on how lucky I've been to get to live in a neighborhood like this one, and for all the years I got to stay home and play with my kids and their friends. Harsh reminder to stay safe out there and to share the love every day so ... love you (((family))).
Mona
Saturday, November 19, 2011 at 09:22:53 (PST)
12 days since a new message on the board and that is enough. My contribution [s that I have determined wha6 is wrong with the red sox and lo and behold it is the greed of thr ownership that drives the team.
paul
Friday, November 18, 2011 at 10:50:11 (PST)
It is a lucky day indeed - after all, it brought us (((Ana))) and (((Miranda))) and now (((Anne Renee Brody))), Liam's newest, youngest child - born today in Williamstown (at least I think that's where the hospital is). The best days are when babies come, to quote a phrase!!
Mona
Monday, November 07, 2011 at 11:44:49 (PST)
Happy Birthday Seattle Twins! And Joe, and Mark, while I am at it!
Mark
Monday, November 07, 2011 at 07:42:43 (PST)
O Happy Day to Miranda and Ana! May today bring each of you your heart's desire...or at least a good time and birthday cake.
Auntie Paulala
Monday, November 07, 2011 at 03:07:01 (PST)
MIRANDA and ANA. What doe they have in common? They are both beautiful young women, and they share a birthday! Besides that, they are both my granddaughters. Best wishes to the birthday girls.
Ramona
Sunday, November 07, 2011 at 03:07:00 (PST)
I'm sending many good wishes to son-in-law Mark Allan on his birthday. May all the happenings today be good ones.
Ramona
Saturday, November 05, 2011 at 08:54:37 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Joe, wherever you are. When will we see you again? We miss you, especially when it's time to mash the potatoes.
Ramona
Thursday, November 03, 2011 at 14:00:40 (PDT)
Happy Birthday little, I mean big, I mean little Joey! Hope you are having a fabulous time way over there. And take pictures! Oh, and eat a little cake too while you are at it. We miss you at family dinner. Your adoring auntie,
Paulala
Thursday, November 03, 2011 at 10:05:50 (PDT)
JOEY!!!
Mona
Thursday, November 03, 2011 at 09:33:21 (PDT)
And add me to the list who have electricity again! (though I am a little afraid to open my refridgerator)
Paula
Monday, October 31, 2011 at 13:17:16 (PDT)
Add me to the list of those wishing the best for Sophie. I still hope some one of these years we can wish you a happy birthday in person. Anyway have a great one. P.S.
paul
Monday, October 31, 2011 at 10:38:05 (PDT)
what, they diverted your power to send to us, paula? we had "refugee camp" at emily's in holyoke last night (she never lost power) -- i took julie and nana there, now andrew and i are working at home because there is no power at our office ... it was nice to be without, and it's really nice to have it back! and happy birthday to sophiemou!
athena
Monday, October 31, 2011 at 10:01:36 (PDT)
Still no power here since yesterday...awfully nippy!
Paula
Monday, October 31, 2011 at 08:19:30 (PDT)
Yippee! We have electricity again, after 36 hours or so without it. We dug out all of the candles, ate the ice cream before it could melt and gave thanks for the little gas stove in the living room. Jess and Jeff joined us in trying to get news of the Patriots game on a little battery radio, and then playing Joker. This morning we were thrilled to hear the hum, buzz, roar and yackety-yack of the applicances that had been left on. Thanks, all you electrical repair people.
A belated Happy Birthday to Sophie. I send you wishes for all the good things you wish for yourself.
Ramona
Monday, October 31, 2011 at 06:36:37 (PDT)
Joyeux Anniversaire Maman!
Jerome
Sunday, October 30, 2011 at 20:07:28 (PDT)
Bon Anniversaire to you Sophie ... my French is very elementary, but the wishes are heartfelt. Hope it's a great year for you!
Mona
Sunday, October 30, 2011 at 15:07:19 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Sophie! I tried to send you some snow for your birthday, but it looks like it did not make it all the way over there. Ooops!
Hope you get out and have your cake and eat it, too!
Best wishes for the best year yet.
Mark
Sunday, October 30, 2011 at 11:38:01 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Sophie!
Here in Acton we have LOTS of snow, lots of downed tree limbs, and several smaller trees and bushes crushed under the weight. The good news is we have only lost power sporadically, so the hot tub is still hot under the snow! And lucky Mark is out trying out our brand new snow blower.
I know Jessamyn and Athena are both without power (well over 12 hours so far) and I am guesing that Mom and Dad and Scott are as well. In Jess's town they are expecting the outage to last an "extended period of time"...wonder what that means? Melinda maybe too, stranded out in Anherst somewhere. And this is October?
Paula
Sunday, October 30, 2011 at 06:25:45 (PDT)
It's my mom's birthday in france now! happy birthday to you maman!! I wish you the best!
Vanessa
Sunday, October 30, 2011 at 00:01:07 (PDT)
What's the word, Massachusetts kinfolk? Everyone safe and warm?
Mona
Saturday, October 29, 2011 at 18:02:41 (PDT)
Say it ain't so! A foot of snow this week-end? In October? TOO SOON!
Paula
Friday, October 28, 2011 at 17:41:30 (PDT)
Not a day goes by...
Paula
Thursday, October 20, 2011 at 09:46:28 (PDT)
That's the truth...
Mona
Thursday, October 20, 2011 at 09:41:07 (PDT)
Still missing you down here, Big Brother.
Mark
Thursday, October 20, 2011 at 09:17:04 (PDT)
Thank you, one and ALL who contributed to my having a very Happy Birthday. Beside the cards and calls and elctronic messages, I got new electric window in my car. (No more open windows when the rain comes down.) And then there was a wide variety of tasty treats at the Sakura.
Today I got a slightly belated birthday call from Eunice, a woman who used to live near us in Amherst. We share a birthday though she just turned 94 and is so active that she is a real inspiration to me. It's nice to have a role model.
And it's nice to have the loving thoughtful family that I have!
Ramona
Monday, October 17, 2011 at 13:58:23 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Grandmother!!! I wish I was there and I hope you had a wonderful day!
Jerome
Sunday, October 16, 2011 at 19:11:27 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM! I too wish for you a sunny, relaxing Birthday Sunday. I hope your knees are feeling better, and you have a wonderfully romantic dinner with your groom. I guess the birthday spankings will have to wait until family dinner on Thursday. Thanks for all you do and all you are. Love from me,
Paula June
Sunday, October 16, 2011 at 04:32:35 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Mom! Here is wishing you a wonderful Birthday Sunday and a warm week to come. Still time for a walk in the forest!
Mark
Saturday, October 15, 2011 at 22:32:59 (PDT)
Yes, feeling better everyday. The whole experience just kind of puts everything into perspective. Thanks for asking!
Paula
Thursday, October 13, 2011 at 17:39:39 (PDT)
Yes, I'm back home after a great week in NC, but I'm limping around with a "bum knee." My birthday on Sunday will be a low-key affair with a romantic evening for two at the Asian Buffet. (My choice.) Family dinner will happen on Thursday this week, to accommodate several of us. Paula provided last night's Family dinner, bringing every single thing with her after work. (She makes a mean beef stew.)
Ramona
Thursday, October 13, 2011 at 14:19:47 (PDT)
Are you back home, preparing for your birthday celebration, Mom?
Are you feeling better Paula?
Mona
Thursday, October 13, 2011 at 09:57:49 (PDT)
I'm enjoying Brevard, though it's overcast (even as rumor has it that it's 80 degrees and sunny in Northampton.) We've been doing all the things I'd hoped we'd do, except walking in the forest. Seeing lots of old frieds, eating too much good food and, of course, Rummikub in the evening.
Family dinner will happen as usual on Wednesday. . .
Ramona
Monday, October 10, 2011 at 09:07:32 (PDT)
Home Sweet Home.
Paula
Saturday, October 08, 2011 at 06:35:35 (PDT)
Thanks for letting us know, Jess. This board is still a lifeline for me.
Mona
Wednesday, October 05, 2011 at 20:30:57 (PDT)
Honorably, or dishonorably?
I knew they couldn't hold her in there!
Mark
Wednesday, October 05, 2011 at 16:04:41 (PDT)
Paula has been discharged. Yea! Mama, what will you do first?
Jessamyn
Wednesday, October 05, 2011 at 15:37:55 (PDT)
Why does that question make me feel like a jailbird? The answer is that I still need to go before the parole board.
Paula
Wednesday, October 05, 2011 at 03:40:13 (PDT)
And I've got Jeff and Joe to myself this evening!! OK, sharing them with David...Jeff is enjoying the Windows Phone I work on and Joe and David are talking all things snowy. How much longer are you in for, Paula?
Mona
Tuesday, October 04, 2011 at 19:32:44 (PDT)
To whom it may concern: Family dinner is being cancelled this week. Too much going on, including my packing to leave early Thursday headed for the mountains of North Carolina. And, of course getting Paula well enough to go back to her own nest in Acton.
Good for you, Vanessa. There's nothing like having a goal and enjoying the work leading to it.
We're looking forward to a first-hand report from Jeff about Moab and Seattle and points in-between.
Ramona
Tuesday, October 04, 2011 at 17:06:38 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to Perry! Congratulations to Vanessa! And alas, I remain in Holyoke...enjoying seeing Scott three times a day.
Paula
Tuesday, October 04, 2011 at 16:35:29 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to Perry!
Hoping that Paula has found her way out of Holyoke.
And congratulations to Vanessa, who is enjoying her new found adulthood, working her first job, and saving up money for college!
Mark
Tuesday, October 04, 2011 at 15:43:47 (PDT)
well at least i'm consistent in my sporadic attendance of the family message board. i think everyone knows my sentiments but i'll state the obvious: jeff i look up to you even when you aren't on mt katahdin, joe i think you're great wherever you are, vanessa it's always great to have you stateside, sophie i love seeing your posts, mona it is great to have you -- liam and i agree!, dad your birthday is sure to be a national holiday one of these days, as it is in my heart, mom thanks for all the family dinners, jess thanks for all the vegetables and soup and good cheer, melinda you are awesome, melissa it is so good having you in town (can you hook me up with some chocolate pecan cookies?), scott, my waltzing brother, let's go dancing!, mark your vanagon says happy birthday and no mice yet, steve i miss you and i quote you often, paul congratulations and i can't wait to meet the puppy, miranda i hope your trip was as amazing as it sounds i'm so glad you took a vacation!, betsy it was great to see you and josh hope paradise is treating you well, pam i look forward to both of us having some free time someday soon to talk astrology, ana i hope your year is going well and you are having some fun and doing some art, PAULA!!!!, it's so strange seeing you in a hospital, i look forward to the return of you your invincibility (and boy do you know how to draw a crowd ....) all other stylos.net visitors -- you know i love you! there. that's my post for the season, now back to my way too busy life .....
athena
Monday, October 03, 2011 at 13:46:02 (PDT)
Paula? Paula can't get sick !!!
Thank you all for your Birthday Wishes: They worked, and I had a great day, a great dinner, and topped it off with a midnight walk across the big train trestle!
Mark
Sunday, October 02, 2011 at 19:29:30 (PDT)
Paula seems to be doing well, is hungry (a good sign) and hopes to go home on Tuesday.
Ramona
Sunday, October 02, 2011 at 19:20:26 (PDT)
Paula spent the night at Holyoke Medical Center (Scott's hospital)after a couple of days of trying to pretend she wasn't sick. Diagnosis: diverticulitis. Visiting hours, 8 to 8. I'll write more when there's more news.
Ramona
Sunday, October 02, 2011 at 05:12:18 (PDT)
I had a great evening with Mark and his two young 'uns. I report he is in fine health and humor and doesn't look a bit older than he did last week. :)
Mona
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 22:18:48 (PDT)
I hope it is a good day for you. And I hope a great year follows. It is great for us all when things are good with you. So Happy Birthday good Mark. I think of you often and a lot. And I am so glad we were blessed with your presence. It is all true. PS.
dad
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 10:28:37 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Markimoo!! I hope they are treating you right (at least for today). Have a good one!
Scott
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 09:13:29 (PDT)
Have a very Happy Birthday, brother Mark!
Steve
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 09:06:30 (PDT)
Yes, there are moans and groans all around here because of the Red Sox, but there are also as many paople saying "Know whose birthday it is today?" I hope it's a pleasant day, followed by a better than average year.
Big Mama Ramona
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 08:38:54 (PDT)
Here's hoping for the Happiest of Birthdays for Little Brother Markimoo. I really tried to give you a Red Sox win for your birthday, but in the end I thought it best to let them walk off into that dark night. Forget them and go celebrate!
Big Sister Paula
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 06:06:13 (PDT)
Thanks for the birthday wishes, I had a great day!
Jerome
Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 21:53:52 (PDT)
I think the email problem has been solved: I just needed to empty the reash-can. (Anything that came in yesterday and today, up until an hour ago is still lost.)
Ramona
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 18:12:04 (PDT)
To anyone sending me an email message: nothing is getting through and I don't know why. Not even the ones I send myself!
Ramona
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 13:53:10 (PDT)
Wishing you a good year, Jerome!
Ramona
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 13:50:03 (PDT)
Yes, Happy Birthday to Jerome (and Sophie!) who turns 17 today! Hip hip Jerome!
Papa
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 09:40:15 (PDT)
Good try, Paula :)
Mona
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 07:36:35 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEROMEO! Hurray, I get to be the first!
Paulala
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 07:01:57 (PDT)
Joyeux Anniversaire mon grand Jerome. Je pense a toi tres fort.
Sophie
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 07:00:40 (PDT)
Paul, so glad you're already back home in the safe hands of Scott and your loved ones. I just hope that you've got a new efficient treatment to relieve you. Just want to remind you that you're the best 'buddy' by this I also mean ''grandad' I had never seen before. Take good care of you. We love you.
Sophie
Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at 09:49:48 (PDT)
I am home again and it feels good. I want to say saveral things but I will not take too much of your time. In spite of all the tests and the four doctors involved they could not be sure of what caused and how one coud be sure of how to avoid the occuerance of my abdominable obsrtuction. But the pain was cyclical and quite sever so that I could not get much sleep and they admitted me to the hospital and proceeded to treat me. One of the first things they did was to give me a dose of morphine and I am here to tell you I have never had a more satisfactory and complete and restful sleep in my life. I quess that I relly like the poeple at Cooley Dickenson Hospital. And then when I got home I had so many messages from familly and friends that also made me grateful and I want thank you ALL.
paul
Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 20:10:51 (PDT)
(subliminal ... "come to Seattle, Paula")
Mona
Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 20:01:51 (PDT)
Hurray for us!
Paula
Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 19:23:37 (PDT)
Really? Maybe to root against the Yankees? That Wake still has it! Two Hundred. You were right, Dad, he's not washed up yet!
Mark
Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 19:03:37 (PDT)
You and your children!
Paula
Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 17:50:25 (PDT)
Who's going to Seattle?
Mark
Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 17:29:50 (PDT)
I hear they've been having glorious weather in that area. Maybe that's why.
Ramona
Monday, September 12, 2011 at 18:21:46 (PDT)
Hey, how come everyone is going to Seattle?
Paula
Monday, September 12, 2011 at 17:03:25 (PDT)
Thinking of Peter, Sue and Little Christine today.
Paula
Sunday, September 11, 2011 at 16:07:52 (PDT)
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Friday, September 09, 2011 at 21:06:27 (PDT)
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Friday, September 09, 2011 at 19:25:50 (PDT)
Have fun, kids. It's a beautiful day in Kingston today - clear, warm, gentle. I'm starting to shake off this cold I seem to have picked up during my first week of work.
The job is going very well, from my point of view, so far. Learning all about Windows Phone. The international content is really well done, and I'm getting mentored by someone who knows what they're doing, and I'll have some opportunity to actually create some code this time around - yay!
Miranda and Tom have been on the road since the 19th of August - they drove to Georgia to see Betsy, to Florida, just missing the hurricane, along the Gulf Coast, to Phoenix to visit Tom's moom, to San Diego to visit the animals (I made that part up), and now they're heading up the Pacific Coast to be home in time for Miranda to start school at UW and Tom to start his job at some high-falutin' law firm downtown. I've been watering the plants at their place, which is on the 22nd story of a building in the absolute heart of downtown, across from the Paramount. You can sure see a lot of life going on, if you step out on one of the balconies.
And Paul has moved in to Seattle, so it will be great to get to see him a bit more, even though our visits with Betsy will be much fewer and further between. Hope everyone who reads this has a safe, happy, restful and/or exciting holiday weekend. Go Labor!!
Mona
Saturday, September 03, 2011 at 08:43:44 (PDT)
Vanessa has successfully landed in Boston. We are now on our way to Northampton.
Jerome
Friday, September 02, 2011 at 16:50:02 (PDT)
Hurray Jeff!
Paula
Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at 18:44:22 (PDT)
Happy Belated Birthday Grandfather ! Sorry I'm late I had no access to a computer. Hope that you had a wonderful day !! See you very soon!
Love,
Vanessa
Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at 16:58:13 (PDT)
That is just outstanding!
Mona
Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at 20:15:00 (PDT)
Congratulation to Jeffrey who reached the summit of Mt. Katahdin today! 2181 miles, 14 states, 5 months. Yippeeee!!
Scott
Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at 18:32:51 (PDT)
Dad, you're still so good looking, the girls line up at Costco just to have a peek at your baby blues! Much love to you and best wishes for the next trip around the sun!!
Mona
Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 18:36:50 (PDT)
Happy birthday to my Buddy! I'm so glad that Josh and I got to see you this summer, and I look forward to the next time! I love and miss you so much! Don't let that hurricane get in the way of your day!
Betsy
Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 08:27:57 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to the GREATEST Dad. And the kindest and most loving. I really wish I could have stayed to celebrate it with you, but instead I sent Irene. I love you.
Little Paul...I mean Paula
Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 04:59:41 (PDT)
Battening here in the Narragansett Bay!
Paula
Friday, August 26, 2011 at 05:50:50 (PDT)
Everybody on the east coast: batten down, be safe and update us on your status as you can, please. Miranda is in Florida, and just escaped having her plans scrapped, so we're grateful for that.
Mona
Thursday, August 25, 2011 at 19:57:44 (PDT)
Done - thanks for reminding me!
After a little more uncertainty, I'm finally set for starting work on Monday, so - here's to the last weekend of my vacation!
Mona
Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 10:00:22 (PDT)
Mona do not forget to send Paul's address. PS
paul
Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 07:51:45 (PDT)
OK, a little more: plane was delayed in Bradley, but they made me a better connecting flight and I made it just fine. The audio on the movie was cutting in and out like this: sound, silence, silence, sound, silence, silence, silence, sound, silence ... etc. For 2 hours. Crazy.
Thanks for the sack lunch, Mom, that was a GREAT idea! Thanks for the home to stay in, Scott - you are the greatest - no matter what any one else may claim. Thanks for the slide show, 'Liss!! Loved hearing about what it was like in Alaska. Thanks for the cribbage lessons. Again, dad. Thanks for riding to the airport with me, Jerome! Do make buddy teach you to play cribbage - you'll never regret it. Thanks for working so incredibly hard and lovingly and patiently, Athena -- you are a goddess to me. Thanks for making it out to family dinner and for surviving, Paula and Jess!! Thanks for the rides to and from the airports, Dad and David!! It was one of the most restful and meaningful and joy filled trips I've made back yet! Here's to another one soooooon!!
Mona
Friday, August 19, 2011 at 17:58:46 (PDT)
I'm home.
Mona
Friday, August 19, 2011 at 01:19:43 (PDT)
Back to normal. Now saying good bye to my sister, and hello to my brothers!
Paula
Thursday, August 18, 2011 at 16:19:21 (PDT)
Great party at Halima's today!! Saw so many wonderful faces - including a representative at least from each of the 8 children of Achileas and Mariantha Stylos. And Dad's car turned 300,000 during the drive down (sorry, Paula), and we captured it on film!! Great weather, food, long overdue hugs and conversations. Many thanks to Halima!!
Mona
Saturday, August 13, 2011 at 19:35:44 (PDT)
On our way home from one amazing vacation in North Carolina. Jessamyn, Melinda and I are at a hotel in Easton PA, had a wonderful dinner at a pub, warm and relaxed from the jacuzzi...tomorrow will be back to reality...including buying a new car.
Paula
Saturday, August 13, 2011 at 19:27:45 (PDT)
The previous message was brought to you by the Department of Redundancy Department.
ooops
Thursday, August 11, 2011 at 20:01:10 (PDT)
All's well - back from the airport (beautiful sunset drive w/ nearly full moon rising), and now we're all snugged in to our beds. Dad and I stopped in to the Olympia in Lowell for some avgelemono soup, and it was really so good. Jerome had just cleared customs when we got there, and all's well. More adventures tomorrow.
Mona
Thursday, August 11, 2011 at 20:00:12 (PDT)
It usually takes 15 mn to drive to the airport but this time that was about 2 hours. But we made it. Thanks to you Paul and Mona for picking up Jérome who is flying with lots of sunburns....
Thanks to Mark for making this trip possible and please do know that I am glad that Jerome is going to be spending some time with you all. Jérôme, you're the best, I am the proudest mother on earth. Wishing you all a nice summer. Take good care.
Sophie
Thursday, August 11, 2011 at 03:21:25 (PDT)
I'm back in Noho after a very enjoyable week in Oregon and Washington. I especially enjoyed being with Patsy, Beverly and Kate. I came back to New England heat, and the warmth of having Mona here. Tonight she cooked the 5 of us family dinner and allowed me to rest up and pamper my left knee which has been ailing for about 2 months. She 9Mona) just extended her stay and that is good news (for us anyway.) Tomorrow she will go with her dad to Boston to meet Jerome, flying in from France. Next week we hope to have a bigger tableful for family dinner. We enjoyed this one, though.
We have tomatoes, both large and small!
Ramona
Wednesday, August 10, 2011 at 17:35:13 (PDT)
What a hostess, that Paulala! Allways going to all ends to show her people some fun and excitement!
Mark
Sunday, August 07, 2011 at 09:13:47 (PDT)
Hello from Celo. Having a great time here in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Good food, good music, dance, crafting, porch sitting, fires, and company. Tubing today? Swimming in the creek? Decisions, decisions. And still thanking our lucky stars...
Paula
Sunday, August 07, 2011 at 05:49:31 (PDT)
I'm enjoying my time in Northampton, just hanging out with some of my favorite people. Dad taught me to make pastitsio, had a trip to Look Park today and, -- go Sox!!
Mona
Saturday, August 06, 2011 at 15:29:35 (PDT)
I'm checking in from Ashland, OR where the weather is perfect and so is the company.
I just had a call from Jess and she reports that all is well with the contingent vacationing in the North Carolina mountains (and their rented car.) So what's going on with the rest of the family?
Ramona
Saturday, August 06, 2011 at 09:50:48 (PDT)
Paula!! I'm glad for your quick reflexes, that's for sure. Not the first time. Keep keeping us updated, will ya?
We had a really fabulous 21st birthday dinner for Paul in Ballard, on the absolute finest day of the year. So far.
I'm headed out to the airport tomorrow morning, and will see some of you sooner, others of you later. Much love and, oh yeah -- GO PAUL!!!
Mona
Monday, August 01, 2011 at 22:26:01 (PDT)
So, the wheel fell off at 70 MPH in the passing lane on 81South in PA. We careened of the road,but did not roll over, hit anyone, or crash into the hillside. My brave passengers credit the fact that we all walked away to my quick reflexes, though the phrase "God looks after drunks and fools" did come to mind...and none of us were drinking. Safely in Burnsville. Now driving a KIA Sorrento.
Paula
Monday, August 01, 2011 at 21:50:08 (PDT)
Happies to the BIG TWO ONE, Paul! Now you can finally go out and get that first drink! Looks like you will be getting an early start! Thank goodness for summer vacation!
Still waiting for the other shoe to drop, Paula ...
Mark
Monday, August 01, 2011 at 13:28:10 (PDT)
And Happy Birtday to my namesake Paul!
Paula
Monday, August 01, 2011 at 09:32:20 (PDT)
Side of the road. Ambulance and fire truck on site but not needed. AAA on the way. More. To follow....
Paula
Monday, August 01, 2011 at 09:18:12 (PDT)
Happy birthday to Paul Jerome Pingree! Have a great day and a great life.
Grandmother
Monday, August 01, 2011 at 08:45:05 (PDT)
A page from Jeffrey's journal...figuratively. Melinda, Jessamyn, Seth and I are in Chambersburg Pennsylvania. Halfway to Burnsville. A lovely drive so far, with singing, the alphabet game, and collecting (figuratively again) license plates from 26 states, and 1 province. More anon...
Paula
Sunday, July 31, 2011 at 14:54:22 (PDT)
I would like to invite everyone to visit the website Peter's friend set up and also hear a beautiful lullaby composed by a young music student at St. Olaf College in Minnesotta for christine:
http/wwwPetehansonfamily.com
Christine's Lullaby-http/www.carlschroeder.com
Naki
Monday, July 25, 2011 at 22:55:35 (PDT)
A big HAPPY BIRTHDAY to uncle Bill! I hope you're having fun with all your peeps in Fairhaven!
Scott
Saturday, July 23, 2011 at 11:31:43 (PDT)
Very sad, the passing of a 4 legged friend. I still miss Nena, Minuit and Madeline. But yes, time marches on. Vanessa is a high school graduate, Jerome off to jr college, Melinda also a graduate (MBA), Jillian to be married, Jeff on the trail, Joe and Melissa having climbed Denali, Betsy moving to GA, Miranda accepted to U Washington, Pam at Mt Holyoke, Cam taller than many of us...and the list goes on! Me, I keep on sailing and invite you all to join me.
Paula
Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 15:19:15 (PDT)
Well, it's been a time of upheaval around the Pingree homestead...Betsy is officially moving to Georgia (Augusta) next week. Miranda has been accepted to UWashington and will start there next fall. Paul will be moving to Seattle and taking over Miranda's spot at Seattle Central Community College, and I am, once again, looking for work, which puts a crimp in any summer vacation plans I may have hoped to have.
And one a very sad note for us, after 16 great years with her, we finally lost our kitty, Angel. So, the wheel keeps turning, and we'll hope for the best from here on out. Come on, SUMMER!!!!!!!
Mona
Sunday, July 17, 2011 at 17:30:13 (PDT)
Âîëîäÿ,âîò òîò ñàéò î êîòîðîì ÿ òåáå â ëè÷êó ïèñàë
ÿ åãî â çàêëàäêàõ ñâîèõ åëå íàøåë
tom05051
Saturday, July 16, 2011 at 04:46:46 (PDT)
Oh, and GREAT JOB VANESSESSA!
Paulala
Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at 13:15:56 (PDT)
JEROME These are the good years. I hope you are having the time of your life. Remember me to your mother and Vanessa and it will be good to see you again. In the meantime take good care of yourself and those around you.
papouli
Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at 13:09:42 (PDT)
No, *I* miss you already!
Mona
Monday, July 11, 2011 at 10:30:25 (PDT)
I miss you already, Jerome...Hurry back! But first, have a wonderful time in France.
Paulala
Monday, July 11, 2011 at 08:39:40 (PDT)
Thanks for letting us know, Jerome! Is your Oncle dreaming? See you in Northampton in August!
Papa
Monday, July 11, 2011 at 08:00:23 (PDT)
What? No Jerome in Northampton this summer? How disappointing.
Oncle Scott
Monday, July 11, 2011 at 07:03:44 (PDT)
I have successfully landed in France where I was greeted by my mother.
Hope you guys have a good summer!
Jerome
Monday, July 11, 2011 at 04:47:17 (PDT)
I knew you could (and would) do it!! You rock, Vaness...
Mona
Wednesday, July 06, 2011 at 11:33:32 (PDT)
That's terrific news from our lovely Vanessa! So now, enjoy this happy moment and then get on with making the world a better place. You have many fans here in Massachusetts and in Washington who wish you well.
Proud Grandmother
Wednesday, July 06, 2011 at 11:08:49 (PDT)
Yess ! I got it !! :)
Vanessa!!!
Wednesday, July 06, 2011 at 09:28:40 (PDT)
And a BIG BIG CONGRATULATIONS to Vanessa, who has successfly completed her High School in France, and been awarded her Baccalaureate Degree! She is The Greatest!
Papa
Wednesday, July 06, 2011 at 09:16:52 (PDT)
Hurray for the traveling, triumphant trio!
Paula
Wednesday, July 06, 2011 at 03:27:01 (PDT)
That is AWEsome news!! Hoping the return trip is as (presumably) uneventful as the climb to the top. Very proud of "the kids" and I hope we'll see photos soon. Congratulations to Joe and 'Liss and Travis!!
Mona
Tuesday, July 05, 2011 at 22:13:55 (PDT)
Well that is good news, indeed! Hip hip hooray for the threesome!
Mark
Tuesday, July 05, 2011 at 21:09:01 (PDT)
Good news! After too many days of no communication word has arrived that Joe and Melissa and Trav safely reached the summit of Mt. McKinley (Denali) on the Fourth of July! They supposedly basked for a short time in the below zero temperatures before beginning their descent. We're expecting them back in the Lower Forty-eight by the weekend. Then we'll give a cheer for those intrepid mountin climbers!
Ramona
Tuesday, July 05, 2011 at 17:54:41 (PDT)
I would like to say thank you to Mark for all his support at this time. Just want Mark to take care of his health too. Jerome, just cannot wait for you. Love to all.
Sophie
Saturday, July 02, 2011 at 14:47:11 (PDT)
And best wishes for good health to Uncle Bill.
Paula
Thursday, June 30, 2011 at 17:07:38 (PDT)
Hey Everyone, Dad should be getting out of the hospital today, back home to his own personal nurse, I knew all was ok when I saw him making fun of the hospital staff..Wishing the whole family and friends well..
Alex Stylos
Thursday, June 30, 2011 at 09:05:18 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Melinda!
Jerome
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 21:30:19 (PDT)
I just wanted to send a THANK YOU out to everyone who came to Friday dinner at Paula's house last week. Josh and I had a great time, and really appreciate everyone taking the time to make it out to Acton and see us! Also, a huge thank you to Paula for putting it all together. Hopefully we see you all a lot sooner :)
Love,
Betsy (and Josh)
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 20:25:48 (PDT)
My apologies to Peter for missing his age. At my age, I sometimes don't want to remember mine. At least the best wishes and good health still stand. Mea Culpa.
Barbara
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 16:45:32 (PDT)
Wonderful Birthday Wishes to a Wonderful Niece. I look forward to seeing you this summer, and enjoying that after graduation before work period with you while I can!
Uncle M
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 16:22:41 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to a lovely granddaughter.
Ramona
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 13:15:21 (PDT)
And I am second! Happy Birthday to my baby girl. Thank you for 28 years of amazing YOU!. Hope your day is full of lots of Melindaness and joy.
Mama
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 07:44:16 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Melinda !! have fun :D
(I am the first on the stylos page !)
Vanessasa!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 05:55:53 (PDT)
Wrong, Barbara. Peter Stelos turned a youthful 88 in May. The fire-works will come in 2013.
The calendar
Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at 04:31:52 (PDT)
Hi Peter, See you made it to the big NINE 0! Best wishes and good health!
Barbara
Sunday, June 26, 2011 at 19:07:46 (PDT)
Yay for Caitlin - say hi to your grandma for me - and give her a big hug!!
Mona
Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 17:32:02 (PDT)
i am coming to mass. to see grandma ginny's house this sunday for two weeks.
caitlin
Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 12:05:20 (PDT)
Caitlin how good to hear from you and to know you are still here with us. I am fine and hope you are too. youre mother's uncle paul
paul
Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 10:11:00 (PDT)
how are you guys?
caitlin
Thursday, June 23, 2011 at 09:52:30 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, David. so nice of you to give your birthday to Betsy this year so she can celebrate and have fun at Fenway Park for you. Maybe next year you will come east and do the same. Have a good year.
Ramona
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 12:50:18 (PDT)
A day full of happiness! Happy David's Birthday, Happy First day of Summer, and Happy Betsy and Josh going to Fenway Park! Yipee!
Paula
Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 06:02:48 (PDT)
Hey you guys out there. I want you, I need you, I love you, and I thank you, and so everything else is OK. Except of course I really do miss you. Patera sas
Paul
Monday, June 20, 2011 at 06:28:31 (PDT)
Happy Father's Day, Dad!!! Who's The Greatest?!?!
The Greatest's Son
Sunday, June 19, 2011 at 17:06:03 (PDT)
Happy Father the the GREATEST. You make us all feel as if we are the greatest, and we all feel very loved. Amazing job, Dad. Just look at us!
Paula
Sunday, June 19, 2011 at 03:38:52 (PDT)
Yay!! Thanks, Paula and Melinda and Mark, for facilitating the picking up and driving around of our two (not so) little loves...
I am in Victoria with Tricia, waking up in the Empress Hotel (google it, it's wonderful...) and trying to pick out my outfit for Afternoon Tea. Thanks for the birthday greetings and wishes - I've put them to good use.
And Happy almost Father's Day to my dearest dad, just in case I don't get back here. I love you more than a lot!
Mona
Saturday, June 18, 2011 at 09:32:52 (PDT)
Did you feel the shift? Betsy and Josh are now on the East Coast. Hurray!
Paula
Friday, June 17, 2011 at 17:39:04 (PDT)
Just spoke with Scott, he's off the mountain and in Fairbanks. He said everything's been good, except for some pain in his legs, possibly shin splints. Can't wait to pick him up at the airport Sunday morning and hear more about the trip!
Anne
Friday, June 17, 2011 at 04:50:45 (PDT)
Best wishes Mona! Clams Casino and a nice Italian red(Roberto Rossellini) for you!
mark mclaughlin
Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 16:28:45 (PDT)
Yippee! Happy Mona Day! Wish the B's would have waited a day for you! I'll send a Happy from Scott, too, as I am sure he would if he had a connection out there in the middle of nowhere.
Brother Mark
Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 13:25:12 (PDT)
Mona Have a happy birthday. Yoy wil never be as happy as I was when you were born. It really is strange how things work out. If you knew ahead of time you might do it again and again. You have been a blessing to us all. And for that I am very gratefull. I hope to see you soon and want you to know you are most loved. Patera sou.
panos
Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 05:15:36 (PDT)
Mona, I'm thinking of you today, June 16th, your birthday and wishing you a wonderful weekend in Vancouver with your friend from across the waters. And VANESSA, I think you would be surprised to know how happy we were to see a few words from you on the message board. Good luck with all those exams this month. I hear they are not much fun. We miss you.
Ramona
Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 04:55:38 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Mona! What are your birthday traditions? Hope your day is fabulous!
Paula
Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 03:50:43 (PDT)
So nice to see you here, Vanessessa!
Paulala
Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at 17:06:59 (PDT)
Come again another day !
Vanessa
Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at 05:59:44 (PDT)
Rain, rain, go away!
Paula
Sunday, June 12, 2011 at 13:37:14 (PDT)
Yes, thanks Anne. Safe (and exciting) travels to Scott and his audacious offspring!
Paula
Thursday, June 09, 2011 at 03:43:00 (PDT)
Thanks, Anne, for passing the word along.
Ramona
Wednesday, June 08, 2011 at 06:23:27 (PDT)
I spoke to Scott a few times in the past couple of days, they were at Denali National Park patiently waiting for today when they start the hike to the mountain.
Anne
Wednesday, June 08, 2011 at 05:13:57 (PDT)
From me, too! Happy Anniversary to the Best Mom and Dad out there!
Mark
Monday, June 06, 2011 at 20:38:27 (PDT)
Happy anniversary to the two most wonderful people I know. Thanks for getting together and producing such an amazing family. We ALL appreciate it. I hope you enjoy this glorious day. See you tomorrow. Love from your eldest daughter...
Paula
Monday, June 06, 2011 at 04:49:45 (PDT)
Yesterday was another beautiful day. I spent most of it alone on the deck of the boat working, which may not sound exciting, but was thrilling for me. Then I went home, took a refreshing bath, and celebrated 35 years of marital bliss with my prince.
Paula
Monday, June 06, 2011 at 04:47:13 (PDT)
More congratulations and felicitations to Paula. And also to Mark, as this is your wedding anniversary, and if I'm counting right it's the big 35th! You were last cited heading down to check on your boat. I hope it is about ready to test the winds and waves of the Atlantic. Stay dry.
Ramona
Sunday, June 05, 2011 at 10:02:47 (PDT)
Thank you all for your good wishes...they worked! I had a wonderful birthday, with sunshine, the excitement of a tornado, lobster, champagne, a trip to the hardware store, calls from my loving children and siblings, my garden (complete with a rainbow!), and the company of my lovely sister and adoring husband. Life is good.
Paula
Friday, June 03, 2011 at 07:06:53 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Paulala!!! :D
Jerome
Thursday, June 02, 2011 at 23:03:34 (PDT)
Happy birthday to the best big sister ever!
Scott
Thursday, June 02, 2011 at 14:32:48 (PDT)
Happy birthday Paulala!! Have a good one !
Vanessasa
Thursday, June 02, 2011 at 12:41:21 (PDT)
Indeed, Happy Birthday Paulala!!!
I hope the weather has settled down and you can go out and do something fun!
Brother Mark
Thursday, June 02, 2011 at 08:10:48 (PDT)
Happy birthday, Paula!!
Mona
Wednesday, June 01, 2011 at 21:14:46 (PDT)
ohio state fair schedule 8-8-2007,
Eipbwokb
Wednesday, June 01, 2011 at 07:21:36 (PDT)
Yeah! He makes a meaner Baklava, I'll tell you what. We made a batch together last week, and I was impressed with his patience and skill - not the easiest of dishes to make, you know. Happy long weekend, everybody! I wish there were a parade nearby, but we'll find *some* way to celebrate.
Mona
Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 09:47:37 (PDT)
GREAT JEROMEO!
Paula
Friday, May 27, 2011 at 15:25:55 (PDT)
Jerome stil the greatest.
grand dad
Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 09:58:47 (PDT)
Yay, Melinda!! Quite an accomplishment - so proud of you, and can't wait to see what you do next! Come visit us!!!
Mona
Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 00:34:21 (PDT)
Congratulations Melinda! She commenced yesterday (hey wait a minute...doesn't that mean began?). Her loving friends and family gathered to watch her, in the soft spring drizzle, receive her MBA in lovely downtown New Haven. Well done! And thanks for showing us all a great time.
Proud Mama
Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at 04:41:49 (PDT)
Congratulations, Jerome! All your hard work is paying off!
Paula
Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at 04:36:09 (PDT)
Oooops, didn't see the new messages until I "refreshed". Congratulations, Jerome -- you will do quite well, I have no doubt. Paul will be at Seattle Central next year, I think, living somewhere in the area. You guys can "study" together :) or whatever it is the kids are calling it these days.
Mona
Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 13:20:23 (PDT)
Happy birthday wishes going out to the warm and wonderful (((Jessamyn))) ... I hope you have an absolutley wonderful day!!
Mona
Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 13:05:41 (PDT)
Happy J-Day! Does that mean you have reached the point where the day is celebrated without a number?
And a belated Happy Birthday to Peter as well.
Finally, a big CONGRATULATIONS to Jerome, who will be attending his College Orientation this afternoon at Bellevue College, where he plans to finish his High School next year.
Mark
Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 12:17:36 (PDT)
Happy Jessamyn's Day!
Mama
Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 09:40:19 (PDT)
Happy Birthday, Uncle Peter. Hope you had a wonderful day...and stayed dry!
Paula
Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 15:03:46 (PDT)
A very happy birthday to a very deserving Petros. We have come a long way and there is still a long road ahead for us, so keep it up and I will be there with you. P.S.
paul
Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 12:16:19 (PDT)
Good to know - I'll give you a call tomorrow, Mom, after you've got your land legs back.
Mona
Sunday, May 15, 2011 at 14:54:39 (PDT)
Hurray! Welcome home!
Paula
Sunday, May 15, 2011 at 13:16:57 (PDT)
We are back home and complaining about the dreary weather here in Northampton. It was a good week and we're both afraid to step on the scales. . .
Ramona
Sunday, May 15, 2011 at 12:15:43 (PDT)
Well, it looks like Betsy will be moving to Georgia. Not sure exactly where or when, but this is much of a clue as to what's coming up for her as she's had for a while, so, onwards - to the future!
Hope the rest of your trip is fun, or at worst unremarkable, Mom and Dad. Would love to hear more details - especially of warm, blue water ....mmmmmm.
Mona
Sunday, May 15, 2011 at 09:35:23 (PDT)
Report from the Veendam: The elders are fine, hope the young'uns are too. I was wrong about yesterdays posting: it didn't get lost, it just never got written.
We head back toward NY later today. I'm hoping for calm seas! It has been a most interesting and pleasant week.
Ramona
Friday, May 13, 2011 at 07:27:58 (PDT)
Life is still good on the Veendam. I could get used to being waited on like this. Yesterday's posting, (written by my traveling partner) seems to have dropped into the Atlantic, or flew into the wild blue yonder. We are having all kinds of weather in one day, sometimes warm and sunny and then suddenly a downpour of rain, and almost always a brisk wind, so we do most of our walking on the "promenade deck." (Four times around = one mile.) Now I must get back to my hedonistic pursuits...
Ramona
Thursday, May 12, 2011 at 06:04:02 (PDT)
me and the bride off to mount Dora Florida @ 6 am jet blue flight thur Over and out
Richard gregory Straley
Wednesday, May 11, 2011 at 16:46:17 (PDT)
Wonderful to read about your adventures. Keep it up! I mean the writing, not the seas. Can't wait to hear all about it.
Paula
Wednesday, May 11, 2011 at 10:38:26 (PDT)
Loving the travelogue, Mom -- keep it up, and THANKS!
And good to see you here, Greg - congratulations on the big anniversary!! I wish I was back east to be able to peek in on your dad, and I'm so glad to hear he's doing well!
Mona
Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at 10:09:26 (PDT)
Greetings, landlubbers. After I wrote yesterday there came a sea change and I was soon stretched out in the stateroom, giving thanks for dramamine and "Sea bands." Our itinerary had to be changed because of the high seas, so we missed the town of St. George and came directly to Hamilton, the largest town (port) in Bermuda, where we have just landed. Soon the two of us will go exploring on the island, but we will be back in time for a cocktail party for our Northampton group at 5:30.
It seems that this (and maybe most cruises) has been designed to encourage everyone's worst habits: eating, drinking, shopping and gambling too much. But then last night was formal evening and we all got to admire each others' fancy garb. And, of course, there is always the fitness room and the pool. And already this morning I caught an hour and a half fascinating lecture on Creativity. So there are many choices, including just hanging out in our stateroom for a break from the other 898 passengers on the ship. (Don't call it a "boat", we are warned.) Now that we are in a calm harbor we are feeling fine and the sun is shining bright and the air is warm. Who could ask for anything more? More next time.
Ramona
Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at 07:10:37 (PDT)
Hope all is well
april 29 2011
24 years ago I found my princess and married her on that day Elizabeth Jane Straley.
Happy birthday Alex!
It was great to hear You and Lee on the radio!
Bermuda is also one of our fav spots!
look for our name at the rum swizzle place .
Dick is in very good sprirts right now,
He would love to see some of his family.
He is in southwood nursing home in norwell Right at the rt 228 Exit .I was with him yesterday .
Richard Gregory Straley
Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at 05:35:57 (PDT)
Hurray! Glad to hear you are in my favorite place... on the sea, Hope you are both happy and healthy and taking lots of pictures. And wearing sunblock.
Paula
Monday, May 09, 2011 at 15:18:14 (PDT)
Hello, hello. Anybody out there? We're on the high seas (higher today than yesterday) headed for Bermuda. Due to arrive tomorrow morning. It has been good so far. Too much delicious food, too many choices of things to do. (But who's complaining?) Now I'll check my email and I'll probably be back here tomorrow. Thanks to all my kids for the loving Mothers Day remembrances. I enjoyed them thoroughly.
Ramona
Monday, May 09, 2011 at 07:27:05 (PDT)
Bon voyage, great Mom and Dad!!
Mona
Sunday, May 08, 2011 at 08:20:30 (PDT)
P.S. -- Lilliebelle Farms is owned and operated by a friend of mine, and (shhhh) due to be featured on the Food Network in the near future. Chef Jeff (Shephard) is a good ol' deadhead/organic farmer/ erstwhile big deal chef at some fancy restaurant in Hawaii who gave it all up to move to Oregon and follow his dream. He named his business after his lovely wife and daughter. He's got quite the sense of humor, and way with delectable candies. Watch for him!
Mona
Friday, May 06, 2011 at 12:25:03 (PDT)
The mystery is solved! Many thanks. Check your email for more, Mona.
Mom
Friday, May 06, 2011 at 05:22:56 (PDT)
...ooops. I guess I forgot to sign it. :) Enjoy! (But you might want to find the appropriate person to take the spicy hot chocolate bars - consider yourself warned!) (But do keep the lavender caramels for yourself)
Mona
Thursday, May 05, 2011 at 20:22:25 (PDT)
It was supposed to have a card...
Mona
Thursday, May 05, 2011 at 20:19:29 (PDT)
May I suggest moving the box, or perhaps walking around it, to see who is behind it?
Wise-Guy
Thursday, May 05, 2011 at 16:15:03 (PDT)
All right, speak up. Who is behind the box that the mailman left today from Lillie Belle Farms in Oregon? How can I say Thank You if I don't know who sent it? I hope to find out before we embark on Sunday for a week's vacation. Or at least, eventually. Mmmmm.
Ramona
Thursday, May 05, 2011 at 13:34:26 (PDT)
Yippee Melissa!!! Cake and Ice Cream?
Mark
Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 19:36:26 (PDT)
Melissa please have a very great year. I thoght for a while that I was going to lose you to Maine. Then It was Hawaii and that did not happen either. I guess I was destined to be a big winner so go ahead and have a BIG birthday and year. Panos
ps
Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 13:55:34 (PDT)
Happy Birthday to Melissa! Do something fun, artistic and delicious today... and tell me all about it.
Love from your auntie...
Paulala
Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 04:25:21 (PDT)
qRuipTior
kkevifushAttapteniGaf Leider ist in vielen Ländern ist allgemeine Praxis nicht entwickelt. 56749
xnuawayStammafuct Entlang des Weges plötzlich schien ihm, daß elektrische Funken begann in seine Hände und Finger bewegen. 81424
whattallen Wenn das Blut die Schwellkörper gefüllt wird, drückt es die Venen, das Blut abfließen des Penis zu ermöglichen. 68839
lSypeedipse
deareeenlavig
Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 01:29:27 (PDT)
I'm watching an episode of "Antiques Roadshow", and one gal has a book from her grandmother - an early copy of Uncle Tom's Cabin, and there were a couple of letters that fell out of the book - one was from the author to introduce one John G. Fee, and he the appraiser went into a little detail about the founding of Berea College -- very interesting!
Mona
Monday, April 25, 2011 at 20:26:16 (PDT)
The weather has done an about-face and, around here, at least, everyone is out and smiling. So Happy Easter and good egg-hunting to one and all.
Ramona
Sunday, April 24, 2011 at 08:40:47 (PDT)
Happy spring. 4 leaf Clovers!
mark mclaughlin
Sunday, April 17, 2011 at 16:23:19 (PDT)
Hope your tulips openned, Mona. Today was springlike here...but rainy. Going to see/work on the boat tomorrow. Getting ready to watch game one of the playoffs- GO CELTS!
Paula
Sunday, April 17, 2011 at 15:44:24 (PDT)
Hope everyone's reading Jeff's trail journal. Really cool stuff. Incredibly rainy and drizzly around here. I've got tulips hoping to open up soon, but the weather just hasn't been cooperating.
Mona
Thursday, April 14, 2011 at 18:58:07 (PDT)
Wishing a happy work-week to my fellow wage-slaves. :)
Mona
Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 21:05:42 (PDT)
I have so enjoyed reading Jeff's Trail Journals! What a writer and photographer and long-distance hiker. He makes us (the readers) feel like we're right there with him (even when we're safe and warm and rested, here in front of the computer.)
Ramona
Wednesday, April 06, 2011 at 21:45:23 (PDT)
Wait ... Cameron is 12 years old??? Oh em gee!! Hope you get to do something fun, even if it's a week day - and that this year is a great one for you,
(((((Cameron)))))
Mona
Wednesday, April 06, 2011 at 09:03:15 (PDT)
. . .
the message I was writing disappeared. I'll try it again: I am indeed here in sunny AZ, happy as a lazy clam. Haven't been swimming yet but plan to soon. I've enjoyed watching the hummingbirds, especially since they seem to have boycotted MA last summer. Patsy and Ken are fine. It's always fun and relaxing, being with them.
Ramona
Sunday, April 03, 2011 at 17:45:36 (PDT)
Bon voyage, Mom. Are you in sunny Arizona yet?
Paula
Sunday, April 03, 2011 at 04:48:07 (PDT)
Happy Pam! from here as well. And an advance Happy Cam!
And thank you to my father, for joining me on a wonderful adventure. Dad, you are nothing but a pleasure!
Mark
Saturday, April 02, 2011 at 11:28:44 (PDT)
HAPPY PAM'S DAY!
Paula
Saturday, April 02, 2011 at 08:19:19 (PDT)
Glad to hear it - thanks for letting us know, Mom. Now for Spring!!
Mona
Monday, March 28, 2011 at 23:23:27 (PDT)
The world travelers have arrived home, both looking fit. Welcome home.
Ramona
Monday, March 28, 2011 at 14:19:57 (PDT)
A wonderful trip now draws to an end. From Brussels we took to the highway, passing through Luxemburg and eastern France. We ended up in Montelimar for the night, leaving the last three hours drive for the morning. We spent the last three nights in a hotel in Cannes, and the weekend days visiting with Sophie, Vanessa, Ana and Chloe. Topped off the spaghetti dinners from all around Europe with one of the home made variety, and then another one the next night for our own Sunday family dinner! Fourteen days of travel, including twenty-five hundred miles in the car now seems so short. A great time was had by all, and we were blessed with good health the whole time. The sun shined on the whole road trip, but we are leaving the Riviera as we found it: cold and rainy!
Homeward bound Warriors
Sunday, March 27, 2011 at 15:18:56 (PDT)
Sounds like a great time in the old country. Looking forward to seeing the adventurers in person, hearing more stories and tasting some of that Herforder Pils again! (you are bringing some back, right?)
Had some snow flurries the last few days, but right now the sun is shining and the crocuses are just about to pop up (I'm hoping)
Scott
Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 07:51:31 (PDT)
:)
...you make me so happy with your report, Dad. And Mark - I remember a Friseur across the street too. Mostly I remember the smell of the bread. And we have some movies of the little blonde kids from downstairs too -- I wonder if the guy you met might have been one of them! What a great idea, to do this trip. Enjoy Brussels and the rest of your trip. Betsy just texted me that she's touched down in Seatac and is headed for customs.
Are any of you Massachusett-bound family experiencing snow?
Mona
Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 17:52:31 (PDT)
I cannot tell you how good things are. This morning I had my first experiene with Skipe as I talked to and saw Kai's parents An entirely pleasant experience much bett than we used to cad cam many years ago. More later. PS
paul
Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 14:05:23 (PDT)
With tips from Mom and Mona, we made our way to the corner of Mellerstrasse and Gartenstrasse in Enger, looking for the apartment we stayed in some 38 years ago. It looked like it could have been the place, yet we were far from sure. Where the backer was there was now a bicycle store that looked like it had been there for quite a while. Across the street where we were expecting a shoe store, there was a shop that on one side advertised Internet, ISDN and DSL, on the other side there were signs for a hairdresser. We went into the computer store, to find old desktop computers and parts strewn about, with a strange varity of computer things from both past and present. I stuck my head around a corner, and there was another room, where the "Hairdressing" was, and saw the barber, in his 40s or 50s, at work. I asked him if he was familar with the area, and he said "Yes. I was born here." He confirmed that there used to be a backery across the street, that the backer died long ago, but his wife was still there, and that the shoestore was next door once upon a time.
Before leaving Germany for Brussels, we took a little walk in downtown Herford, visited the Herforder Pils Brewery, where we were disappointed to discover that the daily 1:30 tour had to be booked in advance in order to assure that the guide came that day.
After 4 hours driving, and 2 hours traffic-jamming, we got to Brussels, had some dinner near the grand place, and went to visit Kai, where Paul spent the night.
Paulus und Markus
Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 09:46:02 (PDT)
Thanks for taking us along on your trip! Sounds wonderful, though we missed you at family dinner.
Paula
Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 03:17:21 (PDT)
Sophie: the package for Betsy arrived safe and sound, and, as it has your handwriting on it, I wanted to thank you for taking care of that chore, and for taking care of Betsy while she was with you. She tells me it was one of the real highlights of her trip! ...must be my turn next. :)
Mona
Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 17:09:51 (PDT)
Spaghetti Bolognese and Herforder Pils in Bielefeld! Who says there is no heaven? On to Kai's place in Brussels in the morning.
Paul & Mark
Monday, March 21, 2011 at 14:55:05 (PDT)
Good and International! Thanks for the check-in. I won't try to make you have Zigeunerwurst for me, like I tried to make Betsy :)
Monos
Monday, March 21, 2011 at 07:50:58 (PDT)
We got up this morning in France, drove along the French Riviera, the Italian Riviera, over, under and through the Italian and Swiss Alps, through Germany along the Rhein, and then crossed the river to check into a hotel ... in France! That was not quite enough, so we crossed back into Germany to have dinner ... in a Greek restaurant! As my father would (and did) say, life is good!
Panos and Marcos
Sunday, March 20, 2011 at 15:24:58 (PDT)
Hope it works out, Mona. Would be fun to have you both here.
Paula
Saturday, March 19, 2011 at 10:59:09 (PDT)
Watch for the BIG MOON tomorrow night!
Paula
Friday, March 18, 2011 at 17:01:42 (PDT)
Happy birthday to my favorite Irish/Italian/American/Thespian -- ((((Mark Mc))). May this coming year bring you much happiness!!
Mona
Thursday, March 17, 2011 at 15:37:56 (PDT)
Lovin' the love in here this morning! Never enough, you know, in light of how tough things seem to be in the world right now. Perhaps it's just my perception, but it's been kind of a rough winter. Last week of school for Miranda and Paul, then exams, then Spring Break!! David and I are possible considering a trip to the east coast (together!!!) in the middle of July, but nothing firm yet. I wish my fairy godmother would grant me enough resources to do all the visiting and traveling that I so dearly would love to do, but, well, she just hasn't been forthcoming lately. Hope you all stay safe, happy, healthy - much love!
Mona
Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 11:06:39 (PDT)
Thank you everybody! I had a great day ! And I also loved the presents! Hope to all see you soon ! :)
Vanessa
Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 10:02:41 (PDT)
and yes mark, i DID hear you! and paula, thank you so much for being the food wrangler! steve, next year will be a big one (seven squared) the year after i am planning to be in hawaii for the big hawaii 5-0! vanessa i hope you had a truly great day and a fabulous year!
athena
Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 09:12:37 (PDT)
me too happy birthday to vanessa! hope you enjoy majority .... keep up the good health dad, it was good to see you saturday .... we were well represented at ralph's memorial, a sad occasion but cause for celebrating a great life and a great family ... and finally thank you so much for all the birthday wishes, here and in person and on the phone, steve and mona i'll be calling you each to have a nice conversation soon i hope, thanks for remembering me! i had a great party, 49 1/2 guests (including one in-utero) cupcakes, moon river, what more could a girl ask for?
athena
Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 09:09:26 (PDT)
A very Happy Birthday to Vanessa! Sorry I am late but I was traveling yesterday and couldn't get to the internet. Hope it was a great day and I hope it is going to be a great year!
Steve
Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 04:41:48 (PDT)
Everything is going well in France: Vanessa did, in fact, turn 18 and Paul feels wonderfully healthy. Let the good times roll!
Mark
Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 03:39:46 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Sister!!
I hope it was a fun, happy day and that all is going well!
Jerome
Monday, March 14, 2011 at 19:46:07 (PDT)
Word has it that Paul has arrived safely in France and at last report was catching up on lost sleep.
Ramona
Monday, March 14, 2011 at 11:44:01 (PDT)
Time to celebrate our ((((Vanessa))))!!! Thanks for showing Betsy a good time. Enjoy your day, your year, your visit with your dad and granddad!! Much love to you,
Mona
Monday, March 14, 2011 at 10:48:16 (PDT)
Happy birthday Vanessa!!!! I hope you still come to visit us, now that you're a grownup!
Oncle Scottrique
Monday, March 14, 2011 at 08:47:08 (PDT)
Happy BIG 18 to little Vanessessa!
Proud Auntie Paulala
Monday, March 14, 2011 at 03:22:51 (PDT)
Betsy wanted me to tell Sophie: she's arrived safely in Dublin and has met up with her friend - all's well on her end. I'm just home from a very quick trip to Portland, and headed for a nap. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZz
Mona
Sunday, March 13, 2011 at 14:43:25 (PDT)
My love goes out to the Rona and the kids...grown-up kids, I know.
Mona
Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 08:28:12 (PST)
I'm so sorry to hear about Artie and about Ralph LeBlanc. I guess we are reaching the point where we go to more funerals than we do weddings. I wish I were there to share in the grief with all of you.
Steve
Friday, March 11, 2011 at 07:56:54 (PST)
This WMC add-on lets you review your queues, browse and search the movie libraries, and stream to your heart's content. Plug your PC into your TV, and you have big-screen Netflix without any extra monthly fees. And because PCs have keyboards, it's that much easier to input movie titles you want to search for.
software_man
Friday, March 11, 2011 at 07:33:46 (PST)
So sorry to hear Wendy. Several of us will be coming to the funeral on Saturday. Will see you all then.
Paula
Thursday, March 10, 2011 at 16:56:41 (PST)
Betsy! So wonderful to see you here! Can't wait to see you in person...and I still owe you a party!
Paula
Thursday, March 10, 2011 at 16:54:22 (PST)
Hello everyone this is wendy Rona's daughter i hope eveyone is doing good and in good health. I do have bad news Arthur (moms husband) passed away on Tuesday. I wanted to give everyone the details of the service's. They will be held at the Richard & Davis funeral home at 373 Court st. Plymouth Mass 02360 Friday 4-8pm and Saturday 9 am.We miss everyone and hope all is well.
Wendy Moser
Thursday, March 10, 2011 at 11:27:48 (PST)
Hello to Elizabeth Ann. You deserve everything that is nice and I am glad things go well. Even though I wont see you this time I hope to the next. See you soon I hope. PS
paul
Tuesday, March 08, 2011 at 08:04:37 (PST)
Hello to everyone from France! Just wanted to check in and say 'hi'! I'm having a great time, and missing you all.
Love,
Betsy
Tuesday, March 08, 2011 at 05:40:58 (PST)
I can not wait to see you guys this summer!!!!
caitlin
Monday, March 07, 2011 at 13:31:20 (PST)
Always nice to see Caitlin checking in. I hope you are enjoying the winter. I know I am ready for spring. Hope we get to see you this summer!
Steve
Monday, March 07, 2011 at 08:16:04 (PST)
I am doing sccer,girl scouts.
caitlin
Sunday, March 06, 2011 at 12:35:48 (PST)
I am doing a lot better now that we have heard from caitlin. I hope all ts well with you and spring will be a lot of fun. PS
paul
Sunday, March 06, 2011 at 11:18:26 (PST)
how are you guys doing?
CAITLIN
Saturday, March 05, 2011 at 06:19:44 (PST)
Happy Birthday Athena!!!
Jerome
Friday, March 04, 2011 at 22:57:23 (PST)
A very Happy Birthday for a Very Special Birthday! Someday I'll make it back to Northampton for the annual bash. Thanks for being my sister, Athena! Have a great day and a great year. §
Steve
Friday, March 04, 2011 at 14:03:01 (PST)
HAPPY, HAPPY ATHENA'S DAY!
Paulala
Friday, March 04, 2011 at 03:41:58 (PST)
I just said "Go, Girl GO!".
I think she heard me!
Mark
Friday, March 04, 2011 at 01:07:47 (PST)
YAY!!!! Shall we all march forth?
Mona
Thursday, March 03, 2011 at 18:02:58 (PST)
Do you know what tomorrow is? ATHENA'S BIRTHDAY!
Paula
Thursday, March 03, 2011 at 15:29:40 (PST)
charter."with the Duchess I know that you can have no more competent
NesDruttrek
Wednesday, March 02, 2011 at 08:45:33 (PST)
Do you know what tomorrow is? MARCH! When Spring arrives!
Paula
Monday, February 28, 2011 at 16:28:36 (PST)
right; music appeals to the heart, whereas writing is addressed to the"If you loved him you would not talk so well."
Uncoonosmar
Friday, February 25, 2011 at 13:32:04 (PST)
Feeling all alone on the board, Mona? Well, no news is no news but here I am. We're doing fine; our only complaint is that it's snowing again. Yes, I know it is only a month until spring will officially be here, but I also know that doesn't mean it's going to be warm. I'm hoping to get some time in Arizona around then, so maybe by the time I get back there will be daffodils.
Betsy must be having a great time in the "old country". I bet Josh wishes he was with her instead of where he is. C'est la vie. Melissa is also combining school and work (like Miranda and Paul), and she and Jeff are also walking and running and generally getting ready for their anticipated hikes and climbs in the spring. Such energy!
Don't give up on writing messages; they get read, whether they get responded to or not. Right, guys?
Ramona
Monday, February 21, 2011 at 10:34:04 (PST)
Shoot, and here I thought I was going to read a nice juicy update from somebody...guess I'll keep babbling along to myself.
David and I took a really nice walk on the beach today - sustained winds ca. 40 MPH, the surf was all kicked up, seafoam splashing us, huge whitecaps and big breakers roughing up the beach. And the birds - it was like watching an reenactment of Jonathan Livingston Seagull!! Very cold though... Settling in now with some NBA All-Star game folderol and wondering how the rest of us are doing!
Betsy is settled in to her next work place, in a little town called Orte, just north of Rome. She's hoping to get to spend a little time with our friend Anita's daughter in Germany, then will meet up w/ Vanessa (yay!) in France before heading to Dublin for St Patrick's Day celebrations and London (for a little culture? :), then home at last! Meanwhile, her siblings are slaving away at college and their jobs.
My new job is going well enough. Learning lots (isn't it always the case), and hopefully contributing enough that they'll want to keep me on when the contract is due to be up, in May. Our anniversary passed quietly last week - somehow no one gets excited about the number 29. Love to all,
Mona
Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 18:28:06 (PST)
You know Paula, it was pretty good. The work looks interesting and doable. Looks like I'll be able to work from home a couple of days a week, and that is a big big plus!
On another, sadder note, I was sorry to hear today about the passing of Ken Olsen, the guy that brought Dad over to Digital.
Mona
Monday, February 07, 2011 at 21:03:36 (PST)
How was it, Mona?
Paula
Monday, February 07, 2011 at 16:42:17 (PST)
Wow, that's crazy, Paula! ...must mean you're supposed to stay at home, snuggled up next to the fire, with occasional trips out to the hottub -- until the snow melts!
Starting my first day on the new job tomorrow. Actually looking forward to it - I'll be in Jeff's old building. :) Cheers,
Mona
Sunday, February 06, 2011 at 10:59:34 (PST)
Make sure you warm up those shoveling muscles first, that stuff is heavy now. And remember, lift with your legs, not with your back! :-)
Anne
Saturday, February 05, 2011 at 17:40:09 (PST)
And, no. There is not a snowblower to be had in New England. Until next year. Time to flex those shoveling muscles, and hope for dry weather.
Paula
Saturday, February 05, 2011 at 17:22:30 (PST)
So, our snowblower is really dead. Guess we will go out shopping tomorrow...in the snow!
Paula
Friday, February 04, 2011 at 16:05:40 (PST)
Hope you all are pacing yourselves and making the best of things. Loved the t-shirt story - it made me laugh and feel bad for laughing (almost) all at the same time.
Mona
Wednesday, February 02, 2011 at 21:47:56 (PST)
Well, our snow-blower is up and running (blowing) but Athena's isn't. Nothing as dramatic as Mark and his T-shirt, she reports, but probably a spark plug. I hope somebody with a camera is sending Mona some photos of the snowscapes around here. They are really unbelievable.
Do your errands tomorrow and Friday before more snow rolls in on Saturday. People were skiing down Holyoke St. today. The neighbors helped Paul out when he got the car stuck on ice at the end of our driveway.
Ramona
Wednesday, February 02, 2011 at 18:20:52 (PST)
Me again. The rest of you have nothing to say? Our snow blower died again. Actually, it ate a tee shirt that Mark ordered from L.L.Bean...and was delivered in front of the garage...and then buried under a foot of snow..and THEN eaten by the snowblower. But then, we are in for an early Spring!
Paula
Wednesday, February 02, 2011 at 15:45:01 (PST)
Hurray! The groundhog predicts an early spring! Enough with this snow, and ice, and freezing temperatures. Time to get ready for better days!
Paula
Wednesday, February 02, 2011 at 05:04:20 (PST)
Yes, I know, but let me reinterate: SNOW!
Paula
Friday, January 28, 2011 at 14:14:46 (PST)
:)
What I meant was pictures of the new windows...we've been talking windows around here and I need more information to make an informed decision. Although I also always love pictures of snow drifts. :) Stay warm, me hardies!
Mona
Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 16:16:46 (PST)
A word is worth a thousand pictures. Snow.
Paula
Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 15:27:31 (PST)
Pictures, please.
Mona
Monday, January 24, 2011 at 22:27:17 (PST)
Mama is home from the Sunshine State. Impressed by the deep piles of snow (shoveled by hand) and also impressed by the new windows in the bedrooms! Just in time to keep out the frigid air. Family dinner is on for Tuesday night. Come and eat.
Ramona
Monday, January 24, 2011 at 20:35:14 (PST)
-3 in Acton at the moment...and about 4 feet of snow on the ground...what a good time for a hot tub, as long as you don't get frostbite between the back door and the tub,
Paula
Monday, January 24, 2011 at 17:32:02 (PST)
OMG - Ping just looked at the weather channel, and it says that it's 6 below zero in Northampton right now!!! Hope everyone is staying warm (enough). Things are pretty typical here right now: mid 40s with intermittant drizzle. I'll take it!
Mona
Monday, January 24, 2011 at 17:18:31 (PST)
My snowblower is fixed! Bring it on! (Actually, no, not really....) And is mama home to the below zero Northeast?
Paula
Monday, January 24, 2011 at 15:29:34 (PST)
I hope for a safe, interesting and successful climb for the 3 adventurers!
Mona
Friday, January 21, 2011 at 11:10:08 (PST)
Let me see if I understand this, Paula's, Scott's and Athena's snowblowers are all broken? Makes me want to go to Mexico. Had a very nice dinner last night with Joe, 'Liss and Travers, who headed out early this morning for a winter ascent of Mt. Rainier. Best of luck to them! §
Steve
Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at 09:20:05 (PST)
Good for you, Mom. Soak up some rays for the rest of us. Sure wish the snowblower was working...we did shovel out during the storm yesterday to take it to a man who promises to fix it in his garage...and hopefully he will! We will miss you tonight.
Paula
Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at 07:11:28 (PST)
I will tell you where I am and I'll try not to rub it in: I'm visiting Jill in Tequesta Florida where the temperature today has been 80 and sunny. Good luck to all of you having to fight the ice and snow.
Ramona
Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 13:57:13 (PST)
Mark is safely home from India. As is Melinda, as of last Saturday. Where are YOU?
Paula
Sunday, January 16, 2011 at 15:58:40 (PST)
Go Jerome!...But not too fast....
Paulala
Monday, January 10, 2011 at 16:28:40 (PST)
Go Jerome!! That's great - congratulations!
Mona
Monday, January 10, 2011 at 15:52:11 (PST)
I hear through the grape vine that Jerome has passed his driving test and is now the holder of an official driving license. Congratulations and good wishes (for safe driving) are in order.
Ramona
Saturday, January 08, 2011 at 12:01:50 (PST)
keeping the good thought for peter and all concerned.
mark mclaughlin
Tuesday, January 04, 2011 at 20:00:20 (PST)
I visited Peter at Bridgeport Hospital and found him just as Naki said looking good and in good spirits, In fact he said the hospital was better then Brigham and Womens. He woke up last friday at 4 in thw morning with chest pains but did not call Naki till about 12 looking for someone to take him to a health clinic. When Lee asked him how long had he had the chest pains peter told him 8 hrs. Lee decided to take him to the hospital and they got right to him, tookcare of the problem and put him in ICU. The plan is to move him to an extended care facility where he will stay for about a week. They will coninue to monitore his progress. If all is well they will let him go home and I have voluntired to stay with him till he gets back on his feet. More later. PS
paul
Tuesday, January 04, 2011 at 11:53:55 (PST)
So sorry to hear about Uncle Peter, Dad. Hope he is feeling better now...please pass along my love and healing thoughts. Welcome home to Jerome, and Mark, and Steve and Ana...and everyone else who traveled. It was lovely, as always, to have such wonderful Christmas guests. Mark and Melinda are both safely in India, but are not expecting to meet up there. I was in the hot tub at midnight on New Year's Eve. Where were you?
Paula
Sunday, January 02, 2011 at 11:09:29 (PST)
And Jerome makes four!
Mark
Sunday, January 02, 2011 at 09:07:39 (PST)
Thanks for letting us know, Dad. Keeping good thoughts for Pete's speedy recovery.
Mona
Saturday, January 01, 2011 at 19:49:09 (PST)
Whew...quite a scare for Peter and all of us. Did you mean a stent? Sounds like it was a near miss. What a way to start the New Year. Otherwise, Happy New Years to all.
Steve
Saturday, January 01, 2011 at 17:51:58 (PST)
There appears to be nn real danger now, but Peter woke up with chest pains, called Naki, who took him to the hospital. They found a blocked splint which they replaced/repaired,then kept him in the ICU. Naki reports he looks well and appears to be in good spirits. I plan to go and see him on Monday. I will write more when I come back.
paul
Saturday, January 01, 2011 at 14:27:43 (PST)
