Good Evening to each of you who are following our travels,
We are in Amherst, Nova Scotia this evening...at a hotel tonight. Gee cannot believe that has been over a week since last posted.
We left Winnipeg and went to Minnesota to gas the car as gas is per liter here and is $1.26-$1.30 Canadian...and besides we had never been to Minnesota!!!!!!..it was only a few miles across the border. It was fields and more fields and cattle from Winnipeg to Thunder Bay. Tom and I played the ABC game and it took us 45 miles to complete the game as very few signs etc...hmmmm. We did some walking around the Thunder Bay area and then headed for Niagra Falls.
The drive around Thunder Bay to Seute St Marie was a nice change with lots of water and cute little towns...we did stop and walk and saw some deer. We then came out of Canada...which took us 1 and 1/2 hours to get across a two mile bridge into Michigan..this was to be a short cut thru Michigan to get to Niagra Falls, Canada...hmmmm. Then we had bought an apple in Canada and when we came across the border...they asked if we had fruit...we said we had one apple so then we had to go to another border patrol person and show her THE ONE APPLE...which she pointed out to us was grown in Washington state...hmmmm. We then headed to Niagra Falls thru Michigan and then back into Ontario to get to Niagra Falls....as wanted to be there by Sunday as we had called my sister, Joan and her Tom and asked them if they could meet us in Niagra Falls...and they could. We noted that there was an AF Inn in Niagra Falls, New York ( which was about 20 minutes from the Canadian border) so called and made reservations and arrived at 1130 at night!!!! LONG DAY.. Joan and Tom arrived in the morning and we deceided that the long drive was so worth it as so good to spend time with them. We walked all throughout the park on the New York side and decided we might take the boat trip under the falls....but then Maryann and Joan had second thoughts as they saw how the boat swayed near the falls and there were about 75 people on the boat and no life jackets. We told the guys they could still go. We went to the Canada side of Niagra Falls that evening and saw the falls at night with color lights shown on them and then they also had fireworks. How beautiful. We went to Canada the next day and went to the flower clock...was a disappointment...as Maryann had remembered it with so many more colorful flowers from when she was younger. We had a wonderful couple hours at the Butterfly Conservatory..how neat was that..Tom had several butterflies land on him...Maryann did everything she could think of to get them to land on her...finally one landed in her hair..Joan has a picture! We traveled to some neat little towns like Lewiston and Lockport (saw boats go through the locks on the Erie Canal) lots of walking. AND of course played cards and dice with Joan and Tom....and Laughed ALOT!!! The AF INN was a really nice place to be able to stay. We all left on Wednesday early morning (13th July)..we always have great fun with Joan and Tom so was sad to see them go. They live about 3 hours from Niagra Falls..but will see them again when we go to PA. We headed back to Canada thru Watertown New York..as years ago we had traveled from Toronto to Quebec etc.so did not feel we needed to travel that route again. Well it took lots of time to get thru Quebec and the traffic was terrible and the road signs were very confusing. After we got thru Quebec we were not tired so decided to drive a bit longer...well when we WERE tired, all the campgrounds were closed for the night and there were not hotels on the road..so we fin all pulled into a rest area with the trucks about 1130 east of Quebec in the middle of nowhere..Tom deceided to sleep in the front seat and Maryann made her a place in the back to sleep..it was like sleeping in a cocoon for Maryann as she had the luggage etc around her..but we both managed to sleep for 8 hours!!! Thank goodness for the nice bathrooms at the roadside rest and very hot water!!!! Yesterday we traveled the river valley scenic drive in New Brunswick.Yesterday we stopped and walked a few times and then stopped in Grand Falls New Brunswick and took a pontoon boat into a gorge. It was a beautiful day and just perfect to be on the water. We then drove to Miramichi through the Miramichi river route in New Brunswick. The country side has lots of lakes and rivers and just so peaceful. We stayed at a campground last evening ...nice hot showers..we took a shower before bed and again this AM. We had forgotten that there was another time change until we checked our cell phones so quickly found a campground before they closed!!! We woke late this AM and walked around Miramichi waterfront and found a nice hotel restaurant for breakfast. We then walked around the town before we headed down the Acadian Coast. The road followed the Atlantic Ocean and went thru more beautiful country. Someone asked Us today what was our favorite place so far..we could not think of just one as each day brings more beauty and memorial places. We stopped today and took a mile walk at an ECO Centra at La Dune de Bouctouche which is a boardwalk built on a stretch of white sand dunes. It was a bit windy today but still a refreshing walk. We were on our way to Prince Edward Island..just about to go over the bridge when we stopped at an information stop and it was 62 degrees and windy and rainey...so we checked on what the temps were to be like for the next couple days and found that rain and cold..so we decided to come to Nova Scotia and head for Newfoundland and then visit Prince Edward Island on the way back.
What blessed safe days we have had. Tom is a wonder at driving. It is nice just to be together...even after all these days. We are looking at a beautiful blue and deep pink sky out our hotel window.
We wake each morning and decide what and where we will go.
We also want to thank you all for your thoughts and prayers for Carrie and Buddi...it is nearly a miracle but when Carrie called on yesterday she said that Buddi's Blood count is in the high 30's now and he has started to want to eat on his own again...He is still weak but is starting to wag his tail and do some low pitched barking and follow Carrie around. Carrie never gave up on him...even when all seemed so serious...What a good Mom she is to Buddi. Not sure wht the future brings for Buddi but for now we are just so excited he is getting back to routine.. His doctor had started decreasing his medications and he is transitioning back to dog food vs people food...now that could take some time!!! Maryann had told Carrie to give him a piece of Chocolate when he was soo sick but she only relented when all looked grimm and gave him a small piece of white chocolate....that may have made his red blood cell count increase...hmmm NOT!!!
Tom is amazing to be able to drive for so long. Maryann keeps offering to drive and guess what...Maryann actually drove for 3 hours continuous after we left Winnipeg....Tom actually took a short nap too and was amazed that we were still on the road when he woke up..as Maryann will usually just pull over when he falls asleep!!! Maryann had never driven so long on a trip so was amazed how neat it was to have cruise control...and even mastered how to use it!!!
We have found that Canada has the absolute best tourist information centers...unbelievable staff and knowledge and exactly the right handout information. They are so clean and have WIFI and the cleanest rest rooms. Their roadside rest areas are also very clean and well kept.
There is a tourist center in nearly every town or area of interest..and before you enter and leave each providence. Free maps etc too!
Yes, we do miss our girls!
So, tomorrow starts another adventure. We have visited some beautifull churches and a shrine to the Lady of Fatima was unique. We take the time to thank God for all our blessings and ask for blessings for all those we love and have special needs.
We do not live by the calendar or the clock for this trip....it feels good.
Do miss talking with you all and keep you in our thoughts.
We think we will be in Nova Scotia for a couple days and head to Newfoundland for another few days before we head back to Prince Edward Island for at least 4 days before we head back through New Brunswick by way of the Fundy Southern Coast and down into Maine...to Plymouth to visit with Pete and Linda for a few days. Our trip has been made so special by being able to spend time with friends and family on the way.
We love and think of you all.
Keep us in your thoughts and prayers for safe travels...we have now put close to 7-8 thousand miles on the Lexus on this trip!!!
Love and hugs to each of you.
God Bless
Tom and Maryann
Friday, July 15, 2011
Thursday, July 7, 2011
7July 2011-Winnipeg
Hello from Winnipeg, Manitoba,Canada
We arrived here on Tuesday night and decided to stay for a few days.
We left Regina and headed to Saskatoon. Walked in a nice pArk and then went to the Berry Barn for dinner. They grow Saskatoon berries and they are very tasty. The restaurant also had the nicest flowers and flower baskets. Food was wonderful..even had peroigi and cabbage rolls..which were just so good...and the berry tarts etc ....hmmmmm good.
We headed to Prince Albert and felt we Would drive to Prince Albert National Park as still light and not tired...does not get dark until nearly 11PM here.
As we stopped and were driving we noted that since we left SaskAtoon....the number of flying bugs had increased by MANY?..and tripled in size...looked like small humming birds!!!!!!REALLY
When we got to park to check into camp.....just asking information....the bugs flew into the car....so we asked the girl about hotels and the great number of bugs....she said that even during the day.....lots ob bugs....So we decided to head back to Prince Albert(90min away)..to camp....but the bug population had increased there too...so time to find a hotel.just walking into McDonalds to check hotels on IPAD...was like scarey with bugs. We did see several deer and a fox on our travels.....hmmmm. We did get to see the Northern Lights!!!!
At midnight..we arrived at the hotel....the person at the desk was less than pleasant....did not even acknowledge Maryann...until she said "hello"---and when she asked to see the room....hmmmm...but he showed to her...it was a nice room. BUT then he would not give Maryann the rate on line...so Maryann stood at the desk and booked the room on line...Tom was in the car waiting...hmmmmm. 45 min later we were getting into bed. The next morning Maryann...of course...asked the manager if the night guy had had a bad day...then with her tack...though he may have been and may need some help with customer service....the manager thanked Maryann for noticing that the night guy may need assistance.....hmmmm
We headed to Winnipeg thru flat lands...all farm and cattle land...flat!!!! We visited a above ground salt mine that we came upon. AS we looked for a place to stay..we noted an Canadian AF base in Winnipeg and decided to drive the extra time and stay here. We got here about 11 PM..and decided to stay 3 nights ...so we did. yesterday we went to the car wash named the BUG BATH and Tom spent time getting all the bugs off the car. It was time for an oil change as we have traveled 5000 miles and a tire rotation....so off we went to the Lexus dealer and are ready for another few miles! Also Maryann had a minor accident so found a Lens Crafter to fix. We then went to the Forks and walked about the river front and had dinner. The water levels are over the river banks here.
We slept in yesterday and today. Today we visited a couple parks and churches and walked about.
Tomorrow we head to Thunder Bay, Ontario.
The quarters here are very nice and we were able to do laundry...and Tom ironed!!!
We have been in frequent contact with Carrie as Buddi had a good 4 days with her and then Tuesday back to the hospital. Yesterday he spent the day in his vets actual office with him so he could keep an eye on him. All looked very grim yesterday as he was not eating or drinking..today..he is eating and going home with Carrie. Please remember Carrie in your thoughts as she has some tough decisions to make.
Weather was a bit warm today..but otherwise perfect.
We are going to try to SKYPE with Kelly tonight..
We have heard from many that unable to make comments on the blog....so if anyone..George???...
Knows how...let us know so we can share.
Our email is t.graue@cox.net
Thank you for your prayers for us as we have safe travels.
God Bless and hugs
Tom and Maryann
We arrived here on Tuesday night and decided to stay for a few days.
We left Regina and headed to Saskatoon. Walked in a nice pArk and then went to the Berry Barn for dinner. They grow Saskatoon berries and they are very tasty. The restaurant also had the nicest flowers and flower baskets. Food was wonderful..even had peroigi and cabbage rolls..which were just so good...and the berry tarts etc ....hmmmmm good.
We headed to Prince Albert and felt we Would drive to Prince Albert National Park as still light and not tired...does not get dark until nearly 11PM here.
As we stopped and were driving we noted that since we left SaskAtoon....the number of flying bugs had increased by MANY?..and tripled in size...looked like small humming birds!!!!!!REALLY
When we got to park to check into camp.....just asking information....the bugs flew into the car....so we asked the girl about hotels and the great number of bugs....she said that even during the day.....lots ob bugs....So we decided to head back to Prince Albert(90min away)..to camp....but the bug population had increased there too...so time to find a hotel.just walking into McDonalds to check hotels on IPAD...was like scarey with bugs. We did see several deer and a fox on our travels.....hmmmm. We did get to see the Northern Lights!!!!
At midnight..we arrived at the hotel....the person at the desk was less than pleasant....did not even acknowledge Maryann...until she said "hello"---and when she asked to see the room....hmmmm...but he showed to her...it was a nice room. BUT then he would not give Maryann the rate on line...so Maryann stood at the desk and booked the room on line...Tom was in the car waiting...hmmmmm. 45 min later we were getting into bed. The next morning Maryann...of course...asked the manager if the night guy had had a bad day...then with her tack...though he may have been and may need some help with customer service....the manager thanked Maryann for noticing that the night guy may need assistance.....hmmmm
We headed to Winnipeg thru flat lands...all farm and cattle land...flat!!!! We visited a above ground salt mine that we came upon. AS we looked for a place to stay..we noted an Canadian AF base in Winnipeg and decided to drive the extra time and stay here. We got here about 11 PM..and decided to stay 3 nights ...so we did. yesterday we went to the car wash named the BUG BATH and Tom spent time getting all the bugs off the car. It was time for an oil change as we have traveled 5000 miles and a tire rotation....so off we went to the Lexus dealer and are ready for another few miles! Also Maryann had a minor accident so found a Lens Crafter to fix. We then went to the Forks and walked about the river front and had dinner. The water levels are over the river banks here.
We slept in yesterday and today. Today we visited a couple parks and churches and walked about.
Tomorrow we head to Thunder Bay, Ontario.
The quarters here are very nice and we were able to do laundry...and Tom ironed!!!
We have been in frequent contact with Carrie as Buddi had a good 4 days with her and then Tuesday back to the hospital. Yesterday he spent the day in his vets actual office with him so he could keep an eye on him. All looked very grim yesterday as he was not eating or drinking..today..he is eating and going home with Carrie. Please remember Carrie in your thoughts as she has some tough decisions to make.
Weather was a bit warm today..but otherwise perfect.
We are going to try to SKYPE with Kelly tonight..
We have heard from many that unable to make comments on the blog....so if anyone..George???...
Knows how...let us know so we can share.
Our email is t.graue@cox.net
Thank you for your prayers for us as we have safe travels.
God Bless and hugs
Tom and Maryann
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Happy 4th of Juyl
Hello all,
Happy 4th of July and thank you all who have served our country in anyway!
Tonight we are in Regina, Canada.
We left Spokane and the wonderful days with Noreen and Hugh and Trina and family. The last week we were there , we were able to relax...some more...walk some beautiful parks in Spokane and of course play cards and Aggravation..the game board Hugh made years ago was certainly put to use...I will also tell you that Noreen and Maryann won the last games...again!! Maryann even won when playing WIZARD!!! Tom cooked breakfast for dinner for The Carters and Trina's family one evening. How fun to spend time together.
Tom packed the car on Thursday ...including the cargo carrier we purchased and we left early Friday Morning ..the 1st of July. It was a tearful farewell as Noreen and Hugh and Trina's family are just like leaving family. Will miss the great food that Noreen prepared for us too..and the GOOD MORNING SONG that Hugh sang us each morning!!!
But HIT THE ROAD WE DID... We traveled thru Idaho to HWY 95 to HWY 3 and over the Canadian Rocky Mountains...we thought we were back in the ALPS. We traveled thru Crowsnest Pass and on to Lethridge Alberta, Canada. We stopped several times to take a walk or just to stop..WE ARE RETIRE YOU KNOW.... We stayed 2 nights in Henderson Park Campground...Did we mention that we had brought our sleeping bags and planned to do some camping...not cooking...just sleeping in campgrounds. We had a great 2 nights and Lethridge is a neat town and many neat parks that we walked. Found a nice church for mass too. Maryann discovered that she should take the grand girls pictures in the shower room as a woman she was talking to...took out her pictures to show ...so memo to self...take the camera to the washroom!!! Of course this AM found the battery had died on the camera...it is now plugged in. It was refreshing waking and walking to the washroom...Maryann did not even need to wear her long johns during the night! Weather has been perfect. The first night we were tired so did not put the mattress under the sleeping bags..but last night it was great having the soft mattress. Darkness does not come until about 10 PM..so strange to go to bed and still be daylight. We did take a drive to Montana border town on Saturday as we did not have phone service and wanted to check on Carrie and Buddi..even filled up with gas on the US side to save some $$$. We traveled route 3 though some neat towns and lots of fields and cattle ranches...very flat compared to what we saw yesterday. One could see for miles ahead as the road was so straight and no hills. Found that the fields full of yellow crops were actually canola plants to make canola oil. We also came upon an above ground salt mine in the middle of this flat country. We did take a walk to day and saw the tallest TEEPEE..from the worlds fair...out in the middle of nowhere. Tonight we are in Regina Saskatchewan Canada. We are in a hotel tonight...thus able to have computer access. Tomorrow will check out Regina and then head north to the lake region of Saskatoon.
As of Yesterday , Buddi had had another admission to the hospital and another blood transfusion last week . His HCT was back down to 14 and he had fluid in his abdomen,he came home on Thursday eve with Carrie now ..he is still very weak but Carrie said that her Vet still has hope. Please keep them in your thoughts and say some prayers for them both. Carrie did say that Buddi raised his head when Maryann talked to him over the phone and told him that Carrie should give him a piece of chocolate!!! Carrie will have been off work for the long weekend so able to spend lots of time with our Buddi.
Maryann did get some reading ...finally ....done after miles of farm land and fields of cattle, she needed another distraction. She still loves her KINDLE. Certainly saw a lot of the the plains today. She even asked Tom a couple of times if he wanted her to drive...he declined...for now.
We did get a chance to speak with some of you this week...how nice to hear your voices. Even though we are some distance from you all...we keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
We plan to do some more sleeping camping in our car in the lake region this week. Tom even bought a pump that he can plug into the car to blow up the mattress...was not sure Maryann had enough air to blow it up!!! haha
Good Night to all our dear friends.
God Bless your days
Love and hugs
Tom and Maryann
Happy 4th of July and thank you all who have served our country in anyway!
Tonight we are in Regina, Canada.
We left Spokane and the wonderful days with Noreen and Hugh and Trina and family. The last week we were there , we were able to relax...some more...walk some beautiful parks in Spokane and of course play cards and Aggravation..the game board Hugh made years ago was certainly put to use...I will also tell you that Noreen and Maryann won the last games...again!! Maryann even won when playing WIZARD!!! Tom cooked breakfast for dinner for The Carters and Trina's family one evening. How fun to spend time together.
Tom packed the car on Thursday ...including the cargo carrier we purchased and we left early Friday Morning ..the 1st of July. It was a tearful farewell as Noreen and Hugh and Trina's family are just like leaving family. Will miss the great food that Noreen prepared for us too..and the GOOD MORNING SONG that Hugh sang us each morning!!!
But HIT THE ROAD WE DID... We traveled thru Idaho to HWY 95 to HWY 3 and over the Canadian Rocky Mountains...we thought we were back in the ALPS. We traveled thru Crowsnest Pass and on to Lethridge Alberta, Canada. We stopped several times to take a walk or just to stop..WE ARE RETIRE YOU KNOW.... We stayed 2 nights in Henderson Park Campground...Did we mention that we had brought our sleeping bags and planned to do some camping...not cooking...just sleeping in campgrounds. We had a great 2 nights and Lethridge is a neat town and many neat parks that we walked. Found a nice church for mass too. Maryann discovered that she should take the grand girls pictures in the shower room as a woman she was talking to...took out her pictures to show ...so memo to self...take the camera to the washroom!!! Of course this AM found the battery had died on the camera...it is now plugged in. It was refreshing waking and walking to the washroom...Maryann did not even need to wear her long johns during the night! Weather has been perfect. The first night we were tired so did not put the mattress under the sleeping bags..but last night it was great having the soft mattress. Darkness does not come until about 10 PM..so strange to go to bed and still be daylight. We did take a drive to Montana border town on Saturday as we did not have phone service and wanted to check on Carrie and Buddi..even filled up with gas on the US side to save some $$$. We traveled route 3 though some neat towns and lots of fields and cattle ranches...very flat compared to what we saw yesterday. One could see for miles ahead as the road was so straight and no hills. Found that the fields full of yellow crops were actually canola plants to make canola oil. We also came upon an above ground salt mine in the middle of this flat country. We did take a walk to day and saw the tallest TEEPEE..from the worlds fair...out in the middle of nowhere. Tonight we are in Regina Saskatchewan Canada. We are in a hotel tonight...thus able to have computer access. Tomorrow will check out Regina and then head north to the lake region of Saskatoon.
As of Yesterday , Buddi had had another admission to the hospital and another blood transfusion last week . His HCT was back down to 14 and he had fluid in his abdomen,he came home on Thursday eve with Carrie now ..he is still very weak but Carrie said that her Vet still has hope. Please keep them in your thoughts and say some prayers for them both. Carrie did say that Buddi raised his head when Maryann talked to him over the phone and told him that Carrie should give him a piece of chocolate!!! Carrie will have been off work for the long weekend so able to spend lots of time with our Buddi.
Maryann did get some reading ...finally ....done after miles of farm land and fields of cattle, she needed another distraction. She still loves her KINDLE. Certainly saw a lot of the the plains today. She even asked Tom a couple of times if he wanted her to drive...he declined...for now.
We did get a chance to speak with some of you this week...how nice to hear your voices. Even though we are some distance from you all...we keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
We plan to do some more sleeping camping in our car in the lake region this week. Tom even bought a pump that he can plug into the car to blow up the mattress...was not sure Maryann had enough air to blow it up!!! haha
Good Night to all our dear friends.
God Bless your days
Love and hugs
Tom and Maryann
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
21 June 2011...first day of summer for the northwest!
Happy Summer to you all....Spokane and the Northwest has not had a spring let alone a summer yet.
We just arrived back in Spokane this afternoon from a wonder filled trip with our Noreen and Hugh. We left Whidbley Island after spending Saturday touring about and going to Anacortas and walked about this neat little town and had the best fish and chips in the bowling alley of all places...voted best in Anacortas for several years...and it was delicious. We were able to find a nice chapel to attend mass and then went back to our room and played a dice came and aggravation ...Noreen and I are now the current champs of aggravation...the game not the ability to aggravate! We woke early and took the ferry to Sydney BC , Canada. WE LOVE TAKING THE FERRY...Maryann took a nap on the Ferry before waking and beating Tom and Hugh at UNO while Noreen made us a snack to eat. We found a nice inn right on the Waterfront in Sydney (arrived at 1030 AM. We had a ocean view with a balcony so enjoyed the sunset and sunrise. We walked about the town and once again had fish and chips but it was good but not like the bowling alley fish and chips..but the clam chowder was the best! We walked a good 5 miles and then stopped at the bakery and bought Nannimo Bars...a specialty of the area. Weather was warm but cloudy but no matter the weather...we are ready to continue to enjoy our days. We had another night of games...and many laughs. We slept in on Monday and then had a breakfast in our room with the view and the had another walk around the pier that we had missed the day before. We headed for the Ferry to Tsawwassen, BC and had another great crossing. This Ferry carried 500 cars plus passengers. We arrived in Tsawwassen at 1 PM and headed for a town called HOPE....(there is always hope...I thought of my friend Kathleen as we entered the town). We found a delightful diner for lunch...Maryann had punched in an address to the GPS from a restaurant she just picked off the TRAVEL ADVISOR...not even looking at the name and it was great! We drove the Cascade Mountains with some breathtaking views on our way to OSOYOOS, BC Canada. We found a place facing the lake and once again were able to enjoy the great sunset. Tom said he found a Dairy Queen two blocks as we just wanted a snack...well about almost a mile from the hotel we finally were in front of the Dairy Queen!!! hmmmmm
Of course Hugh commented a few times how it was only a 2 block walk. This AM we continued over the Cascade mountains and felt like we were in Switzerland...amazing waterfalls and snow on the mountains. We stopped at 1030 and had ice cream at this neat place Noreen and Hugh have gone to. Hugh has his Orange Shake...compared to the Orange Shake he had at DQ...it was definitely "the best he had had on the trip". We had such great days. It is a wonderfull feeling to spend time with friends that are family.
Now we are home ( It is great to call home where we are with friends!...thank you Noreen and Hugh for making us so comfortable!!
Since Saturday , we have been in frequent communication with Carrie. She took Buddi to Emergency on Saturday and found that his hematocrit was 13. He was not responding to Carrie. They gave him a Unit of Blood and the level went to 22-24 but fell again. They did further testing and ultrasound to see if bleeding..all were all negative. They did a bone marrow test last night and the results are not back yet. May have Aplastic Anemia. Carrie was able to take him home today and send pictures and he looks like he has life in his eyes today. The Hematocrit decreased today to 18 but they are watching and hope to have answers in a few days. They told Carrie there is medication they can give him and then will see how he does on the medication. It has been a very emotional time for us all but especially Carrie. We are at a wait and see now but just seeing him look better gives us hope. Difficult as we would like to be there for hugs for Carrie and Buddi. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. We thank Carrie's friends and Kelly for being able to spend time with Carrie. Buddi is so important to all of us..
We hope that all the fathers had a great day!!! Keep hugging your kids and family and friends.
I am still trying to figure out how to send pictures...as not able to do from the camera!
We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers as we travel.
Love and hugs
Tom and Maryann
We just arrived back in Spokane this afternoon from a wonder filled trip with our Noreen and Hugh. We left Whidbley Island after spending Saturday touring about and going to Anacortas and walked about this neat little town and had the best fish and chips in the bowling alley of all places...voted best in Anacortas for several years...and it was delicious. We were able to find a nice chapel to attend mass and then went back to our room and played a dice came and aggravation ...Noreen and I are now the current champs of aggravation...the game not the ability to aggravate! We woke early and took the ferry to Sydney BC , Canada. WE LOVE TAKING THE FERRY...Maryann took a nap on the Ferry before waking and beating Tom and Hugh at UNO while Noreen made us a snack to eat. We found a nice inn right on the Waterfront in Sydney (arrived at 1030 AM. We had a ocean view with a balcony so enjoyed the sunset and sunrise. We walked about the town and once again had fish and chips but it was good but not like the bowling alley fish and chips..but the clam chowder was the best! We walked a good 5 miles and then stopped at the bakery and bought Nannimo Bars...a specialty of the area. Weather was warm but cloudy but no matter the weather...we are ready to continue to enjoy our days. We had another night of games...and many laughs. We slept in on Monday and then had a breakfast in our room with the view and the had another walk around the pier that we had missed the day before. We headed for the Ferry to Tsawwassen, BC and had another great crossing. This Ferry carried 500 cars plus passengers. We arrived in Tsawwassen at 1 PM and headed for a town called HOPE....(there is always hope...I thought of my friend Kathleen as we entered the town). We found a delightful diner for lunch...Maryann had punched in an address to the GPS from a restaurant she just picked off the TRAVEL ADVISOR...not even looking at the name and it was great! We drove the Cascade Mountains with some breathtaking views on our way to OSOYOOS, BC Canada. We found a place facing the lake and once again were able to enjoy the great sunset. Tom said he found a Dairy Queen two blocks as we just wanted a snack...well about almost a mile from the hotel we finally were in front of the Dairy Queen!!! hmmmmm
Of course Hugh commented a few times how it was only a 2 block walk. This AM we continued over the Cascade mountains and felt like we were in Switzerland...amazing waterfalls and snow on the mountains. We stopped at 1030 and had ice cream at this neat place Noreen and Hugh have gone to. Hugh has his Orange Shake...compared to the Orange Shake he had at DQ...it was definitely "the best he had had on the trip". We had such great days. It is a wonderfull feeling to spend time with friends that are family.
Now we are home ( It is great to call home where we are with friends!...thank you Noreen and Hugh for making us so comfortable!!
Since Saturday , we have been in frequent communication with Carrie. She took Buddi to Emergency on Saturday and found that his hematocrit was 13. He was not responding to Carrie. They gave him a Unit of Blood and the level went to 22-24 but fell again. They did further testing and ultrasound to see if bleeding..all were all negative. They did a bone marrow test last night and the results are not back yet. May have Aplastic Anemia. Carrie was able to take him home today and send pictures and he looks like he has life in his eyes today. The Hematocrit decreased today to 18 but they are watching and hope to have answers in a few days. They told Carrie there is medication they can give him and then will see how he does on the medication. It has been a very emotional time for us all but especially Carrie. We are at a wait and see now but just seeing him look better gives us hope. Difficult as we would like to be there for hugs for Carrie and Buddi. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. We thank Carrie's friends and Kelly for being able to spend time with Carrie. Buddi is so important to all of us..
We hope that all the fathers had a great day!!! Keep hugging your kids and family and friends.
I am still trying to figure out how to send pictures...as not able to do from the camera!
We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers as we travel.
Love and hugs
Tom and Maryann
Friday, June 17, 2011
17 June 2011
Wow, the days are flying by...
We spent a day in the Redwood Forest and the girls were excited with the walks and large trees.We drove our car through the tree and the girls were so thrilled to be able to be in the car. We had a nice walk in the forest and Kirsten sang loudly the entire time...no chance of seeing animals. Tom and Maryann took all three girls and headed for Spokane on Wednesday and Kelly and Bryan had a couple days to themselves. We arrived at Noreen and Hugh's about 9PM on Wednesday night. It was a long day for the girls as left Grants Pass at 0830 AM...we forgot how long it takes to stop and let the girls have a break, eat and potty breaks...each potty break took over 25 minutes before all were settled again. They were sooo good and no complaints from them! When we got to Noreen's and Hugh's it only took them 5 minutes to treat them like family. Carrie arrived Thursday eve and Kelly and Bryan on Thursday afternoon. The girls were delighted to see Auntie Carrie on Friday morning. We all went fishing on Friday with the girls. Molly caught 2 leaves. Samantha did not catch anything but did a great job holding her pole and looking very intent. Kirsten played on the playground with Auntie Carrie. Saturday we went to the park in downtown Spokane and all rode the merry go round and had a nice walk. Spokane was having an outbreak of "black fly bites"..of course one does not feel when the fly bites but it sucks blood so leaves bloody spots at the hair line....All the girls had bites so had to put benadryl spray on the bites after they were washed....Molly did not want to go outside after her encounter and was quite dramatic...Kirsten and Samantha did not seem to think was a big deal. Sunday we were in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho for the morning and spent Sunday Afternoon with Trina and Bill and family for a birthday BBQ for Trina's 40 + birthday. It was so nice to all be together...the girls jumped on the trampoline and Bill spent time dancing with the girls....yes we have video. We said our teary farewells to Bryan and Kelly and girls on Monday late morning as they left for Yellowstone park. They arrived back in Tucson on this past Thursday. Carrie was back to Tucson on Tuesday. We thank God for keeping us safe as we traveled. Tom and Maryann and Noreen and Hugh have spent the evenings playing all kinds of games. What fun and laughter and of course the guys so enjoy their winning...but Noreen and Maryann are winning too...but not appreciated as much by the guys.
Hugh got to be the passenger for once as Tom is the driver on this trip. We came over the Cascade mountains today and took some walks in the snow on the mountain tops and stopped in the town of Winthrop Washington and walked. AND walked over the Deception Pass Bridge. It was another perfect day. We will spend the day in Anacortes on the 18th and then take the ferry to Sidney on 19th. Will spend the night in Sidney BC , Canada and then got to Tawassen Canada by ferry and then take the southern route through Canada back to Spokane. We are staying at Whidbey Island Naval Lodge tonight. We went to the Apple Store to check on putting pictures on the blog from the Apple and found could not do. So I am still trying to figure out how to send some pictures ...
We appreciate all your prayers for safe travels....and are keeping you all in our thought and prayers.
God BLess and hugs
Tom and Maryann
We spent a day in the Redwood Forest and the girls were excited with the walks and large trees.We drove our car through the tree and the girls were so thrilled to be able to be in the car. We had a nice walk in the forest and Kirsten sang loudly the entire time...no chance of seeing animals. Tom and Maryann took all three girls and headed for Spokane on Wednesday and Kelly and Bryan had a couple days to themselves. We arrived at Noreen and Hugh's about 9PM on Wednesday night. It was a long day for the girls as left Grants Pass at 0830 AM...we forgot how long it takes to stop and let the girls have a break, eat and potty breaks...each potty break took over 25 minutes before all were settled again. They were sooo good and no complaints from them! When we got to Noreen's and Hugh's it only took them 5 minutes to treat them like family. Carrie arrived Thursday eve and Kelly and Bryan on Thursday afternoon. The girls were delighted to see Auntie Carrie on Friday morning. We all went fishing on Friday with the girls. Molly caught 2 leaves. Samantha did not catch anything but did a great job holding her pole and looking very intent. Kirsten played on the playground with Auntie Carrie. Saturday we went to the park in downtown Spokane and all rode the merry go round and had a nice walk. Spokane was having an outbreak of "black fly bites"..of course one does not feel when the fly bites but it sucks blood so leaves bloody spots at the hair line....All the girls had bites so had to put benadryl spray on the bites after they were washed....Molly did not want to go outside after her encounter and was quite dramatic...Kirsten and Samantha did not seem to think was a big deal. Sunday we were in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho for the morning and spent Sunday Afternoon with Trina and Bill and family for a birthday BBQ for Trina's 40 + birthday. It was so nice to all be together...the girls jumped on the trampoline and Bill spent time dancing with the girls....yes we have video. We said our teary farewells to Bryan and Kelly and girls on Monday late morning as they left for Yellowstone park. They arrived back in Tucson on this past Thursday. Carrie was back to Tucson on Tuesday. We thank God for keeping us safe as we traveled. Tom and Maryann and Noreen and Hugh have spent the evenings playing all kinds of games. What fun and laughter and of course the guys so enjoy their winning...but Noreen and Maryann are winning too...but not appreciated as much by the guys.
Hugh got to be the passenger for once as Tom is the driver on this trip. We came over the Cascade mountains today and took some walks in the snow on the mountain tops and stopped in the town of Winthrop Washington and walked. AND walked over the Deception Pass Bridge. It was another perfect day. We will spend the day in Anacortes on the 18th and then take the ferry to Sidney on 19th. Will spend the night in Sidney BC , Canada and then got to Tawassen Canada by ferry and then take the southern route through Canada back to Spokane. We are staying at Whidbey Island Naval Lodge tonight. We went to the Apple Store to check on putting pictures on the blog from the Apple and found could not do. So I am still trying to figure out how to send some pictures ...
We appreciate all your prayers for safe travels....and are keeping you all in our thought and prayers.
God BLess and hugs
Tom and Maryann
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Where in the world are the Graue Family
Hi
We left Tucson at 0830 on 3 June....Kelly and Bryan and girls left at 0730.
We caught up to them in Oxnard,Ca...it was a long but safe day. On Sat., we stopped at the beach and the girls enjoyed walking in the sand..it was cool and windy. We Arrived in Monterey and and the weather cleared enough for us to walk on the pier and found the neatest park for the girls to play.Kirsten went on the biggest slides etc with Molly and Samantha. Maryann found out that she does not have as much fat on her tailbone to go down certain slides!!!
We went to the Monterey Aquarium on Sunday.It WOWED the girls.
Monday we started North to San Francisco an stayed at Moffit Field (we have been staying at Navy Lodges..really nice billets).Bryan was not feeling well, so the rest of us went to San Francisco and rode the trolly to Giladeri Square...it was cold(Maryann had on long johns and 2 coats) The street car trolly was out of service for the week...main reason,Kelly wanted to take the girls...but we recovered with the chocolate!...well nana did anyway.
KIRSTEN TALKED to Nana the 35 miles to and from the hotel...non stop!
Monday we drove to the REDWOODS and today took a hike...no need to worry about animals etc as Kirsten Talked LOUDLY the entire hike... Molly and Samantha did great.
What a pleasure to travel with them...they are natural travelers...of course Kirsten is riding with her Mom and Dad...and of course talking.
We stopped at the Paul Bunyan and Blue park on 101 today and remembered being there with Kelly and Carrie on our way to Hawaii in 1984!
We have been blessed with safe travels and the joy of making Family memories....we talked about missing Our Carrie...but decided with all the chatter etc...she did the right thing by flying to meet us in Spokane.
How does Maryann feel about retirement...it was time,but Maryann misses her daily encounters with her Davis Monthan Family...and will continue to miss each of you!
We are still trying to figure BLOGGING out...so let us know if you have suggestions. Will hope to add pictures soon.
God Bless and special hugs
Tom and Maryann
We left Tucson at 0830 on 3 June....Kelly and Bryan and girls left at 0730.
We caught up to them in Oxnard,Ca...it was a long but safe day. On Sat., we stopped at the beach and the girls enjoyed walking in the sand..it was cool and windy. We Arrived in Monterey and and the weather cleared enough for us to walk on the pier and found the neatest park for the girls to play.Kirsten went on the biggest slides etc with Molly and Samantha. Maryann found out that she does not have as much fat on her tailbone to go down certain slides!!!
We went to the Monterey Aquarium on Sunday.It WOWED the girls.
Monday we started North to San Francisco an stayed at Moffit Field (we have been staying at Navy Lodges..really nice billets).Bryan was not feeling well, so the rest of us went to San Francisco and rode the trolly to Giladeri Square...it was cold(Maryann had on long johns and 2 coats) The street car trolly was out of service for the week...main reason,Kelly wanted to take the girls...but we recovered with the chocolate!...well nana did anyway.
KIRSTEN TALKED to Nana the 35 miles to and from the hotel...non stop!
Monday we drove to the REDWOODS and today took a hike...no need to worry about animals etc as Kirsten Talked LOUDLY the entire hike... Molly and Samantha did great.
What a pleasure to travel with them...they are natural travelers...of course Kirsten is riding with her Mom and Dad...and of course talking.
We stopped at the Paul Bunyan and Blue park on 101 today and remembered being there with Kelly and Carrie on our way to Hawaii in 1984!
We have been blessed with safe travels and the joy of making Family memories....we talked about missing Our Carrie...but decided with all the chatter etc...she did the right thing by flying to meet us in Spokane.
How does Maryann feel about retirement...it was time,but Maryann misses her daily encounters with her Davis Monthan Family...and will continue to miss each of you!
We are still trying to figure BLOGGING out...so let us know if you have suggestions. Will hope to add pictures soon.
God Bless and special hugs
Tom and Maryann
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Less than 24 hours until we HIT THE ROAD
Hi
I just got off the phone with my Blog Expert , George..so let us see how this goes. I had a few technical questions that he expertly instructed me how to find my way through.
All is ready except the packing , which we are getting ready to do. Maryann will go into work and turn paperwork at 0730 and then we will be off. Kelly and Bryan and girls hope to be on the road at 7AM and us by 8AM. Will meet up with them on the road to Oxnard , California which is our first stop so can spend time on the beach in Monterey on Saturday. Carrie will fly to Spokane on 9 June and then fly home on the14 of June to spend time with Noreen and Hugh and Trina and family and us. Kelly and Bryan will head home on the 14 or 15 June.
Keep us in your prayers to have safe travels.
WE are ready for this new adventure.
Hugs
Tom and Maryann
I just got off the phone with my Blog Expert , George..so let us see how this goes. I had a few technical questions that he expertly instructed me how to find my way through.
All is ready except the packing , which we are getting ready to do. Maryann will go into work and turn paperwork at 0730 and then we will be off. Kelly and Bryan and girls hope to be on the road at 7AM and us by 8AM. Will meet up with them on the road to Oxnard , California which is our first stop so can spend time on the beach in Monterey on Saturday. Carrie will fly to Spokane on 9 June and then fly home on the14 of June to spend time with Noreen and Hugh and Trina and family and us. Kelly and Bryan will head home on the 14 or 15 June.
Keep us in your prayers to have safe travels.
WE are ready for this new adventure.
Hugs
Tom and Maryann
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