WEDNESDAY'S HODGEPODGE

It seems like just yesterday that I completed this mime and it is already Wednesday again! Where does the time go?  This week just disappeared.  Well here we go again.  Wednesday's Hodgepodge with Joyce.  It's her Springtime edition! And we all are excited for that to happen!

1. Sunday was the first day of spring. So they say. Ahem.

What is your favorite outdoor springtime activity?

Without question golf!  Can't wait to get the clubs out.

2. Who would you want to come into your kitchen to cook dinner for you?

My daughter-in-law who is Jordanian and who is the best cook I know.  I would love to taste her dishes right now.  But more importantly, I would love her company.  She and I always have so much fun together.  I miss her smile.  She is truly my daughter from another mother, *wink, wink.*

3. When did you last fly a kite?

Despite many requests from others to do so, it has been at least ten years ago.  

4. What topic puts you to sleep faster than anything?

Quantum physics and string theory which my husband finds fascinating.  Zzzzzzzzzzz....

5. Which flowers do you associate with specific people, places, or events?

My ex-mother-in-law Lucille, who is now deceased, always had violets on her kitchen window sill and I always think of her when I see them.  From what I understand, they are very hard to grow.

6. What significant historical events took place during your elementary school days?

Desert Storm........only kidding.  I date way back to JFK's assassination! 

7. Do you swear? Do you pseudo-swear? (You know crap, shoot, friggin'?)

Having been a teacher of high school students for over 27 years, I have enormous control over my swearing.  But I would be lying if I said I never swore.  It just takes a lot to get me started.   But when I do, look out!

8. Insert your own random thought here

If you have been reading my posts, you know that Joyce just happens to be a friend of a gal I have met here in Munich.  Let's just say it is quite a coincidence.  Today, another friend of mine who I play bridge with every Monday, emailed me to say that she had visited my Flickr site on the internet.  She said it dawned on her as she was looking at the photos that she had seen my photos of Germany before, way before.  In fact, over two years ago before she moved to Germany she Googled Munich and my photos came up.  What are the chances of all of the people in Munich, we would meet and become friends?  I love coincidence, especially when it brings good people and friends my way!

SPRING BREAK 2010

Over Spring break, my son, his wife, and their three children accompanied me to Orlando, Florida for what turned out to be the vacation of a life time. We had picture perfect Florida weather generally around the 83 F mark and believe it or not, perfectly mannered children. They exceeded our expectations considering we drove for two days averaging 12 hour days, including rest stop breaks. The week was so action-packed that all three youngsters came back to the resort each evening totally spent. When little ones ask to go to bed at night, you know you've succeeded in making their day unimaginably fun.

It was Easter week so the resort at Hilton in Orlando threw out all of the stops when it came to children's activities.  Face painting, magicians, balloons, games, crafts, and movies while swimming in the pool were some of the kids favorite activities that week.

We were especially thrilled with the fact that the weather was spectacular each day and the children were able to practice their swimming skills.  Within the ten days, both were dog paddling, turning sommersaults under water, and floating on their backs.  Having only just taken beginner swim lessons last summer and not having access to a pool for 8 months, we were thrilled with

their achievements!

Simo got free rides from Baba, but was able to touch the bottom and he relished in his new-found freedom.  He was all smiles and grins when near the water. 

This was one of the many pools at the resort.  The kids liked the waterfall and the cave at this pool the best.

When the little ones tired of swimming were ordered out of the pool, they had lots of other activities at the resort to occupy themselves. 

The play area was canopied and had the spongy, recycled rubber floor surface that minimized injury from falls.

Our suite slept 8, included a full kitchen, two screened in porches, a livingroom and two full bathrooms. 

This room included a large jacuzzi and a separate bathroom.  Since I left my hubby back in Munich, my son and daughter-in-law were pleased to have this lovely space. 

The bright and cheerful living room area as well as one of the bedrooms had pull out couches making sleeping arrangements very comfortable for the 6 of us.

My wonderful daughter-in-law and  cook extraordinare, treated us to amazing Jordanian dishes each day.  Fatoosh, hummos, salad fool,  Maqlooba, Labanee, pita bread, and spinach, cheese, and meat pies were just a few of the spectacular dishes she set before us.   Thank you, my dear, for all of your efforts.  We all appreciated the delicious dishes you created for us.

Baba, thank you for the entertainment!  We loved your Easter Bunny hat that played music and waved your bunny ears too and fro.  You make us laugh and we love you.  I loved having you, my son, and your family with me this Easter in Florida. I couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable time.