A great start to Summer 2012

Bob and I decided to finally take a vacation that had no ties to any other agendas; a getaway for us to relax and unwind.  We chose Cancun.  We chose well.  Our destination was Live Aqua, an adults-only, all inclusive resort.  I had some reservations about this type of place, but felt it was the best choice for us at this time.  Neither one of us has ever been to Mexico, nor do we speak Spanish.  We were delighted with the place, the scenery, the service, the food, the drinks, the beach........
You get the point.  It was just what we wanted and needed.

We are going back in 2013 .....can't wait.

Hello folks -- It has not been easy to get computer access here. We've been on the go and wifi is not free. So I'm using my brother-in-law's computer to post this blog.

We've had a great time while on this trip, but I think Bob and I will need a vacation to get over this vacation. The next time we return we will definitely pack less. Having events to attend has increased our luggage weight and lugging these bags throught the streets and underground has been a hassle. So less is more! You can quote me on this.

Our schedule has been like this: 3 days in London, then 7 days in Scotland, then 3 more days in London, then 5 days in New Milton, Hampshire and tomorrow we return for 3 more days in London before we fly home.

In Twenty Years We Haven't Spent a Dime!!

Yes, this is true. Twenty years ago we came across a large empty Pinch Scotch Whisky bottle. It had such an unsual shape we just couldn't seem to throw it out. Bob thought it would be a good idea to see how long it would take to fill it with dimes. From that time on we never used dimes in any financial transaction; they were taken from our coin purses and pockets everyday and placed in that old whisky bottle. So twenty years and $320 later we have some mad money for our trip to England and Scotland.

In just over a week we will be on our way to the UK. I'll try and post some blogs and photos of our adventures in the "old country." Stay tuned.

Ring in the New!

I just want to take a moment and wish everyone a Happy New Year. My wish is that 2009 be filled with the promise of peace and prosperity. After the last few years of political ruin, I am more than ready for change. Also, this new year will bring with it travel, a graduation for Jane and a new daughter-in-law when Ian and Carly marry in October. Bob and I are looking forward to what this year has to offer.

Cheers to you all! (clink glasses here.) ~Diane

The view on Monday early evening. - West of Redding

Clearer skies - clearer mind.

Today dawned a clearer day. The temperatures are cooler this morning and the breeze seems clean. The sky is still hazy but it's looking and smelling better. Fire fighters are getting a handle on most of the surrounding fires. There are still some troubled areas. Yesterday I went back to the same place I photographed the western fires on Friday. What a pleasant difference. I'll post some photos.

Yesterday's news stated that George W. Bush is planning to visit this area to see the damage caused by these fires. My fear is that his presence will interfere with the aerial attack on the fires due to the tighter air-space security. I need to change the subject.... his name causes flames to shoot out the top of my head and we can't have that when all the fire fighters are occupied.

One of the many fires in our area.