Nov. 15: Where Have We Been?

As you have noticed, it has been almost three weeks since I have written. And I suppose you wonder why.............. well , I have no excuse except to say we have been busy now that we are not traveling and have gotten into the "seniors" retired mentality.

When we left the Basque, we headed south to Las Cruces, spent 2 days there. We were at a campground that was about a mile from the main downtown section of Las Cruces, so we walked there for an afternoon. Old town is just a square with a bandstand, benches and stadium seating for concerts. They were beginning to decorate for the Day of the Dead that would be starting in a couple of days. They had banners hanging from the light posts. We realized that we would be missing this very unique celebration by just a day. It is a wonderful custom on honoring and remember those family members or others we love who have died. It is a celebration of their life.

Surrounding the square were shops and restuarants. So we wondered through the stores, but bought nothing. Since it was a lovely day, we got some coffee and sat on the square and watched people.

We left Las Cruces heading for our winter destination in Apache Junction. On the way, we detoured about 20 miles off the road to stop for the night at Harrahs.......no surprise there. I played a 2 cent machine and walked away winning $100. Barb had fun at the Texas Hold'em tables, no surprise there, either.

Before reaching Apache Junction, we had to do a yearly maintenance stop at the Freightliner dealer. So we dry camped for two days on their parking lot while they did the oil changes and everything else that goes with the yearly checkup. During the day we had to be gone from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. We went out for breakfast, shopped and then spent the afternoon at the movies. That is a rarity for us! Actually I think the last time we went to a theatre was at last year's check up.

So we arrived at Superstition Mountaln Resort in Apache Junction on October 31 and reunited with many of our friends from last year. It is so nice to return to our new "home" and be greeted so warmly. We have been here two weeks and have immediately become involved in several activities. We are both taking pickleball classes and playing on a regular basis. In addition, Barb is playing poker and learning Euchre. I am taking drumming lessons and Photoshop Classes. Seems like we are busy each day and enjoying. Pickleball requires us to be out and ready by 8:00 am and sometimes at 7:00 am. That is a bit difficult for me to get moving so early but once we start, it is great fun. Can't say we are great but we are improving. Many of the folks here participate in the Senior World Games and Senior Olympics and have earned medals for placing in the top three. So we are being trained by the experts! We are just happy to connect the paddle to the ball and see it go over the net.

Pictures will follow in the next posting...............

Love to all of you.