Thursday, March 12, 2009

So We're Back

I know I referred a while back to our trip to Florida. Well, we're back. It's not that I don't trust you, I'm just a little paranoid since the break in.

My parents are in Venice, FL--on the island for those of you in the know. It's so funny to see them making this new life for themselves. My parents are NH born and bred. Like generations born and bred. Since my people left the old country, I am the first person not to live my whole life in New Hampshire. That's how New Hampshire my parents are. And now after mere weeks in Florida, they've decided they are selling my childhood home and moving. My father has told my mother he'll give her two months in Maine. My mother wants to stay in Maine for a few more months each year. Not sure how they'll negotiate that. Nevertheless, suddenly, my father, who used to make fun of people who lived in Florida, doesn't want to leave.

They have their new routine. Fridays they go out to the Italian American Club for spaghetti supper ($8). Mondays they play trivia at the local pub. They were so happy when we came because their team--Retox*--is in the middle of the pack. They told everyone that "the two PhDs" were coming. As if a PhD makes you good at trivia. Of course, it works out that we're really good at trivia. At the halfway point we were in third place. I was sure we could make it to second. Turns out we won! They were so excited.

So when we were there, we went to a craft show. I bought a really cute pin/pendant from this woman. While we were walking down the main drag, I found Needlepoint Ivy, the local needlework store. (My mother and her friends have shopped up and down that street, and she didn't know it was there!) There, I bought Oberlin Samplers Venice Beach Sampler, JBW's plum pudding, and Hinzeit's Sisters chart. I haven't been impressed by that last one, but the store had done such a fabulous job with the way they framed it--with a picture of some sisters--I had to have it. I know some sisters who are getting this for Christmas this year!

We went to the beach, hung out by the pool, and went to the Ringling Museum of Art. We had a nice time. I wish I had made the plans later than I did--you know, after they failed to renew my contract--because then we could have stayed longer. I might go back with my sister next month. Well, if I can find a cheaper flight.

Thanks for all the compliments about my finishing. I could do a little tutorial on the corsage pin cushion if anyone is interested. I took pictures of many of the steps (on the first day, not so many on the second day) and I'd be happy to pass that on.

*Because those really NH New Hampshirites are into redneck comedy.

13 comments:

Patricia Lessell said...

I'm so glad you had a good time. I was going to say when I saw that you went to the Ringling Museum that when I was a kid (ok a really long time ago) Ringling Bros had a circus in NJ and yes I know I'm a long way from NJ now but I have never forgotten it. In fact thinking about it, it was Ringling Bros and Barnham & Bailey because the two great circuses had merged. Oh well such is life. Lots of Love Patti the displaced Yank - I've been displaced to the UK for a very very long time. xxx

drea_dear said...

I would be interested in your corsage tutorial - it would be an interesting way to finish a biscornu. I'm now addicted to biscornus.

DebbieSFL said...

I would love for you to do a tutorial...

doris said...

Oh, please do a tutorial. That would be great.

Looks like you had a great visit, and congrats on the trivia win. If you're thinking of taking the team on the road, CU in Boulder has a fabulous Trivia Bowl.

Unknown said...

I'm glad the trip to the sun and warmth of Florida perked you right up. I can remember when we first came to Maui after some really, really cold, foggy summer days in the San Francisco Bay Area. Hawaii felt like heaven. We are genetically tropical people (yeah, even the blondes), so sunlight and warmth (and air conditioning when needed) are great helps to our psyche. I hope you have lots more Florida in your future.

mainely stitching said...

My Dad, also a dyed-in-the-wool Mainier, now winters in Florida and wishes he could convince his lady friend to stay longer than they currently do. LOL! He LOVES it. Glad your parents do, too, and I hope they find a compromise that makes them both happy. :D

Kristen said...

Ooh, I'm interested in that tutorial.

Glad you had a nice time in FL.

Aussie Stitcher said...

Your finishing looks great, well done. Glad that you had a nice time away, sounds like your parents are fitting right in with their different activities.

Anonymous said...

Your mom and dad are selling the house in NH and moving to Florida? Just like that? OMG!!!

Well, good for them! And for you. I'm glad you had fun.

dd

Donna said...

This is like reading part of my life. My Mom and step-Dad (both from NH) chose this route for themselves 20+ years ago. Eventually they stopped being snowbirds and live in FL year round now. Not too far north from where your parents are. E-mail me if you plan a return trip. My sister and I continue to search for the correct time and cheap airfare to visit them again. Maybe we could meet in Florida!?!?

CindyMae said...

Sounds like an awesome time! Glad that you are home safe and sound!!

Anonymous said...

Cool...thanks for telling me about another shop I need to take a day and go visit....I swear have these people never heard of advertising around here....I am desperate for a good shop!

Melissa said...

They will need the two months in Maine come July and August. Trust me on this. The only time I really want to move from here is late summer and they are farther south than me. That being said I can't imagine anyone not wanting to live in Florida.