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.