Saturday Games

In my decrepitude with that looming slippery slope, I can ill afford any more than this mild warm-up for the big year-end blow out.

Three Movies - One Great

National Treasure: Book of Secrets, is an action/thriller/mystery but for me more of a comedy. With a great cast, it was fun and engaging but not an important film in my view.

Charlie Wilson's War is interesting, compelling and timely with a great cast including Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Hoffman's performance was tops. This is a good film but not great.

The one film Jane and I both agreed is great and important is The Great Debaters. With the strong performances of Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker and superb casting overall, this film will be high on our list of the years best. We urge everyone to see this film.

Christmas 2007

We were delighted to have Jane's son, Steve, and his wife, Carol, visit us for two nights. Last night Jane and I ushered for Ballet Florida's "The Nutcracker". It was wonderful as always.

The Kite Runner

Last night we attended an advance screening of The Kite Runner. Most of the very moving story takes place in Afghanistan. It is believable and well acted and offers a fascinating insight into another culture. I highly recommend this film.

Beautiful Blood

We went to a prescreening of Sweeney Todd last night and found it every bit as good as we had hoped. The performances, directing, and cinematography will surely be contenders for Oscars. I highly recommend it. If you are squeamish about blood, however, you should be advised that there will be more of it than any movie you've ever seen.
Monday night at The Palm Beach Democratic Club Meeting we heard Guest Speaker: Lou Dubose, Editor of the Washington Spectator and co-author with Molly Ivins of Shrub, Bushwacked and Bill of Wrongs. He was an exciting speaker.

Dining, Walking, Movie

Yesterday we had our dining out group December meeting at Shangri-La in Lake Worth. This morning we had our December City Walk with 12 walkers. Friday we went to see the movie "P.S. I Love You." I don't recommend it. Click pictures to enlarge.

Rollin' on the River

We returned Monday evening from a delightful trip with our good friends Billie & Jerry Henin. We were away 12 nights -- 7 aboard the American Queen-- on a round trip cruise from New Orleans. We all enjoyed it immensely. Here are some pictures which can be enlarged by clicking.

Other Photos Rollin' video

Midsommar Festival Pictures Storage for 2013

Over the river and through the woods

I think this was the largest Thanksgiving dinner we've ever attended with about 27 people. Cousin Sandra and Pete are great hosts. Click picture to enlarge.

Sunday Walk

Today was a perfect day for walking. We toured the downtown construction projects, especially the newly restored courthouse.

"Let the Games Begin"

Click image to enlarge.

Enchanted and Beowulf

Last night we viewed two new movies. Enchanted is the Cinderella fantasy which begins in animation then changes to real life in New York City with a blend of animation. It has a classic happy ending after humorous misadventures. It was entertaining but easily forgotten.

With a monster such as Grendel, Beowulf was naturally extremely violent but because it was obvious fantasy and with a blend of animation and real life, we found the violence acceptable. The special effects and 3D projection made the experience notable and will pull in a lot of viewers.

Old Glory?

On our way to the Veterans Day parade today we observed Old Glory proudly (?) flying over this Lake Worth residence.

American Gangster

In spite of the violence and bad language, American Gangster is a very good flick about drug crime and crooked cops. It was well put together and the cast was great. As usual, I found it confusing but I was never bored and the tension, especially near the end, had me totally involved and shaking uncontrollably.

Luncheon with Kathryn and Mary

Pardon me Roy, Is that the cat that chewed your new shoes?

Fun and Games after dinner last night with Jim & Betty at Laura & Rich's.
Click picture to enlarge.

Wouldn't It Be Loverly?

My Fair Lady is here now. We were delighted to see it Tuesday and at 44, I thought, she aged well. It was my first time seeing it on stage. The music was all familiar, of course, and is treasured among my favorites in musical theatre. I had some trouble hearing all the dialog. In the future I'll pick up a hearing device.

George McGovern

Saturday morning at the Greenmarket we witnessed the dog costume contest and that night we went to Moonfest to see the human spooks. Sunday there was another organ recital at Bethesda with three performers plus a boy, age thirteen, playing the violin. On Monday at the Kravis the Palm Beach Democratic Club, at its monthly meeting hosted one of my heroes -- George McGovern, former senator. He is still smart and articulate and was received with great enthusiasm.

"Our Town"

Grovers Corners, New Hampshire, in the uncomplicated times of 1905 seemed mighty appealing to me last night as we became involved with the families and towns folk in Thornton Wilder's "Our Town". I doubted that today's high school students could move me the way they did. I should have known better. The Dreyfoos School of the Arts cast had me in tears with their outstanding performance. The entire cast was superb. Watch for performances of anything at this school. You will be gratified and they deserve our support.

"Dan in Real Life"

Six of us last night enjoyed dinnner at Paul in Downtown in the Gardens and then saw the movie Dan in Real Life. We all enjoyed it -- some a lot. It was refreshing for me to see an uncomplicated plot without violence and ugly language. It was light and I doubt it will receive great reviews but I recommend it.

Frugal Dining Out

Jane, Tom, Murray, Freda, Billie, Jerry, and Phoebe at Sweet Tomatoes.

Click to enlarge.

Movies and More Movies

If three movies in three days is profligacy, we're guilty, but at least it isn't every week. It isn't a great or important film but I enjoyed The Darjeeling Limited a lot. To me it was very funny. A comedy adventure filmed in India, its tongue in cheek wackiness suited me just fine and appealed to others in my group as well. That was Tuesday. Wednesday night we were dragged through the sewer of social perversity in Gone Baby Gone. It had an excessively complicated plot with characters dredged up from the dregs. The acting will likely be praised but I was glad when it was over. Thursday we saw the an ambitious period film, Elizabeth: The Golden Age. And, as usual, I didn't always know what was going on. I guess you know I'm no renaissance man. But , nevertheless, I found it engaging. There was something for everyone in this film and especially if you enjoy extravagant costumes and sets, this film's for you. Did they have sparklers in the 16th century? In this film they did.

And the World Goes 'Round

Lake Worth Playhouse consistently rivals the best shows around. We've come to count on this community theater delighting us as much as the costliest professional theater. Again last night we were delighted by their surprising depth of talent in the production of the musical revue "And the World Goes 'Round." We'd commend it to anyone.

Jane is continuing a slow recovery from her eye infection.

Dining Out and Movie

Tonight we went to our Dining Out group meeting at Cardello's Italian restaurant in Lake Park. There were eleven of us and a good time was had by all.
Last night we went to a prescreening of the movie, Michael Clayton, staring George Clooney. This well-made, suspenseful and complicated corporate law thriller is engrossing whether or not you know what's going on. Jane understood the story well but I didn't pay close enough attention and lost my way in the plot.
Jane has been suffering from an eye injury for six days. Thank goodness, she is improving but it has been a great concern to us both. Her treatment and many doctor appointments have taken priority over all our other activities.

Organ Recital

Sunday afternoon we attended a fine organ recital at Bethesda-by-the-Sea church. There were two organists and a very interesting close up demonstration of what the organ can do and how it works. "The War" is on again tonight. Are you watching?

Ten Canoes

Saturday I spent the day in a class to learn to teach reading. I ought to use it but I've become awfully selfish with my time, so we'll see. In the evening, since "The War" wasn't on, we watched Winged Migration again.
Friday we went to check out the replacement for "The Carefree Theater." It is called "The Theater" and is located on Conniston Road in a nicely converted church. We saw "Ten Canoes." It almost seemed like a National Geographic documentary. I guarantee you've never seen actors like these in the Aboriginal culture. It is shot entirely in an Australian Indigenous language. It was most unusual and interesting but isn't for everyone.

Thursday and Friday

Today we took Tri-Rail to Ft. Lauderdale and went to the science museum. Yesterday we went to the county commission meeting on the budget but left in time to get to the prescreening of In the Valley of Elah with Tommy Lee Jones and Susan Sarandon about a father trying to find the killer of his soldier-son just returned from Iraq. I felt it had an antiwar message. It had several strengths but I called it depraved, not to my taste and somewhat unrealistic. Others praised it.

Maps

Columbia Restaurant

Six of us had our fill of fine Spanish food yesterday when we enjoyed a 1905 priced lunch on the 102nd anniversary of Columbia Restaurant in CityPlace. It became crowded but we were seated immediately.

Movie: "The Brave One"

Last night we went out to a prescreening of Jodie Foster's new movie "The Brave One." It surely did keep ones attention. The acting was very good as expected and will likely get a lot of notice. It was violent but "justified" we thought. We would recommend it if you want a thriller and can tolerate violence and coarse language and can take the emotional drain.
This morning we did our daily three miles in air conditioning. The heat is just too much.

Give Impeachment a Chance

Yesterday we participated in a surprisingly large anti-war rally at the Kravis Center. I thought there would be 30 or 40 protesters but it looked like several hundred. The big one, of course, is next Saturday in Washington. After the rally we went to lunch with friends at The Cheesecake Factory. rally video

International Literacy Day

Today we attended the Literacy Expo at The Airport Hilton. Yesterday at the Lake Worth Playhouse we attended a screening event on The War, previewing the Ken Burns series premiering September 23 on PBS.

The Little Sparrow Sings Again

We recommend the movie "La Vie en Rose" which we saw today about the life of Edith Piaf. Marion Cotillard was amazing in the role of the French singer. We found the flashbacks very confusing. And I always have trouble with subtitles.

Reentering The Social Scene

Today eight of us in our dining out group had lunch at the Indian restaurant, Saffron. It was a pleasant place and we enjoyed the company. Although food was good, it wasn't the kind I enjoy. We still haven't received notice of our window installation date. That's why we came home early to this heat. Click on picture.

We're Back Home

We returned home Sunday evening and still Tuesday night we remain pretty much in disarray. The heat is really getting to us. Tonight we took a pizza to the ocean and watched the full moon rise.

Ann & Dan in a Secret Place

On the snowbird's eastern flyway is a precious stopover I vowed to keep secret so it wouldn't be be ruined. Ann and Dan have the best bed we ever enjoyed. It is a Sleep Number bed by Select Comfort. They took us to a Japanese restaurant and we talked about Garrison Keillor and Ann's hometown of Duluth. Lucky us. Sorry about the bad picture.

Bob & Annajean's Gorgeous Mountain Home

We feel lucky to have found Evergreeners, Bob and AJ Chapman in this wonderful mountain hideaway. It is a treasure and they are warm and welcoming. We hope they will let us come again. Sorry about the picture -- camera still acting up.

Parkersburg, WV on the Ohio River

On August 23 we were hosted in Parkersburg, WV by Evergreeners, Phil Nicholson and Kathy Moran in their lovely spacious home. Kathy's sister Sherrie arrived from Santa Fe with her two dogs at the same time we did. My camera was acting up again so, without photos, our fond memories must suffice. We are especially grateful for this oasis.

Rain, Rain, Go Away.

Our visit to Ashtabula was from August 18 to 23. On the evening of August 18 we arrived in Ashtabula and stayed for five nights. The weather was constantly rainy and depressing.

Bill and Mary Glenn in Glen Ellyn

August 17 Bill and Mary Glenn in Glen Ellyn, IL were gracious and generous hosts. Together we dined out then had "the tour." They quickly made us feel comfortable. We would love to see them again next summer.

Good-bye, "Summer Camp for Seniors"

... And hello CozInn where proprietor, eleven-year-old, Sam Petrov, with equal hospitality, hosts both VIPs, Larry and Leslie Chlebeck and commoners such as we. Unforgettable is Sam's enthusiasm for this endeavor and unparalleled is his service. Memories were made at this two-night stay in Minneapolis.

And Away We Go

We wish we could stay another month but tomorrow we leave our summer home. We still get our e-mail while traveling so you may write to us. Here are three 10-minute videos which show how we keep so busy up here: video 1, video 2, video 3

Chancellor's Fish Boil

Yesterday was the Chancellor's Fish Boil. It is our end-of-summer celebration and biggest "social" event. It is very nice and always well attended.
This morning our hiking group walked the trails behind The College of St. Scholastica.

"By the shining Big-Sea-Water"

Gitchee Gumee at Shovel Point Trail in Tettegouche State Park was as spectacular as expected on this morning's walk. We went to Rustic Inn Cafe for lunch. Thanks to Larry & Leslie for hosting games tonight.

A Little Piece of Heaven

Dick Haney royally hosted seventeen of us at his idyllic home in the woods. (click on picture) (view videos)

Underground Iron Mine

Yesterday we went on a bus to the Soudan Mine, an underground iron mine about 90 miles north of Duluth. It was a very interesting experience.
We went one-half mile below ground. video This morning, fourteen of us had a good urban hike returning on a city bus. hike video

Carmen and Sicko

Yesterday we ushered for the opera, Carmen. I thought it was very well done -- better than I expected. Today we viewed the movie, Sicko. I highly recommend it as a "must see." I was somewhat indifferent about seeing it until I read in our paper an opinion of a local doctor urging attendance. It is entertaining and IMPORTANT.

Concerts and Hikes

Thursday night we attended a concert by our favorite handbell ensemble, Strikepoint, and it was excellent as usual. Friday we had a good hike on the portion of Superior Hiking Trail along Chester Creek. Friday evening we attended a high school mediocre production of Fame. It was disappointing on several levels. Strikepoint - Hike

Cruise and Hike

Twenty of us had a good hike today at Gooseberry Falls. Then tonight we had a very good cruise on Lake Superior and the harbor.
Last evening we had a tour of the Tweed Museum of Art and then played Mexican Train with Larry and Leslie.

hike video cruise video

Tour of the Jackson Project

Today we went to another piano recital by about a dozen very talented youths. Yesterday we went on a home tour of the seventieth anniversary of the Jackson Project.

Wonderful Music

Today we went to the IMAX theater and saw Hurricane on the Bayou.
This evening we attended an excellent concert of Turkish vocal music by Istanbul University and Dokuz Eylul University. Last night we attended a wonderful Honors Recital of pianists at Weber Hall.

Dinner Dance & Hike

We enjoyed very much the dinner dance this evening. The musical ensemble was quite good.
Eleven of us enjoyed Rosan's hike this morning on the lovely 1.6 mile Millennium Trail in Superior Municipal Forest. We finished by 11:30 and went to Culver's to be recharged.
Jane and her friend Pat McCowen went on the annual Duluth Woman's Club house & garden tour and found it delightful.

Saturday Visit in Virginia

Yesterday we had a nice visit and picnic with our friends, Eila and Clarence in Virginia, MN. Today we attended an excellent concert with Bill Bastian, Laurie Bastian, and Janet Jennings.

Hawk Ridge Hike

There were eleven of us on Dick Haney's excellent hike today at Hawk Ridge. (video link) (click picture)

Beautiful Hike after storm

Seventeen of us had an excellent hike today on the Superior Hiking Trail spur to Hawk Ridge. (click picture) We encountered many downed trees from yesterday's windstorm. (video link)

07/07/07 Party

Last night we entertained twenty-two guests for the observance and celebration of 07/07/07.
Also yesterday Venus Wiliams won the woman's singles tennis championship at Wimledon. (photo in 2000)

Friday we hiked the Western Waterfront Trail. videos: Party, Hike

Greeting for Betty Ann

Betty Ann

Fourth of July Celebration

With Murray and Freda Kratka we attended the Independence Day parade in Superior then went to lunch at Culvers. With Bill and Sandra Foster we attended the Bayfront Festival Park celebration. The Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra played before the fireworks. It was most enjoyable. parade fireworks

Grovenstein Family Reunion

Friday we went to Minneapolis for the Grovenstein family reunion. We had a wonderful time seeing nieces and nephews again and with all the well-planned activities culminating in a pig roast on Sunday. We visited Jeannie and Ron on Sunday in White Bear Lake.

reunion video one) (and two) click on pitcture