NICE, VERY NICE—THE WEEK IN REVIW We had really great weather this week, with highs in the 70s and 80s, lows in the 40s and 50s—great for daytime activities and for sleeping. And next week’s weather is supposed to be a mirror image. This is why we’re in the Rio Grande Valley. Monday saw the weekly “Tourist Council” meeting, choir practice, and pancake supper, followed by shuffleboard. Tuesday was a quiet day before and after our dance class. On Wednesday, Donald cleaned DunnGone while Kay began her online course from Arkansas State University at Mountain Home. This Microsoft Office systems course is going to be time-consuming, but very good. At mid-day, we made our first trip to Mexico where we lunched at Arturo’s, and enjoyed both a pedicure and manicure. We also received the first package of mail from home, thanks to our great friends and good neighbors, the Bodenhamers. Thursday was our first day at the swimming pool. With our weather, it is nigh impossible to ignore the pool, and though it is heated, it is not too hot. Thursday afternoon was the weekly church choir practice. After a quick change of clothes, we were off to Snow to Sun RV Resort to see a comedic duo from Canada perform their act. Early Friday morning we had our weekly shuffleboard match with the resort next door. Thanks to Larry Wortham, Donald’s partner, they won their match while Kay did some necessary grocery shopping. With fresh tomatoes, cilantro, onions, garlic, and peppers, Donald made some wonderful salsa, Mexican rice, and fajita chicken. After more homework for Kay, we were off to the pool for some rest and relaxation, and it was so nice. Kay returned to Mexico on Saturday to help with the childrens’ church, and we spent another afternoon at the pool. While in the hot tub, a north wind suddenly developed, dropping temps a few degrees. Saturday evening found us at the annual Pine to Palm Resort Spaghetti Supper; because it was card night, the dinner was a speedy affair, though the food was very good. Sunday, it was off to church, lunch at Luby’s, with an afternoon of Wal-Mart shopping (Kay got a brand new bicycle), shuffleboard, and reading. Maybe next week, our activities will slow down.

SAND BURRS AND TEXAS SNOW Two things we forgot to mention last year were the presence of sand burrs in the grass lawns at Pine to Palm Resort Park and Texas snow falling on everything in sight. First, the sand burrs; we rediscovered these as we were setting the leveling blocks under DunnGone when we first arrived, and again when we emptied the black and gray tanks last week. They stick in our bare knees and any other exposed skin that touches the grass. We wear Crocs a lot down here and the sand burrs stick in their soles, then track into the motor home, sticking in the carpet and ultimately in our bare feet. Also, a lot of sugar cane fields are burned and the resulting ash that falls is called Texas snow. Consequently, when you walk the streets, you pick up the black ash on your shoes, and track it into your place of residence. We learned early last year, by observing other residents, to take off our shoes at the door. This also serves to keep the sand burrs out. Because of the dry climate, we actually keep our sneakers outside under DunnGone and near the entrance.