The Venice Jette is Fun!

Doug took me down to the Venice jette this and yesterday afternoon to watch people fish, but I saw lots more than that! There were three dolphin lolling around and having lunch - not really on their way anywhere like the dolphin in Virgina Beach that definitely had an agenda to get somewhere. There were lots of birds there, too! There was a crane who was just a little too interested in my presence there - someone threw him a fish and he flew off with it, thank goodness because he was about four feet tall and kinda scary!

There were also cranes, egrets, a couple of herons, and a cormorant that freaked me out because he was spreading his wings and looked like he was in attack mode. Doug said he was just drying his wings, but I don't know if I believe that. The egrets and terns were diving into the water to get lunch, and of course, the ever-present sea gulls and pelicans were zooming around. When Doug goes fishing I always bark when he casts his pole, but he asked me to not do that to the people fishing there. Fish are something I'm really curious about, and I always try to "get" the fish - not that  I want to really bite them, but they look likes tons of fun to play with because of the way they flip and flop on the ground. The people were mostly catching grouper and snapper, but there were a couple of fish that Doug couldn't identify and one of them was really slimy. I had to lick my nose a few times before I got the slime off and Doug laughed at me and said I looked like a mule eating briers!

Last night we partied with Grammy who shared some of her spaghetti and meat sauce with me! Delicious!! We watched "Dancing with the Stars" because they're almost to the end of the competition and Aunties Cyn and Karen watch it. I thought it was pretty boring, but what do I know? Doug had a scotch on the rocks with Grammy, and they just talked and petted me until Monday Night Football came on and THAT'S when the party started!

Grammy is a huge football fan, and watching the game is a pleasant distraction from what ails her. When the family lived in San Diego they were just a mile from Jack Murphy Stadium where the Chargers used to play, so they were rooting for them last night. It took me years to get over the way people yell and scream disgusting things at the TV when football's on because I always think they're yelling at me. I don't know why I think that because, really, I'm just a Doug's boy, and he never talks to me like that. The only time Doug gets disappointed at all is when I get poop on my butt because I have such fancy pants. Despite everyone yelling at the TV, I like football games because every munches on goodies when the game's on, and I'm all about snacks with the family!

That's all for now, friends and fans, except to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving on Thursday! Doug read Mayflower by Nathaniel Philbrick, and recommends that anyone who wants to know the real story behind the Pilgrams ought to read it! He especially enjoyed learning about the Indian wars!

Happy holiday!

Pictures of Mom's Venice, Florida, neighborhood on Aloha Friday!!

If you click on the pictures I believe they enlarge to original size!

The Venice "canals" are not like the ones in Italy

This is the terminus across the street from Mom and Dave's house

Some pictures of beautiful Venice Gardens waterways around Mom and Dave's house taken yesterday. This is one of the off-shoot canals half a block from the house.

A front coming from the east - taken on the Venice Jette

Sunset Report: Self explanatory.




I'm sitting with Mom at Harbor Chase. She's reading the newspaper, and I'm writing this. When I arrived this morning she was bright-eyed and bushy tailed and said she'd tried to call me, but I didn't answer. I told her I have my phone in my pocket - I took it out, and sure enough. "One missed message." I dunno how that happens. I'm just THAT deaf, I guess. I was rocking out on the way here and pretty deep in thought... It's kinda scary to think I can be that oblivious to the world.

I'm heading north to New England for the Christmas holidays, but I'm fearing the cold weather. It's been in the low eighties and very sunny for most of the past couple of months, and the thought of thirties and twenties is frightening. I have a very specific list of people I want to see and things I want to do so that I make sure I get everything I want to do in during my short visit north. By the way, Duppy thanks everyone for his emails, and asked me to leave today's post off with a picture of one of his favorite bird chasing venues - the beach!!

Duppy's Update

Here's one of the pelicans taking off by running on the water!

The past week or so we've just been hanging out with my Grammy at Harbor Chase Rehabilitation Hospital while she gets her legs back under her. Everybody here loves me, and whenever they see Doug coming they always look for me. I had a spa treatment and grooming two days ago so I'm especially foofy now, and everyone loves that. We've been here about three weeks and Doug hasn't taken me to the beach even one time. Down here in Venice they have lots of pelicans and cranes, but since we haven't been to the beach I haven't had to chase them off like I did in Virginia Beach. We don't have to go to the beach to see birds here because Grammy and Duffy LIVE in a bird sanctuary!! I'll tell Doug to post some pictures - I know he's been meaning to take some!

For every step forward poor Grammy makes she seems to take one back. When she fell and broke her hip she also tore open her elbow, which needed to be stitched up. Unfortunately, it became very infected and it took until today to get the infection under control. A couple of days ago she got tangled up with a device in the bathroom, and cut her wrist up pretty badly so she's all bandaged up. The rehab nurses are trying to get her going, but it's a very slow process, and Doug is just glad that she's not spending her days on her back in the hospital bed. She goes to physical therapy in the morning and occupational therapy in the afternoon. Right now she's in her wheelchair watching TLC. She loves that I come to spend lots of time with her every day, and I hop right up on bed so she can feed me tidbits and pet me!

Even though we haven't made trips to the beach, we have been eating out at least once a day and I love that! Before I became a service animal I had to wait for Doug in the truck, but now that's all changed. Doug gets lots of email about our experiences, and our blog has had almost 6,000 hits from twenty countries in just eleven weeks - the latest being Equatorial Guinea, India and Latvia! Jeez! Doug says it's my fan club since I seem to be the one most people want to write to. Can't blame them as I'm pretty darn cute!

See what I mean? Cute or what?

Doug and Grammy both enjoy reading historical literature, and Doug is reading one of Gram's books entitled Mayflower, written by Nathaniel Philbrick, about the real story behind the colonization of the Plymouth Plantation. Reading the book has caused Doug to go on a huge search for information about the European Hundred Years' War, Thirty Years' War and the Seven Years' War, which all preceded the Pilgrims' emigration to the New World. While the part of the story about Squanto and the Indians saving the Pilgrims' bacon when they first arrive in North America is true, the rest of the story was a shock for Doug.

He thought the Pilgrams were peace-loving people, but that was not really the case because in the book it said every man in church worshiped with a musket at hand. Within a handful of years the colonists and Indians found themselves in conflict that erupted King Philip's War and the Great Swamp Fight which was absolutely shocking to Doug. Seventy-five percent of the New England towns were attacked, which had homes, barns and mills set on fire, and many people killed or captured to become Indian slaves! It turns out that America's first best-selling book was the story of Mary Rowlandson's capture and experiences as an Indian slave! Doug is doing lots a research as he reads, and is looking for a copy of Rowlandson's book.

We hope that before long Grammy will be back on her feet and we will be down the road to Pensacola for Thanksgiving, but that may be too optimistic for her current circumstances. Doug said he will posting some pictures soon, so stop by in a day or two to see them!

Love,
Duppy

Dear Daddy, Remember The Time?

One of my favorite older pictures from elementary school

Dear Daddy,
                    Remember the time you tapped my hand to the seat of your vehicle (F-150) when I was reaaally young to teach me the concept of a musical beat?


Miss the old days.

The above is a text from Emma, my daughter, that came in VERY late last night. I had my phone charging, and didn't get the message until I got to the hospital with Mom today. You have a message in your inbox, sweetie!

Yes, I remember that lesson in syncopation more vividly than you can imagine. Lee Roy Parnell and Radney Foster were the artists we did that to in my old green Ford truck that wouldn't die. I finally junked it because it was too embarrassing to be seen in. I always said I'd drive it until it broke, but it never did. It just got uglier and uglier. It ran like a beast, and I always enjoyed that you liked the truck, too. You were the first to ride in it after I bought it, as well as the truck I still have now! You're my best girl! There should be a country song about your best girl being the first to ride in your truck. "Riding down the road in my pick-up truck, ya better get ready 'cause I'm pickin' you up" Do you remember that? You used to sit on stage and sing our songs during Oklahoma, in fact, you stole the show one night and had the whole audience clapping for you! Deservedly so! You used to offer command performances in restaurants from your chair by winking at the men, singing and reciting poetry!

I remember teaching you to roller skate, ride a bike, swing high and long on a rope swing, dancing with you, singing to you (You Are My Sunshine! Remember?) taking you to the playground, fairs, ballet, circus and reading to you to show you how syllables work. But what I remember most is how much I have always loved you, and how special you make my life. I don't pretend to take credit for the fact that you are so brave that you could handle the 150 yard zip line, or jump of a sixty-five foot cliff into a quarry, but I really admire you for having the guts to face and do those things.

You are simply the best! Remember that always!!

I am SO lucky!!!

Love and kisses always,
Daddy

We've Been Busy!!

Ringmaster Chris

I've been having a lot of new experiences since we hit the road and most of opening my life to be as large as Doug's has been really great, but sometimes things get a little freaky for me because I'm just a Duppy. Yesterday Doug took Auntie Cyndi and me to the Cole Bros. Circus! At first I had fun, and met the Ringmaster, Chris, before the show. He knew about Harold Ronk and Uncle Soapy, and Doug thanked him for his kindness and gracious words. When the show started they brought out the BIGGEST kitty cats I've ever seen! I was really glad they stayed with their trainer, and I was a little jumpy about that because animals of all kinds gravitate to Doug. It was after that things went to hell in a hand basket. For starters, everything was REALLY loud, and it just kept getting louder! I was pretty okay with Doug covering my ears until the clown car exploded when Doug didn't expect it! A great big BOOOOM!!! Then I went to pieces, and hopped right into Doug's lap. I could tell it even scared Auntie Cyndi, because she jumped, too! Doug took me out before they fired off the human cannonball, thank goodness! Next time I'm going to let Doug and Auntie Cyn leave me in the car. After the circus Doug took us out for dinner at Ruby Tuesday. We had steak and lobster tail, and Auntie Cyn had a shrimp parmesan pasta dish. Both of them shared because I really enjoy a good piece of pasta with my steak!

Grammy's house has a Florida room with windows low enough  that even I can look out at the back yard, and yesterday I saw a big hook-bill crane catching geckos and Lord knows what else. I also saw a red-headed woodpecker, doves and the cat next door hunting the squirrels that Grampa Dave feeds. Kitty has been hunting them for years, but Grampa says the squirrels are way too fast. They scamper up the orange trees, and say, "Na na na na - Boo boo," which really torques the cat off. There are plenty of orange trees out back for the squirrels to take cover in, but I have to admit that chasing squirrels is one of my favorite things to do, too. I don't really want to hurt them, but I really enjoy it when I can get my nose right up in their tail feathers! Doug used to take me to Wesleyan University on weekend mornings, or if he got home from work early enough on sunny afternoons we'd go chase the squirrels and there are really lots of them! The squirrels in Florida aren't nearly as juicy as Connecticut squirrels - they're kinda small, but still great fun to chase after.

The things that catch my eye and makes me jump are the geckos that run from everywhere I go, and the fire ants sneaking up and biting my tootsies when I'm not looking. Yesterday they got Doug good, and when he realized we were under attack he scooped me up and dusted the ants off me first, and himself after! The bites stung for a couple hours!! The neighbors don't pick their oranges, and they just leave them on the ground which draws in all kinds of "visitors" I'd prefer not to meet. Grampa Dave caught a opossum in the trap he set to catch our runaway kitty when she got out, but there's no way I wanna chase one of them! They are kinda gross, and hiss like crazy!

Look how many types of palms there are!!

The part of Venice that Grammy lives in is called Venice Garden, and it's right in a bird sanctuary with a canal that winds through that part of town to a lake on the other side of the street from Gram and Gramp's house. Doug takes me to a spot at the end of the street when he goes to see if he can spot an alligator, or see if the fish are jumping. Doug's dying to go fishing again, and once Gram begins to feel a little better he'll find time to take me fishing because I really enjoy it, too! I love to try and get the fish when Doug catches them, and I always bark at him when he casts his pole, but I don't know why. Just plain ol' excited, I guess!

The trees here are really different from what I'm used to, and I have to be careful where I raise my leg because some of them I've learned about are cactus! Ouchy!! I've also discovered that palm trees come in all shapes and sizes, and some of them have stickly thingys on 'em. Bugs and snakes hide in them, too, and make me jump like a cat when they unexpectedly hop out when I pee on them! Yikes!

See what I mean?

Auntie Cyn stayed with Grammy the past two nights because she's going back to Pensacola tomorrow. Boo hoo! We're really gonna miss her more than I can say. She's so much help and comfort for Gram. Doug and I do a good job taking care of her, but no one does it better that Aunties Cyn and Karen. I heard Cyn tell Doug, "If you thing I'm good at taking care of Mom, you should see how good Karen is. She's unbelievable!!!" Grammy knows just how to blackmail Auntie Cyn, and got her to stay almost a week longer then she'd planned. Doug and I aren't going to leave Grammy until she's up and running on the road to recovery, but we promised Emma we are coming for Christmas in Connecticut. Uncle Dave is bringing the boys down for Christmas with Grammy and Grampa in Venice, so at least she'll have some of us here with her for the holidays.

Doug said for me to issue the Sunset Report for today, but before I do I wanted to let you know that We saw the sun set behind the Cole Bros. circus tent yesterday, and it brought a tear to Doug's eye. I wished he'd remembered to bring his camera!

If I weren't a Duppy, I'd say, "Damnation, it's beautiful here!!"

Love,

Duppy

Venice, Florida - Circus Memories

      

Sunset Report: Sun setting through the palm trees in a 77 degree cloudless sky was beautiful

Cyndi and I have been mostly spending alternate nights at the hospital with Mom, which believe it or not, is disorienting  after a couple weeks. Mom took her first painful steps yesterday, and is learning to overcome her fear of falling again. Because she's been so sick for so long, her muscle tone is poor and she'll be going to rehab for a while with a goal of being home for Christmas! Her spirits are much improved, and it's easy to see her progress the past couple days.

Our Uncle Soapy (AKA Duane Thorpe)

The longer I'm here the more I remember about the old days of coming to Venice for Winter Quarters during Christmastime, and watching the Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey show rehearsals before they launched the new show edition for the year. We all stayed at the 40 Winks Motel and celebrated Christmas with our circus family. Very special people. I haven't "Googled" any of the names below, but I will later. My memories are personal ones, and I don't need Google or Wiki to remind me of their talent and kindness.

 Dick Barstow and Bill Bradley choreographed the dancing and production details for the spec and web numbers while Merle Evans and singing ringmaster, Harold Ronk, coordinated the music. It would not be an exaggeration to say that I grew up on the laps of my Uncle Soapy,  Lou Jacobs, Otto Greibling, and Prince Paul. Eric Braun, Joe, Mike and the other younger guys on clown alley welcomed our family behind the scenes to see how the circus show is put together. Frankie Saluto didn't care much for kids, and he was usually chewing on a cigar, pretty sauced, and scary under any circumstance.We weren't passed to him, and glad for that.

The particular "patina" of the circus is mainly a combination of elephant poop, saw dust and tiger pee; it is permanently ingrained in me. I'm taking Cyndi to the Cole Bros. Circus in Sarasota tomorrow evening, and I'm excited about that! Mom expects that I'll see several people I know, which I kind of doubt but still hope for. When I traveled with the show it was very much a family affair and because Uncle Soapy was such a popular guy, and had traveled with the circus so long, I felt like I had 425 brothers and sisters looking out for me. Many I'd known much of my life.

Every day that I drive to the hospital, I pass the old winter quarters building as I drive over The Circus Bridge. Very nostalgic. There's a trapeze school set up outside the building now, and there's talk of razing the building... so sad. I discovered during a waiting room conversation with a lady over my Duppy that she went to school with Tito Gaona, and that the trapeze school belongs to him. He was a firey, handsome flier from the days I traveled with the show and made me want to fly. Unfortunately for me I grew eleven inches in one year, and trapeze artists aren't allowed to be nearly six feet tall. I was allowed to fly on the low trapeze during practice, which only served to make me believe I could handle going high... I also always wanted to be shot out of what is now Elvin's cannon. (Not it has anything to do with the show, but driving 200 mph was also on my bucket list - the best I was able to do was 161 mph in Germany)

Handling Gunther's cubs to help socialize them, and seeing how he controlled sixteen elephants using only his voice - the same with his horses - and having him explain to me "They follow my commands because they WANT to please me," was a revelation in training animals that I understood more from the depth in his eyes than the words he used. He recently passed from brain cancer, and I went to his monument with my family last summer. RIP, Gunther.

Since Uncle Soapy's induction to the Clown Hall of Fame, I haven't seen any of the old gang. It was great to see Peggy Williams, who has made a career fostering interest in the American circus through education. Chuck Sidlow is one of a few contacts still maintained from the old clown alley; he has been wonderful about keeping us up on news and regularly calls Mom. Chuck's last bit of news was that Frosty Little has passed on last week. He was 44 when he graduated from the first class of the Clown College - quickly because clown boss, and had a twenty-four year career trouping with RBB&B. It was nice that such a great guy was such a success in transitioning his life. I know about running away to the circus, too, and we understood each other.

Thank You VRMC!!

Douglas Bradley Pascoe
28 Berkeley Terrace                                                                                              9 November, 2010
Milford, Connecticut  06460

Venice Regional Medical Center
The Rialto
Venice, Florida  34287

Dear Nurses, Staff, Doctors, Administrators, and Board of Directors,
                                                                                                        I was a career master teacher, so I know this letter format is a bit unorthodox. In the nine weeks I have been keeping this blog during my earlier travels around the country in my camper I have had almost six thousand hits from sixteen countries around the world, and I want for all the world to know how appreciative my family is for the incredible care EVERYONE here at VRMC has extended to Mom and our family as we strive to keep an appropriate level of fight instilled in her and allay her fears. I am staying in Venice until Mother is back on her feet, and we hope to have her transferred to a rehabilitation hospital before too much longer. The blog address access is available at WWW.DougandDuppy.blogspot.com. If "Doug and Duppy" is Googled, a link will come up. The first entry was made 23 August. The positive email feedback I've had about Mom's care was considerable, and far exceeded other peoples' less than positive experiences and expectations with other medical/surgical hospitals.

-The Blog Entry Regarding VRMC-

Below is a letter to the wonderful people who have been caring for my Mom during the past years of her decline. They have welcomed our large family, even when we were ALL here under their feet. Cyndi just noted that Evona, Mom's RN today, has stopped in three times this afternoon just to check on Mom's comfort! Mom's CNA today, Lourdes, is an angel, too! Cyn says, "It just keeps getting better!" in reference to the care provided here at VRMC.


For all of Duppy's fans, hold on tight. I'm sure he'll be posting soon!!!

Dear VRMC Staff and Administration,

                                                          Thanks be to you for having provided such excellent care for our Mom, Caryl Duffy, during her recent illnesses. The volunteers, staff, doctors and especially the nurses at Venice Regional Medical Center have been awesome beyond comparison. I'm touched when I see nurses like Becky, Michael, nursing students Chris Thorgard and Brittany, RNs Evona, CNA Lourdes, RNs Gail, Debra and Nicole calling Mom "Honey, Sweetie, Momma and Dear," and meaning it as they take such great care of her. I'm very impressed by their compassion and professionalism. Even when Mom doesn't make things easy and becomes fussy, they are able to address her fears and frustration at not healing faster to offer even better care to help restore her health and spirits. Their kisses on Mom's cheek and the hugs they freely offer definitely help, too. As a former member of a National Medical Enterprises hospital administration team and a career master teacher, I recognize the exceptional nursing care your staff is extending to my mother; we are grateful beyond words.

Charlene, Bonnie, Conelly and all the staff  from dietary have been absolutely awesome in their concern for making certain Mom has food that she will eat. Her meals are always delivered by Charlene with a smile, humor and grace. Patrick and Annetta, Mom's respiratory therapists, have become her friends, but the whole respiratory department has been great! David, Julie and Eric, and Mom's other physical therapists have been a Godsend; everyone from PT has been terrific! She is very grateful for the excellent care she is receiving.  Everyone who works here has been so kind, considerate and thoughtful. I can't say how much it means to my family to know that Mom is being cared for so well as she struggles desperately to mend her broken body. As a "frequent flier," Mom has always given wonderful reports about her care at VRMC to the rest of the family who are far away and eager to keep up with the status of her health. I'm delighted and relieved to see her reports are spot on, and that her care here could not be better. 

My sister related a story to me that I'd like to share with you and your staff. In the first week of October Mom came to your emergency room with a painful compression fracture to a disc in her back that badly distressed her. She was placed on a gurney, treated and then wheeled into the hallway as the ER was exceptionally busy. My sister noted two administrators observing practice and procedures of the ER staff, when Mom was approached by an ER doctor who ordered her immediate admission to the nursing staff. The two administrators, Regina Richardson and Mike Noll, wheeled my Mom to her room themselves. As a former hospital administrator, I admire beyond what words can express that your WHOLE staff is so involved in a quality of patient care that extends beyond what people expect. That you treat my Mom like you would treat your mother means so much to us - we thank you from the very bottom of our hearts for that.

I've recently semi-retired so I am able to visit Venice for as long as Mother needs, and have seen first-hand the quality care delivered with smiles and love she has spoken of so many times. My sister lives closer and has been to VRMC during almost every one of Mom's in-patient stays here. She also speaks very highly of the support the entire hospital staff offers our family as we strive to be here to provide all the very best for the strong woman that raised a very close family of five children. My siblings and I will not leave our geriatric mother, and appreciate that VRMC supports our family's endeavor to do the best for Mom we can. Your staff has made our family feel welcomed here, and we appreciate that more than I can say.

In admiration for your grace,

Douglas Pascoe, and family

Sunday Update on Our Doings

                                              I'm Such a Duppy!

For the past week we've been spending our days in Venice Regional Medical Center with Auntie Cyndi and Uncle Dave where poor Grammy is being cared for. Today is the best day Grammy's had in the past week; we hope she continues to improve to get past the up and down pattern of the past week because everyone's so worried about her, especially Dee Dee, her husband. I saw him cry with Grammy because she was so frustrated with trying to get better yesterday. To cheer her up today Doug wore his Gettysburg shirt, brought a crossword puzzle and announced that it was football Sunday because Grammy really likes all those things. I've tried to hop into her hospital bed three times, but I forgot that she has a broken hip. Doug scooped me out of her bed very quickly, but I just wanted to let her know I love her and try to make her feel better. Duppy love is the best Doug says, and I just wanted to spread the wealth!

 The nurses here all have great fingernails, and are more than willing to use them to scratch under my collar while they call me "Baby!" I'm very popular here, and some of  the nurses stop in just to tell me how cute I am and pet me. The first couple of days we were here some of the people called the risk management and administrative offices to tell them there  was a "dog" in the hospital, but by now you can guess how that all went down. Doug used to work in hospital administration, and since I have a service badge he makes them go away with their tails between their legs. I really admire the way Doug is able to handle aggressive people that want to throw me out - he talks to them in much the same way he used to talk to his students using his "teacher voice," and it really works. Doug doesn't take "No" for an answer, especially when it comes to defending me.

 Uncle Dave and Auntie Cyndi being here is a huge bonus for me! I'm really gonna miss Uncle Dave when he has to leave tomorrow, but Auntie Cyn can stay until Wednesday so Doug's withdrawal from having his siblings around so much for so long will be only somewhat mitigated. I won't be able to see Uncle Dave until Christmastime, when we'll head back to Connecticut for the holidays with Em. I'm hoping to see Auntie Cyn for Thanksgiving. All the family time we've had recently has been spectacular, and really, really long overdue. When Grampy was sick everyone came to Connecticut and stayed with us often. I LOVED that everyone came to our house at once, but I used to mope around after they left because I was so sad. Doug used to say, "What am I, Duppy? Chopped liver?"

Doug called Carol this morning and they chatted for the longest time I've ever seen Doug use the phone! During the whole time they talked Doug didn't once mention how much I miss Margo, but Carol really did reinforce Doug's decision to call it quits in favor of hitting the road with me. I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone in Connecticut in December. Doug was only planning on spending a week there, but we may have to build in more time to see everyone. I don't mind the cold weather, but Doug sure does!

Hanging out at the hospital with Grammy isn't the favorite thing I've done, but I'm really glad we're able to help keep Grammy comfortable with our company and attention. Auntie Cyndi is the best nurse Doug has ever seen, and she always seem to know just what to do for Grammy. I saw Uncle Dave as he cocked his head watching Auntie Cyn care for Gram yesterday, and then he said, "I want Cyndi to visit me when I'm sick!" Kinda the same way Doug knows how to take care of me, she knows exactly how to make Gram comfy.

I'm so glad I have Doug all the time now. We haven't been apart a minute since last April. I could tell that Doug has missed having writing time, and have watched him writing today to let everyone know what's going on. We have to see how things are going for Grammy before we can make more plans to travel. The weather is a wonderful 85 degrees during the day, and 68 at night!! Doug loves it, but I have to seek shade and drink a lot of water. Okay everyone - that's all for now! Football's coming on, and ya know how I love a football party with snacks!

From the world's hungriest service animal with love,

Duppy

Our Poor Mom

Dear family, friends and followers,
                                                   This is not just a blog post. I just received a call from my sister, Cyndi, that Mom has fallen at the rehab hospital and broken her hip, as well as sustaining other injuries. As you know from reading my blog, nothing is more important to me than my family. Mom has been struggling for a while, and this is a scary time for all my family.

I'm suspending the freedom journal, and am on a mission to do whatever it takes to help our Mom. Brothers, sisters and I are looking at how we can most effectively be of assistance, and coordinating our efforts in that direction.

I need to go pack up to be ready to go.

Prayers for Mom, please.

Ever,
Doug and Duppy

A Part of My Support System

I wasn't going to put a post up today, but I was so touched by a note from Don, which I posted below, that I wanted to share with all the bloggers a part of the support system I have that enables me to be the eccentric, haphazard, self-indulgent, fun-loving, idiot that I can be. The seventeen years that I lived in Connecticut before this great adventure was as long as I've lived in any one place in my whole life. I was SO lucky to have fallen in with The Breezy Corner Basement Boys, and have them take me in as a friend and band mate so many years ago. The transition from rocking with Gary and Matrix, to cozy traditional bluegrass with friends who became my brothers was an amazing one. ALL my brothers and sisters love the boyz in the band the same way I do, and I really love that. Thanks for such a terrific note, Don!

Hey Dougly, (The manner of address is a total "Don-ism)

I have been quietly following your blog regularly, but up until tonight, have had nothing but grief trying to "enlist" as a certified follower.  Problem solved and you'll now find me doing my best "popeye" impression on your page.  I'm still not sure how I finally got it to work, but I did.  The basic problem was that I already had Google, Gmail and Yahoo accounts and never use any and lost all the passwords, etc.  The bast'ds all kept shooing me away when I tried to enroll "again" and I guess I just didn't have the patience before tonight to analyze the situation and deal with it. 

 

Following the Duppy/Doug roadshow for me conjures up a basket full of adjectives; enlightening, inspiring, educating, entertaining, thought provoking and heart warming come to mind easily.  I selfishly wish each of your entries were more frequent, daily perhaps, but I understand how that type of imposed -self or otherwise- pressure may water down the very product of your journey that keeps me and others glued.  I do suspect that more pen is meeting paper than we out here are seeing right now and one I hope to be among the first to add the hard cover to my collection.

 

As much as I think I already know and admire about you, every time we speak and every time I read your writings I learn more, admire and envy you more.  I'm not surprised at your wide and scattered circle of friends, but what I truly admire is your family unity.  My family is intact, but the closeness you enjoy evades us.  We're all so different I guess.  Cherish that my friend.... and I know you do. 

 

I was a bit surprised by your focused visits to the historic battlefields.  Notice that I did not call them "Civil War" battlefields. I have always viewed that term as an audacious oxymoron.  I've always been intrigued by the travesty, but not to the extent Luke has.  His 40th birthday was marked by a guy's trip to some twelve or so of the most prominent locations complete with period garb and facial hair.  I excused myself from the trip only because the timing was bad.  I plan to make the same trip on my own terms one day.  I was touched by your reaction to Antietam.  That is on my short list since my great great grandfather was wounded there.  I sadly know very little about him except that he was a bugler... go figure... and he did not die as a result of his injuries.  My mother's side is not known for given much of a sh*t about heritage and such, but I think this is where he is buried.... Vermont Civil War   He's where Sara's middle name comes from, "Hopkins."  One day I shall learn more.

 

Well it's late and I'm beat.  I just got interrupted by two collect calls from Costa Rica, so I better get to work on time tomorrow to cover that.  I'll leave you with a couple of picture attachments to give you a hint on what that's all about.  We had a big day last weekend. (Note: Don's baby and new son-in-law are honeymooning in Costa Rica - Congrats from the Duppy and me!!)

 

Later my friend.

 

Don

P.S. I can't believe Luke is 40!!! How did that happen??

Upper 70's and Sunny!! Yay!!!

                        Love Uncle Donny's new house, but the neighbor has issues

Today we took a giant "Mother, may I?" step forward toward getting Uncle Donny settled in. We checked out of the hotel that used to bring us delicious steaks and pizza right to our room, and now we're in Uncle Donny's new house where he's settling in. While the house is really nice, I loved our daily walks on the beach and going out to eat.

Doug says when Uncle Donny's truck is ready to be picked up we'll be headed down the road to his buddy, Fred, in North Carolina. After he looked at Weatherbug today, Doug told Uncle Donny he is looking forward to nearly eighty degree temperatures for the next week. Perfect!! Uncle Donny's racy convertible rental car has to be turned in tomorrow, so we'll all be back in the truck again and that suits me fine. Love our truck!!! Doug and I did the USA Today crossword sitting on the tailgate today, when Uncle Donny brought him a beer and hung out with us. Love my family!

My buddy, Scottie in NY, is sick again. Hope he gets well soon!! I often wonder how Monkey is fairing with his "service dog" lessons, and how enjoys not having to stay home when Vicki ventures out. He was so sweet there's no reason not to take him everywhere like Doug does with me. I really miss Karen, Mike, Eric and Renee, too. Be sure to give Dex a huggy kiss for me, Auntie Karen. He's the best puppy I've EVER met, even though he's a scamp. Tell him the next time we come through town my butt is off limits, and sniffing my lips isn't polite! Doug gets mad when I invade the space of others to sniff people, but I just can't help myself because I'm a Duppy.

Doug's friend, Kathy, is okay, and I know he was really glad to talk with her. He's recently tried calling and writing her four times, but couldn't get through and was worried because another one of his friends passed away this week. He's lost six friends in one year, and I'm sad for him. DeWayne was like a brother and I would have gone to California for his funeral, but I wasn't a service animal in June. Doug stayed with Linda, who I would have liked to, and will meet, but I had to stay with Emma who took great care of me. Doug said he loved celebrating Wayne with his wife Kristine and their kids, and it wasn't as sad as before he went. Before our adventure is over I'm going to get a chance to meet them myself, and can't wait!! See ya soon, guys!

Doug needs to walk me before we go out to watch the ball game tonite and grab a bite to eat, so I'm signing off for now. I still can't figure out what "cable" is, but Uncle Donny doesn't have it either. I've been loving my fan mail, and thank everyone that writes to me!!!

Your buddy,
Duppy

Stuff Going On

                    Doug and Carol on the Old Block





A special "Hey!" to Rosemary who was my "work wife." I called her yesterday, and we talked about stuff for a while. Her son-in-law, Andrew, was a very nice guy and we hit it off on my way out of Middletown. She fed me at work, and took care of me when I needed taking care of. Thanks, Rosie! Love you! A special "Hey!" to all the people I worked with for so long at WWMS. You're the best!!!

My sister, Cyndi, said that Mom is struggling, and that (quote) "it killed me to leave her" after a nearly two-week "visit" to help care for her. Heartbreaking for me. Cyn has been Mom's guardian angel during her long-term illness, and always found a way to be with her when needed. I just show up during emergencies, and Mom doesn't even remember that I was there because of drug and stupor issues.

Losing Pop a couple years ago was almost too much for me to handle, and still makes me cry easily. Lately death has become a part of my everyday life. I've lost five friends in the past year that have dropped dead. Another one today. Ouch. I almost don't wanna know anymore. My friend, Kathy, hasn't responded to two emails or two phone messages... and I'm afraid for her as it's not like her to drop out of sight. And she just lost her Mom.

Okay, I just talked to Kathy who has her share of stuff going on - deaths, weddings and commuting to Long Island. I didn't know I had her cell phone number until we talked a few minutes ago. Luv ya, Kathy!!

Donny will move into his new place tomorrow, and I'll have to get up and function earlier than I have in a long time so that I can be a "D. Pascoe," only one of only a few, to sign for his household goods to be moved in tomorrow. Jeez. I haven't risen from the rack before 9:00 A.M.ish for a really long time. After we get Donny moved in, I'll be looking at putting us back on the road. His Harley and truck will be back in possession in just hours!! So glad to have you home safely, Donny!!

Our blog has attracted a lot of attention. We've had almost 5,000 page visits since I started it just seven weeks ago from China, South Korea, the Cayman Islands, Brazil, Belgium, Russia, Finland, Spain, Denmark, Germany, Australia, the U.K., Canada, Japan and the U.S. I started the blog on a whim, but never thought it would turn in to what it has become, and Duppy has LOVED writing on our blog!!! Thanks to everyone for reading about us and writing to us. Our email address is Coltshooter2@Hotmail.com so you won't have to use the Blogspot.com to write to us. I love that you write to us!!

Blessings to all.

With love,
Doug and Duppy

Photos From Sunday's Football Day

Duppy can't help the fact that he's the ultimate chick magnet and Kristin, pictured below, was very taken with him. She is from Queens, NY, and wanted to be featured on our blog; with a winning smile like hers I'm glad to oblige. Thanks, Kristin, for hosting a fun afternoon for Donny, Duppy and me at the Waterside Hooters!

I didn't catch the blonde girl's name, but I think Donny got her number. She flounced over to Duppy while cooing all the way and using all the right words to melt him: Love, baby, cute, Aawww, you know! This picture doesn't do her justice. Good catch, Dup!

And one more of Duppy's fans - this one had kitty ears, and had been at a wine-tasting festival all day.

What's not to love???

This is one of Duppy's best trolling faces, and really knows how to get attention from anyone happening to be carrying food past the table.

And finally, the sunset report from Waterside: Postcard perfect!!!

Today we went to the beach and walked up to the pier. It was about seventy degrees out, but the breeze made it feel cooler. I chatted up a couple of the guys who were fishing, and found we have a common acquaintance in Chicago. Small world.

We should get word today or tomorrow how Donny's schedule will unfold to get him moved in to his new place. Tonight we'll be watching baseball and MNF!! Duppy is rooting for Philly!

It's Been Quite a Week!!!

For a Duppy I've sure been getting around this past week that we've been in Virginia Beach. For starters, Uncle Donny, Doug and I reconnected with Uncle Dave's boys and we spent the Columbus Day weekend together doing all kinds of things. I love it best when we all go to the beach and out together to restaurants, and the boyz are the best! I'm so lucky to have such a big family that loves me so much! A funny thing about Pete and Colin is that they look so much alike some people can't tell them apart, but I can easily. Yoda, right? I love being everyone's doggie, and wish Dane could've been here, too!!

We're camping in a high-rise luxury hotel right on Virginia Beach with Uncle Donny, which is not my favorite thing because we're pretty high in the air when I'm on the balcony and there's no place out there to pee or poop. Doug has to take me to the elevator, and then for a walk. My girlfriend, Margo, wouldn't like this at all, but for me it's okay because the room service brings us delicious steaks. Doug and I walk on the beach every day, and I love our walks to the pier where people catch fish; for some reason when they cast it makes me bark, but I don't know why. I'm such a Duppy. I love that the balcony door is always open, but waves crash on the beach 24/7 and that keeps me awake. The housekeeping staff all like me even though this isn't a pet-friendly hotel, and I can tell they have doggies by the smell of their shoes. They always give us extra coffee, but I wish they'd bring me some treats!

Doug's "brother time" is a big bonus for me because there aren't any people I'd rather be with than our family, and as much as I really love Uncle Dave and his boys, Uncle Donny plays "the bisquit game" very well. A couple years ago I messed up, and caught his hand with one of my fangs, but I couldn't help it because they stick out so much. That happened with my Emma, too, and I'm so sorry because I love her so much. I've only bitten one person on purpose, but it wasn't either one of them.

I've been training Doug how to take me to the beach, and he is a good student and quick learner. When we first got here it was really hot, but today it's only around seventy degrees. Auntie Karen and Uncle Mike gave us a great folding camp chair for Doug's birthday, and Doug showed me that if I dig a hole in the sand for myself behind it I can stay pretty cool. Doug always makes sure I have plenty of water because I have to chase the sea gulls and pigeons when they try to intrude on our lunch on the beach. The pelicans are kinda scary because they're so BIG I'm afraid I might just fit in the pouch of their beaks, so I don't mess with them. Everyone brings their doggies to Virginia Beach, but in Connecticut dogs aren't allowed on the beach. Now that I'm a service animal I can go anywhere Doug goes, and have never been denied entrance anywhere. Doug's so good to me!

One day we all went to the beach I thought I was going to have to save Uncle Donny when he dove into a wave but didn't come right up again! I ran down to the water to save him as he surfaced again in just the nick of time. Doug laughed at me, but I was really worried about Uncle Donny! Thank goodness I didn't have to dive in after him! I'm not really big on swimming and have only gone in the water once, and that was when it was so hot at Vicki and Monkey's house in New York. Doug was shocked because I haven't done that before, but I HAD to cool off.

Doug has been thinking about Carol a lot, and I keep telling him to call her. I miss Margo and our walks around the old neighborhood. Carol and Margo always made me dance when I saw them, which was kind of embarrassing but I couldn't help it. They are very special, and I heard Uncle Dave say that he could tell how much Doug cares for Carol by the way Doug touches her. The only one Doug touches these days is me, and I have to say that I KNOW he loves me, but we do miss them!

We've spent a few days driving around this past week looking for a new home for Uncle Donny, and yesterday he decided on his choice! His truck is still a few days from being delivered, but his Harley is here, and I know he's anxious to get it back under him. Doug never took me for a ride on his bike, and it kinda pissed me off because I really wanted to go and feel the wind blow past us as we rumbled down the road. Carol wouldn't get on the bike, but I never understood that because I just wanna go wherever Doug goes. We're just waiting to see if/how we can help move Donny into his new place before we decide what's next for us, so stay posted for the news.

Family Time In Virginia

                                      My handsome brothers in an older picture

I am one of the most blessed people I know. In our family we are all the best of friends, and there are no other people on the earth I'd rather "hang with." Dave and his two sets of twins, minus Dane who is a senior at Liberty University, spent the holiday weekend together with us in Virginia Beach. Duppy and I are "camped out" in a luxury hotel on the beach with Donny where the room service is great, the sound of pounding surf lulls us to sleep, and we enjoy celebrating our brotherhood by eating too much and enjoying cocktails regularly. Being able to mostly shake off responsibilities of life, and revel in a freedom the hard work of life brings is a really wonderful thing. Donny is just returning safely from a three-year overseas assignment I wouldn't dare to write about, but I'm really proud of him and Dave both.

We started the family holiday weekend festivities by ordering pitchers of brew and big, fat steaks at Logan's Steak House. It's so good to see the nephews again and catch up on their doings and goings on. We're all a bunch of beach bums, and enjoyed record-setting high temperatures for the beginning of the weekend. The surf was up, and the boys' surf board was freshly waxed - Donny is a great body surfer, and I think maybe part fish. Duppy is training me in "Take the dog to the beach" protocol, and I'm learning quickly. He tolerates our days on the beach quite well, and has been a good teacher.

Over the weekend we had a food agenda, which included a couple of favorite places. Shoney's breakfast buffet where we had all-you-can-stand bacon, sausage and ham? Oh, I'm SO down with that!!! Number One Chinese Buffet is an experience in and of itself. All-you-can-stand sushi bar, a Mongolian grill I didn't even go to, and rows and rows of various Chinese specialty dishes. Whoa. We always enjoy going to Golden Corral, and made the most of our visit there before rolling, literally, out the door. The last time we visited those haunts was when Dad was here with us. It's been nice to revel in the past, and still make new memories as the nephews become young men, and my brothers and I traipse through our fifties.

Today is rainy one, but I'm not complaining. It is, after all, the middle of October, and while my goal is to follow eighty degree temperatures, Duppy and I are really enjoying hanging out with Don. Stationed on the balcony overlooking the Atlantic seaboard, I've been watching the dolphins smile at me three times a day, the pelicans glide in formation, and admiring the thunderous roar of Hornets and Super Hornet jets that take off from Oceana Naval Air Station. I know it might sound a little strange but our Dad, and I think both of my brothers, enjoy parking next to the airport to watch aircraft take off and land. I hope to do that here soon. In another life I would have loved to be a naval aviator, and really enjoy the powerful sound of the jet engines as they take off and land in training operations. As I sit here writing this, I'm unable to differentiate between the rolling thunder, streaking lightening and and roaring jets tearing through the sound barrier. Duppy is not a happy camper.

I have also enjoyed our strolls down the beach and boardwalk with cocktails in hand to VA Beach pier where people catch smaller fish than I care to try for. While I really enjoy fishing, I think it's kind of funny that I also find enormous enjoyment in watching other people fish, especially children. Last year I went deep sea fishing eight or nine times before I just started going along for the ride to watch kids fish from the Mijoy and Hell Cat charter boats on the Connecticut shoreline.

Don, Duppy and I have been riding around looking for a residence that Donny can move into as he gets ready to report in to his new duty station. The process of finding a new home is quite daunting, but eased by the fact that the navy will allow him to stay in the hotel until the end of the month. His household effects arrived a few days ago; I know he's anxious to get moved in to a new place, and his Harley back under him as much as anything else. Until then, "Life's a Beach," and we'll carry the party on until the wind blows Duppy and me away.

So Long For Now Auntie Karen!

Once again I see Doug out mucking around in the truck, packing things into a more orderly manner and looking at maps. I know he's been talking to the Uncles and we're going to meet up with them in Virginia Beach for a visit, and YAY! More camping with the Uncles and nephews!! I could easily be Uncle Dave's doggie, but I'm going to really  miss being here with Karen, Mike, Eric, Renee and even Dexter. I think Dex knows we're pulling out, too, because he's been a real pain this morning - this afternoon he's been better, He keeps bringing me his toys and pushing them into my face, and jumping on my butt. He's such a puppy! Sharing Doug with Dexter took some getting used to, and finding him in our bed next to Doug in the morning was quite an adjustment for me.

A couple years ago we came to visit with Karen, but Doug took off to Europe and left me here!! I was a little concerned about that happening again. As much as I love Karen, I didn't appreciate being ditched by Doug. I've been watching him very closely, but ever since I got my service animal vest I don't get left behind anywhere. It seems the whole world loves a Duppy, and I'm really enjoying life!

Since I go everywhere with Doug, I don't get to greet him when he comes home anymore, but I sure do love it when Auntie Karen, Eric and Renee come home! It's just like the old days, and they know just how to fuss on me!  And I get to greet three people a day! I'm a lucky boy to have such a great family. Doug says we may be back this way during the holidays. I know for sure that we're spending Christmas with Emma in Connecticut, but I can't wait until the wind blows us back to Leesburg again!

Today when Karen got home we went for an enjoyable walk with Dex, and sniffed out a part of the neighborhood Dex doesn't usually go to and found all kinds of great things to pee on together!! Lottsa doggies use that trail. When we got home Dexter jumped all over me and made me chase him - I'm too old for him! He's really fast!! He jumps on my face, hops on my butt and runs away before I can get him. Scamp.

Special thanks for being such a great aunt, and special sister to Doug. I know he's really proud of you, and admires you. I think it's great you guys are such terrific friends and have a jolly old time traveling, exploring and just hanging out together. I wish I had brothers and sisters! I'm very envious. Thanks for your gracious hospitality, and all the things you did to make our visit memorable.

Love you,
Duppy

I Stand Corrected!!

Renee showed me how to copy and paste information from web pages, which reminds how my students used to show me computer "tactics," and LOVED that my students also taught me!! While Antietam was, indeed, the bloodiest day in the war, the numbers below represent more accurately the battle statistics of the major "Civil War" battles. Civil War... Hum. Seems kind of a silly oxymoron doesn't it, or is it just me?


The Worst Civil War Battles -


Antietam was the bloodiest one-day battle of the Civil War. But there were other battles, lasting more than one day, in which many more men fell. The numbers below are total casualties for both sides.

Duppy's Day at Antietam

                     Doug won't let me pee on battlefield fences

Today Auntie Karen was fussing over breakfast and making what Doug called "popovers" - something our Grampy used to make on Sunday mornings. When Doug and Uncles Dave and Donny talk about going to see Grampy I get all excited even though I've never really gotten to see him again, but I like the rock garden and park where we go. The guys always bring scotch, smoke cigars and sit around the same spot and toast him. We've been there a bunch of times, but I still haven't seen him. Grampy is the best. I tried eating the popover, but I liked the bacon a whole lot better! So did Dexter! Thanks, Karen!

Karen and Doug were excited today to go explore somewhere they've never been, and didn't know anything about until they went on the computer - then they got REAL excited by what they were reading! For my part, I just enjoy a good ride in the car. When we got there and went to the visitor's center, a park ranger came up to Doug and said, "No dogs are allowed in here." Hah! Silly park ranger! I'm not a dog - I'm a service animal! Doug really knows how to make the "No Dogs Allowed" people go away, and I'm really glad I get to go everywhere, and don't have to wait in the car by myself anymore!

We went to Antietam, and I could "smell" the blood in Bloody Lane in much the same way I did at Gettysburg, and a lot of it! We drove around the battlefield, the smallest one we've seen so far, which kind of "compressed" the effect and feeling of battle there. We walked past Dunker's church and down to Burnside's Bridge, which crosses Antietam Creek. Auntie Karen went ahead of us because Doug didn't want her to see his tears at this incredible battle site. Today I actually saw another dog, but he didn't get to go into the visitor's center and had to wait for his people in the car. I'm SO lucky.

Uncle Dave called Doug while we  were on the northern battlefield, and I think I may get to go camping with him and the boys next weekend! I'm psyched! To be able to camp with Uncles Dave and Donny at the same time with nephews would be heaven for me! My family is THE best!!! Tyler and I had a great time camping with Donny, Mark and Doug last summer! Camping with the Uncles, Adam, Colin and Pete all at the same time? Wow!!! Let's GO!

The very best part of the day was a restaurant we went to on the way home! All the ladies that worked there were glad to see me and very nice. Even though Doug and Karen were slipping me food, one of the ladies brought me my very own serving of chicken! Karen is always watching out for me and noticed I looked a little thirsty. She pushed her glass of water toward me, but I couldn't reach it and I had to stand up against the edge of the table to get a drink. The waitress was really tickled and laughed because I'm so cute, but I could tell Doug was shocked. The next time we go to a restaurant I'm sure he'll make certain to water me better than he did yesterday, or I'll have to take matters into my own paws again! THAT'S what he should have taken a picture of!

                  Doug wouldn't let me pee on the Burnside's bridge either!

Antietam Battlefield

                         Sunset Report: An arc of light after a humbling day

Karen mentioned yesterday that she wanted to make popovers this morning, which is something Dad used to do on Sunday mornings - a specialty, in fact - Karen broke all the rules and baked us up a beautiful batch! Pop would've been proud!! Scrambled eggs and bacon, too! I took a picture of breakfast ad lib - wished I'd arranged it a little because the popovers were SO incredibly beautiful, but the two bacon strips look like just one piece of bacon in the picture!! Delicious breakfast, Sis!! Duppy and Dexter thought so, too!

Our plan today was to go to the Antietam Battlefield - neither of us have been there before, but again, "Antietam" is a word I know without knowing why. That seems to happen a lot lately, and I wonder how it is I can't recall any background knowledge about something that sounds so familiar. The thing that struck me the most is that the battle for Antietam was the single deadliest day in American military history - EVER! At Gettysburg, the same approximate number of soldiers were killed in three days. Not one day! Yikes!


Casualties include three categories: 1) dead; 2) wounded; and 3) missing or captured. In general terms, casualties of Civil War battles included 20% dead and 80% wounded. Of the soldiers who were wounded, about one out of seven died from his wounds. Over 2/3 of the 622,000 men who gave their lives in the Civil War died from disease, not from battle.

Antietam Casualties

Approximate Numbers	Union	Confederate	Total
Killed	2,100	1,550	3,650
Wounded	9,550	7,750	17,300
Missing/Captured	750	1,020	1,770
Total	12,400	10,320	22,720

Because of the catastrophic nature of battle, exact numbers of casualties were virtually impossible to compile. The sources for these figures are The Official Records of the War of the Rebellion and the Antietam Battlefield Board. Tough to imagine. Another noteworthy fact is that Antietam was the first battleground to be photographed before the bodies were removed. I'm not posting the pics here, but you can Google Images yourself. They were taken by a guy who worked for Matthew Brady - forget his name as I sit here. Another startling fact about the battle was that six general officers - three per side - were killed. I don't believe that has happened anywhere, ever in the history of the world. Karen and I did the driving tour of the battlefield which was about eight miles long, and steeped in reverence. Dunker church, Bloody Lane, Burnside Bridge - this battlefield was six miles long and two miles wide, and the site of one of history's bloodiest battles. 50,000 Artillery rounds were expended in a day! Artillery Hell.

I bought Antietam: A Documentary Film, which is narrated by James Earl Jones, to complement the Gettysburg tour CD. Mom and I are going to have a ball when we get together!! My brother-in-law, Mike, made us a copy of the entire Ken Burns' Civil War PBS series and the movie Gettysburg. Big thanks for that, Mikey!

It occurred to me today that I don't know where Valley Forge is, and I've never been to Mount Vernon, though Karen says I have. I feel compelled to do something about that. We had a very interesting day, and Karen is a wonderful playmate for both Duppy and me. We went to an all-you-can-stand Chinese buffet on the way home where Duppy was not only greeted, but welcomed openly. The Chinese waitresses really fussed on him, brought him his own dish of chicken and laughed in delight when he put his feet on the edge of the table and drank out of a glass on the table. (I was mortified!) Talk about getting away with murder! We gave her a big tip!!! I back away from my earlier supposition that you can be too cute. Duppy's got it nailed.

Virgina Beach and hooking up with Donny has been put on temporary hold as he has a full-time agenda to find a place to live and get moved in quickly. He's in VA Beach, which is not conducive to guys with campers who need secure parking arrangements, like me. I hope that Dave can still find his way here next weekend - maybe we can find somewhere to set the camper up. I know I've camped in Virginia Beach before, but can't remember where. Anyway, Dave, no worries. Come on down and we'll figure out the details as need be! Bring ALL the Boyz and sleeping bags!!! I've got everything needed to be the host with the mostest and I LOVE your tribe!!

To my blog followers, I thank you for following. I have about 100 views per day on my blog each day from twelve countries - oftentimes even more!! It seems my family and friends are the only ones who leave me comments, but I do welcome your notes when you feel inclined to leave them.

All for now!
Doug and the Dup