Welcome to Hayward

Kicking around town can be lots of fun. Come join me.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Griswold Cast Iron Skillet

Here is my Griswold Cast Iron Skillet, which is 1" deep, but I think I would like to also have a cast iron pan which is deeper.   This is nice and lightweight, about 2 1/2 pounds.



Another fun day with the family at Uncle Joe's apartment.  Then off to lunch at the Red Robin in Pleasanton.  Mmmmm delicious.



Auntie Isabel, Dad, Uncle Joe

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Healthy Tuscan Eating

Tuscan Bean Soup, pasta fagioli, white bean salad - brings steady dose of energy and curbs cravings.

Extra-virgin olive oil.

Nutritious cheeses are caprino and pecorino.  They contain less fat, more calcium, easier to digest.

Cook pasta five to seven minutes "al dente" - which contains less starch and sugar and retains much more protein and vitamins.

World's Healthiest Wine  is red Chianti with bottles labeled "classico".  Credit goes to the Sangiovese grapes.
8 ounces purple grape juice.

Mustard greens, dandelion greens, dillweed for soups and salads.

Take a walk.

Ooohh!  I tried the seven minute "al dente" pasta tonight - I loved it!  Chewy and delicious!

Dad and I went to the movies this morning and saw "King's Speech".  We both really liked this movie.




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Friday, January 28, 2011

FREE Chiropractic Adjustment Today

My favorite chiropractor, Dr. Hightower called me and said he will give me a FREE adjustment to celebrate my birthday.  Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaa  He really did save my life.  I spent nearly two years in a dark, quiet bedroom - no TV or radio - I was so sick.  My beautiful mom paid for approximately 3 visits a week for about two more years and then I literally was rear-ended two times - which I loved - because the insurance company then paid for my adjustments.  Now, I am so much healthier.  Now, I don't go for adjustments because I am much healthier and that's good because they now cost $60 per adjustment - ouch!  Gotta be in a lot of pain.  Although, it is worth every penny when you are in pain.






Above are my amazing chiropractor Dr. Hightower, his wonderful wife Carol, and the front of his office.  This morning he gave me the best birthday gift - a FREE adjustment.  Wow!  Do I feel Good!



Thursday, January 27, 2011

Rexhall Vision Motorhome

Today Luigi and I happened upon the gal that has her 22' Rexhall Vision Motorhome for sale, that we see everyday in the RV parking here.  She just happened to be there with the RV open and we ran over to have a look-see.  Of course, it was love at first sight.  It fits in a single parking place, has the bed and bath set up in the back.  It is an older 1991, but it has only 68,000 miles.  If I were ready to buy my RV, I would definitely seriously consider this one for my first.  The Roadtreks are best, especially the 17' for the gas mileage, but it just seems so inconvenient for the bed, toilet and shower and limited storage.  Sometimes, I consider a plain cargo van, but being so unhandy, I still would want a bed, toilet and shower.  haha  The little 21' Class C's can get only 6-8 miles, which I think would drive me to distraction.   Europe seems to have so many choices for economy RVing, and we seem to have almost zero.  I am constantly searching, and there is no best answer.  Although, it looks like I have plenty of time to keep looking.  After all, we still spend 100% of our time in Hayward.  Wheeeeeeeeeee

Had a nice day today,  The family had lunch at Home Town Buffet.  Bill joined us again and that is always a good mix.  Auntie Isabel took a half-hour test and her doctor says her heart is looking good now.  Yeaaaaaa

My new camera that I ordered - the tracking says it has made it to Hayward, but that it is still in transit.  Can't wait to get it and try it out.  Hopefully, tomorrow or Saturday. 

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Comcast Internet Includes Lifetime Norton Virus Protection

Remember all that computer virus attack I had recently - and all the MONEY I spent - including money to the no-name virus and also to McAfee to first get rid of the virus, and then again to McAfee for my annual renewal.  Comcast says I have FREE Lifetime Norton coverage with them!  I don't know why I never knew this before, but I have decided that I am happy about it.  Now, hopefully I will have someone on my side to help me with the virus's.  (I hope).  hmmm

McAfee has graciously refunded my $89.99 renewal fee and I have now downloaded the
Norton Security Anti-Virus program through Comcast for FREE!

Norton Security has a 24/7 Technical Help Number at:  1-877-314-3516.
Please write this down now if you have Norton in case you get struck by a mean nasty virus.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Happy Birthday to Me!

Early this morning I received a coupon from Jack in the Box for a free desert.  It is good for today only.    Think I'll run over this morning and get their chocolate cake - Birthday Cake!

1:00 p.m. we are having lunch with the family to celebrate at Don Jose's Mexican Restaurant.

4:00 p.m. Comcast is coming to check our TV's all acting up.

Monday, January 24, 2011

Waffle House with the Family.

Of course, none of our cell phones ever work.  They were calling us.  We were calling them - and none of the calls were going through - until..... we were sitting right across from each other in the restaurant. 

Tomorrow is my birthday.  Can you believe this is my very last year of being in my 50's.  Where does the time fly to.  If I live to 120, I might be able to accept I "might" be middle-aged, but I don't feel like it.  I wonder what I want to be when I grow up. hmmmm  Actually, I read that if you haven't grown up by the time you are 50 - You Don't Have To.   I Like That! 

Sunday, January 23, 2011

My brother Skipper and Cleo - a happy man and his dog!
Last night dad and I had dinner at IHOP.  Looks like we might be going to start enjoying eating out together more often.  Very cool.

We had an envelope with the check for the upcoming Chinese New Year's dinner at the clubhouse on the dryer and it has disappeared.  We went through all the garbage cans outside.  Looked everywhere.  We wrote a new check and as I was delivering it into the mail tube, dad says, "Wait, I think I remember now.  I already delivered it."  So we called Joyce Smith.  Nope, she had not received it.  So the mystery envelope continues.  Dad has been doing some interesting sleep-walking lately, so I'm not sure.  We just laughed, and the mystery envelope continues.

Today are the football playoffs.  So it will be a fun FootBall Day.

Saturday, January 22, 2011

My Beautiful Auntie Dorothy Lorraine Freitas


May 11, 1930 - September 5, 2010
These pictures were taken in August 2009.
Auntie, I miss you so much.
You are the best, most fun, most loving, caring, full of life. I always looked forward to seeing and being with you every single day. You made life feel real and positive. I will always honor your spirit and live life to the fullest. You are in my heart always.


Friday, January 21, 2011

My Adorable Cousin Deaunn Di Marco wearing her bright pink jacket hugging her mom's beautiful car inside the hangar next to the jet. 

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

New Domain and Web Host

Just for fun I signed up for my own web host tonight.  Have no idea how or why, just thought it would be fun to learn.  If I ever get it going, I named the domain http://www.newdayadventure.com/   There won't be anything there for quite a while.

Today had a great lunch at In-N-Out Burger in Pleasanton with the family. 

Auntie Isabel has completely lost the vision in her right eye and her doctor told her she would lose her sight in her left eye also.  but Great News!  Her new doctor says she will Always be able to see with her left eye.  She won't be able to read (her favorite hobby) or see numbers, but she will always be able to see as well as she sees now.  This is very exciting, because it was very scary thinking she would not be able to see at all.  She has had a series of 27 injections in that eye, and they now say, they will be able to give her another series of injections to save her sight.  Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Counter added tonight.

Very exciting.  There have now been two visitors. 

Welcome!

Monday, January 17, 2011

Uncle Joe and Auntie Isabel at Waffle House Today

What can I say.  I Can Not get enough of these two.  They are just too cute.








Short Fun Videos




Sunday, January 16, 2011

Use "BPA-free" Plastic"
Look for numbers 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6, which are unlikely to contain BPA.
Steer clear of plastics with the number 3 or 7 on the bottom.
Microwave in glass containers.  Heat increases the release of BPA.
Look for BPA-free pouches when buying tuna.

The last couple of days, in addition to watching football playoff games, I have been researching online for cast iron skillets.  The older cast iron is very appealing because it is very durable and yet, more lightweight.  Seems like I would much prefer the lighter weight, just knowing myself.  Turns out, there is a whole world devoted to cast iron skillets.  Very interesting.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Healthy Ways to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth:

Blackstrap molasses  is considered the healthiest, most nutrient-dense type of molasses.
When baking, use 1 1/3 cups of molasses for every cup of sugar.
Or eat a spoonful a day.
Or add it to oatmeal or drizzle on pancakes or waffles.

Brown rice syrup is butterscotch-like flavored syrup and considered one of the most healthful sweeteners. 

Barley malt syrup is robust-flavored and works well in muffins, cakes and sweet breads.

Coconut palm sugar lowers blood sugar and is a nutrient powerhouse with minerals like zinc, magnesium and potassium, enzymes and rich in energizing B vitamins and immunity-boosting vitamin C.

Stevia strengthens bones and may prevent osteoporosis.  Is proven to harden tooth enamel and stave off cavities and tooth decay.
Powdered or liquid.

Agave boosts immunity.  Has natural anti-inflammatory compounds and a special type of fiber called inulin that protects the digestive tract - may ease irritable bowel syndrome and colitis.
1/4 cup of agave equals a full cup of white sugar.

Honey protects against cancer with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anticancer properties.
For most nutrients, look for raw or wild honey, which is darker than regular honey.
Use half the amount of honey in place of sugar.

Xylitol prevents colds, ear infections, and sinus problems.   Derived from the birch tree.
In health-food stores.  Add to coffee, tea or for baking.
Use the same amount in place of sugar.

Enjoying lots of Football playoff games this weekend.

Friday, January 14, 2011

Hmmm... something is different here. I do not see all of my choices, like video, spell check, font, text. Think I'll keep this short and see if my blog choices return tomorrow. This feels very weird.

11:15 p.m.
Aha, I figured it out.  Instead of having the Compose button, I was in the Edit HTML button, which I am not using yet.  But, I do plan on eventually learning HTML and get my own web host.  Then, possibly sign up with Adsense and earn a few advertising dollars.  We'll see down the road.

Since my birthday is this month, and I specifically want to work on learning more on blogging, I ordered online a Panoramic Stitching Software Program and also a Digital Camera Tripod.  Should have them both by my birthday.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

January 13, 2011



Everything went well at dad's doctor's visit today.  Got all of his prescriptions including the one for physical therapy.  Funny thing, is both at his doctor's office and also the physical therapy - the phones are down today.

Home Town Buffet

Surprise.  Surprise.  Bill came to lunch with the family at Home Town Buffet with all of us in Union City.  Lots of fun.  Everyone is already tired of me taking pictures of them.  This could be a problem for me, since I hang out with the same small group all the time.  Guess, I will have to enjoy the warmer weather and start exploring the city a bit more because I want to include pictures with my blog.  Personally, I would be very contented to just continue taking pictures of the family because I think they are very cute.

Wednesday, January 12, 2011


Allergy Eyes

Tried to clean up Luigi's eyes.  You can still see dark staining under the right eye.  We'll see if over time, the allergy pills help clear his eyes.  I looked at Sadie's eyes tonight.  She has a white coat and her eyes are completely clear.  Hopefully, Luigi will have the same experience.  I'm always trying to clean his eyes, and cut the hair that is sticky and dark around his eyes.  It cannot be comfortable for him.

When calamity strikes

I wanted to include this quote in my own blog so I can remember it.
"When a calamity strikes somebody you know, all you have to do is be there for them.  You are not expected to know answers.  Often, there are no answers.  If you want to be a friend to someone who has a terrible disease, or who sufferred a terrible loss, just listen.  Be patient and kind and thoughtful.  That is all you to do".

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Uncle Joe and Auntie Isabel at the Waffle House yesterday.  hehe  I cannot get enough of these two.  They are so much fun and so darn cute. 

Took dad to physical therapy today, and of course, for the umpteenth time there is confusion on approval through workman's comp.  So he didn't get his session and we have to get this straightened out.  What else is new.  haha  So, we treated ourselves to lunch at El Rancho - our current favorite restaurant.  mmmm good.  I had the Philly Cheese Steak sandwich.  We ran around and did a lot of errands and got a lot accomplished.  Turned out to be a pretty full day.

Monday, January 10, 2011

January 10, 2011

Our sweet James has passed.  Here he is with his beautiful daughter Patty at her wedding September 18, 2010.  All of our heart and prayers are with you and the family.  James, you are so loved and missed.


Dad and I spent two hours at his doctors this morning and then had breakfast with Uncle Joe and Auntie Isabel at the Waffle House in Dublin.  We bought a new doorbell and sink aerator and did a little grocery shopping.  Pretty busy day.  We've been up since 4:00 am  Of course, I took my afternoon nap and went to the jacuzzi.  Luigi and Sadie had their playdate.  Pretty noisy tonight.  Lots of Sadie barking.  Bill brought us a big bowl of pasta.  Delicious.

Sunday, January 9, 2011

January 9, 2011

Really good sports weekend.  Exciting playoffs in football.  PBR (Professional Bull Riding) has started again.  Luigi is feeling much friskier.  Those shots from the doctor kinda knocked him out for a couple of days.  Now, he is raring to go.  Dad met our new neighbor across the street today.  She is not certain which day she will actually be moving in.  We had delicious steak and peppers, etc. for dinner.  Lots of good leftover sides.  Mashed potatoes, chili stew.  Luigi liked it too.

Our neighbor Bill gave us allergy pills from Costco.  Split them in half and give half in the morning and half in the evening to Luigi.  They have completely eliminated Sadie's tear stains.  I'll let you know if they clear Luigi's stained eyes.

There was only one small rv at the RV show Friday to really look at.  It was about 21' with a pretty good layout inside, but it had an overhang above the windshield.  I really am a big fan of skies.  California skies.  Colorado skies.  Montana skies.  I love skies and I love driving out in the open.




Saturday, January 8, 2011

January 8, 2011

Dad and I went out to dinner - about 3:30 pm - ha ha - that is late for us.  We went to El Rancho in Castro Valley.  That is the first time the two of us have been out to "dinner" in four years.  It was really fun.  Wish he were up to doing more things, but we are taking it one day at a time.  And this is a good day.

Friday, January 7, 2011

January 7, 2011

Went to the Fairgrounds RV show today.  Lots of nice RVs, but I am really more interested in smaller units, and this show had mostly larger units.  Of course, some day my dream is to travel.  First see all 50 states and then check out some of the more genteel and South American countries.  For now, of course, I spend 100% of my time here in Hayward and close by taking care of dad and Luigi.  Those gypsy thoughts are of days into the future.  Keep hope alive.

Thursday, January 6, 2011

January 6, 2011

Yesterday, Luigi and Cousin Cookie had a play date.  Lots of Energy.

Today, Luigi had his annual checkup and received four shots, so he is just very quiet tonight.

Had lunch with the family at Shari's Restaurant in Livermore.  Definitely a cold winter day outside.  Warm and lots of fun inside.


Practicing putting it multiple pics and videos.



Now to the other side.


hmmm... that was the middle... now how to get to the far right side....










Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Computer Viruses and Willie Nelson Joke

Well, my story is too long and frustrating.  But, I finally got McAfee to help me remove the virus. 

Also, I finally got telephone numbers written  down, so the next time I can just call McAfee.  The virus had hold of my computer, so I could not go online to search for help.  If anyone ever needs the numbers to McAfee, please write these numbers down now, before you need them. 

McAfee Techincal Difficulties:  1-877-722-4513 
McAfee Customer Service: 1-866-622-3911

Now, tomorrow back to the fun of blogging.

The woman invites the postal carrier to come inside to receive his Christmas Bonus.  She takes him into the bedroom and she really takes care of him.  After, she takes him into the kitchen and makes him bacon and eggs, and biscuits and gravy.  Finally, she gives him a dollar.  "Hey, what just happened here?" he asks.  Oh, I asked my husband what I should give you for Christmas and he said, "Screw him!  Give him a dollar!"  "Breakfast was my idea."

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Computer Virus Attack

We shall see what happens next.  First, there is a vicious computer virus attack.  My McAfee is supposed to still be valid for more than one more month.  After going round and round, we are offered to purchase an anti-virus attack program.  The only thing that I can run at this point is my McAfee which keeps declaring everything is fine, no problems.  So, finally out of desperation, I agree to pay $69 for this "no-name" anti-virus.  Then, it says I must have the Shield, another $79.  I am so frustrated because I am under attack and nothing else works.  I pony up the money, just to see how big a sucker I can be.  My computer is now working, BUT.... the receipts in my email are all no-name.  And audio ads show up that I cannot turn off.  Not sure what my next step is going to be, or who to turn to.  This is very scary.  But, hopefully the mistakes I am making now might help someone else in the future.  I'll keep you up-to-date with this mystery.  I love being on the computer, but this is not fun.  The most frustrating part of this, is that I just don't have anyone to ask about this that might have a clue.  Sure hope this is not happening to anyone else.  Wish me luck.

Monday, January 3, 2011

Dad's Big Hernia Tummy

Took dad to the doctor's today because ever since he had his hernia operation, he now has a big hernia on the outside.  And it keeps growing bigger and harder.  Today we had to give away ALL of his pants to the Salvation Army.  The doctor says that it will continue growing, simply because dad is so crooked.  I forget the technical reason why that makes it more difficult, but it does.  He gave him another stomach binder and said if dad will wear it, it would help keep it from growing so fast.  Dad says it is really a lot of work to get that binder on, but he is going to try to wear it more.  So, we shall see.  We went to the store and bought him some more pants.  Of course, he has shrunk 7" - down from 5'11" and now at 5'4" - so we are getting the pants hemmed today.  I was laughing today, because the more he shrinks, the bigger his hernia gets.  But, the hernia is pink and healthy, and with dad being so crooked, the doctor says that hernia is actually what is helping dad breathe, so we should be happy it is a big and healthy hernia.  Yes, breathing is good and we are very happy with lots of healthy breathing.

Sunday, January 2, 2011

We'll Get Em' Next Year

My Oakland Raiders won all of their AFL games, but still did not make the playoff's this year.  That's okay, because we really had a fun season and won a lot of games.  Also, I learned how to watch them for Free on the computer when they are not on television.  I'm probably the last to learn about that.  haha 

Just in case, I will give you the link:  http://www.atdhe.net/

Instructional video on the computer this morning, showed me how to fix my remote control for my bed.
It works!  Very Happy.

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Get Well Quick Cheri


My Sweet Cheri has the flu.  Get Well Quick Cheri.

Next year PLEASE get your flu shot. 

We all love you very much.