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I feel like I’m back in Catholic grammar school, standing in front of the classroom and sharing what I did on my summer vacation.

Well, I had an awesome time! Not only was I able to spend quality moments with my mother and brother (which I will share about in future posts), but I also had the opportunity to learn a thing or two.

Two weeks ago, I was soooooo ready to take this vacation because I was at a point where I needed to get away and be in a different environment – I needed a change.

Here are some things I learned….

Driving:

It was such a novelty for the first couple of days to drive a car again after not being behind the wheel in 11 years. Yet, I remembered something…..I HATE DRIVING. Actually I don’t hate driving, it’s just that I hate the fact there are other drivers on the road when I’m driving. If I could drive alone, I’d be fine. And I’d forgotten how horrible some people in Florida drive because not only do they move slower than a turtle on Valium, but they’re constantly riding their brakes, so if you’re driving behind them you can’t tell whether they’re going to stop and turn or if they’re just testing their brakes for the hell of it. But I was proud of myself because I only lost my temper once at a traffic light, when the driver in front of me waited for like an HOUR to move after the light turned green. I honked my horn and yelled, “HOW MUCH GREENER DO YOU WANT IT TO GET? MOVE, YOU FREAKIN’ TURD!!!!!”


Flying:

Yes, I’m a born again flyer! I can’t tell you how happy I am that I decided to take the plane rather than the train to Florida. I feel so liberated because I no longer have that gut-wrenching fear in the pit of my stomach about flying any longer. I can honestly say that I actually love to fly again. And this is even after leaving West Palm Beach Airport on Monday morning in STORMY skies. We had quite a bit of turbulence for the first hour of the flight, but I DID NOT experience white knuckles or feel the need to grab the vomit bag in the back pouch of the seat in front of me.  And I have to say, Southwest Airlines is truly one of the nicest airlines I’ve ever flown. They made the experience very enjoyable and comfortable.


Summer:

Something has come over me this summer. As most of you guys know, summer has never been my favorite season because I abhor being hot. However, I tried a little experiment this year and instead of resisting, fighting, and resenting summer, I changed my outlook and decided to embrace it; seeing the fun in it. Even before I left Philadelphia two weeks ago, I started enjoying this summer. Grant it, I still abhor being hot but hey, it’s only for 3 months each year. And besides, it makes me look forward to fall and winter!


Grass:

As I shared at the beginning of this post, I was beyond ready for a change in environment when I took this vacation. And somewhere in my head I thought that once I revisited Florida, I would have the desire to move back because quite frankly I was getting sick of Philadelphia – the people, their negative and unhappy attitudes, and just the overall unconsciousness of this city. I started to think that perhaps it was just this city.

But do you know what I learned?

All that sunshine, warm weather and palm trees don’t make people in Florida any different from the people in Philly.

The people there are the same people here.

There are negative, unhappy and unconscious people everywhere in this world. And I needed this experience to show me that.

On the last night of my vacation, my mother asked me, “Ronnie, do you think you’d ever move back to Florida?” And I was honest with her.

I loved the 20 years I spent living in Florida; cherishing fond memories. And I had the most excellent time visiting my family again. But I realize that I’m a true northeast, city person. I love that we experience four seasons. I love that I no longer have the need for a car and that I can walk everywhere. I love that I can be in NYC within two hours. I love that everything here is not pristine and perfect-looking because I like the gritty rawness of the Northeast. I love the deep history that comes from this part of the United States because it’s old and has a rich past. I love its terrain.

And if I decide to move to another city on this coast, it won’t be because I’m trying to escape something that’s inevitably everywhere; it will be because I simply know it’s the right time to move.

The Northeast coast is where my soulful roots are.

In my heart of hearts, I feel like I belong here.

Yup….it’s home.


Have an awesome weekend everyone!

I will be back to my normal posting schedule next week…X

54 comments:

  1. Ron! I'm SO glad that you had a wonderful visit with your family! Holy Cow...you haven't driven in ELEVEN years...OMG! That is like freakin' forever!!!! I don't drive much...because I don't like it that much, but I have driven in the past umm couple of weeks! It would be so much easier if we were on the road alone though....I totally agree with that!! Glad that your flights went well...I am feeling very nervous about flying to my daughter's wedding...which is in FLORIDA, but not till November of 2013. So, I have a while to build up my confidence...or worry myself to death!! I agree with you on the Northeast...I wouldn't want to live anywhere else, although I have certainly entertained the notion from time to time! Happy Friday Ronnie!! Enjoy!! Mwah!
    Jeanne

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  2. Thoroughly enjoyed this post, Ron, and so glad you conquered the fear of flying. I had to smile about the driving experience 'cause I thought Americans drove fast, fast, fast. Seems I was wrong about that.
    I think we all get disheartened about where we live, that's why vacations are so important. Whenever I've been away I've always been pleased to get back home. As you say, the same people types are everywhere. Enjoy the rest of your week.

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  3. I love your photos, especially the last one
    Seinfeld used to do a great bit about Florida drivers - he said the state's motto should be 'sit low, drive slow' and that people would put their turn signals on when they left home - he called it the 'eventual left'
    ya know what, I was cursing NJ drivers yesterday
    the second the rain started everyone forgot how to drive

    welcome back to the nor'east my love :)

    Hope sends hugs

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  4. Awwwwwwwwww...... (((((((( Ron )))))))))

    Welcome home.

    Lovely photo--and I'm so glad the flying experience turned into a conquered fear. :-)

    And I gotta tell ya, I'm very proud for you that you bothered to give a GOOD look inside and out.....to look for the lessons and gifts in that time spent at stoplights waiting for the boogers in front of you to rediscover the gas pedal. LOL

    Seriously....
    I know plenty of folks who return home, lamenting that they HAVE to be there, that don't bother to look to see what it is in THEM that makes it such a dreadful experience. I've had those kinda moments myself--so I know how easy that one is to do.

    Truth is, most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be. (Yes, I know that's not an original, but it's still applicable.) And really, there's something to be said about looking for things that validate what I'm frustrated about--and overlooking what discounts the frustration so I can be RIGHT.
    <-- likes being right!!

    Human beings are human beings. We all have our moments, that's for certain. I tend to see things from a wider perspective when I remember that.
    *laughing* It's helpful that I'm an alien and don't lay claim to some of those traits--it means I get to simply gather the information and assess if I want those attributes as a part of who Mel IS. If not--pffffffffttttttt to that human trait!

    Oh, and I rather LIKE the challenge with the grumpy, crabby, look for what's WRONG folks. *laughing* With the weather dry and hotter than Hades for days on end....I'm surrounded by farmers with that attitude and I LOVE it! Gives me a chance to get 'em going RIGHT before I knock their grumbles out from underneath 'em....... GOOD fun! :-)

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  5. Well Ron, your visit certainly taught you a lot and all of it positive! I'm so glad you had a good time and have come back refreshed. I missed you. x

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  6. Ron, this is such a great post! You discovered so much about yourself during this vacation--and you kicked your fear of flying! I'm so jealous! I agree with you about driving, too. Driving would be great if only all those schmucks would get out of the way! You took a trip to find out where you really belong. You're like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz! Now, click your heels three times and say "There's no place like Philly!" Have a great weekend, buddy!!

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  7. Hi Ronnie,

    It's so nice to see you at home base. I am happy that not only there was fun and meaningful moment, but a few lessons. I do believe that almost everything can been seen in a meaningful way.. or just thrown out like a wad of old chewing gum. I much prefer to find something meaningful...

    I can first relate to the driving part. D also has a DL and like he, he does not own a car and rents when he really needs to.He would also prefer to be walking or in mass transit to be driving all day! OK; you can't do it everywhere...

    So great for your "new born flyer" status ( Go, dude!) and for easing up in set attitudes like with summer or about Philly's negative vibes... We learn and evolve or else, we are stagnating...

    Sooo glad to see your photo of the coast heading back to Philly! That means that we get to visit you again when we will come back East.
    Yay for Philly roots- Woot!--- ehm, calming down now.

    Happy weekend and will it be a back to work Monday? Happy back to work, then.
    xox

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  8. Ron, you learned some valuable life lessons on vacation. I think it reiterated the fact that if you are comfortable in your skin the location will not change that!
    So happy you had a fabulous vacation!

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  9. Ron, you have learned and you have grown and now you know a little more about yourself. It brings a tear to my eye! As far as those old farts in the cars at the red lights, Man, I hate it too when they have to wait until the whole Star Spangled Banner is sung before they move on a green light. I was behind an old gent just this morning and he too play songs with his brake lights. Dot-Dash-Dash-Dot-Dot. I think it was a Lady Gaga tune. Well, my friend welcome back to the North and let your soul roam freely and be the best you can be.

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  10. Good morning Jeanne~

    "Holy Cow...you haven't driven in ELEVEN years...OMG! That is like freakin' forever!!!!

    I know, can you BELIEVE that?!?! The first thing my mother asked me when I got in her car to drive us to breakfast was, "Ronnie...do you remember how to drive?" HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

    "Glad that your flights went well...I am feeling very nervous about flying to my daughter's wedding...which is in FLORIDA, but not till November of 2013. So, I have a while to build up my confidence...or worry myself to death!!"

    I TOTALLY know how you feel because I felt the same way before I left. But for some reason, I got back that feeling I use to have many, many years ago when I LOVED flying. November is usually a great time to travel to Florida because the weather is good. It's the summertime that's tricky because they experience a lot of storms. If you haven't already made your reservations, try booking with Southwest because they honestly made my flying experience very enjoyable and relaxed. I felt very safe and confident flying them.

    "I agree with you on the Northeast...I wouldn't want to live anywhere else...."

    Amen! I love the Northeast!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Have a great weekend!

    X to you and the girlz!

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  11. Hellooooooooo Valerie~

    "I had to smile about the driving experience 'cause I thought Americans drove fast, fast, fast. Seems I was wrong about that."

    Usually Americans DO drive fast, especially in places like NYC and LA. But in Florida, it's a whole other thing. I think it's because there are so many tourists; not sure of where they're going.

    "I think we all get disheartened about where we live, that's why vacations are so important."

    You're absolutely right, and that's why I need to take the time to experience more vacations/get-a-ways.

    " Whenever I've been away I've always been pleased to get back home. As you say, the same people types are everywhere."

    Amen! I needed this vacation to remind me of that.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Have a faaaaaabulous weekend!

    X

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  12. Hey there Lady Dianne~

    Aw, thanks. I've spent the past three days editing all the photos I took. OMG...I have so many!!!

    "Seinfeld used to do a great bit about Florida drivers - he said the state's motto should be 'sit low, drive slow' and that people would put their turn signals on when they left home - he called it the 'eventual left"

    Bwhahahahahhahaha! That's freakin' HILARIOUS! And TRUE! People in Florida either DON'T use their blinkers at all, or they use them constantly for NO reason.

    "ya know what, I was cursing NJ drivers yesterday
    the second the rain started everyone forgot how to drive."

    We had a couple of really heavy rain storms last week in Florida and it was the same way. Although, people seem to drive FASTER in Florida when it rains. Go figure!

    Thank you. It feels so good to be back home. But I gotta tell ya, it's much hotter here than it was in Florida. OY VEY!

    Have a wonderful weekend!

    X and hugs to you and Hope!

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  13. Good morning Pearl~

    Thank you. Yes, not only did I have stellar time in Florida, being with my family, but I learned some things too.

    I really needed this vacation.

    Have a wonderful weekend, m'dear! Thanks for stopping by!

    X

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  14. Hey there Rob~

    "You discovered so much about yourself during this vacation--and you kicked your fear of flying! I'm so jealous!"

    Rob, I was so thinking of you while I was on the plane because I know how you and I feel the same. And it's funny because I didn't take anything to calm me down before I flew, so I didn't know how the hell I was going to react. But amazingly enough, I was okay.

    "I agree with you about driving, too. Driving would be great if only all those schmucks would get out of the way!"

    THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    "You're like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz! Now, click your heels three times and say "There's no place like Philly!"

    Love that, Rob!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, buddy. Have a grrrrreat weekend!

    X

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  15. Bonjour Barb~

    "I do believe that almost everything can been seen in a meaningful way.. or just thrown out like a wad of old chewing gum. I much prefer to find something meaningful..."

    I love how you said that, and I totally agree!

    "He would also prefer to be walking or in mass transit to be driving all day!"

    Yaaaaay D!!!!! And I know how he feels!

    This trip was an eye opener on many levels for me. I'm still processing it, and will share more in future posts. I learned a lot :)

    No, I still have the rest of July off and will be going back to work in August, so I'm going to really enjoy these next two weeks.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Wishing you and D a wonderful weekend!

    ((((( You + D )))))

    xox

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  16. Hiya Suzi~

    Yes, I did, so I'm very grateful for this trip :)

    "I think it reiterated the fact that if you are comfortable in your skin the location will not change that!"

    You said it! Wherever we go, that's where we are.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Have a great weekend!

    X

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  17. Hey there Mr. Dave~

    "Ron, you have learned and you have grown and now you know a little more about yourself."

    Thank you. Yes, I feel like I really learned a great deal from this trip. I needed to remove myself, so that I could stand back and notice the bigger picture. I feel grateful for this experience.

    "Man, I hate it too when they have to wait until the whole Star Spangled Banner is sung before they move on a green light. I was behind an old gent just this morning and he too play songs with his brake lights. Dot-Dash-Dash-Dot-Dot. I think it was a Lady Gaga tune."

    Bwhahahahahhahaha! Dave, you crack me the hell up!!!!

    "Well, my friend welcome back to the North and let your soul roam freely and be the best you can be."

    Thank you for your supportive words, my friend. Have a wonderful weekend!

    X

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  18. Hiya Mel!

    Thank you. It feels GREAT to be home!

    I'm so glad I decided to take the plane rather than the train because I really needed to conqure my fear of flying. I did a lot of Reiki on myself a few days before I flew, so I think that helped a lot. It really seemed to calm me down and allowed me to enjoy the experience, instead of dreading it.

    "I know plenty of folks who return home, lamenting that they HAVE to be there, that don't bother to look to see what it is in THEM that makes it such a dreadful experience."

    Yes, and that is what I've learned - to look inside.

    "Truth is, most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be."

    That's one of things this experience has taught me - to BE happy even if the people around me are not. There are unhappy people everywhere, so we need to take our happiness with us wherever we go.

    "Human beings are human beings. We all have our moments, that's for certain. I tend to see things from a wider perspective when I remember that."

    You're right, Mel. And that's something I need to remind myself - look from a wider perspective.

    "Gives me a chance to get 'em going RIGHT before I knock their grumbles out from underneath 'em....... GOOD fun! :-)"

    HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! You, GO, Mel!!!!

    Thanks oodles for stopping by and sharing your thoughts and feelings on this post. Always enjoyed!

    Have a super weekend!!!

    (((( You )))))

    X

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  19. Ron, I so enjoyed reading your perspectives on what you learned about the grass always seems greener. Why do we always think it is? You're right, people are people, therefore no matter where we go or live, it's going to be the same. It's our perspective that needs to change.

    So glad to hear you enjoyed your trip and that you enjoy flying again. Great photos!

    Welcome back, Ron. Have a wonderful weekend!

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  20. Hola Denise~

    "therefore no matter where we go or live, it's going to be the same. It's our perspective that needs to change."

    Exactly. I think (at least for me) we idealize that somewhere else will be better and will make us happier; that somehow people will be different somewhere else. But the truth of the matter is that people there are the same people here. And that we have to find the our happiness wherever we are - now. I needed this trip to remind me of these things.

    And yes, I am sooooooooo happy that flew again because I needed to move through that fear. As I shared in my New Years post back in January, this is gonna be a year of facing my fears and growing.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, girl. Have an awesome weekend!

    X

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  21. Summer!!! Ahhhhhhhh.......glad you are FINALLY seeing the light!

    Just kidding, Ron! I'm glad you had a good time and that the flights didn't terrorize you. It's funny how you feel at home in certain locations, isn't it? I've always lived in Ohio, but when I'm in California or Arizona, I feel that is where I belong, environment wise. But the people? Give me my homies here cuz we know how to keep it real!

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  22. Helloooooooooo Bijoux~

    "Ahhhhhhhh.......glad you are FINALLY seeing the light!"

    HA! YES! I'm FINALLY seeing the light, can you believe that???? Truly, this has been a very special summer for me.

    " It's funny how you feel at home in certain locations, isn't it? I've always lived in Ohio, but when I'm in California or Arizona, I feel that is where I belong, environment wise."

    I know exactly what you mean because I felt that way when I first visited Florida back in the early 70's - environment wise it felt like where I belong. And it WAS where I belong back then. But as I've gotten older I found myself drawn back here, to my roots. There is something about the 'energy' here that just jives with me.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a terrific weekend!

    X

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  23. hi ronnie,
    what a delightful post to read. i get your posts via email and read it three times! firstly, flying... isn't it nice to know you can hope a jet now and go anywhere without freaking? i used to be the same way but when our gkids came along and i could still GO, i went about every 8 weeks via SOUTHWEST! and i got to where i loved the rush of flying, the take-offs didn't even bother me anymore...i developed a visualization that really works and works to this day tho i haven't been on a plane in some time.

    and it's nice to now where you belong... i have been in the sticks for almost 40 years and am coming to the point in life where being able to walk to a store or the bank or or or would be such a nice change. i would NOT want a city. i hate the city, any city, but a nice neighborhood with real people might not be so bad.

    long story short, i am thrilled you had such a lovely time. i bet it was hard to say goodbye but now you can go more often. it was great going vicariously with you. and i agree on the driving thing too... a turtle on valium was hysterical, great analogy. ;)

    love ya
    xoxooxx

    ps-nothing to do with your sweet post but since you asked way back months ago, i'd move the ads to the bottom of the sidebar so they don't show when you come to your site first off. maybe they don't let you but want them "above the fold"? i saw THEM first off today. there are now ads in the boxes that really clash with your colors, etc... i'd move them to the bottom. i remember you wanting feedback so now you have mine. :) (now that they are there!!) xox

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  24. Helloooooooo dear Linda~

    So glad to hear you get my posts via email because I have several friends (in Philly and Florida) who do the same thing. I think it's a great way to be able to read a post for those who don't blog, but want to keep up with a bloggers posts.

    " isn't it nice to know you can hope a jet now and go anywhere without freaking?"

    YES! And isn't Southwest an AWESOME airlines???? They truly made my first experience back to flying a joy. I especially loved the flight attendants because they were very friendly and funny. They kept cracking jokes over the loud speaker before and after we landing!

    " i would NOT want a city. i hate the city, any city, but a nice neighborhood with real people might not be so bad."

    I totally understand, a city is NOT for everyone. However, for someone like me who doesn't want to own a car and enjoys walking everywhere, it's perfect.

    "i bet it was hard to say goodbye but now you can go more often. it was great going vicariously with you."

    Yes, it was very hard to say goodbye :( But as you shared, I won't allow so much time to past before I visit again. My brother is planning on coming to Philly in October for at least five days to a week. I'm so looking forward to that :)

    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear friend. Hope you're feeling faaaaaaabulous and enjoying your summer!

    Have a super weekend!

    (((( Linda ))))

    xoxoxoxoxo

    P.S. About the ads. I don't know whether you noticed them before, but those three ads have been there for the past three months. They MUST be above the fold because that's the whole point - to be seen. But thank you for your feedback...X

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  25. ron, you are so cute, i can't stand it. loved this post.

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  26. hey i wasn't finished....so glad you had a great time, it's nice to get away but always nice to be back home. i can't believe it's been 11 years since you've last been behind the wheel. i love to drive actually, it's very relaxing, but like you, only when it's just me - (nobody in the car) and hardly anyone on the road - and my music. i love it!

    so true, peeps are the same no matter where you go, but i swear the grass is greener on the other side or it appears so. that's one thing i love about florida, it is green....and i love summer and the heat. yes embrace it, my friend.

    glad you're back in the land of brotherly love.

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  27. Hey there V girl!

    "i can't believe it's been 11 years since you've last been behind the wheel."

    I know, can you believe it? I felt like a VIRGIN - HA!

    "but like you, only when it's just me - (nobody in the car) and hardly anyone on the road - and my music. i love it!"

    Funny you mentioned music because my favorite memories of driving were when I was on the turnpike with hardly anyone else on the road; playing my music full blast!!!

    "but i swear the grass is greener on the other side or it appears so."

    I think your spot on in saying, or it "appears so."

    " that's one thing i love about florida, it is green....and i love summer and the heat. yes embrace it, my friend."

    The green in Florida is stunning, you're right. It's so LUSH in green!

    I can't believe how much I'm actually enjoying this summer. OMG...do you think I'm becoming a born again summer person as well as a born again flyer?????

    Always fab to see ya, Val! Hope you had a terrific Thursday!

    Thanks for stopping by!

    X

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  28. Glad you were able to unwind a bit and catch up with family. Not everyone takes the time out for a vacation, and I believe that people would be just a bit more mellower if they allotted a week out of every year to kick back from the rat race and chillax a bit.

    You've now got me jonsing for a vacation. Unfortunately I'll have to wait until September to take some time off. I'm counting the days!

    Oh, and this Thursday post threw me off for a second. I had to verify on my computer that it wasn't Friday already ;-)

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  29. Howdy Herman~

    "I believe that people would be just a bit more mellower if they allotted a week out of every year to kick back from the rat race and chillax a bit."

    You're so right, buddy, and I need to do this more often in future years because it was faaaaaaabulous in so many ways!

    "I'll have to wait until September to take some time off. I'm counting the days!"

    Hey, before you know it...September will here!

    "Oh, and this Thursday post threw me off for a second. I had to verify on my computer that it wasn't Friday already."

    HA! I know, I'm totally off-sync this week. I was gonna wait to publish until tomorrow, but I had this post all ready to go last night, so I thought...why not just post it today! I'll be back to my normal posting schedule next week!

    Thanks so much for stopping by! Have a terrific weekend!

    X to you and the family!

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  30. I'm really glad you enjoyed your stay in the Sunshine State, your old stomping ground. The weather was pretty damn good, even if it was a billion degrees but that's Florida in July! I enjoyed your video of FTL beach. I haven't been there in years and years. It looks good now that the city father's have cleaned it up.

    You know, I've lived in Florida for 26 years, longer than I lived in New York but my soul is still in NY. I don't know why, possibly because that's where I was born and raised. What you said is so true - the seasons, the city, the energy. It's part of those of us that come from there. I'm sure native Floridians feel the same and do folks born and bred in Kansas, Tennessee, North Dakota, etc. You never ever forget your home.

    Thanks for sharing all your vacation experiences with us. I really need a trip up north in the fall, I believe! (Keep your fingers crossed I win Lotto!)

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  31. What great pictures!!!!!! You know, you are right.... people are people everywhere. So so sad. I am proud of you for flying - I know you were really worried about it - you did GREAT!!!

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  32. Hey there Katherine~

    Thanks, glad you enjoyed the photos. I took so many that I had to delete some. I'll be share others in future posts.

    I'm sooooo glad I pushed myself to fly. It ended up being a great experience :)

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a stunning weekend!

    X

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  33. Helloooooo Nitebyrd~

    I was so hoping you'd stop by and read this post. I thought of you and our meeting on the phone. It was so great talking to you!

    You're right, the weather was pretty damn good while I was down there. In fact, it's was MORE hot here when I got back on Monday. OMG...we've had two days of 100 degrees! Tonight, the temps. finally lowered.

    I haven't been to Lauderdale in sooooo long, so it was nice to see it again. It looks faaaaaaaabulous!

    "my soul is still in NY. I don't know why, possibly because that's where I was born and raised. What you said is so true - the seasons, the city, the energy. It's part of those of us that come from there."

    AMEN! And as you know, even though I wasn't born in NY, I love it with all my heart.

    You're right, I think most people feel that way about where they're from. It's home.

    "I really need a trip up north in the fall, I believe! (Keep your fingers crossed I win Lotto!)"

    Yes, I would LOVE for you to visit Philly if you come up north for a trip!!!! And the fall is the PERFECT time!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, Sis! Have a great weekend!

    X ya bunches!

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  34. Sounds like you had an absolutely awesome time! Its so good to see what positive things you learned from this trip! I feel like I am the opposite of you. I am a girl who grew up here in MA but I feel like I really belong in the South. I visited Savannah, GA and lived in FLA for 6 months and I felt right at home there.

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  35. Hiya Shae~

    Yes, I had a WONDERFUL time! It was awesome spending two weeks with my family because we really had some quality time catching up on our lives; eating, drinking, laughing and sharing.

    "I am a girl who grew up here in MA but I feel like I really belong in the South. I visited Savannah, GA and lived in FLA for 6 months and I felt right at home there."

    I know what you mean because for the 20 years I lived in Florida, I too felt right at home. And to be honest, I NEVER thought I would move back east. Yet, when I hit 45 years old, something was 'calling' me to come back. I never realized how much I missed it.

    ALWAYS great seeing ya, Shae! Thanks for stopping by and have a super weekend!

    X

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  36. The very reason I didn't take up driving again was because of other people being on the roads. I'm not kidding. Mo said she didn't want me driving again because people were such mad drivers now. I had to agree with her. It's a shame because I was a good driver and I liked driving too.

    So glad you had a wonderful time and that you enjoyed flying!

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  37. Hiya Babs~

    "The very reason I didn't take up driving again was because of other people being on the roads. I'm not kidding."

    You GO, girl! I feel the exact same way. The only reason I still keep my driver license is for I.D. purposes or in case I need to drive, like I did while I was in Florida. Other than that, I don't drive anymore.

    " It's a shame because I was a good driver and I liked driving too."

    I'm a good driver too. Very alert and aware of whats going on around me.

    "So glad you had a wonderful time and that you enjoyed flying!"

    Aw, thank you. I had an awesome time. I will share more about it in future posts.

    Have a wonderful weekend and thanks of stopping by!

    X to you and Mo!

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  38. Love it, Ron, born again flyer! Hey, the next thing you'll be sharing with us is that you applied to be a flight attendant!

    Seriously though, glad to hear your flying experience was a positive one. And I love your thoughts on the grass is greener. I think we all at one time or another have thought that. Yet, I believe it's what we do with the grass we're on that's important.

    Nice photos. Welcome back!

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  39. Greetings Matt~

    "Hey, the next thing you'll be sharing with us is that you applied to be a flight attendant!"

    HAHAHAHAHAAHAHA! Hilarious! Yeah, or maybe even a PILOT!!!!

    Actually, it's funny you mentioned that because back in my early 30's, I DID apply to be a flight attendant - for two different airlines - but never got past the second interview :(

    "I think we all at one time or another have thought that. Yet, I believe it's what we do with the grass we're on that's important."

    LOVED THAT!!!!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by and have a beeeautiful weekend!

    X

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  40. I'm so happy to hear you overcame your fear of flying! Southwest IS terrific, as far as airlines go. As you know, I feel the same way and actually looked forward to taking to the skies again after my last flight. In fact, we have a trip to Denver planned in September. You can bet your ass we'll be flying there!

    Welcome home. I can't say I share your enthusiasm for summer, but I really don't have much to complain about. This year has been pretty comfortable compared to most of the country - it has yet to even reach 90- and last night we had some amazing thunderstorms.

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  41. Hi Ron,

    I know how frustrating it is when drivers in front of you drive slower than a turtle or snail, its certainly very annoying. I drive to work and every morning I get stressed up on the road, not because of traffic congestion but because of unscrupulous drivers who make the situation worse. Most drivers in my place drive like hooligans, be it a punk, a proffesional, a mother or a business man. They jump traffic queues and hit red lights, ignoring the hostile glowerings of those with manners. The number of drivers doing this has been increasing until it has become a norm to jump queues.

    You're absolutely right when you say that "There are negative, unhappy and unconscious people everywhere in this world"

    Thank you for dropping by at my blog, and wishing you a nice weekend.

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  42. Howdy Mark~

    " Southwest IS terrific, as far as airlines go. As you know, I feel the same way and actually looked forward to taking to the skies again after my last flight."

    You have no idea how much I was thinking of you when I got on that plane for the first time in 11 years. You inspired me to fight my fear and do it. So, thank you! Isn't Southwest the bomb? They truly made my born again flying experience so enjoyable!

    Yeah, I know....we're both not big summertime people. Yet, for some reason this year has been a little different for me. But you better believe I can't WAIT for the upcoming fall and winter :)

    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. Have a super weekend!

    X to you and Tara!

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  43. Hello again A Little Time~

    "I drive to work and every morning I get stressed up on the road, not because of traffic congestion but because of unscrupulous drivers who make the situation worse."

    Exactly!

    "They jump traffic queues and hit red lights, ignoring the hostile glowerings of those with manners. The number of drivers doing this has been increasing until it has become a norm to jump queues."

    And then add to fact that so many people nowadays are also talking on their cell phones and texting whiling drive, which makes them even more unaware of the traffic around them - oy vey!

    Thank you for stopping back. It was nice meeting you a few days ago. You have a very well-written blog and I look forward to reading more. Hope your enjoying a great weekend!

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  44. Oh I'm soooo behind, but better late than never.. right?!
    Let me just start off by saing how glad I am you got to go on the trip to Florida. It had been toooo long! Like my hubby not seeing his mom and family in GA for over 7 years, there was so much to miss and catch up on. But also, like you mentioned, we talked about moving there too (not seriously, but it did come up briefly) and also realized that the thought of it is interesting but in reality it would never work for us. We're all where we need to be for a reason and unless you had a really great opportunity or specific need to be there it probably wouldn't be the same as it was before.
    Love the photos!
    I do have to say that I don't mind driving. Because of my motion issues, I prefer to, rather than be the passenger. Ron jokes around that people must think he lost his license since he never drives when we are out together. LOL Since we're in the 'burbs it's necessary to have a car over here but it's great to go to Philly and see so many people walking in and out of all the shops. Hey, are you near enough to Reading Terminal to shop there? That's a cool place to get an assortment of things all at the same location!
    Glad you are enjoying the summer! Yes, it's been horribly hot on quite a few days but we have a/c in the house and car so I can't complain toooo much.

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  45. Gooood morning Mary~

    No worries, my friend, you're exactly on time :)

    "Let me just start off by saing how glad I am you got to go on the trip to Florida. It had been toooo long! Like my hubby not seeing his mom and family in GA for over 7 years, there was so much to miss and catch up on."

    Right you are, it had been way toooooo long! Now that I have overcome my fear of flying, I won't wait so long to visit again.

    "We're all where we need to be for a reason and unless you had a really great opportunity or specific need to be there it probably wouldn't be the same as it was before."

    I totally agree. And for me, I needed to go there and visit to realize that - I learned A LOT on this trip.

    "I do have to say that I don't mind driving. Because of my motion issues, I prefer to, rather than be the passenger."

    It's funny you mentioned preferring to be the driver rather than the passenger because I'm the same way. Not because I get motion sickness, but because I get SO nervous watching other people drive while I'm in the car. OMG...my brother drives like a MANIAC, so I was constantly screaming, "WATCH OUT FOR THAT CAR, TOM!!! HA!

    "Hey, are you near enough to Reading Terminal to shop there? That's a cool place to get an assortment of things all at the same location!"

    Yes, I live very close to the Reading Terminal and love it. In fact, when I met up with three of my other blogging friends in June, that's where we went for lunch.

    Hasn't this summer weather been crazy? I can't get over how HOT it was last week, but then it suddenly got cooler - it's like a yo-yo! To be honest, it was cooler in Florida than it's been here.

    I may be taking a day trip to NYC this week, and I'm hoping the day I go won't be too hot.

    Thanks for stopping by, neighbor! Stay cool and enjoy your week!

    X

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  46. Awwww! Welcome home, Ron!


    I am a die hard Northeast-coaster too.

    I can't believe you DROVE A CAR!
    *gasp*

    And I hate driving too. Damn those OTHER people on the road with me!

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  47. Thanks, girl....X

    It feels SO GOOD be home!!!

    "I am a die hard Northeast-coaster too."

    Amen! And it's funny because when I moved to Florida, back in the 70's, I NEVER thought I would move back east again. But, this truly feels like home to me now.

    "And I hate driving too. Damn those OTHER people on the road with me!"

    HA! Yes, damn them to HELL!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my Libra friend!

    X

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  48. Oh, I'm SO glad to hear you enjoyed your trip and got over your fear of flying!!

    Yep, people are people wherever you go, and whatever culture you are talking about . There are good and bad, peaceful and aggressive, lazy and industrious - just about any pairing of negative and positive qualities you can think of. And I can't emphasise enough that you can NOT escape your personal/emotional problems by moving. Not that I think you would do that in any way because you're more aware of yourself and how people work than that, but it's a mistake so many people make, only to become more and more unhappy in each successive home.

    We're going to be in the north-east in October. If we're anywhere near you, I'd love to meet up for a coffee! Email me and let me know!

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  49. Great realizations. We have moved so often that it's easy to think of the grass always being greener. But, the reality is that you've got to be happy with yourself first. A change of scenery may help for a while but it ultimately won't change your outlook.
    As you know, I love the Northeast too. I can understand being happy to be back.

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  50. Good morning Jay~

    Thank you, it was wonderful trip all-around. Got to spend some quality time with my family AND FLEW!!!

    "And I can't emphasise enough that you can NOT escape your personal/emotional problems by moving. Not that I think you would do that in any way because you're more aware of yourself and how people work than that, but it's a mistake so many people make, only to become more and more unhappy in each successive home."

    I couldn't agree with you more, Jay, with every word you shared. I remember a meditation teacher sharing with the class, that no matter WHERE you go, you take yourself with you. And he was right.

    "We're going to be in the north-east in October. If we're anywhere near you, I'd love to meet up for a coffee! Email me and let me know!"

    OMG...yes! yes! yes!...I would LOVE to meet you!!!!! And October is a great time because it's right before I get real busy at work with the holidays, so I'll be more flexible with my hours. I'll email you within the next few days, okay?

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Hope all is going well with Sid and Jeffie! Have a great week!

    (((( You ))))

    X

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  51. Hey there Jen~

    "But, the reality is that you've got to be happy with yourself first. A change of scenery may help for a while but it ultimately won't change your outlook."

    You are so spot on! And I shared with Jay in her comment above yours, that no matter where we go...we take ourselves with us. I needed this trip to remind me of that.

    "As you know, I love the Northeast too. I can understand being happy to be back."

    Thank you, my friend. It's great to be back!

    Hope you're having a wonderful week. Thanks a bunch for stopping by!

    X

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