February Flywheelers - Gathering of the Orange

The February Flywheelers brought warmer weather and a great turn out for the Gathering of the Orange. Yes, Allis Chalmers tractors were featured for the four day event at Ft. Meade, FL. There are many antique cars, trucks, bikes, and wagons on display for your viewing. There are vendors selling parts for those looking for that rare part. Other vendors have many items that may catch your eye. You absolutely cannot see the entire display in one day. Food vendors have specialty foods depending on your tastes. We recommend trying the homemade ice cream. Be sure to look at the photo below showing the John Deere and Allis Chalmers tractors that were split and joined together, Half-Rite and Half-Rong. What a look. The 2012 show will feature Ford, so we look forward to seeing many Ford Tractors at that event. We have a restored 1949 8N Ford that would look terrific at the show.

SE Area Flywheelers 2011 Show

The January Show came with cool weather. We visited with many show participants and visitors. We always enjoy shopping for some tractor parts and tools. The February Show will feature the Allis Chalmers tractors. All colors are welcome and we look forward to seeing them all on display.

Leaving 2010 and looking to 2011

2010 came to a close with a total eclipse of the full moon at around 0315 in the morning on December 21 in our area. This was unique as it occurred on the Winter Soltice. The last time this occurred was in the year 1638 and will not occur again until the year of 2485. Looked forward to Jo's niece, husband, and son visiting us on their way to Orlando. We enjoyed the short time with them and glad they were able to stay with us. On New Year's Day we ventured with friends on a cool day of sailing in the Gulf. We sailed 9 miles into the Gulf Waters and saw dolphins and many birds along the way. In the channel a gentleman cleaning fish was sharing the cleanings with the many birds sitting on the dock. They longed for a piece to be thrown in their direction.

Christmas Parade in Brooksville, Florida

We think everyone in the town of Brooksville turned out for the annual Christmas Day Parade. We were able to enjoy the parade this year also and what a spectacular event it was. Jo and I were even able to be seen in the camera lens with Santa. What a treat not only for us, but also all the children as their smiles widened on their faces when they saw the Jolly Good Fellow. The parade began with the flying of the colors of this wonderful country where we can all share the joys and true meaning of Christmas together. The only snow was the "sign" hoping for snow. Guess that is why we come to Florida for the winter. The person driving the Rescue Unit may be wondering where they left their coffee cup as the parade started on its way. We at least saw it on the bumper. The bands were all dressed up and playing the music of the holiday. There were floats, dancing children, horses, and even one tractor. Reminded me of trading the sleigh for a tractor back in Iowa.

Jo and Vaughn wish our family and all our friends a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. God Bless Everyone.

Resort, Relax, Refresh, Refurnish

What a terrific time we had at Lehigh Acres Resort relaxing around the pool and spending time with friends, Carol, Dave, and Jack. The flowers were all in full bloom and the warm breezes had the flags flying. It is a fun two weeks that we spend each year getting together with folks from around the USA and Europe. We then gathered with friends to give thanks for all that we share at Thanksgiving Dinner. Jo and Denise cooked a delicious dinner for all of us, Skip and Diane, Joyce, Tom and Denise, Jo and myself. Always good to be with friends. Jo did a little refurnishing in our home. We enjoy the new pieces especially this time of year.