Chili and Baseball

It doesn't get much better than this on a fall weekend.  The weather has left something to be desired, and even though it was nice and balmy out today, I decided it was time to make a big batch of chili.  My favorite recipe takes about 5 hours from start to finish, so I like to make a double batch when I put in the time.  We warmed up a loaf of asiago cheese bread, and turned on the Tiger game while we ate.  It was a pleasant evening even before the Tigers won the game.  And, we have a few more chili dinners waiting in the freezer.

An Intereting Fellow

We were having our dinner last night when a rather interesting man came into the restaurant.  I estimate he was in his late 70s or so.  His name was Paul.  He sat down a few tables away from us, and ordered "a glass of pinot noir, a glass of ice, and a glass of water, to be placed side by side, in that order."  We then wathched him spoon exactly 5 ice cubes, one at a time, into his glass of wine.  Then, while he was waiting for his dinner order, he asked the manager to check the reservation book for his reservation the following evening.  He confirmed that it was there, and for the time he had specified.  Then Paul asked that his party be seated at the table next to the one where he was currently sitting.  He had determined this would give his guests the "best experience".  It was really fascinating watching him lay out his plans.  He wasn't offensive, but he was what I would call "eccentric".  We lingered over our dinner and desert for quite a while.  When Paul had finished his steak, he said a pleasant "goodnight" to the wait staff and to us.  Then he left.  I imagine his party will have a very enjoyable dinner today. 

Gatlinburg to Savannah

The vacation has been lots of fun so far.  We stayed in Gatlinburg for a couple days.  On Sunday, we played golf at the Gatlinburg Country Club.  Other than the fact we needed to be part mountain goat to play their course, we really enjoyed it very much.  I forgot my camera, but trust me, my ball was never level with my feet for 18 holes.  I managed to break 100, but not by much.  And, the Hubs beat me by one stroke too, so I had to buy dinner!  We went to a local steakhouse and had a great meal with just a bit too much wine.  It was a great time.  Today, we drove through Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  It was pretty early in the morning, so most of the view was still in the clouds, but it was a beautiful drive just the same.  Now we are enjoying the sights and tastes of Savannah.

Where Have I Been?

When my BFF mentioned today that she would be following my blog on my upcoming trip, it occurred to me I haven't even updated it in a month!  What's going on in my life right now isn't all that exciting, I suppose.  Golf season has wound down (rather quckly, considering the weather).  I have new neighbors, and am enjoying watching them update the landscaping around their house.  And, I'm working extra hard to get my life in order so I can go on vacation.  We will be seeing Savannah and Charleston for the first time, as well as playing a couple Hilton Head courses.  That's something to scratch off the bucket list.

My Prize

The weekend in Niagara was so much fun.  Get about 100 women together, and you know there will be memories made!  I placed third in my flight, so I won't be advancing to the finals in Palm Beach next month.  But, I did get this very cool trophy.  And I gained some experience playing under tournament conditions, which puts the game on a very different level.  I think I may give this a try again next year.

Off To Niagara

A couple weeks ago, I had an incredible round of golf.  It just so happens it was during our Chapter Championship, a local tournament sponsored by Executive Women's Golf Association, of which I am a member.  I ended up winning my flight, and qualifying for the regional championship.  That is being held in Niagara Falls, Ontario this weekend.  I have no idea how I will do, but how bad can a weekend in Niagara Falls be?

Chicago

I spent a good portion of last week at a convention in Chicago.  What a cool city Chicago is.  I had a great view from my window that inspired me to get out and walk around.

Of course, the weather did not always cooperate, so I had to negotiate the rain showers.  On Saturday, just before I left, it was beautiful out.  So I went for a long walk.  About a mile or so from my hotel I came across Oprah's TV studio.  It was far more modest than I had ever pictured.

I did notice, though, that the side street had been named "Oprah Winfrey Way".  Maybe not so modest after all.