Along the Way....

........first we stopped for gas....

........... which was less expensive than last year (about $3.06/Gal US).  At this point....our first night on the road....

...... our hotel still had their Christmas decorations on display, and I thought this one was worthy of a photograph.  When we headed out again the next mroning...

.... Squeegie had on his new sweatsuit (he got from Santa!) and Taffy was sporting a hand-knit sweater - so still somewhat bundled up, but not quite as much as when we left home.  Then we were on the road again.  On our second night on the road...

........ we stayed at the Day's Hotel and Conference Center in Flatwoods, WV.  We always try to stop there if the timing is right - it is very nice and one of my favourite things is this fellow who stands watch in the lobby.  He's fairly friendly with Poppa now because he has seen us each year for quite a while now.  Up close.....

........... he looks a little more daunting - but I think I see the hint of a smile on his face because he knows it's me taking the photo!  On our third night we arrived in Florida.....

....... with everyone looking forward to our stay in the warmer regions of North America!  And Squeegie was thrilled to.....

......... go to Dunkin' Donuts for coffee the next morning.  Incidentally we filled up the gas tank for $2.09 in Georgia, before we crossed the border into Florida.  In our area in Florida the gas prices are currently about $2.10/gal - which is more than a dollar/gallon less than last year!  On Dec. 30th we met David, Alison and Bob for a lunch/dinner at TGIFriday's.  We went in their car and regretfully I left my camera in our car - and had such a great, interesting visit at the villa - I forgot to take any pictures!  Rats!  However, moving forward, yesterday our high temperature was about 86F - great for the pool!  Taffy has been on the computer and discovered....

...... that it is chilly in Paris, France (where her on-line friend Bear now lives).  Bear has a lovely hand-knit sweater on!  If you would like to check out Bear's Blog and discover the treasures and sights of Paris - please visit him at: paris breakfasts

We are now settled comfortably at our winter residence (thank you David & Alison!)....

.... Taffy & Smoothie are watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse....while....

.... Squeegie and Crunchie loll about absorbing the warm weather.  Thank you to Auntie Colleen for the Kraft Bears - she gave them to me for Christmas.  Squeegie begged for them to come to Florida - and he agreed to leave Snout at home so that the little bears could come!)  Speaking of Auntie Colleen.....

.......... remember that puppy they got last year???  Please meet Augustus.  He now weighs almost 100 pounds and as you can see has matured greatly and looks quite regal - well except maybe for the snow on his chin - Gus you shouldn't be eating snow!  And - What? - you ask is Poppa doing........well....

........... he's cleaning of course!