6/13/2010 -- James River, Va

When we got the invite to row the James and check out Mother Nature and her display of little islands, it was a no brainer. We were in for the ride.

2-hours into our journey, my shoulders started screaming for mercy, help me, help me they cried and I was reminded rowing is hard work; thankfully our boat is a tandem kayak so John could do most of it. Much better, bigger, stronger muscles than mine. Considering we hadn't reached the halfway point, I was quite appreciative of them. I will give them extra scratches.... one night honey. Kisses!

And I had just the ticket. "The Hills are alive with Music" comes to mind and I don't know why. Julie Andrews didn't wear a hood. I do think this should be the traditional garb nuns wear. If left up to me, religious classes offered would be how to kite, kayak, bike, and improve one's running time, sky ski and parasailing. All such activities will be considered paths to spiritual fulfillment. Not only can one attend mass with flip-flops, sunscreen, sand on their being, it is expected. You are outside for Christ’s sake. To enter my convent you need take a vow to live life honestly, kindly and as fearlessly as possible. To quote Maya Angelou, "Courage is the most important of all the virtues, because without courage you can't practice any other virtue consistently".

Of course, red wine is the beverage of choice. Any bottle you choose, but my new recommendation is Meridian's Cabernet. Tasty and only $6.49 a pop. I recommend a little cheese and meat to be added to your communion bread. You will burn a lot of energy.

6/7/2010 -- OBX, NC

Lots of kiting, followed by lots of drinking on an outside deck with an ocean view. Sounded like a great plan to me. The band was the icing on the cake, so I thought. John motioned that he found an empty table, so we followed. It was. Right. Next. To. The. Band.