Yesterday was our first day back to work for our first full week. So far, the crowds have been disappointing at the games. We have averaged, I would guess, about 2000 per game so far. This is the first year that the games have started in February. Usually, they begin on March 1st and run just for the month. The extra week this year has probably resulted in the initial small crowds. That, plus the teams usually play all the minor league players and "players on the bubble" the first few games to get a good look at them before sending them back to the farm teams. Not many people are interested in watching the minor league players play in games. The crowds will pick up in March when the teams begin playing their starters and we can watch quality baseball. Nonetheless, we are getting valuable experience on our job.
The biggest complaint that I have is the relatively long hours that I have to spend entirely on my feet. I'm not used to working without any opportunity to sit at all. My back is paying the price. Josie has more realistic hours and is probably averaging about 4 to 5 hours a day vs my 7 to 9. I expected some longer days when I signed on for the Lead job, but I'm getting tired with these long hours. I'm glad it's only a month longer to work.
Today was our final weigh-in for the month of February. Our dieting is right on track. Josie has lost 20 pounds and I have lost 23 since January 1. We are determined to stay the course this time on our weight loss and hope that we have changed our eating habits for good. Our clothes are fitting much better and we feel great overall about achieving our weight loss goals. We should be pretty close to our goals by the time we arrive in Jackson for our summer jobs.
I expect the day to be a little shorter today as we will close the concession after the 7th inning today to allow for preparation for a night game of high school play. We have to get everything wrapped up by the time the regular game ends which should be about 4 PM today. It will be nice to get in a short day for a change...
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Tax Work
More work was done on our taxes yesterday and I have to say it is not the way to spend the free days from working. It will be a year where we have to fork over more cash as our income was inflated as a result of the Holiday Retirement time. The extra cash was great while we were working there, but it made a big difference in our tax obligation. Maybe I'll slow down the tax report since I'm not anxious to help out the IRS anytime soon. Obama can get by without my contribution for awhile.
It was a laundry day for Josie and she had an over sized load to do yesterday. There are so many people driving and parking golf carts that it has made it tough for her to find parking space at the laundromat. She even had to use one of the satellite laundry facilities because she couldn't park near the main facility. Jan - Apr are the peak times here, and there are always tournaments and other activities at the Town Center during that time.
It's back to work today for our first full week. I'm not looking forward to being on my feet all day, every day, but we'll see how it goes this week. It should start to get easier now and my days should get a little shorter. I have been working about double the hours that Josie works, but she may have to put in more hours at the flower shop, where she would rather be anyway. We'll see how that goes...
It was a laundry day for Josie and she had an over sized load to do yesterday. There are so many people driving and parking golf carts that it has made it tough for her to find parking space at the laundromat. She even had to use one of the satellite laundry facilities because she couldn't park near the main facility. Jan - Apr are the peak times here, and there are always tournaments and other activities at the Town Center during that time.
It's back to work today for our first full week. I'm not looking forward to being on my feet all day, every day, but we'll see how it goes this week. It should start to get easier now and my days should get a little shorter. I have been working about double the hours that Josie works, but she may have to put in more hours at the flower shop, where she would rather be anyway. We'll see how that goes...
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Good Down Day
Our morning was pretty much taken up with Josie going to the fitness center for a workout and my installing our new printer. My back is still bothering me, so I didn't do the workout gig yesterday. The afternoon was completely consumed with traveling to Michael's to look for yarn and to pick up my completed picture, Joann's to look for more yarn, Costco for some items we needed from there, Orangewood RV to fill our propane tank and, finally, Sam's Club to look for strawberries that nobody else had. We didn't find the strawberries there, but discovered that most of what we purchased at Costco was $1 cheaper at Sam's Club. We don't know why we travel the extra distance to go to Costco when the Sam's Club is right down the street with most of the same stuff. We finally stopped at Walmart - also down the street - and found the strawberries. Following a mail stop at the clubhouse, we were done for the day. It seems like every time we go out to a store or two, the whole day is gone by the time we get back home.
We heard from our friends in Jackson and they are dealing with the frigid weather and some - not a lot - of snow. They are all looking forward to Spring, of course. One of the couples we worked with at the front desk that has been returning for over 10 years will not return this year as a result of health issues. The Young's live in FL and it is a long trip each year for them so we understand. We will inherit their prime RV space in the park for the summer this year. That was good news for us although we wish them well for this year. It is now especially important that we return so that Judy (Front Desk Manager) doesn't have to train a whole new staff.
Today will most likely be a stay at home day so we can rest up for the full week schedule at the games beginning tomorrow...
We heard from our friends in Jackson and they are dealing with the frigid weather and some - not a lot - of snow. They are all looking forward to Spring, of course. One of the couples we worked with at the front desk that has been returning for over 10 years will not return this year as a result of health issues. The Young's live in FL and it is a long trip each year for them so we understand. We will inherit their prime RV space in the park for the summer this year. That was good news for us although we wish them well for this year. It is now especially important that we return so that Judy (Front Desk Manager) doesn't have to train a whole new staff.
Today will most likely be a stay at home day so we can rest up for the full week schedule at the games beginning tomorrow...
Monday, February 25, 2013
First Week Games
We completed our first (short) week of games at Spring Training yesterday. Both of us will have to rest our backs over the next two days as the standing all day has been a drag on our stamina. At least for me. There is no opportunity during any of the games to take a lunch break or any other kind of break. We work straight through to the end of our shifts. For me, that amounts to about 8+ hours per day of constant motion.
One thing that became obvious during the first three games, and that is that Aramark has missed the "mark" on organization and providing value in their products. For example, it is easy for any of the cashiers to pocket money if they they are inclined to do so since there are no checks and balances at individual registers at the end of the day. I hope there are no dishonest people, but the possibility exists. The value of the food items borders on astonishing. They are selling beer in 24 oz containers that are called "Bombers" for $10 each. You can buy at least a full case for less than that. We are also selling what amounts to 12 oz of bulk peanuts in a Family Bucket that is selling for $10. Sodas run $4 to $6.50 for soda in a 16 oz plastic souvenir cup. Kids hot dogs go for $3.50, jumbo dogs - the size of normal Ball Park Franks - go for $4.50 and you can get Polish Sausage or Brats for $6.50. Wow. It is very easy to spend $50 for you and your wife or child for a small meal. Inflation has hit the ballpark.
So far, the experience has been what we would call "interesting". The jury is out as to whether or not it is something we would do again. Josie is already saying she wouldn't. We need to work it some more before deciding for certain. Josie has an opportunity to work more hours at the flower shop and I'm sure she would rather do that if given a choice.
There are several errands we need to run today, plus I will finally get to install our new printer that arrived late on our final day off last week. One of our propane tanks ran dry during the night so that needs to be refilled also. We have been a little frustrated with the cold weather since the first of the year and have to say the winter weather is better in southern Florida - at least this year. We have had to use the heater a lot more than we normally would for a winter in the Phoenix area. Pretty soon it will be March, and before we know it, we'll be packing up for WA the first of April...
One thing that became obvious during the first three games, and that is that Aramark has missed the "mark" on organization and providing value in their products. For example, it is easy for any of the cashiers to pocket money if they they are inclined to do so since there are no checks and balances at individual registers at the end of the day. I hope there are no dishonest people, but the possibility exists. The value of the food items borders on astonishing. They are selling beer in 24 oz containers that are called "Bombers" for $10 each. You can buy at least a full case for less than that. We are also selling what amounts to 12 oz of bulk peanuts in a Family Bucket that is selling for $10. Sodas run $4 to $6.50 for soda in a 16 oz plastic souvenir cup. Kids hot dogs go for $3.50, jumbo dogs - the size of normal Ball Park Franks - go for $4.50 and you can get Polish Sausage or Brats for $6.50. Wow. It is very easy to spend $50 for you and your wife or child for a small meal. Inflation has hit the ballpark.
So far, the experience has been what we would call "interesting". The jury is out as to whether or not it is something we would do again. Josie is already saying she wouldn't. We need to work it some more before deciding for certain. Josie has an opportunity to work more hours at the flower shop and I'm sure she would rather do that if given a choice.
There are several errands we need to run today, plus I will finally get to install our new printer that arrived late on our final day off last week. One of our propane tanks ran dry during the night so that needs to be refilled also. We have been a little frustrated with the cold weather since the first of the year and have to say the winter weather is better in southern Florida - at least this year. We have had to use the heater a lot more than we normally would for a winter in the Phoenix area. Pretty soon it will be March, and before we know it, we'll be packing up for WA the first of April...
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Missed Projections
Yesterday at work was almost like starting over again with a whole new staff. Except for Josie, one cook another returning cashier, all of the workers were new from from Friday. The group we had yesterday was not quite as good as the one Friday, but we didn't have any major problems except for the projections we were given for the crowd and food prep. Friday's crowd was around 2800 and yesterday we were projected to have a larger crowd - 3500. They missed it big time. There were actually a lot fewer folks at the game yesterday than there were Friday. We had thrown on lots of dogs, brats and sausages expecting the larger crowd that never materialized. At the end of the day, I had to throw away many of each since we couldn't sell what we made. Actually, any of the food that is not "bunned" is placed in containers and reheated for today's game. All of the unsold pretzels were tossed. There were many containers of popcorn and peanuts left over which we wrap and use again today. The day was just a huge contrast to Friday. I don't know who works up the projections, but they need to do a better job. All of the leftover food is offered to the employees to take home before tossing them, but yesterday, I still ended up tossing many of the meat sandwiches. It really hurts to throw away all that food with so many people starving in this world.
There will be another go around today as Kansas City plays Texas again for the third straight game. It appeared that yesterday's game was going to end in a tie the same as Friday's game, but the Kansas City Royals had a home run in the bottom of the ninth to win yesterday's game. The weather has been great, although a little cool. The high yesterday was 66 and the overnight low was 36 yesterday. It appears to be getting warmer though, as it is 45 outside at this moment, and sunny. The start for me is again at 10:15 this morning and Josie comes in at 11 AM. We are looking forward to having the next two days off as we stand the whole time we are working and both of us are feeling it in our backs. I hope we get better projections for today...
There will be another go around today as Kansas City plays Texas again for the third straight game. It appeared that yesterday's game was going to end in a tie the same as Friday's game, but the Kansas City Royals had a home run in the bottom of the ninth to win yesterday's game. The weather has been great, although a little cool. The high yesterday was 66 and the overnight low was 36 yesterday. It appears to be getting warmer though, as it is 45 outside at this moment, and sunny. The start for me is again at 10:15 this morning and Josie comes in at 11 AM. We are looking forward to having the next two days off as we stand the whole time we are working and both of us are feeling it in our backs. I hope we get better projections for today...
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Play Ball!
Since I start working 45 minutes before Josie and have to stay at least an hour longer at the end of the game, we drove separate vehicles. My day started at 9:45 and didn't end until I clocked out at 7 PM. It was a hectic day, but was without any major problems. The first day, I'm told, is always the toughest and yesterday was no exception. It started with my counting all the inventory and stocking all the coolers and other warmers and stations. We had 12 people working our stand which is the largest and busiest of all the concession stands. The gates opened at 11:30 and the rush was on. The busiest part of the day was from the opening until about the 6th inning of the game when the traffic slowed to where I could let some people go home early. It was a sane and controlled afternoon for the rest of the game. Wouldn't you know that the Texas Rangers scored 2 runs in the bottom of the ninth to tie the Royals. Fortunately, the game was called and declared a tie after the nine innings.
All of the workers were sent home following the cleanup and lowering of the concession doors to close. That really started the beginning of my day-ending tasks. I had to once again count inventory and include spoilage and waste in the counts and fill out all the paperwork for our manager to enter into the computer in the office. According to our manager (Danny) our stand - the largest and busiest - was the smoothest of all the stands and we did the best job starting up for the year. That was a good feeling knowing that I wasn't going to be fired on the first day.
The biggest concern that I have for today, the second game, is that almost all of the people that were working yesterday have the weekend off, so I have to start again with an almost totally different crew for the day. If it goes as well as yesterday, I will be happy. I took the camera yesterday but had no chance to get pictures, and even if I did, I wouldn't know what to shoot. We can barely see the field from the stand, so they wouldn't mean very much anyway. I haven't decided yet whether to take it again today. I start at 10:30 and Josie starts at at 11:15, so we get to relax a little bit this morning. Game two coming up...
All of the workers were sent home following the cleanup and lowering of the concession doors to close. That really started the beginning of my day-ending tasks. I had to once again count inventory and include spoilage and waste in the counts and fill out all the paperwork for our manager to enter into the computer in the office. According to our manager (Danny) our stand - the largest and busiest - was the smoothest of all the stands and we did the best job starting up for the year. That was a good feeling knowing that I wasn't going to be fired on the first day.
The biggest concern that I have for today, the second game, is that almost all of the people that were working yesterday have the weekend off, so I have to start again with an almost totally different crew for the day. If it goes as well as yesterday, I will be happy. I took the camera yesterday but had no chance to get pictures, and even if I did, I wouldn't know what to shoot. We can barely see the field from the stand, so they wouldn't mean very much anyway. I haven't decided yet whether to take it again today. I start at 10:30 and Josie starts at at 11:15, so we get to relax a little bit this morning. Game two coming up...
Friday, February 22, 2013
Waiting on Delivery
Our printer has been acting up over the last month or so by wasting lots of paper printing extra copies of documents we have sent to print. It seems to be getting worse, so we ordered a new printer that was too good an offer to refuse. It is an HP Photosmart 7520 all-n-one printer that normally sells for $200 and we got on sale for Presidents Day at $119. Anyway, it was scheduled for delivery yesterday by FedEx, and we all know that there is no way to predict the arrival times for those deliveries. I had to wait around close to home so I wouldn't miss the delivery as Josie was at work all day. Of course, the delivery was made late, at 6:30 last night. I didn't even open the box at that point since we were just getting ready to eat and I didn't want to spend the evening working on a new printer setup. I did get some important sorting done though and filled a trash bag with many old magazines and books we will no longer need.
The day was also very cool - high of 59 with a low of 36, and wouldn't have been a good day for outdoor activities anyway. Today begins our adventure at Spring Training with the Texas Rangers playing the Kansas City Royals in the annual Charity Game. I have to arrive early at 9:45 to make sure the stand is all set up and ready to go, and Josie starts at 10:30 as a cashier. We are both a little nervous, but excited at the same time. It is expected that there will be some rough edges to our first day on the job, but there really isn't a lot that can go wrong with so many people (20) working the stand. I just hope we don't get too far off the projections and our money till at the end of the game comes close to balancing. Hang on for the ride...
The day was also very cool - high of 59 with a low of 36, and wouldn't have been a good day for outdoor activities anyway. Today begins our adventure at Spring Training with the Texas Rangers playing the Kansas City Royals in the annual Charity Game. I have to arrive early at 9:45 to make sure the stand is all set up and ready to go, and Josie starts at 10:30 as a cashier. We are both a little nervous, but excited at the same time. It is expected that there will be some rough edges to our first day on the job, but there really isn't a lot that can go wrong with so many people (20) working the stand. I just hope we don't get too far off the projections and our money till at the end of the game comes close to balancing. Hang on for the ride...
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Weather is the Story
Man, if you look at the local news and weather, AZ looks like Minnesota. The pictures of the golf tournament that is being held in Marana, AZ, outside of Tucson, showed golfers teeing off in a near blizzard before they finally cancelled the play for the day. The coverage of the traffic on our own highway Loop 101 in Scottsdale looked like the traffic on a freeway in a Minnesota snow storm - near white-out conditions.The plants and cacti are being battered. Our high temperature for the day yesterday was 55, and our low was 37. We had hail at our site here at Happy Trails. All of this is happening near the end of February! It is making it difficult to figure out where you can spend winters without the potential for this kind of weather. I guess it is a vote for southern Florida.
My training at the stadium was a two hour session with another stand Lead. We were instructed on the activities we must perform before, during and after each game. All we know is that the first couple games will be a real challenge to get everything right. We have to take inventory of all the cups and containers we should have, we must make sure that the projections for the food are met during the game and making sure that we don't run out of anything during the game, and take inventory again following the game. Along with that, we need to make sure that enough people stay over to clean up and get ready for the game on the next day. It sounds like a monumental task but we are hoping that it becomes an automatic thing once we get used to doing our assignments. The same with Josie who is fretting the cash register function, but will quickly learn the process. This will be a very different kind of experience for us, but we are looking forward to it.
It's another day at the flower shop for Josie while I will do some sorting in the fifth wheel of items we will leave behind when we depart on April 1. Now, if the weather would just cooperate a little bit...
My training at the stadium was a two hour session with another stand Lead. We were instructed on the activities we must perform before, during and after each game. All we know is that the first couple games will be a real challenge to get everything right. We have to take inventory of all the cups and containers we should have, we must make sure that the projections for the food are met during the game and making sure that we don't run out of anything during the game, and take inventory again following the game. Along with that, we need to make sure that enough people stay over to clean up and get ready for the game on the next day. It sounds like a monumental task but we are hoping that it becomes an automatic thing once we get used to doing our assignments. The same with Josie who is fretting the cash register function, but will quickly learn the process. This will be a very different kind of experience for us, but we are looking forward to it.
It's another day at the flower shop for Josie while I will do some sorting in the fifth wheel of items we will leave behind when we depart on April 1. Now, if the weather would just cooperate a little bit...
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Final Training Scheduled
I received confirmation yesterday for a final training session - one-on-one - at the stadium today. At 10 AM today I will meet with the Manager to go over the duties I will have at the Spring Training games beginning on Friday. There is another Lead that I met at our last training session on Sunday (Troy Clark) who will join me at the training session. I'm sure it will involve paperwork and balancing procedures which require us to start earlier, and remain later, at each game. That report will be in tomorrow's blog entry.
We were suppose to help Carole Cole - our friend who lost her husband, Dick, suddenly last year - move into her new residence. She purchased a double wide home near the golf course and needed help moving from her rented Villa to the home. Evidently, the home didn't close on schedule as we didn't receive a call from her to come and help unload her moving truck. We all know that those closings can be delayed for lots of different reasons, the most popular one being that the funds didn't get wired in time. Anyway, I can help her today following my training session if she still needs help. Josie has to work at the flower shop again, so her day is planned.
Our neighbor - and owner of the space we are renting - is gathering details for a major renovation and construction project on this space before next year. He is planning to change the boundaries on this space and add a casita and possible outdoor entertaining area to include a grill and kitchen area with running water and refrigerator. It will be something to see when it's all done. He also plans further improvements on his own space, including constructing a cover for his Beaver motorhome.
We are expecting a storm to come through today, so it will get very cool and be wet for most of the day...
We were suppose to help Carole Cole - our friend who lost her husband, Dick, suddenly last year - move into her new residence. She purchased a double wide home near the golf course and needed help moving from her rented Villa to the home. Evidently, the home didn't close on schedule as we didn't receive a call from her to come and help unload her moving truck. We all know that those closings can be delayed for lots of different reasons, the most popular one being that the funds didn't get wired in time. Anyway, I can help her today following my training session if she still needs help. Josie has to work at the flower shop again, so her day is planned.
Our neighbor - and owner of the space we are renting - is gathering details for a major renovation and construction project on this space before next year. He is planning to change the boundaries on this space and add a casita and possible outdoor entertaining area to include a grill and kitchen area with running water and refrigerator. It will be something to see when it's all done. He also plans further improvements on his own space, including constructing a cover for his Beaver motorhome.
We are expecting a storm to come through today, so it will get very cool and be wet for most of the day...
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Inside Repairs
Our day/night shades operate by just pulling them down or pushing them up which causes the strings to wear out over time. I have replaced almost all of the strings on the fifth wheel shades with new ones except for one shade in the living area and one in the bedroom. They were completed yesterday. They don't take that long to do - about 45 minutes each - but the tricky part is creating the proper tension on each shade so they operate easily. This is one job that homeowners don't have to fuss with and there is a special string that you order from the fifth wheel manufacturer to do the job. Fortunately, we ordered enough last year to do all the shades.
I also did some other minor repairs inside the rig while Josie worked at the flower shop. Her day was not long as she was home by 2:30. There isn't a whole lot happening at the shop so her days will most likely all be that way this week.
One important task that we will complete today is to take our Serv-Safe certificates to the Regional Office in Peoria. They issue cards to show that we are qualified as Food Handlers for our jobs at the stadium. We keep clocking in and out when we go to the stadium for training but we haven't received any paychecks yet. We have spent money buying uniform shoes and on-line class material for training, in addition to the cost of our cards today. It isn't breaking the bank, but it will be nice to see some cash soon. I believe we do get a check when we check in for our first game on Friday. Only three more days to go...
I also did some other minor repairs inside the rig while Josie worked at the flower shop. Her day was not long as she was home by 2:30. There isn't a whole lot happening at the shop so her days will most likely all be that way this week.
One important task that we will complete today is to take our Serv-Safe certificates to the Regional Office in Peoria. They issue cards to show that we are qualified as Food Handlers for our jobs at the stadium. We keep clocking in and out when we go to the stadium for training but we haven't received any paychecks yet. We have spent money buying uniform shoes and on-line class material for training, in addition to the cost of our cards today. It isn't breaking the bank, but it will be nice to see some cash soon. I believe we do get a check when we check in for our first game on Friday. Only three more days to go...
Monday, February 18, 2013
Training Day
We were prepared for a training session to last for several hours yesterday. We assumed it would involve actual hands-on practice of each of the functions. We were wrong. Our class began on time at 2 PM but the instructor - our Manager, Danny - had so much to do that he cut our class back to 1 hour. That didn't give us a lot of time to learn the ins and outs of our duties at the concession stand.
After clocking in at the side entrance to the stadium, we all were taken to the stand where we are assigned:
It is the largest of the concession stands and is 3 doors wide. There will be about 20 individuals working the stand and it will get very busy at times.
Danny gave instructions on the equipment and discussed all of the components we will be selling at the stand. He had the group divided into two parts - one for cooking and utility workers who help with all the work in the back of the stand, and the cashiers and "runners" who work the front. Below is a shot of Danny giving instruction to the cashiers:
Because the class was cut short, he didn't spend a lot of time on any one topic and kind of bounced around to make sure everything was covered. I took a shot of all the detailed containers and packaging so that we could learn them at home. First is the shot of the food packaging and containers:
Then, we have the cups that are used for the various drink options:
He jumped around and tried to explain as much as he could during our brief, one hour session. It looks like most of our training will turn out to be on-the-job, and we believe the first game that we work on the 22nd will be a real experience. Our uniforms will be picked up on the first day - a shirt that is swapped out after each game for a clean one, and a visor which we pay $2 for and can keep at the end of the season or return for our $2 refund. They provide free food for us before checking in at each game, but we have to complete the meal before clocking in for the day..
My job is a Lead on the concession and Danny asked that I come in for about 45 minutes on either Wednesday or Thursday this week for one-on-one training on my responsibilities. I have to arrive about n hour earlier than the rest of the staff and stay about an hour longer at the end of each day. I will have another update on that following my individual training.
Josie has to work three days this week at the flower shop to replace a worker that had a death in the family, so she will be busy almost every day this week. We are about to enter into the Spring Training season and we are both looking forward to the learning experience...
After clocking in at the side entrance to the stadium, we all were taken to the stand where we are assigned:
It is the largest of the concession stands and is 3 doors wide. There will be about 20 individuals working the stand and it will get very busy at times.
Danny gave instructions on the equipment and discussed all of the components we will be selling at the stand. He had the group divided into two parts - one for cooking and utility workers who help with all the work in the back of the stand, and the cashiers and "runners" who work the front. Below is a shot of Danny giving instruction to the cashiers:
Because the class was cut short, he didn't spend a lot of time on any one topic and kind of bounced around to make sure everything was covered. I took a shot of all the detailed containers and packaging so that we could learn them at home. First is the shot of the food packaging and containers:
Then, we have the cups that are used for the various drink options:
He jumped around and tried to explain as much as he could during our brief, one hour session. It looks like most of our training will turn out to be on-the-job, and we believe the first game that we work on the 22nd will be a real experience. Our uniforms will be picked up on the first day - a shirt that is swapped out after each game for a clean one, and a visor which we pay $2 for and can keep at the end of the season or return for our $2 refund. They provide free food for us before checking in at each game, but we have to complete the meal before clocking in for the day..
My job is a Lead on the concession and Danny asked that I come in for about 45 minutes on either Wednesday or Thursday this week for one-on-one training on my responsibilities. I have to arrive about n hour earlier than the rest of the staff and stay about an hour longer at the end of each day. I will have another update on that following my individual training.
Josie has to work three days this week at the flower shop to replace a worker that had a death in the family, so she will be busy almost every day this week. We are about to enter into the Spring Training season and we are both looking forward to the learning experience...
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Food Handler Certificates
The main thrust for yesterday was to complete the on-line course for the Food Handler's Certificate that is required for our jobs at Spring Training. We had already taken the local class at our last training session and passed that test. The course that we took yesterday was almost identical to the one we took in Vista, CA last year so it was relatively easy for us. We completed the course in about an hour and a half (each) and took the exam. We both passed and we printed out the certificates which we need to take to one of the Maricopa County offices to receive our cards. In the meantime, the certificates show we are qualified to work in the concessions.
Josie also went to get a haircut and the rest of the day was spent on our projects at home. We did grill a couple burgers for dinner and that was our day yesterday. With temperatures finally reaching 80 degrees during the day, it will be nice to be outside and enjoying some of the sunshine when we begin working at the stadium.
There is a hands on training class today at 2 PM which will give us the tools we need to begin the work at the first game on the 22nd. It should be an interesting day today...
Josie also went to get a haircut and the rest of the day was spent on our projects at home. We did grill a couple burgers for dinner and that was our day yesterday. With temperatures finally reaching 80 degrees during the day, it will be nice to be outside and enjoying some of the sunshine when we begin working at the stadium.
There is a hands on training class today at 2 PM which will give us the tools we need to begin the work at the first game on the 22nd. It should be an interesting day today...
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Visit to Lake Pleasant
One of the things we wanted to do before leaving here was to verify our reservation on the space we have selected for next year. When we went to Lake Pleasant a couple months ago we got excited about returning there again for another stay. The management there has done a wonderful job enforcing the rules regarding clutter on the spaces and the Resort looks like a classy place once again. They have also purchased the Marina there which expands their operation and has delayed further expansion of the RV section temporarily. When we consider the seasonal rate pricing, it is hard to beat that place for atmosphere and value. Also, with the explosion in the area of new housing developments and shopping, it is now convenient to most needs without a 15 mile drive to get groceries. We timed the trip from the Resort to the nearest shopping and it was 12 minutes.
There is a site location that we were able to reserve for next season that is perfect as far as size and location. It is site 171 which is close to where we lived for awhile (183) along the back of the Resort:
It is what is referred to as a Perimeter lot and has no neighbor on one side.
Our original thought when we arrived in October was to try to rent the same space in Happy Trails as we have now. The problem is that the new owner (next door) has plans to increase the size of his space by eliminating space on our lot for his own personal use. That shrinks the space we are on to just another, standard size space and he also indicated that the rent would be higher starting next year. We have lost interest in pursuing a long term relationship with Happy Trails. The other problem here is that most of the owners are in their 80's and we are tired of hearing and seeing the ambulances come in two or three times a day. It's terrible to get old.
Today we need to study and take the Food Handler's exam for working at the stadium. Our training is tomorrow, so we want to have that certificate in hand before we go...
There is a site location that we were able to reserve for next season that is perfect as far as size and location. It is site 171 which is close to where we lived for awhile (183) along the back of the Resort:
It is what is referred to as a Perimeter lot and has no neighbor on one side.
Our original thought when we arrived in October was to try to rent the same space in Happy Trails as we have now. The problem is that the new owner (next door) has plans to increase the size of his space by eliminating space on our lot for his own personal use. That shrinks the space we are on to just another, standard size space and he also indicated that the rent would be higher starting next year. We have lost interest in pursuing a long term relationship with Happy Trails. The other problem here is that most of the owners are in their 80's and we are tired of hearing and seeing the ambulances come in two or three times a day. It's terrible to get old.
Today we need to study and take the Food Handler's exam for working at the stadium. Our training is tomorrow, so we want to have that certificate in hand before we go...
Friday, February 15, 2013
Another Valentine's Day Down
We must have set some kind of record yesterday for finishing a Valentine's Day at a flower shop by 3 PM. It's never happened for Josie before, and all the deliveries were completed by 3 o'clock. We both drove to work in the morning in our two vehicles as we always do anticipating an earlier departure for me. Yesterday, we both finished at the same time and drove home in the two vehicles where we could have just used the Jeep if we had known it would turn out the way it did. We thought that it might be a combination of the down economy and the pressure by the grocery stores who have tents set up all over to sell Valentine's Day flowers, candy and whatever. It's probably a good time not to own a shop as the competition from the grocery stores has become intense. Of course, people will never understand that they get better quality flowers and service from shops, but that's not our concern anymore. We're glad it's over and we now get a couple days of down time before going back to work.
Josie has to stand in for an employee at the shop who had lost her husband during the Valentine's Day season. That will require her to work three days next week. We have on-the-job training on Sunday at the Stadium, so we have to have our Food Handlers certificate by then. It is an easy on-line test that we have taken before, but is always a nuisance to get done. Then, on Friday the 22nd, it all begins with the real thing at Spring Training. The realization has set in that we haven't done all the activities we intended to complete before leaving on the 1st of April, so we will probably have to use our two days off each week to catch up on those. The winter season is just sailing by...
Josie has to stand in for an employee at the shop who had lost her husband during the Valentine's Day season. That will require her to work three days next week. We have on-the-job training on Sunday at the Stadium, so we have to have our Food Handlers certificate by then. It is an easy on-line test that we have taken before, but is always a nuisance to get done. Then, on Friday the 22nd, it all begins with the real thing at Spring Training. The realization has set in that we haven't done all the activities we intended to complete before leaving on the 1st of April, so we will probably have to use our two days off each week to catch up on those. The winter season is just sailing by...
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Valentine's Eve
It was a relatively calm and slow day at the flower shop yesterday. All of the deliveries for the day were done by early afternoon and Josie even got home by 4 PM - a first for her in all the years she has worked this special day in the business. It may be the calm before the storm, but it seems like the flower business is lagging behind the economic recovery. Regardless, they are very happy to have her working with them through this period.
Today is the real test. We both go in again at 7:30 but doubt we will be home early today. I delivered to Surprise, Sun City West, Sun City Grand, AZ Traditions and several communities in between, and was done yesterday by 2:30 PM. I made a small detour during the morning to pick up the hat that I had taken to the embroidery store to have Austin's number placed on the side. Here is a shot of the hat:
and the angle that shows Austin's number 27:
It's a really cool hat and I appreciate receiving it from Patty and her family. The back of the hat has Western Michigan embroidered above the strap. I already had one individual ask if it was the Denver Broncos - an observation that I probably will have to explain over and over - but the colors are not those of the Denver Broncos, and it gives me the opportunity to talk about Austin and his accomplishments.
I hope there is a good report tomorrow on how it went today. We're just about ready to hit the road, so happy Valentine's Day everybody...
Today is the real test. We both go in again at 7:30 but doubt we will be home early today. I delivered to Surprise, Sun City West, Sun City Grand, AZ Traditions and several communities in between, and was done yesterday by 2:30 PM. I made a small detour during the morning to pick up the hat that I had taken to the embroidery store to have Austin's number placed on the side. Here is a shot of the hat:
and the angle that shows Austin's number 27:
It's a really cool hat and I appreciate receiving it from Patty and her family. The back of the hat has Western Michigan embroidered above the strap. I already had one individual ask if it was the Denver Broncos - an observation that I probably will have to explain over and over - but the colors are not those of the Denver Broncos, and it gives me the opportunity to talk about Austin and his accomplishments.
I hope there is a good report tomorrow on how it went today. We're just about ready to hit the road, so happy Valentine's Day everybody...
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
A Chores Day
Nearly the entire day yesterday was spent getting some of the dreaded shredding
done. There are 5 boxes of documents left and I need to buckle down and get them
done before we leave. I supplemented that activity by trying to locate where our
W2's are from Holiday Retirement. I remembered that last year, shortly after we
started working there, that the W2's were all sent to the Communities where
the individuals worked or did work during the previous year. After playing a
little phone tag, I finally spoke to someone at Corporate, and also someone at
the Community, and our W2's are nowhere to be found. Corporate has indicated
that they will reprint them and send them to our address here in Surprise. I
will have to wait until we receive them to begin on our taxes. It's a good thing
I started the search when I did.
I came across several interesting documents while going through the files. I found some old letters from the War Department that were sent to Nan regarding my father's burial location in Holland and several others that I will scan and share with the family. The problem I'm having with the shredding is that I need to read every document in some of the files and I don't want to destroy anything that has a relevance to something, or someone, we all care about.
Today starts my duty as a delivery driver at the shop where Josie has been working. We both need to be there at 7:30 to get things started, so I'll end this entry here and pick up again tomorrow...
I came across several interesting documents while going through the files. I found some old letters from the War Department that were sent to Nan regarding my father's burial location in Holland and several others that I will scan and share with the family. The problem I'm having with the shredding is that I need to read every document in some of the files and I don't want to destroy anything that has a relevance to something, or someone, we all care about.
Today starts my duty as a delivery driver at the shop where Josie has been working. We both need to be there at 7:30 to get things started, so I'll end this entry here and pick up again tomorrow...
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Waiting on W2's
I wanted to get started on the taxes yesterday but have to wait at least one more week. All of our W2's are not here yet and it makes no sense to start them without the total picture. The main ones, and the ones still outstanding, are the Holiday Retirement W2's which are the most important. We receive our mail every Monday so I hope next week will be the time.
I went to fill one of our propane tanks yesterday. It has been so cool that this is the third time since we arrived here that I had to do that. The tanks are 9 gallons, so we have gone through quite a bit of propane for one season. It is still cheaper than running our electric heaters, but we sure wish we had the electric included in our monthly rental. Next year will be different.
Patty sent a WMU (Western Michigan University) hat to me which I received yesterday. I took it to a local embroidery shop and will have Austin's number 27 embroidered on the side of the cap. I will take a picture when I receive it back in a week or so. It's a cool hat, and will look extra sharp when its done. The real joy will be when we can watch him playing in a game next October when we visit Patty and her family.
At 33 degrees outside, I'm really ready for some spring like weather. Where is it??
I went to fill one of our propane tanks yesterday. It has been so cool that this is the third time since we arrived here that I had to do that. The tanks are 9 gallons, so we have gone through quite a bit of propane for one season. It is still cheaper than running our electric heaters, but we sure wish we had the electric included in our monthly rental. Next year will be different.
Patty sent a WMU (Western Michigan University) hat to me which I received yesterday. I took it to a local embroidery shop and will have Austin's number 27 embroidered on the side of the cap. I will take a picture when I receive it back in a week or so. It's a cool hat, and will look extra sharp when its done. The real joy will be when we can watch him playing in a game next October when we visit Patty and her family.
At 33 degrees outside, I'm really ready for some spring like weather. Where is it??
Monday, February 11, 2013
Finishing Projects
The recent (January) damp and cool weather has enabled us to work on projects that we haven't really had much time to work on the last several years. Josie was making an afghan and I was completing a cross stitch that I started many years ago and haven't had time to complete. Both of our projects are completed. Josie's afghan turned out very nice as seen below:
She has since started a new one and is back into the crocheting mode once again. She now does work on these while watching TV.
I spent most of yesterday putting final touches on my cross stitch and preparing it for framing. Here is a shot of the completed cross stitch entitled "Hidden Spirits" :
The hidden spirits can be seen in the sky, the mountain behind the Indian girl (buffalo), the mountain across the water (wolf) and the rock on which the Indian is standing (animal head). There are a couple more subtle ones that aren't clearly visible in this picture, but can be seen on close inspection of the work.
I prepared the piece by washing it with Goop and ironing it between a couple towels to dry. I then took it to Michaels for framing and it will be ready for pickup by the 24th of February. I also have started a new project that I hope to complete in a lot less time than this last one. Our break from our working schedules has given us a good amount of time to work on these. That's what the break is for, right?
Josie worked until after 3 PM yesterday and will be working pretty close to the same hours today. We can remember when we owned our own shop that by this time she was working 12-14 hours a day. It's nice for her to just show up for work, do her 7-8 hours a day designing, and then go home and forget about it. I will start driving either tomorrow, or by Wednesday for sure. We have gotten used to all this free time and are not especially looking forward to going back to a busy schedule at Spring Training, although we are looking forward to the new experience...
She has since started a new one and is back into the crocheting mode once again. She now does work on these while watching TV.
I spent most of yesterday putting final touches on my cross stitch and preparing it for framing. Here is a shot of the completed cross stitch entitled "Hidden Spirits" :
The hidden spirits can be seen in the sky, the mountain behind the Indian girl (buffalo), the mountain across the water (wolf) and the rock on which the Indian is standing (animal head). There are a couple more subtle ones that aren't clearly visible in this picture, but can be seen on close inspection of the work.
I prepared the piece by washing it with Goop and ironing it between a couple towels to dry. I then took it to Michaels for framing and it will be ready for pickup by the 24th of February. I also have started a new project that I hope to complete in a lot less time than this last one. Our break from our working schedules has given us a good amount of time to work on these. That's what the break is for, right?
Josie worked until after 3 PM yesterday and will be working pretty close to the same hours today. We can remember when we owned our own shop that by this time she was working 12-14 hours a day. It's nice for her to just show up for work, do her 7-8 hours a day designing, and then go home and forget about it. I will start driving either tomorrow, or by Wednesday for sure. We have gotten used to all this free time and are not especially looking forward to going back to a busy schedule at Spring Training, although we are looking forward to the new experience...
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Mardi Gras Party
The Mardi Gras party next door started at 1 PM but I waited around for Josie to get off work before going. She started at 8 AM yesterday and didn't get home until after 4 PM. As soon as she called to say she was on her way home, I went over to the party to at least spend some time before it was suppose to end at 5 PM. She came home, freshened up and arrived about a half our later. It gave us the opportunity to see the inside of their new house that they had built on the site and it is unbelievable. Without knowing the exact cost for the home, it has to be at least $300K with all the features they have, including granite counters, fireplace and special French tile floors throughout. It is comparable to any high end home we have seen in new developments. They have a similar home on the lot they own in Texas. It is rare to see this high end construction in neighborhoods like Happy Trails that is almost 50 years old. They will not get anything close to their investment when they go to sell - if they ever decide to sell.
The party was terrific as they had every kind of Mardi Gras decoration along with food and drinks - except for alcohol which you had to bring yourself. They had King Cake flown in from Louisiana and it was delicious. Fortunately, we didn't get the tiny baby in our slice of the cake (read the info in the link above) which would make you responsible for providing the cake at next year's party. There were 80 people invited to the party but there were probably half that in attendance when we were there. Our space was also used for parking and it was loaded with golf carts most of the afternoon. Our understanding is that Rett and Claire - owners of the home and also the space we rent - have one of these parties every year and some of them have lasted for days during the Mardi Gras celebration. This is their first party at this location. I forgot to take the camera so there are no pictures - sorry. It was a fun time while we were there.
Josie goes into work again at 8 AM today and it seems that nobody really knows yet what kind of Valentine's season it will be this year. They are finding ways to increase her hours which is good and she is enjoying the time there. It has decided to get very cold again as the temperature is now 37 outside. Our high yesterday was only 56 so winter isn't giving us any slack at all. Stay warm out there...
The party was terrific as they had every kind of Mardi Gras decoration along with food and drinks - except for alcohol which you had to bring yourself. They had King Cake flown in from Louisiana and it was delicious. Fortunately, we didn't get the tiny baby in our slice of the cake (read the info in the link above) which would make you responsible for providing the cake at next year's party. There were 80 people invited to the party but there were probably half that in attendance when we were there. Our space was also used for parking and it was loaded with golf carts most of the afternoon. Our understanding is that Rett and Claire - owners of the home and also the space we rent - have one of these parties every year and some of them have lasted for days during the Mardi Gras celebration. This is their first party at this location. I forgot to take the camera so there are no pictures - sorry. It was a fun time while we were there.
Josie goes into work again at 8 AM today and it seems that nobody really knows yet what kind of Valentine's season it will be this year. They are finding ways to increase her hours which is good and she is enjoying the time there. It has decided to get very cold again as the temperature is now 37 outside. Our high yesterday was only 56 so winter isn't giving us any slack at all. Stay warm out there...
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Another RV Show
We were watching the news on the severe weather front that the East is experiencing and we saw a brief ad about an RV show at the Peoria Sports Complex. This one is larger than the last one we went to a week or so ago that was only for one dealer. There were more than a half dozen dealers represented in this show, including the dealer where we took delivery of our fifth wheel, so we decided to go.
The show was free and the parking was free so it was a bargain all around. We spent a couple hours walking around the show and ended up at the Robert Crist display who was showing lots of Holiday Rambler Motor Homes and several trailers of different variety and brands. There was one DRV Mobile Suite like ours, only it was a brand new 2014 model. There have been some wonderful changes to the offerings but the overall layout was very similar to ours. There were some cosmetic changes in the living area, but the upstairs was almost identical except for another slide that has been added in the bedroom. The unit was beautiful and we got these photos:
We were salivating over the new features and the living room/kitchen layout until we saw the new price - list price of over $150K, and show price of $126K. That was a jaw dropper and the price has increased since we bought ours to about 65% more than we paid. It is now at the very top of the fifth wheel range in price and replaces the old Teton Homes that is no longer in business.
We had some topics to discuss with the sales people regarding furniture swaps and repairs and we ended up getting the name of the service manager and his number to contact so we can discuss the key points. It was a productive discussion and we were happy that we went to the show.
It is back to the cold weather here as it is currently 38 degrees outside. Josie is preparing to leave for her first day back for the Valentine's Day rush and will be working every day from now until after the 14th. I will drive for them - probably on the 12th to the 14th - so our next week is pretty much set...
The show was free and the parking was free so it was a bargain all around. We spent a couple hours walking around the show and ended up at the Robert Crist display who was showing lots of Holiday Rambler Motor Homes and several trailers of different variety and brands. There was one DRV Mobile Suite like ours, only it was a brand new 2014 model. There have been some wonderful changes to the offerings but the overall layout was very similar to ours. There were some cosmetic changes in the living area, but the upstairs was almost identical except for another slide that has been added in the bedroom. The unit was beautiful and we got these photos:
We were salivating over the new features and the living room/kitchen layout until we saw the new price - list price of over $150K, and show price of $126K. That was a jaw dropper and the price has increased since we bought ours to about 65% more than we paid. It is now at the very top of the fifth wheel range in price and replaces the old Teton Homes that is no longer in business.
We had some topics to discuss with the sales people regarding furniture swaps and repairs and we ended up getting the name of the service manager and his number to contact so we can discuss the key points. It was a productive discussion and we were happy that we went to the show.
It is back to the cold weather here as it is currently 38 degrees outside. Josie is preparing to leave for her first day back for the Valentine's Day rush and will be working every day from now until after the 14th. I will drive for them - probably on the 12th to the 14th - so our next week is pretty much set...
Friday, February 8, 2013
Ready for Spring Training
One of the requirements for us to work at Spring Training is to acquire or to have non-slip shoes. They recommended the non-slip shoes that are available at Walmart, so we took a trip to the new Walmart in our area and we each purchased a pair of the Tredsafe working shoes for about $24 per pair. They aren't the kind of shoes you would wear on a daily basis so it's good that they are tax deductible. Even with a tax deduction, they aren't shoes we would be buy at any price. So now we are ready to begin work at the stadium.
There was an unscheduled visit to my local hearing aid office yesterday. While taking off one of my hearing aids to shower following our workout, the tiny plastic tube, or canal, broke off from the shell that goes in the ear. The hearing aids are still under warranty, but they had to send it back to the manufacturer for repair which means I have to use one of my old ones until it is returned sometime next week. The old one is no match for the new one and it is driving me crazy already. Besides, I have to wear two non-matching hearing aids for the time it takes to repair the new one. It's easy to hear the difference in technologies by wearing one of each. I'm thinking that this is going to be a continuing problem with these new hearing aids as the plastic canal is very thin and I can see how it will break with the amount of bending and twisting it goes through each day. I hope I'm wrong about that.
Josie begins working tomorrow at the flower shop and it is also the day for the Mardi Gras party next door. There is a chance for rain tomorrow, so I hope it holds off at least through tomorrow...
There was an unscheduled visit to my local hearing aid office yesterday. While taking off one of my hearing aids to shower following our workout, the tiny plastic tube, or canal, broke off from the shell that goes in the ear. The hearing aids are still under warranty, but they had to send it back to the manufacturer for repair which means I have to use one of my old ones until it is returned sometime next week. The old one is no match for the new one and it is driving me crazy already. Besides, I have to wear two non-matching hearing aids for the time it takes to repair the new one. It's easy to hear the difference in technologies by wearing one of each. I'm thinking that this is going to be a continuing problem with these new hearing aids as the plastic canal is very thin and I can see how it will break with the amount of bending and twisting it goes through each day. I hope I'm wrong about that.
Josie begins working tomorrow at the flower shop and it is also the day for the Mardi Gras party next door. There is a chance for rain tomorrow, so I hope it holds off at least through tomorrow...
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Short Timeline
While looking at the calendar this morning, we are running out of free time even though we have until April 1 to remain here. Josie starts working at the flower shop in two days and will be committed to at least next Thursday or Friday and then we only have a week before the Spring Training games begin. There are lots of things we need to complete before our time here ends. The most important is probably to sort through the fifth wheel and determine what we can leave behind in storage while we travel this spring and summer. We will significantly lighten the load for our next travel schedule as there are many things we have been carrying around that we definitely will not use in that time frame - mostly clothes and books. That involves going through each cabinet and the basement. There are also boxes of documents that I will shred while Josie is working so that chore will be completed - finally. Throw in taxes, and we will be pretty busy from here on out.
It appears that the weather is finally warming up to where we can enjoy some time outside. There is more that we could have done if January wasn't so cool. Our hiking plans never materialized but our workouts at the fitness center have replaced that as far as getting the physical benefits from that activity. We have been going to the fitness center at least 5 days a week to do our two miles each day on the treadmill. Some days we also do weight training, but we always do our treadmill workout.
There is a Mardi Gras party this Saturday at our neighbors' space, so we are hoping Josie can get off work early enough to enjoy some time there and enjoy some Louisiana Cuisine. The folks hosting the party are, of course, native Louisianians and throw one of these parties every year. They are even having some food flown in from Louisiana. They are expecting 80 people, so it should be a good time. I'm sure that with that kind of crowd, the party will spill over onto our space so we hope that everybody maintains control of himself. I am already planning to move our vehicles out of the way so our space can be used to park golf carts and other vehicles for the party. It should be very interesting...
It appears that the weather is finally warming up to where we can enjoy some time outside. There is more that we could have done if January wasn't so cool. Our hiking plans never materialized but our workouts at the fitness center have replaced that as far as getting the physical benefits from that activity. We have been going to the fitness center at least 5 days a week to do our two miles each day on the treadmill. Some days we also do weight training, but we always do our treadmill workout.
There is a Mardi Gras party this Saturday at our neighbors' space, so we are hoping Josie can get off work early enough to enjoy some time there and enjoy some Louisiana Cuisine. The folks hosting the party are, of course, native Louisianians and throw one of these parties every year. They are even having some food flown in from Louisiana. They are expecting 80 people, so it should be a good time. I'm sure that with that kind of crowd, the party will spill over onto our space so we hope that everybody maintains control of himself. I am already planning to move our vehicles out of the way so our space can be used to park golf carts and other vehicles for the party. It should be very interesting...
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
ARAMARK Class Completed
Our training class with ARAMARK went just over 3 hours yesterday. There were about 20 people in our class, some of whom were from different stadiums and various other groups that were not part of our immediate Surprise Stadium group. The same class is being offered on 6 other dates, and yesterday was the initial class.
We started by learning how to use the time clock - very important. The class then went on to present other required subjects such as Food Safety and Alcohol Standards of Practice. There were 2 exams that we took during the class and we were also given our individual schedules. Josie and I will work in the same Concession and our hours vary slightly as a result of our responsibilities. My role requires just a little more time on the job as a Concession Lead since it involves setting up the concession and closing down the concession. Our specific job training will take place around one week before the schedule starts on the 22nd of February. I took some shots of the stadium from our class location which was just off the main concourse. The stadium will probably never be this empty the rest of our time there:
It is a fairly new stadium and, again, it's where the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers have their home Spring Training games.
Today is National Signing Day for the Colleges and Universities football recruits. Austin will sign on and officially become a Bronco today. It is an exciting time for him and also for his family. We are very proud and anxious to follow his progress and to become a Western Michigan University Bronco fan...
We started by learning how to use the time clock - very important. The class then went on to present other required subjects such as Food Safety and Alcohol Standards of Practice. There were 2 exams that we took during the class and we were also given our individual schedules. Josie and I will work in the same Concession and our hours vary slightly as a result of our responsibilities. My role requires just a little more time on the job as a Concession Lead since it involves setting up the concession and closing down the concession. Our specific job training will take place around one week before the schedule starts on the 22nd of February. I took some shots of the stadium from our class location which was just off the main concourse. The stadium will probably never be this empty the rest of our time there:
It is a fairly new stadium and, again, it's where the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers have their home Spring Training games.
Today is National Signing Day for the Colleges and Universities football recruits. Austin will sign on and officially become a Bronco today. It is an exciting time for him and also for his family. We are very proud and anxious to follow his progress and to become a Western Michigan University Bronco fan...
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
All Signed Up
The first order of business yesterday was to go to the Aramark office at Surprise Stadium to complete our paperwork for the Spring Training season. We met Robin Rice, Office Manager, and we were given several forms to complete and also information to complete the Food Service Certification that must be done by February 22, the day of the first scheduled game. Josie and I will be working the same concession and on the same days - Wednesday through Sunday. We completed the paperwork and had to do a phone interview with their home office where we had to answer several questions before being given the "all clear" to Robin.
Our training begins today with a 3 hour class at 4 PM at the stadium. I'm not sure if this is just the first class for us or also the one and only class. We will find out today. At any rate, we are excited to start and to add this experience to our resumes. We are also hoping that it is an opportunity that can become an annual event for us. With Josie getting part time hours at the flower shop and both of us working Spring Training, it could be the impetus to bring us back every winter. Our tentative plan is to return next year and we will go from there to finalize plans for the future. In the meantime, we will return to Wyoming again this summer and work at The Virginian Lodge in Jackson Hole.
We were informed that Austin now has all of his contracts and necessary papers to sign on Wednesday - recruit signing day. He will officially become a student at Western Michigan University on a full scholarship - tuition, room and board, books and a weekly stipend. We are looking forward to attending one of his games, if all goes well, in October when we visit Naperville for a couple weeks following our summer in Wyoming...
Our training begins today with a 3 hour class at 4 PM at the stadium. I'm not sure if this is just the first class for us or also the one and only class. We will find out today. At any rate, we are excited to start and to add this experience to our resumes. We are also hoping that it is an opportunity that can become an annual event for us. With Josie getting part time hours at the flower shop and both of us working Spring Training, it could be the impetus to bring us back every winter. Our tentative plan is to return next year and we will go from there to finalize plans for the future. In the meantime, we will return to Wyoming again this summer and work at The Virginian Lodge in Jackson Hole.
We were informed that Austin now has all of his contracts and necessary papers to sign on Wednesday - recruit signing day. He will officially become a student at Western Michigan University on a full scholarship - tuition, room and board, books and a weekly stipend. We are looking forward to attending one of his games, if all goes well, in October when we visit Naperville for a couple weeks following our summer in Wyoming...
Monday, February 4, 2013
Sports Weekend
This past weekend was almost entirely spent watching the great sporting events on TV - the Phoenix Open Golf Tournament and the Super Bowl. They both were excellent events and more than fulfilled my hopes for excitement. Josie even enjoyed watching although she may never admit it. She did leave to get her nails done during the day, so she had a break from the sports frenzy.
Starting with the Phoenix Open, Phil Mickelson had a rare tournament where he could do little wrong and won handily with a near record score for the 54 holes. It was his 41st victory on the pro tour and he led wire to wire which is very rare in any tournament. He was never in any danger of losing the lead, and he was his usual gracious self throughout. Great weather for the week helped bring out record crowds for the event and a lot of money was collected for the charities which is always a benefit of the event.
The other event of significance was the Super Bowl. It didn't disappoint either. Although the game started out like a Baltimore romp, the San Francisco 49'ers came roaring back in the second half and probably would have won if there were another few minutes on the clock. The 34-31 score was one of the closest games in history. There was even a power outage - 35 minute delay - to add to the drama. The new ads were very good which added to the enjoyment, if watching ads can ever be enjoyable.
It's back to a normal schedule if there is such a thing. We will meet with the Aramark Office Manager this morning to complete the rest of the paperwork for our Spring Training job. Our training begins tomorrow at 4:30 PM so we are excited to begin this new opportunity...
Starting with the Phoenix Open, Phil Mickelson had a rare tournament where he could do little wrong and won handily with a near record score for the 54 holes. It was his 41st victory on the pro tour and he led wire to wire which is very rare in any tournament. He was never in any danger of losing the lead, and he was his usual gracious self throughout. Great weather for the week helped bring out record crowds for the event and a lot of money was collected for the charities which is always a benefit of the event.
The other event of significance was the Super Bowl. It didn't disappoint either. Although the game started out like a Baltimore romp, the San Francisco 49'ers came roaring back in the second half and probably would have won if there were another few minutes on the clock. The 34-31 score was one of the closest games in history. There was even a power outage - 35 minute delay - to add to the drama. The new ads were very good which added to the enjoyment, if watching ads can ever be enjoyable.
It's back to a normal schedule if there is such a thing. We will meet with the Aramark Office Manager this morning to complete the rest of the paperwork for our Spring Training job. Our training begins tomorrow at 4:30 PM so we are excited to begin this new opportunity...
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Watching Golf
Phil Mickelson's performance in the Phoenix Open this year is nothing short of spectacular. It is a joy watching him playing on TV as he is totally opposite of Tiger Woods when it comes to fan interaction. It is fun watching Phil "high five" fans while walking between holes and interacting with the kids all along the way. Tiger doesn't even acknowledge his fans while he plays and is probably the most boring golfer on the tour. I see where Phil spent over one hour signing autographs following his round yesterday which is something that most pros never do. I have been a huge fan of Phil since I saw him at a tournament in WA many years ago where he was standing around outside the clubhouse signing autographs and a small boy walked up to him and asked him to please sign his hat. Phil noticed that there were no other autographs on his cap so he asked the boy to wait there for a few minutes. Phil went into the clubhouse and gathered at least another half dozen autographs on the boy's hat and returned. I never saw a happier kid in my life, and only Phil would do something like that.
With the final round of the tournament today and with Phil looking at a pro scoring record for four rounds, it will be difficult to do anything else today except watch. Throw in the Super Bowl, and our day is set. We are leaning toward a San Francisco win today as we did live in the Bay area for several years at one time - long ago. We have no ties to Baltimore, so they aren't our favorites for this big game. There is a Super Bowl Party at the clubhouse here but we will stay home and watch the game in a very quiet atmosphere.
Josie has completed her afghan and is starting a new one, so she has plenty to do to keep busy while watching TV on this big "sports" day...
With the final round of the tournament today and with Phil looking at a pro scoring record for four rounds, it will be difficult to do anything else today except watch. Throw in the Super Bowl, and our day is set. We are leaning toward a San Francisco win today as we did live in the Bay area for several years at one time - long ago. We have no ties to Baltimore, so they aren't our favorites for this big game. There is a Super Bowl Party at the clubhouse here but we will stay home and watch the game in a very quiet atmosphere.
Josie has completed her afghan and is starting a new one, so she has plenty to do to keep busy while watching TV on this big "sports" day...
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Drive to Prescott
It was a perfect day for a drive yesterday when we went to Prescott. There are several different ways to get there, but our favorite route is through Wickenburg and then through Congress, Peeples Valley, Yarnell and Wilhoit on US 89. Congress is an old town that actually is listed as one of the AZ ghost towns, although it is hard to find the part that satisfies that description. We went there many years ago with our grand kids and walked through the cemetery at the edge of town which is about as close as you can get to the ghost town description. There is also a pretty famous rock there that always catches photographers:
It was a beautiful drive and we arrived in Prescott before noon and stopped at the Chamber of Commerce to pick up all the information we needed on the various areas of Prescott. We drove around for awhile and stopped at Lynx Lake to have our lunch before driving around some more and then headed toward Prescott Valley to the east. There are some pretty good buys on land and homes in the Prescott area and is one area that we would seriously consider when the time comes for us to decide where to plant ourselves.
The drive home was through Prescott Valley, Dewey/Humboldt and Mayer before hitting I-17 for the drive south. That is a drive that we have taken many times. It was a typical drive until we reached Anthem when we spotted several balloons in the distance:
They were landing at about the same time we arrived at their landing spot and we got some good shots of them up close, one of which is below:
It must have been a perfect day for flying activities as we then ran into a group of para gliders while driving on the US 303 loop just south of Lake Pleasant. There were 4 or 5 that we could see from the highway, and one of them is captured here:
The beautiful weather brings out all kinds of aerial activities.
It will be nice again today with the temperatures in the 70's as we decide how to best spend the day and enjoy the sunny skies...
It was a beautiful drive and we arrived in Prescott before noon and stopped at the Chamber of Commerce to pick up all the information we needed on the various areas of Prescott. We drove around for awhile and stopped at Lynx Lake to have our lunch before driving around some more and then headed toward Prescott Valley to the east. There are some pretty good buys on land and homes in the Prescott area and is one area that we would seriously consider when the time comes for us to decide where to plant ourselves.
The drive home was through Prescott Valley, Dewey/Humboldt and Mayer before hitting I-17 for the drive south. That is a drive that we have taken many times. It was a typical drive until we reached Anthem when we spotted several balloons in the distance:
They were landing at about the same time we arrived at their landing spot and we got some good shots of them up close, one of which is below:
It must have been a perfect day for flying activities as we then ran into a group of para gliders while driving on the US 303 loop just south of Lake Pleasant. There were 4 or 5 that we could see from the highway, and one of them is captured here:
The beautiful weather brings out all kinds of aerial activities.
It will be nice again today with the temperatures in the 70's as we decide how to best spend the day and enjoy the sunny skies...
Friday, February 1, 2013
Good Anniversary
Today, February 1st, is my anniversary of 14 years of non-smoking. There were times during the 40 plus years that I was a fairly heavy smoker that I thought 14 days would be impossible. I really enjoyed smoking when it was both fashionable and common in our society. Now, smokers are frowned upon and I am happy to not be included in that group. Besides, I am convinced that I would probably not be alive today if I hadn't stopped when I did. The real satisfaction is that I quit before my mother died and she was the biggest proponent of my non-smoking effort. I still remember my very first cigarette, and I also remember my last. Quiting was the toughest thing I ever had to do but it has paid off - so far. My lungs will never be like those of a non-smoker, but I am amazed at the improvement in my breathing and overall health. What a fool I was. Josie has been smoke free for 28 years, so she is way ahead in terms of enjoying a life of fresh air.
We hope to take advantage of the improving weather today by taking a trip to Prescott where we have not been in many years. It is another one of our favorite towns in AZ and we are anxious to see what changes have been made. The temperature is suppose to get into the 70's, so it should be a nice drive. We had also planned to attend the Phoenix Open Golf Tournament that is currently going on in Scottsdale, but decided to save that money for other activities that we can both enjoy. I am more interested in the golf than Josie, so she would prefer going somewhere else, I'm sure.
We received a call yesterday from the shop where Josie is going to work asking if I could be available for delivery driving on the few days leading up to Valentine's Day. Of course, that was affirmative. There aren't too many days left before she starts on the 9th, so we will try to do some interesting things between now and then...
We hope to take advantage of the improving weather today by taking a trip to Prescott where we have not been in many years. It is another one of our favorite towns in AZ and we are anxious to see what changes have been made. The temperature is suppose to get into the 70's, so it should be a nice drive. We had also planned to attend the Phoenix Open Golf Tournament that is currently going on in Scottsdale, but decided to save that money for other activities that we can both enjoy. I am more interested in the golf than Josie, so she would prefer going somewhere else, I'm sure.
We received a call yesterday from the shop where Josie is going to work asking if I could be available for delivery driving on the few days leading up to Valentine's Day. Of course, that was affirmative. There aren't too many days left before she starts on the 9th, so we will try to do some interesting things between now and then...
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