Here I am in sunny Phoenix, Casa Grande and Yuma, Ariz. to see relatives that I never see back in Canada. These fortunate folks are regulars in this part of the country.
My two brothers Ron and Bernard Gregoire vacation in Yuma every winter along with their wives and have a blast. I decided I would see what this is all about and am thoroughly enjoying every moment meeting fantastic people.
My brother Bernie and Lucielle own a unit in Orchard Gardens 55 Plus Trailer Park in Yuma. It is situated on a busy street with a lot of traffic. The fire station is only a few blocks away, and between sirens, church bells ringing approximately eight times a day, roosters crowing day and night, and dogs barking, there's never a quiet moment. I am going to sharpen up my not so good golfing skills in the 90-degree weather and swim regularly in the nearby pool.
There are a variety of activities to partake in (almost too many). I signed up for card making, line dancing, whist card games and shuffleboard. They have pancake breakfasts, jam sessions, weekly coffee and donuts, along with the up and coming announcements. I put on a Cowboy Poetry Western Theme evening, which received many positive comments. Famous poet Phyllis Rathwell composes all of her material along with Montana-born husband Larry Miller. They reside in Elkwater, Alta. surrounded by the beautiful Cypress Hills. Their sense of humour combined with their ranching background delights audiences.
Phyllis's poetry reflects the reality of living and working with critters, men and children. She is also a former school educator. She has been a featured poet at many large gatherings in United States and Canada. She has visited Saskatchewan often with her talent and has been a guest at Agribition in Regina.
Larry and Phyllis's poetry has become popular after-dinner entertainment wherever rural folks need a few laughs.
The program also included guitar, fiddle, harmonica and singing. I got a few ladies and one man to sing a western selection of songs, which was successful as I sang and was the pianist. Everyone I approached said they could not sing (an easy way out), but with 10 people in a group, wow, they were fantastic.
I am presently engaged in putting together a "Carol Burnett Comedy Evening" after the park's Adios Amigo Windup Annual Potluck Supper. I have a few interested individuals plus myself to perform five-minute skits from "The Old Folks' Comedy Sketch Collection.鈥� I ordered a set of comedies before I left home and had these sent to my Yuma address (from a company in Colorado Springs.
Must close quickly, my other brother Ron and wife Marie from St. Brieux聽 are waiting for me to go to the Foothills and purchase the jumbo fresh raisins.
