Launch and Sunset

SpaceX Crew-10
Jupiter Island, FL
March 14, 2025

 Beware the Ides of March!

The SpaceX Crew-10 launch happened last evening just before sunset. I headed to the beach, along with Chris and Finn, to watch the launch since the weather was clear. 

I was reminded that launches are exciting as we watched the countdown on my phone and then looked to the sky to see the vehicle in powered first-stage flight before the flame was obscured by the smoke trail. Launches are always exciting to watch and crewed launches are even more exciting because there were four souls aboard the bright dot in the sky. Chris asked me of the crew was nervous before the launch and I mused that there likely was some anxiousness, but they trust the technology and are likely more excited about going into space that they are nervous about the performance of the launch vehicle and capsule. 

Sunset over Tequesta
Tequesta, FL
March 14, 2025

Nighttime launches are a bit more exciting as we can usually see the boosters return to the pad, but not so last evening. Of course, we are about 120 miles from the launch pad and so we do not expect to see too much of the activity, especially in daylight. But, nonetheless, the launch was exciting on a beautiful cloudless early evening.

After the launch, we walked across the island to watch the sunset over Tequesta and were treated to a sundowner special. The clear skies meant that the sunset was localized, but still inspiring as we watched from a beach along the ICW. 

It was a great way to put the exclamation point onto another day. 

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Trucks N Tunes - February 2025

Trucks N' Tunes
Constitution Park Tequesta, FL
February 7, 2025

 Chris and I enjoyed a fantastic Friday evening in Tequesta at the Trucks N' Tunes event. 

Looking Down the Food Truck Row
Constitution Park, Tequesta, FL
February 7, 2025

The service from the food trucks was slow and the music was a bit loud, but the music was, at the same time, enjoyable making it THE place to be on a Friday night in Tequesta.

The weather, as expected, was perfect. It was another glorious February evening in South Florida. Where else would I rather be? No where. 

Tequesta, like many South Florida communities, provides many activities to enjoy during the late-winter months. There are art shows, farmer's markets, and small gatherings like Trucks N' Tunes. It makes living here particularly enjoyable. 

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Celebrations for All

 I never realized it before, but January has become a month of celebrations and remembrances.

The month starts off with the New Year excitement and then family celebrations kick-in. Before mid-month there are three birthdays and an anniversary. With the arrival of Beck, two of the birthdays on the same day. 

Last evening we celebrated the birthday of our formerly youngest grandchild. We had a great time gathering at a Japanese Steak House to celebrate Lucas' birthday. It was good to see him again before we evacuate Maryland for warmer temperatures in Florida. We are looking forward to the forecasted 80 degree temperatures in Tequesta this weekend. Maybe I'll thaw out.

But, the month of remembrances and celebrations is not over yet. Of course there is the MLK remembrance, but following I have a sister with a birthday nearing the end of the month.

Wow! Celebrations for all. It gives us all something to look forward to during the cold, dark month of January.

Programming Note: I expect to be traveling tomorrow and Friday so the blogs will be short, if at all. I can usually get one out after the sun comes out and Chris takes over the driving.

-- Bob Doan, Odenton, MD

 

Fiery Sunset

Sunset on I-70
West of Frederick, MD
December 7, 2024

 Last evening as Chris and I, along with friends George and Sue, were headed to Rohersville, MD, for a winery event art Big Cork, we experienced a magnificent sunset. Since we were driving west we were able to enjoy the sunset for what seemed like forever. 

The clouds were perfectly positioned to reflect the sun's last rays. We were driving west on I-70 just east of Frederick, MD. 

The sky colored as if it were on fire. A patch of blue sky directly in front of us provided some relief. It was a beautiful ride and since I was the front-seat passenger, I was able to get an image of the sunset to remember.

-- Bob Doan, Odenton, MD 

October Arrived -- Biking Goal

 

October arrived overnight. 

Happy Fiscal New Year and Congress actually took steps to keep the government open! Yay! Well, at least until right before Christmas. I wonder if the Lame Duck Congress will be able to prevent a shutdown for Christmas?

The big news this morning, with the arrival of October, is that I will be riding 300 miles for the American Cancer Society!

Sandhill Cranes in the Drive
Tequesta, FL
September 30, 2024

Chris and I biked an easy 14.5 miles yesterday and enjoyed the morning and the day. We saw some Sandhill Cranes in a year along our route. I finished September with just over 143 miles in 9 rides. That is pretty well on track with what I have to do in October by just doubling the number of rides. We were gone or entertained visitors for 13 days during the month which reduced the number of days available to ride.

Thanks you to all of my sponsors. There remains time to become a sponsor. Just click the link below to become a sponsor. 

I want to sponsor Bob. 

Enjoy the day. I'm heading out on my first ride of the month in a few minutes!

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Celebrating Together

 

Celebrating 49 Years
Tequesta, FL
August 9, 2024

Yesterday, Chris and I celebrated 49 years of marriage. 

No, it has not always been easy or smooth. But, we continue to respect and love each other and have even survived being together 24/7 since I retired. That may be the biggest accomplishment of all!

We took some time last evening to recount the events of our wedding day. August 9, 1975, was a stifling hot day in Ithaca, NY. Our ceremony was not until 7 PM in a church which was not air conditioned. But the sun coming through the windows was as beautiful as Chris had imagined it would be.

The fun of the day, however, began early. In the wee hours of the morning I dropped a window on my head letting my cat into my room from outdoors. Yes, I scratched my face in the process. In those days, living on the outskirts of Danby, NY, my cat would go out for the evening and sometime during the night she would appear on the porch roof at my second story window meowing to be allowed inside. There was a storm window behind the wooden frame window which had to be removed to open the screen and allow the cat inside. I guess, in my somewhat less than sober state after my bachelor party, I didn't manage the window well; it slipped and I tried to use my head to catch it. Not a good move. 

But wait, there is more. Our car, a 1970 Ford LTD, needed a new muffler and tail pipe. No problem. I bought the parts and completed the installation in the yard. Well, turns out there was a problem because the tailpipe was about two inches too short and the hot exhaust went into the trunk when the car was not moving. When my best man took the car to fill it with gas for us, the contents of the trunk caught fire. So after the reception when I went looking for the car to go to our hotel, my Dad told me that I was taking his car on our honeymoon and not to ask questions. I learned the details upon our return. 

But wait there is even more. We got to our hotel, which because of the late ceremony was just outside of Ithaca where the ceremony and reception were held, and nicely settled for our first night as a married couple when what happened? The entire wedding party crashed our door with pizza and we had an after party in our room. Someone squealed about where we were saying. To this day I do not know who it was as we had tried to keep it a secret.

The next morning, very tired, we did get on the road to where else other than Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, for our honeymoon. That all worked out well, the only exciting thing I remember from the honeymoon was watching a buffalo be born at the zoo. OK, there might have been some other things not suitable for mentioning here.

And so, from that less than smooth start, we have continued to overcome obstacles and celebrate successes for 49 years! We especially enjoy our three children, their spouses and their children. We are excited that our merry band of 11 is expected to grow to 12 come January. A dozen Doans, maybe the world is not ready for us.

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Sunset in the Evening

Luke, Chris and Finnegan
ICW Tequesta, FL
August 7, 2024

Being in the water as the sun set last evening was an experience that I wish could happen every day, but it doesn't. 

Chris, Luke, and I made the effort last evening to be in the water on the ICW at sunset and we were not disappointed. Although I thought the sunset was going to be a dud because of the clouds, I was very wrong. The end of the day provided a spectacular light show complete with colors and highlighted clouds.

Luke, Finnegan, and Me
ICW Tequesta, FL
August 7, 2024

As we approached the beach it became obvious that we were going to see a very special sunset. After the two weeks of rain and storms, the sunset was a welcome sight. The earlier storms had cleared out and the skies were finally clearing. 

It was a fitting end to the day. It was a somewhat sober day as I remembered that it would have been my parents' 70th wedding anniversary, but with Mom's passing almost three years ago, their time together had been put on pause. Maybe Mom had a hand in the beautiful sunset last evening. 

Sunset Over Tequesta
Tequesta, FL
August 7, 2-24

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Looking out the Window

Out the New Home Window
Port St Lucie, FL
August 5, 2024

 Chris and I had the opportunity to help neighbors begin moving from their rented condo into their first home. The home is situated about 30 minutes north in Port St Lucie. They settled on the home yesterday and began the move-in process. My truck is assisting them and Chris and I took some stuff in the Mach-e with us as we went to visit their new and exciting home. 

Wow! It is beautiful. 12-foot ceilings really make a difference. The doors are 9-feet tall. Together the doors and ceiling height gives the impression of an expansive open space. It all seems larger than life.

I looked out the window from the owner's suite and took this image. The scene is something to look at and enjoy. It is also the view from the covered patio. I have to admit, there is something exciting about a newly constructed home and being the first ones to own and decorate. It is a beautiful blank slate. I do not want to give too much about the house away because it is their joy to share.

We are so very happy for them, but will miss having them right next door and enjoying impromptu happy hours and dinners.

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Hot Beach Day

From Under the Umbrella
Carlin Park, Jupiter, FL
July 24, 2025

 The sand burned our feet, thankfully we wore sandals or flip-flops to protect us. The sun shone brightly and the Saharan dust seemed to have dissipated as the sky returned to a bright blue. We trudged through the sand with our chairs and umbrellas to find a nice spot from which to enjoy the late-morning and early-afternoon. 

Boys in the Water
Carlin Park, Jupiter, FL
July 24, 2025

The gray sand of our Florida beaches seems to soak in the Sun's rays. But, we were headed for an enjoyable day on the beach. To top it off, we had entertainment. A summer camp of kids was just down the beach and their antics kept us amused for most of our time under the umbrellas. I ventured into the water, but the waves were rough and standing waist deep was the deepest I decided to venture, not wanting to become fully immersed.

Even though the temperature soared into the low 90s, the ocean breeze kept us relatively cool and made the entire experience enjoyable. Well, except for the much too hot sand. 

A great beach day with friends!

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Rainbow to the Moon

 I walked out the door this morning, headed to the store for breakfast supplies with my head spinning from the wild news of the past week.

As I walked out my door I looked up to the sky and I was greeted by this bright and exciting sight. There, in front of me, was a rainbow to the moon!

What a sight. The rainbow was rising out of the cloud and striving to reach the moon. For a moment it took me on a magical flight of possibilities.

I stood and admired this unusual sight. I pointed out the rainbow to a neighbor walking by who had not looked up to see the rainbow. 

Wow!

I guess I am ready for the day now.

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

It is Way Too Early

Home Goods
Stuart, FL
July 11, 2024

 Over the course of the past week, Chris and I have visited two stores that have already begun to display their Halloween offerings!

Sad, but true. 

It is still the middle of summer and retailers are beginning to push the next big retailer's dream holiday. 

Last week were in the Home Goods store in Stuart, where one wall was already adorned with Halloween items. Yesterday we were in Costco, North Palm Beach, where the Halloween decorations were on display. 

In my mind it is just too soon! We still need to see beachwear, shorts, and summertime shirt displays. Halloween will be here soon enough. 

I suppose Christmas decorations will be on the shelves in a couple weeks as well. 

Hold onto your wallets--someone is trying to get their hand in your pocket. 

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

It's Happening at the Zoo

 

Sloth and Baby
Palm Beach Zoo, West Palm Beach, FL
July 13, 2024

Zoo Day!

Yup, Chris and I went to the Palm Beach Zoo yesterday, just because.

I felt a bit funny as we entered as we were the only ones without kids in tow. It almost made me feel conspicuous, but in some ways that was a good thing because we engaged in conversations with the zoo staff and did not have kids trying to get on to see the animals. 

Flamboyance of Flamingos
Palm Beach Zoo, West Palm Beach, FL
July 13, 2024

This zoo is very different from most. It has a lot of shade which is nice for the animals. It also has a lot of screens to protect the animals, but which makes taking images tough. The shade made the visit pleasant as we were out of the sun. 

There is a wide variety of animals to enjoy and there are also a number of interactive programs, which are best reserved in advance. We know that now. 

The zoo is not huge, but that made it a pleasant day looking at the animals because as we all know--it's all happening at the zoo!

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Happy Hour on the ICW

TIKI 52 Looking to the ICW
Tequesta, FL
July 12, 2024

 The weather was actually pleasant and Chris and I headed off to our newest favorite watering hole to enjoy the evening and Happy Hour. Tiki 52 was just beginning to get busy as we arrived to enjoy a few apps and adult beverages. 

The sky actually had some blue patches, which was a change since we have had a lot of Saharan dust during the past few days. I do not know which is worse, the Saharan dust we are experiencing here or the smoke from the Canadian wildfires that the Northeast experienced last year. At least the Saharan dust does not have a noticeable smell. It does, however, cause similar respiratory distress for some people.

We had such a great time with Happy Hour that we ordered dinner and continued to enjoy the evening. 

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

20s in the 70s

70th Birthday Cake
Tequesta, FL
June 29, 2024

 Chris and I celebrated a friend's 70th birthday last evening. 

It was a big affair and was attended by many neighbors and friends. We had a great time and enjoyed the conversation and the festivities. 

But it was a 70th Birthday party. We can delude ourselves into thinking 70 is the new 50--but it is still 70.

I heard a saying the other day that describes the situation that our generation finds itself in:

In the 70s we were in our 20s, but now in the 20s we are in our 70s. 

Some people rephrase is as saying I had a lot more fun being 20 in the 70s than I am being 70 in the 20s--but you know what--for Chris and I (although we are not yet 70, but it is within spitting distance) that is just not true. We are having a lot more fun now being retired and enjoying life, our family, and friends than we did as struggling recent graduates and with a young family and new careers in the 70s. 

I guess I am thankful for where I am--right now!

Happy last day of June 2024! My favorite month of the year begins tomorrow!

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Off the Beach

Ride Computer
Tequesta, FL
June 27, 2024

 The afternoon weather has been stormy the past few days. This led us to celebrating happy hour off the beach last evening. 

We went to a local restaurant and enjoyed some great conversation, wine, and apps. I was excited about oysters for $1.50/shuck. I enjoyed three as I split the half dozen we ordered. 

The clouds and thunderstorms kept us off the beach because there is nothing worse than being caught on the beach during a thunderstorm.  

Getting out during the mornings before the storms form is critical. That is when I bike. I have ridden 295 miles this month and am hopeful of getting out tomorrow to push my total over the 300 mile mark. I realize the 160 miles I rode the GAP really helped me reach the 300-mile mark, but this would not be my first month of achieving that mark. October 2022 and March 2023 are the other months that I have managed to exceed 300 logged miles. 

Goals are fun to have, especially when they are achieved. 

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Off to the Show!

 Instead of watching the disaster that was the presidential debate, last evening Chris and I had tickets to see Mama Mia at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. We had a great time. 

The music was, as always, stirring and the performances were exciting and energizing. 

The Kravis continues to be a great theater in which to see top notch performances. And it is so easy to get out after the show--unlike many places where I have to wait 30 or more minutes to exit the parking garage. 

After the Curtain Call Encore of Mama Mia
Kravis Center, West Palm Beach, FL?
June 27, 2024

The show was great! As I wrote the music and the acting was energizing and the song finale after the show was stirring and brought the audience to their feet and many joined in with the celebration. 

Even with the rain, it was an evening to remember and was what an evening at the theater should be: memorable entertainment! 

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Friday Evening is Beach Time

Carlin Park Beach
Jupiter, FL
June 21, 2024

 Chris and I headed to the beach last evening to enjoy Happy Hour with friends. The beach was the perfect escape from the oppressive heat. We were greeted by beautiful cloud-filled skies, bright sun, a strong surf, and a pleasant wind to keep the experience comfortable. There were even surfers to provide entertainment.

The Crew
Carlin Park, Jupiter, FL
June 21, 2024

Sitting on the beach at the end of the week, and especially a week in which we traveled, provided a way to relax and unwind from the activity. 

The surfers always provide a show and since I can't surf, I am always fascinated at how they balance themselves upon the ever-changing waves and avoid crashing onto the shore. 

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

Riding the GAP - The Light at the end of the Tunnel

Brush Tunnel
Near Cumberland, MD
June 16, 2024

 The third day of the GAP ride was tunnel day. We rode through three long tunnels, one of them was almost 3300 feet. I learned that tunnels are dark and cold! Really cold!

The last tunnel was most interesting, however, not because of its particular geography or length, but because as we arrived to transit, a Western Maryland Scenic Railroad train was coming out of the tunnel. Truly, the light at the end of the tunnel was an oncoming train. 

We stopped and chatted with the runner in the image while the train passed. It was pretty exciting because we had been riding along the tracks for quite a few miles and I hoped that we would get to see the train. And we did!

I enjoyed waving to the people on the train. When we lived in Maryland I wanted to ride the train, but never was able to get it on the schedule. 

I feel fortunate that within a few miles of the end of the three-day ride to have actually arrived at the perfect moment to see the train emerge from the tunnel. Coincidence? I think not. 

-- Bob Doan, Odenton, MD

A Fun Evening with Family

 

Luke Catching Flying Seafood
Ellicott City, MD
June 12, 2024

It was an evening for celebrations and much of the family joined together for a meal at Sakura Japanese Steakhouse in Ellicott City. 

I have to admit, I am still getting used to the oppressive traffic in the Baltimore area. I had forgotten how bad traffic is on the main roads from about 3:30 PM to after 7 PM. I have been about 15 minutes late for everything I have attempted during those times. Last night was no exception. 

We had a wonderful time at the restaurant, once we arrived. The family had good fun at the table and there was so much to discuss--especially for those of us heading out on the GAP ride tomorrow. 

Of course the meal ended with the tossing of shrimp and people trying to catch it in their mouths. I do not think anyone caught the shrimp. That was lucky for me because the chef forgot I'm allergic to and I got caught in the moment of trying to catch the airborne shellfish until the cry at the table brought me to reality and I allowed the seafood to bounce off my face. 

It was truly a fun evening with family. 

Friends, colleagues, and memories

 I enjoyed a fantastic afternoon yesterday. 

I was able to attend the 60th Anniversary of the organization that I used to work for and have been retired from for the past almost 2 1/2 years. 

It was great to be back on the campus and noting the changes which have occurred, although I could not actually go into my old offices. But most importantly, I was able to meet with many of my old bosses, friends, and colleagues while learning how the organization has grown since my fairly recent departure. 

Decade anniversaries provide an important moment in an organization's life. They are useful in reflecting on the past and charting a course for the future. That is what I heard yesterday. The organization in which I enjoyed working for the non-military portion of my adult life continues to be thriving, vibrant and relevant. 

It was great meeting my friends and fellow retirees as well as the current members of the organization. I especially enjoyed meeting with so many of the former directors who came. I was very happy to have traveled from Florida to be part of the celebration. 

And so until we meet at the 70th!

-- Bob Doan, Odenton, MD