Pickleball, Picklball Clinic and Dinner with Picklball Friends

As with most days, pickleball is played every morning and afternoon here at Peace River. Below are some pictures taken during the week. You'll see a couple of new faces...........and some of the regulars.

So many pictures this winter have shown players bundled up to keep warm. Seems so nice to see the long pants and sweat shirts replaced with shorts and T's

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That's John and Carla - back in the park for a short stay, in the back, and Tracy, looking like she's getting ready for the opposing team to serve. John and Carla just closed on a new home here in Northport, Fl. so a warm welcome goes out to new friends and new Florida Picklers.

Here is Judy and Bernie. Did I mention that Bernie is 77 years young? Would never know from the way he moves on the court.

Karen and Gene - I think Karen is hoping that Gene is getting this one!

Love this one! What form Tracy!!!! Knees bent, wrist is wrinkled, and eyes on the ball. Jim is prepared just in case she misses. Speaking of the talents of Jim and Tracy.........If I could get a close up of each of the players you would no doubt see them displaying their new paddle pins.

Tracy and Jim made these wooden paddles, generally requested in the same color as the person's regularly used paddle on the court. Tracy - I think Rich will soon be in need of a new one!! His pin seems to be taking as much abuse as his regular paddle!!

There were a few players that over the week asked Rich to do another Pickleball Skills Clinic. About 10 players showed up on Friday to hopefully pick up a few tips to improve their game. Generally I go with Rich to help out and take pictures - but I didn't make this one. Fortunately Bill, who despite being one of the newest players to the game, was there and helped Rich with a few of the demos. Bill even said he picked up a few new things to help his game too. Like Rich, and Dean and Rene, and Buddy and a few of the other guys - Bill is the newest "Addicted Player" and soon to be tournament competitor.

Here's the group at the Bread Board in Wauchula for dinner on Sunday evening. The soup and salad bar was great, but can't say the same about the dinner entre. But the price was good and the company and conversation was great! That's Val with Bill on the left. They're leaving the park on Monday morning. We'll definately keep in touch - and wish them safe and happy pickleball travels. Sitting next to them (almost hidden) are our friends Nathan and Krystal who just arrived back in Peace River a few days ago. So glad to have them back in the park. We've already talked about Easter plans together. Sitting on the left, next to Rich and I are friends Buddy and Brenda. They too will be leaving the park soon. We have had so much fun getting to know the two of them this winter. Can't believe the time has passed so quickly. We'll surely miss these two.