tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8838147895220261882024-02-24T01:36:55.239-08:00Going Down Hill At Full SpeedChuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.comBlogger271125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-70258801021755571992014-06-17T22:23:00.000-07:002014-06-18T23:01:06.059-07:00Good By Valdez<h2>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span> </h2>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We are leaving Valdez tomorrow, after spending a very relaxing week here. There is not much to this small village, two museums, one of which was about the town before and after the earthquake of 64. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdwH_0j7f0f19rAhX0Yr8moQzOh3dGPZbXzhHTMt6rmNsyPWeWaM7d5RAfMlGVF-AzTxnQ-_XeiEj77WKld-Xup2WXgOcDnqshyphenhyphenNNIEKrdFGMtReI-tT8p4qwPAy4JxpHXw45LywwYDg/s1600-h/DSC05469%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05469" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUQx6bmuSXdVsRe8PFXPAsW7q5wkGvMx-gx1T5cNg1mbQcnBujF32sFym7D587W_Rj0OdgWun22qwUYXIltrAKbBNpYbtSk5eg-cf85WFS2uJaVmc4enqG2KVkejGMan2v6Khq1pzSKI/?imgmax=800" height="405" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC05469" width="538" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Because the town had been built on very unstable ground, when the ground began shaking, the water front basically liquefied and disappeared into the ocean. Then the tsunami took out some more of the town. Most of what was left had been heavily damaged and rebuilding in the same area seemed foolish. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPmMSvciacgaBY8EY51fgbemey8dwJes7WA5mF3j4ss1AEL1B4vt3VBqBMsPMThhN3guGfFKMUCe-Ugqt8NUISvUSunmYv2dmhe-xOgVMPTpkBFMYORQOpNm4gUQvE4xDEpeq5IymLAWE/s1600-h/DSC05474%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05474" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjfbq8q5zg5GSC8lJ9kG-fDHpdj44MM1L1vdfvDCs_gQm-namhb_gucXFutb1HQFwh4sRbZTWDe_v8u1na1Cxjqv2IYAn9QKP11-8FzZqjokWq5a8rlVCsajlcHNDpXXQ-UaWDpDwvxE/?imgmax=800" height="253" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC05474" width="326" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">They moved the town about two miles away, and it is built on very solid ground. What was not moved to the new town was burnt to the ground. My parents still lived in Alaska when the earthquake hit, and I remember it was days before we knew their condition. And then only because a post card arrived. The time before all the technology is hard to visualize today. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Chucks fishing did not result in any pictures, matter of fact, he ended up with only one pitiful fish fry dinner, but he enjoyed getting his line wet. He didn’t try any of the charters, waiting to get to Homer and Seward for that. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLdRzM3HmDYHJRJfCUULFPnmDLJqiZh7SaqJT2hN0bMy3k8LRfTf5KcS0mjDjKx-JEACzSuUXPrUW_zA1WS2SHfpzgcx1ZdVRlmrQrd5JYtXA6zg3o7sJqLri8PlPbFVMZGl-zykHRZgg/s1600-h/DSC05476%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05476" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7D9AvNvCoPYX5FaouXtBoDgoepTwWASr_PaXkgwkz6fTQkG9jI2NUEwhZ2s58Fqjq2wY02phsxiPGR22zt66SDKIUzXeGT2qNMR2QKvGM7MZO3LytDO-7pA15oiVgi10ESot5sc8wY4/?imgmax=800" height="415" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC05476" width="489" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We are heading to Chugiak, and my bothers back yard. Spend a few days there, and we will see what plans we can come up with. Know that they all have some ideas of things to do. Excited to see everyone, it has been way too long. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-30269459827869171522014-06-11T19:01:00.001-07:002014-06-11T19:01:58.140-07:00VALDEZ<p> </p> <p><font size="2">Chuck got his eye appointment taken care of and we were “on the road again”. Headed to Valdez, to get some fishing in. We have never been to this area and decided that we would never get the chance again. Even though it caused us to back track a hundred miles it was totally worth it. We actually thought about stopping at Cooper River and join in a little combat fishing, but realized that we were past that age. We did this the very first time we came to Alaska in ‘72, and my dad was a great teacher. In this area you are allowed to snag salmon, BUT they must be hooked in the mouth. Mission impossible, how fast can you get that hook in the mouth after landing it is the name of the game. They fish very close and when one get hooked they “holler fish on” and everyone tries to get their lines out of the way. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Sv2ImciCBm7NIcLDOyGfJBT8sPwN8O-sNhIi_0sH3xY0C51bAhQSFKVH3D29zsHhrKPi3hgO_FlEKT4WjsjoSZnTkwkNcQu7G5forUMwnTuVAuEcpgdJAKa3ZZRPx3fudj3NFke9V6I/s1600-h/fish%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="fish" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="fish" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGk_-c8R1DK5DWn3_T8460u7BnK75wqp7hkewGTLemuz7h_rMQ_TrofuQgcfEhg1xVymzZbKBg7PeYvishg_SteZoMxaVxEdztcX9mbVVtrbnEtOAiewRAHid6BTgS-kzfijnWxJtth8/?imgmax=800" width="408" height="269"></a></p> <p><font size="2">The first day out we saw a big bull moose, no pic. Little horns only, early.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHBLOWILsy2FCZj6GSME7xL6NmDENd7nUL7zY_pMwqCoGNas3mnBzzr9VMgvqOJpnFoKjOU8MhRBOLeIQhziGsy-S8q191prGrTa-LwAIaBzzA7mE9pUW5Wa3l-JTchxp_TDMU9PgEXRc/s1600-h/DSC05387%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC05387" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTE6oaAqEh2VWKRvoslQWXTWIKcpO6rFssJXp3AKzNT8htPm6SiFBn7hiHVWkZNon4RWzbRb9O5_DCfgfrLHPmKDC7s097WRBE4-kBN7BfYoM_kdnSIe3EKPcSGBqic3jhrtw2lKLY3DU/?imgmax=800" width="419" height="287"></a><font size="2">Seemed like we had mountains on one side or the other. Stopped for lunch and our view was overlooking a half dozen lakes. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitydA3WCs2bTja6egIb4Yn94fNhEbmzbRWeeQPIoTZ6X2eMcFIRsWCSKOaFdGlcgDmDXmXbY7BmgNpYXsRXo2engdTXwDMUooJlaxWrLONYpvSKnODYxfhYrLg-Lvcb2lRdZV2VobA_Bs/s1600-h/image%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2M9kdHpB8363sATbQZK0tKOGMMrUW9f1Ts9NivMy2EnigleoBCjnDyB18V4It8b6sGVoZn61VYbxraEcmwvGOaf9pMTaxIMSvEZ3gTxWo1wGVTRbGCmk8VVbF6m0BpC61S_4YFwInHo/?imgmax=800" width="478" height="358"></a></font></p> <p><font size="2">We spent the night at a pull out along the road, along with a few other RV’ers. Chris and others had left the day before us and were in the area, but they were planning to spend the day at a lake near by, and we decided to go on in to Valdez. The scenery from there on is was some of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgztUyJv6d_7nJaPwBWchyArXicQCbXkriFwxkbzUjS30-Puyj4KWx5UOVh3THbSwUb5CD6C66NvN7NyJT_8oIr4evS3PlU-vY55vIBOSKFccObZnsRicBWT3kYwXoFBoMHOFtbNcmrxAM/s1600-h/DSC05411%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC05411" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05411" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdt9AlyM2SMT2pcsbBYeeljXzm3JBB0tEtvJ4iL7dwxWZeMq01aMuomjhyphenhyphenIuzZ8mcsBwn9r8w-MJVdi9ByX-Aba8uTqrOFmEI9O6hWLDZ1399aEXjmcuzDPwICE0VHAR6I-RKtg19Jmns/?imgmax=800" width="480" height="340"></a><font size="2">The mountains, the snow, around every turn it just got more and more breathtaking. And then we came to the pass and all the waterfalls running into the river that was flowing right by the road. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBkpFl8NvNW5fmEzehS4XK1vbtqRXu4SSJVkE_l7-bbAgLOciLf7Ww1oMdyQEpcfyjPUyiI4ShvJp_y7xcoUxfKYr3hF3MB0vEWIKFF24c98j_QS1S9UyNn5sFDyCO-mDXJKvhxJjFqk/s1600-h/DSC05426%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC05426" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5aZ0AgyOXNxa_km0MZBe9zYtIZB8nyiLJr5zKklaJqNHIT4qlqkhIIL-kXFo9rPedZR6yIm5XKF5co4ahnDL0ciB7sRxVDO4hyRLZqEGnvBNSBr2mGTp5jUiL5amvhXzvcJIQI6FMxg/?imgmax=800" width="520" height="413"></a></font></p> <p><font size="2">Pictures can not begin to show the splendor, but they will have to do.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9immXTq7PcwCOMak3MObOVY2J09MIyipZyadd9GhO2Ub8Q-EJ2xl-6tyJCsaaMnZ9taVqMJ7mQT-xnbUpwBU5oAqDwNUv6JVb3yWazQAC2BO6YAtMjlL23T7IykITtRe_VESXqtIprAQ/s1600-h/DSC05430%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC05430" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_xHOdtOTbgcGnCPeXfmNb-INcOHV3pxi5rCU0B-Jky4QGOrJsSJ9eXagepucZ2sIsacslXKGJwgROlxLOppSs9mQGx-FX4_0rvYbVQTWSAG98I5dLsBMsdZLDexmGe5xbpBEdfW63H3k/?imgmax=800" width="621" height="355"></a><font size="2">We plan on staying here for a week, it is a very small fishing village, not commercialized in the least. Not sure if Chuck will be going out on any fishing charters. They have changed the rules again on halibut, you now are allowed a big one and one weighing no more than 10 pounds. They say the hard part is getting the little one. Ten pounds is almost the head and tail. Today we seen a moose and calf, again no picture. They don’t seem to want to hang around and pose, camera shy, evidently. Hopefully the next post will contain pictures of a huge halibut! To heck with the little one. </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-30816298527255215612014-06-08T21:27:00.001-07:002014-06-08T21:27:05.612-07:00WATSON LAKE TO FAIRBANKS<p> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><font size="2">These sure do look like Texas blue bonnets.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqZV6y_puLWBIDZ1rkjOoa0b0Va-aRHLqIJu_8J6PPw39eHPCJ_fr5_PeAEDJmu3bGPzBrmxYAojFTH6_-Q13RuXzKuaHaOdq7TsJ7nUnZrYqdr_AW0VwDYMLklyPMHnE6uYV8FoK6M5k/s1600-h/DSC_0730_thumb11.jpg"><img title="DSC_0730_thumb1" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0730_thumb1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLUHqLgpWWaM_GB6iUwc1_5mOOVfxwR0K5grpcBK5O05rSqr6LwXLBtEpv4t31ajhFwL-X2gxdijtZp1cbkRmmPBkdM-5LPMDQ3EkGBiX_xyEEFL27Zb7COR69LnRZ64OZpZ3AOu8Png4/?imgmax=800" width="552" height="382"></a></p> <p><font size="2">We arrived in Watson Lake and got settled in the Downtown campground, which basically was the only one in operation. Let me tell you with 14 rigs pulling in the laundry room did one fine business. And they are not cheap, think it would almost be more economically to buy new. Sign post city can only be experienced by actually seeing it. There are one hecka lot of signs. Escapee Mark had made one up for the group and we had a blast seeing all our names immortalized.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07Bcep8dF-yFT63PQAvgvZjHKhPyW7mh1COVclIqSZWhl2z2DEV4VVxhyQLZWeBMnt3mKuFfhtfgW_12EfImkDBlKoRNrOW7m00KUVKXxUtzoUsZ0_h_q_EOkHQd8g85-WcIwr1wTaEs/s1600-h/DSC052823.jpg"><img title="DSC05282" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2NSqYTLJYTwM3PWZOWYq5U5VEYYiOPA-mbKwZ4YQcCdTTslsXiWPL-3mwoGw2kuVTZwANgeT5it2VG6YY9KH7RUTion-NTwqeaFsGYssYBH3Cdk-3oXXox6VKX_Lv6YQ4FHatBlNazs/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwu_VTHhvYiBtIsB_H3WmYtFcD6vGPP_YuEavmoV8G8vj6FkJpRUbzzpdIrIBZkzGX1zYz2I7Z7xl1YUSC0x24DgaGxeJvNdGqMKUoXGOEuezwuYOehmKebsoTi33V9mYfcIAZEE-bzfA/s1600-h/DSC052852.jpg"><img title="DSC05285" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Gy8pjOfAs_2I3jAHttFtsfmRvRYZNlNI2UzFyJ7PjnvylltRGHHD5SuHTbqHMvOyK_NaMrIIQllaU936zgQLdnduOKf-2xXIAseUobm2uTS66ROLGUfy7ap7RkEacSMIJ3NKiflRPD4/?imgmax=800" width="239" height="187"></a></font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMW8vTfzsDmX1F8LxOcqKm4VFbqEYHxyRlEH_y6VMPlMsF5iDEEOU54UhxIvRyYh6xgWDstG5XbLSSeP4T_f4z79WeeB-9ZLeHbWUyIgqqhb18vArpJZN8NjapSO4EbaXRlFaZeItCmZU/s1600-h/DSC052623.jpg"><img title="DSC05262" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbiCxVO3zPolDlgzJwLeEqAId2p768mWDAJKfE9rW4u3ND-GN4vi_G6BafWM8ANNgf1t_RpTC528_4quaGnEOFB4cx-Uf-Ow7k6dXcCzVDCdGjhohNaX_xvxjZT7M7MSbFI1NZp0THAtI/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVm93UUWiAyuMHDJEczr-LbdhyphenhyphenOwcjg8GIkTYim6IeYJ0owBBB2UZ_WwWwpPlUEyaa3mJA0fTuZpyaxpZyqqf2Ub8SoXcla-DtgaFH-SX9za8jB2JYZUwaknd-ndXLmzcN4c-Itav0nw/s1600-h/DSC052873.jpg"><img title="DSC05287" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorjukJt5d9z3vOAP6cINWgq25XpedgsC0SrZ5YTqPYGJNpBujReoe0dXnt-9Tq3ExEiZcfC5RZYwvM_LXtuE1JCs12s2p8XMtnvSSECiMyxc_NIBYGXqEZjPMsCI8I9RMkzv_wHGiBwE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><font size="2">When we were gathering who should pull in but ……..</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk85nTBXz7rAj9CZ6a6HC2Wsui47l78X53oHAvoi93J-I6dlMATgj00gkGZ5gshPWJLF2dXq8frPSdy2k7B_s_QdhUC1dc1eu9Xi-Qe0jnn4Ovk2ibe5zVajhCS0MpFrmjeOpcqw9ePA0/s1600-h/DSCF113710.jpg"><img title="DSCF1137" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF1137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-UTZvNcAqlNGMfNpO0ueizOWop_ooTo70gRFJrASONCnhbs_YifhiJJS1q_ToLb5XXwMxjBruag2zODNDE8NQPunVUVE5oddC87uuIic9ODP_gANOzLG15_VOAjlkaGTghClr8igNHs/?imgmax=800" width="216" height="221"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQo36Tl3KFkoS0l-CSZwjtglRG4EF45x6MEJ9IfTF2lErugNNlrt1o1_OpcZiIpv1QwBNxBOVhzNNPcnEDScA8f_lcDEd6OJbqQWuMc-Ya12kpqXDC-nAyo0wjH9G_AHMjxOqJZDvUL8/s1600-h/DSCF11448.jpg"><img title="DSCF1144" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF1144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0ReYvtoG1irNAuSWUlLo_Z0H201xKxOMVsIJXf1iBGoub51jW-8ya7QMUJrCHB7TkuF0YsWzPJpSD4fJcl97L32bIhxCydPSOp1Xo9Pu30zDJykG3QQK7u5Dcf6KkqkC-lAqK7t9xeY/?imgmax=800" width="179" height="196"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVU-Ku9zEGxMyKLmOHx9o-oU_TngtN7Bad5URaTS_WRbka9nNKprVxrMJAP4EdXSGN7BOpkTsCXoDWqTnJt_G7qvDn2tPo8yWXHRMIdHB9QfrMW6_TaM6DkHOcZ89DbVy1fEbZU7l2FF4/s1600-h/DSCF113511.jpg"><img title="DSCF1135" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF1135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj71Dn-ue8c3EuAuiTcHHh8Sbmir0yp5oqHwmjWB112YmAQEk_pbMHNfqysaMSXuoCgRUyOpFjGLtrdgwBPqRN9fZNLT-eDNPD5LRs5OxJZg6XBA0JZ8l1CV_o-jp-WeIlt9x1GWEylayw/?imgmax=800" width="183" height="212"></a></p> <p><font size="2">they had caught us. We went back to the campground and spent the night with them, and the next day traveled to Whitehorse. Most everyone went on the bus to ride the train at Skagway, but having done it before, we decided not to. Spent some time seeing the town and having dinner the last night at </font></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXtjAs8g-4EQYTRfeUi7NkZXfXa_ttxxVt_6dil6-VlZxTSnuXFodEX-shEGW0nvWKiaukeSST6qgKX9h3TJoNr39osCMVrHnB-YK7f1CJJUlpyE5MY05lOZIh4iyiXMV4tsMp5-DvDHk/s1600-h/DSCF11381%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF1138" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF1138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1b-SCkx7u2w1I4R2UFjhHKpPQoUm6xxOZ3EBCoYTOmwMkjZcV-taUB5zHvEaHm47t9x-R-5RfT9OkblmIjWdHosLhyefWRdbtBuDNvX9sIiRfwpYJP-iBSC2KhoJGaBjPUcJCN9SmEw/?imgmax=800" width="450" height="373"></a></p> <p><font size="2">now this place wasn’t much to look at, but the food was outstanding. From there we took in the Follies. Entertaining, but not worth the admission. The threesome took off early in the morning and Chuck and I stayed behind. With my foot giving me all that trouble I feel that I’m more of a party pooper than anything and just don’t want to be a drag on anyone. So we left with some other fellow travelers and made our way up the road heading for Tok. The scenery was spectacular, </font></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZmJhIRZSneCrCPCwF-W7y9TdDRr4QbYlR4UJO_LLD2cHmNHcj10Mnpf5gi4t8VE_21OVFZHeEHZ7XXWcXsN7dJNg1R-VvpRkJDzxFBLSk_qgsf30jcVLE4GoXuYoraSX3lVT2ltRcqY/s1600-h/DSC053101%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC05310" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtUe5fc8_OhFE1Q_oUP4B_nPS13Pd70ltZAgMah6sDk79GApoLl0QiuODIyzk1_WjIIjGUrNytz-FDCJ0TJ4ClJEx25JowTecSG3emEKstijO0e0Ek6VYRrNpou-Hq-oO2PJG7S4N7M_s/?imgmax=800" width="474" height="363"></a></p> <p><font size="2">and every once in a while would see something totally different. The largest gold pan. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HcI6j3sv57BYGFJC25vHP_WPA1RTS5KldHepLLgGXbK8_5B2gf98FMfyUl-KlUf11H_-siJHhEYKhE5odZWBc5lHkTxuzUlbMSlRStnKqjk6xTd5yEvdPpm2TP5ySa2K72nRs4inI1A/s1600-h/DSC053411%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC05341" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bBs1vPzDJJ_7E9ZkRi-2IC1H4z5FhsZLrsoXGm1Xs1NZAnNuOYfQe3zw5Ef2H_89k5PDttNZPExQJDMZMB_RVDMGMEsV9juDUiEuKBwURVQWl0R3Lp3F6MSyZOX3vUymuETBvksXSmk/?imgmax=800" width="399" height="284"></a></p> <p><font size="2">Burls made into caricatures', sure hate to meet that mosquito!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbRxBbCuzya3GESi7k88css5ReGZGECRiHPlJf-FmKdncOXt_th_AxHeu8yT1JncK8P8_kJYz1LbagudJZu5V_bYkG-uDbBeRcLfxsq3Y9586tZ8irlH_mC1KzeFewSJZa_5luu_0nO68/s1600-h/DSC053651%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC05365" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlzjpBR8yelstV_WUHkpddqRfaXaYITNPHD_Qtiac051P3nNecclKWOrPDTRYboA2yzSmT8orYRQSLbzL9K7BpmokVIzzuoslnoF_PquBdlBdBWXBvawaoPa5v9-AG8TeJatup_2LvCx8/?imgmax=800" width="365" height="305"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTP6kNXavdGxwGTrmDtH-J5DtpcdSCWEpPUtlZfbCqdA32kd8MW-RZvPTT5mo0eeCFdRKpe44Sr4A983tmCqIV56W4YacRHBwoyAnmf6SxUHo8lMyezRcxuBJfn69DPfK6cVSEhormxPQ/s1600-h/DSC053681%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC05368" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYdwkqeylL1Lc20WvZDmHwayzOXyj4Idck1M_SRg7M9tdwt568__ND7SSWcWg3vNR-ElwV2lRr4DAURY6bQhN60FofuiZIwNpjizVaPReD8lCwlPImNIecRaHyADnDUqvVhjTQV_NSAO0/?imgmax=800" width="358" height="309"></a></p> <p><font size="2">Spent one night in a lovely park where we all fit together, had a huge campfire,(they furnished fire wood free) in the morning, breakfast outside, where Dan cooked by telling us women how to do it. He even got a picture to prove it.</font></p> <p><font size="2">And then there we were here! Traveling this highway has given me me a totally new found respect for my parents. They moved to Alaska in 49, made that trip with 3 small kids, on a road that had been built only a few years before, and all their possessions in the car. Can’t even imagine what it was like. Know there is no way on God’s green earth that I could have done it that way today. I complained over not have cell service! Now the roads are all paved and in really good shape, the only real pain was at the pump. But the good news is it makes 4 dollars a gallon seem down right cheap. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcFm3ZGHobH5WoWcjLn43X9K02cA_rFFOlZz39av7trU3nNWJJ5q6afZpVv7DW5Q8KscMrk-lmktm5CAXjmRqqrdTazrBVAALw3tgBzmMkv5FoO2YwsZV4RfKfSNIH7aKaRUEaEcuT4w/s1600-h/DSCN30555.jpg"><img title="DSCN3055" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCN3055" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNAIcv7y2ci9cyX8AUmtlryUOElEmIlKwb1ac6ZxQy6WackMHpfupmsvHOtKK8VHDoK4JDQoTsHENig6zjN2D3smqJluMufLJMUvmxK1BEP7_eezSnSuOEoY-zN8UFM_jDIh9YzVwyPs/?imgmax=800" width="492" height="403"></a><font size="2">We made our way into Tok and settled in a campground and almost trampled each other on our way to the infamous Fast Eddies restaurant for lunner, aka as lunch/dinner. The fried mushrooms are wonderful, but an order easily feeds 4. At the campground we came across Dennis and a few others of the Loosey Goosey gang. They had had a breakdown in their group, so there was a delay before they continued on to Chicken. Another tourist attraction we are passing on. On to the </font></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqVXgwgWCobmrNHq5y0xSqjjVIfvnCOpwiAeEyOlAOt_1FGg1mlIeMBmzISUMpzTWr_uNIEINHNd4v0QQIdsg-v42otrJgWb3vgxdUlHwwD3PwXDOV03r__tRRkY4_vaqPzilTQ7jmo9A/s1600-h/DSC05373.jpg"><img title="DSC05373" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEh2Cc7AYny0mVKtwM-NGPP5RxmvmqLQzmqjzxfCiagUK9J7KGdyZBh8mPWPcSHRnfH-JUlnCKh88wkerXsgiGiR4ISyElGYizWqs62oBE7cdxKVdZT45EV23_NNVUece0Xit5WsDzPQ/?imgmax=800" width="386" height="194"></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="2">where we seen</font> </p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnBDOnvPM2KnKTUSsHaQ9jxowt_X52yfc7fksYiKogGcHlEVFe1wBl6pACyeUyP55r6XwZHURs5gpC3hEoQZba8EAPQp1p1GDxx3e5LBqWmAGT2LY0LacPsFKdYwQAbm4sjE_5oPJQEAc/s1600-h/DSC053752.jpg"><img title="DSC05375" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHud8sAIphejYZqAwfDmepFZUFqb1mg0nB8whUhVla0J_7mEokcc9W3nDa7ahtyvqGjj7CQo5aJCojfdnz7MMNLBnYwq-sPtNrvZ8FGm21SowKt39tK5ihLMNJQMM_fovkYqHXDls2iU/?imgmax=800" width="445" height="336"></a></p> <p><font size="2">We are now awaiting our mail to catch up with us and then we will be leaving the area. Heading down here there is family. Chuck is anxious to get some fishing in, and also to see everyone. Have a bother and nieces and nephews still in the area around Palmer, Wasilla and Chugiak. </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-20597268253423222872014-05-30T13:53:00.001-07:002014-05-30T13:53:46.109-07:00DAWSON CREEK TO WATSON LAKE<p><font size="3"></font> </p> <p><font size="3">We have been off the grid since Dawson Creek, and WOW, really miss everything. If we only had one, but no internet, phone or TV is like being on a different planet. So I guess you could say we are stopping to smell the roses, big time. Heading to Watson Creek the country side was wide open for many a mile, only an occasional ranch. Lots of red roofs.</font></p> <p><font size="3"></font> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEcRsh9Za6Gsb8YkBJ1icsT2MU7LH8aixZIJseawr6rXluhri50R7-hM6Mv5sLY35xSk6nQOjas4PpK1yEDAjS3q2rt6q2N-VhXGVyBFI1yRHIGBApE4R_GzBq6bGjTSJDDnDOAwHctk/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0043.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 004" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 004" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyeI4NHBERU_Bv8KgLi12lLRSZJ6BJpN4LmEdWsZzX_6A5WM4he7xDJKlPn7FrgyeXdhR0QgdS8tv7X6J51ZS8d1Zbeq9G0Kyh3cVrYJeHd1Fm7XquhwMjNIEteelgSUApnCkEKrSZp0/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="308"></a></p> <p> <font size="3">And there is the beginning of our journey. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpjbhS32gE_9k40rJSKkMO9aqiLAdkfG3QL79yCVz1ewFozCZiwm6ot8sZoK6H-tbUKR0k9Ob9T3BksKvOtEvrzzcp5GG47gvuc87soV5GkTzYfJPMFoOzyaAbB40U1w-uBMjaS6GF_-4/s1600-h/alaska-trip-025.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 025" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 025" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2IM-SRLoDPA9QWQlJxWNTYS4Kk8s4qASEq1ew5-9s2ur1ROB8odNzMFsdjHhpZHEpcwQTcUTiisnslcYRiOci7yFhTKB-AfGcaTVaAqv03dG4JAkUqKLeUgK-cAoXAy-4QkbM5iKS4g/?imgmax=800" width="535" height="381"></a></p> <p><font size="3">Have traveled almost 2000 miles just to get here. We had a very nice get together and a guest speaker from the tourist bureau, who was quite delightful. We also became officially the Loosey Goosey Gang with the passing out of name badges. And yes, they were orange. </font></p> <p>c <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4_6kAaE1fbRkLfBHktcKbLcXfopkBk7k8AUEQM4BkxxI4k5R5Mgol7P-Af59UfWFPqiqL8tMNlDs-zDoBw5e4oXQ1tOUIfsKVfedS5Om-M2PlUQJMpbIgIduU8e0eZjkgJlLfBv6nS8/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0413.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 041" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 041" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7XBFeIFsRduhRTCZei7flgAl2MRiuZRVP3s5UZHCJH-HkRanl5-9imEIioAYt3gJ0VDUI7lNHkjMq8yGmLVXO9x3oq9jJZPfpeW_xkTrOttBWAbY9jEszsPaS_ed7IK0fQAVOemaYJiQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="229"></a></p> <p><font size="3"> The Loosey Goosey Gang</font><font size="3"> </font></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zV15lMovlKX9jx2WAqDBwugQFjY5V_IyS6f5M-pTatSOQsmgIQuhNF6yQZIRKslFzkL21hP2JV2k2leqMlB9hsN3GWIfWQ4yf_on3BV_E0uCdxTa-bliO_If49-gM3U1lP5HJje-fAA/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0213.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 021" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 021" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZoJhhe7D5GzqybpDWbx43D371ipWUWaytWuMKGsRgPVP0VN1Pi3q21huEVmIg6CFvxgBc-qekJmFqu-uqEePS7ujM7GKGcBbwmiruhcTtE8rO0YAoE7mESPZEW-bHuq0jHM2GsdR8v5g/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="210"></a></p> <p><font size="3"> Tourist Bureau/ Gift Shop</font></p> <p><font size="3">Beaverton had their oversized name sake as you entered the small village. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQLWMv0E50NTcF_VBRO6GpRF6ATOPgCv7Y1t3X24t3fgXvBg6AVrXsUIl3yJTR6HVrcoJFMMJJKrTnfxSkugJYgoQy8vTz1ArL-LzGKws5OaKY_1RnBhhYhIcy5sWm9uu09C_Z1oxiGc/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0163.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 016" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIHbPqYnio1C5emBrNKBuO2c0ZsPVrFlS9FzvQwsO2YiolXXCYJ3LWZFReCRrMTINw79_5PtpIdL6MqI3HMtkIfGNObYjtbhrcCXi_q0bJyHxhO9jPlD6OS5VJB323BsPn0PdK30v97ZE/?imgmax=800" width="218" height="244"></a> It was almost bigger than the town. We were headed to a abandoned landing strip, and campground. Fortunately it was still there. Anyone reading this and coming this way it is milepost 217.2. On the left side going north. Very nice place, lots of wood for campfires, garbage container, and it is “free” which is the best part. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1L81Y6yXRLlLcvhy0mxSoVcoFdBFNCaMhOwonfTrif6OOxCSzzmVwqSXZQZG9NLmKYVlA7TKJRsCuGvz87EIOAuTtViWl-jnG5pDtvrJMTItJwLlrjwWQTNz_6u5iw5aTJXRbzbl9L9M/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0602.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 060" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 060" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDMWkRNm0Z_S18LiO0-9L6t0eqct49-11prcbP7Eh05Ltd8tlrRp-sHGy090PlKSmCMnfGe058jZA4WfdPifYD7BvuvlusXOud1CDz2szFf5nrs675JaHN_Fjf1WiNq1QKa1APur-0WhA/?imgmax=800" width="526" height="389"></a></font><font size="3"> </font></p> <ul> <li><font size="3">We stayed there 3 nights, first night Dennis started a hobo stew, we all threw in a couple of cans of what ever, and it was down right good. </font> <font size="3">The next night Escapees Mark fixed his world famous, delicious, mouth watering smoked meatloaf, AND mashed potatoes and gravy. The rest of us came up with a thing or two and we had a feast. We also had a couple of guys camping near us and they felt that we should have some moose and caribou steaks to try,as they gave us some packets. Saving that for another night. We had a great time telling tales and getting to know one another. We especially enjoyed the time as just about every one was a new acquaintance.</font></li></ul> <p><font size="3"></font> <font size="3">Then we were off to a destination down the road. And it was like driving through a wildlife preserve. First we seen bear, lots of bears!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgt_HYKtKT_Rs6mDwg-yT7wF3qNltZ9qiTCS6lTHleDmnV0BRGtKiNBP6dHisUQhHtZPtLfin0GKWq_llG7mOxJ-_t5c0I-kjh03PayADwg37lFfJO3FVNUISxkl96Laze-knMgX6tyU8/s1600-h/alaska-trip-078.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 078" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 078" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1uWZpuQClAGOHTXvJrMutKYlFrK4Qsmo64jczcsJkA1tsr1PDG4qZPmQn3iInizIQG8EfhCSDP0MvVVgFU_2GlrKLPzdWj_L_VdtRvYxiUdQDsrgYb5HLvP4IWHM0WMFkCpRMbIHh1X0/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="213"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ee8DN0zE67eXuc73qW6u37kl9DZhvzIpnyOM8v6_x6LToHLc_ojGttDGa5Y-p9ayE8DXnaD8Jez3fE5CTaHPna0cGT83VYuZTiLqow2026uvyhRbCX0kxVhSflZL9QUzXS5OE_RNPdI/s1600-h/alaska-trip-083.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 083" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 083" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_NtT1mh77hUFpcS0xSMVkGbf-LbeVVCSQmSlBn7FkCipTWHC6aUK15ZpT33f_U3Y5viNmUvGW2As1aGEdzehZGixwCW8V83ml_4heEd8CKz9pZOcVbL6kk4uhx40qxlKth8T4wstqCjY/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="217"></a></p> <p><font size="3"> Three cubs and big momma.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpumyqaNTIfbGZA4qeRlvf5r0h0ZbyRTbmOQueeZguegvdmr4Rtj6RRZoZtmQAAGixmjZvlXeLwbSCWczwtg8rSI-0B2rnP3Biq38dfT-wrUdrrcGnxJdQrb90LyqcSfb2doNvHxjekMI/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0841.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 084" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 084" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBeoJaOcsTBNMHYqf2S3bwwZ74-UdhECEPFGSCz5jZR9UBAmauIXQEhcYEs1JoB1ovXv1XsqaaJLNdCDbx1eXHMZ1CvtwwpMVXWLlwERWlPAGt1R3hLtNlBRhq27UTCJLSb1Dv_sNUIMA/?imgmax=800" width="471" height="351"></a></p> <p><font size="3">And then there were sheep!</font></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdiOH8QMUyTAXrqKd4jkEHg2cffydRpAqgChWc69NmGDYklZKlGeG1MI73XX35vL-NT-hcpadbnRwDWG0Vs76hLWgHc_UFRAEDrCE-r8wb7vOe2HJ5RkDKD-ax0dDWqMjNnIHi8PxNvLk/s1600-h/alaska-trip-1133.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 113" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuaYqYZK6jvNdf3oAQOckIRl0UHMUmx343k70enJ6Ewx83hi74BDZM5bXEcDq2Teft380O9_pm4q3jnf4et4gGxTXBEh79KC0HpLKKb7DqcbPXpmf64Sxzd4QLnPEJA6zG3g7fr5ETmcY/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a><font size="3"></font></p><font size="3"></font> <p><font size="3">There were 5 of these and they were magnificent.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwlX3Ok1gVogcJh3yb1LxDbGXcTaPo89vqSgCguniLZrSJLkkx3arZOx_ZNJxOcGOTNc9GG3f_L-eLJE2uMa7cV8KLLNCVc0Lk25tU000zqSG7cLBoWyPDutj2Bjh8BLjWwhz7sadzeaQ/s1600-h/alaska-trip-13511.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 135" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl3QFz_s366wHm15r6aJr5stLtcBhNKs1bYudvCl7sLNp5Nx2OzM6Uzyb4mqTGPbsm3j7BRXPtPKZYTPByqhVzLLeQoJCTG8ww_o9FCntlh2t-93_28C29CHq1hEceCp_ZyIet_rws6F0/?imgmax=800" width="493" height="417"></a></p> <p><font size="3"> Buffalo</font></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQOrmqnIxWL4AN_Sf07c7-xPJz8hPYjWZu5CPSob4K5S7a5ga76wbC3KF4MibfCclib4yz_abxQZmQWMSSy5slH85Of0k9yGqeT51URZD5gHiKWo7ECOBkGgscL_Xh4eDQuHOYI97VDUk/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0167.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 016" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3HNL5z2L9DmzDWg9ph9CUGGHV7ntxhXj2l1Zs2UQS0R6MduaSWJpjtdb8OviN2X6rn7zc-50JZsF-Ajhygu_lECiVkqZvYa6Z0a6LsHoT_voC5lBxKFOED7ffp1JcKFnLgGpGetyknvE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><font size="3">These two guys were in the middle of the road, and what I called just gave us “the look”, they moved off the road, but at their own pace. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwKhUujsoWppHQNCbNaG6jjvTVFtIgwfwy0RNAjTZ3Zn9W8hxYQOPilFpfk65se7ig38Y8PDIkwWST_dWT7v530Ch_71qyrFrL7lwaqbTVz8eEPNrQMmbcUAzFvXeYHfnwHLZeUQePaig/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0225.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 022" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 022" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfFBhVTVw_XD4szGgSPR7Z66uSfYXRgdkDUSqE7DiKVKyoesVJDv18hABBAjuagpFXheYqpsFQUhRRyhngl81q2a2EYRRFY32LBdylMJMBqkMbggrJbm6jrNAh86uGreQYGPJkerFvYlk/?imgmax=800" width="549" height="360"></a></p> <p><font size="3">There were much more but way too many to post. We spent the night at a Provincial Park on the banks of Muncho lake. There was still some ice on the water, but they say the color of the water is amazing. What we could see was unreal. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rhJUFH6persXWq3fb7vwBZAQVeLRgnmp-zamITorQDUCAsBrfMK_3_uzxy58TIKVsEBCnwMgfbtx0xtPUEhuxUeVdY6kfcQOoRNXKh9HOwYfZGWwZT5FGxLaEcuWK_Bx_z2-vGL13_U/s1600-h/alaska-trip-1032.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 103" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 103" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIqplloNjQ-RDxyELrRyQVOICT2dvT3EJ7SCEDGyaToionvmq5fbeyOXyTF9Xec_xKax2jENlf3sx0cz0EUyMpaAC6wABMHz0XOqKGnzk8l02MxN-Ol4lA0jFE9nWUTfV0JgZ2eeSbr8/?imgmax=800" width="457" height="369"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS44R7WE1chEEc7aUnrNQ_IPiTwnSRFqJIJooVHNQnqdk0lFhcJ8sbyJdRDDzR64KALNa3kVHnjoyp9LhfX4Pkpa9tCDBTsLC0pKYP_bztXtkkn3nqzOhzggKQMyibFu_bx_7YIzNAS30/s1600-h/alaska-trip-1451.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 145" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMx905s6X9Y4yxLi9qbDxoh6Jk5DwAL4hajLU66gLsxMvdMESSuheGY-cwE_Ml_fG3Z6_O-NgPVjRvdiZPpx4pexNKG7aZQF6mJkTSpLyINU7GRAY54XvQNeHkmvEUxSa4vLU-naw2wDQ/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="329"></a></p> <p><font size="3"> Chuck behind our camp site. From here we were off to Laird Hot Springs. Still no hook-ups. Actually the people who live there are totally reliable on generators. No cell service for any one. Spending 2 nights here. The campground is a dream. Huge sites, 24 dollars a night, but that includes the springs which is a 5 dollar person charge. We actually paid <strong>almost </strong>8 dollars a gallon for gas the other day. Thankfully it didn’t take that much.</font></p> <p><font size="3">There is a hot side and a cooler side to the springs. I got to enjoy them too, as they had a golf cart pick up for those that were unable to make the walk. It was about a half mile, but on a nice boardwalk. Still having problems with the foot. I’m using inserts, a sleeping boot, exercises, and have a can in the truck that I roll my foot on when we are moving. So far the only thing that seems to work is ….well…a stiff drink. Everyone says it takes time. Chuck is having to do double duty, bless his heart.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAAU0n0w8uZrUOE-6cA-oukSKBnvAJVnkAudSijQMRLok71BUBeBlDBVZnuLdP9on0Urjorfb4SMjkXIPn9IY5THOvME6veAebuoDyDVru4Q1As_rHfq1bHs-ON18Iv-65dcEZ2JupJcw/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0025.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 002" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgRTHpoiK9KNmrhzSMeOxahYO_ROybiFoe-3N6H8YOrpw-Ntt3_r-esb3qvRW8Vou1Wi579hXkAozjVXw38QaCJ2aZjrm9I8GKbHbbM6GuawdanUphHwSr3X3MPDd7YYKv8ztNIg37bZg/?imgmax=800" width="266" height="239"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB09oFYy3b7GhbAvhT7Okz1n5QcOEWclHibLagHIUH-v5pABlfoDeeGjXuzr2QUSe6mRi62mI0pYIbjhC3_LNiFJpFOaJX7jN3fJ-vGY9FeJnypQBaaEdziMQ67-zdH-fj1ax3Sx03rCA/s1600-h/alaska-trip-0014.jpg"><img title="alaska trip 001" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="alaska trip 001" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3R8mmKDiYTG7cZ878NBL_rK9bWvfYvc-5Qr84o-uReRPdbHLwbg6ON5Thj12ixNWRWWKFnwZDLBjK-zsypfnSdakSnJOabcDr234XJKvQ744Yit-QwjtR5m0btbmnAOW6jttRwwbSGws/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="243"></a>t</p> <p><font size="3">Tomorrow we head down the road once again, on to Watson Lake. Think the plan is to spend a few days there. Need to do laundry and take on water, and get rid of the used. There is also the sign post forest and a northern light theater. One store….. Hope the wi-fi is strong enough to post, but if not, at least it is written.</font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-64692254434161028742014-05-21T18:12:00.001-07:002014-05-21T18:12:54.935-07:00So Far, So Good<p> </p> <p><font size="4">That is about it, we have traveled 800 hundred miles into Canada, and only had one very near miss. Really thought we had bit the dust, but lady luck smiled and we lived to see another day. Gas prices are not as big a shock to us, coming from California, diesel is always 4 bucks there, or has been for the last 3 years. Have not been to the grocery store, we are one of those people who did not know they sold food in Canada. Hardly left any in the good ole USA for the folks back home. </font></p> <p><font size="4">We did not go into the Banff, Jasper area. Had been there before, and wanted to see the other road, but it was not very scenic, just country ranches as far as you could see.</font></p> <p><font size="4"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMK54ut5eGqGp0sF_ESkcpyY582GmD4YeOc0kN9u4HocCLQiTNjakd9L4dU0Q3s6XLNsaH1E7x7FRGfDsqgYt2BuuwaPgKx8tRMrMZ9QORZdl89KSCCJo0qMl8FG4ZHlveGPOvvPiW0g/s1600-h/IMG_25326.jpg"><img title="IMG_2532" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_2532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILMRpCzplbEZnanDFTGg73UVVgFNBoxPGgM3DIhJEsHU3ZTWmSsObEzYGDRQTAOa_RndCJApqvuX1PnDdiY0_6P76R3cHIKxkmJcfIVzfIHMDHLXVwTQAqJmm48t3J-FwWuk_hMMOO8w/?imgmax=800" width="531" height="310"></a></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"> Rochfort Bridge Trestle</font></p> <p align="center"> Believed to be the second longest wooden railway trestle in the world.</p> <p><font size="4"> Then we hit the forests and oil drilling area. They are really booming. Places where there are completely new towns that look like they have just sprung up. Large motels and restaurants. Jobs, jobs and more jobs.</font></p> <p><font size="4">We pulled into Grande Prairie yesterday, and are leaving tomorrow, meeting with the more of the Loosey Goosey gang in Dawson Creek. The official start of the Alaskan Highway. Yesterday the weather was wonderful, low 70’s, today not so much. Windy and cool, at least there are not mosquitos. </font></p> <p><font size="4">Hopefully the next post will be more exciting, we now just seem to be traveling to get some place. Sure miss having a phone to consult on what & where things and places are. And the pain in my foot has eased some, at least it is to the point where it is bearable. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-22712722838887435342014-05-16T16:46:00.001-07:002014-05-16T16:46:44.723-07:00SOUTH OF THE BORDER<p> </p> <p><font size="4">We are in Great Falls, Montana, ready to make the crossing later this week. We met up with 4 couples that we will be traveling with after Dawson Creek, enjoyed indulging with cake and ice cream in honor of Dennis Hills birthday. They all left yesterday, and we are awaiting the arrival of a couple who we will travel with to the rendezvous in DC. </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">Now back to the beginning…we left Jojoba Hills on the 2nd of May, 3 days later than we had planned, but the winds were forecasted to be blowing up to 70 miles in areas we would be driving through. Being as we were on no time frame it was better to stay in place for a few days. First night out we spent in Vacaville at the Elks. Nothing going on, no meals, so we just vegged. Next day it was off to Yuba City, where we settled at the Moose. They have electric and water only, but the price is right, 12 a night or 70 a week. Used to be 10, but like everything else, went up. Had hoped to play some bridge with my ole partner, but she had her hip replaced just a day before. Chuck and I played once, it was a special game that is being played nationwide. Club wise we did not do anything special. Seen a few friends, spent some time with our son and family, and then it was time to move on. I’ve been having some pain in the heel of my foot, so tried urgent care, and they got me an appointment with a podiatrist. He diagnosed it as plantar fasciitis, gave me a shot of cortisone and a boot to wear while sleeping, and wished me luck. And that seems to be what I will need, as nothing seems to have helped so far. But who knows maybe I’ll grow to like walking with a nail driving up into my heel, as that is the way to describe the feeling. Lordy, Lordy I need a complete overhaul.</font></p> <p><font size="4">We stopped and seen friends, Virginia & Earl, who have bought a lovely home in the Sparks area, near Reno. They are both working like crazy to get it furnished and set up. And that little dog they have gotten is the cutest guy, full of mischief, sure he will bring a lot of joy to their lives.. Also got to see Roger, (Sharon was napping) they are loving the area also. Part of me envy's them, but not ready to make the choice of settling down. </font></p> <p><font size="4">From there it was a two audio book drive to Great Falls. Think that this trip we will find ourselves in perpetual spring. Areas of Idaho were down right breath taking. And the lilacs! </font></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYepkbf-8iIpdk2CzZRN6ABCFg4uajcTt3-GXHkulhNIRe6PPynSjohd2LeDkMbykgctgBfEyoaJg_1q3k5wzZDkpnzSOmTUgJ2qUw5t5iku1S51AOfl8kugtpvhTvNk4vMHZ38ScVZOM/s1600-h/image%25255B4%25255D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMAAPsVBwKjWl7u3ubLyVRsM55DpVZFofb7v1ngct0T31FhCO_V3Wj_2M1G-lDHVryVPfHrvX6fis3BGV6CQjnqFtwxxlgsCTYBGrJNOW3Ml0imF9M-Rl9-SIkbnM2oZy8U1qPjj_JuMc/?imgmax=800" width="569" height="413"></a></p> <p><font size="4"></font> </p> <p><font size="4">My very favorite, just beautiful. But the trees are just starting to leaf out here. Lots and lots of open spaces, thankfully no trouble. That is always a plus. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsRCnvSHP4GpQ7cA0AutCZmh3fOCjs7-Bvy0yg-_kuapj2OI0FDl_ZkSNkQ92AHMtR1A7lLCMvENoXES-yjaVNaW5SD9CRfdRz5_-erO1zXy8iUxS2Oh5-Pi35HMHFYcDVwSFT9z53JQ/s1600-h/image%25255B9%25255D.png"><img title="image" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7Bq7RqHecu-RLTpBnL6L_-iq9GMlex29-xCOto1AxGSjP1utjOgIi5YVFMQVzzxpk0q9pRHwAeu9pSTqWe8pNh5QV4t3ATLOGjYZtHeMusZWm2v4C1bOZ-QRwcwlb0494yC5AraPkv4/?imgmax=800" width="565" height="462"></a></p> <p><font size="4">Once we are in Canada we will be relying on free wi-fi, and have our phones turned off. We are on the original unlimited Verizon internet, so we can not make any changes or additions to our plan with out loosing that. Actually surprised that we have got to keep it this long. Should not have said that. Made a commitment to keeping the blog up better, so will try to post at least twice a week. Even if I can’t post at least I can continually write and post when have internet available. These should be great memories some day. </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-59644079386568673882014-04-15T20:03:00.001-07:002014-04-15T21:20:44.279-07:00GETTING READY TO HIT THE ROADYes, it is that time again, hitch-itch setting in big time. We have so enjoyed our winter in Jojoba Hills this year. Seems that there was a lot more going on, what with skits, and bands, why we even had a hoe-down, with the board of directors being good sports and getting dunked over and over. Yep, we had a real dunk tank, and the weather decided that we would have our week of winter, so it was a cool dunk. And yes that is someone putting ice cubes in the tank!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDoZ9sKTwZcq_7O2zi72zGXSu8unJX8o_phiLf8VzPbM5fiA0P7scl2gjGY7vASvXxNg44xS7znVDr1QKllvCsBlyhoIHS4yRdJmCQ0eM0iexPTs4AENSKbTTVRG5wjCD2hbs0vs5xQQ/s1600-h/DSCF1059%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSCF1059" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-4_QHXlrKvoB9r-61SdoUaVecXr4Cp-MlLeelocqKw8oO_AvBX34XQRRcaUzLKV4_DWigmaLz473YnO5xs1Gf75hmPfPSnzxHsdVOSUDvk750Bia3NjANlaWEdfEWs2vGYOG9WdnuTM/?imgmax=800" height="288" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSCF1059" width="478" /></a><br />
All the fun events are raising money for the Founders Day celebration that Jojoba is putting on next year. Everyone is looking forward to a fun week then. <br />
Have been working on my gourds, but being the finicky person that I seem to be, not entirely happy with what I accomplished.<br />
We did do some giraffes out of long wiggly gourds. They turned out quite cute. These gourds are not found in this area, our “leaders” brought them back from Casa Grande when they went out there for a gourd show. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCW6sSFntlqxSzRaSS7nHoJOv_dR4vU_s7Y4dhFpqXRxWiRG0uki4WzhvmgmS9OZFFzLjQPSwlgZB6VmIRhwnI3s7vSLIbzgzBV574glL7-stHBFl9-vKracqbFGXezDPRIfl1bI_NT2s/s1600-h/DSC04829%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04829" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzC22SUL0ZL1ARyPNMhfpUvvc5QgYRn-kvHTBP7sXgplzQ7Fm7mkFxtRzbUQrNJP0e_PAZ4QMzuHIyVjbZ9S9JfCrMQJ31MeLwqwGqbA6L5Ke2syBaK8bwf2udQ-jqYLM1RRR3IVlbScE/?imgmax=800" height="355" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04829" width="458" /></a><br />
We had friends from our sticks & brick life stop in for a weeks visit. Great seeing them again, and they enjoyed seeing the area. They usually come down and spend a month in Borrego Springs, at a lovely park, with a golf course. We took a run over and seen them and can see why they like it. Being golfers.<br />
Next Chuck’s sister, Anna Mae and BIL, Jim arrived. We set them up in our little trailer which gave them their own little home. They were here for almost three weeks, so we did some sight seeing, and they enjoyed the warm weather. Coming from West Virginia they had plenty of snow this year. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPwSeb783jko-B5ugOBlO2tQnpGqmXWTHqy7FfO6VvFdYdVfpONbmZZcycYP1w0gx_e5hLKzteMHzsFV-USn4vBMCiGi-vES9k9i4tDLnrIesp_HMgge_9UPwlVivdcc_MN8d_NeNv3M/s1600-h/DSC04740%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04740" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7S1HgHw7KL2N0bMoh9_-LTRT-UIATqlC4OnGAftzmHsokBzuqzvhYNz0Zhg5e48J8syMlU8zXh3IJNMBaeD4cYGYrWo2mB4_iPcitQQywfQ9H0WHQJwHKcriotITtLFp4HZyu1vMJfdQ/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04740" width="244" /></a>Over looking Borrego Springs.<br />
At the Desert Wildlife park in Palm Springs.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHM21CDszmhqz3iaLOQWUlbCSDBD8AMsE5dnhS4yIRu2nho-jidrUc2QZHC1khhJX-FtPqeFDhXkeI0tZjZRNx8KU0GGr48JpxkH6NmJS-7hCKk80yBieEZC6OxA3tSLcM3tgbuZDs-mQ/s1600-h/DSC04757%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04757" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghq7bZxiq_sJ9h6yqNW9GGAsl9fggPaDftVm0p9KQ8__6dApAuC70kb33XuTUs6-djnFK6HsFBGcF0R3zIuO66AjAj3DBlBzJ_s5fLuXnvuXHujDC6ZKv4LcrWoymJbOM61fw_eGROgbw/?imgmax=800" height="184" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04757" width="244" /></a><br />
Jumping Cholla<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbS0cEUL4URtsQjQgcui7tGKaLQMLDtExxFfkJi_ZLR4xWqMlwHdmnElA3X-GgCgW5DKDOTbAVrJNNuZ5jgYw0U3nWkf91in0DsTu9-zAHufMOX8FF7OWvuxh3vrdvlXrJEDXNntE0p5E/s1600-h/DSC04796%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04796" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyNAGRj9giRlWQd-glpK92wKvK6-pGUWlCYo7w3TPpeMKgRf2YQhmu2JsFYll0Ibxsumkxe7_1YpdhgCJ5CxSgjsqdHdtRZd0WPcDSlS3A782uWaZ0RWfiSKwLeTWPuKzz4Vk-ZqdyyGM/?imgmax=800" height="322" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04796" width="430" /></a><br />
The cholla (pronounced choy-a) is perhaps the most feared and hated cacti in the southwest desert. If you brush up against one, you will know why. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4uo6AVOkE-Eo5el0rbLnp0OMYPmE6i0qVTwcy-7aVPV9TVoWFc22WcudTqvbeo6-1VUAA1PTVM_wWEAR2oDu9VbZi9KZWO4LwECPSfaIIYPaASLvy9zCjqk3eqr791LYpY6GPnlIsdtA/s1600-h/DSC04817%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04817" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVRjyVO5qY4Zh6UwQkrCyEiOWdN44g6ZDBF1tDqgo7-hzQlJ2tEoW95Gzg1PF8iRnEXTvdlrQbs8Aefp2hQEZN3ffGedCNPI8tWBtpofX12licRjAeV3EZkvNMneuttChgIZWyiowtXc/?imgmax=800" height="319" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04817" width="418" /></a><br />
The wind farms around Palm Springs. Lots of wind there.<br />
Wild lilacs near the gourd farm outside of Temecula.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXTTDg7HT-yIepNZK5ZUWGKNd9LNV8Gk-k7iQYJSkiqE1QPeJ2UkuRtzOuVOIHq1T_O_lhAvjWoQDCjEj8GWqaogHr6XupkafQ_kn080pbpMT0B2RX3CbQ2paslCG9ivScmRyCYoDsa0/s1600-h/DSC04870%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04870" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSWyQpLoGpVVivrarKWHqN9j8U-mHXtaybGvrnEk-vjplp6YO4WPGzXEvkpO8wY4P3UzQl7IzQP0FuWbTHCJhu1zbSVgWOgrPPJ4qH2rCWqemqGDToKD4r_5anA9Si2Wp_5R8rQ8EWT4E/?imgmax=800" height="350" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04870" width="462" /></a><br />
A few gourds!!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyfN3kb3fYkxdTT2S9kKaaUBj4Stp6gqYR02BcF4AA1D-DWV5HXHCL8l0U6wSK1rhT4zRPXzZnirYsOL6BUYlOKCmogFhgzgp8oyP1fMIXPccla5BoCXJmNsRWpujCJm2vUi0SdVX58Ic/s1600-h/DSC04875%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04875" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1e_m2KGYLnyndPWY_CL1Qh6gaOBYs5lJmLXbeWQBTW84qExwYjhFkqwBksJ3oAl1JDUmIjDTpRQMrDt9Y5DnzeGYltrN-nstOAh-kVUDEyJrxy8HE7Fgk65imR_jemH3R30i0gW6q_oc/?imgmax=800" height="324" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04875" width="468" /></a><br />
Chuck, Jim & Anna Mae <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIxDefiHOyWxT7qhtj8ICzprxZLHQhCkmAQGQb4Wv0yN5Sfroc3ilB64bodg8Dt-ojDgxp8R4OdEli-qLvsy1y_20_m7jVpLaJlqBcVOXLLfQQ9CTXRDXmzhEk_jPTTFnA0zXWTjLw-sQ/s1600-h/DSC04911%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04911" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GTo0cByERDxI9VNJVqx6f5CegSfLnzh48paU1jql9JHOwIWi9tLV_PGsqFHwGInJkPsawPaetZucc4kLYh5UFMkd3XW-fTfzXSYsSwQlG1W-yt7Sdm28NwAqaL6dWv8qIDKJYmxPVPA/?imgmax=800" height="284" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04911" width="455" /></a><br />
The metal sculptures in Borrego <a href="http://www.desertusa.com/borrego/bs-art.html" title="http://www.desertusa.com/borrego/bs-art.html">http://www.desertusa.com/borrego/bs-art.html</a> <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6lDXepNSyjZrCUSvKJ9EekyrZvxT8rdwmYFwT71_5lpi7V_iHVHulxhmindMd1mcNQZdCT8yoexTL9AwirrzItQ_J7XBP8ly3jLQ_AOZA_Q28jNKXCJznXcszFDPsg005CEoS8Gimd0/s1600-h/DSC04941%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04941" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjckblFCehmjL-ds0wVEGVXwd2RoGCdknFwlJTtMOKwdMhoP58P1u98ZB3OvvNd5bzaQ7EgKRqs780TzcbXF4hoDKdx5kH13-cOnctGv3F1vfrF-2RuhHqAPmcrQGxbCUnBwFbzuqKBv2w/?imgmax=800" height="273" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04941" width="429" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4UCArpbbm8q7V0IHA0ztRWF4tWnLSiVS_KPY0gnvuxbRkJ-WMiNfGlcywgi3kcawuSdk_n_RKSeuDxhUcsJV9OHnnbrclZmhfkJZ18Qnn7ubxm-0InOLnicUafMVaX7GX61Ib1kjgqg/s1600-h/DSC04946%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04946" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7gLUwgfo5cNatn8NJi8WHvMHo1brSbCJ9iXBe8dTo-EAVvLLR58qUsVpN7a1cBtCxBmBp-5MgKya1QjLfuSLjErsYHQzhbTAI6FOgZDad6zy36ig-k-xelqyYv375T05VQ05aW92ydpc/?imgmax=800" height="349" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04946" width="441" /></a><br />
Flowers at the San Diego botanical gardens<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1o1zddKriICrS25qcTK-Zh4jt8P4LeLPk4KlGbv-TCoGrEZejb0vKKZKG_Wif6dyOfrh5CKZrhbw9HzU7m2URNsDjspiGjBpbYTAQuoxIfAS2dArwoTGd65BduCeoKo_l14Zj4Btq48c/s1600-h/DSC04961%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04961" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpJHkmEaS6IEJCRgkcWIZx55G_4Mgj_5bJufqkXnFV0zsMLlfeTVB6UmJw0-XrjR6AWdXCoeOSeIXpTCZD6UyjV27o5TTdjH0DR5KOIXrRK_vkl5BZMSILH6m9JC8tjDbS4keVrP2wDc/?imgmax=800" height="303" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04961" width="451" /></a><br />
These statues were so interesting, as they were completely covered in cactuses & ivy of all kinds <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjO2sB3Pvis-fD5oEoSJN6ZFAbRrBWh-b3rXQ9wZT69aLsMLYwPqqYswrGkF_IkpZZ0HK3SFdwCSRtfMqFzUxA2d5951-FFy47-SBWk0jIYEyrjUBPr_2YFyW_UJxQ42N2KRPiOhfB6Q/s1600-h/DSC04966%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04966" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfrD0pExDbQf2prCXC45ciGwIOQhkKm1ytIW-HNke8_wwHnRuEszXKODncarBNFzZfak3oQGatxEyhUScG7dz1XIoh_Qc1gy9rmyggrCbSRI49wML8JFLdLzqyMGNNCE535P6WL0I7Ico/?imgmax=800" height="342" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04966" width="442" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67tEQwoJEftxe6a1PwfeSM7ZEVP1VRUwKN-rrKrMv4-rNXQ_5Vsiov9NglLoo3ubGxSPf21LxdMSELAsLZ6u9uR-oxEHoIvbjTJjO0XdlKH202f7ccl5tGA1Q8kAnMAAbskzZ0HU0Vm0/s1600-h/DSC04969%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04969" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8hlJgfSegy7g053ERn0HN1AUScVjRaPokRyW6bziFDwTe2bPF0IRR7a1bRWa-0KfhKTKyGvg4NGDR1TwJimXB5VwuwLoCf5aYjzGhoZ4_7UKOOaD04GZ6gkPnHDkoYDSfo2lpt1gvus0/?imgmax=800" height="328" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04969" width="438" /></a><br />
dancing couple<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDr3eFDoSwzTtJH9z19xPXZEu8ovIgd9qwBbzUG89-ofQUdpNVb0FGxJWrnLagKUdjc4e5TKk1v6LHXBveUPvziPBpcCkcosai7eykgggdUsKR8eytfD63-q9iyzbw0P8za1UbSb7yn8/s1600-h/DSC04967%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04967" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFAGSa94SdVOfpVGxUnpi9RcbDYeBXrrgbOd7oYxbp7SDCf54l_TsanZRviJqTUqqD1kws_g9wGqxRQmYif5TgVP30JhdF3MZSz3YNyO1LUeSIZ69xkdQbs5R9o_21Jfw4UpQgy_tjDDY/?imgmax=800" height="339" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04967" width="436" /></a><br />
Flower fields in Carlsbad<br />
<cite><a href="http://www.theflowerfields.com/">www.the<strong>flowerfields</strong>.com</a></cite><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio223pm_1-dvDqatiekXHa7qFUmROqli6s11brexNV3QoTKv3K5TQaw_JSpqg4i0VzyPAy2z30SblDMigP9QrpIi7MRLBZeZ5XPJ0w0k-Dt6rEBx62uYQf0Njd9Hp7nMUsn6hsKjvBbuo/s1600-h/DSC05008%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05008" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi61ktjLwJtA_oYZif6pZJkAe5C3mPjsSxbpObA1z7rKJv0FA7ag7qJMD5xo_yvevjyDPfNXiIMLuqZhLjf840kQghYKtquNtMTD6SagbrRZsRP-OmSrwyBlW6_1YZZHBwiqnA2DHuaQIo/?imgmax=800" height="339" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC05008" width="425" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaALyseVoBQ8qoW3FEl8QhWC5_8lz2u87BPkDkC7EIxPgfSWwDJGe1UHZWqY8tc-2yIo17p_PjF6ccUadPteqrLvDlWTJSepWcK-zJ28Y8bhVur9R5C1VkByTzmXPWkMvwRRISHBgIf_4/s1600-h/DSC05011%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05011" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixV1oJQi4O8muSYViWVn9L1b4tu4KA0Tym2ytpdELjpCf8enY-SE3Gk8gpdWeAkNdcc09YI9X5RT8VDxYGc0fZwLmcQ0-jCPXa6wCL87a33H_vmT9vcQIxnDchgub-JkaFBAjGSkWPTnw/?imgmax=800" height="309" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC05011" width="445" /></a><br />
Chuck & Anna Mae<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVEd3QfWA-6SFbOHa5VTzaQ0Vfo_7hpF7UlJFmrRmLx2pfGVzRH-uFTHBC6pySFFLU_OUYp5V79lSsGzpQfCZgXnibaCP07QeQHhMr2g-QR_RMf2F4MLtKtAQnFNxOPLpvC1bYtQsoek8/s1600-h/DSC05019%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05019" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23dLClqqwXQnba-6vwlQzl7KHDI6IOib7voaVXQiEvxD3yDEEJac2MM2ide5pIyeZc-YuF3w2kmBPFq2GloxU3xu4LniLU-vRT64wgR8bN6yaDjYt-Imx77Rzkf6F2qF5PmA4splsR0M/?imgmax=800" height="301" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC05019" width="428" /></a><br />
When we took our company to San Diego to spend the last few days of their vacation with a childhood friend, Chuck and I decided that we would use the groupon fishing trip that the guys didn't get around to. We could not have asked for a more beautiful day. We had a lovely lunch on the waterfront and made our way onto the boat. We went out for over an hour, seen whales, and dolphins, Had our own pet sea lion who stayed with us all day. But fish, not so much. Neither of us were disappointed though, it was a lovely day.<br />
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The sea gulls didn't know that the picking were slim!</div>
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Chuck took the truck out and got the oil changed and all those little things, then he had new tires put on. Hopefully that will be all that needs to be done. I've been checking routes and trying to figure out just where we will meet some friends before going into Canada. Once there we are meeting up with the Loosey Goosey gang in Dawson Creek. From there we will slowly make our way up to Fairbanks. Figured we would go there first, then make our way into Denali, where hopefully we will meet up with my brother. Talked to him and he agreed to make the plans for that. Then we will make it down to the Anchorage area, where we will be picking up our grandson, Anthony. He decided to not play All-Stars this summer, but to take advantage of spending a few weeks with us. Sure makes me happy, miss the little guy, although he is not so little anymore, 15 years old and 6 foot. How did that happen???<br />
My new motto….<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6Z5cYPHKqBQGsrXqvs0-Fmj4pzgdGj2IeiycGZn5bYYII53xegrK1NFsEgJl6JGfgtyEDymlqzI5GkrtA0lqyxG7zkREAs6wVLip-BL7sTne6ekl8iVRJSG44AvdcORHss4W2PgWjYo/s1600-h/me4.jpg"><img alt="me" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhX9fZCPFMkJRCuvZem4orJwuhz0Gq5RQc57O2cOyeyxhcpxs_bPEF_Xj6VwN00hJI6CCmlvFb3IswjJdpxr0KooT8ClVnEz9aRPgtUJo5Yc7QT8s-ReTZoxXS9yDq30KIVnsjiIVb6E/?imgmax=800" height="297" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="me" width="466" /></a><br />
Hope we see you down the road.<br />
<br />Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-14177995282991125252014-02-18T16:36:00.001-08:002014-02-18T16:36:02.924-08:00All is Well in the Land of Oz<p>It does not seem possible that three months have passed since my last post.  We have been so busy, and then there are those darn ole doctor appointments that seem to get more frequent as the years go by, and this year has been a doozy!  Beginning to think that we have not missed a one and have yet to find out if we will live to fight another year. And Chuck also had his macular degeneration in one eye go wet, which now involves him having to get a shot directly in the eyeball each month.  Hurts me to even think about it, although he say there is no pain at all. So our summer plans are on the back burner until we get some results, but we are still hoping to make the trek to Alaska.  Enough of aches and pain.</p> <p>We have really been blessed with gorgeous weather this winter, although the drought will surely hurt come summer, and the poor farmers and ranchers, which will hurt us all in the grocery stores. We have had a few friends pop in for a visits and we have enjoyed showing off the area.  We have been lucky and been able to secure sites that were located very close to us.  This is a big park and quite hilly at that.  We did have a chance to purchase a used golf cart from someone who was leaving, so now we have a his & hers, which makes it nice.  Plus when we have company it will also add to their comfort.  Chucks sister and BIL will be here next month for 3 weeks and we are so looking forward to their visit.  They will be staying in our travel trailer which we now refer to as our guest house. For those of you who know me I’m sure you are saying “how nice, how very very nice”. (private joke) </p> <p>For Christmas, Chuck got me the tools, aka, saw, drill, wood burner, ect. that are used to work with gourds, so I have been getting into that.  </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqHGUaliGK_f4n8oYtGke4qLBmN02kZOnwiiygqd8bP5tEYkRwy5gMt6zZj0sO-KB0FshDkmvdckRPDWZjaYQBQvFh-aleYurQ1hp2Qr1Bpj9OPbydUBzLRAMsGXKxP9OChuBXZSzKgtI/s1600-h/DSCF3559%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF3559" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF3559" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7oEPQxAk9grKInpTovmdBuje07LfOgLIEE5cLEdW80zrbcgRUXJ6PQSvoixn-NfGPKG3qBnSqHdjcuLDswlb91B_XMbXbefXpq5-Cn7rJSJxM9UjGr0AsqQ9vsKM0A_h1BBE9_-AWQs/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Gourd done as a flamingo</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGy1aw8FJnHUwCmxrx7VNCkGaT_7dwBnHzbx-Sg-MAW8xEkNYohS55eiLCV2_PtmLExoF6zgIU12w47qlPxpKN0axuSLGAK_5r_-h3ithgmXfwcCSxyQ1bpkIxpgA_Mb8-IixZMZ_l9M/s1600-h/DSCF3563%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF3563" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF3563" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxiTCx6fzSjxusrDZeU0ahomjPttHQ2-T02_jTacApva-VZ8heyx_THbI6very3JF4mZMvrpFZlw8PkKX2qk3T2ni0bLoZtLlQFC0Ja1SI2LIvqBOK4PHWocdzageu8nNp7ypHPSAq_zA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>I’m trying to reproduce this one.  Never let it be said that I have to walk before I try running.  If you start with something really hard, then coming down will be easy.  There are some very talented people who make great works of art, we have a lot of the  paints and decorative items in our craft room which makes getting started easier. They have also gotten the art center trailer fully functional, and now they have started plans for a second one that will house potters wheels and a kiln outside.  This is truly becoming a place where we will not have to leave, if only we can get food delivered.  We already have Swanns, so it wouldn’t take much. </p> <p>Yesterday we spent lunch at a retirement home that may be in our future, distant future we hope.  By putting a small retainer down they make you VIP’s, which entitles us to a monthly meal, which is very nice, they have an awarding winning chef. Of course if you decide that you will not be moving in the deposit is refundable, so not sure how we could lose. Yesterday was a chocolate lovers lunch.   </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpigoMv48B2O5_bywPthslmKDT-2reNEf6Ayis7VoqTLv-TbM-V610fXQe34p5uqSuR-D21j9Ao2j9ylje4f2w_bwfgXBsJ_M-mGw5soi6txiNnq7gr2g2qEWbxzw_t379a_nnUS2uVnA/s1600-h/food%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="food" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="food" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2_hey8o7hj7_519kS47zKDqwVxhjvtF6VTD-pwE9_VBNC52M3xE3aNGVjrV6o2omCETV888P5MGGLFHXyleS7l3iQkizpfWV3V3OoXo5f5RWe9VPJSH6PE0yle9Bc9qtxX-np74Us-8/?imgmax=800" width="148" height="244" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZboCvQm7tub40ebzd1zqWm_IXGH0UcwSm-RdhPcCxh7ajxAco_qHJ9qX1BEZfCCi8ddo-6ZIXlFoyN4JnWtHzpVBERByfxbaPBsYncHqBd605-qNySK2m_WUMR3YTOt129EeL2UtQ9w/s1600-h/food2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="food2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="food2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEKxDDnP4_9odTnsg5wAQjOOlrwMXTO7Yy8YmheumL5aEtaW-VmeUgmjoDXPO7lLLib1c3WojRAi0vyb9m6Tkh8NNUGZ45nyB2PVObCq_wUmCMNmAQVoHjBD07aoS7kblgiE5F_FKVwUg/?imgmax=800" width="148" height="244" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gKrIQ8Xm1dEVzrSh0-uFzhvz432_kNrD-O9hJXVmvN1LMUbADqWSAYAmAo7ITTbQa1qrWt_sSqVDF9BhSplI16qGuA7NscFEcpuGPlYqRqJ13yjph4cxpaV2htGH3TXfKcgVXdYu24E/s1600-h/food4%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="food4" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="food4" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjksL7KKaOhWTHv_6mypsbbmGRAJImCYrax7IpkkB7MuDUMc_7uYyJCux1I_SJBtPnq5yXlos3mFgOMFFY19lNwhvoS0RtS9cBk87TltzhgH078BgT9f6UyXfcUsNqckGn_6gNc9n3CNI8/?imgmax=800" width="148" height="244" /></a></p> <p>   Margarita Salad    Filet w/crabmeat crust     Chocolate Cake</p> <p>It was delicious!  Then last night the Art club was doing a fund raiser with a soup supper, so a day with out cooking. </p> <p>My small cactus garden that I planted a few years ago is in full bloom and looking every so pretty.  Surprising how fast they have grown, thought cactus was slow, but these are on a drip system and seem to be thriving.  </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwy3zGgiFlrpqqaN_HUn9JgaMTxP4Sho-0U4gOOxF7pEATeylQC_pVqs0rDGMuDPZiyYuYNPErml7UihkizynVxRcLxH2oVNJo1HbqTqhRi9UpXKlt3J67eplcEz73GSbxyKJoXDyrjdc/s1600-h/DSC04731%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04731" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04731" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsiM-p0kUImK-zbI4qvQ15GMeabHzU0Rd1HvsO0zGFxQnS0mpXlGadDCZbjiPkhX8RTpg-ZhmzM5MOyZe6l-fjG2BS1ZytEcos5oRveRdpVlV9cktA2N2iF9VhYVsHto_euscsy3vquw/?imgmax=800" width="459" height="374" /></a></p> <p>Hopefully my next blog update will be full of plans for summer travels.  Till then we are enjoying our winter home.  </p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-56209121763077111762013-11-22T15:23:00.001-08:002013-11-22T15:23:36.859-08:00Hey,I’m Alive!!!!<p><font size="3">Thought I had better up date as the other day I was at the doctors having some tests done, and when the nurse pulled the paper from the ekg machine it was a flat line.  So I better hurry before it catches up to me, so let me get this blog out. </font></p> <p><font size="3">We have been busy having a good time getting settled, most all of the park has arrived back from  their travels.  First off was our giant garage sale, which netted the park a total of 17 thousand dollars.  Course half the stuff will probably be back on sale next year, seems no one can resist all those bargains.  Then there was the Founders Day celebration, to kick off the official start of next years 25th event.  For that I volunteered to put together a skit, and we managed to do have good show.  Jojoba has a large collection of costumes and props which is a big help when it comes to something like that.  We are also in the process of putting together a Beefsteak & Cheesecake calendar.  Keep in mind that the steak is rather tough and the cheese is quite lumpy, but still the sales have been going good.  And so many groups wanted to be represented we had to make it a 15 month calendar. We are preselling and have hit the 300 mark already.  I personally think anyone who has kids ought to send them all one.  Let them worry about the parents a bit.  </font></p> <p><font size="3">While in South Dakota this year, I along with another friend hit the winery that makes the Red Ass Rhubarb wine, and we stocked up.  So we decided that we would have a ladies night out, which meant reserving the Ranch House here.  Which is great, we all could drive our golf carts, no DUI’s that way.  We limited it to 12 and had a great time.  Laughed till tears ran down our legs.  Opps. </font></p> <p><font size="3">The park is putting on a Thanksgiving dinner that we can’t pass up, for 5 dollars, it is more than a bargain.  So that is our plan, although I do have a turkey thawing in the frig.  Just got to have turkey sandwiches the next day.  Plan to spread it around so we don’t get sick of it.  Sort of got it  free, which is always good.  Then we have our craft sale next week, which also features a soup luncheon.  Six people each make TWO large roasters of soup, and everyone buys bowls for all the different soups for as much as they can eat.  It is a fund raiser for the woodworking shop.  I volunteered to make soup again this year, in exchange for some help in making wooden valances/shelves for the little trailer.  It only has 3 windows, so it is not like a big project.  And only two of them can be used as shelves.  </font></p> <p><font size="3">We have made no decisions on travel plans this winter, but we will either make a trip to Yuma/Casa Grande or go with a group into Mexico.  Sort of depends on doctors appointments and repairs.  Chuck sees his cardiologist again next month, and we are anxious to hear his recommendations.  Getting old sucks, but the alternative is even worse. We also checked out a assisted living/care facility in near by Hemet.  Very nice place, and some day, Lord will and the creek don’t run dry, we may live there.</font> </p> <p><font size="3">When we arrived back this year I decided that we needed a remodel of sorts.  But when you do anything thing to 400 square feet it is rather difficult.  Decided that I would put the day bed out in the gazebo, and put in chairs.  Well, when we looked at recliners in the store, they did not look so big, but once we put them in the RV, HOLY COW!!! Luckily we only bought one, and it took up so much space, but I figured that I would live with this goof up for a year or so.  But after a couple of weeks it was just too much, so someone said to see if the store would take it back, now I had no hope of that happening, but much to my surprise they were happy to!  And the best part, at the yard sale some one had donated two very nice beige rocker recliners, in excellent shape, and the price was 100 dollars, total.  Happy, happy, happy.  </font></p> <p><font size="3">Well it is off to happy hour, playing bridge later tonight, my partner will not be too happy if I stay very long at happy hour.  Wow, that is a lot of happy's there.  Thanks all for hanging in there with us, hopefully my flat line was a mistake……..   </font></p> <p><font size="3">If you would like to check out Jojoba Hills, we had two resident computer wizards redo our web site and it is wonderful. <a href="http://www.jojobahills.com">www.jojobahills.com</a> </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-80979679265800920872013-09-16T20:56:00.001-07:002013-09-16T20:56:13.813-07:00THE END OF SUMMER<p> </p> <p><font size="3">We enjoyed a weeks visit with all in Colorado, daughter, Cyndi, SIL, John, our grandson and wife, Robert and Kerstin, but the best was seeing our great grand babies again.  They are so precious, and smart and cute, and and and…did I mention smart?  Went with them to a science fair down town.  It was very interesting for kids, there was all kinds of things that engaged their little minds.  Here they are painting a car, but they were so careful, basically leaving their just finger prints on it.  </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBWBjy1RasDYhzTlgYQ7_JJydTSiEd38KcSxdZwDL0PWiWCCsXSLzoVEkeukHp6NvvGQb05BCgMAeeOaQelCUrubHBC588cgQEXbTqMHTRbm0aZFm1KjLlihgXnlQFV-MFVl534RPhClc/s1600-h/DSCF0910%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0910" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0910" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-n2B4ai7TsDqSEdDmb_TLY-Rzr4wfOcVrtM_FJFj2DxJJnOlNVZA017_KMY0B_8yy1m8yWeCz2hChDDmkBkok5909NXrZRMaIjytTyOb3mHInKeODu2U5iRB0rhJ-v8eEqM6N5tF_yI0/?imgmax=800" width="214" height="194" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQSzv5xJInSbadiXaKP6_nCM9lDqbF-koWBIexiXFYN6K0Gl4XW9kXTu7pCu5gOzV-s6pO-s_noVB7SozHmBol1bUMwZXyyTzJkXTook_XIsdVk5NNDYJKFlDSjIaD0jem2IkTrXAnUg/s1600-h/DSCF0916%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0916" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0916" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1t248gC7_mhUF8jRryD7E71Wys2MwPcCCbhYObCyt5SfiFsiEqRpKZgnFandlbhet52b596mGRyuHagaDStxIX5AIfs-7OYNVqeCt014sm872xo89JwQtb0l2D2NkAI0o9GRXE1afa4/?imgmax=800" width="211" height="195" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjduy6F-e434ICDWqsNvIkeWG0e-nJ6on6G1r8R6V-ehm96YjYwRtcr0-KJ3MFs_MsjKwtfp5aBOzrDvJ7d-vWFb_kZjhBj27HhKRNBsfrNsNuydCwKs-DxKHY_Ey0zPXr41qEp-tW4-Vo/s1600-h/DSCF0912%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0912" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSCF0912" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZHJoYhaYT4IRx8HG_DKRqTXO3dhA37GLOWjO4Eo6aw1ukrbKzzETbIZSC8xj5SkGofNQ-cILy7IENf4Vjpn7gm7P2VhLDTf_U9HzENEWnXHnuwm9uCEI_MN86MOtuN3cZBTJkgSQmxM/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">Here is a booth you wouldn’t catch Chuck near, mushrooms, all types that grow in Colorado.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw2fLofPlPK9mj2N3IDXuJ7mHUs8XqDhWAp4NbWMk0t6G8uWR0q_Hm86cYRxfr1cSDkrxNkwWt84nCesb-J0EmJAqvRqT2VGKdODg93rRPUUIFx9BErn0wFY2qB5cdHblDZe-opL9t7rM/s1600-h/DSCF0920%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0920" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2xPPSMDA6aEdadfjcZenPpnf42pZWJTU465vUeTl5zWu-2tpV2rTOgSvlN2l9Laxdtj1jECm7kVuavJRcfBX0Ce0X3y1_p42aVJk5iJjFgwhO1W1b7fxugBYVgCJ9GAMPys3z-a6vfY/?imgmax=800" width="448" height="369" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">Then there was the funny car.</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="3"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoncNXY6d6C6VckHhM2TarB-O7R7C-_Ep3J5-wfxNGe40RyHqQVIV-poHvbCxZxYd4eN3_UT3P6C0fQZj0sYpF0YnrtWI770SpBRCTnm6qlTm8kdpP6ciS1FQHF5wPY8VjNx2xZ22wqE/s1600-h/DSCF0909%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0909" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSCF0909" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG4eSjosubZIIrUcqfcGfFjp8rgbfkX3qHm7Tjia5K667USHEUoe597tBVcCCD4XHkSf3ftyH7GEEPP50pddkigHvXETiRJGu_tlWUVbzOTQFN7N1H7lte7r0K3qFoO0cmLd6na0RvV3k/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="179" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3">We did get to work on the storage unit, and it went rather quickly.  We took very little, seems a whole lot easier letting things go when you hardly remember them.  We loaded the few things we decided that we could put to use out here and that was it.  The kids are working on getting all the spruce up work they want to do before they put the house into the vacation rental pool.  Sure hope it works out for them.  To us it seems like theirs is a much bigger undertaking than ours was.  But then again they will still have the house if they decide to move back into it.  Then again they are going overseas. We had a great time, although they had to work some, and Chuck's breathing was not so good.  The elevation really got to him this time.  We decided to leave a day early, and hard to believe, but the RV park gave us a refund for that day.  We didn’t even ask, just wanted to let them know we were leaving as the park was staying pretty full.  Goldfields RV Park, passport America, and they take it for the entire stay.  Not much of a park, but close to everything, and for us just a few blocks from our daughters.  (Glad we left when we did as the rains came and we would have been land locked as they closed the road we used to get out.)</font></p> <p><font size="3">Then we were off, had a great audio book, and the miles just flew by. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJk9LLq6NpDqCLKAGw85UlipOX5vMh2IuzM6LYs7wkIANFC_h1xzN7av09g54-uW9RsWEQNeV4gjSR3pfPzbPlfn7_UwLfBx1JeOz-zJezC2X0HOpmySB03xsVkmJ4n1Ngo1Yi_yrYzvY/s1600-h/DSC04620%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04620" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4i6Uc4XH_6HyFtTLM3XLYo0quoxWpT_yPApIWQnurSjt8tNsyx_GM7-JpKwmMmLA3A3wKChCVFkfXyDn0n5yPdXhNnZzVv5xkufnjgYf9OW9Mes79Rr-LYBZ4Z9w7OM2_pAzbR5l3if8/?imgmax=800" width="451" height="296" /></a><font size="3"></font></p> <p><font size="3">We arrived in Albuquerque around 3, and checked in to a P.A. park, and as we were making our way to the site, spotted this couple outside that looked oh so familiar. Well, be darned, it was our friends that live here at Jojoba, but we had last seen them at Hart Ranch in North Dakota.  Of course we had to have a game of hand & foot.  Girls rule!  Next morning we were off, in and out of rain.  Luckily it never was too bad.  We had been batting around stopping and taking the train to the Grand Canyon, but the elevation was troubling.  Decision was made for us when we got there it was raining the hardest of the day, so we just pushed on.  </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQRZJfPkeD9jHYEfk1i716IFY3tHAfNnuB3GiFxXycEAoy-jXDzVuWGWbbxK_rM2Y6iZIKwvwkkzja3jwMQmjG9bMdHRJDl73uk82BCRJdlsRisiNfZTKWIRkadubzxcklFodBNqYmfs/s1600-h/DSC04626%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04626" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA8Gzakto0_K3j8XYly4MbvgK41CwX1RXPU7xzrn4ldlqArZOreqvlci4j1iuWhX7vSsrG6NAGd0-sE3vU3IyCb9Nc1B-8yAGTUsZFj2-Nkhcj1aLvBbHyXvUF1w32XhTmRR8Vd090uo/?imgmax=800" width="466" height="323" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">Scared Indian mountain, aka tourist trap.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9QoIkooS1VrmckG1CYGC_pSnDyAHsc9gzT84kIzX1B5aNejxXF_kzw8BxczWUh_w9DxNJSa_ZejfYyDjD5yBsSZAmvD5zxct3-U7EqKDlpet6M_CvTYLOoTMeEhLK8-f2TN2fxyMaeg/s1600-h/DSC04625%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04625" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04625" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgroy0Sugd8rzeP1nUtKXyKVBm2XD6u0hxL1vXTfoXxPcYHk5y-qfwE2x8sgv1kCdpLdX3jgrH1SQzNVyufntpCHkjJAYMwbWbKq9JKJcAl6yxstVese0fONmKxK41UY-_jrIfsSuaAgSQ/?imgmax=800" width="456" height="350" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">We drove along the Colorado River and there were some very nice campground, especially on the California side of the river.  </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8K2f2UMBPMQ3xf8qtpEtcFAD0dlJ9KVwQZ8zA8LT52MiyBD3CiPFHUt1v0dKTgd2DHon7p8x9LHCQm8WHYaRY9AhKQ2NuKrwh5wD7IuXAqiiAjRh9D2vDskaq38WAF65Ok50LA5UNXUA/s1600-h/DSC04663%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04663" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04663" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj03TKPIhn8cRaoUAD9iGp5sA8-QILsETgE_5RZZaJeUy9HBj2gZViQ5yLlGUpQ5XFz0qCoYTdUV6AdNX1YQE3rtvjf0gJZVhWzH50CLVBbnf78_K4efvrCacXtfsxIH2_uBgRTVQUdrI/?imgmax=800" width="466" height="295" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgmAEGvoYeavBuYH-pnUKpD4UMzor_eWvZ20itKYNFfaGAMm7UGrz41Y9uY20Mdpdwk6wx2m2QkX-Iv_g0fRzUn7mvXSNmOnsxKm-FrCpuGGi0Ozi2QDyM_tIsuNq6a-vZAwrcz03Pj-k/s1600-h/DSC04664%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04664" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04664" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLQ7WMML5TVLDrPPwXZyUL8_0JYDpp-I-yzULj_RUCg6iwQVgPZIDEqw42-9iYy-k490z9m4nWpfcvvwd3ce9K0MsQ7g0hEajXLyfFNfJnnpfGXKTaGwRFUYQi01XUEsexGwEmV3Muj4/?imgmax=800" width="469" height="312" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">We made it into a rather long drive, 500 plus miles, but the book was good.  Spent the night in Lake Havasu, the home of the London Bridge.  Been a long time since we have been there and the town has really grown.  Next morning we were off across the desert.  Glad we were a day late, looked like it had really rained in that area, lots of the “dips” still had mud and plenty of water on the side.  For quite a distance the road and the railroad tracks are side by side, and this is a mystery, there are no people living any where near, very little traffic.  Yet all this rock graffiti was next to the tracks. Ran for miles.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOjAx6-M9A5435l0EJdg5tm0aah-2mcGlHN-Ir8cqNeSo5x-EijfDQZ42sFtdbeE-Gq3VsSUNCGqTUr_xdDZ6Fyu6UZ3rHxgWK5bIg1AA4rHdLj-KbtdKFH8XKoFj3klQqyKG_NdcOWRQ/s1600-h/DSC04685%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04685" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04685" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDocOoQPb4u9FeuJ-aDDTBaP4_-OJEYP2COgcWcvA6BfHGKC92gSd1LyEl47U2xHfXsbZhpBsWv3NNOHw0AyURVOQVplfY9uuVWh0OEpW4UrMFrfkMdjy6hf2J8lYTu1reuHszKQ6TotU/?imgmax=800" width="472" height="384" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8TRMvFu6g4OU4T7Mlphyp-PjTwf5dyMglAAYCYOHYdl_mEo36ffrOnHRJ5SQscfe4cCn4_VRQ_jocDe2TyvtmGjJmBHkfv9IXb0OcowL_8loY0FIAVsJofZCuzOyxu5668B_XvVpvr5o/s1600-h/DSC04681%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04681" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04681" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMS6cr5GsAaxJwoRCUpG5a9aH6gXpiGJoAn0NTqnFqpXi8WvzQBCvZMtvT4N8aPxRFuPpm_DphGba-vd-4_fn-Hn3G1ZKqg_439DdSU7_-KPb6N-3lrrglUhbDqUWMuxY9Q4biK-KPv0/?imgmax=800" width="467" height="367" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3S-Pe1UGfrfxL3MY7ufaw0DNpmUeMiTDT-65A2NHlOwsLv_GEiJTWU80SdVCg6MtXC751mG4vMhfX4jMp67oRiwYAGWG_xIW7KQXT9eXYQFvQxteRzplwIqLr3MAImtom9rFYGswa_w/s1600-h/DSC04678%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04678" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04678" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir-u4Mfq3RQqnJx45nLrEmvL5wIlnqhMuvtofPGzObjXnuIb-HqHWPIa2Pjo3Exf_LMx7UL5FI6AM03t_L9FQGRI5nAtpfH1kkunzF4gX_CwMKe_uredJvyz2ceQk_5bsIuiwfXEPWnPU/?imgmax=800" width="467" height="375" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">Then we were in Palm Springs, and it was getting hot. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQRWznvqr3jMFebMJgTYUo7TEb6XbgI4Uc5sB6ODI2ROuKXytJlOf4fCDtMo-rzzUyR7OsYaxVksEYc0NClAa2H8ZenGdG6ytNSMDiiuRya2dVT9o0WIIadIMcDzlhRN_xrn3Liv4-R5o/s1600-h/DSC04702%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04702" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04702" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcGjC9lem1-xIe1WqYqZZrDFo24hz1nbqz80hNCPiDvyxnLbIEtOmNZZ5taSmoJ7QDy9cjEIQKTNMmiOCmWx2AUZoH0VeC2LFg4mrjXCUaW6DT-vhi-1J9pUqx8bsBUEsKj2foEoqNNE/?imgmax=800" width="459" height="329" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">We decided to grab something to eat before we tackled the mountain to “home”.  Yes we were taking the road I swore I would never travel on again, but we were just pulling the “Little Guy” so it did not seen so daunting.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhSFszQ8WABgJJRyxrWGKmPMghNSAlaCgFkzCYMHc2vkyJkatwUdswNWVnzfcfiM-WdzQdji6dkoIfb9r7BZdgCW0CNLaXcAxW6y6tC0OtOgzXN0SY2lE5hTcMC_m-FgY2Nte7b9Y_oo/s1600-h/DSC04705%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04705" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04705" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7ARCFdbWB149TnndluWBXgVM2UwQh4KDWtLg0a_DgTFiihZcKVqjTw_B1ctqdJzzh3AL0qBYq2MG6J1DNqaQE4tPl29GnHwX3dVSF8EmSXFTsfEBqxfKEP5wdO3j5x0IhW6vvjKqf04/?imgmax=800" width="315" height="268" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">Not only does the road look like this on the GPS, it fails to show you that it is going up, up and away till you get to the top. Down is not too bad.</font></p> <p><font size="3">We arrived at Jojoba Hills about 2 in the afternoon, and even though we had a great time this summer it was wonderful to be here.  And let me tell 400 square feet feels so spacious.  We love the little trailer, it is wonderful, park it anywhere, and that is the main reason we wanted it.  Taking it to Alaska next year will do just fine.  Having new love for the Damnearahouse, with its 4 slides and all though. </font></p> <p><font size="3">So that brings our summer adventure to a close.  Now it is on to doctor appointments and all that good fun.  By the way Chuck is breathing so much better, but he is still seeing the doctor.  Till next time.</font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-44659444202697842812013-09-01T13:45:00.001-07:002013-09-02T10:29:04.292-07:00CANADA, hey, AND BEYOND<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We zipped into Canada, no problems, but the border patrol couldn’t believe that with Texas license we had no guns. Chuck told him that he was ex-military and thus needed no gun for defense, and the guard not knowing him, actually took him at his word. Going into the part of Ontario that we were, campgrounds are very limited, and we ended up spending the first night in a Wal-Mart parking lot. Thankfully the weather was cool, and we did get some sleep, but the place we parked was a shortcut, so the traffic was non stop most of the night. It was wonderful to see our good friend, Lois. It had been 4 years, which was way too long. The first couple of days we spent getting caught up, and Chuck got in a round of golf. Unfortunately Lois started coming down with a sore throat and a terrible cold, and when she was getting worse right before our eyes, we decided that leaving was the only thing to do. Knowing that if we stayed she would soldier through and probably end up in the hospital, which she has visited way too many times this year, we were off. We only had a 130 miles to Niagara Falls, other than going through Toronto there was no problem. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJmRYRdpCI9JbzAd_kIJ53U0RX-KQ8Y4AqlMOjEFgYKwKeoZdl7pfzp5CO454cqq6hjaQcec3C7uzcFZewJfD3lN14BcHK3WupH5SR-9q-gjKP8wV1w0T-vK_yPa7zdXHpm8bu9SeAbpM/s1600-h/niagar%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="niagar" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbPj2lPD3s87ZdmpG5YwiyjZCg0cSdvRP1Uch6W3zL0CBasf8AjLushOSkhSSoxX16q2u2pTUcelYZG4yjkZVzfLBDx-cL9-2ihiD9kGxR-qOOwY5fvoS155NfsWmodLCBC8ggBGsQEs/?imgmax=800" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="niagar" width="379" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We have been here a couple of times before, but it never fails to impress. Wow, the view, the roar, just the majesty. Awesome.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Then it was off to Chucks home town of Myerstown, PA. Pennsylvania has an abundance of country roads, and our GPS managed to plan our route so we saw our fair share. Turn right, turn left, repeat and repeat. Ten miles from his hometown, he still had not seen anything that sounded or looked familiar. But it did get us there, and we parked the RV in the back of Chucks nieces yard. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbHkzi3rowTg1A_PSFrAFEe8z5HszjvDZyBQz-WRRXVun5jik-v0o3I2HeLeoYEsu3KKdOH19Bx9LzRhakBRyn6AyZaezZQVpd8nIaCJnXE23FzNd95wy1ykfu7_TkgggIlXyVM-diN8/s1600-h/DSC04594%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04594" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVwiYg1zZ8_B8GwM81RE3HGGR5mMDL9n81phMWUet3QGGEq8EKFexGbGWpjKp41R6V1CmyIFPcg9PMaKOplsO-AGOBJhAs4CvYh8E4uurhHbaU7-HVaHWJ7yxUF2IbJQZBV1Ks-fpdLo/?imgmax=800" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="DSC04594" width="280" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Lovely, we had a gentle stream running by. Usually when we have been in the area we parked in an RV park, but the closest are about 30 miles away, so it was always a drive. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx73CQSx0A_SN5k1P5A_gyjqnQvMckvgdV5Hjxh03FSDV4i0Koad3MNOUdiMfZO-RS4Freg-K_qBAfLxzOTMCRQpYxk7Todu6YGWtoRzn5MIdabTLKJV1XlVAcFW6me5ljEDgiFLGO6rA/s1600-h/DSC04591%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04591" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8xMRiM6qJMMW-ZvZOn6tg8qfoRUWJRVYTW2opaGgND1pkLRYFW8ks32dPcziCQxmirv0RSo7Sz60K5By4GgSBzMPyxKJlK1-eSX-P5jSuxgmioQsadIiIaDCU4E-HDzGOf2yOrOSIuY/?imgmax=800" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="DSC04591" width="298" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">This was so much nicer. And we did manage to put together a mini family reunion. Chucks sister and BIL, Anna Mae and Jim,<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtoUCRgNfgIyBuEIQZapFZ-MU7AmPfgCC_4yZ3I7rUCE-IQcrZcFojtpM48_OFZE_NsJTYoyG2F_rDx0XPMJ2VlBh539gUCSRyry8Hqm2i_tmuX-iNkV08DWTwVOIIwd6AXmCXEdTfsw/s1600-h/DSC04600%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04600" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVWb7VlvX5y1Fs8dS47NXAjsacwJ6R9_Rj2qytz40VQy5oKfG-PHUNFtxA7RH1cY3ZkP_d6sO0sPxzxzL0ZKm3OXbSzMqkvp-2_9UcZ0V07lx2mtPMHJdSdM_YMc3JZWwu8lRl6e9e_w/?imgmax=800" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="DSC04600" width="299" /></a> </span><span style="font-size: small;">came up from West Virginia, along with a few other more distant family members. We do so thank our hosts, Debbie and Norman,<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjo-Ij95E9zpzsNDOMSheJG4dVM2Axel_-9LUl4xc7dolUKQXrRvqGT0_dFIxlthBKVEGfkZVl8eU8lhlxfMuvfGdNsvCQdJ-RDi4Sj50iln_cWp-JsT4jLkgNlVOnPbrLcZRw6BO94gE/s1600-h/DSC04604%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04604" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAwMmBYe7BP1H1MJb7pXt5EzOVWylHNUPpoArrOFbfh_nl7ix0ddtGrB7znIHjO9k47MSzfx0TO6e_Eetz7kza0ZJ6_sKmLx9r_Uzlvw_EVHZm0qQEP6zh1CEKG806-JHlZzQyCiHWvs/?imgmax=800" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="DSC04604" width="324" /></a> for their hospitality, as we literally invaded their lives. We have traveled this summer as no other, with the only destination being the Escapade in Gillette, WY, after that it was ????? where ever the wheels took us. Hart Ranch in South Dakota, friends in Harlan, Ohio, Amana Colonies, Ohio then Goshen, Indiana, for the FROG rally, well heck, Mike and Leslie are only a 100 miles away, then on to see Lois in Owasha, Ontario. After our quick visit to Canada, we were just a short distance from PA, simple when you think about it. And that is how we ended up so far away from where we started. The first leg of the trip back is like1700 miles, and we have a 3 day holiday weekend coming up. So we thought we would settle down some place along the way and wait it out.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdnRUAab9668jmA5CqpJL_8R0uQWrixnzdMkspfGjONjVJIQzqSN9BUFWj5mlCQPc57i1nRJZPTrsk6dyT6zANWXU5d8-K1EqcO5Aihag9Lq3lS_v62YmKzQyjYsG2Lih7xYz6GKXZWQ0/s1600-h/DSC04611%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04611" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNA-tlEt8KcnhhI0vp9EwiQrKoXRMz9wyIDaRspLvJmeLXX4eBT-f0YaJQal6EdYX40IkwwJkv1_IYIu5mbiHD13pXIqxkCZbhgi3v2_du_vF0NsjXo2XxAflVmDRj12zF8hfpbg7gQuw/?imgmax=800" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="DSC04611" width="301" /></a> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQGO6rRHt1dNgTmXp3WtLkcC3oyru0uIF1MPwFRhdgMaSwVjsRK0LAqkNBlmC_vQMbf9Fc4sJjRWAhT79_4fGBGQSVoYlmbyVA8mEYQNlWPS-YqjbBwe_XlfKbiuTNVwb0BZ01noGhrAM/s1600-h/DSC04607%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04607" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLfEZlUlAmbweuIT7Rjii_uOKtX1YLsTQXhFDyzi48x0vIzjlXvDU9Xpiw2_xxAFheHH7VSGYHuP91qqJdp0YRVkp9IOPa1OnvLAFvAwU6VH2DtqDX5UtJll226ydQRqIDT6KJdOX0DBY/?imgmax=800" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="DSC04607" width="260" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Longaberger Basket Headquarters</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Unfortunately there was no place that we wanted to spend any length of time at, being as we camped at Passport America parks, and other than one, they were not that great. But the price was right! </span><span style="font-size: small;">So we decided we would just push on to Springs. We knew our daughter and family were all gone for the holiday, but we thought that it would be no problem spending the time at the famcamp on the Air Force Academy, as it is a large campground. Well not when it is parents week end at the Academy! They were beyond full. Elks lodge, yes, they do have RV facilities, but only one left, we are 15 miles away, bummer, when we got there, taken, they said we could stay in the parking lot, free,and it was a large one, and private. But it was hot, and we called around and found an opening near our daughters. By no means what we had anticipated, but off the street. And not far from here is a wonderful patio, with all the amenities where we can go for a picnic, our daughters patio. Unfortunately we do not have a key to their house, and they are in the mountains with no cell service. Oh well, we had planned to hunker down for the week end. Next week we plan to purge the storage shed that we are sharing with our daughter. They are planning on an adventure of their own, moving to Guam for at least 6 months so they can get their fill of scuba diving while they are still able. They are putting their home into a vacation rental pool, but will store their personal items, so they can use the space. And other than a few things in storage, if we have not needed anything in all these years, it does not seem likely we will ever need it.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xCqbCQ8yWj8QMpEhGhwdQnT86_-UkY0Lx-Ft00pAnrRohmbZzrIIEDTqwgrcDJ91q8b1SU2Z2pvkVOT6xo537VNcjY_Id2gnvBLAGLInaobLGya7JjQGkgevHdtXxOjXm3YUNEZzOvM/s1600-h/august%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="august" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2P7pgg3vxp1U51tGBeJkXi1GIZo-vtXUMhlKxPwsyFC_ppUZgWXP9744olQ_l8RSQluZBXSurNd81HmxhPGB274Qodxlew6uevnZcm6Zg5UfcxYnRXGb6VcOpq_vN-c56hyphenhyphentTRiMW1Q/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="august" width="243" /></a></div>
Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-30833071981306084192013-08-16T08:23:00.001-07:002013-08-16T08:23:44.871-07:00CATCHING OUR BREATH<p><font size="3"></font> </p> <p><font size="3">Here at PJ Family campground is the perfect place for some down time, and we have been tasking advantage of it. The weather has been a tad too cool for our comfort, but they say things are warming up. Did happen on the Swans candle outlet in downtown Jackson. For years I ordered candles from them and once we started full timing with a cat, that had to be one of my vices I gave up. Now that we no longer have one, well, lets say that I indulged. Also celebrated my birthday, Leslie and Mike made a lovely dinner. And Chuck picked up my favorite cake, (cheesecake) just a bit of advice, never buy it at Wally World. But it is the thought that counts, and we all saved lots of calories, so maybe it is the place to buy it after all. We have played a lot of ten penny, fun card game, taken a few country drives, found Camping World, basically just lazing around.</font></p> <p><font size="3">Tomorrow we are leaving, heading to Oshawa, Ontario. Know that we will enjoy spending time there visiting with our friends. Our Verizon here totally sucked, internet not too bad, but could not get a call out or in. Of course need to make calls too. Having a bit of trouble with our vehicle insurance, they would like to increase it by about 500 dollars a year, mainly on the Montana. Makes me wish we would have a claim just so you can justify having insurance. Well, maybe not. </font></p> <p><font size="3">Last night we had our delicious, best ever, summer dinner, corn on the cob, fresh garden tomatoes and fried egg plant. Love it. Use my conduction burner and it does a wonderful job of frying, it is the best.</font></p> <p><font size="3">See you on the other side……..of the border.</font></p> <p><font size="3"> </font> </p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-81877194694474475742013-08-09T12:48:00.001-07:002013-08-09T12:48:13.900-07:00WHAT A RALLY<p><font size="3"></font> </p> <p><font size="3">Forest River throws one heck of a rally. This is defiantly the place to come if you have any problems or imperfections with your RV. From the kick off dinner on Sunday night, the next morning we were in the middle of worker bees. There were maintenance men in golf carts going through our units like crazy. Anything that was not perfect was replaced, or repaired in minutes. Thought we only had just a few minor things, but now have a new table, microwave, stovetop, vent covers, awning arms, and then there are all the adjustments they did. If we were ever to buy another RV it would be a Forest River product. And another thing, the repair people, they were the most pleasant, out to please and insure that you were happy, why it was like they cared. Big change from what we usually run into now a days. Nor did the meals disappoint, quite the contrary, full breakfast, and then some,every morning . Monday night was the WOW welcome dinner, and they went all out. A full service sit down. And they did a super job. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyjYb27-VSQ2JZIc9NFBEyk89b0_rTC023SXSJPIQbLXUkJby-vWCGRXvDsG7xGxxVMzoTv8HWYaviV30I8JeczOkDTi6UrY3Wh6dXDEeINq6LqBRWmRfqfT_JKbta_j5ayv0JiiNctXw/s1600-h/DSCF0898%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0898" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSCF0898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WPEnmg_hm9sqX9HIkD1ELrm3gE26NppznYTBvbGx4OqIucq-feAGoDHPiwu-jRBV6EcyYfjpeaq-a16pSA6bZYmoEvNYBua0qTQFDWP9bnBAyIhwu3Ozo65poGoEFhHVS5VNyKRJELQ/?imgmax=800" width="288" height="222"></a></p> <p><font size="3">All the other dinners have been buffets, and we actually had to do a little of the work, but no cooking. Tonight is our farewell dinner, and after breakfast we will be ready to move on down the road. Escapees are not the only ones who travel on their stomachs. We are heading about 150 miles into Michigan to spend a few days visiting with Mike and Leslie Kennedy. Then we have decided that being as we are only about 350 miles from a very good friend who lives out side of Toronto, there is no way we could not go. Luckily we have our passports. </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-77911239933069683932013-08-04T11:38:00.001-07:002013-08-04T11:38:43.352-07:00ALMOST FEELS LIKE HOME<p> </p> <p><font size="3">We have been in this area of Elkhart/Goshen, Indiana more than any other place, other than when we have planned to hunker down an spend the winter. There is no better place for RVers to get repaired or renovated as there is everything here. We have made trips to the salvage places, Montana factory, to get some needed pieces for Damnearahouse, and Chucks favorite place, Rise-N-Roll. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYvRq8QbPBB-0_HVOyLEGh5h1AepjKvEtRhXNdS9PrjRrQJzBVgz-Yk0VOQD98CPtRXjM27lnTimhJ99GYKKJfhX68sEwQqfqBvG8RoDtm0Q-Vs4Ht2F_SvZio5Kfxx765u9lICluXdE/s1600-h/DSCF0882%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0882" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSCF0882" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAvWK3NzRhXt-4LQZcrLOXkQeoa-JmvMvQ2qzUpFDJJdsuGVrh_7D6axAHqOv_bLDqxNfy7B4L0JbqB5NTgu4mBdbOIVBlDasOOtH0B0P5-SmYMVJg7Kefdulg8KE5HrRPFfEHlMq7w0/?imgmax=800" width="491" height="334"></a></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">They have a saying there, “Keep your eye on the donut, not on the hole”. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_IVViSVWGBi_HyC2TbOrv_8sEssyV5OJEQM3253hG-GGOvdM9vGH9TIjn9Pw06EKV5otyt8zWm3PAoxlRBNjsLWHuiUa3CXu8lsb6S_vxRvD5MfK6bvsv38IATgw-KTtsetGY7XrAVMI/s1600-h/DSCF0885%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0885" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSCF0885" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvzoEV3TDklzo_7_t_R30pvVxW1c0z-o6IKwGDR3apU796xcrSOkXKFZV0edJjrDO_XlJ0Gcfcx4dYh7fqWd-rBlpaTPDX9J-nos_6_JGOeVeK1wIcp2a552DnVnFKkC2BJmHGUAlwLM/?imgmax=800" width="243" height="210"></a></p> <p><font size="3">We spent the better part of the last week at a Passport campground in the town of Howe, great price, even though the PA (12.50) was good only 2 days. After that it went to 14.00 for Escapees. Water and electric only, but very quiet, country quiet, there is a difference. They did have a heated pool, and I had good Verizon. And we made it without dumping, but it was close.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSZhjGi_g9fYegsmFReJCrjZB3AF7oYSQr177K549hSwB0DvaUOpSsc35Sn2PXPw0gbKjXkyxrU0s7i0hRt1FIeBUlJcDdi__EEhD0uHePRkF8XmB_S_4QdHqnGqtP3Xmzt_cL7IT160/s1600-h/DSC04530%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04530" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC04530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bc3vLHuQqHQe5SVXAlDF4y2t1Ew9o1dTeJmhgLcqisuA9lvTk5BMT_7vA6EkQY4kLkSIOw0uyLHHdI96EuEoLurfTXbc6kgfXGZIMTIo-u5Xm9J2pK4FrqwdFUFQJpq5nzqjGANcUEs/?imgmax=800" width="481" height="347"></a></p> <p><font size="3">Of course we had to take in the famous Shipshewana market. Love it, open only Tuesday and Wednesdays. Found a few things that jumped in my shopping bag, and decided that we needed to send a “hey, see what we found for ya” box to our kids. We do that every so often, rather than saving things for special occasions. Storage room is precious in these tin boxes too. We have been so lucky with the weather, other than some rain now and then it has been wonderful. Looks like the rest of the week will be more of the same.</font></p> <p><font size="3">We are in Goshen now, at the fairgrounds, waiting for the FROG (Forest River Owners Group) rally to start. There is no quiet here, the train tracks are with in a stones throw, and you can hear those whistles starting to blow a mile away. Only bothered me the first night, last two nights not so much. After looking at the program, think it might should be called the FOOD rally. Full breakfast every day, strawberry shortcake for a few hours during the day, and full dinners every night, but one. Will have to say though that night, there is a pot luck. A whole week when I don’t have to think of what, when or where we are eating. That is great! They are expecting 400 rigs, so that is quite a lot. Had thought there would be more little ones, but they are all makes, but they are now under the Forest River umbrella. Have officially named the the Little One, he will now be the Tadpole. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTtUXLBpQFjhRHkvO_jWLXUE05pJZbnBQJH_lcOY-LXs1-VUZ8u4NYjgXlVhEXI3KCWSjdIO_X9dZcOWeDYxg0TQqyraiUe8NLU7BMft5Y5Rp-mHWLySas7-atpgs8MS7aV1zBjczFOA/s1600-h/DSCF0889%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0889" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSCF0889" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfqcNyqYtMwaUo8eeecySP3RziSqxwNuy21P7FBVYX_iPi9CXo4VlUQQo_T12q74d64xO8JUzHSNxrpQG6NUhVQBput0Z68m38i-qkPvth4Sv9u9J3f53t8sl0qFD1ZOOxSKVSLvlt4A/?imgmax=800" width="523" height="362"></a></p> <p><font size="3">I have no idea what this little buggy is for, had not seen anything like this, but did see one pulling a boat the other day. Love this area. </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-1799976193722298152013-07-28T11:37:00.001-07:002013-07-28T11:37:06.392-07:00DOWN RIGHT CORNY<p> </p> <p><font size="3">Iowa that is. It is unbelievable to see the fields of corn. Every where you look there is corn. Said to Chuck, that would not be surprised to see a golf course planted with it. Of course there are a few fields of soy beans here and there. We had left Rapid City, headed for Harlan, Iowa. With my heart in my throat, as we had to pass through Kadoka, North Dakota. Two years ago we broke down and spend 11 days there, and all I can say is it was a <strong><em>very, very </em></strong>long 11 days. Fortunately we breezed right by. Spent the night at a passport park, and it was a first. We had power and sewer, but no water connection. As it were we were tired, had water in the tank, so we did not even unhook. In the morning we had water, but coming from the sky. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnWIVDispZaLD1ISgT-uFN1BI8zRjagaiQmVB7OuuXmKT0dcrEu9YRlMOypfNYJL7Up3lQQqk8MGk2SeUlojiwDAhvllzNHoEiln4B2TDAkhpKrn5wqCKxwUqlUdZkgHFwRqHIgkFjQE/s1600-h/DSCF08537.jpg"><img title="DSCF0853" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSCF0853" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxp8N4kXRxcNlit4rtmcSsJLfYr15PeyGcyPXLnMG3MCORV3OurTGmBqVXixLysNcdvJSx3jNJ6mlxPJw1MjhiX32mesPIgNJ_ZPv1Ka4I959PDtFt1n9tHNgadTdjT_w4gGesHsnIfDc/?imgmax=800" width="297" height="226"></a></p> <p><font size="3">We were off to visit with a couple who we met when we were wintering in the Rio Grande Valley in Texas. As they spend their summers in Harlan, where they own a lovely country home, which was just a few miles off our route, we could stop for a visit.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqGIFRubKy7MncDcqjmBZ0GxdZKpy9hUEqNevs1EA7zuSlnktNWeKaQqyKRwAOEg9m93DmHXEsGQ5_VngLs7WLm-fM1MMWMO2f-ClwP5Sg56CDlqnc-9u9XYDoG0iFma1VoJ0Y0fji4M/s1600-h/DSCF08773.jpg"><img title="DSCF0877" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSCF0877" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GG3M_TWup5XBfsU-kSxty481TSD2pVRGuhAgLe82FvivrT20uDcX598e9Gqum_0Atp9olbEbUh3d4qyc4_E-TUB5zI52Idh2m_1tvmV-qHYvzlc7P8BxKfiz3cCmXZrRjwTBLryKwFg/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="174"></a><font size="3">Dave & Bev</font></p> <p><font size="3">We arrived just a head of the annual ragbrai, ( <a title="http://ragbrai.com/about/" href="http://ragbrai.com/about/">http://ragbrai.com/about/</a>) which was very lucky for us, as there are some where around 15,000 bicycle riders, making the ride border to border of Iowa. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqZK459J-cQCQ1b4BWq0IUV18rK5qWzOBTxVz4iDnHijin_rjKJMgqMOeN2Ffuit5WLNv-m_QcBTj7NItfMorL8ibh6RR3qfc831B4crA3pUNdChe-09SIANnWP0x8xnZZKY3hZwFCC8/s1600-h/DSC04463%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04463" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC04463" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaohrHIzp_Rx1ElAL_1rH21F8wr7Cibk7M8Z11JWNAj1-OsOVFOFikwmwqSkrUrJC3gLPjeiVgd1bhH6TLpQuGEFnGGmqj9hxTOL0bX3qbiNOcRJIfvSf6GP8AGIhtSg3Ds2RjigbN1w/?imgmax=800" width="441" height="243"></a></p> <p><font size="3">The first stop was Harlan, which at least triple the population of the small town. But it made for a fantastic fundraiser. There were so many food booths and would not even hazard a guess how many pies, but Bev’s church alone had over 300. Along with a spaghetti dinner. A lot of them travel with a company that provides tents, handles luggage, pretty much all they have to do is ride, and find food.</font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIygK2rq_a2OCSR5AzlRwXCo1dagT4aNJH0NlAMAShLVeR0JjL2Vr95wgF5rVLkhkIEyY_e1f1Cjcdf24esaivmydzdJARCA6OCpoiS_JzlNRuxr8uR2q0syg1oKi7Binlt1QVcGZ7diw/s1600-h/DSC04480%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04480" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC04480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8hVlPsqFUzjNQ8i7TmAo3CW3vbtXlVCxRYetnYLbTJeOM5bf_5fEsXiF-HBuA5VjVbDaO6FzJ5lF09kk40mtDSePO_9xbWF42yizZIwJhtFGKZ673-QEBPMLp7v8YZ9GVKDeKPMWJgUU/?imgmax=800" width="400" height="287"></a></p> <p><font size="3">There were tents everywhere, Everything seemed to go very smoothly, and the next morning there was hardly a sign that they had been there. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7kZa6364n9BhDeK2c1axDgsBF2lR3RQZBWCNB5JJf4vfy-52opD5pfhBeAuUgOne9V99d1vyLUkD-LDMcZ5Pm7sGP2QEDBmbt2IwqlYdRbV_wQiZp_oFShFkMIUoG41ESZ02cQ6eef0/s1600-h/DSC04484%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04484" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC04484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiutoZ-VHobfQ_hNzUAqnjWf-4ZbrKVKOgZrhc-bjhegeRzp7P5mJCsJsN-W8LZNZhcu086glUGSMpUb-PYsMycyJAyIQ9yA5m9-OHihM6mC5s9sJam_llqTawWa2I9WeDVvMC4KE5DTXQ/?imgmax=800" width="373" height="257"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitd42WT3HjWMQVL9rUk76-1Hcmnv1mqoJzmUNPqQdUND9eFADaXmM7xTST_fcGDq2m04ZwA8IlxhFAjd7n6r1lcHO_aH_Des3HeUJfSRJa6SEQRCOScgBQwfkcgUKiHOJyWryXj73_tfo/s1600-h/DSC044853.jpg"><img title="DSC04485" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04485" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3twpE0xCElgKU-LluW9sBjzvHDo46IP1oUsX4tkI3t8AcRsJUdkcTgHbr3npsJsXqkGkNRnIk5PLJYA2hgSHQNSVWa2sMaj9fcU-kujLjvhh7xZigFHU6bxUIhio-rZMD9Kgu2EkMILI/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDE3i-L9EkXI8J4CkDWEDhaIRjUDVCfNhrBbreFvIz0u_-x_ZkXqqc89Ihp6B9di86WG2aX1P6v7O-aFDsX8_Givz5yGZFFvqb9DaOSVPfShlkJr7QvOWMOXOBvRQVLVlAOE23nzspe0/s1600-h/DSC04490%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04490" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxSCo2og8bYiBKzruA1396GZ3eFNO8dKtZeotsitBLUO-cjdTgVW3H451idgEsG6q4mxs0saL0GFBEn1YAb2qeePYyVvhFd7hFhq5u8c_8I-9TR-Py5Bfx-BfA6hlUBBtNm0RZzFWmqLE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="190"></a></p> <p><font size="3">We spent a couple of days camped in their lovely back yard, enjoying the quiet country living. Did get a few bridge games in too. They had made plans to attend a get together of “Winter Texans” who spend the months at Alamo Palms. There are a number of people in the surrounding area. Destination was the Amana Colonies. Well, we are always up for a new adventure, and it sounded interesting, and having spent 2 winters there we surely would know a few people. Along the way we came across some of the bikers again. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskdXGUbvyxtL9biG9_z5b9poQzIMFTmhgrnDUZ2pMmaoyDBebtaJQVJ4o8iyboprig8qOpyKi0kZU8Y5bHXUYVoBNNWa7InPW8b6n-8R_V8nuQ7OVJDV4r34QEXvbJ_ehMu0HvaJLGtM/s1600-h/DSC045075.jpg"><img title="DSC04507" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC04507" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaK05ftJ_Ots7cTQiG9iuToCbfMLZ-H9qW39YlrU4Oy2Kx2VSszGSoviDyAqDBbs_sa1JNiBde3wlC-UO-e4-d3HwATfShMbv795Vb_drS8e75nkwQB768GEa72eKUTp_QzB1upwX2dA/?imgmax=800" width="469" height="387"></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">We had not heard of the Amana Colonies and were pleasantly surprised. <a title="http://amanacoloniesiowa.com/" href="http://amanacoloniesiowa.com/">http://amanacoloniesiowa.com/</a></font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji-rzrRH8YpU5Jpg-aaIEJkgNkg4qpICIJPeTgFaolyf658OGcXkti341fmNjZJq5gw-SI18VCJnglgXntgpoQzDZLbZog_Y24RcV9uYr-H6VmQecQds0xyDUerNy7jjG_VjMoctEBV2k/s1600-h/DSC04516%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04516" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC04516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdJ15NSsHaOZaK26KRDMjKeWkvhBJ7fEqInRqwQAju2Mx7WtbrBlcuV6uoK1lin0WIaQ2pFDDLWI6RuLGi0Y_BMEkH2tDhdCWyrfsn-DL3Q9WCXt1HpzRPG6ThSUBVOgMTqb3Y1W7wXo/?imgmax=800" width="369" height="231"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_VdDavvTo8F_H8THrx2NN5hTc1qyXKFpWg1MMAcHgCk4cz4wueJqTrjyEycWjig-jrpruv7zG_eyf95gvaDC7NJpBhi0Is2-j9od6qiIp6lInHLgyBgyU6jEUt36keVK33wvn95tQ0b8/s1600-h/DSC04519%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04519" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC04519" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7DswSlrAb5RgulIXLQhR6WrZwSuYdvT32wCJHxfCN63RAoYtVwAC7v7qaPmMrqNYwHVT14m1F3wajCMe9xhzN4iHrHpBsK6XE2GlEeuCQf5WTrTm7jHWf0mtNIAs5u9ME8UBzLw3oPw/?imgmax=800" width="373" height="247"></a></p> <p><font size="3">There are five small villages, plus a large campground, (Passport America) and the prices of everything was very reasonable.</font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9Jvnm2y4fUYKZ0Pmc0lNzgEGuMa7SWGYuaHmHoLc4Zw8UHX4Gkhsch0_ZV5d7hehZnusLe88VMKnkyVXA6OkgsBNnbfFBc0ClrEwBElhufkwzQ4AfquDaBhv87M2hMoRG1VyG_0eWAw/s1600-h/DSC04523%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04523" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="DSC04523" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBmtpd4Oa0VMECeUyl7Vh59JUoNNsPWR5-qb6dWsJdkw3s6goxok4s-4agszrqTbhHPcMfEoFptSh1GlUKIUZEhqwWosbDaoPmUUZ1HiAR6r4GDcX1Am3TfEJUATrtNTkUVJPhaMjRljA/?imgmax=800" width="386" height="253"></a></p> <p><font size="3">The gathering took place in the building of the RV park, and there actually were more people than we had expected to know attending. Of course Chuck knew a whole lot more than me, but it was fun. It was a cocktail party the first afternoon, and a wonderful catered dinner (noon) the next day. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3QFkTmqNlbICiaK60DN8g_M4Cs0xmcYWxVEgE0ZlWSi1IjwveJDXBVGTasGMdyTLSzuYvO-oyvN4chWYKY2KIm_YqvRUVa-N17yIxd52Tec9uxmUkgp-_nnqd4VYowGLqJvPSyQC06w/s1600-h/DSCF0870.jpg"><img title="DSCF0870" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0870" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbMEuySk8pkWmJQlQyC-uOODnJ8F0C9HC7d4bRbdlAtVV3fDsxLFcpOGrieLvFTgevKQmLiDNjTAFBWe-3MvF6hV-ZKkIE4k89XziD3nLZr3A1WKe5iPJ-C0rViU58PfECv8r4bQbmnZQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCq-GdShBcjR0DyeUYPaNB8MxyS443Md-f2HAPbPXfyT_3Kngm-fn2L_zMuQcIe1Wel76XecCB7Eg2zwyyoIJWBNRoIxOcwVkfgm5cF-zvMoQZxhsTy-NT957fyAnGV_gpfu28gVe4Qgk/s1600-h/DSCF0874%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0874" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nbjwArCCQN-lrIwxwnZy6Jw5-sJL0SKKqBpeyH3S92ZRKQNegC48OoX1QC67sjogc_9Z76YXmS6fmBCuniETIhfBWPvuq2xrXZFvD-Rp1kRV0MRKQsOgZ8eU6BqNPv7aK85H7rr2TY0/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="167"></a></p> <p><font size="3">The only disappointment was that we were too full to take advantage of some of the scrumptious sounding restaurant fare. Although we did manage to have a farewell breakfast with Bev and Dave before we started traveling in opposite directions the following day. We are off to Goshen/Elkhart, Indiana. </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-71280000556792372212013-07-19T18:05:00.001-07:002013-07-19T18:05:05.348-07:00HART RANCH<p><font size="3"></font> </p> <p><font size="3">After spending a week, relaxing and playing tourist, we moved to the Hart Ranch. It is a lovely campground just outside of Rapid City. Seems to be a top quality RV resort. We would seriously consider becoming a member, but because we have the next 24 month pretty much penciled in, and none of it in this area, it is something we will file away.</font></p> <p><font size="3">We met 2 couples that are friends who spend time in Jojoba Hills with us. Also bridge players, so we managed to get in couple of games, so we all got our bridge fix. And of course eating, one night Mexican, then Rich fixed his amazing hamburgers. Amazing that we could fit it in our mouths!</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjAMbvI_CK3nH4ZVkOWQX18U36axKdtAiuDS67ANGpbcJTvnA5Js9OLIhzfcOD-xTyTrbBT5fAnD57yaG2cJOnGMZm6HKARdPVx1jC3PgYHxyyZQOmtYMIwjsRQz5a0axZ87jDUV43K_Q/s1600-h/DSCF3521%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF3521" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF3521" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9jRO7bVlVRsoCfMkAIhPX4hSJ14XMw6Y-tmvUArPrgcNRRe_2rRDGI_9wwqgvUjuiu78JhFvMtCQc5p2Kilf5JVI2QjgEd9NpxmJDoFktTpImsKxTznqxRxHbO8eup_llEM2L4G9tWo/?imgmax=800" width="543" height="339"></a></p> <p><font size="3">They were so good. The time just flew, and before we even seemed to get started we were into our farewell dinner. We could nor pass up the Alpine Café in Hilltop. A little walk before we began the wait for dinner, some of the hand crafted statues that are created literally of nuts and bolts along with anything else that would fit,</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6VnW4X2NAUd1BsemuwolZgqpozYQQVScEL08dgaRrS8EO3g43Ntqjq84HI47Y9rAFrWvvUW5QXvgBgdhdnAYvci-y_crgHpN65aKLfnEBM8sm0ENg4Mo-Uuqn4CO0C0DP3OlVQ_TY2k/s1600-h/DSCF0837%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0837" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0837" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugElInfS2BZVA_Mdr8XT0B6DBIi_1COa-z_0N7OYZx1ymea7Kwghz3SpLDsnwaG6BfDC5eVOaa2vThGIydFygvkn15rEImrTw-kKA7zMMFfhLsI-nxn5PL-tKNrBcGIJBX03PEtK_k80/?imgmax=800" width="560" height="468"></a></p> <p><font size="3">The horse was beautiful, the donkey quite creative, and the man was well…..enough said.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw56BhQfzo6QWoYLLfZNPldM6rdkwA9d3XFLbwZgy9hElZRCXbnx9Qeo6BHJF2n8Mo7uaCU-qBSclDOTOi9rt-DNIYqLSw89flYpFegty20SC4qDDv3v_s63Sb1wS0x99ieUYWVicQ1fA/s1600-h/DSCF0838%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0838" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0838" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid07QZEUtu20c3XpcZTpCEySABfYAfp-rnhNr6ynPfyUzKiT_twW0wyBsGiS3VT0MKlLwD86GsTuCBUULe_5jiDH3WsJ4yBpcYTbZbBpNFCvd2NO8mFZaTqiEvGGhyphenhyphen4yEWVUudw9YOPGY/?imgmax=800" width="575" height="467"></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifiznt7oP6qdUQJ_DtoSJ3GbHxOIHMLPn2siYpnphPX7JL0tJm6DqgzNS3gvG4Tp9fx5R9YjcFDj8vPlQbk_bpFhyHsbcC8rDzWQYO4LSueDQsVv0G9qbUzoQrQzxALheIPpOgxIPZJFA/s1600-h/DSCF0836%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0836" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0836" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitOHX94R2ce9m5ViBCBOMkcCiZAzjtbKlmIYJRrYeFiB4avxCSn_5mVv37F9ZIbwi4kZWoDPXOgxTnAbgVqvACDURzG0v028vrmDe6l9FMcgOOYzYvPvVKDByynKV_XKDubO9r5-XeQaQ/?imgmax=800" width="586" height="485"></a></p> <p><font size="3">We were and hour early, yes the people do line up for a setting when the doors open. They opened the bar, so we were inside and the time went fast, it was like a huge family get together, and everyone was enjoying the togetherness. We had stopped at a winery before arriving here, and the wine tasting had been rather extensive, at least on my part. Here we are getting started with salads, great steaks, and yes, we did partake of<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAyModEcpRLw5dY2SulfH5KUViBAirbuFsuq2E0BXSeOl7mcHmTo9HuSLIraY1Ic3nCJ7Ppe-dltEf91Df1mGM73hVA671txTDOqgLmEnwRvFCxvcOkMW7pikmE_prhzOKiypAA3PYWjw/s1600-h/New%252520folder%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="New folder" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="New folder" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfz_NkyZXa5zahD4MZSdIyIhxePnDPLHb9tPVQZkgt58R5_J6LHCx9vegNo1tpqcvkW1REThyphenhyphenj5xXvah4599ouhhClBUqgxzxr9cPjE4xqvVK75a_MVKKm0Ib-i2vZB34yJMU2gxKJYc/?imgmax=800" width="527" height="368"></a> some of their 29 desserts.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvt0rNFcA1JmcloxrktQ5te35e8Bc4Ut0D66B6LxFvOBasV3hNeEcvXlfROSpKAWKF47lOcZcvfAjknTdU5XcRFNpj8OA3wV2lWM-mVPvQnQT8NGyopNDZVlDfRudLP8_U6XJEMVFlWmA/s1600-h/DSCF0839%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0839" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSCF0839" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cEozayS9n0X9S_CnTc18CobfPW_xrv_vR7Y0iJFmmO1CnOW5YOLTroiSZ_19gte7EvLIljTLMCjRrC7VkkRzUVzUArv1k6j3Ad23TWD3f4ROJvyiVNvPoCgdFE97_waAvafoSmx_yJk/?imgmax=800" width="556" height="381"></a></p> <p><font size="3">We were absolutely stuffed, but one we got back to the RV we decided that we could managed just a few more hands of bridge. But we didn’t last too long, and some of us were planning an early morning. During the night a storm came through and the thunder had us sitting right up in bed a few time. But morning brought sunshine and we were off to our next adventure. </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-83601810751558473592013-07-13T10:22:00.001-07:002013-07-13T10:24:19.804-07:00WHERE THE BUFFALO ROAM<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="3">And also the scraggiest mountain goat. I believe it is the same one we seen six years ago at this very site. And he has in no means improved with age! He was in the process of shedding his winter coat which contributed greatly to his appearance.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVuWgVAy_6i4VB1ipCaOUiazo0kEg8uVFLo6mq2i_1Kf9cgi2pbZa8vVi7MdMdRdFwwRQaOC9m2-zj4JP9HmuPnYjSn_ZhLOsq7S3Hi16CYGodSaDmB2btgPOlSshkDVEcrl3yDDp_6E/s1600-h/DSCF0833.jpg"><img title="DSCF0833" style="display: inline" alt="DSCF0833" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfU25oGGX0gqHUZoDWrCGhComEbNgye-tbEhmPjwt3mGbkWnNrJVefQcgH77eYRpkgxCxQZ7RrX-m5AkRf4QxJ9_HYfCjhpCZ127Nqu-Ya2NVuV1fLHq4navNCskLE5SSMruxWP8Kpfdg/?imgmax=800" width="502" height="365"></a></p> <p><font size="3">We took the day to take a drive of the area, and to have lunch at the Alpine Café in Hill City. Which is a must do when in the area. During lunch they have a wide menu, strongly German, very good, beautiful presentation. Dinner is filet mignon, 6 or 9 ounce only, 8 to 10 dollars, AND dessert, over 30 of them! That way you only have to make one choice, what dessert. Chuck and I shared a sandwich and and apple napoleon dessert. Soooo good. </font></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPcMCZwY43wPhlrxyCwowuL7BAiEi3BsRV8OTAUYE8zMAMOY-xLjqHIGx9vSka9cF_cYw47Mi1X9kjKYWufhSiMzviq84Vr1xmOfjVfN9I6enRLqvs_12GV8lu7mqELzngjy7WGjuwUTI/s1600-h/tttttttttttt15.jpg"><img title="=tttttttttttt" style="display: inline" alt="=tttttttttttt" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAaSYGqq1-oQ96BM5yEYtGe0GGWhXNacD8lx_3QzgEc9SNnOwPACSVN6xQpBnuo4X6vNhPJVdk6k3vz_UaIRY7XDLB-rMxlXYmLXEFZOmdbF5DL49g_n21L8ImTKElqnoQk8w4OCSwtw/?imgmax=800" width="251" height="223"></a></p> <p><font size="3">From there we went on to Mount Rushmore. Having been there many times we decided that we would by pass the 11 dollar parking fee (entrance is free) and see what we could for free. Love this view with George Washington in the background.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiApmFjKLh0LCRa5803b_Ti7QjawllZgzlakuIHHLkNcyMHgbR660JBrkfivdLo4kgOnn-NGghhME3RJLNZ4BYqF_2evpL2bC8fiOtk7DUNlsr0RdaNZ2UEhFcedQzctmXKoOmPRtI4yoI/s1600-h/DSCF0834%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSCF0834" style="display: inline" alt="DSCF0834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6Wu2RvmioAdtoE0tbPzdHF53GjufxyJnd5ExKVxEDl5TLkaLGCQSnyPnmKcSV2nmRAXTgDTAHC4CedccF1ATsUBvIZ6kjsK9seqF3txu338T_-d_R_oc55FpA_E4H64ZTMqyMTUoa_c/?imgmax=800" width="426" height="339"></a></p> <p><font size="3">Then there is this one, as you come out of a tunnel. Could not get a good enough picture while we were in the tunnel though.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3lX9bb4GJVsEFfqdn_J6TB5VDEm72pQEWrFXM9KjoU1_tMU1iBElmcaH4Fbcpcgbn3CJsLgnEOeu0577_hLvXYOuaSee5nCnAtS9qwC0ycd8SmqgTxnV5kevspXWwzpCeRGRHemFdrtU/s1600-h/DSC04417.jpg"><img title="DSC04417" style="display: inline" alt="DSC04417" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_LyWKxVPmPusmCWENFAqks452sQCAHnc0Wv4UiRKuMKxHGRjYDKjoCAqVjatG6cynHtai-O-flHwMQJFscXPcdMGWAIKjFuN9TfdmZyTtXwZ3OL0rjSLA01kVgABrwnRiYL3XcfmupE/?imgmax=800" width="498" height="357"></a></p> <p><font size="3"> They frown on your stopping IN the tunnel.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2IvkAQ__2TPwiwZ7yTKg_M-2ecFkaQVz2h4-nNG11JqAmO4muKvMpLGJJHxAcXlbW0E_78MdPQyCgnG1MHs-4oRoeKDtGpPwKfd8SU8v5BxPF7ctUs67QReeqH0VJ02mCOFoL5-uVng/s1600-h/DSC04412.jpg"><img title="DSC04412" style="display: inline" alt="DSC04412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhti9D5OAAB3BNkYGXz6AZc-E3VgfflOKAmfG_poIN0Syp8lfpdCV3T3lN_d1BpU1ncc7-ADULqn-WBcPnqCeVl4Q0HnIJIO8qke9P3sbT4-NkcpUEg6fQjs44lcmjHUqnkO9lsK_-jjc8/?imgmax=800" width="485" height="335"></a></p> <p><font size="3">Taking a very windy road through some beautiful country we made our way to Custard State Park. The buffalo were in several huge herds,</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXdk4snjp9Re-cr84v8ivg5WMmnFGbdl26Cjnofm6_AW2gB0Y1WB7a8ToCqqTeMuc8zA_BsR48CUqAuU2WffT15QECYFY9oK3iRdCZJaUB2Ea4v8NtNmvoO8W20791ArfmVcmVsOcd1w/s1600-h/DSC04437%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04437" style="display: inline" alt="DSC04437" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lUbQVctYe7WxXNjLttFXRc-gzyovHu7KDsAzVN80rVhb072JKXmXLt0EHkbskjfBSMLEmaSCTYgOl-mAfTvGmLA_sNqbMokkiUXKkoM9-nThqVM2ZUHQ570FmxbT5ArVdVhKJ4jWs7o/?imgmax=800" width="517" height="400"></a></p> <p><font size="3">but several time we found ourselves sharing the road with one of these big guys.</font></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkH1OPjHYceLOVKCgMNnmyOV-0rjX-LjmrCQfvOyhLIV-t2u_blbzCOV3SosjqI6tCHd8dl6LvZGzH0j2e94HB_H4LxZiHVFonQuXSHw1Mw0deWMMsMK4KhvQGrII-t0IsRV6mYdJhc4/s1600-h/DSC04439%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04439" style="display: inline" alt="DSC04439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uspjLRO_556ud4DucqEo2WMkSmDnYHOh-STtI_NoSYUljflFc3Wed07Ao2uy_MdVNR2KyrffOHMDx9_TFsUXsxukvCqI91rKeP0vgBkZr5u6Ynhk1-aoBx_odVeLzK4Iev04VGPMbNQ/?imgmax=800" width="545" height="383"></a></p> <p><font size="3">It was a great drive, good weather, good food and good company. Doesn’t get any better than that. </font></p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-524620854337556132013-07-10T09:00:00.001-07:002013-07-10T09:00:36.836-07:00ESCAPADE AND BEYOND<p> </p> <p><font size="3">What a great time we had! Chuck and I were both on the volunteer crew, him, parking and I did registration. This meant we arrived a few days earlier for orientation, and vendor & early parking. We also had a huge welcome happy hour, followed the next day by a wonderful thank you banquet. Seeing all friends from far and wide. was a wonderful treat. Opening ceremonies, were highlighted with a wonderful talk by Kay Peterson, so inspiring, so funny, what a great lady. Once the rally officially opened we were so busy going from one seminar to another that we were literally exhausted come the end of the day. The nightly entertainment was outstanding. There was a couple who sang, mostly RV related songs, (Your Awning Flapping in the Breeze, Road Alligators, Stop and Hold Your Noses, and more). Another was a ventriloquist, who was truly a wonder. She had Bob Pinner as a straight man for a bit, what a hoot.. And having to choose what social hour to attend was also hard as it seemed that there again we were running from one to another.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp70XHcqMwBBhmvPhmpGM0y01yOmsksREszCk-AtVAZZppFsiB6mSdrWK_9LvolnYW1FapKouoP2-f1beHI3xwU2WD_aRBvMG6vEsUL2qiqCR0bUJol4w1aZH00s9ltTwmB_G7757yS50/s1600-h/07%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="CLASS OF 07" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="CLASS OF 07" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-a_nnhJhhmkaxWD3C3XMXCXqYyD0uk02CdMtQeCp_e1uAPVOU4O4bLggkbtMfBjrMPUUpmjbhM_BlzyLMxRDfrGtykQt3xuQspuQbqOjSpnXvSwdjHl5fM4zTbaKDeYagdiCAv-HjNDs/?imgmax=800" width="363" height="323"></a></p> <p><font size="3"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsd_1Ea9jgi2np09SV4xmgkAwCKySdAqP7-nFtXDJiVC54i32sHea2kKXvkipjQ31DX1w4B4zlzhHzMz6HQuYUaQI-Gduj89r3a4TlD6IXF8NGY3195AW1bNxJ_KCyeChi4U2VnG7iO8/s1600-h/07%25255B3%25255D.jpg">Class</a> of 07, those that made the social.</font></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSn7WAhePsMhu-mbureZWAZpMdtVdEhah3wpTUsaBNhDy1QRENgzZxt2AbR7JJM6RfibnL1lSoXgrwzkJcCR_hef95YxqvMhU8mEK1EAbPda3Nm_XtY-XsT_41siD6o41BK3pM2HyfS9M/s1600-h/072%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="072" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="072" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4STtsOri6i-BXROP4r-RIPL1TPE0p5DqwYoXS1wkKcWIVt9qr_5tnZmtO5DmoRgPy06YBp9PsMlt81IXLoIBgL4Lz4pyhPNDaaCImgz8bjhjiacGdP-XkW5RFW5x_Gf_NEGirOfZxww/?imgmax=800" width="336" height="302"></a></p> <p><font size="3"> It was all good, the weather was wonderful, till the last night, at about time for the fireworks display, (4th of July) it came down in buckets. But the show went on, we watched from in side the rig, all nice and dry. What a great job the Escapade staff did. Seemed no matter what bug-a-boo(and they had plenty, from hail stones to kidney stones) got thrown in their face, they just brushed it aside and powered on. Thanks for throwing one great party. Before we knew it people were hooking up and the wheels were rolling.</font> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkkayMV7AOmZGzBJQehOcRACGvlNGw9uOxWQgR4mH8dCoXdCHvdsKpfmq9Zzm3qroRi68qbi4NlzV0B22ngdSdhZ2nzzukDoORS05rLzPQOw3smn_wb2ViVxYuADiJsYvY1438mZB6rgE/s1600-h/BY%252520Friends%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="BY Friends" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="BY Friends" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio2g5i3242TBthw7VlJ5Fq8Srl4HSqkS0AMvoKLL1GQcGLd2Ty9Tvq-YLfVRuklNBrPjbpWIIqOn1D_3qHriaAeiGoaNuRWDJ6fm2gvwZ3Ao6NpURD-81d2MM0aK21ZfWGY85BSSVw1yM/?imgmax=800" width="548" height="169"></a></p> <p><font size="3">Now we HAD to come up with a plan on where we were going. Spending a week or so in the Rapid City area seemed like a fun idea, then off to Hart Ranch, where we will endure a sales pitch, all for 3 nights of camping at a 12 dollar price. Only because some friends are there and we will get to visit with them, They were also at the Escapade, but hardly saw them, except for one afternoon we did get in a fast game of bridge. After that we are meandering out to Goshen, Indiana. Attending a FROG rally. That is Forest Rivers Owners Group. Our little trailer is that make, so we have a welcome mat out. It is scheduled for the 4th to 10th of August. We have a few friends scattered along the way, which will give us plenty of reasons to stop and enjoy the scenery. </font></p> <p><font size="3">Which reminds me of a gentleman I stuck up a conversation at a rest stop with the other day. He was so proud……..been on the road for <strong>three</strong> weeks. Left Dallas, traveled to the Pacific Ocean, up the coast, all the way to Canada, now here he was in Wyoming near Devils Tower. But he was going in to Rapid City, then coming back to Devils Tower the next day, then on to Mount Rushmore, Black Hills. Planning on being back in Dallas by the 12th. Which took me by surprise as the day was the 9th. When I expressed my surprise he said, his fiver weighed 18,000 pounds and he had no problem going down the road at 75 miles an hour. What fun traveling with him it must be! wheeeeeeee</font></p> <p><font size="3">We are currently at Ellsworth AFB famcamp overflow. Not bad, we have power, but later today will be able to move into the campground. They have started taking reservations so for us that travel light it makes it harder to pop in. We have been in this area several times before, which will not stop us from doing it all over again. Love Mount Rushmore and the area. The weather seems to go through the whole gambit each day. From clear and sunny to severe thunderstorms. Think we have had a storm every day since the 4th. But it usually is in the evening, today we started with clear and by 9 AM we had severe warnings, and now the sun is out. 10 AM. LOL</font></p> <p><font size="3">Living in this small space has taken some getting used to, but all in all we have not done too badly. (we are both still alive) Will be nice when we are able to stay in a place for a longer period of time, then we will set up to do most of the cooking outside. Think that will be a big help, seems like I can manage to make a bigger mess in a little area than the other way around. Eating out get old real fast, not to mention expensive. Also looking into an induction burner to use out doors. Looking forward to restocking this RV from the annual yard sale at Jojoba. </font></p> <p><font size="3">Till the next time, Life is Good, Travel Easy, Travel Safe.</font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-46172070181681043712013-06-26T11:37:00.001-07:002013-06-26T11:43:23.359-07:00GILLETTE<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Having spent a week in Yuba City, California, visiting with family and friends, we headed out on the long drive to Gillette, Wyoming. Along the way we hoped to say a quick hello to friends that are spending the summer in Provo, Utah. We found a Elks there, with full hooks ups, which was very close to the park they were in. Unfortunately they were under the weather, and missed getting to see them. Next time.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We have not traveled that much in the last few years, but have really seen a price increase in RV parks. Coming across Nevada, had one quote us 55 dollars, plus tax, and that was W/E only. Twice we were forced (bit hard, but choices are some what limited) to stay at KOA’s which we never do. We arrived in Gillette in time for the storm of the year, unfortunately we were still on the highway. The rain and hail were so bad that you couldn’t see, yet couldn’t stop and pull off, because you couldn’t see. We made it fine as it didn’t last but 10 minutes or so. Now the Camplex where there were close to 3000 rigs parks, (FMAC rally) turned into a muddy mess. And the rally was over the next day! Lots of the rigs were parked on grass, and the tow companies were out in full force the next day. They are probably planning a nice vacation now.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Tomorrow we are moving over to the Camplex, where some of the rally coordinators are already. We are joining them in a get together this afternoon. It is so great to see so many of these great people that we have met over the years on the road. It is just amazing how we take up as if no time has passed. What a great life, maybe not filled with “things and stuff”, but family and friends. We are truly the One Percent! The coming week will be filled, Chuck is working on the parking team and I am helping with registration. There are seminars and cocktail parties and fun times planned to the max. Know that we will have a great time. Till the next time, travel safe.</span>Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-48815987634511595282013-06-16T12:51:00.001-07:002013-06-16T12:51:41.246-07:00ON THE ROAD<p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="3">The family arrived right on schedule, tired as their flight left Denver at six. They had spent the night in a near by hotel, so it was not too hectic, and the kids travel well. Chuck had volunteered to help cook ribs for the Friday night cook out, little knowing that John (SIL) had just prepared a mega feast of smoked BBQ ribs, tri-tip and turkey for 100+ Air Force Academy graduates and families. Not only that, they also had to go to plan B and host the event at their home. All that and then leave the very next day. But being the trooper that he is, he pitched right in, bed time was early that night though.</font></p> <p><font size="3">Trip to the beach was the first day trip, and the kids had a ball. Truly realized that kids never walk, only run, and run they did. Kylee was not too impressed with the ocean, but it was a good source of water which she would haul bucket after bucket to dump in a hole. But if she felt she didn’t need that much she would take it back to the water edge and pour it back in. Roinn rode the waves, and of course they both collected shells, once we were back to the resort, they wanted to go to the pool, as one of our friends had some grandkids visiting and they were going. We had also stopped at Pendleton Marine Base and gotten the military discount tickets for Disneyland, but were told that unlike years earlier, Chuck would have to be in attendance every time they entered the park. Used to be only the first entry. THREE days of Disneyland for us, well….anything for these little ones. We booked a hotel in the area, and planned to do our best to survive the “happiest place on earth”. For the next few days we stayed close to home, the kids were happy, they were loving the pool, but usually only swimming two times a day, all morning and all afternoon. </font></p> <p><font size="3">Then the day arrived and off we went, spent day one in Adventureland, and it is fabulous. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf51zg94Trc86wkA_5N584MLazBITJh-Fcm3EreHOMxv3rQljqqPfRU6pLqcxCgMuBupg-Ync-6GhZH8NzYulXLvEVCEYMFtTz3Mf7snk0bkMi2vaex6yNrhux0EqFJjsAOe-xOkNVIg8/s1600-h/keepers4%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="keepers4" border="0" alt="keepers4" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQJXL4YqwI-DWgO2Z09D9KADperpoRQXfum22BniQqXh4hnm4O2feRrPFCV3j-9lRusACt-m1C6aP6zJnE5cNl0H0jjtMENBRKo-w57Z6ptWAptiXsyRMynjosieTDQmc6-l2L2REd9A/?imgmax=800" width="215" height="357"></a></font></p> <p><font size="3">They do a wonderful job, and we enjoyed it all, but by 7 in the evening, we were ready for the hotel. After a quick dinner, Kylee was asleep, Cyndi, John and Roinn went to see the nightly fireworks, and they decided to stay till the park closed. When we were entering the park I had once again asked if Chuck had to be present at all times, and we were told it was only the first time. Great! The next morning, John woke up with a swollen jaw which necessitated his having to get on antibiotics, that were back at Jojoba. The hotel moved the reservations around, we went back home, the next day he was much better, they went off for two more fun filled days, happily we stayed behind, we relaxed, worked getting things ready for our departure. We all were leaving the same day, and they were staying in the “Little Guy”, which we were lucky to be able to park on the lot next door. Sort of like our own guest room WITH bath. One of the things you really don’t appreciate in a stiks n bricks.</font></p> <h1><font size="3"><font style="font-weight: normal">Once they arrived back, and the grown ups recovered we spent most of the time enjoying Jojoba, with a few trips to town, and another beach day. The morning of the 11th, everyone was moving early. The kids were on their way to SeaWorld and then the airport, we were heading the other way. Our grandson in northern California was graduating 8th grade, and our intention was to surprise him. Travel was easy, stopped for the night at the Visalia Elks, and to Chucks delight it was TACO night. Five dollars bought you all the fixings, beans, rice, pasta salad, broccoli salad, fruit salad, and home made earthquake cake. And 20 dollars got us a good nights rest, didn’t even having to unhook or fix dinner. Can’t beat that. We had about 250 miles to go the next day, and we are set up behind the Moose Hall. There is no “it” view here. Well, we aren’t too far from the dumpster. But it is basically the only game in town, and only 10 dollars a night, with W/E. We are and have been the only ones here, sort of spooky, but have not had any problems, just wish we had another rig or two. Should remember, be careful what you ask for. </font></font></h1> <p><font size="3">Graduation weather was perfect, large class, 260, and we were running close to being late, so we were a bit in the back to say the least, but was able to pick him out, although wasn’t quite sure till they called his name. </font><font size="3"> </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36kUv4C-SFCN4PXzDR4xFtHKGjbPusuApHBC17CrFSu66r18eYzATpjHSKsj2M0cNgCymAuBg106FpTzVYHBaHDG01Tzx2YOrXu6Y7OtCOwk4LOqBFL4DMsTe-LH-IsTj7UOjF9NdAJ0/s1600-h/keepers.2-001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="keepers.2-001" border="0" alt="keepers.2-001" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhlEIoDarQBq7sGIpe3cp75hhlScGdRe6mMVYqVf2RqwbE3aOdrGgklSHKiHp7IoC06IEwcbwcE89Q0Ow0QTE1PTsG5ujBrE7QL9qZkVJlaWcg4ROLslIbkKO-J9nN-cZLPTOJscPL7s/?imgmax=800" width="230" height="246"></a><strong><font size="3">Way to go, Anthony!</font></strong></p> <p><font size="3"><strong>S</strong>ince we are so time limited we have been busy spending time with family and friends. Even got in a day of bridge. The truck continued with the problem that all the mechanics in the world can’t fix right. This makes the 5th time that it has been repaired for basically the same problem. Glad that we got it taken care of here (fingers crossed) and we weren’t stranded along the side of the road. So being as our wheels were in the shop, and they were having a bridge game right here at the Moose Hall, we decided why not. Half these players are life masters, and the last time we played, we were so far in last place that they had to put our names on the back of the paper. So imagine our surprise when we came in <strong>first!</strong> But it was sooooo sweet. </font></p> <p><font size="3">Have not downloaded the pictures and the cameras are in the truck, which has carried Chuck off for a Fathers Day treat, playing golf with our son and grandson. Getting this on paper is a big accomplishment so here it goes. We are on our way to Gillette for the Escapade.</font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-22279001768758372372013-05-29T08:42:00.001-07:002013-05-29T08:42:00.389-07:00COMPANY COMING<p><font size="3">Our lovely daughter and SIL are coming in two days, and bring with them our great grandchildren. We have mostly stayed in the back ground with the little ones, want their grandparents to experience the joy of being the main spoilers, but we do manage to get in a few sessions. Looks like we will have a good time, with Disneyland and Marine World part of the itinerary. Hopefully we will be able to hold up.  </font></p> <p><font size="3">Now to catch up with the past two months, (there went all the good intentions of my keeping this blog current).  After waving good bye to Barb and Bob/Chuck, we got serious about hosting a margarita party fund raiser for the bridge club.  We had almost a 100 percent turn out and a great time.  And spouses were invited.  We have just a few</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCyYwFOEsAYYw8SNH8AGyIJtkse3mHV2SKjwD_dbk3c88EuYIK0SpF3om2-7T-xs_Pk3_gei2stW1cjTEXdyIk8ylUNYM1d6Os38JhP_14hKgZ6hSQwlFxQMGJ_JimySQdWQbCIMmLAOI/s1600-h/DSC04353%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04353" border="0" alt="DSC04353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UxSB9y0UKyGPiGVK2N4N-4nyAvhajzH3nRIT2zi5UINYSRf1pJmRwp3bbbDLh5R4jFsyIHMnNxWa38P2JLpJ8aDkv-L0-neDYg1uhB_8Y8QRGy3df6uL1Ntyq3GlixaFdMV4iKmJKF0/?imgmax=800" width="471" height="418" /></a></p> <p><font size="3">couples who play. Think there is a reason for that.  Years ago I heard on the radio a story of a woman who was on trial for shooting her husband, though only wounding him.  She was telling the judge that they had been playing as partners in a bridge tournament and she bid this, he bid that, ect. ect.  And the judge threw the case out.  Said anyone who bid like that deserved to be shot!  At the time I did not play bridge and didn’t full understand, but now it makes perfect sense. Bridge is more than just a game. </font></p> <p><font size="3">The days that seem to have flown by have been filled with the same daily routines.  Chuck has been doing some little projects to the travel trailer.  And we got the portable TV “cube”.  Hassling with the dish is not a fun thing most of the time, so thought we would give this a try.  Being as we have Dish, we assumed that it would work by transferring the receiver to the traveler.  Wrong, one is for two TV’s, have to have one for just one.  Done, now hope that this solves the problem.  Murphy's law will surely kick in, I’m sure.  </font></p> <p><font size="3">Once our company leaves we will rolling down the road.  The Escapade is the one place that is written in stone, and we have to be in Gillette, Wyoming, by the 27th of June.  After that we have not formed a plan, all options are open.  Sort of a cliff hanger…lol</font></p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> <p><font size="3"> </font></p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-11383350628517338222013-04-19T09:39:00.001-07:002013-04-19T12:59:50.721-07:00FRIENDS DEPARTTime tends to just fly by, can not believe that it is over a week since our friends left. Been busy getting ready for a margarita party that we are putting on to raise some funds for the bridge club. Hope they don’t get out of control, you know how wild those bridge players can get…lol.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE47V8fA5uuAqzmXkn-QOOlo85OHKXvJTRsP0p9ZySzvFFHZXJjycWkxiKpeTZJ9tFty8NnOwp6n4g_rj4wfF0ZkTsMqSMA9W7wy5mAldv7sbzGsaDy9dMmWKdM3telb8JLd8DJrmnicM/s1600-h/DSC04339%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04339" border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBiltERf_u_S5U6V64kOWsbj_mrEje6qZpVu51ErZd18j6XQ_VAo8byJi6Lm5U_Yxwo_J37SL9-23sAIsDwWNC2SKRwztFfWIgyB-hdj2fnOLBDtP_yCMXjY9-ASLKcVdERGgg5R7nWE/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04339" width="469" /></a>Pictures of the flower fields of Carlsbad, California. The day we went with Barb & Bob, was the one day that the weather decided to turn half way ugly. And their time was limited so we had to go.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3cZnwtGhyIC82lTppqoBSpaUQkDC-vcWYW4rOlVvrG9MHVFZCAJTfMHsOcuZgWPiGBFISP76nZ3haOvWRnJW4wF3sHz3u5vIWRnJhjDwlzw-ONyaWwL0MQHG8v8iR6W9689Qx576AkQ/s1600-h/flowers%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Flower fields, Carlsbad, CA" border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRl8oS8aum9CWLVLPoUOR4lERPwsXL06uD6jlCleHZkTPqWizDWyD1RzDw3-O44bp0YY2vzw_oyiY-hqvxOgRCu6yfav3GvIPvtqU-DUfHBh8VP7noEIJnDyKy9jjEOPnzBUud-5ax2U/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Flower fields, Carlsbad, CA" width="456" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6ARxVBjUA6etMfU9kuPfzvgD69KhBS8gMTW2XVr_iHEzcB3I36x95YK8SRm2caNP2oDA4juU1NblkG2jwqzO3xL2Wk4ZpcmL6DNkSWH4SnWcB9jUhEtusp6on7R5tIAyckRLGxYOWyg/s1600-h/DSC04328%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04328" border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh-E9pOnc3r0BpPlh3kuVS6ZhECG0WY38kb7AGehGnDqTE7Rb5EWFQzHvxXAOCoY6AxDPh4lnNt9sHe0egKK55QKpIQOucKOi9hXZ2AT1pEmZ1oXRV9dSYUXgH6cLmvxMOMGDdKfNY7nM/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04328" width="462" /></a>Flowers in the parking lot<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qeRHrvrOUWIItUxhhcAJ1bvy2T5Cjc6sckNVswbI1rc_K4BMJwkTPrlC5yZyFwBYFUGZZn3zl2HbMN0G0yiCBbYPYvl8G-C4zFJZ_VSYZJ-Mtjh6s42bJvbecUuz7gSD-B5wtgWnnKA/s1600-h/DSC04318%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="\" border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSF76RoT2APVehs33dGMNcxQe6eUMu2KRDdq3vjtsI38bOPpZPGvWvjnjLf-LG-Kv9fNmPsgxXV5tOxdXXyIgLiQnKE4eD76456njrAmn3yUPNUNv5sGWt8JXPBlo7mLgVsD0idQRqNJg/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="\" width="472" /></a>We weren’t up to walking around in the weather that day, so took a ride to San Diego. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUaL7b_wRjkaIrTY6AXbOMGshsV6QfWpnG0GRGDna_F_pCbPelShQm0TIoMv_CGZGDU0SJEmXN8sTFhEi4o6HMlStStelOC2cAqjQBCPYVsvwjjZm4AuO-3iLLHwm10Rd4IBNfq_vjhtk/s1600-h/DSC04343%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC04343" border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCi6jeBn-xibRnYffTxOJjGBoQl1J3QlAiiLCHecOEw9zumZrPIHkn2w2R6lqDSOMNwIHDBXHYIEEAXpKadWV0qom-qnGkbCgvaOLiQFXnGQJFUQqdg6WjYPcqJMktz-7ewGTaDLBYUU/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC04343" width="470" /></a>Before we knew it, they were hooking up their car and on their way. Enjoyed having company, loved being able to cook for more than just two people, living 15 miles from town, sort of forces us to eat at home, than make the trip. Sure helps the budget, but some how manage to make it all even out. <br />
Our plans going forward seem some what dim, we have not made up our minds yet. Our daughter and hubby, along with our 2 greats are coming out around the first of June for about 10 days or so. Once they leave we will head out for the Escapade in Gillette, but where after that is still up in the air. What to do, where to go??? I’m sure a plan will come together. Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-70598446494934186262013-04-13T22:10:00.001-07:002013-04-13T22:10:39.326-07:00VISIT WITH FRIENDS<p>A hiking group here at Jojoba were doing a campout near Borrego Springs, and we thought that if Bob & Barb were up for it, we would meet up with them there.  They were agreeable, so we had a plan.  We let our GPS take us to the small town of Julian, which was the address for the campground, but come to find out it was almost 15 miles away….over and down the mountain.  But it was Julian.  At least it was a small mountain.  And the drive was beautiful, with all the views and spring flowers.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF0Ntvne-hTM6XenhyqUgUlM0JYwFdfmaogkl1erc5ZLccJzU6fvVepJLlTLNU4asqYlmshxW5J_LXJQoMDROLSAsyza6pg5w1pr6G3MxpX9OuJWCysI-FzRjdt4dUjZO1As7e0i2FXOo/s1600-h/DSC04254%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04254" border="0" alt="DSC04254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVBhWA7N6zqkeVYYQzDMt6i27u7UG1_Pn1mReRygtQuWE3DhmFUia90pQS4PNl21wW3fPodA3nARucrPw37reiPFiPh71VBEnw_tMk5JXPtBPIscK6rTlhzmg7PJ9000fjW_kCKRQ4go/?imgmax=800" width="432" height="341" /></a></p> <p align="center">Wild lilacs</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxACwcYu4ehxg3oWeVo0b7JnB2LCSEMT5QRmhyphenhyphen2ZZIxdg-jLNbz1LvFiW64fF7L44crvJR0HttLOjiVKLmD8HwIsQxzJ-X0rrUvvp-AqvhNBqSUwYD-tELKjXlN4ChZ5Gzr9kVrYknFz0/s1600-h/DSC04258%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04258" border="0" alt="DSC04258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8O4mVGB8dJhCiCrEmBZmW2S8mOCaV1OonqEgldlQx6Fe55KU7OGa_snirh_MH3nXx425ofaqMRUfe8GLAUGmqZ_t6wkWhz54yO82l3dopwKI55Onu8oTnVVxXA3hVS5gLn8Xdx5jGzqU/?imgmax=800" width="460" height="396" /></a></p> <p align="center">Looking down from the road into valley</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNXgYVvjVk8ZSIF5VfTVt7FGCbZpa0Ec9_-ZborpZZ_fkj-RexIhTHeD1ur1yrVXrSnw_dvTyp4aMbG6GeadQvAolaKcudnIePUnrUt1U80VLA-n3NjD49howG804DYlt_3sE3I1c6AfE/s1600-h/DSC04271%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04271" border="0" alt="DSC04271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmGNhGiQwvdQLiY4qniucC0mkDzQqvRvdh56rTUfWkmusQf6iA-rfML4WEleYeNvUJ53koRLqMnLlLEOrnWlEiH3XVvPwipWYR7-Q7NRRi9r-XFf0ZPbDcaznHWOQhXUZCUD1ar0RHtAg/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="366" /></a></p> <p align="center">Daffodils of Julian</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1-qQzengo0Sv9FHRuqnBjiv0AlJ2yWqrZ14o55x9SM33nJpcwcnyfdF2D6FteVsXjoz56AXrbp3X4H4lD8W9LC42siWAwb1vWjAq_jLbK_D_V39OOcGAORGALnpjceU31TdvAmnXTl0/s1600-h/DSC04273%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04273" border="0" alt="DSC04273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAcSYdSqZy0NrZOazIBRf3rgum2Zj6Lj81-SYwcoP6EyFkaF9dHZPL5bSK-2DCPnrMIkmWhyphenhyphendSfAO5jVBzRInviiQeTYZEIpuxrr4eE2s9LeFdRUFVyfu_UPkSeQnX0N6djHOlyUtX8eE/?imgmax=800" width="459" height="339" /></a></p> <p align="center">Two trees</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinVs5U9UboCQ6jeCuZk-aH0EyqCCul-frt9O7nuN74_it9q2i3cpxlTr879NGuCjHRRuKcbvusewDgzYvn-1HqofoKZt_0qvnZHkzd6-vIJp7QWgLyLbInYMTBiLs9caQgvTS6WxgOeA/s1600-h/DSC04292%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04292" border="0" alt="DSC04292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJD-KSovN6XAZRgWa6LQ0vurf9wAvDQqqvStfg5VGjNU1WMODoaOkr_zTVC2wqFsal3pTgJwB8YpQn83nbnioC0OKdAO3eXj4x0886tFyB6mbvibAbOZRBp2K9GeVSlR2bOKen8FEU7I/?imgmax=800" width="456" height="332" /></a></p> <p align="center">Cactus along the road</p> <p align="center">The first day the wind was really blowing and it did not look like we were going to be able to enjoy the area.  But next morning dawned to the start of a perfect day.  We decided that we would take a ride into Julian, famous for their apple pie, among others.  We strolled the 2 city blocks of the town and made our way to the pie café.  I had apple, Barb did mixed fruit, Bob went for cherry and Chuck had the apple crumb with cinnamon ice cream, and we all agreed they were GOOD.  Back at the campground we gathered around the huge fire pit for happy hour, and then there was the group pot luck. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsY7ZDPIzFaRJZ5AumE4bJT5X0qvIrUSywJWCczr-nnaX-HcPYJYr8aD1I01jijYZJMT5DSrdGTIAplI7pTGpHOrO0GZrgrGA4XgMOoQ8VgLQzgMAi-SwnJF8_7o9Zt9XlEjTuivd-NLg/s1600-h/DSCF3487%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF3487" border="0" alt="DSCF3487" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWoeaqg2Dfohyk_z3Bi0EAheba6sRyVfiiT9VCs9wKlgEODdqBqH4AerPeLCNapXU9Xv20KhM6e8MGs923o9SbW_14psm9zyIoFVtDZv9etnRzfwpUbNgz4y6OQsNopVRP7LQL6fLjgjE/?imgmax=800" width="468" height="327" /></a></p> <p align="center">The next day we were off to Borrego Springs, a short drive away.  They are know for the metal sculptures that are placed around the area. The manufacturing facility is just down the road from here, and he has started putting some of them along the road to Temecula.  Amazing work. The ones in Borrego have been there long enough that the rust has made the welds almost disappear.  </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0A51YvyN4JNG8DO5JpQioUaugjuAgClm5-4PcIHg19enGeFUTjj93AsfxWeOqEGXioeoE87ZN37_CmrRo0MHj7EfxUCgrPU_W8NrtOJPOcf_C61rL-cuUs99Nt778cL_4HFVKY8wK9HI/s1600-h/image26.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP0ZDl3E3HmUxhzDMIXcVC2uZwMix3tYAX4lZHn8VrUI5FC0wdpn0VslBMUehAP7FmiWZ6fGYwYo1HfuaYaXmVC9RpcuURJmCkqmTiU5aO9b5M-OB5rSqxxiRvS3MCxeIlNbMM4McIhWo/?imgmax=800" width="467" height="506" /></a></p> <p align="center">Head of the dragon, did not do the walk out to get the picture.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6KSDr84CcOH2hHkRKz7BulWAb5fhsFQrERE9AojV6WV0R4ol1i7QQF9gCPKWgdhWUV7ODxcl1ZbuMgkGMxHJznpOOBRSBAnitWYqnaiWO_OSup6zjqFUfYAM7Jg8NdgkEIIsXvMMer8/s1600-h/DSC04298%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04298" border="0" alt="DSC04298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSw_iZqnaUFTDEyIacQ9zs4jqFpL2ezG0y_y95gLcDY0-0I9jldBRrRv7raKiluy2JPhKUd78BL1OFFo1x5Abnp5yjEELXpb9SAY_xEOOrAeZMOoEZDwa7S0AoSizjH9BC6sxTsPgrChk/?imgmax=800" width="441" height="310" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaRUPHdNTL25Sk2VAItT1K7ITQoOD-avpyRY8FXmXyExgGIx-0ROtg4zKt_vGNSxvTCZx0XATxOl8o1ldWVrPGcGo7T5ylKzntOx6Zm-Js-7MclE5NCN6GSy3HSFHMsg0MXWynQZohqU/s1600-h/DSC04300%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04300" border="0" alt="DSC04300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2J6dYga1hhgSUrP-8u3K-hgFQ0O5XVBZrQl81Dbid4HvMC59KyT1L2e5Sv3k5FgNPU486tJVkzfFXGX7lQ1jzadoRAVxlBfj20uPwTG3d5Jdfwfkz3iv71UaIai5JYtwqOaB4fdzyxQ/?imgmax=800" width="450" height="367" /></a></p> <p align="center">Bob getting a bit close</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji22RD8UeDf1YIxy1e3DhunubDnh2S0O4tHSIEhk2ttRlZDmC8uN-HIfGOZ3775Nf6DXRVoNJt1BS6XBiGO6eibh7wndmsKta4e0q6wgO2GQJbihiW4xGeNYmhyyDjD4KRGDPMktv-CnI/s1600-h/DSC04306.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC04306" border="0" alt="DSC04306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9SM7n7PhZ7qOJiof6QbldRFCo6iu2-apSiPdW5fqawHFy8dYPa2O4KuX4PLPFsBy97WY7Ce2dBNszlc7XcSf5ZCSuXFpcfWF-A-EvbMZU211IRJ806HWU3izrxIM86CFqDLnS0ezRFg4/?imgmax=800" width="466" height="337" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRUEWuX1swe_gjgoy7vpQvC_7XbDNp77HKg1vqBy65mXYaklXIQPnYFefG1tqdggwvC307ZPAbOHpiyZsUzttrtTQK_R_4MwX1UiXPdSPCf4FGjEqawuJCKqmmRFcevNDILcQi75jU1RY/s1600-h/DSCF0689.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF0689" border="0" alt="DSCF0689" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68l2CyBfQGlQz-pfqAT38KZ8lqRwTWONzzXjOeudoqyeOQskZWX4o1qrOVeMpdq0UvuSnk0Oy3CMEfWsvKqPrahXS7UgszUJK4zVj1A7zLg-Ytvj9gHY-2rCbNg6yjwduiVJ4EKgVXpM/?imgmax=800" width="462" height="449" /></a></p> <p align="center">One of my favorite</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUmbF5igGg8a5lVWYfrIy5OA4wRayRklPBehjzpScFbcJ2g_D45MBVvHaPhrGToalGr6-CXCMr2OK-pa09q0KKLPOD_t47_KnMFPpvVE1tWUxC5fgY07-1j_gFeoGgCxfSYyfrhSDpvNk/s1600-h/DSCF0688%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF0688" border="0" alt="DSCF0688" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPyNFEAmoEy44SqKuFpsWBkuD6qOTbqymA-gAF1FSay0VSNe_uhjakD3WHnEk0qo_D86FlQ7Sy_z5xv4hofrgv_EHRl1Mv4qpHQzixG65UR8t-NzICzPsyfPTGll-e3e5w9ScMvvlOUM/?imgmax=800" width="463" height="435" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyHiumpX6w4MH_7A3wzdxWcYneB7W9FQI-V9TH7YZmTwQi74VCrXHn8kqfNhzx3kQOYcgkq-WINHsLhDe6FpTe9TGXIy61BkQouPWGtStYKspy4udGteA-saamn1u0Kyy-JoUPV8GQRo/s1600-h/DSCF06585.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF0658" border="0" alt="DSCF0658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6CFLK3QwKmhDhguxTA3dmKGHBMq4ooKt2gL8r3dE7QIA6iX6wJedOgQPG5XfYSnkc2xis7V4mBT5qhV5Sok4THx5alEOSBHIJhbeLBAQ2PLtTADVFf9uFxqY7NlIbVvdFYvRPSoUZ5iQ/?imgmax=800" width="460" height="377" /></a></p> <p align="center">The dragon, this one is huge, on both sides of the road</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJb-cEkqGgm_AZZyab-IbXcMTWKJrO_U6GqJ7zXJMaXjDJH4fC3NtvfmHFd7l2qHKunDTsqhVuP6E6fdbVtguev9Y-asTj2h7DxeKzBl7y5SD238DkJWWiLRuyl4lYeDWw-lUhZccUy0/s1600-h/image30.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt0JW4P0cqSpe5BcCKcw8QUOETgm49lOtn8G5l2OjutN7oE1o33Jo34Blc8m58wZODJZ6dDPnV2szqpkZNY41ntk-VQBPogNisrFOrFHkHmm3SkshyphenhyphenNtA1gy8i5IjiN85Qxb01ODnneCQ/?imgmax=800" width="462" height="372" /></a></p> <p align="center">Baby dinosaur catching a ride</p> <p align="center">We found a Mexican restaurant in town and had a nice lunch and a leisurely drive back to the campground.  The hikers were back, and we got a bonfire going.  Then it was just sitting around swapping lies.  As the fire started dying down we pulled out the marshmallows for that finishing touch.  </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrxkn1E60BpoQ9Z6BsCjDVKNSehn5z3G1HYGedvHR8LKIZWyhSHa370Ta_5x3JOx00YVkGhNjiwWau2BdVnhzTiNS37Tw7CTBAwggDQfoeZQuS_8ZwudB9aL46tu0yzunCMyggazGLvQ/s1600-h/image15%25255B2%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ_LUfsdX-XDYaYqZfYEQJ-sTli6xmjqaYBX7mMF6qn-M_2B97crVGvpwXjwwAdHy7kVIZ67Dg5wkW4LYmJOg2ZTj1j8mpWJGj_9NT_lCQKSumOnudR705DVj0vh3VNGkryCVpxed4MTM/?imgmax=800" width="460" height="350" /></a>The end of a wonderful day, beautiful sunset.</p> <p align="center">The next day we decided that we had seen what we had come for, and we would head to Jojoba.  It was a short drive, just 40 miles, we did not take the same way back that we came.  Actually cut the drive in half, guess I should have checked the map!  The next few days we just took advantage of the pool and hot tub.  Lazy days.  Took a ride to a gourd farm out in the back country.  We did see something that have never seen before.  Coming down this very curvy road was a small herd of white and brown goats, chasing a coyote.  They were just trotting along and that coyote kept looking back like “what the hell”.  Happened too fast, so no picture, but have witnesses.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-MSOZn9t3QzBXQLFfez_GFOGoK0vQI94PaAHNMvmlch-CGerkXc_xZco4f3j6Pdnt6VghwhOD7fU77_3EVkczr7100Q8bS9qkkEyn3FSAd8n4bZWnPpyUKl-HmJHbCRpeVEEGnJPa58/s1600-h/DSCF0723%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF0723" border="0" alt="DSCF0723" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFFc_l-2M13UW-oPDtcnoSS8Iw6VnqeyuBH-dlqGekmmikBiT9TFSEJgFCVd7fKYKCjW6Gzewu4b2HV59eI0LQDkDZvLXa9aq84Yoc8tuU-qDcNUMgDde76UKhGLjb4rEdpU1Zkd0jhXQ/?imgmax=800" width="461" height="345" /></a>Even though we were warned that there were lots of gourds here, nothing could have prepared us for what we saw.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCfjaNgr9Me21CYDCtR3YY2GWDPDASqU8TRylMwB_rWPa3FPPgrFOIEZj5UU9u2elan2pTSzzwi_lknOugbTrYkH5DOi54GvdiSMv9MN1MPBQ8Uj5goSd-a6JR0LNatQNLldEwHtnSik/s1600-h/gourd%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="gourd" border="0" alt="gourd" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuDJhSVr-INQlCcD1TvtqlC27xXPdN17DB3cHqcfpcR4hydBG2zyhcCWDEJ8iujM8d1CCA-QXkSv4hTlKMNL5xhLg1BNE3eVPaPlMUaQrptlMntK4PFD3nGwLVagprlxHTqrHA_Lr-za4/?imgmax=800" width="468" height="496" /></a>They actually had this gourd in the shop, price tag of 3500.00.  It was totally unbelievable, you would swear that it was leather.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyn-3ov87g3cmC1DfkcCvRBPVJatdUMXA0ObT7tKDBAP5bvveosFscPgAfL8noHSYxrhS6qdlUzXT9Mum2s5fkpVSJxQu5rlBR2IomlEg-xjU5Z_xUM97fsXTgD-4iuDRmPJ35ocjLpGQ/s1600-h/DSCF0726%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF0726" border="0" alt="DSCF0726" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhp9kT7w1BaqNvvkl5PAlBQED8X5F2CH8QyKwstCKNZGOmcz3m07Sq3_TxYT_R4oPVWlSdx0HiD7EXVYrQmoRYTGkwIV5uUzsCQgLeG4J7PFXvg3NTxAEVRWiWHg6FcNLlQA3cvkBd8Fs/?imgmax=800" width="463" height="382" /></a>You could buy them already cleaned, which seemed to be well worth it, as it only added a few dollars, but saved you a lot of work.  I’m all for that.  Would love to take some classes here, but they are about 40 miles away, and down some of the “windingest” roads you have ever seen.  Will put this blog to bed, and finish the rest of the visit with friends soon.</p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-35483245714458582722013-03-26T17:03:00.001-07:002013-03-26T17:03:26.307-07:00Matilda<p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcynhR_M33UiF4-XxYngeUQOTUFcg7JJCqDK-bqpwnTq5iFR-GQ5av3QmAsDlKYRtSWNFoDqYyBiYvSrhnQa2niCrDApdJdS38pGHqb3r8I5r94F0VlS8XyF7dlgIQYFaXFlptPdMDzQ/s1600-h/IMAG0037%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0037" border="0" alt="IMAG0037" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzrmzLUIHgAM5sIngda6ylQOAEkglFOXMV13h2OUzmyjr0MScNNuWJsoPblhlwG0t8r187C5PCMxpWbfyncvsmWKU0S56MD5zj4uTsJDy2cKl8MpxdPxLFi4J3x1fNmpsYumvT-H4nM4/?imgmax=800" width="452" height="403" /></a></p> <p>There she is with her friends, living her new life.  Set her free and she didn’t come back, but can tell she is so happy with her new family.  Happy Easter everyone.</p> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883814789522026188.post-2727277563078194142013-03-25T17:56:00.001-07:002013-03-25T17:56:44.218-07:00Spring time, love’n it<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJwQBZCLzoYupjkPM5whbpCyp4zTuko5SHhHXfyOxuevY1FM-NsqYSg_5OEnCE-ZdlGCMCWm-65l2rEOOBY243qDBikPheWfVMWR4fQD05TWjX0JqPHAvVu70D5rurIG7RmkMhC6xPLQM/s1600-h/proxy_storify_com11.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="proxy_storify_com" border="0" alt="proxy_storify_com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4Pk93UhEaqb5AVZav-xqYp-ObAIMwlducWqSak-wBRY9Z7m9Y1v587M9DEL1Rkk7RcDnre3gs6Mv53xdmr3qnBnJuG9E3a373El1oD0keSi1nkuwWACo0xOv-v9HDMEJMcu3qvu3Hlk/?imgmax=800" width="440" height="465" /></a></p> <p>The yucca’s are in bloom, wild flowers are popping up all over.  Makes you love southern California.  Great to be back and I have gotten the green thumb urge.  Bought a lot of flowers, aka rabbit food at Jojoba Hills.  But heck some people have gotten lucky and they have beautiful blooms. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvEE5azq7SvT7B3r7JJsBQc_OC3VA1KWULNH1t6CopN5sDXycc_SF76abm6NKoT5SCDOpg9aYD3OpiUQRmynb_6A5DY7xo6qwRN_SktqThNrQPaW_4ON8oc3Ycng7IPayP1PEq3DbEwbk/s1600-h/DSCF06406.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF0640" border="0" alt="DSCF0640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lerNljf2RVmb2CjoiQd0inB1NNFSONaGx5-gPP1lz5xpGWUwsazoaRCM3zPuAd97R2g9_Tn3zIQrdRNaq4nFNRdPiHw8NQNyyJryEwBTvTO3WcsqQm4nXv7AukkfkXWn9Dw5xowehdA/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="384" /></a></p> <p>And so far mine are still here.  Also put some out some in pots, that should help, those little bunnies are not too good at climbing..  </p> <p>We have been very busy the past week, I started back to water aerobics, work with a few volunteer projects, and just getting settled.  St. Patty’s outing with the “Mad Hatters”, we went to an Irish pub.  Probably scared the men that were hanging out there.  There something wild and crazy when a bunch of women get together.  </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmEmKoXMj931nIZ60wI9X5aR-SQRKfhIJ3SRX21THzkzpXSDD8YYHwBtMiV6n3hOYWrsY-Qw6M9HsAWuSQKrjvSvvrDlSpK-WekNvWllF8gnrBbGXbubIwhsIFxH6Vv5nHQILLeAqcPaw/s1600-h/DSCF06368.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="DSCF0636" border="0" alt="DSCF0636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_N3VVseOy0JOHT2lRrxJBWZ1mcgCIJuNgAmFNKeL8IQIMSPj0bBnOstvMrCvrtsavaFyYa-Da5zZusjfeeamJXadsqxgm4kdqowTfBw_fHcBuWX6QcC12n-mX5bfY43SiJb2ziiGdi4/?imgmax=800" width="401" height="376" /></a></p> <p>Plus we all par took of there stout brews.  Taxes out of the way, trip to Costco, all the every day stuff.  We are going to Borrego Springs April 1st with a group from here.  But also are meeting  Bob/Chuck and Barb there.  They had planned to stop here for a few days, and it was one of the places we wanted to show them, so it will be nice to spend more than trying to do it all in a day trip.  Will be sure and take lots of pictures, as there are 100 or more iron sculptures placed in that area. Looking forward to the trip.</p> <ul> <li> <h6 align="center"> <p>Worth the read. <br />No matter what our kids and the new generation think about us, WE ARE AWESOME !!! <br />OUR Lives are LIVING PROOF !!! <br />To Those of Us Born <br />1925 - 1970 : <br />At the end of this email is a quote of the month by Jay Leno. If you don't read anything else, please <br />read what he said. <br />Very well stated, Mr. Leno. <br />~~~~~~~~~ <br />TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED THE <br />1930s, '40s, '50s, '60s and '70s!! <br />First, we survived being born to mothers who may have smoked and/or drank <br />while they were pregnant. <br />They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes. <br />Then, after that trauma, we were <br />put to sleep on our tummies <br />in baby cribs covered <br />with bright coloured lead-based paints. <br />We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, locks on doors or cabinets, <br />and, when we rode our bikes, <br />we had baseball caps, <br />not helmets, on our heads. <br />As infants and children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, no booster seats, no seat belts, no air bags, bald tires and sometimes no brakes.. <br />Riding in the back of a pick- up truck on a warm day was always a special treat. <br />We drank water from the garden hose and not from a bottle. <br />We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle, and no one actually died from this. <br />We ate cupcakes, white bread, real butter, and bacon. We drank Kool-Aid made with real white sugar. And we weren't overweight. <br />WHY? <br />Because we were always outside playing...that's why! <br />We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. <br />No one was able to reach us all day. <br />--And, we were OKAY. <br />We would spend hours building <br />our go-carts out of scraps <br />and then ride them down the hill, <br />only to find out we forgot the brakes.. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.. <br />We did not have Play Stations, Nintendos and X-boxes. There were <br />no video games, no 150 channels on cable, <br />no video movies or DVDs, <br />no surround-sound or CDs, <br />no cell phones, <br />no personal computers, <br />no Internet and no chat rooms. <br />WE HAD FRIENDS <br />and we went outside and found them! <br />We fell out of trees, got cut, <br />broke bones and teeth, <br />and there were no lawsuits <br />from those accidents. <br />We would get spankings with wooden spoons, switches, ping-pong paddles, or just a bare hand, and no one would call child services to report abuse. <br />We ate worms, and mud pies <br />made from dirt, and <br />the worms did not live in us forever. <br />We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls, and <br />-although we were told it would happen- we did not put out very many eyes. <br />We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them. <br />Little League had tryouts <br />and not everyone made the team. <br />Those who didn't had to learn <br />to deal with disappointment. <br />Imagine that!! <br />The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law! <br />These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, <br />problem solvers, and inventors ever. <br />The past 50 to 85 years have seen an explosion of innovation and new ideas.. <br />We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned how to deal with it all. <br />If YOU are one of those born <br />between 1925-1970, CONGRATULATIONS! <br />You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives for our own good. <br />While you are at it, forward it to your kids, so they will know how brave and lucky their parents were. <br />Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it ? <br />~~~~~~~ <br />The quote of the month <br />by <br />Jay Leno: <br />"With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?" <br />For those that prefer to think that God is not watching over us...go ahead and delete this. <br />For the rest of us.....pass this on.</p> </h6> </li> </ul> Chuck-Kathyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02509628249532675957noreply@blogger.com1