Going Down Hill At Full Speed

YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2012

2012-02-03T09:14:00.001-08:00

YOU KNOW YOU ARE LIVING

IN 2012 when...
1. You accidentally
enter your PIN on the microwave.
2. You haven't
played solitaire with real cards in years.
3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers

to reach your family of three.
4. You e-mail the person who

works at the desk next to you.
5. Your reason for not staying in touch

with friends and family is that they
don't have e-mail addresses.
6. You pull up in your own driveway and use your

cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you

carry in the groceries...
7. Every commercial on television

has a web site at the bottom of the screen

8. Leaving the house without your cell phone,

which you didn't even have the first 20 or 30 (or 60) years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around to go and get it
10. You get up in the morning and go on line

before getting your coffee
11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile. : )
12 You're reading this and

nodding and laughing.
13. Even worse, you know exactly

to whom you are going to forward this message.
14. You are too busy
to notice there was no #9 on this list.
15. You actually scrolled back up to check that there wasn't a #9 on this list .
~~~~~~~~~~~AND FINALLY~~~~~ ~~~~~~~
NOW you are LAUGHING at yourself!

"Blessed are they who can laugh at themselves, for they shall never cease to be amused!" (Unknown Author)
------------
--------- --------- ---------
Go on, forward this
to your friends. You know you want to! Oh and go lick your elbow!

Beautiful Days, Cool Nights

2012-02-02T16:04:00.001-08:00

That sums up our weather for the past week, with the exception of wind one day. It has been just lovely, and we are taking full advantage of it. Relaxing and doing bits and pieces on the patio area. Planted two trees, tore out all the fuzzy bushes, and will be putting down an extension to the patio area. Won’t be long before we have it all done, and then we can relax full time. No, then I get to buy some furniture for that area.

Some friends of ours came for a visit last week, and that meant we, what else, we went out to eat. And only to the best places! This place is out near Jojoba, and even though the they manage to disguise the fact that it is a very good restaurant, they do a great business. Thanks, Rollie & Janet for being good sports, it was fun.

Matter of fact we made reservations for Valentines dinner. Been busy here, as they are putting on a play tomorrow night, the musical, Gypsy. Think that it will be a fun night, they certainly have worked hard, and everyone assured us that it will be great.

We are enjoying our time here, and meeting new people every day it seems. With my memory sure glad that everyone is encouraged to wear name tags. Not only am I not good with names, having a hard time with faces. Whoooow is me.

Till next time, time flies when you are having fun.

Life is Good

Day By Day

2012-01-23T13:42:00.001-08:00

This week has gone by so fast, guess it was cause we did nothing much, but we did a lot of it. Took in the movie Warhorse, which was actually what you would expect, but didn’t stop me from blubbering like an idiot. Yesterday we did brunch at one of the near by casinos. The only thing that we managed to fill were our tummies. But it was an awesome brunch. Didn’t eat again till lunch today. There are about five casinos near here, but we have only been to two so far. Have not been a winner at either one, but not a big loser either. I like to play blackjack, but the tables are ten dollar minimum and I just can’t handle that. That gets to be real money way too fast for me.

Chuck has an appointment with the VA for hearing tests Wednesday in the morning, and I have one for the afternoon for a problem that can’t seem to get rid of. Oh, the woes of getting old! I’m also going to start a gourd decorating course. There is a gourd festival in Casa Grande, the first part of February that I would love to go to, but depends on my problem. Also a quick week trip to Yuma, but no definite plans yet.

Life is Good

January Fading

2012-01-18T15:24:00.001-08:00

Last night was down right cold, but this morning the sun was shining and once the furnace heated the RV up the world looked pretty rosy. We have enjoyed the sunshine here, even though it has not been as warm as the valley in Texas. We have virtually had no wind, and there is seldom a day without wind there. Seems no place is perfect, weather wise, and the good part is we can always move on down the road. Our travels this year will most likely keep us close to Jojoba Hills. We are thinking to taking short jaunts, up the coast, (it is cool during the summer) Grand Canyon, Zion NP, there are a lot of places that we would like to spend more time at. At least that is a sort of, maybe, might be, could be plan, if….. Yeah, let’s write that in Jell-O and nail it to a tree plan.

Our new site, this one will be the one we will make some improvements to and call home for awhile. About ready to lay the rest of the pavers and get the gazebo recovered. I ordered 2, 20 yard bolts of fabric for side curtains, think that should be a fairly easy project. Will use grommets for easy hanging. Was able to order a replacement top, and Amazon did it’s speedy delivery. It is so easy to find whatever you want with the internet, think back when all we had was the Sears catalog.
We have been staying busy, playing cards, peg and jokers, and what ever else is taking place. Chuck has been getting in a few rounds of golf each week, and of course we have all those doctor visits that seem to go on forever. And the tests, vampires would require less blood. Sure glad that we are feeling good and don’t have any real problems to speak of.

Have a glass of Wine.

To my friends who enjoy a glass of wine..and those who don't and are always seen with a bottle of water in their hand.
As Ben Franklin said:
In wine there is wisdom,
In beer there is freedom,
In water there is bacteria.

Good By “Two Bits”

2012-01-15T13:11:00.001-08:00

I have been putting off writing this blog, hoping that if it wasn’t put on paper, she would reappear. Some how she got out with out of our rig, without us seeing her, and by the time we realized that she was not here, we could not locate her any where. She has popped out a few times when we were going out, and we did not realize it, but she always hung around, as she did not like being out once she was there. So it is a big mystery as to what happened. Her collar had her name and our phone number, plus she was chipped, but we are very close to a wilderness area, and she might have gone in search of grass. She really like to munch on it, plus there are lots of quail an bunny rabbits running around and she could have followed them.

Good-by 2-Bits, you were the best little traveler, we will miss you.

Everything Coming Up Roses

2012-01-05T17:38:00.001-08:00

Whoo, getting this blog up has turned into a real job. My keyboard will not work on my computer, and that is where my pictures are, so have posted the blog with pictures and am now editing it on Chucks. Hey where there is a will there's a way. We thoroughly enjoyed the whole tour, excellent tour company. Adventure Caravans. And the weather did it's part too.

Posted some more on Picasa,

https://picasaweb.google.com/114969455386581338428/ROSEPARADE2012?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCKPR3N2Gy8m4DQ&feat=directlink

Well, this is not working so good.

Close-up of the bird.

Following Roy Rogers float came 100 palominos, all carrying the American flag.

Very impresssive.

Last Trip of the Year

2012-01-01T15:22:00.001-08:00

We are with Adventure Caravans for the Rose Parade. They have had us going non-stop for 3 days, and we decided to sit today out and let our back sides catch up to us. The first afternoon was settling in, reception party, with instructions that we would board the bus round 9. Then it was off to the Equestfest. Consisted of the mounted unites that will be in the parade. Impressive.

Then it was back on the bus for a ride of 90 miles to the Palm Spring Follies. Now this is a show of people who are at the very least 55 years of age, and they were fantastic. The showgirls age started at 63 up to 82. Totally amazing. They had great full body suits including arms and boobs, but you could hardly tell. Costumes rivaled any thing in Vegas. After almost 3 hour show we were back on “thee bus” arriving back at the park around midnight, only to be told that we were to be seated once again at 7:15……AM. We were off to one of the float barns where there were 10 floats being worked on in this area. Each flower here is in it’s own vial, flowers, flowers every where.

Flowers galore and then some. The largest float to every be in the parade is being built here, and it was indescribable. CRS won’t let me remember the sponsor, but vaguely recall something about a dog food company.

From there we were off to the Huntington Library, which is more like a large museum, surrounded with different flower gardens, many of them were not blooming, and the high winds that came through the area, a few weeks ago, took a toll on several areas. The desert cacti area was superb though.

Aloe in bloom, had never realized there were as many varieties of cactus as there were here.

Every plant here is a cactus, would love to see this when it was in bloom, must really be something.

Could have spent the day here.

Time to get back on thee bus, and we were on our way to the Band fest. The bands that are participating in the parade put on shows for a few days. And for all my Wisconsin friends and family, They were the best of the day. They did a Pokka and really got into it. The crowd was stomping and clapping like mad. Great Show, great job!

Once again back on….you know what, and headed home.

Had an hour before we were treated to a catered dinner, and finished the ole year off, with a champagne toast, with poppers popping, horns a tooting, and wishes for a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

Tomorrow we will be off for the parade, leaving here at 5:30, but we are well rested. Did not mind missing today, it was a tour consisting of Rodeo Drive, Mann’s Chinese theatre, Farmer Market and a few other stops, but we have see it all on different tours, know we both enjoyed the rest a lot more.

Life is Good

Christmas Week

2011-12-26T16:44:00.001-08:00

Hope this finds every one full of Christmas cheer, and that it was a wonderful day. We had a quiet, easy day, and in the afternoon went to the club house for a dinner with 70 of our closest friends. Once again, potluck, and done in tables of 12. I like it that way, each table has a more personal setting. It was a beautiful day, finally the weather is warming up so it feels like southern California.

Last week our son and family were coming down for Chucks birthday and we decided that the birthday boy should spend it at Disneyland.

We met up there and spent a few nights in a hotel so we could take our time.

Glad we did, we are too old for the crowds, lines and more crowds. The fireworks were awesome, the decorations, unbelievable. Loved the parades, it truly is a wonderful place.

The second day the kids left to be at the park at 8, and we took our time and think that both of us enjoyed it much more. They got a lot of rides out of the way before the crowding began. Getting home was horrible though, we had a traffic jam for 30 miles, then when we were only 10 miles from the park there was an accident and the road was closed. We went back to Wal-Mart and sat in the parking lot, calling the sheriffs office checking to see if the road was open only to be told no, no, no. Finally after 2 hours Chuck decided we would drive up there and check and if it wasn’t open get a motel. No road blockage, no police, nada. Our son had dismantled a gazebo in his back yard, and brought it up to us. It will work really good here, just needs a new cover. He had a union meeting that night, but wouldn’t leave till it was all put together. Thank you Glen.

Ran into town today to Costco to try and get some of their Christmas lights that are so pretty, but pricey. They had it all shipped out, no sale there, and there was outdoor furniture ect. in its place, what a quick change.

Chuck is off to the golf course tomorrow, he has been only playing once a week, but the weather has not been all that great. Wednesday we are leaving to meet up with our tour group for the Rose Parade. Looking forward to that, but also to settling down for awhile once we get back.

I also became a great aunt on the 25th, now I not only have a grandson with that birthday but a great nephew. Also some special friends, Bob & Molly, welcomed their bundle of joy the 24th. We are all so blessed.

Life is Good

Short Moves Hurt

2011-12-17T20:41:00.001-08:00

I had no sooner posted the last blog, than a lot opened up that we felt we would be happier in. It had some lattice fencing and huge additional patio addition. So the move was on, didn’t know that we had so much “stuff” in the storage shed already. But got it all moved and this morning hooked up Damnearahouse, and off it went. I was going to take the golf cart over, when I seen that the steps were still down. I’m waving like a wild women, but Chuck doesn’t see me, so I start running down the street to the cart, mind you with clogs on, going down hill, when I do a face plant literally. My sun glasses tore up the bridge of my nose, the pavement took care of the rest of it, and my lips are a whole lot bigger than Angelina's. How I managed not to break my teeth is a miracle. Didn’t even break a nail. But there will be no Christmas pictures this year!

So after that we are going to Disneyland! Our son and family are coming down and we are meeting them in Anaheim tomorrow. We’ll just spend a couple of nights in a hotel, and do a couple of days at the park. Then they will come back to the park for a few days. The only time we were there our son was about 7, and he is almost 50 now, so it has been awhile. The military had a great deal on tickets for retirees so glad we could take advantage of it.

Have enjoyed having the clown car, took it to town the other day and it was so great to be able to park, AND know where the back end is, cause it doesn’t have any. lol

Well, I have had two large mugs of hot apple cider, spiked with left over Makers Mark, and I’m feeling good. Make that feeling very, very good. End of my tale of woe, life is good.

New Wheels

2011-12-12T19:26:00.001-08:00

We have batting around the idea of getting a small car for around here, being as we will be spending a fair amount of time in this area. Driving the truck or rather parking it is defiantly not one of my favorite things to do. Even Chuck would prefer something else. But not a new one, not for us, not now, so yes, that is what we got. A 2012 Honda Fit. Surprisingly it has a lot of room inside, and very easy to get in and out of. And parking it should be easy! Boy, does it look small in the picture, yet it’s not.

Our son and family are coming down next week for a few days. Want to help celebrate Chucks 75th birthday. Sure will be good to see them, especially our grandson. He is already in junior high, just growing up so fast. He was the only grandchild that we got to be around on a regular basis, so he holds a special place in our hearts. The other two grandsons lived across the country and would visit for a month in the summer, and after having two little guys for that length of time, waving good-by was with mixed emotions. But they are in there 30’s now, where did the time go?

The park has gotten busy, and we have too. The weather has been good to not so good. Not as warm as Texas, but also not any where the amount of wind. We are debating on whether the lot we are on is the one we want, or trade to another. We can do that, but only when one opens up. Like the size of ours (although they are all large) and the fact that it faces a hill on the back side. Even though that means we have no view, we have absolute privacy. Before we do some rock work, and put in a sitting/dining area, want to be sure this is where we will stay. Decisions, decisions.

Christmas decorations are up, no tree, the cat would probably get the better of that. I’ve tried to pick up a ornament that reminds me of some thing special or some place new. Have quite a few now, yet they only take up 3 photo boxes, so the storage is not a problem. And it is nice to remember why each one was bought.

Today I made Makers Mark bourbon balls. Think most of those will be going to the club house. They should get a few pace makers working over time, but they sure are good. Most of my shopping has been on line, they even wrap it, and just have it sent where ever it needs to go. And then money and gift cards take care of the rest. Awwww life is good………

Craft Fair

2011-12-05T13:50:00.001-08:00

Today was the craft fair for the park. Some very talented people live here. Bought a few things, but they are gifts, so will let it go at that. They also had a soup luncheon which was very good. Five different kinds of soup, all you can eat. unfortunately I could only sample two and they were both delicious. There were also sampler plates of cookies and candies, and one of those came home with us. Would have like to gotten a few more and froze them as our son and family are going to visit for a few days before Christmas. But we had made a trip to Costco and the freezer is at full capacity.

We have been looking to buy a small suv, preferably a CR-V, the least favorite thing to shop for next to a swimming suit, in my humble opinion. Something will turn up, just going to look and the hassle is not my thing.

Played hand & foot last night, they play with real cards here….lol……and lots of rules, but it is fun. Only play 4 hands and that is the game, so it doesn’t go on too long. Tomorrow working in the mail room, putting up mail, Chuck will be on the golf course. Slowly we are finding our niche.

Two Bits and her new toy.

It Can’t Be December!

2011-12-02T12:22:00.001-08:00

We have been making some progress in getting settled in, although it seems to be going slowly. I read on someone's blog how when you are going to be some place for a week, how you prioritize the plans you have for that area, and everything gets taken care, places get seen,all in the time frame. But when you are going to be there for a extended period, things just get put on the back burner. And that is so true for us. We have done no area exploring, although we have been to Temecula a number of times, and we are starting to knew our way around there. Nice town, lots of shopping and very pretty. About the only negative we have of Jojoba is that we are 15 miles from town, so our eating out has been cut down dramatically, which is a good thing in a way. I’m having to learn to cook all over.

Yesterday for Thanksgiving we had a small potluck . They did the 12 person tables, which works out great, and we had a good time. Slowly we are getting into the swing of things, everyone is very friendly. Chuck is happy to be making weekly golf outings, plus there are more card games going than we are able to participate in on a regular basis. It is a sad day when Chuck has to make a choice of what he can play…lol

Well darn it, left the puter for a minute and it turned into a week. If anyone thinks that we may be flying by due to the huge wind storm in L.A., we actually had no wind here to speak of. Just as surprised as everyone else when we seen the news the next day. Am so not missing the Texas wind. We decided to take a run to Camp Pendleton, which is only about 25 miles away, but that is the back side. Callie (gps) had us going on a few back road that might of one time led to the base, but not any more, so many gates are closed due to 9/11. So we made a few turn arounds but eventually reached a gate we could get into. But the base is huge, the good thing the golf course is on the back side, the bad news, the commissary, on the front side 18 miles away. By the time we finally got there, shopped, we did not have time to run by and take as peak of the ocean. Chuck is not fond of driving in the dark and as it was he did have to the last few miles. It will pay for us to do a major shopping there ever so often though. California is pricey when it comes to anything to do with living here.

Yesterday I went up and helped decorate the club house, which I had a great time doing, I’ve missed doing up the house for Christmas. In the RV, I just run my loop of greenery and hang my ornaments that I’ve acquired from each state we have been in and that has been it. Although this year we got some of the new lights from Costco that are so pretty for outside. Had to put the awning out to have some place to hang them. We haven’t decided if this is the lot that we intend to keep, so we are holding off doing anything. As for getting out door furniture, that is hard to come by in December, even out here.

Am going to post this NOW, as it may be next year if I go away again. What a great way to live, busy, busy, busy.

Settling In

2011-11-11T20:08:00.001-08:00

We have spent this past week getting used to our new surroundings. Unloading “Damnearahouse” was surprising, there is no longer any doubt of why we could never find anything. There was a lot of sometimes two and three of the same item, but we could not lay our hands on any of it. Having that shed will make it a lot easier, hope that when we will need something it will not be in the shed. Think we have come to a much better understanding of what we really do need to be out on the road.

Our site, 410 Hummingbird Lane

Landscaping at the entrance

Huge pool and spas

Surrounding area

Jojoba was literally craved out of the hillsides, with mostly sweat and back breaking work. I’ve taken an scanned it to share the history. Amazing!

Life is Good

Land of Fruits, Nuts and 4.30 Diesel

2011-11-04T20:01:00.001-07:00

Having spent the night in Camp Verde, Arizona at a pricey park, 39 dollars, with the Good Sam discount, we were off to an early start. Mostly to get back to the audio book we were finishing up, John Gresham's, Litigators. Easy drive over to Dewey, and then Callie (gps) took us up this hill right through a up scale neighborhood, but did take us out to 89, so all was fine. That is till we found us on this mountain trail, but we were committed so on we pressed. Thirty some miles later we we coming down into the town of Congress. Know that the Escapees have a park in the area, but we were white knuckled out and went on down the road, not that we would have stopped that soon after all. From there it was a okay ride, some wind, bad for a few miles, smoky for a while, due to a controlled burn. Only the government would do a controlled burn in a 30 mile plus wind storm. Finally we were within 45 miles of Jojoba, and we were feeling giddy,

we had made it………well not so fast, that mountain in the distance, we were going over it! Course we did not realize that till once again we were past the point of no turn around. The only thing I can compare this part of the trip to was driving up Pike’s Peak.

See that tiny little line in the picture, that is the road, I was taking these pictures without looking, just holding the camera out the window snapping away. Could not bring myself to look, and heights do not bother me that much. But this was high!

Chuck has to be the bravest driver ever, or else he was so scared he could not utter a word. The truck pulled us up and over without even working up a sweat, and the jake break took us down like we were a feather. Have a feeling if it knew where we were it would have threw up in it’s exhaust pipe. I can guarantee you there will be a new route next time.

Now to the best part, we are all set up on our huge site. Wow, we have space to park 3-4 vehicles. And a nice large storage shed, so will be able to leave some of the stuff we use in the winter months here. That will be so nice. The weather when we got here was great as was yesterday, but today rain off and on. Yesterday we ran into Temecula and found a family doctor and got appointments scheduled. Then ordered a golf cart, which we will need in these hills. Don’t have pictures of the area yet, but soon. Think we will be happy to spend the winter here, and in years to come, lots to do, great shopping in Temecula, casino about 8 miles, plus San Diego and L.A. Not that we will be running to the big cities, but they are there, along with all they have to offer. And I’ll be able to get my ocean fix as it is about 40 miles away. All that for the price of 230 monthly, which includes cable, water, garbage. The only extra we have is electric, don’t think we could beat that. Of course there is the 4.30 diesel!

Life is Good

Scary Sights

2011-10-30T19:38:00.001-07:00

Our great-granddaughter had a Halloween party in the parking lot of her school, on Saturday It was a trunk party where the parents did up the backs of their cars and the “goblins” went trick or treating. They had little games and balloon art. Great idea as it wasn’t crowded and some of the trunks were very well done. And the grown ups really got into the costumes. Scary.

Grandson Robert, Kersten, Roinn and Kylee.

From there we went back to the house where our SIL had smoked ribs, and they were out of this world. Went back again to night for left overs, and good byes. Short visit, but it was good to see everyone before going west for the winter. Long journey ahead, twelve hundred miles. Got some new audio books, with John Gresham's new one, among them, so that will make the time go fast. Our friend Barb gave us one in Coffeyville, and it was pretty darn good, really made those miles fly by. Thanks Barb.

Life is Good

Braving the Blizzard

2011-10-27T09:34:00.001-07:00

It was not all that bad, but for us wimpy snowbirds this was a major storm. We had hoped that we would not have to deal with snow as we are only here for a week. Just needed to get a few things done, and pick up some “stuff” from storage. Being as we will have storage at Jojoba it will make it easier to have some things there, as we will be spending most of winter time there.

Roinn was so intense at his workout yesterday, and I got lots and lots of shots of the back of his head, very few from the front. He is in the first grade, but because of his November birthday almost 7. Very good big brother.

Kylee, is so precious, she is all girly girl, think Roinn will have his hands full once they get older, she takes martial arts on Saturdays too. No ballet for her!

The sun is out, got the water going, (which was a major job, it was 24 degrees this morning) then got to get my hair cut, nails done, hit the commissary, busy, busy. Having a family gathering Saturday, which will be nice. Everyone is so busy with their every day lives, that it is hard to get all together. So for now we will enjoy the time we do get to spend with one and all.

Life Is Good

Pic, Pic Pictures

2011-10-26T07:29:00.001-07:00

Pictures have been lacking in the last few blogs, so I’m remedying that.

What we did best and most at Defeated Creek, loading the plates so we could………EAT.

Lisa Hembree & Ric-Tony Hembree & Dave Sussman

Big Bird

Here we have Donna with her new grandbaby, is that a proud grandma?

Netters & Bridget, we all had our cameras out.

Chuck, teasing Fred, Chuck is now known as “Three Finger Chuck”. Never stand between Fred and his food!

Down the road we go. No pictures from Coffeyville, camera never came out, darn.

Cotton field along the way.

Lots of t-shirts in those rolls.

Road Art

Color in Colorado

Pikes Peak

View out our window this morning. Yes, that is snow, but the temperature is suppose to be in the 70’s tomorrow, so will just call it a nice treat…..we are out of here on Halloween.

Tonight we are going to see our great-grandson at his martial arts practice, that is if the snow lets up…lol.

There's always a lot to be thankful for if you take time to look for it. For example
I am sitting here right now thinking how nice it is that wrinkles & fat don't hurt.

Life is Good

We Are So Lucky

2011-10-23T16:58:00.001-07:00

This past month we have been meeting up with old and new friends, and what a wonderful time we have had. Some times we feel like pinching ourselves, just can’t believe that we could have been so fortunate to have met so many wonderful people.

After leaving Defeated Creek, saying good-by to Lisa, Tony, Tez & Ric, along with Rich & Mary, Jenny and Don & Dave, we traveled into Branson with Mac & Netters. There we split company as we were staying at the Treasure Lake park, where John & Bridget are. Also Mike and Lisle are also there, and we had not seen them in a couple of years. We had a wonderful gathering and dinner, with a Suzie and Don and their friends popping in for a quick visit. The next day Nolan & Donna along with her daughter Carla, with Donna’s new little grandbaby, joined us at Golden Corral, where we all ate too much. From there we went back to the campground and talked and laughed till we hurt. If laughter makes you live longer we should all make it to 100. All was fun & games till we had to say our “see ya down the road” farewells. We got away early in the morning and made Coffeyville before noon. There we met up with Barb & Bob Williams, Ginger & Jesse, John & Laurie Newby, along with one other couple whose name escapes me now. Dang! Barb had prepared dinner which we all enjoyed, unfortunately the weather was threatening rain, and lots of lightning, and we had to break up early, but then most every one was having to work the next day, and their day was going to start at 4:30. And it was just the start of their 4, ten hour days. Everyone is counting the days till December 23, which will be the end of their employment.

Today our travel day was smooth, the roads in Kansas are wonderful, at least the ones we drove today, so it looks like we will make Colorado Springs tomorrow, if all goes well. After all the trouble we have had these past few months, I’m not saying anything is final until it is over and done.

Looking forward to seeing our daughter and family. Especially the great grand babies, not really babies any more, almost 4 & 7. Growing way too fast.

Life is Good

Moving On

2011-10-19T05:20:00.000-07:00

This morning we are packing up and leaving Defeated Creek COE campground, feeling as rested and loose as can be. Yeah, ready to meet the ole cruel world head on. The weather has turned and it is ugly outside, glad all my jobs are pink.

Last night we had a finale dinner with everyone in Cookville, at a fabulous Chinese restaurant, excellent. Sorry to be leaving our friends Lisa and Tony, know that they would love to be able to join us, and who knows....... some day.

Keeping this short, must get things done, see ya in Branson,Missouri.

Unwinding at Defeated Creek, Tennessee

2011-10-13T07:57:00.001-07:00

Once the last check was done on the work at Mor/Ryde we were out of there faster than…….,well fast! The travel day was very uneventful, and we made great time. The leaves were just beginning to turn, and getting a good shot was almost impossible. Sixty miles an hour and a dirty windshield seen to that.

The traffic heading north in Louisville was backed up for at least 15 miles,

sure glad we were heading the other way, we had smooth sailing. We pulled into Grandma’s RV park, and across the street were a couple from the Montana rally. They were smiling behind their hands as I was putting the leveling boards under the tires, as they had just had the level-up system installed. Maybe next year. The next morning we took our time as we only had 140 miles, but they were all on back roads, up and down, curvy and slow, so it was more like 300, but we were all set up by 3 in the afternoon. This is such a pretty place.

Out our back window.

No trains, no traffic, a wonderful place to recharge our batteries. Unfortunately a lot of the people who had made reservations have had to cancel, so the remaining few are sort of spread out. Once a reservation is made and in the computer, changing the site is not possible. But we are doing fine, dinner at one site, campfire at Lisa & Tony’s. Tony is the official fire builder and a fine job he does! He also has the wood. The first few days the weather was perfect. But it has gone to normal, little rain, still nice and warm, and the best part NO wind. That will be here tomorrow, now that I’ve said that. Our friends Ginny & Don got here Monday, and Tuesday night he ended up in the hospital. They now have him in Nashville, and are checking his heart out. We are all hoping for the best, and he was in great spirits yesterday when we seen him.

We all piled in the vehicles the other day and went to Tony’s favorite catfish place. If I had to get there it would never happen, we ended up in Kentucky after taking a dozen different roads, but it was by far the best catfish I’ve ever had. It was all you could eat and they meant it. Some of us couldn’t finish the first serving, which was huge, where as others more than made up for it. Delicious! About the only other outing we have had is girls day out, where we hit Bed Bath and Beyond, Trader Joes, and a few other places. Of course there was lunch which was at the Cheesecake Factory. Now right outside, written in cement, was the saying “Life is short, eat dessert first”, but did we pay heed…….oh no, we had lunch, and were so full we couldn’t even think about dessert. Darn.

Have another few days here before we start west. Hope to make a short stop in Branson, then see our good friends in Coffeeville, who are working at Amazon, then on to Colorado Springs for a quick stop. Gotta get out of there before the snow falls.

Life is Good

P.S. the wind is blowing!

Camping Inside of Mor/Ryde

2011-10-03T16:50:00.001-07:00

We were up very early this morning, Chuck backed the rig into the shop and we were free for the day. Spent the first couple of hours in the very nice guest lounge here. Met another couple who were having some work done, and low and behold they knew some of our Hitchhikers friends. Barb and Roger Maxie! What a small world we RVers have. We then took off and I had my nails done real quick and we made a run to the surplus store in Michigan for a few things, now that we had the correct measurements. From there we thought a quick lunch at the Rise N’ Roll, but we decided to hit the cheese factory first. Bad move, we are now in possession of a whole lot of cheese, never shop on an empty stomach.

Taken through a very smudged window, now that is a lot of cheese in the making.

Finally made it to the Rise N’ Roll, split a sandwich, and did not even buy any of there fabulous donuts.

Wash day=Monday in Amish country. Telephone booth, they are allowed, but not in the house and no seat or chair in them. Of course with the cell phones those customs are going the way of the horse and buggy…..hmmmm.

Phone booth, they are allowed, but not in the house and no seat or chair in them. Of course with the cell phones those customs are going the way of the horse and buggy…..hmmmm.

To kill a little more time we went to see the movie The Help. Had read the book, and the movie was great, held pretty true to the book, but filled some of the gaps, take more than 1 Kleenex if you’re a softie. Finally we got back to Mor/Ryde and there was our home …..in pieces, but almost ready to go.

Tomorrow should see us hitting the road if they are done early enough, other wise bright and early Wednesday.

Life is Good

Montana Rally & More

2011-10-01T17:17:00.001-07:00

What a great rally the Montana Owners Club had. And of course there was way too much food and drink, but it all contributed to the good time we had. The seminars were very informative and all the reps were extremely helpful. There were 4 to 5 Keystone reps who addressed any problems we were having with our rigs, appointments made, and with in the week, everyone left doing the happy dance. We were so fortunate that they discovered a major problem with ours, like the frame and the hangers were no longer connected, (something like that) but the fact that it was not safe to take on the road. Sure scared this ole lady, when I think of all the miles we had probably traveled with it like that. We spent a couple of nights in their campground while they got everyone scheduled to getting it fixed, and we were out of there. If you are ever going to need major work Elkhart is the place to be. Everything they need is here, all the parts, anything and everything. Being there was no bill for all this, and we are over 2 years out of warranty, well, it don’t get no better than that.

We are now in Mor/Ryde’s camping site, and they will get the work done starting Monday, that we had scheduled for earlier this week, but could be done due to the other problem. There will be a bill for that, but hopefully this will resolve the issues we’ve had. Then our rig should be better than new! Must be time to think of buying a new one…..NOT!

The beautiful home the Montana group went for an Amish dinner. Ran into this couple at the rally, they were there for the rig weighing, and joined us for the dinner. They put on the the very first rally we had ever attended in Branson.

Howard & Linda Payne http://www.rv-dreams.com

The McHenry’s Mac and Nette's Road to Retirement are in the area, and we have met up a few times. Tonight we decided that we had to try Lunkers as we had not done that this trip yet. Chuck and Mac had prime rib and cleaned there plates, but Netters and I had lasagna, hers was regular, I had the seafood. Good, good, good. But we both brought home more than we ate. Portions that would feed a family.

Today the sun finally came out for the entire day, that can make your mood change. We have had rain for an entire week, and yesterday the wind was wild. Time to move south, and we are trying so hard, hopefully by Wednesday.

I have been so remiss in keeping this blog up, that at times am tempted to quit, but maybe in my “golden years” it will give me something to look back at, shed a tear, a little smile, and just enjoy these days all over again.

Life Is Good

Heading On Down the Road

2011-09-18T14:38:00.001-07:00

Walls Drug is a memory,

as are the views of South Dakota.

And beginning of a bummer week.

But our patience paid off and we were on our way again. Really had to twist Chuck arm to get him to stop at the Corn Palace, once he got the wheels rolling he was in go mood. But he admitted that the stop was worth it.

Each year they completely change the design, so basically it is almost always being put together. The turrets and spirals had yet to be decorated. Quite interesting, and the inside auditorium is also done.

We stopped and had lunch with Dave & Bev in a great little local café. We had planned to spend a few days earlier, but glad we got to have a nice visit. Other than that we just took our time, although 1000 miles in 3 days, is a little more than we usually think about doing. But we wanted to get here with time to spare before the Montana rally, which starts Wednesday. Getting our axles, wheels the whole 9 yards looked, to see if we need to upgrade/repair, what ever it takes.

Our first day here, Saturday, we had to pay a visit to Rise N’ Roll. If you ever are in the vicinity well worth a stop, the caramel donuts are to die for. And Chuck wants everyone to know that he had a donuts for one and all. Then we headed for Shipshewana only to find the flea market wasn’t open…….but Yoder's was! We came back through Goshen and hit a few of the stores. A shopper I am not, but let me tell you, Chuck almost had to drag me out, think there are nail marks in the carpet of Target Super store. It has been at least a couple of months since we have been around the big stores, once I got in I just looked and touched like I was in heaven. Back to earth, today was laundry which means we are good to go.

Tuesday we take the RV by MorRyde and see what their suggestions are. Then we will move to Goshen where the rally is, after it is over, we will come back and have the work done. Once that is taken care of we will be making our way to Tennessee for Lisa’s Gathering.

Life is Good

Purgatory

2011-09-10T12:40:00.001-07:00

That is what we are thinking we are in. Left Gillette, heading east, final destination was to be Elkhart/Goshen. Just a buzzing down I-90 when we get a ding, ding. Overheating??? Stopped and sure enough we had water coming out the bottom of the engine pretty serious like. Well luckily we had cell service, Good Sam RS, once again. This was shortly after noon, and each time we thought someone was coming to our rescue, near the scheduled arrival time, we would receive a call saying they were not coming. They were actually hinting that we might be there till the next day. We could see a water tower, Kadoka, SD, in the distance and as it was getting dark we agreed to a tow there. Bad move. That ended their responsibility….have a good day, idiot. We found a dodge/ford/gmc dealer (one size fits all) 20 miles away, but we had to arrange the tow there. Thank goodness for cell phones and the internet. We were lucky after 3 days they installed the water pump, but there is a small part that is needed to keep the pressure up or down or something, anyway they don’t have it, NO ONE has it ANYWHERE. A shipment is scheduled to arrive in Denver this coming Tuesday, so even with overnighting looking at Thursday at the earliest for getting on the road. But they did warn us that it was only a scheduled shipment.

Woke up yesterday and the fridge was not working. Luckily switched it to gas, went and got a couple of bags of ice, and it cooled off. Seems to be working, not switching it back till we are in Elkhart.

Hopefully this will one day be one of those funny stories for around the campfire someday, but right now, well we are still finding a little humor in it. That is it, done moaning, whooo is me. Enough. We have some friends passing through next Tuesday and they have promised to stop, so looking forward to seeing them.

Tomorrow is the 9/11 anniversary, 10 years ago, we were sitting on a plane in Sacramento waiting to take off. Compared to something like that, we are totally blessed.

Life is Good

GROWING OLDER IS MANDATORY. GROWING UP IS OPTIONAL..

2011-09-06T06:43:00.001-07:00

Last night, we joined the other rally “left overs” for a surprise 50th birthday party for Marcia Jones. Chasingthe70s Think she was truly surprised, and we all had a great time. Happy Birthday, Marcia.

Up early this morning, hitching the old horse to the wagon to start the trek down the road. We are heading for Iowa,, where we have friends that we will spend a few days with. Want to make a stop and take in the Corn Palace too. So with plans laid out, we will soon have Gillette in our rear view mirror. Made some great memories, enjoyed it very much.

Life is Good

Escapade 2011

2011-09-02T08:54:00.001-07:00

Almost 700 rigs, double that for attendees, and a good time had by all. Our leaders, Bob and Molly Pinner, along with many volunteers did an outstanding job.

There were vendors galore, nightly entertainment, many seminars to choose from, and of course all the “happy hours”.

Best of all, seeing friends we have met over the years, and the chance to make new ones. We also got to meet a few of the fellow Jojobaians, we can’t wait to see our new parking place in Jojoba Hills in California. When closing ceremonies took place we were ready for it all to come to an end. Busy, busy turned into tired over the week. Now we will take a few days to let it all sink in, visit with friends, as most are staying for at least a few days.

Class of 07 adopted about 8 couples this year, so we are becoming quite a large ”family”. We had a happy hour earlier this week with a large turn out. Tonight we are having a baked potato gathering. That is always fun, everyone brings a baked potato and one topping, and that lowly potato turns into a gourmet treat.

We are having our RV weighed when we leave here on the 6th, hopefully we are not too much overweight. Be wonderful if we were under weight, something that I personally have never had to deal with. We have taken a lot off the rig, and replaced it with much lighted items, so I’m hoping…… sort of like taken off your shoes before stepping on the scale. I did go through the cupboards and donated lots of can goods, even 5 pounds of sugar, to the food drive the Escapees was having for the food bank in Gillette. Okay, that is like taking off the earrings! It will be nice to have a storage shed on our lot, give us some place to store things that we only need when we are sitting for awhile. We may not have a stick and bricks, but we have “stuff” stored all across the USA.

Our last minute purchase at the rally, a Adventure Caravans 7 day tour for the Rose Parade. This will make the 4th time we have done this and each time has been better than the last. I think of all the things we have done or seen this is by far my favorite. It is so nice to just park the rig, and let some one else do the driving, AND parking. Highly recommend it to anyone thinking of taking the parade in. My favorite part is the post float viewing, it is amazing to see some of the uses of fruit, vegetables and flowers up close. The floats are parked for a few days which gives you plenty of time to have a good look.

Life is Good

Rally Round

2011-09-02T07:55:00.001-07:00

We spent six days in Cody, had a great time. The RV park was ever so nice to us, letting us use part of the restaurant at night to play cards. They also did a breakfast buffet which was quite good, and the price of five dollars was very reasonable. Chuck took advantage of it, I believe 3 times, but I only tried it once. Not so much of a morning person, I kind of like to ease into the day. Three of the group was checking into the rally one day earlier than the rest of us, so they ran on ahead. Being as we had to check in before noon, we decided that we would spend the night closer to Gillette, making for a short drive the last day, so we bedded down in Buffalo.

Waiting for Thanksgiving, well maybe not, they looked kind poorly.

The drive over the pass into Buffalo was very scenic, with a climb to almost 10,000, it still was an easy trip.

Made for an easy drive 70 mile jaunt the last morning. Once here it didn’t take us long to get settled in. What a wonderful place to have a rally. Huge facility, and everything is under one roof. What a fun time we had, an update is in the works and will have that up soon.

Cozy In Cody

2011-08-22T15:45:00.001-07:00

We pulled up stakes last week and made the move to Cody, Wyoming. Well, almost, we are 17 miles shy if it, but close enough, and they have a Wal-Mart. We had a run of bad luck, first we had a tire blow out, and our pressure pro did not even make a beep. Luckily Chuck seen the smoke almost right when it happened, so there was no damage, but I’m so disappointmented in the pressure pro, I really felt so much better having it, but no more. It is not working at all. We were following Mac & Netters and they did not see us pull over, so bless their hearts, once they waited a while, they turned their “freight train” around and came back looking for us.

Of course we were inside Yellowstone, no cell coverage, but help arrived and we were soon on our way. Wish it ended there, but, once we got set up in the campground, our electric was pegged out. We had a loose wire in the plug, so it burned up the toaster oven and coffee maker. Being it was in the cord after the surge protector was no help. Luckily did not realize the burn-outs till the next morning so it got bad news got spread around, makes it easier that way. Could have been a lot worse and for that we are thankful. The campground here is very accommodating, they are letting us play cards in the one of the dining rooms at night. So we have been having some heavy 10 penny games. Last night we played hand and foot with Bob, Barb and Don and Suzie. It was 1 & 1, so will have to have a play off some time.

Other than Wal-mart, we have been taking in some of the sights. There was the miniature museum, which was huge, and free.

Old Town, that had lots of relics.

People back then were really TOUGH, the west would never be discovered in todays world.

The first exercise bike?????? Now I do know what this is, lol………….

One of the more colorful characters, Jeremah”Liver Eating” Johnson. They reburied him here in Old Town.

The rock formations around here are truly amazing. We have a wonderful view from our back window.

Pictures just don’t do it justice. Well it is getting close to “happy hour”, got to put this blog to bed. Thanks for looking in.

Life is Good

Gonna Be A Bear

2011-08-16T19:57:00.001-07:00

Just could not resist this one. Just one more day till we move to Cody, and believe me we are all ready to get those wheels rolling. The first 2-3 weeks here were great, but as we seen everything, got the t-shirts, well that is when the days got long. Tonight we all went to town for pizza, and it was good, been awhile since we had had that. See ya all down the road.

Those Sixty’s Were Great!

2011-08-13T09:17:00.001-07:00

Oh yah, way to go, girl. I’ve reached that magic age where I can say just about anything. After all wisdom does come with age. Some times. Of course there is the other option, maybe I’m become senile. At times that has crossed my mind, but that thought comes and goes. To tell the truth, I just down right feel comfortable in my own skin, now it could be because it seems like there is so much more of it, but not going to dwell on that thought.

It has been a great ride, have a wonderful husband, lovely daughter, wonderful son, great SIL, and DIL. Three grandsons, one of whom has own family, beautiful wife, with the most precious great-grandson and great-granddaughter. Truly have been blessed.

Also the last five plus years that we have spent roaming the states has been a wonderful adventure, that we hope to continue for as long as we are comfortable doing it. We know that there will come a time, but till then……..

Hopefully to be continued…..

The Last Trip of Yellowstone

2011-08-06T19:14:00.001-07:00

We think this is our final trip through Yellowstone. That is till we hook up the rigs on our way to Cody, as our route takes us right through the park. We started out later in the day. thinking that we would arrive at the more popular sites, when the larger part of the tourists had passed through, making finding a parking space easier. And….. IT WORKED! Don’t you love it when a plan comes together?

The prism pools were beautiful, although the day was on the cool side and the steam did obscure some of the beauty.

Then there were the paint pots, not so pretty, but very interesting, the smell not so much.

The drive on the Firehole Loop produced this interesting crater. The plaque said that it would erupt some time in the next 48 hours, we gave it 10 minutes, no luck.

Some of the wildlife we were lucky enough to see.

The sunset was the crowning glory, had so many pictures of it, was hard to choose, but this was my choice. Most of my pictures are thanks to my friend Lynette, as I had not charged my battery and it was rather low.

Although Yellowstone has many truly wondrous sights, the remnants of the fire in 88, are still very visible, but the new growth is coming back as strong.

The rest of the week we have been doing a whole lot of nothing and doing a real good job of it. A few happy hours, couple of potlucks, few rounds of card games. Chuck and I snuck off one night to the playhouse for the Phantom of the Grand Ole Opry. What a talented family, they do a great job. So that bring another week to a close. The weather has been wonderful, feel some what guilty when we hear of the heat some of our friends are having to endure.

My love/hate relationship with my Droid continues. Turned it off the other night at the show, when I turned it back on, it said must be activated, so hit that button. Well, that wiped my phone clean, no numbers, no pictures. nada, zip, all gone into the black hole. And that darn Verizon assistant that is suppose to keep everything on line, well it transferred back one number, ONE! Beginning to think I’m too stupid to have a phone like that. And of course there is no Verizon store within 200 miles.

This week RVer’s lost one of our own, Doug Dubrouillet. We were lucky enough to have met Doug and JoAnn in Tennessee last fall, and being the owner of Fillmore (standard poodle) was one of his claims to fame. JoAnn, we have you in our thoughts and prayers. Bless you.

Yellowstone

2011-07-31T13:10:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, the six of us (Sullivan's, Roaming When We Can & McHenry's, Mac and Nette's Road to Retirement ) rented a van and took off to see the upper loop along with the Lamar Valley. We had been told that the wild life was quite plentiful in the valley and we were not disappointed.

Okay, my idea of a joke.

Sharing the road.

Elk

We caught a glimpse of this black bear, so turned around, and right in front of us he was crossing the road. Scruffy looking, think he/she was having a bad hair day.

Grizzly bear, but he was at quite a distance. There was one more black bear, have to steal a picture. Thanks Netters.

We also took in the Mammoth Hot Springs. It was very interesting and pretty, although it is killing everything around the area.

We stopped along the way for a picnic, there are quite a few area with tables, so it is very nice to take a break and not “break” the bank. This area is a bit on the pricey side. Then we made our way to Upper and Lower Falls. We got there around six and parking was no problem. Unfortunately the sun was not at it best for viewing, but it was still very impressive.

The canyon wall.

The Lower Falls

The Upper Fall. The amount of water going through here was unbelievable.

From there we made our way back to West Yellowstone, turned in the van, and decided that we would have ice cream for dinner. It had been a long day, 12 hours, but priceless.

The rest of the week, we did make another trip in Rexburg for blood work for Chuck and Mac. Thankfully they are both in range so they can retest in two weeks this time. They did find a clinic here so it will be easier. Other than that we have been playing cards some, chase the ace, ten penny. Ten penny, was a new game for some of us, really a fun game. The park had a potluck last night, they had a good turn out. We all went, ate too much, as usual. Tonight Donna is treating us all to her Chicken fried steak. We have been trying to not over do the nightly get togethers with too much food, and it is working out. Did hear that we got in for the Montana rally in Goshen near the end of September. Want to have Keystone replace the front mountain decal as it is really peeling. Last year they redid the Montana decal, but thought the other was okay.

This coming week we will try to get back into the Yellowstone, might be able to meet up with some friends that are in the area for a few days. Also have tickets to the Mack’s Inn Playhouse to see the Phantom of the Grand Ole Opry, on Wednesday. Sure that we will be able to fill in any open spots as they arise. Staying busy doesn’t seem to be a problem.

Life is Good

Catching-Up

2011-07-26T21:05:00.001-07:00

Whoooo, been here one week and has it ever flown. We have been busy, not so busy and down right lazy. Almost every day we have had a new adventure.

We convinced Chuck to drive Miss Arlene, Bridget and Kathy, on day two. Not bad enough when he have one woman telling him where to go, but three?? We just had him meander around Henry’s lake and the areas near by. Our main purpose was to get pictures of the nest I had spotted on the way in.

Osprey was in the nest, and when we got out of the truck not a bit happy, but did not fly away.

The next day we had to make a trip to Rexburg as Mac and Chuck both needed blood work and there was not place near. But first it was lunch time an Netters found some good reviews for the Filling Station. And it was very good.

Mac and Netters

We girls decided that we would do a little maintenance, hair and nail wise. Arlene and Lynette were happy with their hair cuts and pedi’s, but not so much with my nail fill-in. They were at it for almost 3 hours and still was not satisfactory, but by then I was done with it. Long day, we were all glad to get on the way home.

Took the detour on the way, and seen these beautiful falls. And there were so many wild flowers in bloom every where. Made the trip so worth it.

The following day we mainly laid around and that night went to a dinner show at the Macks Inn Playhouse. Great prime rib dinner, and the show was fantastic, Home School Musical. Our sides hurt the next day from all the laughing that we did. The young couple who had the main parts were very good, both were great singers and the dancing was very professional. But the main character was hilarious.

Going back again before we leave the area as they are doing two different plays, where we will see the Phantom of the Grand Ole Opry.

Then it was time to venture into Yellowstone Park, so we decided that we would try Ole Faithful and the near by sights. We took two vehicles as we are about 35 miles from there.

Along the way we saw a few animals.

And of course, what we came for, Old Faithful.

Just some of the small crowd waiting for the geyser to go off. We stopped at a few other places, or I should say attempted to stop as parking was non existent. We had packed a picnic lunch and we found a nice area with tables and had lunch and enjoyed the beauty of the area. Kevin and Arlene decided they had had enough for the day and headed back. Mac and Netters along with Chuck & I stopped at the Grizzly & Wolf center in West Yellostone. There they had two of the grizzlies out in the compound, and they were were so much fun to watch. They played in the pool wrestling around for a good hour.

Here is Illie laying on her back, enjoying her spa.

Brother Sam, weighing in at 1200 pounds.

I will close this with a Big Bear Hug!

Happy Times

2011-07-19T22:36:00.001-07:00

We left Idaho Falls fairly early and found our way through the first bit of construction. Then on down the road a bit, more construction had us going in the wrong direction, but a u-turn and we were back on track. Drove into Idaho Falls and stopped at Wally World for those last few items and to top off the gas. We were just having a quick bite in Subway when in came Mac and Netters, followed by John and Bridget. Big hugs all the way around. We were off from there, tummies full, gas tanks and cupboards all taken care of. We only had 90 miles to go, and Callie (GPS, short for recalculating) had us arriving 5 miles short of our destination. But we finally found our new home for the next 30 days. Now the Valley View can not be called a resort, actually it is listed as a laundry first, then RV park. But our sites are all together, and they are huge, and we are all very happy with them.

Today the guys went one direction and the girls the other. They checked out the near by golf and lake. We went to town, and wondered around a bit, no purchases other than a bite to eat. Did make a stop at the information bureau and picked up plenty of research material.

Tonight we were just grilling corn and brats, and the rain drops started for a minute but then it settled down and we had a nice dinner, topped off by Arlene’s fruit pizza. We moved inside our rig and played “chase the ace”. Mac had a few stories and we laughed till we cried. Fun time, so good to meet up with these great people again.

The weather here is actually cool, But you will hear no complaints from us. Pictures have not been a priority, but will do better.

Life is Good

Mountain Home to Twin Falls

2011-07-16T21:51:00.001-07:00

Although the campground at Mountain Home was very nice, the four of us (Sullivan’s) found that there was not so much to see or do in the area. By putting our heads together we came up with plan “B”. Twin Falls offered some interesting sights to see, and we found a “wonderful” campground with hot springs and a mineral water pool. Well, the latter turned out to be not so good. The campground is fine, but the swimming pool, hot springs, is open to the public for a fee, and let me tell you, I think that this afternoon there was standing room only in it. They come by the truckloads, lots and lots, AND lots of kids. They are all at the pool area, and we are a bit of a distance from that, so they are not a bother, but the blissful soaks we thought we would be enjoying are not going to be happening.

Today we took a ride into Twin Falls, and it is an awesome sight looking down at the Snake river. A bit of trivia that I found interesting, although I wonder just how they came about with these precise facts.

Really?? Might it have been for 5 weeks, or maybe even 7?

And 48 miles an hour, not 50, hmmmmm?

Two great looking golf courses down there, one private the other public.

At certain times they allow base jumping from the bridge, does not tempt me!

After a quick lunch we set off to see the falls. The first is Shoshone. Awesome.

Lots of water for this time of year, so they tell us.

From there it was off to the Twin Falls, which were not quite so impressive, although worth seeing.

The black rocks, the blue sky, the water, wow.

This picture was just for the many shades of greens. Beautiful area. We are here for one more day and then we will be moving to Valley View park outside of West Yellowstone for a month. Can’t wait to see the northern part as we did not get to it the last time we passed through. And with all the water still here it is bound to be spectacular. We are so lucky to be able to enjoy the many sights this country has to offer, and the wonderful people that we have had the privilege of getting to know.

Life is Good

On the Move

2011-07-09T22:02:00.001-07:00

First off, Anthony's games. They were in an elimination tournament, loose two games and it is all over. Game one they lost, 12-2, it was sad. Next night they won, 12-0, and from there they won once again, 14-3. The 4th game, was a squeaker, going in to the last inning one run down, 4-5. And that was when Anthony came to bat, 2 outs, he swings and hits the ball…base hit and drives in the tying run. Game went on to extra innings, and they held the opponents and went on to win. They next had to play the one team that had beat them the first night an lost 5-2, but good try and they played like Champs. We did not get to see the last game as we left for Idaho.

Before we could leave we had to have a tire checked out, thanks to our Pressure Pro, letting us know that our front tire was getting low. Stopped at Les Swabs on way out of town, and they could not find anything, but put in a new metal valve stem and that seems to have fixed the problem.

They were still skiing at Boreal, there was a lot of snow in the mountains this year. We had a easy drive to Winnemucca, Nevada. Stayed at the Hi-Dessert RV park. Nice place, easy in/out and honors Passport America & Escapees at 50% off, year round.

The next day we were off, hoping to make Mountain Home AFB, Idaho.

That is one long straight road, and it goes on for miles like that. We were lucky that we had a great audio book and it made the miles go by fast. For some reason most of the way was posted at 55, and we stayed with in the speed limits. Seemed all the tiny towns we went through had very outstanding courthouses. And that would because????

We found our way to the commercial gate to the base and onto the famcamp. Very nice, some large trees, but big spaces. Tried to set the satellite without luck and just left it till the next day. And that started to prove impossible, so Chuck decided that he wanted to look into getting one of the Wingard automatic cubes. So we were off to Boise and Camping World. Well we found out that we could only watch basically one TV, and not record at all. We may live in a small space but our viewing habits are not always the same. So that ended that, back to the RV, but first we went by an outlet mall, which called for a stop. There were very few stores, but there was a Vanity Fair, and I need some new undies, which I took care of. Once back at the RV, we did the “you got it”, “it’s gone”, till Chuck was ready to scream, (he was already cussing) and then lo-n-behold all is fine. This is the worst time we have had setting it up, Chuck has a meter that the satellite service men use and usually he can set it up in a few minutes.

Tomorrow will bring Kevin and Arlene in. Be great to see them again. We will all stay here for 7 days and then make our way to Valley View Park, near Yellowstone, for a month. Can’t wait, the “Gathering” has started.

Life is Good

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-03T23:10:00.001-07:00

We having just been enjoying our time with family and friends, but are ready to hit the road. Our grandson had his first baseball game Thursday night and they did not come out on top, but they have played every night since then and won. On the 4th they are off but another game Tuesday, the 5th. Luckily they have been playing late at 8, so it has a chance to cool down a bit, weather has been hot, hot and hotter. We will not be here for the finish, unless that happens the 5th, which would mean they lose, and don’t want that. But this grandma can’t take too much of this, my heart is in my throat with every play. It was easier with my son, I swear.

Chuck and our son Glen, had one request for Fathers day and that was they get to play as a team in the member/guest golf tournament at the club Glen belongs to. Being as they never ask for anything, had to give in. Yesterday was the practice round and they actually came in first, but it was 75 percent luck, they ham and egged it so well. The first official day, not so good, but hanging in there. They finished in 4th place the last day, and they were really happy with that, think Glen had to carry Chuck most of the day though. But as long as they had a good time the memory will be something they will always have.

We did not stay out at the base this time, there is one park in town and we are shoe horned in a site there. Pricey, but the drive into town from the base is a good 20 miles, so round trip eats up the gas, so works out about the same.

We leave here Wednesday heading to Mountain Home AFB, Idaho, where we will meet up with Kevin and Arlene Sullivan. Roaming When We Can Been a long time since we have seen them, really looking forward to getting together again. Then on the 18th we will move up to Yellowstone RV park for a month. McHenery's are also coming in. Mac and Nette's Road to Retirement

Tomorrow we are going out to the kids for a cookout, which will be fun. I’m making apple pies, all American apple pie. There are no fireworks any where here, budget cut and all, so we will have a few, safe and sane ones, to make it official. Hope everyone has a wonderful day, and takes a minute to remember the great country we are lucky enough to live in and most of all the people who gave their all for us to be able to do so. Life is Good.

Enjoying Park of the Sierras

2011-06-20T17:40:00.001-07:00

We have been spending the week at the SKP park, enjoying the peace and quiet. Having taken in Yosemite and all its beauty there is not that much to see or do here. People are very friendly in the park, although this is more of a winter retreat so the club house is kind of empty and there is no swimming pool. BUT there is a casino a couple of miles from here, which we have visited 3 times. They have a very generous welcome package, sign-up bonus of 20 dollars free play, (on day 2) 10% off senior food prices, and free t-shirt. Got two new sleep shirts now. Figure they only cost a few dollars, well maybe a bit more. But we had a good time.

Today we sent off the paperwork and check to Jojoba and we now officially have a lot there on Hummingbird Lane. Works out great, when we catch up with our hummingbird door window, (that Lanette got us in Mexico and that Donna Green is hauling around) it will fit right in. We are thinking with Jojoba’s location so close to San Diego and L.A. there will be a lot to entertain us and any one coming to visit. We will have plenty of FHU sites there, so hopefully we will be seeing a lot of friends that will pass through that area. They have a wonderful club house, huge heated swimming pool, 2 large Jacuzzis, plus all the other amenities. It is out in the country though, about 15 miles from Temecula. We won’t be going there till after Tennessee, which we have planned for October. Did not think we would get an offer of a site so quick, but then we hated to turn it down, we actually had our choice of two, in case come October there would be no openings, so we decided to go ahead. Usually there the wait is a year or two. We are happy with our decision, and can’t wait to actually be there.

Some bad news of traveling friends loosing their 5th wheel to a fire. Seems the bearing locked up, blew the tire, started a fire, and even though they had a fire extinguisher it wasn’t enough to stop it. Luckily they got the truck disconnected, and they are okay. Can’t imagine what they are going through, full-timers have there whole life in the rigs, and then to be in a strange place. They are special people who have many friends far and wide, and know that all are hurting with them as are we. We have a Pressure-Pro tire monitoring system, but then so did they. There goes my peace of mind that it gave me. Just a reminder to make every day special in some way, because we never know what we face around the next corner.

We are heading back to Marysville, so that Chuck can play in a golf tournament with our son. After that we are making our way to Mt Home AFB in Idaho where we will stay till going to Valley View RV, outside of Yellowstone Park for a month. Seems like we have been in a holding pattern for the last few months. But it was a treat to make a unplanned trip to California, and surprising our grandson speechless was definitely priceless. Enjoyed spending the few days we got to kidnap him, we do miss him.

Life is Good, RV Life is Better

Day of Wows

2011-06-15T21:30:00.001-07:00

Having lived in California for 40 years we had not made the trip to Yosemite. Well, today we kicked our selves for waiting so long, but because of the record snow pack this year, the waterfalls were the best they have ever seen. I had a very hard time trying to limit the pictures, and still have too many, but bear with me, unfortunately they don’t really tell the whole picture.

El Capitan

The meadows are under water in most areas, and some of the camping areas are out of commission, but other than that it was fine. The news had expected the park to be very limited, thankfully they were wrong.

There were waterfalls every where.

Half dome in the background.

Yosemite Falls

Part of the Spirals

On the way home we stopped at the pizza place that Nick Russell had raved about, and it was great. Great ending to a perfect day. Tomorrow is a kick back, do nothing day.

Life is Good, RV Life is Better.

Last Day

2011-06-14T22:20:00.001-07:00

We had nothing planned for the day, so after a few chores out of the way, we were out the door. For lunch we picked up subs from Anthony’s favorite place, Subway. Then off for a picnic on the ocean shore. Weather just is not cooperating as it is quite cool. After that it was a drive out to Carmel and the beach.

Tide pools

Then off to the beach where he walked down to the water, and played dare with the waves and lost. So back he comes to take off the wet shoes and back he goes, but not for long, the water is like ice.

Great old tree.

After leaving there we made a few quick stops, then it was back to the RV, did a load of laundry. We are meeting Anthony's parents about 150 miles from here and then we are heading to The Escapees park in Coarsegold near Yosemite. We will spend a week there, then Chuck is going back to play in a member/guest golf tournament with our son.

Oleanders that grow in the meridian, they thrive on the gas fumes, and basically no water as it seldom rains in the summer here. But they bloom for months and sure cut the glare of lights at night.

We arrived safe and sound, but we must have gone through a twilight zone or something. The heavy duty outside cord had a loose wire, fixed it, a wooden angel fell off the wall and got under the kitchen slide, got it out, the bedroom clock won’t work and the microwave just sits there, no lights on the screen. We decided that we would not touch anything else until tomorrow. Oh darn! Heard on the news that they are expecting floods in the Yosemite valley floor so all tours may be closed for awhile. Makes me wonder just WHO I ticked off that bad? Oh well, what will be will be.

Life is Good, Yes Indeedy!

Really BIG Trees

2011-06-12T21:28:00.000-07:00

Today we are off to Henry Cowell Redwoods state park near Felton, California. Just a short drive from Monterey, and we arrived to an almost empty parking lot. We had planned to take the train through the redwoods, but it was an hour an half before the next one, so we walked into the park. There was a walking trail of a mile, and we decided, heck, we could do that.

So off we went, the trial was very nice, and the trees…wow.

It was so beautiful and quite as there was almost no one there.

Can’t even see the tops.

Presenting…..

Oh yes, the nana picture, thanks Anthony.

After all that we decided that we could do with out the short pricey train ride. Did not think they could improve on what we already saw.

From there we went into Santa Cruz to a Mexican restaurant, The Acapulco, that we had been told about, with the help of our GPS we found it and it was well worth the hassle. I had the best taco salad I think I’ve ever had.

Unfortunately Chuck and I wear down pretty fast, so after picking up a movie we headed back to the RV. The next morning Chuck and Anthony we off for a round of golf. Being as Anthony is a left hand player none of our clubs would work for him, but they did have rentals available. Chuck was surprised at how well he played, yes, he did have some opps, a lot more were good or great shots.

They came home with only one picture, the camera battery conked out real fast. Glad they got the one. After a quick nap by the golfers we headed off to Fishermen's Wharf. We walked around and tasted samples of clam chowder that the restaurants we using to entice you in with. We decided on one and went in, the guys opted for fish and chips, and I had chowder in a bread bowl. No Mom, that is water, he was hamming it up big time. Just one more day, and we have no plans, what to do…what to do??? We’ll see.

Fun With Grandson

2011-06-12T13:18:00.001-07:00

Anthony’s last season game went into the books with a W, although it was trying to be a squeaker, they pulled it out. We decided he would spend the night with us so we would have an easier route to start. Got on the road about 9 and traffic was good, little heavy in Sacramento, but Chuck manages just fine, with me white-knuckling it.

Wine on the vine, and lots of the rolling coastal hills.

No sooner had we remarked that it looked like we would get there at our estimated time, than traffic came to a stand still. Slowly we moved forward, but only to be directed to a country “lane”. Had we know what we were to be traveling on we would have waited it out. Very hilly, quite narrow, lots of overhanging trees and absolutely no way to turn around. We were lucky to have only lost the twirley thingy top on the bathroom vent. Once we found out the reason for the detour, a woman had stopped to help some one and been killed, loosing a vent, no big deal. And we got smell some roses along the way.

We are staying at the Marine base language school camp ground, at Monterey. There are about 30 FHU sites, behind the golf course, an we are lucky our location does not tend to have errant balls flying into it. (But as I’m writing this Chuck and Anthony are out playing, so it could happen.) Not the best military campgrounds, but location can’t be beat. We have come to this area for years and we had a favorite restaurant, The Fishwife, so once we were set up we headed there. Either our taste buds have changed or the food was just so-so, but we will not be going back again.

The next day we were off to the aquarium, and it was all we remembered and more. Weather is on the cool side with the fog bank never burning off.

Will only post a few pictures as there are so many.

Anthony’s favorite in the touch ponds, the sea cucumber, I thought so too.

Although these were unusual too.

The “good sport”, only his nana could talk him into posing for this picture.

Jelly's

Some of the really unusual.

Seahorses, the males get pregnant.

Then we were off for a short drive up the coast and over to Salinas to an RV supplier to replace the part we had lost.

The end of day 1.

Life is Good, RV Life is Better

This Is the California I Remember

2011-06-07T18:02:00.001-07:00

Yes, the weather is finally getting to be the way I remember spring/summer in California. Basically we would have eight month or so of sunshine, followed by 3 to 4 months of fog, rain, generally not so nice, but we always could say at least we didn’t have to shovel it. This year it has been slow to get here, but do believe that it is here now. Happy, happy.

We have been busy connecting with friends, enjoying the last few ball games with our grandson. Chuck has been getting in quite a bit of golf, which makes him a happy guy. Time is flying by, before we know it, it will be over. We are leaving here Thursday for Monterey. Our grandson is going with us, he is finally out of school, and in the lull before all-star practice starts. Still not sure when that will be, so we are going and will deal with it. Either we have a nice get-away or it is cut short and his parents will come and retrieve him. But what ever we have 4 days, and we will take it.

Well we did it, put in the deposit for Jojoba Hills SKP park out side of Temecula. When I talked to them they said the wait time was only about a week, which I thought must be a mistake, but they said no. So we will see, don’t plan on going there till after Tennessee. The bad part is it overlooks the park that we fell in love with last year, the really pricey, private one, where the lots did not seem to sell all that fast. But you can't go wrong with a bunch of Escapees, so sure this will work fine for now.

MIDDLE AGE TEXTING CODES:
ATD-at the doctor. BFF-best friend fell. BTW-bring the wheelchair. BYOT-bring your own teeth. FWIW-forgot where I was. GGPBL-gotta go, pacemaker battery low. GHA-got heartburn again. IMHO-is my hearing aid on? LMDO-laughing my dentures out. OMMR-on my massage recliner. ROFLACGU-rolling on floor laughing and can't get up, TTYL -talk to you louder!

Life is Good, RV Life is Even Better.

Happy Birthday, Anthony

2011-05-28T19:58:00.001-07:00

What a great treat that we got to spend the day with him celebrating his 12th birthday. His choice of what he wanted to do was to spend time at the Sky Zone. Huge place that has 3 areas of trampolines, what fun, made me wish that I was a kid. Wouldn’t work now, once I hit the mat it would be the end of story, no way could I get up from it. But the kids got one heck of a work out, and loved every minute.

Foam Pit

Basketball

Dodge Ball

After that we went to see the Pirates of the Caribbean in 3D. It was okay, have seen them all and the first was the best to me, could be cause it was new….. ya think?

We have been busy spending time with our son, DIL and grandson with his ball games. They are over now, but he did make all-stars, so we will try and get a fast trip in before practice for that starts. Had thought maybe going to Yosemite as this year, because of the massive snow pack melt, the water falls are awesome. But think that for a 12 year old that would not rank too high on his bucket list. So Monterey and the Redwoods that a are near by, seems a better choice. Also the aquarium there is amazing. And the cherry on this sundae, I’ll get my ocean fix!

Chuck has played some golf and got to see a lot of his buddies, he also went to his Lions meeting. And yesterday I drug him to play bridge, but we won’t be doing that again. Sad to see how that group has dwindled, bridge is a dying game, so many people had passed. When my friend and I started playing 25 years ago they referred to us as the kids in the group, sad to say but there aren’t really any kids in the group now.

Last night some of our golfing friends had a cook out and we got to spend the evening talking about the good “ole days”. Great time, and even though I had a camera in my purse and two in the truck, not one picture did I get.

Time has been flying by, seems we are busy every day. Staying on the base is not the ideal situation because of the distance to town, but the campground has been rated the 3rd best of the military. And tend to agree, great facilities. And the price is right. Weather here has been pretty good, although it has been cool for California, and we have gotten rain about 4 times in the past two weeks, once again very unusual for this time of year.

Till the next time.

Life is Good.

Eat and Drink What You Like

2011-05-23T09:32:00.001-07:00

1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
5. The Germans drink a lot of beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

Take Me Out To The Ball Game

2011-05-20T20:23:00.001-07:00

Thursday night was our grandsons ball game and we were excited to see him play. His team was a winner, and he got some hits, and had a hand in getting a run down out when the runner tried to steal third. Just three more games before the season is over, then there will be all-stars if he makes the team. He loves baseball, but not like his dad did.

He lived it, dreamed it, even would be playing in his sleep. There was many a time he would be sound asleep, hollering “I got it, I got it”, or “the plays at home”.

We met some of our good friends for dinner before the game, and that almost didn’t take place. We had talked earlier in the day and decided on Mexican food. There are 2 great places here and we were meeting at one, but talked about the other. Yep you know what is coming, we were waiting at one they were at the other. Tried calling, but no answer on their cell phones, but we got the number for the other restaurant and sure enough, there was a couple waiting there. So finally got together, by then I had had a second margarita so not sure how the food was, but our time together was great.

Today we spent around the RV, gave it a good wash and just had as down day. Even cooked dinner, well, I did a great job warming it up, cabbage rolls, veggies, ect. Got them at Costco and they were so good. As usual there was too much, so it will making its appearance again in review. My word for left-overs.

Life is Good

Donner Summit

2011-05-18T09:38:00.001-07:00

We laid over in Reno an extra day as a late snow storm was making its way through the Sierras. The kids left Sunday during the tail end of it, and took them 8 hours to drive the 125 miles. Come Monday we had a short window of opportunity to make it over the summit, and we left about 9 AM, the sun was out, no wind, and dry roads. What a beautiful drive, with all the snow looking so pristine, wow.

Really late in the year for a storm of this size to come through. The few ski resorts that are still open were very happy, along with the stores getting rid of the winter supply of tire chains, know because our son had to buy a set. Two inches of snow is enough for them to require chains in California.

California is known as the land of fruit and nuts, (and don’t think it is cause what grows on trees) but it sure is nice to see the price of bing cherries this time of year. Makes up for it with the price of gas. Although gas isn’t too much higher than what we have been paying on the way out here.

Needless to say we bought more than enough cherries. We made our way to Beale AFB, which is about 12 miles from our sons house, cause the park we usually stay at was full. The park on base is great, one of the best, but just so far from everything and everybody. Oh well, six of one, half dozen of another. .

We went to the school to pick up our grandson, and as he was expecting one of his parents cars it took a few minutes for him to realize who these people were that were waving and hollering at him. He was so surprised, and embarrassed that he didn’t recognize us right away, it was so great to see him again. Sunday is his birthday so we are planning a special day. He also had requested, before we got here, that he wanted to go camping, so after school is out, June 5th, we will have to take care of that too.

During our first night here though, a raccoon got into the main electrical system and chewed half the base into a blackout. Come morning they told us that it would be at least all day without power so we headed for town. Got back about 8 last night and still no power, although it did come back on about an hour later. Finally got on the computer, awful how attached we get to these darn things.

Life is Good.

Stuck in Reno

2011-05-15T12:15:00.001-07:00

We are hoping to see Reno in the rear view mirror tomorrow, but have to wait and see if Donner Pass is open to high profile vehicles. Kids left today, but we decided we would give it a day or two to calm down some. Wind is really bad, and there is even snow falling……..where did spring go? It was great meeting the kids here, but now wish that we had just gone the rest of the way into California. Reno is not a place that we like to spend time in anymore. It has gotten dirty and run down, and everything comes with a high price. Besides can’t wait to surprise our grandson who still has no idea we are coming. So excited.

Friday night we did go to see the Bill Engvall show, and it was very good. He is one of the Redneck Comedy guys, Jeff Foxworthy, Larry the cable guy, and there is a third, but can’t remember his name. Anyway the show was so funny, you laughed from start to finish, and not a foul word in the entire performance. So refreshing. Did a little gambling, and just been hanging out. Hopefully the weather is better tomorrow and we are out of here. No matter, Life is Good.

Winnemucca Is the Place to Be

2011-05-13T13:58:00.001-07:00

Rather long drive today, 370 miles, which for us is not something that we do very often. However driving through Nevada does not leave you too many places to stop. And as luck would have it we had a tire develop a fast leak, thank heavens for Pressure Pro. It was a beeping as soon as the tire began loosing air, so we were able to pull off safely And with the tire intact, and no damage to the 5th wheel. However road service was to be at least 2 hours, but in a little over an hour we were back on the road. And we had a nice lunch, Chuck got a fast 40 winks, all is well that ends well.

Today as we were zipping along at 60+ miles an hour, couldn’t help but think of the pioneers, in their wagon trains.

What they endured crossing this vast country I can’t even imagine.

Art on the salt flats.

Bonneville salt flats under water.

Salt being extracted from the water.

Tomorrow our destination is Reno, where we are meeting our son and DIL. They are there for the week end on a bowling end-of-the-season league party. Will be great to see them again, but our grandson is not coming as he has ball games. And he does not know that we are here so it will be a big surprise when we do see him, just can’t wait to give him a big hug. He is our only grandson that we lived close to so we spent a lot of time with him in his early years. Missed him a lot, sure will be great to spend time with him again.

Life Is Good

Salt Lake City

2011-05-11T17:19:00.000-07:00

Easy travel day, little rain when we first got on the road around 9 AM, but once that passed. super travel day. Chuck decided to leave Springs one day sooner than we had originally planned due to weather moving in. And this morning I had to congratulate him on his fore sight. That hurt, to have to tell him he was right……..once again. Darn.

Wow, RV parks are sure starting to hold their sites at a premium. Last night we paid 35 and tonight 39, both with a Good Sam discount. Tomorrow have us going into a Passport America, 17.50. That will be in Winnemucca. Thank goodness for audio books, traveling through these desolate states. Not too much to take your mind off of mile after mile. Listening to one now that has 12 discs so should take us all the way in.

Decided to eat in tonight, stopped at the store picked up a few things and will save more than a few dollars. Well, not exactly. bought gas, which was 4.10 a gallon, better than yesterday at 4.21.

Life is Good.

Moving On

2011-05-10T18:10:00.001-07:00

We left Colorado Springs this morning, heading for California. Decided that we would take a different route and by pass Denver. This was 24 heading west out of Springs. Two lane road, and hilly and winding, but beautiful drive.

Mapped it out and it read that the highest elevation was just over 9000 feet, but when we were at the top, signs were saying well over 1100. So much for map-quest. And yes that is a lot snow, but as you can see the sky was ever so blue. We did see a huge herd of elk and another of antelope. There were also quite a few deer along with a huge big horn sheep. And NO, I do not have one picture to show, there was no stopping as we just plain flew past them. Bummer.

Once we got to I-70, it was smooth sailing the rest of the way into Grand Junction.

The roll is just too big for her little hand, but she figured it out just fine!

Think these two could wrap “Po” around their fingers pretty fast?

Roinn had his last track meet while we were there. Even in kindergarten they were running the 400. It was so inspiring as the kids were coming down the home stretch everyone would start cheering, and the coaches were there to run in with the last few. Very nice.

Tomorrow we are planning to make Salt Lake, not even 300 miles, so should be no problem, as long as we have no problems.

Life is Good.

We Have A Plan

2011-05-07T13:46:00.001-07:00

Yes indeedy, we have a plan. While in the RGV we had planned to take our time getting to Springs, seeing some of the sights along the way, over a period of six weeks or so. Then we would have been here till the 1st of July and we would have headed toward Salt Lake and then made our way up to Idaho and Yellowstone. But that fell apart when I decided that my tumor problem should be taken care of here, although it turned out thankfully to be nothing, it did do in our plans. So we have decided that we would just make a run to California and see our son and his family. We did not get to spend too much time with him when we were there last year as he started work on a power plant and was working 12 hour days, 7 days a week, so it left little time for visiting. Feels good to have a plan.

Our time here in Springs has flown by, the weather has changed so many times, we could have been here for months. The last few days have been wonderful though. Spring has defiantly sprung. We did get to meet up with Jesse and Ginger, RV-ing in the Kram-a-lot-Inn for dinner the other night. Tried our favorite Chinese place, and we had not eaten there since last year, so little worried that it might not be what it used to be, but it was wonderful. Ever in Springs, The Coal Mine Dragon, well worth the trip. It was good to see these “youngsters” again. They are work camping not too far from here, till October.

Finally broke down and got a Kindle, although have not used it yet, it is being charged as I write. I’ve gotten a few new toys here, a bullet mixer, tiny camera, oh yes, then I stumbled onto Penezys Spices. Which caused me to take another trip to Bed, Bath and Beyond (darn) for the magnetic spice containers.

Since I had no metal in the kitchen I attached two cookie sheets to the end of the cupboard and they make a great storage area for the spices, plus they are very visible. Notice that the labels are extra large print, lol.

Roinn and Kylee. He is a wonderful big brother, where as she is a total princess. Pink is her color, wonderful kids, but they are growing up way too fast.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Mothers Day.

Life is Good.

OH MY!!!

2011-05-07T12:56:00.001-07:00

I finally figured it out.. As I was conditioning my hair in the shower this morning, I took time to read my shampoo bottle. I am in shock! The shampoo I use in the shower that runs down my entire body says "for extra volume and body"!

Seriously, why have I not noticed this before? Tomorrow I am going to start using "Dawn" dish soap! It says right on the bottle, "dissolves fat that is otherwise difficult to remove".
It pays to read the warning labels my friends!

Playing Tour Guide

2011-04-29T12:41:00.001-07:00

Our friends, Bob & Barb Williams, stopped for a brief visit on their way to Livingston. They are doing a month of volunteering at the care center in the Escapees Park. They were game to seeing a few of the points of interest here in Colorado Springs, so we were off. Our first stop was the Air Force Academy to view the chapel.

It is really spectacular, I marvel every time we visit.

The inside looking to wards the entrance, a huge pipe organ in the loft.

The front view. Pictures do not do it justice by any means.

The pictures are of the Protestant chapel, below this is also Catholic,

Jewish,

Buddha chapels.

From there we went to visitor center and lunch at Subway, and then it was on to the Garden of the Gods. Our grandson was married at the base of this rock formation, called “kissing camels”.

My all time favorite view on the drive through the garden, years ago, the first time that I seen these rock formations I was totally blown away. But after our years of travel although they still remain impressive, there are other places that dwarf them.

Bob, on the Top of the World!

Balancing Rock

Same rock, other side

And that ended our tour, after a brief rest, we went out to dinner, and once back at the RV, the guys had to have another game of hand and foot, but they came up losers once again.

Score: Girls 2, Guys 0.

This morning they were off, hopefully the wind died down some as it was blowing early. It is their third day of being full-timers, and we are so glad that we will get to see them once again in Cody come August.

Life is Good.

White Easter, NOOOOOOOO

2011-04-25T13:47:00.001-07:00

It happens every spring when we are tempted to arrive a few weeks earlier than we should. Just call us slow learners. Snow!

Okay, so it wasn’t like we had to shovel or anything, but considering we don’t do winter in any form it was shocking.

We have been enjoying our down time here, spending time with the kids, although their time is limited as their daily life of work goes on. Our little great grand babies are still a little leary of these strangers that have come into their lives, although Roinn is comfortable with us. Klyee, not so much. Visiting only once a year is not quite enough.

We spent Easter with them and it was fun to watch them go through their baskets,

and then outside to hunt eggs. Sure brought back a lot of memories.

Had a great dinner of ham with all the trimmings, and after the golf tournament was over we had a few games of pegs and jokers. Girls were losers both times….

Wednesday we went to the Country Club for “chicken and bingo”. Lovely club, and the food was wonderful. The kids have a trail membership and are considering joining, but probably won’t at this time. The manager invited Chuck out for a round of golf, and that made his night. He also won at bingo. They only played about 10 games and for me that was just about the right amount. Watching paint dry and playing bingo have about the same appeal to me. Could be because don’t think that I have ever won.

My week was ruined when the Cowboys got eliminated off the Amazing Race. Feel that the other teams all cheated and were rewarded, when the Cowboys played fair and were penalized for it. Think that is the last time I watch it, Yeah….sure!

The deer in our daughters front yard, they can grow nothing outside, unless if is hanging 10 feet in the air, it is unbelievable the way the deer invade the neighborhood. And they truly do eat everything. And they are not the least bit afraid of humans, I took these right next to them and they just continued to eating the lilac bush.

We have two more weeks here and still have not made a decision on our next destination. Sure that it will come to us, “ain’t no way” we can just wonder, not with these gas prices.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter.

Life is Great.

TEXAS to COLORADO SPRINGS

2011-04-18T11:38:00.001-07:00

Due to a medical miscue we made the decision to arrive in Springs earlier than we had originally planned. Thankfully all was a false alarm, so we will enjoy the snow when and if it comes, and it probably will. So nice to see our daughter and SIL. Also, our grandsons family, especially those two babies. Roinn who is 6 and Kylie 3, they are so sweet, never sitting still. Sure would be nice if we could buy that energy in a store. What you can buy in a store here is marijuana, and there are stores all over, on the main street that runs through Old Colorado City, there must be 15 of them. 1/8 for $25.00. They soon will be having a price war between the legal and illegal pot.

Saturday we met the kids for breakfast as the little ones have karate, and our daughter and SIL have made it into a time they set aside to spend time with the kids, which is great. From there we went to the arcade and ditzed around for a bit with them. In the afternoon we attended a performance of The Thorn. It was amazing. Put on by the New Life Church in there mega building, which holds 5000 people. It is a round building with the stage in the center, so there is not a bad seat, although ours were some of the best. They have over 500 people in the cast, truly truly amazing. Then we all went back to the house for dinner and a few games of pegs & jokers. Guys lost, not once but twice.

Today Chuck is out on the golf course, and I’m going to walk over and get my nails done. The campground that we stay in here is nothing to speak of, the price is good, 500 a month includes cable, electric and there is wi-fi if you want it. Plus it is in walking distance of shops and restaurants. And our daughters house is but 6 blocks away, which is the main reason we stay here. Choices are rather limited in this area. The campground at the Air Force Academy is nice, but out of the way.

Glad to be back on the blog, even thought there probably will not be to much to write about for awhile. Just thankful that all is well and

Life is Good.

MIDNIGHT TONIGHT IS THE NIGHT!

2011-04-05T17:50:00.001-07:00

Yes it is, staying up till midnight so I can make reservations for Defeated Creek for “the gathering”. And wouldn’t you know it, but I have a doctors appointment for 8 AM. Have not had to be any where that early for months!

We have been doing the mundane, getting things ready to move on down the road. Jacks are fixed. Had the carpet shampooed today, and they were so fast, but did an excellent job. The best part they were right on time, so we didn’t have to worry that they might not show, after we had moved everything out side. So there are still businesses that try to please the customer.

The past few days the weather has been so hot, yesterday broke records when it hit 103. Now it does not matter that the humidity was only 14%, it was HOT. But about seven last night the cold front came in and it was wonderful, and today just heaven.

Jack and the Beanstock comes to mind. Hope that it blooms before we leave.

That’s all for now, Life is Good.

Onion Festival, Rambling On

2011-03-26T15:50:00.001-07:00

Last week seen us making the run to San Antonio, and once again we were lucky to get an apartment for the night on the base. We really thought we were in the lap of luxury with all the room, very nice. Other than getting Chucks hearing aids we did not do anything. Getting to know that road, from here and back again, though. At the last minute we decided that it would be fun to spend the month of May working at CARE at the Escapees park with Barb and Bob/Chuck, but they had filled the month out. So our plans as of now are leaving here the 16th of April, going to Fredericksburg for a few days, then over to the Lost Alaskan RV park, in Alpine. Spend some time there before starting north to Colorado Springs. Can’t go too soon, we have done that before and ended up in snow. Have not been to that area of Texas, and it sounds different, and about now, looking forward to something different. Sure don’t know if we will ever be able to come off the road, seems like, especially me, wants new and different scenery every few months at least. Even after Chuck retired from the Air Force, and we were in one place, hitch itch, or what ever, would hit me, and the only thing I could do then was change the furniture, and the rooms around. Chuck was afraid one day he would find the dining room in the master bath! And did I ever have fun when we remodeled! Now he is the one who watches HGTV, and all those home buying shows….lol. We did have a houseboat for 12 years, but we were locked to one lake as it was too big to be towable. But loved the summers on it. Guess we sat too long here, one of our front landing jacks seems to have given up the ship, had a mobile RV tech out and he is working on getting it fixed. Carpets will be cleaned, rig washed and waxed, and that should be about all that we need to taken care of before pulling out. Getting a little lonely here, lots of people gone already. But our site is among the park models and mobiles so it doesn’t seem so empty compared to the RV section. Although a lot of the people are gone.

Was it the Little Shop of Horrors that had that huge plant? Well this is behind our RV, can almost seem it grow. Once it blooms it will die, but lots of little new plants will be there to claim the space. Planning on keeping a running picture log till it blooms or we leave, what ever some first.

Chuck and I were up and out early to play bridge, then we went to the Onion Festival. Starting to becoming friends with my droid phone. Did get a stylist so that really helps in getting it set up, I was spending more time deleting my mistakes than making head way, also really like the voice search. Which, got us there, pretty neat. Sure eats the battery though.

There were 3 booths selling blooming onions, those lines were very long, but all the others seemed to be really wanting for customers. Sort of felt sorry for them, and the one next to our line was sponsored by a Lions club, and Lion Chuck, had to support them by buying a polish sausage while waiting in the blooming onion line. I was looking forward to the arts and crafts booths, but that disappointed, there were very few. Will say the blooming onion we had was absolutely wonderful. Lots of good music, fun time.

So there you have it, nothing new, but loving it, hope it goes on forever….Life is Good.

'Be who you are and say what you feel, because those that matter - don't mind... and those that mind - don't matter.'

Erin Go Bragh!

2011-03-17T17:31:00.001-07:00

Erin Go Bragh: Ireland Forever!

Our street float was based on this saying….well, sort of…..Erin Go Braless. Tacky you say, well that would be us! That is what the trip to the ropa’s main purpose was for…bras…..lol.

The entire park went out for the festivities. There were games, the dangerous wheel chair races,

where the pusher is blindfolded, makes “your other left” to come in play more than a wee bit. Water balloon toss, bean bag throw, spelling contest, and much more, think if our kids could see us they might be concerned, but hey, it is our turn to be a kid again.

First place float

Walker was wonderful about the green wig, what a sweetie.

The streets in the park were lined for the parade, think some people camped out the night before, but then maybe not.

And YES, we bought new hats!

Tomorrow we are making the run to San Antonio, hopefully this is the last one.

Life is Good.

Busy Doing Nothing

2011-03-14T17:31:00.001-07:00

We have been on the constant go, but seems as though we have one foot nailed to the floor, going in one big circle. We signed up for an additional month here, just seemed easier to sit and get all the final loose ends tried up. Which means a few more trips across the border I’m sure. Last week we found the nicest place for pedi’s. And the best part, they had a margarita machine going full blast. By the time we got out of there and had lunch, which had 2fer’s, getting back across that bridge was………..eventful. Sure glad we have a designated driver, dear sweet Chuck.

Seen a really great movie the other night. The Next Three Days, with Russell Crowe. Kept you on the edge of your seat, or at least it did me. And last night we had Melissa & Larry of “One Last Time” here at the park. They had been putting on shows for the past 36 days straight, ours being the 36th, so they were ready for some down time I’m sure. We are going to try and see the other show they have before we leave.

I’ve been doing a little more home cooking lately, have to make up for the rising gas prices some where, and that would be the easiest way. Actually eating out here is not that much fun. Have to eat so early or wait an hour for a table it is so crowded, so eating at home is okay. And the drinks are cheaper.

Wednesday we are decorating our float for the St. Patrick's Day parade. Should be a fun day, lots of games and food.

THIS DAY IS YOURS
DON'T THROW IT A W A Y

May God Bless You,
'To the world you might be one person,
But to one person you just might be the world'
'May the Lord Bless you and keep you,
May the Lord Make his face shine upon you,
And give you Peace......Forever'
'Good friends are like stars...
You don't always see them, But you know they are always there.

That’s all folks……..Life is Good.

Out With the Old In With the New

2011-03-09T11:30:00.001-08:00

Travel plans for the summer that is. We were totally undecided, and finally pulled the trigger and made a decision. We are going to the Escapees Rally. That being said everything else will be based on being in Gillette, Wyoming the end of August. We have a little over a month here yet, then the wheels will be turning. Of course it will be a slow crawl to Wyoming, lots of stops along the way.

The time seems to fly faster every week, here it is Wednesday, could it be my new Saturday? We have been busy finishing up with dentist and doctors appointments, LOL, we have managed to cram enough of them in to last the rest of the year. So far everything has checked out okay, but not because they haven’t tried their best to find something that needed fixing. We are in “rust belt era” of the golden age, you know.

Last week our park had casino night and we were all asked to dress western, for us it meant buying a cowboy hat.

We had a great time, playing with faux money is still fun. Then at the end they had a auction where you could spend it. Had some very nice items, but people had pooled their money so the bids were out of our reach. For the last item, they had 3 small decorative bags, one of which contained 50 dollars, one, 25 dollars (real money) and one with zip. But they had to sell all 3 before you could look. Our group pooled our money and got one of the bags, and it contained ……………….NOTHING. Which was what our money was worth after the event was over so didn't feel bad. We had a fun time, and big thanks go to all the people who helped put it on, know that it took a lot of work.

Couple of the dancehall hussies, Pat & Laverne

The big new is I got a Droid! Not sure when I will reach the stage of saying that I love it, but have a feeling that it is in the far distant future, cause right now it is all I can do to make a call, talk about being lost. Found someone who is willing to help me, just have to find the time that works for both of us to get together. Mean while I’ll dink away with it. I can do this, yes, I can!

The farewell potluck was the other day, but people are not in that big of hurry to leave, although there are a few who have left. There is a large St. Patrick's doings here, and after that the exodus will begin. I went with some of the girls to a few ropa’s looking for things to use in the parade, and it was not too bad. Take that back, had fun, would even do it again. One of the girls found a huge bunch of beautiful silk scarves, must have been over 100, probably cost her 20 cents for all. Different time, but guess you can get lucky.

Next week another trip to San Antonio, the final one to pick up Chucks hearing aids. He has a 30 days trail period with them, which is the main reason we are staying in the area an extra month. Well, that brings me to the end of this update, all is well, life is good, thanks for looking in on us.

Day by Day

2011-02-26T15:36:00.001-08:00

This week passed by very fast, seems like as we get closer to leaving it seems to do that. About the only thing that we did differently this week was take in a movie, The Kings Speech. We both thought it was very good, which surprised me, as it was not Chucks kind of movie. Thought he might catch a nap but he didn’t. We also had a Red Hat lunch in the park, and the entertainment was Auntie Kreamsaugen. She was very funny, the family puts on a show in the Jasper Theater in Park Rapids, Minnesota. Defiantly worth checking out if ever in that part of the world. Quite a large group of Red Hatters, almost 200, think everyone had a good time. Know that I did. Also been putting together our taxes, which is not hard to do, using Turbo tax, can even get away with the free edition. But glad to get it out of the way.

The weather has turned fairly hot, the other day actually hit 96, too early for that. Thankfully it was only one day. Kind of sad though the freeze we had for a few days last month killed all the flowers, so unlike the last few years we have no bougainvillea, or anything else. But the blue bonnets are starting to show there flowers, so it won’t be long.

Saturdays are busy days here, first breakfast at the club house, then duplicate bridge, Chuck and I play together, after, usually we run to the flea market, for fruits and veggies, then pegs and jokers tonight. Anything to keep us off the streets. Chuck had an accident free round of golf yesterday, yippee! That about does it for another week, thanks for looking in on us, know that we sound like we are in a boring rut, but actually having a great time, spending our kids inheritance.

Life is Good

Accidental Golf

2011-02-22T18:18:00.001-08:00

Anyone know where I can get one of these outfits? Seems like Chuck needs one of these for when he plays golf. Friday he got hit with a golf ball, luckily his arm was across his chest, so it took the blow. Huge black and blue area. Then Sunday he is out again, and manages to get tangled in some weeds, brush, shoe laces, and falls on his face. Fat lip, skinned knees, just to name a few of the booboo’s. Glad that both incidents had plenty of witnesses or I could lose a case of spousal abuse.

An A-OK Week

2011-02-19T12:54:00.001-08:00

That about says it all. All Chucks tests turned out fine, which was a big relief. So glad that we are past the “what if” stage, and can at least start thinking of making some summer plans. Do not think they will include the Escapees Rally though, and that makes us sad, especially since our friends, Bob & Molly have taken on the job as head cat herders, but we know that a lot of our friends that will be there supporting them. Maybe we can send some proxy stand-ins.

This week has literally flown by, what with golf, bridge, cards, lunch in Mexico, seems like every day was full. Today we are having a get together wishing some new friends, Dave & Bev, bon voyage/farewell. They are leaving for a cruise through the Panama Canal, and then returning to Iowa. It was their first year here and they purchased a park model, so looks like they will be back next year. We are storing our golf cart in their car port, which keeps us from having come up with other plans for it. And if for some reason we don’t make it back next year, they will have a cart to use, works for us.

Our park has a big party celebrating St Patrick’s Day, and after that it tends to empty out fairly fast over the next month. Not sure if we will be leaving here then, but if we do we will probably not go further than either Rockport or Fredericksburg. Do not want to make the mistake of thinking that all the weather has become spring time. We did that the first few years, and dealt with snow. Not leaving Texas till the middle of April. But the way diesel is going up, we may be in trouble, been here 2 months and seen it rise 60 cents a gallon. Funny, does not seem to be a subject the media thinks relevant. Not going there, not saying another word, won’t let them ruin my wonderful day, living in this fabulous place with marshmallow clouds and pink sky.

Life Is Good, Life In A RV Is Even Better

Rent A Tire

2011-02-12T13:51:00.001-08:00

Seen a store this week called Rent a Tire, maybe it is just me, but think this is about the most ridiculous thing I’ve heard of. But then maybe not. Our park had a yard sale this morning and there were some interesting items for sale. When the permanent homes sell in the park, they usually come with everything in them, which a lot of probably has been there since the first purchaser, so there are some oldies and everything was selling. Chuck was having a great time, he got rid of a few things, but for him it is all in the sale. He loved his sales job, maybe that is why he was so good at it.

We made our run to San Antonio again this week, had the truck detailed the day before we went, and we just happened to have a slight rain for a few miles, so back to square one. It sure got cold on us, temps dropped about 25 degrees in 10 miles. It had been so nice, didn’t think to check the weather for up there, so I didn’t even have a jacket with me. Spent the night on the base again, and back here the next day. We are hoping the next trip will be when we are leaving Texas, spend a few days there making sure that his hearing aids are doing good, and we will be off to……some where. Missed our parks craft sale, they have one once a month, and a big quilt show the next day. Seen pictures and there were some fabulous quilts. Bev and I played bridge in the Olympics, but did not bring home a medal…..darn.

Finally getting our doctors, dentists & tests out of the way. Chuck goes in the hospital Tuesday to see if he needs to have any stents put in. If he does they will do it right away and he will spend the night other wise he gets to come home the same day. Slowly but surely checking all the boxes.

RETIRE to WHERE?

You can retire to Phoenix , Arizona where...
1. You are willing to park 3 blocks away because you found shade.
2. You've experienced condensation on your hiney from the hot water in the toilet bowl.
3. You can drive for 4 hours in one direction and never leave town.
4. You have over 100 recipes for Mexican food.
5. You know that "dry heat" is comparable to what hits you in the face when you open your oven door.
6. The 4 seasons are: tolerable, hot, really hot, and ARE YOU KIDDING ME??!!
OR
You can retire to Southern California where...
1. You make over $250,000 and you still can't afford to buy a house.
2. The fastest part of your commute is going down your driveway.
3. You know how to eat an artichoke.
4. You drive your rented Mercedes to your neighborhood block party.
5. When someone asks you how far something is, you tell them how long it will take to get there rather than how many miles away it is.
6. The 4 seasons are: Fire, Flood, Mud and Drought.
OR
You can retire to New York City where...
1. You say "the city" and expect everyone to know you mean Manhattan .
2. You can get into a four-hour argument about how to get from Columbus Circle to Battery Park, but can't find Wisconsin on a map.
3. You think Central Park is "nature."
4. You believe that being able to swear at people in their own language makes you multi-lingual.
5. You've worn out a car horn. (Ed. Note-if you have a car).
6. You think eye contact is an act of aggression.
OR
You can retire to Minnesota where...
1. You only have four spices: salt, pepper, ketchup and Tabasco .
2. Halloween costumes fit over parkas.
3. You have more than one recipe for casserole.
4. Sexy lingerie is anything flannel with less than eight buttons.
5. The four seasons are: winter, still winter, almost winter and construction.

6. You've never met any celebrities, but the mayor knows your name.

7. Your idea of a traffic jam is ten cars waiting to pass a tractor.
8. You have had to switch from "heat" to "A/C" on the same day.
9. You end sentences with a preposition: "Where's my coat at?"
10. When asked how your trip was to any exotic place, you say, "It was different!"

OR
You can retire to the Deep South where...
1. You can rent a movie and buy bait in the same store.
2. "Y'all" is singular and "all y'all" is plural.
3. "He needed killin" is a valid defense.
4. Everyone has 2 first names: Billy Bob, Jimmy Bob, Mary Sue, Betty Jean, Mary Beth, etc.
5. Everything is either "in yonder," "over yonder" or "out yonder."
It's important to know the difference, too.
OR
You can retire to Colorado where...
1. You carry your $3,000 mountain bike atop your $500 car.
2. You tell your husband to pick up Granola on his way home, so he stops at the day care center to pick up his daughter, Granola.
3. A pass does not involve football or dating.
4. The top of your head is bald, but you still have a pony tail.
OR
FINALLY You can retire to Florida where...
1. You eat dinner at 3:15 in the afternoon.
2. All purchases include a coupon of some kind -- even houses and cars.
3. Everyone can recommend an excellent dermatologist.
4. Road construction never ends anywhere in the state.
5. Cars in front of you often appear to be driven by headless people or Q-tips.

That could be the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, too!

Now I'm off to rent a tire. Yes Sirree, Life is Good.

When It’s Cold, It’s Really Really Cold

2011-02-07T12:43:00.001-08:00

A week of extremes, weather wise that is. We have run the air conditioner, and the heater, both at full blast in same week. But makes us appreciate the great weather when it returns. Glad we only had a few days of winter, feel for all who endure months of it.

Wednesday we met up with Mark & Dortha, and Roger & Barb for a charity show that was being put on by Bernie & Red. They are a couple that have been coming to the valley for quite some years, and have a fabulous singing, comedy act. Red came out in this outrageous red outfit, and out of six of us we had all forgotten to bring a camera. Tried to have a photographer e-mail me a picture, but none have arrived. Guess I should have slipped him a picture of Ben Franklin, might have had better luck. We left there and had dinner at Rudy’s, it was so good getting together.

The cold weather caused the electric use to become so great that they were doing rolling black outs, unfortunately we had one hit us, but when they went to turn it back on, everything went south fast. The electric company was out here most of the day replacing transformers. We had heat cause the heater fan ran off the battery, and we got power back before it went dead. We used to have rolling blackouts in California but they were in the summer when air conditioner use was high. The cold sure hits the cactus hard, all the flowers that were getting ready to bloom are no more. They are saying most of the oranges and grapefruit have been picked. Although there are a lot left on the trees, but that is because the powers that be (aka government) will only allow them to meet certain quotas and rest goes to waste.

Saturday the weather was back to normal, we had been holding off doing the laundry, so took off to get that taken care of. Later in the day was talking to Barb and we decided to give the kite festival a try, on Sunday, and we couldn’t had better weather.

Pictures of a Christmas sand sculpture in the visitor center at South Padre Island.

We took our little portable picnic table and a lunch and had a marvelous time watching kites and eating. And yes, we did have cameras.

Some were huge.

This week we have another road trip to San Antonio for Chuck to get fitted for his hearing aids. Hope that the next visit can be worked in around the time we are leaving the valley. Not a drive that we look forward to, okay if you are on to new adventures.

Where Did Saturday Go?

2011-01-30T08:43:00.001-08:00

Well so much for that resolution of posting every Saturday. But have an excuse, it was on my schedule, only got a call for a visit with some friends who have bought a winter home here in the park, so just had to check out their new hideaway. The main impression that comes to mind is BIG. Sure that they will have a lot of good times there, and also extra room for their kids and families to visit.

We did a quick road trip to San Antonio this week. Chuck finally got the process started on his hearing aids, though not through the VA. This is a program where he will get them at cost, which is good. We drove up one day, spent the night in the BOQ, which is temp housing on the base. Then in the morning he had his tests, and we left after that. The drive is 250 miles of flat, sage brush covered, wide open nothingness.

That the roads are good is about the only thing to say about it. Was also a week for doctors, but that too was frustrating. The cardiologist thinks that the fluid in the lungs was caused by something other than the heart, where as the lung specialist insists it likely to be the heart. A decision was made to have a cath done of the heart to see if any stints might be needed and CT scan done in a month on the lungs, and then go from there. Otherwise he is in good shape for the shape he is in.

The first winter we spent here, we did a lot of sight seeing and tours, the following year not as much, and this year…nothing. The flea market and Mexico don’t count. Have not been to South Padre Island, although we are going to try to get over there for the kite festival next week. The weather has been pretty good so far, and hate to say it cause might jinx it, the wind has not blown hardly at all. Also planning to meet up with Mark & Dortha, Roger & Barb, later this week. Everyone is so busy doing their own thing that it has not come together, so I just threw out a plan and we got it on the calendar. Looking forward to it, be great seeing seeing Mark & Dortha, it has been awhile. Have met up with Barb & Roger a few times, in Louisiana and now here.

We are at the half way mark of the time we planned to spend here, and starting to look forward to getting the wheels turning. Still have not made our definite summer plans, but we are leaning to Florida, then up the east coast. Think we will move from here to Rockport for at least a week or two. Gee, a plan is taking hold!

Charlie's wife, Lucy, had been after him for several weeks to paint the seat on their toilet. Finally, he got around to doing it while Lucy was out.. After finishing, he left to take care of another matter before she returned.She came in and undressed to take a shower. Before getting in the shower, she sat on the toilet. As she tried to stand up, she realized that the not-quite-dry epoxy paint had glued her to the toilet seat.About that time, Charlie got home and realized her predicament. They both pushed and pulled without any success whatsoever. Finally, in desperation, Charlie undid the toilet seat bolts Lucy wrapped a sheet around herself and Charlie drove her to the hospital emergency room.The ER Doctor got her into a position where he could study how to free her (Try to get a mental picture of this.).Lucy tried to lighten the embarrassment of it all by saying, "Well, Doctor,I'll bet you've neverseen anything like this before."The Doctor replied, "Actually, I've seen lots of them. I just never saw one mounted and framed."

Week Two: Check

Life is Good

Week One

2011-01-22T18:14:00.001-08:00

I’ve made the commitment to update the blog at least once a week, and would hate to go back on that resolution right away. The week went by soooo fast, it was almost a blur. Monday, was one of Chucks golf days, and he was not too happy with his score, but it must have been that everyone else played worst as he came in second. Something about winning when you know it wasn’t your best that sort of takes the glow off the win.

Then Chuck also had some tests run, this week coming up we will find out the results of everything, we are hoping for the best. As for me it was a trip on the other side of the border to the dentist, to finish up the bridge work. The price was about a tenth of what it would have been here, and very happy with the looks and feel. Always joked that I had a Cadillac parked in my mouth, was afraid that it would now become a Yugo. But think I did okay. Chuck did get new glasses too, but he choose to do that in town here, the price was better than he was quoted in Mexico, plus he got a second pair of single vision sunglasses for golf for next to nothing.

We did meet with Roger and Barb one day, and took a trip with a group of Escapees from Louisiana, and went to Harlingen for a fun time at a soda joint/bar/dancehall. This musical family used to play a PePe’s, but the hurricane that came through here this past summer, along with the river flooding, wiped them out. So they are trying to start the same type of place away from the river. Must say the music was great, the food not so much, but could be fun place to go, hope they can make it. Times are hard though. Did actually take the camera, and never got one picture, battery was completely dead, have not been taking any pictures, and still have not. Today we had bridge in the morning, then Bev and Dave went with us to the flea market. I had been wanting a magnetic necklace and one of the vendors called to say she had gotten some. But it was so hard to choose, wish she had only gotten one style, would have made it easier, but finally selected one. Lun-dinner was at the market, and dessert was a dollar banana split from Stars Drive-In. The Saturday special, and just the right size.

Weather wise has been okay, could be a little warmer at times, but the afternoons are great. Well, that brings an end to another week in the life of two ole fools farting their way through life. Yep, the golden years!

Life is Good

Warning From Roswell

2011-01-18T16:16:00.001-08:00

WARNING! FB now automatically scans your brain through your monitor. To BLOCK, go to your kitchen cabinet & remove the box of aluminum foil. Wrap foil around your head, stay calm & breathe through your left nostril. This is a serious problem & has been confirmed by my cousin's girlfriend's neighbor's son's baby's step-mamas uncle's pet Chihuahua. SAVE YOUR FRIENDS.

Life Gets In the Way

2011-01-15T15:38:00.001-08:00

We have been to the doctors, dentist, glasses ordered, blood drawn, bottles peed in, x-rayed, poked, tested and retested. But at this point the only thing we have made no head way on is Chucks hearing aids. The ONE thing that brought us here. We are certainly using this time to get everything taken care of, which is good, hopefully we can leave here patched up and high stepping.

Our wonderful weather left the other day and it got flat out cold, not down to freezing, but to have it in the 80’s and then the very next day 40, was bit of a big change. Was only suppose to last for a few days but we are on day 4 now and though it has warmed up we have this drizzling rain/mist. Glad all our friends that are in Arizona and California are not having the same problem. If it can’t be me, glad it is them.

We have been beyond busy doing nothing, but having a good time, cards, golf, even trying a bit of line dancing. Last Sunday we went to see a show at a another park, Bernie & Red. They do a comedy routine with some singing thrown in. Funny, funny, funny, we have seen them before and hope to see another routine they do while they are here before they move on to Arizona. Just when I decided that water exercise could be fit in the weather flipped. All though the water is heated, still have to get back to the RV. Bev and I are playing bridge in the Winter Texan Senior Olympics next month. Chuck is playing pinochle. Last year he got a silver medal, for real. I’ve made the decision that while we are not moving, I’ll try to post on Saturdays only, unless there is something that just has to be put to paper. Got to go, Pegs & Jokers night.

Life is Good!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2011-01-08T14:31:00.001-08:00

We seem to have been going non-stop since we got settled here, but on the other hand have accomplished very little. but on the other hand, we sure have been enjoying ourselves, which makes us put both hands together and say a little thank you prayer.

We have been busy with cards, and all the games they play here, plus golf a couple of times a week. I also have a new bridge partner, and we played with the “Big Dogs”, Wednesday, and came in first in our section and second over-all. We were happy happy. We are scheduled to play again tomorrow, hope it isn’t beginner luck, but no matter, just love to play the game.

Met up with out friends Barb and Roger for dinner last night, and convinced them that they wanted to go into Mexico and take us to the dentist they have used and are very happy with. After that we stopped and had lunch at the Old Town restaurant, which we had never tried before, but they had. It was very good, we had combo plates, an order of guacamole, margaritas (2-4-1) and cokes all for 16.50. Which probably led us to purchase 2 gallons of tequila to bring home.

We were told that that was what we could bring back into the US. So far so good, but only one liter is duty free! So our bargain was taxed by the feds and by Texas. Have a feeling it may have not been such a good buy after all. Does look like a life time supply of Jose Cuevo though….LOL.

The weather has been just wonderful, but there is word out that is all coming to an end tonight, predicting thunderstorms and much cooler weather. Well they really need the rain, so hopefully it will only be for a few days.

Chuck and I are both doing the doctor thing, him much more than me. We are both fine for the shape we are in, but guaranteed there will not be a test that hasn’t been run by the time we leave here. Still haven’t started on the hearing aids though. Guess we will have to make a trip back to San Antonio for that.

All in all…..Life is Good.

It”s Almost Gone

2010-12-30T18:36:00.001-08:00

The Beginning of the Eclipse

Yes, the year 2010 is on it’s last days. We have made good use of the the year. Our wheels were rolling most of the time, although we managed to spend plenty of time seeing friends and the sights.

We left the RGV last year about the middle of March and made our way up the coast spending time in Corpus Christi and Rockport. From there we went to Bourne where we met a group of the Class of 07. After a fun filled time we traveled to Colorado Springs, home of our daughter and her family. Chuck had a repair job done, and a not so successful try at cataract surgery. We had planned to fly our grandson from California out to the Springs, but there were no longer nonstop flights, so we decided that we would pick him up in Vegas. We headed into the southern part of Utah, seeing the Arches, Brice's Canyon and Mount Zion. Wow, we think those should be on everyone's ”bucket list”.

Come to find out there were no direct flights from Sacramento to Vegas either. Our son and DIL decided that they could use a little road trip and drove him down. About that time the weather decided to heat up big time…..110 to 115. The air conditioner never quit. Then it was on to San Diego, where we camped right on the beach on Camp Pendleton. We figured we had about 2 weeks with our grandson before he had to be back for all-star baseball practice. But after buying tickets for 3 different attractions, we were notified that he had to be back in 5 days. Marine World, San Diego Zoo, and Animal Kingdom in 3 days, we were done in, but he made it back in time for practice in the afternoon. We spent a few weeks visiting friends and family. Then several couples joined us in going to southern Oregon for a week.

Friends Barb and Bob/Chuck live in southern Idaho, which was our next destination. Sun Valley is in their back yard, gorgeous country. We left there planning on seeing some of Yellowstone that we had not taken in the last time we were there, but the weather played a large part in making the campgrounds unable to accommodate us due to the large amount of rain, and parking being all grass. But we did make an unexpected stop that was a real treat in Medora, North Dakota. Each summer they put on a first class musical and we took that in. Then it was on to Wisconsin, a visit with a few relatives and we were off to Elkhart. We spent 2 months in that area, taking in Nick’s Rally, the Escapee’s Rally, and yes a third, the Montana Rally. Each one was great in it’s own way.

A “Gathering”, Lisa’s, was happening in Tennessee at Defeated Creek! What a great campground, but the locals love it too, it is pretty much reserved up for the weekends well in advance. Then it was down into the panhandle of Florida where we caught up with Kevin and Arlene who were work camping at the Topsail State Park. Once again a beautiful park. We left there for the infamous Betty’s, where we were meeting a few other couples for Thanksgiving. Great, great, great. Finished off our stay in Louisiana by popping into Kinder, for a last casino fix. Texas has none, so it is a long time between dues paying, which is just as well. We hit San Antonio, and after a few weeks we finally made it back to the Rio Grand Valley. And dagnabit, just writing about it made me tired, but it was a great year. Can’t wait and see what next year holds in store, as we have no plans that are not written in Jell-O.

We are getting settled in, doctor appointments for both of us. Told Chuck we are in the repair, replace or discard part of our lives. Big card party tomorrow night, also a dance, but think we are more for the cards. Bought a golf cart so we can tool around the park, either sell it in the spring or store it.

Have to share, our great-grandbabies, Roinn & Kylee

HAPPY NEW YEARS

LIFE IS GOOD

It Feels Like Home

2010-12-20T10:35:00.001-08:00

Unlike a lot of full timers we have no place other than a mail box in Livingston Texas, that we can call our home base. This is our second year at Alamo Palms and the welcome we have received from so many of the people that we met last year, and all our new neighbors, gives us a warm and fuzzy feeling. This has to be one of the friendliest parks in the valley, and the busiest. There is so much going on, there is no way you could not have a good time.

Today is Chucks birthday, make that his 74th one, wow, how did we get so old so fast. We don’t think we are any where close to what our bodies seem to be, which at times, is at the bottom of that famous hill. As long as we stay away from “boot hill”, all is well. The park is having a viewing of the lights tonight, and they are having hay rides and breaking out all the golf carts so everyone can partake. After wards one of our neighbors has invited a group over for a get together. Sure that it will be fun and we will get to meet more of the neighbors. I’m going to sneak over a cake for birthday boy.

Yesterday was our first trip to the flea market. Ordered a outside roller shade for the back window, and to have the fabric replaced on the awning. Can not touch the price here, so get’er done. Wonderful to buy huge bags of oranges and grape fruit for 3 dollars each. Plus got the ingredients for Chuck salsa. Nothing else interested us. The market was really very empty compared to last year, but maybe after Christmas. Can’t say the same for the restaurants, they are full from 4:30 on. We usually have linner (lunch/dinner) before 4, that way we beat the crowd and pay lunch prices. Nothing cheap about us, I’ll have water with lemon, please, add a sweetener and whala….lemonade, group.

Well, I’m off to play bridge, Chuck had a doctors appointment this morning, and he has not made it back yet. Hope they are not holding him hostage again.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

Find the Pickle

2010-12-17T14:50:00.001-08:00

It was a tradition in our family to hide a pickle in the tree, come Christmas Eve it was a great joy to be the one to discover it. Can you find the pickle?

Did get the decorations up in time to be able to enjoy them. Do love the memories of all the places they were acquired from.

The Great Escape

2010-12-16T18:50:00.001-08:00

Our stop over in San Antonio was for one reason, for Chuck to get fitted for new hearing aids at Audey Murphy VA Hospital. In the process of doing the mandatory physical they found fluid in his lungs, especially one of them. After a few more tests they decided that he should be admitted and the fluid removed. Once that had taken place they scheduled several other tests, but after two days of waiting, Chuck decided it was time to make a jail break and head for the border. He will get in touch with our doctor here ad get things started next week. Right now he is so tickled to be here, actually he is playing cards as I type, he does love his games.

As of now we are in the resort that we spent last year at, Alamo Palms. We really enjoyed our time here last year with the exception of the size of site. So this year we booked one that is in an area that is mostly mobile homes, and we do have space. Room for another RV with space to spare. Not complaining though, oh no.

Getting the decorations up now, they don’t consist of all that much. I have limited my keepsakes to an occasional ornament, and over the years they have grown to quite a collection. But they also take very little space. I hang a long lighted garland over the big slide and use that to display them. Brings back many memories of the places we have been. And I love the new side board, five feet of display space. Pictures will follow, once it is all done tomorrow.

Life is good, no it is great!

Love’n Texas

2010-12-08T07:02:00.001-08:00

We have been in San Antonio, at the Lackland AFB famcamp for a few days now. The weather was absolutely lovely the first few days, but it has cooled of some. Still very comfy. Today we decided to take in the lights at the Riverwalk, better than fighting the crowds of the week ends. And it was mission accomplished, there were very few people there. We had a very nice dinner at Tony Romas, which actually cost us nothing but an hour of our time. Yep, one of those freebies for listening to a time share spiel. We got way laid on the way to the Riverwalk and “offered” a 75 dollars credit card just to listen, we decided we had time to kill, so why not. Well, when they offered this time share for the low buy in of 68,000, and we laughed they basically couldn’t get us out of there fast enough. Ah sucks, guess we are just trailer trash, on the other hand we get to go every and any place, and sleep in our own bed. Hard to beat that.

Oh, back to the lights, I personally, thought they were disappointing.

Pretty yes, but I had read about all the luminaries and there were none, it was just lights streaming down from the trees. Worth seeing, yes, glad we did it, yes, but the margarita at dinner, priceless.

Being officially Texans we must have our truck put through a safety inspection when we enter back into Texas. After searching on the internet I got a few address where this could take place, but they were erroneous. So we just went in search driving the vehicle repair area, and came upon one.

I certainly feel safer now that I know that everyone has to go through this procedure. He basically took our money, scraped the old sticker off, put the new one on, done, finished, have a good day. By the looks of the building we shouldn’t have expected much more?

Chucks appointment with the VA is early Thursday, and he had hoped to get fitted and tested for new hearing aids, but now it seems that first he has to have a physical. Have a feeling we will be coming back for his testing and all. Know that it won’t hurt to have another physical but he did have one in California this spring. Oh well, it is what it is.

Life is Good.

Cut Loose of Betty’s Web

2010-11-30T20:16:00.001-08:00

What a great time we had, the friends, the food, the laughter, and the card games, that unfortunately were won entirely by the men. Not once did the women emerge victorious……but we are plotting revenge as I write.

We took a tour of the Tabasco factory one day which was very interesting. The plant was not running, instead there was a short movie, and then we walked through the plant. And of course the country store, my oh my, there were a lot of Tabasco items to taste, even ice cream, and of course we had to make several purchases. Thanks for the tour Denny and Suzie, we really enjoyed it.

Barb and Roger came by for a short visit, and we went to a restaurant that Betty said was her favorite. Very good food, unique wall décor, and great margaritas. What more could you ask for.

Thanksgiving we all made a dish or two, and someone even did a turduckin. Can’t honestly say that I would buy one, it was interesting to try it though.

Hey, they have only the best in Louisiana.

We had food and more food, what a feast.

The next day Bob and Molly were off to Red Bay to try and get the repairs completed on their motorhome.

The Little Green Man behind the wheel of their toad. Looks like he has a new job.

Sunday afternoon We went with Keith and Donna to the play, Tuna Christmas, and it was fantastic. Two men played all the parts, and did a awesome performance, it was laugh till you………..well at my age, let’s just leave it at that.

Monday we left Betty’s and followed the Greens to the casino at Kinder. It was a short 80 mile jaunt, and we settled in a very nice park here at the casino. Good time yesterday, slots seemed to be very loose, today, no so much. But today was seniors day and they were bringing them in by the bus load. Played blackjack and pleased to say that we are leaving here winners. Not buy a new RV winner, more like a new bumper sticker, spare no cost , winner. But a winner none the less.

Tomorrow we will be rolling down the road, headed for San Antonio, almost 400 miles, looks to be a good 2 day trip.

Life is Good.

Enjoying Betty’s RV Park

2010-11-24T12:11:00.001-08:00

We had planned to arrive at Betty’s, in Abbeville, Louisiana, on the 23rd, but heard from Molly that there was a swamp tour scheduled for that day, so cancelled some plans, pulled in the slides, and were rolling down the road ASAP on Monday.

Bye Biloxi

The 220 mile trip was uneventful, although traffic seems quite heavy. We arrived at Betty’s about 3, and after squeezing in we were ready for the daily “happy hour”. Great seeing old friends, and making new acquaintances. If you have been here you know what it is like, if not, you must put it on your bucket list. Of course after happy hour, we were off to eat at Suire’s, a local restaurant that is a real treat, very good food.

Interesting contrast of the white herons and fall foliage. Tuesday we were off for the swamp tour, there were 16 in our group, and our guide and boat were waiting for us. http://champagnesswamptours.com So very glad that we made the decision to take this tour.

It was Awesome!

Words are not sufficient to describe what we saw. Even though a lot of the trees look like they are dead or dying, they were quite healthy. Bryan, (our guide) was very knowledgeable and made the tour so interesting.

Would love to take this tour again at another time of the year, as the changes would be drastic with all the plants in bloom and the changes in the trees. The beauty was so unexpected to me, the unusual shape of the trees due to the way that have adapted to survive. In our travels there are so many places that I’ve just been blown away by. How lucky we are to be able to see and enjoy it all. Gives a new meaning to stopping and smelling the roses, and do so appreciate that we have been lucky enough to do it.

Natural man-made duck blinds.

And then it was off to find some food. Being as we were to be spending a few hours with out restrooms, most of us had limited our in take and were starving. Okay, those of you know that Escapees never starve, we travel on our stomachs. But it was a good excuse.

We have not been in this area, so a lot of the menu was strange to me, but Bob tried a combination platter, (crawfish boulette, crawfish macque choux, crawfish pie, fried alligator were just a few items on the platter) and Molly and I managed to taste almost everything, and it was so good, even though we weren’t too sure of what we were eating. Most of us went for the fried catfish and it was also very good.

Right now we are waiting on Roger & Barb, http://recesstimeontheroad.blogspot.com as they are coming for a visit, and we are……..what else…….going out to eat. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and we are having a huge dinner at the campground with everyone bringing a dish or two or maybe even three. Old habits die hard, and seems everyone has their family favorites.

Also have made reservations for a local play on Sunday, Christmas Tuna, which the reviews are raving about. Should be fun.Monday we will be making our way to San Antonio, where we will park for a few weeks, while hopefully Chuck can get new hearing aids ordered.

Happy Thanksgiving, Life is Good.

Biloxi Days

2010-11-20T15:29:00.001-08:00

Having just done a grocery run at the commissary, I have to do a little rant. Do the companies think we are just totally STUPID? I just bought a pound of bacon, (14 ounces) 4 pound bag of sugar, 1/2 gallon of ice cream, (11/2 quarts)and please tell me, how do they put 34 ounces of coffee in a 3 lb can and make it completely full? The darn can did not get smaller, just the contents. Oh, and then we are told there is zero inflation. Yeah, I guess we are that dumb, especially my home state of California. Starting to thread in that forbidden territory in blog land here, so thanks for letting me rant. Had thought that the cost of living in the south was less costly, but seems that everything is much higher than up north. We took in a casino last night, and they have no freebies here, actually they even make you buy the clip cord for your players card. NOT! We did not stay all that long, winning was not happening anywhere we could see or hear. Didn’t take us long to get over getting our dues paid.

Thursday night we went out for pizza with Darrell & Judy. http://wanderingamerica.com Great getting to spend time with them, they have a ERUP lot at the Plantation, so guess you could say they are our future neighbors.

We left the Rainbow Plantation yesterday, and the ride was only about 100 miles, so it was no time till we were here. Our daughter had called and I was yakking and Chuck missed the turn and it took us a bit of a hassle to get back on track, but turning around when your as long as we are is a hassle no matter what. We are staying at Keesler AFB and they are full. We got the last site. Nice campground, river and lake across the road. Will bet no one lets their dogs or cats run loose here.

Same beautiful white beaches, love them.

We will be here till Tuesday morning at which time we will be making our way to Betty’s RV park. Can’t wait to see everyone again, it was the Escapees rally that our paths last crossed.

Happy Thanksgiving to All.

Lunch At Roadkill Cafe

2010-11-15T17:50:00.001-08:00

What a great time we had at the See’ya farewell lunch. Those of you who know us from the RV Dreams, know that our nickname is Roadkill, so we couldn’t get enough pictures. Actually the food was good, there hours are their own, when they run out of food, they close. Seems to work, they were pretty full and it was early for lunch.

Last night there was a soup’er supper at the campground. They had 23 different kinds of soup, and for a few dollars you could have a sample of as many as you wanted. There were some wonderful soups, and I only tasted four. My favorite was a curry, pumpkin mushroom. It was so good. After that it was followed with the weekly ice cream social. Today it was all about rain, just a slow steady but wet rain. A do-nothing day. Life is Good.

Life As I Now Know It

2010-11-15T16:59:00.001-08:00

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of   myself. I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating   that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly pink flamingo that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde in front of the RV. I am entitled to a treat, to be   messy, to be extravagant.

I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.

Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 50 &60’s, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ..... I will.

I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set. They, too, will get old.

I know I am sometimes forgetful.   But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I   eventually remember the important things.

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not   break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car?   But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion.   A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.

I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face.

So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn   silver.

As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about   what other people think.. I don't question myself anymore.   I've even earned the right to be wrong.

So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free.   I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day (if I feel like it).

Author Unknown

Love’n This Area

2010-11-13T21:00:00.001-08:00

Yes, we have really enjoyed our stay here, could it be that the beach being so close it has something to do with that? My favorite place in the whole world is the ocean, but don’t want to live right on the beach. This Escapees park is also very nice, as a matter of fact we are on the waiting list for a lease lot, which will take some time, but will make the decision when we closer to the top of the list. The main reason would be to have a home base and storage shed, not that we will be stopping traveling, but that decision is not really in our hands, at our age. LOL

We have been eating so much seafood that Chuck was starting to complain, so the other day we came across Lamberts, the home of the tossed rolls, and we decided that we would give it a try. We had heard about Lamberts but never eaten in one, but we had been told that the portions were huge, plus they keep bring sides to the tables. No one mentioned that they serve there drinks in mugs resembling a gallon jug, and Chuck ordered a glass of milk. He never orders milk except at breakfast. Well, he certainly GOT MILK!

Munching down on one of those rolls.

The food was okay, and now it Lamberts is checked off the bucket list. From there we took a ride over to the beach, watched a volley ball game and just enjoyed the wonderful weather. It is so awesome, but they are saying that a few days of rain are on the way.

Further up the beach we came across a large work crew moving sand into a huge sieve, then back in the trucks to be placed back where it had come from. They say they aren’t really finding anything, but the deep cleaning is good pay, and steady work while it lasts. Such a shame, the sand is so pretty.

Today, Nolan & Donna stopped by for a short time, they are staying not too far from us. Glad we got to see them as they are on the move again tomorrow. We are having a lunch on Monday, with some of the people that are here, sort of a farewell, seeya down the road lunch, at the Roadkill Café. John & Sandy and Jim & Ellie are heading towards New Orleans. We are staying a few more days, and we are still up in the air on our destination for the next week or so. Why do I feel like I’m getting no sympathy with all my woe is me, where oh where will we go? See, it is not all lollipops and roses out here. Yes, that is being written with tongue in cheek. Life is Good.