8:00 pm Verizon and Internet connection
Does not work well in this black hole in Texas. Black hole, that is how the guides at the observatory describe this area. But it is good for star gazing.
Had one of the best days of my life touring the observatory. Will post all the catch-up material when the Internet connection stops being problematic.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Del Rio, TX -Heading West
5 pm..Chisos Basin Lodge-Big Bend NP
Has a wifi hot spot but is limited. Seems to block my post. So this short post is just a note. We are camped at Chisos Basin Campground . Just a short drive 'up' is the lodge and they have a hot spot. We are in Mr Van in the parking lot just under the Casa Grande big rock. As beautiful as you can imagine. Will post soon. Lots to tell.
Finally got this program to copy and paste. Needed to change the tabs from Compose to Html. But after an hour on this I choose to add the pictures later. Because it is time to go play.
Left Del Rio. TX ..West on Hwy 90
Well, I thought I was heading west. Took a wrong turn. In front of me is the Border. Where did that come from, I don’t won’t to go to Mexico. Big signs NO WEAPONS etc etc etc. Then a sign stated “Last Chance to Turn Around”. Yes, I turned. Went about 10 miles out of my way but hey that’s life. At least no one came up to my van and said Madame please open you doors so we may inspect. You can not make these people smile. I tried.
Pasted thru an area call Amstrad. Lots of blue green water that today has white caps, because of the winds. Many RV campgrounds here. Some look like just a place to stay but several where more on the resort end. Places for propane and camp stores. Not a bad place to be. Wish I would have driven here last night instead of MacDonald’s.
About 10 miles later I see stopped cars and two guys in fatigue with weapons and a dog, in the middle of the road. What is this, not Mexico again. I don’t like to rant but I do not like this. I suppose they are looking for people crossing the border without going thru proper channels, but the border is miles away. I thought I had made a wrong turn and was in Mexico.
Decided to mess with them, just a little bit. When I stopped these guys and the dog are position at my driver window. Sooooo I started talking. The usually Hi there, am I still on Hwy 90 going west, I’m not crossing into Mexico am I because that is not the route I want to go. These guys are young. Our well trained young men never varied from their script. They answered my direct questions but went right back to what they are trained to do. Soooo cute. The guy with the dog immediately walked to the back of my van and around to the other side, with the dog.. I thought he wanted to go into the van’s side door but he didn’t. He came right back to my driver window. This guy never said a word, not a word. He only nodded to the guy that stayed at my window. He asked are you a US citizen and how many people are in the van. Then he asked ’Are you traveling alone’. Trick question because he had just asked how many people in the van. I told him I was traveling with the Famous Chief and showed him Chief. No reaction. Never did get a smile. Can you spell Brain Washed. Sorry guys but I was really bored.
This is the sign I have in my window on the side doors. It always gets noticed. I am sure the guy with the dog saw it.
Oh, no pictures. Couldn’t push to hard!
This is the Peco’s river. Looks like floods can do a masses’ amount of damage in this part of the country. Several bridges have been built but washed away due to flooding. Looks like this bridge will not get washed away. The area I am taking the pictures from is a turnoff marked ‘picnic area and historical marker. This area is large. Large RV ‘s or truck’s pulling large Trailer Trailers, can easier get in and out.
West on Hwy 20 is Judge Roy Beams claim to fame place. The law west of the Peco’s. Take a left and it is less than a mile. Not much here but it is worth the stop. They have a small souvenirs store, a post office, a RV area just leave $15 in box, and very nice tourist information place.
The building Judge Beam held court and serve drinks is here (originally building and spot) or so the sign says. Then on to the cactus garden. Nicely done. All the plants had plagues. Nice to have a name and short description of all these desert plants.
The windmill was of interest to me. Later I saw several more. Of course, they where old and falling apart. But I knew what they where.
This cactus made me look. Why would a cactus be called blind. Read the plague. OK now I see J.
Stayed about 45 minutes and went to Mr. Van started the generator and put on the AC and had lunch. Didn’t spend a penny.
On my way to Big Bend Natinal Park.
Has a wifi hot spot but is limited. Seems to block my post. So this short post is just a note. We are camped at Chisos Basin Campground . Just a short drive 'up' is the lodge and they have a hot spot. We are in Mr Van in the parking lot just under the Casa Grande big rock. As beautiful as you can imagine. Will post soon. Lots to tell.
Finally got this program to copy and paste. Needed to change the tabs from Compose to Html. But after an hour on this I choose to add the pictures later. Because it is time to go play.
Left Del Rio. TX ..West on Hwy 90
Well, I thought I was heading west. Took a wrong turn. In front of me is the Border. Where did that come from, I don’t won’t to go to Mexico. Big signs NO WEAPONS etc etc etc. Then a sign stated “Last Chance to Turn Around”. Yes, I turned. Went about 10 miles out of my way but hey that’s life. At least no one came up to my van and said Madame please open you doors so we may inspect. You can not make these people smile. I tried.
Pasted thru an area call Amstrad. Lots of blue green water that today has white caps, because of the winds. Many RV campgrounds here. Some look like just a place to stay but several where more on the resort end. Places for propane and camp stores. Not a bad place to be. Wish I would have driven here last night instead of MacDonald’s.
About 10 miles later I see stopped cars and two guys in fatigue with weapons and a dog, in the middle of the road. What is this, not Mexico again. I don’t like to rant but I do not like this. I suppose they are looking for people crossing the border without going thru proper channels, but the border is miles away. I thought I had made a wrong turn and was in Mexico.
Decided to mess with them, just a little bit. When I stopped these guys and the dog are position at my driver window. Sooooo I started talking. The usually Hi there, am I still on Hwy 90 going west, I’m not crossing into Mexico am I because that is not the route I want to go. These guys are young. Our well trained young men never varied from their script. They answered my direct questions but went right back to what they are trained to do. Soooo cute. The guy with the dog immediately walked to the back of my van and around to the other side, with the dog.. I thought he wanted to go into the van’s side door but he didn’t. He came right back to my driver window. This guy never said a word, not a word. He only nodded to the guy that stayed at my window. He asked are you a US citizen and how many people are in the van. Then he asked ’Are you traveling alone’. Trick question because he had just asked how many people in the van. I told him I was traveling with the Famous Chief and showed him Chief. No reaction. Never did get a smile. Can you spell Brain Washed. Sorry guys but I was really bored.
This is the sign I have in my window on the side doors. It always gets noticed. I am sure the guy with the dog saw it.
Oh, no pictures. Couldn’t push to hard!
This is the Peco’s river. Looks like floods can do a masses’ amount of damage in this part of the country. Several bridges have been built but washed away due to flooding. Looks like this bridge will not get washed away. The area I am taking the pictures from is a turnoff marked ‘picnic area and historical marker. This area is large. Large RV ‘s or truck’s pulling large Trailer Trailers, can easier get in and out.
West on Hwy 20 is Judge Roy Beams claim to fame place. The law west of the Peco’s. Take a left and it is less than a mile. Not much here but it is worth the stop. They have a small souvenirs store, a post office, a RV area just leave $15 in box, and very nice tourist information place.
The building Judge Beam held court and serve drinks is here (originally building and spot) or so the sign says. Then on to the cactus garden. Nicely done. All the plants had plagues. Nice to have a name and short description of all these desert plants.
The windmill was of interest to me. Later I saw several more. Of course, they where old and falling apart. But I knew what they where.
This cactus made me look. Why would a cactus be called blind. Read the plague. OK now I see J.
Stayed about 45 minutes and went to Mr. Van started the generator and put on the AC and had lunch. Didn’t spend a penny.
On my way to Big Bend Natinal Park.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Del Rio, TX--35 mph winds
9:30 AM Worked on toad (moped)
Did not get out of town. Fixed the problem with air pressure in tires! Just went and had the oil changed at one of those quick change places. Five quarts of Castrol synthetic blend oil, windshield washer fluid, grease under carriage, tire pressure and check other things. Cost $39.95 what a deal. Paid cash, seemed to be the right thing to do. These people did not try the 'oh you need a transmission thingie'.
Put 53 pounds of air in front and 75 pounds in rear. Door panel calls for 55 in front and 80 in back. Had the tech use his air pressure gauge and my air pressure gauge, so I have a equal starting point. I wonder if these young mechanics think us old ladies are crazy. They where very nice and put up with me following them around and around the van. Seems Mr Van has at least 11 grease spots.
Started heading west on Hwy 90 but stopped for gas. I guess you could call me a friendly person. I believe in saying hello. So I did. Juan Lopaz was also getting gas at the HEB store pumps, he saw Famous Chief and smiled so I said 'Hi'. Juan then walked over to look at the Moped. Many guys do this.
Remember the pictures when I loaded the moped on Mr Van in Lexington. Well this Yamaha moped is kind of old and this past year the seat started to crack and tore. Guess what Juan use to do before retirement.
He said he could fix for $25 and could do it in 2 hours. He would have to take the seat off the moped and go to a friends shop, where he would have the material. He did that but the friend was not in his shop today because of a doctor appointment.
Ended up at Juan's apartment where he had a piece of vinyl and a sewing machine. This vinyl is a better fabric then what was on the moped but a different color. A light pretty gray. I like it better than the cheap thin black. Probably will be cooler. This is Juan and I and the moped seat repaired.
Juan just had the seat of the moped and I went to a local park and then shopping at the Dollar Store while he did the work. Butttt, I was amazed at this sewing machine. I don't know how old it could be but Juan lived and worked in Monterrey, CA until he retired and moved here. He said he could not afford rent in CA. Sheesh. Anyway, moving to TX he only carried a couple of bags, not furniture, etc. He found this machine at a garage sale here and purchased for $350. That included the table.
I could feel the history that machine must have. He didn't have any of those details. Never heard of this name---have you!!
Around 5:30 I left. This started about 2:00. Tried to pay Juan but he did not want money, by then we had become friends. Isn't that amazing. But I left $30 on the sewing machine. Juan saw the money. I have found in times like this, when someone does not want to take money for their work, you can not hand them the money they will not take it. But if you just put the dollars folded into their shirt pocket or leave it laying on a table. Well, that works. He did a great job and I am thrilled.
Anyway, this am the winds are over 35 mph and I am sitting at a McDonalds waiting for peace.
Did not get out of town. Fixed the problem with air pressure in tires! Just went and had the oil changed at one of those quick change places. Five quarts of Castrol synthetic blend oil, windshield washer fluid, grease under carriage, tire pressure and check other things. Cost $39.95 what a deal. Paid cash, seemed to be the right thing to do. These people did not try the 'oh you need a transmission thingie'.
Put 53 pounds of air in front and 75 pounds in rear. Door panel calls for 55 in front and 80 in back. Had the tech use his air pressure gauge and my air pressure gauge, so I have a equal starting point. I wonder if these young mechanics think us old ladies are crazy. They where very nice and put up with me following them around and around the van. Seems Mr Van has at least 11 grease spots.
Started heading west on Hwy 90 but stopped for gas. I guess you could call me a friendly person. I believe in saying hello. So I did. Juan Lopaz was also getting gas at the HEB store pumps, he saw Famous Chief and smiled so I said 'Hi'. Juan then walked over to look at the Moped. Many guys do this.
Remember the pictures when I loaded the moped on Mr Van in Lexington. Well this Yamaha moped is kind of old and this past year the seat started to crack and tore. Guess what Juan use to do before retirement.He said he could fix for $25 and could do it in 2 hours. He would have to take the seat off the moped and go to a friends shop, where he would have the material. He did that but the friend was not in his shop today because of a doctor appointment.
Ended up at Juan's apartment where he had a piece of vinyl and a sewing machine. This vinyl is a better fabric then what was on the moped but a different color. A light pretty gray. I like it better than the cheap thin black. Probably will be cooler. This is Juan and I and the moped seat repaired.
Juan just had the seat of the moped and I went to a local park and then shopping at the Dollar Store while he did the work. Butttt, I was amazed at this sewing machine. I don't know how old it could be but Juan lived and worked in Monterrey, CA until he retired and moved here. He said he could not afford rent in CA. Sheesh. Anyway, moving to TX he only carried a couple of bags, not furniture, etc. He found this machine at a garage sale here and purchased for $350. That included the table.
I could feel the history that machine must have. He didn't have any of those details. Never heard of this name---have you!!Around 5:30 I left. This started about 2:00. Tried to pay Juan but he did not want money, by then we had become friends. Isn't that amazing. But I left $30 on the sewing machine. Juan saw the money. I have found in times like this, when someone does not want to take money for their work, you can not hand them the money they will not take it. But if you just put the dollars folded into their shirt pocket or leave it laying on a table. Well, that works. He did a great job and I am thrilled.
Anyway, this am the winds are over 35 mph and I am sitting at a McDonalds waiting for peace.
Look at my sweet, sweet Chief. We were walking in the park. He has his tougue out, not because he is hot but because he is trying to get more oxygen so his heart doesn't have to work sooooo hard. I cry for him.Wednesday, March 24, 2010
NOON-Brackettville, TX-Fort Clark Springs
NOON--Brackettville, TX Fort Clark Springs Community
Left Uvalde and headed west on Hwy 90. Didn’t get very far. Made about 40 miles and spotted Fort Clark Springs established in 1852 near Las Moras Springs. The post was used to guard the border of Mexico (guard the overland trail). Sound familiar. Originally called Fort Riley. This was used to defend settlements from Indians. Indians on both sides of the border.
Pulled up to the Guard building expecting to pay. Lots of security people here. No charge to get in but the museum is only opened on Sat and Sun but I could just ride thru. He handed out a map and highlighted how to get to the RV park. He asked if he should call Shirley, at the RV park and tell her to expect me, to inquire about prices. I said yes. Yes, is what I thought he wanted me to say.
Shirley was standing outside the office and waved hello. The park is open, not a lot of trees. But ok by south TX. Prices are very reasonable. This is a private (city). Lots of activities, as they are a retirement community, mostly. Member’s of the home (community) owners association, get a discount and they honor Good Sam’s and all the other discounts. Prices range from $17 to $24 a night with weekly from $80 to $124 and monthly from $230 to $335. That includes water, electric, cable, wifi and picnic tables. Use of the laundry room, kitchen and pavilions. Also, all of the 2,700 acres in the community.
Fishing is allowed and a license is not needed as this is privately owned. What a deal. Free fishing, swimming and golf.
Mostly during the snow bird season they have bingo, pot luck dinners, breakfast. Shirley lives on site #13 just in front of the office if you have questions.
If you stay at the RV park or in the hotels you are entitled to use all the community goodies. They have 2 golf courses (play free), a swimming pool, that is the 3rd largest in Texas, fed by Las Moras Spring that springs here. There are 21 miles of marked hiking and biking trails. Lots of axel deer and turkeys and I am sure lots of crawling critters.
The pool stays at 68 degrees year round and is drained and cleaned weekly. No chemicals are need for this spring fed pool.
The Texas Disco Roadrunners where present. They all had Discovery’s by Fleetwood, expect for this one Holiday Rambler owner, he said he was there as a guest. He mentioned that the club called him a S. O. B. Well, I wondered as he explained what sob meant. It means Some Other Brand. Well you live and learn.
1:00 pm Driving into a Verizon Dead Zone
From Del Rio, TX to Big Bend NP. Dead Zone. Hopefully, I will find hotspots but I don't think that will happen. Not sure if this is safe for me but I can always head 60 miles north and get to I-10 for cove age, if I feel I need to. Should be to Big Bend by Sunday. No place to stay if I arrive earlier. I could do without this Reserve America. How do you feel about Reserve America for our Nation Parks?
Left Uvalde and headed west on Hwy 90. Didn’t get very far. Made about 40 miles and spotted Fort Clark Springs established in 1852 near Las Moras Springs. The post was used to guard the border of Mexico (guard the overland trail). Sound familiar. Originally called Fort Riley. This was used to defend settlements from Indians. Indians on both sides of the border.Pulled up to the Guard building expecting to pay. Lots of security people here. No charge to get in but the museum is only opened on Sat and Sun but I could just ride thru. He handed out a map and highlighted how to get to the RV park. He asked if he should call Shirley, at the RV park and tell her to expect me, to inquire about prices. I said yes. Yes, is what I thought he wanted me to say.
Shirley was standing outside the office and waved hello. The park is open, not a lot of trees. But ok by south TX. Prices are very reasonable. This is a private (city). Lots of activities, as they are a retirement community, mostly. Member’s of the home (community) owners association, get a discount and they honor Good Sam’s and all the other discounts. Prices range from $17 to $24 a night with weekly from $80 to $124 and monthly from $230 to $335. That includes water, electric, cable, wifi and picnic tables. Use of the laundry room, kitchen and pavilions. Also, all of the 2,700 acres in the community.
Fishing is allowed and a license is not needed as this is privately owned. What a deal. Free fishing, swimming and golf.
Mostly during the snow bird season they have bingo, pot luck dinners, breakfast. Shirley lives on site #13 just in front of the office if you have questions.
If you stay at the RV park or in the hotels you are entitled to use all the community goodies. They have 2 golf courses (play free), a swimming pool, that is the 3rd largest in Texas, fed by Las Moras Spring that springs here. There are 21 miles of marked hiking and biking trails. Lots of axel deer and turkeys and I am sure lots of crawling critters.
The pool stays at 68 degrees year round and is drained and cleaned weekly. No chemicals are need for this spring fed pool.
The Texas Disco Roadrunners where present. They all had Discovery’s by Fleetwood, expect for this one Holiday Rambler owner, he said he was there as a guest. He mentioned that the club called him a S. O. B. Well, I wondered as he explained what sob meant. It means Some Other Brand. Well you live and learn.1:00 pm Driving into a Verizon Dead Zone
From Del Rio, TX to Big Bend NP. Dead Zone. Hopefully, I will find hotspots but I don't think that will happen. Not sure if this is safe for me but I can always head 60 miles north and get to I-10 for cove age, if I feel I need to. Should be to Big Bend by Sunday. No place to stay if I arrive earlier. I could do without this Reserve America. How do you feel about Reserve America for our Nation Parks?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Uvalde, TX-Wal-Mart
11:00 am Moved across the street
Looks like my verizon account is under my limited. Woo Hoo, I get to eat the rest of the month!! Maybe this happened because I cancel the NBC program before it finished or maybe if I had finished (the install) it would have been OK. Of course, the Verizon people didn't have the answer either. I'm in shock. That's a joke! Even if these Verizon folks had said all would have been fine, I would have still investigated more. I never want to appear tooooo stupid.
Checked out of the RV resort and moved over to a parking lot. Chief and I had a quiet night but I could not pick FOX channel up on this new digital stuff. I do understand why the government wants to have the analogy to themselves but this digital is not up to Americans expectations. Just my opinion. Maybe I need to re-think this. RV.net is a good forum for this and I will go there and question the experts.
I need air in my tires. I let someone talk me into using air pressure he believed was needed for the size and brand of tire I have, which are Michelin 16.5, instead of going with the requirements listed by Coachmen, on the driver side door panel. I have about 60 pounds all around. The door panel states 55 for the front and 80 for the back. I have been rocking all over and having to work at steering. Of course, the wind has been a huge problem. I am going to go with 55 in front and 70 in the back and see what I have. I would like to get Mr Van weighed.
7:00 pm Brackettville, TX--Fort Clark Springs
Could not get my tires inflated properly. Now have 65 pounds in the rear. Spent $1.50 to failed. Maybe that is as high as this air station will go. We will try to find a place that works on tires and let them fix this. Will tip them. Good for them and me, after all I would have to pay anyway.
Spent all afternoon at Fort Clark Springs in Brackettville, TX. Fort Clark Springs is now privately owned. Chief and I had a private tour, in a golf cart, isn't that great.
I need a nap. NOW. Will be back later. Took lots of pictures.
Have I thanked my readers??? It means the world to me and Chief that you take the time to read this travel blog.
Special thoughts go out to readers Connie and Tom.
Looks like my verizon account is under my limited. Woo Hoo, I get to eat the rest of the month!! Maybe this happened because I cancel the NBC program before it finished or maybe if I had finished (the install) it would have been OK. Of course, the Verizon people didn't have the answer either. I'm in shock. That's a joke! Even if these Verizon folks had said all would have been fine, I would have still investigated more. I never want to appear tooooo stupid.
Checked out of the RV resort and moved over to a parking lot. Chief and I had a quiet night but I could not pick FOX channel up on this new digital stuff. I do understand why the government wants to have the analogy to themselves but this digital is not up to Americans expectations. Just my opinion. Maybe I need to re-think this. RV.net is a good forum for this and I will go there and question the experts.
I need air in my tires. I let someone talk me into using air pressure he believed was needed for the size and brand of tire I have, which are Michelin 16.5, instead of going with the requirements listed by Coachmen, on the driver side door panel. I have about 60 pounds all around. The door panel states 55 for the front and 80 for the back. I have been rocking all over and having to work at steering. Of course, the wind has been a huge problem. I am going to go with 55 in front and 70 in the back and see what I have. I would like to get Mr Van weighed.
7:00 pm Brackettville, TX--Fort Clark Springs
Could not get my tires inflated properly. Now have 65 pounds in the rear. Spent $1.50 to failed. Maybe that is as high as this air station will go. We will try to find a place that works on tires and let them fix this. Will tip them. Good for them and me, after all I would have to pay anyway.
Spent all afternoon at Fort Clark Springs in Brackettville, TX. Fort Clark Springs is now privately owned. Chief and I had a private tour, in a golf cart, isn't that great.
I need a nap. NOW. Will be back later. Took lots of pictures.
Have I thanked my readers??? It means the world to me and Chief that you take the time to read this travel blog.
Special thoughts go out to readers Connie and Tom.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Uvalde, TX-Quail Springs RV Community
9:30 pm Verizon Internet limits
Yesterday I messed up and I think I have exceeded my 5 KB's (whatever that is). Checking my account on line only shows what has happen up to 2 days ago. Hopefully, tomorrow I will know how much I have messed up. Anyway, this will be short. Monday will find a Verizon store and beg for forgiveness.
Texas got cold, again. Yesterday was very windy and last night very cold. Sunday night is calling for cold. I decided it would be best to plug in to shore power. Checking Woodlawns book I discovered Quail Springs in Uvalde, Tx, a RV Community. This place has cable but not WiFi. Looks like the people who a here now have been coming for years. At the ice cream social this evening, the word is that a lot of the RV's will be pulling out tomorrow and those that don't, will pull out on the 27th.
If Verizon does not forgive me then my allotted time will reset on the 26th. Sooooo, I will be limited to finding internet hotspot's.
Oh, my friend Cindy in Dallas had another heart burn spell. Back to the Doctor she went. Her blood test showed her enzyme levels where hi in her liver. They did a sonogram and have decided she has gallbladder disease with gall stones. Surgery is now being schedule. Sheeesh, life sure can do an about-face. Quick!!
Yesterday I messed up and I think I have exceeded my 5 KB's (whatever that is). Checking my account on line only shows what has happen up to 2 days ago. Hopefully, tomorrow I will know how much I have messed up. Anyway, this will be short. Monday will find a Verizon store and beg for forgiveness.
Texas got cold, again. Yesterday was very windy and last night very cold. Sunday night is calling for cold. I decided it would be best to plug in to shore power. Checking Woodlawns book I discovered Quail Springs in Uvalde, Tx, a RV Community. This place has cable but not WiFi. Looks like the people who a here now have been coming for years. At the ice cream social this evening, the word is that a lot of the RV's will be pulling out tomorrow and those that don't, will pull out on the 27th.
If Verizon does not forgive me then my allotted time will reset on the 26th. Sooooo, I will be limited to finding internet hotspot's.
Oh, my friend Cindy in Dallas had another heart burn spell. Back to the Doctor she went. Her blood test showed her enzyme levels where hi in her liver. They did a sonogram and have decided she has gallbladder disease with gall stones. Surgery is now being schedule. Sheeesh, life sure can do an about-face. Quick!!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Burnet, TX-Longhorn Caverns
2:30 pm Visit with Ed Heather
Have lots of pics but busy with Ed and Heather so will do later.
Driving here yesterday I was very confused with directions. The TomTom did not recognize the address listed on the Longhorn Caverns website.
The bottom right hand corner of their website said ' enter this address in your GPS' so I did and Tom Tom did not find. So I guessed and guess where it tried to take us. Would you take your vehicle down this road?? Wrong!! The gate was even close with a No Trespassing Sign. Well, I am smarter than the average GPS. I entered Burnet, TX and used the center city options and started over.I did not have Ed and Heathers phone number, we communicate by email. So I called the State Park number listed on the website and Melody answered the phone. Melody sent a message over to their Motor home. Ed and Heather are the only people that live on site. No RV campsites here. All things worked out great. Ed and Heather are excellent host.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Dallas, TX towards San Antonio
9:30 am Chief walked into the pool again
Had a tough night. A rain storm came thru last night and from 2 am to 5 am Chief would not sleep or stay still. Not sure if he was sick or afraid of the rain. I didn't hear any thunder boomer's.
Doing a 'let's go outside' trip last am, Chief just walked too close to pool and fail over. He goes on tilt often. Chief is 13 years old. Scooped him out once again and had to dry a dog in the middle of the night. Not sure if this woke Cindy. This home has the split bedroom set up. I like that.
6:00 pm Drove 200 miles in Lampasa, TX
Left Grand Prairie. TX and drove US Hwy 377 and then south on US Hwy 281. Trying to take back roads to see more of the country. Had a lot of stop lights to begin with and all where on red. Stop and go. Someone in a pick up truck rear ended a car just behind me. That sound that happens when a car hits, hard, another car is never forgotten. I felt like I had be hit. Lucky it was not me. The truck's brakes squired, so he must have been moving fast and then he noticed the OH-OH.
Longhorn caverns is where we are headed. Tomorrow we should pull in.
Readers Tom and Connie asked about Cindy. The Doctor took a EKG and pulled blood. EKG was fine, haven't heard about blood. Doctor said she had indigestion and recommended she take Pep-cid for a full week. Cindy says she has never suffered indigestion before, at least not that painful.
South TX has strange looking trees.
We ran out of propane and had to find propane. Stopped at a RV park and the nice man gave me directions to a farm supply place. Seven miles one way off of my route. Oh well, should have looked before. Mr Van only hold 5 gallons. Some places have refused to fill this because it is so small. Anyway, not so with these people. Tank held 4.5 gallons and cost me $11.00. Why is propane so high?
Had a tough night. A rain storm came thru last night and from 2 am to 5 am Chief would not sleep or stay still. Not sure if he was sick or afraid of the rain. I didn't hear any thunder boomer's.
Doing a 'let's go outside' trip last am, Chief just walked too close to pool and fail over. He goes on tilt often. Chief is 13 years old. Scooped him out once again and had to dry a dog in the middle of the night. Not sure if this woke Cindy. This home has the split bedroom set up. I like that.
6:00 pm Drove 200 miles in Lampasa, TX
Left Grand Prairie. TX and drove US Hwy 377 and then south on US Hwy 281. Trying to take back roads to see more of the country. Had a lot of stop lights to begin with and all where on red. Stop and go. Someone in a pick up truck rear ended a car just behind me. That sound that happens when a car hits, hard, another car is never forgotten. I felt like I had be hit. Lucky it was not me. The truck's brakes squired, so he must have been moving fast and then he noticed the OH-OH.
Longhorn caverns is where we are headed. Tomorrow we should pull in.
Readers Tom and Connie asked about Cindy. The Doctor took a EKG and pulled blood. EKG was fine, haven't heard about blood. Doctor said she had indigestion and recommended she take Pep-cid for a full week. Cindy says she has never suffered indigestion before, at least not that painful.
South TX has strange looking trees.
We ran out of propane and had to find propane. Stopped at a RV park and the nice man gave me directions to a farm supply place. Seven miles one way off of my route. Oh well, should have looked before. Mr Van only hold 5 gallons. Some places have refused to fill this because it is so small. Anyway, not so with these people. Tank held 4.5 gallons and cost me $11.00. Why is propane so high?
Monday, March 15, 2010
Dallas, TX-How to find Hospital
3:00 pm -Can't figure out this Digital TV thing
Today is a very slow day. I'm still in Cindy's house. Of course, she is to work
Saturday night Cindy had an episode of chest discomfort. A couple of Alka-seltzer's and she got back to sleep, still she said it was a bad pain. Cindy turns 50 this year and that is the age her brother suffered his first blockage and heart surgical procedure. Sooooo, she is seeing her primary physician today. I would like to be here. Just in case.
Because of this, episode, I started thinking about what I would have done if she needed a hospital run. We are in a huge city. The hospital is less than 3 miles but I didn't know. What medicine does she take, what is her insurance, where are her car keys, how would I get her in the car. Of course, I could call 911 and wait for an ambulance.
I was a EMS in Georgia and think I know to much. Plus, I am a country girl. I believe in 'load and go' more than the ambulance. I hope to choose what is best in what situation.
My mind visually started placing where my TomTom Gps is and how to work the 'help me' application. Also, started thinking about how to convince Cindy to do as I want. Remember she used to be my boss!! People having heart attacks frequently go into denial and need coaching to help themselves. I'm good at that.
Sunday afternoon Cindy and I did a dry run. Did the GPS thing and it showed the Hospital she would have wanted. But it was about the 8th listing. The GPS listed all the walk up clinic's, Health care provider places and the real Hospitals. But they are just names on the screen. Which is a Hospital? We discussed the importance of a one page list of not only medicines but where you prefer to go and contact phone numbers of family members. In case I needed to call a friend, a neighbor or her sister, posted by the front door. Most diabetics already know this. If the ambulance people came I could just hand over the paper and follow the ambulance.
Sounds like a good idea to have in Mr. Van for myself. Hmmmmmmmm.
Anyway, she is at the doctors now and should be home shortly. In the interned I am playing with these Da***d digital TV's.
Today is a very slow day. I'm still in Cindy's house. Of course, she is to work
Saturday night Cindy had an episode of chest discomfort. A couple of Alka-seltzer's and she got back to sleep, still she said it was a bad pain. Cindy turns 50 this year and that is the age her brother suffered his first blockage and heart surgical procedure. Sooooo, she is seeing her primary physician today. I would like to be here. Just in case.
Because of this, episode, I started thinking about what I would have done if she needed a hospital run. We are in a huge city. The hospital is less than 3 miles but I didn't know. What medicine does she take, what is her insurance, where are her car keys, how would I get her in the car. Of course, I could call 911 and wait for an ambulance.
I was a EMS in Georgia and think I know to much. Plus, I am a country girl. I believe in 'load and go' more than the ambulance. I hope to choose what is best in what situation.
My mind visually started placing where my TomTom Gps is and how to work the 'help me' application. Also, started thinking about how to convince Cindy to do as I want. Remember she used to be my boss!! People having heart attacks frequently go into denial and need coaching to help themselves. I'm good at that.
Sunday afternoon Cindy and I did a dry run. Did the GPS thing and it showed the Hospital she would have wanted. But it was about the 8th listing. The GPS listed all the walk up clinic's, Health care provider places and the real Hospitals. But they are just names on the screen. Which is a Hospital? We discussed the importance of a one page list of not only medicines but where you prefer to go and contact phone numbers of family members. In case I needed to call a friend, a neighbor or her sister, posted by the front door. Most diabetics already know this. If the ambulance people came I could just hand over the paper and follow the ambulance.
Sounds like a good idea to have in Mr. Van for myself. Hmmmmmmmm.
Anyway, she is at the doctors now and should be home shortly. In the interned I am playing with these Da***d digital TV's.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Spring has sprung In Dallas,TX
6:00 pm Fall Back/Spring Forward
That may be true this weekend, but here in Dallas, TX spring has sprung. I enjoyed the warm sun today. Out by the pool.
Look at these Bradford Pear trees. They are full of flowers. Can you see Mr Van? He likes to driveway camp. The neighbors are outside, doing spring things.
Richard is adding a Magnolia Tree to his side yard. Richard takes great pride in his yard. Guess where Richard is from? Just can't get away from those crazy cajun's. I love it!!!
Don't know what this tree is called. Cindy calls it the neighbors tree. Seems to me that it is a boutique of gorgeous flowers put there just for Mr Van and I to enjoy.Saturday, March 13, 2010
Midnight swim
11:00 am Chief doesn't swim very fast
Remember I said the best part of Cindy's house is the back yard. Well take a look. I have dreamed all my life of having a pool that when you walk out the door, you are walking into the pool. This is what she has. Cement pond, that's for me.
Last evening we took the 4 legged kids into the backyard. Cindy notice her flood light was out. The time it took to change the bulb, Chief walked out and splash....dog swimming. It was really dark, no moon, Chief is tiny, add water and he gets even smaller. He was working as hard as those tiny/skinny legs could work.
Thank goodness he was close enough to the edge to be scooped out. Neither Cindy or I needed to take the plunge.
Here is Mr Van driveway camping. Notice the leveling ramps. The tires on one side are in the middle part of ramp and the other side is to the top. So far so good.
7:00 Ladies Spa Day
I did a 5:00 posting but my Internet connection did not hold and the post was lost. LOL
Cindy treated us to a pedicure!! This place was packed. Unbelievable. They do fingernails and pedicures. The chair is a massage chair. Nice!
Here we are, that's Cindy in the shorts, Debra in the middle and then me.
Look how pale I am. A cajun girl should not be that pale. Hope to get out in the sun tomorrow and get tan. Is this what happens to people who spend months in the very cold weather. My skin hasn't been uncovered for months.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Texarkana....400 miles
8:00 am Computer went to sleep
Did a post yesterday but my computer did not hold a charge and went to sleep. Getting Mr Van set (back) up for long term living is going slow. Things that where stolen had to be replaced and because of the burglaries we had emptied the van.
My friend Cindy, in Dallas, still works and is off on Sat and Sun. Hence, diving 400 miles in one day. This is a little much for me. Fighting with the computer and Mr Van is taking too much energy, would rather sleep. But I want to see Cindy on her her days off. Cindy used to be my boss. We worked a Pillsbury job in Murfreesboro,TN, in 1989.
Here is a picture of volunteer Robert from the fish hatchery. What is hanging over his head?
Here is Mr. Van in front of the interpretive building, where Roberts' picture was taken. Very nice building that includes 3 large fish tanks, a theater, gift shop and a large class room. Check out the schedule of events at the Hatchery. The kids Fishing Tournament is coming soon
The offices of the (shirts) are on the left side of this building. They include 4 wildlife and fishery people, an intern, and the Johanna who runs the gift shop. Gift shop is supported by 'Friends of Wolf Creek Fish Hatchery'. Not seen in the picture are the race ways and other buildings that actually grow the tout. More (shirts) are in these outside buildings.
The building is maintained by volunteers. We received many compliments on the restrooms and the building from visitors while I was there.
Kendall Campground is right next door. Nice place to stay on the river side of the damn on Lake Cumberland. Reservations are need on weekends. But they do have 22 sites they hold back for walk-ins. They are gone by Thursday. Just a heads up.
4:00 pm Cindy's house Grand Prairie, TX
I survived Dallas. From 40 miles outside Dallas on I-30 has been one of the worst drive, ever. If I hadn't wanted to get to Cindy's house I would have pulled over. Road construction, traffic, bad (other) drivers and huge winds. Mr Van is top heavy, even though I weigh about 8,700 pounds loaded, I was all over the road. Got very bad gas mileage.
Mr Tom Tom, our GPS, could have taken us down I-635 and we would have had a better drive but nooooo, thru Dallas by way of I-30.
This is want we saw. Red tail lights.
Didn't see any 38' motorhomes pulling toads. Smart people. If DH and I had been driving our Big motorhome thru all this, welllll let's just say. Beer-30 time or pull out the weapons. All in all, things are fine. I followed the GPS even though Cindy suggested another route.
Traveling alone I can not stop and read a map. I knew the GPS would get me there. I have no idea how but I'm here.
Oh, the joy of traveling alone. I did have a fit of road rage. Marie style. That is and I quote "If you don't like the speed I am going, I promise you won't like the speed I shift too". This local guy found that out today.
Cindy has a nice place, she has worked very hard for the same company my husband and I work for. The best part of her place is in the back yard.
When she gets home I will back Mr Van up that driveway and level him. I will use the same levelers that I used to load the Moped last week. They are great because I find many ways to use them. In a B (RV) things need to pull double duty.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Cooksville, TN
10:00 First sunrise on my trip, and clouds
Drove 150 miles. Not far but far enough for me. Out the door that's the important part. Made a stop at the Fish Hatchery, @ Wolf Creek Damn on the Cumberland River near Jamestown, KY. I volunteered there last September. Nice to see friends.
Meet new volunteer Robert. Today was his first day alone. He and his wife have retired and have had 4 volunteer jobs and 3 RV's. He says they now have the one that will work for them. A 38' Cardinal travel trailer with 3 slides and a 250 truck to pull it. He believes they will go fulltime!! Wow, I don't think I can give up the stick house (work camp). This is Robert's 3 time to retire. His company keeps calling him back. Maybe 3rd time is the charm!! He is starting a blog. Robert I will read, please start.
3:00 pm TN rest stop
Time for a nap and try to find items I need. A class B RV is small, you would think anything would be easy to find. Not the case, everything packed, is up, behind or in something. You have to pull or move one thing to get to another. Need to find a place to stay and reorganize.
Thought that would be this rest stop in TN. On I-40 west, exit 158, this rest stop has a sign stating "No Overnight Parking/Limited 2 Hour Stay". Wants up with that, 95% of all the big scary problems I have had traveling, have happen in rest stops. Maybe this trip I will take more of the secondary Hwy's and stay at those places who welcome RV's.
Can't find my USB adapter, that allows my Sony camera card to attach to my computers. WalMart would be getting business if I was in their parking area.
Drove 150 miles. Not far but far enough for me. Out the door that's the important part. Made a stop at the Fish Hatchery, @ Wolf Creek Damn on the Cumberland River near Jamestown, KY. I volunteered there last September. Nice to see friends.
Meet new volunteer Robert. Today was his first day alone. He and his wife have retired and have had 4 volunteer jobs and 3 RV's. He says they now have the one that will work for them. A 38' Cardinal travel trailer with 3 slides and a 250 truck to pull it. He believes they will go fulltime!! Wow, I don't think I can give up the stick house (work camp). This is Robert's 3 time to retire. His company keeps calling him back. Maybe 3rd time is the charm!! He is starting a blog. Robert I will read, please start.
3:00 pm TN rest stop
Time for a nap and try to find items I need. A class B RV is small, you would think anything would be easy to find. Not the case, everything packed, is up, behind or in something. You have to pull or move one thing to get to another. Need to find a place to stay and reorganize.
Thought that would be this rest stop in TN. On I-40 west, exit 158, this rest stop has a sign stating "No Overnight Parking/Limited 2 Hour Stay". Wants up with that, 95% of all the big scary problems I have had traveling, have happen in rest stops. Maybe this trip I will take more of the secondary Hwy's and stay at those places who welcome RV's.
Can't find my USB adapter, that allows my Sony camera card to attach to my computers. WalMart would be getting business if I was in their parking area.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Thank you Gremlins
11:00 am Demand Pump not leaking
So far so good. Gremlins did show up!! Life can be good. Warm temps today, I have to get things done or just do some work on the road. Looks like TX has warmed up just rain now. I like rain. Makes your skin look young.
8:00 pm Finally Packed
This is it. Done. Finished. Personal items tomorrow and I will pull out of here. Yeaaaaa.
Didn't find any more water leaks!!! That's a check.
Had to manual actuate my sewer drains. Have electric drain master valves. Hope they work on the road. That's a check.
Found my keys to the cables to secure the moped to the Van and Versa Haul Carrier. That 's a check.
Had room to pack the Direct Satellite Dish. Wasn't planning to take this, but. That's a check.
To summarize, that means I can check out tomorrow. Will drive 4 hours to my cousins house in Alexandria, TN.
So far so good. Gremlins did show up!! Life can be good. Warm temps today, I have to get things done or just do some work on the road. Looks like TX has warmed up just rain now. I like rain. Makes your skin look young.
8:00 pm Finally Packed
This is it. Done. Finished. Personal items tomorrow and I will pull out of here. Yeaaaaa.
Didn't find any more water leaks!!! That's a check.
Had to manual actuate my sewer drains. Have electric drain master valves. Hope they work on the road. That's a check.
Found my keys to the cables to secure the moped to the Van and Versa Haul Carrier. That 's a check.
Had room to pack the Direct Satellite Dish. Wasn't planning to take this, but. That's a check.
To summarize, that means I can check out tomorrow. Will drive 4 hours to my cousins house in Alexandria, TN.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Water in..yes, I have leaks
7 pm YooHoo warm enough for water
Close valves....opened valves. Tried to remember how to undo all the winterizing. You would think after all these years this could happen with blind floods on. Not, but it is done, as your see water hose filling holding tank and hot water heater. Outside shower plugged and on the other side the water heater plugged.
But.....inside!! Two leaks so far. The water hose screwed into the fresh water inlet will fill the holding tank and water heater faster, instead of just using the manual fill cap. But to have the water enter from the fresh water hook up, a valve inside needs to open. Why do these valves, you know the ones that hook up the toilets and under sinks in our houses, always leak.
This leak and the water pump leak and the (brain fade) leak when I didn't close the facet at sink, FIRST; lead to a flood inside. Used all my towels to dry. Van clean. Towels now washed and dried.
This is the valve leak. Click on picture to enlarge. Using a very small crescent wrench to tighten the bonnet nut just behind the clear handle stopped the leak. The pipe insulation I added and is easily removed. Can you see, just to the right, that's my only fresh water holding tank. The water level is about 1 inch from top of tank. See the difference in color.
Mr. Van is a 1998 model. You would think I know what all these lines are!
This leak has me consumed. It is on the demand pump. It leaks only when the demand pump is pumping not just because water is in the line. I could have a crack because of this very very cold winter.Took a mirror to see up under the bottom, needed to find what tool is needed to tighten the screws from below. The three screws are Phillipp heads. Tried to tighten them. Still has a leak. Sooooo, before I jump to conclusions I will leave this be, overnight. Maybe the gasket is dry, maybe the gremlins will come in tonight and take care of this leak. Could Happen!!
Hard to tell but this mirror shows the Phillipp's head screws, that holds the bottom tight to the motor.Two more places that can leak are the inside part of the outside shower. I have to undo my bed and lift it to see that edge of Van. Also, the inside fittings for the water heater. This one is easy but much harder to fix.
Thank goodness, charging the water lines is happening while I'm still home.
When alone, on the road, maybe cold and/or raining. This could be hard fixes.
Been there--done that!!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Internet traveling down the road
10:30 AM Wow in the car and blogging
On Hwy 150 out of Danville, KY heading west and south to Somerset, KY. Did you figure out I'm not alone, that DH is driving?
Danville, KY has a lot of old history. The first post office mail delivery in KY was here and a few other first. Danville has a downtown area they call Constitution Square. Only takes a short time to walk thru but something to do. They also have Pioneer Playhouse (12 RV spots). John Travelto was here one summer at a very young age. The settlers were said to have describe these limestone hills as 'rolling pastures'. Limestone makes the pretty horses' feet feel good. It is stunning and some of the huge homes on these hills and pastures are eye candy.
Well, DH wants to look at a different car he found on line. We have a 2001 Ford Taurus with 141,000 miles on the dash. He drives it to work. He thinks we should let it go!! I think you should drive a car tell it breaks in half and you own both halves.
In the country now, need to post because we WILL lose the Verizon connection.
On Hwy 150 out of Danville, KY heading west and south to Somerset, KY. Did you figure out I'm not alone, that DH is driving?
Danville, KY has a lot of old history. The first post office mail delivery in KY was here and a few other first. Danville has a downtown area they call Constitution Square. Only takes a short time to walk thru but something to do. They also have Pioneer Playhouse (12 RV spots). John Travelto was here one summer at a very young age. The settlers were said to have describe these limestone hills as 'rolling pastures'. Limestone makes the pretty horses' feet feel good. It is stunning and some of the huge homes on these hills and pastures are eye candy.
Well, DH wants to look at a different car he found on line. We have a 2001 Ford Taurus with 141,000 miles on the dash. He drives it to work. He thinks we should let it go!! I think you should drive a car tell it breaks in half and you own both halves.
In the country now, need to post because we WILL lose the Verizon connection.
8 pm We have a different car
Destination was Alton Blakley Honda in Somerset, KY. Mike and Craig had spoke on the phone, so Mike was our salesperson. We just purchased the 06 CRV Honda in December and I did not want a repeat of questioning what we where doing. If Craig liked this car, I was going to write a check. I was prepared and brought the title. He will be the main user.
The Honda's purpose is as a TOAD for the big 38' motorhome and it will serve that purpose well. Small/light kind of like a Toko Toy. Not high on the quiet luxury side. This 03 Deville is nice, although it is the lower end of the Deville's, missing some gadgets and gizmo's. The 06 Honda had 22,000 miles and this 03 Deville has 58,000. In both cases we called the previous owner's and got great reviews. Both drivers where ladies older than me and the cars where maintain by the dealers that sold them the cars. The Deville has new Goodyear tires.
The Honda cost us $15,000 that included taxes and tags. The Deville cost us $8,000 and I guess we gave them the Ford. Dealer starting price was $9,900. We still need to pay the taxes and tag cost but we us South Dakota and have to send off for pricing. We have a home in Bridgewater, South Dakota.
We we retire at the end of the year. I want to be debt free and not looking at big expenses, like new cars.
What are your thoughts on how to retire and still have enough income to have a life? Inquiring RV Blogger's want to know!! Yes, Tom I borrowed you quote!! Thank you.
It's important to be truth full in my blog. We are trying to retire and travel. Hopefully someone can take what we are doing and judge what they need to do. I feel like I am doing what we need, so we can have a great 'next part of the rest of our lives'.
Oh, by the way, Deville's book says in bold print "if you pull this car 4 down you will destroy the tranny". I wanted a second car that could also be towed (4 down) but Craig did not care about that. Hey, I'm not going to fight city hall or the banker.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Still learning blog program
This picture should have appeared on the next page, but as things happen. This picture wants to live here. So OK with me.
Loading my TOAD
9 AM Progress is sweet
To me this is progress. I want to put this.
On this. If the Van goes the scooter goes. If I leave it behind then I need it. I purchased this in Greenville, SC. Second hand in 2004. I paid $900 for it. While this is 49cc engine and does not require all the licenses etc, South Carolina does require that you 'register' it. So it is registered in South Carolina and I have this small license tag. The license is not on the moped right now because I'm afraid it will be stolen.
This is a Yamaha Jog and has a pivot in the center.
One of my many rules for a woman traveling alone, is, if I can not handle what I have with me then it needs to stay home, not me the stuff. Because the scooter pivots the ramp on the Versa Haul carrier has to be at the smallest angle possible. Notice the leveling ramps used for this. I like these.
These ramps can be stacked many different ways and have worked out better than the Lynx Blocks, which I also carry.
Of course I can't leave anything alone, so I have painted them black and added that great invention, Velcro, to the sides. Why paint? Trying to be sleuth and invisible. Yellow just draws your eyes. Especially in parking lots, blacktop pavement. The Velcro helps to hold the pair together for moving around and storage.
Can you see the famous Chief in the door? The Moped is his. Notice the basket on the Moped!! It is Chief size. If his Van and his Scooter leave he expects to be included. And he will.
2:00 pm Versa Haul carrier change
On the picture above with the moped on the carrier did you notice something different from a few weeks ago. Look close at this picture and you can see that under the moped is a large/long extension with a 2" ball on it. This is for towing and still carry the moped. The 5" riser you see hooked to the van, allows for the moped to be lifted (I have dragged it off before) and the 30" extension added to still tow.
To me this is progress. I want to put this.
On this. If the Van goes the scooter goes. If I leave it behind then I need it. I purchased this in Greenville, SC. Second hand in 2004. I paid $900 for it. While this is 49cc engine and does not require all the licenses etc, South Carolina does require that you 'register' it. So it is registered in South Carolina and I have this small license tag. The license is not on the moped right now because I'm afraid it will be stolen.
This is a Yamaha Jog and has a pivot in the center.
One of my many rules for a woman traveling alone, is, if I can not handle what I have with me then it needs to stay home, not me the stuff. Because the scooter pivots the ramp on the Versa Haul carrier has to be at the smallest angle possible. Notice the leveling ramps used for this. I like these.
These ramps can be stacked many different ways and have worked out better than the Lynx Blocks, which I also carry.
Of course I can't leave anything alone, so I have painted them black and added that great invention, Velcro, to the sides. Why paint? Trying to be sleuth and invisible. Yellow just draws your eyes. Especially in parking lots, blacktop pavement. The Velcro helps to hold the pair together for moving around and storage.
Can you see the famous Chief in the door? The Moped is his. Notice the basket on the Moped!! It is Chief size. If his Van and his Scooter leave he expects to be included. And he will.
2:00 pm Versa Haul carrier change
On the picture above with the moped on the carrier did you notice something different from a few weeks ago. Look close at this picture and you can see that under the moped is a large/long extension with a 2" ball on it. This is for towing and still carry the moped. The 5" riser you see hooked to the van, allows for the moped to be lifted (I have dragged it off before) and the 30" extension added to still tow.
On this trip I could 'pass by' (that's a Louisiana term) our stick house in Maurepas, La. We will move from Lexington, KY in the next 6 to 8 months. We own every toy know to man, at least it seems that way. So I will be dragging all this stuff to the stick house. This enclosed trailer is just one thing. I could drop it off on this trip and that would be one less thing to move when we are done here.
Sounds good. Problem is....we have someone living in one of our rv spots and he is suppose to care for the property.....well no one does things like you would. So become bosses and involved with all that is the joy of owning a stick house. In other words I would get stuck at the house trying to do it all. Decided best not to go to stick house.
All that work will be there in late summer after my planned trip.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Does the sun, lift your spirits
Noon The sun is out
Roses, my friend in Laytonville, CA, called early this am. She lost her DH in Dec and had a low day, yesterday. We talked. Today she is 'out of bed', her words. She wondered what made the difference from yesterday and today? Well, today the sun is sinning beautifully in CA and the same here.
See the shadows!!! When the sun shines bright after days of not. I believe I shine brighter!! Do you? ymmmmmm
Roses's husband's name is Lou. Lou called Roses's princess. She misses him.
3 pm Newest project..I'm on a roll
I need to think about and do taxes!!! So my diversion for today is, leveling boards. Asked DH several weeks ago to bevel these 2 x 10's, but this has not made it to the top of his list. I want them now.
This is the beginning, I want a beveled edge on both ends. Adjusted the saw to 45 degrees but notice if I cut like this the bevel would be opposite upside downside. 
So I flipped the board and cut. I forgot to draw a straight line, to late could not stop, did my best. Came out OK for government work.
Next board. I drew a straight line, much better.A board longer than the first one. This will give me two levels to choose and a large footprint for gravel. Also, I can pull forward or back up to mount boards.
This is what I want.Notice a crack in the longer board. I will use this on pavement because it will not take anything that flexes.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Newbie single woman RVer
NOON Wed Chatting when shopping
Last Sat. DH and I went store shopping. To a pawn shop, an indoor flea market and a fishing/hunting store.
The flea market had a booth that sold personalize license plates. The pretty ones that usually go on the front bumper. We where standing there talking, which one would fit my personality. My DH calls me a free spirit. The lady at the booth spoke up saying 'yes, it is so hard to pick'. We talked about my traveling alone, she perked up and mention that her mother will turn 60 this year and retire. Mom's wants to purchase a smaller easier to handle RV and travel but able to carry this daughter and her 11 year old son.
Well, can't shut me up when it comes to talking about travel and what RV to pick. I have had 8 Rv's. Travel trailer, 5th wheel, Class A, B and C motorhome, home made on old truck bed, tent fold out, well you get the idea. All are great and all worked. By the way we never had a truck big enough to pull the trailer or the 5th wheel.
Left my blog address, name, and phone number. I really hope the mom calls me. She plans on retiring from work in June.
Last Sat. DH and I went store shopping. To a pawn shop, an indoor flea market and a fishing/hunting store.
The flea market had a booth that sold personalize license plates. The pretty ones that usually go on the front bumper. We where standing there talking, which one would fit my personality. My DH calls me a free spirit. The lady at the booth spoke up saying 'yes, it is so hard to pick'. We talked about my traveling alone, she perked up and mention that her mother will turn 60 this year and retire. Mom's wants to purchase a smaller easier to handle RV and travel but able to carry this daughter and her 11 year old son.
Well, can't shut me up when it comes to talking about travel and what RV to pick. I have had 8 Rv's. Travel trailer, 5th wheel, Class A, B and C motorhome, home made on old truck bed, tent fold out, well you get the idea. All are great and all worked. By the way we never had a truck big enough to pull the trailer or the 5th wheel.
Left my blog address, name, and phone number. I really hope the mom calls me. She plans on retiring from work in June.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Need a push out the door
1 pm So close to getting gone
Really need to get out this door. I'm wishing to leave with the camper full of water and prime to camp, but the temps are still below freezing. I suppose the best thing would be to drive tell it's warm, pay to part far a few days. Then set the Van up to support life. You know, the kind with running water, a potty, and place to cook. I need help.
Well, just received an email from a couple I volunteered with. They have a stick home in Ashville, NC but spend about 8 months of the year in their 38' diesel motor home. Ed, Heather and Blaze are a great couple and Blaze (big puppy) is prefect.
This is what Heather has to say. If I leave soon I would like to stop and visit in Texas.
'We're Workamping at a state park in Texas--LonghornCaverns--about 60 miles west of Austin. We spent January in 'the valley', down by McAllen, and walked over into Mexico to get our teeth fixed. Too expensive back in the States! February and March we'll be here, returning home to NC in April. Then in August we'll head out to a BLM facility in northern California. While here, Ed's doing cave tours when needed, or else cooking in the cafe they've got on site. So far they've left me free to workoutside, raking leaves, trimming bushes, and weeding, which I like best'.
Really need to get out this door. I'm wishing to leave with the camper full of water and prime to camp, but the temps are still below freezing. I suppose the best thing would be to drive tell it's warm, pay to part far a few days. Then set the Van up to support life. You know, the kind with running water, a potty, and place to cook. I need help.
Well, just received an email from a couple I volunteered with. They have a stick home in Ashville, NC but spend about 8 months of the year in their 38' diesel motor home. Ed, Heather and Blaze are a great couple and Blaze (big puppy) is prefect.
This is what Heather has to say. If I leave soon I would like to stop and visit in Texas.
'We're Workamping at a state park in Texas--LonghornCaverns--about 60 miles west of Austin. We spent January in 'the valley', down by McAllen, and walked over into Mexico to get our teeth fixed. Too expensive back in the States! February and March we'll be here, returning home to NC in April. Then in August we'll head out to a BLM facility in northern California. While here, Ed's doing cave tours when needed, or else cooking in the cafe they've got on site. So far they've left me free to workoutside, raking leaves, trimming bushes, and weeding, which I like best'.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Wild Dogs in South Aftrica
11:30 am Yes this is a dog
My DH took the trip of his lifetime. He went on Safari in South Africa!!
One of the many animals he saw and shot with his camera was this South Africa wild dog. His personal guide (Chris) says he has been on this ranch 10 years and never saw one before this date. Did a google search on this animal and this is some of the info I found.
African Wild Dogs Debut at the LA Zoo
African wild dogs, native to the vast and beautiful sub-Saharan Africa, are making the Los Angeles Zoo their home for the first time in nearly 40 years.The African wild dog is an endangered species. It is estimated that the total population is fewer than 5,000 dogs.L.A. Zoo's pair of dogs, courtesy of New York’s Bronx Zoo, is two of just under 150 African wild dogs in zoos across the United States.These dogs are part of an aggressive plan to try and preserve the species. A number of zoos, including the L.A. Zoo, are looking to help wild dog conservation efforts by participating in the Species Survival Plan Program (SSP) established in 1981 by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The program tracks a species’ genetic ancestry so that appropriate mates can be found for the animal in question. For example, the L.A. Zoo has two wild dogs, but since they are brother and sister, it would be inappropriate to breed them. In the future, if the Zoo were to receive a breeding recommendation, the Zoo would work with the AZA to locate suitable mates for the dogs. A zoo that has a compatible mate would then exchange that animal with the L.A. Zoo so that the quality breeding programs could continue.
He is a lucky guy to see one of these animals in the wild. We have over 200 South Africa pictures of this bow and arrow hunt. Are you interested in seeing more of the pictures, including the animals he harvested??
3:30 Cost of Safari
Craig's safari was located near Botswana and Zimbabwean borders in South Africa. Howard and Peter Knott own the Greater Kuduland Safaris.co.za. Seem to be a private type hunt not large groups. They even do your laundry on a daily basic. Sheeesh, I want to go!! Craig took 4 animals. Lucky me, I now get to look at them hanging on the wall for the rest of my life. Just a joke. This hunt has brought the most wonderful smile to my husbands. I rejoice in his joy.
This is a Kudu I think
The cost of the actual hunt I have never been told. Not going to ask, either. But for hunt, extra travel, extra hotel stay, airline, gifts for me (jewelry) and the cost of mounting and shipping animals, I figured $15,000. I asked Craig what he thought he has spent and he says $11,000. Not cheap but this was bonus $'s and estate money he spent. I consider well spent.
7:30 pm Greeks on Tour
Do you know Greeks on Tour? Well they are just that, RV'ers who pay their expenses by being themselves, GREEKS. I have been a member list for their video's for 1-1/2 years but never got around to taking advantage of what I pay for ($29 a year). Starting this blog has raised questions. Since I don't work outside the house, I no longer have any tech support. Soooooo, Greeks on Tour, your it.
Just received Greeks email and opened my member account and guess what Chris (my angel) was teaching, how to do all kinds of things on blogger. Isn't that the greatest.
They have seminars at at rally's all around the US. Hoping to actually meet these guy's one day. Look for them and tell them Marie said hello. Oh, Famous Chief says hi to Odie.
Meet the Geeks Jim and Chris Guld
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