Frady's On Travel

Great Day to Meet New Folks

2011-01-31T19:43:00.000-08:00

This morning we awoke to a few rain drops hitting the motor home. No worry as it lasted all of two minutes and then the sun was out. Russ and I were both excited about heading for Lakeland and being able to meet Froggi Donna and Stu McNicol and the other bloggers in the area. We made a stop at my mothers on the other side of our park to pick up a package to mail out and left the park at just after 10. We followed Hwy 98 from Frostproof thru Lake Meade and on towards Lakeland arriving at Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill just after 11. We had just parked when Froggi Donna and Stu pulled in on their beautiful bikes. (That looks like so much fun).

Lunch was so much fun being able to meet bloggers and rv enthusiest. The food was fantastic and the service provided from the servers was exceptional. Everyone was able to talk with folks and get to know them. A really fun time.

We left the Grill and headed over to the Postal Annex to mail out the package we had picked up earlier. It was then time for us to head to the bowling alley for our Monday afternoon outing with people from here at Southern Pines. I had a 520 series and Russ was off on his game today but still did ok. After our three games were done we headed home and Russ went to play cribbage at the clubhouse. I went over to visit Mama and found her not to be feeling in the pink. I will monitor and make sure all is well. Never know about the older folks.

Thanks Donna and Stu for hosting a great luncheon.

A Beautiful Sunday

2011-01-30T18:11:00.000-08:00

This morning we awoke to fog around the area but it soon burned off. It was 58 degrees out and very few people were wearing jackets or sweaters. The sky was blue and the birds were singing. It was going to be a fantastic day.

Russ began reinstalling all of the tire monitors that we had checked as they were giving wrong readings. Can't have that with these big rigs and towing a vehicle. He had to also re-enter all the information to the monitoring system mounted on the dash. One of the tires was a bit low so he aired up the motor home and found that there are three bolts broken around the generator. Don't know how we will get the pieces out but that is a project for this week.

I made beef stew for dinner and did my delivery of some to my mother on the other side of the park. All enjoyed it as we have not had it in a while.

Russ went up to the clubhouse for square dancing. Said that they had enough men for two squares and of course more women who took turns dancing. All had a great time.

Looking forward to having lunch with Stu and Donna McNicol of 2takinga5th@blogspot.com and 13 other couples over in Lakeland tomorrow. Until then take care.

I'm going to try again

2011-01-30T08:06:00.000-08:00

Good morning all.

I know that I have not blogged in a very long time and it was due to my listening to someone who really wanted to put me down and that person succeeded in doing this for 18 months. I have now decided that as long as I am not slandering or hurting anyone that I can say and do what I want to so here I am.

I will bring you up to date on what we have been doing since May 2010 and that will be in summary only.

May 3 - 7, 2010 We left Southern Pines RV Resort, which has become our winter home, and headed up to Tropical Palms in Kissimmee, Fl. There we camped with SMART (Special Military Active Retired Travelers) Buccaneers for four nights. We really had a good time and my mother was able to enjoy one night of camping out and fellowship before I put her on a plane for Richmond, Virginia.

May 7 - 11, 2010 We spent this time up at Mayport Naval Station (Pelican Roost) in Jacksonville, Fl., enjoying the beautiful views and watching the ships move in and out of the harbor. Russ was able to do some fishing off of the jetty.

May 11 -18, 2010 We spent this week at Big Water RV Park in Summerton, SC. This park is right on Lake Marion. Russ caught a 12 lb. catfish from the dock.

May 18 - 19, 2010 Put us at Kamper's Lodge in Wilson, NC. We visited with Russ' mother, sister and her husband and nephew.

May 19 - 22, 2010 We were at Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield, VA. We are only a mile from my mother and sister's house. We were able to visit with them and take moms suite case and other things home for her. (That is our job twice a year, pick up and return the suite cases).

May 22 - June 10, 2010 found us down at the Thousand Trails Park (Chesapeake Bay) in Gloucester, VA. We really like this park and go there whenever we are in the area.

June 10 - 11, 2010 We made another stop at Kamper's Lodge for the night. We again hooked up with Russ' family for supper.

June 11 - July 11, 2010 We headed down to Topsail Beach on the North Carolina shoreline. My Aunt Lizzie has a house that is about 6 miles from Lanier Campground and we were able to do a lot of visiting with her and her family especially over July 4th week. A whole lot of fun.

July 11 - 15, 2010 We stayed at The Oaks at Point South, Yemassee, SC. This was just a stop over as we headed to Perry, GA for the Holiday Rambler International Rally. We did go into Savannah, GA and tour the city. We wanted to eat at Paula Deen's restaurant but the wait was over 4 hours. Maybe next time.

July 15 - 24, 2010 As mentioned above, we are at the Holiday Ramberl International Rally. Temperatures for the week were 110 + but we did have a building for most activities that was down on the cold side. Had to have a jacket while there. We did have a great time.

July 24 - 27, 2010 Stayed at Fair Harbor Campground in Perry, GA, with friends that were having truck/tire problems. We did not feel that we wanted to leave them stranded with no one that they knew around.

July 27 - 28, 2010 Moved on up to Thousand Trails Carolina Landing in Fair Play, SC. When we pulled in we found friends that we had made down at the HR Rally.

July 28 - August 10, 2010 Another moving time up to Advance, NC and Thousand Trails Forest Lake. Another campground that we enjoy very much. While here we went to see Russ' Aunt and Uncle in Mebane, NC and also down to Charlotte to the new Nascar Museum.

August 10 - 24, 2010 We are back in Gloucester at TT Chesapeake Bay. When we are here we make many trips up to Chesterfield to visit with family and others.

August 24 - September 7 and 14 - 20, 2010 We visited Thousand Trails Hershey. We made many day trips in many directions just seeing the wonderful countryside. While we have been here the first stay, many of the rigs going up to Centre Hall are here. During the second stay here, Nick and Terry Russell of Gypsy Journal are also here.

September 7 - 14, 2010 was the SMART MUSTER in Centre Hall, PA. There were approximately 200 rigs there and it turned very cold. Everyone had to pull out coats, hats, gloves and winter shoes and socks, but we did have a good time.

September 20 - 23, 2010 found us at Cherry Hill Campground, College Park, Maryland. A beautiful campground and so convenient to see Washington, DC. We took two tours and enjoyed every minute.

September 23 - October 5, 2010 We are back at Chesapeake Bay Thousand Trails. This is the time that we will pick up Moms suite case for the trip back to Florida. There are other things also going on that we are involved with. We also had a lot of rain during this time.

October 7 - 13, 2010 We were in Myrtle Beach, SC at Briarcliff Campground. Holiday Rambler was also having a muster out on the beach so we visited with them a couple of times. Great fun.

October 13 - 18, 2010 As we were heading down I-95, we decided to spend another week at Big Water Campground and just enjoy the nice weather. We met a couple of couples that will be in the Orlando area when we arrive there in a couple of weeks.

October 18 - 23, 2010 Back to Pelican Roost, Mayport, Fl. We were able to get our flu shots over at the medical facility with no problem. A great few days again. Friends from Tampa were here and we enjoyed going out to dinner with them one night. We also enjoyed just sitting and talking.

October 23 - November 1, 2010 We are now back at Thousand Trails Orlando. Campground is nowhere near full.

November 1 - 6, 2010 We have taken the motor home up to Alliance RV Service in Wildwood, FL. They have found that the driver's side slide in the living room has begun to separate and water is seeping in and the flooring needs to be replaced. When Monaco sold to Navistar we lost our warranty. We were hoping that the extended warranty would kick in but they would have nothing to do with it, neither would the insurance policy. So we ended up paying big bucks to have the repair work done. This took place the week before Christmas. My big Christmas present.

November 6 - April 15 We are at Southern Pines RV Resort, Frostproof, Fl. My mother also has a park model trailer here and has been in this park now for 20 seasons. We like the people, the park and all that there is to do. We continually stay busy with Russ calling Bingo on Tuesday nights, playing in the Kitchen Band, doing Harmonica Lessons and anything else that comes along.

Foggy Morning

2009-08-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

This morning we woke up to very foggy conditions here at Elkhart Campground in Elkhart, Indiana. In looking out the front window we could not even see the laundry room door, which is usually visible all the time, or anything else out there. By 9:30 am, the sun was out and not even a cloud in the sky. Beautiful blue all around. As the day has progressed the clouds have started moving in again but it is still a nice day out.

We are dumping holding tanks, cleaning off the grill from where the rain splashed dirt on it over the weekend and just getting stuff put in its proper place for us to move tomorrow up to St. Claire, Michigan, to the Thousand Trails park there. We will be there until September 14 when we move again.

We are also going to make a Wal-Mart run to stock up on a few groceries and do a bit of bank business beings our bank is located right there.

It has been nice being here at Elkhart and getting to know the area. We are almost able to get around to all of the interesting areas up here. We have also enjoyed our visits with Nick and Terry Russell, who writes and edits the Gypsy Journal Newspaper, Ron and Brenda Speidel and Terry and Dale. All of these folks are fulltime RVers as we are.

I know it has been a very long time since I posted but just got lazy and had had my feelings hurt by something someone said but have decided that I am bigger and better than to let someone spoil my feelings and wanting to let my family and friends know what we are doing and where we are. I am making a promise to you and myself that I will write at least twice a week but want to do it every day.

What Happened?

2009-05-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

This morning we were awake before 6 and started getting the motor home ready to travel. We had decided while at Chesapeake Bay that we would try out a Corp of Engineer Park about half way to Lockport, NY. The park is Ives Run in Tioga, PA.

We left TT Hershey about 8 am and everything looked like it was hooked up correctly. We headed west on US 322 to I 83 N and then we went north on I 81 to exit 77 to fuel up. Diesel was $2.529 at Travel Center of America. As we were getting back on I 81 S Russ noticed the car fishtailing behind the motor home. He stopped as quickly as he could and found that we had lost one of the pins and bolts to the connection to the car. It also bent one of the holding horns, broke the light connection and messed up the air connection for the breaks along with that light. We did get all of this stuff unhooked and I drove in front of Russ to our destination for today. It was about 170 miles that we came after the mishap.

Once we were all set up and had had a sandwich for lunch we took off south on PA 487 to PA 660 and found The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. The park was awsome and we enjoyed the trails and watching the hawks that were flying all around. We spent about an hour there just looking at stuff.

We came back to the campground and Russ worked on some of the broken items and we will stop by Camping World tomorrow while up in Corning, NY and see if they can fix our mishap. Also while in Corning we will go to the museum and factory.

We will see what else we find while out.......

Pickle Ball

2009-05-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

This morning Russ decided that he wanted a schedule of the weekend activities going on here at the park. He first went to the ranger station and they sent him up to the recreation hall to obtain one. In his adventures to get this schedule he helped in putting decorations on the tables in the rec center, talked to people at the store and pool area, then ventured out to the pickleball court. There were people who were willing to teach he and another man how to play.

Everything was going well until Russ tries to get to a shot and takes a big fall across the court. He broke his glasses completely, has a big gash in his eye lid, scrapped both knees and a knuckle. Now just remember, it has been exactly two years ago that he fell and broke his hip and had to have a hip replacement.

We are going to go down to the river front this afternoon and then tonight go and watch the Harrisburg Senators play baseball. There will also be a fireworks show after the game. Sounds like fun for me.

Covered Bridges and Intercourse, PA

2009-05-21T14:06:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up about 6:30 am. I watched the Today show taking my shower during some of the segments. The morning is just gorgious out and it is a perfect day for seeing more of Pennsylvania.

We left the motor home just a few minutes after 9 heading east on US 322 to Cornwall where we took PA 72 south to Manheim where we found two covered bridges. The first was off of Adele by the high school and it was a foot bridge. There were also some interesting rocks that had been moved into the park as a special project.

We then went back through the little town of Manheim to Sun Hill Road where we found a one-lane bridge that is used for vehicles. Both of these bridges were very interesting and fun to find.

Next we headed out US 72 to US 772 to Hunsecker Road where we found our third bridge to view. Again this was a one-lane bridge for vehicles. We also saw many Amish children by this bridge.

After this bridge we headed to the town of Intercourse, PA. We headed for the Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop but found it to be closed as this is Ascention Day and the Amish do not work on this day. Back to US 340 we then headed to a Country Knives Store. It was then back into town where we stopped at Cross Key to visit Intercourse Pretzel Factory. We also checked out Stoltzfus Meats and some of the other little shops in this area. We then went to Kitchen Kettle Village where we had lunch at Kling Restaurant. Food was very good. Russ had a Ruben Sandwich with corned beef and I had a big hamburger.

We also saw many Amish families out and about in their buggies. The children are all so cute and well mannered. We also stopped to see a one room school house that was used up until 1969.

We followed our GPS directions and saw a lot of the countryside as she brought us in the back way to the campground. It was fun and we did learn a lot today.

Do not know where we will head tomorrow but know that we will enjoy it all as this area is so pretty.

A Beautiful Day

2009-05-20T22:47:00.000-07:00

Today we decided to stay around the campground and just enjoy the day doing what we wanted to. Russ went down to the lake and fished for a few hours. He caught 10 brim but released them all. He said that they gave him enjoyment just catching them.

I did laundry and some reading. Sitting out in the sun was very relaxing and peaceful.

I finished off the evening by instant messaging Nancy Leivas, Cliff Gruel and my niece Erin Crump. I also had on American Idol to watch the outcome on that show. Very surprising.

Chocolate World

2009-05-19T22:57:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Chocolate World in Hershey, PA. We learned about the man who built and founded Hershey, Milton S. Hershey. He was a man who wanted to keep his employees happy.

We took the trolly tour seeing the home where he grew up, the school that he founded for under privledged boys, the hospital where he died and other interesting parts of the town. Make sure that if retired military ask for your discount along with the senior discount.

Chocolate World has a free tour that takes you through the making of chocolate. You ride along a track in a car that seats 5 and they show all steps in the process of making the chocolate. It is very interesting and really informative.

Later this afternoon we decided to go and find the Hollywood Casino in Grantville, PA. Russ played on $5 for about an hour and I lost $25 but we did have a good time and the casino is very nice. We will go back at sometime.

Thousand Trails Hershey

2009-05-18T21:12:00.000-07:00

This morning we left Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay about 7:45 am. We traveled north on US 17 through Tappahannock to US 301 at A P Hill. We crossed into Maryland and picked up MD 3 merging onto I 97. We then merged onto I 695 west merging onto I 83 crossing into Pennsylvania. We then took US 322 east to S. Mount Pleasant Road. Total miles traveled was 259.15 and it took us just under 6 hours doing an average of 50 miles an hour.

The traffic was light to moderate all the way here. The countryside has been outstanding with all the green in the fields and trees. Flowers are showing much color also.

We arrived at the park early afternoon and found it to be a well manicured venue with nice sites and much to do in the area. We chose a 30 amp pull-thru space as the weather this week is suppose to be in the comfortable range. There were some 50 amp spaces open.

We decided to just explore the park here and have left over stew for lupper. As everyone says, the stew always taste better the second day and this was no exception. We took a walk around and will explore the area tomorrow.

Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay

2009-05-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

We left Pocahontas State Park on Monday 5/11/09 headed for Chesapeake Bay Thousand Trails in Gloucester, VA.

I had to have another blood test done and pick up a new prescription before we left Chesterfield so went to the walk in clinic at our doctors office. Those of us waiting for the office to open were stunned to find out that Dr. Mark Schroeder had passed away on the previous Saturday from a Brain Tumor. Russ and I had only seen him once so will now transfer over to one of the other doctors there in the office.

Russ dumped tanks while I was gone and I met him over at the Pilot Truck Stop off of I 95. We topped off with diesel and we were on our way heading north on I 95, east on VA 10, north on I 295, east on I 64 and east on VA 33 to VA 198. Total miles 69.50 A very easy drive and we arrived at the campground about 10 am.

We were lucky and found one of the free 50 amp sites open. Space D 23 one of our favorites. We got in and maneuvered enough to get 5 bars on the satellite. This worked well for most of the week. The entire week was partly cloudy but no rain until Sunday and then it rained all day.

Tuesday we went to Wal-Mart to get my prescription filled and just for the ride into town. We had to wait 2 hours as they were having troubles with their computer system.

Wednesday was spent at the campground just enjoying it. Russ went fishing in the river but did not catch anything. He was a bit upset about not catching anything but tried again later in the week. We also stopped at a Holiday Rambler Motor Home that was parked a couple spaces down from us because they had a 400 Club sticker on their coach. It was the Lind's whom we had met in DuQuoin, IL. in 2007 at the rally. They are headed to the Maritimes for the summer.

Thursday I went back up to Chesterfield to see my family before we leave for the summer. I was also in the hopes that I would get the results of my blood test that was done on Monday. This was also the day that my brother's house was to be auctioned off in foreclosure. There had been a realtor that wanted to buy it but was not going to give Lin anything to help get him out. After talking to our cousin Ken Walker, he decided that he would try to get the house and help Lin out. My brother-in-law Roy and I met Ken at the court house and found out that Lin's sale had been cancelled because of the realtor. Lin happened to see him in the parking lot and talked to him. The realtor has dropped all interest in the house so now Ken is working on getting it. Time will tell as to what is going to happen. I just feel so sorry for Mama in not being able to do anything at this point. She has already put up a lot of money and Lin being hard headed lost it.

It was back to the campground and I watched the finale of Grey's Anatomy. The weekend was good.

Baseball, Sea World and Busch Gardens

2009-03-01T19:04:00.000-08:00

From the title you can see that this has been a pretty busy week for us. Last Sunday afternoon we took a ride down to Disney World and the sports field where the Atlanta Braves have their spring training. We found out just to get in the area it was $12.75 per person. The ticket seller gave us a program book with all of the teams listed, where they play, what the cost of tickets per game and parking price. We decided on Monday morning that we would go down to Kissimmee and watch the Houston Astros practice.

On Tuesday, it was our weekly trip to Frostproof, visiting with my mother, using her washer and dryer for a couple of loads of clothes while we were there. We had also taken our grill and some steaks down for our lunch. I think Mama really enjoyed the steak as it has been a while since she had one. That night we went to Bingo. Mama and Nancy each won a game and Russ and I will have to wait until next time. We have won many of the nights so we could not complain.

Wednesday, we went to Lakeland to watch the Detroit Tigers and Atlanta Braves play baseball. It was a very good game and the Tigers won 4 - 3. It was fun being out in the sun and watching one of the best sports around.

A couple weeks ago I found tickets to SeaWorld/Busch Gardens at the childrens price and you can go to these parks as many times as you want in a 14-day period. We used our first day on Friday going to SeaWorld and really enjoying just walking around the park and seeing some of the shows. We went to Busch Gardens on Saturday and had a great time. We got to see the Osmond Brothers Show which was outstanding. Russ went on a couple of the rides and I really enjoyed going in the avery. What a day!!!!

Today the weather took a turn with heavy winds, rain, and much cooler temperatures. Late this afternoon the sun did shine but the air is very cold out. Hopefully our wonderful weather will be back soon.

Trip to Frostproof, Florida and Bingo

2009-02-17T19:31:00.000-08:00

This morning we awoke at about the same time as usual, Russ 6 am and Patty 8 am. Showers for both of us and then we were on the road headed to Frostproof to visit with my mother for the day. Her campground, Southern Pines was having a Health Fair today so we went over for checks for skin cancer, an adjustment to my neck and shoulders, blood pressure and blood sugar checked.
We then went to Four Seasons at Sun Ray for lunch and the was very good. Russ had country fried steak, Mama had fish and I had pork chops.

From there it was a trip to Wal-Mart for groceries for Mama and then home again. At 5:30 pm we went to the clubhouse for Bingo and hot dogs. I won the first game for $42. No one else in our group won anything tonight. Mama missed out 6 times needing only one number. Better luck next week. We all have done very well at winning this year and we hope that the luck continues with us.

We hit the road about 9:10 pm for Clermont and arrived back at our home on wheels just after 10 pm. Shortly after 11 we were both sound asleep and await tomorrow adventures.

Til next time, have a great day.

Taking an Airboat Ride

2009-02-16T20:06:00.000-08:00

I know it has been a while since I last posted but we really have not been doing that much as the weather has been so cold out. We continue to go to Frostproof on Tuesdays to see my mother and I go down again on Fridays to take her out to eat and to the grocery store or wherever she wants to go.

Thursday, February 5th, Nancy Leivas and I went to Arcadia to their Red Hat Queens Council Madi Gras luncheon. I left Thousand Trails just after 6 am and the temperature at that time was 22 degrees and as I traveled south I saw much ice around the orange trees.

Today we decided to take an "Airboat Ride." We went to Boggy Creek Airboat Tours down in Kissimmee and really enjoyed the 30 minute ride. We were able to see many different birds, a bald eagle and an alligator in the reeds. The air was a bit cool but the ride was very delightful and fun. Yes, I would go again and hopefully see more critters.

The Rest of the Rally and Back to Thousand Trails Orlando

2009-01-18T20:23:00.000-08:00

Friday was another cold day at the Florida Super RV Rally but that did not stop us from still enjoying looking at the new RVs and visiting all of the supplier booths. We talked with the people who sold and serviced the KVH Tracvision Antenna and had them come and see why we were not getting a good picture on our TVs. The wiring that was put in here originally was not correct so they fixed this problem for us. We also got the Blue Ox tow hitch serviced and we are good for another year on that.

We received a phone call from RV Connection that the other refrigerator door is in and they are coming to our campsite on Monday to install it. They are also going to check out the front door awning as it is not working at this time. It is still under warranty so let's get it done now.

We went to entertainment on Friday night. They were three guys playing brass instruments and they have been together for 40 years. They were very good and we enjoyed them very much. I'm sorry I cannot remember the band name.

Saturday morning we got up and the Leivas' and us decided to go to Cracker Barrel for breakfast. It was really good and we all came away stuffed. We headed back to the fairgrounds and a lot of the Buccaneers had decided to leave today. Russ and I also decided that we would leave after lunch as we needed fuel at the Flying J and did not want to fight the crowd that would be there on Sunday morning. We left about 1 pm and arrived at Thousand Trails Orlando around 2:20 pm.

This morning Russ fixed us egg sandwiches for breakfast, then I did a load of laundry and went to CVS and Walgreens to pick up a few things that we were out of and needed. For lupper, I fixed a pizza while we watched the Eagle/Cardinal football game. When that was over, we went up to the rec hall for entertainment, Dyn-o-Mite Stompers from Leesburg. The dancing was very good but the music was way to loud for my liking.

Another great couple of days. Until next time, take care.

Florida Super RV Rally, Tampa, Florida

2009-01-15T20:40:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday morning we leisurely left Thousand Trails, Orlando, heading for the State Fairgrounds in Tampa, Florida. It took us about an hour and fifteen minutes to get here and that included a wrong turn but we were able to find a large church parking lot to unhook the Honda from the motor home.

In taking this wrong turn as we got back on the correct road, Russ hit a large pothole which caused the motor home to lurch to the left. The linen closet came open and all the can goods that were stored there hit the floor along with laundry detergent and fabric softener. What a mess!!!! We cleaned it all up and went on with what we were suppose to be doing. Having Fun with the SMART Buccaneer Camping Club that we belong to.

Just after we got set up and cleaned up, the rains began. It rained most of the afternoon. We went with Nancy and Jim Leivas over to the Hard Rock Casino. We first went to the buffet as none of us had really eaten anything and it was 2:30 pm. The food was really good and there was a very good selection. We then decided to play the machines for an hour. I lost but Nancy came out ahead for the day. Congratulations!!!

We got back from the Casino in time to join the Buccaneers for "Happy Hour". At 5 pm some of he group went to a Steak House for dinner but with us just having eaten we decided to forgo this meal.

On Wednesday morning, our host had a continental breakfast consisting of fruit cups and muffins along with coffee. We all enjoyed this very much. After breakfast the Super show was on and everyone headed over to look at new RVs and to purchase items for their RVs. We walked around for about 3 1/2 hours and by then I was warn out. We came back to the RV and started our dish for the potluck to be held at 5 and rested for a short while. Dinner was great. Nancy and I decided to go back over to the casino and try our luck again. We held our own and just had a lot of fun in doing so.

Today when we got up it was very cold out. Russ was not feeling well so I went over to the pavilion for coffee and donuts. People were slow getting moving today but before 9 donuts were just about gone.

Again today we went looking at displays and I did buy a coffee table for my mother and a new heater for the motor home. They had put these heaters on sale for $15 and they were flying out of the door. Camping World was even delivering your purchase from them to your rig. What a deal.

Tonight we went to entertainment. As we entered the arena the Rally group served ice cream and coffee. Rick Arnold performed rock and roll along with country music and then there were door prizes given out. We did not win anything tonight but there are two more night when we can.

We had another good day and look forward to tomorrow.

Updating from Christmas until 1/12/09

2009-01-12T17:00:00.001-08:00

Sorry that I have not been faithful in updating lately but will try once again to get everyone caught up with our doings for the past couple of weeks.

When I left off we were in Chesterfield, Virginia, enjoying the holidays at my sister, Betty, and brother-in-law, Roy's house. We also visited their two daughters houses with much going on at both.

Lori and Dave Schuelke had just moved into their new house. Dave has been building on this project for two years with Lori's help when she was not working for Dominic Power. Dave did all of the wood (cutting, stripping, and finishing). Pictures of the ongoing work and finished project are in my photos on picasa.

Dana and Brian have also had a busy year. In January, 2008, Jenna Nicole, was born. She is so cute and full of vim and vinegar. They also moved into a new house in March and had to contend with the slow housing market to sell their old house. Luckily they were able to accomplish this mission and are very happy in their big, wide-open house in Woodland Pond sub-division.

On Saturday, the entire family went to my Aunt Blanche Ladd's house for lunch and game playing. Her son, Rob, and his friend Penny along with his daughter Ashley were there. Also my cousin Tommy and his wife Pam from Ohio and Fred from Atlanta were also there. We all had a great time and a wonderful meal. Thanks Aunt Blanche.

Card games again started with everyone having a good time. Russ and I just could not get the right cards so did not win at all in all of the games played.

On Sunday, Russ and I went to Wilson, N. C., to visit with his family. Ms. Sarah has been having some health problems (back and eyes) so we called a family meeting and let her know that it was time that she seek other living arrangements. She is unable to care for her apartment in the way that it should be done. Sarah, Russ, his sister Susan and nephew Connor, went out on Monday to look at assisted living places and to talk with a counselor about what to do to get her into one of these. They were able to obtain much information so we will see what will take place in the near future.

We returned to Chesterfield on Tuesday afternoon and that evening went to my cousin Mary and Harry's house for a pasta dinner. She also had her mother, our uncle Bryan, her son, Brandon and brother Lewie. Another great meal and wonderful visiting amongst all of us.

On Wednesday, New Year's Eve, we returned to Florida. During the week Russ and I had decided that he would come back to TT and move the motor home into a spot and I would go down to Frostproof and stay with Mama for a few days. One she had come down with a bug and we were watching it to make sure that she did not go into pneumonia. We discovered when we got to the car that we had left both sets of keys to the motor home at Mamas house. We did stop at TT and get a space then continued to Frostproof so that Russ could get the keys and come back and move.

On Thursday morning Russ got up and searched out the campground for a space that he would like better as we had put in for the extended stay program here. He found a space that he liked better than the one that he had overnight and went up to register at the office. Once moved again he spent the afternoon and evening watching the bowl games on TV. On Friday morning, he had to take the motorhome over to RV Connection to have the refrigerator doors replaced. They had called and said that the doors were in but only one had come and the other is on backorder. They did replace the one and did the inspection that needed to be done to have the warranty extended for another year.

That afternoon he came down to Frostproof and picked Mystee and I up. We were both glad to get back to our own home. We continued to get our space fixed up like we want it and to meet some of the neighbors and people around us.

Over the weekend we continue our set up and watched the play-off games on NFL football. We have gone swimming some, sat outside and just enjoyed the sun, gone walking and bike riding the rest of the time.

On Tuesday we went to Frostproof as this is the night that they have Bingo. On the way down we picked up a few things for Mama and just enjoyed our visit. Russ and I both won at Bingo and felt very good about it.

Today, we went to Camping World and our second bike had finally come in. Now both Russ and I can ride together.

Tomorrow we will be going down to the Tampa Fairgrounds for the Big RV Show and SMART, Buccaneers campout. We will be down there until Sunday.

I will report from there.

Until next time, take care.

Christmas Day

2008-12-26T19:13:00.000-08:00

We are still in Chesterfield, Virginia, and are having a good time. This morning we were up bright and early (6:15 a.m.) as to go over to the Keefer's to watch Jenna open her Santa Claus presents. Jenna is our Great-niece and she will turn a year old on January 14. It was fun watching her open all her presents with the help of Mommy (Dana) and Daddy (Brian). Lots of pictures were taken but I cannot post them as I forgot to bring the upload cable.

We all came back over to Betty (my sister) and Roy's (her husband) to prepare breakfast for a big crowd consisting of Betty and her family (7), Aunt Blanche and my cousin Fred from Atlanta, Aunt Lizzie Y. and Uncle Bryan (my mothers sister and brother), my cousin Mary and her husband Harry, neighbors Bridgett, Arlene and Al, my Mother and Russ and myself. Roy and Russ left Dana's at 8:30 to come and begin frying the bacon and sausage. They also made waffles, biscuits, and scrambled eggs. Both Aunt Lizzie and Aunt Blanche bought delicious
baked apples. Everything was great.

Just as soon as everyone was finished eating and all of the breakfast leftovers were put away and the roast for dinner was started then the card games began. We first played a dice game where you bought three chips for $3. In this game you rolled dice and you passed your chips either left, right or to the middle. The object of the game was to be the last one with a chip. I did not win here.

We next played 31 where you are dealt three cards and you are trying to beat at least one person. At your turn you can either pick a card or knock. If you have the lowest hand then you must pay a $1 to the banker. Again it is whomever has money left at the end of the game wins. Didn't win here either.

Just before dinner was ready eight of us went to see Dave and Lori's new house. After two years of hard dedicated work on it they were finally able to move in. This house is a work of art and all done by these two fine young people. We are all very proud of them.

Once back at Betty's we had roast beef, potatoes and carrots, string beans, homemade rolls and all kinds of pies that Betty made. Once everyone was full, it was back to the card games. Again Russ and I had no luck but it was fun. Everyone left at about 10:30 pm and those of us left were ready for a good nights sleep.

This morning Betty took off for shopping and Russ, Mama and I went for a ride to check out a couple of the Elks Lodges in this area. We enjoyed just taking some of the roads that we used to use and see how much the area has built up.

I had dinner tonight with Cindy and her family. I took each of the children an outfit and a toy, so hope that they enjoy what I got them. I also took Morgan a birthday present as her birthday is Sunday.

On my way home, I stopped and called my brother to check on he and his daughter. I just wish that I could get through to him and have him understand that we do care about him and want to help him the best that we can.

A very busy but fun past couple of days.

Going to Richmond, Virginia for Christmas

2008-12-20T19:50:00.000-08:00

After spending the past two days down in Frostproof with my mother we loaded luggage for all three of us into the car and headed to the Orlando Airport. We first made a stop at the Advance Parking Area to leave the car at a price of $7 per day which includes valet parking, covered parking and shuttle service to the airport.

We arrived at the Air Tran terminal at 11:45 am and got our boarding passes in short order. I had checked online about getting seat assignments and they wanted $6 for this service. I decided just to wait until we reached the airport and take whatever they gave us. I sure am glad that I did as as seats were immediately behind business class and there was adequate leg room for all of us.

Our flight time was 1 hour and 30 minutes with very little turbulence. The Captain, Michael Boos, and his crew were excellent and very accommodating. My brother-in-law, Roy McCarthy, picked us up at the curb and we were on our way to meet my sister, Betty, my nieces Lori and Dana and their spouses Dave and Brian and my great niece, Jenna for dinner at a new restaurant in Chester by the name of Sibley's. This is a very good Bar-B-Que restaurant. We all came away very full.

It was then on home for us all and we enjoyed watching the movie "ELF" on TV. I went out and took a few pictures of my sisters decorations on her house and found out how cold it was outside. Tonight it is suppose to get down to around 29 and then tomorrow it is suppose to be raining. I hope that it will clear off a little so that I can go Christmas shopping as we did not want to travel with anything.

Tomorrow my mother's doctor will be stopping by to give her a cortisone shot in her knee. Can you believe a doctor actually coming to the house on a Sunday. He said that the reason that he is going to do this is that he will be the only one in the office next week and it is easier to give this shot in the home. Nice guy!!!!!

I forgot to bring my cord to upload pictures so will do that when we get back to Orlando next week.

Hope that everyone has a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Slow Week

2008-12-18T18:50:00.000-08:00

The past week has been very pleasant with nice and warm days, some clouds, temperatures in the 80's and fog to start the day but not lasting long at all.

Russ has been going up to the recreation hall to play pokeno during the afternoon. I have been doing a lot of reading and computer work while he is gone. On Tuesday's we travel down to Frostproof, Fl., to see my mom and we stay to play BINGO, leaving after we have gotten our share of money returned. This week I won one pot and my mom won one of the big pots. We keep on trying and have a good time at it. Nancy Leivas also comes up to play Bingo from Sebring.

Today we took the motor home over to RV Connection for them to inspect the refrigerator doors and order new ones as the spacer on the bottom is broken and they do not have replacements except to order new doors. We also have to have maintenance on the frig for it to have another year warranty on it. We will have this done when the doors come in.

After having the frig looked at we took the motor home back to Thousand Trails Orlando and put it into storage for the next two weeks while we are in Richmond, VA. for Christmas. We fly out on Saturday morning and it will be the first time that we have been home for Christmas in over 23 years. My mom is also going with us and it has been that long for her also. This should be a very interesting time as my niece has her little girl and it will be her first Christmas, I will get to see Cindy, my daughter that I gave up for adoption, and her three children. My other niece just moved into her new house so we will be spending time there. We are really looking forward to this trip and all that it is sure to bring.

We wish all of our family and friends a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Shopping

2008-12-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday (Sunday) my sweet husband made us a big breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, his country ham, home fries and toast. It tasted great and we both enjoyed it very much.

We decided to take a ride over to Camping World in Kissimmee, Florida, to see if we could find filters for the in-coming water. We did not find what we needed but did find bicycles for each of us. With staying here at TT for the winter we will get much use out of them. The only problem is that they only had one in stock and the other one should arrive in about two weeks. I got a good deal on them as the original price was $209, the sale price was $179 and they let me have the two for $299. Another good thing about these bikes is that the fold up and fit in the back of the car.

Today we went to Lakeland, Florida, and had lunch at Golden Corral with the Holiday Rambler 400 Club. We joined this group in 2007 when in Du Quion, Illinois, at the Holiday Rambler International Rally. There were 34 people there for lunch with most of them having known each other for many years. We knew a few and enjoyed meeting others. We will continue to go to the luncheons once a month while here in Florida.

We then stopped by RV Connections to set up an appointment to have the refrigerator serviced and have them order the doors. We will take the moho over for them to look at it on 12/18 and then put it in storage while we are back in Virginia for almost two weeks.

It is hard to believe that Christmas is only 17 days away.

New Home For A While

2008-12-06T15:11:00.000-08:00

We finally left the Monaco Repair Facility on Thursday about noon and moved down the road about 5 miles to Three Flags RV Resort on Hwy 44 in Wildwood. The reason for going there was that I had changed our reservations at Thousand Trails from Thursday until Saturday as I did not know when we were going to be finished with the repairs. We ended up having only the slide worked on and will get the refrigerator taken care of after Christmas. They are going to have to order new doors and if we had done it at Monaco we would have had to wait for them to come in and be installed. That could have been as long as a month or more.

We will be in Space G30 until 12/19 when we go down to pick up Mama in Frostproof and fly back to Richmond until 12/31. On 1/1 we will come back here to Orlando and spend the next three months. This will be something different for us as we are use to moving after being in a spot for two to three weeks. There is much to see around here to we will spend our time being tourist some days and full timers other days.

Last night while at Three Flags RV Resort, we went up to play BINGO. Buy-in is three cards for $2 and you can play their horse race for $1. I won one and a half games for a total of $8 and Russ won one game for $3. We had spent $5 for cards and horse race plus $2 for ice cream. We came home $4 ahead so we had a great night.

During the day Russ has started waxing the house so he is staying busy and out of trouble for now. He will complete the job one of these days.

We have nothing planned so will just have to wait and see what the next few days have in store for us.

Until next time, take care.

Slow Day

2008-12-02T15:09:00.000-08:00

We are still in Wildwood, Florida, at the Monoco/Holiday Rambler Repair Facility. After waiting the entire morning for Brady, our service writer, to come by Russ went to the office and happened to see him there. He said that he really did not need to come out with the description of our problems that Russ had given yesterday, he knew what we needed. The next available technician would not be available until Thursday. They already know that they are going to have to order parts so why can't someone come and just get that started.

During the night we had a very hard rain. It woke me so I got up just to make sure that all the windows were closed and no leaks anywhere as we only had three of the slides out. When we awoke this morning, it was 44 degrees out but did continue to warm into the 70's this afternoon.

Around noon I took a ride over to "The Villages" and went to Wal-Mart. Did not buy anything just walked around looking and stretching my legs for a while. I came back by the moho and picked Russ up and we went and ordered fruit to have sent to his mother and sister for Christmas.

It was turkey vegetable soup for dinner and now some tv.

Until the next time, take care.

Service Work

2008-12-01T17:45:00.000-08:00

This morning we left Thousand Trails, Peace River Preserve in Wauchula, Florida, at 8:14 A.M and headed north on Hwy. 17 to Bartow, Florida, where we picked up Hwy. 98. We traveled north to Dade City where Hwy. 301 joined Hwy. 98 and we followed this to Wildwood, Florida, for a total of 109 miles.

Russ checked in with the receptionist here at Camp Monoco, Florida, and we were told that the Service Writer would hopefully be out to see us this afternoon, if not, in the morning. They did know for sure that we would not be able to get a service technician out until Wednesday or Thursday. We did not have a reservation for service so will just have to wait until they can fit us into their schedule. The reason that we are here is that we keep breaking a bolt when putting in the road side slide in the living room and the spacer piece on the refrigerator door have broken and we have to lift up on the door to get it to close.

Late this afternoon we took a ride over to The Villages for supper at Golden Corral. This is one of the largest that I have seen and the food was very good and plentiful. It was back to the moho and TV until bedtime.

For tomorrow, we will just have to wait and see what the Service Writer tells us and then decide how to spend our day.

Until then, take care.

Long Time No Post but I'm Back

2008-11-30T19:12:00.000-08:00

For the past month I have been sort of busy and just lost my steam for posting; but, I am back and will try to bring you up to date with all that has gone on in our lives as Full time RVers.

We have both been fine and keeping busy me mostly with visiting Mama at least twice a week in Frostproof, Fl. She is doing well except for the constant complaints about "Arthur" bothering her back, knee and ankle, which she broke many years ago in three places. We have a standing date with her on Tuesday's as that is when they have Bingo at her park and the pay out is pretty good. I have won a half jackpot and Mama won a blackout of $100.

The first two weeks we were here in Florida, we stayed at the Thousand Trails Orlando Preserve on Hwy. 27. We were entertained every day there by three big turtles that lived around our space. It was fun watching them come out of their living quarters and go to one of the other holes and visit there.

During the week of Veteran's Day we camped at "The Oaks Campground" in Bushnell, Florida, with The Buccaneers, a SMART Chapter. On Veteran's Day we went to the National Cemetery there in Bushnell for their ceremony. It was very moving and a lot of participation and excellent speakers. We enjoyed being with the Buccaneers and will join them again in January for their muster down in the Tampa area.

For the past two plus weeks we have been here at Peace River Preserve in Wauchula, Florida. We got here on November 13 and I left with Nancy Leivas on November 14 to go up to Disney and Super SoapNet Weekend.

She and I stayed at a Wyndham Property called Bonnet Creek and went to the park each day to see the ABC Soap Stars. There were people who got in line for "Fastpass" tickets at 3 A.M. We were there by 6 and we still had to wait for 2 hours for them to start handing out the tickets so that you could have your picture taken with the stars and get an autograph. We had to be crazy.

On Saturday, November 22, Mystee decided that she wanted to investigate what it would be like to be an outside cat. She snuck out somehow and was gone until Tuesday night. I did know that she had to be somewhere close as she left all kinds of foot prints on the car but would not come when we called her. It was warm enough that I left the door open and about 10:00 pm she came creeping in, looking around as if to say "Why didn't you open the door sooner."

For Thanksgiving we went over to Southern Pines Resort, and had dinner there with Mama and the folks around that park. Management provided the turkey and ham, along with stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy. Everyone else fixed side dishes which were set in front of your place setting and everyone went around a helped themselves to whatever was there. By the time we got around the room, the dishes that we brought were just about cleaned out. I think there was only one tablespoon left of jello salad and one of scalloped potatoes. Everything was very good and we were stuffed.

On Friday after Thanksgiving, Russ and I went to "Solomon's Castle" (www.solomonscastle.com)off of Hwy. 64 in Ona, Florida. This is a gallery decorated by 80 original-design stained glass windows and countless metal sculptures done by internationally renowned artist Howard Solomon. We really enjoyed this tour and do recommend it if you are in the area. Cost is $10 per adult and $4 for children under 12.

Today we went up to Pioneer Restaurant for breakfast and then to Wal-mart for gas and a few food items so that I could make soup with the remaining turkey we had from Thursday. This afternoon this area was in a tornado watch until 8 p.m. We never did go into a warning but did have high winds and hard rains a couple times during the afternoon. Most of the east coast is having this type of weather today.

I hope that everyone had a very Happy Thanksgiving. We are so thankful for all that we have and that we are able to live the lifestyle that we have chosen. We are also thankful that we are healthy and have so many dear friends.

Mama's Arrival

2008-10-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Russ and I were up at our normal times and it felt really chilly. We went about our morning getting dressed to start our day. I also packed a duffel bag as I was heading out to the airport at 11 to meet Mama. She was coming in from Richmond, VA., and I am going to take her to her little house in Frostproof, FL. Russ and I also went up to see Fred, the manager at TT, about getting an extended stay space for January thru March. We also rode around just checking out the area close by.

As I said earlier I headed to the airport about 11 and had no more than pulled into the cell phone waiting area and I received a call from Mama that the plane had landed and she would be one of the last to get off as she has a wheel chair bring her to the waiting area. In about 25 minutes she was out on the sidewalk waiting for me as I circled the airport. It is really an easy chore picking up people with the cell phone parking.

We stopped at Bob Evans for a late lunch and then headed our 35+ miles down to Frostproof. We did not bother to stop for groceries as Mama was really tired and needed a rest. Having the late lunch we neither one were really hungry for any other food. We just rested and watched some TV, got suitcases unpacked and just enjoyed our afternoon.

This morning we went to McDonald's for breakfast and then over to the Arcade Beauty Shop for me to get a much needed haircut. Thank you Charles for the great haircut. Martha will give Mama a perm on Thursday morning.

We then headed to Wal-Mart for groceries. Today was a replenishment of most everything. Big bill but we will eat good this week.

Well it's time to hit the sack. Until next time, take care.

Thousand Trails Orlando

2008-10-26T18:12:00.000-07:00

We left Pelican Roost, Mayport, Florida, this morning at 9 am and headed east along Atlantic Avenue to Hwy 9A. Hwy 9A is wonderful and takes you directly to I-95 South without stoplights and very little traffic. The roadways and getting around Jacksonville was much easier then it was 26 years ago when Russ was stationed on the Samuel Eliot Morrison, FFG-13.

We drove south on I-95 to north of Daytona, then west on I-4 to Disney World and north west on Hwy-192 to Hwy 27. Once on Hwy 27 the Thousand Trails park is only 2 miles north. We found us a nice spot with full hookups including 50 amp service. Sunday night the park provided a hayride around the park. The only problem was that there was no hay on the wagon but we did have a good time anyway. We will be here until November 9 when we will go up to Bushnell, Fl. with a SMART Group (Buccaneers).

Naval Station Mayport, Jacksonville, Florida

2008-10-24T11:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning we awoke to chilly weather in Yemassee, South Carolina. We stowed everything ready for travel and decided that we would first go to the Waffle House for breakfast. We were on the road heading for Jacksonville, Florida, by 9 am. We stopped at the first rest area and I checked the outside thermometer and it read 53 degrees. The wind was blowing and it was just down right cold.

Continuing down I-95 we encountered about 40 miles of construction but traffic moved at a steady rate and we had no problems. We stopped again at the Flying J in Brunswick, GA. and put in almost 42 gallons of diesel at $3.399. We continued south into Jacksonville and headed out 9A to Mayport Naval Station.

Arriving at the base, we had to stop at Pass and Decal to optain a military sticker for the windshield. This took about 20 minutes and we were happy to do it. The bases on the west coast kept saying that we did not need the stickers as DOD was going to do away with the stickers in 2010.

We arrived at the RV park and we are in Space 4 overlooking the St. Johns River. The campground is very nice and the people in the office are helpful and a joy to be around. The weather on the other hand has not been good at all. The winds have blown very hard since we got here and the rains came all night and all morning. As I am writing now the sun is trying to come out so we will see.

Over at Naval Air Station Jax, they are suppose to have their annual Air Show this weekend with the Blue Angels. Hopefully the weather will clear for them. We took a ride over to the base this morning as we wanted to also check out the Famcamp for future stays. It is ok but we would much rather travel the few extra miles and be looking at the water. We will be here until Sunday when we move over to the Thousand Trails Park at Orlando.

The Oaks at Point South, Yemassee, S. C.

2008-10-22T16:53:00.000-07:00

Monday morning we were up early as usual on moving day and had everything picked up and put in it's place for moving. I went to pull in the slides having the back ones come in fine. When I went to pull in the front slides something was wrong as the back half of the road slide would not come in. Russ began checking to find out what was the cause of it not moving. First he thought that it was ice on the topper, some there but not enough to keep it from moving. He then checked in the compartment and found that we had lost a bolt and nut. Of course we do not have an inch and a half bolt. Luckily the maintenance man was out and about and he had one. We finally got the bar and leaver lined up and the bolt in.

We got on the road by 10 after stopping for diesel and breakfast at Flying J in Kenly, N. C. We paid $3.309 per gallon and then were headed south traveling 293.1 miles along I-95 to Yemassee, S. C. We are just off of I-95 at an ELS park, The Oaks at Point South. The campground is nestled amongst many, many oak trees and all the sites are pull thru but some are a little tight getting in and out of.

Yesterday we took a trip over to Parris Island where Russ had done his Basic Training back in 1969 when he joined the Marines. We toured around the base seeing some of the places that he had called home for 12 weeks back then. We also stopped by the commissary and picked up some fruit and water.

We left the base and headed over to Beaufort, S. C. and rode around some of their streets just checking out the historical houses here. We also found the Lowes Store and got some additional bolts and nuts.

It was back to the little house on wheels where I took a walk around the park noticing that there are a lot of Florida tags on vehicles here. With the weather getting colder people are on the move to warmer weather.

Russ went over to the pond today and did some fishing. He said that he did not even get a bite but enjoyed just being out near the water. He did see two alligators in the water but they had nothing to do with him. Thank goodness.

Well it is time for the baseball game on TV so will close for now. I hope everyone has a good week and that your team wins.

Kamper's Lodge of America, Wilson, N. C.

2008-10-22T16:35:00.000-07:00

October 18 – 21. We left Pocahontas State Park and headed to Wilson, N. C., and Kamper’s Lodge of America. It is located about 6 miles from Russ’ mothers’ house and we had complete hookups. Once we got set up and to her house, we visited for a while and then went to Bill’s Bar-B-Que for lunch. The food was great and we all got our fill. We took a ride around to the houses that they had lived in and many changes had taken place. We went back to Ms. Sarah’s and visited with Russ’ sister Susan and nephew Connor. It was a good day.

On Sunday, we all gathered at Ms. Sarah’s for breakfast. It was all the things that Russ likes eggs with red-eye gravy, country ham, biscuits and tomatoes. Yum, Yum. Russ watched the race from Martinsville on TV while I messed on the computer. I later decided to go to Target, Ross, Marshall’s and a shoe store. I only bought a drink for our dinner.

After dinner it was back to our house on wheels and watching football for Russ and Desperate Housewives and Brother and Sisters for me. We have had a good two weeks with family and will see most again in the spring.

Pocahontas State Park, Chesterfield, VA.

2008-10-18T16:28:00.000-07:00

October 10 - 18. We arrived in Chesterfield, VA., about 1 pm and headed directly to Pocahontas State Park. this park is just over a mile from my mother and sisters house and we like it a lot as it is well layed out and so very convenient for us to come and go. We were at my sisters at 2. We found out what the agenda was for Friday Night and then went back to finish setting up the RV and changing clothes so that we looked human. We went to the funeral home and spent a short time there visiting family. They all looked tired and needed to go get some rest. We came back by Brian and Dana's house. They moved into it in March after Jenna was born in January. What a place!!!!!

On Saturday, the funeral went very well with Military Honors. At the reception of the remaining 12 cousins there were 11 there. It is the first time in about 35 years that we have all been in the same place at the same time. It was great and we all got acquainted with each other.

Sunday we went to my cousin Mary's for a birthday party for Aunt Lizzie. It was great to see my cousins and get to know their children. Susan, from Illinois, was going to stay the week with her mother but her family had to leave for the long drive back to their rented home. Their house was completely destroyed during the spring floods along the Mississippi River. She and her husband, Bob, are trying to figure out what they are going to do about living arrangements from here on. Suzy, our prayers are with you and know that we are here to help out with whatever you need.

On Tuesday morning, we went to Ironbridge Medical Center for a doctor appointment. We have decided to change from California to Virginia as we do not know exactly when we will be back in California and this way we can get what we need while here.

Thursday night I went to meet with friends Cindy and Dennis McKay and their three adorable children, Morgan (5), Carter (3) and Madison (7 weeks). I have not seen them in a very long time and have longed for this day. I knew about Morgan but was, for sure, very surprised to find out about the other two children but am very happy for all of them. I did enjoy seeing them all and wish them the best and hope that we can continue to communicate. Thank you, Cindy for allowing me this time.

The rest of the week was spent with my family. We went over to see Lori and Dave’s house that they are building. Hopefully they will be in it within the next month; but, for sure by Christmas. Dave and Lori, you have done a great job and the work is something for you to be very proud of.

Knoxville, TN. and Advance, N. C

2008-10-10T10:40:00.000-07:00

I know that it has been a while since I last wrote but it has been a very busy and in some ways a good two weeks and in some ways sad. In this posting I will just write about all that has gone on and then start back to doing individual stays.

October 2 - 3. We have been having problems with the ice maker leaking in the refrigerator. It has gotten so bad that it was now soaking the carpet by the refrigerator and there was water all underneath. Russ decided that it was time to shut the water supply off and we would just buy ice until we could get it fixed. We called Buddy Gregg in Knoxville, TN., and set up an appointment to have this looked at. Zeke came out when we got there and found that there was a whole in the water line and a plugged up drain hole. He proceeded to cut off about 4 inches on the line and then flushed out the drain hole. No more leaking. Thanks Zeke for the fast fix. Also, thanks for checking further on the recall listing and finding that we did not have to wait 10 days for the needed piece to come in.

October 3 - 10. We left Buddy Gregg's about 8 am heading east along I-40 toward Advance, N. C., and Thousand Trails Forest Lake RV Park. We drove around the park looking for a spot that maybe would have 50 amp service and we would be able to get satellite service. We found two sites that we felt would work and just as we were headed to them there was a 5er pulling out of C46 and he said his spot had all that we wanted and that they were leaving early. We took that spot, and, yes it was a very good spot.

We stayed around the campground for the weekend going to the Manager's Meeting on Saturday and taking walks around enjoying the fall air. Russ did some fishing while I read. On Monday, we took a ride up to Graham, N. C. to check out a campground that I was thinking about staying at while we visited family in the area. It was not good with a lot of permanents there and the roads had big ruts. No thank you. We will just stay where we are for the week and travel.

On Tuesday we went down to the Richard Childress Racing facility and took their self-guided tour. After leaving there, we went to his winery and picked up a couple of bottles of wine. After arriving back home we received a phone call from my mother that my Uncle Lewis Youngblood had passed away. She said that the funeral was to be on Saturday morning and that a family visitation would be held on Friday night. That meant instead of leaving from TT on Saturday that we would have to leave on Friday and head for Richmond, VA. We were already planning on being in Richmond on Saturday so out we would head a day early.

On Thursday we went up to see Steve and Trisha Brewer, Russ' uncle and aunt up in Mebane, N. C. Steve had lung cancer surgery earlier this year. He is doing really great and looks fantastic. We spent all day with going to see the old school house they are working on, riding around the neighborhood and seeing all the growing that the area is doing. We had a very enjoyable day. We hope that Steve continues to improve and Trish, we love you a lot.

Grand Ole Opry, Nashville, TN.

2008-10-04T10:01:00.000-07:00

Tuesday morning we left Memphis, Tn. and headed east along I-40 to the home of the Grand Ole Opry. We traveled north on I-65 to Millersville, Tn. and Nashville Country RV Park. A very nice and accommodating park.

Nashville'>http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/NashvilleCountryRVPark">Nashville Country RV Park

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/NashvilleCountryRVPark#5252350263851940850

On Tuesday night we were fortunate enough that the Grand Ole Opry was performing that night so we purchased tickets and took the shuttle bus in to see the show. They were honoring Bill Monroe and all the performers were Bluegrass Musicians. It was a very good show and lasted for just over 2 hours.

From Grand Ole Opry

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/GrandOleOpry#5252349821314194754

On Wednesday we went out to breakfast at Shoney's and mailed a baby blanket to a friend back at Spring Lake. The rest of the day was spent doing laundry and just resting. At 5 pm the campground had an upcoming performer singing on the lawn and we enjoyed her talents a lot.

Thursday morning we left Nashville Country RV Park heading south on I-65 and then South east on T-155 passing by the Opry House and shopping center. We were glad that we had decided to take this route as I-65/I-24 were completely backed up for as far as the eye could see. We were heading for Knoxville, TN. and Buddy Gregg RV Center to have the ice maker on the refrigerator looked at as it was leaking. We arrived about 12:30 pm and registered at 1 when they returned from lunch. About 3:30 Zeke came out to see what he could find and within the hour he said that we were fixed and ready to hit the road. What had happened was a pin hole had worn in the water hose so he cut off about 4 inches and the drain needed blowing out. Thanks again Buddy Gregg.

Friday morning we left Buddy Gregg about 9 am after having breakfast at Cracker Barrel just up the street. We traveled I-40 to NC-64 in Mocksville, NC. We are at the Forest Lake Thousand Trails until Thursday. We have been to this park two other times and we really enjoy it here. The trees are beginning to change color and the weather temperature is just perfect. Days in the 70's and nights are in the 40's. Great for sleeping.

Well until next time, Take Care.

Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee

2008-10-01T17:50:00.000-07:00

Once we arrived in Memphis and got all set up at the Elvis Presley RV Park. We walked across the street from the campground to Piccadilly Cafeteria for a late lunch. They really have good food with all the seasonings done the correct way.

From Graceland

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/Graceland#5252340604064514482

After lunch we walked the 5 blocks down to "GRACELAND", home of Elvis and Priscilla Presley. We took the total tour seeing the mansion, then to the cars, costumes, and airplanes that were owned and worn by Elvis from 1955 - 1977. We had been here in 2005 and still enjoyed taking the tour.

We then walked back to the RV and just enjoyed the afternoon. I did take a short nap and when I woke up, went outside and talked with the neighbors, Patricia and Tom. They are returning to Florida after being in Alaska for the past few weeks.

We moved again on Tuesday to Nashville. Will do a post on it later. Until then, Take Care.

Catching Up from the Rally

2008-10-01T13:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry that it has been a while since I last posted but we were very busy during the FMCA Rally at North Little Rock.

From Rally at the Rock

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/RallyAtTheRock#5249796327886971906

We were parked up in the Wheat field area above the Sand Pit and Rock Garden. There were approximately 75 - 80 rigs parked in the Wheat field. Once we got set up and electricity was finally flowing to our little home on wheels, we were very happy campers. We enjoyed live entertainment every night (4). We did not move the car the entire time we were there as we took the provided trams or golf carts that were making rounds on a daily basis. The Rally Mall was well staffed with all types of vendors selling RV goods and services. The quilts that were on display were beautiful and those receiving them will be very proud.

From Rally at the Rock 1

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/RallyAtTheRock1#5252312162859091618

The city of North Little Rock allowed all in attendance with their badges on to ride the electric streetcar across the river to Little Rock and enjoy all the museums, restaurants, city library, hotels (Peabody with the Duck Walk), and the Clinton Presidential Library.

There was also a Dealer's Party where the new motor home dealers served Margarita's, Smoothies and Ice Cream Sandwiches while people enjoyed going through the new rigs. They had a couple of high end Newell's there as well as many other kinds of motor homes. It was fun going into all of them and just looking to see if there was something that you could not live without. I found nothing that I liked better than what I have now. No trade here.

On Saturday and Sunday afternoon there was an ice cream social out in front of the Rally Mall. We had our ice cream and then went to the Irish Pub down the street for dinner. I had fish and chips and Russ had the beef stew and mashed potatoes. The food was really good.

On Sunday morning, the Wyndham hotel provided a breakfast buffet. There were 3 different settings and they provided eggs, bacon, potato patties, biscuits and gravy. It was good and everyone got there fill.

We did not win any of the door prizes but we did have a good time and will go to more of these rallies in due time.

We had said that we were not going to be in any big hurry to leave on Monday morning, but as most of you know us, we had everything picked up, jacks stowed, car attached and were ready to leave whenever we could get out. The people next door had their car parked in the middle by the generator and we could not move. Finally about 8:15 he came out and I asked if he would move the car and we would be out of his way. He did and down the road we went heading for Memphis, Tennessee. We had only 142 miles to travel and it was a very easy drive. Some of the trees are beginning to change color and there was no construction so as I said a very easy drive.

Will talk about Memphis soon so take care.

Rally at the Rock

2008-09-24T20:13:00.000-07:00

We left Carthage on Monday morning bright and early heading south on Hwy 71 toward Fort Smith, Arkansas. Once at Fort Smith, we headed east along I-40 to North Little Rock. All along the way we had a pleasant drive with no incidents including two stops at Flying J Travel Plazas.

From Rally at the Rock

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/RallyAtTheRock#5249797452573291058

We arrived in North Little Rock at approximately 1:20 pm and it took until after 4 pm to get to our camping space for the week. We have heard all kinds of reasons that it took so long to get to the area and we have also heard many disgruntle persons about how this rally is being run. We were guaranteed that we would have 30 amp electric for the entire rally and it took until after 12 pm today to finally get it. All of the seminars, entertainment and food is over two miles away from where we are and we are being eaten alive by fire ants. The trolleys, buses and mini-vans did start to move this afternoon so we can at least get up to where all the action is going on. We are also told that this is not the most desirable part of town; so, we have police security all around once the sun begins to set.

Oh well, we will see what tomorrow has in store when the rally actually starts and we have to be in certain places at certain times. This is when I will just continue to enjoy and make the best of all situations.

Until next time, Take Care.

Carthage, Missouri

2008-09-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

This morning as is true for any moving day, we were up by 6:30 am and getting ready to move on down the road. We left Spring Lake RV Resort in Halstead, Kansas at 7:50 am and headed east on K-50 then took I-35 south to K-96 and then US-400 east to Carthage, Missouri. We arrived at 12:20 pm and got set up at Big Red Barn RV Park off of MO-71. The campground has 65 sites and when we arrived was not very full. By 6:30 pm about 75% of the sites were taken and I expect that a few more will be taken before morning.

From Big Red Barn

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/BigRedBarn#5249019852474403090

After we got set up I went over to the "Precious Moments Chapel and Museum" in Carthage. I had heard that it was well worth going over there and I am glad that I did. The work is outstanding and very moving. I spent about 2 hours there just looking at the glass windows, then strolling the grounds and seeing the museum. They were also having a big sale on all of the figurines so bought one for my great-niece and one for my sister.

From Precious Moments Chapel and Grounds

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/PreciousMomentsChapelAndGrounds#5249020501637770498

On the way back to the RV, I stopped at Wal-Mart as we needed some cash for the next week and that is the easiest place to get it.

Until next time, Take Care.

Saying Good Bye

2008-09-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

We truly enjoyed being at Spring Lake RV Resort for the past week. These people feel like family to us and we again want to "Thank them for all that they did for us last year and in welcoming us again this year."

On Thursday night we went out to dinner with Jim and Marge Eckles, at Paradise Bar and Grill. I think all of us liked it better when it was Fireside; but, we enjoyed the company and being able to be together for the evening.

Friday night we ate at the Clubhouse. Russ enjoyed an open face roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and salad. I had one of Gordon's delicious hamburgers with chips. After dinner hour, I played bingo and Russ went and started washing on the motor home finishing it after dinner on Saturday night.

From More Spring Lake RV Resort

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/MoreSpringLakeRVResort#5249019060801780994

Saturday, Russ helped out with building the new stage in the Clubhouse. He would not be Russ without something happening. He had a hammer in his hand and hit the wrong nail. He knocked off the tip of his pointer finger but is doing OK while it heals. It's just a bit hard making the baby blanket that Norma Royse needs very soon but he will accomplish it.

Saturday night was dinner at the Clubhouse again and then staying for the music concert by "Bound 4 Heaven." It was very good and well attended by the campground and people in the community. After the concert ice cream was served and it seemed that everyone had a great time.

Sunday morning was Church Service with many first done. Ellen the pianist played the accordion with Karen Gehring accompanying her on the piano. Judy played the harpsichord, and Wayne and Karen sang with another couple in the park. The message was delivered by Richard. We then had breakfast and it was back to the RV to start getting it ready for travel on Monday.

From More Spring Lake RV Resort

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/MoreSpringLakeRVResort#5249019594048941618

Earl and Ivalee Vanderhoff came by and invited us to go to dinner with them and Mary Ann. We went to a Chinese Buffet in Newton. We enjoyed being with these people and look forward to seeing them again in the near future.

Russ and I are seriously considering going back next June and spending the entire summer work kamping. It all depends on this winter and how the "Mamas" do.

Well until next time, Take Care.

Underground Salt Mine and Hutchinson Cosmosphere

2008-09-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

Tuesday dawned a beautiful day so we decided that we would go into Hutchinson and see and so some of the things that we wanted to do. The first thing on our list was to stop and see what time the tours were for the Underground Salt Mine. We were able to get tickets for the 1 pm tour. That gave us 2 1/2 hours to do some other things. We went to Wal-Mart where I was able to get a hair cut and we also picked up yarn for Russ to make Norma a blanket for her coming new great-granddaughter.

We then went by to see Dr. Lowen, the orthopedic doctor who did Russ' hip replacement last year when we were here, and Cameron, his Physician's assistant. They were in surgery so we did not get to see them this time. We also stopped by to see Carrie, Anita, Jennifer and Dawn, the physical therapists, who did the necessary therapy Russ needed to get him back on the road. All but Carrie were there, so it was great to see them. Anita had her baby boy just after we left here June a year ago.

From href="http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/KansasUndergroundSaltMine">Kansas Underground Salt Mine

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/KansasUndergroundSaltMine#5247114092384749730

It was nearing 12:30 pm so we headed back to the Underground Salt Mine for our tour. There were 20 other people also on our tour. We rode in an elevator shaft 650 feet below ground. The guides are all volunteers and they take us around on a tram showing us different parts of the mine. We do not go where they are actually mining but we can see what is being done in other parts by what has been done in the area we are in. It is very informative and something everyone should see. Cost is $13.50 plus tax for adults.

On Wednesday, we went by Dr. Lowen's and were able to get a couple of minutes with Cameron. Dr. Lowen had a back log of patients so we did not push to see him just gave Cameron the message to let Dr. Lowen know that we came by.

From Kansas Cosmophere

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/KansasCosmophere#5247115060059458402

We then went to the Cosmo sphere and took a self guided tour here. Very interesting and informative about space science from the beginning until now. We really learned a lot from the information that was provided and know that there is a lot more to learn either by returning here or by reading books and studies. Another worthwhile place to visit.

It was well after lunch time so we decided to make a trip to Yoder and have lupper at the Carriage Crossing. This is a restaurant run by the Mennonites and the food is outstanding. We enjoyed every mouthful and even bought home the dessert for later.

Another fun filled day.

Until next time, Take Care.

Spring Lake RV Resort

2008-09-15T13:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning I had said that I wanted to sleep in and not leave as early as we have been recently but would you believe that I could not sleep so was up before 7 am and we were leaving the Prairie Oasis Camp in Henderson, Nebraska, by 7:45 am. All we had to do to get ready to leave was disconnect the electricity, pull in the slides and connect the lights for the towed car.

As we were leaving it was not raining but the clouds were very heavy like it could at any minute. We drove east on I-80 for about 10 miles and then headed south on NE/KS-81. When we got to I-70 we went east for 3 miles to the Flying J to get diesel at $3.909. We needed 45.539 gallons so we will be set for the next 9 days when we reach the Joplin, Missouri area.

From Spring Lake RV Park, Halstead, KS

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/SpringLakeRVParkHalsteadKS#5246302580944713794

We arrived here at Spring Lake RV Resort about 12:30 pm and went into the office to register. We were greeted by Karen Gehring, Norma and Bobbie. Wayne Gehring came through and a big hug was in store from him. We had been here last year when Russ fell and broke his hip. It was as if we were home. Saturday night, the park served dinner and we went and enjoyed our meal very much. They served meatloaf, mashed potatoes (real), corn and a roll. There was also different kinds of cake and brownies for dessert.

Sunday morning we went to the community Church Service at the clubhouse here at the campground. Pastor Norman Rodgers presented the message and did a very good job of saying that everyone should press forward as far as they can. We then went into Hutchinson to the State Fair. We walked around looking at the exhibits until we were both very tired and decided to go get something to eat and then come home and finish watching the race and ball games.

Today was wash day for me beings I had not done clothes in over two weeks. Russ went fishing in the ponds around the property here. He caught 3 bass and a catfish and saw 3 different snakes. We took a walk looking for the big frogs that we had seen here last year but did not find any. We did see friends from last year, Jim and Marge Eckles, Earl and Ivalee and Don Schrag. Don's wife Shirley came by on her way home from school. She is taking business math and algebra. We will be getting with all of these people at some time and visiting more while we are here this week.

Well until later, Take Care.

Wacky West Campground, Valentine, NE.

2008-09-11T17:47:00.000-07:00

This morning we awoke to cloudy skies and drizzle in Rapid City. We left Rushmore Shadows at 7:20 am and headed east on Hwy-16T. We stopped at the Flying J for diesel costing $3.999 per gallon.

We traveled along I-90 eastward to Murdo, SD. where we turned south on Hwy-83 to Rosebud, SD. and then crosssing into Nebraska and heading for the town of Valentine.

We are camped at Wacky West Campground which is family owned and run. It is an okay place for an overnight stay. The only real problem that we see here is that it is right next to the stock yard and we have bunches of cows just across the roadway. No worse than being at Wilderness in Menifee, CA.

It is still cloudy and cold but we are snug as bugs in a rug. Until next time, Take Care.

The Badlands of South Dakota

2008-09-09T20:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Russ. Well today you are officially old. You have completed the paperwork to receive Social Security and so you should see your first check the second Wednesday of November. That means that we can do a little more exploring this great United States of America. I hope that you have many more birthdays.

We left our little home just after 8 am this morning and stopped at the Flying J for gas and decided to have breakfast there also. The food was excellent and we checked out the area for getting Diesel on Thursday. No problem, a big wide fueling area and room to turn and get out.

We then headed east on I-90 to Wall, South Dakota. This is where the famous Wall Drug is located. Wall Drug became famous for the Ice Cold Water that was served to travelers beginning in 1931. Today they still take pride in serving the water and having signs all over the USA plus a number of foreign countries. We checked to see if they had a pair of boots in Russ' size as this is where we had found they last pair for him. No Boots today.

From Wall Drug Store

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/WallDrugStore#5244161833909826018

We left Wall Drug and continued south on Hwy 240 to the Badlands National Park. I could not believe what I was seeing. From what we had seen yesterday and then seeing what we did today was just like we were on two different planets. WOW. Please look at the pictures in my album to get a good idea of what I am talking about.

From The Badlands of South Dakota

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/TheBadlandsOfSouthDakota#5244156941958172610

On our way home, we stopped by Wal-Mart for a loaf of bread and some cash. We then decided to have a late lunch/early supper at TGI Friday's. Here on Tuesdays they have buy one get one burger free. Russ also got a chocolate sundae because it was his birthday. We both enjoyed that sundae.

Until next time, Take Care.

Spearfish Canyon, Deadwood and Tatanka

2008-09-08T21:09:00.000-07:00

Hooray, the sun was out after not seeing it since last Tuesday. We decided to go and drive through Spearfish Canyon. We drove along Hwy 14A seeing gorgeous scenery, beautiful waterfalls, awesome cliffs of limestone and just a wonderful outing in this part of the country. It is hard to believe the sights that we have been able to see since leaving San Diego area last February. We know that right now that we are in the most spectacular part of the country when it comes to the sights.

From Spearfish Canyon

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/SpearfishCanyon#5243860503387082898

From Spearfish Canyon

We continued east along 14A and 85 through Lead and up into Deadwood where we went to Kevin Costner's Tatanka "The Story of the Bison." This was very interesting and well worth going to see.

From
href="http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/Tatanka">Tatanka

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/Tatanka#5243864576134974914

We stopped in the Golddigger for lunch and put a few coins in their slot machines. I ended up losing but Russ came out ahead and we left as "Happy Campers, again."

We followed Hwy 85 back to I-90 through Sturgis where they have a humongus motorcycle rally every August. All of the towns around are just inandated with motorcycles for about 2 weeks.

We arrived back at the motor home total worn out but feeling good about what we had done and seen. Live is great.

Until next time, Take Care.

Bear Country USA

2008-09-07T11:21:00.001-07:00

Saturday morning we awoke to sunny skies but knew that if we wanted to see anything that we had better get going as they were calling for rain during the day. We drove about 4 1/2 miles down Hwy-16 to Bear Country USA. This is a 200 acre natural Black Hills habitat where the animals can roam freely. Being a cool day they animals were up and moving all over the place.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/BearCountryUSA

We saw Rocky Mountain Elk, Wild Turkey, Reindeer, Arctic Wolves, Big Horn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat, Black Bear, Timber Wolves (who were after the bears at times), Mountain Lions, Buffalo including a white one, Miniture Donkey. we went to the small animal exhibits where we saw river otters, porcupines, red fox, coyotes, lynx, raccoons, badgers, and the bear cubs. The cubs were all over the place and just made for a wonderful time of watching them play and frolic. I could have stayed and watched them all day.

We then took a ride down to Keystone and something was going on as traffic was backed up about 2 miles from town. We decided that we would not wait to find out what was happening. We turned around and went to the Christmas Village, just looking at all the Christmas ornaments that they have.

We decided to come back to the RV and just as we opened the door, there was a flash of lightning, a roll of thunder and the rains started. Along with the rain was some hail but now real winds. Thank goodness. This lasted about 30 minutes and then we had a little sun but mostly clouds.

At 2:30 pm it was cloudy but no rain so we decided to go and see the Chapel in the Hills. This is an exact replica of the Borgund Stavkirke located near Laerdal, Norway. When we got there the host told us that there was to be a wedding at 3:30 pm but that we could visit the chapel until then. There was a narration all about why and how they had brought the buildings from Norway and what all the meanings were in the sculpting around the doors. Very interesting. There was also a Norwegian Cabin on the grounds with many interesting pieces of furniture and living tools. This is a must see if you are in the Rapid City area.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/ChapelInTheHillsReplicaOfTheBorgundStavkirkeLocatedNearLaerdalNorway#

While we were at the Chapel, the rains again started so we came on back home and enjoyed the rest of the afternoon working on uploading all the pictures I had taken for the day. Bear Country (95) Chapel in the Hills (25). I hope that you will take a look at them and enjoy as much as I am.

Until next time, Take Care.

Seeing Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park and Crazy Horse, Again

2008-09-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

Friday morning came early for us, as we had made reservations with Ft. Hays Tours to go on their 9 hour tour of Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park and Crazy Horse. We arrived at 7:45 am and purchased our tickets. Breakfast was included in our tour package. I had pancakes and sausage along with orange juice. Russ had the biscuits and gravy with sausage and coffee. After breakfast we had a few minutes to wait for the bus so we toured the shops that Ft. Hays has set up. This is also the place where they have the set from "Dances with Wolves starring Kevin Costner.

We boarded the bus and left the parking lot at about 9 am heading for our first stop which would be Mt. Rushmore. We always enjoy going here and seeing the wonderful work that Gutzon Borglum did on the carving of the mountain with the four presidents.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/MtRushmore#5243011532827112034

We continued on Hwy 16A crossing pigtail bridges, going through tunnels that were just wide enough for the bus and doing switchbacks where you thought the people in the front of the bus were going to speak to the people in the back. It was a fun trip.

We then went into Custer State Park where we encountered the donkeys who await the bus for feeding. They know that there is always food for them and they also enjoy the petting. We then visited "The Game Lodge." This is where Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Dwight D. Eisenhower made their Summer White House during their term in office. We also had a delious buffet lunch.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/CusterStatePark#5243036904995035154

Continuing on from Custer State Park we made our way to Sylvan Lake.

This is a beautiful and peaceful place as you can see from the pictures.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/SylvanLake#5243041348214263330

It was then to Crazy Horse Mounment. Work has been going on here for 40 years and they are still not anywhere close to being finished. Here are pictures of what has been done and what is to be done.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/CrazyHorse#5243043712952189058

It is now after 5 pm so we are headed back to Ft. Hays where we will have a "Chuckwagon Supper" and entertainment. A fun filled day.

Until the next time, Take Care.

Rushmore Shadows Resort, Rapid City, SD

2008-09-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

This morning we were again up early eager to get on the road heading for Rapid City, SD. We traveled east along Montana, Wyoming and South Dakota Hwy-212. This is mainly a dual lane highway with occasional passing lanes and a number of small towns to go through. We encountered two construction areas where we had to follow a pilot car.

We arrived at Rushmore Shadows Resort at about 1 pm. We got the rig all set up in Space 317, at the back of the park, then headed out for a late lunch early supper. We went to Golden Corral over by Wal-Mart. After lunch we came back to our little house and made reservations to go on a 9-hour tour of Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, and Needles Highway. We will also have breakfast there and return to a chuckwagon dinner and show. We did this tour three years ago and can't wait to do it again tomorrow.

Tonight is being spent watching Big Brother, Russ watching the football game and the RNC speech by John McCain.

Until next time, Take Care.

7th Ranch RV Camp and Historical Tours

2008-09-03T20:22:00.001-07:00

This morning we awoke to cloudy skies and cool weather again. Just as we were leaving Bear Canyon Campground it began to sprinkle. Not bad and we soon ran out of it and were on our way to Garryowen, Mt., 204 miles away.

We arrived at the campground at about noon and checked in Chip and Sharon Richardson, owners/managers. We could not believe how big the grounds are, sites are 70' long and very spacious. We are overlooking I-90 and wide open spaces all around. It is a very nice place and they honor Good Sam and Escapees.

We got all set up and then headed back to "The Little Bighorn Battlefield". We did the tour and also went to a 17 minute video explaining about Custer and the battle that took place here in June of 1876.

We then went to the museum in Garryowen. Garryowen comprises of a museum, trading post, post office and a subway shop all in one building.

This evening I took a walk around the park taking pictures of the sunset and views. It is a very nice area and I would love to come back here again.

Well until the next time, take care.

What Happened to Summertime?

2008-09-02T19:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, September 1, 2008, Labor Day, we awoke to very cold temperatures. It was in the very low 30's and foggy, mixed with rain and wind. It stayed like that all day long. There was nothing that I could do that would warm me up, even having on the house heater. Thank goodness that we had topped off the propane tank when we stopped at Flying J last week.

The Leivas' and us went out to dinner at Applebee's as last night was their last night here at Bear Canyon. We had a very good dinner, all of us having there riblets and something else. It was then a stop at Safeway as they had orange juice and milk on special. We then came back to the motohomes and just hunkered down for the night after taking a quick walk around the park.

This morning the park began emptying out early including Jim and Nancy. We were looking out at the surrounding mountains and there was SNOW all over them. It is hard to believe that a few days ago it was in the high 80's and today SNOW. The remainder of the day was partly cloudy and the temperatature only got into the 60's but we did okay.

We will leave here tomorrow headed for Garryowen, Mt. and Little Big Horn.

Until later, Take Care.

Museum of the Rockies

2008-08-31T21:44:00.000-07:00

This morning we were greatly surprised with sunshine and mild temperatures outside. The lady parked behind us had given me home grown tomatoes yesterday so Russ and I both had bacon and tomato sandwiches for breakfast. It was soooo good and we really enjoyed them. Thank you so much.

I had talked with a guy at the pool yesterday and he was telling me about the "Museum of the Rockies" over at the University of Montana. It really sounded interesting so I looked up some information on the internet and we decided to go and check it out. They were featuring "Out of this World", Extraordinary Costums of Film and Television; "Glow", Living Lights; Raymond Lowery; Dinosaurs Under the Big Sky; Enduring Peoples, Montana's American Indian Culture; and The 50th Anniversary of the Museum. It was very detailed and interesting. A must see if you are in the Bozeman area.

Today also they were having a "Farm Festival" to celebrate the harvest for the year. There were people dressed in the 1890 dress along with people showing their collection of rifles, those showing the Thrashing machine, doing apple mashing to make cider, baking bread over coals and making stew also. We watched border collies herd sheep in the field. There was also fresh vegetables being grown and the farmer was allowing children to come and harvest carrots from garden. It was a real treat to enjoy this type of day.

Late this afternoon it clouded up and we had thunder and lightning along with rain for a short period of time. The temperature fell drastically. Right now it is showing at 48 degrees.

Time to hit the sack so until the next time, Take Care.

God's Glory

2008-08-30T21:25:00.000-07:00

Today started out with sunshine, then some clouds, then more clouds and very hard winds all of a sudden, then sunshine again and this evening the most awsome sunset that I have ever seen. The ski was the riches reds and golds that I have ever seen. It was just beautiful.

To see the pictures go to: http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/SunsetsAtBearCanyonCampgroundBozemanMT

Yellowstone National Park

2008-08-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

There are 156 pictures for viewing if you follow this address: http://picasaweb.google.com/pfradycate/Yellowstone

Thursday morning Russ and I were up early as we were very eager to head down to Yellowstone National Park. We took US Hwy 191 south for 89 miles to West Yellowstone, Mt. We stopped in at the Visitors Information Center and picked up maps and very useful information from the Ranger there. We then headed in the 14 miles to Madison. That's where we started touring the Lower Geyser Basin including Firehole Falls. It took us better than 3 hours to make it down to Old Faithful Geyser. We were intrigued by all that we saw.

We continued on around the lower loop seeing West Thumb, passing by the beautiful Yellowstone Lake, stopping for gas at Fishing Bridge, taking in the beauty of "The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone" with the Upper and Lower Falls. Just outstanding views and well worth seeing.

It was getting to be 6 pm and we still had a lot to see and do but just not enough time left in the day. We decided that we would return on Friday to see the Upper Loop and catch Norris Junction, Canyon Junction, Tower Junction and Mammoth Hot Springs. We traveled down US Hwy 89 from Livingston, Mt., to the North Entrance and made it as far as Tower Junction when we had to leave unexpectedly. We will make another trip some day to see the rest and revisit some that we have already seen.

We need to all support our National Parks.

Until later, Take Care.

Bear Canyon Campground

2008-08-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

Wednesday morning we awoke at about 6:15 AM and decided that we would start getting ourselves ready to move on down the road. We heard the neighbors start up their rig about 7:15 so knew that we could continue with the outside chores without bothering anyone. We pulled out of Yogi Bear Jellystone RV Park at 7:40 am headed for Bear Canyon Campground in Bozeman, Montana. According to Tom Tom, it was a 216 mile drive across I-90. It was a very cloudy day with us getting only spits of rain all the way. The road was very good and we had no delays. We stopped in Butte, Montana at the Flying J for diesel, propane (which we had not gotten since last March) and a late breakfast. We were able to get diesel for $4.169 lowest we have seen in a very long time. Propane was $2.999 which seems awful to me.

We arrived at Bear Canyon at about 12:30 pm and were assigned to space 27 on the back row but overlooking a beauiful area; fields, mountains and trees.

We have even seen deer out there grazing. We are very happy with the campground. It began to rain and was very cloudy and windy so the rest of the afternoon was spent inside just resting. We also checked out some of the brochures for Yellowstone NP as we want to visit there on Thursday.

Will do a posting on that next.

Take care.

Wind

2008-08-26T20:42:00.000-07:00

Late yesterday afternoon the wind started to blow and it continually got worse as time passed. The slides on the west side of the motor home were just bouncing so I told Russ that I was putting in at least the living room one. We then went outside just to see what was happening around and saw that our neighbors topper was getting caught by the wind and going almost all the way across the top of their rig. They were not home so we found a rope and got it tossed across the top to hold the topper down. I made sure that I was watching for them to come home so that we could let them know what we had done. They were appreciative that we had taken the time to help them out.

We then saw the people on the end having problems with their topper. They had had a real problem last week with the winds putting a hole in it so we went down to help them save things. What happened this time was that he had forgotten to lock down the releases.

The winds did finally calm down to a minor roar after about an hour and a half of 45 mph gust. We did have rain during the night and it was cloudy most of today.

Just after dark last night we had new neighbors pull in. They have a 45' Provost pulling a 30' enclosed trailer with a Mercedes and two big motorcycles. They are a very nice couple from Alabama and they are traveling with another couple with the big Provost but a 22' trailer. Very nice rigs.

From Yogi Bear Jellystone RV Park, Missoula, MT.

Today was spent getting laundry done and then we went out to dinner with the Leivas' to Outback. Very good dinner. We then went to the Sportsman's Warehouse where Russ picked out his birthday present. He has wanted a metal detector, so that is what I got him. It was then back to the RV and over to the office for a Huckleberry Ice Cream Cone. I then came home to watch the DNC and Hillary Clinton's speech.

Must get up from here now and get things ready to move tomorrow. Take care until the next time.

Snowbowl Ski Area

2008-08-23T21:21:00.000-07:00

Today Russ and I started our day out by going back down to the Downtown Area of Missoula to the Farmer's Market. We found fresh tomatoes, green beans, carrots and lettuce. We did have a small ice chest in the car so were able to store our purchases in that.

We then traveled up Reserve Street to the Snowbowl Ski Area. During the summer they open the ski lift on the weekends and let people go up and hike, ride bicycles or play Frisbee Golf. The base height is 4,960 feet above sea level. At the top it is 7,000 feet and you can hike up to 7,950 feet at the very top. (We did not go that far.) The views were awsome and we did get a chance to see two guys playing golf and a number of people riding bikes down the ski slopes. It was really nice and a very in-expensive trip, Seniors went up for $4.50 and Adults cost $7.00.

Snowbowl Ski Area, Missoula, Mt

After that we stopped by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation & Elk Country Visitor Center. There the center features conservation and hunting heritage exhibits, wildlife displays including world-record elk. Very interesting and informative.

Of course there was food to be had so we stopped at the Mackenzie River Pizza Company. The pizza was excellent.

The rest of the afternoon was taken up by a cat nap, watching the olympics and then the NASCAR race from Bristol, TN.

Until next time, Take Care.

"A Carousel for Missoula"

2008-08-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

On Friday afternoon Russ and I went downtown to see the famous Carousel of Missoula. It is a beautiful art of work done with much love from Mr. Chuck Kaparich and the people of Missoula. Mr. Kaparich had said:

"If you will give it a home, and promise no onewill ever take it apart, I will build A Carousel for Missoula." That was the promise Missoula cabinet-maker Chuck Kaparich made to the Missoula City Council in 1991. Kaparich, who had spent many childhood hours on the carousel at Columbia Gardens in Butte, Montana, had already carved four carousel poinies and purchased an antique frame in thousands of pieces. When the carousel opened in 1995 over 100,000 hours of volunteer time had gone into the construction of more than 40 ponies, two chariots, 14 gargoyles, gargoyle frames and mirror frames and the largest band organ in continuous use in the United States, all within a jewel-box building.

Also downtown they were having an Indian Heritage day with mucic, information and just a good time had by all.

Later in the afternoon, we met bloggers, Ron and Elena Engelsman for dinner at Cracker Barrel. I have been reading their blog (Ron & Elena's Odyssey done on Hitchitch) from the start of their beginning as full timers. Both Ron and Elena write to the blog and they are doing something different and interesting every day.
We will continue to follow their travels and also go to some of the areas in which they have already been. Thanks Ron and Elena.

When we arrived back at Yogi Bear Jellysone, it was time for the ice cream social. I walked over but just could not eat any as I was still full from dinner. It was just fun to visit for a while. After that Nancy and I decided to go swimming as they said that the pool was heated to 86 degrees. Someone cannot read a thermometer because it was oh so cold. We did swim for about 30 minutes and then just had to get out and get warm.

It was then time to just relax and enjoy the rest of the night.

Until the next time, please take care.

"SmokeJumpers"

2008-08-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

Today as yesterday, we had periods of rain for most of the morning. Russ and I had a nice breakfast and watched some TV while waiting for it to clear. Our mail was also delivered to us so I went through that finding only a couple of things that need real attention.

We then decided to take a ride finding the "SmokeJumpers" School. We stopped in for a great tour given by Kelsey, a junior at University of Montana. She was very informative and we all got a better understanding of what the courages firefighters do and what they go through. If you are in the Missoula area, this is a must see.

Heading for Missoula, Montana

2008-08-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

This morning both Russ and I were awake at just after 5 am, ready to hit the road and see some more new, beautiful country. We have never been up in the Northwest part of the United States; but, since getting here, we are really enjoying it and the scenery is spectacular.

The past seven weeks have been spent in different parts of Washington State and it has been a wonderful experience. We did not know how diverse the state was until we started exploring. WOW!!! Thank you Washington for teaching us about your beautiful state.

We left Old American Kampground at about 7:30 am heading East on ID-2 and then futher East on ID and MT-200. We followed Lake Pend Oreille through Idaho and then the Bull River in Montana. The hills rising above each were spectacular even with the rain that began during the night. According to the maps, we traveled along the "Bitterroot Range."

We arrived at Yogi Bear Jellystone RV Park in Missoula, Montan about 1:30 pm Mountain Time. We got set up and off to lunch we went. Both of us were hungry so we went to "Famous Daves, as we ate very little for breakfast. We enjoyed our meals and decided with the rain we would just come back to our little house and veg for the rest of the day.

Pio Pico

2008-08-14T10:46:00.000-07:00

These pictures were sent to me by Sharon Whitaker of the tree that fell last week beside their campsite at Pio Pico. It did some damage to the cabin there.

The Sights are Awsome

2008-08-13T10:49:00.000-07:00

The past couple of days we have done a lot of driving and seeing some of the most outstanding scenery that we have ever seen. The weather has been great with temperatures at night down as low as 48 and as high during the day as the mid 80's. Just right for getting out and touring around.

On Monday the Leivas went with us up to the Albeni Falls Dam for a tour. Taylor, the young tour guide, was very knowledgeable and really enjoyed his job and it showed. He took us all around describing the works of the dam and how the people around the area were enriched by the workings of the dam. We spent about 1 1/2 hours touring and learning much about how dams work producing electrical power.

After leaving the Dam we went to the Village Diner for lunch. It was only okay.

We then drove up to Priest Lake along Hwy 57 from Hwy 2. (We had tried to find it on Saturday but did not find anything that people had been saying was so great. What the problem was we did not go far enough.) We did find the beautiful lake and are glad that we did persist in finding it. There was an information center, but was closed. We looked around outside and then walked down to the beach. OH, WOW!!! The view was gorgeous and the water was so clear. We then drove on down the gravel road looking for the public boat ramp. We found it and boy were there a lot of boats and people there. After looking around for a while, we headed back down to Priest River. It was then back to the campground and rest for the remainder of the afternoon.

On Tuesday morning, Russ and I got up and went down to Coeur d'Alene. What a wonderful little town and the beauty all around it to die for. We first went to see the floating boardwalk that passes in front of the Coeur d'Alene Hotel. We walked the full length just awed by the sights, water and beauty. We then walked up into town and then over to The Shoppes just to see what was there.

We then headed to Hwy 95 and went south toward Plummer. Just before Plummer, we saw the Coeur d'Alene Casino and of course we had to make a stop. We went in and got more "Players Club Cards" and they gave us each $10 to play on. Well, as usual, I lost my $10 plus $20 but Russ saved me by winning a jackpot for $32+. It was time to continue on our ride. We went down to Hwy 5 and headed east to St. Maries. It was then to head north on Hwy 3 up to Hwy 97. It was a total of 38 miles but took close to 2 hours to complete because of the winding roads and slow speeds through the little towns. All in all it was a great adventure and very pretty.

Old American Kampground

2008-08-07T22:17:00.000-07:00

Posting from Old American Kampground in Newport, Washington

We left Moses Lake on Wednesday morning 8/6/08 at about 8:30 AM heading east on I-90. Our tire sensor began showing that we had low air in the rear driver side tire on the Honda. We were near a rest area so pulled in there and Russ checked all the tires. He decided that he needed to move the monitor and that helped.

As we were preparing to leave the rest area, I told him that I would drive until we reached the next one. That was about 50 miles, so I am slowing getting back into practice.

We got into Spokane and stopped for fuel at the Petro Center. If you used your ATM card the $4.799 a gallon. If you used credit, it was $4.869. Had to do the cheaper one this time. From the center we continued on I-90 until we reached Hwy-2 and headed north-east to Newport, Washington. It is right on the Washington/Idaho border and very pretty up here. The temperature was a bit warm (98 degrees) but will only be lasting for a couple of days. After getting set up and letting it cool down a little, we took a ride up Hwy-2 into Idaho a little further and the scenery was magnificent.

Today we took a ride down to the Thousand Trails Park at Diamond Lake. It is a very nice park, spread out and some of the sites are very small but will do. The only other thing is that they do not have sewer at the sites. As we were coming back, we saw a SKP sign. We turned around and drove in to find out what it was. What we found was an SKP couple and they were setting up to have a garage sale and they are also trying to sell their property there. They had let people camp there when passing through. They showed us a lot of their wares that they will be selling this weekend.

We left there and headed back to the campground stopping at Safeway for a few groceries. After having dinner we went for a walk around the grounds and down to the river just to see what was there. I did make a couple of phone calls and now it is time to call it a night.

Time to Move

2008-08-04T19:24:00.000-07:00

As I posted a couple of weeks ago, we arrived at Thousand Trails/Leisure Time Crescent Bar resort near Quincy, Washington. The time spent there was an adventure in itself. The second night we were there, we had to evacuate because of the threat of a fire coming across the hillside. That turned out okay as the firefighters did a great job of containing the fire even with the great winds that were blowing that night.

There was a small grocery in Quincy and only a couple of restaurants so if we wanted anything or just wanted to get out and see what was around, we had to drive at least 30 miles east or west and don't look for any restaurants to be open on Sunday. The river was great if you owned a boat or a jetski. The sunsets were also pretty at different times.

This past Saturday night, there was another fire up on Hwy 28 which burned some of the main electric poles along with telephone lines. We were not evacuated this time; but, were without electric and water all day Sunday. The pool also had to be closed even after the electric was restored as there was no telephone coverage still. It is a Washington law that there must be a working telephone near the pool in case of an emergency. Cell coverage was hit and miss so it did not count for the phone. Would we go back, yes, but for only a few days at a time.

Today, we moved over to Moses Lake, which is about 30 miles from Quincy, Wa. We are staying at an ROD park called Sunrise Resorts, Pier Four right off of I-90. We are parked over by the boat ramp under some trees which was great today as the temp went up to 91. We made a trip over to Wal-Mart and picked up a few items, got the car washed as it was really dirty and stopped in a Golden Corral for a late lunch.

We took our chairs over by the river. We sat out watching 4 little girls play on a blow up raft that they had in the water, water skiers all over the place, jetskies and a guy with a wind sail trying to find the wind that never came up. There was a nice breeze blowing and it was wonderful. I also talked to my sister. That was great also.

Tonight is reality shows for me on TV and Russ has a baseball game on. What more could anyone ask for.

To all Take Care until next time.

Crescent Bar Resort

2008-07-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

From Crescent Bar Resort, Thousand Trails/Leisure Time Properties, in Quincy, Washington.

We left Monroe, Washington, on Monday, July 21, heading across the Cascade Mountains on Hwy-2. Even at this time of the year, there was still snow on the mountains and the scenery was spectacular. The drive was very easy even going through all the little towns and by-ways, having to slow to about 35 mph.

Just before arriving in Wenatchee, we turned onto Hwy-28 which brought us into Crescent Bar Rec. Area. It is really pretty here.

We passed through the little town of Leavenworth and it was so cute. All the buildings are decorated in the Bavarian style and there were a number of German eateries there. We went back and walked around and also went to an outside play called "Sugar". That was a lot of fun and we all enjoyed it very much. Just have to remember that at night it gets chilly and we need a blanket for these things.

On Tuesday night, Nancy and I were getting ready to head to the pool when we walked out of our rigs the whole area was engulfed in smoke. (We are down in a valley that has only one way in and one way out.) After about 20 minutes of wondering what is happening and how close is this fire, we get word that we must evacuate. There were about 10 of us who said we are taking our rigs with us. It took us all about 10 minutes to unhook, load and be ready to leave. By this time the fire has jumped the main road so the only place that we can go is down to the little island of Crescent Bar. They have a big day use park there and we were able to spend the night there. I read that the fire burned 1700+ acres of land but no structures were lost and no one was hurt. Thank you firefighters one and all.

The rest of the week has just been spent here at the campground enjoying the warm weather, pool and relaxing. We will get out and go see some of the other things this next week.

We are really enjoying our visit here to Washington and learning a lot.

Travels and Anniversary

2008-07-19T10:19:00.000-07:00

This week has been quiet and relaxing here in Monroe, Washington. We have still enjoyed watching the people on the river and those here in the campground also. We made a trip into Everett, Washington to the Naval Station to have our semi-annual blood test done just to make sure that the pills we are on is not creating havoc with anything else.

We rode up to LaConner and Anacortes just to visit both little towns and see what that side of the world looked like. It was a very enjoyable ride first taking I-5 up there and then hitting Hwy-20 and we came back on Hwy-9. The scenery was outstanding. I like taking the back roads and just seeing what I can find.

Yesterday was Russ' and my 28th wedding anniversary. We had also made contact with friends, Larry and Gina James. We had met them two years ago down in Jamual, California, at Pio Pico. We went over to their campsite for a visit. It was really great seeing these folks and we had a really great visit.

"Larry we are sorry about the woman backing into your car."

As we were headed back to our campground we came upon a very bad accident and had to turn around and find an alternate route. Thank goodness for the GPS (tom-tom). We were given one wrong turn but found out quit quickly so recovered and made it home safe and sound.

Tonight there will be entertainment here at the park so we plan on going to that. Everyone says that we will really enjoy so am looking forward to it.

Until later everyone have a great day.

Seeing Seattle

2008-07-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

Russ and I decided to take a trip down to Seattle this morning to see the Space Needle and Pike Market Place. We got down there just after 10 am and parked on 2nd and Virginia Street. We walked up to where we could catch the Monorail over to the Space Needle. It was a very interesting sight.

We purchased tickets at the Military Rate ($12.50 each) and proceeded in line. We had to wait about 15 minutes and it was well worth it. Getting a 360 degree look at Seattle from 605 feet in the air was awsome. We spent about 40 minutes up there just oohing and awing. Would I go back to see again? Yes it is well worth it.

We then went down to Pike Market Place. They had a lot of fresh produce, flowers and fish. We also saw them making Curd Cheese and Piroshky. Today there were also a lot of people there. We just walked around and got to see what all was there. Another interesting place. We had fun all day.

Tonight Nancy and I went to the pool and hot tub. We left Russ watching a baseball game and Jim watching TV. We met a number of interesting people while in the pool. Russ even had to call because he thought we were lost. We had only been there for about 2 hours.

Watching the River Go By

2008-07-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

This morning started out being a bit on the chilly side here at Thousand Trails/Leisure Time Thunderbird Resort. We have been here since Tuesday, July 8, and enjoying it very much. The area is very green with blue skies and there is still snow on the mountains all around us.

Yesterday we took a ride up to Everett, Washington finding the Naval Base. We went into medical to see about having blood test done next week just for the medications that we are taking. We had to do a mini registration and they said no problem for what we needed. Just no food before we want it done. We then rode on up to Smokey Point where the commissary and exchange are located. We decided not to buy groceries until next week before we leave here.

On the way back we stopped at the Tulalip Casino to check it out. Very nice casino. No we did not win but did enjoy being there for the time that we were.

Returned to the campground after stopping for Pizza for all of us (Russ, Jim and Patty). Got Nancy shrimp and chicken. It was good and then we went to the pool for a refreshing dip. Back at home it was TV for a while and a good nights sleep with the windows open and the electric mattress pad also on.

What a life!!!!

Thunderbird Resort

2008-07-10T15:09:00.000-07:00

We arrived here at Thunderbird on Tuesday, July 8 just about noon. It is a small park with only 98 spaces but they are spread out in three different areas. We are in the east area with 50 amp service and are able to get satellite by being in the very first site. All others have to us their manual dishes and put them along the fence line.

Tuesday we got set up and waited for the Leivas' to arrive. They had to stop in Tacoma for a new inverter. While they were setting up I was talking to a gentleman who was parked by the river and all of a sudden we saw a tree across the way fall. It was crash, boom, bang. Do not know what caused it to fall but it brought back memories from the time we were in Philadelphia and the tree fell across the road.

Yesterday, we took a ride out on Hwy-2 east trying to find some of the waterfalls listed on the map. The gate was closed so turned and headed back and did see one as we were headed back to town. Took a side road and found another.

We also stopped at a Washington State Salmon Hatchery. Learned a lot there.

Have visited the pool each evening and enjoyed very much.

Last few days at Chehalis, WA.

2008-07-08T15:56:00.000-07:00

July 4th was a day of clouds and cool weather. Russ, Nancy and I went to the Managers meeting and found out very little from him but that is like most of the parks they tell you what they or the company wants you to know and nothing more. Just after 11 am the park sponsored a parade around the park including children on bikes, the hayride wagon and a fire truck from the local fire department. All the participates had candy that they were throwing out to the spectators. The rest of the day was spent just milling around until 5 pm when we went to the Lucky Eagle Casino for their buffet dinner. Tonight they featured surf and turf. Lots of different fish dishes (crab, oysters, fish, clams, etc.) I did find enough to eat and enjoyed what I had and know that the other three really enjoyed the seafood.

We left the casino just after 8 pm and headed toward the fairgrounds area to watch the fireworks. We parked in the "Yard Bird" parking lot along with many other people. In Washington it is legal to do your own fireworks display and that is what was going on all around us. The professional show did not start until 10:30 pm and we thought that once that started that the ones in the parking lot would stop. NOT!!!!!! It was a continuous thing the whole night. The thing that really scared us the most was parents permitting small children up close to the explosives.

On Saturday it rained on and off for most of the day. Sometimes it was pretty intense but we did ok vegging out. It is still taking us some getting us to to have rain. I know the further east we go the more that we will have.

Sunday was again cloudy but we got out taking many walks and just enjoyed the day. I did go to the laundry as it was taking too long for the clothes to dry in the motor home.

Monday morning we were going into town for groceries and mail. Just as we were getting ready to leave Jim came down to get Russ to come and help him troubleshoot his motor home. They were getting no power to the recepticles. The only thing that they could figure out was that the inverter had gone bad. We left them to find someone who could work on it and we did our running around chores.

Once back at the motor home, Russ began putting away the things outside in anticipation of our move on Tuesday. We saw the Leivas leave about 7:10 am as they were headed to Tacoma to get a new inverter. We left about 8:10 stopping in Tacoma for fuel. It was then continue heading up I-5 to I-405 then Hwy 522 to Monroe, WA. and Thunderbird Campground. Another of the Thousand Trails parks.

Flooding of Chehalis and Surrounding Areas

2008-07-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

In the past couple of days we have heard from a number of people about the awful weather that came through Washington and Oregon back in November and December 2007. In this area the rivers overflowed their banks flooding the surrounding surface.

There was a couple at the pool on Monday telling us about their garage having 12 feet of water in it and the water was up to the poarch which was 15 feet off the ground. They had had their house rebuilt on stilts after a flood back in 1986. They lost their motorhome and anything else stored in the garage.

We also heard at Applebee's that the surrounding strip mall, including Wal-Mart, K-Mart, Home Depot and other stores had been under water for a while. All of this happened about 2 weeks before Christmas.

To see the area now, one would never know that there had been a flood. To all who assisted in the clean up, thank you from a visitor. For those who were affected, our hearts go out to you.

We also heard that down near Seaside in Oregon that they had had 129 mph winds that distroyed many trees and things along Hwy 26. A lot of distruction everywhere. What is God trying to tell us? We all need to think about what is happening.

Seeing Beautiful Washington State

2008-07-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

The past couple of days Russ and I have taken off and just driven the back roads of Chehalis, Washington. The scenery has been outstanding and awsome in every way. I just ask Tom Tom for a place and it takes us there. Yesterday we went looking for Cedar Creek Falls but upon going to where it said the roadway was closed so did not find the falls.

We then decided to go and look at one of the other Thousand Trails Parks near here (Paradise Resort) and it was really nice. The view going in was awsome. If we are ever back in this part of Washington we would like to stay there. To any of our friends reading this, we would encourage you to check out both Paradise and Chehalis Park

s.

We had read in the little paper that there was a Farmer's Market that takes place on Tuesday afternoons so we went to find it. Well the address they had posted was incorrect so we ended up on the other side of Chehalis. It was fun traveling on all the back roads and seeing the many Christams Tree farms, dairy farms and hay farms. Once we did find the market it was very small, only half a block, but interesting. The produce and bread to me was expensive. Oh well, it was an interesting day.

The weather here has changed again. Over the weekend, it was in the high 80's but yesterday and today was in the mid 70's. Very delightful.

Well time for my walk so will talk to you again in a few days.

Leaving the Beach

2008-06-28T15:50:00.000-07:00

On Thursday morning we were in no big hurry to leave Long Beach heading for Chehalis, Wa. We knew that we had about 120 miles to do and that was a breeze. At just about 8 am we heard the Leivas rig start up and knew that the clocks had to be wrong because they usually do not leave at that time.

We got busy real fast and were out of the campground by 8:30 am. We went north on Hwy 101 and then east on Hwy 4. The roads were mostly 2 laners with lots of curves but very good surfaces. The drive was beautiful and very interesting.

After about 60 miles we hit I-5 and continued north on it for 40 miles to Chehalis, Washington. We got off at exit 71 and followed the Thousand Trails Signs for approximately 7 miles. The campground is outstanding. It is the original campground in the Thousand Trails system. We feel very lucky that we were able to get a full hookup site as they only have 33 of these throughout the grounds. The only problem that we had is that we could not get our satellite to work between all of the trees. It took Russ and neighbors more than 3 hours to get service and then Russ worked on it again on Friday after purchasing a 5 foot section of pvc pipe. We now have good service.

For the past 6 weeks we have been complaining of how cold we were. Well today (Saturday) the heat has found us. My thermometer says that it is 89 outside and the sun is shinning and the skies are a most beautiful blue. The temperatures are suppose to go back down beginning tomorrow.

Well time to start dinner so will give more information in the next few days. Wish everyone a great week.

Grays River Covered Bridge

2008-06-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

Russ and I decided to forgo breakfast this morning and go and search for the Covered Bridge in Rosburg, Washington. (We saw a sign that said that the name of the town was Rosburg not Roseburg). The map showed that it was about 30 miles from the campground and it is the road that we will be taking on Thursday so this was a good chance to see how we would be traveling. We knew that we would not be able to take the motor home across the bridge so that is why we decided on a day trip.

Information on the bridge:

Name: Grays River Covered Bridge

Built: 1905

Span: 158 feet

It is the oldest remaining covered bridge in the northwest and the only one of its kind in the state of Washington.

This afternoon Russ and I walked down to the beach as he wanted to try and dig up some clams. We had no luck in finding any. The afternoon has proved to be the best we have seen since last Tuesday. It warmed up to about 65 but the air is still a biting cold. I was able to sit out in the sun for a while.

Port Ilwaco and Ocean Park

2008-06-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

This morning Russ and I were up early and headed for the Port Ilwaco Farmers Market by 9 AM. We walked along the boardwalk looking at all the wares that people had out for sale. The only thing that we saw that we might have bought was a hobby horse for my great-niece Jenna but passed it up for now and will find her one when we get closer to the east coast.
We left Ilwaco and headed to Long Beach where we stopped at McDonald’s and got us a breakfast sandwich before heading to Ocean Park and the Garlic Festival. There were booths with people selling wares and some were selling garlic stuff also. Russ purchased a bottle of Garlic Ginger Sauce which he said tasted good on his pork chops last night. We enjoyed seeing what all was there.

We drove back down Sandbridge Road and found a Cranberry Museum. It told of how the cranberries are grown and picked. We took a self-guided tour of the field and learned much about the process of growing cranberries.

During the late afternoon and night we had rain. Not hard just gentle showers.
The weather has still been chilly and grey while we have been here. We have decided to change direction on Thursday and instead of staying on the coast we are going inland toward Chehalis where we will be able to see Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens. Hopefully it will be warmer also.

Thousand Trails Long Beach, Washington

2008-06-20T18:23:00.000-07:00

This morning we took a walk with Jim and Nancy down to the beach. The path is lined with much beach grass and beautiful flowers of different kinds.
The walk is between a quarter and a half mile and a very easy walk. Once we reached the beach the tide was way out and Russ walked out to where his feet finally found the waves.
This beach allows dogs off leash so Buddy really enjoyed being able to chase the waves and check out all of the smells and things that a beach have to offer. Cars are also allowed to travel on the solidly packed sand.

Later in the day, Russ and I decided to go and find the lighthouses that are in the area. We headed to the right from the campground on Hwy 100 and found North Head Lighthouse that was built in 1898. The views through the trees to the ocean were awesome. Upon reaching the lighthouse we could see for miles and miles out in the Pacific Ocean. This lighthouse is one of the two in the area.

We traveled about a mile down the road to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center within Cape Disappointment State Park. We took one of the beach trails and could see Cape Disappointment Lighthouse from it.

This was a very fun filled day finding the lighthouses and information about the area.

Travel along Hwy 101 through Oregon

2008-06-19T18:19:00.000-07:00

We left Whalers Rest, near Newport, Oregon, this morning about 8 AM and headed north on Hwy. 101 along the Pacific Ocean coastline. It was cloudy all day but the drive and scenery were beautiful. Traveling along 101 you go through many small towns and the speed limit is down to 25 – 35 mph. The roads are also very windy but with the slower speed there is no problem negotiating the curves.

At about 11:30 AM, we arrived in the town of Astoria, Oregon. We drove through the town headed for the bridge to cross the Columbia River into Washington.
In order to reach the bridge you do a pigtail up. Once on the bridge it is 4 ½ miles long and very scenic. We continued on Hwy 101 through the towns of Chinook, Ilwaco, and Seaview to just before Long Beach where we are camped at the Thousand Trails Park. It is a very nice park with side by side parking and the sewers are shared by four camp sites so you must make sure where you are parking.

We got set up and decided to ride up to the town of Long Beach and get some lunch. We stopped at Doogers and the food was excellent. Russ had Salmon and chips while I had Chicken Strips and salad. We left there and headed back to the park to greet Jim and Nancy Leivas. They were about an hour and a half behind us. They are parked on the outer road facing the trees.
We all just rested for the rest of the afternoon and will see what we can find tomorrow.

Whalers Rest Resort, South Beach, Oregon

2008-06-14T17:24:00.000-07:00

On Thursday morning it was early rising only because we had become accustom to it while having work done at Camp Monaco. We wanted to stay out of the way while those still needing repairs were taken into the shops.

At about 8:15 am Russ pulled up to the dump and did the necessary actions there while I went to the lounge to turn in our evaluation of the service provided to us and to also bid farewell to those we had met while here at the camp.

We drove north on I-5 to Halsey, Oregon, exit 216 where we decided to fill up with diesel ($4.83 per gallon) and have breakfast as we needed to kill some time. Once breakfast was over we headed more on I-5 to Hwy 34 and headed west on it. Hwy 34 connected with Hwy 20 and we followed it all the way to Newport, Oregon. The road for the most part was very good but there were areas where it was winding and narrow. Russ did very well and we made it to Whalers Rest Resort, a Thousand Trails/NACO park about 12:10 pm and were able to get a pull-thru spot thanks to Jim and Nancy Leivas. We are in space 91 and can get out satellite tv with no problem. We are using the Wilson Antenna for telephone and computer and that is okay.

Today Nancy and I went into Newport to Wal-Mart and on the way back we stopped at the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse and bridge. It is beautiful here but still really cold and windy. The temperatures have been in the 60s but the wind makes it feel a lot colder. Hopefully along the way we will find some heat but we have heard when it gets hot it is HOT.

The park is having a fishing derby here this weekend and it is like a scavenger hunt, you find little paper fish and mark a net with your name and campsite. I found one of the fish today and it weighed 120 lbs., Russ found one last night and it was 44 lbs. Nancy's was only a little guy at 6.75 lbs. Sorry Nancy.

Russ also washed a very dirty motor home and car today. They both look really nice. Thanks Baby.

Well will post some pictures and then head down to the clubhouse to see who wins the fishing derby. Everyone take care.

Camp Monoco, Harrisburg, Oregon

2008-06-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

Monoco Factory Repair Facility, Harrisburg, Oregon.

We arrived here on Sunday afternoon after doing the Redwood Highway from Klamath, Ca. We are here at the Monoco Repair Facility to have some things repaired, to have some maintanence done and hopefully have the smudged window replaced. We do not know exactly how long we will be here but we at least have electric and water. They also provide us with free washers and dryers and a large lounge with wi-fi.

When we arrived on Sunday the hook-up spots were all taken so we just stayed in the overflow area.

At 7:30 am on Monday morning you saw rigs start moving in to have there stuff done and a number of them left. We were called Monday afternoon and told that we could move into a spot and they would be out to see us at 8:30 am Tuesday. That was fine with us. We will probably be here for the better part of this week.

Traveling the Redwood Highway

2008-06-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

On Sunday morning we left Klamath River RV Park heading to Harrisburg, Oregon. We traveled Hwy 101 north to Crescent City and then took Hwy 199 North East through the Redwood Forest. It was a very pretty and interesting drive. The big redwood trees were literly sitting on the road and then there were cliffs that you could look straight down. And the winding around the hills was first this way then that. I felt at times that I was having to hold the motor home on the road, it was that close. There was also wind out there so that did not help either. Thank goodness Russ is a very careful driver and we made it to our destination safe and sound. He was very tired when we got here.

A real interesting drive for the day.

Fun Bus Tour

2008-06-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

From Klamath River RV Park.

Thursday we called about the Fun Bus Tour that was provided from Kamp Klamath, the next rv park to us. They had a tour scheduled for Saturday going down to Fern Canyon.

The four of us decided that we would take it having them pick us up at our campground at 10.

When they picked us up there were 10 people already on the bus. We drove down Hwy 101 to a field that they were having Happy Trails Day for the city of Orick. We browsed around the booths until noon and then took off south again to Drury Road. We drove down this gravel, wash-board road for about 8 miles. It was just wide enough for one vehicle much less a 26 foot bus. We ended up having to stop a couple of times as we were meeting traffic coming the opposite way. Once we arrived at the park we went on the trail that lead back to where Jurassic Park had been filmed.

We crossed streams and climbed hills and ducked under fallen trees and just had a wonderful afternoon learning all kinds of things from Aaron and Andy our tour guides.

We also saw Elk along the way and really had a good time learning from these guys.

After leaving Fern Canyon, we went up to Big Tree Park. This redwood stands 304 feet tall and is 67 feet in around. It was hard to believe how big this tree actually grows. We walked a path learning about the trees, fern and plant life that was there. Another enjoyable place to visit and learn.

We had a really good day and once back to the campground, Jim, Nancy and I went over for ice cream and a walk. It was then back to the motor home for a relaxing night of watching some TV and enjoying the view.

Travel to Klamath, CA

2008-06-05T22:23:00.000-07:00

We left Thousand Trails, Russian River Park, on Wednesday morning at 7:30 am heading north on Hwy-101. Out next destination was Klamath, Ca. which was 244 miles away. There was little traffic on this road all day. The scenery was amazing and we enjoyed the ride.

Along the way we saw beautiful hillsides, further north we saw huge redwood trees and then all of a sudden we were looking at the most beautiful sight of the Pacific Ocean in front of us. It was awsome, as neither Russ nor I had ever been up this way. We are really enjoying seeing this part of California. When we arrived at Klamath River RV Park, the temperature was 57 degrees and the wind was blowing. The sun was out but that wind was cold.

We waited for Jim and Nancy to arrive and then we took a ride up to Crescent City. We found a nice Seafood Restaurant and had dinner there. Jim had a calamari steak with clam chowder, Nancy had shrimp and chips with the chowder, Russ had a seafood combination plate (clams, fish and shrimp) and I had fish and chips. It was all very good. We then rode around the city and then headed back to the campground. We passed "Trees of Mystery" which Russ and I went back to today and enjoyed the museum very much. It was free and very interesting. We will go up and see the trees tomorrow if the weather is better. Today it was cloudy and drizzling most of the day and still cold. Again about 59 degrees all day.

Enjoying The Good Life

2008-05-31T10:26:00.000-07:00

We are still at the Thousand Trails Park (Russian River) in Cloverdale, California. The park is very quiet and has many hiking paths and roadways for us to explore. We are here with friends, Jim and Nancy Leivas. They arrived on Tuesday and we got them into a space and we moved up with them on Wednesday as the park had a tree service coming in on Thursday and Friday to remove trees and stumps. We watched as they did the trees up from the rigs.

On Wednesday afternoon we went down through Cloverdale and proceeded south on Hwy 101 to Hwy 128. We drove Hwy 128 to Tubbs Road where we found "California's Old Faithful in NAPA Valley Calistoga."

This Geyser has Earthquake Warnings from two days to two weeks prior to an earthquake. The warning is by delaying its regular performance from the average of forty minutes to a longer interval. During this prolonged interval, it may send up "splits," small eruptions no more than two or three feet in height, every few minutes. Finally, after the long delay, a 60-foot column of water and steam shoots upward.

At the park they also had "Jacob four-horned sheep", " Tennessee fainting goats", and "Llamas" which were very interesting and fun to watch. Patty even tried to get one to give her a kiss as the picture shows.

After visiting the Geyser we went down the road for about 5 miles and for the "Petrified Forest". There we saw trees that had become petrified after thousands of years. This also was very interesting and worth going to see.

We then came back to the River Rock Casino where we all got Players Club Cards which entitled us all to vouchers worth $10 to play the machines and a $5 off voucher for their buffet. The food was good and we enjoyed playing on them for a while.

We all had a very fun filled day.

Thousand Trails/NACO Russian River Park

2008-05-28T22:42:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, May 25, we left Lighthouse Marina and RV Park in Isleton, California, heading west on Hwy 12. This is a two lane road with barriers in the middle. Russ did a very good job of getting through this part. We continued west on I-80 for a while and then proceeded north on Hwy 37 to Hwy 101. Most of the trip was very easy and the scenery along the way was just beautiful. I had been up this way about 15 years ago with my mom and dad but Russ had never been here so we were really enjoying what we were seeing.

We arrived at the Thousand Trails/NACO park at about 11 am. Of course they had to remind us that check in was not until 12 but.....This park does not have a lot of spaces that will accommodate our 40 footer but we did manage to get into Space 50 with no problems. They did warn us at the gate that we would have to move before Thursday as they will have tree trimmers in here to take out some trees and a lot of stumps. No problem.

After setting up we took a ride into Cloverdale, CA. just to see what is there. We stopped at the Owl Cafe for lunch and learned their history. The food was only okay. We had their fish and chips special.

After lunch we rode around for just a little longer as it was NASCAR race day on TV and I had promised Russ that we would get back in time for him to see the whole thing. He really enjoyed the race and all that went on.

All in all it was a very good day and this will be our home for the next 10 days.

Well until next time, Take Care.

Lighthouse Marina and RV Park

2008-05-24T22:34:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone. We have been in Isleton, California at Lighthouse Marina and RV Park since last Sunday when we left the Holiday Rambler Rally in Lodi, CA. We are on Brannan Island at a very nice campground which is affiliated with Resorts of Distinction. We paid an electrical surcharge of $2 a day.

The weather this week has been really weird. On Sunday and Monday it was 100 degrees plus. Tuesday, the temperature was down in the 60's and the winds started to blow. Wednesday and Thursday we thought that we were going to be blown completely away as the winds were up around 38 mph with gust around 50 mph. Trying to get out and walk around was something else. Friday the winds began to calm down and the park began to fill for the holiday.

Monday we took a ride to Antioch and went out to the Black Diamond Mine (a coal mine). They only give tours on the weekends so we just looked around at the center and gathered a couple of brochures to read about this mine. We headed back across Hwy 4 and I-80 to Fairfield where we found the local Wal-Mart and then we saw a sign for "Jelly Belly." This was one of their factories so we went to investigate. They had tours but were expensive we thought ($47 for adults) so we just looked around their store and of course had to buy some of the "Belly Flops" to consume. It was fun just looking around at all the different kinds of Jelly Beans. Some of the names: Vomit, Pencil Shavings, Skunk Spray, Rotten Egg, Ear Wax, Booger, etc.

Tuesday we made a trip over to Travis AFB to see if we could get blood test done for our provider back in San Diego. It was going to almost take an act of congress so we have decided to wait until we get to a Navy Base and have it done. They will be on the same systems as San Diego we hope. We also rode over and checked out the FAMCamp and then we went to the Exchange where Russ was able to get a hair cut and I browsed around. We had lunch at the food court and then went over to the Commissary to get a few items. We then came on back to our little home and enjoyed the rest of the afternoon inside.

Wednesday morning Russ woke up feeling awful. He was sick from both ends. If he was not in the bathroom then he was in bed for most of the day. He was really sick and I just left him alone to get over whatever it was that he had.

I walked over to the dock and there were people shooting scenes for a movie. There were 2 other couples there at the same time that I was but none of us could find out the name of the movie. We just watched what they were doing and guessed what would happen next. There was also a couple there trying to get their boat out of the water. It was a funny sight as he did not want to get wet and she was not use to driving a stick shift car. They did finally get it out and all was well.

Friday Russ was feeling much better so he decided to clean the carpets in the motor home. They look so nice and we will try to keep them cleaner by not wearing shoes inside. You know I have the best husband in the world as he is always doing something to make our life better.

This morning (Saturday) we woke up to cloudy skies and rain. It has been cold all day and the sun never did shine. The park is filled to capacity it looks like. There are motor homes, trailers, boats, and tents everywhere. Also there are kids running hither slither. In moving around with the car you really have to be careful. We took a ride around the Levee just to see what was here. The houses are built on stilts and there are boats everywhere. It was really interesting to see.

Well we leave here tomorrow headed to Cloverdale, CA. and a Thousand Trails Park, Russian River. We will be there for about 10 days where we will meet up with Jim and Nancy Leivas. We plan to travel north from here and will let you know where we are and where we are going. Until next time. Take Care.

Holiday Rambler Region VIII Rally at Lodi, CA.

2008-05-18T18:37:00.000-07:00

As stated in my post of 5/13/08, we are at Lodi Grape Festival Fairgrounds for the Holiday Rambler Regional Rally. It was reported that there were 68 rigs present and the temperatures for the entire rally were above 100 degrees.

Russ and I participated in all of the games (washer toss, bocce ball and bean bag baseball). We had fun but were not as good as those who won and have been doing this for a long time. We will have to get more practice.

On Wednesday at noon there was a Ladies Luncheon and the food was excellent. There were two breakfasts prepared and the other mornings we had pastries and fruit. The committee also had two dinners catered and everyone was full by the time desert was finished. It is the first time that we have been to a catered pasta bar and then we had chicken and meat loaf on another night.

On Saturday, Russ and I along with 15 other retirees and their spouses went to the Richmaid Restaurant for lunch. This was a 50's type diner and the food was very good here also. One of the couples only had a banana split and pie alamode. It was all good.

We enjoyed sitting out amongst the stars and just visiting at night.

On Sunday morning we bid everyone a safe journey and headed to our next destination.

Lodi Grape Festival

2008-05-13T22:56:00.000-07:00

We are now in Lodi, California at the Holiday Rambler Regional Rally. There are suppose to be about 70 or 75 rigs here and it appears that there will be a lot to do and a lot to be accomplished.

We arrived this morning at about 9:30 am and are parked very close to where everything is happening. Russ and I took a walk this morning to get some pictures and we stopped to talk to the welcoming committee. While there one of the ladies was working on a project crocheting with plastic bags. Someone had given her a purse that someone else had started and needed finishing so Russ said that he would work on it for her. He is just so good.

This afternoon we took a ride over to Isleton, CA. where we will be going on Sunday. It is only about 25 miles away and a very easy drive so that makes both of us happy. The campground is of medium in size and there were very few people there. We look forward to being there.

When we got back we went over to the happy hour and met a few people who are camped here at the Rally. We will continue to meet more and get really involved with all the goings on tomorrow. Until then Take Care.

Wind plus more Wind

2008-05-12T22:43:00.000-07:00

We are still at Turtle Beach Fish Camp in Manteca, CA., and the winds are blowing so hard that the motorhome is bouncing around. The temperature is in the 60's early this morning but the air feels like the 50's and it is very hard to walk.

Russ and I decided to take a walk after putting on jackets. We took the trail that winds up by the river and explored the banks. Russ really wants to get his fishing pole wet but the weather is not right for catching fish. He will just have to wait until another day.

We visited with campers on either side of us this afternoon. We found out that the Bird's are SMART members and know our friend Sharon Whitaker from her newsletters with the Fulltimers Club. We know that we will meet up with them at another of the SMART Rally's.

We will be moving again tomorrow up to Lodi Grape Festival Grounds for the Holiday Rambler Regional Rally so will let you know then what is going on.

Take care until next time.

Mother's Day

2008-05-11T21:17:00.000-07:00

We are still at Turtle Beach Fish Camp in Manteca, California. We awoke to a very nice day with plenty of sunshine outside. There is a slight breeze blowing and it appears that the day will be great.

Today is Mother's Day and also Lori Schulke's birthday. Lori is my niece and lives in Richmond, Virginia. She and her husband Dave are building their house and hope to have it ready to move into this fall. We are very proud of them and wish her a very Happy Birthday.

I called and wished my mother a Happy Day and then called Russ' mother and wished her a great day. We talked with both mothers for a while and found out what all was going on in their respective lives. My mother is doing well except for the hurting knees. Russ' mother is having problems with her back. Just wish that I had a magic wand that I could wave and make them both better.

We took a ride up to Lodi to find the fairgrounds that we will be moving to on Tuesday. We are going up for a Region VIII campout with the Holiday Ramblers. This will be our first regional rally so are looking forward to it. We did see a couple there and found out that they are expecting about 70 rigs for the 6 days. Should be fun.

Russ fixed hamburgers on the grill and we still had two ears of corn from the other day. It was super good. I watched the finale of Surviver and then Desperate Housewives while Russ watched a baseball game on the bedroom TV. Another good evening.

Until next time, Take Care.

Time to Travel

2008-05-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

We have been at Thousand Trails, Soledad Canyon in Acton, California for the past 10 days and have enjoyed being with friends Dale and Melody McCoy and Jim and Nancy Leivas. We had met both of these couples down in Southern California about 3 years ago.

We also had to extend our time at Soledad as Mystee became sick and we still do not know what is wrong with her but she is still with us. We continue to give her medications twice a day and she is eating just a little each day. We will just continue to monitor her and see what happens.

Both Russ and I awoke around 5:30 am on Saturday morning ready to get moving. We picked up what needed to be stowed and Russ put away the electric, water and sewer hoses. We each ate a few donuts and were on the road headed out at 6:45 am. We traveled north on Hwy 14 to Hwy 58 and continued across it to Hwy 99. We had never been that way but found the traveling to be very comfortable and an easy drive. The scenery was nice and showed many aspects of the earth.

We took a break at Burger King in Bakerfield. The parking was easier here rather than trying to get into the Flying J lot and beings we did not need fuel. We did need fuel when we got to Ripon, California so we stopped at the Flying J there. Diesel was selling for $4.399 and we had to put in 40.049 gallons. Sure wish we had a rich uncle somewhere. It was back on the road heading for Turtle Beach Fish Camp, Manteca, CA., which is just south of Stockton.

We pulled into Turtle Beach Fish Camp, a Thousand Trails property at 2:30 pm. We did very well for traveling 332 miles. When we got to the gate they told us that there were only three sites remaining open and none of them had sewer hookups. We will only be here until Tuesday so will use the dump station when we leave. The park appears to be very nice and we will explore more after we rest a bit.

We were in this area last year and since then they have put in a new shopping center and a lot more houses. We went down to the new Chili's and had dinner and returned to the RV in time to watch the NASCAR race from Darlington. It was a very good race and we just relaxed for the rest of the evening.

Mystee

2008-05-08T14:55:00.000-07:00

Writing from Thousand Trails, Soledad Canyon, Acton, CA. We were suppose to leave here today and start heading north but Mystee (our kitty) has become ill and we are waiting to get her on the road to recovery. Last week she begain throwing up and she stopped eating and going to the potty. When we arrived here in Acton on Thursday Russ made an appointment with the vet in town. He could find nothing visually wrong with her but took blood and urine to test. It took until yesterday (Wednesday, 5/7/08) for them to get the test back. They think it is some type of infection of the liver or kidneys so she has an appointment at 5:40 pm today. We are now scheduled to leave here on Saturday morning heading up to Lodi, CA. and the Holiday Rambler California Rally.

Also while we have been here, we had to take the electrical booster into Temple City, California, to be fixed again. One of the circuit boards had malfunctioned and was causing a misreading of the amps being supplied to the motorhome. What we found first was that when plugged into the post we were showing 50 amps and knew no way as this park only has 30 amp post. We also could not get the recepticals in the bedroom to work nor the electrical unit in the hot water heater to work. Russ called Frank, who had sold us the unit, and told him what was happening.

Coming back from Temple City, we (Dale, Melody, Russ and I) decided to come back across the mountain on Hwy 2. It was a very interesting drive and we all enjoyed it. We went down to Pearblossom and checked out the market place there including the wine tasting. Melody and Dale bought a "Bear Clock" to add to their collection. We really had a great time.

A quick stop at Wal-Mart and it was back to the campground.

On Sunday morning we went to Lancaster to the Elks for breakfast. Special was Spanish Omelets and the food was really good and inexpensive. Another fun day.

We have eaten meals together and just enjoyed each others company.

Until next time, Take Care.

Soledad Canyon, Acton, California

2008-05-01T22:07:00.000-07:00

We left Mountain View RV Club in Lytle Creek, Ca. this morning after bidding Steve and Joyce Dombroski a good summer and safe journeys wherever they may go this year. These friends are very special to us and we enjoy meeting up with them when we can. They are headed to Las Vegas to spend time with family there.

We drove north on I-15 for about 12 miles and turned northwest on Hwy. 138 heading for Palmdale, CA. In Palmdale we took HWY 14 south for about 6 miles turning of in Acton, CA., headed for the campground about 3 miles away. We were able to check-in right away and headed for the "N" Section as we can get good receiption for the cell phone and broadband connection for the computer.

Dale and Melody McCoy were waiting for us to arrive. The space next to them was open and we soon found out why. No sewer hookup. We decided to move across the roadway and are functioning just fine here. For some reason the AMPS are showing 50 on a 30 post. Russ says that we are okay for now. He will make sure by testing the post today.

The four of us took a drive to Palmdale, first stopping at Famous Dave's for lunch and then I showed the McCoy's where Wal-Mart and Costco were. We did tour Costco picking up Vodka and Peanuts. Sounds like party time to me.

By the time that we returned to the RV, the winds had died down and it was wonderful just to sit out in the sun and catch up on all that we have missed being with our wonderful friends. We sat out until almost 7 and the air was beginning to get a chill to it.

We really have fun.

Catch Up Time

2008-04-28T10:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry that it has been a while since last posting but I was a bit under the weather even though most people did not know it and I did not tell them either. I went about each day as if things were okay. The real problem has been that I stopped taking my meds and it caught up with me. My blood pressure has gone out of sight and the fibromyalgia is really hurting but I am getting back stable. Enough on that......

Our last couple of days at Cherry Valley Lakes was a lot of fun and we did help to bid Bobby and Gene "Good by" as they start a new adventure in their life. These guys are fun to be around and we always had fun when they were there. They are hopeful to be able to stay at Thousand Trails in Palm Springs for the summer and watch the property during the close down of this park. The only bad part of being in Palm Springs during the summer is the heat, some days as high as 120 degrees.

On Monday, April 21, we moved down to Golden Village Palms in Hemet, California, to meet up with the SO CAL and Warriors SMART Chapters. There were 26 rigs with 46 people and it was a really good muster. We ate a lot, played games and socialized a lot. Russ and I ended up competing against each other in Blongo (Snake Toss). I lost. We also competed in Bocce Ball and Washer Board Toss. All of the games were fun and everyone had a good time. We even saw people out that usually don't play enjoying themselves.

On Wednesday, Russ and I went down to San Diego for a doctor's appointment. That is where I found out that the blood pressure was out of whack and I had to start back on my medications. I am doing it and monitoring each day.

On Friday, April 25, we left Hemet and headed up Hwy 79 to I-10 to I-15 to Lytle, California and Mountain Lakes RV Park. This is a Resorts of Distinction park and a really pretty park. It has fishing ponds stocked with trout, crappy and cat fish. There are three swimming pools, a convience store, a clubhouse for adults and another for families, a restaurant and all kinds of activities going on including BINGO 5 times a week. We have played BINGO and I won $20. We spent $22 so we are only short by $2. It was a lot of fun.

Our friends Joyce and Steve Dombroski are here also. We have always had a lot of fun with them and have run into them all across the country. We will part on Thursday with them going to Las Vegas and we will head toward Soledad Canyon. I expect that we will meet up again sometime this summer.

Russ has enjoyed fishing catching 5 trout on Saturday and is out there again today trying his luck. The only thing here is that they do not let you catch and release. You must keep all that you catch. He finds someone who wants to clean and eat them. I think that Joyce will take them this time. I am doing my blog and washing clothes and just enjoying the time here.

Until next time Have a great day.

A Beautiful Day

2008-04-19T13:53:00.000-07:00

We are still at Cherry Valley Lakes, Beaumont, CA. and really enjoying the relaxed mode provided by this campground. The temperature today is 68 degrees with just a slight breeze blowing. Really a beautiful day.

As I have stated in previous journals from here there is always something to do or not do depending on how you feel. Russ enjoys playing games so he has joined in on playing Push Poker or Pegs and Jokers. This week they were also going to play Washer Boards but the wind was so strong and chilly that they went inside with Pegs and Jokers.

Yesterday we did a fast trip down to San Diego for the funeral of the wife of one of our dear friends, Sid Derenburger. It was held at Fort Rosecrans and the view was just outstanding. After the service we all went to Bali Hai for their buffet luncheon. There were about 45 people there; which, was a great turnout for Sid.

On the way back Russ and I stopped at the post office to pick up mail. We had gotten two of the Entertainment books for our travels north this summer. Entertainment sold them for $15 each and free shipping. By the time we got back home, we were both very tired and opted to stay in and just veg.

Also while we were gone my computer came back from the hospital. T
hey had to put in a new operating system and keyboard. Don't know exactly what happened but am glad to have it back and be able to do what I want to do.

Today is wash day and complete setting up the computer. We will eat here and then go over and play Bingo at 6:00 pm. This will be Bobby and Gene's last night of calling Bingo and our last chance at Bingo as we leave here on Monday headed down to Hemet and the SOCAL SMART Rally at Golden Village Palms.

Until next time Take Care.

50's Dance Party and Alligator Lizard

2008-04-14T09:47:00.000-07:00

We are still at Cherry Valley Lakes in Beaumont, CA.

On Saturday the winds blew like there was going to be no tomorrow. It was even hard to walk against them but we made out okay. The temperature was suppose to be in the 90's but with the wind it did not feel that hot. We opened up all of the windows and just let the breezes blow throughout the motorhome.

Saturday night at the clubhouse they had a 50's dance party with three of the member workers singing and leading all of the fun. All three had good voices and everyone had a great time. The songs were great and the musical hits were done really well also. Of course Russ had to miss his NASCAR Race to go to this but I think he enjoyed it none the less. He still surprises me with his new hip as he was doing the twist and going all the way down to the floor, fast dancing and slow dancing and it was not bothering him. Thank you Dr. Jon Lowen.

Sunday Russ decided to do some fishing in the lakes that they have here. He was able to catch two catfish weighing between 1 1/2 lbs. - 2 1/2 lbs. He had a good time doing that. I interrupted his fishing for us to go to the ice cream social. He went back out while I sat and just enjoyed the sun by the pool. I decided to go out and see what he had and as I went out the back gate I stepped over what they were calling an Alligator Lizard. This thing was about 6 - 8 inches long and had a diamond shaped head with it's tongue flickering about. It scared me but I did go back and take a picture which I will post once I get my computer back.

Late in the afternoon Joyce and I went to the hot tub just to relax. We met another couple there who were visiting here from Pennsylvania. She and Joyce really enjoyed talking and comparing notes. Once back from the hot tub we watched tv and then off to bed it was after the late news.

Until next time Take Care..

Cherry Valley Lakes

2008-04-11T19:33:00.000-07:00

Posting from Cherry Valley Lakes, Cherry Valley, CA. We are about 3 miles west of the city of Banning, CA. and the park buts up to I-10 and the Banning area Rest Stop.

We are actually enjoying this park even with it butting up to I-10. We are parked on the last row and do not hear the traffic at all from the highway even with the windows open. The park is small but has all that we need here to survive. It has a clubhouse with kitchen that they serve breakfasts and dinners Thursday - Saturday and breakfast also on Sunday. They also have different activities going on during the day and in the evening. Thursday night was Bingo, tonight is Push Poker, Saturday Night they are having a 50's dance, etc. Dinner tonight was fish and shrimp and it was very good for $6. We will go to the dance tomorrow night and pay $2 each but eat at home as I have to get rid of some of the stuff we have had left over from the TTTs outing.

I am having to use Russ' computer right now as my computer has had to go to the "Computer Hospital". Wednesday night I went in to make a blog and do some other typing and I could not get the keyboard to work at all. I called Acer and they said that it had to be sent in to them to figure out what is wrong so today I sent it off to Texas. I will add pictures once I get my computer back.

Well that is all that has happened here. Wish each and everyone a great day. Take Care.

Good Thousand Trails Travelers Campout

2008-04-10T19:01:00.000-07:00

We are still at Thousand Trails Palm Springs, Palm Desert, CA. The winds continued to blow for most of the week and on Wednesday morning we were forced inside for coffee and goodies or be blown completely away.

As reported in previous entries we have been here at Thousand Trails since March 27 and Thousand Trails Travelers have been arriving on a steady basis since then. We are all spread out across the park which is very empty compared to what we are use to seeing it at this time of the year. The park will be shutting down to minimial use beginning May 15 when Idyllwild is in full force. It is just too hot to be in Palm Desert during the summer months and Idyllwild is up in the San Jacinto Mountains where it is cooler for this time of the year. We have seen snow up on that mountain since the middle of February.

For the campout there were 20 rigs and we all enjoyed the potluck dinners and our annual Pizza Party on Tuesday evening. Each morning this week, we met for coffee and goodies provided by our host. There were many shopping trips, trips to the casinos and our trip out to eat on Sunday evening. We also had card games after dinner of "Hand and Foot" or "Hearts" going on and there were two tables of "Jokers and Pegs" being played. Just a lot of good food and fellowship.

Thursday saw most leaving for their respective homes or to other campgrounds and we wish each and everyone a safe and sound summer wherever you plan your adventures. We moved westward to "Cherry Valley Lakes" for the next 11 days.

Take care and let's see what happens next.

Good Times

2008-04-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

We are still at Thousand Trails in Palm Desert, CA.

On Thursday morning Russ and Steve went to play golf at Indio Golf Course. They got there early but still ended up having to wait for a golf club to go ahead of them. They said that some of the gentlemen were a bit slow but that was OK because one day they may be just as slow.

I finished washing clothes and hung them out back on the clothes line that Russ made for us. It works great and is nice to have around especially drying the towels, etc.

I was also going to vacuum good and mop the floor. Well, I started the vacuum and found that the bag was way too full and would not suck properly so went about finding the extra bags that we have in here. No luck. That meant a trip to Wal-Mart so while there we both got hair cuts which were much needed. We also picked up a few groceries and headed back home.

As we were pulling back into the park, we saw our friends Cecil and Donna Schoolcraft pulling in for the Thousand Trails Travelers camp out which officially starts on Sunday. It has been three weeks since we last saw them so was great to meet up with them again. We also saw, as we walked around, that Darlene Fuller, Katie Pettis and Dick Jackson, Mary and Bill Miller had arrived. We will enjoy getting together with all of these fine folks for eating, games and fellowship.

Friday was Thousand Trails meeting with the manager Gary. His meeting drew a good crowd awaiting any news that he had gotten from the District Meeting that was held here Tuesday - Thursday. Basically it was the same old stuff but we did let Gary know that we appreciated his park and wished that some of the others were managed as he does.

I enjoyed the swimming pool for a couple of hours as Russ was up in the Pool Room with some of the guys shooting pool. We are two that have our own interest and can do what we like separately or together.

We had made plans with Cecil and Donna to meet at Augustine Casino for dinner after their appointment in Palm Desert. On Friday nights they have a big Seafood Buffet, which they all like. I had my fried chicken and was just as happy. We stayed until about 9 pm playing the machines and Russ and I came out about $25 ahead. GOOD FOR US!!!!!

This morning they are suppose to have a park wide garage sale but did not see that many having things for sale especially since the winds have come back. Russ attempted to walk at 6:15 am but the winds then were just brutal. He waited to walk until just after 8 and I went out about 8:20.

Until later hope that everyone has a Great Day.

Helping Others

2008-04-02T16:05:00.000-07:00

We are at Thousand Trails, Palm Springs, CA.

Yesterday was a day that we were going to just relax and enjoy the park. Russ went up to the pool room to play pool for a while and I went over to our friends Joyce and Steve Dombroski. I had been telling Joyce about the new programs that I had learned about from Chris and Jim, Geeks on Travel. I am now using Picasa 2 for all of my pictures, being able to customize them and I am using Photo Story 3 for making movies and slideshows of my pictures.

Both Steve and Joyce have taken some really good pictures with their new camera and they will be great using the Photo Story. We worked on this for a while and then decided that it was time for some fun. Off to Casino 29 we went. We decided that the first stop would be at McDonald's for an Angus and Mushroom Burger. We then went off and played the machines for just over an hour. Yesterday was my day for coming out ahead by $11.

As Russ and I were walking back to our little house, I met Marge and we began talking about computers. She is just learning the computer and was having problems so I met her up at the adult lodge and helped her understand what she was confused about. We had a good time and hopefully it helped her get a little further along.

We have the east/west channels on Direct TV so I watched American Idol and Dancing with the Stars at 5 and 6 pm and then went to the pool for about an hour. It was so refreshing. I then came home and did some backups on the computer. It took a while and then I was off to bed. Good nights sleep.

Tour of Morongo Preserve and Pioneertown

2008-03-31T09:36:00.000-07:00

Reporting from Thousand Trails, Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, CA. Yesterday the sky was blue and pretty but the winds were back and the temperature was only in the 60's. A chilly day for the desert this time of year.

Yesterday, March 30, we met Mr. Bill Clark, his wife Mavis and 23 other people at 9 am to go on a caravan to Morongo Preserve up on Hwy 62 heading toward 29 Palms. This is a preserve that has many walking trails and a lot of desert vegetation and artifacts. It is also a very good place for birders (people who like to sight the different birds). We saw much and enjoyed Mr. Bill's knowledge of the area and things along the trail. We were looking for the mountain lion and other big animals; but were unable to find any. We did see that there had been a big fire that had burned a lot of the trees and vegetation but it was coming back and the park will thrive.

We also went to Pioneertown. This was once a movie set used in making the Gene Autry and Roy Rogers movies back when they were famous. We had lunch at "Pappy and Harriet's Palace" and then walked around the town. We would have stayed longer and watched the "showdown" but it was so cold and the wind was blowing so hard that we decided to head on back to our little home here at TT.

Russ and I watched TV for the evening and then it was to bed for a good nights sleep. We really love being in our little house on wheels. Being able to move when we want, stay when we want and just doing it all.

Thousand Trails, Palm Springs, CA.

2008-03-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

On Thursday we moved the 20.1 miles from Catalina Spa & RV Resort over to Thousand Trails, Palm Springs at Palm Desert, CA. We decided to come over via Dillion Road and 1000 Palm Canyon Drive rather than getting on the I-10. Our way there was very little traffic and an easy drive until we got onto 1000 Palm Canyon Drive where we could really feel the wind coming at us from the west.

Pulling into Thousand Trails was an easy chore and we were able to get into our favorite area having 50 amp service and also being able to reach WI-FI from the adult clubhouse. Thousand Trails parks have the wi-fi but it is located in the clubhouses and not throughout the campground.

We were heading out to Trader Joe's when Russ spotted Joyce Dombroski, a very good friend of ours that we had met in 2005. We have seen them in all sorts of places in the past year. We were with them up at Soledad Canyon when we got word that the house at sold last March. We then met up with them in August back in Virginia at Chesapeake Bay. Then we saw them in January at Pio Pico in Jamul, CA.

After dinner Joyce and Steve came by and said that they were feeling lucky so were going down to Casino 29 so Russ and I decided to go see if we had any luck also and went with them. Russ was the only one to come out ahead. We also checked to see if we could get tickets for Engelbert Humperdinck but there was a big banner showing "Sold Out". Shucks!!! We then stopped for ice cream and then headed home. That was a fun evening.

Friday morning Russ and I took a walk around the park and then Steve and I went to the Manager's meeting at the adult center. Found out that nothing new happening with TT but did learn that there were going to be some adventures taking place from here. On Sunday, Mr. Bill, is going to lead a caravan over to Morongo Preserve and then to Pioneertown. Morongo Preserve is an important birding area and Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for western movies. It should be fun going and it look like there will be about 15 people going.

After the meeting Russ and I went to the pool for a while. The water was perfect and the sun was great. We then returned home for just relaxing. Russ did end up going over to Joyce and Steve's to talk about going golfing next week and to taste some wine that Joyce had gotten. They will golf on Monday because there is a coupon in the local paper. I know they will have fun.

Today Russ has washed and polished on the outside of the motor home. He is doing a really super job. Thank you dear.

Winds

2008-03-26T19:55:00.000-07:00

We are still at Catalina Spa & RV Resort in Desert Hot Springs, CA.

For the past day and a half the winds have really blown. It feels like we are on a road with hills and we are constantly losing our stomachs from the gust that hit from all sides. Yesterday afternoon you heard people out putting up the big awnings and then a while later everyone was putting up the smaller window awnings as it was getting rough.

Russ and I decided to go out and get a few things that we needed. We first stopped at the Post Office for our forwarded mail, then we went to Costco for a piece of pizza and coke for lunch beings neither of us had had any breakfast. We then picked up a few items there at Costco. Next stop then was to Wal-Mart to pick up a couple of small glasses for cocktails and tips for his pool cue.

Coming home I decided to take a different route just to find out where it would take us and if it would be better for us to take when we move to Thousand Trails on Thursday. We went up to Washington, then turned on Thousand Palms Drive over to Dillion to Corkill. Either way is just about the same so will see which was Russ wants to go in the morning.

Last night we went up to the clubhouse to the CATALINA Spa Dune Buggy Derby and had a good time. What this is is that they have a board set up with six little Dune Buggys. There are two officials that roll dice with descriptions on them that match each buggy. You bet 25 cents on which Dune Buggy is going to win. It was a lot of fun. I think Russ and I came out about $1.50 ahead. Last night was the last race also of the season.

Tonight Russ and I went up to the weekly potluck dinner. There were a lot of Italian dishes and everything was really good. We enjoyed hearing where everyone was from and what they were going to do for the summer. Most were headed back to their homes for the summer. There were a few of us who are full-timers and will be hitting the road for new destinations.

I am going to close for now and go and watch "The Moment of Truth" on TV. Some of these questions are and will get many people in deep water.

Take care and have a wonderful evening. Will see what in out there for tomorrow.

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

Russ and I wish everyone a very Happy Easter.

We are still at Catalina Spa & RV Resort in Desert Hot Springs, CA. We have been here since Thursday 3/20 and are enjoying the park very much. A lot of the snowbirds have already left but there are still enough people here that we can have activities and dinners for at least another week.

On Thursday night we played "Card Bingo." It is played using playing cards and the dealer calls out card suites and numbers randomly. We played 15 games with the first 10 costing 10 cent per person and the last 5 costing 20 cent per person. I was lucky and won 1 1/2 games and Russ won the last game. We did add to our dime jug. We sat with Sue and Paul that night.

On Friday, Russ played in the poker tournament that they have here. There were 35 people playing amongst 5 tables. They were playing Omaha and buy-in was $10 plus $1 for jackpot. He did not win but was not the first out either. He enjoyed the play and camaraderie. While he was playing poker I was at the pool. The water was nice and the sunlight was great. Had to get some color into the white meat and I did.

Friday night at the clubhouse they had all you could eat "Spaghetti Dinner" with salad and garlic bread. For dessert we had pudding with whip cream and a cookie. The food was very good. Afterwards they had entertainment. Russ went down to play cribbage.

On Saturday, I made a trip to Wal-Mart and Kohl's for a few things. When I got back Russ was watching the Busch Race on TV and when that was over we went to the pool for a while. Met and talked with a number of nice people and heard that Time Warner had come in and taken out the cable TV last week. Catalina is suppose to be working on the problem. A lot of people were upset that they do not have the cable and they could not get in TV.

Dinner on Saturday night consisted of baked ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans with ice cream for dessert. Very good again. There was also a dance up in the clubhouse after dinner. We opted not to go but to just relax in our little house. It was a beautiful night with the moon out and a nice breeze blowing. I took a walk around the park at about 9:45 pm just because.

It is now Easter Sunday and Russ has made me a wonderful breakfast and then cleaned up the kitchen and picked up the living room. He is so good to me and I love him a lot for treating me like a queen.

He decided that he would go down and play some pool and I decided that it was time to put some more color on this white meat. I went to the pool for about an hour and a half. I then came home and changed so that we could go up to the ice cream social and then the jam session. Both were fun and we really enjoyed. Jam session got over just in time for hamburgers. A really good meal and for only $4. Thanks folks for feeding us really well this weekend.