It's been a few days since my last blog -- and this is REALLY the last blog. We were beginning to think it had become the trip from, well, you know where. Last Thursday we were fat, dumb and happy someplace in Oklahoma when Don got the news about his brother's death. We drove to Memphis on Friday and cousin Jim helped Don get himself clothed and shod prior to our 9- hour Jeep trip to Chicago on Saturday. The Sunday Memorial Service was wonderful and the church was packed. We headed back down to Memphis on Sunday but stopped for an overnight outside of Effingham, IL. On to Memphis Monday and a long drive home on Tuesday (yesterday). We had intended to NOT try and drive all the way home in one day but once we got the smell of Pensacola in our heads there was no stopping us.
Now Memphis was quite wonderful. First off, it was in the low 80's and that's our kind of weather. In Chicago, it rained and, once more during the trip, managed to break some kind of new low temp. Also, there were leaves on the trees! And flowers! And Beale Street! And some great food! While Don was off getting clothes, I waltzed across the parking lot of 'The Graceland RV Park'. Now, the rv thingie was just behind 'The Heartbreak Hotel,' which we initially drove by on the way in. During the really scary turn around, I was outside doing an excellent 'on foot' reconnaissance job but somehow the Watson bus made the turn and left the navigator to walk a quarter of a mile to catch up. If you know Memphis, you will understand how enthused I was to make that walk.
Anyway, I crossed the parking lot and bought the PLATINUM PASS to the Graceland tours. So, there I was, doing the Elvis thing. Had a great time, took weird pics, or pics of weird things, and managed to NOT have any cheeseburgers. I do want to point out that the Platinum Pass enabled me to tour, in addition to the 'mansion', the 'Lisa Marie' which was El's plane. Now, having also toured Prez Kennedy's Air Force One while in Tucson, I can tell you that when flying across country Elvis lived large and Prez John F. did not. We're talking junk in Air #1 and gold seat belt buckles in the 'Lisa.'
Later in the afternoon, my cousins, Jim and Jackie, took me into town to tour Sun Studio and that was an absolute blast from the past. A little old place that turned out some of the great R&B and b-bop sounds of 'my' (notice I didn't say "our") youth: Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and more. Some not so great people, but great performers.
As a final note, the trip was valuable. It was something we had to do and, now that it's over, been there done that don't need to do it again. EVER. By the time we logged over 3,600 miles, replaced a slide motor and air brake lines, fixed the transmission computer in Memphis, drove into the wind no matter which way we were going, bought socks everyplace we stayed, found out California wine is really expensive in California, and missed most of the wonderful sights we hoped to see in the west, we were incredibly tired of being 'On the Road.'
Thanks to all who followed us!
(FINAL Note From Don) -- Thanks to all for kind words and encouragement during this really difficult period. Little did we know when we began this trip that it would end with our being in Chicago for a Memorial service for my recently departed brother Stan just the other day. It all happened so fast... again, my sincere thanks!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
The Cows Keep Moving
Hey! from Shamrock, TX. Don arrived back in Albuquerque yesterday about 1:15. We rushed over to the Rally exhibits so that he could pretend that he actually attended it but by the time we got there most were already down. However, we DO have t-shirts showing that we were there.
On Sunday I managed to snag breakfast at Le'Peep, a great chain of breakfast places and on the way there watched as over 30 balloons took to the air. Then, I visited exhibits, bought those t-shirts and got to visit and have lunch with Lisette, a very long time friend. Lisette and I lived across the yard from each other in Indianapolis when we were wild and crazy youngsters. We're still crazy, but the young part seems to have changed. She has lived mid-way between Albuquerque and Santa Fe for, gosh, 24 years now. Last evening the three of us got together for dinner at a fabulous local southwestern restaurant. Even yesterday and today there were 7-8 hot air balloons ascending in the early morning.
We are now sitting in the middle of no-where right off I-40 and Route 66 and looking out over a Texas range with cows roaming in the distance and a real barbed wire (I touched it) fence. There is such a heat wave that both of us have on shorts for the first time since Tucson, AZ. Despite being 'rural', this little place has all the amenities and 60 foot long pull throughs. It is quite pleasant and relaxing and has filled up with RVs going both east and west. It's one of those relaxed places where ya pays your fee in cash and pick your own spot. Since we didn't unhook the Jeep, we have no idea if Shamrock is a real town. All I know is that it doesn't have a Cracker Barrel and I'm sure you know that's a civilization marker for me.
On to Oklahoma tomorrow and on Thursday we land at Graceland and what could be more fun then a tour of the Elvis grounds, buying an El cookbook and on to Beale Street!
And Don says:
What a wonderful trip this has been! Of course, there are (as Peg points out...) those "special" moments but by and large they are quick to pass (although the worn brake lines we found in California will probably take a VERY long time to get over) ... this has been some real quality time.
I had told Peg I wanted to add a short paragraph in today's blog to say thanks for all the support from so many people concerning my brother Stan who has been in hospital for a couple of months now. I was in Chicago over the weekend by his bedside and his spirits were high as we had some moments together. Our brother Chuck and his wife Betty also came to Chicago from their Indiana home and it was a very special time together. Again, thanks for prayers and thoughts which mean a lot at this particular time.
On Sunday I managed to snag breakfast at Le'Peep, a great chain of breakfast places and on the way there watched as over 30 balloons took to the air. Then, I visited exhibits, bought those t-shirts and got to visit and have lunch with Lisette, a very long time friend. Lisette and I lived across the yard from each other in Indianapolis when we were wild and crazy youngsters. We're still crazy, but the young part seems to have changed. She has lived mid-way between Albuquerque and Santa Fe for, gosh, 24 years now. Last evening the three of us got together for dinner at a fabulous local southwestern restaurant. Even yesterday and today there were 7-8 hot air balloons ascending in the early morning.
We are now sitting in the middle of no-where right off I-40 and Route 66 and looking out over a Texas range with cows roaming in the distance and a real barbed wire (I touched it) fence. There is such a heat wave that both of us have on shorts for the first time since Tucson, AZ. Despite being 'rural', this little place has all the amenities and 60 foot long pull throughs. It is quite pleasant and relaxing and has filled up with RVs going both east and west. It's one of those relaxed places where ya pays your fee in cash and pick your own spot. Since we didn't unhook the Jeep, we have no idea if Shamrock is a real town. All I know is that it doesn't have a Cracker Barrel and I'm sure you know that's a civilization marker for me.
On to Oklahoma tomorrow and on Thursday we land at Graceland and what could be more fun then a tour of the Elvis grounds, buying an El cookbook and on to Beale Street!
And Don says:
What a wonderful trip this has been! Of course, there are (as Peg points out...) those "special" moments but by and large they are quick to pass (although the worn brake lines we found in California will probably take a VERY long time to get over) ... this has been some real quality time.
I had told Peg I wanted to add a short paragraph in today's blog to say thanks for all the support from so many people concerning my brother Stan who has been in hospital for a couple of months now. I was in Chicago over the weekend by his bedside and his spirits were high as we had some moments together. Our brother Chuck and his wife Betty also came to Chicago from their Indiana home and it was a very special time together. Again, thanks for prayers and thoughts which mean a lot at this particular time.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
The Big RV Rally and We Made It
So here's the deal: Don't know how but we made it to Albuquerque yesterday. After our wonderful experience in Chowchilla, we roared through valleys and mountains and fields and rocks and the ugliest desert I've ever seen only to arrive in Flagstaff, AZ and stay in what will be the highest spot we EVER land in. The campground was at over 7,000 feet and it was on, like, the side of the Grand Canyon State Park. Now that may sound nifty and I'm sure it's 'pleasant' in the summer, but it SNOWED. Yeah, snowed and was 23 degrees the morning we left. I STILL don't have enough warm clothes. Cori had to 'hold it' for about 12 hours because we KNEW there were varmints that would eat us all out there after dark. The only good thing was a Cracker Barrel (none in CA or OR) not too far away for breakfast and, let's face it, I WAS NOT fixing breakfast while we listed south on the side of a hill at 23 degrees.
At least there's interesting rock formations in NM. Crossing the desert in AZ, even the Painted Desert (I saw some red rock/clay stuff that looked like it was shipped in from Alabama) was awful. The cactus didn't even look like it wanted to be there. And now I understand why the Native Americans wanted to scalp the white eyes. Historical bi-note: "Here you go Indians, take all the desert you want in AZ and have some in NM too. We love you guys and you'll sure be happy out there. Let us know when you want to build the casinos in retaliation."
Anyway. We arrived at the big 3,000+ person "Rally" yesterday and found where we were to park at the mega big 'balloon take off place.' It was cold and overcast but we were happy to get here and begin 'roughing' it. That means we only have 30 amp instead of 50 amp electric service (lots of microwave/heat issues with that) and no water or sewer. So, we're in this big parking lot with about 100 other biggie RVs and we're thinking, "Hey this is OK. No problem." Then, last night at about 7 p.m. we headed to the major league big tent for the Friday entertainment and we got to the top of the hill going down from our parking lot and we looked out over about 2,000 RVs of all shapes and sizes. Holy crud, what a sight. Pics don't do the sight justice. We were glad to be up on the hill in our little ol' non-crowded lot until we had to walk back UP the hill from the tent. At this altitude I need MANY more Jazzercise sessions. At least we were both still partially breathing when we arrived in the pouring rain and 34 degrees.
The entertainment, now don't laugh, was Neil Sedaka. Heck, Neal was singing 'Sweet Sixteen' when I was a tyke in the 50s so he's a bit on the older side but he was so good. He started writing songs at 13 years old and continued on through the years. His music is great and very gentle. It was fun AND we sang along.
Although I haven't mentioned it, Don's 2nd oldest brother, Stan, was diagnosed about a month ago with cancer. It has progressed with absolutely incredible speed and he is back in the hospital for perhaps the 4th time and it does not look good. Don flew to Chicago this morning and older brother Chuck and his wife, Betty, drove up from Bloomington, IN. We are all waiting and praying for the results of today's MRI on his spine and brain. So, I am 'Rallying' by myself and waiting for Don's return on Monday.
And here I am, just finished wolfing down PF Chang's garlic chicken and waiting for tonight's biggie show in the biggie tent with Rita Coolidge. Just so you don't think the excitement ends tonight, tomorrow evening is 'The Osmonds' (Wayne, Jay and Jimmy) and 'Papa Doo Run Run' on Monday night. Throw in some really great restaurants that I HAVE to go to because I can't use water or fill up the holding tanks, and there you have it from Albuquerque.
At least there's interesting rock formations in NM. Crossing the desert in AZ, even the Painted Desert (I saw some red rock/clay stuff that looked like it was shipped in from Alabama) was awful. The cactus didn't even look like it wanted to be there. And now I understand why the Native Americans wanted to scalp the white eyes. Historical bi-note: "Here you go Indians, take all the desert you want in AZ and have some in NM too. We love you guys and you'll sure be happy out there. Let us know when you want to build the casinos in retaliation."
Anyway. We arrived at the big 3,000+ person "Rally" yesterday and found where we were to park at the mega big 'balloon take off place.' It was cold and overcast but we were happy to get here and begin 'roughing' it. That means we only have 30 amp instead of 50 amp electric service (lots of microwave/heat issues with that) and no water or sewer. So, we're in this big parking lot with about 100 other biggie RVs and we're thinking, "Hey this is OK. No problem." Then, last night at about 7 p.m. we headed to the major league big tent for the Friday entertainment and we got to the top of the hill going down from our parking lot and we looked out over about 2,000 RVs of all shapes and sizes. Holy crud, what a sight. Pics don't do the sight justice. We were glad to be up on the hill in our little ol' non-crowded lot until we had to walk back UP the hill from the tent. At this altitude I need MANY more Jazzercise sessions. At least we were both still partially breathing when we arrived in the pouring rain and 34 degrees.
The entertainment, now don't laugh, was Neil Sedaka. Heck, Neal was singing 'Sweet Sixteen' when I was a tyke in the 50s so he's a bit on the older side but he was so good. He started writing songs at 13 years old and continued on through the years. His music is great and very gentle. It was fun AND we sang along.
Although I haven't mentioned it, Don's 2nd oldest brother, Stan, was diagnosed about a month ago with cancer. It has progressed with absolutely incredible speed and he is back in the hospital for perhaps the 4th time and it does not look good. Don flew to Chicago this morning and older brother Chuck and his wife, Betty, drove up from Bloomington, IN. We are all waiting and praying for the results of today's MRI on his spine and brain. So, I am 'Rallying' by myself and waiting for Don's return on Monday.
And here I am, just finished wolfing down PF Chang's garlic chicken and waiting for tonight's biggie show in the biggie tent with Rita Coolidge. Just so you don't think the excitement ends tonight, tomorrow evening is 'The Osmonds' (Wayne, Jay and Jimmy) and 'Papa Doo Run Run' on Monday night. Throw in some really great restaurants that I HAVE to go to because I can't use water or fill up the holding tanks, and there you have it from Albuquerque.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
The Mojave Desert and Then Some
Thanks to my loyal readers who I didn't think were reading my bloggo because they weren't showing up as 'followers'. You know who you are -- and now I have 3 because brother-in-law Chuck signed up! I will go through Don's e-mail and figure out how to sign up for auto view and let you know what happens.
So, we left the Mt. Shasta 'death trap' at 0800 yesterday. It was a little late but the snow flurries and frozen water hose slowed us down. I drove the Jeep until we came down out of the mountains and into the valley and then we hooked it on behind and made our way down I-5 and onto CA 99 and through more grape vineyards then I could have ever imagined. There were also a few miles of olive groves culminating in Corning, CA as the olive capital of the US. Who knew?
When we arrived at yesterday's destination, Chowchilla, CA, it was such a wonderful RV (and golf) resort that I nearly hugged the palm trees that were scattered around the concrete parking areas with landscaped sites and marine type electrical hookups. Back to 50 amps! I could run the heat AND the hot water heater at the same time! We celebrated by taking much needed showers and it was, like, 70 degrees outside and warmer inside. We then further celebrated by going into town to Frasiees' Steakhouse and Truck Stop. Hmmmm. I guess after the Mt. Shasta experience we were ready for anything and, good news for us, we're still alive.
We reluctantly left a little bit of heaven this morning and headed south and then east (yea!) at Bakersfield and toward yet more mountains with, gasp, snow on top. I gotta tell you that there were vineyards that went on for miles along the highway and as far back as the eye could see on both sides of the road. After so much greenery, we were a little shell shocked to be in the desert again. And let's be clear: If you can avoid driving across any part of the Mojave desert -- do it. It's so nasty out there even the cactus won't grow in any significant way. We arrived in Barstow, CA, another garden spot (NOT), early this p.m. and have done some needed maintenance and inside cleaning, although the hearty winds are blowing sand into every crevice -- on the RV. My crevices are staying inside and reading the first USA Today I've been able to find in 2-weeks.
Tomorrow we're off to Flagstaff, AZ where it's scheduled to be 29 degrees overnight and we'll probably even run into snow on I-40. Capt. Don can hardly wait. He filled up our very own coach water tanks so we won't have to run a hose tomorrow night. I'm helping out by making strange faces, rolling my eyes and pointing out that we both DID grow up in the Midwest and have driven in snow before. Of course we didn't usually have 40 mph wind whipping us across roads in Chicago and Indiana.
So, we left the Mt. Shasta 'death trap' at 0800 yesterday. It was a little late but the snow flurries and frozen water hose slowed us down. I drove the Jeep until we came down out of the mountains and into the valley and then we hooked it on behind and made our way down I-5 and onto CA 99 and through more grape vineyards then I could have ever imagined. There were also a few miles of olive groves culminating in Corning, CA as the olive capital of the US. Who knew?
When we arrived at yesterday's destination, Chowchilla, CA, it was such a wonderful RV (and golf) resort that I nearly hugged the palm trees that were scattered around the concrete parking areas with landscaped sites and marine type electrical hookups. Back to 50 amps! I could run the heat AND the hot water heater at the same time! We celebrated by taking much needed showers and it was, like, 70 degrees outside and warmer inside. We then further celebrated by going into town to Frasiees' Steakhouse and Truck Stop. Hmmmm. I guess after the Mt. Shasta experience we were ready for anything and, good news for us, we're still alive.
We reluctantly left a little bit of heaven this morning and headed south and then east (yea!) at Bakersfield and toward yet more mountains with, gasp, snow on top. I gotta tell you that there were vineyards that went on for miles along the highway and as far back as the eye could see on both sides of the road. After so much greenery, we were a little shell shocked to be in the desert again. And let's be clear: If you can avoid driving across any part of the Mojave desert -- do it. It's so nasty out there even the cactus won't grow in any significant way. We arrived in Barstow, CA, another garden spot (NOT), early this p.m. and have done some needed maintenance and inside cleaning, although the hearty winds are blowing sand into every crevice -- on the RV. My crevices are staying inside and reading the first USA Today I've been able to find in 2-weeks.
Tomorrow we're off to Flagstaff, AZ where it's scheduled to be 29 degrees overnight and we'll probably even run into snow on I-40. Capt. Don can hardly wait. He filled up our very own coach water tanks so we won't have to run a hose tomorrow night. I'm helping out by making strange faces, rolling my eyes and pointing out that we both DID grow up in the Midwest and have driven in snow before. Of course we didn't usually have 40 mph wind whipping us across roads in Chicago and Indiana.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Mt. Shasta, CA
What a great stay! But, all really good things do come to an end and so it came to pass that we left Newport, OR yesterday morning (Easter Sunday in cold, rain and fog) and headed east to Corvallis to spend the night close to I-5 so that we wouldn't have to battle the 2-lane road this morning.
It was also a great opportunity to see Courtney and her family one more time close to her home... and, for the last night with the kids, we got together at a really great Mexican restaurant (no Easter ham or chocolate bunnies on the menu).
Once again, it rained all night but we were ready to head east (actually south) Monday morning. I'm sure Don was (silently) saying, "At long last I'm headed home."
What a trip! The scenery along I-5 south through Oregon and into California is absolutely beautiful... alternating between mountains and valleys surrounded by mountains. When you come around a bend and see Mt. Shasta in the distance, it's breath taking. For a variety of reasons, including saving the brakes on the coach, I drove the Jeep today. Which was a good thing (see below).
I arrived at our destination about 30 minutes before Don and entertained myself by finding our spot and taking a nap. When Don arrived in the RV the fun really started. Up until now we had only stopped, hooked up and considered what our adult beverage of the day would be. Not today!!!
First off, there was cable TV hookup at the site but it was a 30 amp outlet instead of a 50 amp which we had requested. So we moved to a 50 amp spot but it had no cable. That spot also had no running water but we were told to hang on for a moment and that problem would be solved. As it turned out, the maintenance person had absolutely no idea how to turn it on. So we moved again to a 50 amp spot that did have running water but also had no cable.
By this time we had put the slides in and out, put the jacks up and down and made all the hookups three times. It was now becoming clear that there was a problem with the air suspension and braking system so we moved back to the original 30 amp spot, which was flatter, in order to check out the air system.
Don's hunch was correct and the repair person arrived about a half hour later. (Good Sam's Emergency Road Service really is GOOD!) He found that two air hoses had been rubbing together for thousands of miles and had determined that today would be the day they would spring leaks! Holes had been created by the rubbing between the hoses and with air escaping, Don had made his way up and down the mountains all day long which was, as we learned, a bad thing. The repair person said that the brakes could have gone out at any moment.
After our NEWEST best friend in the entire world, Keith or Kyle, or whatever his name was, left with another chunk of our retirement money, and after only the smallest bit of gin, we got to thinking: Jeez, if the brakes had let loose down one of those 8% grades, with all the insurance and after settling those pesky lawsuits, I could have been back on the water in a new, MUCH bigger boat with a new MUCH younger crew. LOL!
Oh, yeah, the cable in the first spot (now our final spot) doesn't work for the TV. But the brakes hopefully will as we leave tomorrow morning for the Central California Valley!
It was also a great opportunity to see Courtney and her family one more time close to her home... and, for the last night with the kids, we got together at a really great Mexican restaurant (no Easter ham or chocolate bunnies on the menu).
Once again, it rained all night but we were ready to head east (actually south) Monday morning. I'm sure Don was (silently) saying, "At long last I'm headed home."
What a trip! The scenery along I-5 south through Oregon and into California is absolutely beautiful... alternating between mountains and valleys surrounded by mountains. When you come around a bend and see Mt. Shasta in the distance, it's breath taking. For a variety of reasons, including saving the brakes on the coach, I drove the Jeep today. Which was a good thing (see below).
I arrived at our destination about 30 minutes before Don and entertained myself by finding our spot and taking a nap. When Don arrived in the RV the fun really started. Up until now we had only stopped, hooked up and considered what our adult beverage of the day would be. Not today!!!
First off, there was cable TV hookup at the site but it was a 30 amp outlet instead of a 50 amp which we had requested. So we moved to a 50 amp spot but it had no cable. That spot also had no running water but we were told to hang on for a moment and that problem would be solved. As it turned out, the maintenance person had absolutely no idea how to turn it on. So we moved again to a 50 amp spot that did have running water but also had no cable.
By this time we had put the slides in and out, put the jacks up and down and made all the hookups three times. It was now becoming clear that there was a problem with the air suspension and braking system so we moved back to the original 30 amp spot, which was flatter, in order to check out the air system.
Don's hunch was correct and the repair person arrived about a half hour later. (Good Sam's Emergency Road Service really is GOOD!) He found that two air hoses had been rubbing together for thousands of miles and had determined that today would be the day they would spring leaks! Holes had been created by the rubbing between the hoses and with air escaping, Don had made his way up and down the mountains all day long which was, as we learned, a bad thing. The repair person said that the brakes could have gone out at any moment.
After our NEWEST best friend in the entire world, Keith or Kyle, or whatever his name was, left with another chunk of our retirement money, and after only the smallest bit of gin, we got to thinking: Jeez, if the brakes had let loose down one of those 8% grades, with all the insurance and after settling those pesky lawsuits, I could have been back on the water in a new, MUCH bigger boat with a new MUCH younger crew. LOL!
Oh, yeah, the cable in the first spot (now our final spot) doesn't work for the TV. But the brakes hopefully will as we leave tomorrow morning for the Central California Valley!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Still in Oregon
Good Friday has been that. Spent the day with daughter and grand babies SHOPPING while Gramps did 'housework' while we were gone. They spent last night with us and we kindly gave up our bedroom and slept on the pull out couch, which will be the last time we do that in our lifetimes. From this morning onward, all guests (except those willing to brave the most uncomfortable sleeping arrangements this side of sleeping on the ground) will check into the nearest B&B and join us for drinks and nuts on board and dinner at a local restaurant.
The week has gone by quickly and has been wonderful. Except for 2 days of rain and general ickiness, the weather has cooperated and has been in the 50s. We are going to rest up and stock up tomorrow (still need to see the seals in the cave attraction and one more lighthouse) spend Easter with the kids and head to Mt. Shasta, CA early Monday morning. We're hoping for NO SNOW.
The week has gone by quickly and has been wonderful. Except for 2 days of rain and general ickiness, the weather has cooperated and has been in the 50s. We are going to rest up and stock up tomorrow (still need to see the seals in the cave attraction and one more lighthouse) spend Easter with the kids and head to Mt. Shasta, CA early Monday morning. We're hoping for NO SNOW.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
In and Around Newport
Unbelievably, this part of Oregon has been having its nicest weather in years. Since we arrived on Saturday, it's been in the mid-70s which, the locals tell us, is a heat wave. Not to be negative but it goes bad again tomorrow. I haven't been warm since we left Pensacola, unlike some folks who are lounging in the sun in southern FL -- and you know WHO you are. I've worn every one of the long pants I own. Did someone say SHOPPING?
We have enjoyed walking the docks and watching the boats come and go into the bay and out to the big water. The boats are interesting in that most of the small (and large) vessels have high freeboard in the front like tugs. You don't see any new boats around here. Many of the 100+ at the marina (part of the area where we're staying) look like they should be in junk yards.
We were able to make a number of the above observations while sitting in a 2nd floor window at a resturant in the Rogue Brewing Co. Now when we first rolled in on Sat. and saw the building that says "Rogue Nation Armory & Basement Roguesonian Museum" we looked at each other and said, "Oh crud (or something like that), we've found the survivalists who aren't in Montana and they're right where we're staying." It turns out that 'Rogue' is a fabulous brewing company that's won oodles of awards for their beer and other spirits (which we haven't investigated yet). They also have a dandy resturant on the second floor of the brewry that looks over the pass to the Pacific and the marina and, yes, you have to make your way through the operating brewery to get there. It's a dump but they're the only resturant within miles that is licensed to sell Kobe beef (burger = $18). The fresh salmon is rumored to be fabulous and we shall see.
Last night we drove an hour and a half to meet the kids at the Spirit Mountain Casino to watch the NCAA finals. It was not, of course, a happy ending for Michigan State. You would think that with all the tuition money so many of us funneled into the school, they could win a title for us. Obviously, they didn't think about that. So anyway, smack dab in the middle of no place Oregon, we go around a bend and there's a casino that looks like it should be in Las Vegas. Huh.
The big news of the day is that, just like the boat, we had to have a traveling RV repair person out to figure out why our big slide doesn't roll in like it should. Yes folks, it was a motor gone bad. If I didn't know I was in a land cruiser, I would think I was on the boat. Long about 4 stops ago, one of us had to start pushing the slide in to 'help' it along. Now guess which one of the 2 of us was inside pressing the button to bring in the slide and which of us was outside in the dark and the rain/cold pushing the 9,000 lb. slide. Yeh, well, I finally caught on to that one and a change of responsibilities has been made.
If the repair person doesn't come back today, we're off to explore the beaches, try to sight a couple of whales and maybe see/smell the sea lions.
We have enjoyed walking the docks and watching the boats come and go into the bay and out to the big water. The boats are interesting in that most of the small (and large) vessels have high freeboard in the front like tugs. You don't see any new boats around here. Many of the 100+ at the marina (part of the area where we're staying) look like they should be in junk yards.
We were able to make a number of the above observations while sitting in a 2nd floor window at a resturant in the Rogue Brewing Co. Now when we first rolled in on Sat. and saw the building that says "Rogue Nation Armory & Basement Roguesonian Museum" we looked at each other and said, "Oh crud (or something like that), we've found the survivalists who aren't in Montana and they're right where we're staying." It turns out that 'Rogue' is a fabulous brewing company that's won oodles of awards for their beer and other spirits (which we haven't investigated yet). They also have a dandy resturant on the second floor of the brewry that looks over the pass to the Pacific and the marina and, yes, you have to make your way through the operating brewery to get there. It's a dump but they're the only resturant within miles that is licensed to sell Kobe beef (burger = $18). The fresh salmon is rumored to be fabulous and we shall see.
Last night we drove an hour and a half to meet the kids at the Spirit Mountain Casino to watch the NCAA finals. It was not, of course, a happy ending for Michigan State. You would think that with all the tuition money so many of us funneled into the school, they could win a title for us. Obviously, they didn't think about that. So anyway, smack dab in the middle of no place Oregon, we go around a bend and there's a casino that looks like it should be in Las Vegas. Huh.
The big news of the day is that, just like the boat, we had to have a traveling RV repair person out to figure out why our big slide doesn't roll in like it should. Yes folks, it was a motor gone bad. If I didn't know I was in a land cruiser, I would think I was on the boat. Long about 4 stops ago, one of us had to start pushing the slide in to 'help' it along. Now guess which one of the 2 of us was inside pressing the button to bring in the slide and which of us was outside in the dark and the rain/cold pushing the 9,000 lb. slide. Yeh, well, I finally caught on to that one and a change of responsibilities has been made.
If the repair person doesn't come back today, we're off to explore the beaches, try to sight a couple of whales and maybe see/smell the sea lions.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Newport, Oregon
After two days of harrowing drives along US 101, we arrived in Newport in time to celebrate Josie's 5th birthday. She is wonderful and baby Danielle is so cute and good we're amazed. At 7.5 months she's already saying dada and mama (mama less frequently which doesn't go over well with Mom) and babee. She just co-exists with everyone in a relaxed and upbeat way.
As soon as I get pics of the sea lion cave, I'll download and post a couple more trip pics, including the scary redwood forest we stayed in outside of Crescent City, CA. Speaking of scary, US 101 narrows to two way traffic in most places as it winds into northern CA and then into OR. Capt. Don was wheezing as we went through an area where I could have touched the redwood trees if I opened the window.
The Crestwood City campground was great, very rustic but with all the necessities (electric, water, sewer and cable TV). Both campgrounds in Petaluma, CA and Crescent City had the cutest little cabins that people can rent (I originally typed cabinets and that's more like the size but they ARE cute). When I read that the redwood forests are dense and dark, I couldn't really imagine what that must be like. Now I know: They are really dark and scary because you KNOW there must be bears and other carnivores waiting for unsuspecting tourists to wander too far into the woods. Don took CoriBob out for her morning 'thingies' and he suddenly realized he might not be alone in the wilderness.
Hi-lite: Going around a bend on 101 and seeing the Pacific crashing against huge boulders along a shore which you think you can see goes forever and then heading back into a forest drive with lakes on the right and trees on the left and then hitting the coastline again. Wow, is the water/coastline ever different on the upper Pacific coast. Think rocks -- giant rocks that you could build a house on, if you were crazy.
Newport hi-lites: Seeing the grand kids and kids; the Oregon Coast Aquarium (within walking distance of where we're staying) is one of the best we've ever seen; the Rogue brewing and distillery (also within walking distance) company -- to be explained later.
As soon as I get pics of the sea lion cave, I'll download and post a couple more trip pics, including the scary redwood forest we stayed in outside of Crescent City, CA. Speaking of scary, US 101 narrows to two way traffic in most places as it winds into northern CA and then into OR. Capt. Don was wheezing as we went through an area where I could have touched the redwood trees if I opened the window.
The Crestwood City campground was great, very rustic but with all the necessities (electric, water, sewer and cable TV). Both campgrounds in Petaluma, CA and Crescent City had the cutest little cabins that people can rent (I originally typed cabinets and that's more like the size but they ARE cute). When I read that the redwood forests are dense and dark, I couldn't really imagine what that must be like. Now I know: They are really dark and scary because you KNOW there must be bears and other carnivores waiting for unsuspecting tourists to wander too far into the woods. Don took CoriBob out for her morning 'thingies' and he suddenly realized he might not be alone in the wilderness.
Hi-lite: Going around a bend on 101 and seeing the Pacific crashing against huge boulders along a shore which you think you can see goes forever and then heading back into a forest drive with lakes on the right and trees on the left and then hitting the coastline again. Wow, is the water/coastline ever different on the upper Pacific coast. Think rocks -- giant rocks that you could build a house on, if you were crazy.
Newport hi-lites: Seeing the grand kids and kids; the Oregon Coast Aquarium (within walking distance of where we're staying) is one of the best we've ever seen; the Rogue brewing and distillery (also within walking distance) company -- to be explained later.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
California Streaming
Here's another road hint for the inexperienced RVer: DO NOT DRIVE FROM PALM SPRINGS TO SAN FRANCISCO IN ONE DAY. While it seemed like a wonderful idea in the planning stages, leaving at 4:15 a.m. and arriving at your destination 11 hours later is bad, bad, bad. That being said, it was lucky we left when we did because we were able to get around LA before the REAL rush hour. We just hit the early rush hour that evidently begins at 5 a.m. Because the wind was 30 mph one minute and 5 mph the next, Don was driving the bus and I was in the Jeep giving him minute by minute traffic and exit updates.
Once we got north of Los Angeles, even the mountains looked better because there was actually some green with purple spring flowers. As we drove into central CA, the valleys were full of fruit trees, grapes lined up for miles, and to-be-veggies. However, the green was interspersed with brown -- still no grass. When we finally drove across the Oakland bridge and onto US 101, we thought we had arrived (but it was still an hour to get to Petaluma, CA).
Did I mention that there seems to be more cars on the highways in California then I've ever seen? The New Jersey Turnpike and Detroit freeways were weenie by comparison. If every person who drives at least 1 mile in CA, were to anti up just $1 on 1 day, we might be able to eliminate the national debt.
Petaluma is a delightful town just 40 miles north of San Francisco. Great Victorian era homes, wonderful views, charming old downtown with class, and one of the best Italian restaurants in which we've ever eaten (think sea bass in a light sauce with capers, etc.). Also a Fresh Market and Trader Joe's. And, yes, grass. The green kind and lots of it. They've used the town for movies because it looks like the Americana of yesteryear: "American Graffiti", "Peggy Sue Got Married", "Basic Instinct".
Today we headed up 101 to Healdsburg to the heart of the Sonoma County wine country. We could have spent 3 or 4 days just exploring Healdsburg and all of the wineries around it. But we only had 4 hours. We also found the Russian River which, wouldn't you know it, winds through the Russian River Valley, home to some of California's best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Here's the really bad news: Despite thinking it 'should' be, wine is not less expensive at the wineries. However, there are many more choices then Costco. We WILL return so watch out.
We hit the road tomorrow morning about 7 a.m., turn left onto US 101 and drive until we run into Crescent City, CA and up to Newport, OR on Saturday.
Once we got north of Los Angeles, even the mountains looked better because there was actually some green with purple spring flowers. As we drove into central CA, the valleys were full of fruit trees, grapes lined up for miles, and to-be-veggies. However, the green was interspersed with brown -- still no grass. When we finally drove across the Oakland bridge and onto US 101, we thought we had arrived (but it was still an hour to get to Petaluma, CA).
Did I mention that there seems to be more cars on the highways in California then I've ever seen? The New Jersey Turnpike and Detroit freeways were weenie by comparison. If every person who drives at least 1 mile in CA, were to anti up just $1 on 1 day, we might be able to eliminate the national debt.
Petaluma is a delightful town just 40 miles north of San Francisco. Great Victorian era homes, wonderful views, charming old downtown with class, and one of the best Italian restaurants in which we've ever eaten (think sea bass in a light sauce with capers, etc.). Also a Fresh Market and Trader Joe's. And, yes, grass. The green kind and lots of it. They've used the town for movies because it looks like the Americana of yesteryear: "American Graffiti", "Peggy Sue Got Married", "Basic Instinct".
Today we headed up 101 to Healdsburg to the heart of the Sonoma County wine country. We could have spent 3 or 4 days just exploring Healdsburg and all of the wineries around it. But we only had 4 hours. We also found the Russian River which, wouldn't you know it, winds through the Russian River Valley, home to some of California's best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Here's the really bad news: Despite thinking it 'should' be, wine is not less expensive at the wineries. However, there are many more choices then Costco. We WILL return so watch out.
We hit the road tomorrow morning about 7 a.m., turn left onto US 101 and drive until we run into Crescent City, CA and up to Newport, OR on Saturday.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
California Screaming
Let me just say that there is no more boring land then I-10 in California, from the Colorado River and Arizona/California border, until you drop about 500 feet straight down to Sonny Bono Parkway in Palm Springs or there about. Holy crap, once you tell the California Border Patrol that you're not sneaking walnuts into CA from AZ, there ain't nuthin' and nobody. Not even mile markers. There are, however, emergency phones every mile. Unfortunately, since there are no mile markers, you have no idea where to tell them to pick you up in case of emergency.
Once we got settled in the 'Sands RV and Golf Resort', two neighbors rushed to tell us that it would probably get windy. And it did. This place is at the end of a 'V' through a mountain pass with a zillion whirling wind machines. When we got home from our survey of trendy Palm Springs (more on that), we had to hold CoriBob so that she didn't blow off. The bus is rocking and if we open the door, the Sonora desert comes on inside to visit with us while all the loose paper inside blows out. But it's a beautiful view as we're surrounded by mountains and can look out over the valley.
Ya know, despite street names like Doris Day Way and Gene Autry Parkway, there is nothing happening and no where to do it in Palm Springs. It does have some of the greenest grass and lawns in the desert. I don't know where they find the water but there's a golf courses behind every wall and real live lawns. But no ice cream stores. There's a couple of shopping centers with mostly empty shops and a Lowes and Home Depot. Geez, wouldn't you think there would be a Baskin Robbins or a Saks or something snazzy with all that money just sitting around in living rooms? Maybe no one eats ice cream cones in CA. And it's so small you can drive through town in about 15 minutes.
We do a marathon 9-hour drive to Sonoma and Napa Valley tomorrow -- around and through LA and San Fran but I really believe the wine tasting will be worth it. Don says it won't. CoriBob just pants and wants to go back to Pensacola.
Once we got settled in the 'Sands RV and Golf Resort', two neighbors rushed to tell us that it would probably get windy. And it did. This place is at the end of a 'V' through a mountain pass with a zillion whirling wind machines. When we got home from our survey of trendy Palm Springs (more on that), we had to hold CoriBob so that she didn't blow off. The bus is rocking and if we open the door, the Sonora desert comes on inside to visit with us while all the loose paper inside blows out. But it's a beautiful view as we're surrounded by mountains and can look out over the valley.
Ya know, despite street names like Doris Day Way and Gene Autry Parkway, there is nothing happening and no where to do it in Palm Springs. It does have some of the greenest grass and lawns in the desert. I don't know where they find the water but there's a golf courses behind every wall and real live lawns. But no ice cream stores. There's a couple of shopping centers with mostly empty shops and a Lowes and Home Depot. Geez, wouldn't you think there would be a Baskin Robbins or a Saks or something snazzy with all that money just sitting around in living rooms? Maybe no one eats ice cream cones in CA. And it's so small you can drive through town in about 15 minutes.
We do a marathon 9-hour drive to Sonoma and Napa Valley tomorrow -- around and through LA and San Fran but I really believe the wine tasting will be worth it. Don says it won't. CoriBob just pants and wants to go back to Pensacola.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Tucson, AZ
We spent Monday in Tucson catching up on things we already know. First off, however, we had our clocks set wrong so instead of waking up at 5:15 we actually woke up at 4:15. Didn't figure it out until Don realized the Today Show wasn't being carried on the local channel at 7 a.m. BECAUSE it was only 6 a.m. Well that started us off on a good note.
Our first visit was to the Pima Air Museum (not nearly as good as the Naval Aviation Museum and it cost real money to get in). Don had researched the museum and found that it has a P2V-7 and it is the actual plane (one of two) that he flew on in the Navy. It was transfered from the Navy to a forest fire fighting company and used to drop flame retardant for several years. The Pima Museum picked it up as there were just no P2V's remaining in the world in actual Navy condition.
We trekked quickly out to the plane and took many pics. Unlike the Naval Museum in Pensacola, this place must be a thousand outside acres with many hundreds of old planes. And I do mean old.
After we found the revered P2V, we toured the last Presidential Air Force One that had props. It was the Eisenhower/Kennedy/Johnson plane and is so small, compared to the current Air Force One, I wondered how there was room for more then about 6 people and pilots. But there was.
While I found shelter inside a building that was a memorial to a WWII air force squadron, Don walked for miles outside. Ugh. My favorite plane was the SR-71 Blackbird -- the all black, Lockheed Skunk Works stealthy plane that was able to fly at over 80 thousand feet and very, very fast!
Next we were off to the Sagurao Ntl. Park to see the cactus! Now that was something I could have gotten into, however, Don had walked so much at Pima that he didn't want to pay money to explore. Well, rats! Did see lots of great Sonora desert flora and while it's slightly early for the big desert spring color spectacular... there were many plants that were just on the verge of spectacular bloom.
After MY outside adventure, we visited the church where Don's Mother and Step-Father's ashes are interred. Between the cactus and the church, we went by Don's Mother's house when they lived in Tucson in the 60s - 70s. They had 10 acres way outside of town in rattle snake country. It's now a place that teenage girls go to when they have eating disorders (obesity/bulimia). It's still a beautiful area but it sure doesn't sit out in the middle of no where any more.
Since we ate (actually gobbled everything in sight) last night at the best and oldest southwest restaurant in Tucson (El Charro), we skipped a big dinner out. Would you believe carry in Chinese? Yep.
On the road tomorrow to Desert Hot Springs, CA, another back-in RV resort spot to challenge the Captain.
The space at this one in Tucson is so narrow we may be taking the light post with us tomorrow morning. I see it as entertainment for all the early risers.
More to follow.... and, so it goes -- On The Road!
Our first visit was to the Pima Air Museum (not nearly as good as the Naval Aviation Museum and it cost real money to get in). Don had researched the museum and found that it has a P2V-7 and it is the actual plane (one of two) that he flew on in the Navy. It was transfered from the Navy to a forest fire fighting company and used to drop flame retardant for several years. The Pima Museum picked it up as there were just no P2V's remaining in the world in actual Navy condition.
We trekked quickly out to the plane and took many pics. Unlike the Naval Museum in Pensacola, this place must be a thousand outside acres with many hundreds of old planes. And I do mean old.
After we found the revered P2V, we toured the last Presidential Air Force One that had props. It was the Eisenhower/Kennedy/Johnson plane and is so small, compared to the current Air Force One, I wondered how there was room for more then about 6 people and pilots. But there was.
While I found shelter inside a building that was a memorial to a WWII air force squadron, Don walked for miles outside. Ugh. My favorite plane was the SR-71 Blackbird -- the all black, Lockheed Skunk Works stealthy plane that was able to fly at over 80 thousand feet and very, very fast!
Next we were off to the Sagurao Ntl. Park to see the cactus! Now that was something I could have gotten into, however, Don had walked so much at Pima that he didn't want to pay money to explore. Well, rats! Did see lots of great Sonora desert flora and while it's slightly early for the big desert spring color spectacular... there were many plants that were just on the verge of spectacular bloom.
After MY outside adventure, we visited the church where Don's Mother and Step-Father's ashes are interred. Between the cactus and the church, we went by Don's Mother's house when they lived in Tucson in the 60s - 70s. They had 10 acres way outside of town in rattle snake country. It's now a place that teenage girls go to when they have eating disorders (obesity/bulimia). It's still a beautiful area but it sure doesn't sit out in the middle of no where any more.
Since we ate (actually gobbled everything in sight) last night at the best and oldest southwest restaurant in Tucson (El Charro), we skipped a big dinner out. Would you believe carry in Chinese? Yep.
On the road tomorrow to Desert Hot Springs, CA, another back-in RV resort spot to challenge the Captain.
The space at this one in Tucson is so narrow we may be taking the light post with us tomorrow morning. I see it as entertainment for all the early risers.
More to follow.... and, so it goes -- On The Road!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Amazing Texas
Going through Texas (all 800+ miles of I-10) has been fascinating! Although Don knows most of Texas from his 10 years in Houston, I have found the drive to be enlightening because my view of Texas has been from flying in and out of Houston and Dallas.
The drive from Sulphur, LA to San Antonio was in the rain all the way. We drove through gator country east of Houston and managed to have no accidents going through Houston. Just below Houston is the Gulf of Mexico and all of the great boating places before last year's hurricane. Anyway, as we snaked our way through San Antonio to our 2nd RV stop in Berne (pronounced Burn), the sun came out! Since we stayed for 2 nights, we relaxed, showered and drank cheerfully with no expectations of a decent dinner on board the bus. That was Thursday evening.
We spent yesterday (Friday) in downtown San Antonio doing the tourist things like seeing the Alamo (which is a great piece of history even if it is in the middle of skyscrapers and surrounded by some of the worst tourist traps this side of New Orleans) and taking a boat ride along the river walk. During the 30 minute boat ride we met a couple from Columbia, SC who were camping through Texas. They identified us as boaters because we both had on boat shoes -- duh -- though we were sad to explain that we were former boaters who have lots of boat shoes. Well, we were on a boat at the time.
Last evening we went into Berne to a charming B&B type Inn for dinner. We gave it a 'B-' for pretty good food at a decent price and an 'A+' for friendly staff and a great setting.
To say a front came through last night would be an understatement. Winds about 40 mph and the temp dropped to freezing. It was so cold Don had to keep coming inside to get warm between his 'get ready to go' chores.
Today we drove through plateaus (I've never seen them) and short mountains on our way to Van Horn, TX. We saw over a thousand wind mills generating energy. The 'wind farms' went on for miles located on the tops of the plateaus and co-existed with the oil pumping machines in the valleys along the highway. The Texas blue bells were in fine form although we drove for miles and miles without seeing anything resembling houses or farms. I think there were exits for the express purpose of putting up a gas station. And don't even get me started on Texas off and on ramps and how you have to do some of them. We did sight herds of longhorns a couple of times (well, not exactly herds but maybe a dozen wandering cows with big horns) and I spied some sheep well hidden within scrub trees. Every now and then we would see a single old windmill evidently pumping water into cisterns. The land is really dry here -- even worse then central FL.
The KOA RV park we're staying at is great if you're not looking for lots of grass and trees. It's actually away from the interstate and you can see the mountains surrounding the whole area. We will leave early tomorrow morning as we head to Tucson, AR for 2 nights.
The drive from Sulphur, LA to San Antonio was in the rain all the way. We drove through gator country east of Houston and managed to have no accidents going through Houston. Just below Houston is the Gulf of Mexico and all of the great boating places before last year's hurricane. Anyway, as we snaked our way through San Antonio to our 2nd RV stop in Berne (pronounced Burn), the sun came out! Since we stayed for 2 nights, we relaxed, showered and drank cheerfully with no expectations of a decent dinner on board the bus. That was Thursday evening.
We spent yesterday (Friday) in downtown San Antonio doing the tourist things like seeing the Alamo (which is a great piece of history even if it is in the middle of skyscrapers and surrounded by some of the worst tourist traps this side of New Orleans) and taking a boat ride along the river walk. During the 30 minute boat ride we met a couple from Columbia, SC who were camping through Texas. They identified us as boaters because we both had on boat shoes -- duh -- though we were sad to explain that we were former boaters who have lots of boat shoes. Well, we were on a boat at the time.
Last evening we went into Berne to a charming B&B type Inn for dinner. We gave it a 'B-' for pretty good food at a decent price and an 'A+' for friendly staff and a great setting.
To say a front came through last night would be an understatement. Winds about 40 mph and the temp dropped to freezing. It was so cold Don had to keep coming inside to get warm between his 'get ready to go' chores.
Today we drove through plateaus (I've never seen them) and short mountains on our way to Van Horn, TX. We saw over a thousand wind mills generating energy. The 'wind farms' went on for miles located on the tops of the plateaus and co-existed with the oil pumping machines in the valleys along the highway. The Texas blue bells were in fine form although we drove for miles and miles without seeing anything resembling houses or farms. I think there were exits for the express purpose of putting up a gas station. And don't even get me started on Texas off and on ramps and how you have to do some of them. We did sight herds of longhorns a couple of times (well, not exactly herds but maybe a dozen wandering cows with big horns) and I spied some sheep well hidden within scrub trees. Every now and then we would see a single old windmill evidently pumping water into cisterns. The land is really dry here -- even worse then central FL.
The KOA RV park we're staying at is great if you're not looking for lots of grass and trees. It's actually away from the interstate and you can see the mountains surrounding the whole area. We will leave early tomorrow morning as we head to Tucson, AR for 2 nights.
New Blog
This will be the first installment of my 'On the Road' blog. Evidently this blogging business is not for sissies because it must have taken me a lifetime to set it up. However, friend Bob Barnett, insists that this is the best way to let our 'folks' follow our trip. He told me I could keep myself busy doing something besides keeping Don awake -- and I figured 'what the heck.'
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