tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84315250051564718832024-03-15T20:09:31.139-05:00Casita EscapesThank you for stopping by to follow my adventures (& misadventures) since Jume 2011 as I travel & live fulltime in a 17' Liberty Deluxe Casita (a molded fiberglass travel trailer). This is a history of my experiences & hopefully will provide help to others with the same dreams. Hope to meet you down the road sometime.Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.comBlogger238125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-71810814174807644302017-10-09T09:50:00.001-05:002017-10-09T09:50:26.065-05:00Sacora Station Campground, Piedmont SD<p>We moved 15 miles west of Rapid City next to I-90 to Sacora Station Campground on July 3 for a month. We were only 15 miles east of Sturgis as well as the Black Hills too so we had tons of places to go & things to do.</p> <p>We took a long motorcycle ride on 4th of July. First stopping at the National Veteran’s Cemetery just east of Sturgis where John found the grave of someone with his same last name. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9pWF2tLmO2A/Wdp2FX9-xDI/AAAAAAAAl-0/sd2mGsuH4Kw_jMA5CozvUT1Q1hGq-dmIwCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170704_1035223"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20170704_103522" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170704_103522" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fFT3XuQl5uk/WduLo8JyIcI/AAAAAAAAmAE/uwwC4dfG9-gglGVaswsrU-FIaEk6i-52wCHMYCw/IMG_20170704_103522_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eQMamXSPgJs/WduL4_mkZKI/AAAAAAAAmAI/TDEMdX8MD5g3kGoltrCZMqFziFMtQf2sACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170704_1035293"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20170704_103529" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170704_103529" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j1Nes3pltBk/WduL6RnW66I/AAAAAAAAmAM/IQlTlo5z83gY_4kOtZymk6KKUymGT1f5ACHMYCw/IMG_20170704_103529_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hxkRygYJnw4/WduL8xobyoI/AAAAAAAAmAQ/JgHChczPpL80_05Vxkr7cKCBATFOPw5pACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170704_1036053"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20170704_103605" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170704_103605" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XaSiAL63WSE/WduL-1TUMhI/AAAAAAAAmAU/ddMVeLPqLucygpMHgC14Hr_h57aF8R9HQCHMYCw/IMG_20170704_103605_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Then we continued to Sturgis to eat, shop, & look around. Considering a big thunderstorm was heading toward our campground east of Sturgis, we headed southwest to Deadwood instead. We got to town just in time to get a couple of Dairy Queen blizzards to eat as we sat on the sidewalk & watched their 4th of July parade pass by. The storm had passed by then so we headed home to the campground without issue.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oIrQieChi5U/WduMA9_rSBI/AAAAAAAAmAY/3ShGTL_zH0Ixr4UQOsvVBBuHbI-NOftHACHMYCw/s1600-h/07041715203"><img width="244" height="139" title="0704171520" style="border-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="0704171520" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q_GPaMGv_c8/WduMCjezpWI/AAAAAAAAmAc/LhKpRG5Y2m89dTmj_iYJ73b064uMCbDsgCHMYCw/0704171520_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Unfortunately, John started having difficulty breathing way back in April in Pie Town NM (<em>we thought due to high elevation) </em>& it was only getting worse in spite of getting to a much lower elevation eventually. He thought it might be asthma from 20 years before so went to the community health center in Rapid City for a new rescue inhaler. The new inhaler helped a little for a short time but he used it up in less than two weeks. (<em>They’re supposed to last at least 30 days.)</em> After being unable to sleep much for five nights (because laying down made breathing even more difficult), he finally went to the hospital ER on Sunday afternoon. They admitted him & kept him for four nights. He lost 13# of excess fluid buildup (causing the breathing difficulty) & had four stints put in his heart to unblock arteries causing his heart to be too weak to keep the fluid from building up. He had <u>congestive heart failure</u> (his 2nd actually) because the chemo he had six years before deposited calcium in his arteries that allowed plaques to block the arteries. Even tho he is active & eats healthy, there was nothing he could do to prevent the long-lasting effects of chemo. <em>{Yippee} </em>He’s regaining his strength from five days of laying around in the hospital but had several check-up appointments so we stayed at Sacora Station Campground another month, not leaving until after Labor Day.</p> <p>Partly due to John’s return of congestive heart failure & his difficulties with balance, we started looking for a three-wheel (trike) motorcycle. Ultimately, we found a nice used one we couldn’t resist trading his Honda Shadow in on – a 2014 maroon/black Harley Davidson Tri-Glide. I’m not exactly a <em>biker chick</em> yet, just a mature passenger – but that trike is so comfortable riding on I could practically take a nap on it. We spent hours on many days driving all around the Black Hills on that bike.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2AqMl_8y8no/WduMGpjEe1I/AAAAAAAAmAg/LFkYyshxotkJliG0IcoWXTH1ylkX3tHAACHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC061763"><img width="244" height="164" title="DSC06176" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIyrusI7Lv6SkflplMC08x4qIlCPzE9eXKBzEj8aKEljc3jswnjMNMEd1QK1KN_HZgWYhcLIVEKdCs1Mm3T7xVKDdcDW_sD77yAy0GDAj_xbCYIIZa-ALS_Fyf4TOTSEWyNxJ0nJus2O9/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y7D56zGQ5ls/WduMOlYNMNI/AAAAAAAAmAo/9Be9B6Nk7g8hu5EAgUoqq_DmztACzOFIQCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC061813"><img width="244" height="164" title="DSC06181" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06181" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qyBmh0VTeBc/WduMQVoBxmI/AAAAAAAAmAs/zKrC0VQerJQgAJCwBooDd0p19KwjfdXKgCHMYCw/DSC06181_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0vTe-N6aZAw/WduMSBaa0JI/AAAAAAAAmAw/GgNE2ndc3hIlPc-ykiWvbo6jDvtcyzq5wCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC061843"><img width="244" height="164" title="DSC06184" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06184" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HcKGX2egnC0/WduMTXRatmI/AAAAAAAAmA0/Ull1N0lZifUzTTnV-aGssBGBe1xHL8HUQCHMYCw/DSC06184_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GNrLmrzGFfY/WduMWJrWtlI/AAAAAAAAmA4/ocZKg2mDZcA3zY_L2HUUzulR8P1L5rgdACHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC062033"><img width="244" height="164" title="DSC06203" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06203" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mzhrGxGhWTQ/WduMXi6pBQI/AAAAAAAAmA8/upqNeKJBrHM9sE9m_SImz1H0E_wVUDC5wCHMYCw/DSC06203_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5KDdy1Y9srA/WduMZu1wPPI/AAAAAAAAmBA/s1fpZYzWgIsAbfCtJng80qTOi3viqe5YwCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC062343"><img width="244" height="164" title="DSC06234" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06234" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eX-bjoXziMM/WduMbYVv0kI/AAAAAAAAmBE/ZS6q-P8swJYdmbF1ynYShUska__tiQriQCHMYCw/DSC06234_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F6kSuN4oZCo/WduMdQwpT9I/AAAAAAAAmBI/SAiMJIqBI80WOzL3QJfHQ4BiyLWWbMKqACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_20170719_1545353"><img width="244" height="184" title="IMG_20170719_154535" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_20170719_154535" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DUdFysNcPUQ/WduMekBPbSI/AAAAAAAAmBM/zyiU7ckODIwQ-6ASK-HRuXy6sypQwvaiQCHMYCw/IMG_20170719_154535_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Of course, we also had to check out the largest bike rally in the world in Sturgis – just down the road from us. OMG, even if I was a motorcycle enthusiast before the rally, it’s a major rush seeing thousands of bikes driving around & parked during those 10 days. There were food, clothing, bike accessories, bike services, & tattoo vendor tents set up in every little space available around the small town. Locals even rented tent space for $10/night on their lawns. Numerous churches, groups, businesses, & campgrounds provided breakfasts for the hordes. Extra law enforcement personnel were brought in to keep things civilized. The latest we ever stayed in town was 9 pm – before any serious rowdiness broke out. And John put some new decals on the campground owner’s daughter’s new <em>desert truck</em> to set up at the rally which we visited every time we went thru Sturgis.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pcxn38Wr1RQ/WduMghl-DzI/AAAAAAAAmBQ/9MWDuVnQJcoToYq3OksxWv6eYIegGzXkwCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC064873"><img width="244" height="164" title="DSC06487" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06487" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEismx5lY0_REclZQQY10wgxa1vk4Jcjwal6Ujv-RfQFVBSj1B5RuqyJmnOnrEBUi4olA7CfIhyphenhyphenQtsN1MaadQSOunxpwRF2W6D8ih2z3DcSPfhy9_mIxSqqEmLeIvYKu7yz6nLx3q51dn35q/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mQkPCUtI5ew/WduMkPDfvVI/AAAAAAAAmBY/hsxqK9eK37EnnnFxQcgwXUaio49WjsBegCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC064903"><img width="244" height="164" title="DSC06490" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06490" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FTs56gD3_54/WduMlhIcy4I/AAAAAAAAmBc/ma49rm5RCFIqwqz3Nh133ydkG50nulb0gCHMYCw/DSC06490_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>We met some interesting folks during our bike rides thru Sturgis, Deadwood, Hill City, Custer, Keystone, & all around the Black Hills: a couple from Australia, a Sioux native American woman from North Dakota with her children, several retired veterans & their wives, & several men with similar heart problems as John. I almost feel guilty for having a “low” opinion of motorcycle riders before. They’re a brotherhood too, just like fiberglass trailer owners or military veterans. John refuses to teach me how to drive it (or even start it) until we get back to Quartzsite & some open desert so I won’t hit anything while learning to drive the bike. I’ve driven manual shift vehicles most of my life so I’m optimistic about learning to drive a motorcycle. We’ll see. . .</p><p>In South Dakota, you can only get a title & license plate for a new vehicle/bike in the county of your official residence (<em>maybe it’s like that in all states)</em> so we made a 5-hr trip (one way) to eastern South Dakota to get the new bike legal. It was a L-O-N-G 14-hour day. Thankfully we took the dogs with us since it was too long a time to leave them shut up in his RV.</p><p>For the total eclipse on Aug 21, we rode the bike nearly 3 hours to Lusk WY. We were going to Alliance NE for totality but were concerned they could have some cloud cover. We encountered about 40 miles of slow traffic getting into Lusk but the drivers were all careful & polite. We pulled off the highway south of town onto the grass & <em><u>watched</u></em> the eclipse. Wow, what an experience. I got some decent photos with my digital camera since our cell phones just wouldn’t focus correctly. We had a great but another long day. We haven’t figured out why riding the bike really wears us out so much.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-anOL9_IC62c/WduMnTrX9aI/AAAAAAAAmBg/jdmTmyPd1dAOowtD-Dewc06fO9czp4jbgCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC066144"><img width="244" height="242" title="DSC06614" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06614" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-txYbN-QZn5Q/WduMpNUsD0I/AAAAAAAAmBk/TkIJDqA_ZH4fhIu0UmlT6F-Z7PoYAOIIgCHMYCw/DSC06614_thumb4?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6DqwqrDBQ10/WduMqrEw4LI/AAAAAAAAmBo/rLYbkl0ejvsnTW5cF3dP6_sEhkvhzAcuACHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC066334"><img width="239" height="244" title="DSC06633" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSC06633" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ItVplDSEvk8/WduMsL_56aI/AAAAAAAAmBs/ug3cTeuQsYc6-uzYYklb87NC8LX1UVwBgCHMYCw/DSC06633_thumb4?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Before leaving the Rapid City area, I got my Tundra serviced & a checkup for diabetic Boots kitty. He had some infected back teeth which were extracted. Also had to replace the Tundra’s windshield as a rock chip 2 months prior was spreading. Also had to replace the two sewer/water vent covers on the Casita as our one intense hail event busted the 9-year old plastic. We even attended the local fair in Rapid City. We decided to extend our stay to a week after Labor Day to finish up our last minute <em>travel chores.</em> We both really like the Rapid City area (town & countryside both) & are talking about returning next summer (not during the winter tho). Regardless, we’re both looking forward to returning to Quartzsite by early November but not sure of the route there. Hopefully I’ll update this blog sooner for the next adventure.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-17213637427576971442017-08-14T15:46:00.001-05:002017-08-14T15:46:13.543-05:00Another Midwestern summer<p>OK, I’m playing catch-up here again. Just been a busy summer. As we headed east from SE Colorado in early June, the elevation got lower & lower. People are often surprised how much of a climb going west thru western Kansas is so it was nice going <em>down hill</em> with a tailwind for a change. We spent the first night in Walmart’s parking lot in Lamar CO. John had never stayed at a Walmart before, choosing truck stops instead. It wasn’t bad at all. There were 5 or 6 other RVs near us by morning. And it was handy to rent a movie from Redbox right in the store & return it after watching. Of course the terrain flattened out severely after getting east of I-25 in Colorado, so the Kansas countryside just rolled by quickly.</p> <p>We parked for free at Ford County State Fishing Lake, northeast of Dodge City KS for four nights. We had n<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hLJ1GB4uHiQ/WZIDMqD7PDI/AAAAAAAAllQ/Z-F7UVi4QXcfYcCUh8SYwsJpP244z8OvgCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC060407"><img title="DSC06040" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06040" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-diUgvRAZnDY/WZIDRzLWJDI/AAAAAAAAllU/dXtYKLvuhj4yeLfSDaUvB5xAlvx42cpeACHMYCw/DSC06040_thumb4?imgmax=800" width="260" align="left" height="180"></a>o trees to the west but we were parked on the slope above the cottonwood tree-lined lake with a nice big pine tree just outside the door. We rode John’s motorcycle into Dodge City one windy day to investigate the town & get a few things from Walmart. Boot Hill is inside a building & isn’t free, so we skipped that but checked out the visitor center in town. The weekend got a little crowded at the Lake but thankfully no one was too <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Aew2F5OzRwE/WZIHfKVZbZI/AAAAAAAAllg/itLRgkaoZh8ngFQIlHoQehLFYVQhoAa2ACHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC060438"><img title="DSC06043" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06043" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_312u_w9UqQ/WZIL_OEnGWI/AAAAAAAAlls/qAaFjGDtxwERWm4b93KDgD91X_SQYO_3QCHMYCw/DSC06043_thumb5?imgmax=800" width="260" align="right" height="180"></a>close to our location. A fierce storm blew thru Saturday night but didn’t produce much lightening & thunder nor rain too hard for too long.</p> <p>Sunday morning, we continued our easterly journey to get to Chase County State Fishing Lake, west of Emporia KS. I’d camped there several times before & it’s one of my favorite spots. Unfortunately, it was a FREE FISHING weekend & the place was packed & overflowing with pickups & people fishing along the shore line. There was no way to get into the area I’d hoped <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wyIBQPIlHwM/WZIMAPxVOGI/AAAAAAAAllw/E_pna73Xf3MTdcG_KWeRMuMnCDnHY09AACHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC060534"><img title="DSC06053" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 17px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06053" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hpToxkcA4Iw/WZIMBBqCyNI/AAAAAAAAll0/FU2RC1TSQIkrC-QCcsaFNmPIZsICeR0TgCHMYCw/DSC06053_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="260" align="left" height="125"></a>to park so we ended up at the end of the road in a heavily treed loop big enough for both our rigs plus a few others. We weren’t along the main lake tho, just a small area at the end. We have a family of Canadian Geese with five babies nearby tho. And our dogs are mesmerized by the frolicking squirrels in the trees overhead. </p> <p>We took a bike ride thru Cottonwood Falls to actually see the falls & then the oldest still-functioning courthouse in Kansas, then into Emporia to see the town where we stopped to eat. Then we visited the Tallgrass Prairie National Park just north of Strong City. It was a totally self-sufficient farm in the late 1800s, with most buildings constructed with large local limestone blocks, even a 3-hole stone outhouse. The house was functional & large but very efficient & beautiful. The barn was HUGE, with three stories. And yes, I enjoyed the barn smells, even sitting on one of the saddles.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LjOgXeVROkc/WZIMCMliiPI/AAAAAAAAll4/6F-A1PDubQYaZ-Z5nXkQ5VmL9oxSDcZxgCHMYCw/s1600-h/06051715263"><img title="0605171526" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0605171526" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2htwiCnykG0/WZIMDD8CFxI/AAAAAAAAll8/bM0mYPopzWUOGQNH_ze8XFX836ihLBImgCHMYCw/0605171526_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p>We walked the dogs over to the swimming beach at the campground one seriously hot afternoon & sat on the sandy bottom in the warm (but cool) water to cool off (much like we did in Havasu City). There were trees all around & over our campsite so no satellite TV for a change. We rode his motorcycle south to view the wild horses in the sanctuary one day too.</p> <p>After five nights in Kansas, we headed east again – to MO, my hometown, & my father. We stayed at a small campground south of town with full hookups. That AC was much needed as we visited during the hottest week of the year so far. We visited with my dad every day, visited several old friends of mine, & made a trip to my storage unit in Branson then visited with my girlfriend Jenni in Springfield. We took a long motorcycle ride around the countryside to try out the new <em>better-fitting </em>helmet I got. Wow, I was really tuckered out after that week. We left on Father’s Day after having lunch with my dad, heading north to South Dakota.</p> <p>We parked in Harrah’s Casino parking lot Sunday night to visit & eat with more old friends of mine, Diana & Ward. That casino’s buffet was pretty expensive & they didn’t give any playing money to first-time members. Monday tho we drove up I-29 to south of Sioux City IA to a small casino (Winna Vegas) where John won $25 cash in a drawing then hit several good hands in the slots. For $15, we plugged in for AC at their little RV park.</p> <p>Tuesday we ended up in Madison SD to renew both our driver’s licenses – but the DRV office is only open once a week & although it was the day we arrived, they close by 2:30 & we were too late. We did our mandatory <u>one-night stay</u> to qualify for SD residency at Lake Herman State Park west of Madison tho. Wednesday, we continued west to Mitchell SD where I renewed my driver’s license & John got his first one. Then we toured the Corn Palace before continuing west on I-90.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jq2_iuKxgOo/WZIMEAIGRII/AAAAAAAAlmA/amy1k5_I5Lo4BQcT-hDaF5n1et7lO_MBwCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSC060674"><img title="DSC06067" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06067" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cZ9Ql7yKVZw/WZIMFCUTd_I/AAAAAAAAlmE/58O5b5a206AFlq-zKpjR2NcHXTGurJqxACHMYCw/DSC06067_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p>We drove thru the Badlands National Park & were going to camp on the west side at a free boondocking area BUT. . .the 11-mile rough, dirt road getting there was too much for John’s rig & the campground was too crowded for both our rigs even if he’d have made the journey. We scrambled around as night was quickly approaching looking for a place to park after a <em>very long day’s journey</em> & ended up at RV Express in Wasta SD (20 miles west of Wall on I-90) for $5/night with electricity. We liked the cost so much, we stayed for 10 days. We made several 35 mile trips into Rapid City & one trip back to Wall Drug. Fun place to investigate <em>once</em> but basically just for tourists. </p> <p>We became acquainted with our neighbors at the park in Wasta & ended up moving to the same campground (Sacora Station Campground) where they moved in Piedmont SD (just west of Rapid City) for a month. Our South Dakota adventure continued from there.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-53970766257386851462017-06-02T09:27:00.001-05:002017-06-02T09:27:43.880-05:00More High-Elevation Adventures<p>After spending nearly a month camped around Truth or Consequences NM, we FINALLY headed north, regardless of how cold it might still be. The afternoon temps were over 90˚ for too many days in TofC. We managed to drive the five lanes of traffic on I-25 north thru Albuquerque & jumped off at San Felipe Casino (halfway to Santa Fe) for a break. Since it was mid afternoon & we were hungry, we checked out the casino buffet. Then we both got a $30 <em>new member</em> card to get a discount eating & get familiar with their slot machines. Hmmmm, that was way more fun than we either expected. I won frequently playing the penny slots & walked away with nearly $22. And we parked for free for the night.</p> <p>The next day, we drove thru Santa Fe to end up at another casino with overnight RV parking – Buffalo Thunder Casino. We ate, each got <em>new member</em> cards (mine was only $5 but John got $10) & I only won a little over $5 (still more than I started with). The big surprise was that my friends I met in Zion NP over 4 years before who came to visit me at the Wolf Sanctuary last spring were once again in the area where Aubrey works at the hospital in Española. They came over to visit & then we went to the grill at the casino where we all talked for several hours (until they were closing actually). Since we were up really late tho, we slept in the next day & generally didn’t do much & stayed a second night there just to recuperate from the late night.</p> <p>Next we continued north on Highway 68 to the Ohkay Casino recommended to us by Aubrey & Sally. Friday night we even had the <em>all you could eat crab legs</em> meal. OMG, John knows how to seriously eat crab legs. <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-av9gRFrHX8s/WTFxn22FJlI/AAAAAAAAk1g/ck-20hWm7c0hisDXU_dv3eMhfGHEK2rIACHM/s1600-h/IMG_20170519_1800064"><img title="IMG_20170519_180006" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 20px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20170519_180006" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qYgo2DYp_yE/WTFxpacQioI/AAAAAAAAk1k/OMg_NVH9kP07JXSIv2ltgO0LbwfBjIIWACHM/IMG_20170519_180006_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="200" align="left" height="260"></a>I had coconut shrimp along with crab pieces John would give me. We just waddled out of there. We also got <em>new member</em> cards again, but only for $10 each. We got a little more serious with playing the penny slots but I didn’t win any money this time. John got into playing Black Jack (all digitized) & stretched playing with $3 for at least a half hour if not more. He should have cashed out when he was over $8 but didn’t. We ate at their grill several times & had breakfast twice with Aubrey & Sally.</p> <p>We took a day to travel less than an hour west into the foothills of the western mountains to Los Alamos. We didn’t stop tho cause you aren’t really allowed to visit the A-bomb facilities so we continued to Bandelier National Monument. It’s <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xpaugToJaBk/WTFxslO0qqI/AAAAAAAAk1o/_lB0xTtkdFQTx-1q1eAOVuJkWYpmjOCZgCHM/s1600-h/05201714203"><img title="0520171420" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0520171420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglF7DpHzVkUAhwmSOkcedPBxuhec8V09pkS_drFVcRA9ItB4SluP9ET0_PMSjQvxth_gDMADETbJM3_HI0oiJqaf97qSLQywQXnmbEfR0o3uA_yc3UKhVqDGEs-tiGYFe3Hb9CenVO7GQc/?imgmax=800" width="139" align="right" height="244"></a>a huge canyon with ancient dwelling ruins. We just started out on the walking path but decided to actually try going up one of the ladders into a cave dwelling. Wow, we both handled the climb & the height without a problem so managed to climb up two more ladders. It was a surprising but great experience.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y-dkwmZK3n8/WTFxzmA9XxI/AAAAAAAAk1w/wn7OinfNnxQ88aBDHO_Zye6n4-_vC2ZWQCHM/s1600-h/0520171253d3"><img title="0520171253d" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0520171253d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-atO1yZwItMg/WTFx1VAImfI/AAAAAAAAk10/HAFIgwRHHz07N-BFnsOLC0u46skz1nWWwCHM/0520171253d_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--S623UPvsKg/WTFx5CntckI/AAAAAAAAk14/W72leitsXFg6en3TVOw-BrVNJ3Ihd73uQCHM/s1600-h/0520171339b3"><img title="0520171339b" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0520171339b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5O9Eu5cWG8s/WTFx83P8GVI/AAAAAAAAk18/L82ZuJt0CFQC35juP57l7ao25bvv9I8hwCHM/0520171339b_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oXQOuR8t_nI/WTFyCCoGanI/AAAAAAAAk2A/RB8Jm5kciI4-445uIWvPhbA60A9eqaDwQCHM/s1600-h/0520171348a3"><img title="0520171348a" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0520171348a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6qXAGtKZ27o/WTFyGAyJ44I/AAAAAAAAk2E/K64ZAq90F_ciQ6-UzoFLVfNqW1tR8XInACHM/0520171348a_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TzJ-DXCPJOI/WTFyNUb8sHI/AAAAAAAAk2I/JgFPtB0HRKY-8N7Xm7JU8xEX6idmbb4AwCHM/s1600-h/0520171419a3"><img title="0520171419a" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0520171419a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E-qZIq2NNjQ/WTFyOirJSQI/AAAAAAAAk2M/tYIkz10wZKAA98w8Hodpnb1egYylbBBSwCHM/0520171419a_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kQHF9FT4kHM/WTFyTHsU48I/AAAAAAAAk2Q/w8PjyYu5yy8gKvhGxe8wb014GUqXpkc4wCHM/s1600-h/DSC054123"><img title="DSC05412" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05412" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4Kq5CT28-f4/WTFyUst-GTI/AAAAAAAAk2U/gyi1TLHOG_EUBN7iquwX_3CsnaajS87YQCHM/DSC05412_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gSXz-w4T3Zo/WTFyYXLlEJI/AAAAAAAAk2Y/L16wA6rvQOkbhK2o1lpQ-8ChPQ17a_3vwCHM/s1600-h/DSC054283"><img title="DSC05428" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05428" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wNYdLs3bADA/WTFyZs7D72I/AAAAAAAAk2c/U7BgMSjwOv0lKDTs0G3HuT4ZPhDml3NBgCHM/DSC05428_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xK021XCrhkA/WTFyeKvFqmI/AAAAAAAAk2g/5XLRgMjrkxsSA0_DfRa4Q_5AhROHlTqTQCHM/s1600-h/DSC054383"><img title="DSC05438" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05438" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XBQ49DGbjLs/WTFyfSrzh6I/AAAAAAAAk2k/r6OS_Pyex4gileyz--fzYpZeftWorllvwCHM/DSC05438_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hGuSlQYxotk/WTFyg7vQ-BI/AAAAAAAAk2o/QjDyhFn7jxYIe2srLYNhMyT8C6NR97h8ACHM/s1600-h/DSC054423"><img title="DSC05442" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05442" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iRuMZn9t4RA/WTFyiJrSZsI/AAAAAAAAk2s/aC4hYclIK3Yfet0N4ULGbu8qrOmlh29qgCHM/DSC05442_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p>Next we continued north thru Taos to cross the Rio Grande Gorge bridge & spend the night at the rest area. John has ridden motorcycles for decades & we’ve watched the movie <em>Wild Hogs</em> several times. The movie shows the four guys riding across <strong>that bridge</strong>. We even walked out to the middle of the bridge which <em>shakes</em> with traffic. There was a herd of six big horn sheep who hung around the rest area – quick unafraid of people & vehicles.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TZiLrpL4ltc/WTFymURdARI/AAAAAAAAk2w/dcCYWwWQ-Mc0kaNe8zl5bXlRnz2MUm7BgCHM/s1600-h/0522171308c3"><img title="0522171308c" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0522171308c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qp-BJ1O78BI/WTFynp3855I/AAAAAAAAk20/m-CaweDpaJocjPVqsVtNMT7Nm72eqgERgCHM/0522171308c_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6KztaKpasaw/WTFyqFYiAoI/AAAAAAAAk24/epzS-3rkpHgZjzHt3LZWr4eFZbGXqCazwCHM/s1600-h/05221713103"><img title="0522171310" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0522171310" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZuxD-AlARXM/WTFyrgJi1FI/AAAAAAAAk28/1VO7QNSIa5wMek7wicLm0sL0kXPM_8OLwCHM/0522171310_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-glAgcbbMa3g/WTFyvBFcbMI/AAAAAAAAk3A/YNh1FZJDqusgZO_3ho72hloYw8q3qbKIgCHM/s1600-h/05221718083"><img title="0522171808" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0522171808" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kqMM8Zjc2BY/WTFywrIihDI/AAAAAAAAk3E/IgMOOjBYja4RLa6DAW8ca4uzdzhWWh5agCHM/0522171808_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P4xipDlKwL8/WTFyziUvroI/AAAAAAAAk3I/pB6SfyXZbHwh4Lxz40w3Lov9TEdF5NtfgCHM/s1600-h/0522172023a3"><img title="0522172023a" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0522172023a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yIARW2ZyCm8/WTFy0qm3gOI/AAAAAAAAk3M/wNpS-pQ_TJA6Gz2KeW2N9yjXRA699Z1ugCHM/0522172023a_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XhPe47T0XVs/WTFy3LbXaXI/AAAAAAAAk3Q/hK0plvwkiygrHfR16f7mpA5m7wl8-ebfwCHM/s1600-h/DSC054703"><img title="DSC05470" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05470" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZAjtXiVYZVA/WTFy4OkAFZI/AAAAAAAAk3U/j6DfKoFQ37sgXniGtpfQt_8YCbMvpMBegCHM/DSC05470_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EKXm6xsy-Ck/WTFy6b3JlDI/AAAAAAAAk3Y/8gQIutLj3LU6Gcjzuh4O7XR4SDOBuUHkACHM/s1600-h/DSC054723"><img title="DSC05472" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05472" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pwpG8RUsFWQ/WTFy7V2oXXI/AAAAAAAAk3c/yxze_3OE02AIa882RjtFKDSz9prHWctxACHM/DSC05472_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3CxQeiPvuB4/WTFy_NC5V_I/AAAAAAAAk3g/Y-K2OZAdHY06NFXsrBjF4oKv5xQvRhitwCHM/s1600-h/DSC054833"><img title="DSC05483" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05483" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RR0K-lDrPcA/WTFzAKUl22I/AAAAAAAAk3k/70qjzSP9ewsBxj_liGKyCT54KnjPLl8HQCHM/DSC05483_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vCOroKsc0rA/WTFzCoIcy7I/AAAAAAAAk3o/jkwc8KGeLf839b-Q-QmVn_jOYxRfgP7AACHM/s1600-h/05231709043"><img title="0523170904" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0523170904" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XglKM640vU8/WTFzD1d8C7I/AAAAAAAAk3s/N40uXc9awP4ty5DTr334YZA9UdZYM_CBwCHM/0523170904_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="139"></a>We stopped at the Earthship visitor center but they didn’t open for an hour, & after walking around & taking pictures, we finally made the trip across the Carson National Forest at nearly 11,000’, thru Chama & into Pagosa Springs CO.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MChsZvLzjug/WTFzFi5EMII/AAAAAAAAk3w/mtbZgrlfbUQMwm9Ts9u1XEU0w1S4DIEUwCHM/s1600-h/24-05-2017-05.08.484"><img title="24-05-2017 05.08.48" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="24-05-2017 05.08.48" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1B-U9PHiy5Q/WTFzGrKpBhI/AAAAAAAAk30/5PfHGZp4A0YI8HbPy8Dgcsh1Lt-tH7hYgCHM/24-05-2017-05.08.48_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="644" height="111"></a></p> <p>We looked at a national forest camping area but wasn’t comfortable getting John’s rig into & out of it. Although there is now a Walmart in Pagosa, it isn’t 24/7 & doesn’t allow overnight RV parking due to no security. We ended up in the Junction Restaurant parking lot for two nights with numerous 18-wheelers.</p> <p>That first afternoon, we headed up to Wolf Creek Pass. Geez, I love the scenes from that pass. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pe68m2a9rHM/WTFzJDZCZiI/AAAAAAAAk34/aua3beTeL5Ikoje-tohuWu4vt6Bj4DHEACHM/s1600-h/DSC055033"><img title="DSC05503" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05503" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9bNhsYN8LUw/WTFzKROuqoI/AAAAAAAAk38/pCsZGolcm0IOPoDao8j_BIXZKKpS3wKgQCHM/DSC05503_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mjs7hOwq8Ag/WTFzMrHlfUI/AAAAAAAAk4A/FM1UGOmP6MkL9iSQsCH6YwW0Vc5KvvwVACHM/s1600-h/DSC055433"><img title="DSC05543" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05543" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TNwdyE4U9PU/WTFzNtQaPZI/AAAAAAAAk4E/RHZhx8fukAAw3ew0H8m-7w85SEfzXAyWQCHM/DSC05543_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p>We also stopped at Treasure Falls right on Hwy 160 just before climbing the pass. We noticed a <em>path</em> along one side & decided to hike up for a closer look at the falls. After stopping a couple of times, we finally made it – up close & personal enough to get wet from the spray. Wow, so worth the hike!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xe6kQsf58EI/WTFzQMR2FzI/AAAAAAAAk4I/KnyIBoDq3G45IAchXdzw46ryulTaIM6iQCHM/s1600-h/DSC055204"><img title="DSC05520" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05520" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bOJoeZ940qk/WTFzR02YziI/AAAAAAAAk4M/egDN9j21aXohWavcJ9TWlI-afWCNtnu5ACHM/DSC05520_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gEGy4CPz67U/WTFzWToXVEI/AAAAAAAAk4Q/sByxVVWnxWYRdaP_XyAwPoStdKdMuYjGwCHM/s1600-h/DSC055214"><img title="DSC05521" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05521" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JZJzBzSLrgA/WTFzXoQOciI/AAAAAAAAk4U/lfgmDtr7Paw1fdieBgTUYVa20m61LF8RQCHM/DSC05521_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nmwP1IEmYec/WTFzY1LCnyI/AAAAAAAAk4Y/rH3HWtN5D3Mhb0-_ZOmsIxSP9vElGC7WQCHM/s1600-h/05231716583"><img title="0523171658" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0523171658" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZplqqAmA3U0/WTFzZ11h8pI/AAAAAAAAk4c/gB0qDhWfdB8HS0EcNw5m7CyROVSOcnNeACHM/0523171658_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ecOjQDCZv80/WTFzc7HmA_I/AAAAAAAAk4g/mKyYh74uuKQa8MNkekuG_qu2zRATaJ83QCHM/s1600-h/05231716203"><img title="0523171620" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0523171620" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jRrDB8mo1fU/WTFzeA-y4FI/AAAAAAAAk4k/jbXc1ZIuY5IA66V9dBJOMCfPhr2a5R7kQCHM/0523171620_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p>The second day, we drove over to Durango & up Highway 550 thru Silverton & onto <em>the Million Dollar Highway</em> going to Ouray (pronounced <em>Your-way</em>). </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OFRewkSOK6c/WTFzgqAT4SI/AAAAAAAAk4o/3NDyiSzB9_o4YonDFHSoxFbOIXiU4MfHACHM/s1600-h/DSC056163"><img title="DSC05616" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05616" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gtAeTtz1syA/WTFzh8ut9wI/AAAAAAAAk4s/KdA07lVxx9c2CK1q2szaBlV8UuqEh1STwCHM/DSC05616_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MmU-wKSe-9A/WTFzkAcH5yI/AAAAAAAAk4w/NKlLPHDnc3Au-ReHryM73Wcqzxt8fb0tACHM/s1600-h/DSC056233"><img title="DSC05623" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05623" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ISV452reakY/WTFzlSzxPrI/AAAAAAAAk40/pKbxSL94QecAp-J7kifDzTZPpDb6AlxjwCHM/DSC05623_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0M4gkikoPu0/WTFzodu8A5I/AAAAAAAAk44/cGP2F6ZMOI8LQDsKBmWNfuRDiTiJ5ys4wCHM/s1600-h/DSC056343"><img title="DSC05634" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05634" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ws-7-2PbBbE/WTFzpoDr1NI/AAAAAAAAk48/Qx7gNdOkYIcKd9gNTqhxyEYc1AUKWalSwCHM/DSC05634_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B0YTsWBvw70/WTFzr_62YoI/AAAAAAAAk5A/hKIlhbzB-bYOAW9LyhnyX-facxdasmE9ACHM/s1600-h/DSC056383"><img title="DSC05638" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05638" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1uCR0jJcSzE/WTFztAm2ExI/AAAAAAAAk5E/7kAvDeIv7XwFnmbS_NfzwjtbJaaPKjA4QCHM/DSC05638_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AMQhPmTo3BU/WTFzwfJRUSI/AAAAAAAAk5I/50Dzj6LrzXkShPYvQLcV2Mk5-4Ink161gCHM/s1600-h/DSC057443"><img title="DSC05744" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05744" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tg5Ew31eSi0/WTFzxpVMqaI/AAAAAAAAk5M/ilhIDEdRFAIBGYzXc_DeD8B98y8e3zGlwCHM/DSC05744_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p>We stopped to view a gushing waterfall (Bear Creek Falls) going under the highway before getting to Ouray. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TAXJqa_k25k/WTFz0UZlW3I/AAAAAAAAk5Q/GsboD-w8EMgQHmKotcpMVgupnnCP1ArJACHM/s1600-h/DSC056453"><img title="DSC05645" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05645" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghi1mWFFNQpUBYf3vMfeDu2xVUmlk-oF36cTwJ1zGM6nqLhN71eQ9OTfxT5LIrTj3Zs7Xfh1y0LOeLTOFjzw8ak5wIWZ2NEq92JVeqc_lEHg8Nxjzy0i9q_NFr9aFR4RavHeMgtyGtvo-l/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R2dGyQB_pL8/WTFz6uKObqI/AAAAAAAAk5Y/VyFaQ3kGwXYj_BrtEOPisdUnxCukmA6pwCHM/s1600-h/DSC056703"><img title="DSC05670" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05670" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3Pvui4-jrso/WTFz8rwoqPI/AAAAAAAAk5c/Ls9V6CLW6XcENhzifwldADu62YZbpEkrwCHM/DSC05670_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FboqpAvEc6Y/WTF0BURqNEI/AAAAAAAAk5g/X4yhp27zz24Tmw-JCziANt-BAZBurW_9ACHM/s1600-h/DSC056504"><img title="DSC05650" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05650" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7iNrhbpRAU8/WTF0Cq7yxqI/AAAAAAAAk5k/ZNk6ZGGU_kkkysUAKceHQdEzUwbckwyJgCHM/DSC05650_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pI_SZsHurik/WTF0H_VMCCI/AAAAAAAAk5o/tIA5KyWrEWEdJH2jMvBseQ4RTWJbLab9QCHM/s1600-h/DSC056674"><img title="DSC05667" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05667" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WDwg5_EejJo/WTF0JHKCsnI/AAAAAAAAk5s/hx83cdjdenIUagOSBa0XCznAFAbNEo-1wCHM/DSC05667_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a></p> <p>We realized we were hungry so had swiss mushroom burgers & onion rings at Maggie’s Kitchen. That was good. We walked around town just a little bit & saw a sign for <em>Cascade Falls</em> just up the street. Seems we’ve really found a passion for waterfalls, hiking & all.</p> <p>It wasn’t a bad hike up to Cascade Falls & definitely worth it. We saw people going up under the rocks to actually stand behind the falls. The place was really crawling with people that day.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B882ZhMmN2c/WTF0Md4jzlI/AAAAAAAAk5w/WGIzuCIExxkbSYjtCT3O4EOqvrgwFkdQgCHM/s1600-h/05241713163"><img title="0524171316" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0524171316" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hocXOsHFdSE/WTF0NPTVG1I/AAAAAAAAk50/dk5zCHzA0nkyEmi_IlwzdoKjofZ6nnzzgCHM/0524171316_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-unI5RVuXABY/WTF0Oe4Fc0I/AAAAAAAAk54/_OjD3HErJ1Ebjq9AflD2Qu9Cv9XPtJegQCHM/s1600-h/0524171325a3"><img title="0524171325a" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0524171325a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nn1Y0-BtUt4/WTF0PdeXpTI/AAAAAAAAk58/Mux88kNpI30Xaq0KeLJSXe8PujE2DwkiACHM/0524171325a_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-74JUu76Sdco/WTF0QQnydPI/AAAAAAAAk6A/K74g8VMnl3goRgsyZDNlR_kmlCgQ-0pQACHM/s1600-h/0524171325b3"><img title="0524171325b" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0524171325b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a9w4XPA2_ZU/WTF0Rad64II/AAAAAAAAk6E/F22MXmGH7O41v81Uq4ko5MxD_Kvob0wkwCHM/0524171325b_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cMG9Ru6JK8w/WTF0S92S0EI/AAAAAAAAk6I/oUfC93yUa_8nP2bVUmmQqrddh-QHmisHACHM/s1600-h/DSC056914"><img title="DSC05691" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05691" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fjCgtNIDuYU/WTF0T3bB_pI/AAAAAAAAk6M/j7deDgFWVKk1Ny_tigc6zguAPzvU3RsAwCHM/DSC05691_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a></p> <p>On the way out of town, we saw a sign for <em>Box Canyon Falls</em>, & of course, had to go check it out. It cost $3 a piece but was so worth it. There’s a short downhill hike along a canyon before entering a very narrow slot canyon. The walkway & guard rails were much appreciated. I’m not sure where that water was coming from (other than off the mountain) but it was totally roaring. There was leftover mining equipment around inside the slot too.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HysKpY1yw88/WTF0VKMSXmI/AAAAAAAAk6Q/bm36sUz_Yvw5tpcwqO8z717J1ck3GtyNQCHM/s1600-h/05241714153"><img title="0524171415" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0524171415" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W4Mo6XckuBs/WTF0WGmFfxI/AAAAAAAAk6U/eCZadM9Hpn89P63Mb_WaoMw_i5XCSRRXACHM/0524171415_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bvr-iLiNxvA/WTF0XeFW41I/AAAAAAAAk6Y/SpPWzO3jArAfqpzhuexDr8zJ5m7z06zsACHM/s1600-h/0524171415a3"><img title="0524171415a" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0524171415a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B83O8Mzorg0/WTF0YU8M3FI/AAAAAAAAk6c/YnTDJDzhKo0bPINfaeE25Rd9Vc1K-JxIgCHM/0524171415a_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OXiovOuGSGw/WTF0ZzzPvQI/AAAAAAAAk6g/En1k9j65DmA0v1jIR-gtvWM-HT5e197PQCHM/s1600-h/0524171418c3"><img title="0524171418c" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0524171418c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fcsplbGtqeQ/WTF0a9w8zwI/AAAAAAAAk6k/C6iIkOb95dkH341Ne20BaIQTjaC1Q3tLwCHM/0524171418c_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KxPuyLnGYq0/WTF0cUDrMXI/AAAAAAAAk6o/GTzIQdbkU5oNc9vcBsayec48J0CiENsVACHM/s1600-h/DSC057264"><img title="DSC05726" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05726" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bonjPjg0fCI/WTF0dYFHtdI/AAAAAAAAk6s/uRThk5xI9N4-jmen2VMknrlTAFrmExsNgCHM/DSC05726_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0xx1CX41spM/WTF0e1SWsSI/AAAAAAAAk6w/1qpVO0PzZx89BXnAR7rDdbpcFDCvbTxvwCHM/s1600-h/DSC057344"><img title="DSC05734" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05734" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-omxlfyKileM/WTF0f5lXY1I/AAAAAAAAk60/SE-ZCMu81tMvgBIAOK6m1eq_V8NjwTvAwCHM/DSC05734_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MiHP5jVwN18/WTF0hPM_iVI/AAAAAAAAk64/WpH6y3PBq4ce2pPL-FQ8xDJb480Q6GGzQCHM/s1600-h/DSC057364"><img title="DSC05736" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05736" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HNqyQF57y2c/WTF0iA9vOuI/AAAAAAAAk68/viwcpo76YRkw87R30-MjuDpvWCobxxhrwCHM/DSC05736_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> </p> <p>Finally, we both managed to drive our rigs up Wolf Creek Pass without incident & found a spot called <em>Old Spanish Trail BLM</em> east of Del Norte CO. Very peaceful although quite windy for several days. The snow on the mountain to the south was a great view. Some ATVs & other locals came by & one morning a huge group of horseback riders. It was an excellent place to hang out thru Memorial weekend.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1rPCv8o4NAs/WTF0jQ7LFYI/AAAAAAAAk7A/YJ9ry2qipYg4zaQnP5pFexr_kOadPEjEwCHM/s1600-h/DSC059813"><img title="DSC05981" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05981" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9W4VyQvTwKA/WTF0kUb0xUI/AAAAAAAAk7E/Vi1hcsE7kn8Kwcn4kkM4hz-i0pC-aoxbACHM/DSC05981_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CCsr27meW2c/WTF0lq3AI6I/AAAAAAAAk7I/XXIeUQ8Cd748vSV-4arfb1oIV4J54a_MgCHM/s1600-h/DSC059833"><img title="DSC05983" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05983" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYObj59s1whzAPq8I0Nx5zZBvf1HRSbPWZZozZw7b1b3cPplQHiSDUj9UMkQSPYktVlxkeHMHXIypNVnN5eVVfHw6GOASPAW4QgLSApgMxiRVKTvjQLbf3ba-KO9PdB7-2FHxmWtolZiUm/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p>One day we drove less than an hour over to Creede CO. I’d always wanted to visit & although it was a cloudy, threatening day, it was a lot of fun to see all the old mines in the area. We <em>intended</em> to take the road looping around past some of the old mines but ended up on a rough, four-wheel loop that literally inched up over a mountain by numerous hair-pin turns. It was only one lane so glad we didn’t meet any other idiots like us who took a wrong turn. But it was a gorgeous drive!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Jv2wWqmNTq0/WTF0n59v3AI/AAAAAAAAk7Q/rwPvC1J50gcrp_QqF4wJaJXLfmA9gyhswCHM/s1600-h/05271713233"><img title="0527171323" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0527171323" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UPKr8mMeuXU/WTF0o5_s_JI/AAAAAAAAk7U/5sdI-JEijl8o9nPz792tz18XslUrlscaACHM/0527171323_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q9xxAibZlBQ/WTF0qKON6WI/AAAAAAAAk7Y/lWxAgDK00CEDeYaakPuWpG-SSDu3RuJTgCHM/s1600-h/0527171325a3"><img title="0527171325a" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0527171325a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IAw-LPJmWio/WTF0rFh5ydI/AAAAAAAAk7c/GImAIM46hzcWOKq5plZmX2GLYJJFSfqrQCHM/0527171325a_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uLwf8I35peo/WTF0tRxiDkI/AAAAAAAAk7g/ziDln-gwJcUPXMrfAogIc-PBOv_5kAhgACHM/s1600-h/0527171338a3"><img title="0527171338a" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0527171338a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z2K8DAQdNTM/WTF0uRJLA-I/AAAAAAAAk7k/1qe61HvJ-zcVrelc4tnDkOgaaA-NT8GXwCHM/0527171338a_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LmKjDgA9n1k/WTF0vjdbx7I/AAAAAAAAk7o/qhvcGqRajR0lWBR8HKT2BZAZYKu6SP2GQCHM/s1600-h/DSC059623"><img title="DSC05962" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05962" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WpBAvfLEkE4/WTF0wugj34I/AAAAAAAAk7s/gsAYzOw6znk01FNmS0bHQJWVUMChc1zPwCHM/DSC05962_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qxn4BG_Wlr0/WTF0yFVeaRI/AAAAAAAAk7w/uMhg1LOS8HMj24-uuSMCwLm8vFUf-7vUQCHM/s1600-h/05271713473"><img title="0527171347" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0527171347" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lNiCZQM-rzU/WTF0y2MeVnI/AAAAAAAAk70/3rRppuGTZ4UPwpkmUUg61adtOsNnpPvPACHM/0527171347_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZoRjSll-DaM/WTF00n5m7gI/AAAAAAAAk74/_d086fUoKNsyq3AfVEK6eU5bDghI0NxdACHM/s1600-h/05271713543"><img title="0527171354" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0527171354" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s3PIY53kP3s/WTF01XK3pCI/AAAAAAAAk78/F1Tgrd0mnZ0NOr7xGMkZTmLo-Ti75JNAgCHM/0527171354_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JPXln-azKe8/WTF02mwqQyI/AAAAAAAAk8A/wE7rMNA7N3kKDvGv0He1YUxCj05CvCHxgCHM/s1600-h/0527171414b3"><img title="0527171414b" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0527171414b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nwh7raYBK0A/WTF03pBIPVI/AAAAAAAAk8E/MVapHOoyKq01YW-nw3ISGStl0GwK3iFoACHM/0527171414b_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Auu8t6oBPso/WTF05uuPxtI/AAAAAAAAk8I/3pU4osEeWQEOuki4rw3Q2A8T-7IyMGuIQCHM/s1600-h/Commodore-Mine-243"><img title="Commodore Mine 24" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Commodore Mine 24" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D11cwhyfSV4/WTF06gOFERI/AAAAAAAAk8M/ARu753cf3YYCEfq13GYVHiLS4tHFUSHNACHM/Commodore-Mine-24_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pvVigXJQphg/WTF0774XAMI/AAAAAAAAk8Q/adU645aDQWosQN5MObhFsI2DomMA8JZigCHM/s1600-h/Creede-13"><img title="Creede 1" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Creede 1" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4IkOxQgIOAI/WTF089jBEaI/AAAAAAAAk8U/m2IhwfcR_s0tbeXtegu1rvX_xhOyk9JrwCHM/Creede-1_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3SlEviPQ8Es/WTF094JJpxI/AAAAAAAAk8Y/Izgmqmea1CwK96Ex8QuTA9MwX9-_hfpLACHM/s1600-h/DSC057903"><img title="DSC05790" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05790" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L1UPb02dDZs/WTF0--ocnZI/AAAAAAAAk8c/rCkXs6yBcv4nc88wqADPLBugDRAymot9gCHM/DSC05790_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5cqDoKa4ExU/WTF0_-SqHxI/AAAAAAAAk8g/4VNVaoreDuUdhpN-V-inmkGnGVRp1LslQCHM/s1600-h/DSC058043"><img title="DSC05804" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05804" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bwyt5QIBfwg/WTF1A0Lga0I/AAAAAAAAk8k/B0hOmyRb4RQhzDwLpZn3qOGrKKLDoXchQCHM/DSC05804_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RT09udfeHcM/WTF1CblawgI/AAAAAAAAk8o/dRia6FVtywkWE2LgrRX9vp4onSDcaJR8QCHM/s1600-h/DSC058243"><img title="DSC05824" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05824" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mlu3nQXKcuE/WTF1DdL1F8I/AAAAAAAAk8s/mr2f0r887DMjcIk8dlOE-7T56OC0MdsRgCHM/DSC05824_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xNkmyUCC-YY/WTF1EsP0fRI/AAAAAAAAk8w/QkLgNM2cPzATJHgpgpfwz5MqSE_tdfLUgCHM/s1600-h/DSC058313"><img title="DSC05831" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05831" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HJF6zGMF6oU/WTF1Fvxt4RI/AAAAAAAAk80/gnCXvR-3j5IZLy80-MrZbE-X_Jfo2jWJACHM/DSC05831_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0igu1ZRD1Xo/WTF1HrMqNsI/AAAAAAAAk84/SAd0KLpQdRcZN4V76FbMHQl4GoZ4O0Z0gCHM/s1600-h/DSC058473"><img title="DSC05847" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05847" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BoRjmaQqvTU/WTF1IR0eq6I/AAAAAAAAk88/QccrHFjeedI-goZJuMQrbCuaV4hw16W6ACHM/DSC05847_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aCu7KiG7R9I/WTF1JsvHHbI/AAAAAAAAk9A/pSgy3Am26FkXDzFpkJSN3KyDLE-tGn_OgCHM/s1600-h/DSC058533"><img title="DSC05853" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05853" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0JnNftOtKjM/WTF1K2eXNPI/AAAAAAAAk9E/8M3qldZMtOoaUlSqt_V5RWBNkbZ6iN6cACHM/DSC05853_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fnZ4cniEJVU/WTF1Nq2Z3dI/AAAAAAAAk9I/uGDPzHrtN0MAqwzltyfw_xCuJg9NG24uACHM/s1600-h/DSC058753"><img title="DSC05875" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05875" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NV7CHmW-Nxs/WTF1Os0CDnI/AAAAAAAAk9M/V6o5muq0gt0U8YpKWxsBeaNO3w3JAusUgCHM/DSC05875_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-17fzwuXpl3Y/WTF1QK0GD4I/AAAAAAAAk9Q/xV2fdBnoIGwC6iBxSHwp3-Tl8PbDKTcRgCHM/s1600-h/DSC058873"><img title="DSC05887" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05887" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QVy01e5SJGw/WTF1RJVeplI/AAAAAAAAk9U/zx-a-J3y6bgsOunxx0pbvv68wwODFYwawCHM/DSC05887_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wXqwnbJdNug/WTF1SDVFsFI/AAAAAAAAk9Y/im8PNTy766MsgLYyxubwEfoInfYiHsMuACHM/s1600-h/DSC059393"><img title="DSC05939" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05939" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tOl_5O-4IDc/WTF1TFgswMI/AAAAAAAAk9c/jzJiI9HFH8M8XGu01LAUVUvBaV45HR-kQCHM/DSC05939_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Wgs7ZnjASq4/WTF1URYizBI/AAAAAAAAk9g/XCPElzIdjuERZpm8Y9jB32BxZRk4L8bTwCHM/s1600-h/DSC059453"><img title="DSC05945" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05945" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7i_NWlR3RfXi3y2aBxGWV8hk8O84FLtcPNwsQZh6T4zQAGBWMSmgvmvxTBp6OY9V2APrZrvOPel56EpZEt5egBVk79tRE20W-nIgGSRg1N95lcLdeP7qoqboX5zyphpFFFt3IxMoyCIeb/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uP0AarWIqIk/WTF1WrLu-CI/AAAAAAAAk9o/1AlB86Vc0WM9ym5cpjhFwf3eVgZQgDUbgCHM/s1600-h/DSC059563"><img title="DSC05956" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05956" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bjlKJpGW2pc/WTF1XgYkTBI/AAAAAAAAk9s/uItAJwqL1MAdh46-QCGbAgfU63j4RndkACHM/DSC05956_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p>Another day, we drove an hour east to visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Some of the dunes are 750’ above the valley floor (the caldera of an extinct volcano)& the tallest in North America. These dunes don’t shift or move like the White Sands (gypsum) down by Alamogordo NM. Between the strong southwest winds blowing in new sand & the water flowing out of the surrounding San Cristo Mountains, the dunes just don’t move or change much. Unfortunately, the only way to actually <u>walk</u> in the dunes is to cross the wide but shallow stream flowing from the mountains. I didn’t want to get my feet wet or go barefoot & John wasn’t sure how well he could walk in water. <em>Little did we suspect our next adventure!</em></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kHhMbfDqj20/WTF1Y1W0TdI/AAAAAAAAk9w/6v7xP4HIiio8zht4mVdnpH7TxvCf4nGggCHM/s1600-h/DSC05996%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC05996" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05996" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e3nY9N5xJfU/WTF1Z_47gWI/AAAAAAAAk90/jxvqDoIJRN0lQjYOYkItJrnxARfJ2F8hgCHM/DSC05996_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jHrt03ppVao/WTF1bnrnAiI/AAAAAAAAk94/T04NVrBZPfc2RHX-2nhoz4qnxmf0dOdbgCHM/s1600-h/DSC05998%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC05998" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05998" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-x9KLnvpfNJQ/WTF1cnV5HBI/AAAAAAAAk98/xm9_wzhdT6g5o_7c5GOyxFvB91j3VWteACHM/DSC05998_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jFWMWaiMoyM/WTF1ertFBGI/AAAAAAAAk-A/7R7tBgAVAKMP2Njklqhjurj950ViRQzaQCHM/s1600-h/DSC06002%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06002" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06002" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HUP763ZdGzM/WTF1f1cxF9I/AAAAAAAAk-E/uviV2iZAICAUWdur0bvgzjmmKWu6r9XtACHM/DSC06002_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NWoVC9hFY6Q/WTF1g1boipI/AAAAAAAAk-I/F1owckoFdJI4tDy1Y0jmGYxBs95yu7NOACHM/s1600-h/DSC06009%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06009" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06009" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GRP7_T7Kemo/WTF1h9G4LII/AAAAAAAAk-M/vAZ7OrQsfEoj11XT2MUDBgJTsHOIx2KXACHM/DSC06009_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C2-cHxYTMYQ/WTF1jX5PQ9I/AAAAAAAAk-Q/3DXwBnynILMrn8GssNEblm5AEt3acoTtgCHM/s1600-h/DSC06012%255B4%255D"><img title="DSC06012" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06012" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhda-llYomniXQ4GrZXO-yjDtW4RRY_edgT93Iwq0EUvzdONI3h_0_5CMOkjqg6k7DTO4v9GoUDjHsSFt1-mIVPHTntdqlJ6N0WDBZm9omg4r7NFWnNq0CARECbfZAP950MQ2_zpMcig8hN/?imgmax=800" width="644" height="211"></a></p> <p>Upon leaving the Park, we noticed a sign for <em>Zapata Falls</em> just 17 miles down the road. Yeah – another falls to visit!. Well. . .it was a steep four-mile <strong>extremely rocky & rough</strong> drive up the side of a mountain, & then. . .a steep, <strong>extremely rocky & rough</strong> half-mile hike up to the 30’ falls. OMG, as if that wasn’t enough – <u>you had to walk thru (<em>not just cross) </em>the COLD rushing water up the narrow canyon</u> just to SEE the waterfall around the corner! We tried our best with a bunch of other people to get up to the falls WITHOUT walking in that cold, rushing water. <em>No way tho</em>! We weren’t willing to make that <strong>colossal effort</strong> just to GET to the falls without actually <u>seeing</u> it. So. . .we took the plunge & stepped into the stream, tennis shoes & all. OMG, OMG, OMG!!!! That melted snow water was rushing, gushing, & churning over <em>head-sized</em> rocks – BUT we both managed. I was so scared I’d fall into the water & drown both my phone & my camera. Nope, we didn’t either one fall. By the time we made it back to dry ground, our feet were numb & red. We sure made it back down that rocky path without stopping tho. Even tho we were both sore & tired the next day, it was so worth it!!!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5A-P5Twqydc/WTF1lWca48I/AAAAAAAAk-Y/D7hoHeFqhfwav7JvqpMhaBpzrX3z7dbSwCHM/s1600-h/0528171300b%255B3%255D"><img title="0528171300b" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0528171300b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GwgGy5OGxMY/WTF1mXYYQLI/AAAAAAAAk-c/zhnPpKiJbw4n1Lt51n9P9Y6JDTs6x_W9gCHM/0528171300b_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawtF1wkQP9gpmZd75WiHatADPf4ch8LL6gOvbrRsHJT1hElQZWCQsebzPwG3iX78n1vAyY46EGrGyFIMjfMGIGNAN6wN3OIUF_Z6HP02b9Q2TZg-WJ0ZAoKeVUMvQSgM0kYypRSPojXjo/s1600-h/0528171345a%255B3%255D"><img title="0528171345a" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0528171345a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F5w9aJC6Pa0/WTF1ocwGmfI/AAAAAAAAk-k/lLrG3N6G40w6yFaWGLLQDUP2NawPHcDsACHM/0528171345a_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5K_Kv-YscMI/WTF1pargaGI/AAAAAAAAk-o/g8mdBnqVhLkWd0Qs5KBcl07J-e3gFis9wCHM/s1600-h/0528171333b%255B3%255D"><img title="0528171333b" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0528171333b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q2ynXDIk0CE/WTF1qS42B_I/AAAAAAAAk-s/MEg8-0esTYsWiqQngGM1mi46igspdCCtgCHM/0528171333b_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Saj4m2-xId4/WTF1rVVuS3I/AAAAAAAAk-w/GoLaIhMm6wc8o3Fcya7mdKfgLTn-EqSngCHM/s1600-h/0528171343c%255B3%255D"><img title="0528171343c" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0528171343c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lWpy55T89PY/WTF1sUgcU-I/AAAAAAAAk-0/1D0SZaOKVOwubZV79lLd1UuGMc7Yk-ASgCHM/0528171343c_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hlUmqKHah_c/WTF1uj0058I/AAAAAAAAk-4/tI8C0Z6x4q0GDZRkCZ3lu7cDUZdeRyp3gCHM/s1600-h/DSC06034%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06034" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06034" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3wQKNT9k0d8/WTF1vl9GFfI/AAAAAAAAk-8/BcQlcmCr-Rwvi5YzaR_oU86P8Jxio129wCHM/DSC06034_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Wy--phWqDiQ/WTF1w6z1ALI/AAAAAAAAk_A/J_HDZmxqvJY45HByv8FtAgfhe42vVGAEQCHM/s1600-h/0528171345e%255B3%255D"><img title="0528171345e" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0528171345e" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vdwj-gtZh28/WTF1xt9FIgI/AAAAAAAAk_E/0q5yPuZ04cUTNJjMjYc923sAwjJr5j-gwCHM/0528171345e_thumb?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cQb0DlD7oA0/WTF1y1IC2aI/AAAAAAAAk_I/E_2TJmFiXN0WYmy5GhCUcAK-C9ch9DnWwCHM/s1600-h/DSC06029%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06029" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06029" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c-HGGVIHM5Q/WTF1zq_TSSI/AAAAAAAAk_M/r8OUCMMn7rQNVZ_nCgJ7ZR3RCdm9VrhwwCHM/DSC06029_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JxtLBEPJICo/WTF10kGf2QI/AAAAAAAAk_Q/zA0APxcBdnctXxvRnct4kOYhgOJTZnngwCHM/s1600-h/DSC06030%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06030" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06030" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R36VF7RPHP0/WTF11oFQpkI/AAAAAAAAk_U/lrItituRWO44Z1iXaPREdMs6mWj1mWQpgCHM/DSC06030_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zcBYIQFQrYg/WTF12psoLnI/AAAAAAAAk_Y/oThOGV3gCZUetqBypJCyfskZPavMvIElgCHM/s1600-h/DSC06032%255B3%255D"><img title="DSC06032" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC06032" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4ZmqPEwTUdc/WTF13tOKsAI/AAAAAAAAk_c/Xaqw15AcKC8CZ__cwtsfX9fHgU1FjLF5QCHM/DSC06032_thumb?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p>A nice young man (20 yrs old) traveling in a Jeep with a dog camped next to us the last two days. He & John BOTH knew & talked a lot about beefing up trucks & cars for off-roading. It was like a foreign language to me but they were in <em>hog heaven</em>. We hope to run into Charles next winter in Quartzsite.</p> <p>June 1st, we left the Del Norte CO area headed for Kansas, Central Time Zone, lower elevation, heat, & humidity to boondock for free at several State Fishing Lakes while working our way to Missouri & more adventures. We are both so happy & thankful to have found an adventurous travel companion to share unique experiences with.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-70041018184066072972017-05-19T13:50:00.001-05:002017-05-19T13:50:43.083-05:00Escaping the Heat & Cold<p>OK, so I’m really, REALLY behind with this blog (& it’s heavy on photos) cause. . .I’ve been busy traveling & enjoying life during the last two months. March 12, John & I traveled together but in our separate RVs from Quartzsite to the Lone Tree BLM area north of Lake Havasu City, AZ to escape the heat. But. . .that didn’t work out so well. It was hotter in Havasu than in Quartzsite. John actually started his generator & ran the RV’s A/C one day, but the next day, we took the dogs with us down to the Lake to cool off. I don’t remember the last time I got into a lake, & although it was a bit cool at first, it didn’t take long until I was neck deep in coolness. John hadn’t been in water for years either, so sitting on the sandy bottom in shallow water with both dogs near by was just what we all needed. We were all comfortable the rest of the afternoon & evening as fur & clothes dried. Our last day, we hiked up a nearby hill to take pictures of the area. We were parked WAY DOWN there in this photo.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5WWq4aajKLI/WR89jxW95kI/AAAAAAAAkxk/3p8E2QHTCB0de4SIRXiOmBbPz9LwEa7UwCHM/s1600-h/DSC045826"><img title="DSC04582" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04582" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5YgDMg8jLU0/WR89lKwOuZI/AAAAAAAAkxo/hTkqUznwCzgfNj5Hd_E4iH9nFuUcj82LgCHM/DSC04582_thumb6?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p> <p>After 3 nights, we headed east on I-40 for a few hours, to south to Prescott to park in the national forest. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find any campsites big enough for John’s rig (plus my Casita & truck), so we spent a couple of nippy nights on an access road in the forest. We hung out at a campfire one evening with Carol & Peter from Quartzsite who we went to the Desert Bar with a few weeks earlier. We ate lunch at the Palace on the Square that still looks like it did in the 1800s. <em>Loved the old tin ceiling in this hotel/restaurant.</em> We drove around looking for a big campsite but never found one, so we headed east to Sedona.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rk20HB2u87U/WR89mStCdFI/AAAAAAAAkxs/04AH_EToGxU_MwRuZ4OGvYUfd7Ei3jzNACHM/s1600-h/2017-03-17-11-42-53%255B2%255D"><img title="2017-03-17-11-42-53" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2017-03-17-11-42-53" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-euIYj9YJR0M/WR89nbkQyGI/AAAAAAAAkxw/SIXAIOSQ3tsiu97xjqFUQBkNsDJgVth5QCHM/2017-03-17-11-42-53_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>We tried John leading & then me leading but haven’t quite worked out the fine details yet. I have trouble imagining how long & tall his rig is, but at least when I’m leading, I can see the road ahead of me. Plus, I can drive a steady 62 mph where he has more difficulty maintaining a steady speed especially going down hills. So sometimes, he just passes me & I follow him.</p> <p>West of Sedona, we found a slightly crowded BLM spot on Forest Road 525 that was big enough for both of us to get comfortable in, looking over at some of the big, red rocks. Fortunately, most everyone left Sunday so it was more peaceful.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hdyA43kQweA/WR89olfxYxI/AAAAAAAAkx0/w8jAl7seUYM_DDfzghnEmDIeC2Wv_eAIgCHM/s1600-h/DSC046035"><img title="DSC04603" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04603" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cy_2ptkAwqo/WR89prBRTwI/AAAAAAAAkx4/NmK6R9T2GZ02qOLnqmNqs8yabhD_KVdXwCHM/DSC04603_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p> <p>We spent a lot of time during our two weeks camped near Sedona to explore the area. We had a couple of cold days & nights but for the most part had pretty great weather. We drove up (then back down) Oak Creek Canyon first. It is FABULOUS. I took gobs of photos & enjoyed the panoramic views from the top.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FfFNZl10_QQ/WR89q4SfG0I/AAAAAAAAkx8/kOO9zG1Q650mP4dHksK6l0Q4-8GETbDiACHM/s1600-h/DSC04678"><img title="DSC04678" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04678" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-12wWV8F9xb4/WR89srcl8zI/AAAAAAAAkyA/YQwThRmvS5o2SQL_FQXIwluJvDQQbaomwCHM/DSC04678_thumb?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p> <p>We took a kewl train ride west of Cottonwood up the Verde Valley along the Verde River thru a canyon.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H9Ka2V9jtPU/WR89t8MsH1I/AAAAAAAAkyE/OFzfenZlWg0UcdKN4juTqmJLl9nFMUTHACHM/s1600-h/0321171457h5"><img title="0321171457h" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0321171457h" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SVE3-wVmCYw/WR89vKAiNMI/AAAAAAAAkyI/5NH7rHwp4EcjTmglEPXJo9hZ8fo0hkD5wCHM/0321171457h_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="660" height="380"></a></p> <p>We visited Tuzigoot National Monument.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MzHnPHS7K_U/WR89wcMXboI/AAAAAAAAkyM/QVa5cdiIk7480szXr_Y73z2zS_YMHhjbwCHM/s1600-h/DSC048695"><img title="DSC04869" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04869" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-92JnTdO7rR4/WR89xgX-RxI/AAAAAAAAkyQ/JwhvNGdVqpcxCyVJ1E_PjsyAbJz_iU-JQCHM/DSC04869_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hv65iBxusw4/WR89y7x0pHI/AAAAAAAAkyU/gU3fOZncDxEm1CydtPuigBkaDh_Rm43cQCHM/s1600-h/DSC049319"><img title="DSC04931" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04931" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zw7oEso-FGM/WR890CurzmI/AAAAAAAAkyY/qpY7s70jsVgecPJjqYVz74uilkRnRWXnwCHM/DSC04931_thumb6?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p> <p>Plus the little mountain town of Jerome which clings to the edge of the mountain. The view of the valley below Jerome is pretty intense. </p> <p>We visited Montezuma’s Castle National Monument & Montezuma’s Well near Camp Verde.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ujXkd6z3Pio/WR891M028YI/AAAAAAAAkyc/irwI9iH7u7cn78LmHrhDu2nNHt5B0JzOgCHM/s1600-h/0323171339a%255B4%255D"><img title="0323171339a" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0323171339a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--LDnT2ohnLE/WR892QOLszI/AAAAAAAAkyg/3L_GQQeRMuo_WMS6n2a0w8kthbhlwxQAgCHM/0323171339a_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="260" height="155"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sYkQhxjXAss/WR893t7HNjI/AAAAAAAAkyk/g8T4I8NyShkgZ2bm2XbWdYtuGrB1Cu0XgCHM/s1600-h/0323171450d%255B4%255D"><img title="0323171450d" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0323171450d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-thXwGa6F4_s/WR894l6Qf2I/AAAAAAAAkyo/wGRM-wvNDb8BA94CbPYa0Tpu19eQLVGkgCHM/0323171450d_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="260" height="155"></a></p> <p>We saw Cathedra Rock & Bell Rock east of Sedona.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iFnWODXHE7I/WR895w0eQEI/AAAAAAAAkys/K1KsR8EqRTg3wo0VuRgeR9ObZhxOa02zwCHM/s1600-h/IMG_62655"><img title="IMG_6265" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6265" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gbeSr60ggp4/WR897G__0lI/AAAAAAAAkyw/0llElXbnp-cW_uHYs7qwoJC3aaOQ6pHbgCHM/IMG_6265_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="660" height="320"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DEymI2AN8zU/WR898g7ev4I/AAAAAAAAky0/eWbaAf1s0hITW23YKcp9NhTKumgxKLpuwCHM/s1600-h/0319171433b4"><img title="0319171433b" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0319171433b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tPZTk11mYq0/WR899k31v_I/AAAAAAAAky4/yJQ5QwcyW84MLyA_jwYgBHaS4M-0a-KBQCHM/0319171433b_thumb1?imgmax=800" width="260" align="left" height="155"></a></p> <p>We went up Airport Road & CLIMBED up onto a big rock with a fantastic view.</p> <p> </p> <p>We also toured Honanki Ruins.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sKHK6QQ2KZY/WR89_dzrlaI/AAAAAAAAky8/PB5W64SR8QYpcGqqaHyYnzx_ReLdJy4lgCHM/s1600-h/0329170946a5"><img title="0329170946a" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="0329170946a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DH3FNTwgemg/WR8-AndsRuI/AAAAAAAAkzA/DcXoClwxBiMobIG9sJgz1CUFTqZQRMEEQCHM/0329170946a_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="660" height="380"></a></p> <p>We really enjoyed the Sedona area, so reluctantly moved after our 14 days on BLM land to Winslow AZ to McHood Park, a place I stayed last year on my way to the Wolf Sanctuary. We managed to get a large, remote site on the west side of the lake with a big shelter & picnic table. AND, the Canadian couple (Rick & Angela) who parked next to us in Sedona arrived after a few days to spend some more time with us. We had a couple of good campfires but the windy conditions kept that from happening most evenings.</p> <p>We took a day to travel east an hour on I-40 to see the Painted Desert & Petrified Forest National Park. My favorite spot was Blue Mesa with a definite blue color to the soil/rocks. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Cul9MnsxSXw/WR8-DdHTlWI/AAAAAAAAkzE/rV-1j-zlvQoHEeD0ADle3vRp3vf89yKEQCHM/s1600-h/07-04-2017%2B08.30.12%255B4%255D"><img title="07-04-2017 08.30.12" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="07-04-2017 08.30.12" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2gE1u3iZpwk/WR8-EhX9ohI/AAAAAAAAkzI/53LRuLAulUw4Wwi82IedBo7vDX-AHMHpwCHM/07-04-2017%2B08.30.12_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="660" height="163"></a></p> <p>We took another day to head back west toward Flagstaff to walk around Walnut Creek National Monument. Boy were those 200 steps coming back up out of the Canyon exhausting – but fun. There was a controlled burn going on west of the Canyon so the smoke cut visibility down a lot.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uH30XHOCQd4/WR8-GXEpeqI/AAAAAAAAkzM/sKCcssbYaogWFsvPwX4U3WsDHhLna49UQCHM/s1600-h/0412171312%255B5%255D"><img title="0412171312" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0412171312" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-x00P-yWw6h0/WR8-IHQ4XVI/AAAAAAAAkzQ/nRQ8PVeVgmo-pdVElOL8AmpUbFA_0nivACHM/0412171312_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="660" height="380"></a></p> <p>Overall, Winslow is an unexciting town but had a Walmart & several good places to eat. Again tho, we moved on after our free 14-day stay at McHood. I read a book a couple of years ago that took place in Big Lake AZ & always wanted to visit it. So, we actually spent a night at an RV park – PLUGGED into full hookups – to tour Big Lake. It’s just a lake, no actual town. Hey, at least I got to see the area tho.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pMXgyUySoOA/WR8-J1x48fI/AAAAAAAAkzU/6X5k1iYLgL4ldabri9x7S6ITlAFAUgzLQCHM/s1600-h/16-04-2017%2B10.18.20%25281%2529%255B4%255D"><img title="16-04-2017 10.18.20(1)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="16-04-2017 10.18.20(1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MoIpl4Jqkfc/WR8-K9LjKII/AAAAAAAAkzY/1BVNI3WatYAq9t0OCdTua2mAHomqDM29QCHM/16-04-2017%2B10.18.20%25281%2529_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="660" height="192"></a></p> <p>Next, we traveled east to Pie Town NM on Highway 60. It sort of hurt leaving Arizona after five months but at least we really enjoyed the three nights spent free in the City Park at Pie Town. And we were close enough to just walk across the street every day for PIE! The wind blowing thru the pine trees was nearly magical but we both were affected by the 7800’ elevation near the Continental Divide & lack of oxygen so leaving wasn’t all that bad.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zuk5Ejb3blQ/WR8-MYg_7TI/AAAAAAAAkzc/0nG6p6Z4hKogdpUdAvioN9iTrl63PypwgCHM/s1600-h/18-04-2017%2B12.20.56%255B4%255D"><img title="18-04-2017 12.20.56" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="18-04-2017 12.20.56" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9qgiOimfNVA/WR8-NpfLNRI/AAAAAAAAkzg/2TZBkebQDyolaCidUis9kwnz6aGJZ7nAgCHM/18-04-2017%2B12.20.56_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="660" height="206"></a></p> <p>We got up close to & visited the Visitor Center at the Very Large Array east of Pie Town an hour. It’s interesting how many movies have used this facility in a film.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ECDZGGyfjRs/WR8-Oy1duEI/AAAAAAAAkzk/LpDZh-cq8M0N7mAMbDW6v5SKAK98y-3mQCHM/s1600-h/0419171315a%255B5%255D"><img title="0419171315a" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0419171315a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OPHkyeKIQ2E/WR8-QIxI6wI/AAAAAAAAkzo/jIGPh25mRvMaJS0VEzlafsGMqSxSnDZgwCHM/0419171315a_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="660" height="380"></a></p> <p>So, the <em>plan</em> was to head up to Santa Fe & Taos before sliding into southern CO & Pagosa Springs. However, <em>Mother Nature</em> had other ideas regarding the weather & we just zipped south on I-25 to Truth or Consequences to wait for Spring to finally arrive to the north. My Casita friend Emily lives in TofC & I visit her each time I come thru the area. And, we discovered a BLM spot called Mitchell Point at Exit 92 north of town to camp for awhile. It was <em>handy & free</em> but not very scenic, no trees, & horribly windy. Fortunately, we found another free camp spot south of town right along side the Rio Grande River. It’s spring in the valley so water is being released for irrigation from Elephant Butte Lake & the River is <em>running full, fast, & clean</em>. We picked a spot with a huge shade tree that was real close to <strong>perfect</strong>. Had shade all day long under this tree, the river was <em>right there</em>, & we had very little traffic coming by. One of the <u>very best campsites</u> I’ve ever been at. AND. . .the city park in TofC had a free dump site, free water, & trash cans for our trash.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l2bzon6owHs/WR8-RaPuCEI/AAAAAAAAkzs/oFkfVd9zmW4__MPd0bjC4jgu2PsTswhzgCHM/s1600-h/0501171358%255B5%255D"><img title="0501171358" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0501171358" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y4UJl1dUYeI/WR8-Sr9kv0I/AAAAAAAAkzw/RsQCdUrKy0Qp7kue9dIHFw7pYb-2mOCQgCHM/0501171358_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="660" height="380"></a></p> <p>We took a day to travel west up & over the Gila National Forest to Silver City & then thru City of Rocks State Park. It’s such an unusual & unexpected place.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG3iMHQkCjkApBs28-kPOf58P7WLFIWehYX5MMpQlJH9xphNIWTWMtxqgxIrISighuk-nepyS6EB1CasWTKF7wt8wUQWaDN1502SFAy0Rl_nXuN1AWciMBRtpvIB2dFRQifd7L_YmDJKvr/s1600-h/0430171116b%255B6%255D"><img title="0430171116b" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0430171116b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p2g1Z-Sa3P0/WR8-V3rnlzI/AAAAAAAAkz4/B32im414CHU2MIXwSu7lJyPWhc_e-SfxwCHM/0430171116b_thumb%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" width="260" height="155"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gp2f3Vpnou8/WR8-YP5ZvvI/AAAAAAAAkz8/UKBGmT5IJRQ2kNUExJnODiG2b6jKMEMXQCHM/s1600-h/0430171512b%255B4%255D"><img title="0430171512b" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0430171512b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tfprEXyYGnQ/WR8-ZSXu3YI/AAAAAAAAk0A/Ulph2o3YKDkJEuNVLwQOwBUmj3eVRI0BQCHM/0430171512b_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="260" height="155"></a></p> <p>For years, people have talked about visiting the hot springs in Truth or Consequences (originally named Hot Springs) so since neither John nor I had ever been to one, we finally tried it. We picked Riverbend Hot Springs out of the 10 or so in town because it’s situated right along side the Rio Grande & all the pools overlook the river. The private room we had for 50 minutes had water between 105 & 107 degrees, & after the initial <em>OMG that’s hot</em> reaction, it wasn’t too uncomfortable. There was a cold water shower too if we got too hot. Not surprising, we were both like limp dishrags all the next day.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aOJs3NfZwnU/WR8-aiG3fYI/AAAAAAAAk0E/fdPKpKDGssAFxPAXHco9FTamahbKmyJKgCHM/s1600-h/0503171754b%255B4%255D"><img title="0503171754b" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0503171754b" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c44pvJpbq1w/WR8-b1BCuZI/AAAAAAAAk0I/6yzBUYYEsTII7grJI6LuK_gsUUlsrQkrgCHM/0503171754b_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="260" height="155"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BCps5W3JNkk/WR8-dEAk9aI/AAAAAAAAk0M/KXVb-34hCwgW9LrNf1WGUBllyKMVzekWQCHM/s1600-h/0503171754d%255B4%255D"><img title="0503171754d" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="0503171754d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9FGmqq8Vqf0/WR8-eFhFmUI/AAAAAAAAk0Q/LkS9A5FvkR0Ei9uloUqVvXkivJevACdywCHM/0503171754d_thumb%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="260" height="155"></a></p> <p>We also took a day to drive down to Las Cruces & over the east mountain to White Sands National Monument. It’s the <em>largest</em> gypsum dunes <u>in the world</u>.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XCPgHEZZT98/WR8-fMs9O9I/AAAAAAAAk0U/WXOJsiEc43ITxov6zRbSZSnj0t8nKkLsACHM/s1600-h/DSC05326%255B5%255D"><img title="DSC05326" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC05326" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--mvwSAesaJM/WR8-getkeoI/AAAAAAAAk0Y/Znl8TdlRIYgI50Scyj8LWzh1LLuxn8OKwCHM/DSC05326_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p> <p>So, very reluctantly – in spite of several 90° days & uncomfortable nights waiting for it to cool down inside – we left Truth or Consequences after our free 14 days along the Rio Grande River to head north, regardless of how cool it still is up there.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-17249239463950007652017-03-20T15:00:00.001-05:002017-03-20T15:00:32.120-05:00Leaving Quartzsite Winter 2017<p>Well the 2017 Fiberglass Rally at Dome Rock BLM area had around 150 units this year, not as many as last year, but they still filled the area well. John created & sold some decals of the Rally, & hopes to create & sell more next year for other rallies in the area.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NO-KvkUTyh0/WNAnHoP1C1I/AAAAAAAAj-g/8_30ByAHrlA/s1600-h/DSC043077.jpg"><img title="DSC04307" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04307" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GHQfAy5pY5w/WNAnnB5aluI/AAAAAAAAj-k/TPl3AhiRZ0g/DSC04307_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EKRJ4H_ZvE8/WNAn2Uo_XqI/AAAAAAAAj-s/-quRLJuRdyk/s1600-h/DSC043094.jpg"><img title="DSC04309" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04309" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FUAmcM7rijo/WNAoEVnZs4I/AAAAAAAAj-w/UJIeOL_ZNPg/DSC04309_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7cgfP26p-Yk/WNAoR7BTj9I/AAAAAAAAj-0/Hslb4SAGSCA/s1600-h/DSC043104.jpg"><img title="DSC04310" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04310" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-38hf6EO60Z0/WNAoVoUamXI/AAAAAAAAj-4/GNuaqzeiuEQ/DSC04310_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YXMt664Jnlg/WNAocBLK4xI/AAAAAAAAj-8/tyHfk4b4gDQ/s1600-h/DSC043114.jpg"><img title="DSC04311" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04311" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sO8f7j1fjDY/WNAof5TekJI/AAAAAAAAj_A/TMJWaklUSSQ/DSC04311_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a></p> <p>I suspect John felt a bit overwhelmed by all us little white trailers tho because he returned to the LTVA area before the Rally was over & I moved over next to Wendy & Diane, up on a hill with a fantastic view of the whole area. We needed a break from each other & he felt sort of bad about me spending less time with Wendy than with him. So after the Rally ended & most of the “eggs” had moved on down the road, I met up with Wendy near Yuma at the Pilot Knob LTVA area as she finished up her dental appointments in Los Algadones, Mexico. It was a convenient parking spot but pretty bland, so we decided to take a little road trip into California. This was our last opportunity to travel together before she headed back to Florida.</p> <p>I always wanted to see Slab City, southeast of the Salton Sea, but wasn’t comfortable going alone nor staying overnight. So Wendy & I drove <em>through it</em> on our way to Borrego Springs, CA to look at the metal sculptures of pre-historic animals around the area. Some people really like Slab City & feel safe there – neither Wendy nor I felt that, plus it was cloudy & gloomy as a storm was coming across southern CA, so we were fine leaving the area quickly.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g1tLE1YQbN8/WNAonUcgRkI/AAAAAAAAj_E/imNEBhJd6GY/s1600-h/IMG_20170217_1259225.jpg"><img title="IMG_20170217_125922" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20170217_125922" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zRp5flI1KtA/WNAot0zxUsI/AAAAAAAAj_I/VTe78yUZoQA/IMG_20170217_125922_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="500"></a></p> <p>I had been thru Borrego Springs years ago but didn’t know for sure where to boondock camp. We ended up next to the horse sculptures for a rainy night, & drove around the next morning looking at more sculptures. Again, it was cold & gloomy, trying not to rain, & just made the whole experience uncomfortable. As we headed northeast toward Joshua Tree Nat’l Park, it rained pretty hard on us occasionally. Bad time for a trip to southern California.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hfDPWiG1T90/WNAoyVVVhcI/AAAAAAAAj_M/9FK5Ji8SiKE/s1600-h/IMG_20170217_1547255.jpg"><img title="IMG_20170217_154725" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20170217_154725" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cHIA1p750s8/WNAo3lF-mHI/AAAAAAAAj_Q/96F0uSmXKCA/IMG_20170217_154725_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="427"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OiLuGYv635Y/WNAo8nq6yuI/AAAAAAAAj_U/kdQAVZjcmOg/s1600-h/DSC043264.jpg"><img title="DSC04326" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04326" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s-p3WoRGZpo/WNApA0bIJbI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/mjt-ERfzsMc/DSC04326_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YGvQeuqs4DU/WNApMdyolMI/AAAAAAAAj_c/ZSNYoJi-4V0/s1600-h/DSC043374.jpg"><img title="DSC04337" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04337" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sXPZP3AG7sI/WNAzVHT1X4I/AAAAAAAAj_s/TuCW_dVHP1A/DSC04337_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a></p> <p>We took a short cut from Mecca CA at the northwest corner of the Salton Sea thru Box Canyon Road to cross I-10 directly south of Joshua Tree National Park where we intended to camp for the night. Unfortunately, Wendy & I were both tired, cold, a little damp around the edges, & didn’t like the total absence of cell phone service in the Park – so we just continued east on I-10 for a couple hours & returned to Quartzsite. Even tho we had to set up in the rain, it still felt like home!</p> <p>Wendy & I hung out until Tuesday when she left to start her annual migration back to Florida. John joined us for a “last meal” before she left, & he helped grease her trailer axles for her long trip. I learned how to do that last Fall, but it’s just so much easier for a guy to mess with that mechanical stuff.</p> <p>Thursday, John & I went to Los Algadones, Mexico to shop, eat, & for him to get his first pair of glasses. They help him but are taking time to adjust to. We hung out with a couple from Canada also waiting for the line thru Customs to shorten – but that didn’t happen so it still took us two hours to get back into the US. Didn’t get home until after dark.</p> <p>Then Friday, we made a (sunny but cool) day trip to Joshua Tree National Park & I got to see a whole lot more of it than before. We’d like to return for a longer stay to see more of the Park so plan to visit either on our way north from Quartzsite soon or next winter before returning to Quartzsite.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-shm6Ge0JHeE/WNAziizGadI/AAAAAAAAj_w/B8yMeQKYR-I/s1600-h/DSC043724.jpg"><img title="DSC04372" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04372" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LSf2wd3fxlw/WNAznzunaVI/AAAAAAAAj_0/L6y8eO9ojv0/DSC04372_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-onyQG2my-Cs/WNAzxJpK9HI/AAAAAAAAj_4/IcwLcAZyuA4/s1600-h/DSC043764.jpg"><img title="DSC04376" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04376" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--ZCrDpBdL1I/WNAz9rCqIaI/AAAAAAAAj_8/nGRx6DqsXtk/DSC04376_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="171"></a> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qhrZXlJxCFw/WNA0P9_H2oI/AAAAAAAAkAA/X4XeEBKPxdI/s1600-h/DSC043814.jpg"><img title="DSC04381" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04381" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i6_Hi5BXyEc/WNA0W7FAaMI/AAAAAAAAkAE/gZa3k8Aa8pI/DSC04381_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="161"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oWfoziUt0nQ/WNA0eAjYrEI/AAAAAAAAkAI/c6CN6TXEHhc/s1600-h/DSC043674.jpg"><img title="DSC04367" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04367" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SGIKyn0nDnw/WNA0h3-qusI/AAAAAAAAkAM/wSFaYVhxino/DSC04367_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="136"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aE7psSXGr2c/WNA0pvwoJpI/AAAAAAAAkAQ/KDOxzQ3F19Y/s1600-h/DSC043854.jpg"><img title="DSC04385" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04385" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yQbRfkQLDHQ/WNA0tmstYgI/AAAAAAAAkAU/AsuTY5gOxr0/DSC04385_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="188"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gx1_pP5tBGA/WNA0yBC3mBI/AAAAAAAAkAY/e6VR81n8MGw/s1600-h/received_1135555093209361%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="received_1135555093209361" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 30px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="received_1135555093209361" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Iq7-9U4prrk/WNA025LiGaI/AAAAAAAAkAc/yhI6WbwXVIc/received_1135555093209361_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="290" align="left" height="500"></a>We rode with another couple (Carol & Peter from Canada) for a visit to the Desert Bar, north of Parker. We’d all been there before but not with each other. One of the <em>priceless joys</em> of RVing is running into previous friends in unexpected locations. The Canadian couple John & I visited with in Algadones while waiting to get thru Customs was also at the Desert Bar that day with another couple, so the eight of us sat around visiting for hours. It was a really great day. </p> <p>Life has slowed WAY down around Quartzsite now as people are leaving to return to their homes or find cooler locations. Ironically, the nights in late February were colder than the rest of the winter. John & I are getting both our rigs ready to travel & are going to caravan together this summer. Since he has a long list of places he wants to visit, I just plain don’t want to sightsee alone, & we both need to return to South Dakota for driver’s licenses this summer, it seems like a win-win solution to travel together. Besides, we sort of enjoy each other’s company!</p> <p>The last few days in Quartzsite really heated up, so we left on a Sunday instead of waiting for Monday (a better travel day). We had our last Friday night fish at Darlene’s & our last pizza & beer Saturday at Silly Al’s. Part of me just hates leaving Quartzsite because it has always felt so much like <em>home </em>to me. It’s hard to describe to people but it’s eclectic, quirky <em>vibe</em> is addictive. Nevertheless, Kira & me in the Tundra pulling my <em>egg</em> with two cats & John & Beethoven in his Class A pulling a cargo trailer headed NORTH on our summer <em>adventure.</em></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-42591784254855308752017-02-05T12:44:00.001-06:002017-02-05T12:44:46.651-06:00I Met Someone. . .<p>I know it’s been awhile since I’ve posted cause I’ve had a busy couple of months . . . spending time with John, the decal guy I met back in December. It’s been a couple of months now & we’ve been working on getting to know each other & becoming really good friends. It may last a week or years – don’t know or worry about it as long as we’re enjoying each other’s company today. Plus Kira is happy having John’s dog as a play mate. I recently changed my Facebook status to “<em>in a relationship</em>” tho & was amazed over all the well wishes from friends. Guess I’ve been a big worry or concern for some people. I look back on my nearly 16 months now since Jeff’s death & realize I’ve changed (grown) quite a bit, almost becoming a different person than ever before. I’ve learned finally to trust my own decisions & have accepted that I don’t need to be in a relationship to be happy or safe. Since I’ve spent most of my adult life having a male companion near, this was nearly as big a learning curve for me as figuring out how to manage living in & traveling with my trailer alone. In spite of all the tears & uncertainty, I guess it was a self-imposed loneliness I needed to go thru. I’ve learned to never expect either the good or the bad to last forever & to expect the unexpected.</p> <p>Quartzsite was warmer this winter than last winter, but has had more days of rain & cloudy skies. Rain in the desert is always a special time tho. The clouds over the distant mountains is mesmerizing, as well as water droplets on the saguaro.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-97ZVpZA5YEs/WJdx96-B-8I/AAAAAAAAj1E/WJ-HoefQI4Y/s1600-h/DSC04172%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04172" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04172" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nHqgZGgZe1s/WJdx_X9EupI/AAAAAAAAj1I/wolJkOr-yuw/DSC04172_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z8k-Rac1KrI/WJdyA8EF4LI/AAAAAAAAj1M/JDF-B5LqPgo/s1600-h/DSC04163%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04163" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 23px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04163" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EOvgtsrdTP4/WJdyCU36E8I/AAAAAAAAj1Q/oxI-CB_VTr0/DSC04163_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="164"></a></p> <p>So John & I have spent a lot of days investigating the Quartzsite area. He’s been teaching me how to safely drive my 4x4 Tundra pickup over some pretty rough ATV trails. I finally decided tho that I could trust his driving the truck so I could get back into taking photos as a passenger. One day we followed an ATV trail south of Q Mountain (south side of Quartzsite), all along the west side of Tyson Wash (the <em>river</em> running north thru town) & discovered an old rock house.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFg4lU_1MmLpU5vj3_ON-5IWcWuvl3myXCfZzm22wxT0ewnPJiJWnYtzWqq2u6W-e1XSMgrpYhLsY7SIei9Qx6ORVjAfjfIDa_qxC4shQV4024ap35Zj7pR6EcGA70DTleO6MO6-LKtXgd/s1600-h/IMG_20170114_171233%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_20170114_171233" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20170114_171233" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AxtWCNtlvXI/WJdyE4kwZiI/AAAAAAAAj1Y/3Tdp76U4hII/IMG_20170114_171233_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="484"></a></p> <p>Another day we drove east on King Valley road at the south end of KOFA just to see what was over there. This is the <em>back side</em> of the mountain just south of Palm Canyon. The clouds made awesome shadows on the rugged mountain.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JWKdQHDceNI/WJdyGRc4URI/AAAAAAAAj1c/oQqXG2U4UeU/s1600-h/DSC04238%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04238" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04238" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KV6M_ev8npA/WJdyH0-3bjI/AAAAAAAAj1g/ALxUfhRCG84/DSC04238_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="225"></a></p> <p>We also drove east on Plumose Road (north of town) to look at Bouse AZ & stopped at the <em>Fisherman Intaglio</em> on the way back. There’s another ancient ground graffiti north of Blythe CA similar to this. It’s hard to make out the drawing while standing next to it, so taking a photo was even more difficult.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9VIYB6mYyFM/WJdyJ95LBDI/AAAAAAAAj1k/73QdMfXiufQ/s1600-h/DSC04202%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04202" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04202" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_636yyP1BRA/WJdyLWFyWuI/AAAAAAAAj1o/lgA_3Xa5a7s/DSC04202_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p>After traveling over a rough ATV trail behind Dome Rock, we discovered the unique Gold Eye Mine. The owner is buried there, surrounded by several burnt-out rock buildings, but this display of decorated toilets had my attention.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XIc6qGvjRus/WJdyM0exItI/AAAAAAAAj1s/TyyJ4yF-HDA/s1600-h/DSC04282%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04282" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04282" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Yzn3xjrki9Q/WJdyOcqKnnI/AAAAAAAAj1w/saAT2OyqN78/DSC04282_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p>We visited the vendors in town several times, ate out numerous times (especially Friday night fish at various restaurants), & walked thru the big RV Tent Show & the QIA Pow Wow (lots of rocks). I attended the BloggerFest 2017 this year & met lots of new people but only a few bloggers I met last year were present.</p> <p>Of course, the sunrises & sunsets in this location at this time of year have been <em>eye-popping</em>. Apparently all the California drought & dust in the air make the sky come alive.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lB6jYdZe5p4/WJdyPxjy4tI/AAAAAAAAj10/UlKWsVAMUTY/s1600-h/010817Sunrise%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="010817Sunrise" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="010817Sunrise" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--vk9lpG9Sq4/WJdyRIUzVTI/AAAAAAAAj14/-xdu9dVUyNU/010817Sunrise_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0QOgvSEA5K8/WJdySouksvI/AAAAAAAAj18/TBS2pKxiy5A/s1600-h/DSC04088%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04088" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04088" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fYiwpD75T5Q/WJdyUKov_bI/AAAAAAAAj2A/thrUJUJzXdM/DSC04088_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MIQ2cNq968g/WJdyVf5QxmI/AAAAAAAAj2E/NBW8qvtUHk4/s1600-h/DSC04099%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04099" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04099" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-235JstpHwLQ/WJdyWu_AM2I/AAAAAAAAj2I/MdZsKnKRKXE/DSC04099_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JRBxUSICTX0/WJdyYFMt4KI/AAAAAAAAj2M/NUEJYePv_70/s1600-h/DSC04151%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04151" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04151" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vxPst4r6jT0/WJdyZTIwYqI/AAAAAAAAj2Q/FZ3WsdhI9IQ/DSC04151_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kI24YkaPt9k/WJdyalz0hXI/AAAAAAAAj2U/VcrdAJKNybA/s1600-h/DSC04204%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04204" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04204" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fAaQjVU_iYw/WJdybwgceTI/AAAAAAAAj2Y/kzdtQdqatf0/DSC04204_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RTmwW-2g2fk/WJdyc-GcmQI/AAAAAAAAj2c/uJiwgRZ5dXc/s1600-h/DSC04222%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04222" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04222" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ob5prk3kHpg/WJdyfSAddxI/AAAAAAAAj2g/kbnd1-EdrhU/DSC04222_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KXiv_ZgyeHw/WJdygzeITJI/AAAAAAAAj2k/hwpr7CfoGhc/s1600-h/DSC04246%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04246" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04246" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BzYecgijsJc/WJdyiXHfWpI/AAAAAAAAj2o/jQL_q6E6La4/DSC04246_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--oMvQ3Focxo/WJdyjbRIg9I/AAAAAAAAj2w/taQ0fONRToc/s1600-h/DSC04249%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04249" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04249" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z_wirUtAAc8/WJdyk6Fv2vI/AAAAAAAAj20/OY9qYdeAs5E/DSC04249_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p>I’ve been parked next to John’s big Class A for a month in La Posa South LTVA but <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H4Wqb0wA05w/WJdymCipqoI/AAAAAAAAj24/N-eGgdyz-LU/s1600-h/John%252526I%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="John&I" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="John&I" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WRxCs91z0-o/WJdynWSTkCI/AAAAAAAAj28/dlwbe2S9aC8/John%252526I_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="215" align="right" height="244"></a>we moved together recently to Dome Rock as the Fiberglass Rally is about to start. This will be my 5th year at this rally & I’m looking forward to visiting with previous friends & making new ones. Last year had around 185 molded fiberglass units snuggled together near Dome Rock. John seems to consider us <em>egg people</em> sort of a <u>cult</u> (can’t imagine why). He’s a big guy tho & needs most of that room in his Class A but admits he’s a little envious of all the narrow, remote places I can get my trailer into. I took this photo of us the other day so at least you know I’m not imagining him.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-53501744775277191422016-12-22T14:33:00.001-06:002016-12-22T14:33:21.662-06:00Hanging Out In Quartzsite AZ<p>Wendy & I have been camped at the LTVA (long term visitor area) south of Quartzsite AZ for nearly a month now. The weather has gone from HOT in the afternoon with perfect sleep-with-the-windows-open nights to <em>get that furnace</em> running weather. We’ve had a surprising number of cloudy, overcast days. . .disrupting our solar gain. My propane generator I got last Fall has been starting amazingly easy so far & I’ve ran it for 1-2 hours every other day or so. No, I’m not watching television all that much, definitely not during the days like when plugged into electricity. However, I’ve been sleeping most nights so much better than the past year since Jeff’s death. I’m where I want to be, the desert air is more relaxing, or maybe I’ve just finally gotten more comfortable being alone. Don’t know.</p> <p>Wendy & I have managed to occupy ourselves without spending much money. We go out to eat (usually around $10/meal) every few days & have driven around various areas of town. There’s actually a golf course north of Quartzsite, no grass just greenish creosote bushes. It’s odd to see flags with a circle drawn in the sand around it. There’s also a shooting range up the road from the gold course.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8JelatAG3fA/WFw32UbxKaI/AAAAAAAAjpk/WSLPU2OrFyQ/s1600-h/DSC04119.jpg"><img title="DSC04119" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04119" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EqJybNmSJXI/WFw4HEjOTjI/AAAAAAAAjpo/y9a6ZY-vdig/DSC04119_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p> <p>We took a perfect afternoon to <em>hike</em> up Palm Canyon in the KOFA preserve. Kira & I walked this rugged trail several years ago but we didn’t go to the end this time. I turned around after I got far enough up the canyon to see the palms up on the side of the canyon. Wendy had stopped about half way up, so I wanted to go back to check on her.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vv5xEx_dOTU/WFw4RxL_6zI/AAAAAAAAjps/0LlIBiHfaZM/s1600-h/DSC0412611.jpg"><img title="DSC04126" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04126" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hs23bQdBo_Q/WFw4UNbaogI/AAAAAAAAjpw/LvvMf2hajcU/DSC04126_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="453" align="left" height="500"></a></p> <p>On the way back to the pickup, we ran into another hiker & stopped in what little shade was along the trail to chat for awhile. He had been traveling around for 7 months living only in the back of a camper shell on the back of his pickup. Amazing how he had it all organized. And he was a Packers’ fan, so we had a great visit in the desert.</p> <p>Wendy & I made several trips to Parker to Walmart, but one day stopped by the Blue Water Casino theater &, $5 senior discount each, we saw a movie! We’d neither one been to a movie in a theater in years. We saw Mel Gibson’s <em>Hacksaw Ridge</em> about the first ever conscientious objector, during World War II. The hero really did deserve a movie about his accomplishments.</p> <p>One evening going into town after a rain shower & clouds most of the day, I was <strong>shocked</strong> to see the most fabulous DOUBLE rainbow with the most intense colors I’ve ever seen. People were standing outside in town taking pictures of it cause since it doesn’t rain that often around Quartzsite, any rainbow is unusual.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--PNbrf2CmPQ/WFw4Zrzh4FI/AAAAAAAAjp0/ituXtrGCJHo/s1600-h/DSC041418.jpg"><img title="DSC04141" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04141" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w7SpPTbk9-s/WFw4ce1kfRI/AAAAAAAAjp4/OoJnYB_p_pM/DSC04141_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="532" height="500"></a></p> <p>I joined the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) chapter finally. I felt a need to <em>connect</em> with known veterans around town since some parts of me will never be civilian again. Always thought about joining it or American Legion because I may need a safe spot for the night traveling around. However, even tho I was in the Navy during a few of the qualifying campaigns to join VFW, I was not actually <em>boots on the ground</em> in those locations, so I could only join as an Auxiliary using my father’s WWII service. I attended a monthly meeting to be <em>inducted</em>, & was surprised, I teared up taking my oath. . .just like when I joined & re-enlisted in the Navy.</p> <p>Wendy & I have gone out to eat Friday night fish every week, as well as eating other meals at other places around town. There haven’t been too many campers parking near us, so life has been pretty slow & easy for 6 weeks.</p> <p>I have always wanted to put some unique graphics on my trailer & found a guy at the BLM office who has done graphics for years but is now a full-time RVer. I had him come look at my trailer & we talked about what I wanted. Jeff always put up an American flag but I just haven’t wanted to mess with putting it up, so I gave his flag to his daughter. But somewhere I saw a flag graphic mounted on the front of a Casita & decided that was a good compromise. Anyway, John (the graphics guy) & I are working on what I want on my trailer. I’ve always loved working with graphics on a computer so this is a fun project. Besides, he’s also a cancer survivor & chemo recipient so we developed an instant bond.</p> <p>So, it’s <em>winter in the desert</em> around Quartzsite – & we’ve had rain & cold nights. The cloud deck is so low you can’t see the tops of the ragged mountains ringing the valley. Nice for a change but will be glad when the sun returns.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hwAq3KP5-gI/WFw4gPC2LMI/AAAAAAAAjp8/s47kk-A77Bw/s1600-h/DSC041588.jpg"><img title="DSC04158" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04158" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5Soem0dpOZw/WFw4i5ycD3I/AAAAAAAAjqA/wWYnvaRvc34/DSC04158_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="213"></a></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-88724657592388240232016-11-17T12:58:00.001-06:002016-11-17T12:58:14.239-06:00Into the West<p>After filling up my fresh water tank & dumping my black/gray water tanks, unhooking electricity & my television dish, & hooking the trailer to the pickup, I finally pulled out of Branson headed west at 8am. WOO HOO. Talk about a happy camper. <em>On the road again. . . </em></p> <p>I made good time, just poking along at 62 mph, & got to the Oklahoma border by 10:12 am. Went thru Tulsa around noon – & I-44 is just as rough & beat up at last fall & past spring. Geez Louise, it’s a toll road, why is it so bad?</p> <p>I’ve always hated the traffic on the south side of Oklahoma City where I-35 & I-40 are sharing that portion of road, so. . .I take the turnpike along the north & west sides of the city. Much, much easier, but the bridges on that stretch really create rocking & rolling. My paper towels not only unrolled but also toilet paper. Never had it that bad. Oh, & the bottom shelf on the frig door broke at the side bracket. Super glue again. And the wind was so strong (constant at least, not just gusty) from the SW, I barely drove 60 mph with both hands strangling the steering wheel. After getting gas around 4:30 pm, I camped at Elk Creek RV Park in Elk City, OK for $29/night, 30 amp, f/h.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--OUMJv0XvCw/WC39qjtn3aI/AAAAAAAAjWk/znrI4ecBl_Q/s1600-h/IMG_20161102_075213.jpg"><img title="IMG_20161102_075213" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20161102_075213" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7Z2vo8McWmI/WC39rpUBvQI/AAAAAAAAjWo/ns9PlEXJtHY/IMG_20161102_075213_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="290" align="left" height="500"></a></p> <p>I hit the road Wednesday morning at 7:15 am. It’s still pretty dark on the western edge of Oklahoma at that hour, so I barely drove 55 mph in the dark. I managed to get this picture of the sun rising in my rearview mirror.</p> <p>The sun was up enough to see the road ahead clearly by 8 am when I crossed into Texas! The road was like glass, no wind, & not much traffic. I whizzed right along steady & got thru Amarillo around 10 & Tucumcari NM by noon – oops, that would be 11am Mountain Time there. At Santa Rosa, I headed southwest on Highway 54 (that’s the same highway that goes thru my hometown in MO) & skipped Albuquerque. However there were three different highways & sections worse than some gravel roads going to BLM campsites.</p> <p>I was to meet up with Wendy at a rest area on I-25 south of Albuquerque where she was coming from. But, it was closed, so Wendy went to the next exit. She texted me how to catch up with her, but I lost cell signal & never got the text to where she’d moved to. So. . .in the meantime, I’m following her original instructions & ended up on a frontage road along I-25 that ended at a gate without enough space to turn around with the trailer. I had no choice but to practice backing up, down that half mile at least of deserted road which included a couple of gentle curves. I finally got to a driveway with a gate & put the trailer right up next to the gate while managing 4 or 5 K-turns to get the pickup pointed in the opposite direction without falling into the ditch at the front of the pickup in the process. Whoop whoop whoop! I did it, not pretty or fast. Trial by fire. I was tired, hungry, scared, irritated & shocked, not sure if I was going to cry, throw up, cuss, walk, or what. Thankfully, while I was figuring out how to handle that, I just kept backing up a few more feet at a time.</p> <p>After stopping for gas & dealing with a serious head wind, I made my way south on I-25 to meet up with Wendy FINALLY at Caballo Lake State Park, south of Truth or Consequences, NM. Boy, was I glad to finally park it & let Kira out of the truck after 10 hours of riding (including the slow backing). I slept SOOOO well that night too.</p> <p>We just vegged out Thursday as thunderstorms woke me up at 3 am & rained on & off all day. However on Friday, Emily (a Casita owner in town) picked Wendy & I up to eat lunch & make a quick Walmart stop. I’ve stopped here to visit with her for four years now & enjoy that she knew Jeff back when he felt better.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tk0l--L3wWo/WC39suFFQWI/AAAAAAAAjWs/aMRsgIxapH8/s1600-h/IMG_20161104_105505.jpg"><img title="IMG_20161104_105505" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20161104_105505" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FThMNhkX9xw/WC39tXPPWBI/AAAAAAAAjWw/Sgo5BNjVutE/IMG_20161104_105505_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="380"></a></p> <p>The clouds just hung on top of the mountains east of the Lake & our campsites. So strange not to have full sun over the area.</p> <p>We left Saturday morning around 11, heading south on I-25 to Hatch, taking the shortcut across the desert to Deming, then west on I-10 to Arizona. Once again, I would have done a little dance at the Arizona state sign – except for the driving part. We scooted thru Tucson & north to pickup I-8. I’d never been that way before, having always headed west from Tucson on the Ajo Highway. Made it to the Shell station at the east end of Gila Bend around 5:30, close to dusk, pretty well worn out & pooped. BUT, we were only a few hours then from Quartzsite & our destination. We just boondocked at the far side of that truck parking lot & slept pretty well, not caring that we were officially in Arizona’s Pacific Timezone until 2am the next morning when it became 2am Mountain time.</p> <p>We were both awake early Sunday morning so got back on the road by 9:30 am heading north to Buckeye to pick up I-10 west to Quartzsite. Traffic wasn’t too bad & no wind so went directly to the LTVA kiosk to get our annual $180 pass. We moseyed around looking for the <em>perfect spot</em> but finally took an open area with a great view of the red mountain directly to the west of that site. We wanted <u>a tree</u> & drove around all the various LTVA areas days later, looking for a better site but in spite of it still being <em>summer</em> in Quartzsite, it’ll change in a month & a shade tree won’t be wanted. Besides, we really like the view of that mountain behind us.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xwTnhOj6NzE/WC39uRzmblI/AAAAAAAAjW0/_JBCo1HqQfg/s1600-h/DSC04079.jpg"><img title="DSC04079" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04079" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CHnPlIMV10I/WC39vaBgkqI/AAAAAAAAjW4/LwMrPQ0-paE/DSC04079_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p> <p>We ate out several days the first week & got to know a few of our closest neighbors. On Veteran’s Day, November 11, I drove my pickup to Yuma to get it serviced (since the light came on early into my trip out to AZ, probably 1,600 miles ago). First, Wendy & I stopped at Applebee’s for my <em>8th year of a free veteran’s meal</em>. It always meant a lot to Jeff & I since we’d never been allowed to celebrate Veteran’s Day much as most employers don’t acknowledge it as a holiday Last year’s meal was alone in Albuquerque, so having Wendy along this time was really nice. Getting the truck serviced took <u>forever</u>, & by the time we shopped at Walmart, it was pretty much dark on the way home. Only real problem was. . .my truck was running on fumes from the <em>reserve tank</em> & we barely made it to a gas station in Quartzsite in time. Unloading our groceries in the darkness of the desert wasn’t too bad since the not-quite-full moon was amazingly bright & helpful that night.</p> <p>Otherwise, we’ve spent some pretty quiet, peaceful days. The first week & a half got pretty warm in the afternoons but the nights were, as all desert nights are, fantastic perfect sleeping temperature. There was that little issue with Wendy trying to climb a hill with her SUV but got it buried first in the gravel bed trying to get to it (she didn’t make it). Glad she has 4-wheel drive in her Sequoia cause the running board on my passenger side was loaded with gravel still when we got back to the trailers. Apparently it really was buried deep for a bit on the passenger side. </p> <p>We’ve visited the local library a few times, filled propane tanks, & found more places to eat out. Our solar panels have worked well, & I used my propane generator FINALLY after 5 days of boondocking. After a week, I got us both water for our fresh water tanks with the water bladder that lives above the cab of my truck. We’ll hook up to dump the tanks when needed but probably return to the same spot. Yep – life has been pretty GREAT back in the desert! The locals say <em>summer</em> will abruptly end soon as <em>winter</em> arrives. I’m ready as I had more than enough summer this year! And it’s so great to see these Arizona sunsets again that look like molten lava across the sky!!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xzg6WXbXhTk/WC39wfObGOI/AAAAAAAAjW8/vOoYAu89pP8/s1600-h/DSC0409912.jpg"><img title="DSC04099" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04099" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbh6XfFmr82212DiMLCultd1IrwAiiIqVymXyJyU2xPIwabbwKeknfNvazZUFogmOFQuUE3C2jMXHc-Sce_TI9FD23-EW5W4TVM4zDZWpbqz4zGM4nk53eeHa8Zkq5JApd4rn9_DFOUKh/?imgmax=800" width="660" height="447"></a></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-49866846813357339602016-10-31T21:13:00.001-05:002016-10-31T21:13:21.695-05:00Fall 2016 – Finally<p>After Wendy left for Denver, I returned to Branson Ridge (formerly Compton Ridge) Campground west of Branson MO. This is the campground where Jeff & I spent the previous two summers, where we hung out as his health deteriorated last year, & where the staff was tremendously helpful teaching me how to manage continuing to live in the Casita by myself. I thought about returning to the exact campsite where Jeff & I were camped -- when he died last year. . .but. . .but. . .it just didn’t feel right. I’ve returned to that site tho while walking Kira, to sit at the picnic table in the covered deck shelter, thinking, reflecting, <em>saying goodbye</em>. It hasn’t been as sad as I expected. I managed to <em>come to terms </em>with various aspects of my time spent with Jeff in my life, & reached a degree of peacefulness instead of simply acceptance.</p> <p>As my departure date to AZ neared, I happened upon a welder in Springfield who removed the cargo deck at the back of the Casita which housed <em>stuff</em> & two AGM 12v batteries to a simple steel box to house only the batteries. The previous cargo deck was replaced several years ago that housed four (too heavy) 6v batteries, but this 2-year old solution was going to fail sometime soon too. I moved what was left to the pickup or storage unit. I also replaced the icky dirty white spare tire cover. I like the look & ease of this arrangement much better & hope it is much more serviceable.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5-1XfI3Q3uc/WBf6FSBNGBI/AAAAAAAAjNo/sif9BTsptPs/s1600-h/2016-10-07-17.19.583.jpg"><img title="2016-10-07 17.19.58" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-10-07 17.19.58" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-do7Z_PzRS7I/WBf6IajKOgI/AAAAAAAAjNs/BDAZ98N7g5Y/2016-10-07-17.19.58_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="401"></a></p> <p>I’ve bought a few other things, including one of those newer, kink-free, light-weight fresh water hoses & an Anderson leveler, visited with a lot of campers, <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Yp_KDHyJQeE/WBf6LzNiIoI/AAAAAAAAjNw/nQVHHs-Aef8/s1600-h/2016-10-04-21.51.4810.jpg"><img title="2016-10-04 21.51.48" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 24px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="2016-10-04 21.51.48" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kAuGiaK67gc/WBf6PfmFY_I/AAAAAAAAjN0/NitgiC5ZCrc/2016-10-04-21.51.48_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="273" align="left" height="484"></a>& eaten out a few times, but for the most part, spent 3 weeks just <em>vegging</em>, finally enjoying some cooler weather & sleeping with the windows open at night. And Kira & have have taken a lot of walks around the campground. This is one of the roads we walk DOWN all the time. Just happened to have the setting sun sneaking thru the trees.</p> <p>I returned to Stockton Lake (where Wendy & I had camped) for a week to spend saying goodbye to several friends & to celebrate my dad’s 94th birthday with him. I replaced the battery in his 2-year old smart phone, as well as a new battery for my fon too. He’s still doing very well after my mom’s death, but his knee has given out a couple of times so he feels it’s only a matter of time until he goes to the nursing home where a wheel chair & a helping hand will be needed even more. I had a good, long visit (& often shared a meal) with four different friends that I may not get to see even next year when I return.</p> <p>During my busy week of saying goodbye to friends & family, I spent Oct 13th, the date Jeff died last year, exclusively with his daughter. We met up south of Kansas City to spend three great hours over pizza – just girl talk – answering questions, calming sensations of guilt, & sharing our future plans. She’s the closest person I have to a daughter. She’s a <em>daddy’s girl</em>, just like me, so as badly as I’ve missed Jeff, I feel it’s been even harder for her since her dad has always been in her life, just a phone call away. I can only imagine how much loosing my own father is going to hurt.</p> <p>I returned to Branson for the last two weeks of October to finish up medical appointments & get organized for my winter in AZ plus spring/summer in NM & CO. It cooled off finally enough to go thru, reorganize, & clean out my storage unit. I sold/gave away most all of Jeff’s power & hand tools. I didn’t know what most of them did & wasn’t going to need them. I ripped all the music CDs we still had that I cared about to my computer & donated them to the library. And of course, thru away stuff. Now at least I know what’s in the storage unit is what I’m not ready to give up yet & I can get to it all. I’ll downsize more next Fall.</p> <p>A friend suggested getting a dash cam, like a GoPro, but they’re a pretty expensive toy. But I thought it would be neat to use an <em>action camera</em> attached to the back of the Casita to watch as I backed in to a campsite (still a tense undertaking). An Amazon search yielded lots of these inexpensive little cameras & I selected one with a spare battery & a free app to view what the camera sees on my smart phone. I still have to get it secured on my pickup dash & at the back of the trailer – but I’m content with my $53 Christmas present toy.</p> <p>I spent the Saturday before leaving with my dad. He fried some crappy fish (pronounced croppy) for me & baked me some brownies (my favorite desert). My Casita friend, Debbie, who has camped with me & Wendy & lives around the corner from my dad finally came over to meet my dad & me. It was sad leaving cause unless something happens with him, I hope to not to have to go east of the Rockies until next October.</p> <p>Unfortunately, the bone scan done by the VA revealed I’m getting close to full-blown osteoporosis. Crap!! Between my mother having it, chemo, menopause, & ex-smoker, it was only a matter of time – I guess. The VA has me on a once-a-week pill that we’ll see how well it works.</p> <p>Also, I’ve noticed my 12-year old, 20# Maine coon cat, Boots, having problems moving around this summer. I was hoping it was just arthritis, but after doing some research, a vet visit confirmed he has diabetes. Double crap!! He seems to be getting around better from the diabetic cat food & twice daily insulin shots at least. I rescued him off a lonely country road 12 years ago as a scared, starving 7-wk old kitten & I’m not about to give him up without a fight.</p> <p>I am letting my natural salt & pepper hair grow out & stay (probably until the next time I get bored & want a new look) so <em>most</em> of the sick, yucky red is gone finally. Got an “all clear” on my annual mammogram & was finally <strong><em>free to move about the country. </em></strong>I’m pulling out the morning of November 1st, headed west toward NM & AZ to meet up, travel & camp with my solo Casita girlfriends. YEE-HAW!</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-76794314031545008262016-09-23T12:04:00.001-05:002016-09-23T12:04:51.303-05:00Reunion with Casita friends<p>My Quartzite friend, Wendy, arrived finally to visit me. We went out to eat that evening & visited my dad. This full-time RVing is a <em>very strange & not understood</em> idea to my dad, so it seemed like a good idea for him to meet one of my closest camping buddies. The next evening then, another Casita gal (Debbie), who lives around the corner from my dad, decided to come camp with us (all of an 11 mile trip for her). And she even brought food & fixed us some great bacon-wrapped hamburgers. Had a fantastic visit talking <em>Casita stuff</em> outside in the refreshing cool weather that rolled thru just for that weekend. One day, I took Wendy over to visit one of my high-school friends, & then another day we made a trip to Walmart & ate at a Chinese restaurant. Overall a lazy week tho.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O8QAxPOGHw0/V-VfjrVgIDI/AAAAAAAAiZA/B0UBLgaB46g/s1600-h/IMG_20160821_1032305.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160821_103230" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160821_103230" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n0RH8Z_FOKo/V-VfnrNOqgI/AAAAAAAAiZE/8kBiHh2uKLM/IMG_20160821_103230_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="380"></a></p> <p>After a week, we hooked up & traveled to a COE campground near Shell Knob MO (west of Branson on Tablerock Lake) that is centrally located for some Ozark sightseeing. Unfortunately, the curb-side tire on Wendy’s Casita failed about an hour from the campground. We don’t know if she ran over something or if it blew out or what, but her tire was totally shredded by the time road assistance got it changed. We spent one day in Branson, having lunch at my favorite Mexican restaurant, visiting the Visitor Center at Tablerock Dam, & later had frozen custard at Andy’s. And of course, a stop at Walmart again before returning to the campground.<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ecLM36t8wXw/V-Vfr7bFbcI/AAAAAAAAiZI/hmBLGGk9-Bg/s1600-h/DSC040265.jpg"><img title="DSC04026" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04026" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4sbnBA1UEzY/V-Vfvb8Ho5I/AAAAAAAAiZM/qrNulUiCwJs/DSC04026_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="340" align="right" height="500"></a></p> <p>Another day, we visited Roaring River where a trout-loving cold stream gushes out of a small cave.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tK714x7J3aY/V-Vf00qtOOI/AAAAAAAAiZQ/LGj8RvOK57s/s1600-h/DSC040234.jpg"><img title="DSC04023" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04023" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kwUvplW6Xgw/V-Vf4RkGKVI/AAAAAAAAiZU/ZPA0r5vCrgE/DSC04023_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" align="left" height="180"></a> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p9VaJ8O4zAg/V-Vf8c8ZyZI/AAAAAAAAiZY/vLp283OmXcc/s1600-h/DSC040284.jpg"><img title="DSC04028" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04028" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IA5kODTjDqg/V-Vf_s-LFSI/AAAAAAAAiZc/-v4MNX59NF0/DSC04028_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" align="left" height="180"></a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Then, we wandered over to & around the eclectic, mountainside town of Eureka Springs AR next. While eating lunch, it poured outside & never stopped sprinkling until we returned to MO. The café had this intricate mural on the side of the building. Wendy got a new top & a pair of earrings.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XbBhLRVmavQ/V-VgDlQlRzI/AAAAAAAAiZg/J9Z9IgK7tmA/s1600-h/IMG_20160829_1455285.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160829_145528" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160829_145528" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zKC4fmG21Yo/V-VgJ1uUm8I/AAAAAAAAiZk/neJ-WBX5akg/IMG_20160829_145528_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="660" height="184"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ini8qiS9ams/V-VgP0P-x4I/AAAAAAAAiZo/QUWBiVVb5hw/s1600-h/IMG_20160829_1424445.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160829_142444" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 20px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160829_142444" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3KZQOkESnGg/V-VgTQxqCXI/AAAAAAAAiZw/6CiWQFTV6KE/IMG_20160829_142444_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="344" align="left" height="500"></a></p> <p>We also drove west to visit Thorncrown Chapel, a little church with glass walls, nestled in a dense stand of trees.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>We spent some days just hanging around inside the A/C enjoying whatever we wanted. We left on Thursday before Labor Day weekend to return to the quiet, little campground near my hometown to wait out the holiday crazies. On the way, we stopped in Springfield for Wendy to get three new trailer tires so she’s good to travel many more miles. I got to have some Springfield cashew chicken again while in town. A cool front had come thru too & dropped both the temperature & humidity level so I actually slept with the windows open.</p> <p>As with most RVers tho, Wendy’s plans changed slightly, so she decided to take another couple of weeks to just <em>unwind</em> here in MO without having to travel anywhere. Labor Day afternoon, we hooked up & traveled a half hour to camp at the COE campground on Stockton Lake (much cheaper than the campground near my hometown where we survived the holiday). We spent two glorious, lazy weeks looking out on a little bay. We ha<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QsUfHNSxCCU/V-VgYEI9YII/AAAAAAAAiZ0/NZfvaPyvGPQ/s1600-h/DSC04048%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04048" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04048" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-v76WQk2FoYY/V-Vga3yC3uI/AAAAAAAAiZ4/MjUS0oVZZgw/DSC04048_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="164"></a>d another wine night & visited my dad a couple of times. We drove around town & the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3SZsqkV4CVc/V-VggHT2ETI/AAAAAAAAiZ8/vgaKYRRIs7E/s1600-h/DSC04034%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC04034" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04034" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PEg_ED-R4wY/V-Vgi11YfrI/AAAAAAAAiaA/muP4uU1a87U/DSC04034_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="164"></a>west side of Stockton Lake. AND, our Casita friend Debbie spent another night camped near us. Every time she shows up, the weather cools off. However, the day she picked me & Wendy up to go to Red Lobster in Springfield for Wendy’s birthday, it poured all the way down & back, quitting only about 15 minutes away from the campground.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6zoZjE-cjAA/V-VgnZYnq7I/AAAAAAAAiaE/5QIqwCDBmZ0/s1600-h/Wendy%252526Me%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Wendy&Me" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Wendy&Me" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-v3ggu12f9gQ/V-VgsTjNBiI/AAAAAAAAiaI/KBH1CsC95ac/Wendy%252526Me_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" align="left" height="244"></a></p> <p>After more than 4 weeks camping together, I (almost tearfully) waved goodbye as Wendy finally headed west. I was so envious tho since I hate this hot, humid weather. I’m returning to Branson to get things wrapped up for my expected Nov 1st <em>escape to the West.</em></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-52479076816968328112016-08-15T20:54:00.001-05:002016-08-15T20:54:40.850-05:00Half an Orphan<p>My 90 year old mother with vascular dementia for the last 6-7 years died early Wednesday morning, Aug 3 (one day short of four weeks in the local nursing home) quietly in her sleep. Her kidneys had failed & she was fairly unresponsive the day before so it was no surprise. My poor father was just beside himself watching her so frail but unable to do much of anything to help but hold her hand.</p> <p>I saw her Monday for “lunch” (barely some thickened liquids), but I’m not sure she really knew I was there. She looked so bad, I could barely stand it. And she reminded me WAY too much how bad Jeff looked before he died. However, we didn’t know it was finally her time & I needed to return to Branson. So I hooked up & pulled out Tuesday morning so I could make a Walmart run & Wednesday leave Kira at the local vets to have two small bumps lasered off her right front leg. They appeared to be growing slowly but she licked on them some & I wanted them gone. My dad called me at 7:15 Wednesday morning to tell me mom had died quietly in her sleep during the night, so when I left Kira at the vet’s barely an hour later, I was really stressed (<em>one raw nerve)</em>. I’ve never been comfortable when one of my critters is anesthetized for a procedure, always fearing they won’t wake up or something will go horribly wrong, so I wasn’t doing too well. At least I learned that human anesthesia can now be used on animals so they wake up faster & without many side effects. In deed, Kira was bouncing around when I picked her up that afternoon. After dropping her off tho, I drove to Springfield to spend the day with my girlfriend (since the 8th grade) – the one I called at 2 am after my brother died & where I spent the night after Jeff died. She’s my surrogate sister & Kira’s godmother if something happens to me. It was good spending that sad & stressful day with her.</p> <p>I posted on Facebook about my mother’s death & was blown away by all the prayers & condolences. Everyone’s support was extremely helpful & comforting. What an amazing way to communicate. I remember using the old party-line phones that hung on the wall, so using cell phones from anywhere (with texting) & internet (emails & Facebook) is nearly too easy.</p> <p>Thursday, I hooked up again & returned to the small campground outside my hometown. My mom’s funeral was Friday morning in the church they attended, across from the house they used to live. I borrowed some appropriate clothes from my girlfriend who drove up to sit by me during the funeral so I could squeeze her hand. I had always expected to have Jeff for comfort but she was a good substitute. A number of my classmates attended but overall, most of mom & dad’s oldest friends have already passed away so not that many people are left to attend. After the graveside services, we returned to a dinner given by the church for the family. As soon as possible, I had to change into my <em>uniform</em> (tshirt & shorts) but at least I hadn’t embarrassed my dad at the funeral (<em>he has to live here</em>). Since I woke up at 3:30am that morning, I was seriously wiped out when I returned to the trailer that afternoon.</p> <p>My parents were 25 days away from being married 73 years, but my dad has been amazing during all this. He could barely leave her alone in the nursing home, as he said, he didn’t have anything else to do. Although he hated to loose her, we both knew she had been leaving us by inches for the past few years, especially in the past month, & she was ready to be with her parents, siblings, & son (hopefully Jeff too). He’s sad but relieved now & basically just doing what I did when Jeff died – suck it up, continue living, & find friends & activities for distractions – you can’t bring them back or change anything. At least he’s starting to think of things to do now, like going for coffee with the guys every morning & attending church again, since he doesn’t have to stay around to watch after mom. The church pastor lost his wife 6 years ago & calls on my dad often, plus the neighbor guy’s wife has been in the nursing home for several years. Yep, <em>birds of a feather</em> stick together & help each other get thru the sad times. That’s what my new & old friends have done for me since Jeff died. That’s when you really learn who your friends are.</p> <p>Funny tho being around <em>normal</em> people, you know, those who live in the same house, city, & state all their lives & absolutely, positively have no idea why anyone would not want to live in a house, in a neighborhood & town, to see the same people & do the same things over & over again every day, for years or a lifetime. I had one not too close of old friend who doesn’t understand my journey of being a nomad say that with my mom’s death, maybe I could afford to get a house now, or at least a bigger RV. Ummmm, that’s not the issue & that person definitely doesn’t have no clue. I wouldn’t <em>settle down</em> or live in a house if someone GAVE me one. Too much work & I don’t want to watch the seasons change in the same spot . And I certainly don’t want to pull around (<em>or have to backup</em>) a bigger RV, especially not a <em>slab side or stick-built</em>. My little <u>molded fiberglass travel trailer</u> holds it’s original value, is tremendously road- & weather-worthy, lives big but is cozy (I’ve always liked cozy even in houses), & is real close to maintenance free. Besides, without having <em>wheels under my bed</em>, I couldn’t change my neighbors, the scenery, or chase the weather when needed/wanted. OMG, talk about <em>stuck in the mud</em>, to be stationery. And it has nothing to do with money. My only <em>exit strategy</em> is to hire a guy with a pickup to pull my trailer to my winter spot (probably Quartzsite) & then to my summer spot (somewhere in elevation in AZ, NM, or CO) while I follow in a Jeep or something small. I love meeting up with RV friends & stay in touch with many just as easy as living down the street from them. Conventional life is just too boring – & actually much more expensive. Plus, living small & simple keeps me disciplined, something to do with that rule about <em>always having a bit more ‘stuff’ than you have room for”</em>.</p> <p>Oh, & there’s also the comments about me finding another husband or companion. I don’t want to care that much about anyone again. Or become a caregiver or watch them suffer & die. Or compromise & try to understand moods & behaviors. I learned I can’t control or change anyone else; I can barely <em>control</em> my dog or myself, & I’m tired of accommodating someone else’s wishes. I hope I don’t sound <em>bitter</em>, just realistic, appreciating what’s important to me & knowing where my boundaries are. I just want to continue enjoying previous & new friends on the road, without regrets or worries, & looking forward to new adventures. <em>Just a rolling stone. . . </em></p> <p>I’m going to stick around my dad’s all month tho to see what he needs help with & visit enough that he’ll get tired of me being around. My Casita buddy from this winter (Wendy) is planning on stopping by later this month on her way from Minneapolis to Denver (via a slight detour to me). I need some serious time with <em>my tribe</em> (those molded fiberglass types). And I’ve got more (old) friends around here to visit with than in Branson, so I’m fairly comfortable here – well, except for this horrible heat & humidity (<em>air you can DRINK</em>). In fact, I haven’t really felt comfortable at “our” campground in Branson this summer. There’s just too many <em>ghosts </em>(memories) behind nearly every tree, & there’s lots of trees around there. My dad’s health & mind are pretty good so I hope I don’t have to repeat this past month ever again, but at least not for a few more years. And I’m <em>chomping at the bit</em> to get back out west. Missouri may be <em>home</em> but not where I belong anymore.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-69382055139502054192016-07-31T11:51:00.001-05:002016-07-31T11:51:27.965-05:00Hot Times in the Ol’ Town<p>Since my 90 year old mother has <em>vascular dementia (little strokes that are destroying memory cells)</em>, she’s not able to live alone or even be left unsupervised anymore. Although my long-suffering 93 year old father is dedicated to caring for her, she finally reached a point several weeks ago where he could no longer help her up when she fell (from weakness & a UTI infection). He knew the time would come but sadly realized he was at his limit physically so had my mom admitted to the nursing home located across the parking lot from their <em>assisted living</em> apartment where they’ve lived for four years. After nearly 73 years of marriage, he’s just devastated without her around all the time. Ironically though (<em>and I understand these feelings)</em>, it’s a huge relief to actually be able to sleep without keeping an ear open to listen for her falling in the night, or just be able to relax without continually answering the same nonsense questions from her. It just breaks my heart that there isn’t a damned thing I or anyone else can do to ease his heartache – except be around for support.</p> <p>So, I packed up & hooked up the trailer in Branson to park at the nearest RV campground to my hometown. With the heat indexes predicted to be dangerously high, it’s just miserable outside. Even Kira no longer argues with me about coming inside to the AC. I visited my parents every day but still managed to do a lot of visiting with classmates who live in the area. One friend even drove up from the Springfield area the week before our Reunion to spend an afternoon with me visiting another classmate (who has diabetes & a heart condition on top of having both hips replaced already). We also stopped in to see my dad since his dad worked with my dad. Unfortunately, one of our classmates also has vascular dementia & brain damage from a fall & was in the nursing home then. Her husband is also a classmate so we three enjoyed catching up. Another classmate lives in the neighboring apartment complex from my parents, & her husband has the beginnings of Alzheimer's. I also visited one of my best friends in high school who worked her way up from nurse to nurse practitioner. In the past three years, she had a heart attach, breast cancer, & now is recovering from back surgery. Nevertheless, <strong>my class reunion was great</strong>. Good thing we all had on name tags tho. I could barely recognize some classmates, but the familiarity was <u>always</u> in their eyes regardless of the gray hair & wrinkles. Now if the heat index just hadn’t been 105 outside!</p> <p>Holy cow, only me & a couple of other classmates are the only ones I know of right now without major diseases or disabilities or a plethora of meds. However, with my parents longevity & the health problems they now live with, I’m beginning to question this whole idea of living to be a serious senior citizen. <em>Quality of life</em> is different for everyone, but for me not being able to get out of a chair or go for a gentle walk without a walker, having to take a ton of medication, & worst of all, forgetting your friends & family just doesn’t seem like much of a life to me. My best hope for me & everyone else is that we gently just don’t wake up one morning instead of suffering thru those last years. It’s not being dead & gone that upsets people – it’s the pain & indignities that happen before death that everyone fears.</p> <p>However, we got news two weeks after mom was in the nursing home that her kidneys had totally shut down. They gave her a few weeks to live, & Hospice was called in. Ironically tho, those old kidneys are still working at times, so she could last another month or so. She has problems swallowing now (from the dementia & doesn’t eat as much as a cat). My dad is holding up remarkably well, but this <em>death watch</em> is just excruciating. At least he has time to get used to being at home alone, being able to watch TV or listen to music without my mother complaining, but can still walk over to see her any time he needs or wants. How odd that his daughter is able to give him advise on surviving the death of a spouse. When she passes, at least the clock starts on the healing – just not until then.</p> <p>I had a VA appointment scheduled for a month, so drove the trailer back to Branson for that checkup after my Reunion weekend. Even managed to finally get a shingles vaccination. It kind of itches & swelled up but no other problems with it. Geez, I don’t ever want to have shingles! My cholesterol is still higher than wanted but is dropping due to diet & quitting smoking. <em>Progress</em>. And it was cloudy & gloomy with scattered rain. Finally got a quick-disconnect put on the trailer for my fresh water hose tho. And it doesn’t leak like with just a hose attached.</p> <p>I’ve been listening to music again while driving & it dawned on me those <em>memories</em> that hit me so suddenly are very much like the brief aroma on a breeze from honeysuckle, lilacs, or pine trees. So intense, just for a few seconds, that make me feel like I could almost swim in the scent – or the memory. If I closed my eyes, I could just reach out & touch them. Fortunately, my <em>distraction & de-sensitization</em> this past winter has actually helped. When I heard the news about my mom, I remember thinking it was just too soon after Jeff’s death. And now watching her fade away, so weak & fragile, is too reminiscent of watching Jeff last summer. There’s no easy way to let go of a loved one, whether it’s a split second event or one that takes years of decline. One of my few comforts after Jeff’s death was that he was no longer suffering. I hope I feel that too about my mom too.</p> <p>Thankfully I don’t have a big agenda this summer cause those plans sure would have gone out the window (<em>jello plans</em>). I’ve come back to park near my hometown for however long it takes – for now, just waiting. . .& to support my dad. I’m surprised that I feel <em>homesick</em> for winter in AZ & NM tho. Funny how listening to the same music now here in MO reminds me of winter of Quartzsite & the Wolf Sanctuary almost more than of Jeff. Good grief, nothing seems to stay the same anymore. I just get adjusted & something else jolts loose. But I’ve realized that my & Jeff’s relationship went thru a number of different phases in 20 years since <em>everything always changes, & </em>I’m slowly adjusting to being a <em>single</em> now instead of <em>half of a couple</em>. I’m discovering my individuality again, happy to follow my own preferences instead of compromising & understanding.</p> <p>I’m returning to Branson Tuesday so that Kira can have two little bumps lasered off her right front leg Wednesday. She isn’t messing with them too much (yet) but they seem to be getting bigger. Then I’ll return to my hometown for at least a month. I have more visits with school friends to distract me from this <em>death watch,</em> but I’m so thankful to be able to easily be where I need to be & have these last weeks with my mom. I rather be enjoying the cool weather in CO than here – this is a once a lifetime situation so I can’t miss it going off to <em>chase the weather that fits my clothes</em>.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-28852082935443439412016-07-19T08:42:00.001-05:002016-07-19T08:42:01.954-05:00Missouri Humidity<p>I’d been back in Branson for a little over a week only. . .& I miss the desert. How sad, or maybe weird. It’s just so <em>populated</em> here, I feel <u>crowded</u>. And although I LOVE trees (I think they have souls), I’m feeling <u>claustrophobic</u> without being able to see the horizon more frequently. And the <strong>humidity</strong> is just <em>sucking my breath away</em>. It takes no effort outside to cause profuse sweating, running down my face & into my eyes, even dripping off the end of my nose. Apparently I’ve become VERY spoiled (or soft) traveling out west. And poor, super-furry Kira comes back inside the AC some days within 10 minutes of being out. I imagine some of those holiday campers wondered why I stay inside all the time. <em>Well, I’m NOT on vacation or just camping – I live in my trailer. </em>At least I’ve made two trips to visit my parents & three visits to my girlfriend in Springfield (usually to leave Kira while I take care of other things). I’ve always been nervous leaving her alone in the trailer with the AC running for more than local trips in case of a power outage that won’t restart the AC even when power returns. Plus, 9 hours shut up is pushing the limit for her bladder.</p> <p>I spent a day getting my 2010 Toyota Tundra pickup serviced in Springfield at the Toyota dealer. I’ve driven 6,000 miles since it’s last servicing last October. Not too bad for a full-time traveler. Jeff & I drove many, many more miles just to & from work living 25 miles in the country outside of Kansas City. There was a lot more income then, but a lot more expenses too. At 92,000 miles on the truck now, it was past time to have the transmission & 4-wheel drive systems checked too. Ugh – much bigger bill than I’d expected, but I’m <em>dead in the water</em> if that truck has a problem. At least I got a $67 discount with Toyota’s veteran’s discount. I’ve had the same service rep (David) helping me twice now, & he’s SOOOO good at answering my naïve questions & concerns, explaining things to me, & trying to be proactive in keeping the truck reliable. And I’m really getting impressed with this truck. It clings to all these curves & corners around Branson, & I like sitting up higher than cars so if I’m ever in an accident, I feel as safe as possible. It handles like a car, so I feel very comfortable driving it finally. <em>It’s fast becoming MY pickup.</em></p> <p>The campground hasn’t been horribly crowded, even over 4th of July holiday, & I’ve enjoyed catching up with past campers & staff. It’s good to talk with people who knew Jeff when he felt better. I really like having people parked around too, sitting outside to talk to when we walk by. And Kira <u>knows</u> where she is too, having tons of fun sniffing all the new doggie smells. Oh, and the campground has changed it’s name from Compton Ridge to Branson Ridge RV Resort. </p> <p>While the truck was getting serviced, my girlfriend & I ate Chinese food. Springfield is the first place I ever ate Chinese food, & I’ve always preferred <em>Springfield cashew chicken</em>. It’s peculiar to this area where the chicken chunks are breaded instead of just cooked bare & is usually listed specifically as <u>Springfield</u> cashew chicken. There was even a little place near where I worked in Kansas City that had it. Yum, yum. I’ve <em>scratched</em> most of my <em>eating-out itches</em> too. </p> <p>I’ve got VA appointments set up for late July, had my glasses adjusted, & got my gold Baht necklace I’ve worn for 32 years repaired after a link wore out. I want to find someone to reconfigure the two 12v batteries storage hanging off the back of the trailer. Still have things to find & clean out of the storage unit – but it may have to wait until cooler Fall weather. I’m excited about my upcoming Class Reunion – our 50th!! OMG, how’d we all get so old (apparently, very carefully). I’m collecting some simple, no-microwave-or-oven-needed recipes that are quick, easy to make & keep, boondocking-friendly, & healthy that I think I’ll make a blog post about. <em>Considering I’ve lost 20# since Jeff’s death, that’s not saying too much good about my cooking, huh?</em> Maybe it’s more about my state of mind – no appetite sometimes. I’m certainly not a <em>foodie</em> but I don’t trust my memory, so things need to be written down somewhere accessible. It’s SOOOO great having a Walmart & gas station within a few miles. Some of the solo women friends I made this winter are having a grand time hanging out in CO which just has me salivating about spending the summer somewhere more comfortable. Gotta get my life (routine) more organized first tho.</p> <p>All this driving has given me lots of time (still again) to reflect on Jeff’s death, my future, & our past relationship. I can tell my memories of our life together are getting farther away from me, but his lasting affect on me is very strong. There’s a Celine Dion song that describes how our relationship started & why I was so dependent on him emotionally. He certainly wasn’t perfect nor the best looking, but he loved me unconditionally & was devoted to taking care of me.</p> <blockquote> <p> <em>For all those times you stood by me, for all the truth you made me see, for all the joy you brought to my life, for all the wrong that you made right. For every dream you made come true, for all the love I found in you, I’ll be forever thankful baby, you’re the one who held me up – never let me fall. You’re the one who saw me thru it all.</em></p> <p><em>You were my strength when I was weak, my voice when I couldn’t speak. You were my eyes when I couldn’t see; you saw the best there was in me. You lifted me up when I couldn’t reach. You gave me faith cause you believed. I’m every thing I am because you loved me.</em></p> <p><em>You gave me wings; you made me fly. You touched my hand – I could touch the sky. I lost my faith; you gave it back to me. You said no star was out of reach. You stood by me & I stood tall. I had your love – I had it all. I’m grateful for each day you gave me. Maybe I don’t know that much, but I know this much is true – I was blessed because I was loved by you.</em></p> <p><em>You were always there for me, your tender wind carried me, a light in the dark, shining your love into my life. You’ve been my inspiration, thru the lies you were the truth; my world is a better place because of you.</em></p> <p><em>I’m every thing I am because you loved me.</em></p></blockquote> <p>Ironically, this relationship actually prepared me to continue on without him. He taught me, showed me, made me stronger, & I hope I never stop <em>feeling</em> him still protecting & guiding me. I hope I never loose that connection nor forget <em>the pain of lose</em> too much. His spirit is still propping me up. I’ll be forever grateful he was such a great part of my life – & I’ll forever remember him in those quiet times alone. In the meantime, I’ll continue with the adventure we both wanted.</p> <p>I’ve decided to spend a couple of weeks at an RV park near my parents, visiting with them & assorted childhood friends while waiting for my class reunion. Also planning a day trip to Kansas City for Jeff’s grandson’s 8th birthday party & visit with old friends. Then it’s back to Branson. There’s a solo Casita friend who’s planning on coming to Branson to hang out near me then. We may even decide to caravan to some cooler places & meet up with more solo Casita gals. That would put a special spin on my summer of heat! </p> <p><em>So, I’ve taken nearly two weeks to get this posted as life has become more intense lately. </em></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-6681328483217454092016-06-24T14:03:00.001-05:002016-06-24T14:03:50.379-05:00Finally Made A Decision<p>I hate <em>indecision</em>, but that seems to be a problem for me ever since Jeff died. No one to bounce ideas off of or someone else’s desires to consider. Too frequently, it just leaves me STUCK doing nothing.</p> <p>Somehow tho, unbeknownst to me, my emotions have <em>shifted.</em> Suddenly I started feeling restless – maybe the infamous <u>hitch itch</u>. I started thinking about making a plan for when to leave the Wolf Sanctuary & where to go. I could wait as late as July 15th to leave & make it to my Class Reunion in MO. But – geewhiz, I’m needing to see somewhere different. In 3 months, I’ve made 4 trips to Walmart in Gallup. No where else! I may have mold or rot growing on me!!</p> <p>OK, so I think I’ll move up the date & leave July 10th. That puts me here an even four months in one place at the Sanctuary. Several days later tho, I started thinking. . .<em>always a dangerous experience, </em>maybe I’ll leave after the 4th of July weekend on the 5th. That sounds good. I told the staff in the Sanctuary office that I’d decided on a departure date. We talked about some of the <em>virtual assistant</em> things I could do from anywhere & keep a few necessary tasks taken care of without me being here. Great – I sort of have a job (no pay) but don’t have to report to a specific place at a designated time for a certain amount of time. That’ll work.</p> <p>Then a slight earthquake in my thinking happened. There were two wild fires down the middle of NM that weren’t a problem for us. But the wild fire in eastern AZ south of Show Low was <em>blowing smoke</em> at us. And possibly some of the heat. All of the southwest has been experiencing unusually high temperatures this year, not just for June but for anytime. I’ve been running my AC in the afternoons until dark since the early part of June. Nighttime temps tho are heavenly, just perfect with the window open. So why get in a hurry to leave? More indecision.</p> <p>One morning while walking Kira tho, I looked across the valley at the pine-covered distant hill & realized I wasn’t feeling the peace & contentment of the landscape like I had for months. There was that <em>itchy feeling </em>again. Damn I hate waiting!! After 5 years of being a nomad, of being tied to a workkamping commitment too many times (<em>I know, you can always leave if you want)</em>, it’s getting harder to WAIT to launch. </p> <p>Finally, I realized I had just hit <u>critical mass</u>. I was feeling trapped in this serene, remote location that has been so comforting & healing. Mostly, I’m so frustrated from my flaky-to-non-existence 3G Verizon cell signal with ever-so-slow internet connection. I wanted to make a call whenever I wanted or needed without waiting for the signal to return or worrying about the call dropping (& not have my phone even ring if someone called). And there’s the hassle of tank dumping into the blue boy then haul it in the pickup to the porta potty to dump. Thankfully, I’ve only dumped 3 times in a little over 3 months by using the campground shower & porta potties. And getting water in the bladder on the pickup cab to replenish my on-board fresh water tank was needed every few weeks. I’m so grateful for having electricity tho (recharging batteries, watching endless TV & now running the AC) – but damn, after boondocking in Quartzsite all winter, I really, really want to park with full hookups again!! And then there was the 4-hr-round-trip to a Walmart in Gallup. Now I’ve saved hundreds of dollars in this 3 months by not traveling or shopping or eating out – BUT! BUT!!! I haven’t had Chinese food or my favorite shrimp enchiladas since before leaving Branson Nov 3rd. And this heat means it’s time for a chocolate malt (with nutmeg) from Andy’s Frozen Custard too. I’m salivating just thinking of it all. And although I needed the time alone, I’ve had very few campers around to visit with. Bottom line – I’m <u>civilization starved</u>!!</p> <p>So, I <u>made an executive decision</u> to pack up & boogey on my next day off. I just couldn’t wait until after 4th of July? My launch date on my first day off work was just days away now. Yippee!! No time to twiddle my thumbs anymore. I’m just feeling so anxious to get going. Since I have plenty of time to take my time traveling east, I’d like to see some of the northern NM State Parks that were still closed for the winter whenever we were traveling thru the state. But with such a short season, all electric sites were reserved at Blue Water SP west of Grants when I wanted to visit. And with this heat, I’m not doing without AC. OK, so scratch that idea (<em>Made another decision.)</em> And after several nights having trouble going to sleep (<em>pre-trip excitement</em>), I decided (again) to just <em>bite the bullet</em> & make this trip as fast as I can manage to get from western NM to Branson, mostly on I-40. It’s not like there’s a lot to see between Albuquerque & Branson anyway (or that we hadn’t already visited). I considered driving at night for the cooler temps, but <em>normally</em>, I’m yawning by sundown so that probably wouldn’t be the wisest or safest choice. I’ll just have to leave at daybreak & get parked & plugged in by late afternoon when it’s the hottest. Kira rides in her crate behind my driver’s seat & the cats ride in the trailer. They like the heat much more than Kira & I, but just to be safe, I’ll carry my indoor-outdoor temperature base in the truck to read off the outdoor sensor inside the trailer what the temp is. Good – not only decisions made, but a plan of action too.</p> <p>My last day (morning actually) at work took FOREVER. And then waiting for the cooler evening temps to get hooked & packed up was just as long & frustrating. After stowing away & cleaning up the cabin, I put on my head band (to keep the sweat from running into my eyes & across my glasses), & I went outside in the 90 degree full sun to bag up the two trash cans at my site, put them in the pickup & truck them over to the trash gage (to keep the <em>protected</em> ravens from picking thru the bags). Well, I’m on a roll (as in not melting down yet), so I drove around the front of the trailer, plugged in the rearview camera & lined up the trailer hitch with the truck. OK – time to take a break. But, gee, I bet it won’t take much effort now to hook the trailer up today instead of waiting until the cool of the morning. I HOPE I’ve actually slept more than a few hours by then but can still get on the road earlier by doing more this evening. OK, backup, get out & look, back up a smidge more, get out & look, one more tiny backup. The remote camera wasn’t too much good with a pine bough right in front of it. Since I was parked on a slope with the hitch REAL close to the ground & the backend up in the air, I attached the safety chains before raising the hitch. WOO WHO, I think that’ll work. I had to pull up a twitch to get the hitch to latch, but after more than 3 months of sitting still, AND in the heat, it went amazingly smooth. OK, continuing my roll, I secured everything on the outside & removed the BAL leveler that I like using to level up side to side. I’m not backing up by myself on blocks so even with the effort, the BAL leveler has worked great for me! Finally, just a few things left to secure after the sun goes down before packing up those last few things in the morning. Time to go inside to the AC, drink some water, & wait some more.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H6DE67N1nAk/V22D-3bjvII/AAAAAAAAhh8/hx2UFlZj408/s1600-h/IMG_58206.jpg"><img title="IMG_5820" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5820" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xBpZK0CW4bI/V22EAmH-ZyI/AAAAAAAAhiE/oJQgOUq9lgc/IMG_5820_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="646" height="486"></a></p> <p>Oh but, not that kind of wait (as in waiting for sundown or morning). In all these months, I’ve never actually got to touch or get too close to one of the <em>ambassador wolves</em>, those that are comfortable enough to get near humans. Here I am sitting down near my trailer site getting to touch & pet Flurry, an Artic wolf (amber eyes & all). Not one of my better pictures, but it was hot outside & I’d been working. </p> <p> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a1XfKZLIOB8/V22EBui17ZI/AAAAAAAAhiM/ZQkMNtxg9qU/s1600-h/IMG_58326.jpg"><img title="IMG_5832" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5832" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--9BTeseNkXA/V22EC_wTM6I/AAAAAAAAhiU/iPDfIyi12V0/IMG_5832_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="646" height="486"></a></p> <p>Surprisingly, I slept pretty well that night (might have been all the activity outside in the heat). I woke up at 6am, jumped into gear, & rolled out at 7am, mountain time. The temperature was just perfect. And for the first time, I didn’t have the <em>heeby jeebies</em> when I first started pulling the trailer. OMG, it was SOOOO great to be moving again – <strong>an adventure</strong>. The drive on Highway 53 east to Grants & I-40 is just a gorgeous route.</p> <p>Jumped on I-40 heading to Albuquerque but was hoping the traffic wouldn’t be too bad on a Sunday morning. And indeed, it was a piece of cake. It’s not a bad town to get thru anyway, & those 5 lanes of traffic weren’t too crowded. Hot dog, so far so good. I stopped once at a rest stop to potty & get a V8 to drink out of my frig. Cats are doing good with decent temperature from window & ceiling vent open. I decided not to let Kira out since she gets so excited with new places to smell that she’d be hot & thirsty. I stopped again for gas in Santa Rosa.</p> <p>East of Tucumcari, I started noticing some green grass (or weeds) along side the road {<em>gasp</em>}. Wow, how long has it been since I’ve seen grass, much less green? And finally, the Texas state line – & more green grass. The wind finally started kicking a little before I got to Amarillo, but that’s only an hour from NM.</p> <p>I stayed the night at Oasis RV Park, 12 miles or so west of Amarillo, the same place I stayed last November when heading west along with the couple from RVillage who let me tag along. Didn’t unhook the trailer, level cement pad, got plugged in & AC going, set up satellite, & took Kira for a walk on MORE green grass. Slept good, no wake ups, & had my alarm set for 6am. W e l l – excitement I guess, I woke up at 5am & pulled out at 6am. Hmmm, it was thinking about getting light outside but hadn’t quite made it yet. It’s much lighter at 6am in mid Mountain Time Zone than 6am at the western edge of Central Time Zone. I missed seeing the left turn back onto I-40 in time to turn so had to go another 2 miles on the frontage road to get on the interstate. OK, zooming thru Amarillo on a Monday morning at that hour was no problem either. Now to get thru Oklahoma City in one piece.</p> <p>Two more hours of easy driving & I’m out of TX. All the semis & cars are passing me as I poke along at an even 62mph. Oh well, I’ll get there in one piece. I started seeing fully-leafed out deciduous trees – large groups of them – & little fresh-water ponds. OMG, I didn’t realize how much I’d missed this landscape. Had to stop for gas again & figured out I could start pumping gas, run inside to potty, & be back before the gas tank was full.</p> <p>I decided to try the Kilpatrick Turnpike along the western & northern sides of Oklahoma City with two pay stations (cash only – coins, no bills) for $3.20 total (3 axles), but missing that traffic was well worth it. The road heads east on the north side of town & dumps effortlessly into I-44. I sort of started getting claustrophobic east of Ok City as there were lush forests right up next to the road on both sides. Agh, no views at all. Oh well, there’s more road in front of me & the scenery was constantly shifting (unlike many parts of the country). Traffic was tolerable & no wind today. The temp reading on the pickup <em>only</em> got to 91° all day long (just like yesterday) & the trailer was a degree cooler.</p> <p>I stopped at a Quick Trip outside of Tulsa for gas again (at a lovely $1.83/gal), rumbled over the roughest road of the trip, & got closer to MO. More toll booths on I-44 but it was necessary & worth it. I could have stayed on I-40 east of Ok City & taken I-49 (Hwy 71) north at Ft Smith but would have had to jump off near Fayetteville to wiggle up & down & around Hwy 76 into Branson. Jeff LOVED roads like that to get his <em>wiggle fix</em> on all those curves, but I’m not ready to tackle that kind of driving yet.</p> <p>FINALLY, I’ve reached the MO state line at Joplin. OMG, I can’t believe I did this, or survived this marathon drive. OK, a few more hours, but at least I’m in totally familiar territory now. Around Mt Vernon, I noticed the trailer temp was at 94° tho so I pulled over to check. All that bumping thru Tulsa had closed the ceiling vent & stopped the (hot) air flow – plus the sensor jumped off the hook to land in the trash container on the bathroom door so it really felt the heat. The cats were fine temperature wise although a little bug-eyed at the long bumpy day.</p> <p>I finally jumped off I-44 west of Springfield, zoomed around town on the James River Trafficway & headed south on Hwy 13 for BRANSON. The 8 stop lights in Nixa are a royal pain but 13 has less hills than taking 4-lane 65 to the east. Besides Compton Ridge is west of Branson proper & much more accessible coming in from Branson West (past a Walmart). I scooted around the plethora of curves on Hwy 76, past the stop light going to Silver Dollar City, & turned right onto Highway 265. Holy cow, I’m only a mile away from friends, stopping, shade, & full hook ups!!!! It was 4:30pm. Not counting my fuel stops, I covered a little over 1,000 miles in 18 hours of driving at 62 mph. Not too shabby.</p> <p>I had called Compton Ridge to warn them I was coming & when I drove up, several workers & one camper from summers past were at the office to welcome me. I had thought of my arrival several times during the drive & tears always flowed but I was just so grateful & happy to have arrived & to see “<em>my family”</em> that I just babbled with joy – no tears. And Miss Kira <strong>knew</strong> we were back home. She just wiggled all over – & sniffed. Yes, so many interesting smells & the possibility of new doggy friends in the area (<em>doggy heaven</em>). And there’s the golf carts to bark at too. She still remembers running along side one as I rode comfortably when we worked in Pagosa Springs CO 5 years ago.</p> <p>I wasn’t sure where I wanted to park & I was too brain dead to tackle backing in even if I’d found a site I wanted. I just didn't want a site where Jeff & I had parked before. Finally I just pulled into Site #1, right in front of the office, & got plugged in. It didn’t take long, even with the heat, for Kira & I to be out walking the kinks out. Kira had been in her crate in the truck over 10 hours. However, we both <strong>QUICKLY</strong> became aware of the much higher humidity than we’d experienced for over 8 months. Good grief, we’ll both waste away from sweating (& panting) so much. I got the TV hooked up & settled in to <em>just veg</em>. I don’t have the words to describe how good it felt finally. Anxiety, worry, stress – all gone – replaced with comfort, contentment, thankfulness, excitement, & peace. However, I wanted Mexican food but couldn’t find anyone nearby to go out to eat. So, I just went by myself. I play solitaire a lot at restaurants anyway, so it didn’t matter no one was around to talk to. My shrimp enchiladas were just as good as I remembered!</p> <p>I spent the 2nd travel day listening to music – our music. Andrea Bocelli over & over. Cried a few times but had a <em>conversation</em> with Jeff finally. It’s all the things he would have told me if he’d known he was dying. (<em>I do think he suspected, knew or was told by his doctor, but he just couldn’t talk to me about it) </em>It wasn’t my thoughts that I heard either – it was how he’d have said it. When I envisioned arriving at the campground & the tears rolled, he told me <em>“It’s OK, baby. I’ll be with you.”</em> So at that last road, the anxiety fired up again & I repeated what he said to myself several times & it worked. We both felt so at home in the Branson area & love it so much. It really had to me my imagination; I know that (mostly) but I could just feel how happy he was to be back too. His ashes have traveled under my bed since we left. Although he wanted me to sprinkle him around the beautiful places I would continue to visit – but I’m just not ready to let go of ANY of him yet. It’ll happen sometime.</p> <p>I slept REAL good Monday night & got some appointments set up Tuesday. Found a new site I can get into Thursday when those campers leave. In the meantime, I’m sitting in full sun. Oh well, as long as my AC doesn’t stop, we’re golden. I made a Walmart run Tuesday, & listened to music again on the way home. <em>Bad words & dirty names!</em> That was <strong>INTENSE</strong>. This was <strong>Jeff’s town</strong> & he was so close to me right then. On our evening walk, Kira & I met up with some other workers from previous summers & it felt so good to talk about Jeff with people who knew & cared for him too.</p> <p>Since I was changing sites Thursday, I traveled up to my hometown to see my parents Wednesday. I dropped Kira off at my girlfriend’s house in Springfield & got to visit with her a little. My folks are doing amazingly well for 90 & 93. Mom’s dementia is as bad as ever but didn’t seem too much worse. They are both looking healthy, not overweight or sickly skinny. A classmate/girlfriend who lives in their complex came over to visit with me, & we talked about our upcoming class reunion as well as her ailing husband, Jeff’s death, & my travels. I left later than planned but just HAD to stop at Andy’s Frozen Custard in Springfield for that chocolate malt. Oh yum. There’s no grass growing under my feet as far as eating out goes. When I returned to pickup Kira, I was invited to stay for supper so by the time I got home 11 hours after leaving, I was dog TIRED, full, cool, & feeling the lack of the last few days adrenalin. We took a short walk but Kira was ready as ready as me to be inside the cool & crash early for the night.</p> <p>Thursday I moved to my new site about 10 am. It was already getting really steamy but I think I’ll like this site. It’s a much busier, crowded area than we’d parked before, but being by myself, I haven’t minded other campers within spitting distance of me. The bathroom/shower house is close, the satellite is happy, I’m on pavement, & have trees on both the east & west for shade most of the day. Oh, Kira doesn’t take long to scratch on the door to come inside. Guess it’s still too hot for her even in the shaded outside. I have more appointments to make & projects to start.</p> <p>Then I talked to my cousin who lives in Branson with her husband. We all went to school together although they’re both a grade or two ahead of me. Although my cousin is a great cook, she tries to go out & eat as often as possible. So. . .we met for CATFISH. Oh yum, I felt like purring. Afterwards I went by our storage unit & deposited my generator, solar panels, & blue boy. Ain’t gona need any of that for several months. Picked up some large plastic storage drawers that I wanted to try in the trailer to <em>consolidate</em> some of the clutter. Yeah, I took out more cushions, small storage containers, & plastic tables than I brought in. It’s not <em>quite right</em> yet, but even inside the AC, I was dripping with sweat. Think I’ll <u>sleep on it</u>. </p> <p>Talked to my girlfriend in Kansas City for two hours about my visit next month. Woke up a couple of times overnight so slept until almost 8am. It’s Friday afternoon now & <u>it’s been raining all day</u>. Woo hoo. A day of rain is fantastic; a 2nd day is too much tho. I got all caught up reading on the blogs since last weekend & fixed me a big breakfast (for lunch). Kira’s been outside under the trailer all morning (in the rain) but it’s cool enough to turn off the AC. Just don’t want the humidity inside tho. We probably should go for a walk before it rains again. Not much planned for the weekend other than to finalize my inside rearranging. That’s all my news for now. Gotta few more friends to see & places to go this week – but it sure is nice to be <u>back home</u> (even if it is hot & humid).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-268UpB2Rto0/V22EEAIzzUI/AAAAAAAAhic/WmvHPTXtu1U/s1600-h/DSC040225.jpg"><img title="DSC04022" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04022" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7Kup1rsbvhE/V22EFAx0p6I/AAAAAAAAhik/-zuR0GAM9lc/DSC04022_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="646" height="433"></a></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-79108033855887886952016-06-13T10:08:00.001-05:002016-06-14T07:13:52.739-05:00Beginning AgainI spent most of 2009 going thru treatments for breast cancer. It was a bit stressful but, thankfully, I never got sick or felt bad for long during an initial round of chemo, surgery, another preventative round of chemo, & finally radiation. I hated the radiation most but going nine months without hair was the most difficult. Since then, I’m not always concerned with how my hair looks simply <em>because I have hair again</em>. However, I found strength & inspiration during that year from <em>inspirational quotes</em> I’ve collected for years, and then putting them into my own words, with a bit of embellishment at times even.<br />
During that time, I started a new blog, mainly to keep track of & refer back to the eloquent words, documenting the things I’d learned that I wanted to remember. Now that I’ve been a widow for nine months, it seemed like a good time to return to documenting those inspirational quotes I’ve continued to collect.<br />
The blog has separate posts for tackling various <em>issues</em>, & this newest post is about STRENGTH. I’ve had lots of people comment on how courageous or strong I’ve been since Jeff’s death – but really, it’s all just been putting one foot in front of the other, one step at a time, to keep moving, & knowing that I would be where I needed to be when I was ready.<br />
The blog has nothing to do with traveling or RVs. It’s about sorting out the emotions & feelings that may have been ignored – stuffed deep down inside where they can fester into an infection that makes your mind & body ill. Those negative feelings & beliefs are like germs – they only go away when they’re exposed to air & light. Acknowledging them is the first, but hardest step.<br />
As with everyone, the only quotes (& ideas) that resonate with me are the specific ones that I need at the time, so lots of <em>issues</em> are not covered. Still, I hope others will find something they need that will inspire a change of perspective about a problem. Most of these <em>words of wisdom </em>belong to others, but one of the very few good things about aging is learning to be more patient & gaining a more realistic perspective of reality, people, & events. This blog has helped me <em>mature</em>. The blog is called <a href="http://inwisdom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><em>Insights to Wisdom</em></a><em>.</em> Comments are moderated, but it would be nice to hear what you think.Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-33256252976912107242016-06-06T12:31:00.001-05:002016-06-06T12:31:26.359-05:00The Art of Healing<p>I know you’re probably getting tired of hearing about the process and/or my progress in healing from and surviving (hopefully <em>thriving) </em>the death of my husband, soul mate, & best friend of more than 20 years, back in mid-October 2015. BUT. . .<em>this is my blog – </em><strong>my journal</strong> of all the aspects <em>(the good, the bad, & the ugly)</em> of living and traveling full-time in a compact molded fiberglass travel trailer – with a dog & two cats &, now – by myself. Somehow, putting my thoughts into comprehensible sentences helps sort out the jumble of feelings that occur rapidly, erratically, & frequently. I want to continue this lifestyle because I am definitely devoted to finding & following <em>the weather that fits my clothes</em>. I <strong>like</strong> living simply, without a lot of expense, stress, or effort to maintain my small home & mobile lifestyle. I don’t care about or need a big house, fancy automobile, various toys, or even a big RV.<em> </em>I like having different <em>front yards</em>, meeting new friends & running into past friends, & still being able to change locations easily (learning about other areas of the US). It’s also very convenient to visit friends & family at their homes anywhere, on my schedule & still have my own bed & comforts to go to at night without intruding too much or for too long into their life. </p> <p>I’ve been asked numerous times over the past 5 years on the road when & where we were going to <em>settle down</em> (most everyone <u>assumes</u> we’d want to get off the road sometime). I knew I was looking for a place to call home, but hadn’t found it quite yet. Although I’ve spent most of my life living along the western side of Missouri <em>(we pronounce the name like it’s spelled with two “A’s”)</em> from Kansas City to Branson, there’s too many things about the state that make me uncomfortable anymore. Much of the land looks a lot like the flat plains of Kansas (beautiful in it’s own way) except around rivers and specifically in the southern part of the state, the <em>hills</em> of the Ozark Mountains which I prefer. But I HATE the humidity, heat, bugs, brush, congestion, ice, tornadoes, & thunderstorms. Missouri is perfect tho in October, so that is when I want to visit friends & family. I definitely don’t want to <em>go east of the Mississippi</em> ever again, & eventually don’t even want <em>east of the Rockies</em>. I have discovered <em><strong>the West</strong> </em>& – a surprising feeling of <em><strong>being home</strong></em>. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the weather & desert environments in the West, as in serious lack of <u>humidity</u> or days & days of rain, often. It’s also the various mountains and/or rock cliffs <em>everywhere</em> (always something different in the distance even on table-top flat areas), the temperature & plant changes according to elevation (pick the weather you want within a short distance), the independent, self-reliant, & laidback tolerance of lifestyle, race, & beliefs with a respect for privacy, less building & more open spaces (I LIKE seeing the horizon in the distance), & a very small chance of getting blown away by a tornado. My little trailer doesn’t notice traveling down near-earthquake roads, tolerates hail and freezing temps, & will follow me quickly away from floods & fires. But it’s gona loose bigtime tangling with a tornado. I’m only tied to Missouri on a regular basis as long as my parents are alive.</p> <p>This first year after Jeff’s death has been full of <strong>sink holes</strong>. You know, those deep shafts that occur suddenly & suck you into the darkness? I never paid a lot of attention to holidays before this year, other than as a <em>free</em> day to do what I wanted or didn’t want to do without feeling guilty or pressured. We never went anywhere, traveled, nor camped over holidays due to the <em>crazies on the highways & campgrounds</em>. Holidays are different this year by myself, even not going anywhere. I’ve already talked about how badly sudden memories tear me up, so I’ve learned to just stay away from listening to music & other <em>triggers</em>. But holidays really kick me around. No way to avoid them & way too much of <em>“I remember last year at this time.” </em>At least I’ve realized that I don’t seem to mutter to myself “Jeff, I miss you” nearly as often as at first. I’ve found ways to manage my chores (getting water, dumping, etc) which Jeff used to handle, & have found people to ask for help & advice or explaining mechanical stuff to me. I no longer imagine that Jeff is just sitting outside – near me. Now I call, email, or text friends when I want conversation, distraction, or comfort. The tears don’t fall as often. And somehow, I’m more <em>aware</em> that it’s been months since being with Jeff, watching him, talking & eating with him, & going places together. Sometimes the memories are pretty intense tho – like I can smell, feel, & hear him, almost reach out & touch him again. Still, the distance is growing. <em>Habits are such hard things to change. </em>I’ve been working on <em>letting go</em> of Jeff, but it occurred to me that HE has to let go of me too.</p> <p>I’ve wondered tho if Jeff had known 10 years ago that his drinking was going to kill his liver if he’d have found the strength & motivation to stop drinking. <em>What if</em> our birth certificates came with a date of death. . .but changed throughout our lives as we changed bad or dangerous lifestyles? Would anyone really change in time to alter their date of death? Does anyone really need to know when their life will end? Would it make everyone kinder, gentler, more understanding, more motivated, wiser, or more loving if they knew <em>their expiration date</em>? Or maybe it would make some people take many more risks. I wonder if Jeff somehow <u>knew</u> his life was going to end early & that he purposefully lived it hard, trying to squeeze in everything he wanted to do while he had the chance.</p> <blockquote> <p>TIME IS: <em>Fast</em> when you’re late. <em>Short</em> when you’re happy. <em>Deadly</em> when you’re sad. <em>Endless</em> when you’re in pain. <em>Long</em> when you’re bored. <em>Most beautiful</em> when you’re in-love. All time is determined by feelings & psychological conditions & never by clocks.</p></blockquote> <p>On one hand, I feel <u>guilty</u> for forgetting that Jeff’s gone, for not keeping his memory in my mind, for wanting to <em>move on</em> (whatever that means), & for actually enjoying being alone without the worry & frustration that happens anytime two people live under the same roof. Also, I don’t <strong>want</strong> to learn to <u>share</u> my little domain again with someone, to know about or share intimate details (emotionally, physically, financially, or historically) with anyone else, or make plans according to someone else’s wishes. Or – to watch them become frail, suffer & die! Yeah, sounds like I’m building walls around me, doesn’t it? Or am I just growing a thicker skin, or simply adjusting? <em>Is that normal? Will it pass? Is it healthy at least for now? Are these feelings just stages – or necessary lessons to learn before moving to the next stage?</em> Who knows? Someone please tell me. I’m just a little <em>sea sick & confused</em> not wanting to forget Jeff but still not remember him too intensely. I’m looking forward to the time the memories just make me smile & feel loved, when I can finally consider my <em>Jeff chapter</em> complete & closed. I think about the previous decades of my life (the people, places, & situations) & know I’m becoming a different person yet again.</p> <p>Had an <em>interesting</em> experience last week with a friend request on Facebook from a guy I’ve never met or heard of. I accepted (I was bored), & he texted me right away. We chatted back & forth several times, & although I mentioned being a recent widow & not interested in a new romance, he was really <em>insistent</em> that “love” was the only purpose in life (or something like that). Gave me the <u>creeps</u> that he didn’t seem to have a clue about the grieving process, as in <em>healing takes times</em>. He suddenly didn’t reply, so I UNfriended him. Stranger is that evening, I got a notice that someone in CA tried to log into my Facebook account. It hadn’t been me since that morning, so I quickly changed my password. A definite TROLL & I won’t be accepting anymore friend requests from people I don’t know.<em> </em></p> <p>I do get bored easily tho without something to look forward to. I like <em>adventure</em>. I remember years past, together happily with Jeff parked in a fantastic landscape. . .still feeling bored & <em>just waiting</em> for something new. I’ve thought about looking for a hobby but nothing’s grabbed my interest (too much investment, weight, accumulation of finished projects, & often makes my hands hurt). For now, reading ebooks seems to be my favorite activity. And I’ve thought about ALL the traveling Jeff & I have done, but surprisingly just don’t have the same <em>sense of wonder </em>about all those places Jeff wanted to go to. Yeah, I need to come up with something exciting, to look forward to, to do by myself. <em>Any suggestions?</em></p> <p>I’m not necessarily <em>worrying</em> about my vague future, but returning to MO this summer has me <u>concerned</u> about how I’ll react to revisiting familiar faces & places without Jeff (those are triggers). I need to be there for various reasons though & will just have to suck it up. I like to think that I don’t actually <em>worry</em>. Instead, I consider the worst case scenario, make a solid, logical, wise plan, & file it away in my memory bank to use later if necessary, content I won’t have to make any decisions when emotionally stressed. <em>I don’t like surprises – even good ones!</em> I like to <u>think about things</u> & be emotionally prepared.</p> <p>So for now, life is slow, comfortable, secure, & predictable. I won’t leave here until sometime between July 5th & the 10th. I don’t want to have to hurry back to MO (unless I want to) & am hoping to meet up with a solo Casita gal before heading east. I enjoy my time alone listening to TV while I read email, blogs, Facebook, & ebooks, taking walks with Kira, trying to be motivated keeping up with chores, eating, & exercising (it’s really nice putting off things <strong>if</strong> I want), & helping with office tasks for the wolf sanctuary (my work routine has been needed). The weather has gotten <strong>way too</strong> warm suddenly for my comfort (& most of everyone in the western states), so after returning from my early Sunday run to Walmart in Gallup (only the 4th time in 4 months away from the Sanctuary & the reason for very few photos anymore), I actually fired up the AC. My outside sensor on the bumper in the shade read a high of 91°. And I made the round trip finally without any tears falling (not listening to any music helped). And there have been a number of campers in the campground to yit-yat with while walking Kira. I may be an <em>introvert</em> but still need some socializing. Oh, I renewed my license for the truck & trailer last month & received two new license plates from SD. I’d never replaced a license plate before, but it was amazingly simple so I’m legal again for the next year. One more <em>Jeffery chore</em> learned.</p> <p><em>OMG, Kira is learning how to <strong>howl</strong> with the wolves. How weird! FYI – wolves don’t bark unless they’re part domestic dog. Full wolves ONLY have amber-yellow eyes; if they’re any other color, they’re part or all dog. We have a lot of wolf-dog mixes here that were initially ID’d as wolf & were going to be killed. ALL the rescues here come from the exotic animal trade & were not captured in the wild. Wolves are not domesticated and <strong>never pets</strong>!</em></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-39058327549828543632016-05-24T09:46:00.001-05:002016-05-24T09:46:11.704-05:00Memories & Bad Words<p>I’ve never been real comfortable with <em>memories</em>. Seems the good ones hurt just as much as the bad ones, maybe worse because those people, places, or experiences aren’t around anymore & I miss them. The bad ones were just <em>lessons</em>, & I’ve forgiven the people involved & been <em>thankful</em> to have survived the bad experiences. But the sadness from good memories lingers & stings.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JTulFOCZYNQ/V0RnJtscIWI/AAAAAAAAhGg/lHjUlL0dREM/s1600-h/DSC040056.jpg"><img title="DSC04005" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04005" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a1S0ReppLhI/V0RnXnzQMGI/AAAAAAAAhGk/K-fW021xHvU/DSC04005_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="260"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mYPpRmyKeRE/V0RoCVp77JI/AAAAAAAAhGs/haNTaaeO6K0/s1600-h/DSC040154.jpg"><img title="DSC04015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04015" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nD4u_DazZAM/V0RoHrsnfrI/AAAAAAAAhGw/g2qbPqqjMPk/DSC04015_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180" height="260"></a> <em>These are some of the unique trees around the campground, possibly pinon pine (or not).</em></p> <p>But I realized the other day that not ALL of my memories cause sadness – & wondered why? Some memories, whether 40 years, 40 days, or 40 hours old, just seem like scenes from someone else’s life, not actually past chapters of my own life. Turns out only the memories that cause me <u>sadness</u> are the good one’s which have strong emotional feelings STILL attached. The others are just neutral, past events & people with no strong feelings one way or the other – just history. I can <em>remember</em> places I’ve lived, people I’ve known, & a plethora of experiences that don’t give an emotional jolt, even ex-husbands. And I seem to have many years of my life that have no memories at all. Maybe I slept thru those years. Many previous pets & missing relatives tho cast a very deep shadow over my heart. There are places I don’t like to return to or see because of bad memories tho – so I just try to stay away from those places. Unfortunately, Jeff & I saw SOOOO many awesome scenes in our four good years of traveling that even if I wanted to revisit a place, I doubt I can now without Jeff – at least not for awhile or possibly not alone. It would just be too sad to enjoy any fantastic scene. The odd thing (still) to me is how remembering places we visited that weren’t particularly pleasant or sight-seeing worthy can still make me sad to remember them. Hmmm, guess it’s just that Jeff & I shared the experience together – & I remember being with him in all those places, regardless of the location. So – I just won’t be there again without him, whether I enjoyed the location or not. However – going to Quartzsite AZ for my 4th winter was extremely comforting, but I did try to go to different places than where he & I had gone. When I went to familiar places, I hurried away as fast as possible before the sadness overtook me. I still remember (<em>pleasantly</em>) seeing Quartzsite again, snuggled into the valley below, after a long journey – my first by myself, as I topped the hill on I-10. <em>What a rush!!</em> Yeah, it felt like <strong>home</strong>.</p> <p>Mother’s Day has come & gone, & I talked to my 90 year old mom. She’s doing amazingly well with her vascular dementia, but actually doesn’t DO much of anything anymore except sleep & eat. My 93 year old dad (nearly 73 years of marriage) however has learned to cook, clean, shop, & do laundry for the two of them, plus cope with the loss of his life-long companion when she has <em>an episode</em> when she doesn’t know <u>who</u> he is or even <u>where</u> she is. It breaks my heart that I can’t help or change anything, & I just sort of hold my breath until I hear she’s back to <em>normal</em>. The most I can do is provide some <em>adult conversation</em> to my dad & give him a safe way of <u>venting</u> his frustration & worry. Surprisingly, Mother’s Day was sadder than I expected when it occurred to me it <em>could be</em> the last year with my mom – or dad, or both. Plus Jeff always made a big deal out of wishing me a happy Mother’s Day even tho my only <em>kids</em> have four feet. I know he appreciated how his daughter & I got along, & she’s still <em>my daughter</em>. I like pets as kids tho because they never grow up or ever stop needing me. And they show me appreciation all the time for caring for & loving them. Between no kids & not liking to cook, I guess I’m just not very <em>domesticated</em>.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W1dLUbA4OoA/V0RoUP-U1oI/AAAAAAAAhG4/fFB1OAogkAI/s1600-h/DSC040084.jpg"><img title="DSC04008" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04008" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PzreoIwp2Vg/V0Rod5DvPWI/AAAAAAAAhG8/D5g4fU38G-E/DSC04008_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NqzGO_q6i7Y/V0RomakbUII/AAAAAAAAhHA/-aNIUznTlaA/s1600-h/DSC040114.jpg"><img title="DSC04011" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04011" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rQQWIMeL5JU/V0RotkUWQaI/AAAAAAAAhHI/x0aDYlLs2Zc/DSC04011_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a></p> <p>Between the memories & the holidays, I understand how the first year after a death is the hardest & sometimes (not as often tho) I feel like I’m just barely <u>hanging on</u> by my fingernails. I just wish I could find that damned switch to control my moods. Sometimes I feel like the cartoon character walking around with a little black cloud following me around. I’m just getting <strong>SO TIRED</strong> of this emotional roller coaster. I can go days & weeks even feeling happy, peaceful, & optimistic. Then – poof – it all goes away & the tears fall over nothing at all. Sometime, I’m so ready to <em>let go</em> of my memories, but other times, I don’t really WANT to let go. Maybe I just haven’t gotten to the stage yet when those memories make me smile. It’s happened a few times, but not often.</p> <p>Well, anyway, the weather is still very changeable, sleeting one minute & bright sunshine the next; calm & comfortable then strong enough wind to blow your freckles off the next minute. At least I can sleep with the window open some nights & had to break out a pair of shorts several afternoons. I still spend a lot of time reading ebooks (murder mysteries so I can try to figure out <em>whodunit</em> before the end of the book). And I’ve been using my new skillet more, although one-pan meals are the most I want to make. Not much new at work but I’m getting more comfortable with the <em>get up, get ready, & go to work</em> routine. At least it gives me some kind of <em>routine</em> which I admit to missing when not working. My friend Aubrey looked at the brand new Rhinoflex sewer hose Jeff got last summer but never used that I couldn’t get to tighten on the sewer drain pipe. It was missing a gasket (ring) inside that made it attach tightly. Woo hoo. However, then I needed a different attachment at the other end so the macerator pump can attach. Once I finally figured out how the RhinoFlex system works (with a locking ring to change to various ends or even hook sections together), I now have the correct end to use the macerator pump again. The last dump without the macerator pump, I had to keep lifting the hose up above the blue boy in the back of the truck to empty it – about 20 times. And numerous lifts again to empty it into the porta potty. Thank heaven for ibuprofen!!!! I seem to have an invasion of tiny carpenter ants (cause they smell slightly citrusy when smashed). But I squirt them with vinegar/water & there’s no wood in the Casita. Can’t figure out how or why they’re getting in yet but I haven’t seen any more lately.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JYhtA0ugnFo/V0Ro2Io2-zI/AAAAAAAAhHM/F2yS6JsXY3E/s1600-h/DSC040124.jpg"><img title="DSC04012" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04012" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l59sJcjSxeM/V0Ro9SRYGgI/AAAAAAAAhHQ/Rk89slojGhc/DSC04012_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="180"></a> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4ZListCYJek/V0RpE2ddloI/AAAAAAAAhHU/sivHQFkoN4o/s1600-h/DSC040064.jpg"><img title="DSC04006" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC04006" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MuZE79MBvf0/V0RpMMmBG7I/AAAAAAAAhHc/1nRrQ8ErcL0/DSC04006_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" height="200"></a></p> <p>I made another trip to Walmart in Gallup (63 miles one way) &, instead of traveling in silence this time, decided to listen the music on the thumb drive Jeff & I enjoyed together. I’m picky about the music I listen to because songs elicit too many memories & can quickly shift my mood out of control. It’s been a way of <em>desensitizing</em> me over all the memories that music brings on. Either I really am getting better or the strategy is working cause it wasn’t as upsetting as previous trips. I prefer music without songs usually but Jeff & I loved listening to Andrea Bocelli (a blind, Italian tenor). It works for me cause most of the songs are in Italian that I can’t understand anyway so my emotions don’t go crazy. I decided it was time to <em>make new memories</em> tho & ordered a new CD by him. Unfortunately, I don’t like some of the songs on the CD, so I started listening to all the older songs we enjoyed. What a tailspin that created. So much for <em>getter better</em>. Even without friends around & a slow cell signal, sometimes I have to call one of my friends when I get really sad, but I hesitate to call then cause I know they feel helpless & causes them to worry more. Maybe the music on top of Memorial Day approaching is just another bump in this healing journey. We launched our full-timing adventure five years ago on Memorial Day Sunday. I was never that crazy about traveling for too long before Jeff came into my life. Couldn’t wait to get back home to my comfort & critters & routine. Well, traveling around pulling <em>my house</em> along with us drastically changed all that. And technology now lets us all stay <em>connected</em> without being near each other. My priority has been being in the weather & scenery that make me happy. </p> <p>Geez, don’t I have a very exciting life anymore?? I’ve never been a patient person, but as I’ve aged & slowed down, I’ve actually gotten more patient. <em>(One of only a few good things about getting older.)</em> Plus I just don’t <u>care</u> as much about many things that used to stress me. And I’ve also noticed that I don’t <em>vent</em> (or cuss) as much as when Jeff was alive. I wonder if it’s cause when there’s no one around to help or consult, I just don’t waste the energy saying anything while I concentrate on fixing whatever is wrong. Weird, huh? Can’t believe I’ve been here nearly two months already – but I sure like it. This little remote community is really starting to feel like <em>home</em>, & I’m thinking I may have found my <em>summer place</em> for years to come. I’m also not spending much money (with Walmart & most restaurants over an hour away) although ordering things by mail has been a lot of fun. Wish more friends would come by to visit tho. I can only stand <em>so much</em> of my own company!</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-83670679364220568402016-05-02T13:25:00.001-05:002016-05-02T13:25:56.053-05:00May Day<p>So, Spring has <em>sprung – </em>& blown & thundered & RAINED a lot in most states <em>east of the Rockies</em>. And here in northwestern NM at the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary. . .it’s sort of still winter. During April, we had 3, maybe 4, mornings with light cover of snow that melted (or evaporated) within hours, & early morning temps still hovering around freezing. I even had to go outside in the dark Saturday night to dust the snow off my satellite dish several times. And Sunday, May 1st snowed, sleeted, & rained all day long. The high temp was only 44°. Unfortunately, I HAD to get water, so while emptying the water from the bladder on the pickup cab, the water didn’t want to drain into my fresh water tank & big, wet, COLD snow flakes were stinging my face. I had to go inside to warm up to try again. Finally got fresh water tank filled, but that short sunny break I started out during wasn’t long enough to get my one chore of the day accomplished. We’ve actually had a couple of thunder storms with some lightening even. I don’t understand how Kira thinks <em>sitting on my head at 2am</em> is going to make her safer from the thunder, but that’s what she does. I’m still bundled up in my winter coat (didn’t need it all winter) walking over to the office to work. However, I prefer <em>putting on extra clothes</em> to wanting to remove clothes to be comfortable <em>(weather wise).</em></p> <p>Not too much exciting to report on. I’ve enjoyed having a mailing address to order things on line: cat food cause PetSmart in Albuquerque is a LONG drive; Kira’s brewer’s yeast (cause GNC is in Albuquerque also) to keep her skin from itching during shedding; a new battery for my nearly 2 year old Samsung Galaxy S5 smart phone (still runs down too fast [cause I’m on it all the time maybe]), & a new skillet. Yes, this <em>non-cook</em> needed a new non-stick skillet to replace the one that has finally worn out. I got the Gotham Steel skillet advertised on TV. Seems to work well, doesn’t stick, & cleans pretty easily – just what I wanted. OK, so I don’t fix anything very intricate; it usually isn’t worth my effort. <em>Obviously, I’m not a ‘foodie’</em>, but having the right tool for certain jobs makes it much better.</p> <p>The only break in my <em>work/read/watch TV/walk Kira/do chores</em> routine has been my friends Aubrey & Sally returning for a couple of short visits. Aubrey has been helping out rehabbing one of the volunteer cabins. He’s been in <em>hog heaven. </em>I made another trip to Wal-Mart in Gallup, mainly for food. BUT. . .my pickup didn’t want to start that morning <strong>AGAIN</strong>. That was the fourth time in four months, so common sense insisted I get a new battery finally. Turns out the old one was the original 6 year old battery. Definitely time.</p> <p>Work has been varied. I spent a week scanning photographs of previous rescue wolves & another week tweaking & identifying the photos that had writing on the back. Fun project. I’ve rolled coins, written thank you cards for contributions, & updated email & mailing addresses. This past week, I compiled email or mailing addresses in a spreadsheet for people who <em>sponsored</em> a rescue wolf last year so we can email or mail <u>gentle</u> reminders that it’s time to do it again. I was very happy to find I still knew how to create a mail merge in Microsoft Word to grab the data from the spreadsheet to generate the emails & letters. And no one else in the office knew that could even be done. Whoo hoo for <em>senior citizens</em>!</p> <p>My hair is still too red, even after another dye job. Guess it’ll just have to grow out which isn’t a real problem since it’s only an inch long (or tall). I’m getting stronger in the <em>kneeling down & getting back up without holding onto something </em>area. And I’m not gaining any weight (fat) back – mainly cause there’s only one place around to eat out & I’m <em>existing</em> on my own cooking [or lack thereof]. My cheap air mattress blew a gasket so got replaced. My little manual espresso maker is such a joy tho. Quickly makes such a good cup of coffee. My <em>only</em> complaint is a lack of socializing. There’s just not been many campers around to chat with. Oh and my cell signal is so slow (or non-existant at times) that phone calls are limited to one spot at the back of the trailer. I miss taking Kira for a walk & having various campers around to stop & talk to.</p> <p>Finally tho after 6½ months since Jeff’s death, I’m sensing a subtle change. I go weeks now without any tears & hours without missing Jeff. A death negates all hope for the <u>expected</u> future, so acceptance & change takes awhile to develop. I don’t feel quite as <em>traumatized</em> nor wanting to hide from the world. I know there’s no real how-to guide for recovering from grief nor a specific timeframe, but knowing what’s <em>normal</em> would be appreciated. My main tool has been <em>distractions</em> to keep the memories from bombarding me. Still – a lot of <em>alone time</em> has been productive. </p> <p>Actually, I noticed this shift in my feelings last week when I read this on Facebook & it felt like Jeff was talking to me (just like he let me know it was past time to get a new battery).</p> <blockquote> <p><em>“When I come to the end of the road, And the sun has set for me, I want no rites in a gloom-filled room. Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little – but not too long. And not with you head bowed low. Remember the love that we once shared. Miss me – but let me go. For this is a journey that we all must take, And each must go alone. It’s all a part of the Master’s plan, A step on the road to home. When you are lonely & sick of heart, Go to the friends we know & bury your sorrows in doing good deeds. Miss me – but let me ago.” ~~Author unknown</em></p></blockquote> <p>One of my best friend’s lost her younger sister last week. It wasn’t a surprise but her battle with cancer was fairly short. Still, the family knew her wishes & they got to talk about her feelings & what they’re do afterward. I missed that with Jeff since he just couldn’t tell me he was dying. Even as clueless as I was, I knew he was sliding down hill quickly, & at least it didn’t happen in an instant, like a car crash or heart attack. We had a few preparatory discussions months earlier. </p> <p>The loss of a spouse, good friend, or pet companion (maybe even a beloved car) just leaves such a <strong>HUGE</strong> hole in a life that it’s a wonder anyone ever gets back to a <em>normal</em> life. And the older the survivor is, even with a more realistic perception of “life”, the bigger the “hole” is. I dread the loss of my parents & my critters – just more “holes” to adjust to. But, isn’t <em>going on with your life</em> the whole idea, somehow <em>honoring</em> the memories? And I guess that happens by finally <em>letting go</em> of what was. That’s the struggle. Not coming to terms with the memories or lost plans & hopes, but managing to make new plans & hopes & memories. Maybe I’m starting to <em>let go</em> of my life with Jeff & looking <u>forward</u> instead of <u>backwards</u>. Not forgetting – just not stuck or paralyzed anymore. Geez, I hate the idea of letting Jeff go tho <em>(kind of like being the only person naked in a crowd)</em>, but I’d want him to go on if I left first. And in all honesty, those distractions I search for are all about not sliding down the rabbit hole into a huge pity party. <em>Avoidance!! Procrastination!! Denial!!! </em>I actually think I’m not wanting to let go of the <em>lifestyle</em> as well as how I felt being with Jeff<em>,</em> the traveling around & seeing new scenes, or just the feel of tires going down the road [with HIM doing the driving & me photographing]. Jeff was not always pleasant to live with (even considering how helpful & sensitive he was), & I totally enjoy my freedom to do whatever or go wherever I want when I want now. Although I get bored, depressed, frustrated, & restless sitting in the same spot for months (regardless of how much I enjoy the location, weather, & scenery), I’m just not feeling adventurous without someone with me to share the experience. Maybe that’ll change too – or I’ll find a travel companion or two.</p> <p><strong>My heart will go on!</strong></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-7336856794485035622016-04-06T13:01:00.001-05:002016-04-06T13:01:41.732-05:00Spring in the NM Mountains<p>During the nearly 4 weeks I’ve been volunteering at the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary, the weather has been fairly consistent – upper 20s over night, full sunshine during the day with a few horribly windy days but comfortably warm. However, last week had a glitch – I woke up to snow, & a few flurries of huge snowflakes occurred during the morning. By 1pm tho, it had all evaporated (or melted away).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-moxF566-fT0/VwVON-XmDkI/AAAAAAAAg1w/M2ljRzgvnvo/s1600-h/IMG_20160330_0821084.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160330_082108" style="margin: 0px; display: inline" alt="IMG_20160330_082108" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PY8CmRiUzJI/VwVOSEMK57I/AAAAAAAAg10/WRKaoDlbIEY/IMG_20160330_082108_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="640" height="360"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IeSmR5jxbbE/VwVOX2a_70I/AAAAAAAAg14/Ir8vQo1822g/s1600-h/IMG_20160330_0820534.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160330_082053" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160330_082053" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_ugbXjFFaM8/VwVOb0kyvkI/AAAAAAAAg18/WcNAvFM1ZqM/IMG_20160330_082053_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="364"></a></p> <p>My job here is basically as a Girl Friday, helping out several other volunteers doing the grunt work they don’t have time to get to. I’ve updated email & mailing addresses, written numerous Thank You cards for our visitors, & most recently, started scanning & digitizing a humungous amount of photos of past rescue wolves. That project is going to take weeks (or months).</p> <p>I’ve made one 62 mile one-way trip to Walmart at Gallup once. Thankfully, I got everything on my list so I’m set for 3-4 weeks. The Trading Post across the road from the Sanctuary has a deli, laundromat, & small selection of supplies & groceries. I’ve eaten there several times but have actually had to prepare food for myself. Sometimes I think I should be a dog since I can eat the same thing day after day. So I’ve been on an <em>oriental slaw</em> kick for months since it keeps well, is easy to make, & has all good things in it. I’ve also started making <em>refrigerator oak muffins</em> for breakfast munching (no baking required). I got an Oster smoothie maker at Walmart months ago & really enjoy the blueberry, yogurt, protein powder, & V8 smoothie juice for fast, easy nourishment. I generally try to make things that are easy while boondocking so a microwave baked potato or frozen dinner is a treat. And there’s the mixed nuts to munch on at night watching TV. Since I only work 4 hours a day (5 days a weeks), I have the afternoons to take care of housekeeping, food preparation, & essential chores, plus reading & walking Kira. Initially she didn’t seem to notice all the wolves howling numerous times a day, but she’s started barking now when they howl. Plus, one wolf, Zoerro, was raised as a puppy by Rory then given to the Sanctuary, so the Sanctuary provides a <em>Wolf Walk</em> for strolling around the area accompanied by a wolf on a harness. Totally awesome to watch. Kira gets very excited when they walk by. </p> <p>Shortly after getting here, I got an Amazon order (it’s SO nice having a mailing address finally). I got a little stainless steel manual espresso maker that makes fantastic coffee. And I got a connection to hook up & read the hard drive out of Jeff’s old laptop that refuses to turn on anymore. Oh, got a replacement top for my propane tank cover that blew off on the way to Yuma when I didn’t have it latched down. Lastly, I got a portable USB CD player/recorder to connect to my little laptop/tablet. I’m digitizing (ripping) all the CDs I found hiding in the pickup console so I can put my favorite music on a thumb drive to listen to in the truck when driving. I’ve been sleeping better here, probably because I can leave the TV on all night if needed. One night tho I kept waking up every time the timer turned off the TV so I know it helps somehow having it on. Although I’m not crazy about having a <em>work schedule</em>, I have a lot of free time for reading & other projects (or just being lazy). </p> <p>Four years ago during Christmas & New Year’s, Jeff & I became friends with Aubrey & Sally parked next to us in Zion National Park. We all had a great Christmas Eve diner at the Zion Lodge, a Christmas Day pot luck picnic, & New Year’s Day viewing of the Hobbit at the I-Max theater outside the Park gate in Springdale UT. Aubrey’s comment after letting them know Jeff had died was that it was a “magical Christmas” that year. I agree in so many ways. I believe Jeff was feeling his best & happiest ever while there with them. Well, they came to the Sanctuary to visit me & the wolves last week. They were here for my birthday too – the first in 21 years without Jeff, so having good friends close by was so comforting. Although it was gloomy & spit sleet several times during the day, we had a great <em>wolf tour</em> on my birthday too.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KFCxlfru6wc/VwVOgqXpjyI/AAAAAAAAg2A/Dmra8JwfGbE/s1600-h/IMG_20160401_1455245.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160401_145524" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160401_145524" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R7s-OSC8P_Q/VwVOlWwJqSI/AAAAAAAAg2E/3uDykddKkGI/IMG_20160401_145524_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="547" align="left" height="484"></a></p> <p>It’s been decades since I’ve been excited about having a birthday, but remembering my brother & Jeff especially, I remind myself to be ever so grateful just for <strong>having</strong> another birthday (as painful as they are). However, birthdays mess with my mind (or ego or heart or attitude), so I decided I was finally going to color my gray hair. I’d talked about it for several years, but Jeff didn’t want me to mess with it. This birthday seemed like my chance. Unfortunately, my desire for something different – going sort of dark red – didn’t work out like I wanted. <em>I’m not a redhead</em>, so I’ll be going a medium brown <u>without red</u> the first chance I get. And no, no pictures just yet. I want to update my Google & Facebook picture since it’s more than 4 years old & I have changed some (as in <strong>aged</strong>, seems like about 5 years in the past 6 months).</p> <p>I not only enjoyed the visit from Aubrey & Sally so much, but they’re totally in love with the Sanctuary, weather, & landscape too, & are working on becoming part-time volunteers here now, mainly Aubrey helping with maintenance. He loves every opportunity he can get to <em>“pound a nail”. </em>It’ll be great having friends camped nearby, & I look forward to their return soon.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SvOlj36_S8Q/VwVOqvEuyXI/AAAAAAAAg2I/yPw6bGLG_9s/s1600-h/IMG_20160311_1534403.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160311_153440" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 11px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160311_153440" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WW_9avTWfP8/VwVOujchK1I/AAAAAAAAg2M/oOU4ywEcYWw/IMG_20160311_153440_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="139"></a>My campsite only has electricity (furnished by a big wire run across the ground from the power pole between the other two longtime RVs parked in the campground) but no water or sewer. I’ve had to fill my fresh water tank from the 45 gal water bladder residing on the pickup cab several times without any problems. Amazingly, by using bathrooms & shower at the office & campground, I went <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-okScxcMWg9I/VwVOzTHWR5I/AAAAAAAAg2U/Y23pdQxoubo/s1600-h/IMG_20160311_1535293.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160311_153529" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160311_153529" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P2PZ2QZZOfc/VwVO3yGNJXI/AAAAAAAAg2Y/DNHnHmySNec/IMG_20160311_153529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="139"></a>3½ weeks before getting close to needing to dump my tanks. I used my blue boy tank (like in Quartzsite) & then dumped that into the porta potty. I realized the cap on the blue boy even had a connection to attach a garden hose so I could safely run it into the porta potty. Unfortunately, it empties 4-5 times slower than using a regular sewer hose so that too <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G9c3TokGLSE/VwVO82Ex_0I/AAAAAAAAg2c/6_awA_Bc1og/s1600-h/IMG_20160311_1536193.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160311_153619" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 12px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160311_153619" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MsUGzpsJ54U/VwVPAgTfUkI/AAAAAAAAg2k/Qza5niGiSwM/IMG_20160311_153619_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="139"></a>FOREVER. At least I didn’t make any messes. While in Quartzsite this winter, I learned to put toilet paper in the trash instead of in the toilet & to not flush with every use (<em>If it’s yellow, let it mellow. If it’s brown, flush it down) </em>so it REALLY extends the black tank capacity. This regime seems to work extremely well for one person.</p> <p>I’ve had a few bad days of missing Jeff while here, but overall am feeling that I’m <em>healing</em> fairly well. After almost six months, I’m really getting tired & worn down with this grieving process. Mostly I miss having Jeff to talk to, sharing feelings & experiences. He really was my best friend & I could tell him anything without fear of criticism or complaints. In fact, I <em>still</em> talk to him. Sometimes I feel him with me (with the sunshine on my face, the wind in my hair, & the memories in my heart), but no <em>“hearing him talk”</em>. It may be my imagination (or not) but it’s comforting anyway. I know the stabbing pain will ease as time passes & I become more comfortable & confident being alone. I have family & good friends to call, email, & text who have kept me sane. Oh & all the Facebook birthday wishes were fantastic. I really have so much to be grateful for. I just want to continue this <em>adventure</em> Jeff started us on. However, I haven’t been too excited about the kind of <em>sightseeing</em> we used to do. I need a traveling partner for those excursions to unfamiliar places & awesome sights. That will happen when it’s time.</p> <p>So, that’s it – not much excitement & almost no traveling. But, this remote, peaceful setting is precisely what I felt I needed. I’m still uneasy thinking about returning to Branson. but I’m hoping I’ll have had enough <em>distraction & desensitizing</em> by July to keep it together when I go there. Ironically, Jeff & I have never enjoyed returning to the Kansas City area either after leaving – just too many bad, intense memories. As much as we loved the Branson area & the feeling of <em>home</em> being there, I’m afraid it’ll never feel comfortable there again. </p> <p><em>I appreciate everyone who follows my blog & I’m sorry there’s not much exciting travel or sights to blog about. I also don’t know that anyone else really wants to hear about how I’m adjusting to Jeff’s death but. . .this blog has always been my way of documenting our adventures, & now my (emotional & physical) solo journey. So </em>THANK YOU <em>for following along.</em></p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-71574812287288810372016-03-14T14:39:00.001-05:002016-03-14T14:39:27.467-05:00Getting Comfortable in New Mexico<p>Well, the night before leaving McHood Park south of Winslow AZ, of course I didn’t sleep well. Never do before a travel day. Woke up seriously early, had coffee & read email/blogs etc. Had to make myself NOT go outside for the final packup before it actually got daylight. Nevertheless, I was on the road shortly after 7am. Stopped at the Flying J for gas & dump my tanks. That took at least 8 tries backing up, pulling forward, & trying again to get close enough to the dump for my sewer hose to reach. OK – got that accomplished finally & I was <em>on the road again</em>.</p> <p>I pulled out on I-40 heading east to Gallup right behind a semi truck. He was driving between 60 & 65 mph – perfect for me, so I just followed him all the way to near Gallup where he had to present himself to the Weight Station. That stretch of I-40 is a <em>dream</em>. So smooth, only one construction area, not a lot of traffic, no big hills (up or down), & very little breeze (from the west at that). I just plodded along, listening to the music recorded on my thumb drive thru the truck’s radio. I had started feeling pretty lonely at McHood Park, probably because Jeff & I had never been in the area. Returning to the Wolf Sanctuary where we visited last year was just another reason to want to <em>hurry up & get there</em>.</p> <p>I topped off my gas tank in Gallup & headed south on Hwy 602 for the hour’s drive to the Sanctuary. A little hilly, but smooth & wide, eventually following a valley south. It ended at Hwy 53, & I turned east. Still a pretty good road without too many curves or hills, & very little traffic. Five miles or so east of Ramah (the closest <em>big</em> town to the Sanctuary), I turned south onto Indian Service Road 125, still blacktopped, drove the 15 mph (strictly enforced) speed limit thru Mountain View & finally arrived at the 4-mile badly wash boarded gravel road of Indian Service Road 120 that goes by the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary. Whew – I was ready for a final destination!</p> <p>I arrived right at noon & was lead to the campsite I’ll have for the next 3-4 months. It took some time to figure out how I wanted to situate the trailer amongst the trees, but it’s a huge area that can accommodate more than one RV. After meeting with Sanctuary staff & having an orientation, I finally got set up.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h_-ucd8tb5U/VucSPYzAoZI/AAAAAAAAgr8/IAiYX7UUVRE/s1600-h/IMG_20160311_1534404.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160311_153440" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160311_153440" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A26J67xOYy8/VucSk715jiI/AAAAAAAAgsA/jPGe6v5Wutk/IMG_20160311_153440_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="364"></a></p> <p><em>Looking northeast</em></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8PEtoZ8PB7Y/VucSrqtHoHI/AAAAAAAAgsE/WsltG_6YUh4/s1600-h/IMG_20160311_1535293.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160311_153529" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160311_153529" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sqtGjM3rdEk/VucS8tD0Z9I/AAAAAAAAgsM/RJmWFpslfpQ/IMG_20160311_153529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <em>Looking south</em></p> <p><em>Looking west </em> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n27l_3SqIl4/VucTLyKyPYI/AAAAAAAAgsQ/_Yt_qnKDhRY/s1600-h/IMG_20160311_1536193.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160311_153619" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160311_153619" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LpjAG4ziDYQ/VucTVfMH1DI/AAAAAAAAgsU/gCumVNPQVSI/IMG_20160311_153619_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p>I love hearing the breeze blow thru the pine trees (Ponderosa & possibly Pinon). And then there’s the <em>wolf howls</em> numerous times a day, especially dawn & dusk. Kira has finally started <em>noticing & barking</em> when they howl. Although most of the country is having an early Spring – it’s not necessarily here at 7,500’ elevation. We’ve already had a storm blow thru that brought rain, sleet, snow flurries, below freezing temps, & lots of wind. I had to dig out my actual <em>winter coat</em> finally, after all these winter months around Quartzsite.</p> <p>I worked a couple of hours the first few days to get familiar with some of my new duties, first correcting or deleting newsletter addresses no one’s had time to do for months. Everyone is super friendly & helpful -- although most are in their 20s & make me feel slightly <em>grandmotherly</em>. The whole group really does function as a <em>pack or tribe</em>. Besides me, there are two other RVs in the campground area, both long-term volunteers. The Sanctuary has grown a lot in the past few years & is working diligently to get better organized & more efficient. Nearly <u>everyone</u> here is a volunteer, but they need <strong>more</strong> since there are always more projects to work on & not enough time or energy. For the volunteer RVers, they only ask for a 12-week commitment in exchange for an electric only RV site, relaxing amongst the trees. There’s a comfortable shower house & water spigot. There’s not an official dump station, but I’m going to truck my filled-up blue boy over to the porta-potty to empty it every few weeks. There is a company who comes by weekly to empty the other RV tanks & porta-potties, but I’m trying not to spend much money (since I’m not making any). My only <em>issue</em> is the slow, sometimes non-existent Verizon cell fon signal. It takes forever to read email & blogs on 1X or 3G, & since the signal is so weak, my phone usually doesn’t even ring. If you call me – leave a message & I’ll call back asap. And I actually have a mailing address to use. The top flew off my new propane tank cover months ago (didn’t secure it, duh) & a few other things I want to order. There’s a lot more activities around here than I’ve discovered yet, so stand by for more info. If anyone would like a slow, comfortable, useful way to spend part of their summer in an RV in the NM mountains, let me know or contact <em><a href="mailto:nicole@wildspiritwolfsantuary.org">nicole@wildspiritwolfsantuary.org</a></em>.</p> <p>It’s been five months now since Jeff died, & for the most part, I’m doing OK, emotionally, physically, & financially. I still have some teary moments (usually when I least expect it) but I’ve accepted (& am even excited) that I’ve moved to another chapter of my life. (<em>Gee, what do I want in life now?)</em> I’m still uneasy tho about returning to Branson where we spent so much time. Not sure how those <em>ghosts</em> are going to feel. Since I believe that I’ve already had the <em>love of my life</em>, I’m not wanting another male partner again. Jeff was my <em>playmate</em>. It was easy being with him. We laughed, loved, played, & worked hard together. I don’t have that kind of stamina nor energy anymore. Nor tolerance! I like being alone in my little trailer & making my own decisions about food, travel, sightseeing, entertainment, & shopping. The memories that make me saddest tho are at least 2-3 years ago before Jeff started having more serious physical problems. I wouldn’t have ever left or abandoned him (<em>I’m so loyal, I should be a dog)</em>, but I’m so relieved to not be a witness nor caregiver anymore. I’m learning to ask questions & determine for myself if what I hear is useful or makes sense for me. Mainly, I just don’t ever, EVER, <strong>EVER</strong> want to watch someone I love so much & depend on for everything to fail, suffer, & die again. I’ve got to get comfortable depending on myself.</p> <p>The irony is I keep meeting – befriending – men who seem to have amorous ideas. <em>What part of ‘I’m not interested’ am I not getting across? </em>I like to talk to people – men & women – & just cause I’m single doesn’t mean I’m needy. Teach me how to take care of the technical stuff with my rig, but GEEZ, don’t be putting any moves on me! First off, I’m not ready now, but lastly, I probably won’t ever want to walk that road again. And I’ve talked to several men already in a relationship who talk about how they don’t want to be alone. Seems like most of the women I’ve met are totally content being solo (or wish they were). I guess there’s a lot more to this <em>aging</em> thing than I ever realized. I always wondered how widows could continue on with their lives happily for 20 years or more after their husbands died. <em>I understand now</em>.</p> <p>OK, so rant is over. Tomorrow I start my normal Tues-Sat, 4 hour, 5 days a week volunteer job (on Mountain timezone daylight savings time) of helping out several overworked & overwhelmed volunteers. I like the idea of diversity too since I get bored quickly. And I’m looking forward to visiting & photographing the wolves again.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-81470475534710197892016-03-04T09:46:00.001-06:002016-03-04T09:46:31.699-06:00Amazing Friends<p>I have loved living small full time since the beginning, nearly 5 years ago. Jeff & I have traveled & parked in unpleasant settings & weather, but overall, sharing the adventures with Jeff was the best time of my whole life. And we made lots of friends, learned lots of things, made plenty of mistakes, & have been blown away by the helpfulness of strangers & new friends. Overall, it’s almost been one of those <em>“had to be there”</em> kinds of journey. The RVing saying is <em>“We’re all friends – who haven’t met yet.” </em>Until after his death.</p> <p>I’m not sure I have enough words to describe just how many TOTALLY AMAZING people I’ve met since becoming a widow – or maybe I’ve just noticed & appreciated all those special people more. Helpful, funny, protective, gentle & patient. Almost as surprising, sometimes I’m actually the one helping & teaching someone else. All creating fulfilling emtoions of <em>gratitude & humility.</em></p> <p>In all frankness though,<em> grieving hurts like hell</em>. The random memories assault my brain when I least expect (trying to go to sleep, playing solitaire, driving, even listening to someone else talk), reducing me to a sniffling, paralized baby. The ironies & contradictions make me crazy with ?guilt? or ?fear? or ?I’m a horrible person? I’ve learned it’s normal & actually OK to breathlessly, intensely <strong>miss</strong> someone -- but not actually want them back again in your life. Geez, that just hurts to type the words. I’ve practiced <strong>A LOT</strong> of <em>distraction</em> in the months since Jeff died – usually (& totally not like me) cleaning & straightening but also reading a lot of ebooks. I seem to have boundless energy (where has THAT been hiding for the past 20 years? Saved for a <em>rainy day </em>[like now?]) to the point of not going to sleep easily & waking up <em>full of spit & vinegar</em> in the wee hours of the morning, plus no need or desire for an afternoon nap. I’ve quite smoking without ripping anyone’s head off (OK, so now I’m addicted [maybe] to my coffee & cream e-cigarette juice) & still managed to actually loose excess fat. The weight loss is probably due more to lack of eating (or interest). Geez, I’d just rather go hungry than have to even open a cup of yogurt. But I have contributed to Quartzsite’s resturants quite nicely this winter. <em>Why does food almost always taste better when someone else prepares it?</em></p> <p>I’ve learned <strong>so much</strong> about mechanical & electrical stuff this winter – & I’m remembering it all (I think). I enjoy my <em>alone</em> time in the trailer, sitting outside, or driving somewhere. I LIKE making my own decisions & not waiting for a concensous or compromise. I’m not scared or fearful because I’m never hesitant to ask someone, anyone, for help. I’ve come close to crying in frustation a few times (like when the pickup won’t start cause the battery cables have collected too much dust, or when the sewer hose didn’t attach tighter & created a mess) – but those times when no one else is around to help, you just do your best, even when it’s wrong again. Mistakes can be a really great thing – as long as you LEARN from them & never repeat them <em>(make new ones)</em>.</p> <p>While in Quartzsite, & specificially after the record-breaking-attendance Fiberglass Rally, I have met (yes, I sought them out) & become good friends with at least 10 solo female Casita gals, of which several are widows & most are full time. I’m not totally out of my mind or some kind of a freak to be continuing this full timing lifestyle ALONE. Different circumstances have lead these women to embark on thieir piece of freedom, but the <strong>I CAN DO THIS BY MYSELF</strong> gumption is in all of us. We’re all within 10 years or so of the same age, & grew up during the <em>feminist movement</em> of the 60s. One of my few <u>hot buttons</u> is telling me I can’t or shouldn’t do something simply based on being female. <em>(A male commenter said on a forum, I can do this <strong>BECAUSE</strong> I’m a female. LOVE that.) </em>I know my liminitations based on physical size & strength, but for intelligence & determination, I have no doubts I can manage this lifestyle! And the relief is HUGE finding out I’m just a <em>drop in the barrel</em> of women with the same desires & confidence. AND, I’m way closer to <em>conventionality</em> than I’ve ever been.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n1OfWz7r99g/Vtmtr3JZmGI/AAAAAAAAgck/VvMOrCZeqg0/s1600-h/IMG_20160211_1215163.jpg"><img title="IMG_20160211_121516" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 17px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_20160211_121516" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JzDK3j90Ov8/VtmttF2NpiI/AAAAAAAAgco/u6Unt6aLE8c/IMG_20160211_121516_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" align="left" height="244"></a><em>This is Wendy removing the old silicone from her trailer, prepping for the installation of the new awning brackets to remount her awning.</em></p> <p>I imagine this <em>widowhood</em> is somehow similar to being an <em>adult orphan</em> (when your elderly parents are gone), & grief is grief, whether for a spouse, sibling, parent, pet, or a long-time friend. Several of my new awesome friends have lost a parent in the recent past & express almost more sadness from that than lose of a spouse. Maybe that’s because you’ve known your parents all your life, (usually) only have one set, & spouses come & go & can be replaced to some degree. And then there’s the age – wait, <em>maturity</em>. Observing the world over decades gives a much better <em>perspective</em> of reality & life.</p> <p>I still miss Jeff’s smile & laughter most, but this group of fantastic, gutsy women is helping me SOOOOO much to learn how to keep putting one foot in front of the other to redesign my life. And I’m OK with venturing out on the road with the trailer all by myself finally. I’ve learned that I can trust other people’s advise as much as I ever did Jeff’s & that I can share feelings, concerns, & experiences with other multiple people instead of bascially just with Jeff. I’m not <em>replacing</em> him exactly, but at least filling needs with various people instead one person being everything. And I’ve realized too that I want to DO something more than just hang out being retired (I think), so I’m going to be a volunteer at the Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in northwest New Mexico, starting in early March. I’ll be there – working in the office (no cleaning toilets, changing beds, waiting tables, or standing for hour on painful hour) – until returning to my class reunion in Missouri in late July. I’m happy to miss the worst of tornado season, violent Spring storms, & as much of the heat, humidity, & bugs as possible in Missouri. I feel sad & guilty for not returning to my elderly parents sooner, but those daily phone calls let me know how they’re doing (OK so far) & assure them I’m thinking of them & that I’m safe. Between my breast cancer, my brother’s death 4 years ago, & Jeff’s decline, suffering, & death, I just <em>can’t</em> not follow my heart & dreams for anyone else’s sake. And I like to think it was Jeff who popped the idea of working at the wolf sanctuary into my mind suddeny (as I was playing solitairre not really thinking about much). We visited the Sanctuary last Spring on our way back to Missouri, so at least I know what it looks like. And I’m expecting to make a whole bunch of new friends there.</p> <p>My new friend Wendy over the past month went with me to a campground near Yuma so we could both visit a Mexican dentist in Los Algodones. She got fillings & I got a crown. Unfortunatey, she headed east for Florida & returned to Quartzsite to pick up mail before heading north & up. The early warm weather is bringing out the snakes, so that’s my que to head out. The first night after Wendy left, it felt pretty lonelly. I realized I’d only spent 7 nights since Jeff’s death without having a known friend nearby -- but I’m not feeling scared or alone. After three months of dry camping, plugging in for endless television & air conditioning in Yuma was fabulous tho. Guess I’m just getting antsy to follow the weather.</p> <p>Working my way to northwestern NM to the Wolf Sanctuary took me north of Phoenix to a small, quiet campground near Page Springs AZ (between Sedona & Cottonwood). My campsite backed up to a gorgeous little river (or big creek) but I had very little cell fon service. A trip to Walmart in Cottonwood provided 4G service at least. I met 3 other solo ladies at the campground too. And I survived my first wedding anniversary without Jeff without too much discomfort.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i7cipznuGaM/Vtmtt2md4BI/AAAAAAAAgcs/cb7T4x86ubU/s1600-h/DSC039814.jpg"><img title="DSC03981" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03981" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1bNEZQuYC3I/VtmtuvsgPQI/AAAAAAAAgcw/XaTh4n20D5w/DSC03981_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p>After a week of intense book reading & endless television, I headed up (& I mean seriously UP) I-15 to Flagstaff, then east on I-40 to Winslow AZ. That’s the last Walmart in AZ until Gallup NM so I need to shop carefully before finally getting to the Wolf Sanctuary (an hour south of Gallup). I managed to find the statue of the girl on the corner in Winslow AZ too. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lWvX_EZGaiY/Vtmtvl_LPdI/AAAAAAAAgc0/O9XlxUVYTGg/s1600-h/DSC039866.jpg"><img title="DSC03986" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03986" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-79w-VKjjBKY/VtmtwRJpCgI/AAAAAAAAgc4/OMKQmHYtugI/DSC03986_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p>I stayed at McHood City Park, south of Winslow, free boondocking. Super fast cell service too. I met several neighboring RVers, walked Kira, watched the coots on the lake, & marveled at the eroded sandstrone formations around.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ij4g-zzKql4/VtmtxTr0ESI/AAAAAAAAgc8/5a343VEcMq0/s1600-h/DSC039974.jpg"><img title="DSC03997" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03997" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iO8sV5ZdU1Q/VtmtyG2Z5HI/AAAAAAAAgdA/uPlSB9MENTw/DSC03997_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-39bB4bm31sc/VtmtzNa0eYI/AAAAAAAAgdE/44FjdgHPL-k/s1600-h/DSC039924.jpg"><img title="DSC03992" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC03992" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi97LnF_NE2HbmVHRiZa1PtpvPqejSiJmqhlAuMHhC1EoJ8J_2uRMVUce33_XmO5hAZA0WbsQskxDalzZR7LoL8dsos4agRn-de6iLH9EQ-r8RoUIf5kltRKW895OLcqoE7eNnf0dg4iLNy/?imgmax=800" width="644" height="431"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-POiaYj4oY5A/Vtmt0jQ9ZxI/AAAAAAAAgdM/7OxlmCcYJho/s1600-h/Sandstone-Formations4.jpg"><img title="Sandstone Formations" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Sandstone Formations" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o-ehvdjE1AA/Vtmt1Q1tlRI/AAAAAAAAgdQ/OZHvILjtlhc/Sandstone-Formations_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="644" height="167"></a></p> <p>Not sure if I’ll stop another night before arriving at the Wolf Sanctuary or not – depends on the where the approaching cold front is worse. Even out here in the alone space, I feel SO connected to family & friends (new & old) via phone calls, Facebook, email, & blogs. It’s an amazing world out here.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-90366826179976292182016-01-28T13:20:00.001-06:002016-01-28T13:20:24.875-06:00Crowded Quartzsite<p><em>Build it, and they will come. </em>Guess maybe that’s how the big Quartzsite AZ RV Show might have started. And indeed, the RVs did arrive. My little patch of dirt at the La Posa West long-term area acquired RVs on all four sides quickly. Also the days are staying pretty full of sunshine (finally) although the nights are still pretty nippy.</p> <p>I finally undertand <strong>WHY</strong> the current propane tank for my furnace <u>ALWAYS</u> runs out over night – cause the furnace doesn’t run during the days? But still, four times now in 2 months!!! Once I woke up cold & achy, & it was 41° outside & only 49° inside. <em>That’s just not right</em>. At least I’m keeping track of when propane runs out, gets refilled, tanks emptied, & more water needed so I can be a little more <em>pro-active</em> with this stuff instead of waiting to be surprised. <em>I don’t like surprises – even good ones</em>.</p> <p>I’ve refilled both the trailer & generator propane tanks several times & have finally gotten efficient at getting water into the water bladder on the truck to totally fill my on-board fresh water tank. Also dug around & found a little plastic gizmo with threads on both ends so I can also run the water out of the bladder into my tank thru the water filter. My major malfunction now is when the gray tank in full & the sink backs up. <em>(I REALLY wish I had a way to determine how full my gray tank is BEFORE it backs up.) </em>I managed to <em>confuse</em> the macerator pump last time somehow & blew a fuse, so had to empty part of the tanks carefully into a cat litter bucket to dump into the grayboy. At least there was enough room to wash & do dishes. Once I trucked over to the dump area & had trouble standing the gray boy up to drain since it was so full. The hose wasn’t seated good in the dump hole & made a mess in the area until I could corral the end of the hose in the appropriate hole. The pickup battery has failed twice, requiring a jump start, & both times, the cables needed cleaning. <em>Desert dust</em> maybe? Yessiree – I’m finally learning how to do all this stuff easier, faster, & correctly.</p> <p>With all the sunshine, I’m only running the generator during evenings after a cloudy day or every other night for a few hours (gotta watch some TV at night). And I’m also turning off the inverter frequently (that runs the TV, DVR, & sat controller) overnight & seem to be having more battery power (TV) whenever & for however long I want. But this going to sleep without a TV going just isn’t working out so well. Actually, my life-long ‘go to sleep quickly & stay comotose for 8 hours’ habit has totally left the building since Jeff’s death. It’s not that I’m worried or scared or sad – just not tired. In fact, I’m shocked (& possibly slightly worried) at how much energy I’ve had since his death. <em>(Can’t be the not smoking thing since it started when he went into the hospital??) </em>Don’t remember the last time I wanted or had an afternoon nap. I was awake until 4:30am one morning, finishing up reading a book, just cause I couldn’t go to sleep. Good thing Kira & the cats don’t care when I’m awake or asleep.</p> <p>I’ve met a few more neighbors recently, & a four single Casita ladies. Rose lives in Parker & lost her husband suddenly a month before Jeff died. We had quite a discussion. I drove out to Dome Rock to meet up with Wendy, another solo woman full timing in her Casita. We’d chatted on the Facebook Casita group previously. Have a lot of things in common & look forward to sharing some adventures together. She’s been parked next to me a few nights. And Mickey returned to Quartzsite from her Tucson holiday only to spend a week battling a bad cold. I also made it to the 2016 BloggerFest this year. Saw 5 bloggers I’d already met, & met 8 authors of blogs I already follow. And I have an invitation to come to LaQuinta CA to visit a photography group friend next month after the fiberglass rally. </p> <p>Otherwise, not much to photograph & I’m just enjoying being lazy. Reading a lot of ebooks. I guess winter has finally arrived in the Plains states & I’m happier than ever to be in western AZ than most anywhere east of here. Went thru the big tent RV show once, & only bought a gizmo to put my phone in while driving. Jeff’s birthday was this month, & although I was sad, it didn’t immobilize me. Made a run to Walmart at both Parker & Yuma so I’ve actually been <em>cooking</em> a little & eating out less. I even got a little personal blender for making smoothies so I don’t really have to cook <em>much. </em>I checked out the one Mexican restaurant in town, but chips & salsa weren’t free while waiting for your meal (I didn’t buy any) & they didn’t have the shrimp enchiladas I was hoping for. Not going there again. The Hawaiian pizza at Silly Al’s tho is almost addicting. Gas is down below $2/gallon finally during the tent show, & propane is still at $1.99/#. My cousin & his wife rolled into town during the show to camp near his wife’s niece. I’m looking forward to the Fiberglass Rally in a couple of weeks held out at Dome Rock. It’ll be my 4th time, but being single will be totally different this year. I sure am a lot more <em>social</em> being alone tho.</p> <p>I had an <em>epiphany</em> last week (love that word). Of all the bad or traumatic events in my life (some of my own making), something really, really good has always came out of those experiences – something I would have never planned. A bad divorce sent me to the Navy – & the GI Bill to get my BS degree later & medical VA benefits that later treated my breast cancer without any expenses & is currently my only health coverage (can’t afford Medicare). Unemployment for both of us gave me time for the cancer treatments & almost max number of weeks of benefits. Plus Jeff was available to be with me during that whole experience. Jeff’s death forced me to learn new things & trust my own decisions. Sometimes I feel like I’m a totally different person than 10 or 20 (possible just 1 or 5) years ago, & I’m thankful to have acquired better <em>horse sense</em> in that time. Overall, I guess I just needed to put painful memories into the perspective of ultimate outcomes. Life is never all good or all bad – it’s an always-moving pendulum. </p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-78531403724955040642016-01-02T14:20:00.001-06:002016-01-02T14:20:16.285-06:00A Desert Holiday Season<p>OK, so it’s still cold(ish) in Quartzite. The nights are low 30s, frost warnings most mornings. At least nothing frozen & white has fallen from the sky nor accumulated. My furnace keeps us toasty all night tho. I’ve been starting the generator in the morning (as suggested by several guys) to <u>top off</u> the batteries so the solar panels can keep them charged during the day. In all honesty tho, I don’t quite understand straining the generator to fully charge the batteries early when I’m not using much power during the day. And if the solar panels get the batteries pretty well charged up, then finishing up (or super charging) the batteries in late afternoon/early evening should need less generator time & have the batteries ready for hours of TV time. Dunno, I just can’t wrap my mind around some things.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MlnuTW05GUQ/Vogwy9AApsI/AAAAAAAAfu4/zJkeUZAmA5w/s1600-h/Four-legged%252520Word%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Four-legged Word" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 26px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Four-legged Word" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L0wroF_wdgo/Vogw42lOZ-I/AAAAAAAAfvA/9ygjSNLbvjA/Four-legged%252520Word_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="244"></a></p> <p>Christmas Eve day was <strong>BAD</strong>. There were no invitations to go out to eat or visit, so it was just me & the critters. My family always did the present-opening thing on Christmas Eve so it’s always been an emotional time for me. When my family moved from Wichita KS back to my home town, my dad & grandpa spent all summer building two bedrooms on to the old 4-room farm house, & my brother & I slept in our NEW rooms for the first time on Christmas Eve. Until I was 29 years old, stationed in Guam, I never missed sleeping in MY room on Christmas Eve. That left Christmas Day to go visit inlaws. It worked great.</p> <p>I’ve heard the first holiday season after loosing someone is the hardest. This one definitely hit that mark. But it wasn’t <em>just</em> about being without Jeff, it was A LOT of memories from past Christmases. Dinners at my parents with grandparents, aunts & uncles, & cousins. Spending that first Christmas Eve in Guam working, then having a few too many rum & cokes (Not my choice, but that’s all that was left after everyone in the barracks had been partying for hours before I got off work), & shuffling between my bunk & the bathroom most of Christmas Day. I hiked into the protected water shed forest behind my base on Oahu one Christmas Day. I cried a lot Christmas Eve, on & off all day, from all the memories – good & bad. Just had a big pity party. Christmas Day was a relief actually. . .except for that raging headache left over from all the crying. Sheesh!! I really hope I’m over the hump of this grieving thing. I’ve tried to stay <em>occupied</em> with day to day survival, included some fun activities, meeting new people, & basically just <em>sucked it up</em>. Jeff’s gone – & can’t ever come back. I’m thankful he was in my life, but now he’s not. And life goes on to different things. I don’t ever want to forget my decades with Jeff – but I can’t spend my <u>present</u> wallowing in the past. It won’t change a thing. And for the most part, I’m enjoying being single. I love the freedom to make choices without consulting anyone else (except maybe Kira). And when I have questions or problems, there always seems to be someone around in person or available by fon to ask for help. I have plenty of friends & acquaintenances to talk to (by fon or in person) & places to go when I get restless. Jeff showed me how life should be <em>an adventure</em>, so I feel like I’m honoring him by continuing that journey.</p> <p>The day after Christmas was also BAD. . .in another way tho. THE WIND!! OMG, it was bad enough to blow freckles off your nose. Although it was predicted, it was still a hard day. Somehow staying inside due to uncomfortable weather outside is much different than just <u>choosing</u> to hang out inside. The blowing sand was so bad I couldn’t see any of the mountains ringing Quartzsite by afternoon. And since the trailer nose is pointed west, that north gale pounded on the door side of the trailer. Kira didn’t get her walk that day.</p> <p>The Monday after Christmas was a good time to make a Wally World run . . . AND . . . AND . . . AND . . . (finally) to treat myself to the new Star Wars movie. It was the happiest most enjoyable day I’ve since. . .can’t remember when. Since I’d already been up to Parker & that Walmart is a little on the small side, I decided to check out Yuma. It has been two years since being there, so off I went at 8am with 34° temp. Had to fill up with gasoline first & I was half way to Yuma before my hands finally thawed out. (Now where did I put my gloves?) The navigator lady on Google maps on my phone lead me right to the movie theater. Lots of parking room close by the entrance to the theater that early, so that was easy. Walked in, bought my senior ticket for $8, & had plenty of seats to choose from. Only 5 other people attended that 10:00 am showing with me. This was the first 3D movie I’ve ever seen, & those glasses gave me a touch of vertigo the first few minutes.</p> <p>OMG! OMG! OMG! I nearly cried a couple of times when the original actors (much older versions now) appeared cause it was like seeing good friends after a very long time. I love sci-fi, & the whole <em>“force”</em> thing has always resonated with me. I do believe everyone & everything vibrates at an energy frequency, & that whole <em>positive thinking</em> thing is about not only expecting good things to happen but vibrating at the same frequency to attrack those positive things. I know it sounds strange, but I believe it works – at least for me (most of the time). Anyway, I had an absolutely <u>perfect</u> day taking myself to the movies. Couldn’t have been more perfect since everything happened just as I’d planned & wanted.</p> <p>I got an email from a fellow fiberglass owner (Don, who owns a Scamp & fulltimes) who heard about my blog from another Scamper we met three years ago at the Fiberglass Rally here in Quartzsite – Kamper Bob (of <a href="http://kamperbob.com" target="_blank">Recreation Engineer</a>). We talked on the phone & agreed to meet in Quartzsite for lunch on Tuesday. Super nice guy with a sweetheart dog (who doesn’t take well to other dogs tho). After lunch, he followed me back to my trailer & talked a lot with my neighbor Jon about his Escape trailer. Don is camped out near Bouse on BLM but didn’t realize the $180 for a long-term permit was for up to 7 months, not monthly. Since it includes free water, dump, & trash bins, it works out to barely over $1/day, depending on how many weeks/months you stay here. I really love not having to move every 14 days.</p> <p>In fact, I <u>haven’t</u> moved the trailer since arriving 12/2/15. <em>Why is it a propane tank <strong>ALWAYS</strong> runs out after dark? At least I remembered the other tongue propane tank was full, so switching the lever was easy, even in the dark. </em>After refilling 2 propane tanks, I dumped my black & gray water tanks again into the grayboy using the macerator pump. However, I had a serious <em>brain fart</em> & couldn’t get the pickup hood to open. Dah – I was pushing the release lever <u>the wrong direction</u>. I hooked the pump to the trailer battery but it wasn’t as strong as from the pickup battery. Anyway, got the grayboy dumped & washed out, & put water in the bladder riding on the pickup cab. I still can’t judge how much water I’m putting in the bladder, so I got a little less than ¾ of a tank of fresh water this time. Apparently it was one of those days tho when my brain <em>short circuits</em> because seemed like every connection I needed to make (attaching this, screwing that in or off) was a struggle. So I KNOW you turn right to tighten & left to loosen (except propane which is opposite) – but those directions only work when you’re looking at the connection from the correct side. See what I mean?<em> I know, I know – it’s all a learning curve. It’ll get easier.</em></p> <p>My cousin (Larry) & his wife (Sherry) from Phoenix drove over Wednesday to <em>check it out</em>. They’re bringing their motorhome to Quartzsite in a few weeks to visit with Sherry’s family & just wanted to get a feel for the area. Larry is not what you’d call a <em>happy camper</em> trying to herd that big thing around. I’m looking forward to visiting with them when they come back. </p> <p>My neighbor Jon & I have another neighbor – Rudy in a big 5th wheel parked near. He’s Canadian, but grew up in Brazille with Dutch parents. He has quite the accent. He invited Jon & I over for a little New Year’s Eve get-together. We had a few drinks & talked for several hours, but I was soundly asleep long before midnight got close. Boy, I love knowing that event has an auto-pilot.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WBEimjf8fRY/Vogw5qvCSvI/AAAAAAAAfvI/8HdLJOVJs3I/s1600-h/WIN_20160102_13_07_56_Pro%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="WIN_20160102_13_07_56_Pro" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 21px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="WIN_20160102_13_07_56_Pro" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-69MHMtfmEfM/Vogw6TArGxI/AAAAAAAAfvQ/fckd0AwtW5g/WIN_20160102_13_07_56_Pro_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" align="left" height="244"></a>So 2016 is here . . . with some major changes from last year for me. But spending the winter in AZ in my Casita with Kira & the cats is what & where I want. I have to remind myself that when times are BAD, it means they can ONLY get better. And I feel they are.</p> <p>Oh, I mosied around the vendor area last week, not looking for anything in particular, just looking. I ended up getting this sign. Didn’t NEED it, just seemed like a fun idea.</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-81008474863313492752015-12-23T12:01:00.000-06:002015-12-23T12:01:00.244-06:00WELL – it sure feels like <em>winter</em> around here, unlike most states
east of AZ. However, I actually expected, or at least wasn’t going to be
surprised by, the cooler than average temps this year because of El Nino. I’ve
also been told that December is always the coldest month around here, so I’m
totally glad to have the little generator to supplement that solar power. And
regardless, I’d still rather be in the Sonoran Desert of western AZ this month
(in fact, all winter) than anywhere else in the US.<br />
<br />
I made the 45 minute drive north to Walmart in Parker a couple of weeks ago.
I’m sure not going to Wal-Mart as often as WE used to. I rather enjoyed the
drive too, wouldn’t have enjoyed just riding tho. Not too much new or exciting
in Parker this year. Since I don’t cook much, I didn’t have a lot of items to
get. But I have been on a binge of eating the <em>oriental slaw</em> that’s
pretty easy to fix, keep, & eat while boondocking.<br />
<br />
I’ve learned some more new things this past week too. A month or so ago, a
fellow camper suggested opening both propane tanks sitting on the trailer tongue
so it would automatically switch tanks if needed in the middle of a cold night
instead of getting up, dressed, & going outside to do it by flashlight. I
also discovered & have learned to see how much propane is in the current
tank by the little black knobby thing located above the pointer showing which
tank is currently being used. <em>Who knew?</em> Until it shows red, there’s
still propane in the tank. Instead of leaving that 2nd tank open tho, I’d rather
just check it more often & open the 2nd tank when the 1st tank is getting
near empty so I know to refill the 1st tank the next day. The only problem tho
is YOU NEED TO CHECK THE TANK REGULARLY <em>(I’m still developing that
habit.)</em><br />
<br />
So Sunday morning before last, about 6:30am, I woke up to 52° <u>inside</u>
the trailer rather than the normal low 60’s. It was not just cold (I have more
layers of clothes to put on), but, but, I COULDN’T HEAT WATER TO MAKE COFFEE!
<em>OMG, the world as I know it is about to end.</em> My 3rd propane tank
running the little Westinghouse 2000 generator for a few hours expired the night
before, so at least that wasn’t a surprise. And at 7am on a Sunday morning, not
many propane distributors are open so all I could do was drive over to Love’s
Truck Stop in the dark. Quartzsite supposedly is having a <em>propane price
war</em>, but apparently Love’s didn’t get that memo. $2.49/gal. At least I got
some coffee there too.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, even with 180W of solar panels & two 12v AGM batteries, I
can’t seem to have enough power to run the TV, DirecTv DVR, & satellite
controller for as many hours as I want on any given night (plus charging cell
fon & e-cigarette batteries). <em>Yeah, I know. I’m addicted, but I’ve read
nearly a dozen books in the past two weeks also.</em> So, I’ve been running the
generator at night to keep the batteries up while watching TV, but something’s
still just not right cause the 140W inverter running the TV setup wakes me up
squealing in the middle of the night from low batteries sometimes (the furnace
fan uses some of that battery juice).<br />
<br />
I’ve talked with several fellow campers about my problems & finally
visited one of the solar businesses in town to get their suggestions also.
<u>Everyone</u> said the same thing – I’m just using more power from those
batteries than I’m putting in. <em>Poop!</em> However, <em>assuming</em> the
batteries are still good (they’re supposed to be) & that the AZ sun is
shining full during the day, it’s just a slow haul to get the batteries fully
charged <strong>during</strong> the day <u>if they weren’t full from the night
before</u>. <em>(Did you hear that ah-ha moment?) </em>So I’ve started running
the generator for a few hours in the morning now to get those batteries fully
charged (that’s at least 12.6v, I think.) so that the solar (think trickle
charge) then KEEPS them fully charged during the day even if I watch a little TV
(for news & weather) during daylight. After five mornings of this new
procedure, it’s really made a big difference. However, cold nights compress
propane to a near-non-flowing state & the first morning, after at least 12
attempts to get the generator hand-cranked, I finally heated some water on the
stove & poured over the tank. That worked finally. Then I moved the tank so
it can warm up in the first rays of sunlight each morning, so the 2nd morning’s
generator start only took a few pulls & continued running from the first
start. That night wasn’t nearly as cold either tho. Anyway, hopefully changing
MY habits is all this system needs instead of more equipment & $$.<br />
<br />
Remember my goals of quitting smoking & getting more muscle tone? The
non-smoking is doing fine & I must be ‘toning’ something cause all this
lifting of propane tanks, moving solar panels, & pulling on the generator
isn’t making me sore the next morning. And I think my little effort to do some
regular exercises is also helping with the ability to stand up from a squat
without hanging onto something. Since I heat one mug’s worth of water at a time
in the tea kettle on the propane stove & then pour it thru the coffee
grounds of this little 1-cup strainer contraption sitting on my mug, I’ve been
using that <em>waiting</em> time to do some modified squats, either alone or
using elastic bands. <em>It’s still hard to be happy about getting old &
creaky even when remembering the ones who didn’t get their next
birthday.</em><br />
<br />
I visited the local library & applied for their 1-year non-resident
library card, then accessed their free wifi to upgrade a gazillion apps on my
fon. I treated myself to a Hawaiian pizza at Silly Al’s, possibly the only pizza
place in town, & the only one I knew of. It was pretty good.<br />
<br />
While driving home one day, I noticed another Casita parked in one of the
many RV parks around town. Whipped my truck into the driveway & pulled up in
front of Micky of <a href="http://onewanderingspirit.wordpress.com/">Wandering
Spirit</a> blog, a fellow female solo Casita owner. Had a great but short visit
& agreed to meet for lunch in a couple of days. Unfortunately, she has to
be in Tucson for Christmas, & she isn’t coming back to Quartzsite until
after the first of the year. <em>Oh wait, how’d that happen? 2016 was in TWO
weeks from our lunch!</em> Anyway, we had a long, chatty lunch before she left
the next day.<br />
<br />
I decided to visit Blythe CA for a few groceries last week since it’s much
closer than Parker. I wasn’t impressed by Albertson’s so I’ll try a different
store if/when I return. And the I-10 traffic was just CA crazy. While in the
neighborhood, I also decided to stop in to visit Bob Wells of <a href="http://cheaprvliving.com/">Cheap RV Living</a> blog camped south on Blythe
on AZ BLM land. He lives in a van & boondocks most of the time. I’ve learned
some good things from reading his blog over the years. Had a good visit, & I
may try to visit his Rubber Tramp Rendezvous held east of Quartzsite in
January.<br />
<br />
So it doesn’t rain often around here (at least not in the winter), but there
are horribly windy days that blow dust everywhere. I tried to run the windshield
washer to clean off the dust – & no water came out. Found out the little
hose jumped out of it’s plastic holder & got cut in two when the hood closed
on it. Picked up a replacement hose in Blythe & finally got Bruce (a nearby
camper) to help install it. The worst part was getting the bolts out of the
fluid container down in a small space. Now I can clean the windshield again.<br />
<br />
Last weekend was an <em>experiment</em> of sorts. I’m not anxious to hook up
the trailer to dump the tanks & fill up with water (it’s 3 miles away), so I
dug out the macerator pump & drained the tanks into the gray boy sitting in
the back of the pickup. After some difficult & wrong connections, it DID
work. After dumping the gray boy, I put water in the 45 gal bladder that lives
on the pickup cab. I didn’t want to overfill it & have extra water sloshing
around when driving, so I only ended up with 3/4 of a tank of fresh
water. That worked too. . .but it all took me a couple of hours to complete.
Next time will go quicker tho since I hope I learned how to do it all, plus I
like to make new mistakes all the time.<br />
<br />
I’ve been parked here at the La Posa West long-term visitor’s area since 12/2
& am amazed at how contented I feel here. I just don’t seem to have quite
the <em>itchy</em> feet I did when Jeff was alive. I’ve had fun investigating
the town & the growing number of vendors in the RV tent area. Plus I’m close
enough to just walk to the big RV show next month from camp instead of trying to
<em>herd</em> the pickup into a tight parking spot & still walking a
distance just to get to the show. There’s not anything in particular I’m looking
for at the show, but seems there’s always <em>something</em> to buy that I
didn’t know I wanted/needed. <br />
<br />
I do want to visit with the <a href="http://harvesthosts.com/">Harvest
Hosts</a> folks tho at the Show since I’m thinking I might find a farm, winery,
or agri-business location in CO or northern NM where I could volunteer (or even
work for pay) enough to have a long-term campsite for most of the summer. Having
worked at four different campgrounds during the first two years of full-timing,
I loved talking to all the campers but definitely don’t like
<strong>standing</strong> for hours at the front desk of a camp office nor
dealing with even one cranky camper. My working years revolved around a chair at
a desk with a computer & a phone. But, I grew up on a farm &
<em>might</em> find a temporary home somewhere by at least asking questions.<br />
<br />
I’m not sure how I feel about this first Christmas without Jeff. We’ve never
done much of anything special to celebrate, but sometimes I hear a Christmas
song that reminds me of a particular time. Those long-gone days of past family
get-togethers with parents & brother, grandparents, aunts & uncles,
& cousins, memorable Christmas days (like hiking in the rain forests of Oahu
while stationed on a base right at the edge of it), & getting stuck in bad
weather have the ability to make me sad even if Jeff was still with me, so it
will probably just end up as an <em>ignore it</em> day, reading a book. I’ve
been invited to my cousin’s house in Phoenix for the day but don’t think I want
to make the drive to & from in a day, a day with lots of traffic too, &
definitely not pulling the trailer there for one night. <em>And no, I don’t want
to sleep in a strange bed for even one night. </em>Besides, there’s cell fons
& email to stay connected thru now. Don’t know what the few camper friends
nearby will be doing either.<br />
<br />
Had to get propane again, but at least it’s down to $1.99/gal now. Wish gas
prices would come down too, but I’m not doing much driving really. Between
watching TV & reading, I keep thinking I need to find a <em>hobby</em> of
some sort. But then what would I do with whatever I make, & where would I
store the supplies for that hobby? Plus, I’ve never wanted to turn a ‘hobby’
into a ‘money making’ experience because it takes the FUN out of it. My two
natural talents (those activities you do because you enjoy them & they’re
not difficult, or maybe they’re easy because you enjoy them??) are English &
computers/smart fons. I’ve debated on turning my reading enjoyment into a
proofreading endeavor for a little extra spending money since I spot typos
without ever trying. I know the people who write & self-publish books don’t
usually have a lot of money to spend on proofing, so I’d almost do it for free
just to have the books to read. But then I <em>worry</em> about deadlines &
schedules. This <em>retirement</em> thing is all about low stress, ya know?
Maybe I’m just not <em>motivated</em>. Oh well. . .<br />
<br />
Although we’ve had some cloudy days, the sunsets usually develop lots of
color. They usually look like this.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicYPWbJmC9OEDZJHbqSuIen36uWmg-egs_I1HKqaTJsCRx5_yHo-Wc9HLjeGRrQrqdZDoAjrYzR9t7q0nQBvJdsRA_WAx9uBQcGjnsZ6nunx-qcWQv5DnQRfuMY4HM8iY66KExCLwa-K1B/s1600/DSC03955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicYPWbJmC9OEDZJHbqSuIen36uWmg-egs_I1HKqaTJsCRx5_yHo-Wc9HLjeGRrQrqdZDoAjrYzR9t7q0nQBvJdsRA_WAx9uBQcGjnsZ6nunx-qcWQv5DnQRfuMY4HM8iY66KExCLwa-K1B/s640/DSC03955.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I’m wanting to go see the new Star Wars movie somewhere. Yes, I saw the first
one in 1979 while stationed in Guam. We even have the full 6-CD set of Star
Wars! Havasu City is the closest & I don’t even remember the last time I saw
a movie in a theater. <em>A new adventure!!</em><br />
<em><br /></em>
Hope EVERYONE reading this has a pleasant, peaceful Christmas. And I can
never thank my family & friends enough for their support in the past few
months. I’m not sure if I’m <em>over the hump</em> of grieving, but I’ve tried
to stay optimistic & open to new adventures. <em>Life continues to be a
learning experience.</em><br />
<blockquote>
~~ Forever GRATEFUL ~~</blockquote>
Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8431525005156471883.post-2576557042185654382015-12-17T09:32:00.001-06:002015-12-17T09:32:16.112-06:00Test of Open Live Writer<p>I’ve been posting to this blog on Google’s Blogger since 2008 using Windows Live Writer. However, as many of you probably know, new technologies & versions have made it impossible for the 2012 Live Writer to ever interface again with Blogger’s latest technology. For the past few posts, I’ve used Live Writer off-line to create my posts, then copy & paste it directly into Blogger while on-line. I insert photos directly on-line also. It worked. . .but wasn’t nearly as convenient as just hitting Publish from inside Live Writer.</p> <p>Enter the <em>guys on white horses</em>. The new & updated version is called <a href="http://www.hanselman.com/blog/AnnouncingOpenLiveWriterAnOpenSourceForkOfWindowsLiveWriter.aspx">Open Live Writer</a> & is working as well or better than the old Live Writer. You can download the free program & read on this page about the <em>open source</em> concept that created this program. </p> <p>I started working with computers in 1988 & was always a fan & supporter of Miscrosoft Office programs. However, since being retired (with less disposable income & no office), I became a fan of Open Office. It’s also <em>open source</em> & free with all the <u>bells & whistles</u> I ever needed with MS Office. It will read & write to all the same types of files. These open source programers are like the <em>white hat hackers</em> because they enjoy the challenge of making a good program without all the profit-driven drama.</p> <p>So, anyway, this is a great start to another c-o-l-d morning in Quartzsite AZ (26° outside my cozy abode).</p>Glenda Lainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16275134690559437010noreply@blogger.com2