SASSY'S ON 'DA ROAD

MY ADORABLE BENNIE

2012-02-22T20:50:00.001-07:00

Today was laundry day – at least one load anyways.

So I got the clothes sorted into my laundry bag and was inside puttering around at something else for about a half an hour.

When I came outside this is what I saw…………

Yes, He actually crawled right into the laundry bag !! Naturally I took a gazillion pictures and then he came out of the bag.

On I went about my puttering business and the next time I came outside here he was again…………

MORE ABOUT THE SLABS

2012-02-22T08:32:00.001-07:00

I spent 5 days at The Slabs and when I left there I stopped just for an overnight back at Quartzsite trying to determine my next stop. A look at the weather forecast quickly made up my mind on that – back to Yuma I went.

The route to The Slabs took me by the IMPERIAL SAND DUNES. Quite an awesome sight to see.

But check out JERI'S BLOG as her pics really show how amazing these dunes are.

The Slabs is indeed a very unique and interesting place to spend some time. It’s a place that lots has been written about and many photos taken. It’s a place that I truly am glad I had the opportunity to ‘experience’.

And of course someone there has T-Shirts for sale and I had to have one…

And just because you may not have enough room on your roof for Solar or your roof is round – well yes, you can still install solar panels….

The Slabs even has it’s own BARBER SHOP….

It’s own HOT TUB where I was told the temperature is in excess of 100F….

It’s own SHOE TREE….

It’s own INTERNET CAFE….

I parked in the area where the LOWS (Loners On Wheels) were as that is where Lee (my Solar Consultant) was. Here is a short video taken from the roof of my rig.

I couldn’t help but admire and respect the creativity and resourcefulness of the people that live there.

TESTING–TESTING–TESTING

2012-02-19T09:36:00.001-07:00

Once my solar was installed Lee wanted to do a bunch on ‘tests’ to ensure everything was operating as it should. And believe me he has all the right gizmos to do this !!

Gawd, There’s just so much to learn my poor little brain is about to explode !! Good thing I have my EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT for the pesky little details like FANCY MAPS and the various and sundry other items I assign to her !! LOL

Now I can’t guarantee any accuracy here because I was scribbling notes as fast as I could while he was talking. The following is my notes transcribed.

TESTING PHANTOM DRAW

This mean testing how much draw is being used with nothing on. Those secret little gremlins hiding behind the walls and under the rig that are using MY power without my knowledge !!! Pfffftttt !!!

Panels must be turned off and anything else that is running.

When we first tested it ‘something’ had a drain of 3.2 – 3.5 AMPS. Lee said that was a LOT. We checked around for possible sources of this draw. The outside TV was plugged in but not turned on. We unplugged it anyway and then re-tested. Now showed 4/10ths of a draw. Even though we plugged the TV back in and re-tested again the draw still only showed 4/10ths ? Lee figured we disrupted something which stopped the 3.2 drain.

He was satisfied with the 4/10ths number.

TESTING OTHER SOURCES OF DRAW

With only Inverter on and nothing running = 2.5 AMPS

With Inverter on and Computer running = 8 AMPS. Four hours of computer use = 32 AMP Hours and I have 100 AH’s safely to play with.

Only D/R overhead (LED) light on = .4 AMPS

Only Fridge on = .5 AMPS – BUT Lee said this was because it was ‘not burning’. It would likely take 1 AMP BUT if the side of the rig is facing the sun then it will cut in more often and therefore take more AMPS

EQUALIZING THE BATTERIES

Lee set the dip switch on the Controller to automatic equalizing – should do it every 30 days now automatically.

When I see a rapid blink on the inside monitor that means the batteries are equalizing. While equalizing, the inside monitor will read more AMPS coming in than I’m used to seeing and a higher voltage reading. While the batteries were equalizing the monitor showed 15.2 volts and 12.8 AMPS.

TESTING THE HEALTH OF BATTERIES BY CELL

Batteries must be fully charged in order to do this. Make special note if there is significant difference from cell to cell.

6 cells numbered left (passenger side) to right.

1. White Zone = 1.24 - Starting to weaken – likely due to overfilling. CRAP !!

2. Green Zone = 1.56

3. Green Zone = 1.56

4. Green Zone = 1.56

5. Green Zone = 1.55

6. Green Zone = 1.50

NOW if only I could understand all of this !! I’ve come to accept the fact that I likely never will – BUT thanks to Lee, I do have a teenie weenie better understanding than I did before.

A STOP BEFORE I WENT TO THE SLABS

2012-02-19T08:23:00.001-07:00

Before I headed to The Slabs to get my solar I stopped in Ehrenberg at an RV Park for 3 nights.

There are lots of these ‘Membership’ RV Parks around and for a mere $10,000 or so you could join !! I was given a FREE 3 nights stay at one of these places – the ‘price’ being having to sit through a one hour spiel about all the benefits of joining.

Figured I could endure that for 3 FREE nights with hook-ups – getting my badly depleted battery charged up – catch up on a TON of laundry – and save me the $15.00 to dump my tanks.

Other than attending the one hour session they didn’t bother me at all. I was glad for that.

A few pics I took which walking around the Park.

Every RV’er knows how important it is to cover your tires while parked to protect them from the blazing Arizona sun. Most buy the tire covers specific for that, but I’ve seen towels over the tires and this…

Loved how someone re-designed the golf cart.

I GOT SOLAR BABY !!

2012-02-11T19:19:00.001-07:00

PRIORITIES FIRST THOUGH…

Bennie LOVES his new bed. He’s in it all the time. This pic was taken after our EXHAUSTIVE first two days at The Slabs. Poor guy was sure tired – as was his Mom.

NOW ABOUT THE SOLAR

Mind boggling isn’t it that the SUN gives me electricity !! Well for this wee brain it is.

I had my solar installed by Sun Works.

Here’s Mike, the Owner, in his car….

Just kidding !!

First of all a MESS had to be made as all the drawers had to come out in order to run the wiring…

I had (2) 135W Solar Panel installed with a few ‘extras’ that Lee recommended. These extras increased the cost a smidge but will be worth it later on when I add more panels.

I met Lee while boondocking at Quartzsite with the Escapee Group. Lee is nothing short of GENIUS and sure knows his electricity, particularly when it comes to solar.

First of all Mike from Sun Works was going to install a 25AMP charge controller but Lee highly recommended a larger one. A 25AMP controller would be adequate for two panels, however, for the future I would need a larger controller. So best to do it now. A 40AMP charge controller was installed.

Lee also recommended two seperate switches to turn OFF the panels individually should the need arise.

Mike was also going to use #6 gauge wire – but Lee insisted on at least #4 – Mike didn’t have any of that so #2 was used. Lee says #2 gauge wiring is overkill, however again, better to have it now in preparation for the future. Apparently if I had used #6 and later on added more panels – well all the wiring would have to be changed !!

I also wanted my panels to be able to tilt up (as opposed to having them flat mounted) in order to obtain maximum benefit from the lower Winter sun.

Look at that panel Folks – it’s sure is a beautiful thing – almost as gorgeous as more CHROME for my Harley. LOL

Here’s Mike – he doesn’t actually do any ‘work’. LOL He just does all the talking and looks pretty. He was showing me how to tilt the panels and did notice a minor problem in that the wiring was a little tight so we had that slackened up.

While I was up on that roof in the blazing sun, Lee and Bennie were comfortably sitting in the shade.

Also, While I was up on the roof I saw this. No idea what it was but I think Mike mentioned something about a power plant – wow, that sure can’t be good for the surrounding air !!

Mike overseeing the slackening of the wires.

And here’s the beautiful numbers right after it was installed. This is the AMPS that are being poured into the Solar.

And this number represents the voltage – whatever that means. All I know is that this number is a GOOD THING – and that’s all I need to know.

A very ‘common sense’ thing I’ve learned already – if you have anything to charge up (ie. my computer) do it during the day. Anything you are taking out to charge your stuff is just as quickly being put back in that by big, gorgeous SUN !!

And now for the BAD NEWS…..

But I look at it this way Folks. ‘Average’ RV Parks expense for one month is $500.00. Yes, Some Parks are MUCH higher and then others are lower. So I’ve always figured $500.00 monthly is a good average. So that’s only 4 months expense if I stayed in a Park.

Also, Gas is very expensive and you need gas to run your generator. Last time I was at Q the gas gage dropped by 1/4 !

And lastly, but really the most important – I HATE GENERATORS – they are just so bloody noisy !!

SLAB CITY

2012-02-09T21:08:00.001-07:00

I’ve heard so much about Slab City – or more fondly known simply as The Slabs – that it was a place I really wanted to see for myself. There is a ton of information on the Internet about it but I felt it was one of those places that I just had to ‘experience’ for myself. Much like Quartzsite I think.

First impressions you might ask ? I LOVE IT HERE !!

I’ve taken a gazillion of pics however with my cheap little camera they simply do not do this place justice. Nor do my writing skills have the ability to describe it as it should be. So I refer you to some other Blogs.

Nina from WHEELING IT describes her recent day trip here:

http://wheelingit.wordpress.com/2012/02/08/day-trippin-to-salvation-mountain-slab-city-ca/

She gives a wonderful description of how ‘The Slabs’ came to be and goes on to describe the wide variety of people who stay here.

Al and Kelly from the BAYFIELD BUNCH also recently spent several days here. Al’s gift of photography and his wonderful way with words makes you feel like you were actually here. Click on any or all of the following links to get your own virtual experience of this place.

http://thebayfieldbunch.com/2012/02/touring-suburbs-of-slab-city-california.html

http://thebayfieldbunch.com/2012/02/east-jesus-sculpture-center-at-edge-of.html

http://thebayfieldbunch.com/2012/02/rockin-at-range.html

I NOW HAVE SOLAR !!!!

But that deserves a post all of it’s own ! I’m very excited. My credit card isn’t so excited but it will eventually get paid off just like everything else.

It’s been a very busy two days and I’m exhausted so I’m looking forward to hanging around here for another few days to enjoy my solar and rest !!

Oh, The Internet connection here is painfully slow !

RV WOMEN

2012-02-07T17:31:00.001-07:00

A friend of mine just sent me this CBS news clip featuring women RV’ing. Worth the watch for sure.

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7397831n

GOOD-BYE QUARTZSITE

2012-02-07T10:34:00.001-07:00

….Sure hope to see you again next year. Had a blast !!

Jamie & Mudder left to go back to the Pond last Wednesday (February 1st) but I wasn’t quite ready to mosey on. So I didn’t !!

LAST SCENES AROUND Q

EVERYDAY IS CHRISTMAS

Well when you’re around Mudder it seems to be !

An innocent trip to do laundry and Mudder eyes a consignment (junk!) place just across the parking lot. Next thing you know we’re piling THIS into the car…..

Yes, It’s the inside of an old washer but it has legs. Way cool huh ! Mudder was looking for one of these to bring back home to have fires in.

I eyed this and as soon as Mudder saw it she just had to have it for Brandy…

Great huh !

In the Laundromat parking lot I saw this….

On another ‘spending spree’ Mudder wanted one of these…

These reflective triangles are really handy to have but came 3 in a box. I bought one from her.

Remember in a post recently I talked about THE TACKY PALM TREE. I’m only kidding of course – just to get Mudder’s gander up !! LOL Well here she is lounging under it and LOVING IT !!

And who could blame her !! This pic was taken JANUARY 30TH, 2012 Folks !! Yup, This is the place to be in the Winter.

I’ve also talked before about Bennie always running away from home. He makes a straight run in the morning as soon as I let him out over to the neighbours and doesn’t come home until I kick and drag him home at night. He drinks their water, lays on their mat, eats Brandy’s food whenever he can get the chance…..And here he is trying to get into their home !!

But at least he is loving his new bed !

MET THE FAMOUS – OR SHOULD IT BE THE INFAMOUS DUCKS.

Through following each other’s Blogs we discovered we were within miles of each other and they posted they were getting SOLAR. Well I immediately had to contact them ‘cause I was soooo jealous.

You gotta watch that Roxanne – she’s got a camera hung around her neck and she ain’t afraid to use it !! And it clicks real quiet so you don’t even know pics were being taken.

We enjoyed a few hours one afternoon just sitting back and chatting.

Annie was quite interested in my bike. Said she’d love to have one. I stayed close by in case she decided to TAKE OFF on it !!

Even Bennie was leery and kept guard….

Jeeze, Some heavy thinking going on there it seems !!!

And even as they were backing out of ‘my driveway’ she’s still clicking !!!

Hope to see these guys again before I make the trek back East !!

As I’m pretty much packed up – just gotta put the bike into the rig – I sit back to admire one more of Arizona’s amazing sunsets….

MY NEW BANNER

2012-02-03T18:01:00.001-07:00

CHECK OUT MY NEW SLIDE-SHOW BANNER !!

I ‘mentioned’ to my EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT the other day that “wouldn’t it be nice to have a slide show banner with pics of just Bennie”. I mean afterall, he IS the star of the show.

Well POOF = DONE !!

I gotta give this gal a raise !!! LOL

CANADIAN MAP

2012-01-30T20:53:00.001-07:00

Mudder was out shopping one day while we were still in Yuma – well Mudder likes to take a dart out shopping EVERY day – not unlike me udder Mudder !! LOL

Anyhooo, She comes home one day with the State Stickers Map – the CANADIAN version !!

I’ve been looking for this for over a year now. I’ve looked in countless Camping World stores and other RV places. The “U.S.” version is easy to find. So I quickly jumped on the bike to go get one.

The day I was waiting for the generator guy to show up I finally got a chance to put it on my door.

First sticker to go on was my home Province…

Next was the beautiful Province of British Columbia…

I’ve yet to put the other Province stickers on but like my U.S. Map, I’ll only be putting stickers on the Provinces I’ve actually spent time in – and only the ones I’ve visited since I’ve started to fulltime.

BOONDOCKING LIGHTS

Next up is (what I thought) a BRILLIANT idea I read on another Blog. BTW, Reading other’s Blogs gives you a wealth of information and tips. This tip even warrants going into my TIPS tab on my home page !!

This Blogger suggested using those Solar Patio Lights for lighting during the night time when you are boondocking. These patio lights can be bought just about anywhere and certainly Wally’s has tons of them.

I bought a couple while in Town in Quartzsite and they work great. They won’t be any good if you want a LOT of lighting of course – or for reading etc. But for me who is just playing around on the computer it’s perfect.

Now I wanted to come up with an idea for a ‘stand’ to hold them in. I happened to have a length of 2” x 6” board in the garage. Why did I just ‘happen’ to have a length of 2” x 6” board in the rig you might ask ?? Well, back in July, shortly after I got this rig I was trying to come up with a solution to make it safer to get the bike in and out of the garage. CLICK HERE if you want to read about that.

So I cut the board to appropriate lengths and marked where the base of the solar light would sit.

Got my trusty drill out and OF COURSE I had the right bit thingie to drill the hole.

VOILA !

But of course I couldn’t leave them with just the bare wood so I got some paint….

And made them all FANCY SMANCHY !!! I place each set in various parts of the rig at night and put them outside during the day to re-charge. Love it !

THE TACKY PALM TREE

While Mudder was ‘vacationing’ at that fancy RV Park awhile back she saw other RV’ers with these palm trees outside their rigs. Naturally she had to have one !! Off to town she goes while here in Quartzsite and sure enough came home with one. I am endlessly teasing her that it is sooooo tacky !!! But it sure lights up the place at night.

I’ll have to get a pic of her laying under it.

THIRD TIME AT QUARTZSITE

2012-01-28T21:15:00.001-07:00

A GREAT BIG DESERT

Here with Jamie and Mudder this time and we scouted around Plomosa Rd. to find the perfect spot. Lots of rigs around but soooo much space also. Neighbours are nice and far away.

GOOD GRUB

We pulled in here Monday (January 23rd) late afternoon and we out to dinner at the Grubstake. It was busy but it wasn’t too long before we got a table. Service was super fast, the food was deee-lish and huge portions.

YES, HE ATE ALL OF THAT !!

Mudder and I had the fish and chips and couldn’t eat it all.

This restaurant/bar sure has a lot of character…

That’s the ceiling.

More ceiling

Ceiling again.

POWER SHARING

That Jamie – sharp as a tack sometimes – yup razor blades for breakfast . I have been without hook-ups now since I left Osoyoos, BC. My batteries are performing great but not getting the opportunity for a full charge. SIR JAMIE suggested plugging my rig into their rig !!

You see these guys not only have SOLAR POWER – but enough solar power to launch a space ship !! They have a total of 660 watts in solar panels and SIX – yes count ‘em SIX 6V deep cycle batteries !! We decided to give it a try – no reason why it wouldn’t work ?

It works like a charm !! With all the sun the beautiful State of Arizona provides, their batteries are at full charge early in the morning And of course I do not have anything running during the day.

BENNIE PUSHES HIS LUCK

As I’ve mentioned before Bennie likes to take advantage of the goodwill of our neighbours. He sleeps there during the day, drinks all of Brandy’s water, sneaks into their rig whenever possible etc. etc. But one evening he decided that Brandy’s bed looked very comfortable so decided to test it out…

Yup, He likes it alright. “Mom, Can I have one of these?”

The next day I vowed I wasn’t coming home without a bed for Bennie. Jeeze, I would have had one for him years ago if I thought he’d use the damn thing !!

He checks it out………

“Thanks Mom, This will do just fine.”

But as soon as Bennie turns his head GUESS WHAT HAPPENS !!!

Brandy says “Pffft – This will teach you for trying to steal my bed !!”

Another great day ends with a wonderful fire …..

And another awesome sunset…….

GENERATOR UPDATE

2012-01-28T19:56:00.001-07:00

BOB'S GENERATOR finally showed up at 5:30PM – he told me he would be here by mid morning – I called twice during the day - once at 1:00PM and the second time at 3:00PM – both times he said he would be here ‘shortly’. NOT a happy camper about that as I had to stay around the rig for the whole day. But as they are the only ‘mobile’ generator service in the area – well that means ‘they’ get to call the shots.

When he finally did arrive he spent only a few minutes here (no charge thankfully !!) and said it was likely a leak from the oil filter (which is located under the generator) – while Jamie & I felt fairly certain that the oil spill was coming from the top of the generator. He told me to replace the oil filter (Jamie said he could do that himself) clean everything with carb cleaner and that should solve the problem.

Today that’s what ‘we’ did….

HEY, I was helping by passing him things !! LOL

DIRTY DIRTY WORK

SEE I did say “we” – I had the pleasure of putting the new oil in – a LOT of it got spilled everywhere !! Damn that’s a messy job.

Then I proceeded to spray everywhere with this carb cleaner stuff.

Later in the day I wiped up most of the excess. Tomorrow I’m going to give it a better cleaning and then run the generator for an hour or so.

“We’ll” keep an eye on it to see if oil is still leaking.

Will post another update after that is done.

BUT the morale of this story is – it is very important to keep mechanics in a job so therefore from here on in THEY can have the pleasure of doing this !!

GENERATOR PROBLEMS

2012-01-27T08:53:00.001-07:00

Every time I turn the generator on, after about 1/2 hour or so, the Carbon Monoxide detector goes off. I was convinced it was the detector’s fault !! LOL

Yesterday I decided to pop the cover off the generator and have a look see.

Hmmmmm, I know SFA about generators or anything mechanical for that matter, but I’m pretty sure all this oil shouldn’t be all over the place. We go look at Jamie’s generator and it’s clean as a whistle !

Googled around for ‘mobile’ generator service in Quartzsite (EVERYTHING is mobile here) and sure enough found someone.

Bob’s Generators will be by sometime this morning to see what the problem is.

Fingers crossed that it’s nothing really serious.

AM I CAUGHT UP YET !!

2012-01-22T20:52:00.002-07:00

While settled back at ‘da Pond I am determined to do something about my sewer hose compartment !!

I wanted one of those carriers you can buy rather than having it stuffed in this small compartment. Here’s a pic of the fancy smanchy kind that is anywhere from $40.00 – $50.00 !!

OR you can go to your local Home Depot and buy a 10’ length of PVC (the smallest length they sell) for under $8.00….

Cutting it to the length you want is easy peasy. Buy two end caps while you are at it and all for about $10.00 !!

It is suggested you drill a few holes in it…

And also drill a few holes in the end caps…..well, I only drilled holes in one of the end caps.

HEY ! Quit your snickerin’ about my fancy sneakers !!

In my case I have several compartments that go from one side to the other. Perfect for storing my new hose carrier !! Another job DONE !!

This time back at ‘da Pond I met fellow Blogger RV SUE.

Meet Bridget and Spike…

See Jamie in the background fishing ? NOPE he still hasn’t caught a damn thing.

BENNIE MOVES OUT – AGAIN !!

My boy spends all of his time at Jamie & Mudder’s place. He has a particular fondness for their mat…

Fires; sunsets and sunrises – I never tire of them…

SUNRISE

MORE ABOUT Q

2012-01-22T07:18:00.001-07:00

I still haven’t caught up from the time I didn’t Blog for two weeks. That was the time I spent at Quartzsite and seeing as I’m heading back there again shortly I figured I’d better get posting.

I’ve been on the road now for almost 15 months and I do not have a tow car. My only means of transportation (while parked) is my motorcycle and I have found I can do pretty much everything I need to do using it.

LAUNDRY

TAKING GARBAGE TO THE DUMPSTER AT THE SAME TIME

I’ve added a few more pics of the different ways Folks take their ‘Blue Boys’ to the dump station….

I enjoyed many amazing fires (and stories) while hanging out with that Escapee Bunch…

That’s SANDIE on the left wrapped up in a quilt. She’s ALWAYS cold. I had to go to my rig and get one of Alice’s quilts for her – ‘Alice’ is me udder Mudder.

My precious little Bennie is an old guy now so gets cold quite easily. It’s a Mom’s job to keep him warm while we are outside in the evenings.

I think (?) I spoke about “The Club House” before in a previous post. This was JERI'S idea and the theme was to make it as tacky as possible. Did they succeed ??

One day Jim and Sandie and I were heading into Town. We saw what we thought was a cloud of smoke. Oh dear, a fire ??? Nope, turns out it was someone stuck in the sand and he was really blowing up dust trying to get out.

Now Jim being the neighbourly kinda guy he is, stopped to ask if he wanted some help. When I saw the guy behind the wheel I said to Sandie “Look at his eyes !!” It sure looked like he might have had a few too many whobblies !! But here at Quartzsite you see every type of person imaginable and many who are quite down on their luck. So I didn’t want to judge too harshly.

Jim also has this super duper kinda truck that he enjoys ‘playing’ with. He shifted into some kinda gear and next thing we know we are going over an embankment that even a quad shouldn’t be going over !!

Then the Rangers came and told Jim in no uncertain terms NOT to help this guy. They had called the Police as it turns out this guys really did have several too many whobblies !! He was PLASTERED !! OSS TA FIED !! (don’t think that even a ‘real’ word) Oh for you non-newfie Folks that means very, very DRUNK !

Check out his rear wheel…..

Unfortunately (for reasons I won’t get into here) we had to move camp. NO PROBLEM says Jeri – We’ll just put The Club House on the trailer and haul it to our a new spot with the quad. And that they did !!

Never a dull moment hangin’ out with that crowd.

I had to retreat back to ‘da Pond for some peace and quiet !! LOL

And enjoy watching the ducks playing around in the water…

CAN YOU VIEW THE VIDEOS NOW ??

2012-01-20T20:29:00.001-07:00

A NEW BIKE ??

2012-01-20T09:06:00.001-07:00

DID SHE…….???

DIDN’T SHE……??

MY DOO-DADDDS AND GIZMOS

2012-01-15T22:38:00.001-07:00

This morning I woke to a gorgeous sunrise – sadly it didn’t last long as it’s a very cloudy day and COOL. By Noon it was still only 54F/12C – Brrrr

Jamie & Mudder were are Harbour Freight the other day and picked up this wicked electric fly swatter for me. It was only $3.00 ! Those damn flies don’t stand a chance now !

While at Q I picked up two of these very cool, LED, motion sensor lights. Great to use while boondocking to save your battery power. They were $10.00 each and I’ll be picking up a couple more of these when I go back there.

The two LED ‘work’ lights below are not motion sensor but at two for $10.00 they are a great deal. I use them in the garage at night instead of having to turn on the overhead light.

The great thing about these are that they have a hanger (as you can see) but also that little round thing in the centre is a magnet. So you have two different ways of hanging them.

I wanted a way to refill those little one pound propane cylinders (which is illegal in Canada – pffft !!) and read online where I could get them here in Yuma. My Mr. Heater Big Buddy propane heater uses these small propane cylinders and that gets to be quite expensive – to say nothing of all of those cylinders going into the landfill. At Wally’s here in Yuma you can get two of the cylinders for $5.12. At Wally’s in Canada the same two costs $7.99 !! Being able to re-fill them now costs me 30 cents per cylinder – well that is according to my brainiac EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT.

I got this insulation quite awhile ago to do all the ‘outside walls’ of my cupboards and closets. Hopefully that will help when in colder areas.

Hauled all the clothes out of that closet. Interesting thing to note here – I have not once worn any of these clothes in this closet !

Cut and placed the insulation on the outside wall. I used a few small staples to hold it in there.

I only did one closet today – didn’t want to over-tax myself !!

JAMIE GETS BUSTED !!

In the middle of doing the insulation I glance out the window and see Jamie tearing around the pond in his car. Where was he going to or coming from (I wondered). Really didn’t give it much thought at the time.

Shortly afterwards the POLICE show up !! And I hear him saying something about a license ??

What oh what has our young man gotten himself into now !!?? “Oh Mudder, Where did we go wrong raisin’ him ??”

I look out the side window to see where the POLICE CAR parked – and saw this….

WHEW !! It was only the ‘fishing police’ people checking to see if he had his fishing license. All is well !!

BACK TO MY DOOO – DADDDS

If you have any of these solar patio lights you know they come with these little plastic things that you are supposed to put in the ground. Well at Quartzsite the ground is so hard I broke/bent several. There was no way they were going into the ground.

Using those HUGE nails (or whatever they are called) was suggested to me. You can really pound those things in the ground.

The base of the solar patio light fits beautifully over them…

VOILA !

Another purchase made while at Q was a sun screen that attaches to your awning. A MUST while in Arizona.

These screens come in a multitude of sizes and several different colours. I chose the black as I felt it blended in better with the rig’s colours. I also got the 8’ x 10’ size as I didn’t feel it necessary to have the entire width of the awning covered. Cost for that size was $28.00. You then have to buy the tabs & ‘s’ hooks that slide right in the channel of the awning. Those were $9.00 (I think) for a package.

I saw that Jim had his secured to the ground using tent pegs so I got me some of those.

The added benefit of this is that the awning is now very secure should a sudden wind storm come up quickly in the middle of the night. This happened to me last year !!

Finally later in the day it got warm enough to sit outside. Jamie scored big time in finding some wood just down the road and I immediately put it to good use making a little fire for us to enjoy.

It turned out to be a beautiful night and we were able to sit outside until almost 9:00PM.

P.S. I probably bought more gizmos and gadgets that I’ve forgotten about !

Brandy….

Bennie

FOR THOSE THAT HAVE NEVER BEEN TO QUARTZSITE

2012-01-15T08:49:00.002-07:00

I decided to do a Blog post about “Q”, as it’s commonly referred to. This is for the Folks that have never been here.

“Quartzsite is a little town of 3,700 residents in the southern part of Arizona. Every year since the early 60’s when it started as a small selling area for rocks and gem tailgating, it has grown in leaps and bounds to become one of the biggest swap meet areas in the country. Almost 2,000 vendors come each year and bring all kinds of merchandise from all over the world. Last Winter, over one and a half million people visited this area.”

Sandie did a Blog post about Q; as did Jeri and Peter and Bea. Well I guess anyone that Blogs who has spent time in Q will do at least one post about it.

Don’t matter though as there are no amount of words that could explain it. There are no amount of pictures that can capture what it is like there. This place is something you simply have to experience for yourself.

This was my second time already going back there this year and I spent about 10 days there this time. I walked around many of the isles of vendors and venture to say that I still haven’t covered even 1/100th of it ! It’s a lot of walking to cover everything.

A few pics of some of the things I saw.

Jim and Sandie shopping for these very cool LED, motion sensor lights I got.

Driving through town on a quad is a common thing to see and is an accepted mode of transportation here.

And the ‘Big Tent Show’ hasn’t even started !!

My wallet is substantially lighter as a result of my two previous visits and I’m going back there again next week. Can’t wait !!

Will do a seperate Blog post on all the cool little dooo-daddds I got.

WHERE DO I BEGIN !!

2012-01-14T20:56:00.001-07:00

Holy Cow !! It’s been two weeks since I’ve blogged and the natives are getting restless – and worried. Friends have been e-mailing me asking if everything is ok.

I’ve gone through ‘blogging slumps’ before but not quite this long. I gotta be in the ‘mood’ to write a Blog and lately I just haven’t been.

So I’ll start with today and eventually work backwards in future posts until I’m caught up. Yup, That’s just like me – go backwards to catch up !! LOL

I mentioned awhile back that Jamie & ‘Mudder’ stayed at this fancy smanchy RV RESORT for two weeks and I went to Quartzsite. LOTS to Blog about that in another post.

Anyhoooo, This Resort has lots of activities and today they hosted a Harley Bike Show which was open to everyone. You didn’t have to be staying at the Park. The cost ? $3.50 for a burger and ALL THE BEER YOU CAN DRINK. Oh, Back in ‘da day !! OR soft drink or coffee etc. PLUS, There were prizes, live entertainment etc. etc.

OH THE BEAUTIFUL BIKES

The next one is a trike conversion and won in two different categories. I could live a long time just on the value of the chrome on it !!

There were people everywhere. I figure there had to have been at least a thousand or more people there. Inside – outside – by the pool etc. etc.

Of course everyone was decked out in their ‘Harley’ gear. Jamie & I figured we’d be financially comfortable for the rest of our days just in what the Harley clothing that people wore was worth. No kidding !!

The following bike is owned by a friend of Jamie and ‘Mudder’.

Later in the afternoon the Folks got out for a few scuffs !!

Sorry about the shaky film – and NO I didn’t have a few whobblies !! LOL

What a great way to spend a few hours on a nice afternoon.

LOTS OF VISITING

2011-12-31T22:45:00.001-07:00

First up was a quick drop by to see Barbara and Katie. A fellow RV’er (Don) was there visiting as well with his dog Duffy.

Everybody got along quite well – after all the ‘butt sniffing’ was done. Duffy is a major hole digger and Bennie was real curious as to what that was all about.

The following day Barbara came by our area to meet ‘in person’ fellow Bloggers Jim and Sandie and Jeri and Terry. Yup, All the ‘humans’ also got along famously – thankfully, no ‘butt sniffing’ was necessary !!

After I got all set up – awning out; mat out; chairs out etc. etc. it was too HOT to sit in the sun so I had to drag my chair over to the opposite (and shady) side of the rig to cool down.

I want to get a collection of pics together with the various ways people bring their portable holding tanks to the dump station. The most common is dragging it behind their ATV’s. I’ve also seen is dragged behind their trucks and golf carts. When I can get more pics I will post them.

Took a quick run into Town today with Jim and Sandie. We only walked two short rows and even though the ‘Big Show’ doesn’t start until January 21st I think the majority of vendors are already set up. Some of the sayings on these signs are hysterical !

I ordered a sign to put up in the garage….

We stopped to have a hot dog and obviously this table was reserved for people who had dogs. Jeeze, They think of everything around here.

I also want to get a collection of pics with the ways people carry their dogs around while going through all the vendors at Q. Some are pretty darn cute !

Late this afternoon Sandie comes out of her rig and says she has a big pot of spaghetti on if anyone wants some. D U H H H H !!! Like anyone was going to say no to that !!

It was deee – lish !! Thanks Sandie !! So glad I didn’t have to cook tonight.

What a wonderful clear night it is with stars in the sky by the millions.

HEADED BACK TO QUARTZSITE

2011-12-31T20:44:00.001-07:00

A SAD DAY

Jamie & ‘Mudder’ moved out of our Lakefront Property on Monday (December 26th) but I delayed it until Wednesday and even then it was hard to leave…

Check out the little duck swimming across the Lake in this next pic…

But my two weeks was almost up and Quartzsite was a callin’ me. Yup, new people to meet; new (mis) adventures to have; new scenery to see.

QUARTZSITE

A few pics I took from the roof of the rig when I arrived. ‘Parking’ is pretty tight here huh !! LOL

Bennie & I didn’t get settled until Jim & Sandie arrived but we did prioritize !! Get the bike out !! So we sit back relaxing (hmmmm, I seem to do an awful lot of that !!) waiting for the gang to arrive…

There is MAJOR solar happening here of course. Pretty much every second rig has solar panels. So much so that there are several that have their rigs decorated outside with Christmas lights and they are on all night. Sure looks pretty at night.

I’M RETIRED

2011-12-31T08:36:00.001-07:00

IMPORTANT - HEALTH MESSAGE

As I was lying in bed pondering the problems of the world, I rapidly realized that I don't really give a rat's ass. It's the tortoise life for me!

1. If walking/cycling is good for your health, the postman would be immortal.

2. A whale swims all day, only eats fish, drinks water, and is fat.

3. A rabbit runs and hops and only lives 15 years.

4. A tortoise doesn't run and does nothing, yet it lives for 450 years.

And you tell me to exercise?? I don't think so.

I'm retired. Go around me!

CHRISTMAS DAY WITH THAT CRANBROOK CROWD

2011-12-25T22:52:00.001-07:00

What a gorgeous, sunny day it was. Jamie and ‘Mudder’ decided to open their presents outside.

Brandy got the most presents I think and she very quickly got into them…

OK, So that was one, there’s more…

Next up was Jamie’s turn. Seems Brandy was out shopping when no-one was looking buying gifts for ‘Dad' as there were several gifts for Jamie from Brandy from the Harley Davidson store…

‘Mudder’ also had a gift for Jamie – perhaps she was trying to give him a hint ??? I dunno ??

Jamie saying “WTF am I supposed to do with that !!”

Now it’s ‘Mudder’s’ turn – I tell ya, the local Harley Store did well this year….

Despite the fact that I am a major HUM BUG when it comes to Christmas, my little boy isn’t !!! Jamie & ‘Mudder’ didn’t leave him out. He got treats and a new squeaky – which was a BIG HIT !! Unlike his new best friend, Brandy, he wasn’t interested in ripping the paper off himself. Mom to the rescue !! Once that was done it was off to the races !!

After all that excitement Bennie and I had to go take a nap. And look what we came out to just an hour later….

Yes Folks – on December 25th, 2011 in Yuma, Arizona it was that warm ! Gotta love it.

BTW, That is Jamie’s idea of ‘fishing’ – and NO he STILL didn’t catch anything – but Brandy was trying to do her part by helping….

That is one dirty, muddy little pup. I warned Bennie not to go near the water and thank goodness he listened.

We capped off the day with another great camp fire….

With Bennie showing no improvement in liking this ‘outdoorsy’ stuff once the sun goes down….

Another great day in paradise !

CHRISTMAS EVE–ARIZONA STYLE

2011-12-25T22:39:00.001-07:00

People relaxing and fishing….

And enjoying yet another awesome sunset…

Away from all the hustle and bustle – the extravagance of gift giving – the pretence……

No, It’s not for everyone I do understand that. But it definitely is for ME.

SERENITY PLUS +++++

2011-12-24T11:09:00.001-07:00

Gawd, It sure has been great ‘living’ here. Beautiful weather, great scenery, amazing sunsets, roaring fires. What more could anyone ask for.

BENNIE MOVED OUT

Yup, Our yard is not good enough for my boy and he spends all of his time next door. Even when they are not home and I’m outside puttering. Something about their mat I suppose.

VISITORS

MORE VISITORS

This guy mosies up on his horse in complete ‘Western’ attire – including a GUN strapped to his side. He is an American citizen now – but is originally from Alberta, Canada.

There were two couples who showed up here every afternoon for a few days to do some fishing. Wives and kids came along – as well as their futon couch !!! They’d lift that thing out of the back of their van each day. Jamie called them ‘The Faulkner's’ – apparently that was a movie ??

One day Jamie threw some sardines into the Lake and Bennie was obsessed for several days trying to get at the food.

“Oooops, Got caught !”

A few sunset and camp fire pics from the last few evenings…

The other day (Thursday) it was very windy so a great day to get some laundry done. We piled everything into the car and away we went. Yesterday (Friday), It was warm enough to be sitting outside very comfortably by 9:30AM !! Gotta love Winters in Arizona.

I am soooooo NOT a Christmas person in any way, shape or form. But ‘Mudder’ loves Christmas and has their rig (inside and out) decorated. Jamie wraps his gifts.

A few more rigs have moved in so we have a total of 6 of us here now.

Yesterday Jamie and ‘Mudder’ were out gallivanting again – leaving me home to do all the chores !! Jamie was off golfing and ‘Mudder’ was off getting her hair all dollied up. I got those two spoiled rotten – look at the great fire they came home to. I SLAVED all day chopping wood and collecting kindling. LOL Sure was worth it though.

Bennie, being the wussy dog that he is, only enjoys being outside in the evenings when he has all the comforts of home….

Moving day is Monday and I sure will miss this place. In these BLM places you are only allowed to stay for 14 days and then you have to move to another location that is at least 25 miles away. Such silly rules I think.

RETIREMENT IS EXHAUSTING !!

2011-12-19T21:18:00.001-07:00

My day starts early and next thing you know POOOFFF the day is over.

Jamie and Mudder had some business to take care of the other day so I was on puppy sitting detail. I had forgotten just how much energy younger dogs have. Brandy takes ME for a walk…

I try to get creative with taking pics – hmmm I think I should leave that to the professionals …

Another job I was given (while those two were out gallivanting !) was to collect rocks for a fire pit and twigs..

I did a bang up job if I do say so myself !!

Always something pretty to look at….

I met Jim and Liette while I was in Osoyoos. They were the smart ones and left there before it got freezing cold. They are here also in Yuma and dropped by for a visit. Such fabulous people RV’ers are…

Liette even brought cookies to have with our tea. YUMMY !

And we had our first camp fire…

Nothing nicer than a camp fire huh. Sure takes the chill out – well for most of us…..

While I was in Gila Bend last week Jamie & Mudder made a trip to the Harley store. Seems that Brandy needed to keep up with the Jones’s ‘cause Bennie has a Harley Davidson sweater so apparently Brandy insisted on having one also. Mudder brought it out so Brandy could model it….She even got the HD Cap !!

Jamie trying to get Brandy’s new outfit on…

And Brandy then prances around showing off !!

I think Bennie was trying to offer words of encouragement to Brandy.

I finally got the bike out for the first time since I’ve been at this spot. I was dreading it but managed to get out on the pavement without dropping the bike. Folks, That’s 3 1/2 (almost 6 kms) LONG miles of loose gravel road. A road that’s barely fit for a farming tractor to drive on. It was like riding on marbles !! I ‘clutched it’ most of the way and by the time I reached the pavement you had to pry my hands off the grips.

BIG NEWS – JAMIE CAUGHT A FISH !!

While I was at Walmart Jamie caught a fish. He asked me to zoom in so it would look bigger….

What ?? You can’t see it ?? How about now ??

Yes Folks, he did throw it back in the water. He wanted to save it to PROVE to me he actually caught something. Everyone else around here is catching them like crazy – but poor Jamie is not having much luck.

Another AMAZING sunset last night…I think the best one yet…

Complete with a roaring fire…

Note in the left pic below our little Jamie is nothing if not persistent – he’s still trying to catch something !! And in the right pic (I think out of desperation !!) he is teasing poor little Brandy with the fish bait..

WAIT – WAIT – WAIT – JAMIE CAUGHT A FISH !!

This looks serious….

Looks like a keeper…….

I’m told it’s a catfish. All I know are ‘trout’. ‘Cause where I come from when you go fishing it’s called “goin’ troutin’’.

At this point in the evening, Bennie is OVER being outside and wants to get in under his quilt…. He goes into the garage and is peeking out the door saying (I’m sure) “C’mon MOM – enough with this foolishness – come inside !!”

AND THIS BRINGS US TO TODAY…

More amazing and peaceful scenery….

I found those gutter extensions I’ve been looking for at Walmart

And pop them on..

Bennie is always there front and centre to lend a helping hand…errr paw….

Jamie cleans his BIG catch from yesterday – I stay only long enough to take a pic. Fish guts are not something high on my list of Things To See…..

WE HAVE VISITORS….

And we end the night watching the sunset (through some clouds tonight – but look at the reflection in the water !!) and another fire……which BTW, I collected the twigs for all day !!

A TOUR OF MY LAKEFRONT PROPERTY

2011-12-15T21:37:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I pulled into my new ‘home’ where I’ll be staying for about 10 days or so. Before that I gassed up (can’t let the gas tank go below 1/4 in order for the generator to run); dropped $100 on groceries at Walmart etc. etc.

I got semi-settled yesterday and spent most of today cleaning and organizing. You may remember that when I put things away when I was on Ogilby Road it was raining so everything was wet and muddy so quite a mess today as I was putting things out. Had an amazing, relaxing day puttering around and chatting with all the people here fishing.

This is what greeted me this morning…

Normally I’d find that kinda creepy but it wasn’t. I actually found it quite soothing.

The guys that come to this Lake to fish are already here…

Well Good Morning Mr. Sun and Little Ducky – how nice to see you….

And let’s not forget Mr. Crane – or a Loon ? Not sure what you are you beautiful thing you….

In no time at all the fog has burned off the Lake and more people are arriving for their day fishing…..

Jamie, Mudder and Brandy arrive in the afternoon..

And in very quick order Jamie has them all set-up. I gotta get me one of them Jamie’s !!!

Bennie and I take a little stroll around the end of the Lake to explore another road out that might be easier for me to get the bike out. While strolling another beautiful creature awaits our pleasure..

A few shots of ‘home’ from across the Lake….

An awesome sunset that I will never tire of….

The fish are really jumping now so Jamie decides to get his fishing pole out. This is Jamie’s idea of fishing…..note the fishing pole hooked in to the wire around the tree….

We are still sitting outside after the sun went down just admiring the beauty and serenity of the Lake..

And Jamie finally gets serious about fishing…..

And to think there are people out there who are actually SHOVELLING SNOW !!! UGH

YESTERDAY -- TODAY

2011-12-14T21:00:00.001-07:00

YESTERDAY

TODAY

OGILBY ROAD

2011-12-13T13:21:00.001-07:00

I’M LOOSING IT !!

OK, For those of you that ‘know’ me, that will come as no surprise !! LOL Not long ago, while at Walmart, I bought 2 solar patio lights to place outside. More recently while at Walmart with Jamie & Mudder, I purchased two more of the same kind. WELL yesterday I was looking for something in the storage compartments (which I never did find btw), I came across a set of 10 solar patio lights that I completely forgot I had. I really need to go through every single storage compartment to see what I have.

Second thing is that I figured this might be a good time to take advantage of that FREE STAY I have at an RV Park. NOPE, Can’t find that either.

But to set the record straight Folks, I DON’T LOSE THINGS. I just ‘misplace’ them – sometimes I misplace them never to be found again – but I DON’T LOSE THINGS.

A LITTLE STROLL AROUND

Found a spot on Ogilby Road where there were a few other RV’s. There was a group of 3 together and then a 5th wheel off to themselves. Yup, This seemed like a good spot and I got myself settled in making sure to be quite a distance from the others so as not to infringe on anybody’s space. Even put my chairs and mat out AND took the bike out. Yesterday morning Bennie and I took a little stroll around the desert.

Someone left their tent behind !!

I approached it cautiously in case someone was under there !! LOL

THEY HATE ME !!

After the couple in the 5’er pulled out I knew I wouldn’t be able to stay there. It started to rain. DARN. Now I had to get the ramp extensions out; get the bike turned around (in the gravel) so it was facing the ramp etc. etc. I was NOT a happy camper. Trying to get everything put back in before it got too wet AND get the bike back in on a ramp that’s now wet and slippery. Let me tell you, I was very nervous and my heart was pounding when I was making a run with the bike onto the ramp. But I didn’t drop it and got everything put away – albeit now very wet and muddy.

I pulled out and drove up the road a ways to see what was there. Had read on another Blog that there was an RV Park just up the road so decided to check it out. Believe me, It wasn’t anything to talk about and certainly not somewhere I’d want to stay. I drove around inside but didn’t take any pics. Perhaps ok to stop in and do some laundry while you are out boondocking but that’s about it.

I found a great spot in the other direction only about a mile from where I was and there are about a dozen rigs all within eye sight but spaced quite a distance from one another.

Later in the day the sky started to clear. It looked like there was a line drawn in the sky separating beautiful sunshine and the dark clouds..

Then this amazing rainbow appeared and was so huge I couldn’t fit it all in one pic…

So I took a short video of it…

* M * A * S * H *

Another thing I’ve noticed this year (that I didn’t notice last year) is the number of very low flying helicopters. We are only about 30 miles from the Mexican Border and I’ve been told the helicopters are scanning the desert looking for Mexicans that are trying to get into the States illegally.

Jamie and Mudder are moving to the OUR lakefront property tomorrow so really looking forward to spending some time there.

BACK TO THE FLEA MARKET

2011-12-12T18:59:00.001-07:00

While I was at the RV Park in Gila Bend a rig parked next to me with these steps….

They appeared to be laid right over the existing steps. I had not seen this before and thought it was a great idea.

When I left for Gila Bend the other day Jamie was off to get a fishing license. With the license came a sheet of paper with fishing places in the area. Jamie and Mudder (aka Linda) went to check out one place. They found a GOLD MINE in the middle of the desert !!

When I got back they, very excitedly, told me about it and on our way to the flea market, they took me by it. Look at this place !!

A short video showing what a single pic cannot….

It is a FREE, 14 day limit, place to boondock and fish for those that like to fish. And QUIET !! It is gorgeous there. And it appears to be quite unknown by the avid boondockers as there were only two smaller campers there. Really looking forward to boondocking there for awhile.

THE FLEA MARKET

In the meantime, another trip back to the Flea Market last Saturday was in order as we didn’t get to the last few rows last week. At the rate I’m going there simply won’t be another thing I’ll be looking for when I get back to Q

NO – I didn’t buy it !! LOL

I did get another flag for the holder I bought last week. This is the American and Canadian Flag together and is known as the ‘friendship’ flag.

And I bought another chair.

Enjoying a hotdog and a beer (for Jamie & Mudder)

I just washed it down afterwards with a deeee-lish ice cream cone…..

I wanted to get out of the spot where I was because it was far too noisy for me – it is right by the I-95 and train tracks. I headed to Ogilby Road while waiting for Jamie & Mudder to be ready to leave which will be within the next days. We will then join up and boondock together again at the above lake.

Ogilby Road is a great spot to boondock and you can drive in quite far to get away from the road and enjoy complete peace and quiet. Unfortunately for me, I like to stay close to the road so that I have less gravel to ride the bike over. For those that like to hike ( I like to ‘stroll’ LOL) it is truly an awesome spot.

Being a female, solo, RV’er (and a complete WUSS !) I choose my spots carefully. I’m not a person that requires ‘company’ and I don’t get lonely – sure glad for that. But safety and feeling comfortable at night obviously are very important to me so I look for places where there are other people around – at least off in the distance.

Where I pulled in yesterday there were a group of 3 RV’ers together and another 5th wheeler off to themselves. I parked a nice distance from them but felt safe because others were around. The group of 3 pulled out this morning so now it’s only me and the 5th wheel people. If they stay I’ll feel ok – but if they leave then I will have to also.

UPDATE: The couple in the 5th wheel pulled out later in the morning so I had to move also. Darn !!

GILA BEND

2011-12-10T20:24:00.001-07:00

Had an uneventful (we like uneventful) drive to Gila Bend and back. Just under a 2 hour drive each way. Back in Yuma again now hanging with Linda (whom I’ve now nicknamed Mudder) and her son Jamie.

AN ENGLISH LESSON

First of all a little English lesson for my Canadian friends - Gila Bend is pronounced Heee La Bend ? pffftttt ! I’m still calling it Gila Bend.

A GREAT VISIT

Had a wonderful visit with my old friend Cook. Well, actually her ‘real’ name is Marian but I met her as Cook and Marian just doesn’t roll off my tongue quite right. I can’t remember how she got that nickname but apparently I’m the only one who still uses it.

We had a great visit and of course ‘talked about’ everyone we once knew back in the 70’s.

I had never met Cook’s husband Mike so that was very nice also. Later in the day it was actually warm enough to sit outside – well if you were in the direct sun. Cook enjoyed playing with Bennie and throwing his ‘squeaky’.

CHORES – CHORES – AND MORE CHORES

I spent two nights at Holt’s Shell RV Park because the rate was so cheap. With Passport America it was only $11.99 a night and had full hook-ups. That included having both 30 and 50 AMP.

Took advantage of this great opportunity to get a ton of stuff done since I haven’t had hook-ups since I left B.C. on November 15th.

I did 4 loads of laundry – or probably more as I stopped counting !! The whole sheee-bang got washed.

Defrosted the freezer – that was the first time that was done since I got this rig.

Bathed Bennie – see how happy he is getting his bath.

And of course emptied/filled all the tanks.

IT’S A SMALL DESERT

While I was at Quartzsite a man was out strolling and noticed my license plate and of course having a NL is unusual to see this far West. He knocked on my door and we had a lovely chat. He told me he was 86 years old; was from Creston, B.C. and he and his wife had been coming South for the past 30 years.

WELL, Here I am at an RV Park in Gila Bend and I’m outside sitting on the step. This man approaches me and says “Ours paths have crossed before.”. I didn’t remember. It was the same guy from Quartzsite !! He remembered my rig; where I was from; Bennie etc. What a memory !! And what are the chances !!

SLEEPY – SLEEPY – SLEEPY

I’ve been going through quite a CHALLENGE lately – and that’s trying to stay awake until 9:00PM ! AND I’m failing miserably at it !! LOL Last night my eyes started to get heavy about 8:00PM and by 8:30PM I just gave up the fight and went to bed. UNHEARD of for me. AND I slept until almost 8 o’clock this morning.

Tomorrow (or maybe Monday) I’m gonna head out of here. This spot is great for a couple of nights but is not the kind of boondocking I like. It’s very close to I-95 and a train track and therefore very noisy. A sneak peak at where I might go next….

A DAY ON THE ROOF

2011-12-06T18:41:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I decided to install the two roof vents I got. Got everything ready and up/down on the ladder several times to bring everything up there. I think I had every tool I own up there – just in case.

Although the installation is painfully simple it still took me awhile to figure it out. I had read the instructions plus watched a video of the install on YOU TUBE.

There is a ‘special’ kind of vent cover you are supposed to use if your vent has a fan in it – which both of mine do. This ‘special’ vent cover is more than triple the price of a regular one. But the guy at Camping World said I really didn’t have to spend all that extra money if I didn’t need the vent fully opened – which I don’t. So he said the kind I got was fine.

I quickly learned why a ‘special’ one was needed. There are screws you put through the bracket to hold it to the vent frame and with the fan there – well you just can’t get to the inside to place the washer and tighten the little nut. I found that out AFTER I drilled the holes !!

I was NOT a happy camper as I had purchased one vent cover at some Camping World (didn’t keep the receipt !!) on my way South and the other one at the Flea Market the other day (no returns !!). hmmmmm, Perhaps if I take out the fan it will work ??

And that’s what I did and VOILA it worked ! But I needed an extra set of hands now……One up on the roof where the screw part was and one inside to put the little washer and nut on and hold it while tightening. Jamie to the rescue !!!

Job done ! That one took several hours (for a 5 minute job) !!

While I was up on the roof I took a few pics of Jamie, Linda and Brandy decorating their site – well Linda was the only one doing the work. Linda had been to Wally’s and bought a ton of stuff !!

I thought the little candy cane solar lights were so cute.

I also took a little aerial view of where I am now – boondocking just outside of Yuma. The noise in this video is the wind.

Despite the fact it was getting late in the day I figured I might as well put the other one on as I had everything out already. This one really did take only 5 minutes as this time I actually knew what I was doing.

All vents are now covered and THANKS to Jamie for his help !!

Heading to Gila Bend tomorrow as an old friend and her husband are going to be in Phoenix this week and she wants to connect with me. Really looking forward to that.

SHOPPING & MEETING MORE GREAT FOLKS

2011-12-04T19:45:00.001-07:00

Decided to stop by the local Harley Davidson store yesterday and came out pretty unscathed…..

Bennie had to make sure the plants were sufficiently watered first though….

Only thing I bought were a few covers to hide the many rusted bolts on the bike…

As I recall though I left quite a LARGE chunk of change at this particular dealership last year.

Bennie ripped this toy off the shelf and started to play with it. Seemed to like it a lot and made such a fuss when I told him he couldn’t have it that -----well, I just HAD to buy it for him.

He was kind enough though to carry it out of the store for me….

Living this lifestyle you get to meet such great Folks. Parked just behind me is Linda who is travelling with her son, Jamie. They are from Cranbrook, B.C. Linda and her late husband travelled South each Winter for about 6 or 7 years. Her husband passed away about a year ago and now Jamie is ensuring his Mom continues to be able to enjoy warm Winters. And he is really enjoying the travelling also.

Today they were going to this HUGE flea market (all new stuff) so Bennie and I followed along on the bike. What fun we had !! We had only gotten to the end of the first row and had already bought a ton of stuff. We never did get to go through all of it so obviously will HAVE to go back another time.

My stash was a cute sign – $2.50 !!

A flag holder. I had seen this on Linda’s rig and wanted one.

Here it is proudly displayed although I will have to get two more little flags to put in it….

Treatment for the holding tanks. A couple I met in Quartzsite told me about this stuff and really raved about it.

Rain gutter extensions… I had read about this online and put them on my ‘list’. Apparently they divert the water far enough away so that those black streaks don’t come on your windows and down the sides of the rig. We’ll see……..

A vent cover that I did actually ‘need’….

Bennie saw this leash and again started kicking up a fuss again until I got it for him. That boy of mine is getting to be very expensive !!

I was glad to particularly get the vent cover while I was with Linda and Jamie so I could put my stuff in their car.

Back at home we all had fun again going though our stash to see what we bought. Jamie was well in on the action as he bought himself a toy helicopter that he’ll be able to fly. Can’t wait to see that in action..

Linda had a great time going through her stuff…..

Their adorable ‘Brandy’ wasn’t left out of all the buying – but I bet she wished she was !!! Linda bought her SUNGLASSES. Here she is trying to get them on….

And here’s Brandy looking ever so cooool…..

Brandy DID NOT like having them on and immediately started trying to get them off. This will definitely have to be an ‘easing in’ process. Bennie just looked on and said “THANK YOU MOM ! THANK YOU MOM, For not buying those for me and making me wear them !!”

Bennie and Brandy were sooooo good going around the Flea Market today. And Bennie is VERY quiet tonight – sound asleep. Poor little guy is exhausted !!

AERIAL VIEW OF Q

2011-12-04T08:17:00.001-07:00

For those of you who haven’t been to Quartzsite and simply cannot visualize it – well, I climbed up on the roof the other day to take this short video.

This is just one area on Plomosa Rd. and there are numerous others just as large or larger.

This area is about 5 miles out of Town. In January this aerial view will show what I call ‘white dots’. It will be full of RV’s in every type and size imaginable.

You can be tucked in anywhere and be as far in off the road as you please. And ‘camping’ here is FREE !!

HEADED TO YUMA

2011-12-02T17:02:00.001-07:00

Huh ??

Didn’t know you were heading to Yuma.

I didn’t know I was heading to Yuma !!

Thought you were going to stay in Quartzsite ??

Why did you head to Yuma ?

Well Folks, It got a bit nippy in Q and the forecast wasn’t looking good for the next several days. It will turn back to its delicious warmth later for sure.

So last night I realized “Hey, I’m in a house on wheels – I don’t HAVE to stay here.” On the Internet (seriously Folks, HOW on earth did we ever survive before the Internet) and googled around to see if was warmer anywhere reasonably close by.

Sure enough Yuma was showing brilliant sunshine with temps several degrees (in Celsius) higher.

Besides, I do have to get a bit of service done on the rig so can get it done here.

Figure I’ll be here for a few days.

YESTERDAY’S VISITORS

2011-12-01T17:27:00.001-07:00

Folks, Check out my new header pic !! WOW huh !! Credit goes (once again) to my EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT. I figured since she worked so hard getting me down here safe and sound she deserved a vacation. But vacation time is now over so I had to come up with some work for her. I had asked her to combine two pics for me for my header pic and being the OVER ACHIEVER she is – well this is the result.

Yesterday a knock comes on my ‘front’ door – yes, I have a front door and a back door. AND being a typical Newfoundlander the ‘front’ door is never used – everybody uses their back door.

I could not open the door because of this……

WTF !! Always something with a home on wheels isn’t it. The desert sun obviously to blame I figure.

The knock was from a fellow RV’er coming back from his walk and wanted to say “Hey” because he saw my Canadian flag. WELL, In a month or so from now there will be 10’s of thousands of Canadian flags. We did have a lovely chat. He told me they are from British Columbia, he is 84 years old and they have been coming South in their RV every year now for 30 years – and hopes to continue doing this for many more years to come.

Then I decided that it would be a good day to go check out that RV Park that is offering me 3 FREE nights. It was only about 20 minutes from here and a glorious day.

Just minutes before I was about to leave I heard someone talking to Bennie. It was Marty and Shelley, folks I met while in Osoyoos, and their adorable little Lulu !! How do people find me so easy ?? LOL

I LOVE Shelley’s t-shirt and will definitely be getting one of those…..

We had a great visit and non-stop chatting. Bennie and Lulu played and played and fought over ‘Baby’.

I think Bennie had an unfair advantage in this one…

Marty noticed the rubber hanging from my front door (I was going to deal with that later when I got back from my ride) but he had it fixed in no time !!

Look at those TALL legs – I would have had to get the ladder out !!! LOL

After a great visit I hopped on the bike to go check on this RV Park. Well I wasn’t on the Highway very long and the traffic pretty much came to a standstill. It was backed-up for as far as I could see. I noticed a motorcycle behind me going through the middle and I pulled over to let him through. I thought about that for awhile and then thought WTF ! I’m going to try that also.

I caught up with him and he tells me it is legal in California (which I knew) but not in Arizona so he was keeping a close eye out for any police cars. I followed him and then decided to move over to the paved shoulder as riding through the middle with an 18 wheelie on each side was a little tight at times. My right leg was really burning due to the hot pipes in this slow moving traffic and I would have been in it for hours if I hadn’t ridden the shoulder. I clocked the traffic back-up for 4 1/2 miles and that was only to the Exit I took. It was backed-up as far as you could see going West.

I found the Park and checked it out and it was ok. BIG problem with this Park is that there is a gravel hill going into the Park which I would dread having to take the bike down.

But FREE is always a good thing so I’ll no doubt take advantage of it sometime later this month or maybe early January.

Hopped on the bike and headed home.

Today was a cold, overcast and very windy day. UGH !! I didn’t even get dressed and stayed under the quilts all day.

I can never tire of those gorgeous Arizona sunsets….G’Night Folks

BENNIE MEETS KATIE

2011-11-29T08:30:00.001-07:00

I have following Barbara’s travels from ME AND MY DOG from even before she acquired her RV. It’s amazing how well you can get to know someone by reading their Blogs.

Yesterday afternoon I took a scoot on the bike and decided to see if I could find where she was parked. She gave a pretty good idea on her Blog, however, you have to realize these areas are huge. It’s not ‘busy’ here yet but still there are hundreds of RV parked in one area alone. I had commented on her Blog that I would be by for a visit.

Sure enough I saw the infamous PALMS and before I could even get off the bike out she runs – camera in hand naturally !! For those of you that follow along with Barbara you already know what great pics she takes.

What a delightful woman she is. Full of energy and smiles. And THE PALMS is gorgeous. Fantastic layout and spotless clean. This size of THE PALMS would be perfect for me if I didn’t have that stupid ol’ Harley….LOL

We had a lovely visit and there was non-stop chatting.

Her ‘spot’ on BLM land here at Q was well photographed on her Blog and looked great. But when you actually see it in person it is even better. She is positioned so that there will be nobody parked behind her or on either side – at least not very close anyways. AND she can walk to the big RV Show.

Now Katie is not as social as her Mom and was NOT pleased to have Benne on her turf. There was a bit of growling going on but not bad.

Things are always better though where there’s treats involved..

A really lovely visit and I’m sure there will be more as we both plan to spend some time here in Q.

GETTING SETTLED

2011-11-26T19:16:00.001-07:00

A friend of mine sent me an e-mail with some great, funny pics of animals. Yesterday’s cat was one of them. Here’s one for today……

This morning it was a little chilly in the rig – not bad though – but my little Bennie was shivering. Can’t have that !! Put on the heater (only needed it on for about 1/2 hour) and wrapped him in one of Nan’s many quilts that I have and he became very content quite quickly….

So after many times going around in circles the other day I decided today I’m in a good ‘position’. So out came the mat, the lawn chair, tire covers put on, flag up etc. etc. etc.

This afternoon I was just getting ready for a little scoot into Town and thought I would drop by and see that couple from Manitoba (Ed and Anne) I met the other day when I arrived here. Next thing I know I see this huge pick-up truck coming barrelling towards my rig with the horn blasting. Well it was Ed and his buddy Paddy. Ed had told me about Paddy because not only is he a fellow rider – he is also from NL !! We had a little visit here and then Bennie and I got on the bike to go over to their place so I could meet his wife. Here we are all sitting around and chatting……..well, Paddy was the one doing all the chatting !! Man oh Man – typical Newfie – can he talk !!! **wink** **wink** Don’t worry Paddy, I enjoyed every minute of it.

Paddy and wife Bernie have 750 watts of solar !!! WOW !! He was explaining it all to us and of course it is a subject I’m trying to learn more about so I found it fascinating.

Bennie on the other hand really took to Ed and visa versa. I feared Ed wouldn’t give him back to me. LOL

Just realized I didn’t get a pic of Anne – oh well, next time for sure.

It was almost dark by the time I got back home and missed the sunset.

G’Night Folks

SETTLED IN AT Q

2011-11-25T21:18:00.001-07:00

Beautiful day today although a bit windy.

I moved early this morning and found a spot closer to the road. The couple in the Class A that was close by must have laughed their heads off though looking at me. Who knew finding just the right ‘direction’ to be parked in would be so difficult.

I must have gone around in circles in this spot several times. You see I want the morning sun coming in through the big front window in order to heat the rig – I want the rear positioned so that it would be easy to get the bike out – I want the side with the awning to be positioned so that I could sit and watch the sun set – blah blah blah. After many different tries I think I got it.

My back yard……..

My ‘morning’ side yard.

My ‘afternoon’ side yard………

PRIOTITIES first though – get the bike out !!

Ready to go….

And she’s out !!

Too bad I couldn’t get a closer pic of this. Two people on three wheeler bicycles (two wheels in the front) and one with a basket on the back with a dog in it. Click to make the pic larger and you will see them.

I have several projects to get done while I’m settled here. I bought this insulation and I plan on doing all of the backs of all the cupboards and closets with it. I had done that in my Class C and had forgotten about it. The DEEP COLD in Osoyoos reminded me that I had not done it in this rig !! LOL I would open a closet door and it would be very cold in there.

I also bought a curtain for the garage door. This door has a small window in it and I thought a small curtain would be nice so that you can’t see in. Well, again, the DEEP COLD in Osoyoos made me realize that perhaps a full length one would be better to keep the drafts out.

Later in the day I did end up putting it up. Now nobody had better come by with a level ‘cause I doubt very much that the rod is put up very straight !!

I also purchased a vent cover at Camping World on my way down here. I have two vents that don’t have covers but I just got one for now. This one will go over the vent in the garage. It was a bit gusty today so that project will be for another day. I gotta find that U-Tube video that I watched awhile back that shows how to install this.

Jeeze, Where are Paul and Bob and Lawrence (my riding buds from last year) when you need them !!

When I went to take the bike out today I noticed that my prized possession had fallen off the wall.

Byron, I believe you were with me when I got that at the HD dealer in Ontario. Remember ? Anyhoo, That got secured back up on the wall. Thankfully the glass didn’t break when it fell.

I did make two trips into Town today to dispense of some garbage and to fill some water jugs. Truth really is that it was just an excuse to get a wee ride in.

The stars in the sky tonight are amazing. There are just some things that a picture cannot capture.

G’Night Folks !

QUARTZSITE, ARIZONA

2011-11-24T17:04:00.001-07:00

I HAVE ARRIVED !!

A great driving day – well it was only a few hours but great nonetheless. The I-10E sure was busy though. A steady stream of traffic all the way. LOTS of RV’s and mostly the toy hauler kind. Humongous big Class A’s towing these humongous big trailers – and I mean the triple axle kind. Figure they were loaded with quads and dirt bikes. I saw a lot of this also…..

Small trucks towing small trucks and both were very loaded down. This surely cannot be safe ?? Vendors going to Q perhaps ??

Only 5 more miles to go…………

It was 3:00PM before I settled into my spot though. I had to do the tanks and my fresh water seems to take forever to fill up. Then I decided to check out the other boondocking areas around here instead of simply going back to the one I was at last year (Plomosa Rd.).

While checking out one I got chatting with this couple from Manitoba. WELL !! When he found out I was from NL I thought he was going to shake my hand off. LOL Turns out their daughter-in-law is from NL also. Then when she found out I was travelling alone, driving ‘DA HULK by myself AND ride a motorcycle – well I doubt that her jaw has closed yet. What a nice couple.

And what a set-up they’ve got. They are here for the winter and don’t have to move. He’s got a gizmo rigged up for their grey and black tanks and fresh water etc.; solar panels – the works ! I’ll have to drop back to see them when I get the bike out.

Bennie gave my lap a rest today and seemed quite content to lay on his blankie on the floor – his Harley Davidson blankie of course.

For one reason or another I decided against the other three boondocking spots I checked out and did end up back on Plomosa Rd. Got myself in a nice spot a little farther in off the road than I was last year. But as soon as I parked I realized I will have to move tomorrow. There is no way on earth am I going to be able to ride the bike out to the paved road from where I am now. So I will have to park in a spot closer to the road. Here’s a few pics of my surroundings….

A month from now (or even earlier) these areas will be full of RV’s.

PALM DESERT–DAY TWO

2011-11-23T20:40:00.001-07:00

A beautiful and hot day here in Palm Desert. Current temperature at 1:00PM was 75F/24C. Loves it I do !! At one point, while driving around today, the temperature on the dash showed 87F. (UPDATE: At 7:00PM I still have the windows open !)

It was so nice to wake up knowing I didn’t have to get on the road. Last night I didn’t even need the heat on at all during the evening. Although I’m sure the furnace cut in overnight as I had it set to 60F.

Had a great lazy morning just putzing around and making phone calls. Doing laundry right now and still have several other errands to do after that. Then back to Wally’s for the rest of the day and tonight.

Got lost trying to get to the laundry place and even more lost trying to get back. But because of that I did get to see a bit of the area. One word comes to mind = MANICURED. It truly is beautiful here with all the palm trees and flowers and the gardeners and sprinklers were very busy. Now let me remind you it’s almost the end of November !!

All the street names I saw were named after celebrities ie. Bob Hope Drive; Frank Sinatra Drive etc.

When I was getting ready to pull out this morning my jacks would not retract ?? Don’t know what was up with that ? I did check to make sure the engine was running and the hand brake was on as it’s supposed to be. Then went out to look at the jacks and didn’t see anything obvious. Tried the buttons several times with no luck. Turned the engine off and on several times. Finally I pressed the button and they retracted. Still don’t know what the problem was so I will definitely have to get that checked out.

Because of that delay getting going I got a little present - A lady pulled into the parking lot right in front of me and came up to my rig this morning and gave me FREE 4 days/3 nights at several different RV Resorts - the closest one being Colorado River Oasis in Ehrenberg. So I'll definitely take advantage of that at some point over the next month or so. Gotta endure a 60 minute presentation to get this as these are membership resorts but for 3 free nights I think I can do that.

On to Quartzsite tomorrow to rest and relax for a week or so – AND get some riding in ~~

PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA

2011-11-22T19:57:00.001-07:00

Another very rough driving day due to the awful California Highway conditions. But I’m getting there.

Got Bennie groomed this morning – poor guy looked like nobody owned him – but now he’s back to his youthful glory……

I also got ‘groomed’ this morning and I also was brought back to my youth… aw, who am I kidding !! It’ll take far more than a hair cut to erase the effects of my ‘multiple’ years. LOL But this hair cut really made me realize that all my ‘natural’ colour (via tons of help from the various hairdressers) is no longer. All that’s left now is grey !! hmmmm, Have to put that on my list of priorities to get corrected right quick !!

Both groomings were done by 10:30AM and I had checked the temperature in Santa Clarita which showed a lovely 64F/18C for the High today. But Palm Desert (my next planned stop) showed a pleasant 73F/23C as the High for today so I decided to get on the road.

At one point (no idea where I was) I ran into this….

A back up of traffic I thought. I had deliberately taken the 210E to avoid this kind of thing going through LA.

Bennie enjoyed some air while we were stopped/driving very slowly…

Don’t worry, MOM was holding on to him so that he wouldn’t suddenly decide to jump…

Turns out there was an accident up ahead…

And once I cleared that it was smooth (well bumpy) sailing again.

I remember when I first saw these wind turbines for the first time last year. I was so amazed. I hadn’t seen anything like it before. Well the City of Toronto, Ontario had ONE. I am equally amazed again this year to know that these actually produce electric power. I was thinking my home Province (Newfoundland) should have these ‘cause we sure get enough wind to keep them going pretty much 365 days a year !!

I’m Wallydocking as usual tonight and a beautiful night it is. It’s almost 7:00PM right now and not only do I NOT have any heat on yet – I still have a window open. Gawd, It was good to pull in today and be able to actually open a few windows.

I’m definitely going to stay put tomorrow and take one day off before I do my final leg into Quartzsite on Thursday. I have a number of things to get done not the least of which is laundry. And once I settle into Q I don’t want to have to move until I have to go get water etc.

Even the Walmart here is different. It doesn’t have the usual Walmart colours on the building. It’s very Mexican looking on the outside I thought.

SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA

2011-11-21T21:32:00.001-07:00

Yup, Slowly but surely I’m getting there. Knocked off another 151 miles but I’m getting tired – very tired. Even though I’m going to bed early and sleeping well, the days of driving all day are catching up with me.

Today I was only 40 miles from my destination (for today) when I felt so tired I had to pull over. I actually crawled right back into bed and slept for TWO solid hours….or went out like a “cold junk” as my Mother would say.

Woke up to cold and dense fog in Wally’s parking lot….

This of course made driving conditions less than ideal…..

Thankfully in about 40 minutes I had driven out of that and into this….

Gawd, I had forgotten how bad the Californi+a Highways are !! I thought for sure that the cupboards were going to come down off the walls. Even Bennie was NOT pleased with all the noise that was being made. I read somewhere awhile ago that Schwarzenegger put California into bankruptcy. Don’t know if this is true but the conditions of the Highways sure seem to say it is.

I might hang around here tomorrow. I’ve made an appointment for 9:00AM for Bennie to get groomed and 10:00AM for my mop to get cut. So we’ll see.

GET YOUR CHRISTMAS GIFTS EARLY

2011-11-20T19:36:00.001-07:00

Friends of mine from British Columbia make these wonderful crafts. Everything from key rings to wind chimes to earrings.

Check out their Blog. Their Products are listed on the right hand side.

http://www.lmjcrafts.blogspot.com/

TULARE, CALIFORNIA

2011-11-20T18:27:00.001-07:00

Another 193 miles/310 kms put behind me today. Felt like a long and tiring driving day but the light is at the end of the tunnel. Today was the first day I thought “OK, I’m over this now !!”

My EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT and I had a long chat last night about my route over the next few days and where I wanted to arrive first. I was betwiked and between Quartzsite and Lake Havasu City. She was soooo insistent on knowing which one so she could plan my route for me. picky picky picky !! But I gotta tell ya Folks, she’s better than any GPS ! LOL ***psssssttt, Don’t tell her I said that ‘cause I’m always giving her a hard time.

We eventually agreed upon Quartzsite and she adjusted my FANCY MAP and then she e-mailed me my ‘instructions’ for the next day:

SUBJECT: Plan for Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday‏

Sunday – Lodi, CA to Tulare, CA – 183 miles

Monday – Tulare, CA to Santa Clarita, CA – 145 miles

Tuesday – Santa Clarita, CA to Palm Desert, CA – 149 miles

Wednesday – Palm Desert, CA to Quartzsite, AZ – 130 miles

And I am NOT to deviate from this plan. And I am NOT to decide to travel further ‘cause I felt it was too early to pull in. So BOSSY this one is !!

Actually it will be nice to have a few short driving days. I’m in desperate need of a hair cut and Bennie is in desperate need of a grooming so maybe I’ll get a chance to get these things done.

I made my first stop at a Harley Davidson today. I’ve been SOOOO good up to this point on this trip. You have no idea how many dealerships I’ve passed without stopping. I’m telling ya – COLD is a really good motivator !!

Just picked up a few trinkets. A new mouse pad – well, yes I already do have a HD mouse pad but it’s filthy and I can’t get it clean anymore…

A pair of flannel track pants. Truth is that you’d get these at Piper’s for about $5.00 but because they have the “Harley Davidson” name on them you pay an outrageous amount. And yes, FOOLS like me buy them…

And another sticker for the ‘garage’. I know, I know Sandie – I already have too many !! hehehehe

And that was my day Folks. I am so looking forward to pulling out my lawn chair and watching the sunset. And also having that extra hour of daylight.

LODI, CALIFORNIA

2011-11-19T19:45:00.001-07:00

Knocked off another 200+ miles today – getting closer to WARMTH !! I was pretty tired as I expected to be. Woke up at 6:00AM only because I went to bed so early. Just puttered around and caught up on Internet stuff for hours this morning and didn’t get on the road until 10:00AM. It was so good not to feel rushed.

The following describes the driving conditions today and is the sum today of all the pics I took today.

I like driving the I-5. Most RV’ers do not like the major Interstates but rather the slower more scenic routes. I like the I-5 because I just get in my lane, set the cruise control and relax. Plus you can really make good time when you are running away from the cold like I am.

Only 557 miles to go if I decide to stop in Lake Havasu City - or 597 miles to go if I decide to go straight to Quartzsite – or 760 if I decide to go straight to Apache Junction. AJ is certainly a draw for me because I already know a few people that are there. I just can’t seem to make up my mind.

It got a bit tanglie getting through Sacramento today and I made a wrong turn for the first time on this trip. I was supposed to take 80W and somehow ended up on 80E. Thankfully I didn’t go too far out of my way before I took an Exit and got back on track.

I saw my first Palm Tree today !!

Temps were in the low 60’s !!

I even opened the blinds today for the first time since I had to cover up all the windows with quilts !!

And that Folks is my entire Blog for tonight.