Well, the rain has stopped for the time being; but the lack of cloud cover has dropped the temperatures down a bit. When Ruthi walks Karma in the morning (around 8 or 8:30), the temperature is 34 degrees. That means that sometime in the early coldest part of the moring we were at 32 or lower.
By the time they return to the RV, the temperature has risen to 41 degrees. By mid-day we are at 55 degrees. It rises a bit more in the afternoon but then goes back down in the evening and throughout the night. Ruthi still hasn't put on long pants (her definition of winter); but we are having very unusual cool weather here in the South!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Santee Lakes, CA
Another night and day of rain. We woke to a pond outside our door and one of our woven rugs (and it's associated rubber mat-that was supposed to hold it in place) floating away from our rig. When Karma and Ruthi went out in the deluge and stepped on the remaining rug/mat, they were immediately in 5-6 inches of water.
The pond was almost the length of the rig and about 8-10 feet out from it. Luckily, RVs (or at least ours) are about 8-10 inches above the ground. So, we are in good shape. Every time it stops raining the pond soaks into the ground and leaves only a little moisture above ground for the next cloud burst to fill.
We could excavate a route around us but I think the park rangers would have something negative to say about that.
The pond was almost the length of the rig and about 8-10 feet out from it. Luckily, RVs (or at least ours) are about 8-10 inches above the ground. So, we are in good shape. Every time it stops raining the pond soaks into the ground and leaves only a little moisture above ground for the next cloud burst to fill.
We could excavate a route around us but I think the park rangers would have something negative to say about that.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Santee Lakes, CA
Rain rain go away, come again another day!
While we ARE in Southern California we are on the bottom edge of the storms that are wrecking havoc in the LA area. The rain comes and goes in waves of hard drops to misting. Even though it's cloudy and raining, most of the time the temperatures hover around 60 degrees. Karma needs to go out at the most inopportune times. We have SOAKED clothes and coats hanging around the tight space. The rains interfere with our TV satellite reception but it's re-runs time anyway.
We are keeping dry!
While we ARE in Southern California we are on the bottom edge of the storms that are wrecking havoc in the LA area. The rain comes and goes in waves of hard drops to misting. Even though it's cloudy and raining, most of the time the temperatures hover around 60 degrees. Karma needs to go out at the most inopportune times. We have SOAKED clothes and coats hanging around the tight space. The rains interfere with our TV satellite reception but it's re-runs time anyway.
We are keeping dry!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Santee Lakes, CA
This shopping season has embittered some of the people in the various parking lots. We were in La Jolla at the movie theater (Today's Special) celebrating our 26 years together when someone scraped part of our 2008 Obama bumper sticker off our back bumper. They didn't touch our "I'm not afraid of Muslims, Tea Partiers, Immigrants, Gun Owners, Socialists, or Gays, but I am scared of SPIDERS" sticker. How can people think that's ok - touching another person's vehicle to remove a bumper sticker they oppose????
Then today again we were at a movie (The Tourist) [maybe we need to stop going to movies], when someone puts a note that said: "You are an asshole, How could you park this way at Xmas, I am reporting you to the parking lot security/attendants" under our window wiper. As most of you are aware, we own a very big and very long truck. It takes 2 spaces straight in to avoid leaving the rear end for people to hit as they go down the aisles.
On a brighter note, we stopped at 3 of the local Thrift stores (Salvation Army, Goodwill and a Catholic sponsored one) looking for books and VCR tapes (for the grandkids), and other items for temporary use here in Santee. These stores are very busy (the economy), have high quality of merchandise and a pleasant/orderly display.
Then today again we were at a movie (The Tourist) [maybe we need to stop going to movies], when someone puts a note that said: "You are an asshole, How could you park this way at Xmas, I am reporting you to the parking lot security/attendants" under our window wiper. As most of you are aware, we own a very big and very long truck. It takes 2 spaces straight in to avoid leaving the rear end for people to hit as they go down the aisles.
On a brighter note, we stopped at 3 of the local Thrift stores (Salvation Army, Goodwill and a Catholic sponsored one) looking for books and VCR tapes (for the grandkids), and other items for temporary use here in Santee. These stores are very busy (the economy), have high quality of merchandise and a pleasant/orderly display.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Santee Lakes, CA
Woke to no water this morning – cold snap during the night froze the hose. Wait a minute – this is San Diego – what’s with the temperatures below freezing???
Ah well, it back up to 63 and water has been running for awhile.
Ah well, it back up to 63 and water has been running for awhile.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Santee Lakes, CA
We got a new refrigerator and a lot of annual maintenance work completed. But they are under staffed and it was a slow process. After twice having rescheduled, we were just glad to have it done. The new frig is nice!!
Finally to our winter space in Santee!!!! Boots was able to back right in. We have the stream out our back window and a very wide open space for our designated lawn, with a gazebo, picnic table, and big California Sycamore tree dropping leaves/sap everywhere.
Finally to our winter space in Santee!!!! Boots was able to back right in. We have the stream out our back window and a very wide open space for our designated lawn, with a gazebo, picnic table, and big California Sycamore tree dropping leaves/sap everywhere.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Valencia, CA
Finally, we head into Valencia / Newhall / Santa Clarita / Stevenson Ranch – whichever. It seems the Camping world is built on the intersection of these 4 towns. While the address is Newhall, the staff joke about how depending on where you are standing (retail store, repair shop, parking lot, sales area, etc.), you could be in a different city. Lucky for us, our GPS correctly finds the location no matter which city we enter.
We parked out in the lot last night so that we would be here bright and early for them to begin the work. With our solar panels, we have enough power to set up the satellite dish and read/cook before bed-time.
We parked out in the lot last night so that we would be here bright and early for them to begin the work. With our solar panels, we have enough power to set up the satellite dish and read/cook before bed-time.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Acton, CA
Finally, we get the truck back. This particular ford dealership (in Bishop, CA on highway 395) has the worse customer service of all of the Ford dealers we have worked with over the past 2+ years. Really, the truck was ready last night but because no one wanted to stay late, they left the paper work until this morning. If Boots hadn’t called, the truck and paper work would still be sitting on their site. As it was when she showed up, they still hadn’t processed the paper. She couldn’t just get the truck and leave. Boots had to go to the brand manager. He was quick (and loudly vocal) to remedy the situation.
We hooked up and zipped up to Acton, CA for the week-end. This is a much older park which has challenges in providing steady electrical power. They are working on improvements but the park is large and our preferred locations on the back hill is still challenged. Lucky for us we have a surge protector and another RV’er indicated a site that had not had any problems lately.
We hooked up and zipped up to Acton, CA for the week-end. This is a much older park which has challenges in providing steady electrical power. They are working on improvements but the park is large and our preferred locations on the back hill is still challenged. Lucky for us we have a surge protector and another RV’er indicated a site that had not had any problems lately.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Bishop, Ca
We are still in Bishop, CA but the part has arrived and they are busy working on the fix and test. We were supposed to be at the Camping World in Valencia / Newhall / Santa Clarita / Stevenson Ranch for some annual maintenance work; which had previously been scheduled in the Portland, OR area. So, we had to call them and reschedule for Monday/Tuesday next week; hopefully that will work.
Ruthi’s sore throat continues to bother her so she’ called the local “Call a Ride” to be transported to a local family health clinic to get checked for strep. Good news is that it isn’t strep and she lost 10 pounds on the “Sore Throat” diet. Bad news is she just needs to wait out the virus. Easier said than done – her throat feels like cut glass is at the back and very painful!
After the clinic, Ruthi bought some liquid Sudafed and Iubprofen at the pharmacy next door for easier medicine taking. Then she waited on the clinic front steps for the "Call a Ride" to pick her up and return her to the RV park. While she was waiting, an elderly gentleman pulled into the clinic parking lot and got out of his car. He shuffled ever so slowly up the sidewalk, in what looked like painful inch by painful inch movements. When he finally reached the clinic door it was locked. Ruthi apologized for not letting him know sooner that only the receptionist was in the office as everyone else had gone out to lunch right after her appointment.
The receptionist came to the door and let the gentlemen in find out what he needed. When he came out he asked Ruthi if she was waiting for a ride and offered to take her to the RV park. Ruthi had seen multiple "Call a Ride" vans go by without stopping, so she took him up on his offer. Then she joined him in the slow slow walk back to his car. If any of you have ever walked with Ruthi, you know she has more of a run gait instead of a walk as her normal pace.
Finally they got to the car and were putting on their seat belts, when the gentleman let her know that he was a serial killer but this was his day off. ruthi looked at him and said in as much seriousness as possible: "I may not run as fast as I used to but I can surely out run you!"
Ruthi’s sore throat continues to bother her so she’ called the local “Call a Ride” to be transported to a local family health clinic to get checked for strep. Good news is that it isn’t strep and she lost 10 pounds on the “Sore Throat” diet. Bad news is she just needs to wait out the virus. Easier said than done – her throat feels like cut glass is at the back and very painful!
After the clinic, Ruthi bought some liquid Sudafed and Iubprofen at the pharmacy next door for easier medicine taking. Then she waited on the clinic front steps for the "Call a Ride" to pick her up and return her to the RV park. While she was waiting, an elderly gentleman pulled into the clinic parking lot and got out of his car. He shuffled ever so slowly up the sidewalk, in what looked like painful inch by painful inch movements. When he finally reached the clinic door it was locked. Ruthi apologized for not letting him know sooner that only the receptionist was in the office as everyone else had gone out to lunch right after her appointment.
The receptionist came to the door and let the gentlemen in find out what he needed. When he came out he asked Ruthi if she was waiting for a ride and offered to take her to the RV park. Ruthi had seen multiple "Call a Ride" vans go by without stopping, so she took him up on his offer. Then she joined him in the slow slow walk back to his car. If any of you have ever walked with Ruthi, you know she has more of a run gait instead of a walk as her normal pace.
Finally they got to the car and were putting on their seat belts, when the gentleman let her know that he was a serial killer but this was his day off. ruthi looked at him and said in as much seriousness as possible: "I may not run as fast as I used to but I can surely out run you!"
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Independence, CA
Ruthi awoke to no power and hence no heat. The sun was charging the batteries (or so she thought) and heating up the rig. It turns out that after batteries die, they need to be turned off and then turned on again to begin the charging process. Once Ruthi figured that out, the solar panels did their work. It was going to take a while before the microwave would nuke the broth for her throat.
Boots had been informed that the part was not in, so there was another delay in the final fix to the radiator(s). So, we re-grouped and decided to have the rig towed back to a Bishop RV park so Boots, Ruthi and Karma could be rejoined with electricity (no sewer at this particular park – so we used our reserve tank of water and their showers/bathrooms).
The same guy who had towed the truck came back to get us with his boss’s 2004 Ford F350 pickup. While the boss is very into horses, she’s not that into dogs; so, Karma had to ride in her kennel in the RV. Karma was not pleased and having never ridden there she was a little freaked. Ruthi had forgotten to place one of the wheeled office chairs on the bed. That was rolling back and forth in the living room area making all kinds of noise we are sure. When we finally got to the park and were able to get Karma out she was in major stress mode. Lots of water drinking and wanting to stay outside unless we were all going in together - poor baby!
Boots had been informed that the part was not in, so there was another delay in the final fix to the radiator(s). So, we re-grouped and decided to have the rig towed back to a Bishop RV park so Boots, Ruthi and Karma could be rejoined with electricity (no sewer at this particular park – so we used our reserve tank of water and their showers/bathrooms).
The same guy who had towed the truck came back to get us with his boss’s 2004 Ford F350 pickup. While the boss is very into horses, she’s not that into dogs; so, Karma had to ride in her kennel in the RV. Karma was not pleased and having never ridden there she was a little freaked. Ruthi had forgotten to place one of the wheeled office chairs on the bed. That was rolling back and forth in the living room area making all kinds of noise we are sure. When we finally got to the park and were able to get Karma out she was in major stress mode. Lots of water drinking and wanting to stay outside unless we were all going in together - poor baby!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Bishop, Ca
Pulling out in the morning we went through Bishop proper and were really surprised by the thriving business along route 395 in the middle of town. There is a strong tourism business for the area – skiing and hunting. On our way South, the truck’s cooling system light came on. We were just North of Independence, CA (small small town). We called our road-side assistance number and eventually talked with a service representative (back at Ford in Bishop, of course). He was pretty insistent about getting us towed back to their facility. After the engine had cooled and the light was off we proceeded to Independence (it turned out to be less than a mile down the road), we checked at both (that’s right only 2) gas stations and they only had what we thought was an off-brand of anti-freeze already mixed with water at 50-50.
After more discussions with the Ford representative and Sheriff and California Highway Patrol, we decided that the best course of action was to have Boots go with the towed truck. Ruthi and Karma would stay with the rig on a side street. Our thinking being – how long could it take to check the radiators (yes, this truck as multiple radiators and 2 batteries) and flush/re-fill the tanks? Then Boots could return and we would again be off South. You know snow is coming to Northern and Central California and that is not in our agenda ever again!!!
Well, the radiator problem is not simple – surprise surprise – but it is covered by the warranty – some good news in all of this. It seems there was an internal leak and something was broken and needed to be replaced. They needed to order the part (from Detroit, we guessed). So, Boots got a cheap hotel room and Ruthi/Karma settled in for the night. Because the rig was left on a side street, the slides were not deployed. What that means was that there is no access to the TV, pots/pans, and bedding (blankets especially). Ruthi was only eating liquids because of her sore throat anyway so the batteries would heat the broth in the microwave and charge her laptop. What more did she need.
Boots was provided a tooth brush/paste, comb, etc. by the hotel staff and ate at a neighboring restaurant. Ruthi, on the other hand, bundled up in long pants, a long sleeve shirt, and socks with a pareo wrapped around her head and went to bed with Karma close by. It was a one-dog night for Ruthi. With solar power charging the batteries during the day and propane for the furnace, she thought she was in great shape.
After more discussions with the Ford representative and Sheriff and California Highway Patrol, we decided that the best course of action was to have Boots go with the towed truck. Ruthi and Karma would stay with the rig on a side street. Our thinking being – how long could it take to check the radiators (yes, this truck as multiple radiators and 2 batteries) and flush/re-fill the tanks? Then Boots could return and we would again be off South. You know snow is coming to Northern and Central California and that is not in our agenda ever again!!!
Well, the radiator problem is not simple – surprise surprise – but it is covered by the warranty – some good news in all of this. It seems there was an internal leak and something was broken and needed to be replaced. They needed to order the part (from Detroit, we guessed). So, Boots got a cheap hotel room and Ruthi/Karma settled in for the night. Because the rig was left on a side street, the slides were not deployed. What that means was that there is no access to the TV, pots/pans, and bedding (blankets especially). Ruthi was only eating liquids because of her sore throat anyway so the batteries would heat the broth in the microwave and charge her laptop. What more did she need.
Boots was provided a tooth brush/paste, comb, etc. by the hotel staff and ate at a neighboring restaurant. Ruthi, on the other hand, bundled up in long pants, a long sleeve shirt, and socks with a pareo wrapped around her head and went to bed with Karma close by. It was a one-dog night for Ruthi. With solar power charging the batteries during the day and propane for the furnace, she thought she was in great shape.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Minden, NV
We got to Minden, NV from Quincy, CA on Saturday night. The 10 miles North of Minden is a “high winds” stretch of highway. We had luckily passed through with little to no winds. When we checked into the park, the woman at the gate told us we were lucky to get there early as the winds were forecasted to pick up and the road (California 395) would soon be closed to semis and RVs. We pulled the rig into our spot and stayed hooked for the night as we intended to head further South in the morning. Our space had a small tree about 10 feet from our bedroom slide-out.
The winds did pick up during the night banging the tree against our bedroom wall again and again. It was kinda like being in a tornado or hurricane pathway. There were big hard gusts of wind shaking the rig and then nothing for a while before the big gusts and tree banging came again. This went on most of the night. By morning the winds had not really diminished. We checked with both the Nevada and California DOTs (Department of Transportation) web sites to check on the wind / road conditions. CA 395 was closed for RVs between Minden and the San Bernadino. So, we went over to the casino and gave them some of our retirement money.
Sunday night wasn’t much better but we waited out the wind, rain, and banging on the bedroom wall. We thought if we got up and left early (or at least what was early for us – 8am), we could get through the rough spots and get to Bishop, CA before the weather really got going for the day. Well, both DOTs gave tentative oks for the trip. The weather records showed light winds down 395 in our path. So, as we were still hooked up, we took off early and hurried to Bishop.
There was little to no winds on our Monday drive. We were lucky enough to be just out of range of the winds. California’s DOT still warned for the roads further South but we had an easy and relatively quick drive to Bishop. Our one-night stopover was again at a casino (just as you enter Bishop) but much cheaper - $5 – no hook up (i.e., water, electricity, and sewer). But we were fine having planned for this type of stop on our way to Southern California. Ruthi was having some pain from a sore throat so we looked into walking to a local clinic to check that it wasn’t strep. We couldn’t find anything close by so figured we do it at our next stop. So, after again supporting the local economy at the casino, we crashed early.
The winds did pick up during the night banging the tree against our bedroom wall again and again. It was kinda like being in a tornado or hurricane pathway. There were big hard gusts of wind shaking the rig and then nothing for a while before the big gusts and tree banging came again. This went on most of the night. By morning the winds had not really diminished. We checked with both the Nevada and California DOTs (Department of Transportation) web sites to check on the wind / road conditions. CA 395 was closed for RVs between Minden and the San Bernadino. So, we went over to the casino and gave them some of our retirement money.
Sunday night wasn’t much better but we waited out the wind, rain, and banging on the bedroom wall. We thought if we got up and left early (or at least what was early for us – 8am), we could get through the rough spots and get to Bishop, CA before the weather really got going for the day. Well, both DOTs gave tentative oks for the trip. The weather records showed light winds down 395 in our path. So, as we were still hooked up, we took off early and hurried to Bishop.
There was little to no winds on our Monday drive. We were lucky enough to be just out of range of the winds. California’s DOT still warned for the roads further South but we had an easy and relatively quick drive to Bishop. Our one-night stopover was again at a casino (just as you enter Bishop) but much cheaper - $5 – no hook up (i.e., water, electricity, and sewer). But we were fine having planned for this type of stop on our way to Southern California. Ruthi was having some pain from a sore throat so we looked into walking to a local clinic to check that it wasn’t strep. We couldn’t find anything close by so figured we do it at our next stop. So, after again supporting the local economy at the casino, we crashed early.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Quincy, CA
We had planned going through Monterey, CA and then stopping along the central to southern coast as we returned to Santee, CA for the winter. We had appointments at the Valencia, CA Camping World for our annual maintenance work. This work had been originally scheduled for the Vancouver, WA area but was re-scheduled due to the rush back to Reno for Boots’ surgery. So, instead we headed back to Quincy for another 10 days.
Melody spent the first week with the kids at her parents in Oroville. When she returned to Quincy, Boots had some meals created that they could just heat up and both of us were available for childcare for her first week back home. The pain was still pretty intense so Melody was trying to manage that carefully so as not to be drugged all of the time. Tara was abruptly weaned and seemed ok with it. Both kids talked about how their momma was hurt by the horse and were very helpful as a result. While Melody wanted to be up and doing it was very difficult and she really needed to just stay still and wait for the healing – not easy for an active mother of 2 little ones – even though we were there. Also, a lot of her friends came by to clean and plan how they would do meals after we were gone. Their friends and the community were very helpful.
Between meals, childcare, picking up Bodhi from school and entertaining Tara, we were very busy that second week of Melody’s recovery.
Melody spent the first week with the kids at her parents in Oroville. When she returned to Quincy, Boots had some meals created that they could just heat up and both of us were available for childcare for her first week back home. The pain was still pretty intense so Melody was trying to manage that carefully so as not to be drugged all of the time. Tara was abruptly weaned and seemed ok with it. Both kids talked about how their momma was hurt by the horse and were very helpful as a result. While Melody wanted to be up and doing it was very difficult and she really needed to just stay still and wait for the healing – not easy for an active mother of 2 little ones – even though we were there. Also, a lot of her friends came by to clean and plan how they would do meals after we were gone. Their friends and the community were very helpful.
Between meals, childcare, picking up Bodhi from school and entertaining Tara, we were very busy that second week of Melody’s recovery.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Reno, NV
When we began our American Tour, we knew we would need to establish new doctor relationships somewhere in the lower 48. We picked Reno, NV as Boots’ son (John) and his family live within 90 miles. So, we have been poked, prodded, MRI’d, PET’d, sonogramed, and ‘-scoped’ for both yin and yang. We have a general practioner, optometrist, dermatologist, cardiologist, urologists, internist, etc, etc, etc. Both of us have good bills of health not that we don’t have some issues common with aging but over all we are healthy for women in their 60’s.
We have been very pleased with our doctors and both of the Reno hospitals/labs (St Mary and Renown) we have dealt with. We have experienced an interesting and seemingly usual behavior of these doctors. They are really good at listening / hearing what we have had to say and they call us personally with lab results as late as 6 or 7 pm. They don’t schedule appointments just to tell us everything was fine. They haven’t seemed to be interested in testing for testing sake. Since Boots is on Medicare and Ruthi has personal insurance (which is very minimal), the doctors/billing services have not treated either of us differently.
Well, there it is! For those of you that were hoping for a quick demise or early access to any few pennies we may left – it’s not going to happen very soon!!!
We have been very pleased with our doctors and both of the Reno hospitals/labs (St Mary and Renown) we have dealt with. We have experienced an interesting and seemingly usual behavior of these doctors. They are really good at listening / hearing what we have had to say and they call us personally with lab results as late as 6 or 7 pm. They don’t schedule appointments just to tell us everything was fine. They haven’t seemed to be interested in testing for testing sake. Since Boots is on Medicare and Ruthi has personal insurance (which is very minimal), the doctors/billing services have not treated either of us differently.
Well, there it is! For those of you that were hoping for a quick demise or early access to any few pennies we may left – it’s not going to happen very soon!!!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Reno, NV
Since leaving Vancouver, WA to get Boots to a surgeon in Reno, NV it has been hectic. Boots’ bleeding hemorrhoids needed immediate attention hence the rush to Reno, NV. The healing period was a rough 1st week, easier 2nd week and better 3rd week. By the 4th and 5th week, the overall pain and agony was minimal. We were with Boots’ son and family enjoying the kids each day as she healed.
Bodhi is almost 6 and such a little guy. He’s active and has a lot of energy. His 1 ½ year old sister (Tara) adores him and copies his every move. She is very verbal and physically almost as active as Bodhi. Tara is a water drinker and not interested in much else. That’s good news but to show how much she copies Bodhi – He was having some rice milk. Even though we know from prior experience she doesn’t like it, Tara says she wants some. So, Ruthi fixes her a glass with barely a sip in the bottom. Tara up ends the glass and is satisfied that she has kept up with Bodhi. She does not ask for more.
We are in Reno stocking up on goods/services and final doctor appointments, before we head back to the central coast of California on our way back South for the winter. We get a call from Boots’ son – John. His wife, Melody, has had a run in with one of the horses boarded with her gelding. Though it’s sketchy on the how’s, the horse spooked (as they are want to do) and essentially ran her over. Melody ended up with 5 breaks in her tibia and fibula just below the left knee. John was transporting her to the hospital in Truckee, CA for surgery. The kids and dog (Sunny) were with Melody’s parents , at their home in Oroville, CA - about an hour north of Sacramento. Fortunately they had been passing through Quincy that day on their way home from Reno.
We drove over to Truckee to sit with them while they awaited surgery. Truckee, near Tahoe, is a skiing resort area and have very good orthopedic surgeons. The doctors/surgeons go over to Quincy (about 60 miles) on a weekly basis. So, once surgery was completed she would be able to see the doctor in Quincy (their hometown). That part all worked out pretty well. We talked with them about how we would adjust our current plans and help, at least for a while, as Melody healed.
Bodhi is almost 6 and such a little guy. He’s active and has a lot of energy. His 1 ½ year old sister (Tara) adores him and copies his every move. She is very verbal and physically almost as active as Bodhi. Tara is a water drinker and not interested in much else. That’s good news but to show how much she copies Bodhi – He was having some rice milk. Even though we know from prior experience she doesn’t like it, Tara says she wants some. So, Ruthi fixes her a glass with barely a sip in the bottom. Tara up ends the glass and is satisfied that she has kept up with Bodhi. She does not ask for more.
We are in Reno stocking up on goods/services and final doctor appointments, before we head back to the central coast of California on our way back South for the winter. We get a call from Boots’ son – John. His wife, Melody, has had a run in with one of the horses boarded with her gelding. Though it’s sketchy on the how’s, the horse spooked (as they are want to do) and essentially ran her over. Melody ended up with 5 breaks in her tibia and fibula just below the left knee. John was transporting her to the hospital in Truckee, CA for surgery. The kids and dog (Sunny) were with Melody’s parents , at their home in Oroville, CA - about an hour north of Sacramento. Fortunately they had been passing through Quincy that day on their way home from Reno.
We drove over to Truckee to sit with them while they awaited surgery. Truckee, near Tahoe, is a skiing resort area and have very good orthopedic surgeons. The doctors/surgeons go over to Quincy (about 60 miles) on a weekly basis. So, once surgery was completed she would be able to see the doctor in Quincy (their hometown). That part all worked out pretty well. We talked with them about how we would adjust our current plans and help, at least for a while, as Melody healed.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Quincy, CA
A couple of nights ago, Karma and Ruthi were taking the nightly outing to the back of the park. On their return they met with another RVer and her 2 dogs (red/white fox-like dogs) and were chatting a bit. Karma saw a white/grey cat and barked at him. The cat was about 10 yards away under a stored RV. The cat came running towards them. Ruthi thought well he’s just bluffing Karma to leave him alone. But no, he came within spitting distance to them with arched back. Everyone backed up and tried to get out of his way.
Last night, Karma and Ruthi were again out walking but further away from the cat’s apparent domain. The “attack cat” as we had come to name him, was about 20 yards away, when the cat first saw them. He came running right out at them with arched back (but no hiss). He right came up to Karma and proceeded to beat the s#&@ out of her. Karma is whelping and trying to escape the attack while she is leashed to Ruthi’s waist. Had they not had on the hands-free leash, Ruthi could have let her loose. Though we don’t think it would have improved Karma’s odds. This cat was in “attack” mode and poor “peace loving” Karma was too stunned to really do anything but cry. The “attack cat” owner came out of his RV (which tells me he had an inkling of his cat’s behavior) and called off the beast. Karma and Ruthi went home to check for cuts/injuries – none thank goodness. Just Karma’s feelings seemed to be hurt.
Since this was the second attack, Ruthi went off to the park owners/managers to voice a complaint about the “attack cat.” The owners/managers were surprised as this 12-13 year old cat had previously had a lovely personality and they had never heard of him attacking before. Initially they suggested Ruthi alter her walking routine and use the front of the part for Karma’s duties instead of the back Northeast area (where our RV is parked). When pushed further by Ruthi, they agreed to talk with the owner.
After they talked with the cat owner, they informed us that he would keep the “attack cat” indoors. We are figuring that will last as long as we are in the park. As soon as we leave, the cat will be roaming again. “Attack cat” owner did come by to apologize and infer that RV travelling with a dog isn’t the wisest thing to do.
Well, they came be assured that our critique of the park will be included in our entry to RV Park Reviews. They are taking great risks with the liability of a known “attack cat” within the park.
Last night, Karma and Ruthi were again out walking but further away from the cat’s apparent domain. The “attack cat” as we had come to name him, was about 20 yards away, when the cat first saw them. He came running right out at them with arched back (but no hiss). He right came up to Karma and proceeded to beat the s#&@ out of her. Karma is whelping and trying to escape the attack while she is leashed to Ruthi’s waist. Had they not had on the hands-free leash, Ruthi could have let her loose. Though we don’t think it would have improved Karma’s odds. This cat was in “attack” mode and poor “peace loving” Karma was too stunned to really do anything but cry. The “attack cat” owner came out of his RV (which tells me he had an inkling of his cat’s behavior) and called off the beast. Karma and Ruthi went home to check for cuts/injuries – none thank goodness. Just Karma’s feelings seemed to be hurt.
Since this was the second attack, Ruthi went off to the park owners/managers to voice a complaint about the “attack cat.” The owners/managers were surprised as this 12-13 year old cat had previously had a lovely personality and they had never heard of him attacking before. Initially they suggested Ruthi alter her walking routine and use the front of the part for Karma’s duties instead of the back Northeast area (where our RV is parked). When pushed further by Ruthi, they agreed to talk with the owner.
After they talked with the cat owner, they informed us that he would keep the “attack cat” indoors. We are figuring that will last as long as we are in the park. As soon as we leave, the cat will be roaming again. “Attack cat” owner did come by to apologize and infer that RV travelling with a dog isn’t the wisest thing to do.
Well, they came be assured that our critique of the park will be included in our entry to RV Park Reviews. They are taking great risks with the liability of a known “attack cat” within the park.
Quincy, CA
Boots’ recovery is progressing well. Today is 2 weeks since surgery and she is able to venture out of the house (away from her throne in the bathroom) for short periods of time. Her pain is being managed with OTC pain meds instead of narcotic RX. Sitting is still uncomfortable and there is some nausea. Overall, she is back to normal (or at least what’s normal for her).
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Quincy, CA
Recovery from hemorrhoid surgery in an RV is a bit of a challenge. The bathroom is small by any standard with the toilet and shower in close quarters with each other. Boots recovery required almost total control over those 2 amenities. So, Ruthi tried to time her needs for when Boots’ was sleeping or she would need to utilize the RV park facilities. The current park in Quincy has coin operated showers – so on a matter of principle Ruthi refused to pay for a shower, as we were already paying for the site.
Boots needed SITZ baths to relieve the pain and quicken healing. The RV toilet doesn’t have an automatic drain like house toilets. Flushing is a foot operation since there is no tank on the back for holding water, the flush is a fresh water feed. The SITZ bath requires placing the SITZ bowl into the toilet bowl and allowing for warm water to “flush” by the body and out the back into the toilet bowl. Our couple of tries resulted in water overflowing onto the floor. So, that didn’t work. Boots decided that she couple then just use the shower head and tubing to do a running rinse directly on her body and into the bowl, watching water levels very carefully.
While the shower worked it didn’t have the advantage/healing powers of the soaking process. So, we were back to the drawing board for a solution. Boots remembered that her son had hard lawn chairs with arms. So, Ruthi went over there to borrow a chair to try out. We placed the chair into the shower stall – it fit with some room to maneuver. We placed the SITZ bath on the seat with a surrounding cushion from a child’s inflatable pool/beach air mattress. Then using Karma’s beach washing funnel to fill the SITZ bath holding bag with warm water from the shower head, Boots sat in the shower on the SITZ bath. AH RELIEF!
There more than you ever wanting to know about Boots’ healing process.
Boots needed SITZ baths to relieve the pain and quicken healing. The RV toilet doesn’t have an automatic drain like house toilets. Flushing is a foot operation since there is no tank on the back for holding water, the flush is a fresh water feed. The SITZ bath requires placing the SITZ bowl into the toilet bowl and allowing for warm water to “flush” by the body and out the back into the toilet bowl. Our couple of tries resulted in water overflowing onto the floor. So, that didn’t work. Boots decided that she couple then just use the shower head and tubing to do a running rinse directly on her body and into the bowl, watching water levels very carefully.
While the shower worked it didn’t have the advantage/healing powers of the soaking process. So, we were back to the drawing board for a solution. Boots remembered that her son had hard lawn chairs with arms. So, Ruthi went over there to borrow a chair to try out. We placed the chair into the shower stall – it fit with some room to maneuver. We placed the SITZ bath on the seat with a surrounding cushion from a child’s inflatable pool/beach air mattress. Then using Karma’s beach washing funnel to fill the SITZ bath holding bag with warm water from the shower head, Boots sat in the shower on the SITZ bath. AH RELIEF!
There more than you ever wanting to know about Boots’ healing process.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Reno, NV
The RV park was filling up with class C and A rigs over the past few days. They all had El Monte RV on the front/back. So, we thought maybe there is a RV show this week-end right in our back yard. We (really only Ruthi as Boots is pretty well tethered to the bathroom at this point.) could tour the various options and get ideas for continuing improvements to our own home.
So, Ruthi went to the El Monte RV web site and read their August Newsletter. Lo and behold “Burning Man” starts next Monday (30 August) outside of Reno, NV. So, just like in a “Malcolm in the Middle” episode, middle America is attending the event with RVs, “Burning Man” does state everyone is welcome and accepted but with all of the comforts of the RV, it might be missing the point.
So, Ruthi went to the El Monte RV web site and read their August Newsletter. Lo and behold “Burning Man” starts next Monday (30 August) outside of Reno, NV. So, just like in a “Malcolm in the Middle” episode, middle America is attending the event with RVs, “Burning Man” does state everyone is welcome and accepted but with all of the comforts of the RV, it might be missing the point.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Reno, NV
Boots is doing fairly well considering its only a little over 48 hours since her surgery. The plumbing seems to work well and giving her much less pain/agony than she had anticipated. But the physical healing of the incisions is giving her the most pain. Two days down and 28 more to go!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Reno, NV
Boots got up at 3:30 to complete her cleanse prior to surgery. She woke Ruthi at 4:30. Without Karma around it has been much easier to work the details yesterday, today and hopefully tomorrow morning.
After much discussion and changing of minds, we decided to have Boots and her trusty IPod with 59 new classical easy listening songs entertain her while the hospital prep’d her and she waited for her time slot in the OR. We all know that it is a long long wait from putting the IV in and the anesthesiologist asking you to count backwards. So, Ruthi dropped her at the door, right next to Lianne’s Serenity Garden in front of the hospital wing. We mention the location because Boots’ son, John, worked on the construction of the garden. Ruthi continued on home to sleep until the hospital called for her to pick up Boots.
Boots is now home, drugged and basically laying around anticipating the painful recovery that will start after the first 24-48 hours. She is on liquids and pretty much sleeping between pills.
After much discussion and changing of minds, we decided to have Boots and her trusty IPod with 59 new classical easy listening songs entertain her while the hospital prep’d her and she waited for her time slot in the OR. We all know that it is a long long wait from putting the IV in and the anesthesiologist asking you to count backwards. So, Ruthi dropped her at the door, right next to Lianne’s Serenity Garden in front of the hospital wing. We mention the location because Boots’ son, John, worked on the construction of the garden. Ruthi continued on home to sleep until the hospital called for her to pick up Boots.
Boots is now home, drugged and basically laying around anticipating the painful recovery that will start after the first 24-48 hours. She is on liquids and pretty much sleeping between pills.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Reno, NV
Safari RV was able to fix our toilet problem and we are back on stable ground so to speak. Returning to the campground, we moved to a pull-through spot with a bit of shade and 50amp to support our air conditioner and microwave in the projected 90-100 degrees for the next few days.
Boots is preparing for her surgery tomorrow morning. We are minutes away from Renown Regional Hospital. So, getting up to get her there by 5:30am shouldn’t be too big of a problem.
Boots is preparing for her surgery tomorrow morning. We are minutes away from Renown Regional Hospital. So, getting up to get her there by 5:30am shouldn’t be too big of a problem.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Reno, NV
In preparation for Boots' surgery the toilet has been a major focal point. Today, we realized that it is a little too wobbly and is leaking again. The fix we had in Neskowin, OR didn't seem to do the job. We usually have as much work as possible done at Camping World establishments. But there haven't been any close. Not here in Reno either. Our annual appointment we had had scheduled in Vancouver was cancelled due to the rush to Reno.
So, we called Connie of Connie Can here in Reno to solve our problem. She was in our park already and was able to come over and determine that we needed a shop situation to fix our serious problem (of course what other kind are there). So, we just called Safari RV and have an appointment to bring the rig into their shop first thing tomorrow. So, we need to rush around and get prepared to move the rig. Stabilize everything inside and unhook everything outside – joy!
So, we called Connie of Connie Can here in Reno to solve our problem. She was in our park already and was able to come over and determine that we needed a shop situation to fix our serious problem (of course what other kind are there). So, we just called Safari RV and have an appointment to bring the rig into their shop first thing tomorrow. So, we need to rush around and get prepared to move the rig. Stabilize everything inside and unhook everything outside – joy!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Reno, NV
Ok, 2 nights of barking, yapping, howling dogs gives proof that show dogs are no better than mutts in their training habits. We have been working very hard on getting Karma to do a single bark of notification and then we check out the event/sighting/whatever and hush her. With intermittent barks from the RV park all night long, we thought we wouldn't get any sleep either night. Karma did very well and only occasionally sounded an alarm - whew!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Reno, NV
There is a dog show here at the Grand Sierra hotel (associated with the RV Park) this week-end. Karma is already meeting some of the contestants. The show dogs are almost all on leashes in the fenced area cause they might jump the 3 foot fence and get dirty - really that's what the owners said. So, our potty runs take longer as Karma needs to smell each pee/poop spot in the enclosure before she could possibly think about making a personal deposit.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Reno, NV
Boots saw our GP and the recommened surgeon (supposedly one of the top 3 in USA for this type of work). Surgery is scheduled for Wednesday (25 August). We'll spend a few days here for the initial recovery and then head up to Quincy, CA (80 miles NorthWest) for the first month of her recovery.
So, good so far!
So, good so far!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Reno, NV
We got here and the temperatures began to rise. Today was the hottest so far at 98 degrees. There is some wind but not enough to relieve the heat. Our air conditioner is going full blast all of the time, even at night. If either of us wakes up cool, we will move to the fans but not likely tonight.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Vancouver, OR
This blog explains the minor medical emergency that changed our plans to tour Oregon’s cities (Portland and Eugene). You might want to pass this explicit explanation. At least we are forwarning you!
Boots had some internal bleeding from hemorrhoids (always a fun topic to discuss). It turned into anemia and they gave her 2 pints of blood and recommended surgery. Since the recovery time for this type of surgery is painful and long (4-8 weeks), we wanted to be near our doctors in Reno and her son in Quincy. Hence the quick trip back to repair the bleeding.
Hemorrhoids tend to bleed with hard bowels or constipation. If you have that a lot or often the bleeding can be excessive. Boots would have bouts of bleeding. You know a couple of days then no problems for weeks/months. Ruthi has very occasionally found some blood on the toilet paper. But Boots has fresh red blood and clots of deep red blood. This is a “good” sign in that it means there isn’t blood inside the stool – a bad bad sign. Fresh looking blood means it is from the anus area not from farther up the colon. This episode continued for days and Boots loss so much blood she was pall and weak – hence the need for blood transfusion. The concern then was will it stop and how is the bleeding prevented in the future - surgery.
As long as we are on the subject of colons. Have YOU had you colonoscopy yet?? I think 50 is the age to have your first preventative look-see. Use the offered drugs so you was “out” and have them film the procedure on VHS/DVD, if you are interested. Preparation is a bit icky in that you have to drink a very awful liquid to cleanse the colon. The procedure is a tiny tiny camera up the colon across and then back down. Depending upon what is discovered, you are advised to have another one 2, 5, 10 years later.
Boots had some internal bleeding from hemorrhoids (always a fun topic to discuss). It turned into anemia and they gave her 2 pints of blood and recommended surgery. Since the recovery time for this type of surgery is painful and long (4-8 weeks), we wanted to be near our doctors in Reno and her son in Quincy. Hence the quick trip back to repair the bleeding.
Hemorrhoids tend to bleed with hard bowels or constipation. If you have that a lot or often the bleeding can be excessive. Boots would have bouts of bleeding. You know a couple of days then no problems for weeks/months. Ruthi has very occasionally found some blood on the toilet paper. But Boots has fresh red blood and clots of deep red blood. This is a “good” sign in that it means there isn’t blood inside the stool – a bad bad sign. Fresh looking blood means it is from the anus area not from farther up the colon. This episode continued for days and Boots loss so much blood she was pall and weak – hence the need for blood transfusion. The concern then was will it stop and how is the bleeding prevented in the future - surgery.
As long as we are on the subject of colons. Have YOU had you colonoscopy yet?? I think 50 is the age to have your first preventative look-see. Use the offered drugs so you was “out” and have them film the procedure on VHS/DVD, if you are interested. Preparation is a bit icky in that you have to drink a very awful liquid to cleanse the colon. The procedure is a tiny tiny camera up the colon across and then back down. Depending upon what is discovered, you are advised to have another one 2, 5, 10 years later.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Elma, WA
Elma seems to be at the edge of the timber industry and the coast. With the decrease in logging, it looks to be a very economically depressed area. Not as bad as we thought Peekskill, NY but a close second. Originally, we thought that it might be a commuter residence for government workers form the capital in Olympia but both the housing options and the traffic out of Olympia doesn’t seem to agree with that idea.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Elma, WA
OPPS, somehow we got the Good SAM directions mangled and when we went back to re-check because of the “DEAD END” sign, the web site directions didn’t have us going down the WRONG Road.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Elma, WA
Finally we are off Highway 101 and moving on to multilane highways that curve less. It was beautiful along the coast but slow, curvy and up/down a lot.
We use MapQuest, the truck’s internal GPS and Good SAM (http://www.goodsamclub.com/DefaultMember.aspx) for directions from site to site. Neither MapQuest nor the truck’s GPS has a way of indicated that we are towing but Good SAM does. So, we compare the routes and they usually match. But if there are differences we give the higher value to Good SAM. Yesterday, Good SAM said to exit earlier and then almost immediately turn left. Exit signs matched the directions and street signs indicated we were doing exactly what Good SAM said. A few yards into the new street this warning sign appeared “DEAD END”. So, what to do – go farther and hope for a turnaround option? Or, do the turn here where there is a little area by a very large propane tank.
Boots was driving, so Ruthi got out to check the surface area for the backing/turning. Looked good and luckily very wide - Boots was able to back into the space and then easily pull forward back to the main road. We need to let them know of the error and how serious it could have been.
After unhooking and setting up camp, we went back to the intersection and followed the road a ways. There were a number of turnaround options further down the road but we had no way of knowing ahead of time.
We use MapQuest, the truck’s internal GPS and Good SAM (http://www.goodsamclub.com/DefaultMember.aspx) for directions from site to site. Neither MapQuest nor the truck’s GPS has a way of indicated that we are towing but Good SAM does. So, we compare the routes and they usually match. But if there are differences we give the higher value to Good SAM. Yesterday, Good SAM said to exit earlier and then almost immediately turn left. Exit signs matched the directions and street signs indicated we were doing exactly what Good SAM said. A few yards into the new street this warning sign appeared “DEAD END”. So, what to do – go farther and hope for a turnaround option? Or, do the turn here where there is a little area by a very large propane tank.
Boots was driving, so Ruthi got out to check the surface area for the backing/turning. Looked good and luckily very wide - Boots was able to back into the space and then easily pull forward back to the main road. We need to let them know of the error and how serious it could have been.
After unhooking and setting up camp, we went back to the intersection and followed the road a ways. There were a number of turnaround options further down the road but we had no way of knowing ahead of time.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Long Beach, WA
Today is Boots’ birthday. We were at the Ilwaco, WA Saturday Market and Boots was in a Porta-Potty when her daughter called to sing “Happy Birthday” to her. Boots response was that she didn’t think anyone had previously sung HB to her while she was in a Porta-Potty. Then the guy in the next Porta-Potty began singing HB to her, too.
Stores:
Beauty at the Beach – Hair salon
Wild hair – another Hair salon
Tech Know – Computer Services
Stores:
Beauty at the Beach – Hair salon
Wild hair – another Hair salon
Tech Know – Computer Services
Friday, July 30, 2010
Long Beach, WA
Lately, Boots has backed the Rig into our spaces when we aren’t fortunate enough to have a pull-through. With Ruthi’s mono-vision contact lenses, depth perception is lacking. Being able to distinguish distances between the rig and obstacles like trees, electric boxes, sewer caps and fresh water can be very important in smaller/older tighter spaces. But this time, Ruthi decided to be the backer-upper. The spaces in this park are at right angles to the roadway and on the blind side of the driver (i.e., the space is on the right side of the road and the driver is on the left side of the truck). These are the most challenging sites to back into.
But, Ruthi got very lucky there was an open space directly across from our designated home for the next 4 days. She carefully pulled into that one and continued through to get aligned straight. Then she backed it up into the space 1, 2, 3. We did a little adjustment with a second backing but it was basically right on. Ruthi’s comment to Boots was how come it’s so hard when you do it and I can get it on the first try? To quote an old internet joke: “That’s when the fight started”
This RV Park (Pacific Holiday RV Resort) is the closest we have been to the beach. At the end of the park there is a pathway out to the beach. The beach is huge and flat. The waves are not as rough as they have been in most places in Oregon. And, of course, Karma is in heaven!!!
But, Ruthi got very lucky there was an open space directly across from our designated home for the next 4 days. She carefully pulled into that one and continued through to get aligned straight. Then she backed it up into the space 1, 2, 3. We did a little adjustment with a second backing but it was basically right on. Ruthi’s comment to Boots was how come it’s so hard when you do it and I can get it on the first try? To quote an old internet joke: “That’s when the fight started”
This RV Park (Pacific Holiday RV Resort) is the closest we have been to the beach. At the end of the park there is a pathway out to the beach. The beach is huge and flat. The waves are not as rough as they have been in most places in Oregon. And, of course, Karma is in heaven!!!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Long Beach, WA
Our drive up from Neskowin, OR to Long Beach, WA was on US 101; as that is the only road along the coast for all of these towns. The road was again hilly and curvy with a few interesting sections. There was major road work around Tillamook, OR for a few miles. Not long but very scary at one point. Both lanes were narrowed with abrupt edges as they were resurfacing/repaving 1 lane in the middle. So, there was a guide car to lead us up the single lane in a particular section. The real scare came when there was a cross over in the middle of the construction.
The crossover was soft gravel at right angles to either of the paved sections. Remember we are towing 31 feet which makes turns, especially right angles, a bit more difficult than with a car. We slowed down and kept looking at the flagman. He kept saying come on – no problem. We slowly carefully negotiated the crossover and then had time to think about how many semis must have had to do the same maneuver that we had. I am glad we didn’t know ahead of time – sometimes that is scarier than the actual event.
The next interesting road event was as we approached Astoria, OR and the bridge over the Columbia River. Since we were so near the coast we really were crossing the mouth of the river – very wide. But that wasn’t the scary part. As we drove through Astoria, we saw a bridge way up high but at 90 degrees to our road. We saw car/trucks cross but couldn’t predict how to get there. Then we found out!!! We drove up a spiral road – up and up and up to the top of the bridge. Then we started down the bridge and roadway across the Columbia River to Washington forever. Or, at least that’s how it felt.
The crossover was soft gravel at right angles to either of the paved sections. Remember we are towing 31 feet which makes turns, especially right angles, a bit more difficult than with a car. We slowed down and kept looking at the flagman. He kept saying come on – no problem. We slowly carefully negotiated the crossover and then had time to think about how many semis must have had to do the same maneuver that we had. I am glad we didn’t know ahead of time – sometimes that is scarier than the actual event.
The next interesting road event was as we approached Astoria, OR and the bridge over the Columbia River. Since we were so near the coast we really were crossing the mouth of the river – very wide. But that wasn’t the scary part. As we drove through Astoria, we saw a bridge way up high but at 90 degrees to our road. We saw car/trucks cross but couldn’t predict how to get there. Then we found out!!! We drove up a spiral road – up and up and up to the top of the bridge. Then we started down the bridge and roadway across the Columbia River to Washington forever. Or, at least that’s how it felt.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Neskowin, OR
There are quite a few Alpenlite 5th wheel rigs in this park. We thought maybe there was a convention and we weren’t invited but then we remembered that the factory was in Washington state before it closed. That would explain the abundance of Alpenlites in the Northwest parks.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Neskowin, OR
Went to Pacific City beaches today. Karma met another Labradoodle that looks almost exactly like her. The interloper was about the same height, black with a bit more curl to her hair, and same age as Karma. Too bad they were coming as we were going. Beach access is straight up a dune and then straight down. So, once a day is enough for these 2 mature women.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Neskowin, OR
Some more CRAZY store names:
Art 101 – art supplies
Human Bean – coffee shop
Brewed Awakening – coffee shop
Greasy Spoon Café – really that was the name
Shark Bites – sea food café
Humble Pie Pizzeria – pizza place
LunaC Fish House- restaurant
Art 101 – art supplies
Human Bean – coffee shop
Brewed Awakening – coffee shop
Greasy Spoon Café – really that was the name
Shark Bites – sea food café
Humble Pie Pizzeria – pizza place
LunaC Fish House- restaurant
Neskowin, OR
On our way out of Licoln City, OR to the camp ground there was a sign about crossing the 45th Parallel North and that it is halfway between the Equator and the North Pole. With further research on Wikipedia (if this entry is correct), it seems the 10 miles to the RV Park puts us exactly on the halfway point because the Earth is oblate, that is, it bulges at the equator and is flattened at the poles.
So, we are truely halfway between no where!!!
So, we are truely halfway between no where!!!
Friday, July 23, 2010
Neskowin, OR
We thought Gold Beach was a small coastal tourist site – 2,000 residents, lots of beach, a few cafes open for breakfast/lunch and a couple of higher-end dinner places. Mostly it was as wide as Route 101 for 2 miles.
Well, Neskowin, the name itself, is longer than the “town.” Or, do we say “place”? There’s a post office but no one is sure if it’s still open or not. The 150 site RV park were camped in is bigger than the whole of Neskowin. It does have an ice cream shop and beach side condos - what else does it need??? The ?streets? are paved narrow paths. You need to constantly look for on-coming traffic because there is no passing space. With the hills and vegetation, it was difficult to see whether the path was available or not. On one occasion, the truck coming towards us had to back up and another time the vehicle stapped and let us slide by them. Overall there is little traffic as there is little to see!
Well, Neskowin, the name itself, is longer than the “town.” Or, do we say “place”? There’s a post office but no one is sure if it’s still open or not. The 150 site RV park were camped in is bigger than the whole of Neskowin. It does have an ice cream shop and beach side condos - what else does it need??? The ?streets? are paved narrow paths. You need to constantly look for on-coming traffic because there is no passing space. With the hills and vegetation, it was difficult to see whether the path was available or not. On one occasion, the truck coming towards us had to back up and another time the vehicle stapped and let us slide by them. Overall there is little traffic as there is little to see!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Neskowin, OR
The drive up from the Southern Oregon coast (coast is divided into 3 parts: Southern, central, Northern) on Route 101 was very curvy and up-and-down the hills along the coast. Beautiful views but scary roads. Rt 101 is 2 lanes with the occasional passing lane for any uphill stretches on your side. Beach access was as varied from rock climbing to short sandy walk.
The road was classified (for us) as mountainous, so Boots drove most of the way. When it finally straighten out (in the broadest terms), we weren’t sure if it was going to keep on that way or not. Remember, Ruthi drives the cities (like crazy interstate 205 in Portland, OR), Boots drives the mountains and Karma runs the beaches.
The road was classified (for us) as mountainous, so Boots drove most of the way. When it finally straighten out (in the broadest terms), we weren’t sure if it was going to keep on that way or not. Remember, Ruthi drives the cities (like crazy interstate 205 in Portland, OR), Boots drives the mountains and Karma runs the beaches.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Gold Beach, OR
Immigration Article in The Oregonian
As we travel, we are reading the local (or near local) major papers. We know, we know the “current” news is on-line but we do like the “feel” of hardcopy and besides the comics and crosswords are there. We don’t know the political bent of the various papers we have been reading (Union-Tribune in San Diego, Sacramento Bee in Central California, San Francisco Chronicle, and now The Oregonian) but are being exposed to other perspectives.
We want to point you to an article on our national immigration challenge that we thought provided succinct clarity to the issue with some valid facts backing it up. Hope you find it informative. It might have appeared in other publications like the Chicago Tribune or the New York Times, we don’t know.
http://www.oregonlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2010/07/myths_muddle_the_immigration_m.html
As we travel, we are reading the local (or near local) major papers. We know, we know the “current” news is on-line but we do like the “feel” of hardcopy and besides the comics and crosswords are there. We don’t know the political bent of the various papers we have been reading (Union-Tribune in San Diego, Sacramento Bee in Central California, San Francisco Chronicle, and now The Oregonian) but are being exposed to other perspectives.
We want to point you to an article on our national immigration challenge that we thought provided succinct clarity to the issue with some valid facts backing it up. Hope you find it informative. It might have appeared in other publications like the Chicago Tribune or the New York Times, we don’t know.
http://www.oregonlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2010/07/myths_muddle_the_immigration_m.html
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Gold Beach, OR
Oregon has on the books a law requiring that an attendant pump gas/diesel for you. You are not allowed to self-pump. Thereby keeping jobs (predominately filled by males) filled. The caveat here is that they do not do the windows or check the oil just fill the tank. So, it's not totally like the 1950's.
Within the grocery stores, self-scan/checkout are available everywhere; thus putting out of work the checkers (predominately female). Hmm
Within the grocery stores, self-scan/checkout are available everywhere; thus putting out of work the checkers (predominately female). Hmm
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Gold Beach, OR
We got into Oregon via US Route 101. That's really the only way up and down the coast line. To accommodate the slower traffic on hills, the road moves from a 2-lane two-way to a 3-lane two-way road, with the extra lane on the uphill side of the road. When the extra lane is going the oppisite direction, we have noticed a different highway sign about passing - "Yield Center Lane to Uphill Traffic". With a broken yellow line on your side this means you can pass if there aren't any vehicles in the second lane of oncoming traffic.
We haven't tried it nor have we seen anyone else do it. Sound/looks too scary for us.
We haven't tried it nor have we seen anyone else do it. Sound/looks too scary for us.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Gold Beach, OR
Some more interesting store names:
"Honest Engine" for an auto repair shop
"Remember That" for an antique store.
We went up to Port Orford yesterday. While we knew it was smaller it was hard to imagine smaller that Gold Beach. But it was - a short strip of route 101 with a few resturants and tourists stops. We went beyond to see the light house at Camp Blanco State Park. Again, a nice coastal drive with some fog.
"Honest Engine" for an auto repair shop
"Remember That" for an antique store.
We went up to Port Orford yesterday. While we knew it was smaller it was hard to imagine smaller that Gold Beach. But it was - a short strip of route 101 with a few resturants and tourists stops. We went beyond to see the light house at Camp Blanco State Park. Again, a nice coastal drive with some fog.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Gold Beach, OR
We keep forgetting to talk about “manners” on the road. When we are pulling the rig, we are about 45ft long and have different speed limits than regular cars and pickups. Or, at least that’s true in California. We drive slower to accommodate the extra length, breadth and height. Anyway, we try to be courteous to other drivers and if need be on 2-lane roads we will pullover at pullouts or scenic overlooks to allow the parade behind us to get around and on their way. Across the country, we have had a rare “beep” of thank you for getting out of the way. BUT, in Northern California and Southern Oregon, we are getting pretty regular thank-you’s. Also, there are a lot more hitch hikers here than we have seen throughout our 2 years around the states.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Gold Beach, OR
The coast line along Oregon is beautiful! Huge rock formations (like 3 story duplexes) interspersed between the waves. With the tide out, you can walk around the formations and explore the tide pool wildlife. It is truely AWESOME!
Karma loves the beach for the ball chasing but she has ended up swallowing some sand. You ask how do we know. Because it is coming out the back-end! I guess that is the good news - that it's not staying inside and pluggin up the process. The tennis ball collects the sand as it goes rolling out for her to catch. We'd use a hard rubber ball but she won't chase that type at all. We're going to try one again this week and see.
Karma loves the beach for the ball chasing but she has ended up swallowing some sand. You ask how do we know. Because it is coming out the back-end! I guess that is the good news - that it's not staying inside and pluggin up the process. The tennis ball collects the sand as it goes rolling out for her to catch. We'd use a hard rubber ball but she won't chase that type at all. We're going to try one again this week and see.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Gold Beach, OR
In Reno, 4 different people (eye doctor, RV park neighbor, staff at hospital radiology department) told us about how great Gold Beach was going to be. Each of them had suggestions and nothing but praise for Gold Beach. We have tried the breakfast suggestion - nothing special like we were led to believe. Still looking for the fruit stand that we supposedly couldn't miss. Considering the smallness of the town, we are surprised we can't find it either.
The coast line IS beautiful!!! Strange huge rock formations just off shore against which the waves break all day long. Sometimes it's impossible to get down to the beach at all but mostly it's a matter of how far do you want to walk down and back up.
There was a BIG storm this past winter that resulted in TONS of drift wood piled up on the beach at the high tide mark. Really TONS!!! Sometimes access to the beach is complicated by having to climb over the piles of drift wood. They don't seem to have any plans for removing the left over debris. We haven't seen any beach residents on blankets or towels. Mostly, they are, like us, running their dog(s) or just themselves. Or, they are beachcombers looking for "loot" that has washed up.
The temperatures are nice with a strong wind off the coast. So, we aren't expecting high temperatures or cold nights. The park reflects the temporary nature of RVing and our neighbors have changed out twice already.
The coast line IS beautiful!!! Strange huge rock formations just off shore against which the waves break all day long. Sometimes it's impossible to get down to the beach at all but mostly it's a matter of how far do you want to walk down and back up.
There was a BIG storm this past winter that resulted in TONS of drift wood piled up on the beach at the high tide mark. Really TONS!!! Sometimes access to the beach is complicated by having to climb over the piles of drift wood. They don't seem to have any plans for removing the left over debris. We haven't seen any beach residents on blankets or towels. Mostly, they are, like us, running their dog(s) or just themselves. Or, they are beachcombers looking for "loot" that has washed up.
The temperatures are nice with a strong wind off the coast. So, we aren't expecting high temperatures or cold nights. The park reflects the temporary nature of RVing and our neighbors have changed out twice already.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Gold Beach, OR
The drive up here on 101 went through more redwood groves. This time the the road was a little wider and not as dark. The up and down highway was very close to the coast and we had a lot of fog whisps on the road. It was a short drive so we stopped for lunch and gave some of our money to the casino in Cresent city, CA.
Our RV park is small with only 20 sites and limits on the lenghths of rigs that it can accommodate (39ft). Our 31 ft looks like it barely fits! So, we are amazed that a 39ft would fit anywhere here. The park is right in the middle of town and within walking distance of the business district. Though we do need to drive to the beach access paths for Karma's ball chasing exercise.
Our RV park is small with only 20 sites and limits on the lenghths of rigs that it can accommodate (39ft). Our 31 ft looks like it barely fits! So, we are amazed that a 39ft would fit anywhere here. The park is right in the middle of town and within walking distance of the business district. Though we do need to drive to the beach access paths for Karma's ball chasing exercise.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Eureka, CA
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
As we have mentioned before RV parks are usually situated on the out skirts of towns or populated areas. We have experienced our share of train whistles and out-right trains passing through in the night. While in Reno, the approach to their airport went right over our park. Sometimes it really felt like they were landing on our lanai. Occassionally, they took off over us but lucky for us Reno Airport seems to be a daylight airport only.
Here in this fairground, there were "street" class drag races all today and this evening basically right next to the RV parking area. What a roar of engines! Ruthi went up to the exterior fencing while walking Karma to see if she could get a better idea of exactly what was going on - no such luck!
As we have mentioned before RV parks are usually situated on the out skirts of towns or populated areas. We have experienced our share of train whistles and out-right trains passing through in the night. While in Reno, the approach to their airport went right over our park. Sometimes it really felt like they were landing on our lanai. Occassionally, they took off over us but lucky for us Reno Airport seems to be a daylight airport only.
Here in this fairground, there were "street" class drag races all today and this evening basically right next to the RV parking area. What a roar of engines! Ruthi went up to the exterior fencing while walking Karma to see if she could get a better idea of exactly what was going on - no such luck!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Eureka, CA
Fairgrounds as an overnight or short stay for RVs is a good idea. We have done it a couple of times before (Iowa, Nebraska). The cost is low and generally full hook-ups and pull-through spaces are available. This summer's batch of fairgrounds are leaving a lot to be desired. When Boots plans out the trips, she's careful to schedule the locations, dates and mileage between stops to accomodate our slow passage across America. Because reservations need to be made 60-90 days in advance, she calls to re-confirm the dates as we closer.
The fairgrounds in Santa Rosa, CA wanted to almost double the rate for our previously reserved price/days because some event was being scheduled for the same period. So, we changed our plans and picked a couple of other fairgrounds. When we got to the Ukiah fairgrounds, half of the sites were under repairs. Then we set up and were told that the sewer would be unavailable for the day. At 6pm, we were told that the sewer wasn't useable until morning. Lucky for us we try very hard to have empty waste tanks when we leave a location - mostly as a weight consideration. But we are finding that it's hard to predict how true the advertised facilities are.
Now we come to the Eureka Fairgrounds - there are about have the spaces available. When we pulled in we saw a cardboard sign on the Camp Hosts' post saying the RV park was closed from 14-28 June. Our reservations were for 17-21 June - hmm! So, Boots went to talk with the Camp Host and find out what the deal was. He was frustrated because it seems we weren't the first ones to show up with confrmed reservations for dates within the closed period.
The Camp host went up to the office to get things straighten out. And, lucky for us we got our pick of spaces and are staying here for our reserved period. Others are driving in and being turned away. Management finally put a proper sign up on the front gate to help turn away others.
The fairgrounds in Santa Rosa, CA wanted to almost double the rate for our previously reserved price/days because some event was being scheduled for the same period. So, we changed our plans and picked a couple of other fairgrounds. When we got to the Ukiah fairgrounds, half of the sites were under repairs. Then we set up and were told that the sewer would be unavailable for the day. At 6pm, we were told that the sewer wasn't useable until morning. Lucky for us we try very hard to have empty waste tanks when we leave a location - mostly as a weight consideration. But we are finding that it's hard to predict how true the advertised facilities are.
Now we come to the Eureka Fairgrounds - there are about have the spaces available. When we pulled in we saw a cardboard sign on the Camp Hosts' post saying the RV park was closed from 14-28 June. Our reservations were for 17-21 June - hmm! So, Boots went to talk with the Camp Host and find out what the deal was. He was frustrated because it seems we weren't the first ones to show up with confrmed reservations for dates within the closed period.
The Camp host went up to the office to get things straighten out. And, lucky for us we got our pick of spaces and are staying here for our reserved period. Others are driving in and being turned away. Management finally put a proper sign up on the front gate to help turn away others.
Eureka, CA
Driving up from Ukiah today was really fun! First, there were the ups, downs and curves to get around the rolling hills of the area. Then we got into the Redwood forests. Or, in one case a "grove" of Redwoods - really that is what they call it. That is where the tree that everyone drives through exists. It seems there are a few of them in the area but none would take the RV, so we missed actually seeing it. But Boots had already seen it when she and Lou (her ex-husband) had been traveling across California while he was in the Army.
The road narrowed and became more curvey as we went through the "grove" on 101. The trees are immense and right on the edge of the road. We read an article in the local paper about the need/want to widen that stretch of 101. While the Redwoods wouldn't be removed or cut down, the root system would be damaged and hence the trees would be in trouble. The trees looked very close to the road. Don't know how they can widen it without removing trees. It was really canopied over and beautiful. The distance was really only a short span - 25 miles maybe. Personally, we think people need to slow down and smell the roses anyway - here's a good place to do it!!!
The road narrowed and became more curvey as we went through the "grove" on 101. The trees are immense and right on the edge of the road. We read an article in the local paper about the need/want to widen that stretch of 101. While the Redwoods wouldn't be removed or cut down, the root system would be damaged and hence the trees would be in trouble. The trees looked very close to the road. Don't know how they can widen it without removing trees. It was really canopied over and beautiful. The distance was really only a short span - 25 miles maybe. Personally, we think people need to slow down and smell the roses anyway - here's a good place to do it!!!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Ukiah, CA
Today marks 2 years in our travels. We have adjusted the living space to better meet our needs: dining room table is up against the slide wall and the desk (set up at each stop) is positioned on the back living room wall. this opens up the space and provides for another chiar on the slide for watching TV.
When we are back in Santee for the winter, we are finally going to have the desk and associated drawers permanently built-in and the dining room table plus storage secured on the slide.
After the rush of the first 18 mnonths we are slowing down our travelling. Our summer this year is on the Northern California's, Oregon's, and Washington's coast lines. then back for 4-5 months of winter in the San Diego area. We are planning our summer 2011 as we travel this summer.
When we are back in Santee for the winter, we are finally going to have the desk and associated drawers permanently built-in and the dining room table plus storage secured on the slide.
After the rush of the first 18 mnonths we are slowing down our travelling. Our summer this year is on the Northern California's, Oregon's, and Washington's coast lines. then back for 4-5 months of winter in the San Diego area. We are planning our summer 2011 as we travel this summer.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Cloverdale, CA
Karma loved the river! She chased her ball up and down the river's edge. Yea I did throw it n sections that were over head - she swam to get it but her preferences is to bound through the water making as much splash as possible.
We liked this park even though it had some access challenges. You couldn't always see the road in front of you on the curves that went up/down the hills. the sites were relatively cool considering the outside temperatures in the high eighty's and ninety's.
We liked this park even though it had some access challenges. You couldn't always see the road in front of you on the curves that went up/down the hills. the sites were relatively cool considering the outside temperatures in the high eighty's and ninety's.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Cloverdale, CA
Today, Ruthi needed to go to the nearest hospital for a blood test. While waiting to be called to the lab, she noticed another patient registering for care who did not have English skills. A passer-by stopped and helped patient get started by doing some of the translation for her. It seemed to Ruthi, that it takes a lot of courage to be somewhere where you wouldn't know the language.
What this reminded Ruthi of was how her Italian grandparents (nonno, nonna) and a lot of her aunts/uncles came to the USA to work the coal mines in the Carolinas without English skills. Ruthi's mother was born here but did not learn English until she entered first grade.
How bad it must be somewhere else, that a person would come here with no way to communicate with everyone else! How isolating/frightening to not understand the medical questions or procedures! Remember our reactions to our visit in Montreal, Quebec, Canada - where Boots' high school French helped but mostly the Canadians spoke English. We were able to communicate and knew we were only staying a few days and could get back to English-speaking areas quickly. A big difference between that and the situation Ruthi experienced today,
What this reminded Ruthi of was how her Italian grandparents (nonno, nonna) and a lot of her aunts/uncles came to the USA to work the coal mines in the Carolinas without English skills. Ruthi's mother was born here but did not learn English until she entered first grade.
How bad it must be somewhere else, that a person would come here with no way to communicate with everyone else! How isolating/frightening to not understand the medical questions or procedures! Remember our reactions to our visit in Montreal, Quebec, Canada - where Boots' high school French helped but mostly the Canadians spoke English. We were able to communicate and knew we were only staying a few days and could get back to English-speaking areas quickly. A big difference between that and the situation Ruthi experienced today,
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Cloverdale, CA
Got into this new RV Park late, by our standards (5pm). We are allowed to select our own site - good news / bad news. Not knowing the camp ground means it's looking at the map and wandering around to find something that will be easy to back in. One plus that was provided were indicators about whether or not the roof mounted satellite dish would work vs the mobile tripod dish. Mostly we squeezed through narrow, narrow roadways missing trees hanging over the roadway to the first site that looked doable for our backing skills. All of the sites with good satellite coverage for roof mounted domes were taken.
We found a partially shaded slot with access from down the hill with little turning challenges. Boots' first try put the rig within 8-10 inches where we wanted it. The oppisite side of the rig was on the edge of the paved site and the drop off was 3-4 inches and then mostly down hill. So, we continued for another 60 minutes getting farther and farther away from our goal instead of closer. It had looked so simple - just turn the wheel a little bit and then we'd creep to the left but instead we creeped further and further right. We called a time out and decided to start from down hill again and "@#$%" it and take what ever happens. Miricles of miricles we again ended up 8-10 inches from perfection and took it! So, wood and the rubber mat filled the in the ledge at the door. And set up the rig before crashing inside with the fans on full force.
We found a partially shaded slot with access from down the hill with little turning challenges. Boots' first try put the rig within 8-10 inches where we wanted it. The oppisite side of the rig was on the edge of the paved site and the drop off was 3-4 inches and then mostly down hill. So, we continued for another 60 minutes getting farther and farther away from our goal instead of closer. It had looked so simple - just turn the wheel a little bit and then we'd creep to the left but instead we creeped further and further right. We called a time out and decided to start from down hill again and "@#$%" it and take what ever happens. Miricles of miricles we again ended up 8-10 inches from perfection and took it! So, wood and the rubber mat filled the in the ledge at the door. And set up the rig before crashing inside with the fans on full force.
Cloverdale, CA
We had planned on spending the night for free at the Camping World in Vacaville, CA. But the temperatures were in high 80's heading to 90's when we stopped to get a few items at the Camping World, Our next stop was ok with our coming in a day early so we headed there - making a long day!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Sparks, NV
We are at a new RV park much closer to central Reno. In fact, while it is addressed in Sparks, it is hard to really tell the boundary line. We are probably right on the line to the North East of Reno.
OK, now we are getting Summer weather. The last few days in Quincy and today in Reno we are in the high 70's to mid-80's. Much better than the cool days we had but still hotter than we'd like. As Boots' son said, we are looking for the perfect weather!!!
OK, now we are getting Summer weather. The last few days in Quincy and today in Reno we are in the high 70's to mid-80's. Much better than the cool days we had but still hotter than we'd like. As Boots' son said, we are looking for the perfect weather!!!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Quincy, CA
Karma has discovered the "new" kittys at the kids house! Their dog, Sunny, plays very actively with them "mouthing" them and generally harassing them inside the house and out. The kittens seem to put up with Sunny but they are unsure about Karma. She charges them whenever she sees them out in the open OR can get to them in their hiding places. Their response is typical cat - hunched back, big hiss, and a swat. Karma keeps trying to make friend but she is a bit big and fast to get into their faces.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Quincy, CA
Having spent 37 years (Ruthi) and 26 years (Boots) in Alaska the biggest state in the union, we are both surprised at the size of California. With the kids here, we have spent more time here than any other state. It is amazingly large and could easily be divided into 3 distinct states – Northern, Central, and Southern. There seems to be different terrain, economies, and personalities for each section. And, the big surprise is that it is hundreds of miles between our preferred locations. While in Alaska the driving is basically the triangle between the 3 Central cities – Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Valdez. You have to fly into Bethel, Dillingham, Nome, Kotzebue, Juneau, Ketchikan, Cordova, etc. etc. etc.
Driving from San Diego area through central CA and then up the Sierra mountains to Quincy took us through Indio (desert), Acton, Oceano (Pacific beaches), Delta Shores (CA development history), Reno and then Quincy. Granted it wasn’t a straight line. We always tend to roam to see the various parts of this very diverse state. Anyway, back to the miles to get from Santee to Quincy – around 1,200.
Driving from San Diego area through central CA and then up the Sierra mountains to Quincy took us through Indio (desert), Acton, Oceano (Pacific beaches), Delta Shores (CA development history), Reno and then Quincy. Granted it wasn’t a straight line. We always tend to roam to see the various parts of this very diverse state. Anyway, back to the miles to get from Santee to Quincy – around 1,200.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Quincy, CA
Yesterday, we drove through the Feather River Canyon to Chico for some shopping. That's about the same distance from Quincy as Reno (90 miles) but a much steeper and winding road. Going down the canyon we were on the wall side; while coming up we were on the river side with fewer guard rails and shoulders. Reminded us of the Canadian rockies experience - not really fun! The only thing missing were the Stone Sheep families around each corner.
The weather was cool and threatened rain all day. As soon as we met one of Ruthi's old bosses from Anchorage (now living in Chico) for dinner it began to rain. By the time we finished eating and headed back up the canyon, the rain was coming down strong and the temperature was dropping (partly due to the rise in terrain, too). By the time we reached the highest point of the canyon, there was snow on the sides of the road.
This is by far the coldest continuous time we have experienced since we began our travels. Usually, we have been able to rely on sunny days to off set the cooler rainy nights. But not in Quincy this time!!
The weather was cool and threatened rain all day. As soon as we met one of Ruthi's old bosses from Anchorage (now living in Chico) for dinner it began to rain. By the time we finished eating and headed back up the canyon, the rain was coming down strong and the temperature was dropping (partly due to the rise in terrain, too). By the time we reached the highest point of the canyon, there was snow on the sides of the road.
This is by far the coldest continuous time we have experienced since we began our travels. Usually, we have been able to rely on sunny days to off set the cooler rainy nights. But not in Quincy this time!!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Quincy, CA
Well, it did it again - SNOWED that is! We were just finishing up breakfast at Morning Thunder (great little restaurant that does breakfast and lunch only), when I looked outside. It looked like a little bit of flakes coming down. After we finished we went to a couple of places and it began to snow in earnest a lot of big flakes. Nothing was sticking but it was really coming down. When we got back to the RV park, they were mowing the lawns in jackets/hats and 38 degree weather!
Friday, May 21, 2010
Quincy, CA
Well, the kids rescued a couple of kittens. Bodhi named them Po and Tigeress from Kung Fu Panda, surprize surprize! They are settled in the bathroom getting acclimated to the very active household. Sonny, the beagle mix puppy, seems to not even notice them and they he.
Karma was curious and wanted them to move around but the kitties were a bit more cautious. The first time we went into the bathroom for introductions, Tigeress was hidden in the folds of the shower curtain. Not sure if that was purposely or she was just finding her way around. The next time they were both in the tub and the final time they were back in their bed. Neither of them raise any hair or arched their back when Karma was close enough to sniff their mouths. So, they must have had some dog exposure prior to the rescue. We are hoping that Karma can get a good relationship with them to off-set her cat-chasing enthusiasm.
Karma was curious and wanted them to move around but the kitties were a bit more cautious. The first time we went into the bathroom for introductions, Tigeress was hidden in the folds of the shower curtain. Not sure if that was purposely or she was just finding her way around. The next time they were both in the tub and the final time they were back in their bed. Neither of them raise any hair or arched their back when Karma was close enough to sniff their mouths. So, they must have had some dog exposure prior to the rescue. We are hoping that Karma can get a good relationship with them to off-set her cat-chasing enthusiasm.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Quincy, CA
Bodhi, the 5yo, came to the RV for a sleepover on Saturday night. We had recorded a number of children's movies for just this occassion. He selected "Kung Fu Panda." So, after dinner at the local Mexican resturant, Mi Casita, we watched the movie. He really really liked it and wanted to watch a 2nd time but we put him off 'til morning.
We all got ready for bed. He's tall and we had to positiion him high up on the bed so that Karma still had room at the bottom. Boots was reading to him from a chapter books. About 2 pages into the book, Bodhi asked if it was ok if he went to sleep. How cute! He then closed his eyes and was out!
At 5am after Boots had gotten up to pee and returned to bed, Bodhi said in a small voice, "I'm cold." Boots covered him and thought he'd go back to sleep. Ah, no such luck, he was wide awake and ready for another edition of "Kung Fu Panda." So, Boots got up and Ruthi sleep for a few more hours.
Bodhi watched movies and science videos that we had available. Then there was the changing of the guard, so to speak, and Boots tried to get back to sleep and Ruthi watched "Kung Fu Panda" for his thrid time.
We all got ready for bed. He's tall and we had to positiion him high up on the bed so that Karma still had room at the bottom. Boots was reading to him from a chapter books. About 2 pages into the book, Bodhi asked if it was ok if he went to sleep. How cute! He then closed his eyes and was out!
At 5am after Boots had gotten up to pee and returned to bed, Bodhi said in a small voice, "I'm cold." Boots covered him and thought he'd go back to sleep. Ah, no such luck, he was wide awake and ready for another edition of "Kung Fu Panda." So, Boots got up and Ruthi sleep for a few more hours.
Bodhi watched movies and science videos that we had available. Then there was the changing of the guard, so to speak, and Boots tried to get back to sleep and Ruthi watched "Kung Fu Panda" for his thrid time.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Quincy, CA
The kids added a rescued beagle/German short hair pointer, Sonny, from the pound while we were gone. He's a mellow pup at 9 months. Karma is still her excited energy-bunny puppy at 4 1/2 years. So, she was a bit over the top for Sonny.
We had 2 tennis balls so that they could both chase/catch. Sonny doesn't have the coordination down yet but he's getting the idea. But, he would rather chew and tear apart the ball instead of retrieve it. He has concluded that we will just throw it again.
The yard area is not completely secured with tall fencing. Karma remembers the yard boundaries and stays within the area as long as she has her ball. Sonny on the other hand can leap over the front garden fence but doesn't go far. We had left the dogs outside during dinner so they wouldn't fight over positioning themselves under the 1 yo's high chair, when Karma started to bark and bark and look at the back gat fencing. Since that's usually where the cat hides himself we thought, "Oh, Marley's back." But after further looking we could see that Sonny was outside the gate waiting for someone to let him back in.
Having a sort of playmate has seemed to calm Karma down a little bit. She needs to always keep track of his antics so she can be sure to have the best smelling ball for playing. Karma has even tried to get Sonny to throw the ball for her. She drops it at his feet and poises for the throw. He plops on it and starts to chew.
We had 2 tennis balls so that they could both chase/catch. Sonny doesn't have the coordination down yet but he's getting the idea. But, he would rather chew and tear apart the ball instead of retrieve it. He has concluded that we will just throw it again.
The yard area is not completely secured with tall fencing. Karma remembers the yard boundaries and stays within the area as long as she has her ball. Sonny on the other hand can leap over the front garden fence but doesn't go far. We had left the dogs outside during dinner so they wouldn't fight over positioning themselves under the 1 yo's high chair, when Karma started to bark and bark and look at the back gat fencing. Since that's usually where the cat hides himself we thought, "Oh, Marley's back." But after further looking we could see that Sonny was outside the gate waiting for someone to let him back in.
Having a sort of playmate has seemed to calm Karma down a little bit. She needs to always keep track of his antics so she can be sure to have the best smelling ball for playing. Karma has even tried to get Sonny to throw the ball for her. She drops it at his feet and poises for the throw. He plops on it and starts to chew.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Quincy, CA
It's been a bit chilly since we got here last Friday. But today topped it all! It was raining most of the day except when it SNOWED mid-afternoon. Really, SNOW in big flakes. It didn't last long at this elevation but the trees on the mountain tops were frosted.
So, Ruthi had to resort to long pants and a long sleeve shirt. While Boots even added socks. Plus jacket of course. We have obviously arrived too early in the spring for Quincy. Everything is green but it is too cold for us. We have had temperatures mostly from low 60's to high 80's for most of our adventure. This is the coldest continuous so far - poor planning or weather fluke. We aren't sure which!
So, Ruthi had to resort to long pants and a long sleeve shirt. While Boots even added socks. Plus jacket of course. We have obviously arrived too early in the spring for Quincy. Everything is green but it is too cold for us. We have had temperatures mostly from low 60's to high 80's for most of our adventure. This is the coldest continuous so far - poor planning or weather fluke. We aren't sure which!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Reno, NV
We came through Donner Pass on Interstate 80 (better known as the Eisenhower Highways – but that’s another story) today. The temperature went down to 49 degrees and there was “old” snow and water falls on the sides of the roadways. Sort of looked like Alaska – enough to take care of any nostalgia we might have had.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Isleton, CA
We are touring all around the area (delta). There are “draw” bridges and ferries connecting the various levee roads of the Delta. The bridges come in a number of versions – real draw bridges with counterweights, “lift” bridges that raised a section of bridge, and the most interesting one is the “turn” bridge which rotates 90 degrees. Most of these bridges were built in the early 40’s which makes them about a little older than us. We plan on coming back again for 2 weeks so that we can continue the Delta tour and the get into Sacramento some, too.
There is also Locke - that reflects the remains of the Chinese laborers community. We only had time to check out the food at "Al the Wops" - really that's the name of the place. According to local lore, Al saved one of the Chinese's life and the grateful family gave him their resturant.
There are lots of road side produce stands: avocados –yummy, strawberries – soft and sweet, and our favorite – asparagus. So, Boots has a lot of kitchen time to prepare these riches of the earth.
More interesting shop names:
Animal grooming at Tidy Tails
Or, shopping at the Tourist Trap
There is also Locke - that reflects the remains of the Chinese laborers community. We only had time to check out the food at "Al the Wops" - really that's the name of the place. According to local lore, Al saved one of the Chinese's life and the grateful family gave him their resturant.
There are lots of road side produce stands: avocados –yummy, strawberries – soft and sweet, and our favorite – asparagus. So, Boots has a lot of kitchen time to prepare these riches of the earth.
More interesting shop names:
Animal grooming at Tidy Tails
Or, shopping at the Tourist Trap
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Isleton, CA
This has got to be the smallest town we have been camped near. It is a sad place – closed store fronts on what would be their main street, a housing development stopped mid-way, just a look of decay and forlornness (is that a word?).
For those of you who do not (or haven’t ever) owned a dog, you might want to skip this snippet of dog owner life. Karma has a predictable pattern to her behavior when she is about to poop. If she’s on a long leash she will circle, much like a horse tethered in a corral. She varies her gait from a slow walk, gallop, trot, walk, lope, etc. over and over again until it’s time. When she’s ready she spins on her hind legs and approaches her squat flinging poop out from her spin. Centrifugal force sends the items straight out at sometimes long distances. So, to ensure that we get each piece picked up it is necessary to watch very carefully as her circles get smaller and smaller and turn into spins. When she’s on a short leash, she starts with a figure 8 before she gets to her spinning and throwing of poop. Eventually she stops spinning but continues to poop and travels away from the original spot. So, it’s more like geo-caching than walking the dog.
For those of you who do not (or haven’t ever) owned a dog, you might want to skip this snippet of dog owner life. Karma has a predictable pattern to her behavior when she is about to poop. If she’s on a long leash she will circle, much like a horse tethered in a corral. She varies her gait from a slow walk, gallop, trot, walk, lope, etc. over and over again until it’s time. When she’s ready she spins on her hind legs and approaches her squat flinging poop out from her spin. Centrifugal force sends the items straight out at sometimes long distances. So, to ensure that we get each piece picked up it is necessary to watch very carefully as her circles get smaller and smaller and turn into spins. When she’s on a short leash, she starts with a figure 8 before she gets to her spinning and throwing of poop. Eventually she stops spinning but continues to poop and travels away from the original spot. So, it’s more like geo-caching than walking the dog.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
San Luis Obispo, CA
It rained early this morning. The snails were out BIG time. Some of them are the size ready for escargot – really really big! Also, now that the sun is shining again there seem to be a lot of humming birds at this particular park. There is also a rather unique flower. When in full bloom it looks like one of those brushes used to clean baby bottles; you know long twisted rod with bristles at right angles to the twists going around the center. These strange blossom are magenta in color – very vibrant and different!
This particular park only has the laundry open Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. Very strange – we have not experienced that limitation before.
This particular park only has the laundry open Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. Very strange – we have not experienced that limitation before.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
San Luis Obispo, CA
Now, that we are moving, we have more to write about. Sitting in Santee Lakes for 5 months slowed down the "pen"!
Well, here we are at another RV park on the central coast of California. This was our original destination but there weren’t any spaces until today (Sunday). There are many RV parks: regional, local and commercial. This is a hot recreational section of the coast. There are ATV, RV, Kayak rentals/sales all along CA Highway 1. The coast drive is beautiful – sometimes high cliffs, then beautiful beaches or golden dunes to be driven over.
As mentioned before, there are sections of beach that seem to be more dog focused than others. Karma loves chasing the ball into the waves and swimming for it. Then she lets the surf carry her back towards shore. She does it again and again so either she loves it or loves the ball!
Well, here we are at another RV park on the central coast of California. This was our original destination but there weren’t any spaces until today (Sunday). There are many RV parks: regional, local and commercial. This is a hot recreational section of the coast. There are ATV, RV, Kayak rentals/sales all along CA Highway 1. The coast drive is beautiful – sometimes high cliffs, then beautiful beaches or golden dunes to be driven over.
As mentioned before, there are sections of beach that seem to be more dog focused than others. Karma loves chasing the ball into the waves and swimming for it. Then she lets the surf carry her back towards shore. She does it again and again so either she loves it or loves the ball!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Oceano, CA
One of our neighbors is a Class A RV (http://rv.org/class_A.htm) towing a Class B van (http://rv.org/class_B.htm) like a mother-in-law OR grandchildren’s apartment for their travels.
We took Karma to a beach again. There were only a few dogs and she had a great time chasing the ball into the surf. There was even a very young lab puppy who continually ran between the other dog’s feet crashing into everyone and then flopping over on her back as if to say, “Sorry, my bad!”.
And, yes Karma pooped in the Pacific again. This time, Ruthi was able to get it all as the waves brought it closer and closer to dry sand. We don’t know what it is about pooping in the ocean but she does it every time now. We know that the running activity causes her to have the need but when it’s in a grass or dirt park she searches for the “perfect” spot. At the beach, she thinks the waves are the “perfect” spot.
We took Karma to a beach again. There were only a few dogs and she had a great time chasing the ball into the surf. There was even a very young lab puppy who continually ran between the other dog’s feet crashing into everyone and then flopping over on her back as if to say, “Sorry, my bad!”.
And, yes Karma pooped in the Pacific again. This time, Ruthi was able to get it all as the waves brought it closer and closer to dry sand. We don’t know what it is about pooping in the ocean but she does it every time now. We know that the running activity causes her to have the need but when it’s in a grass or dirt park she searches for the “perfect” spot. At the beach, she thinks the waves are the “perfect” spot.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Oceano, CA
Our drive up from Ventura on CA 101 was great – mostly coastal views from the road for the one not driving. We are on a hillside within the park but still below the surrounding hills and sand dunes. We haven’t checked out exactly how far we are from the beach yet. We think the dunes are up some hills and then down to the Pacific. We’ll see tomorrow or Saturday.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Acton, CA
As we have travelled across America we have observed a lot of wind farms and solar panel fields. We know there are 2 sides to the issue with respect to the obstruction of a view with these alternate energy sources. What we see is a ballet of wind with the blades of the wind farm. It really can be very serene and beautiful to see the rhythm of the spinning! With the solar panels there are blinding sparkles reflected off the panels to the surrounding landscape. So, in our opinion, the beauty is an extra to the renewable resource!
Our posts frequency has improved but don't get used to it!!!
Our posts frequency has improved but don't get used to it!!!
Acton, CA
As we have travelled across America we have observed a lot of wind farms and solar panel fields. We know there are 2 sides to the issue with respect to the obstruction of a view with these alternate energy sources. What we see is a ballet of wind with the blades of the wind farm. It really can be very serene and beautiful to see the rhythm of the spinning! With the solar panels there are blinding sparkles reflected off the panels to the surrounding landscape. So, in our opinion, the beauty is an extra to the renewable resource!
Our posts frequency has improved but don't get used to it!!!
Our posts frequency has improved but don't get used to it!!!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Acton, CA
OK, it finally happened! Someone is so un-observant or un-aware of their surrounding that they took us for a mother-daughter pair. Like there couldn’t be any other possible relationship between two women travelling together! We both laughed – it’s not our responsibility to educate the world of the ignorant.
We had a problem with our electricity and called camp maintenance. They came out and solved our problem while leaving our neighbor unhooked. Supposedly they left him a note about the “why.” He came home and found no note but his rig had NO electricity. So, he came over here to see if we knew anything – hence the mother-daughter comment.
As some of you know, Boots has a full head of white hair and Ruthi has only 12-18 gray hairs on her entire head! But if you were to really look at our faces you’d see not only the aging process but the vast differences in tone and look. Really, come on do we look like a mother and daughter team???
We had a problem with our electricity and called camp maintenance. They came out and solved our problem while leaving our neighbor unhooked. Supposedly they left him a note about the “why.” He came home and found no note but his rig had NO electricity. So, he came over here to see if we knew anything – hence the mother-daughter comment.
As some of you know, Boots has a full head of white hair and Ruthi has only 12-18 gray hairs on her entire head! But if you were to really look at our faces you’d see not only the aging process but the vast differences in tone and look. Really, come on do we look like a mother and daughter team???
Friday, April 9, 2010
Acton, CA
We had our first experience with “Wily” coyote when we arrived in the LA area in June 2008. Karma doesn’t even bat an eye or even roll over when they are baying at night or worse yet enjoying their kill. Like the ducks at Santee Lakes, Karma is intrigued by birds but has come to accept that she isn’t able to fly and they are.
But in Indio we had our first encounter with the elusive Road Runner. They aren’t as tall as I had imagined. But the crew cut and long tail gives them away. With gentle reminders, Karma is fairly passive with birds. Given her breed (Labradoodle), we are surprised because for cats and rabbits nothing stops her charging off for the chase - with us in hot pursuit trying to rope her to a stop like she’s a wild mustang.
Here in Acton, there are very large ravens that fly around like vultures looking for fresh kill to feast upon. They stand up pretty tall almost as big as those we remember from Alaska. Karma is keeping her distance and dis-interest!
But in Indio we had our first encounter with the elusive Road Runner. They aren’t as tall as I had imagined. But the crew cut and long tail gives them away. With gentle reminders, Karma is fairly passive with birds. Given her breed (Labradoodle), we are surprised because for cats and rabbits nothing stops her charging off for the chase - with us in hot pursuit trying to rope her to a stop like she’s a wild mustang.
Here in Acton, there are very large ravens that fly around like vultures looking for fresh kill to feast upon. They stand up pretty tall almost as big as those we remember from Alaska. Karma is keeping her distance and dis-interest!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Acton, CA
We are hop-scotching up to see Boots’ son and his family. RV Park rents vary from $300 monthly rate to $650+ monthly rate. Day rates are the most expensive with weekly’s providing some savings but monthlys provide the best discount. We joined a RV membership club that has campgrounds across America and relationships with other similar organizations. For this year’s tour from now to when we are back in San Diego for winter (or at least November), we are using these membership campgrounds to check them out and see if we really can save money. Once disadvantage is that we can’t stay longer than 2 weeks at a time. This makes it work very well when we are “touring”.
For the 5 weeks we are taking to get to Reno the total camping fees are $93. At this rate our daily average cost of our life style goes down down down!
For the 5 weeks we are taking to get to Reno the total camping fees are $93. At this rate our daily average cost of our life style goes down down down!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Indio, CA
If you have been following the blog, you will recall that our RV park/campground choices have turned out to be very close to railroad lines. The clickety-clack and whistles were “romantic” or at least not offensive or irritating.
This park just happens to be across the street from a local Fire Station. There are sirens going off and fire engines roaring out of the place all day and night. Since we aren’t seeing much in the local paper about fires, we think it might be more rescue/ambulance work. This area has a very high average age of the residents (local and snow birds). We, of course, do bring that average down quite a bit. The busiest time of day is around dinner time (6 or 7pm). We haven’t figured that out yet.
Early Saturday evening, we began hearing voices (or one voice, really) rev’ing up a crowd to ask for “more air!” “more air!”. It took us a while to figure out something else must be going on close to our park. Off to the internet to see what are the events in the Palm Springs area. We are within 3 miles of the Fair Grounds. And, Saturday was a “Monster Truck” event. We could hear the announcer clearly across the desert. On the other hand, we couldn’t hear the trucks – so maybe they weren’t so very monstrous after all.
This park just happens to be across the street from a local Fire Station. There are sirens going off and fire engines roaring out of the place all day and night. Since we aren’t seeing much in the local paper about fires, we think it might be more rescue/ambulance work. This area has a very high average age of the residents (local and snow birds). We, of course, do bring that average down quite a bit. The busiest time of day is around dinner time (6 or 7pm). We haven’t figured that out yet.
Early Saturday evening, we began hearing voices (or one voice, really) rev’ing up a crowd to ask for “more air!” “more air!”. It took us a while to figure out something else must be going on close to our park. Off to the internet to see what are the events in the Palm Springs area. We are within 3 miles of the Fair Grounds. And, Saturday was a “Monster Truck” event. We could hear the announcer clearly across the desert. On the other hand, we couldn’t hear the trucks – so maybe they weren’t so very monstrous after all.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Indio, CA
This is our first experience using our Coast-2-Coast membership to get very cheap ($10 max/night) spaces that we can use for up to 2-weeks. Our plans for this trip North to the kids is to try our 5 different parks/resorts. At this particular camp (Indian Wells Resort) we do not have sewer but the “Honey Bucket” can empty us for $8. We had forgotten that we wouldn’t be having sewer (See Memory loss below), so we hadn’t planned very well. But we’ll see how it goes.
This camp ground really isn’t worth more than the $10 for amenities but we’ve paid more for even less. So, we’ll keep you updated – If we remember.
This camp ground really isn’t worth more than the $10 for amenities but we’ve paid more for even less. So, we’ll keep you updated – If we remember.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Indio, CA
We finally left San Diego. The 5 months there were slow and restful. We didn’t do much but we accumulated more stuff and it took much longer to pack/hitch and leave. We were so out of practice we needed to refer to our original check lists to make sure everything was in order. We had lots of questions about where some things got stored.
Aging and your memory loss is such a fun activity. We get to have discussions over and over again; discover new ways of storing things we have no idea how we carried them to San Diego. Ruthi put the bikes up and arranged the bungee cords to secure them. This morning she realized that the un-used cords are on the highway between here and SD as she left them just hanging on the bike.
Aging and your memory loss is such a fun activity. We get to have discussions over and over again; discover new ways of storing things we have no idea how we carried them to San Diego. Ruthi put the bikes up and arranged the bungee cords to secure them. This morning she realized that the un-used cords are on the highway between here and SD as she left them just hanging on the bike.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Santee Lakes, CA
Karma has developed a new “strange” behavior. We feed her dinner around 6 or 7 depending on what’s on our schedule. Then she gets her last trip outside and is ready for the night. Normally, she would soon fall asleep in her crate, in the middle of the living room floor or even go back and claim space on our bed. Sometimes she’d get up and pick a new spot to fall back asleep. A couple of months ago, Karma started demanding that we go to bed with her. She’d stand in the bathroom hallway and bark “come on it’s time to sleep”. We’d tell her, “Go ahead, you can go to bed”. It’s like a 3-4 year old child’s laments at bedtime: “I want some water”,”I have to go to the bathroom”, “Something’s under my bed”. If we go back and lay with her for a few minutes, she’ll settle down and go to sleep for the night but she wants that extra attention. A dog for gosh sakes!!!! Of course we both do it – what can we say we’re suckers for her charms.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Santee, CA
The rains came (or are coming if the weather predictions are right). The dampness makes for cool weather but afternoons (like now) seem to clear a bit and the sun helps. While they really need the water they don’t seem to have infrastructure to accommodate this onslaught. LA already got half of it’s annual precipitation in the storms this week. The biggest impact for us is walking the dog. Karma doesn’t like the rain drops anymore than us and she is quick to do her stuff if it is pouring down. We try really hard to take advantage of the breaks for her to run out and do and get back in. Luckily, she loves to be dried off and just jumps and turns in the towel to get dry.
The rain here is much different from Alaska’s mists or our experiences in Alabama last Spring. The sky is cloudy and then without warning (or a little breeze) it pours down rain. Then it stops and the sky doesn’t look any different than it did before or during the rain. (One exception, this morning on our walk Karma and I saw our first rainbow here.) Then after a rest it pours down again. Sort of like buckets of rain on a track with no rhyme or reason to the frequency of dumping the contents.
We haven’t been updating our blog lately. If we aren’t traveling or actively in some pursuit it seems kind of pretentious or flashy to update the blog with everyday normal boring stuff – went to the grocery, etc. Ruthi had a twitter account but after a few days gay up on it. Guess it’s generational – just doesn’t interest us. We do use text messaging quite a bit. But that’s to address specific people now telling the whole world “I just did something”.
The rain here is much different from Alaska’s mists or our experiences in Alabama last Spring. The sky is cloudy and then without warning (or a little breeze) it pours down rain. Then it stops and the sky doesn’t look any different than it did before or during the rain. (One exception, this morning on our walk Karma and I saw our first rainbow here.) Then after a rest it pours down again. Sort of like buckets of rain on a track with no rhyme or reason to the frequency of dumping the contents.
We haven’t been updating our blog lately. If we aren’t traveling or actively in some pursuit it seems kind of pretentious or flashy to update the blog with everyday normal boring stuff – went to the grocery, etc. Ruthi had a twitter account but after a few days gay up on it. Guess it’s generational – just doesn’t interest us. We do use text messaging quite a bit. But that’s to address specific people now telling the whole world “I just did something”.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Santee, CA
Kassie came down to see us for a few days after visiting a friend in North Carolina. We did some tourist stuff and finally got to the zoo. All three of us have mixed feeling about zoos but San Diego’s seems very focused on endangered species. We even rented one of those electric wheel chairs for Boots to ride around on.
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