Monday, October 13
In the last episode of “RVSue and her canine crew,” Bridget and I wait for a cold and windy day to pass in order to break camp and head further south from Salina, Utah.
Today is calm and we leave our free camp outside Maple Grove Campground.
A shortcut takes us through the little village of Aurora (yes, named for the Northern Lights). We board Interstate-70 and whiz past Richfield, eventually picking up Route 89 to Panguitch.
We go past the turn to Bryce Canyon National Park.
My original plan, way back when we camped in Sinks Canyon near Lander, Wyoming, was to visit Bryce on the return trip to Arizona. Well, an extended stay at that beautiful Antelope Flat boondock (you know, the one on a peninsula), plus the time we lingered among the fall foliage at Ivie Creek, used up a lot of the remaining good weather. We will come back to Bryce Canyon some time in the future when I can fully appreciate it.
Before reaching Kanab, I take the turn for Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park!
The crew and I stayed at this state park in May 2012. I want to take advantage of its amenities, namely dump, water, shower, and trash. The campground fee has gone up to $20 a night.
This is the only campground I’ve experienced where one is assigned a campsite.
Fortunately we are given a pretty site. It’s a pull-through and level. I set up my lounger on the concrete pad in the shade of a juniper tree. As usual I toss Bridget’s old, beat-up, brown-and-plaid bed next to the lounger. I bought her a new bed but she loves the old, ratty one.
Once camp is set up, we go for a walk around the campground.
The place is filling up. The air temperature is perfect, probably in the high seventies. We’re at a lower elevation here (6,000 feet), than at Panguitch or Salina to the north.
Bridget glides in her stroller over the paved road of the campground loop.
She sits calmly with me pushing her along. Her head turns from side to side, taking in the sights (The above photo was staged later and she wanted to sit sideways.)
Most of the campers are here to drive their Off Highway Vehicles in the 1,200 acres (90%) of dunes set aside for that purpose.
God bless the Coral Pink Tiger Beetle!
Ten percent of the dunes are off-limits to OHVs, thanks to the Coral Pink Tiger Beetle, which is found nowhere else in the world.
Tuesday, October 14
Due to my frugal nature, as well as my aversion to the constant revving and roaring of combustion engines, I’m ready this morning to find another camp.
I’ve discovered a good strategy during my 3+ years of “living on less and enjoying life more.” Go to a state park or commercial RV park, take care of dump, water, shower, and trash, and then leave the next morning.
For me, paying $20 or more per night to camp is like walking around with a hole in my pocket while twenty-dollar bills fall out and blow away. I can’t help it. That’s the way I am. If I won a million dollars in a lottery, I’d still live in the Best Little Trailer and I’d still pull it with the Perfect Tow Vehicle, a 2005 Chevy Express Van with over 145,000 miles on the odometer.
First thing this morning I trot over to the shower house.
The shower alone is worth the twenty bucks — It’s clean, the water is hot and there’s plenty of it, plus the water pressure is great. Amazing what one values when living simply!
Next I pack up and pull out (I didn’t unhitch) of our campsite, stopping at the nearest water pump. I fill up the one-gallon jugs and get out the fresh water hose to fill up the tank.
Then we zip over to the dump station. That task done, I toss our trash in the dumpster. Before leaving the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, I stop at the day use area. A cement walkway winds up to a viewing platform. I leave Bridget in the PTV.
As I gaze out across the dunes, I receive a lesson in the power of light.
When the crew and I were here in May two years ago, the color of the dunes was vivid — like one would expect, a stunning coral pink. Today the color is washed out by the harsh, cold, winter light. The two photos I post here were taken as we entered the park when the glare of the sun was momentarily blocked by clouds.
Oh, well . . . I was fortunate to see the dunes in full color when I did . . .
Off we go to our new camp only a few miles away!
Coming up . . . Ponderosa Grove Campground, a drive into Kanab, and a tour of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (the latter a birthday gift to myself!)
rvsue
NOTE: Thank you for the happy birthday wishes. You are so good to me. I had a wonderful day which I’ll write about soon.
AS ALWAYS, THANKS FOR SHOPPING AMAZON THROUGH MY BLOG!
Why a photo of two hogs? I don’t know. Because they were there?
Gorgeous color in those photos; love the soft focus watercolor effect!
Good to have you back, Sue. Hope you’ve enjoyed a very happy birthday.
Cat Lady
Cat Lady, go back a couple days in comment’s , I answered you, on “Glassing”, me
Thanks for the explanation, Rusty. I’d love to meet you and Timber one day. Take care of yourselves.
Cat Lady
Best Friends Animal Shelter, I can hardly wait for that post! A nice hot shower, now that’s a great birthday present for sure. That pink sand is stunning.
I bettcha Sue’s getting a companion for the Bridge and the name will continue, Sue and her Crew of 2, ,,,,,,,,,Timber
Rusty, you could be absolutely right! Can’t wait to find out! A little birthday gift to herself, eh?
Coral Pink Sand Dunes. Great place. I was there many moons ago. You should have a quiet time until the weekend, Then the ATV’s arrive. But it is a very unique place.
Now, not to harp or beat a dead horse but:
Paria is only 50 miles east of you, Home of the best slot canyon ever and the easiest to get to, Buckskin Gulch. And the stateline campground is almost always empty and no ATVs. But I think you need to register at the ranger office to go in. I know you need to to go to the Wave, but not sure about Buckskin Gulch.
“Happy Birthday to you!”(Belated!)
I have never seen the pink sands…gorgeous!!
Bridget’s pose in the stroller was excellent!
Thank you RVSue!
Stunning photos as always. Did I miss something or is Bridget’s leg getting worse?
Glad you arrived safely at your new spot. Pretty sand dunes. Waiting to see where you end up next.
Happy Birthday!!!! I hope you had some cake!
Hi Sue, Happy Birthday or belated birthday. I do hope you had a fabulous day! Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. The colors are so pretty and you always capture them in your photos.
Looking forward to seeing your next stop. I am hoping Bridget is doing better too. Is there any chance that her old bed was shared by Spike too and she can still smell him in the bed and that is why she likes that one best?
Have a great day and we will talk to you again soon!
Bridget looks like she’s actually posing sideways in her stroller, the lil’ Princess. Can’t wait to hear about your birthday present to You 🙂
Ha! Loved the parting pig shot Sue. I thought the Coral Colors were beautiful. Happy Belated birthday to you, I now remember our birthdays are very close. Mine was Oct 7th. Ah…getting older…what a trip. Can’t wait to see your next home and hope little Bridget’s leg gets better soon. Take Care Sue and Crewet.
Hi Sue, pictures again are beautiful as always, and doesn’t Little Bridget look adorable sitting in her stroller! Happy Birthday and Happy Travels!!!
“If I won a million dollars in a lottery, I’d still live in the Best Little Trailer and I’d still pull it with the Perfect Tow Vehicle, a 2005 Chevy Express Van with over 145,000 miles on the odometer.”
Bridget however would be traveling in a gold plated sedan chair carried by a team of big beefy Rottweilers!
LOL….good one! And, her meals would be served on gold plates, too!
All as it should be Kay, all as it should be.
I think you are right Rick! And those Hollywood Celeb critters have nothing on Miss Bridget either. She knows she travels only to keep Miss Sue happy and to share her good looks with all that gaze upon her. ~Miss B~ has Glamping down to a fine art 😉
Hey! There’s Missy! Missed ya lady. I’m glad your BD was a good one. I hope Bridget is feeling a little better. It’s a dry Balmy 88, nice breeze here right now as I type this. I assume you are drifting this way. Anyhow welcome back.
Happy happy birthday from us in Hoquiam!
Is Bridget worse? Or are you just resting her up?
Hope you enjoyed your day at the sanctuary!
Hugs, from where else but…. HOQUIAM!
BARB
Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday Sister Susan
Happy Birthday to you!!!
I hope you have been enjoying your day!!!
Love you
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUE-how like you to give us a present on your special day,you amaze and please me so.Hope the shelter visit treat gave you smiles and warmed your heart,sometimes animals do that better than anything else,though ice cream can come close.Guess one of Bridget’s gifts to you was posing just that way in the stroller- her most adorable glam shot ever!
Love what you said about if you won a lottery-that speaks volumes -about being happy with the choices you’ve made-and your gratitude in general.Wow,that made me sit back!-and then smile…Apparently what you call simple living feels like luxury even to Bridge,as she prefers her old plaid bed-how perfect.Said the woman typing in her favorite robe-from how many years ago…
Now I know sometimes it seems like I see the world through rose colored glasses -with a post full of pink in photos and good news,this time no one would blame me.So I’ll just mention that most hogs are cute but you made those look handsome in that setting.May your eye for beauty fill your mind with especially delightful things all of this special night.
Ah, I love the pictures. Bridget, you are so adorable.
Hey gang… maybe Bridget will sneak us a Canine Corner, and give us the scoop of the visit. Very excited to see if we all will have another member of the Canine Crew, one to bless us with some awesome antics.
Sitting on the edge of my seat…. for two reasons… the possibility of a new crew member and the second… The SCREWS are found!
Pepsi, on the rocks anyone?
Pepsi? Really? Glad you found the screws.
So glad you found those screws!! Should make those bldgs. much easier to put up!! Must feel almost like your birthday to have found them!! Celebrate…at least with some good food!!
Oh happy day you found the screws! Sorry to say I lost mine years ago lol. I sure wish I could come to help you but my solar issues need to be dealt with before winter…maybe in the Spring?? Please keep us posted on your progress. I am sure Allen will be a BIG help. Don’t be too hard on “nameless”.
Krystina, did you see my post in the previous blog about a solar install place in Flagstaff, much closer to you than Yuma.
Yes I did Allen. Ugh, I thought I had replied to that…learning this new computer is taking a bit of a toll. I have it on my list and when I go through there shortly I will stop. I did the Painted Desert and the Petrified Forrest today….really unbelievable…AND perfect weather. Thank you for reminding me that I need to get a grip!
What a cute photo of Bridget!! She looks kind of happy even!! Maybe that is because it is your birthday, Sue!! If I lived as you do, a nice hot shower would be what I most wanted for my birthday too!!! I admit…tis one luxury I do greatly enjoy!!
So glad you had a nice birthday. And I can’t wait to read your post about Best Friends!
Happy Birthday Sue.
Happy Birthday Sue.
That is weird, I had much more to say….and I typed it all & it didn’t show up. Maybe I am wearing out this I pad. I will try again.
Sue, loved the pic of Bridget in the stroller and the sand dunes. Hope you will post some pics of Best Friends…I think I have been to their web site at one time. Our shelter only has eight dog kennels, but houses around 60 or more cats….Jackson, the dog we had with the huge ears, went home to his new family last week.
Now you’re traveling on one of my favorite highways…89 south thru southern Utah. As you well know, it will be decision time soon, in order to get around Grand Canyon. I’m betting southeasterly toward Flagstaff. Surprise us.
Happy birthday, Dear RVSue! I wish your continuing wonderful travels of life!
I visited this erea five times and so love The Grand Circle, especially Vermilion Cliffs.
Dear Sue,
Happy Birthday to you. May you have a wonderful year.
Thank you for your graciousness in sharing your adventures with the us and our fellow Blogerinos who are the happy ones.
Deena and Miss Mollie
Happy Birthday – the wishes were on time but the post is a bit late in the day. Hope you had a fabulous visit to Best Friends and enjoyed your birthday.
Wishing you a Happy belated Birthday!
We were through that area a few weeks ago, but ended up not using our tent, but staying in a motel because the temp was supposed to be 26 degrees that night. The motel in Kanab had a booklet about Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. I would have loved to visit it. I did take out the envelope to make a donation in Spikes memory as well as our Darma, who passed in February. It seemed fitting. We would have gone to Pink Coral Sands or the campground out of Bryce, but had not brought our winter gear with us. We are surely returning to that wonderful area.
What a wonderful, fine thing to do…your donation for both your sweet one who passed and for Spike too. I never thought of doing that. I should from now forward on the anni of my sweet LEO’s passing. Excellent idea!
Thank you for remembering Spike with a donation to Best Friends. It’s a lovely tribute to a great guy.
Happy Birthday! I hope it was great. Your comment about the OHVs reminds me of a place my husband and I camped on the Oregon coast. People were revving the motors at 4 am, which got old pretty fast. (We camped there because the place we wanted was full and we hadn’t planned ahead.) Those dunes are beautiful, though.
I’m so glad to hear you’re going to Best Friends! What a nice birthday present to give yourself. They have some campsites at the Sanctuary for those who volunteer. Angel Canyon, where Best Friends is headquartered, is a lovely canyon. Enjoy!!
Happy Birthday to You! Happy Birthday to You! Happy Birthday, Dear Sue! Happy Birthday to You! And many moooore!! Hope you had a great Birthday adventure at the Animal Sanctuary! I am looking forward to your next post giving us the whole scoop! Speaking of scoops…what flavor of Tillamook ice cream are you enjoying?!
Miss Bridget looks absolutely adorable in her chariot! I hope the buggy rides are making a difference, giving her chipmunk injury flare up a chance to heal.
The hogs give the last photo perspective. Am I the only one thinking about bacon?! 🙂
Have a wonderful Birthday evening, Sue! Hugs to you and Miss Bridget from me and Gracie pup!
Ms Sue!!!
Merry Happy!
(Covering all the bases!)
Sorry I missed your birthday…HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL!!!..be safe.
It’s not a belated birthday…you didn’t miss it…her birthday is the 15th.
Cat Lady
Kanab, Utah. I adopted 2 horses from Best Friends 12 years ago. It is a wonderful place and I would love to visit someday. Sue, I really like your blog. I started from the very beginning several weeks ago and I’m about halfway through! Sometimes I cheat though (like now) to find out what your current adventures are. You’ve got me itching for a Casita. The factory is dangerously close to me…2 hours away! I’ve already been there once to “browse”. Safe travels to you and Bridget.
Cibndy, if you mention RVSue when you decide to buy your casita, they give her a small commission! Helps keep the journey rolling!
Great! I’ll certainly do that. Thanks.
Happy Belated (?) Birthday to another October baby! I know what you mean about a hot shower sometimes being the best present to yourself. Sometimes the showers at the state parks aren’t very good, and the first thing I do when I get home is jump into mine! And I found when I rented my RV last year that I was assigned a spot but they said just take whatever one appealed to me and let them know later.
I love that first picture, of the gold tree with the flat land and then the mountain behind it. And Miss Bridget looks so comfy in her stroller – I bet you’re both glad you kept it.
Dear Sue, A Very Happy Birthday to you!! Hope you had a Great Day!! Hugs to the Bridge!! Dixie
Oh, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Sue!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Sue!!!!
Can’t wait to hear about your visit to Best Friends!!! I’ve been a contributor for some time!!!
Wow are those sand dunes pretty! I would love to see that.
I had the nurse today…she said my wound is doing well! Starting to close up. Hooray! I think the silver stuff they put in is helping. My OT therapist came and said she will only make one more visit as I’m doing well. Then I met my physical therapist at gym. I expect he’ll dump me in a week or two. Which is fine…I’m getting better! And I have been switched from Coumadin to xarelto. I think that’s a really good thing. I hope. Haven’t taken it yet….first dose tonight.
Sue you will be in AZ soon…yay! I can’t wait to see all the places you go.
Give Bridgie a hug…she looks very cute in her stroller.
So glad that you are feeling better DesertGinger!
Good news!!! GREAT NEWS Ginger!!!
I had tears in my eyes when I read your reply…that you were getting better!!! Such good news! I can see the smile on your face.
Krystina
Yea, Ginger! Great news!
Yay Ginger!!!! Love reading that you are feeling better! Great news! Keep us posted!
Happy birthday! We recently drove by the Casita plant where Sue became RV Sue. However, I think Sue was always RV Sue, since one should not need an object to express one’s individuality. Best Friends is wonderful and they have an extra horse tour that is nice.
Happy Birthday Sue!
Looking forward to hearing about Best Friends. That’s on my list of places to go. I’d actually like to volunteer there sometime, but with my own two big dogs, I’m not sure how that works, or if it’s possible.
I too am learning to cherish the hot showers. I’m at Santa Rosa Lake State Park and was looking forward to just that when the camp host came over and told me the water main was broken and no one can use the facilities in this area. I’ve got one more night here so I sure hope they get it fixed before I leave!
I was wondering if that baby carriage was still available when Bridget hurt her leg again. Good thing and she looks so cute in there.
Belated birthday wishes to you, Sue.
Happy Birthday to you , Happy Birthday to YOU, You went to a good place and it was PINK, and you went to the Good Friends A. S. and in the time to Wink, Now there’s Two, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU SUE AND THE NEW CREW ,,,,,,,,,,Timber n’ his Buddy,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, me
Did we guess right? I mean, why else go to a animal shelter, but to fill up on more love, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Timber,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, oh we can hardly wait to see #2 ,,,,,,,,,,,,Timber 8>D
I Love Best Friends. Look forward to hear about your visit there. Happy Birthday.
Hi Sue – Happy Belated Birthday! If you are hanging around Kanab, be sure to stop at Houston’s Trail’s End restaurant for some chicken fried steak. The fall foliage photos were beautiful. We headed up to the eastern side of the Sierras and saw lots of yellow from the Aspens, but none of the colors that you posted. It was still pretty warm at 7,000 feet but a nasty wind kicked up today, so we hit the road back to civilization.
The animal sanctuary is huge!! I’m sure that you had a great time there!
Chris B
Happy Birthday! I googled Kanab since I’m totally illiterate on locations in Utah. When I saw the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, I knew where you would venture next. Have fun with the cuddly ones! 🙂
Happy Birthday, hope was great!!!
I tried and tried to send birthday wishes but the connection here is “iffy” at best and would not send for the past 2 days! So now I am hoping this belated birthday wish makes it to you!
Wow…. I am as excited as everyone else here that you have visited Friends!!!! I surely hope some sweet doggie looked up at you with a happy dog smile and love over flowing from his/her heart! Maybe it wasn’t the right time yet…. But I have to admit I am hoping you have found a new forever friend for you and Bridget to spoil with love and adventures! Can’t wait to read the next post! Now crossing my fingers and hoping this post sends!
Oh… We will be going back to our campground in a few days! Byeeeeeeeee!
Great news, Geri! I assume all the gators have been rounded up . . .
Hi Sue! H a p p y B i r t h d a y !!!
I really enjoy seeing a email from you. It makes me so happy just reading your blog. I can actually close my eyes and feel and see what your lifestyle is like and how my life will change once I’m on the road. Ahhh….. so exciting.
If you are anything like me it would be way too hard to look at all the pups and not find one that talks to me. Seeing those loving eyes looking up longing for a momma.
Can’t wait to see what happened. You tease you!!
Now if I won the lottery not sure I’d keep my 2007 Chevy Avalanche, maybe I’d get a brand new big decked out truck and a 5th wheel to match. LOL dreaming now.
Actually I’m stoked to have my truck, and this month is the last payment! YIPPY!
I don’t want any extra payments anymore!
Bridget looks adorable in her carriage and it is very handy. I have one that fits both my dogs so when we are out walking at a art fair they don’t burn their feetsys on the hot cement… (in florida)
Hi, Deb,
Congratulations on your last truck payment! Whoo-Hoo! A paid for vehicle always seems to drive so much better! 🙂
Well it will be a real relief! Thanks…. hope it can pull a decent size trailer. Thinking about a 20 ft one.
Do a Google search for Trailer Life Tow Guide 2007. They list all vehicle model tow capacity. I think you are good for about 7K lbs or more. (I did not want to post a link while Sue is trying to resolve technical issues)
You have half of the puzzle already – your tow vehicle!
🙂
Happy belated birthday RVSue! I too have a new computer because my old one died and they could not retrieve my files 🙁 BIG learning curve as I am NOT computer literate at all. I have been staying off it a lot until I feel up to the task of learning it all. So, Best Friends (Bag Balm, where I worked, used to advertise in their magazine all the time) on your Birthday…..hoping there is now a new playmate for Miss Bridget. She is so darn adorable in her stroller. I sure hope she is on the mend and will be walking her butt off soon. The pink sand is amazing…hope to be there some day. I was in a gas station at exit 102 in Sky City, NM on my way to see Acoma Pueblo village (a must see) and I look over at a white truck pulling a Casita. Hummmmm I look through the open window in the back seat and see two beautiful dogs and at that point I know it is Micky! She was going East on I 40 and I was going West. What are the odds on that happening??? We had a nice visit. It is a wonderful life we live isn’t it?
Yes it is! Loved seeing you Krystina! 🙂
How cool is that?!
Love the pink sand! I imagine a full-size shower is one of the few things we’ll miss on the road – and enjoy when we stay a night or two in a park 🙂 Whether the sanctuary visit was gift enough, or you came home with a crew member, I’m glad your birthday was a special one. I’m thinkin’ those hogs are having a pretty good life!
Hmmmm….I wonder. Did Sue go just to sightsee, or was there another purpose in her visit to Best Friends? Interesting….
I am going to coffee group again this morning, then making potato salad for a potluck at 5 pm where we will plan November activities. I’m kinda excited to see what sort of things they do here.
My little ?Chloe is fussing up a storm. Better go walk her and I want a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Mornings are crisp enough that hot chocolate tastes really good.
I’ll check in later.
Good morning, DesertGinger,
Have fun at with your coffee group! Enjoy your hot chocolate. It will be fun for you to meet more of your neighbors at the potluck tonight. And they will be able to put two and two together….as in you being the park mascot’s Mommy! 🙂
It has been crazy-busy at work this week, so I was not able to check in again until late last night. Sorry I missed your yesterday morning post. Girl…looking at your last few posts makes me so happy! You are feeling better!! Whoo-hoo!!! So, did a particular travel trailer model (or few) peak your interest? It is so much fun looking and researching your future trailer. I am living vicariously through you and others who are either buying their RV or close to making a decision. I have many years to save, so I am having fun researching things to death! An Escape or Casita is on my short list.
So…if you won a lottery, would you change anything? I would not change much at all. I would stay in my home, pay off the mortgage and make some needed updates. I still would want and be happy with a 17′ travel trailer….bigger is not better for me. Of course I would share with my family and donate to a handful of non-profits. If the jackpot was large enough, I would say adios to work! Gracie pup and I would be hitting the road for a couple months at a time, seeing all that there is to see.
Well, since I have not hit a lottery jackpot, I have to get back to work. 🙂
Hope you and little Chloe have a great day!!!
Denise, if I won a lottery I would upgrade my little mobile home to a slightly larger, new one. Then I would buy a Casita and tow vehicle to pull it. Then I would put 100k in a fairly accessible account for backup spending money and invest the rest. Oh…I would give money to my son. I would like to spend winters here and about 4 months a year traveling. That would be perfect for me. Maybe some weekend trips around here in winter.
But..I don’t even play! Can’t afford it! Hahaha
When I do play, I only buy one $1 ticket. 🙂
Most of the time, I am just helping fund the jackpot!
D. Ginger,
I’m glad you are getting to know your neighbors. Having friends and being a friend leads to a healthier, happier life. Of course you have all of us Blogorinos but we aren’t close enough if you need to borrow a cup of sugar or have someone watch Chloe while you’re at the doctors. Yum! I bet you make a killer potato salad. 🙂
I think it’s pretty good! I love my friends here.
It’s been a couple of weeks since I checked in on you and I see you’re headed back south. You didn’t get as far north this year as I had hoped… we live within sight of I-90 as it crosses the eastern-most arm of Moses Lake and I had hoped to get a “honk” as you drove past. 😛
We are only 1100 feet in elevation here in the desert between Seattle and Spokane and our 75-degree days look like they’re just about over. In the old days the lake would freeze from shore-to-shore in front of our house by Novebmer 15th but the past 3 or 4 years the freeze has been moving farther into December and the normal thaw of March 15th is now well back into February. So it would be relatively safe to circle up north again next season. 🙂
My solar panels are about finished on the motor home but now there is a thermostat that needs replacement. It’s always something. Putting a new thermostat on a truck or car is not much of a job but on our motor home means sitting on the engine with the bed propped up (diesel pusher) and taking bits off (alternator, belts, mounts, etc.) ’til you can see the thermostat housing… and then putting it all back on again. A five-hour job last time!!!
Plus, at 71, my part-time job as a computer networking consultant has blossomed into more of a full-time job. The money is nice, but the naps are getting harder to squeeze in. If the wife would just get to 62 quicker we could sell the house and bail!
Lately I’ve been configuring tiny Raspberry Pi computers (look for them on Amazon) as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for customers with offices spread out across the county. The Rpi costs only $59 with 8gb of micro-SD-card instead of a hard drive (with Linux operating system on it already) along with a WiFi adapter, power supply and a case. It makes a complete computer about the size of a large bar of soap. A VPN can make a remote office access files and data on a headquarters office using the Internet and eliminate the need for leased lilnes. It creates an encrypted “tunnel” of sorts that keeps the data safe.
I use one myself to create a link from Starbucks and McDonalds “free” WiFi systems where it’s possible for someone sitting close by to see what you’re sending across the network (passwords and the like). With a VPN to my home system the link is entirely hidden and the packets they “sniff” are gobble-dee-gook. 😛
Wish I were on 89 headed south, myself. I wouldn’t mind hanging around Tucson for a while. Drive safe. Pat Bridget for me. Hope her leg gets better before she gets too spoiled in her stroller. 🙂
Craig
Hope u had a great Birthday. Closing on my house the 31st and will be hitting the road soon. Can’t wait to visit some of the places u have shared with us! Keep safe and give the Bridge a hug.
Yeah…closing on the 31st!!! And soon you will be out here with all of us bloggerinos…perfect. You’re gonna love it!
Krystina
Yay for you, Judy… One giant step closer to your dream!
Good morning, Sue,
Hope you have a glorious day! 🙂
And…so, let me tell you about little story…
About a group of people… brought together…..
By RVSUE and CREW……
She has them sitting on the EDGE of their seats…. constantly refreshing their screens
In hopes of being the first to find out the RVSUE MYSTERY!
Kay as usual you make me grin,guess that Knight in shining armor of yours is off on a project while you’re on a pepsi break.Worse than refreshing my screen,now that I looked at the best friends sanctuary website yesterday,I’m onto my own mystery.While Sue may have just taken their tour,seen horses,pups and other critters and decided the timing was or wasn’t right to adopt-now I’m the web looking at a gazillion critters that might be calling help specifically to me.
Having decided not to take current offers on the table to work(the horse place one would drive me nuts because of how the other horses are treated…)now I’m thinking while we’re still might just be the right time to get our cat a companion- to balance out this troupe before we travel next…oy!Rescue Me is such a loud echo in me sometimes.Well,first things first,I’m going to gas up at the little mart near here while I pick up a few groceries,need a full tank if I decide to visit any face with I’ve seen on all those online searches 🙂 Stay out of trouble.I’ll try to do the same,see ya when Sue posts
Oh, and you’re so right. Hubby is on a “Mission” and I am serious too. He’s gone to Menard’s for …..drum roll…. SCREWS.
I choose to stay home….
with, Pepsi too.
Screws, screws, screws, screws, gotta get more screws! 🙂
Oh Dear Lord,I hope you plan to occupy yourself having fun for a while!You know he’s likely to wander after who knows what forever,stores are made to make that happen to all of us at times.Just the grocery store cart has pulled me around more than once until the jeep was so full it took eight trips to empty it when I finally got home.Toasting you with fruit flavored tap water,here’s to all the trips and journeys everyone here’s on going well!
How exciting, Weather! Adding another member to your troupe! I look forward to hearing about your new addition! 🙂
Best wishes, weather, deciding on a new member of your household!
Thank you ,Sue-well worded!As I went through every cat’s bio I was wishing,that the few spoken of as though they might fit in weren’t so far away-I (except in emergencies)like to give a trial visit.The best wishes do come true!Well,off to your new post now-will mention it there.I really do appreciate your replying,I know the struggle that is in current circumstances 🙂
Hehehe…You are spot on, Kay! I just got home and was hoping for an update. But…Sue did tell us she had little to no connectivity. So, we just need to keep skipping around the playground! 🙂
We need to be patient, and keep skipping around the playground!
Belated Happy Birthday! And, reading between the lines. . . .a visit to an animal sanctuary on your birthday. . . . was a four legged present involved???
RVSue:
Back on Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2014 I bought my brand spanking new Casita because of YOU. My salesperson, Jeane Ivie, was instructed to send you the referral program check. When Jeane and I discussed this I told her they had sent you one from a former client. Well on your birthday, my coincidence, I had a conversation with Jeane and she said they couldn’t locate your address.
Please email or call Jeane Ivie with Casita: jeane@casitatraveltrailers.com or 1-903-200-4980.
Just think how much Tillamook Ice Cream you can buy, you earned it,
Phyllis in Oklahoma
Wow! Nice birthday gift to Sue, Phyllis. Hope you’re enjoying yours as much as Sue. Do you have a blog we can follow?
Cat Lady
No blog still trying to find my voice.
I’m still working so only get to do this thing a little bit. Going to Hot Springs, Arkansas next week with the Casita. Really enjoyed the summer weekends out with my Casita. Retirement is less than 2 years away.
Phyllis in Oklahoma
Sweet! what a great thing to do and to follow up on Phyllis.
Thank you very much, Phyllis! I appreciate you thinking of me. I will be sure to email Jeane.
Sue, I hope you had a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Ok fellow blogorinos, I’ve been getting more stoked about our next post all day.
Lets follow the clues shall we:
A couple of weeks ago Sue mentioned about how she was thinking that maybe someday soon she might be following two little canine butts while taking their daily walks.
Then just this week she tells the story of how she can’t leave Bridget alone with a caring stranger for even a minute while she runs into a store to get a cup of coffee.
She has also mentioned that the Bridge seems to be getting a bit too dependent on having just Sue around. This of course implies that it would be good for Bridget to be part of a 2 dog crew again.
She said once that she couldn’t consider another dog until she was “home” in AZ where she could focus her attention on training a new crew member, and it looks like the next stop is AZ.
Then she ends this post by telling us that she is taking a “tour” of a animal shelter for her birthday.
So, we all know that Sue will do absolutely anything that she feels is in the best interest of her dogs. I know first hand how hard it is to go “puppy shopping” at an animal shelter and leave empty handed knowing that all of those animals deserve a forever home and Sue is just as big a bleedin’ heart as I am. (I mean that in the best possible way Sue)
We also know how Sue loves to not tip her hand about news but just give us little tidbits and a tease about what might be coming up next. IE describing her trip to Best Friends as a “tour.”
Soooooooo, maybe I am way off base on all of this. Getting another Dog is a huge step and maybe Sue needs to move into the process gently by just visiting a shelter and opening her heart up to the possibilities. Maybe she will go and visit and none of the dogs there will speak to her in the special way where you know that THIS is the ONE. I do know that Sue is wise enough to follow her heart and do what is right for her and Bridget so whatever comes next will be what is right for everyone. But let’s just say that I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE NEXT UPDATE!!!!!!
Ok, I’m gonna go hit the refresh button every 2 minutes for a while. 🙂
Me thinks ya might just be on to something here Rick.
Your words echo my thoughts, too, Rick.
Aww Bridget is such a ham in the stroller! Rest is good for her leg if it’s bothering her.
OH my….a shower for your birthday! The simplest things in life are so invigorating! I can hear you singing away!
Best Friends….ah hah! I have friends that drive down there every year to help out! Their pet cemetery is absolutely gorgeous! Hmm do I detect the pitter patter of four paws coming from inside the BLT?
You are right….No amount of money will make a person happier. I wouldn’t change a damn thing either! Fortunate for what I have because there are so many without the bare necessities in life. Oh damn now I got that song in my head….bare necessities old mother natures recipes………
Pet sitting the blind Jack Russell…he’s pawing at my shoulder and growling as I type this. …..apparently I’m on his side of the couch! He’s a bed hog…has to touch when he sleeps. Last night he schoooched between me and the back cushion of the couch. Then he decided he wanted to be on the outside and next thing I was schooched between him and the back cushions of the couch! Sheesh!
Have a great day. Can’t wait for the update…
Miss Sue,
Happiest of Birthdays to you! A little gift of a new mate maybe??? Well, if the time is right and Miss Bridget agrees then I’m all in and keen on the idea of a 2-Crew again. No doubt Spike’ spirit would help to send the right dog your way. I think Spike is up-there in the Director’s Chair and giving Bridge pointers as to how to pose for you ~big smiles now~. She looks like the-picture-of-cuteness!
Our Sue is famous.
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=who+is+RVSue#seen
AZ Jim, I can’t get the link to work…takes me to some crazy google place that doesn’t show me anything about Sue {sigh}.
Cat Lady
Go to the “crazy” site and get past the incoming junk by saying “play again” and it will take to a huge bunch of RV Sue stuff.
Hey Jim that was cool! So many posts about Sue.
Sue,
BTW, even my husband asked if we had heard from RV Sue and wondered where you were going next. He just doesn’t do that and I had to update him on all the latest. Guess that makes you one of our little extended family now, you and Bridget, of course.
See, I don’t read many blogs that often. Scooter In The Sticks, I follow that blog, and yours as my two favorite regulars. It just seems like an odd day if I miss either one. So see, you and your crew do charm us and we love it. Have a fine evening.
I’m honored to be in the “top two!” Thanks, Pamela.
Here’s a fun video if you are close to my age.
http://safeshare.tv/w/FEDEwZHZXu
Thank you so much ,Jim,that was just wonderful to watch and listen to.
Oh, wow, that did take me back! I didn’t recognize everything, but enough that I was laughing out loud! 33 cents a gallon for gas, real records, heroes on TV…sigh…those were the good old days!
That was great. Recognized it all.
Refresh….refresh….nothing new YET!
Going to vacuum now. I turn the next post watch over to fellow blogerinos Kay, DesertGinger, Weather, Cindy, Deb, Rick and Jim. 🙂
Happy Birthday Sue, although I try to catch all your posts I don’t often comment but I did want to send good wishes! I love the photo of Bridget in her stroller and the pigs! I am actually very close to you, camped outside of Zion National Park right now.
I am ready to slow down a little and I want to try boondocking. Can you tell me where you get those really good maps of states that have all the federal land management sites marked on them. (I’m having a senior moment and I don’t think that’s the right word for that) Thanks!
Those are benchmark maps, available at Amazon.
Thanks, and of course I’ll get them from Sue’s site!
Refresh….Rinse….Repeat…. Ah… Sue must be really busy getting to know someone. Maybe, she took a trip and had to border Miss Bridget for a bit. Hum, ANYTHING is possible.
Then again, on average… she does post about every 2 days or so…
I can picture it now… she opened the back doors of the PTV and OUT CAME IT ALL and she’s STUCK reorganizing everything… Well, she did mention she would be giving everything a real good clean out!
Wherever she be, I hope she is WELL, HAPPY, and ENJOYING every second!
I’ll be back to, Rinse and Repeat…. later.
Shake,,, Rinse….Repeat…. time…
Good Morning sleepy heads…. time to get the new day a rolling…
I am off to get supplies… will be back later, hope everyone has a blessed day…. and productive one. Don’t be bummed about not hearing from Sue…. she will post most likely today…. so the nail biting, sitting on the edges will end… maybe…
Time for Pepsi and I to take hubby to the supply stores… UGH…. I just know he’ll get more darn SCREWS. I just know it…
Just heard a breaking news report on the radio. Seems that there is a shortage of screws in Nebraska. The reporter said that a man in a plaid shirt has wiped out the whole state’s supply in less than a week! Authorities are seeking the man for questioning. Someone needing that many screws has to be up to no good! 🙂
Kay, hope you and your Dear husband have a blessed day, too.
Oh I’m l laughing so hard, eyes watering! We are sitting in Loveland Colorado I’m waiting on hubby. This time he getting a late lunch. Next stop… Home Depot and I do not have to even mention the item he is needing!!!!! Stay tuned for blog post Tmmrw. I have a camera on the phone
🙂
With that many he’s bound to have a screw loose! Nah, that’s can’t be true cause he was smart enough to pick Kay.
Belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Hello, Sue and fellow Blogorinos,
Hope everyone is having a good day! Today is my Birthday – Whoo-Hoo!
I will start celebrating with tonight, with one sister coming to visit for the weekend, and then our other sisters will join us tomorrow for lunch. It will be an awesome weekend!
Hugs to you, Sue and Miss Bridget. 🙂
Happy birthday Denise!
Thanks, Teri! 🙂
Happy Birthday Denise! I smiled as I read that your plans are to celebrate with your sisters .Once -discussing birthday plans- you mentioned that time flies with them ,as opposed to being with folks you really don’t enjoy ,hope it’s wonderful 🙂
Thank you, Weather! Hope you have been enjoying your day!
Yes, getting together with my sisters is special! Over the past couple of years, our family went through some major upheaval….so, we appreciate and hold onto each other even more. Spending time with my “seesters” is the best gift! 🙂
Have a wonderful time, Denise. Happy Birthday,
Have enjoyed the day,thanks-bet you are, too-with one seester there already,I “get you” about hanging on more to the close ones after family upheaval,I’ll leave you to celebrate that gift while you’re with them,no need to reply,see you on Sue’s new post soon
🙂
Happy birthday Denise. Hope it is special! Xo
Thank you, DesertGinger! Hugs back atcha!
Happy birthday Denise, glad you will be able to spend it with family.
Thank you, Rick! We definitely will have fun!! 🙂
Happy Birthday, Denise! Hope you have a wonderful weekend with your sisters!
Thank you so much, Cari! 🙂
Happy Birthday Denise!!
Thank you, Jolene! 🙂
Happy Birthday to you Denise!!!
Thanks, Krystina! 🙂
Are you at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon? I am SO jealous! Enjoy!!
Yep I am. IT IS AMAZING! First look and down came the tears!
Happy Birthday, Denise!
Thanks so much, Sue! 🙂
Hope your special day and whatever time you spend with your sisters is SUPER wonderful!!! Having even one sister must be fun!! At least sisters often enjoy doing some of the same things maybe!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Denise!!
Thank you, Elizabeth! 🙂
I was just a thinking’ ’bout your Birthday Sue, The 15th, uh, well my dad’s is on the 15th too, a month away, funny uh, and mine is not till February th’ 23rd, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Timber
A million in the lottery…..20k for a casita, 25k for van to pull casita. 40k for new park model to replace current one. $100k in accessible money market account. Invest the rest. Plan to help my brother and son with expenses.
Aaaah….that would make life nice and easy!
Dream on Ginger….the next one is MINE!
Jim Dear, the jackpot is plenty big to SHARE! 🙂
Thanks for the reminder to buy a ticket tonight…the MegaMillions drawing that takes place tonight is up to $180 Million. AZ, CA, WI…43 States play. $1/play. Wouldn’t it be cool if one of the blogorinos got lucky?!
We play it every week hoping……….It’s all old folks can do I reckon. Medical bills, insurance’s, car expenses, mortgage, Taxes…..need I go on? I just was reading about a washed up wrestler turned actor is making 46 million a year.
I love your dream, DesertGinger! Good luck!!! 🙂
Happy Birthday Denise!!!!
Thanks a bunch, Geri!! 🙂