A fresh start at a new camp at Midland LTVA

Saturday, December 9

The crew and I have camped at Midland LTVA for five weeks. During that time we’ve made several trips into town. Although there’s much I love about the all-terrain tires that the Perfect Tow Vehicle wears, they do make deeper tracks than regular tires.

The desert surface is a thin layer of small rocks over hardened sand. Our “road” (part of it shared by neighbor Del) has become two tracks of fine powder. No matter how slowly I drive as we make our way over the desert to the paved Midland Road , a plume of dust floats away from the rear of the PTV.

That’s one reason to move to a new camp at Midland.

Another reason is the wear at the campsite.

When Reggie and Roger are outside, they’re hooked onto a 30-foot, vinyl-covered cable. This tether keeps them from going away from the campsite to do their business. Mostly they relieve themselves on our twice-daily walks.

Even so, what they do at our campsite begins to accumulate. I bury their doo-doo; the other sinks into the ground. This being desert, there’s no rain to dilute and wash it away. After a while, ants and flies appear.

Time to move camp!

Yesterday (Friday) I put away loose items inside the Best Little Trailer and packed up the camp chairs and table. This morning I secure the interior, pull up the stakes, and stow the blue mat in the back of the PTV.

“Oh, look who’s coming this way!”

The crew and I are in the PTV hitching up when Del and his five-member canine crew drive up. They’ve been gone since early morning and now it’s mid-afternoon. Del brings the back windows down and immediately happy, dog faces pop out, barking to greet the barks of Reggie and Roger.

I walk over to their car.  Over the din Del says, “I went into town to do laundry and then we went to Quartzsite. I wanted to look at RVs.”

He’s been wanting a certain Class C.

“I could not believe the prices!” he exclaims.

Skeeter jumps into Del’s lap and barks in my face. He’s really barking at his pals in the PTV.

“Let me take Skeeter over to Reggie and Roger.”

Through the window I grab his squirmy body and carry him over. I think my boys, while watching me pack up our things to move camp, became concerned that they wouldn’t see their friends again. This enthusiastic nose-to-nose contact is much enjoyed by all three.

~ ~ ~

Waste tanks were last emptied five weeks ago.

Before settling into another site at Midland, it behooves us to visit the dump station across the main road. Roger and Reggie watch from the driver’s side window.

“Reggie.  All the evil-eye in the world isn’t gonna’ make this job go any faster.”

Dumping goes without “incident,” which is a good thing because there’s no water at Midland. One must use one’s personal water supply to clean up any mess.

Fortunately, the only thing I have to rinse is the waste hose. This I accomplish with one of my gallon jugs of water.

~ ~ ~

We return to the other side of the LTVA.

I like this side better than the main area. During the past five weeks the number of RVs over here has ranged from five to only two and it’s a very large area.

Right now only Del and I are at the back border of the LTVA, the rest are closer to the road.  We’re all beyond shoutin’ and hearin’ distance from each other.

Previously the crew and I scouted for a new campsite on foot/paw.

It’s tough locating the one I like best from within the PTV.  Look-alike desert bushes, wavy washes, and a few, widely scattered trees don’t make distinctive landmarks!

Several small washes reach from the back border to the road. Once you commit to driving between two washes, you go where the opening takes you . . . unless, of course, you’re a neanderthal who thinks nothing of crushing across washes where small animals (rodents, desert tortoises, lizards, snakes, maybe kitfoxes) have made their homes.

Also, if one has any aesthetic sense at all, one wants to avoid making new tracks in the easily marked, desert surface.

I find the primo site!

I take great care to back the BLT into the perfect position. I want sunshine to reach across a large portion of the blue mat in the morning. Then I want shade on that side in the afternoon. I also want the back window angled so I can watch sunrises from my bed.

I also want this large, gnarly ironwood tree to block my view of Del’s rig, even though he’s far away.

See?  Del’s rig is on the other side, off in the distance . . . .

I also want a great view of the Big Maria Mountains from my camp chair.

At last I have everything perfectly situated!

This campsite, while maybe not apparent from my photos, has more “charm” than our previous site. I really like it a lot.

I don’t know if you’re interested in all this.

I’m not sure why I went into such detail. I guess to demonstrate that camping in a dispersed/boondock-type area like an LTVA isn’t as simple as driving out into the desert and putting on the brakes.

Not if you want your home site to be as best as it can be!

I think nesting  one’s rig is great fun. I’m “tickled pink” (a favorite expression of my parents) with our new home!

~ ~ ~

The crew and I make a run into town.

I pick up a few supplies and a celebratory dinner of . . . yes . . .  rotisserie chicken, and, for desert, sherbet (don’t tell anyone).

Hey, it was on sale!

In the middle of the night Roger sounds an alarm.

After he calms down, he and Reggie indicate they want a potty break. We step outside in the quiet darkness and . . .

Whap-whap-whap!

We’re startled by a large bird taking off from the ironwood tree.

The boys quickly relieve themselves and we hurry inside to our bed. From my pillow I look up through the window at the stars.  In my mind the day unfurls like a scroll, from the gleam of sunrise all the way to the sudden flapping of wings in the darkness of night.

I wonder what the heck that was. It sounded huge. I hope it comes back to roost in our tree.  Maybe I’ll catch a glimpse of it . . . .  I like our new spot here . . . It’s nice.

Gosh, how I do love the desert!

The Best Little Trailer at second campsite at Midland LTVA — Photo taken at dusk

rvsue

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161 Responses to A fresh start at a new camp at Midland LTVA

  1. Joy says:

    Beautiful sunset picture

  2. Dawn in NC says:

    First

  3. Anna says:

    Let me be the first to wish you a Merry Christmas! Ann M

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Rusty! Hi, Piper!

    • Sherbet!! Oh boy oh boy hmmmm em, we’ve been eating all kinds of of Ice cream and Sherbet since we arrived here back in September, Piper loves Cherry, Strawberry and Pastashio Mint and Butter Scotch Pecan and Peach, we both have Ice cream bellies,, was real cold this last week, lowest was 17 and our high was 28, we are getting a nice small wood stove Tuesday, been running 2 Electric 1500watt heaters and they’re not doing good keeping me warm and for the first time in a long, long, long time I have the Flu and the coolness is not helping me get over it, it’s been 2 and 1/2 weeks with this crap and I want to go out side and play, have a hard time sleeping laying down, I must almost have to set up to be able to breathe,,, I guess I’m getting it good for all those years of not having a Cold or the Flu,, LOL,,, been putting my chest as close to the hottest heat to get things moving in my chest, today is the first day that not once have been out of breath so far, think I’ll keep heating up my chest and hopefully I’ll get better in no time, pray for this Ol Dog,,, have a great week and give the Boys a huge hug from us , okay,,, 🐾👣👣

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        I’m sorry to learn you’ve been sick, Rusty. Beware of pneumonia, okay? Be sure to drink plenty of water… and keep in touch so we don’t worry too much. Prayer on its way!

      • Diann in MT says:

        Dear, Rusty. Keep that chest loosened up. Vix VapoRub, and when you get your heat, a humidifier, cranked up, and lots of bed rest, aspirin, if you can tolerate, and more rest. If you do not feel right and things are getting worse, get yourself to an emergency room immediately, OK? Yes, we are praying for you.

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        I was going to suggest Vicks VapoRub, too. Put a shallow pan of water on the heater, if you can, to moisten the air. Or you can boil water and breathe in the steam. (People, correct me if I’m wrong; I’m a terrible nurse.)

      • Cathy M Van Booven says:

        The inability to get warm and Chills in the night can be an atypical symptom of pneumonia. My mother had this and she did not recover. Please have a medical professional check your lungs and mention all your symptoms you including the inability to feel warm. Please take care!

        • Barb in Florida says:

          Thinking of you Rusty. Feel better every day. Hugs & prayers to you.

          • Thanks all for the advice, I haven’t had any Chills or a fever, been eating and drinking a lot of water, taking Alca-seltzer Plus Severe Cold n Flu during the day and Night Quill at night and eating all my Vitamins, Remember I’m allergic to Antibiotics,,, and a glass of my Brother’s Home made Blueberry Wine, taste like Morgan David ✡ a little sweet, I feel it in my chest when it’s going down, thinking of quitting the Night Quill and have a glass of the wine instead,,,,,👣👣🐾

            • weather says:

              Wine may not be your best choice, easy to start wanting that kinda of thing…Praying for you to get and stay well

            • Karla in Kentucky says:

              Hope you can stay warm, Rusty, It sure has been cold here in Lexington the last few days. Cannot complain though since we have had such a nice fall. Will pray for you to get well soon.

      • Pat from Mich. says:

        A big help is Vicks Vapo Rub. Rub it on the soles of your feet every night and wear a pair of cotton socks to bed. It is supposed to really help break up congestion.

        • Diann in MT says:

          True! I forgot that!
          Please, please pay attention to the chills and any indication of fever. Get to the ER if that happens.

        • Jeannie from WA says:

          Thank you for mentioning the Vicks on the soles of your feet. I’ve used that trick for many years and it really works well. My co-workers used to think it was crazy…until they would try it.
          Rusty, I hope you get well and are up and around soon.

      • Linda Rose, Muffin, Molly & Midgy in Carmichael, CA says:

        Rusty, from one Ol dog to another….I’ll pray fhat you get better soon!!

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        Another thing…. If you’re producing mucus, cut dairy products out of your diet. Works for me!

      • suzicruzi from Van, WA. says:

        Feel better SOON Rusty!! Feeling ill like that is NO fun at all. It down right sucks. I hate that you are out there “alone” and have no one bringing you hot tea, or soup, and looking after you. My heart is going to be sending you extra energy for your healing this week. Hang in there, and keep the fluids flowing when you aren’t sleeping. Rest is what you need. And maybe some warm sun on your face when you can. Be well soon, but don’t over-due it too fast. Hugs!

        • Ok all you young Ladies who wish this Ol Dog with good remedies, I did the Vapor Rub on my soles and woke up feeling great, my Brother agrees that no wine till I’m better and his Lady has given me Cambels Chicken Noodle soup, the Vicks and they both care for me too,, we, my Brother and I have been getting ready for the new HQ Wood stove, we put metal 3/4s in from the wall, put metal on the floor, put 2 large Cinder blocks, one on one with heat brick and made a Ash Catch pan with turned up edges,, the stove is 11.75Wx16.25dx10.75h and comes with 5 x 15.5 scetions of 3.75 Diameter steel stove pipe, we are putting it to go up to the window middle, a 90* to 2 ft to another 90* thru the window and must add 2 3ft sections of pipe to rise above the roof line by 18in, then cap it and secure the stove pipe with guidelines of Aluminum wire and outside bottom support of the pipe to the ground, we are just waiting for the stove to get here, supposedly today they say by 8pm,, RV Sue saw the small stove I had in my Camouflaged Truck Camper way back when we First Met on FR 35 South of Ash Fork, Arizona in April of 2012 ,, it was only 7in w x 12 in D x 9in high and would roast us to where I’d have to open the door and both vents, never was cold with wood heat,, And now soon to be back on wood heat, I’ll put a cast iron tea kettle of water on with Herbs and it’ll be like Old Times gone by,, I’m Shining and I say to all you Ladies to let your Light Shine and Thank you All for the Great Prayers, I feel them,,,, 🐾👣👣🤗

          • weather says:

            🙂 !!! You are just brimming with good news, Rusty, thanks for sharing it.

            • mostlylost says:

              Piper, I’m glad to hear your human is feeling better, but make sure he stays inside and keeps those lungs warm – even if he thinks he’s feeling better. Cold air is bad for healing lungs.

              Also, tell that human of yours to carry a box of Emergen-C and a couple of cans of chicken soup, and to take both as soon as he feels bit under the weather. It really does cut down on the recovery time. Keeping both of you in our prayers!

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              Rusty… mostlylost is right about Emergen-C. Ever since Cinandjules told me about it, I take it at the very first sign of something not feeling right. It works! I even take it if I don’t have any orange juice or citrus.

              Great to hear you’re feeling better and you have a wood heater coming. 🙂

            • Thanks Weather, feels good to brim 🤠

          • Don’t worry mostlylost, I keep an eye on my Human because he saved me, mostly I’m saving him, this last bout with some illness he had, I stayed real close enough to check on him with a kiss cause I moved my bed next to his, he would reach down and scratch behind my ears, so I’d kiss him again,,, LOL,,,,🐾MISS LADY PIPER 🐾

  4. Ann M says:

    Wow! I NEVER get in the top ten. I’ll take it! Sue, I always read your posts, but don’t comment much. You have such a good life, roaming wherever you wish to go. You are so fortunate and you planned it all out very well. I have a disabled husband that I care for. Otherwise, I’d be out there, too. Ann M

  5. Deena in Phoenix says:

    I, for one, like the details of locating, moving and the appreciation of a new venue. Reggie and Roger at the window…precious. Glad you are happy and for sharing it with us.

    Take Care

  6. Shawna says:

    Glad you found a great campsite. I, too, hope your bird comes back; would be interesting to find out what it is.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Shawna,

      I think the bird uses the ironwood for a regular roost, evidenced by droppings I found dripped on the bark. It probably doesn’t come to the tree until after dark. I need to figure out a way to see it without startling it.

  7. Susan in Dallas says:

    Oh, Reggie and Roger, how you have the ability to make me laugh out loud! Talk about a look making a statement. Hurry up, RV Sue and get this dumping job done was said well without a word uttered. I’m still healing from surgery and it is not comfortable to laugh like this but it was SO worth it! There is much healing in experiencing joy.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Susan,

      Glad to know you’re healing and laughing, too! Did you get snow in Dallas?

      • Susan in Dallas says:

        Not in Dallas but to the south of us in Austin and San Antonio. Go figure. Texas weather can be crazy.

        • Pat in Bulverde, Tx says:

          Yes, we had a lovely covering of snow here just north of San Antonio! Sorry to those of you in the cold parts of the country, but it’s so rare that a lot of us go a bit giddy. It was mostly gone by noon the next day.

          Prayers for Piper’s dad.
          Pat K

  8. Judy in East Texas says:

    Sue and the crew, I love your stories, the details of what you see, what you do and why. That’s what keeps me coming back for more. Keep it coming.

    Stay safe out there my friend, Judy

  9. Diann in MT says:

    What an appealing site, Sue. You sure know how to make heaven on earth.
    I am thinking that you startled an owl of some kind. Just waiting for the unwary dessert mouse, lizard…
    Hope you get to sight it some night.

  10. rvsueandcrew says:

    Gotta go! BeeBee just came over to get the crew!

  11. Joe in TN says:

    We love the desert too and we’re enthusiastically interested in ALL of this. Thanks so much for taking us to the new spot.

  12. Hopefully you’ll be able to tell us what that bird was when you see it again! Looks like a really nice site. Looking forward to your latest adventures!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Dawn…..

      Our dang door makes noise when it opens. I want to see the bird but I really don’t want to sit outside by the ironwood tree waiting it to show up. Not that the crew would let me anyway….

      I’m too cheap to buy one of those night cameras for seeing creatures in the dark.

  13. Diann in MT says:

    OK. Gotta add some more. Sue, I just finished that book. It gave me a lot of info about the Quartzsite gathering, the people who come, the other bloggers out there, the LTVA where the RTR hangs out, and there is never a mention of how those folks interact with the natural environment. How does the desert recover after such “rendezvous” and meet ups. I suppose because it is all short lived, the damage might be limited.
    I respect your light foot print, your conscientious efforts to honor your environment. Wish everyone out there were of the same mindset.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Me, too!

      I looked at the title “A new start at a fresh camp at Midland LTVA.” I wrote it backward!

      It should be “A fresh start at a new camp at Midland LTVA.” Much better! Haha! I’ll change it.

  14. Calvin Rittenhouse says:

    I always appreciate your sunset pictures, even though they make me homesick for a place (Tucson) that I only lived for a couple of months. The R & R dump station picture was fun and really captures their feelings.

    I appreciate the reminders about the details of site finding and orientation. I will need those details when I go from used to be/wannabe to “on the road.”

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I look forward to the day, Calvin, when you comment to tell us about you reacquainting yourself with the desert… in person! 🙂 Thanks for the nice note.

  15. Pat (Ky) says:

    I love details, so I really liked this post. I’m curious as to how the boundary is marked for the LTVA. Do you buy all your water from dispensers in Blythe or just your drinking water? Are there any spigots to fill larger containers to transfer to your fresh water tank?

    Is there an actual road system within the LTVA; or is it more like a few well traveled roads and then people make their own paths to their rigs?

    Thanks for answering my questions; and I do like the look of your new homesite.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Well, gosh, Pat. I wrote a long reply and it never posted.

      I’m happy to answer your questions.

      A dirt road goes into the main part of Midland LTVA. Straight ahead are camp sites. Another dirt road intersects that road — to the left is the trash bin area and further on, the camp host’s site, then it crosses a wash to another camping area (We camped there in previous visits here.) To the right is more camping and, at the end, the dump station.

      On our side of the paved road, there isn’t a road system, there are dirt roads created by years of RVers coming over here. Three dirt roads, with more faintly imprinted two-track roads (short ones) going off from them. These three main roads cut the length of very wide, flat areas. You choose a spot along the way. I like to park near a tree.

      There isn’t much need to make new roads, although in some areas the ground is so rocky and hard that you can drive there and not make an impression with your tires.

      While at Midland I use the dispenser water for most of our needs. I have taken the interstate east to the travel center where one can dump tanks, take on water, buy propane, put air in tires, etc. For drinking water straight up, I buy bottled water from the grocery store. Coffee water and the crew’s water comes from the dispenser.

      I hear there’s a spigot at a city facility (Blythe) which I’ve never found or used because I heard it doesn’t taste good. Don’t really know. The spigot at Miller Park was turned off early last year.

      The dispenser water is cheap enough that I don’t mind using it.

      • suzicruzi from Van, WA. says:

        Sue, what is, where is “dispenser water”? Sorry, I’m not following that part. Thanks.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          In Blythe, on Hobsonway (the main street going east-west), there is a car wash. In front of the car wash is a drinking water vending machine (a “dispenser.”) You open a compartment door, place your container on a shelf, put quarters in the slot, push the button, and drinking water comes down into your container.

          Sometimes these vending machines are sitting along the front wall near the entrance to a grocery store or dollar store. “Glacier” is one brand I see at Albertson’s.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          BTW, suzicruzi, I saw your reply to Rusty. He’s not alone. He’s living next to family.

          • That’s right Sue, on 28 acres and only 150 feet from my Brother and his Wife, Elizabeth, they would come to the mountain man Rendezvous to participate in the festivities and sometimes haul the Donkeys and I through major Cities so we could get there early like a mountain man should after he calls on his Smokeless Signaling Device,(cell phone), to let the Boushway know he’s coming, it wasn’t Rendezvous without Ol Three Feathers and his Donkeys most would agree,,,, 🤣🐾👣👣🐎🐎

  16. Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

    Let us know if you discover what the bird is! Reggie and Roger make great dump station attendants! What faces… They are so expressive! We are in our pre Christmas cold weather spell. Sheeeesh. Got all my plants covered a little while ago as frost is expected tonight. From the look in some of the leaves, we must have had a bit of frost last night too!
    Keep warm out there, like your new spot.

  17. Kathy from MI says:

    Hi, Sue,

    I have some stuff to order from Amazon and hope I finally remember to order so that you get some perks!! I can’t figure out how to do it. I went to one of the above purchased items but what do I do from there? If you have a sec, could you let me know what screen I go to, etc.???? Thanks in advance.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Kathy,

      I appreciate you wanting to shop Amazon from my blog and care enough to ask this question. Once a link takes you to Amazon you don’t do anything more than what you usually do… just shop! All the links on my blog carry my code which tells Amazon to give me a commission for any purchases you make within the next 24 hours. You won’t see anything indicating I’ll receive a commission. That’s one reason why I post links of purchases made by readers. At least a few will get confirmation that way. Thanks again.

  18. Marilyn Dennison says:

    I believe you click on one of her listed items and then begin your search from there. If there is something in the search window, delete it and enter your item. Then hit enter.

    Sue, can expand on this.

  19. Norman in San Diego says:

    Hi Sue,

    I don’t know how anyone could not love the desert. It is quiet and the stars are so bright.
    Sure beats looking at a crowded freeway everyday.
    Have a wonderful week.

    Norman

  20. Judy in S.C. says:

    So interesting, to hear every little thing that goes into your making a perfect home site. Your years of full-timing experience really shows! We’ve camped all our lives but never get it all situated just right. Picking up great hints from you, Sue, and thanks. We all find so much joy in your simple pleasures. It’s catching!
    P.S. We had a beautiful snow with big fluffy flakes. Stayed for a while, then the sun melted it all away. A nice happening in S.C.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      That’s the best kind of snow, in my opinion. Here one minute, gone the next. 🙂

      Thanks for the compliment, Judy, on my campsite maneuvers. I figure, if we’re going to live here for weeks at a time, I should make sure the BLT is where I want it.

  21. Linda Rose, Muffin, Molly & Midgy in Carmichael, CA says:

    Thank you Sue. I’ve never really cared for the desert but it’s growing on me with your descriptions as well as your appreciation for it. I might have to give it another try. I loved the picture of Reggie sleeping with his head resting on the door. I bet he had to keep an eye on you while you set up camp, huh?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Linda Rose,

      Reggie’s the one who keeps his eye on me all the time. Roger has a talent for amusing himself with found objects. I caught him playing with a chunk of kibble yesterday. He was flipping it around and chasing it, pouncing and making a big deal, as if the kibble was a newly found friend.

      That photo of Roger with his chin resting on the window frame. . . That’s how he rests his chin in the crook of my elbow when I’m driving. Cute, cute, cute!

      • Linda Rose, Muffin, Molly & Midgy in Carmichael, CA says:

        thanks for the chuckle I got imagining Reggie playing with his kibble

        • Linda Rose, Muffin, Molly & Midgy in Carmichael, CA says:

          I meant Roger….

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          It’s funny but it did give me a twinge of sadness for him, wondering if he learned to play by himself out of necessity.

          • MelindaK (Central TX) says:

            Sue,

            I think dogs are like people some know how to entertain themselves (independent) others need to be entertained (needed) neither is wrong or right. My parents had a fox terrier that could entertain herself and us for hours. She would take a empty plastic Foldger’s coffee can and pitch in the air and chase it all over the yard….lots of entertainment.
            By the way I order thru your link the other day Game guard shirt and propane tank cover. I hope you got credit. My way of saying thanks for sharing your life with us.

  22. Barb in Florida says:

    Hi Sue
    I agree – Roger looks so sweet resting his chin on the door. Love that’s how he looks resting on your arm.

    Thanks for the post. I enjoyed hearing about your day and why you move sites. Once the ants & flies have cleaned up, do you ever go back to the same spot?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Barb,

      I hope you’re feeling much better today after the dental surgery.

      No, we don’t go back to a former site, not in the same season anyway. There’s no need to do that — plenty of choices and I do enjoy change. 🙂

      • Barb in Florida says:

        Thank you, Sue. I am feeling better, but can tell when the tylenol is wearing off.

        I enjoy the change, too. I couldn’t see Del back there. Is he behind the tree?

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Yes, he is, but far away, thus easily blocked by the straggly tree.

          Tomorrow you’ll feel better yet! 🙂

          • Barb in Florida says:

            How could I not with you wishing me well! It’s funny, now when I watch old westerns I can tell what plants are in the scene or guess their location based on pictures I’ve seen from your blog.

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              That’s fantastic, Barb! I love that! It’s similar to what I experience when reading a book set in the West. Right now I’m in a Zane Grey book. He describes Kayenta in AZ…Black Mesa, Tuba, Bluff, UT, the red rock and yellow rock canyons in that part of the West… Seven years ago his descriptions would only be words. Now I can see those places from memory. Adds fun to the reading. Sometimes I get out a Benchmark to follow along on the trail of one of the characters.

              Of course, I like to hear my blog teaches, too. 🙂

  23. I agree with Deena…love the details of setting and breaking camp. In your earlier posts, I love reading it and chocking the wheels and leveling and all that detail….you kinda forget what goes into setting up and breaking camp. I too love the desert except in summer time when it’s over 100 degrees.

  24. Mndreamer says:

    I love all the detail you provide about finding a new spot for you and the boys. I learn from you every time I read the blog. The lesson here about being aware and caring for the natural landscape is good teaching. Thank you, too, Sue, for opening my eyes to the beauty of the desert.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You’re welcome, Mndreamer. I’ve been wondering about a question (can’t remember what it was) you asked a few posts ago. Weather answered your question and I didn’t have a chance to chime in until several hours later. I hope you saw it and didn’t think I ignored you!

      Thanks for the positive feedback on this post. I’m pleased to have a way to spread a message of “tread lightly.” 🙂

  25. Cinandjules🌵 says:

    Very informative post! Is it an assumption that most who use MLTVA are mindful of their surroundings?
    Oh good..Bee Bee just arrived…playtime for the crew!
    Nope couldn’t see Dels rig from your new site…he wants a c? What does he have now? Disregard if that’s too intrusive!
    Whap whap whap…sounds like something with a big wingspan. I would have guessed a Turkey if it was NY but the desert…I have no clue.
    Have you thought to use Spikes blinking light at night…if the crew are off leash for potty runs? Probably more Rog than Reg!

    Jules has pneumonia….last week out of no where… she has difficulty breathing and a stabbing chest pain! Uh oh! Hmmm…being on the edge of town..it was quicker for me to drive “code 3” than it was to call and wait. Mind you, this town rolls up at 6pm so there was NO ONE out but me!

    We aren’t to keen on medications that have a greater list of problems than what they are currently being dispensed for…we laugh at the commercials on TV…where you seriously feel…the issue at hand isn’t all that bad..compared to what may lie ahead!

    Hope you enjoyed your rotisserie chicken and sherbet! Stay warm.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Cinandjules,

      Sorry to hear Jules is sick with pneumonia. That’s a tough ailment to suffer through and to beat. I wish her well. I know you’ll take good care of her. 🙂

      I guess most people are “mindful” at the LTVA. People drive across washes. Fortunately not to a point where the place is shut down.

      I still have Spike’s blinking light (that was so thoughtful of you!). Reg and Rog never go out alone at night. I put them on leashes before I open the door.

      Del has a Class A. I asked him why he would go from an A to a C. He said he likes the diesel engine in this particular Class C. I didn’t pursue it beyond that.

      Yes, we enjoyed the rotisserie chicken. I admit I don’t eat much of it. What’s left after our “celebration,” I cut off pieces for their little breakfast plates in the morning. I bought some turkey at the deli, “Southwestern style,” sliced thin. Very good, lean protein. That’s my token effort to counteract sherbet.

      We’re staying warm. Temperature drops around 4 a.m. When I get up I put on the Wave 3, which lights so easily, much quicker than the old one.

      I hope Jules can sleep well tonight. I assume she’s at home.

      • Cinandjules🌵 says:

        I didn’t know if they were off leash or not at night!
        Sounds like the heater is quite comfy!
        Yeppers, she’s home. We caught it at the beginning stage..only one lung…she says it feels like she has the flu…achy etc.
        On the follow up appt…they tested her for Valley Fever.
        Apparently when you get pneumonia, they don’t know if it’s bacterial, viral or fungal.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          I don’t trust these two for a second, especially at night. When they’re with Del’s pack, they’re okay. Otherwise they don’t go loose.

          I didn’t put Spike and Bridget on leashes during nighttime potty break because they were so good about going out and coming back in right away…. until Spike got old and got disoriented that time. Then the light worked great. They went out for potty too many times in a night for me to walk out with them every time!

          • Cinandjules🌵 says:

            Your honesty made me chuckle….not a minute…A SECOND! hah

            Rog and Reg will get to where Spike and Bridgee were….it’s all very new to them…

            In the short amount of time…they have both come a long way!

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              I don’t share your optimism about this crew, especially Reggie. Skeeter is the same breed mix as Reggie and he’s the only one that Del has a hard time getting to obey.

  26. Pat (Ky) says:

    Thanks for the road descriptions. I looked at the area on Google earth. The satellite image was taken in the off season so it is difficult to see how people are dispersed in the area. I imagine the desert sand/dirt blows around and removes some of the traces left behind after everyone leaves in the spring.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Yes, the wind and blown dust does hide “a multitude of sins,” not always completely. Of course, wind doesn’t help the animals whose homes are crushed while they’re in them.

  27. ValGal (westernWA) says:

    Hope you and the boys are enjoying your new spot. Will the boys still get to play with Skeeter?

    I love the pics of the boys, especially the one snoozing in the window. I think that may be Roger?

    Hooray for rotisserie chicken! WooHoo!

    Hope all you Blogorinos are well and happy.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, ValGal,

      Oh yes, Reg and Rog are still getting together with Skeeter and the gang. Yes, that’s Roger snoozing in the window. He has a slightly upturned nose.

  28. Joyce sutton says:

    On google maps I see a nice wilderness nearby? Have you checked that out?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I’m not sure what wilderness you mean. There are the mountains (Little Marias and Big Marias) and lots of desert land further up Midland Road. I’ve only gone up to Midland. There aren’t many roads going off of Midland Road in that empty area before the mountains.

  29. You may have discussed this before and I missed it – but you don’t bag and toss the dog poop? Do the other campers there bury it as well? I imagine it would begin to smell up the whole area eventually 🙁 I can’t imagine not picking it all up so I’m curious about the decision not to. I’m thinking that because there’s no trash receptacle that keeping the bags would be a different kind of smelly issue?? No judgement, please don’t be offended by the question, I’m truly curious.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Jodee,

      I’m not offended. I assume from the fact you asked this question that you are unfamiliar with places like Midland LTVA — very large camping areas. People camp far apart. I don’t know of anyone who bags dog poop at Midland LTVA. Many just let it lie. Maybe the folks that camp clustered together in the main area bag it, although I don’t think I’ve seen a cluster more than once in the years I’ve come here. People might bag within and around their campsites. I really don’t know.

      Burying the poop doesn’t contaminate any more than does the poop of coyotes or rabbits or rodents which is on top of the ground. It doesn’t “eventually smell up the whole area” because the area is so large.

      I don’t know if I’m answering your inquiry fully…. It would be like a person hunting in the woods with his bird dog. Does he bag the poop? That’s an extreme example but it points out how bagging doesn’t fit the situation.

      I do bag poop in a regular campground, of course.

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        I thought of something else, if I’m not being too graphic…

        I notice that the crew’s tootsie-roll poops shrivel and dry up to almost nothing after a day in the desert dry air. It isn’t long before dog poop dries and crumbles and becomes part of the ground. I’ve seen this from walking the crew on the same dirt road daily over time.

        Too much information… Haha!

      • Makes sense, I’m familiar with the Midland area. I think when you said one reason you were moving was the poop drawing flies I imagined the smell that probably doesn’t exist.!

  30. Linda a says:

    I got so distracted reading all the interesting comments and
    your answers I forgot what my comment was….. Lol .
    Oh, one of my thoughts was, I will definitely pray for Rusty!
    Will comment later if my thoughts return. Ha

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Don’t feel bad. I reply to a comment made by a longtime blogorino and it isn’t until later that I realize who the blogorino is.

      Or just as bad … Like Jules of Cinandjules commented a while back, something she doesn’t do often, and I write in response like she appears every day.

      I tell you, if you want to be a blogger, it helps to check your pride every time you go to your blog!

      Gollee. smh

  31. Cinandjules🌵 says:

    Comments are fun to read. I find myself scrolling back to the post…to re read on more than one occasion.
    I saw that Jules also…..it wasn’t us!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Gosh, the layers of confusion keep piling up! Haha!

      I need to go to bed. I’m a morning person. It’s not safe for me to be up now.

      N’nite!

  32. Ozark Sam in AR says:

    I’ll pray for Rusty. I could not read your post this morning until the coffee was ready. the other night, Cassie, Moose and Sparky went piling out the back door ( fenced back yard) and raising a ruckus. I was in the center of the yard and a Great Horned Owl flew over us and up. He must have had a six foot wing span. I had seen a cotton tail the day before and I haven’t seen him since. Thank you for telling us all your details, Sam

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You’re welcome, Sam.

      Wow! What a sight that must’ve been! I didn’t know those owls were that big. Maybe that’s what was in the ironwood tree. Last night I pointed a flash light out the back window and it lit up the branches of the tree. No sign of the mystery bird.

  33. Virginia620 AL says:

    What a fabulous post and pics!! I love the desert, too, through you. I love your way with words and descriptions.
    On a side note, will be selling my 36′ 5th wheel in order to downsize to something that will be more National park site friendly. I don’t want to be so limited due to size and ability to get into sites.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Virginia,

      A smaller rig does sound like a better fit for you. I think you’ll like being more nimble. Also, some of the best campsites, as well as less expensive, are too short for a big RV. Good luck with the sale and with your search for the perfect replacement.

      Thank you for the compliments!

  34. suzicruzi from Van, WA. says:

    Hi Sue and boys,
    Gee, I’m always “so late” in reading and commenting usually, that I think you must be on to new posts’ drafts, and I’m just too late to be read. No matter I suppose. Lately I’ve been wrapped up in life, and online less and less it seems. I do read every post you make though, and I enjoy every single one. This one was nice.

    I like your storytelling about everyday things; like why you move camp, your tire tracks, the Neanderthal comment. I like the pictures… the boys and their expressions. So cute how they were looking out the window as you were doing the “deed” at the dump station – Rog’s little face is so sweet as he watches you. The posts about everyday life – they are all good.

    I like hearing about life in the desert, as I’ve never been. I’m wondering all the time if I’m going to like it? It’s a big unknown to me, only in pictures I’ve seen it. I know that during the Winter months we will be looking for warmth too, and I’m sure we’ll be finding ourselves down in the SW, in LTVAs as well. I’ve been in the PNW so long, and have moss growing under my nails…. I wonder how it will be adapting to the very dry Southwest? I think about “things” a lot; about living on the road. It’s been a lot to digest and think about for sure.

    We continue to pare down our household in anticipation of heading out next Summer. It’s been a weird feeling, not knowing where we will end up. Our friends are concerned for us. I think some of them more concerned than others, LOL. Worried “why” we are doing this. We’ve always been adventurous and have always loved being on the road, going places, exploring, and the excitement of where we will end up. At the same time, though, we’ve always had “home” to come back to, to recharge and rest.

    Once we make this transition, home will be where we are, and we won’t have “home” to go back to. It’s kind of an odd feeling; almost scary in a way. “Fear of the unknown” sort of. But also, the excitement of the unknown keeps drawing us in more and more, and we find ourselves getting pretty excited. I guess it’s normal to feel this way? Other Blogerinos out there feel the same when you were embarking on a “life on the road” lifestyle?

    Silly of me to think otherwise. I’m pretty sure everyone who has left all behind to travel and live on the road, has probably had these same mixed-up feelings too. Anyway, there’s a ramble.. sorry. My mind works this way sometimes as I’m just awake and having my first cup of coffee. It’s nice Sue – having my coffee with you and the boys. It starts up my dreaming of what life on the road will be like for us.

    Thank you for your “journals” and pictures of your life on the road. I enjoy following along so much! I imagine ourselves seeing what you see one of these days. Those sunrises and sunsets are so inspiring! The sounds that go “bump” in the night – all of it! I feel like we are getting closer by the day. Cheers!!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thanks again, suzicruzi, for the compliments on my writing and photos. 🙂

      Fear of the unknown… Well, fear reminds us to be careful in our decisions and cautious in our actions. Too much of it is bad, of course, and can paralyze us.

      Fear of the unknown and fear of the dark are similar. Because we don’t know what’s ahead or because we can’t see what’s “out there,” we tend to assume it must be bad. I guess that’s how we’re wired for survival.

      The small section at the end of this post (about the flapping sound in the dark) is an illustration of assuming the unknown or what cannot be seen is something GOOD. (Oh boy, I hope I get to see that bird!)

      Fear is replaced with anticipation. Anticipation heightens our experience. The more experience we have in pushing through our curtain of fear to find GOOD on the other side, the easier it becomes to feel anticipation at the unknown.

      I enjoy your “ramblings,” suzicruzi. As you can see, it’s contagious!

      Oh, about that feeling of home you mention…. Two things that have helped me. Maybe others will have more to add, although this is late to the comments. The BLT is home to me because I leave it frequently and return to it frequently. Also, as you travel, moving with good weather will take you to warmth in the winter, and you’ll probably find a place that you go to every winter. You’ll feel “at home” there.

      I could go on and on with the topics you brought up! Have a great day and don’t let other people’s fear and concern hold you back!

  35. weather says:

    This is among my favorites of your posts, Sue- because you did go into such detail. If you hadn’t one might not know what to do to avoid destruction of the desert and it’s creatures, and have to live with the regret of having done that. I so appreciate how much you care about the lives and condition of all that exists and grows around you. And I find it wonderful that you use your blog to teach others how to be more sensitive to our earth and all of it’s inhabitants .

    It’s interesting to see exactly how and why you place everything in order to get the most enjoyment from a campsite. And to know why you decided to vacate your prior one. Had you not felt concern for the environment’s preservation, you wouldn’t now have the gift of a more charming site. I see that as more than mere coincidence…in any case, it’s a lovely result. You have comfort and a great view of gorgeous scenery, and your boys continue being able to often see their friends, sweet!

    Your photo above “In the middle of the night Roger sounds an alarm” is just beautiful!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, weather,

      We were out walking when your comment came in. Nice to see you here upon our return. I hope your morning was a delight.

      Yes, it is wonderful that this blog has become more than a travel journal. I enjoy the opportunities to teach (apparently it’s a “need” because I keep doing it!). The blog via the blogorinos teaches me a lot, too. My experiences in the West have been enriched by the knowledge, wisdom, guidance, and companionship of people such as yourself. Really a wonderful reciprocity!

      Thank you for noting the beauty in that sunset photo. The artistry of the Giver is astounding. It’s a pleasure to bring some of it here.

    • weather says:

      Yesterday morning, and today’s, have been a delight for me, Sue, thank you for hoping so. The first days with snow falling steadily are here. As I type big fluffy snowflakes are drifting slowly down, clinging to every tree’s branches, making all I see into a winter wonderland scene. It’s especially nice to be surrounded by that type of beauty this close to Christmas time.

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        The desert has its own beauty, but for those of us who grew up in snow country, it lacks the look of Christmas. Thank you, weather, for describing the scene around your home. You brought several Christmas images and experiences to mind… cardinals, bright red flashes on branches of snow-covered evergreens… “big fluffy snowflakes” falling on one’s face… and much more. Yes, nice!

  36. Ruthie in Fontana says:

    I feel like I have been to therapy today! It was a good session. Sue your blog is like, a family reunion, a trip to heaven, therapy, school, amusement park, church…Love it.

  37. Sarvi in OR (currently in MI) says:

    Very informative post. Tootsie roll poops… that’s cute, lol. My dogs are between 60-100pounds… theirs are like mountains.

    I got a call from my sister on Friday morning telling me I had to leave immediately for Michigan. Mom’s gone downhill and she is now in her last hours. If ya’ll are praying types, please pray for a smooth transition. If you aren’t, we would appreciate your thoughts. Thanks!

  38. Libby Nester WV/PA says:

    Wow! It has to be a pretty big bird. Maybe Mothman from West Virginia is on vacation. But, RVSueandcrew are anxious to have whatever “it” is to come back and roost in their tree so they can get a pic. Hope it’s not Mothman. LOL

    (Mothman – In West Virginia folklore, the Mothman is a legendary creature reportedly seen in the Point Pleasant area from November 12, 1966, to December 15, 1967. The first newspaper report was published in the Point Pleasant Register dated November 16, 1966, titled “Couples See Man-Sized Bird … Creature … Something”.”

  39. Dawn in NC says:

    Hi! This comment may be too late in the string, but it’s a shout out to Cin! I wanted to give you an update of my kitties. I tried the Feliway, but unfortunately, it didn’t have the same results for me. My newer kitty, Bree, still tries to eat my other kitty Sammy if I don’t supervise. So, right now I have an upstairs kitty (who comes down while I am home) and a downstairs kitty. As long a Sammy is frozen to the top of the sofa, Bree can cope. I think she is just too insecure. However, neither one seems to mind the arrangements, except in the middle of the night, when I have to go downstairs to answer the cuddle cry of my kitty Sammy.

    I am going to try Jackson Galaxy’s essences next. I still have hope. I love both of them desperately. I pray that Jules will recover soon from the pneumonia. It is no joke! Thanks for the encouragement!

  40. Cinandjules 🌵 says:

    Well that’s a bit disappointing. “multi cat” formula correct? And it’s where Bree frequents.
    The Feliway does say.. allow 4 weeks to see improved behavior. Use for 90 days to fully imprint behavior changes.
    Nutracalm 24/7 calming collar? (Like a flea collar with the pheromone smell on it)

    I personally would keep the Feliway going…It is expensive (we kept two diffusers going for two years) OR if Bree is use to wearing a collar..you can just use that.

    It’s kind of like psych meds…one has to get the right combination.

    I’ve never heard of the bully solution.

  41. Cinandjules 🌵 says:

    You know…..we did have to use a “be cool med” on one of the ferals. Munchkin bit the crap out of me and would let out a blood curdling scream the minute she came face to face with Tyzer. That made Tyzer a nervous wreck.

    Let me go thru her records and see what it was…we called it Kitty heroin….it just took the edge off… we used it for a week. Where she didn’t care about meeting Tyzer on the stairs.

    • Dawn in NC says:

      I did put it in the room where she spent the most time. I’ll have to restart it in Jan, when I get my next paycheck! She can be in the same room as Sammy, but at some point will try to bother her, challenge her unless I am around to stop it. If Sammy stays still on top of the sofa, then she is chill, usually. I’m just glad I have a big enough of a a space to keep them both comfortable, but separate when I am not there. I’m going to also try out the bully solution from Jackson Galaxy. I’m willing to try anything at this point. Thanks for the follow up, help and input!

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