Sunday, June 8
The crew and I motor down Badger Mountain to shop at Ephraim’s Wal-Mart. I do something I haven’t done in a very long time — buy pants in a store that’s not a thrift store!
I pick out a pair of NEW jeans and a pair of NEW capris.
I also find two Wrangler men’s shirts with short sleeves. I know from experience that these shirts will last. I’m all set for clothes!
I can be rough on clothes. I didn’t tell you this . . . When the crew and I were camped in the San Rafael Reef overlooking that pretty canyon about a month ago, I tore a big hole in my pant leg.
It was my own fault.
Being lazy I didn’t stake the outdoor mat when I set up camp. All I did was put a rock at each corner. Well, the wind blew very hard during the night. It lifted up the mat so that the rock on the corner next to the door was dragged on the mat to rest directly in front of the doorstep.
In the early morning, bleary-eyed from sleep, I step outside, putting my foot right on the edge of that rock. I lose my balance and go flying.
What made the fall bad was my leg struck a very sharp, pointed rock embedded in the ground. The rock tore like a sword through my pant leg right below my knee and into my flesh. A bloody gash. I nearly passed out from the pain.
I’m on my back on the ground looking up at the sky.
A few moments of deep breathing and I regain my senses. Whew! That was a close call.
Of all the things that might happen to threaten my ability to live as a solo full-timer, I see falling as the biggest threat. I must be more careful!
RVSUE Tip of the Day . . .
Never use rocks or any other objects you might trip over to hold down your outdoor mat.
Now that my leg is completely healed, I could tell you that story!
While at Wal-Mart I look for a phone that accepts a SIM card. I want to switch over from Straight Talk to H2O which only costs $30 for 90 days. I don’t find anything suitable.
Before leaving the parking lot, I stuff two full bags of trash into the receptacles. These trash bags have been wedged behind the toilet in my bathroom for several days. I’ve been concerned that a bear might smell the contents. I couldn’t smell anything, but bears surely could. It’s a relief to dispose of them.
On the return trip up the mountain, I drive into Lake Hill Campground.
Only two campsites are occupied — a small trailer and a tent. I park at the spigot and fill up eight one-gallon jugs with drinking water.
Bridget, Spike and I share a rotisserie chicken as soon as we return to camp. I make sure they don’t get any of the skin or fatty parts. I seal up the carcass inside a bag and put that inside a small bin which now sits behind the toilet in my bathroom.
Monday, June 9
This is one of those days when I have several tasks on the agenda and absolutely no ambition to do them. The biggest accomplishment of the day is a walk in the woods with Spike which generates the photos you see in this post.
(At the start of our walk Bridget objects to my attempt to take her photo. She trots back to camp to hide under the BLT. Spike and I continue walking in the woods without her. We have a nice walk, just the two of us. I pause often to give Spike a loving pat.)
At last the mud is gone, the grass is lush, and the dandelions are blooming. The aspens that were bare when we arrived are now sporting leaves. We’ve enjoyed our camp on Badger Mountain. Soon we will have to leave Bluebell Camp!
rvsue
THANK YOU, RVSUE SHOPPERS!
Here are a few of the items recently purchased from Amazon through my blog:
EternaBond White Roof Seal
Thomas Wooden Railway – Charlie
Buddeez Sandwich Size Bread Buddy Dispenser
Honeywell 52 Pt. Indoor Portable Evaporative Air Cooler with Remote Control
Panasonic LUMIX 16.1 MP Digital Camera with 60x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom
365 Manners Kids Should Know: Games, Activities, and Other Fun Ways to Help Children and Teens Learn Etiquette
FLASHBACK
The crew in their pen at Three Islands State Park, Glenns Ferry, Idaho. Summer 2012
MESSAGE TO READERS: Tomorrow morning (Tuesday) when you awake, send good wishes and prayers for DesertGinger who will be acquiring two new knees!
I’m closing up the laptop early tonight. Carry on without me. I’ll be back to respond to comments tomorrow. Have a good evening!
Done! Done! That’s one prayer per knee!
Great pictures!
Best wishes to Ginger…
Thank you, John K.
Sending prayers
God,
Look kindly on our sister, DesertGinger. Guide the hands of her surgeons so that her knee replacements are made as best possible. Speed her recovery and surround her days with compassionate caregivers and quick healing.
We ask in humble gratitude, Dear God.
When I was at a Rally, I went to a Senior Safety on the Road seminar.
The most common issue for Senior RVers is falling out of the door, off
the steps etc.
The “safe” way to exit the RV is backwards holding on.
If you hold on going out face first and loose your balance, miss a step, or
STEP ON A ROCK, your arm/wrist cant hold you as the handle is pryed out of your hand by the angle. If you are going backwards,
when you start to fall your arm straightens and you can hold on. I now do this
everytime I exit. I do “look before I leap”.
I guess it’s called back-asswards…LOL
Take care, love your blog
Dy in Northern California
Yep, exactly the way a truck driver is SUPPOSED to exit the cab. I know I’ve seen plenty of guys that be-bop down the steps like they’re going down stairs at home, and without holding on, but they’re the ones that are gonna wonder ‘what happened?’ when they meet the pavement face first! I always exited my cab butt-first and held on with both hands.
Thanks, Dy.
Reading the comments that follow, your message is well-received and may prevent some falls . . .
That’s a vital tip. Ever seen those scissor stairs that go up into a pick-up truck camper van? A steep climb with no railing.
Am I in the top five???
Love the pictures! As I have said before mtns, aspens, waters whats not to love. Falling and getting injured is one of my concerns, I never used to be a clutz but seem to be more lately. Maybe it’s all the “stuff” to do to get the house on the market. Last week my lawnmower quit, it never quits, plus the pull cord seem stuck, took it to the repair shop, said three weeks to repair! I begged to at least tell me if it was a goner or not, called me back the next day said it was fixed—-laughing he said its main problem was no gas! Seriously, if I don’t get on the road soon I think men in white coats may come and take me away!
Many positive thoughts to DesertGinger as she approaches tomorrows surgery.
You’re mind is pre-occupied. I’ve gone through phases like that. Be careful . . . You’ll make it to lift-off!
You might want to try Gooseberry CG up Fairview Canyon (paved Rt-31). At the top, turn left onto 264 toward Scofield, around the bend then straight onto gravel FR-150 Skyline Drive; take the first right after getting onto FR-150 to Gooseberry. As I recall, it was free with vault toilet and water. Lots of nice camping up in that area.
Hi, Pleinguy,
The crew and I took a look at Gooseberry Campground last June. There are two campgrounds, I believe.
http://rvsueandcrew.net/where-do-we-camp-next-the-search-is-on/
It is pretty up there and, yes, there is water & toilet. Thanks for the suggestion.
I am loving the pictures Sue! This looks like a wonderful place.
Now I am commenting on the past blog posts that I have been catching up on. Wow, the story of Rusty losing and then getting Timber back. What a neat way that all ended. I am in love with Brooks Lake! I am more of a lush, green person than the deserts. I loved that lake! The deserts have their own beauty but I still like the green better.
Then the story of Buddy! I couldn’t get through all the comments fast enough to see if there were people finding solutions. So glad that had a happy ending and where he ended up should be a great fit!
I am back to my past blog reading. Keep your journey and blogging going. Be safe and hugs to the crew!!
Hi, Jolene,
I’m happy you’re enjoying the old posts. As for the Rusty and Timber story, it hasn’t “ended.” There’s more to come! (No peeking ahead.) 🙂
I can’t wait but unless I get to it today, I won’t get to it until next week because we are going camping at a local lake for the rest of this week through the weekend. Small campground with camping right on the lake, I can’t wait! Just driving to work from the campground. I will be doing a lot of catching up when I get home! Have a great week!!
Wow! How nice if you can camp and go to work from your camp. Have a wonderful time, Jolene. My stories can wait. 🙂
What a lovely day you had bonding with the Spikester!
Ouch! Geeze Louise….Thank heavens you just impaled your leg on the second rock…and didn’t twist or break your ankle on the first rock!
Was it at least a graceful fall? Or did the crew bust out laughing! Hahhhh! I think it was Bridget who was so concerned when that chair failed on you!
Just kidding with you…but you know that!
DesertGinger….don’t forget your power cord! Tomorrow night may be uncomfortable…but everyday after that….is one day closer to Freedom.
I know DesertGinger has been buoyed by your support and encouragement. I’m looking forward to hearing from her, post-op.
So sorry to hear of your fall. I think about falling often when I camp. There are so many obstacles around a campsite. Mostly getting in and out of the my trailer is a concern for me. Glad your on the mend though. Love all your posts even if I don’t get to comment always. Have a great time in Utah.
Hi, SC Karen,
It’s good hearing from you and to know you’re still reading my blog.
Yes, the trailer steps are a place where a fall is most likely to happen, especially when carrying something, like taking food to the picnic table. Be careful.
My thoughts will be with DesertGinger with wishes for her speedy healing.
How nice for you to have some special time with Spike. I’m thankful you knee has healed. Knee injuries can hang on for a long time.
Hugs to the crew.
Hi, Marilu . . . Thank you for your kind thoughts toward me and Ginger.
I also fell getting out of my camper. Foot stepped on a rock that should not have been there. No injuries except to my pride. Ha! Definitely more careful getting out of the camper now.
Luv the picture of Spike out for a walk with you in the woods. Or I should say you following Spike for a walk in the woods!
Hi, Pat,
Spike was cute on our walk. I guess he was feeling pretty good. Usually I have to stop and wait for him to catch up. This time he was stopping to wait for me. He’s not an affectionate dog but I think he enjoyed it being just the two of us. He soaked up some lovin’ along the way.
Thanks to Dy for the tip on exiting back asswards I am definately going to incorporate this with my camper as I camp alone quite often. Sue I am always learning something on your blog !!
Grandjan
Hi, Janis,
It’s amazing, isn’t it… all the different topics that we talk about, the helpful suggestions and information. I enjoy learning from readers, too.
Wow, I am glad you weren’t seriously injured when you took that spill. And am happy you had a good walk with Spike, Bridget is one stubborn girl.
We’ve been wondering something for a while – what type of mat do you have outside? It seems to have lasted quite a while and you are able to move it around by yourself which is a plus.
Hi, Lisa,
My mat is a 9 X 12 polypropylene mat that I bought from Amazon about 3 years ago. It’s stayed in great shape all this time with heavy use. I put it down on some pretty rough and rocky ground sometimes. Yes, it is lightweight.
Yesterday I noticed it’s beginning to fray on one edge. Even so, it’s been well worth the $50 dollars, more or less, that I paid for it, and I’ll continue to use it probably for several months more.
I don’t think Amazon sells the exact same mat any more, but there are similar ones. Go to the Amazon search box in my sidebar and type in ‘reversible patio mat.’
Sue, thank you for the information. Don’t know if we will buy one while we are getting the house ready for sale, but will definitely go through you to Amazon when we do. We don’t comment much, as it is very hard for me to put my thoughts to words on the computer (for some strange reason, I talk enough!). But we are very loyal followers and keep up with you, Bridget and the Spike man every time you post. When we go to Amazon we go through you. Love your writing and adventures.
Lisa
Thanks for going through my blog to shop Amazon. Good luck with the sale of your house!
Thoughts and prayers are with DesertGinger; and yup been there done that out the door. Not fun. Glad you got a couple new pair of pants out of the incident – guess that’s the good part. No house sale yet.
Hi, EmilyO,
Oh what a happy day it will be when your house finally sells! I hope you get a buyer soon.
I look forward to each of your entries. I started at the beginning of your journey and have caught up with you. Love to read each and every one and more than once.
Give the crew a pat for me.
Best wishes to Desert Ginger.
Great pictures as usual.
Thanks, judithcamper. Great to see you here! I appreciate your message to Ginger, me, and the crew.
Hi Sue,
Ouch… I’m glad you doing so well after your fall, I fell about 2 week ago off the curb of the side walk, it really shook me up, sprained my ankle and cut my knee. I am determined to be more aware of where I walk too.
Prayers and goodwill to Desert Ginger and love to you, Spike and Bridget.
Gee, Willow… That sounds like a nasty fall. I hope you are healed and doing well.
I’m sure DesertGinger appreciates your prayers. Thanks for the kind words.
Well I must say…Great Photos Sue!!!!!! I am so sorry you fell, I know it must have been painful. So glad you have recovered to enjoy this wonderful walk with your Bud.
I have been shoping for cell phone no contract plans forever it seems, then the phone…duhh…my eyes are red from reading. Even got a copy of consumer report on this subject which was very helpful. Ended up with ordering an unknown phone because the price was right and had the features I wanted. Prepaid will be new for me.
Did learn, if you get a unlocked phone you can change the sim card. Good luck to you in this maze.
And did I say, Great shooting Sue, so proud of your growth in photography!
Loved in your last post the shot of Bridge and Spike intently listening to you speaking to them. HA! So cute. I really believe they know most of what we are saying to them.
Wish I knew their thoughts…but being close to them, we are in tune with them.
Take Care Sue and Crew.
Hi, Diane,
Thank you re: the photos. I’m pleased with this batch.
As for a phone, it looks like I have to position us near a UPS “hub” again so I can order from Amazon. Wal-Mart — just about the only game around — offers phones tied in with contracts or a limited number of pay-as-you-go plans. There really isn’t a phone deal tailored to someone like moi. I go for months without using a phone at all, and then when I do, I’m on and off it in a few minutes. I prefer communicating by email.
Thanks for the advice about an unlocked phone. You sound like you’re a very thorough person with lots of perseverance. I tend to quit early in my research on such things as phones. Bleah!
“I go for months without using a phone at all, and then when I do, I’m on and off it in a few minutes.”
Ah…in that case Ting might not be the absolute lowest option. Then again, it might. The minimum monthly charge if you use zero minutes and zero text is $6 +tax. Once you make a call, you get bumped to the 1-100 min. rate category which would make it $9 +tax. That’s pretty much the same as the $30 for 90 day plan you’re considering.
Many of the cell companies offer a $100 for 1 yr. deal that works out to $8.33/month. This is what I got my mom for purely emergency purposes. The problem is she never ended up carrying the cell phone, so it would’ve been no use if there was an emergency. Oh well. Aside from something like a Tracfone (?), this is probably the lowest cost option.
I know searching for a cell phone & plan is more boring than watching grass grow. The good thing is if you find the right one for you, this should only need to be done every 2-3 yrs.
One last thing about Ting is that if you are in an area covered by Sprint, then that is the network they use. However, if you are in a Sprint dead-zone, it automatically roams on Verizon. I would imagine this is especially useful in the areas you have been camping the past couple of years.
Thank, Berkeley. That’s very helpful. I’d much rather watch grass grow.
Leaving Bridget behind…no bear worries?? Sorry you have to leave this beautiful spot and when it is getting all leafed out too!! Well, you will no doubt find other gorgeous places soon…and we will be reading along as usual…
So glad you are ok from your fall, Sue…I hope nothing shows up later from it. We don’t bounce so well as we once did. I am way careful about falling now myself…had one that permanently injured one knee and I suspect brought on arthritis in my wrists as well. Too much fun…
Please keep us informed on the knee surgery…will remember DesertGinger in prayers. It is not an easy one…but many folks seem glad to have had it.
Hi, Elizabeth,
I’m counting on DesertGinger letting us know how she’s doing. I’m confident we will hear good reports.
I’m very fortunate to come from a family where arthritis hasn’t been a problem on either side. I’m hoping the same for myself. I didn’t really fall on my knee joint. The pointed rock hit my leg on that bone directly below the knee. Painful, but not serious.
I’m glad we had the chance to see the mountain at a different stage . . . the mud stage! Haha! It’s dried up now, although a lot of water continues to pour down the mountainside. Every day more dandelions appear. Funny how they are considered a nuisance in a suburban lawn. Here they are a delight.
Sue, you might want to consider a cell phone company called Ting. They use the Sprint network, but roaming on the Verizon network is included at no extra charge. You buy a feature phone from them for $50-60 and then go month-to-month without a longterm contract.
100 min. + 100 text will cost you $12/month +taxes. 101-500 min. pushes the bill to $18/mo. You pay for whatever you use on a given month. I’ve used them for 9 months and have been very happy. https://zfaabk1bhs3.ting.com/
Thank you, Berkeley. There are so many choices and decisions! I appreciate your input.
All the best and good energies to you DesertGinger with your surgery and recovery, all will be well!!
I noticed the trees in your last post looked much greener around your camp, sounds like a great walk for you and Spike, Bridget must have felt a need to keep an on home base for you 😉
Glad your wound is healed, in my work we call that an ‘fdgb’ “fall down go boom”, in my life we call that ‘a valuable lesson’!!
Another great camp to call home, look forward to the next place you will roll out your mat..
T~
Hi, Tawanda,
It is much greener around here. It’s beginning to look like it was when we arrived here last year. I’m thankful for this camp. We avoided some hot weather in the valley.
Thanks for the good thoughts our way. I’m sure Ginger appreciates all the support she’s receiving from this blog.
Oh Sue…..so glad you weren’t too badly injured and are now on the mend. From the sounds of the comments it seems that a lot of people have fallen coming out of their trailers. So I will make sure I am careful coming out of that door. I also will make sure that I use those stakes for the outdoor carpet.
Spring has sprung! Everything just looks so green and the flowers are blooming. What a wonderful walk that must have been.
Prayers going out to DesertGinger on her speedy recovery and rehab.
Have a great day!
Hi, Deb,
I didn’t report the fall right away because I didn’t want to alarm people, what with the crew and I camped in such an isolated place. Yes, RV steps are a common place for falls. I know I am being very careful ever since that last tumble (which is my 3rd since living in the BLT).
I love to start my day with my coffee and your RV Sue and the Crew post. I especially look forward to the pictures; they are the best! Thanks for sharing your life on the road with us all.
You’re welcome, Sandy. I hope your day is good.
So glad you healed up from your fall. Those can really shake you up for a bit before you catch your breath. Thanks for another great post.
You’re welcome, Applegirl. That fall did shake me up. I could hardly breathe for a few moments.
My thoughts and prayers go out to DesertGinger today! I had both of my knees replaced almost 8 years ago! The first day was the worst… after that… YAY! I lived with that awful mind numbing pain for 4 years before surgery and all these years after surgery have been pain free! I still have a major fear of falling, but that just makes me extra careful! DesertGinger, your new pain free life begins today and I am so happy for you!
When I had my Casita, I always walked out the door face forward. It has just one short step to the ground. Now that Chuck and I have The MotherShip, our 5th wheel has 3 steps down to the ground, I always go out butt first!
Sue, please be careful! I worry about you! Camping alone/boondocking does have it’s drawbacks! If you were to seriously hurt yourself…. well…. at least promise to carry your phone with you at all times! We all love you RVSue and we don’t want any harm to come to you! “Nuff preachin”!
I loved the photo of Spikey in the yellow flowers! Great portrait! Can’t wait to see where you land next!
Hi, Geri,
That’s nice of you to explain the very good results you obtained from knee surgery. I suspect more of my readers, in addition to Ginger, will need to have knees replaced.
Good point about the difference between a Casita step and the higher steps of fifth wheels and other big rigs. I am going to start holding on to the little bar that’s put by the door for that purpose… and I’ll keep the mat clear of rocks!
Thanks for the compliment on Spikey in dandelions. I like that one, too.
Hi Sue,
I noticed that you are shopping for cheaper cell phone service, so thought I would suggest Ting to you. It’s Ting.com, where you can get more info. They have a usage calculator on their website that will tell you what your bill would be. Perhaps the best part is the fact that they use the Sprint AND Verizon networks for voice.
If you think this is a good deal and want to go with them I can send you a code that will give both of us $25 off future bills. Just use my email address to communicate with me.
Tom
Hi, Tom,
I’m not sure yet what I want to do. I need to buy a new phone first and I don’t have access to a lot of stores. I’d like to order from Amazon but I’m not near a good place to receive packages right now.
So I’ll pass on your offer. Thank you for thinking of me.
Another beautiful day of full-timing by the looks of these photos! Bridge has to have her own life to a degree… freedom to make a choice is great! I can appreciate that. Like I told you before… I fell and was not so lucky broke both wrists I was however up about 6 ft when I fell…so glad you didn’t get any permanent damage. Its a scary feeling when you’re down tho!
Keep on keeping on as we say back here in SC!
Hi, Sondra,
Well, that’s one way of looking at it… Bridget having an independent life. She’s not so independent at meal times. Haha! Her face is in the plate without fail!
Yeah, your fall was horrible. I was very fortunate.
IN CASE YOU MISSED THIS . . .
BadgerRick shared this under the previous post. . .
Spikey the red nosed Rat,Chi
Led a very special life
And if you ever met him
You would know he knows no strife
All of the other nutcakes
Used to love him every day
They always let old Spikey
Take a soak along the way
Then one dark and dreary night
Sue came out to say
Spikey with your neck so bright
You won’t give me such a fright
Than all the nutcakes smiled
Knowing Spike was safe and sound
Spikey the Red nosed Rat/Chi
You’re the sweetest boy in town
Well done, Rick. Love it!
Very creative! This blog and the blogorinos are amazing. Don’t change a thing, Sue. You are the best!
Delayed reporting….good way to keep the cavalry from showing up to “rescue” you :-). I know Ginger will be dancing in a short time – prayers for a speedy recovery! Hubby had both knees done last November. Two weeks with a walker, four days with a cane, stayed with the physical therapy, and is sooooo happy with his new pain-free living!! Bridgett is such a girl…….
Hi, Jodee,
I’m happy for you and your husband. I haven’t heard one account yet of someone regretting the knee replacement surgery. I’m confident Ginger’s life will be greatly improved.
So Sue, just as my son has moved to Hawaii and I still have not sold my home to get out there on the road with you guys, I find myself in need of a new phone company as my Sprint account was under my son’s plan which he is terminating due to #1 getting a company supplied phone on Verizon and #2 terrible Sprint coverage in Hawaii. I saw your post about H2O for $30 and 90 days so I went to their website and only saw $30 a month plans. Could you tell me more about where you found the $30 for 90 days offer? Thanks!
PS…I do already have a new SIMM capable phone I have not used yet. Maybe Tom will share his code here for $25 off on TING. I haven’t seen their website yet… Going there now… 🙂
Ernest…
You may have found it without realizing it. It’s $30 for the minutes which are good for 90 days. For someone like myself, who rarely makes or receives phone calls, that works out to $10 a month.
In your situation, assuming you will call Hawaii on occasion and will use up the minutes more quickly, it might not be as good a deal.
Good morning Sue,
Loved how happy you made me feel as I saw that you and Spike were having some alone time walking and the love pats making it so special for you both.With more than one pet, I see each one the most clearly when we’re apart from all others.
That the gash below your knee healed so well tells that your youth is still vibrant enough to allow life’s enjoyment to continue unclouded by the fretfulness I expect us to never receive.
My heart’s being touched so by Ginger makes me take it as a personal favor to me that you rallied the troops to support her,thank you.
Regarding yesterday’s appearance of a cockroach,challenge well met! In fightin’ terms that’s called knowing when to come out swinging.It’s totally hot to see a woman of dignity and worth have that quality as part of her repertoire!
Bluebell Camp’s blossoming in time to display a different beauty as this season’s visit wraps up is like friend’s exchanging smiling hugs until next time…
Hope the new clothes see as many adventures and feel as comfy as the old ones,enjoy
Good morning, weather,
The walk with Spike is one of those times that one knows will remain clear in memory. Almost every thing we do is done as a team. It was good for the two of us.
Your remark about the quick healing of my knee is very reassuring.
I’m surprised at your support of me coming out swinging. Haha! I’m more impressed with you than ever. There are times when it’s best to walk away from negative and hostile people. At other times it is best not to allow oneself to be a victim of people with dark spirits. Besides, I have my precious blogorinos to protect!
That’s a lovely picture of this camp’s goodbye hugs for me and the crew. We probably will leave in the morning.
My gosh,am I glad the roach showed up now!I hadn’t realized how limited a portrait of me you would see because my choosing to encourage through compassion dominates my comments.
Where others run from trouble ,I run at it,disable it using whatever means necessary,and go on with my life.I never tolerate victimization of myself or others,period.Thoughtful and discerning,I’m usually able to ensure protection simply by my confident yet nonthreatening demeanor.
However,the innate stupidity of mouthbreathers has on several occasions led them to encounter preemptive physical or verbal take downs I take pride in performing for the sake of justice.
Thus ensuring my pathways are freshened I skip along seeing only what’s lovely….
More simply put in street talk,sharp minded ‘n sharp tongued,the scrapes on my knuckles ,steel toed boots and hand guns ain’t all just from sweet country livin’.
Hooray for you, weather! I love seeing this side of your character. I’m happy to learn you are no “shrinking violet.” Quite the contrary!
I find the more I stand up for myself, the more I refuse to take on a passive role, the more I push back when pushed, the more I speak out against ignorance, unnecessary hositility and anger . . .well, the better for me and every good person I may influence.
Some people are what I call “dark spirits.” They need to be dealt with. As shown on this blog recently, when they realize you aren’t going to be their victim, they slink away, never to return.
Even the prettiest gardens need weeding, now and then. 🙂
This revelatory part of our friendship will be more complete in time.For now,I’ll point out that,in our shared appreciation of language,we’ve each given evidence of our identity by our preference of “names”here.rvsueandcrew.-rig,woman,pack-period.Not Susie and her sweetlings.weather.-force of nature.Not Grace Girl
True. Self-chosen names reveal a lot.
🙂
As usual great pictures and descriptions. I was wondering why you didnt let your dogs have any of the skin or fatty parts of the chicken?
I dont comment much, but I do enjoy your blog.
Paul
Hi, Paul,
I’m trying to keep their weight in check. The skin is where a lot of the fat and seasoning is. I give them the lean meat of the chicken.
I’m glad you enjoy my blog. Good to see you here!
I just Chatted with TING and they told me they only use Sprint towers and networks so that eliminated them for me as my Sprint coverage at my house is Awful!
Good to know, Ernest. Thanks for sharing.
Ernest, if you are within range of a Sprint tower, then that is what Ting uses. So the worst case scenario is being close enough to connect, but far enough to make the service awful. The best case would be to have in a complete Sprint dead zone, so that you would roam on Verizon’s network.
Here’s the Ting FAQ on roaming:
https://help.ting.com/entries/28128686-Roaming-Coverage
“Ting customers are able to roam on Verizon if they are not in range of the Sprint network. This only applies to voice and text, we do not offer data roaming. “
Good morning sunshine!
I looked at the pic of Spike and thought of that lil red riding hood “who dat walking thru the woods”. Made me smile!
Good info from Dy and the trucker…couldn’t find his post. Ya know come to think of it…truckers do exit their rigs backward! Sounds like most everyone here has taken a spill at least once.
This blog is so informative….there is no need to go elsewhere!
Enjoy!
Good morning!
This blog is how talk shows should be. You never can tell what topics will be discussed and you can learn a lot from what people contribute to the discussion. I never gave any thought to how truck drivers exit their trucks. 🙂
Be sure to sing Rick’s song about Spike and his light . . .
Cute!
Praying for Desert Ginger today. I also wanted to make another comment about camping falls. One thing that happens, especially on older campers is that sometimes the steps start to give and will sometimes completely pull loose.
One thing we do is provide a way for my mother who loves to camp to continue even though she is alone now and almost 77. We keep her trailer at our house and then pull it to the campground for her as well as taking our own. Her camper step is weak and not a good way to fix it. So we don’t even use that step for her anymore and have made a more stable platform step for her to use to get in and out of her trailer.
Another thing that has happened to her is that she had knee surgery a few years ago and the typical camping chairs that fold and go in a bag weren’t working well for her. So we have started to put some patio chairs that have a solid arm on them to help her be able to get in and out the chairs easier. I know those aren’t real compact but could easily sit in the camper during travel and sure make it easier for people who have had similar surgeries and issues.
You are a very thoughtful and loving daughter. Your mother is blessed.
The advice and helpful hints in your comment are excellent. Thanks so much for taking the time to post them here for my readers. Something that seems inconsequential, like changing chairs, can make a huge difference in a person’s enjoyment of their day.
LOVE that last shot of Spike taking you for a walk.
Soft morning light filtered through the trees highlighting the spot between his ears and a bit of his hindquarters. And if I’m not mistaken just a little bit of dried mud on his forepaws. Classic Spike.
Hi, BadgerRick,
I sang “your” song several times this morning… gave me a chuckle each time.
I bet you and Spike would be great pals! I didn’t notice the highlight between his ears until you mentioned it… Must be his angel glow, right? Ha! Not likely!
Hi Sue: I wanted to send you this link in hopes that you might find it informative and possibly, helpful for The Bridge. I know you’ve been worried about her weight and perhaps this approach might help… I’m going to try it with my overweight 88 pound rescue pit bull. I figure it can’t hurt to try 🙂 Here’s the link: http://robbwolf.com/2014/06/09/paleo-pup-transformation/
Thanks, Cindy. I wish I could get the crew to accept vegetables.
Will they not eat even veggies cooked in chicken broth? All my dogs, even picky eaters, could not resist anything cooked in that!!
RVSue, I reread your fall-down-go-boom story and wondered, doesn’t staking down the mat create little stakes that you could also fall over? Aren’t they just like tent stakes?
Hi, Gayle,
I suppose they are like tent stakes. (Remember, BLT camping is all I know.)
It’s important to pound the stake into the ground so far that they don’t stick up any more than a pebble. When I want to take the stakes out, I use the claws of a claw hammer to pry them up and to pull them out of the ground.
Hi Sue!
As I sit at my desk…reading blog+comments… procrastinating on my speech to SR. Companions tomorrow about Brain Injury(!) I am so glad YOU ARE OK!!! Falls are awful. I am really good at it (LOL) after 2 brain bonks and a broken arm…so far I am ‘just me’ at this point.
Do you have a solar light outside your camp? One of those ones that dig into the ground? I am using them this year by my step (and I have the same mat/rug you do…thanks to your suggestions!) since I don’t have an outside light on my vintage trailer. Even if I have to put them out in the sun and then move them at night, I am really going to like having that there…
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!
Hugs from Hoquiam,
Barb
Hi, Barb,
No, I don’t have an outside solar light. The BLT has a light by the door with an LED bulb in it. I turn it on to let the crew outside at night. When they come back in, I turn it off. I’d rather have a dark camp at night.
You take care, too! Good luck with your presentation tomorrow. 🙂
Ahhh…
And thank you. Been a hard day today. Lost a neighbor… I don’t like that… head can’t wrap itself around the speech…
Stay safe and come see us!
Barb (in Hoquiam)
No wonder your mind isn’t on your speech. Try to get a good night’s sleep, Barb.
http://www.amazon.com/Wireless-Motion-Sensor-Light-Super-Bright/dp/B001LJKLT4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1402439559&sr=8-1&keywords=solar+puck+light
put by your door it is very bright
Sorry Sue. I did a seacrh for Solar puck light and the first thing it returned wasn’t a match and I didn’t read it. But thye are out there and very cheap. I got a 4 pack at Home Depot for $20. I have them all around my door with 1 right over the lock.
No apology necessary. 🙂
I didn’t know one could buy solar puck lights. I don’t see why not. My door light is sufficient. It throws light in a good sized circle around the door. I put a very bright LED bulb in it, not one of those soft-glow types that I have in my interior lights.
Sue, I think that I write for all your readers when I say that any future falls are not approved. Camping alone, as you do, it’s just too dangerous.
However, knowing that you can often rebel at dicta from authorities, I am now using all my Constitutional authorities to declare that all your future camp sites will henceforth be fall free zones.
There, done. You are now authorized to post the appropriate “Fall Free Zone” sign at your camp sites.
Hi, Bob,
I do wish there were a guarantee for no more falls!
With Bob’s and AZ Jim’s clever references to authority in realms using terminology of bygone days,Disney characters and others from children’s books and fairy tales.song titles and lyrics strewn throughout,film and show characters from other times-meandering along this blog we glimpse delightful paths for our imaginations to enter each time we open the page.What a terrific place to visit,no wonder the site meter’s making a run towards two million!
Mama fell over a tree root on the path to our creek resulting in a tumble that caused my being born breech that day.Learning
to walk,run,ride my bikes,horses,motorcycles,climb in and out of trees,trucks and Jeeps,traverse mud,water,ice,hills,cliffs attics,cellars,moving boats and life I’ve been, and will be,falling all of my life.I’ve learned to roll with it as much as possible,dust myself off,let the Healer do His job and laugh at the scars my exuberance has decorated me with.Having once coughed I live without fear of breathing,as I live without fear of all else.It’s just life in the playground ,let’s not go back inside until the bell rings! 🙂
weather . . . I’m glad we’re in the same playground. Your writing always grips me.
cool beans,I’m really glad about it,too!
Hello, Sue…
Sorry to hear about your fall, but am so thankful that you are ok. Whew…I know you saw stars for a while. Exiting the trailer butt first is a good idea…at least if you start to fall, you’ll fall forward. I sometimes go down my steps at home this way. After two knee reconstruction surgeries (the result of falling off a 3 ft step stool, then down my flight of 14 stairs – all within 10 min of each other), my knees continue to be a weak spot for me. I tend to look down at the ground when I walk, looking for trip hazards. This weeble wobbles and DOES fall down!
Great pictures! The yellow flower has a face that reminds me of a viola…it looks almost like velvet. Glad you had some special one on one time with your strong, silent little man. Spike looked like a very happy pup, taking the lead on your walk.
DesertGinger has been in my thoughts all day…..wishing her well!
Have a good evening, Sue. Watch out for those pesky jumping rocks! 🙂
Gee, Denise… That was a heckuva fall! My fall was a stubbed toe in comparison. I can’t imagine the pain . . .
Ah, remember the days of our youth? We could run across fields, jump over rocks, and careen down slopes, with nary a care where our feet would land.
You have a good evening, too.
The good old days…when I was fearless! These days are good, too. 🙂
Wishing the best for Ginger, what a scary situation. You’re in my prayers.
On a lighter note. RVSue in capri pants, I’d pay good money to see that! LOLV
Alan!! 😉
Alan….dear……quit fantasizing and look at the bio page! After you do that….proceed to the amazon link….cuz nothing in life is free! hah. J/k. 🙂
Hopefully DesertGinger will be checking in shortly to give us an update. You know how hospitals are nowadays…..get up get moving ….as soon as you wake up from the anesthetic.
Hope this isn’t a double post but it seems it didn’t work first time. I like to use 5lb weights for barbells to keep mat in place They are round and only an inch thick so if you step on them or kick them you wont go flying. Wal mart has them open stock in sporting goods but I just priced them at $5 a piece. Try thrift shops. You probably need 4 to start. No more stacking or looking for rocks.
Hi, Stan,
Whatever works for you, great! I don’t need to add 20 more pounds for the PTV to haul around. I need to dump some of her weight. Stakes are a lot lighter.
Gosh on the end of 111 comments………..I always seem to be among the last……..guess its my position in this world compared to yours. Best wishes to DesertGinger for the surgery to get two new knees. Know from my experience nursing people having joint replacements, that these days the recovery time is much shorter and the results excellent. Loved your tranquil photos today Sue….so pretty and a special time with Spike too. I find it so funny how dear Bridget shies away from having her photo taken, to the point she forgoes a walk……..bless her!!
You are at a disadvantage, Glenda. 🙂 You do, however, make a nice ending to each post!
Bridget is the NUT in nutcakes. I was annoyed with her for turning around and going home, but in the end it was better to have a walk with Spike, just the two of us.
When you have something food related to throw away, you might consider putting it into something with a secure cover. I use an old Rubbermaid canister that was made to hold five pounds of flour. I line it with a plastic bag (with no holes in it), and then put the garbage bag inside that to accept any garbage that might have an odor. A container meant for dry cereal is also good for this, as there is usually a small, but adequately-sized, snap opening for adding items.
If the garbage bag itself develops a fissure due to a bone or something, any residue that seeps out should be contained in the liner. This makes disposal a snap when the time comes, while containing odors and ooze! ;->
Virtual hugs,
Judie