At the conclusion of the previous post, Bridget, Reggie, and I walk along the creek that borders Gore Creek Campground.
Gore Creek, East Vail, Colorado
We return to our campsite. Although I want to write a blog post, I soon realize I’d do a better job if I put that off until in the morning when my mind is fresh.
Wednesday, August 3
Immediately after breakfast I start blogging. After about a half-hour, Reggie backhoes the comforter, insistent that we take the first walk of the day.
“Okay, Reg. You win.”
Bridget, Reggie and I stroll the campground loop. It seems we’re the only ones up and outside. I dump a bag of trash in the dumpster. The early light filters through aspens, illuminating purple flowers.
“Hold up, guys. I have to get this.”
Back at the Best Little Trailer I resume blogging.
I work feverishly for at least another hour or more. Although check-out time isn’t until noon, I like to start a travel day early and I want this post done before we leave.
Right when I’m at the point of adding “THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG,” the post disappears! Pffft! Gone! All of it, including the revision copies. Maddening!
I secure the interior of the BLT and we pull out.
We board Interstate-70 and head east toward Silverthorne.
Vail Pass (elevation: 10,603 feet) is up ahead.
Nothing like a mountain pass to get one’s mind off losing a post!
I’m pretty confident now about passes. Soon we’re chugging up a grade in 2nd gear. I’m keeping the Perfect Tow Vehicle at a comfortable 40 mph, no problem for anyone because there’s a passing lane.
Up ahead in our lane, a big, flatbed truck creeps along at 5 mph.
It’s carrying a humongous concrete culvert or something. A long line of bumper-to bumper vehicles is beside us in the passing lane. I look in the side mirror and evaluate the situation.
By the time that line passes us, we will almost reach that truck and then I’ll slide over behind them and continue up this grade. Smooth.
Well, all is going just great.
Then the last vehicle, a white SUV, inexplicably slows down and clings to the side of the Best Little Trailer! What? The car just hangs there, boxing us in!
I bring down my window, reach way out, and whip my arm to motion the car forward. The car accelerates, goes by us, and then by the truck. Too late for us though. We’ve come up right behind the truck and I have to slow to 5 mph.
That darn fool!
This is when we pass a sign that says, “Vail Summit 4 miles.”
“Four miles? Uphill for four more miles? Are you kidding me?”
I grip the steering wheel and lean forward.
“Come on, baby . . . .You can do it!”
And she does.
We reach Silverthorne and the gorgeous Dillon Reservoir at morning rush hour. Houses and condos are clustered at the shoreline and back to the mountains and up their slopes. People pay big money to own or stay in those buildings. As for me, I’m not interested.
Quickly I make a decision.
Silverthorne is not for us, even though I’m sure the campgrounds are very nice. To go south would take us to Breckinridge, another built-up area. To go east would take us closer to Denver. Don’t want that! I’m not going to back-track west, so that means . . . .
We go north!
It’s a relief to leave the interstate and Silverthorne traffic. Route 9 is a paved, two-lane road and the driving is easy even though there are plenty of trucks on this route. After about eight miles, we come to Blue River Campground.
“Let’s see what this is like. You two could probably use a potty break anyway.”
Blue River Campground has some sites along the river. One is vacant. Even so, I don’t feel like this is the place for us. We mosey around the campground and return to the PTV.
Before we leave, I break out a container of fried chicken and share an early lunch with the crew.
The destination I have in mind is Green Mountain Reservoir.
Five campgrounds sit along the shoreline. We check out the ones on the east side of the reservoir. The first one we come to is Prairie Point which I soon discover is not designed for RVs. In fact, it’s poorly designed for tenters, in my opinion. No one is here except for a truck camper sitting in the one, fairly decent campsite. Not an attractive campground.
We drive past Cow Creek South, which is a campground for groups. I know this from previous research.
At the sign for Cow Creek North, we go down the dirt lane to a loop at the lake side.
The few sites by the water are occupied, leaving one available which is at a low level. It’s next to the water and so are a lot of reeds. I get out and walk around the site anyway.
I don’t want to feel like we’re in a swamp. These no-see-ums are only going to get more annoying by nightfall. As are those young men with the muscle vehicles and big boat next door. Nope. No good here.
I backtrack to the south end of the reservoir and proceed up the west side.
The familiar yellow and brown of a national forest campground sign comes into view.
“Maybe this will be good and you can get out soon,” I say optimistically to the crew.
The road is high above the reservoir. The campground road curves around and descends quickly.
Even though it’s only about noon, the crew and I are eager to settle somewhere.
Hmm . . . . There it is. This looks promising!
The pay station says the camping fee is $13. With the senior discount pass, our fee is only $6.50.
I’m liking this!
I drive us past the boat ramp, a few campsites, and then stop at the loop by the water.
There are three sites here, one occupied, along this turn-around. Another one looks good. I turn on the jetpack, even though I’m quite sure there is no internet signal. Just as I thought. Oh, well, it’s nice here.
“We’ve found our home for the night, guys!” I announce cheerfully.
Unlike the other side of the reservoir, a breeze blows any bugs away. The reservoir is much larger than these photos indicate. McDonald Flats Campground is at the narrow, southern end.
I find a grassy place to sit and dangle my legs in the water almost up to my knees.
As the crew and I make our way on the path we brush against the bushes, releasing the scent of sage. Scattered rabbit brush is in bloom (yellow flowers).
Three magpies drop by to check us out.
They march around on our picnic table as if showing off their new tuxedos, making comments between themselves. They fly off before I can photograph them.
At dusk two deer cut across the campground.
They get a drink out of the reservoir and then head for the hills.
In the next post . . .
I make a decision that will affect the remainder of our summer travel in Colorado — whether to keep going north to Kremmling and beyond or to return to the high mountains!
View across the reservoir from our doorway
rvsue
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
Green Mountain Reservoir (elev. 7,950 ft.), between Silverthorne and Kremmling, CO
CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!
1st?
HOORAY FOR VIRGINIA! SHE’S FIRST TODAY!
Good evening Sue!
GOOD EVENING, CLAUDIA! YOU TIED FIRST PLACE!
first rusty+
SECOND PLACE, CHEY! YAY FOR YOU!
Maybe Rusty is out walking Piper. 🙂
Hi Sue, Did I beat Rusty?
YES, YOU DID! YOU PLACED THIRD!
BTW, Scott… I’m pasting your endearing love story below. It won’t be seen much at the end of comments under the previous post. I wrote my reply there.
“Hi Sue & Crew!,
I have so enjoyed your travels this summer, especially Colorado. I have so many fond memories of Colorado and have been fortunate to visit several times over the years. Thank you for bringing back all those memories.
Back in 1973 I picked up my girlfriend on my Honda 500 motorcycle, at her parents house, on her 18 birthday for a summer long motorcycle tent camping trip to Colorado. Her mom and dad were not amused. Actually they were very, very upset. They said “If she gets on that motorcycle with you then she is yours..You pay for everything take care of her and by the way she is very sickly so Good Luck!”
Well, we had a Great trip and over the years her mom and dad became my best friends and Dianne and I have been together now for 43 years!
We retire in the next couple of years and you have been a big inspiration for us to decide to full time RV. Thank’s for all the tips and maybe we will cross paths some day.
I don’t care what anybody says, “RV Sue & Crew Is The Best Darn RV Blog Anywhere”
Thank you for sharing with all of us.”
Congratulations, Scott and Dianne! What a wonderful story! 43 years is quite an accomplishment.
Sue, your camp site-choosing skills are so impressive! I love following your journeys in the Benchmark & am looking forward to finding out if you return to the high mountains (my guess–especially since you now have passes aced) or head north.
Either way, happy, safe travels!
Hee-hee… You shall see in the next post…
Beautiful story!
Congratulations Scott on 43 years of marriage! What a lovely story of the start of your wonderful life together.
third mention, haha Rusty! Congrats Virginia & Claudia!
🙂
?
I think I made the Top Ten!!!!
I actually read the post first and then realized…Gee, if I hurry I might be in the Top Ten!! Now I will write what I was going to say
About losing the post…been there and done that…worked for a few hours on a web page and then it wouldn’t publish and I lost it. So maddening and you just hate to do it again…it never comes out the same.
Looks like a lovely place to spend the night. I love your pictures.
Hugs to you and the crew
Love to all of you
HA! Yes, you did, Pauline! 🙂
Much love to you, too.
Hi Sue, It’s been a while since I’ve checked in with you and the blogerinos. Learning to walk/tolerate my prosthetic limb has been my only project, but my focus is still full timing and I have gleaned my prospects to a wheelchair van or an airport shuttle with a lift. At the worst I can walk on my leg with a walker to shut the outside door after loading the power chair (I’m guessing). At best? Still to be known. I do know I’ll need solar to charge the chair.
I adore your posts Sue and still read every one. Thanks for being there, where ever there is, and sharing. Oh! Gotta tell ya. I volunteered at Bagby Hot Springs in the Mt Hood Natl. Forest years ago. No fires allowed. We had a backpack water nozzle gadget and when folks had fires we could just reach for the nozzle and…hahaha…ashes
poof!
When I saw your first, short message above I hoped you would write more and let us know how you’re doing. It sounds like you’re making good progress!
Wow! You’ve been doing some research and have found some promising options. I hope you will keep in touch from time to time as you advance toward a new lifestyle. I admire you so much!
I like that water nozzle solution. No talk, just action. Ha!
Thanks for reading every one of my posts. Take care.
Thank you Sue. Soon I hope to be asking advice on installing what kind of toilet in a van or transit bus. I’m looking at toilets, right?
Yes, there is hope! First the vehicle…(I’m smiling big right now), next a dog friend, then the “terlette”!
A “dog friend?” Wonderful, Chey!
I don’t know much about toilets for vans, but plenty of the blogorinos do!
Hello from VA. I just wanted to say that I am so glad that you are making good progress and that I can’t wait to hear what vehicle you choose and what dog chooses you. 😉 Have a great day out there! MB
Not to worry, they make remote control, sliding van doors. You won’t any problems closing the door, just push a button and the job is finished.
Chey, So glad you are doing so well and for giving us an update. I saw a site a few weeks ago dealing with wheelchair/handicapped vans. I will try to locate it again. Mostly, I was looking in case my DH changes his mind about traveling..
Take Care.
Sue,
If you’re into Historic things out West still operating, (I think), go through Steamboat Spgs and visit an old West clothing store. I haven’t been there in years but it is/was FM Light Co., right on Main Street down town. Has the old oiled floors, (or did have) like my old school houses. Last I heard it is still the same family running the business, probably 3rd/5th generation.
Area you’re in is close to “Icebox” of Colo, Frasier, where Ike did his fishing while out here on vacation, can freeze anytime now.
Enjoy,. Bob
Hi, Bob,
I do hope to visit Steamboat Springs. I just don’t know when.
I’m familiar with those “old oiled floors.” Still come across them occasionally at ancient mercantiles in small towns.
I don’t think we’ll be going to Frasier, given your description. 🙂
I am intrigued by the description of “old oiled floors” because I don’t think I’ve ever heard that term. But if I describe something to you maybe that’s what you’re speaking of?
I attended an elementary school in South Carolina that was probably built around 1920 or so. It was a big brick two-story that had all-wood floors, high windows with transoms, and of course, no AC!!
I remember seeing the teachers sweep their classroom floors with a substance that looked like sawdust. Could this be what I was seeing? (Yes, in SC, back in the late 1950s – early 1960s, the teachers were in charge of keeping their own floors clean).
Glad you found a nice camp. I abhor when I lose my work on the computer. Great pictures again today, as usual.
Thanks, Lisa. I suppose anyone who has done any creating online has experienced having their work disappear into The Black Hole.
You have a great evening…
RVSue, I sure hope you decided to go back to Leadville and camp at Turquoise Lake. I’m sure there’s a strong Verizon signal out there, was years ago when I camped there. It’s a Forest Service lake and the most beautiful lake in Colorado!! I know I live in Colorado. I love reading your posts about your life with your cute dogs in your Casita. camp on!
Diane
aka dragonflydiane
dragonflyovertherainbow.blogspot.com
Jefferson, CO
Hi, Diane,
Yes, Turquoise Lake is beautiful… No doubt about that! I imagine the campsites are reserved right up until school starts and possibly beyond. It is tempting to go back there!
Thanks for reading my posts…. Always a pleasure to hear from a fellow Casita person!
all the campgrounds there have walk in sites, too. maybe you can go there Schools are starting around here, so the weekenders will be less, until the aspens turn the middle of September. That’s a glorious site to see! come back to Colorado next year, too. 🙂
take care
🙂
To clarify for readers: I think you mean first come-first served sites within the campground. Walk-in refers to a campground or campsite that you can’t drive your car or rig to (utilized by backpackers/hikers/horseback riders), similar to a boat-in campground.
First?
Bwwaaaa-hahaha! Congratulations, John! You’re… uh … here!
Truly holding my side and laughing tears! Oh my! Thank you John.
🙄
I’m sure you’re first at something John … it just isn’t Sue’s blog 🙂
ClipMate is a wonderful backup program. Instead of letting Windows save you just one copy, with previous versions automatically deleted, you can easily save written drafts. It’s inexpensive, versatile, reliable, and I use it all the time. It allows you to go back to previous versions–just save drafts and documents every time you want to.
I appreciate the tip, Anne. Actually WordPress saves drafts as one writes, every few minutes it saves another revision. Those revisions/drafts have always been accessible when there is a loss.
However, it didn’t happen this time. I think the reason being my laptop was drained of charge. Our campsite was very shady. I was online the night before and then, early the next morning, I wrote that post. I should’ve kept track of the charge situation, but I was focused on writing the post. Oh, well… Now I’ve learned that lesson!
Ha Ha … know what you mean about losing messages. I just left a long dissertation on the last post just as you were posting this one. :O 🙁 🙂
Oh, no! I wrote there would be a new post in a few minutes. I guess you didn’t see it. Sorry about that…
Thanks for the slug sympathy. Now for the tea that goes with it …..( I’ll check for creatures first! 😉 )
Tea and slugs! No, that’s not right. Tea and Sympathy… Yes! 🙂
I was still typing when your comment was sent. Saw it just after my theisis posted. Not the first time for me, but I knew that can happen. Yippie! Another post of flowers, water, mountains and both of the crew in the shots!!
You have been following the tire tracks that I made a few years ago when I went through Kremmling, CO and then turned east to the Black Hills.
Many years before that my bicycling route was on CO131 to Steamboat Springs where we had a rest day. We had stayed at Minturn the night before so that was a 94 mile day to cap off our week in Colorado!
I thought of you, Ed, when we passed through Vail and Silverthorne. I must have seen at least 100-200 people on bicycles. They were all over the place. Apparently cycling in popular there. Paved bike trails can be seen from the interstate.
I don’t know how you did what you did, Ed. You rode a bicycle further in a day than I sometimes do with the PTV when moving from camp to camp.
Silly comment here, but every time I buy a rotisserie chicken, I think of you! lol (about once a week, other than your posting days) lol
That’s funny, Sherri. I wonder how many of my readers do the same thing. I never imagined I’d be associated one day with a chicken! Haha!
Being thought of with chicken is not so bad. A lifetime ago, when I was still in college, my roommate was taking a mammology class. Part of the requirements to pass was collecting five different animal components: skins, skulls, skat, tracks, etc. (No, no animal was killed intentionally for this project.) However, road kill was a good source of materials for this. For YEARS everytime I saw road kill, I thought of my roommate! 😉 (Who is also still a good friend.)
When we squeegee the shower, I think about my neighbor back in CA….who wanted it done a certain way!
To this day….we laugh!
Okay 5-4=1 isn’t working….
Not sure how you do it Sue, but you make finding new campsites
look easy….. Even when you explain the searching factor.
It usually looks like it all comes together in an agreeable site.
I’m in awe. Of course, that means you do your homework in
advance …….??
Always a enjoyable blog, thank you Sue . ?
You’re welcome, Linda,
Yes, I do my “homework in advance.” I had found all the Green Mtn. Reservoir campgrounds in my Benchmark and read about them there. I also looked them up online. Going to the campgrounds reveals more than you can find in online or map research… stuff like no-see-ums, reeds, neighbors with the potential of being obnoxious, poor campground design, unappealing atmosphere, etc., as I described in this post.
I think one reason I find good camps is I rarely “settle” for “good enough.” I keep looking. That’s why I start early in the day and I don’t drive far between moves. I’m still flabbergasted to see RVers pull into a campground after 6 p.m., sometimes well after dark. That’s asking for problems, although I realize working folks can’t always avoid long driving days.
I just love it here, and love your posts and photos Sue. Ya know that photo of the beaver lodge a few posts ago? I could sit there and watch those beavers and the water and the trees for the rest of my life I think. What a joy.
I’ve been thinking I’ll sell the boat and buy a trailer in a year or so, and I’ve been doing loads of research online and visiting RV dealers just to learn. Well, I found the trailer I want .. and I bought it! Whoop! Anybody want to buy a boat? 🙂 Funny thing is that I was on the boat doing a bit of maintenance today, looked up, and noticed that the boat’s clock had stopped .. the clock that has run like a Swiss watch for 15 years .. well, that was weird I thought. A few minutes later, I looked over at the window where I keep two pieces of paper posted for dock-walkers to read so I don’t have to answer the same 7 billion questions over and over about this classic boat .. the one piece of paper with boat info is still there .. the other piece of paper with my name and other personal info (in case of emergency) and my boat club info, it’s gone! It had fallen into the wall in between the glass and the wall. So, apparently, my time is up and my name has been removed! Ha! Anybody want to buy a boat? Funny how the energy of “things” sometimes reminds us that things have energy, same as we do. An old wood boat had living wood at one time, and this one apparently still has a voice.
Dug out my zero gravity chair from the garage to put it in the trailer, set it up in the kitchen at home just to test it out, and fell promptly asleep. Guess I’ll keep it eh? 🙂
The trailer I bought is a 20′ Rockwood Mini-Lite 1905, one previous owner, a single older woman with a small dog, all the options already on it, will take possession in a week or two after a few small repairs have been made. Lots of the boat systems stuff is the same for a trailer, but I have a LOT to learn.
And that reminds me of this blog, Sue, and how much I’ve learned here already and how much encouragement I get from you and from everyone. I keep thinking how much I learn and how little I give back. I’ll start my own blog. I will hope to share and give back even a small portion of what you give, Sue. Thank you.
Wow! What an interesting comment and interesting life, Ann!
Congratulations on the acquisition of a travel trailer! How exciting and fun for you….
I enjoyed reading about your boat telling you it’s time to make a change, especially the part about the energy of the inanimate. I’ve had similar experiences. Maybe that’s why we personify things, like when we name our vehicles, talk to a flower, or listen to the “voice” of wood.
Speaking of energy, that’s what emanates from your comment! Best wishes to you in the transition from boat to trailer in the continuum that is a well-lived life (and energy!). 🙂
Thanks for the personal, nice reply Sue. I’m energized about this change that’s for sure.
I may start my own blog, but rest assured I’ll keep hanging around here too. Nice place you got here. 🙂
Looked up your trailer floor plan and specs. Looks perfect, you will have a wonderful life in your new wheeled home! Congratulations.
Oh Sue,
You have to go just a bit farther! You are almost to Maybell and Sand Wash Basin where the wild horses live. That’s where I’m headed as soon as I retire in September. I’m just hoping the weather holds.
I didn’t know about Sand Wash Basin and the wild horses. That is the sort of place I would like to visit. Thanks, Edie!
I send you early congratulations on your retirement! Not very much early; September is right around the corner. Let me tell you, the life of a retiree is grand! I wish you good weather on your visit to the Sand Wash Basin.
The deer photos are so lovely. You always manage to get the most interesting shots. I’ve meant to comment on this before, Sue. Some of your animal shots, especially the birds, are just gorgeous. I don’t have that good of a camera, or either don’t know what I’m doing, but yours are so sharp, as in when their wings are moving yet there’s no blur.
I’m so happy for you and the pups, that you’re seeing and doing what you desire, and the dogs get new homes, smells, and sights every few days. That type of stimulation is what the majority of other dogs probably dream of having.
Thank you, Nancy, for this comment and the positive feedback on my animal photos. I think you are generous in your compliments!
Frequently I post wildlife photos that are low-quality, such as the one of the two deer running past the car in the campground. I post a photo like that when I think it adds to the “realness” of a post. I’m not concerned about my reputation as a photographer. Ha! How lofty that sounds! Anyway…
It’s good to know you appreciate the photos and, yes, there are some shots, like the one of a male turkey making a display, or the American dipper who took a bath at my feet, or the pelican in the glow of sunset at Salton Sea, that I am proud of. 🙂
The crew does have a pretty good life. Like those of us who choose to live full-time on the road, Bridget and Reg may not have the security (real or imagined) of a fixed location for home, but they have a full life of new experiences (new scents) in ever-changing, new places.
Hey Sue and crew,
I haven’t written for a few weeks. My first trip out in my RV my tow vehicle decided I needed new airbags in the drivers side seat and steering wheel, plus add that the Tahoe is a 2002, they had to order the part, which took a week to come in, which delayed my departure my first campsite…
But, that wasn’t all, and maybe I already wrote this, my feet, ankles and calves swelled up really big. I go to to Urgent Care and the doc there gave me a diuretic for a week and said to keep my feet up as much as possible. I’d been unpacking this trailer, making it feel like home, so maybe I had been on my feet too long.
I finally get to leave Prescott and I make my way over to Show Low, AZ. I get there and a couple hours later my sister calls and tells me my mother, who we just moved out to Ohio and into a retirement community, had a stroke. It’s pretty serious, she’s in Neuro-ICU and things aren’t looking all that great.
My feet-leg problem is still a problem, now I’m trying to figure out do I just drive there, or do I find an RV storage place in Albuquerque or Phoenix and fly out which just totally blows my budget for the second time in three weeks, and then the toilet in the RV, the bowl doesn’t want to hold water, a cabinet door came off the first time I opened it when I was unloading, and then last night I realized the handle to the vent over the bed was laying on the bed, luckily I found the screw to it. So things aren’t going well.
I read this post and it sounds as though I’m more upset about the trailer than my mom, which isn’t the case, I’m just on overload and don’t know what to do and so I’m rambling.
As usual your pictures are awesome, as well as how you write your blog, pretty awesome too.
Sorry for a down post. Just can’t figure out what to do, or what’s best to do. My brain is fried.
Hoping the best for you and your little buddies,
Beth, was Prescott now Show Low, AZ
Good morning, Beth,
It does look like the world and that which you care about is crashing around you. I can understand you being upset and feeling overwhelmed. I’m glad you sought medical attention for your feet and legs and was given some relief. I wish you speedy recovery… One less “situation” to deal with!
I’m not sure if you’re asking for suggestions in your comment or if you’re only venting the stress that has come your way. I don’t mean to tell you what to do, no one can really know what the best course of action is, especially concerning your mother. Forgive me if you aren’t in the mood for advice right now. What I write below may come across as clinical and unfeeling. This is my attempt to help you sort things out . . . .
What is priority right now? That’s the first thing to figure out.
Is Mom cognizant of her surroundings and people who visit her? If she isn’t, then going to her is for your benefit and maybe also for the benefit of other family members. In other words, is anything gained for anyone involved by you going there? If you need to be with her emotionally or she needs to have you with her, then that is you first priority right now. In some families there is guilt involved or imposed when one does not appear. It’s not my place to address that. Again, forgive me please if that was an inappropriate subject for me to bring up. I’m only trying to help you evaluate what is best to do.
Unless there is a reason otherwise of which I’m not aware, everything having to do with the travel trailer can be put aside. If you take your “problems list” and cross off all the annoying, expensive, time-and-energy-consuming items having to do with the travel trailer, you can focus on your mother.
If you decide there isn’t any benefit for your mother or for yourself or for the family in making the trip, then you can turn your attention to the travel trailer… or not. Again, the TT can wait.
Please safeguard your health when navigating these rough waters, Beth. I ask your fellow blogorinos to join me in prayer for your mother, and also that you be given healing, strength, and wisdom.
Hugs.
Hi Beth,
I am really sorry about your situation. I am praying for you.
Hello Beth,
Like Sue, I would not presume to tell you what to do or what is best. I will say this: Put your oxygen mask on first. Just like the attendants on an airplane tell passengers on every flight, put your mask on first so you can help others after. For me, that has been a metaphor for life. If I am not my first priority, then I can be of no help to others. Nor can any of us.
I am so, so very sorry for the issues of life you are having just now. Please know that you and your family will be in my prayers. Take care.
Retiredcajunlady…What a great analogy!
Beth…The diuretic will make you feel better soon. Easy does it! The toliet not holding water may be as simple as the seal needs to lubercated. As for your mom, being in the Neuro ICU is the best place for her.
When more details regarding your moms condition is known, you can then make whatever decision fits the situation. Take a breath…..it will all work out.
Take care of yourself and know that we have you and your mom in our thoughts and prayers!
Sue, and all Blogorino’s that replied,
Thank you for your kind words and advice. No one said anything that was unwarranted or unkind.
Due to family members who felt I should be there now, I traveled back to Phoenix, got my TT in “line” to be fixed which saves me storage fees and everything is under warranty, got a plane ticket and I fly out tomorrow the 11th to go be with mom and family. I appreciate everything that everyone said. Nobody crossed any lines as far as I see it.
Thank you for your prayers, they are truly appreciated. I’m blessed to have such kind people care and you all don’t even know me or my mom! Thank you!
Beth, back in Phoenix and soon to be Ohio
Hi, Beth… Good job! What yesterday was a jumble of issues clamoring for your energy, you now have organized into a focused plan. Thanks for getting in touch with us before leaving for Ohio. Wishing you a smooth trip and glad to know you will be with family during this stressful time. Prayer line is still open.
(No need to reply to this.)
I am praying for you too.
Oh my goodness, Beth. Hang in there. One step at a time. Glad you could share your burden with us. I will pray for you.
1
What th’, I well ,have a great week and stay safe!,,,,,,,,
Same to you, Rusty!
You are so funny Rusty and Piper! You probably begged off so that someone else could be first. You are such a nice guy!
🙂
It was supposed to be,,”oh well”,, didn’t mean to sound so grumpy Sue, yes we were out for a walk and miss out on being 1st, that is OK, it’s time for someone else to be First, lol,,,,, have a great week and stay safe and give them babies of yours a huge hug from us, okay,,,, Rusty n Piper
Walks with Piper are way more important than being first on this blog. You have a great week, too!
Enjoyed the last 2 blog entries, Sue…lovely you were enjoying the scenery so much…that was part of our day today too…we traveled along from Hillsboro, OR to Astoria to meet a friend for supper and proceeded home, from there via Longview, WA…lovely, lovely, lovely scenery…too bad hubby had to watch the road so closely driving…my nerves would not allow me to drive either the back roads or freeways…just too much traffic these days!! We made this quick trip to go to Oregon to check on his dad who now lives in assisted living there. (Nice place. Good food…nice people…what more can one ask?) We always fall in love with these special places every time we go through or stay there…but there are drawbacks to us to living in Oregon too…so we enjoy them when we are there. One part today we were part of the lower part of a cloud, with that special kind of misty rain that accompanies such…how can one describe such things?
Hi, Elizabeth,
Great to read that you had an enjoyable, scenic road trip and also that your father-in-law lives in a well-managed assisted-living facility among nice people. How wonderful that you have a friend in Astoria to visit, another beautiful place in the Pacific Northwest.
Sounds like you had your head in the clouds, Elizabeth… That’s a good thing! 🙂
Enjoy your day!
I’ve heard that Red Feather Lakes, north of Rustic, in northern Colorado has some nice boondocking. Haven’t been there yet myself. Colorado gets pretty crowded in summer, but in fall, it’s sublime.
Enjoy your adventures!
Hi, Suzan,
Good to know that info about Red Feather Lakes… Thanks. I am looking forward to Colorado in the fall.
Have a wonderful day!
Hi, RVSue and Crew,
I can cool off with your photos taken at the shore of the reservoir while I imagine being there. It has been scorcher for the past few days and been predicted hot remaining for several days around Tokyo, Japan.
BTW, Have you all ever seen “Tail Feather Camper“? The camper is made in Colorado. I’m really interested in it. Any information is greatly appreciated.
Have a nice day!
Hi, Fuji-maru!
I looked at the camper at that link and was very surprised to see it is in pieces that one puts together! I never heard of anything like that. Very interesting!
Blogorinos: Any thoughts or information regarding the Tail Feather Camper or RV kits in general?
Thank you RVSue for announcing with eye-catching bold letters!
I’m glad to hear that you are interested in it too.
I guess this unique camper will be accepted more willingly for those who live in a small country like Japan.
Wow. I had never heard of the Tail Feather Camper. Pretty cute. It’s like a mix between a regular travel trailer and a pop up. Interesting and fun.
Wow I’ve never seen anything like it! The inside kind of reminds me of the interior of an airplane.
Minimalist concept…but doable for someone!
Me neither, have never seen anything like it until recently.
The camper has been designed by a man who once had owned a flight school and had some airplanes.
Glad to hear that you are interested in it too.
Me neither, had never heard of the Tail Feather Camper until recently.
Glad to hear that you are interested in it too.
It appears they have suspended operation until they can get a new manufacturer in the US. Previously, it was in China. Oh well.
Thank you Marilyn for your info.
I know that they have been suspended production from their website.
I recognize that the camper has been produced in Colorado and they have been supplying to a Chinese company with their full-production capacity for the past year. Is my understanding of this correct?
That I don’t know. I only read on their website the Chinese had suspended production and they were searching for a U. S. company to manufacture.
Quoted from their website.
CHINESE CONNECTION ENDED
March 20, 2016 – In April of last year, Teal International Corporation entered into a supply agreement with a Chinese company that required all of our production capabilities. As a result we had to suspend production for the domestic market. That contract has now ended and we are investigating ways of returning to the North American markets with our “Made in Colorado” products.
We hope to begin production of both the Tail Feather Campers and Quite Lite Shelters for the American market early this Spring. Please watch our websites for more updated information or add your contact information to our
Keep Me Posted “Keep Me Posted” list for email periodic updates on our progress.
Greatly appreciate your reply, Marilyn,
Now I’m confusing.
“a supply agreement with a Chinese company” means that they supply(ed) to a Chinese company, right?
Therefore they had been too busy to product for the domestic market, right?
If I were able to understand English better I would have been able to understand more.
Sorry for my poor English.
Just the opposite. The Chinese were the supplier, or manufacturer in this case, I believe. Maybe someone else can chime in and clarify this.
Again, Greatly appreciate your reply, Marilyn,
I’m sure you’re right.
I ‘ve read again and again and at length I ‘ve reached the conclusion.
A key point in solving a problem was why they say with special emphasis by using “Made in Colorado.”
I mistook the meaning of “production” for “manufacturing of the camper parts.”
I would have continued to misunderstanding without getting your all replies
Again, I’d like to express my gratitude.
I have read “Tail Feather News“.
I didn’t quite understand what they meant.
I wonder why they no longer have the resources to resume manufacturing. They should be able to produce as in the past, right?
I can feel that my English ability is lacking.
They may have run out of money.
My guess is that they are looking into which state in the USA they can make the highest profit in . Cost of operation- wages, taxes, supplies, land, buildings and energy are different in each one. Some, like New York will offer tax incentives to get new companies to do business there.
Your English is fine. The owner recently took the “camper” on a tour. His hope is someone with $$ and the interest will purchase the company.
Until then he doesn’t have the financial backing to continue.
Thank you Marilyn, for your opinion.
I think so, too.
Thank you weather, for your sensible commentary.
Very informative, I’ve learnt a lot from you!
Thank you Cinandjules, for your info.
Ohh I get it.
It seems that,
“he doesn’t have the financial backing to continue” means that he/company has not profited from his/their business.
I guess,
as for the financial issue, the owner must have been deep in the trenches and thus recently took the “camper” on a tour for sales promotion.
Again, thank you for your compliment to my poor? English. 🙂
Hi! RVSue, Crew and blogorinos!
I’m a little bit disappointed that nobody reported to have ever seen the camper but, I’m HAPPY that almost everybody showed an interest in it. (Clearly evident from web log data of my blog “Tail Feather Camper”)
I would have been happier if there was more comments, especially from edlfrey who know evrything about everything!
I feel like I could get rid of No-See-Ums in front of my eyes. 🙂
Again, I’d appreciate all your sending me comments that you taking the time to reply to me.
Of course, I’d appreciate RVSue gave me an opportunity for gathering information in the Blogorinoland.
Fuji-maru from Japan
You have that slightly wrong Fuji-maru. I know a little about everything but do not know a lot about anything.
I even know that the Fuji apple was NOT named for the mountain/volcano as most people in the US of A think it was.
However, having said that I had to look up Fujimaru to find out how/where your ‘screen name’ came from. Google Search is my friend – most of what I know comes from the Internet. – HA
Hi!!! edlfrey!!!
Wow, I’m so glad to hear from you! And I’m surprised that you still do remember my first comment in 2014, that I almost forgot to having written about Fuji apple.
Oh, No! You looked up my ‘screen name’ on the Google Search! Therefore you know the above! 🙂
BUT I’m sure that YOU KNOW EVERYTHING!, even if what comes from the Internet. 🙂
BTW, I’ve read your web site when I saw your comment for the first time in a year. You have visited Japan in the past. Japan was probably very different from how it is now.
Getting rid of no see Ummmms! That would be a task at hand.
Those little buggers are horrible! You don’t feel them until after they bite you…then swelling and oozing for two weeks! They affect me worse than Jules..a bite is a scar!
Won’t miss them at all!
🙂
A campground with a breeze and scent of sage that wildlife goes through, how nice! The photos show the water in constant motion there, too.What a difference between that and the one with reeds, swamp feel and no-see-um swarms. This post shows again a benefit of your scouting instead of going by others recommendations or reserving a place sight unseen. I love the photo with the two beautiful deer, it’s lighting and whole scene. Even the car, as that makes it obvious one might expect to see them by a campsite not just in a distant field.
Good morning, weather!
You have me shaking my head in wonder again, wonder at the way you see my posts and photos, and all that you derive from them. I am delighted always. Thank you.
You mention the deer photo. That’s one of the things I love about this life — the surprises! I step outside, walk around the BLT, and there they are! As you often say — a beautiful gift!
I guess I need to get myself and the crew moving soon. It’s Wednesday and we need to find a place that will be our home through the weekend.
Blessings on you today….
It’s afternoon already and we haven’t moved camp! Enjoying this day and this camp too much to move. 🙂
As I read your blessings on my day a cardinal with amazing colors landed on the pine branch closest to my window 🙂 Today’s the first day in a very long time that I’ve seen one here. Are you already at a new camp or did you decide to move tomorrow?
We typed at the same time, Ha!
Again I have put off moving until tomorrow. We’re happy here today.
Often a bird or birds will focus my attention or recall a moment, thought, or person…. like that red cardinal. I’ve noticed they seem to wait until they have your attention, hesitate, and then fly off. Someday, I believe, we will understand fully.
I stood beside Clear Creek remembering Spike and a hummingbird kissed the water. At every new camp I look for the bird who will welcome us. One always does, and from that point on I associate that bird with that camp.
weather, Hi!
I was wondering if you have ever gone to Ithaca to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary? It may be too far for you to go and you may be too private of a person. I was just thinking about the special bond/connection you have with the winged ones. Maybe some of them come up to visit you because other feathered friends have communicated about your gentle and protective ways. What a fun thought!
Though I’ve taken many one day round trips to Ithaca I haven’t been to that particular sanctuary. Thanks for bringing it up. I at times look for new places within the state to take family to and hadn’t thought of that one. I honestly believe that birds and other animals have extended communities, and that they let each other know about safe or nice places and even people . And that they are aware of far more than we often give them credit for.
That can be proven when an empty feeder gets filled and before one gets the container put away, an entire flock is having a snack and has invited other bird clans to stop in for a bite. 🙂
Thanks for the reply!
I also noticed four state parks with camping close to Cornell. Perhaps a chance to further test out your new nest on wheels?
Hi Sue and Crew,
I agree – you have the best RV blog. It’s always so entertaining and peppered with just the right amount of photos. Love it! I love the one with the sun shining through over the purple flowers. The last one tells a story by itself. Just WHAT is Reggie looking at anyway?
Good morning, Renee!
I don’t know what Reggie is looking at, maybe an insect crawling along. I’ve seen him watch and follow bugs on the ground. I remember taking that photo, when he looked down an instant after he was perfectly posed gazing over the water. I must say, Reggie is easy to photograph. In fact, it’s hard to get him OUT of a photo. He jumps right into the frame! Haha!
Thank you for calling my blog “the best RV blog.” I’m very happy that you find it entertaining and that you appreciate the photos. Yeah, I like those pretty flowers with aspen and rock, too!
You are most welcome!
Just saying hi Sue! You’re in the area my husband likes to go hunting in (don’t worry, the hunting season in Colorado is very short and doesn’t start up for awhile). I should say “hunting” as he hasn’t actually gotten anything since I’ve known him. I think he more likes to go to hang out with his friends and be gross for a week. The camper doesn’t go on those trips, so no showers for them, P.U.! We also got our younger dog in Kremmling, beautiful area. Anyway, enjoy!
Thanks for the laugh, Julie, about your stinky husband who hunts but never shoots anything. I had a husband who loved to bass fish and he, too, would come home stinky and with no bass! haha! I guess it’s a male thing. 🙂
“be gross for a week” — Oh my, I’m still laughing! I’ve had weeks like that!
OMG! 75 responses already! Well, guess I didn’t get here early enough to post the camp host near the top! Maybe you can Sue!
BLOGORINOS! Camp Host Position available in beautiful Bluff Utah!
Cadillac Ranch is a small 15 site campground with pull through sites. There is tent camping in the pond area. Our friend Diana has had this RV park for sale and now she has a buyer. The buyer is a doctor from Blanding and he needs a camp host to be on site to be in charge.
Bluff is one of our most favorite places in the Southwest! There are amazing day trips, Mesa Verde NP, Four Corners, Monument Valley, Goose Necks, Valley of the Gods, Canyonlands NP, Arches NP, petroglyph panels and more. There are also river trips nearby for exploring the San Juan River! YUM! Twin Rocks Cafe where the food is to die for! Our favorite is the Navajo Fry Bread Pizza. Sue just ate there a few months ago! This is a very special area, so much to offer.
I should have looked up the website, but just google Cadillac Ranch RV Park
You can reach Diana by email here: cadranch@frontier.net and her phone number is listed on the website.
Chuck and I would love to take this job. But due to a fall, I am no longer able to work as a camp host or travel. This could possibly be a job for a single person. Check with Diana and please tell her that you were referred by Chuck and Geri and of course, RVSue.
Maybe Sue could add a bit here since she has been here several times. She has also posted about the Bluff area so you could search her blogs for photos.
http://phunnyfarm.blogspot.com/2012/08/bluff-utah-one-of-our-favorites.html
This is a link to our blog with photos of Cadillac Ranch, Bluff and the area!
I don’t have much to add, Geri. You did a thorough job! Here are links:
“Cadillac Ranch RV Park — Our first camp in a private park!”
Cadillac Ranch website:
Cadillac Ranch RV Park, Bluff, Utah
Thank you Sue! This is such an amazing location to be in! I hope one of the Blogerino’s out there is lucky enough to get this camp host position!
Looks beautiful Sue!! My sister in law lives in Gypsum, which is just west of Vail. Beautiful country–we’ll be there next month.
Re: losing your post…I’ve done that same thing–nearly finished a post, then WordPress lost it!! Aargh. I’ve changed my technique a bit–I draft everything in Word, then paste it into the post and add the photos. Haven’t lost anything since.
We’re camped at Nasom Creek Campground, a NFS campground near Lake Wenatchee in Washington State. This is a beautiful area, so nice that we’re planning on extending our stay another week.
Excellent suggestion, casitagirl, regarding using Word to draft a post and then copy/paste to WordPress. I don’t have Word or any other writing program on my computer. I’m too cheap to fork over the moola for Office.
I’m glad you are enjoying your camp so much that you’ve extended your stay. I do that all the time!
LibreOffice is a free office suite: https://www.libreoffice.org/discover/libreoffice/
Gee, thanks, Jeff. I’ll check it out!
Sue,
You can download Open Office which is almost the same as Word. It is free and easy to use. I refuse to pay for Word and use either Open Office or Google Drive. You have to be online for Drive to save though.
Good luck.
Thanks, Marilyn! I admit I was hoping the blogorinos would tell me what to download. You never let me down! Ha!
I have been using OpenOffice Writer for a couple of years now and find that it does everything that I want it to. I write all my postings in it first and then copy and paste to my web page. It is in the web that I do a spellcheck although I could do it in Writer it is just a habit I have developed.
I used their Spreadsheets for some time also until I decided to move everything to MySQL Database and generate reports using PHP. I don’t have many databases but they do work slick. There was nothing ‘wrong’ with OpenOffice Spreadsheets and I found them as easy to work with as Excel.
I definitely need to download it. Thanks for the recommendation, Ed.
Here is the link for the download.
http://www.openoffice.org/download/
I just downloaded it and when I tried to open it, I received a message that it won’t run on my PC. Nothing I do with technology is ever simple….
I’ll try again. Thank you.
Try an older version. They are listed in the green window, third box on the right. Try 4.0.0. I imagine you are not using Windows 10. Be patient and things should work out. I know how you feel.
As my son says, blow on the computer with a wish and maybe it will behave.
Good night all.
I checked the requirements before downloading and Windows 8 is on the list.
I’ll try 4.0.0 when I’m at a camp with more reliable, stronger connection.
Good night!
Well, I had to try the compatibility troubleshooter and mid-way through it, I had a connection problem.
This is something for another day. 🙂
I am running OpenOffice 4.1.1 with Windows 8.1 if that tells you any thing helpful.
I was also running OpenOffice with Windows 8 also but can not tell you if it was with 4.0.0 or not. I may have updated since moving to Windows 8.1 but can not remember.
Sue, this post and losing your blog entry brought back so many memories of typing out reading, language, or spelling tests just to have them go poof into cyberland. Certainly aggravating at the least!
I loved the pictures of the daisies on your previous post. Daisies are my favorite flower, along with yellow roses. It amazes me how they grow wild among the rocks! The pictures are simple beautiful.
I got a chuckle out of the picture of the deer in front of the facilities! Even the wildlife appreciate private facilities! Just being silly, but it did give me a giggles.
After reading the story of the unsafe driver who boxed you in, I wonder: perhaps they weren’t just being unsafe…maybe they thought they recognized you. I would like to think it was something like that and not just stupid, unsafe behavior on their part. Just a thought.
Take care and thanks for the posts. Belly rubs and hugs for pups, and prayers for you all.
Hi, retiredcajunlady!
At the end of the day I gave the boxed-in-on-the-way-to-Vail-Pass a bit of thought. I seem to recall that one of the truck’s flashers, the one on the right, was out which made the flashers look like a left turn signal. Maybe the SUV driver thought the truck was going to move into the left lane, which is pretty weird because why would a truck going 5 mph up a grade do something like that? Another thought… Looking over the BLT… People interested in a small, fiberglass trailer will do that.
I love daisies, too. They say innocence to me. You take care, too, rcl.
I was first once but it was a couple years or so ago. I didn’t really feel any different so I gave up trying. I also assumed there was a prize but…….Anyhow hope everyone is having a good day. Hi Missy Sue and the crew…..
I should have done a better job of cheering and jumping up and down when you were first those many moons ago. 🙂
Hi, Jim and Detta!
🙂
There is a prize Jim! You didn’t get yours in the mail? Rusty has at least a dozen of them!!
Nope. Just ran down to the mailbox, no prize. Oh well…..
Happy Wednesday Sue !
You mentioned a few times that you were running out/low of power because there wasn’t enough sun on the solar panels. Maybe you can answer my questions or perhaps Mick would have an idea. If I recall correctly, you have one battery in the BLT and two in a case in the back of the PTV. So in all, you have three ‘house’ batteries. Or are the two in the van dedicated to a separate AC/110v circuit? Even if you ran your laptop all day and a few light in the evenings, it doesn’t seem like you should run out of juice in a day or two. I was wondering if the two batteries in the PTV were also (along with the solar panels) hooked up to your engine’s alternator to charge while you were driving?
This was a “coulda, shoulda, woulda” situation. Yes, the starter battery in the PTV is part of my solar system. All I had to do was run the PTV for a while that morning to bring up the charge in the house (BLT) battery.
I was so intent on writing a post I didn’t do that.
Yes, the house battery as well as the two storage batteries in the PTV are charged while driving. I used an inordinate amount of charge that evening and the next morning.
Not having enough charge has rarely occurred so it’s not something I see as a problem.
Happy Wednesday to you, too!
Wonder where we are going next??
Me, too. 🙂
We had a very rainy day today, but it was much needed. Now I won’t have to water the garden for the rest of the week. We’re enjoying fresh tomatoes – tomato sandwiches – yummy! I’ve cut way back on my bread and wheat intake in recent years, but I do buy a crusty loaf or two this time of year to have with those tomatoes. The chipmunks are making good work of my eggplants. Oh well. I don’t mind too much. Life in the country.
Looking forward to see where you end up next.
Yummmmm!
REAL tomatoes …. *sigh*
The best tomatoes I’ve ever eaten, by far, were fresh off the vine in New York state. *sigh*
So enjoy your travel posts, Sue.
doesn’t east US have any interest for you? Ah, and Canada?
Hi, Carol,
I lived all my life in the east and that’s where most of my traveling occurred, Maine to Key West. I’d like to see parts of Canada. I have yet to explore Glacier NP and the northern areas of western states that border Canada. When I run out of camps in the western U.S., then I’ll think about expanding my travels further out.
The photos the last two posts have just been astoundingly (is that a real word?) beautiful. You could get a job with the Colorado Visitors Bureau Sue – you make the state look so inviting.
Your loss of a blog post due to computer memory problems reminded me of something that happened many years ago. I was working for (what used to be) one of the Big 8 accounting firms and we were preparing a response to a Request for Proposal for a huge consulting job – worth almost a million dollars in revenue back then. I was working late into the night in a high rise office all by myself and had not saved my document at regular intervals like I should have (this was in the days before automatic saves). The janitorial staff came into my office and I smiled and said hello and then ignored them while they dusted around my office. All of a sudden my computer screen went black – they had unplugged my computer in order to plug in their vacuum. I lost about 6 hours of work. I remember putting my head on the desk and crying out of frustration and exhaustion. I just shut off the lights and went home and thank heavens, my boss was incredibly understanding in the morning.
Oh, I feel like crying just reading about this! Gee, what an awful thing to go through!
Forgot to thank you for the very nice compliment on my photos. Thanks, Cynthia.
Hope you get a chance to answer my inquiry. I am on the verge of buying a Casita. My one question is….if you had it to do over would you do it again? Has the Casita held up to your expectation? Any advice would be helpful. I assume you get no commission from Casita – Ha!
Rob
Good morning, Robert! I almost missed seeing your comment… whew! Glad I didn’t. I want you to feel welcome here. 🙂
I would buy a Casita again. The BLT has shown some wear and tear but suprisingly little considering the abuse I have given her over the past 5 years.
I don’t get a commission from Casita (as in a percentage). However, if a buyer states that I am the person who led them to choose Casita, the company will send me a check for $200. This has happened twice. 🙂
I encourage any other Casita owners to express there opinion here about the quality of their trailer for the benefit of Robert and anyone else considering a Casita.
I have a new “geezer card” yeah.. When you pay with your discount and no one is
around, do you leave the 50% and your number or what? I haven’t used mine yet.
Am enjoying your blog. Dy from Northern Calif.
Good morning, Dy! Congratulations on attaining your very own Geezer Pass!
Most times when you pay your camping fee, you take a pay envelope from the entrance pay station. On that envelope is a place to write the number from your senior discount pass. Put half the regular camping fee in the envelope and put it in the slot of the “iron ranger.” In some campgrounds the camp host will come to your campsite and collect the envelope.
Upon entering National Parks, you show your card and get in free!
It’s very handy to have your pass number committed to memory in case you misplace or lose your card or you walked from your campsite to the pay station and forgot to bring it with you. I wish you many fantastic camps!
I’m so glad your wonderful adventures continue. It’s always (almost always) a mood elevator to read what’s going on with you and the kids.
I’ve been out and about myself this summer. Finally got to visit Canada’s Maritime provinces.
Take care and happy travels
Phil
Good morning, Phil!
Thank you… Sounds like you’ve had some “happy travels” this summer, too. I appreciate you stopping by. We don’t hear much about the provinces. I know nothing about camping in Canada.
Hmmm, a reply to comment by Sue at 7:20 this morning–gotta be a new post coming soon! 🙂
i agree with you! 🙂
GOOD MORNING, BLOGORINOS!
Today is a travel day for me and the crew. It’s time to pack up, hitch up, and move out.
Typically I have very little idea where we are going!
I hope to have internet in order to be in touch soon and to keep this blog rolling. In the meantime, I turn it over to you!
Be safe, be well, be happy…
Sue
Good morning! RVSue and Crew,
I do hope you’ll find a nice camp spot with non-stressful internet signal.
Have a safe trip!
Hi Fuji-maru!
I enjoy your comments. I have noticed much time passes between your visits to this blog. Are you out traveling or does your work keep you very busy? Do you plan to travel in the USA again? Have you or will you travel in other parts of the world? Do you have your own recreational vehicle in Japan? Were you thinking of getting a Tail Feather? What other ‘campers’ have you studied? Did you have a most special, favorite, place here in the USA? Or a place you didn’t get to but wanted to see?
Pardon me if my questions bother you. I am happy to ‘chat’ with you and am interested in your replies.
MV gal
Hi! MV gal,
Thank you for your reply and happy to know that you are enjoying my comments written in my weird English.
TONS of QUESTIONS, wow!!! 🙂
I’m willing to answer one by one as long as time allows until RVSue will update new post.
As following…
It’s Saturday 9:28 am now in Japan and I’m at home.
I have plenty of time and I’m not tied up except for a period when scratching my head. 🙂
Q:”I have noticed much time passes between your visits to this blog. Are you out traveling or does your work keep you very busy?”
A:No, I’m neither out traveling nor very busy.
I could post comments when I’m not scratching my head. 🙂
So you notice time interval of my each comment. “Window period” each applies/is allotted to my time for studying English.
It needs VAST of time to just post one comment for poor English man. Even if at this writing now.
But I’m truly glad to be able to study with you all at blogorinland. Of coure, head teacher is former teacher, RVSue. 🙂
What I noticed is there may be several months in between you joining the blogerinos again. Once you are back, you are so kind to stay and ‘chat’ here and there in the comments of a post. When you are away, many of us miss you and have written to see if you have ‘stopped by’.
We are (I am) happy to read your messages whenever you can join in. Here’s a funny thing about language that you probably know, everyone learned the way they speak from their ‘tribe’. Every area of every country in the world has different dialects, accents and phrasing of the same thing. Many times we, in the Northwest of USA, need to ask for clarification of a phrase from the Northeast or the Southeast or Texas. There is even wording differences from city to city in the same state. Sometimes it is very funny. Sometimes it is embarrassing. But it is interesting! I would imagine the same is true in Japan. If something that is written here on this blog is not understood, please ask to have it explained. We have done that here lots of times. Sometimes, for fun, we write as if we are speaking in an accent of a certain part of the country. I noticed you have many phrases that make you seem like a ‘local’. Sometimes we write using what my generation would have called ‘slang’. Not bad. Just informal. Some people may use different words because of time and space. Your English is quite good. I am impressed because many of us also scratch our heads, too. Getting another language is a challenge and English can be challenging enough as it is.
Any how, (<< there's a funny phrase) thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts and words. I really enjoy what people write when we are between Sue's posts. It helps pass the time and Sue can take her time while we 'play' on her playground. She can see we are here, having fun, learning things and eagerly, but patiently, looking forward to her next posting.
8:30 pm Seattle time. 🙂 (Friday)
MV gal
Sorry for my absence.
I’ve read every single word of your above comment.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your feelings of warm kindness and for all of your compliments.
What I write in English comes from the Internet. Just add a pinch of salt. 🙂
I almost forget to write that my long absence comes from irregular at my work.
And I want to add my comment in the blogorinland (blogorinoland).
“I would imagine the same is true in Japan.”
That’s right. We Japanese also has different dialects, accents, phrasing and wording of the same thing from region to region.
If write in the standard language, I/we can not identify the particular region where the writer lives/is in/form.
“Sometimes, for fun, we write as if we are speaking in an accent of a certain part of the country.”
It’s just the same with our country. I/we can not assume where the writer lives/is in/form in written English at all, but can identify the exact region in written Japanese. I wonder why do you distinguish my ‘Janglish'(Japanese English) from native/local English. I belive phrasing that Japanese use is different from those who speak English.
“Getting another language is a challenge and English can be challenging enough as it is.”
I’ll say. But it’s very fun to learn English include ‘slang’. To tell the truth, it’s difficult to understand the English nuance, especially mimetic words, ‘he’, ‘Ha!’, ‘poof!’, ‘Gee’, etc.
I wish my travel paths would cross RVSue’s/Blogorinos’ route and chat with her/you in the future with advance communication. It’s no exaggeration to say that my studying English is for that occasion.
Wait a minute! No need to study English to greet/frolic with Bridget and Reggie! Ha! 🙂
Q2:”Do you plan to travel in the USA again?”
A2:Why not? and sure I’d love to!
I’m very fond of America and American especially the secluded and quiet camp site surrounded spectacular view without any clingers like where RVSue loves too.
I am obtaining much more good tips about RV traveling in the US and receiving news of campgrounds by reading RVSue’s posts and watching many photos taken by her.
My wife and I have traveled in the US five times by a rental RV in past five years. Recent travel was coast to coast and return to West coast in 2013. It’s approximately 16,000 miles and 50 days.
Sometimes we traced the super road that RVSue might have driven and boondocked the same spot where once she have been right here!
Link to “Maps of My past RV Travel within the US.”
It’s funny that, in your section on your blog on the history of the RV in the USA, you started with the Mayflower. Clever and true!
Thank you for stopping by an article”The History of RVs in the US.”
Q3:”Have you or will you travel in other parts of the world?”
A3:Yes, I have. But I have no plans to travel in other parts of the world now.
Mentioned above, I do love America and American.
I’ve travel within the US by a rent-a-car around 30 years ago at first. I just remember an experience that it had taken approx 2 hrs to done the paperwork before going for a drive due to my BAD English. But I had never missed a single word “Nice Japanese!”. Since then I’ve been studying English little by little.
I’ve one business trip experience through the US to Mexico. There has been the JVC TV Production plants in Tijuana for NAFTA(North American Free Trade Agreement) So, I had been in JVC as an engineer for 27 years after graduated from university. But I’m a freelance now, a little while after JVC was merger and acquisition by Kenwood.
I’ve billion of business trip experiences within Asia( Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia) and had been on an overseas assignment in China.
When I was a single, I’ve decided on buying a new car in former West Germany and traveled around Europe with my friend in my brand-new BMW. It’s an awesome experience that I picked up my car at the HQ of BMW within the great cylindrical building in Bayern Munich.
My wife is a nurse and have gone on sightseeing trips around the world more times and places than me.
That’s a funny coincidence. I have a set of JVC speakers and a set of Kenwood speakers for my stereo.
Gosh, you have done quite a lot of traveling!
Have you ever rented an RV in another country besides USA?
No. I’ve rented an RV just in the US.
Q4:”Do you have your own recreational vehicle in Japan?”
A4:Yes, I do. I own an RV made in the US.
27 feet long Class C Motorhome with a slide out.
I visited the manufacturer of my RV. Here is a article “RV Factory Tour” at that time.
You could find Pix of my rig If you search with a key word “Japanese RVer”. There is a photo of my RV with Mt. Fuji in the background on wordpress or blogspot.
Yes! I found it. Really nice! Good photo shot, too. Google first sent me to Japanese RV and it showed a rig that unfolds to a two story class c!
Q5:”Were you thinking of getting a Tail Feather? What other ‘campers’ have you studied?”
A5:Yes, I was/am.
My Class C RV is a gas guzzler with under 10 mpg, you know. Please refer to an article “The Mileage Chart in the US and in Japan“.
It’s hard to manage her hobby and my RVing at the same time with low budget and with cheap maintenance costs in Japan.
That’s why I’m seriously thinking a light weight RV. And I have to satisfy with the proposal for my wife’s favorite. It’s a sports car. So, I’m planning to build a light weight travel trailer/toy hauler towing with her Porsche.
The trailer must haul my heavy motorcycle like a rock, because PTV is hers and I would like to take a different route someimes.
So, Casita/Scamp could not haul a motorcycle, and other toy haulers are too heavy to tow with a sports car or too wide(102”) to tow in Japan.
There has been no other ways left to us but to go with building an original trailer or getting a Tail Feather for our BLT.
Have you thought about an enclosed cargo trailer that you customize yourself? Like a Wells Cargo brand or others? They weigh about 900# empty. It would hold your motorbike and when removed, function (if designed well) as a ‘camper’. They have ramp back doors. The bigger issue is towing with a Porsche. Looking at your blog, it looks like you prefer the 911 body style? They sit really low to the ground so some camping areas won’t be accessible without real damage to the car. Can they be adapted for a tow package? I didn’t think it was recommended. But if that works out, wow… what fun!
Yes, I customize myself.
Wells Cargo is good for a pickup track but for Porsche 911.
Yes, the bigger issue is towing with a Porsche with low clearance and low hitch load.
Almost all camping areas in Japan are accessible without real damage to the car. 🙂 But we love primitive camping areas without clingers.
They never be adapted for a tow package with Porsche 911. S0 I make myself. Trust me, I’m an engineer! 🙂
Please refer to an article ”Porsche Camper“.
Q6:”Did you have a most special, favorite, place here in the USA? Or a place you didn’t get to but wanted to see?”
A7:I love everywhere in the US, even if it would be in NY. So, I’m still chasing a dream of ”RV Manhattan Tour.” 🙂 Please refer to an article ”Route to Manhattan by RV“.
But as mentioned above, I/we love the secluded and quiet camp site surrounded spectacular view without any clingers. No such place exists in small Japan.
The most special/favorite place of my wife is the Gulf Islands Nat’l Seashore,.
Me… Neighboring area of the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness Study Area and Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, NM is the best of the best!
That place is, Nothing exists, even animals and bugs. And NO SOUND! Only VAST Land spread-out with various-shaped weird hoodoos who speak something without voice.
That sounds like a very spiritual place. A good spot to fill your soul and clear your mind.
Yes, very spiritual place.
Please refer to an article ”The King of Wings, NM“.
DONE my homework! Any questions are welcome.
Sorry MV gal, I’m not at the grade in English for ‘chat’ with. I was just conveying my thoughts one-sidedly, not trying to understand you and other blogorinos.
I don’t know how to apologize my frequent comments to you all.
BTW, Can I get an A+ in writing English? 🙂
Yes! Thank-you. It’s sleep time here. Bye 🙂
You are welcome! MV gal,
Good night!
Hope you are headed to the Routt National Forest. It’s amazing up there.
Happy travels, Sue and Crew.
How has the weather been in Colorado the past few weeks you have been there?
I am planning to spend next summer in Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, but in driving through them in the past couple of weeks, it has been very hot and I do not do well in hot weather. Thanks.
I have been in CO for the past two months and it has been hot. Usually 7,000′ is good enough for a cool summer – this has not been one of them. What will next summer be like? If it is like this one the you will need to be looking for camps at over 8,000′ is you want to stay in the mid to low 80s for the high temperatures.
Thanks. Even northern Montana was hot this year. Guess I might have to go back to the coast of Washington and Oregon next summer. I was there in July and we even had to wear jackets!
GOOD MORNING AGAIN!
Last night the crew and I camped on a mountain — beautiful, serene, and no internet. We came down off the mountain this morning. I’m typing this while parked alongside the road, on our way to a new camp. I hope to be able to blog soon. These mountains are challenging for a blogger!
Bye for now,
Sue
Good Morning! RVSue and Crew, and Blogorinos!
and Good Night from Japan at 1:00 am,
and Have a Good Day!
Thanks for the update! I’m glad you had such a nice overnight camp, and hope the one you find next is wonderful, too.
So glad you found an awesome camp. I hope that the next one is even better. You won’t be hearing from me for about a week, as I am going to the beach and will not get any cell reception there! I hope that you find a wonderful boondock site, with internet. of course! 😉
Hey Sue,
Not sure if you’re still in the vicinity of Green Mountain Reservoir but I would definitely avoid it this weekend. One of my young friends at work told me he and a bunch of friends will be up there for a fishing trip/ bachelor party. It’s sure to get noisey!
Beautiful pics, Sue. I’ve passed where you are staying on the way to work in Steamboat. There are some good boondock sites when you get to the top of Rabbit Ears Pass.
Forest Road 302 is passable for your size vehicles, not my 32′ Class A. County 19 also has some areas. Stock up in Kremmling (gas, water, propane, food) because there’s nothing until you go DOWN the big hill to Steamboat, and its more expensive.
If you need a mechanic in Steamboat see the couple that operate Black Diamond Automotive on the west side of town, at the intersection going to Craig. They fixed a gas line leak, rotated tires, and other things very reasonably priced and quickly, too. It is a very small 2 man garage and his wife wo-mans the phones. They took EXCELLENT care of my car. Nice folks!
Sue, I know you usually dont go to places that people suggest going to but ever
since you arrived in Colorado I been wanting to tell you about my colorado hunting
days back in the 70’s…..
we hunted what everyone called the flatlands…..north of Glenwood Springs….
you go up and up and up on switchbacks til you come out to flat country and camp
where ever you find a place to stop…..take road 602 out of Glenwood Springs and that road takes you to the top to the very edge of where they dont allow vehicles…only way in is by backpacking or horse….
this time of year there should be very little snow but tons of places to camp free and cool to boot…..
maybe one of these years you can make it up there…..
I never did kill anything on 6 years of hunting up there…I think I was enjoying the scenery too much and taking too many pictures…..HA
hope your doing well and we think of you often…
chuck
ps….6 days here of 100 and above heat so we stay inside with the chihuahuas….
Hi Sue,
I am pretty sure you are the person who blogged about finding a camping spot where there is a requirement for a minimum of a 10 gallon septic holding tank. I have spent hours on your site, searching for that post, but can’t find it. I am trying to figure out what type of toilet system to use, so this information is really important to me!
I do hope you see this question, and I’ll look for new posts of yours to re-ask it if I don’t see an answer. 🙂
Thanks for all the wonderful pictures and stories,
Parker
LTVA (long term visitors areas) on BLM(bureau of land management)land have the rule about the holding tank you’re referring to. RV’s must be “self-contained ” as part of their carry in/carry out policy. That probably came up while Sue was in Arizona, though those areas extend beyond that state’s borders. In order to stay on those lands one would need more than a porta potty or even composting toilet, if I understand the rules correctly. Were a person in authority there to see someone wanted to camp there and did not have grey/black holding tanks they wouldn’t be allowed to. I am not aware of anywhere else having that rule , so think unless you want to camp there whatever system you think will suit your needs would work.
That is not true of all LTVA areas, just 4 that I read about.
Such beautiful purple flowers – love that setting. How nice to find so much water to camp near. Dangling your feet in the cool water sounds lovely!
Surprising how a feet-dangle in cool water can perk one up!
Thanks for your wonderful adventures you share with us. Very informative.