Our new camp at Dome Rock is better.
I choose this spot because the road to it is crappy.
Write “crappy road” on your list of What Makes a Good Boondock. The more difficult the road to your site, the better your odds that you won’t have someone pull up next to you. I frequently remind myself of this basic principle.
When the Perfect Tow Vehicle drags the Best Little Trailer over washboard and rocks and through narrow turns crowded by brush, I’ve learned to say, “This is great!”
The crew and I try to do the Quartzsite thing.
You know, wander around the booths trying to find things ya’ gotta’ have.
I can’t get in the mood. Maybe it’s the lack of crowds. Quartzsite isn’t Quartzsite without crowds of people stumbling around, everyone bent at the neck (see guy above) looking for “buys.” It’s like a party is set up, everything laid out, flags a-flying, and the hosts sit waiting for the guests to show up.
As usual, the biggest booth, the one with tables of tools and RV stuff, is the most popular. The booths selling tee-shirts, strings of beads, and brightly-colored tropical dresses aren’t doing well at all. Well, it’s Monday. I hope they make enough on the weekends to pay the rent.
We walk past the booth that sells stuff for pets.
We try to, that is. Spike has planted his feet in the ground like it’s cement, and he’s leaning at the end of the taut leash in the direction of the pet booth. “No, Spike. C’mon, we’re not going in there.”
Spike loves to shop! Who knew?
On the way back to camp I stop at Love’s Travel Center to buy gas ($3.25 a gallon). I pull around back and drop off a bag of trash in one of the dumpsters. I look for the water and dump area for future reference. A whole lot of digging is going on beyond barriers. . .
Hmm, must be the dump area. I’ll find another place. It’s easy to find RV services, like a dump station, in Quartzsite. It makes a good place for trying boondocking for the first time.
Okay, moving right along . . .
I pull into RV Lifestyles.
I go to the service desk at the back of the store. A burly guy in blue Dickies decorated with grease asks if he can help me.
“Hi. I have a van that I use to pull a travel trailer. I’d like to have Sirius radio in both. Do you do that sort of thing?” I ask.
“No, we don’t.”
“Do you know who in Quartzsite would do that for me?”
He reaches for a business card out of a display of cards.
I add, “I’ve already been to the satellite tv place on Main Street and they don’t do radios.”
“I don’t know anyone else in town who might be able to help you with that,” he says, putting the card back in the display.
Oh well, looks like we’re going to Yuma again this winter . . .
Walking through the store I see a step rug for $7.99.
Great, they have it in blue.
Back at camp I put it on the step. It has grommets on the underside that a spring hooks into. Easy to put on.
Maybe this will help my boy.
“Look, Spikey. Now you’ve got something to grip when you jump inside.”
Sometimes Spike slips and falls back to the ground. I hate when that happens.
The hummingbird feeder is a success!
I had it rigged up to hang next to the back window but that made the hummers nervous and I felt like I couldn’t move when they were at the window. So I find a creosote bush with a strong branch.
I sit in my lounger reading and hear this weird ripping sound. I look up and watch a hummingbird zip upwards at top speed, making an arc fifty feet or more above my head. On this YouTube video you can see several species of hummers and the male’s courtship display and sounds. (The one I hear at camp is the first one on the video.)
I cook up a treat for the crew.
Lately I’ve been buying ground turkey meat which I cook for Bridget and Spike. Did I tell you this already? Gee, I hope I’m not repeating myself here. I confuse what I plan to write with what I actually wrote. Anyway . . .
Boy, do Bridget and Spike love this turkey treat!
Spike hops up and down, lifting all fours off the ground, like he’s on springs, barking, eyes bright. Bridget gets excited, too, but she controls herself.
I dole out one ladle-full each on separate plates. The rest I put in zip-locs for the next three days. I buy it in the form of “logs” when I can find them that way. They store nicely in my little freezer. I’d rather give meat to the crew, rather than some poison from China.
I don’t give them a turkey treat on days that they get rotisserie chicken.
Yikes! A landslide on the PTV! Get a shovel! Quick! Mayday! Mayday!
I got some tracking emails from Amazon.
My KEEN sandals arrive in Quartzsite on Thursday! I hope they fit. Buying shoes online is always a risk. If you’re one of the readers who ordered KEEN shoes or sandals through my blog, I thank you and I hope yours fit you, too. I have some other stuff coming in that I’ll show you in a future post.
That reminds me . . . I forgot to show you my Bear Paws!
I love these boots. Actually I use them more like slippers. Even in the desert, my feet get cold, usually in the early morning or in the hours after dark. I have them on right now as I type this.
BEARPAW Women’s Emma Short Boot
My Bear Paws come in handy. First thing in the morning, when Spike needs to get out the door quickly, I slip these comfy things on in a jiffy, and out we go!
I never was one for big, floppy, pink, puffy, made-for-women-to-look-stupid slippers.
If yer gonna’ boondock, ya’ should boondock like ya’ mean it! Right? Get a hat, some boots . . . and don’t forget your Roy Orbison shades!
Did you see the full moon?
It was quite a sight rising up over the town of Quartzsite . . . an orange orb so big it looked like I could reach out and touch it.
I saw it through the back window. I would’ve taken a photo but I was in bed reading at the time with the crew asleep . . . Bridget snuggled next to me and Spike stretched out at my feet. I didn’t want to disturb them.
Here it is the following morning . . . a lot smaller in the western sky.
Isn’t it a wonderful world we live in?
rvsue
MY SINCERE THANKS TO EVERY RVSUE SHOPPER!
Here are a few samples of recent Amazon purchases by readers of this blog:
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Canon Speedlite 320EX Flash for Canon SLR Cameras
Portable Folding Charcoal BBQ Grill with Carrying Bag
Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp
Hamilton Beach Single Serve Scoop Coffee Maker, Stainless Steel
Sanford Prismacolor Colored Pencil Set, 48/Tin
“REAR VIEW MIRROR”
February 4, 2013: This post includes one of my favorite photos of Bridget’s smile.
“Locomotive Rock, drug busts, canine pals, and dreams of a Mexican beach!”
Gulp…I’m first?…Wow, I’m sitting waiting to call in to see if I get work today so I thought I’d check.
Love the boots, I’ve got mucks that I use for slippers outside, with fire ants I’ve got to have something to beat them down with!
I’ve heard so much about the Q but I’m too much of a hermit to face the crowds.
Glad you got to see the moon it was overcast here and I’ve been waiting for it to use my new sx50 sooper zoom.
Bridget and Spike look like they are enjoying themselves at you new campsite!
Hi, Mindy,
Ever lead a parade? Well, now you are!
Where is “here?” Northeast Georgia? I always want to place my readers in a locale. Makes you seem more real.
Yeah, the crew likes it here. No leashes!
Here is NE GA just outside Jefferson and I commute to Athens for work.
Love the picture of the crew. Everything looks so peaceful. Be glad when my days are like that. We are going to have to do some work to the 1997 Vectra that we bought, but we love it. Husband has gone from couch potato to wanting to full-time in one weekend. All because I found your blog. Thanks RVSue. Quartzsite amazes me, it is definitley a place I have to put on my bucket list, but probably not during the height of the season, I am like you, do not want a lot of crowds. Stay safe
A 1997 Vectra! Congratulations and have fun making it yours.
Give your husband a hug for me… I love it when people take action on recharting their life’s path. I’m happy for both of you!
Quartzsite is on my bucket list, too. May not be able to go in my T@B, where my bathroom consists of a Luggable Loo, unless I stay in a campground. I want to go “west” at some point. So few vacation days… Hubby is a stay-at-home, for the most part, so I’ll be going solo. It’ll happen….some day.
Hi, Crystal…
If you’re still here… Where are you? I’m curious how far you have to go to “go west.”
Hooray! You made it to the big “Q” before all the crowds, but I imagine it did feel a lot less like a circus but almost lonesome with all the empty booths! Just wait…. when did we go? January? It was packed then! I really liked the carpeted step cover… thinking about asking Santa for one, well The MotherShip needs 3…. but! Finally the 4 days of rain has ceased and we woke up to a colorful sunrise and it’s still gorgeous!
Love your new campsite! Those mean old bumpy, twisty roads will surely keep away the “clingers”! Keep on keeping on Sue!
Hi, Geri,
Four days of rain… I see in my oft-unreliable widget that we’re due for some rain soon. I doubt we’ll have four days, more like four minutes!
The rug step cover I bought looks good but I think it’s cheap material. The ones at Amazon cost a little more. From the reviews, they’re probably better. Spike hasn’t slipped yet since I put it on the step.
My two weather sites have gone from saying 4 days with rain to 2 on one site… and 1 with maybe showers on another day on the other site. Personally I hope it fizzles out as Mugsy isn’t a big fan of rain… and neither am I.
I like rain on the roof at night and sun in my face in the morning.
Rain while I sleep is fine… rain just when Mugsy needs a walk is not!! LOL
Is that like a flea market?
Rug on the step looks good and will brush off their paws on the way in. Unless of course….the do the “look mah….no stairs” and leap!
Bear paws are so durable for inside and outside. I wear mine in the winter…when SaraAnn has to do her business.
Hi, Cinandjules,
Yes, Quartzsite turns into a huge flea market in January and February. A “big top” tent goes up, vendors set up, concessionaires… You can even get a fried twinkie! Of course several booths offer gems and rocks. Some people love the Big Q, others hate it.
At this time of year there are only a few tents set up.
I think the “look ma, no stairs” leap is what gets Spike in trouble. He tries to save himself when he doesn’t make it, and his paws slide off the step.
You have Bear Paws, too! Why did I wait so long to get mine? I could’ve used them when the snow and temperature fell at our Glass Creek Camp. Gee, that wasn’t very long ago . . .
I bet you miss SaraAnn and she misses you.
I miss going to flea markets.
Yep peers….I wear 5 1/2 women but usually buy kids size. Most don’t know that the largest kids shoes is a woman’s 7. I do most of my clothes shopping in the boys section. It’s cheaper…
Columbia jacket $15 for me…same jacket for Jules $55.
OMG I can’t tell you how much I miss my Saraann. I can see her and talk to her via skype. Jules has to wipe the screen cuz she licks it. I miss Jules too but she understands …the kids don’t.
Jules is getting better at clipping nails!!! They all treat her like a substitute teacher!
Hah. Enjoy your evening.
The largest kid’s shoe is a size 7? I didn’t know that. I wear size 7.
Most kids shoes ” in stock” is a 6 which is a woman’s 8. They go as high as 7 which is a 9!
They come in widths also but I’m not sure of the measurements.
So next time check the kids section…. You’re bound to save some moolah!
I’m sure you’ve heard that, when out in nature, one needs to shake their boots out vigorously before putting them on. One never knows what critter might try to stealth camp in your Bear Paws!
Will do!
I picked up a pair of sandals on my living room floor one time and out comes a scorpion. Those little devils are all over this desert. If you are ever stung by one you’ll never forget it. My wife was stung about 2 years ago, took her a week to get over the pain. If it’s cool outside, they will come in seeking warmth. It only takes a 1/8″ crack somewhere or a vent and “Hello”. I spray a perimeter around my home with a Harris scorpion killer. It seems effective. Amazon has it, so does Home Depot and Ace.
I’ll try to remember to be on the look-out for them.
Hi Sue!! This is Sheri from the big hug a couple of posts ago…anyway, darn your “rear view mirror” posts…I read one a couple of nights ago and that led me to one of your first posts and …that led me to read from the beginning all over again!! So, I am almost caught up to you…again!!LOL…it was just as good a read the second time..maybe better..do you ever go back and read your beginning posts and marvel at how far you have come? Hugs again!!
Hi, Sheri,
That’s so funny! RVSue reruns! I’m flattered that you went through all those posts again.
Yes, I do go back and marvel. When I’m trying to choose a post for the Rear View Window, I get caught up in the past and read old posts until I remember what I intended to do. For me it’s wonderful because I not only remember what I wrote about, but also those things that I left out.
The crew and I have come a long way, and I hope we go a long way into the future!
Loved the; “Boondock like ya mean it” attitude! And taking “the road less traveled”, is good too…unless ya hear duelling banjos….
Glad you are in good spirits and the crew was treated!
I told you I would order from Amazon through you and am deciding on the Olympian Wave heater for my little Fiberglass Uhaul Ct 13 Camper. Just not sure how to hook it up yet, but they are on sale! Hurray!
Oh by the way, Not on subject but I saw a documentary on PBS about the Indian Relay Horse Races out west, you may be interested in seeing this if you are ever in those areas at the time when they are racing. It is incredible!
Take Care Sue
Hi, Diane,
Glad you found a sale… That’s great! You can get the hook-up kit, too, as you probably know. Thanks for remembering my blog when you order.
You stirred my curiosity so I googled the Indian Relay Horse Races. That’s something I would like to see!
Liking your new spot. If you didn’t see it Bayfield Bunch “captured” you on the way to Slab City yesterday. Check his blog…
By the way regarding trash. For your blog readers who might be following along, trash becomes a big issue at the free BLM sites especially during the “big show”, and (in response) many of the gas stations lock-up their dumpsters. There is actually free & legal trash disposal just north of town where you can dump as much as you’d like ->Trash can be dumped at the Refuse Transfer Station north of Quartzsite just past mile marker 115 on Highway 95. It’s open from 7:30 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday. There’s no fee to dump household trash at the transfer station.
Nina
Hi, Nina,
I did see Al’s drive-by photos of our camp. How does he drive on the interstate and take photos, too? He had to take them from the driver’s window since he was going westward and we’re south of the interstate. I laughed to see the way he zoomed in!
(If anyone wants to see the pics, go to The Bayfield Bunch, November 18, 2013 post.)
I’ve been to the transfer station… handy, especially for those camped in the Plumosa Road area. One easy way to find it is to look for the cell tower or whatever tower. It’s right next to that.
Great posts on self-testing, Nina! You always provide excellent information on your blog.
Hi, Sue,
Glad you are all by your lovely self, boondockin’ like you really mean it! LOL
You are so funny.
Hey! I just had to write to acknowledge that you acknowledged the Amazon purchase I made. Yeah! I think because I don’t understand all the magical, mystical ins and outs of technology based shopping, I don’t think you will get the credit each time I shop. So, now my mind is at ease. And, the shopping has just begun…LOL
Here’s an interesting story for you: My brother who is a car camper (much like Les? whom you met in the WA forest), and he has set out to winter in Texas.
After a brief and unexpected visit from him a week ago, he left for parts unknown. My concern is that the man just underwent quad-bypass surgery in Oregon about a month ago! Having sailed solo around the world with frequent sailing excursions throughout the Pacific, he is a tough salty. But, if there are any praying kind out there, a prayer for Mike would be appreciated. With him, no news is usually good news, but he’s alone.
Hey, Spike! Your momma has made your life a bit easier! You deserve it! Love to you and the crew, Sue.
Hi, Diann,
What a guy! I love your brother’s spunk. Open-heart surgery is often followed by depression. His road trip sounds like a good antidote. He’s out “there” doing stuff, and I say, “Good for Mike,” even though you probably don’t need the worry.
My praying readers will join me, I’m sure, in asking for protection and guidance for Mike.
Thank you for ordering Amazon here. I appreciate it very much. Every time anyone leaves my site to go shopping, Amazon knows. I wish a little box would pop up after every order, one that says, “RVSue thanks you!” Then you’d know.
I will add your brother to my prayer list. It’s difficult, I know, not knowing where he is and how he’s coping. You probably want to “mother” him, too. I know I would.
Thanks, Crystal and all! Yeah. Mike is a very independent guy who does believe.
I love Spike, Bridget and RvSue too; the best Blog!
🙂
Hi Sue,
I had a moon just like that in Oklahoma!
I’ve been giving Lacy, my Very slender and small Standard Poodle, a scoop of non-fat cottage cheese every day. I use non-fat because it has more calcium. I’m not concerned that she’s so slim, but I do want her to have strong bones. I may try the ground turkey, too. Darn, I just shopped at Walmart this morning so I’ll have to wait ’til next trip.
Happy Tuesday in Quartzite.
Really? The same moon?
Hi, Mary-Pat! Non-fat cottage cheese. I don’t even splurge on that for myself! Lacy lives the good life. 🙂
I figure it this way… A dog’s life is so short. Why shouldn’t they have some meat every day? They’re dogs!
Happy Tuesday in Oklahoma.
My sisters think I am crazy when I bake chicken for my two dogs, add peas,or green beans and sometimes rice to the chicken and they love it. Been doing that since they were little pups. If I were a dog, I’d like that too…just saying.
Oh, I can’t believe it! We just passed by you! Just arrived at Dome Rock and was telling my husband I hoped to see your Casita. And we did! So hard not to stop and visit but we are obeying your wishes 🙂 We in other Casita pulled by white Trailblazer with cartopper (in case you’d like to drop by 🙂
Hi, kgdan!
I think I’ve seen your rig… maybe at Alabama Hills? As much as I’m sure I’d enjoy meeting you and your husband, thanks for hanging back. If you stopped by, I’d be compelled to write about it, then someone else would stop by and I’d feel compelled… etc. This is a popular place!
Gosh, I feel like such a snot being this way, but I have to!
Enjoy Dome Rock . . .
Don’t think we’ve been there; we just arrived from Laughlin .If you don’t mind will take a pic maybe:-).
Yeah, a drive-by like Al took! I laugh to think about it.
Hi Sue,
Did you see me hitchin’ up the gold Toyo and the Casita last Sat? I saw you drive by heading to town.
I was looking at Sat. radio too. Amazon has them. I’ve been with out NPR too many times. I went thru withdrawals down Hwy. 93! I was looking at the Al Carte subscription. 50 channels for $8/ month. I don’t need 150 channels!
Aren’t many of the radios plug-and-play?
Hide the credit card from Spike!
Love the hummers and the horseshoe mating flight. The dogfights are pretty animated too.
Glad your life is back in harmony.
Robert
No, I didn’t see you, Robert! Welcome to Dome Rock!
Amazon has a sale going on right now with Sirius radios. The 50 channel deal you mention sounds good.
I think the hummers were having a little “dogfight” today. Or maybe it was male and female chasing each other. Interesting creatures.
Glad you found a better spot. Good advice about bad roads. I’ve heard a lot about the Q too….seems awfully big and busy. Turkey meat? What a great treat. Don’t tell my Katie…she’ll demand her share.
Hi, Dawn and Katie,
Quartzsite isn’t big and busy in the off-season. There are huge RV parks here with people stacked like cukes in a produce section, but the area off Dome Rock isn’t crowded at all. Not many folks around the booths (tents).
Nasty, nasty, nasty; pouring and cold here. Two days now. Sure wish we were there in Quartzsite. Can’t wait to use the dog stroller while looking around for bargains. Glad you found a better site. Looks nice.
Hi Bill and Ann (on the Oregon coast),
Yeah, the dog stroller will be perfect for shopping here. I couldn’t enjoy myself with Bridget and Spike pulling this way and that, trying to sniff every message, and there must’ve been a lot of them. I took the crew back to the PTV, thinking I’d start all over again, and then I lost interest.
You’re running down the home stretch. Soon you’ll be heading into the desert where it’s DRY!
Years ago when I bought my XM radio, I used a website called “xmfanstore.com.” I told them I wanted to do it the cheapest way to use it in my home and RV. I ended up with a receiver… plus a cradle to hook it to the RV radio cassette player (shows how long ago it was)/cigarette lighter plug, and a speaker set up – 120v – that it plugged into for the house. Later I switched from the cassette player system to one that played through the FM radio on a particular station number. The guys at this website were super helpful and know all the various options. The thing is that you can stream XM/Sirius on your computer once you are paying the monthly charge. Not sure how this affects your mifi set up limitations on time online. Another thing you want to research is which package to buy. Personally I would buy the a la carte – where you choose which 50 channels you want. I found that I really had little interest in the vast majority of the channels. I don’t care about sports or Howard Stern. Which package of programs that you want also affects which radio receiver you choose…
Hi, Connie and Mugsy,
I don’t know what it is, but whenever I try to get into the satellite radio information, my eyes glaze over and my head swims.
The streaming feature would not be good for my mifi limit, as you guessed.
What I want is Sirius in the PTV off the PTV’s radio. Then I want a wall-mounted radio in the BLT that I can manage via a remote, so whether I’m at my back table writing online or in bed reading, I can adjust volume and stations.
I’d like it mounted on the wall between the side window and the cabinet over the refrigerator (for those Casita people who can visualize it). I need to find a responsible outfit that I can trust to cut into that wall and set every thing up.
I’m like you. I don’t care about sports at all, nor the shock jocks. I’d like some talk shows from left wing to right wing, some NPR once in a while, the BBC news and talk, and some good instrumental music to enjoy and to keep me from getting into a snit over the noise of generators, OHVs, and prospector machines. LOL!
That would require two radios and two subscriptions… which gets very expensive. You will need something that you can take back and forth – between the two. Between two cars is easy, because both would already have a radio to power it – and connect a receiver to by cigarette lighter power. But I can’t see how you would add a typical “car radio set” in your casita – as it doesn’t have a “dashboard.” The usual home docking system that most use is 120, not 12v. One can spend hours being confused by the stuff offered for sale trying to figure out if it would work for you. Some radio shop in AZ might be helpful with the installation, but they will have no idea of all the options and likely only sell basic systems which won’t help you. That is why you need to talk to experts like the guys XMfanstore. They would be able to quickly tell you if what you want exists in a way that fits your budget. Their phone number is 877-496-7234.
I have been in Quartzite for the last three weeks. In fact, I was out at Dome Rock yesterday to give my dog, Betty, a bit of a run.
I went into an R.V. park for a few months since it turns out to be cheaper than putting fuel into my R.V. I boondocked most of the way out here from N.J. I went 5000 miles to get here, which is less than 3000 miles. Until I find some reasonable , not outrageous, prices on solar, I will stay put.
Hi, Norman,
That’s what’s great about RVing. If you want to boondock by yourself, you can. If you’d rather be in an RV Park, you can do that. It’s whatever works for you at the time. Some of these parks have scheduled activities and all kinds of extras that people enjoy but that I, personally, don’t care about.
I don’t understand . . . “I went 5000 miles to get here, which is less than 3,000 miles.” ?
I’m thinking that he meant that he didn’t go a direct route. Rather like last year when I drove from ND to AZ… via the Washington DC suburbs.
I read your “Rearview Mirror” and discovered my comment from Feb. I disappeared into Baja right after posting and didn’t have wifi for the next 2 months. We are leaving in January for 3 months. A new cell tower meant we had cell service and we will be able to have wifi this time. We camp south of LaPaz where it’s warm all winter. It’s a long, nerve-racking drive but great when you get there. There are about 3 dozen Americans and Canadians who boonock for the winter on the beach and up a huge wash. Others come for shorter periods. There is plenty of room for solitary souls to set up away from others. It’s cheap living – except for the gas to get there.
Hi, Penny,
Interesting. You camp south of La Paz? La Paz, BOLIVIA? Good heavens, I bet that is a “long, nerve-wracking drive” !!!!
I’d like to see Mexico again. However, I admit I’m a little leery of the drug thugs chopping off heads and shooting people. Maybe I have an overabundance of pride in the PTV and the BLT, but wouldn’t they make great smuggling vehicles for illegals or drugs? Maybe not across the border into the U.S., but on the way to the border…
Nice to hear from you again, Penny.
LATER>>> Well, I received an email from Mick who also is my geography coach in addition to being my tech guy. In that email he sent a link to a google map showing that LA PAZ IS IN MEXICO!!! (I guess he wanted to be discreet so as not to embarrass me.) Gee, and here I am planning my itinerary to Bolivia. Haha!
Hi Sue!! So glad you’re back in Az.!! My hubby and I just arrived in Yuma. I have a dentist appointment tomorrow in Algodones. I ordered 3 of the foldable fencing sections that you have( a couple weeks back )for use at the park we are at in Tucson. I just love them!! They are perfect around the R.V. for the dogs!! Now if we accidently open the door and “Buddy” sneaks out–he’s surrounded!!! Love the Puppia dog harness too! Now I’m getting ideas for footwear reading about your recent purchases!!! Shop On!!!! Hugs to the pups. Dixie
Hi, Dixie,
Nice to hear from you. Whenever I think of you, I think of rain! 🙂
I remember seeing the orders for the foldable pen sections and the soft harness. Thank you!
I agree… The pen is just the thing for RVing dogs. I only have two sections so they don’t go all the way around the BLT. I can see where that would be a good set-up when camped in a park. Having to get out the leashes every time the door opens gets old!
Hugs back to Buddy. Have fun at the dentist tomorrow! 🙂
It sure is Sue.
I don’t know how to take that, Marcia. LOL!
Too funny! I think she’s responding to your last sentence “it’s a wonderful world we live in.” ??
Yes! It’s a wonderful world we live in. Should have clarified…
🙂
Sue, I have been reading your blog now for about two weeks. It relaxes me and I am proud to know you, in a distant sort of way. Boondock On!
Welcome to my blog, DeadEye! I’m proud to have you along for the ride . . .
Sue —
I LOVE my XM radio — have had it almost since they came out forever ago. I opted for XM because back then Sirius wasn’t as “kind and gentle” as XM and XM had a lifetime subscription option. I’ve got it in both cars, with one of them being portable so I can put it in my trailer or take it into my house.
I also have an extra XM unit. One of their first portable units was called a “My-fi XM to Go” by Delphi. It’s even got a remote — something many of the new portable units don’t have. It will work through your PTV’s radio, and can even be hard-wired in with it’s own docking station. Instead of hooking it up to a radio in your trailer you could buy a set of portable speakers and move it wherever you’d like. I used to put it outside of my rig with a little set of speakers — worked like a charm. It’s sitting in my garage with all of it’s various pieces and parts, both for a car and for setting up elsewhere. I just don’t have the portable speakers anymore. If you’re interested in it let me know and we’ll figure out how to get it to you. I’d love for you to have it, if you’re okay with XM. The two companies have merged, and I suspect the only difference is in billing and radio station numbers.
Laura
Gee, Laura, that sounds really good. Sweet of you to offer it! So an XM radio will work with Sirius?
Let me first find someone who can hold my hand while setting everything up. I can’t seem to imagine how it all comes together. Thanks!
Sue, I don’t think an XM receiver will pick up Sirius channels. If you don’t already have a Sirius account, getting one from XM wouldn’t be much different. Since both companies are merged, I think you can get pretty much the same thing from both now.
As far as getting everything set up, it’s really a plug-and-play system, unless you want to hard-wire it into the PTV and your trailer. Otherwise there’s a cigarette lighter charger for the car and an AC cord (or 12-volt) for your trailer. And then you just have to place t he antenna where you’ll get a signal. On one of my cars, it sits in the corner of my dash & the other it’s mounted outside above the windshield. Anyone who has one can basically walk you through it — again, provided you don’t want to hard-wire it in.
Feel free to email me if you want …
Laura
I just found the unit I have on Amazon. Here’s what it looks like, with the car kit …
Delphi MyFi XM2GO Portable XM Satellite Radio Receiver with Home / Car Kits
Wow! That’s a very generous gift, Laura. I didn’t think about a portable unit. Pretty nice!
Thanks for looking it up on Amazon. Now I can read about it and maybe this brain of mine will figure it out. From your explanation, it sounds easy.
I’ll be going to Yuma soon. When I get there, I can give you an address.
Good. 🙂
I’ll wait to hear from you. 🙂
In the meantime I’ll be super nice to you, girlfriend! Hahaha!
Hi Sue –
We’ve not met before, but I’ve been reading your blog since it was brought to my attention by the USA Today article on Rusty & Timber getting their new home.
It’s so clear you are tremendously enjoying your life, and that’s a great thing to see! Your writing style is great.
Now, what caused me to finally come out of lurk mode is the discussion of satellite radio. The radio Laura is gifting to you is a great one – I’m listening to my own radio of the same model right now. Laura, how extremely nice of you!
One thing I don’t think I’ve seen mentioned is the fact that for each receiver there needs to be a separate subscription. SiriusXM (as they are now called) has just told us that the price for the base subscription is going to $14.99/month. If you have multiple radios on the same account there is a break for the radios after the first one, I think it’s still $9.99/month, but multiple radios can quickly add up.
A great site for discussions of all things SiriusXM is xmfan.com. You can look through the discussions and get lots of good info, especially when it comes to pricing and what deals are available. I’ve not paid the full price for many years, and I’ve had satellite radio since 2003.
The radio Laura is giving you will easily go between your BLT and PTV, and I think you might find one radio, thus one subscription, is all you need. It will play through the FM band of your radio in the PTV, and if you have a radio in the BLT, it will play through that. Or, as Laura said, you can easily add some small speakers to it.
Satellite radio in your situation seems like it would be the perfect thing, and I believe you’ll really enjoy it. I haven’t listened to local radio since I got mine.
Karon in Tulsa, OK
Hello, Karon . . . Happy to see you here!
I appreciate all the great information you’ve shared. Nothing like the voice of experience! I will definitely look at that website for a subscription deal.
I’m really excited about getting satellite radio. The nights are long during the winter months, even when I can pick up tv (which quickly makes me ill).
Thanks for taking the time to write… and also for reading my blog!
You need to find out about how easily you can charge the portable unit when you don’t have 120. No problem when you are driving in the PTV, but you need to know how much power it takes to keep it charged in the trailer. Not sure how you would hook it up to the wall and use a remote. Another question for XMfan guys. BTW… on the Amazon page there are many complaints about this unit.
Bear Paws…oh I have got to have a pair! Being in the land of sand…gheez can you track it in or what!? Rug shakes, a little broom and we are ready to go. Finally getting this trip doing the Casita full-time living. We’ll be SW bound soon….and I can finally understand your love of the desert and living out away from it all!
Hi, cozygirl!
The sand here doesn’t track in like beach sand does. It’s too coarse, I guess.
You have an interesting blog. Love the photo of the blue-eyed pup in your most recent post!
You wouldn’t take Spike shopping?? I bet he smelled some special treat in there. Oh well, at least he got something out of the deal with the step mat. My cat kept wanting part of my sandwich, so to get her to leave me alone while eating, I got some cheap bologna and chop her up a piece. I’ve created a monster!
I saw Al’s ‘drive-by’ and cracked up. I can see the new trend in blog posts-posting pics of Sue’s rig in drive-bys, like some sort of phantom of the boondocks! LOL
I might have to get me some of those boots for my Christmas present….look like they’re similar to UGGS?
Oh, and I meant to say, might want to keep an eye on the turkey. News is that China has been granted approval to now start packaging chicken parts for U.S. suppliers. Not sure that will include turkey.
For heaven’s sake, don’t we check imports? Seems like every week there’s another headline about tainted stuff from China.
I found this article; it’s from 2011, but says FDA only has the manpower to inspect roughly 2% of our food imports. http://www.nbcnews.com/id/44701433/ns/health-food_safety/t/flood-food-imported-us-only-percent-inspected/
How reassuring. 🙁
Don’t worry… they don’t have enough manpower to check our homegrown food either. LOL
Hi, Ladybug,
Yes, Bear Paws are like UGGs (only not as pricey). They look like boots but feel like slippers.
Drive-by photos…Ha! That’s what I get for being anti-social! 🙂
Oh, I started that business with giving Bridget and Spike a little bite of what I’m eating. Now they insist on a taste of everything. Spike yells at me and then Bridget joins in with her high-pitch yipping. I can’t eat in peace. Just like you said — monsters!
The soles are different. Bear paws have two kinds….slightly wavy and the “all terrain” waffle stomper vibram type sole.
Uggs are too expensive for my frugal taste.
Oh, they’re too expensive for me, too! Knock-offs all the way, baby. And to be honest, ‘bear paws’ sounds a lot better than ‘uggs’. LOL
Looks like you found a nice spot…tho’ sounds like plenty of folks have located you!! Our dogs always went crazy whenever turkey or chicken was being fixed. They loved all meat, but the poultry must have been their favorites!! We always gave some of the good table scraps to our dogs and their coats were always so glossy!! And the last one lived to 16.5 years…when most of her breed are gone by 11 anyway. Vets always said they were amazed at how well she did. I find it so unfair that a parrot of all things, might even outlive us, but dogs never live very long really!!! Glad you found a way to help Spike get in the Casita. Tis hard getting old!! And with all that good eatin, he should be around a good long while yet!!
Hi, Elizabeth,
I hope the meat will help Spike’s coat. I’m still giving him salmon oil. The only results so far are brighter eyes and the black markings are more distinct. His white coat is still coarse and dull. Maybe it will take more time.
I know what you mean about a dog’s lifespan. I love the greyhound breed but I would never own one because they don’t last long.
Do vets treat dogs for thyroid problems? I am wondering…when our hair and skin are not good, we do not have enough thyroid….
It could be that, Elizabeth, all a part of the aging process. I’ll look to see what the treatment is.
Been waiting patiently for a few Dome Rock pictures, thank you! We missed that section of real estate last winter but will be back enjoying the desert in a few months.
You may have started something with the Bear Paws…now I also want a pair!
Hi, Lynne,
If you come here in a few months you’ll see a lot more activity and more people. I don’t know when the Big Top goes up, sometime late Jan. I guess.
The Bear Paws come in different colors. I think mine are “Maple” which is a fancy way of saying “brown.” 🙂
Hi Sue! I’m with you on the “crappy road” advice! I have a 21ft. Chinook..and I find the most beautiful out of the way campsites. When I emerge from the real boonies ..the rv’ers look at me like “where did you come from ?” .Love it.:).
Great Rearview Mirror post.
Hi, Betty-Shea,
I get that feeling sometimes as I’m headng into a secluded boondock on a crappy road — “Where the heck is she going with that trailer?” Ha!
That day (Rearview Mirror post) was a special one… something about springtime in the air . . .
Beautiful morning from Dome Rock. We see you from afar and that will have to do. Hubby was going to take a pic while on his bike ride but felt like papparozzi and declined. It’s good enough to know we were actually in your presence when we read your blog. Safe and happy travels!
Hi, kgdan,
When the crew and I took a walk at dusk, we went to a high place and I looked over the Dome Rock area. I didn’t see you anywhere. You have a Casita, right? Are you in town?
I feel like a curmudgeon. Stop in if you’re still in the area . . .
Sue can you get some T-shirts that say, “Boondock like you really mean it”? With a picture of you with the kids wearing your hat, sun bops and bear paws . On the back could be a drive by picture of the PTV and BLT at Dome Rock 🙂
Hi, Joe,
Actually that’s a cute idea! A caricature drawing for the front would be perfect.
Hi Sue & Crew,
Max(well Smartipants) gets skinless raw chicken every day, including the bone (they only splinter, if they are cooked). He also gets vegetables (cooked or raw), salmon or anchovy oil, and Nupro for his joints. He is a 95 pound Golden Retriever, 10-1/2 years old who runs around and plays like a puppy. Champion Sashimi Katz Kodiak of Offshore – Kodie – is a 20 year, 7 months, 2 day old lilac point Siamese, who thinks he will live forever, and he just might. For the longest time he refused to eat anything besides freshly ground raw skinless chicken breast.
A great side effect of giving them a “natural” diet (have you ever seen an animal cook?) is poop that does NOT smell.
Work is done, our “Ladybug” home is almost ready, and we will be heading toward the sun within the week! 🙂
Ilse (still in Sequim, WA)
I won’t give my dog raw chicken because of salmonella. Our poultry farms are full of it… and my condo won’t let me raise my own. 🙂 I can barely afford organic for myself, no less the dog. I make her food… and cooked is much safer.
Hi, Connie,
I share your concern on salmonella which is why I cook the turkey. I’d love the crew to enjoy raw meat.
That didn’t work. Just try http://www.rawfed.com and click on “myths”
🙂
Ilse
Thanks for the link, Ilse. I’ll check it.
Hi, Ilse,
I was thinking of you last night and wishing we had spent some time in Sequim. Well, maybe it’s best we didn’t, seeing as we ran out of time in Washington due to stormy weather. When we go back to Washington, Sequim will be on our itinerary!
I wish you a smooth “lift-off” as you fly away in your Ladybug!
Hi, Sue. Glad to see you are back in form and doing better.
Just wanted to mention I have a link to the newsletter for the campground that E2 is at. It is all about the flood and the rebuild. They are coming along fine. It is amazing how many people and orgs have joined in on the rebuild effort. Great people around them. If anyone is interested.
http://www.skpranch.com/Palaver/2013/Palaver-Nov-Dec.pdf
Thanks for the link Alan.
Thanks, Alan!
On page 12 of the Palaver there is a lovely letter by Elizabeth on her personal experience. She has a fifth wheel now.
I didn’t see that. I’ll go back and look. Good for Elizabeth!
I enjoyed this post very much. A lot going on: new boots, turkey for the crew, full moon. The crappy road advice is a gem!
Hi, Marcia,
Ha! I laugh at crappy roads now that the PTV has new all-terrain tires!
I appreciate the feedback on this post. Glad you enjoyed it.
Just checked out Alan’s link on the flood. Those poor people. Floods can be so damaging. Speaking of which we are in for about 3-4 days of rain here. I was out today battening down the hatches. I think you are in for this too Sue so keep your powder dry. I hope you are not camped near a runoff area because as close as you are to the westerly mountains there will be runoff. Be safe.
Hi, Jim,
Good idea to keep an eye on incoming . . . Thanks for the warning. Our camp is not at the highest of the points nearby, but it’s not low either. We’re in a good place.
When I look for a camp I remember what my father told me when I was shopping for my first house… “Don’t buy a house with a driveway going DOWN to it.”
So much mining has taken place here (I don’t think there’s a rock that hasn’t been overturned by gold hunters.) that tiny streams could develop in several places, leaking from the flooding of the big washes.
Even those on high ground can be stranded for many days after heavy rains due to all roads lower having standing water or heavy mud. You don’t want to try and get out should that happen. Gotta pick a spot that does not flood from runoff and also is clear to get out of. Ask locals, they know where’s safe.
Hi Sue! After camping 4 nights down the road from you, we left this morning for Ajo. Made a stop to see the famous naked bookseller on our way out of town. It was warmer today and we found him in all his glory with only a pouch and a hat on! He had to leave to get change for our purchase, because, as my husband noted, he hasn’t got any pockets to keep it in!
Don’t know if you are planning to go to Ajo soon. We arrived at dusk and have never been here before. After reading a lot of blogposts about Darby Wells Road, we were anxious to boondock there, and felt confident in arriving late in the day. There is no one here! We drove quite a bit both along the first part of the road and on both stretches of the fork, and didn’t see a soul! There is a big sign warning of the risk of smuggling in the area. We didn’t feel safe being there alone and went to Belly Acres for the night. Disappointed, as it looked beautiful and we were all prepared to boondock.
Have you heard about anything unusual? Can’t find anyone staying here since last winter, when I do an internet search. Guess we’ll head out tomorrow. Just felt too “sketchy” there.
Kathleen
Hi, Kathleen,
I’m sorry you were disappointed. If I were there and found no one camping, I would go to the IGA or the library or any of the shops in town and ask some of the locals. The other thing you could do is contact the Bureau of Land Management office and ask.
There might not be anything wrong. That area is “crowded” when ten campers show up, which might happen on the weekend or next week. I really don’t know. I appreciate you alerting me and everyone who reads this.
As for the warning sign about smugglers, that’s been there for years, so it’s not evidence of any change. If I come up with any news of the area, I’ll post it.
If you didn’t feel comfortable, you did the right thing by going back into town. Boondocking isn’t a contest. It should feel good!
This is a great recipe for the puppies
6 cups water
1 pound ground turkey
2 cups brown rice
1/2 (16 ounce) package frozen broccoli, carrots and cauliflower combination
I cook the turkey in the water for about 20 minutes and the add the veggies the last few minutes. When cool I mash up the veggies so there are not big chunks.
Thanks for sharing that, Lynne. Your pups eat better than a large portion of the world’s human population!
Do you Sanitize your plastic water jugs periodically?
I haven’t, Lee. But I am absolutely certain that nothing goes in them except pure, clean water and the tops are only off while I’m putting water in or pouring it out. So far, so good.