Day Three: Trials and tribulation in Texas and Day Four: They’re here!

Friday, August 17

In the last episode of “The Move West,” our intrepid travelers are delayed again when the rental truck gives up the ghost in east Texas.  My sister Nancy, her son Frank, and Marg (the West Highland Terrier cutie) check into “a roach motel” for the night.  

Budget Truck Rental is tasked with providing another truck and transferring the load to it.  

Meanwhile in southern Arizona I wait for word of an approximate arrival time.  A moving company is scheduled to unload the truck Saturday (tomorrow) afternoon, arrangements having been made well before this horror road show began.

~ ~ ~

6:30 a.m. Arizona time; 8:30 a.m. east Texas time

Nancy sends this email:

“Another 26’ truck couldn’t be found.  Now the plan is to replace the water pump.  We may be on the road again by noon.  We should arrive sometime Saturday or early Sunday. I know that doesn’t make the unload easy to schedule. We aren’t confident this truck will make another thousand miles so there’s that to consider.

“Will let you know when we are moving again.”

~ ~ ~

On the home front . . . 

I’d like the house and yard in neat condition for Nancy’s first impression.  Regular, often heavy, rain has the grass and weeds growing while I watch.  As soon as it dries out enough to mow, I mow.

I have to stop frequently to scrape wet grass off the underbelly of the mower.  Also care must be taken to avoid mowing down our resident horned lizards of whom I’ve grown quite fond.

I’m relieved when I see them scurry away at the roar and approach of the mower.  Now I know where their homes are located.  Both of them wisely dug burrows on the outer side of the chain link fence.  No doubt because Roger likes to pester them.

Lots to do today. . .

Among other things I hope to trim the yard, sweep and mop the floors, go to town to stock the fridge, and make our family recipe for potato salad (the best in the world!).

I also need to prepare the Best Little Trailer for the crew and I to sleep in our old bed the nights that Frank is here (He has a Monday morning flight to New York reserved.).

I’ll contact the moving company and explain the situation with the truck.  I don’t see how that truck will be here by tomorrow afternoon.

~ ~ ~

Update at 10 a.m. Arizona time!

Nancy agrees that arriving tomorrow in time for the movers to unload the truck is not feasible.

She writes . . .

“Doubt we would make it before dark Saturday, we will be lucky if we make it Sunday.  We can try unloading as much as possible.  The way it was loaded is a mess, that’s a story for another day…. anyway, I can see 2 outside lounge chairs we might me able to get down to sleep on.   May have to change Frankie’s flight if we arrive Sunday and can’t get everything unloaded.   Mechanic just arrived.”

I call the moving company.

I tell the man on the phone that I need to change the unloading from tomorrow to Sunday. Understandably he isn’t happy about the change because the movers (probably young men) have family to consider. However, he realizes the bind we are in and agrees.

Stay with us!

There’s more to come in the stirring saga of “Hell on Wheels West!” and I’ll be sure to post it here.

~ ~ ~

On the road again . . . 

“Back on the road a few hours, almost to San Antonio. One trailer tire is wearing down so will need get that replaced later. Unreal.”

~ ~ ~

Saturday, August 18, Day Four:  All the way to Arizona and home!

As I type this at 6:30 a.m., Nancy and Frank anticipate arriving by late afternoon.  I don’t know how they covered so many miles . . . . I’m sure to hear all about it!

12:30 Arizona time:

Sometime later another email with this photo and . . .

. . . and this brief message:

“Check engine light on.”

~ ~ ~

This being the very special day of our reunion, I probably won’t be online or posting on this blog. Before disappearing for the day, I want to thank you, dear blogorinos, for your words of encouragement, for sharing the ups and downs of the journey, for your offers to help, for your prayers and good wishes, and for being here with us.

On behalf of Nancy, Frank, our canine crews and myself, thank you!

Please feel free to carry on your conversations.  Before the day is over I’ll write a comment that they arrived and all is well.

rvsue

NOTE:  Received a phone call from Nancy…. only a couple miles to go!   — Sue

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179 Responses to Day Three: Trials and tribulation in Texas and Day Four: They’re here!

  1. Pauline in Mississippi says:

    Am I first?

    • Pauline in Mississippi says:

      I can’t believe the problems Nancy and Frank are having. I hope Budget Rental gives them a refund!! It is maddening to say the least. Praying for my sister and nephew!!!! I am anxious to hear of the reunion. Reaching the destination is going to be quite a victory!
      Sending lots of love and big hugs to my family!!!!!!!!

  2. Wendy Nichols says:

    First? What a disaster! Poor Nancy and Frank.

  3. tamra says:

    OK, best potato salad in the world? do share recipe, please!

    Mine is made with yellow mustard, mayo and chopped onion…salt, pepper and paprika on top…have not found one better…yet 🙂

    • Pat K says:

      My thoughts exactly! Share recipe, please.
      So sorry about the dreadful drive for Frank and Nancy. Will be so happy for the end to this story., but not as happy I’m sure, as you all will be!
      Sending traveling prayers. Pat K.

    • millie says:

      Sounds like my Mom’s potato salad…I think she added a little dill pickle juice also, to give it some extra tang…yuuummm.

    • Pat K says:

      Yes, potato salad recipe, please! Pat K.

    • Eliza says:

      If you go back far enough, Sue gives the recipe! During her first few days of freedom if I am not mistaken. It seems like she celebrates life’s new momentous adventures with potato salad. Sounds wonderful to me.

      • Pauline in Mississippi says:

        I think I use the same recipe as our Mother and Aunt Eleanor …and Susan
        potatoes, boiled eggs, chopped onion, mayonnaise, a squirt of yellow mustard and paprika sprinkled on top.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Also apple cider vinegar and a bit of sugar to taste to counteract the acid of the vinegar. Chopped green pepper optional (but required for me!).

          • Potatoes, boiled eggs, chopped celery, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, sweat relish, salt, pepper, sprinkle of celery seeds & paprika on top. Sometimes I add crushed bacon, radish, or watercress. You can add about anything to this salad and it will come out great i.e. black olives, nuts, etc.

            • I thinking I should try chopped green chili and green peppers & maybe corn for southwest flavor…

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              That would be interesting, Rita. I love southwest flavor, as you know. 🙂

              BTW, where I come from, putting pickle relish in potato salad is a criminal offense. Everything else sounds delicious!

          • Desert Ginger says:

            I have two different ones. First, potatoes, chopped eggs, onions, dill pickle relish, mayo, sour cream, mustard. That’s the basic and sometimes I add other stuff like chopped celery or chopped jalapeños. Then, type two:
            Four ingredients: red potatoes with skins on, bacon cooked crisp and a bit of bacon grease, mayo and sour cream. That’s it. I can’t explain it but this second one tastes like it has other stuff in it, but that’s it. This one is most people’s favorite. I put the bacon grease last…just a few tablespoons, then toss to get the flavor throughout. Oh…and salt and pepper in both recipes.

            • Desert Ginger says:

              On the bacon potato salad, I should have said to chop or crumble bacon fine, and don’t salt until the very end, after the bacon grease, as bacon is very salty already. Sometimes it doesn’t need salt,

        • Chris and Diego says:

          That’s my mom’s recipe, too, but she subbed 1/4 of the mayo for sour cream. Lightened it up a little bit.

  4. Sandy in TX says:

    Sue – I am near Lake Fork in East Texas – if I can be of ANY help to Nancy, DO NOT HESITATE to tell me what to do/where to go.

  5. Columbus Calvin says:

    Everyone’s prayers are in order. Someone told Nancy that (according to someone) there’s not 26′ truck available anywhere from her location to Arizona. Of course, I don’t believe that, but I expected them to say that or something close. Budget is not a small business. They have a truck somewhere but they’re not going to provide it.

    I’m glad green things are growing in southern Arizona. You probably miss them after the pre-monsoon season.

  6. millie says:

    Oh my, such troubles. I hope the rental company provides some discount/compensation for the difficulties. We had trouble once with a truck for a local move…Sue as a former WNYer, you might relate to a 26′ moving truck with bald tires rented out in January after a blizzard providing 4 ft of snow. The truck got stuck diagonally across the street, blocking all traffic, we had the city police, the UHaul representatives and several neighbors clustered around trying to figure out what to do…thankfully one of our neighbors had a couple of sheets of plywood in his garage, we wedged those under the rear wheels to get some traction and got the truck unstuck.

    My husband was so ticked off that when we returned the truck, he rammed into a snow back at the UHaul lot, saying “they’ll never be able to get that out of the snow that until they put some new tires on it!”

    I hope the rest of Nancy’s journey is speedy and uneventful, when this is all behind you hopefully you’ll have some fun telling the stories and get a laugh…we eventually did!!

    Prayers that all goes well, and Nancy is welcomed soon to her new home…maybe some flowers at the front door would be a welcome sight…I imagine the potato salad will be enjoyed by all!!

  7. Wow. What a horrible start to Nancy’s retirement.

  8. Reine in Princeton, TX when not camping says:

    Sounds like this move should be ZERO charge. Budget may be correct about not having a truck. Kids are moving to college right now. Hope by now they’re on the way.

  9. eliza says:

    I had a bad experience moving from Miami to Boston – it was UHaul and not budget. They give you whatever truck is available and the one they had for me had no air conditioning and was very beat up. I said no and was redirected to another UHaul location. There I was able to pick up a new truck with functioning air conditioning and made it back home just prior to the movers arrival (they were coming to pack the truck) – and I was so grateful I had not taken that first truck because I drove through two different hurricanes on that trip.
    I’m sure they have made it by now and this horror-show has been resolved. Bless you all.

  10. Gloria in Prescott, Az. says:

    One Day at a Time is what I always tell myself in these kind of circumstances. If they get back on the road by noon and have no more trouble they can probably make it by tomorrow night. I couldn’t but they are probably pretty determined.

    Oh, Potato Salad? no one does it better then our family recipe. I think there are a lot of different favorites out there depending on how you were brought up. A big batch is always a great fast food once you get it made. Great for getting moved in. Hopefully her beds are at the back of the truck so they can get them set up and crash when they arrive.

    Sue, Thanks for sharing Nancy’s communications with us. We are right there with her.

  11. ReneeG from Idaho says:

    Thank you for the update on your sister , nephew, and Marge, Sue. I’m so sorry to hear of their problems with the rental, but this too shall pass and the memories will take on a different tone and one to recount for many years. All the happiness awaiting will drown out those frustrating memories!

  12. Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

    Prayers going up for Nancy, Frank and Marg! I am sure they are ready for this trip to be over! Soon the Budget rental truck 🚚 from Hell will become a laughable memory!I
    We the Blogerinos are cheering y’all on!💗

  13. weather says:

    Sweet lord, I hope the water pump is the last repair needed on this trip! You have a lot planned for today, Sue, what a nice idea for you to make potato salad, too. I’m glad you are able to mow without hurting your horned toads, such cute little creatures 🙂 . It will be so wonderful for you to finally see Nancy, Frank and Marg again.

  14. Judy in East Texas says:

    OH MY, I am also in East Texas if she needs rescued. Just give us a shout out and I will come a running!!!

  15. Cindy Lyon says:

    I hope the truck rental company is refunding the rental cost and reimbursing your sister for the additional food and lodging expenses! I can’t believe they rented her such a poorly maintained vehicle.

  16. G says:

    The good news is that she’s retired and ready to enjoy life to the fullest. Enjoy the process it will make for a great story to tell in the future!

  17. Columbus Calvin says:

    Checking the belts and fluid levels as well as looking for leaks and loose wires will save a person from many unwelcome “adventures.”

  18. Pam and Maya, in Oregon says:

    Poor Nancy, Frank and Marge! Maybe if they showed the blog to Budget, where hundreds of readers are reading about how terrible Budget rental is they would find a truck!!!

    • Pam and Maya, says:

      I apologize Sue, Nancy and Frank. I didn’t mean to make a bad situation worse. Just got carried away because I am so mad the company did that to you.

  19. rvsueandcrew says:

    A FAVOR PLEASE . . . .

    I realize this crappy truck and poor service by Budget has raised emotions. I appreciate your kind feelings toward Nancy, Frank and Marg.

    Nevertheless, I need to ask this favor. Please realize that Nancy and Frank and other family members probably will read your comments, if not today, then someday.

    It makes an unpleasant situation worse to read what should’ve been done or what you would’ve done or what your family member did in the past that was so smart, etc. I can’t monitor the blog every minute so please be sensitive to the impact of your words.

    Thank you!

    Sue

    • Renee from Idaho says:

      You got it Sue. I wish I was on their travel route to offer a place overnight and good hot meal to hit the road again. Looking forward to your happy arrival with Sue.

  20. Jolene/Iowa says:

    Unbelievable! I am almost speechless. Praying for them and will be checking back in!

  21. Linda in NE says:

    I sincerely hope all the repairs Nancy & Frank have had to have done to the truck are being billed to Budget Truck Rental. They definitely should not have to foot the bill for those as well as extra lodging & food costs they hadn’t counted on. Will be waiting to hear about the happy reunion when they reach your house.

  22. Beth and Rosie dog, Arizona says:

    Hi Sue,
    I’m sorry to hear of all the trouble Nancy, Frank and Marge (?) are having with the truck. I would definitely let Budget Rental see your blog and the number of Blogorino’s you have. I’m sure they would do “something” in order to improve their status because they are losing future customers and are unaware unless you let them know.

    If you’re hired hands to help unload the truck don’t work out I used this company a couple years ago and they were awesome! Do a search for “college hunks hauling junk.”
    It’s a little embarrassing to Hire a Hunk but they’re bonded, licensed and insured and the business in Phoenix was extremely nice and flexible with the time schedule. We had our own adventure with Uhaul but Hire a Hunk was so kind and flexible!

    You and your family are in my prayers too! Thanks for keeping us Blogorino’s in the loop!

    Beth… Posting links sends comments to the spam bin. I removed it and marked you as not being spam. — Sue

  23. Deena in Phoenix says:

    May their trip be less stressful from this point forward…positive waves from me to ya’ll…smiles regarding the lizards so fun to watch

    Take Care

  24. A gal in Maple Valley, Wa says:

    Morning, Sue,

    Would you be so kind as to give us the exact prized ‘tater salad concoction? Also, do you or other bloggerinos have directions for a summer pasta salad? Like the one(s) that use a bottle of Italian dressing. Or a mayo based one. I think I just need the base proportions. I plan to try it with every variation of the yummiest tidbits I know. And some things I haven’t tried yet.

    It seems like you have a good sized lot. Have you thought about a compost pile? Grass clippings and sticks and plant refuse. If you wouldn’t have problems with attracting unwanted critters, you could put all your potato peels, melon rinds, corn husks and cobs to add to the mix. (I put an expired tomato in mine last year and this spring a whole herd of volunteers came up and I potted them up and are putting out fruits. Little gifts like that just warm the cockles of my heart.) There are enclosed containers for composting available. (city; county?)

    You mentioned that your transfer station only charged you around $7, correct? When I go, it is a minim rate of $25 and my truck could never get full enough to go over weight so I can’t get my money’s worth.

    Smoothies all around. I’M BUYING!

    • Jan in NH says:

      I make an awesome pasta salad with an Italian based dressing…I can’t give you exact proportions as I don’t measure when I cook. I like to use the tri-color rotini pasta but any bite-size pasta will do. (Cavatelli is great too). I throw in halved cherry tomatoes, halved black olives and chopped canned artichoke hearts. For a whole meal I like to add shrimp but chicken works as well. If I have any on hand, I also sometimes add chopped roasted red peppers. Another great option is to use sun dried tomatoes in addition to or in place of the cherry tomatoes. Just chop up enough of whatever you choose to make it full and colorful and add enough dressing without drowning it!

    • Dawn in NC says:

      You and Jan are doing better than I am. I usually buy a box mix! 😮

      • A gal in Maple Valley, Wa says:

        Dawn,

        Packages of pasta go on sale for $1 quite often here. I really crave the salads at the store’s deli but I get there after it closes. 🙁 I’ve even messed up the box mix! 😉 The yard birds loved it anyway.

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Hi, Maple Valley gal,

      With the temps being so sweltering, a cool pasta salad sure fits the bill for lunch and dinner. Tonight on my way home from work, I picked the ingredients from Kroger. Measurements are not exact. A box of Spiral pasta, cherry tomatoes, a basil plant, some fresh mozzarella pearls (small, bite-sized balls), and a bottle of Kraft Zesty Italian dressing. Cook the pasta according to the box directions. Cut the tomatoes into quarters, and the mozzarella pearls into halves. Snip a small bunch of basil leaves, chiffanode finely or tear into small pieces. Toss all together with the dressing. The whole bottle would probably be too much; add enough to dress the salad, not drown it. Enjoy! 🙂

      What in the world is the ciffonade cutting technique? https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-chiffonade-fresh-basil-leaves-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-188971

      Everyone’s salad recipes sound delish! 🙂

    • I make my pasta salad with many of the ingredients mentioned but also add fresh cooked broccoli to make it a one-dish meal. And since I’m now gluten-free, I use brown rice rotini pasta which works OK. For a dressing, I use Paul Newman’s Balsamic dressing (regular or low-fat) mixed with a little mayo (exact ingredients unknown!) and a bit of sugar.

      • Denise - Richmond VA says:

        Hi, Robin,

        I like your idea of adding cooked broccoli to the pasta salad. I think that some choppped up pepperoni would be good, too.

    • Desert Ginger says:

      I have a pasta salad recipe too. I use small shells. I toss in half a jar or so if pesto (trader joe’s), halved cherry tomatoes, finely cubed cheese (I use cheddar but you could go with mozzarella or provolone), and a jar of artichoke hearts in oil. Chop the hearts but throw in all the oil from the jar. Also finely chopped red onion. Usually the oil from the artichokes is enough for dressing. If I think it’s too dry I add a bit of Italian dressing.

  25. Jan NH says:

    Oh boy…so sorry to hear of the troubles Nancy, Frank and Marg are having getting home to you…sending good thoughts for an uneventful rest of their trip. It is good that you have some tasks to keep you busy as I’m guessing the waiting and wondering is stressful also. Hopefully in a few days you will all be relaxing over smoothies and laughing over all the mishaps!

  26. Dawn in NC says:

    Ooo Sue, you must be on pins and needles waiting for them! It sounds like you are keeping yourself busy, which is good. I hope that the rest of the trip is uneventful for all involved!

  27. Gingerita says:

    So sorry that Nancy, Frank and Marge are having such a rough move. Coming home to a tidy house , homemade potato salad , you and the pups will make it all worth while.

    Your potato salad sounds tasty. Ours is mayo, yellow mustard, boiled eggs, chopped onion, zucchini , dill or sweet relish . I dice my potatoes before boiling and mix them while still a bit warm. It adds a really nice creaminess to the salad.

    I hope the rest of the move is uneventful!

  28. Cynthia in San Clemente says:

    Wow! Poor Nancy, Frank and Marg have been through the wringer with that truck – but it should make their arrival that much more sweet. It would be nice if Frank had at least 24 hours to rest and relax before he has to hop on a plane and head back east. Will be sending good thoughts and prayers (and if I could, a water pump!) that the rest of the journey goes more smoothly. Hey, at least they don’t have to go over the Donner Pass!!

  29. LeeJ in Northern California says:

    I hope Nancy and her son will have all this negativity erased by their delight in Nancy’s new home and being with her beloved sister!
    Wish I could wriggle nose and get them to Arizona safely…..

  30. Susan in Dallas says:

    Wow, what a trip so far. Hope the new water pump gets Nancy and son back on the road. Would be nice if they do get some kind of refund; they sure deserve it!

  31. Mona from West Texas says:

    Good Evening Sue,
    I have been following your sisters journey. I would like to give you some travel information. I live in El Paso, I know your sister is traveling the I 10 West. El Paso I 10 will close tonight and won’t open until Monday morning. The closure is located in the downtown area. My recommendation would be for her to take loop 375 north , cross transmountain then merge back into I 10. The loop 375 is located as you enter El Paso it is an easy drive.
    Safe Travels

  32. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Sue,

    Sending up extra prayers for a safe last leg of Nancy, Frank, and Marg’s journey. Glad that you found the horned toads burrows, safely on the other side of the fence.

    Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and extra hugs from me and Gracie pup. Don’t stress about putting together a new post. If you could, please drop a quick note to let us know that Nancy, Frank, and Marg have arrived in one piece. We understand that you all have a lot to take care of and will need time to de-stress. We look forward to hearing “the rest of the story” – no rush! We’ll be here! xo 🙂

    Welcome home, Nancy & Marg!! 🙂

  33. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Blogorinos!

    Who ordered the loveseat glider? It looks really nice and comfy. Please let me know how you like it. Thank you! 🙂

  34. Liz O'C says:

    I’m so glad her son is with her! I would hate for her to be dealing with these truck issues on her own! How exhausting & frustrating for everyone.

  35. weather says:

    Oh,dear,another tire replacement. May they travel the rest of the way safely.

  36. Elizabeth says:

    Good grief…what a trip…they will be SO GLAD to be done with this trip…and in the hot heat of summer no less…poor guys!! Well, glad they are at least together…and not going through this alone!! I was thinking…sounds rather like travel in some kind of covered wagon…as some of my kin had to do to get to California…the good ole Oregon Trail!! It must be the right thing for your sister to do…otherwise why fraught with so much difficulty?? She may feel like Job right now!! (One book I am so grateful was written…I have derived so much comfort there in some hard times of my life). Glad you are making good food…that is a must…to make a celebration for their arrival!! Good sister Sue!!

  37. phil says:

    I like the potatoes firm, and in 1/4″ cubes. Mushy is out! The hard boiled egg is special. Using a wire slicer, but the big end on the bottom, and slice from top (small end) to bottom (big end). Then lay flat, with the previous slices horizontal and slice again. Next step is difficult, so be careful: rotate egg 90 degrees horizontally, and slice a third time. Best if you cup your hand over the egg to hold it together. Hold egg in position when slicing. Add to potatoes. Add mayo, some sweet relish, maybe some chopped celery, and mix lightly. The white of the egg will be 1/8′ cubes, which is what makes it special. The yoke enriches the mayo.

  38. Harriet says:

    Geez Louise, this is a nail biter! Praying for traveling mercies!

  39. Linda a says:

    This moving episode is so unreal, kinda like a
    bad movie.
    Your sister must be exhausted.
    Hope she loves her new home! 😘

  40. Linda a. says:

    This moving episode is unreal, kinda like a
    bad movie.
    Your sister must be exhausted.
    Hope she loves her new home ! 😘

  41. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Good morning, Sue & Crew and Nancy & Crew,

    I hope today is a good day for all! Safe travels….you are almost home – thank goodness!

    Sending up extra prayers and lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup, my little Westie girl. xo 🙂

  42. Barb from Hoquiam! says:

    Yup. We found a couple of things out when traveling with a vintage MOHO… (which probably has some of the same issues as the moving truck)… the parts are hard to get to inside the thing (had to take the entire engine out to get the waterpump out–huh?) and there are NO mechanics around when traveling through WY on the opening days of hunting season… OH. And buy the part with a card that has an automatic replacement built in… cuz it blew out on the way home too!!! (of which this girl grabbed her little dog Racy and her backpack and hiked across the highway to a Drury Suites and checked in and CHECKED OUT! ).

    I do NOT envy them, but I am in AWE of your sister and her wonderful son!

    And YES I want the potato salad recipe!!!!

    Hugs from Hoquiam, all around!

  43. Kitt NW WA says:

    Sue,
    Enjoy this special day – the beginning of a new chapter!
    Kitt

  44. weather says:

    Excellent news, enjoy every bit of your reunion!!!

  45. Gloria in Prescott, Az. says:

    Oh boy, I bet they drove till late and got to El Paso. Sounds like that tire on the trailer is holding up so far or they just went ahead and got it changed.
    Can’t wait to hear that they have arrived and maybe, just maybe, the guys will still come to unload the truck this evening. Wouldn’t that be sweet!
    Hugs all around, Gloria

  46. Jolene/Iowa says:

    Such a great message to wake up to this morning! Praying all goes well the remainder of their trip! Can’t wait to hear the “rest of the story!” Enjoy your day!!

  47. Annie says:

    Still praying for their safe arrival today. It has made for some interesting reading, however. The good thing is that in a day or so this will be in the rear view mirror.

    Onward! It’s all very exciting.

    TECHNICAL QUESTION: Did I miss something? For the last couple of weeks, not only do I need to do the math problem, but the blog is also requiring me to put in my name and email. I thought it would go away, but it’s still here. Is this new? Perhaps only on my end?

    • Lisa in San Diego says:

      it’s always required a name and email, but you don’t have to use your real name

      • ApplegirlNY says:

        It never required me to put it in before. I remember doing it initally. Maybe it was saved, and that has disappeared.

    • Jan NH says:

      I’ve noticed the same thing. The name I use and email would always auto-fill but for some reason, wordpress doesn’t seem to be retaining that info so we have to fill it in each time we comment. I’m guessing it is just a wordpress thing so I have to remember what I call myself and which email address I’ve been using 🙂

      • ApplegirlNY says:

        Thanks, Jan, Glad to hear that from someone else. I’ve been posting for years, and this is a recent development. Ah, technology….. we love it and hate it.

        • jazzlover says:

          Yes Annie, Jan & ApplegirlNY, I also thought this was something new as they were always there previously but it makes my brain work, which is not a bad thing. Maybe just a new word press thing?

      • Columbus Calvin says:

        I’m having to fill in my name and email when I didn’t have to for a long time, and I’ve been having trouble with Captcha if I’m in the Firefox browser.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          The filling in your name is because I had to delete the cache. The situation should go away. Sorry for the inconvenience. As for Firefox, in my experience it goes wonky from time to time.

  48. Lisa, Dad, Tommie and Buddy in FL says:

    I opened your blog this morning hoping I could be first by posting, “Are they there yet?” Does anyone else remember that as the constant question during family car trips? God bless my patient parents who endured God knows what as they traveled from the Midwest to the east coast repeatedly with five little kids and luggage stuffed into an old station wagon.
    I hope they arrive safely, what a troublesome move. Seeing you and that pretty home will be a great ending to their travels. and on a positive note, there have been no problems with the air conditioner…

    Your family recipe for potato salad is similar to my Mom’s; cubed boiled potato, sliced hard boiled eggs, chopped onion, celery seed, salt and pepper, Miracle whip, vinegar and sugar. I remember she always filled the biggest bowl we had and it didn’t last long. Happy homecoming to Nancy and Marg. I hope Frank has a goof flight back to his home too.

  49. Jan NH says:

    So happy the travelers will arrive this afternoon! Hoping for smooth travel for them today!

  50. Fortuna Robert says:

    Hi Sue,
    I know you’re busy with the big new move-in, but can you remember back to your Kinney Flats (June ’16) camp south of Pagosa Springs?
    Do you remember if you had cell coverage there?
    I’m in need of a new camp and want to hunker down for the Labor Day weekend crowds.
    Thanks. If you can’t remember thats fine.
    Big changes in the house tomorrow.
    So, are you and Nancy going to take jaunts out in the BLT? Show her some of your Az camps?
    Good luck on the move in.
    Robert

  51. Lisa, Dad, Tommie and Buddy in FL says:

    Oh I sometimes hate that auto type it for me thing. I want Frank to have a GOOD flight back to his home. No more goofs on this trip please!!

  52. Rhodium says:

    I just read 8-18-18 is this year’s number one day for weddings, in part because 8 and 18 are good luck numbers for many people. May this be a most lucky day for you and your sister!

  53. Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

    Oh oh! Will you have to call the movers again? YAY! Glad they made it through Texas!💗

    • Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

      Oh Good! They should be there by now! Or pulling in any minute! 😂
      WELCOME HOME NANCY! 💗
      Frank, I am forever grateful to you for being with your mom during that stressful drive from Florida!💗 Thank you! Marg! Those boys are gonna love you so play up the doggie diva stuff ok?
      Love to all of you! Now R E L A X!😁

  54. Pat (Ky) says:

    What an exciting day! I have enjoyed the recent posts about past camps and settling into your new home. Your sister’s trip has me on the edge of my chair. So good to hear that she is nearing home.
    After returning home from 3 months in the southwest this winter, I have been enduring a hot humid summer here in Kentucky. Plans are starting to form for a return trip out to my beloved prairie this fall.
    Wishing you and the family a wonderful reunion.

  55. Jean in Southaven, says:

    This blog is not a good advertisement for Budget Truck Rental. I have had some of these same issues with UHaul trucks. I always made sure to inspect the tires and let the engine run awhile before I would accept the truck. But I am experienced with these kinds of moves and learned that trick the same way that Nancy has. I hope that all the issues are taken care of and they arrive today safe and sound. So thankful that they are doing ok and there have been people to take care of the issues. Looking forward to good news soon.

  56. weather says:

    Just saw that they were a couple of miles away, I don’t know how long that note’s been there, but they must all be at the house by now. WooHoo, they’re together !!!

  57. Reine in Princeton, TX when not camping says:

    Yippee!!!!!!!!!!!! So glad Nancy, Frank and Marg have arrived. Have a wonderful time and enjoy your reunion.

  58. Jolene/Iowa says:

    Thank you dear God for their safety in getting there! So very excited Sue, crew and family!!

  59. Gloria says:

    Thanksgiving in Order!!! Details ASAP! Have a glorious few days! Gloria

  60. Cinandjules 🌵 says:

    Almost!!!!

  61. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    I can imagine the joy and tears that will be part of this wonderful reunion! 💕

  62. Judy J. in S.C. says:

    Yay!! At last. So thankful they made it in. Hopefully, all can now “let go” and get some real rest. Let the good times roll!

  63. Cinandjules 🌵 says:

    Perfect day here in AZ for a reunion! Gosh Frank made some serious time driving across even with the hiccups. Doesn’t it take 6 days to cross Texas? 😉 Drove it like he stole it….he can coast all the way now!
    Since they have crossed the state line….Welcome to Arizona Frank Nancy and Marg! You are now referred to a “Zonies”
    Sit on the porch, relax and have a smoothie!

  64. Glenda in OZ! says:

    OMG what a saga…………one could write a book about it! What a reunion it will be…………so happy for you Sue and sis!! Waiting to hear all about the arrival and her reaction to her new home with you and the crew!

  65. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Welcome home, Nancy & Marg!! 🙂

  66. jazzlover says:

    Well, it all worked out in the end and Nancy, Frank and Marg, a cutie, are where they are supposed to be, safe and sound. Let’s give them a little time to reunite and decompress from their adventures of the past few days.
    Seeing that Labor Day is coming quickly and recipes for potato salad have been put forth what are some other favorites some of you blogorinos like to have for a Labor Day get together? Is it hot dogs and burgers, chicken on the grill, ribs, a whole or half a pig over the coals for hours? What about appetizers? Desserts? Regional favorites? Bet we can all use some new recipes.

    • Jolene/Iowa says:

      I would like to know different salads people make with cucumbers!

      • leilani (Texas) says:

        I had just e-clipped this recipe from Smitten Kitchen the other day. (Cucumber salad appeals in this August heat, no?) Haven’t tried it yet but it seems like such a tasty & refreshing combo.

        Avocado & Cucumber Salad

        From Smitten Kitchen
        https://smittenkitchen.com/2015/04/obsessively-good-avocado-cucumber-salad/

        Serves 2 as a main or 4 as a side

        3/4 to 1 pound seedless cucumber, washed and chopped into chunks
        2 thin or 1 regular scallions, thinly sliced
        1 large avocado, pitted and diced
        2 tablespoons mayonaise
        Juice of half a lime, plus more to taste
        Salt and hot sauce (we used Sriracha) to taste
        Chopped cilantro or flat-leaf parsley to garnish
        Combine cucumber, scallions and avocado in a bowl. Whisk together mayo, lime and seasonings, adjusting levels to taste. Drizzle salad with dressing and garnish with cilantro or parsley.

    • Dawn in NC says:

      I love grilled fish and asparagus!

  67. Carin says:

    Welcome to Arizona and your new adventure!

  68. Jan NH says:

    So happy they have arrived safe! Enjoy your reunion!

  69. ApplegirlNY says:

    YEAH!!!!!! Happy times ahead. Hope everyone gets some well deserved rest.

  70. Nancy in Texas says:

    So happy for all of you!

  71. Lois from Milton FL says:

    Jolene,
    Here is my cucumber salad. Lois
    Old fashioned salad
    So easy and so refreshing

    two peeled sliced cucumbers
    Marinated in:
    1/3 cup vinegar
    1/3 cup water
    2 T sugar
    1T salt

    .

  72. Deena in Phoenix says:

    Welcome to Nancy. Frank and Marg…Hope you saw your 1st Arizona sunset. Your 1st Arizona sunrise will be here soon…Reunion!

    Sue, enjoy and don’t worry, the blogorinos will carry on till your return with further tales of adventure.

    Take Care

  73. Suzy in USA says:

    All that trouble getting there will make finally arriving all the sweeter.

  74. AZ Jim says:

    Whew! All is well! Welcome to the “zone”. Happy days ahead but first REST…..

  75. A gal in Maple Valley, Wa says:

    Hi and Woof, Reggie & Roger!

    What’s all that fuss goin’ on there? You haven’t been waking up in new places for awhile and have been living in the big, non-moving home with a fence. Sue has been really busy doin’ stuff and not waiting in the lounger for you. Then Sue leaves you guys behind when she goes out to WHO knows where. Maybe she is sneakin’ treats from Carl’s and the food place without you? Naw. Never! And now all this kerffufel goings on? Did Sue lock you in the small, moving home while all those humans walk around with big, heavy things in their hands? Who ARE all those people? Are they ALL gonna stay for more than 14 days?

    That new, nice woman seems very familiar with Sue. Have they met before? Has the man they are callin’ Frank given you your mandatory ear scritches? He seem very busy and maybe he has met Sue before, too. I’d bet those other humans they call Mover have to stay away from you ’cause they’d fall in love with you even more and there’s not enough R&R to go around. Did you try to give them doggie kisses?

    Whoz that longhaired smiling gal that’s just your size? Marg? Is that her kibble and water bowls and her bed? Is she gonna stay, TOO? All that stuff commin’ in the house smells like her. Is it all hers? Are ALL those humans her servants? You only have one. Maybe she’s good at the tug-o-war. Did she bring some cool toys? Will she share? Are you boys gunna share yours?

    What do ya make of those slithery things with tails in YOUR yard? They sorta look like flat, bald chipmunks. Do you chase them right away or do you let them get close and pounce? Do you like the warm sand to roll in or like the cool tile better?

    My paws must be too big or sumthin ’cause my last note was eaten by the Captcha monster. The one before that didn’t have enough ‘net in the air. I hope this one gets to you.

    Looks like you’re gonna have a lot of excitement there for a bit. Humans’ faces get all schrunchie when you piddle on them. A friend used to roll over for tummy rubs and got so excited he’d pee right in the humans’ faces. Oops. Well, maybe you ……..

    SQUIREL!!!!! gotta go Bye!

    • Deena in Phoenix says:

      This is wonderful, you have a marvelous talent…hopefully the New Crew will have some chat time for you once things calm down…enjoy your chase.

    • Cinandjules 🌵 says:

      That was very cute!

    • ApplegirlNY says:

      That was a fun read!

    • Mary Batt says:

      OK…Y’all got me on the potato salad…My MIL was from Appalachia. Loved her. Best tip from her: Boil RED tomatoes till done, THEN peel them with fingers under a drizzle of tap water-skins come off slick (pretty much) so no PIA pre-peeling! AND quick dice them and ADD THE MAYO while they are still HOT! This is what makes perfect creamy potato salad! (cold potatoes don’t ‘cream’) My Texan mom wouldn’t make it without ham and ham juice but I don’t miss that and won’t be hamstrung by lack of that ingredient!

      THEN, Boiled eggs, Onion, Green onions, Dash of yellow mustard, S and P, Dill/Sweet relish, Celery small chop, DILL fresh of dried, Pickle juice as needed. Cayenne a little bit to wake up everything! Paprika to garnish. Done.
      Serve or let it rest-then serve!

      This is spoon-likkin goo-ood!

      • leilani (Texas) says:

        Thank you (and your Appalachian MIL) for that tip about folding mayo into the potatoes while they’re hot to make them creamy, Mary Batt! I don’t know why I never thought of that but it makes sense that the mayo would bind better that way.

        This thread is becoming a bookmark-worthy keeper, not just for recipes but for all the tips for potato salad prep that people are passing on here!

  76. leilani (Texas) says:

    Wow, what an ordeal to get there, but they got there safely, thank goodness! It was very lucky (and so, so smart in hindsight) to have Frank along for that trip from hell. He deserves an extra helping of potato salad *and* a treat from the neighborhood ice cream truck for helping to get his mom & her stuff & Marg to AZ in one piece with no scratches.

    Special thanks to Phil above at August 17, 2018 at 7:49 pm for the great tip about cutting up the eggs. My recipe* has more hard cooked egg than most, & I can never get the pieces cut neatly. This solves that!

    (*egg, onion+ green onion, celery, red or yellow bell peppers for color, texture & slight zip if I have them, mayo & sour cream instead of vinegar for the background tang as well as upping the creaminess quotient + pepper, salt & sugar to taste if needed)

  77. Diann in MT says:

    Sue,
    Did I have a nightmare or is this true: you posted a lovely post, like you always do, then the last statement is “Good bye!” True or not. I am baffled.

    • weather says:

      Now I’m baffled. 😉 Did you mean you saw that on this post, or on one that disappeared? That would seem like a nightmare!

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        I don’t understand either. I wrote it was a special day (for our reunion) and therefore I wouldn’t be online or posting anything.
        Goodbye? A post disappearing? No. Everything’s fine.

  78. Diann in MT says:

    OK. All blogorinos are acting like there will be a tomorrow. Woop! Woop! for your sister’s homecoming, Sue. And for the addition of Marge to the Crew. Love ya!

  79. suzago in PNW says:

    Welcome to Nancy, Frank, and Marg! What a crazy ordeal. Could almost imagine a Chevy Chase movie. Everything will be topsy turvy for a while, I know, so just sending my warmest wishes to you all for a happy family reunion and new chapter in your lives.

  80. Ken in Queen Creek, AZ says:

    Wow. What a story! You’ll be lucky if you ever get Nancy to hit the road again. You must have gotten ALL your family’s luck on the road and left poor Nancy with none. Glad she is safe.

  81. rvsueandcrew says:

    Hi, Everybody!

    We’ve been busy unpacking boxes, moving furniture, changing out light fixtures, taking breaks to talk, sharing meals, etc.

    Frank’s flight to New York leaves at 7 a.m. tomorrow (Monday). I’ll post a report on how Margaret the Westie, Reggie, and Roger are getting along.

    The potato salad was a hit!

    Bye for now,
    Sue

    • Pat in Bulverde, Tx says:

      Safe flight, Frank!

    • Elizabeth says:

      Simply cannot go wrong with a good potato salad in summertime…or winter!!
      My family could not use onions, but let me tell you, no one thought “our” potato salad was anything but yummy…used sweet pickles and sliced black olives among many other ingredients. Hubby’s was based on onions, miracle whip, eggs, celery, and dill pickles along with the potatoes. Also yummy. What I finally came up with when our kids lived at home (who also never liked onions much…though I adored them!!) was just 3 ingredients: Miracle Whip, Potatoes, Dill Pickles…and it too tasted good enough. Funny I have maybe 15 or so delicious potato salad recipes (one even uses mashed up bananas in with the mayo etc)…and yet I rarely eat it in a restaurant or deli that is worth even tasting…whyever is it so hard for them to make a good one?? (Is it because those are not made with LOVE?? haha…)

  82. Cinandjules 🌵 says:

    Thank you for everything Frank! Have a safe trip home!

  83. Pauline in Mississippi says:

    Thank you Lord for the safe delivery of my sister Nancy to her new home with Susan. Thank you for nephew Frank for persevering through the trip!!! I am imaging the laughs and giggles and probably a few tears in the house in Arizona. Now a new chapter begins and I am look forward to hearing all about it.
    Love and Hugs to all

    • Velda says:

      I think you need a sister reunion !

    • Elizabeth says:

      I hope you can go visit them soon, Pauline too…well, whenever they declare ready for company that is!! I can only imagine what fun it would be to have sisters as I have none (though I have good friends I love like sisters)…you all are blessed!! A lot of events in life, like this difficult journey they just made, could be made into a book!!

  84. Elizabeth says:

    Glad all is well!! I go to meetup today with an old friend that I have not seen in awhile!! Good month for reunions!! Hugs to all, Sue!

  85. I thought about Sue, Nancy, Frank and Marg while in Santa Fe, NM over the weekend. Wow, the weather was unbelievably cool with rain showers in the afternoon…it was heaven in Santa Fe. We flew in last night after two 1.5 hr delays. The heat hit us like a ton of bricks….welcome to the oven. Anyway, I’m glad everything turned out well for Nancy and crew. Too bad Frank had to fly out right away but I’m sure he’s glad to be outta there hahaha after the moving fiasco. Enjoy setting up house and a happy reunion. No need to hurry…you’re both retired 🙂

  86. Cynthia in San Clemente says:

    So happy everyone arrived safely – with a check engine light on no less!!! Hope you had a wonderful time enjoy each other, breaking bread and had a nice “toast” together!

    AZ Jim: So nice to see your comment. I’ve been wondering how you’re doing. My sciatica has been acting up too – I just had a spinal epidural this afternoon for it and have the least pain I’ve had in a couple of months! If you’ve never one, you might want to ask your doctor about it.

    Sue: I’m thinking of you and Spike tonight. I’m going to celebrate his life by having a good soak in the bathtub 🙂 I’m sure he’s watching this happy family reunion from his soaking place in heaven!

  87. Suzi says:

    Hugs all around!
    🤗🤗

    Suzicruzi

  88. Barbara (Nashville) says:

    Just lost my whole post. Darn it. Will try again later.

  89. A gal in Maple Valley, Wa says:

    Happy Tuesday, Bloggerinos!

    Can any of you guys help with some IT queries? It may just be my tiny brained lappity-toppity or maybe the gray goo inside it or my weenie net connection.

    Sometimes, when using REPLY to someone’s comment, there is no math problem and I click to post and it sends me this ominous message like I’ve just asked to talk to Darth Vader. Anyone else run into this and/or how to fix?

    Also lately, I’m now and then getting this small message box popping up that says : “Message from webpage”. And just a big exclamation mark. Then I click the OK button and it goes away.

    Have I just had too much espresso or has anyone else run into this?

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Hi, Maple Valley gal,

      I have not seen that issue – it certainly is strange. The only thing that comes to mind is a possibility is that WordPress is running an upgrade or patch behind the scenes. Your to attempt to post a comment is happening at the same millisecond as the site maintenance, hence the odd message from the webpage, and the missing captcha.

      There have been a couple times when things don’t seem quite right….usually others experience the same thing. i.e., the captcha not working, despite several tries, or getting the message from the site saying that I already posted the message. The issue usually sorts itself out, and I am able to post a comment later. WordPress gremlins! 🙂

  90. Paula in Indiana says:

    Sue, I’m late to the party, but want to say so happy there is a reunion goin’ on!!!

    Blogorinos – I’m reading all your wonderful potato salad and cucumber recipes, actually, I’m copy and pasting them into a word file. I’m not much of a cook; thank you for these easy-peasy recipes 🙂

  91. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Jolene and fellow blogorinos,

    Here is another recipe that uses cucumbers. 🙂 This pasta salad has a vinegar based dressing. It easy to make, colorful, and very tasty. The vegetables can be cut while the pasta is cooking.

    Pasta Salad
    2c. cooked elbow macaroni
    1 medium tomato, chopped small or a small package of grape tomatoes, cut in half
    1 large cucumber, cut in 1/2 lengthwise, scoop out seeds with a teaspoon, cut into small pieces
    1 small onion, finely chopped
    1/2c. Light Helmanns Mayonnaise
    1T. yellow mustard
    2T. white vinegar
    1/2t. black pepper
    3/4t. salt
    1 1/2T. white sugar

    Whisk the mayo, mustard, vinegar, pepper, salt and sugar until the dressing is smooth. Adjust to taste, adding additional salt, pepper or sugar if needed. Pour over the hot pasta, mixing in the vegetables. Cool before serving. Enjoy! 🙂

  92. Rob (in Maine this month) says:

    An interesting read Sue! I’m glad your sister made it & on the bright side the truck with a check engine light was not her truck… just give it back!

    Enjoy your family Sue… see you when you’re ready.

  93. weather says:

    What a flurry of activity your lives have been , Sue. I hope enough is in place for you all to be comfortable.Whatever today holds, I hope you enjoy it.

  94. Fortuna Robert says:

    Sue,
    What a spot! I think I’m in your old camp and 3 bars of 4G.
    I think Geordie and I are going to have to wander the meadows of Kenney Flats.
    Thanks Weather for deducing, via the comments section, the cell coverage.
    This will be a great camp for the holiday weekend coming up.
    Hope the move in is going well with out a hitch. After the trip Nancy made she could use an easy move-in.

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