Guest blogger: Canine play date in the desert!

Wednesday, January 6

“They’re here!” I call out to the crew.

Bridget and Reggie leap off the bed.  Quickly I latch a squirming Reggie on his tether and let him go.  He and Bridget make a dash to the truck that has pulled up and parked at our camp off Ogilby Road, Winterhaven, California.

At the same time excited barks emanate from the truck.

It’s a canine play date!

P1080952Counterclockwise:  Bridget, Reggie, Julie the dachshund, and Samantha the beagle

~ ~ ~

“Bridget, come here a sec, honey.”

“What is it RVSue?”

“I have a favor to ask of you.  I need to put a blog post together about yesterday’s play date.  Do you think you could do that for me?  I don’t feel like writing and you do such a good job whenever you take over for me.”

“Sure!  I’m happy to help out.  You go take a nap or something.  I can handle this.”

“Remember to give the backstory, you know, how in Oregon we. . . .”

“Got it, RVSue.  Really.  I can handle this.  Go.”

~ ~ ~

Hello, everyone!  This is Bridget.

I’m going to tell you about the fun we had at our camp yesterday.   Our old pals, Samantha and Julie, come over for a play date.

P1080954We’ve known these two for years.  Well, I have, and then Reggie met them when we camped in Oregon last summer near where Sammy and Julie live.

Okay, here’s our day.

First everyone sniffs to get up-to-date since we were together last.  We mark territory the way one does.  Well, if one is a dog, that is.  Hee-hee.  Sorry, that was kind of funny.

P1080953The preliminaries over, the people — RVSue and her friends — sit in chairs and gab, the way people do.  Reggie, of course, doesn’t waste any time putting his play ideas into Sammy’s head.

P1080956Before our friends arrived I told Reggie that he should cut back on his craziness.

Sammy and Julie aren’t kids like Reggie is.  And neither am I!  Does he listen to me?  Of course not!  Reggie is young and he can’t help himself, I guess.  He is who he is.

He attacks Samantha on the head and tries to put her on the mat!

P1080972 When Reggie does that to me, I tell him to back off.  Sammy, on the other paw, is game for some rough-housing.  It’s that beagle personality, you know.  They do their best to get along.

Reggie’s too little to bring Sammy down.  Instead he gets a taste of his own medicine!

P1080973The two of them play and play! 

Reggie acts silly, flipping over, kicking his back legs, and sticking out his tongue.

P1080970Samantha has a really nice bed. 

She had back surgery a while ago and so her people make sure she’s comfortable wherever she goes.  I should tell RVSue to get me one like that!

P1080967Reggie pesters Samantha to play some more.

Finally he realizes she needs a break.  So what does he do?   He goes over to Julie.  Heaven knows what hare-brained plan he puts in Julie’s ear!

P1080968Julie is like me. 

She doesn’t get involved in crazy-pup antics!

Then RVSue pipes up and says to everybody, “Let’s take a walk toward the mountains.  I want to show you some of the campsites.”

Away we go on a hike, just like old times!

Look how Julie’s ears fly out like wings!  I don’t say anything.  I don’t want her to be embarrassed.  To tell the truth, I think her ears make her look cute.

P1080960-001We have a great walk together!

The sunshine feels good after two days of fog and rain.

In the next photo you can see a big, flat campsite next to trees and bushes by a wash.  Our people friends notice a pile of boards next to the fire ring.

The boards have nails in them! 

You’re not supposed to burn boards that have nails.  Some people just don’t know how to boondock!

P1080961-001Only one other RV is parked in this area. 

The man comes out, hops on his bicycle, and catches up with us.  He’s on his way to look at the mountains and maybe find some mines.  After a chat, he goes on his way.

P1080964It’s nice how Reggie and Sammy get along so well. 

To tell you the truth, I appreciate the break!

P1080963Reggie gets along with everyone. 

He and Julie poke their noses in some brush.  Dachshunds like to do that.  It’s not my idea of fun, but to each his own.  I wouldn’t dream of doing that!

P1080965We walk far! 

I haven’t walked this far in a long time.  There’s something about having pals to walk with that makes it easier, don’t you think?

We return to camp and have a drink of water.  Everyone plops down to relax.

Everybody but Reggie!

RVSue lets him off his tether and he makes a game out of going far away and then running back to us.  You can get tired just watching that little boy!

Isn’t Samantha lovely? 

I love her fur.  I wish I had fur like that.  Brown and black are so slimming. Not like white!  Errggh!

P1080959Time to end this post!

We say goodbye to our friends and they hop into their truck to leave.  We promise to meet again, sometime “on the road.”  That doesn’t mean we really will be ON the road — Don’t do that!  It’s dangerous!

“On the road” means we will meet again somewhere when our travels take us to the same place.  Then we will have another play date!

Bridget

THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM OUR BLOG!

P1080962Julie can fold her ears back, too!

CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!

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113 Responses to Guest blogger: Canine play date in the desert!

  1. Sherri D says:

    Love the doggesses! lol

    • Sherri D says:

      oooo, was I also first? Bridget is my lucky charm if it is true. 🙂 My new fella, Dexter, says hi to Bridge and Reggie btw. 😀

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      CONGRATULATIONS, SHERRI D! YOU’RE NUMBER ONE TODAY!

      And congratulations to Dexter on his new home!

      • Sherri D says:

        woohoo, I was first, one time last year and now have achieved the goal of being first one time this year. I will let others ‘win’ the prize for the rest of this year. lol I wish I could show you a photo of my Dexter. I am SO smitten with him! He will be camping with us this year too. 😀

  2. So CUTE!!!! Little dogs are perfectly suited for the wandering life 🙂 Hope the weather on the coast doesn’t keep on going and affect you guys too much!

  3. Pat H. says:

    Great pics!!!!!! Ms Bridget did a great job.

  4. Renee Galligher says:

    I have to agree, so cute!

  5. Cheryl O. (WA state) says:

    1st? I was catching up your last last blog and noticed Bridget posted one. Cute! Very entertaining. Love the doggie antics.

  6. Jeff Billingsley says:

    Great post Bridget. 1st? Jeff a longtime lurker

  7. Pamelab says:

    Bridget, you are a good story teller, just like Sue. Look forward to reading one of your blogs again soon.

  8. Velda says:

    Thanks Bridget for filling us in on your day and nice visit with your friends. Glad your weather has turned nice. Our rain is wrapping up for a few days.

  9. Cinandjules (NY) says:

    Great job Bridgeee babee!

    Sounds like everyone had a grand ole time! These are your kayaking buddies right?

    Fun to see Reg man interacting with others. I’m sure he was snoring when it was time for bed.

    Thanks Bridgee for the guest blogger post!

  10. Bridget you did a wonderful job of narrating…you had a wonderful day with friends and got to be the center of attention today….When ears fold back like that we call them Hiedi ears..of only one side folds back we call them half Heidi’s….just a funny thing I hear dogs say. We have missed you guest blogging Bridgeee Babeee…maybe if Reggie was not so busy playing he could have put in his 2 cents about how much fun it was on the play date….Tell Sue that we love her and Reggie too!

    • Cynthia from San Clemente, CA says:

      Shirlene: How did you do in HB yesterday? It was torrential down here. It was trash day and we live on the corner on a very slight downhill slope. All of our neighbors’ trash cans (garbage, recycle, and green waste) were washed down the street and crashed into our cans. Lovely mess in the rain 🙂

      • Hi Cynthia, we faired well yesterday, although my lawn has had enough of the sogginess, I think it threw up a little after the last storm last night! I saw new footage of the garbage cans racing down the streets in South County….I picked the blue can, but the green can won, ha! I had a dental appointment and the dentist said that his older patient’s kept their appointment and the younger ones cancelled. The younger generation is a little faint of heart, us old timers just drive a little slower and more careful and proceed as we remember when we used to have rain here. Funny. Stay warm and dry out this weekend I hope. We are going out to the Salton Sea, sunny skies out there, we called the State Park and asked.

  11. Janis says:

    Loved hearing and seeing all the dogs and their antics. 2 questions: what do you do with the dogs if you want to go site-seeing; and how do you get water for your TT if you don’t park in a rv park. Where do you get water to fill your fresh water tank?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Janis,

      Good questions.

      Where can one obtain water for the fresh water tank when camping where there aren’t water hook-ups.

      1) Go to a campground that has spigots, fill up and leave.
      2) Dump stations often have potable water spigots along with the non-potable spigot which is near the dump receptacle itself. Look for the sign “Potable water.”
      3) City and county parks, and fairgrounds often have a drinking water spigot available to the public.
      4) Some interstate rest stops provide water where you can connect your fresh water hose and fill your tank.
      5) You don’t have to camp in an RV park in order to use the water spigots there. Many RV parks welcome RVers to come in, use their dump station and fill a water tank, for a small fee.
      6) Although not the easiest method, one can fill jugs with water from coin-operated water vending machines and then use a funnel to transfer the water from the jugs to the tank.
      7) Some service stations have water spigots of drinking water for public use.

      These are what come to mind — I may have left some sources out. I have used all the ones I listed.

      What do I do with the crew when I go sightseeing?

      I leave them in the PTV if the weather permits and I won’t be gone long. Usually I stay away from places that don’t allow dogs. I’m not much interested in museums and other indoor attractions these days. There’s plenty to see and enjoy outdoors with the crew!

      One might think: Gee, why have dogs if they keep you from going certain places? Well, I think my blog answers that!

  12. Dave Stewart (in missouri for now) says:

    Bridget Is such a good blogger, RV Sue should let her blog more! Hope I don’t hurt Sues feelings. Go Bridget!!!!

  13. AZ Jim says:

    You had a canine jamboree!! That was a nice break for you and the crew. Your friends have some very nice doggies there and sociable too. We are getting some moderate rainfall today. I had to go out for awhile and got a little wet doing it. Surprisingly I didn’t melt. Keep dry and enjoy your cozy Casita when it’s damp outside.

  14. Hello Bridget,
    What an excellent guest blogger you are. I’m glad you and the Reginator had a good visit with your friends. One of the great things about being full timers is meeting up with friends from the road.

    Lisa

  15. Carrie in Crestline, CA says:

    Aloha Sue!
    I think you are truly a gem… I love your canine crew as well. I am a married 54 year old flight attendant with 3 canine kids and we hope to have the kind of lifestyle you have soon. We live in Crestline Ca. and are hoping to sell our house in the summer and start our full time RVing for a few years. Hope to meet you one day. In the meantime I’ll keep reading your blog , and be safe out there!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hello, Carrie in Crestline! Welcome to my blog! Thank you for taking the time to write a few lines about yourself. You are a blogorino!

      Also I thank you for the nice message. Good luck planning for a new lifestyle some time in your future. I hope you will keep in touch!

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Welcome, Carrie! 🙂

    • Krystina ~ Sutton, Vermont says:

      Yep, you are now an official Bloggerino! Welcome Carrie!

  16. DesertGinger says:

    I think I am number 17. I don’t have much to say…it is hard to have things to write about when you are trapped in the house all the time. I’m going out tomorrow…to the cardiologist…woohoo! At least I get out. Beyond that I have taken to watching HGTV again. I don’t normally watch tv, but I guess I’m going back to it now.

    Still too cold here for me. Come on spring!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Ginger! I’m sending you sunshine! 🙂

    • Elizabeth in WA says:

      Hoping for some good days for you, Ginger!! Sorry you are in this situation!!

    • BadgerRickInWis says:

      Sending you warm thoughts DG. Good luck with the Doc. If they poke ya be sure and poke em’ back. 🙂

      • Barbara (Nashville) says:

        DG, Hope things went well at the doctor. Sorry you are so down, not that we can blame you. Wish there was something we could to to help. You know Sue doesn’t mind if you vent. Take care of yourself.

    • Cinandjules (NY) says:

      Does someone go with you DeGin?

      The reason why I ask is….two minds are better than one when it comes to listening, understanding and asking questions.

      If not..make sure you write down some notes…so you get some of your questions answered. Too easy to forget your thoughts.

      Larger battery capacity for your O2 or at least model that has a car charger. It doesn’t cost him anything to write a detailed script.

      Keep your head up!

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Sending you some sunshine and warm thoughts, DesertGinger! 🙂

    • Krystina ~ Sutton, Vermont says:

      Sorry to hear that you are going through so much DG 🙁 I have been thinking about you. Hang in there and just do what you have to do. Love HGTV!! Sending up prayers for you.

  17. Cynthia from San Clemente, CA says:

    Miss Bridge! You did a wonderful job today; I really enjoy it when you jump in and write the post. You are so right about brown and black being more slimming than white – I have none of that stuff in my closet! Tell your mom there is such a thing as dye for dogs … I’ve seen pink and blue on poodles but I know you are too reserved and lady-like to come out dressed like Lady Gaga … but they may have some brown and black dye and then you could instantly look 5 pounds lighter!! Not that you need to, you know, just sayin’ 🙂

  18. weather says:

    Bridget it’s so nice of you to fill in for Sue when she’s doesn’t feel writing 🙂 You do a really good job of it ,too! That talent seems to run in your family. When I don’t know what to say sometimes I’ll try to think like you instead of just not commenting . Here’s my first try- “Hey, RVSue, you should get Bridget a really nice bed like Samantha has.” Ha, how did I do ?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      🙂

    • weather says:

      Good morning, Sue, I hope the sunrises and sunsets wherever you are have been as pretty and peaceful as the ones I’ve seen lately. If you aren’t on here for a while I often think perhaps you’ve moved, though other reasons or events may be why. I’ve been a bit preoccupied recently ,too.

      During the really cold snap I’d essentially stayed awake overnights to check the temperatures in the places wildlife shelters around here. Thankfully even when the wind chills were 15 or more degrees outside the places they tuck into remained above freezing. More good news is that I had dental and dental surgery appointments with wonderful results. Also, being involved with my friend’s search for a new dog has been fun , no choice yet but, gosh, I love just seeing the sweet options!

      Tomorrow will be rainy here and about fifty degrees before we get more seasonable conditions. For central NY that is truly amazing. I stood near the cliff yesterday several times listening to the waves splash below just not to miss the opportunity to do that during winter. It’s somehow always more of a treat to enjoy what we didn’t expect to get. I imagine that’s what having Reggie be able to run untethered at times now feels like for you.

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        Good morning, weather,

        I’m glad your dental surgery went well and you’re receiving unexpected “treats.”

        When I back off from replying to comments, it’s to retain balance in my life. Writing posts and replying to many comments fills my head with blog stuff. Not complaining. However, it’s healthy for me to drop out for a bit and after a break the writing is easier. We haven’t moved. The weather is very unpredictable, as you know, all over. We’re staying here where it’s sunny and the living is easy.

        🙂

  19. rvsueandcrew says:

    Hi, everybody!

    Bridget and I are going to refrain from comments and let y’all take over. Please reply to each other, answer questions, and make new blogorinos and returning blogorinos feel welcome. Whatever needs to be done— You know how it goes! Thanks.

    On behalf of the Bridge, thank you for your positive response to her guest blog!

    Sue

  20. Elizabeth in WA says:

    The interactions of several dogs are different than just 2…or so we noticed…but lots of fun!! Am sure the people all had a good time too and company is sure fun to have…happy you had a good day, Sue!!

    • Elizabeth in WA says:

      PS…reminds me of the wonderful beagle dog we had as kids…that dog was so tolerant. Her one vice was going for a “run” when the desire hit her…and nothing would persuade her to come back till she was good and ready…and one time she got so far afield, my mom drove all over town looking for her and finally found her…so far away it is a miracle she found the silly thing. But we so loved that creature!!

  21. Ilse says:

    Hi Bridget,
    What a wonderful post, you are a very gifted story teller. You probably don’t remember me (some even say I’m easy to forget, haha). I came over with Max, my big Golden Retriever, a couple of years ago to visit you and Spike, oh and Sue of course. I really enjoyed meeting y’all. I had this very old cat who stayed behind in my RV home. He died a few days later of very old age and I buried him right there in the desert. So thank you for telling us about your walk today and including all those pictures. The flat spot you showed us looked just like the spot where we camped. I think of that place a lot, and I sent some loving thoughts there. Keep up the great blogging work. Personally, I think you should take over more often.
    Cheers,
    Ilse

  22. Hi Bridget,you had a great day with your pals!!!
    And thanks for filling in for your Mom and giving her a rest…you are such a good girl and you take great photos too!!
    Give Mom pupper -kissy- kisses and a bunch of hugs..( to Reggie too!!!)

  23. Mary in CO says:

    Ah, Bridget girl, that was charming. Sue should let you write more often!

  24. Barbara (Nashville) says:

    What a cute post! I love the canine corner. Bridget, you did a great job, as usual. Sounds like you and Reg had a really fun time. Personally, I think Reggie just like the ladies, and wants to show off for them like most young guys do.

  25. Very good job, Bridget! Princess Roxie wishes she could play with Reggie; she can’t find anyone who’ll play! Tomorrow I am going over to Los Algodones to the dentist; my bridge came off and I think one of the anchor teeth are broken. Sigh. I hope it won’t be too expensive to fix! Kind of scary. I am going to Ja-Bal, from Sue’s recommendation.

  26. Alice (So. Fla) says:

    Good Job Bridget !! We love beagles in our house, Missy is our beagle and she is a real sweety. Actually, it seems her personality is a lot like yours. Very calm, observant and smart as a whip.

    Stay safe and we’ll pray for a new bed for you.

  27. Karen LeMoinel says:

    Thank you Bridget! A very well thought out post. Glad you and Reg had company! You tell your Mom to get you that new bed! Make sure Reg gets something so he won’t feel slighted. Love you two and Mom too!

  28. Bill & Ann C AZ says:

    What a great post; from a truly talented writer. Thank you all for sharing doggie tales; or is that doggie tails!

  29. BadgerRickInWis says:

    Oh, sweet Princess. What a wonderful job you’ve done. If there was somewhere to vote for blogger of the year you would get my vote. So let’s just review a few of the points you were able to cover.

    1. You did a great job of providing the backstory and a bit of history with all of the appropriate characters.

    2. Tying the story line into the appropriate photographs and doing so with a sense of humor and timing. Not easy to do but you make it look easy.

    3. Just the right amount of human, sorry make that canine interest by letting us know about Samantha’s medical history.

    4. Provided a valuable lesson to others by letting everyone know that it’s not all right to burn scrap lumber with nails in a fire pit. You’re right, some folks just don’t know how to boondock. But your lesson will educate others.

    5. Gave us information on some of the equipment necessary to properly live full time on the road by showing us Samantha’s really nice bed. (also cleverly showing RVSue what an appropriate doggie throne is supposed to look like. Really well done!)

    6. Gave your little brother some tips on proper etiquette when playing with his elders. But you did it in a way that was very loving and understanding. You’re so good at letting others be who they are while at the same time maintaining the proper regal temperament to which you are due.

    7. Showed some of the interesting human characters that you meet in your travels but did it in a way that was very respectful to his privacy.

    8. Shared with all of us a few of the other camping sites in the area. This is great info to those of us dreaming of someday doing just what you are doing today.

    9. Let that wonderful sense of humor that you have come through. “Sammy, on the other paw, is game for some rough-housing.” or “Brown and black are so slimming.” Don’t think that we don’t notice and appreciate these little zingers.

    10. Most importantly you let your love not just for your own family but for all that you come in contact with shine through. That is the greatest gift of all.

    So, I sincerely hope that RVSue is paying attention to all of this. She could learn a lot from a blogger like you. Keep up the good work. 🙂

    • Cynthia from San Clemente, CA says:

      Love it Rick, you always make me laugh!

    • Kay from KC! says:

      Good Job, Rick! Love it!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Rick! What a thorough analysis of Bridget’s writing! Hilarious!

      I’ve read your Ten Points To Good Writing By a Canine Boondocker several times. You really get a lot out a post, don’t you. Oh my…. I love it. I’ll have to ask Bridget for tips before publishing any more of MY posts.

      Speaking of awards, you deserve The Commenter of the Year Award! This is classic BadgerRick. Thanks. 🙂

      • BadgerRickInWis says:

        “I’d like to thank the academy, and my 4th grade teacher who taught me the difference between your and you’re. Which I remember sometimes.” 🙂

  30. Lee J in Northern California says:

    Wonderful report of your adventures Brigee Baby!
    This is Maggie, let me introduce myself. My mom found me on a busy road in pouring rain six years ago, I was just a puppy of six months and I was so frightened! Mom had my big brother Arlo show me all was ok and it was safe to let mom pick me up, I was so scared and wet and hungry !
    I have been living in Oregon with mom’s granddaughter and just came home to live again. I had to go to the dentist yesterday and my mouth is sore so my mom gave me chicken soup she made fresh today, she loves me so much! Mom told me your mom Sue gives you chicken too. Aren’t we lucky girls? I am so glad you had fun with your visitors and that Reggie mostly behaved himself….babies can be so much fun…and so much trouble. Thank you for the visit!

  31. Very cute BadgerRick.
    Sooo, the other night it was pouring rain in sheets. It was so loud it woke me up and my first thought was…”gee, I wonder if there is water running in Sues wash!” Lol.
    Tonight kids were making snow balls out of the hail that fell.
    I am confused which state I am actually in. Guess I will need to fix the little leak at my antenna after all. Was saving that chore for rainy northern coast lol.
    I have had a question for sue for days but I keep forgetting it. Typical.

  32. Linda says:

    Bridget, You did a great job of covering for RVSue,
    I do have a question for her when she is up to it, though.
    I am afraid I have been more of a lurker than a blogerino. I have learned so much from these blogs and I appreciate it so much.
    My question: How many pots/pans in what size do you carry with you? I am trying to decide what I actually need in my 16 ft Scamp when I go full time this fall. Will be just me and my three dogs.
    Thanks!

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Welcome, Linda! You are a blogorino, now! 🙂

    • Linda, I carry two back packer pots and one small regular skillet. Depends what type cooker you are. I like the back packer pots because they don’t have handles and stack well, are light. ( handle either folds down or is a grip that is separate) Some people bring what ever they have in their kitchen available. Use what you got and get rid of it later if it doesn’t work , get something else. I just took my camping gear because my kitchen pots would not fit well and were heavy.
      Am sure others will chime in with their gear.

      • Sidewinder Pen says:

        I’m with you on the backpacking pots/pans. I really like the size because not only do they store easily, but they fit in small sinks so well when it’s time to wash them! I still carry a two-quart saucepan (Farberware) just because it’s hard to get good (coking) quality, heavy cookware in the backpacking size. Nothing larger, but then I’m not a “frypan” sort of cook. I haven’t used anything larger than the 2 quart saucepan for years. And really, even though they are “lighter duty,” I always still reach for my good old Evernew backpacker pans first.

        For “dishes,” I use mostly stainless steel pet water bowls. Good size, lightweight, unbreakable, but not plastic. I have a backpacker titanium plate (just because I couldn’t find a stainless one since titanium is “in” nowadays) and it has a nice shape with a rim, kind of like a small frisbee), but nearly always use the bowls instead. Again I find smaller plates fit in the sink and drainer better.

        I do cook or at least prepare just about all my meals (vs. eating out), but my tastes are fairly simple.

    • Cheryl O. (WA state) says:

      I’ve always packed away a medium size pot and skillet I got at the thrift store. But, I’m always looking for ways to save space and weight in my 15 ft. trailer. I like the backpacker pots idea, too.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Linda,

      How many pots and pans depends on different variables– the meals you prepare, your style of cooking, and even how often you wash dishes. I need more pots and pans because I don’t wash dishes immediately after every meal. I dump them in a dishpan and wash them about every other day. This practice conserves water (and requires more pots and pans), but I realize not everyone could stand to do that.

      I think the best guide is what Jan wrote — Take what you have now. If it’s too much, you can get rid of it later.

    • Linda says:

      Thanks for the advice everyone! I do have a small cast iron skillet I love that will be going with me. Will probably add small and medium sauce pans and call it enough.

  33. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Thank you, Miss Bridget for such a wonderful post! I am glad that you and Reggie had a nice visit with your pals and that Sue had a chance to chat with her friends. I do believe that Reggie was whispering sweet, little nothings into those other girl’s ears…..what a little scamp! Enjoy your evening! Sending you, Sue, and Reggie hugs from me and Gracie pup! Keep up the good work, princess! 🙂

  34. Steve says:

    Those are 4 very fine looking dogs. Thanks for the great photos!! I needed that.

  35. Eileen Dykeman says:

    Samantha looks just like my Missy, except my old girl has more “grey hair” (like her mistress)!

  36. Iris says:

    Sue, a while back you had written on a Auto repair place in Wickenburg, you spoke very highly of them that they didn’t take advantage of you. I think you said you had your brakes done there. would you mind giving me their name please and phone number. I don’t know if they do diesel but I can call and find out.

    Thanks for your time.

  37. Cinandjules (NY) says:

    FYI: Craig Motor Craft, 12 South Tegner Street, Wickenburg, AZ, a family business since 1966, services cars, trucks, and RVs. Phone: (928) 415-0527

  38. rvsueandcrew says:

    NOTE TO CAT LOVERS…

    You may want to look at comments under the previous post regarding a cat play yard, if you missed them and are interested in that topic. — Sue

    • weather says:

      that’s something worth considering thanks Sue- , it’s in the comment section of the post titled -First day at a new camp-

  39. Great to see you all having such a fun play date Bridget. And you always do a lovely job as guest blogger 🙂

  40. AZ Jim says:

    Missy, it just occurred to me in going through the posts, you have a large Arizona fan base. I don’t know how many but a bunch of us.

    • Nivrapa in AZ says:

      Hi Jim and Mrs. AZ Jim!

      I also have noticed a good number of blogorinos that seem to hail from our great state. We should do a head count. I think that we may have more than any other state.

      Jim, did you get any snow at your level? I got a nice white coating of the stuff at my house north of Tucson and the cactus all wore white stocking caps. Very pretty and unusual for our desert. It’s still cold, gray, and damp today. Hope you, the Mrs, and your fine feathered friends are coping well with this weather.

      Audrey

      • wildflower in prescott says:

        It has been snowing off and on all week. The streets are usually clear by noon. Most of the snow in my yard has melted but we are getting a really good snow pack in the surrounding mountains which will be good for the ponderosa forests. Flagstaff has had 2 feet. School has been closed for at least 2 days up there.

      • AZ Jim says:

        Audrey, No snow here in Surprise, just rain. At one time years ago I had a cabin in the mountains of Idaho (8000 ft.). Now THAT was snow. I also spent 10 years in South Dakota, in fact I was there through one of the biggest blizzards and it literally came up to the roof on the windward side of our house. Enough snow for Detta and I.

        • Pamela K. says:

          Jim,
          That all-time blizzard… Was that during the 1970s by chance? I ask because my husband was the SAC Commander/Instructor at the Alternate Command Center there at Ellsworth AFB back then. During the big-one they had to tunnel out of their base housing to get to the ICBM Capsules…snow had packed them plum clear to the top of the roof lines. Later, come Spring, the huge floors came. Some had to leave their posts to rescue their own families. Needless to say, It was a Wild Ride!” We too, have seen all the deep snow we ever need to see during this lifetime, been there, done that.

  41. Pookie in SE Texas says:

    great story and great pictures make for a great blog…
    ya done it again, Sue….
    chuck

  42. Wow! Hi to Bill and Ann! We miss seeing y’all! Hard to believe how long ago it was when we all met at Quartzsite! Time flies! Keep in touch! Hope all is well!

    Sammie and Julie look great! It was fun to see the canine capers! Good job Bridget!

    • Bill & Ann C AZ says:

      We made good friends that year; and then the caravan to Ajo. Great fun. A few years gone and still traveling.

  43. bonnie,charlie & the "dovemobile"(texas) says:

    very belated holiday greetings to all! We have been roaming around Texas after a short time of dog/housesitting in north central tx in October. hoping weather will co-operate and let us get to warmer/drier climate before the winter is over. have abandoned the tent and are just living out of the van. rains last spring in tx gave us fits and the tent took a bit of a beating. so we have simplified our lifestyle a little more and just sleep in the van as we go traveling.
    bridget did a very fine job of bringing us up to date on the days activities. and the pictures were quite good, (in focus and all). don’t know if we will get back to az as we need electric to run a heater and a light inside the van at night. will figure it out,
    until then we go from one campground to another in south central tx as long as the temps are warm enough and it’s not raining too much. being confined inside the van is not much fun.

  44. Glenda in OZ! says:

    Arrrhhhhhhh so nice for the doggies to have a get together………loved the post Bridget!

  45. DesertGinger says:

    I saw the cardiologist today and guess what? Hope! He said he thinks my mitral valve problem is the cause of the PH and if he fixes my valve it should really improve my PH!! So he is going to do a bunch of tests and he told me to work on weight loss. He said it will help my heart surgery if I lose weight. So that’s my immediate chore.

    But there is hope! I can’t believe how much better I feel. Even though I am scared to death of heart surgery.

    So I am very pleased.

    • Velda in Roseville CA says:

      Hope is always good and ESP if it’s motivating. All the best to you De Gin.

    • Krystina ~ Sutton, Vermont says:

      Such fantastic news DG!!!! I am so happy to hear that you now have HOPE. I can only imagine how you must feel. Stick to that diet and do what the Doc says!!! Yeah 🙂

    • weather says:

      That’s great, Ginger! You must feel refreshed and relieved after receiving such good news, I’m all happy sighs and smiles just reading it 🙂

    • Sidewinder Pen says:

      Yay, hope! Very happy for you. Now you have things to research, and a path to check into.

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Wonderful news, DesertGinger! I am sending you a happy hug! Warm thoughts and bucketfuls of hope are being sent your way. Keeping you in my prayers. xxxooo

    • Cinandjules (NY) says:

      Great news DeGin!

      Big sigh of relief……easy does it on the exercise…don’t overdo it all at once. Energizer bunny!

      Have a great weekend!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      That’s great news, Ginger! We blogorinos are cheering for you!

    • Mick'nTN says:

      Dear DeGin, So glad you got positive news … now dump that weight. Post your loss here every week (for motivation).
      Mick

      • Marilyn, Dania Beach, FL says:

        Desert Ginger,

        I know where you are with surgical fear. I delayed my spine surgery and afterward wish I had allowed it to be performed earlier.

        A friend of mine had a valve replacement due to infection from a tooth and she said it was nothing . She is so much better now.

        You know all the blogarinos are pulling for you through this trying time. You will be so much better afterward.

        The losing weight will be more difficult than the surgery.

    • Lee J in Northern California says:

      Wonderful news, there is light at the end of that tunnel!

  46. BadgerRickInWis says:

    Wonderful news DG. And of course you’re scared. I don’t know that I’ve ever done anything in my life that was really meaningful that I wasn’t a little bit afraid of on the way in. We all know you can do this and are holding you in our hearts.

  47. Susan in Dallas says:

    Yay, Canine Corner! Nothing quite like it. I especially like the way Bridgett is so quick to assure you of her writing talents so that you can hit the road!

  48. Lynda Gatlor says:

    Hello Sue,
    Just found your site and like so many others I’m impressed with the whole journey, most of all with the initial 4 months where there was so much to do to get on the way. I bought a 1981 VW Vanagon in 2005 and it still sits in the back yard and has virtually gone no where. The plan was to go after retirement in 2009.
    It is such an encouragement to read your story. I notice that your costs, while still not too high, have climbed significantly since 2011, and you have not even posted the numbers for 2015.
    I am Canadian and am wondering if only US citizens can take advantage of free parking in parks, getting postal boxes, etc. I am wondering if you have heard from other Canadians RVers how they manage these things and others like insurances down in the US.
    Thanks again for all the wonderful encouraging info.

    Lynda

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Lynda,

      Welcome to my blog! I’m delighted to see you here.

      About costs…. My costs have gone up over the 4 year period primarily for three reasons: 1) the blog has grown and the costs of running it have increased and 2) I have a larger income now than I had when I first started with only my teacher pension and Social Security. The income from Amazon allows me to feel comfortable spending more money than I did in the beginning and 3) when I started full-timing I didn’t know how much it would cost. My income was (and still is) modest. Therefore, I was super careful with every dollar and wouldn’t allow myself to stay at RV parks and wouldn’t buy things I wanted, etc. Now I know what it takes to survive and therefore I know that it isn’t necessary for me to be that frugal.

      Make sense?

      I stopped posting my financial information when Spike died. Grief stole the energy for what it takes to produce that. Once I stopped, I didn’t have the motivation to start it again. Creating blog posts, editing photos, taking care of Amazon responsibilities, and managing comments and everything else takes a lot of time. I have to make sure I do some living so I’ll have something to write about. 🙂

      I’m going to try this month to post current financial information and keep it going throughout the year.

      Canadians camp on U.S. public lands all the time, for free, just like U.S. citizens. They are also welcome at Long Term Visitor Areas, federal campgrounds, state campgrounds, etc. I’ve never heard of a Canadian citizen being denied access due to their not being a citizen of this country. You see Canadian flags flying all over the desert during the winter. (That kind of bothers me… I can’t imagine camping in Canada and flying the U.S. flag. That’s all I’ll say about that!)

      A Canadian can have mail sent General Delivery to a U.S. post office. Citizenship is not discussed when receiving the mail. All you do is present your identification so the mail is delivered to the right person.

      As for insurance for Canadians in U.S…. I don’t know anything about that.

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