Okay, I expected some snow in Arizona but this is SNOW

Wednesday, January 2, at home in Arizona

When Reggie, Roger, and I turn in for the night, the ground around our home is almost completely clear of the day’s snowfall.

I awake this morning and discover more snow has fallen than before!

Hey, is this typical?  

Every time I ask a local, “Do ya’ get much snow here?” invariably the answer is an offhand, “No, not much” or “a little bit but it’s gone in a few hours.”

Oh-kaaaay . . . .

What they don’t say is that it snows on consecutive days.

I think weather is designed to keep us alert.  Otherwise we’d get complacent or sluggish or dyspeptic or something.

Whether the weather (now there’s a phrase for ya’) is a tap on the shoulder or a slap upside the head, it reminds us that we really don’t have much power over nature.

We just think we do.

Reggie and Roger hop in a hurry.

They hop like rabbits through the snow to reach a bare place under a tree. They do their business and hop in a hurry back to the door.

I’m sorry I don’t have any photos of the crew in the snow.  They’re in and out so fast, I don’t catch a good shot.  The snow is up to their bellies!

In the background of the next picture, you can see the cedar fence boards that have protective coating and stain.

Checking the hummingbird feeder . . . .

I find the water is not frozen, but the platform at the bottom where the hummers insert their beaks is covered in snow.  I brush it off and go over to the seed feeders.  When I look back, already a hummingbird is taking a drink of sugar water.

This little guy sits on a branch of the pine tree nearby.  He attacks any other hummingbird that goes near “his” feeder which he visits often.

(These are long distance shots.  My camera is pushed to its limits here.)

The other hummers have access to other feeders.

The house two doors down has feeders out for them.

I put up another feeder under the eave of the back patio.  A hummer has claimed it.  He sits there, staying out of the snowfall.  (Yes, it’s still snowing, and has been, off and on, all morning!)

Any attempt at taking the hummer’s picture will drive him away, so take my word for it.

See the fence?

Someday I’m going to have pretty plants growing along it.

Arizona ground is very hard.  At least the ground around our house is.  Dennis and Gilbert say I can have them come over with the auger to make planting holes all around the property for trees and bushes.

I’m thinking I need to get myself a pick-axe in order to plant annuals and perennials this spring.  Not kidding.

I have a grocery list all ready for a trip to the store.  

One look at the Perfect Tow Vehicle and the snow-covered street persuades me to postpone shopping until tomorrow.

It doesn’t matter if we stay home for another day.

I have enough food on hand.  A hankering for a hot pocket hits me at lunchtime. Being very  intent upon putting together the refried beans, green chilies, salsa, and havarti cheese, folding it all up in a flour tortilla just so, and cooking it crispy golden in my cast iron skillet, I don’t think to take a photo.

Like the boys hopping over the snow, that hot pocket goes fast.

I think I’ll make myself another one in a little while.

I’m glad I left the pecans at the top of our two trees.  I’ve had enough to snack on almost every evening and there are plenty for our feathered friends, too.

Nature’s bounty . . . .

Several inside projects await my attention.

I admit I’m not motivated to accomplish anything.  Instead I dawdle on the internet.  I play with the boys.  I putter in the kitchen.  I eat.  I look out the windows.  I eat some more.

I day-dream . . . .

Remember those days of inclement weather when Bridget, Spike and I were cooped up in the Best Little Trailer?  And after a while, Spike bounced off the walls in frustration?

Reg and Rog aren’t at that point yet.  They do have room to run inside and I let them.  I hope they keep taking frequent naps, too, until they’re able to patrol and run and play outside again.

I’ll try to have photos of the canine cuties for the next post.

So . . . That’s our news.  What are you doing today?

rvsue 

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146 Responses to Okay, I expected some snow in Arizona but this is SNOW

  1. ReneeG from Idaho says:

    Whoa!!! More than Idaho.

    First?

  2. Reine in Princeton, TX (when not camping) says:

    It’s cold (32) and RAINY and generally messy. We had some ice pellets earlier today. It’s a REALLY good day to stay inside and put away the Christmas decorations. We went out of town for a New Years Casita get together so I’m a little behind on putting away Christmas but it will get done when it gets done.

    The snow in your backyard is beautiful. Glad you’re taking care of the little creatures.

  3. Laura Ours says:

    Wow! You sure did get some snow and ReneeG, I think you ARE first! Yippee for you!

    I love the hanging glass wind chimes they are so pretty! You have more snow on the ground than we here in Chicagoland have!

    Huggles,
    Laura

  4. MollyLuvsRoadtrippin (Seattle) says:

    It has been a very warm winter in Seattle, so seeing you enjoy an unexpectedly white New Year is lovely indeed. If you had to be finding a warm place to boondock in the BLT this winter, I wonder where you would go if AZ is having such a cold snap?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Molly,

      I’d probably camp west of Yuma AZ at Sidewinder Road (Winterhaven, CA) or at Midland LTVA near Blythe, CA.

      Both of those areas have highs in the mid-to-high 50s with lows in the 30s-to-40s, presently or coming soon.

      Whereas southeastern Arizona has highs in the 40s to low 50s with lows in the 20s to 30s.

      Not a big difference but difference enough for a boondocker. 🙂

  5. 30″ of snow in the past 9 days in N.E. AZ! Way more than I bargained for. Mother Nature is off her meds!!

  6. Columbus Calvin says:

    I’m starting to wonder if I’d be getting away from winter in Tucson or the environs, or anywhere. My lease isn’t up until July 1, and I’ll be 62 years old (senior citizen housing) in May. We’ll see what happens.

    I understand Reggie and Roger getting back inside quickly. Fortunately for me, humans can dress for that weather, so I’m rarely kept in completely.

    • Columbus Calvin says:

      I posted that first paragraph before I read your response to MollyLuvsRoadTrippin above. Maybe Yuma if I want a fixed address. I can take a lot of heat.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Zonies, correct me if I’m wrong….

      If you really want to limit your exposure to snowy, cold winter weather, the areas around Yuma or Phoenix are lower elevation and generally warmer.

  7. Lisa W says:

    Hi Sue,
    Beautiful Anna’s, they will stay all year and the cold doesn’t seem to bother them much. I lived in SE AZ for 30 years and never saw it snow 2 days in a row. Rarely saw even a flurry in December or January. Don’t know how close to Fort Huachuca you are but the 10 day forecast there is 40s tomorrow and then 50s for most of the next days. So your snow will leave soon. And you will be enjoying your outdoor lounger soon!
    Meanwhile, due to weather in Tucson and Dallas, I am not leaving my Mother’s house as planned tomorrow. I was advised yesterday to change my flight if I could so will be back in Tucson on Friday – just in time for the warm up! 😉

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Lisa,

      I wondered if my hummers are Anna’s. I do hope we are closing in on a warming trend.

      No snow falling at the moment and the sun is shining, the sky is blue, and man-oh-man birds are all over the place, going for the seed I scattered on the ground.

      Smooth travel for you on Friday!

  8. Diannn in MT says:

    Oh, my goodness! This looks like our backyard in Montana! I have to laugh, but I am tempered by the fact that I love where I live and when I can accept (with the help of our Lord) 2 1/2 months of intolerable cold weather.
    It’s all in the perception. Embrace, or go crazy. Thanks so much for being so real about your life!
    Your birds love you. I have a few pine siskins who sit within a special birdfeeder that has a cover over the seeds. When it got below zero a couple of nights ago and the birds finally made it out of wherever they go for cover the following morning, they came right over and gorged themselves on sunflower seeds. Then, sat within the shelter of the seed feeder and didn’t stir. Interesting to observe.
    I see your collared dove, up there on a branch. For a few years now, those pretty doves from the south have been our winter residents here. Some make it through, the older ones disappear during the winter.
    Love the glass chime in front of your window with the snowy backdrop. Christmas lives on–at least until January 6. Hugs to you, Sue. Thanks for sharing

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You’re right, Diann. Perspective or attitude makes the difference between tolerable and intolerable, acceptance or delight.

      That’s the Mermaid Tears that Geri and Chuck make. Look closely and you’ll see a few mermaids (near the bottom).

  9. Carlene & Corky says:

    WOW… you guys got a whole lot more snow than here in central NM… however the wind is blowing so hard that whatever snow we’ve had is in the next county by now… nothing is sticking but at 26 degrees the wind takes it down to 15 or less.
    You’ve got some great pics… just love the window treatment with the snow in the background.
    Stay warm…

  10. Cathy Van Booven says:

    As a furloughed federal employee I have been cooking up a Storm. Yesterday ham and bean soup and today 2 lasagna. Stocking freezer and giving some to my dad. Last week it was big pot of beef barley soup.
    Cold and gray. Would love a bit of sunshine

  11. weather says:

    Looking at each photo I was thinking how pretty everything looked. Then I saw the PTV and the road behind it covered in snow and winced, thinking “Oh, no!”. When I read that you decided to postpone grocery shopping, I thought “Heck, yeah, I wouldn’t want to go clean that off and drive at all!” Then I laughed when I saw what you’d eaten, because I just had almost the exact same thing 🙂 .Yep, days like this are perfect for staying in with our sweet little fur buddies, eating something warm, tasty and satisfying, and being outside only if it’s really necessary or for quickly done fun stuff.

    It was 19 degrees outside when I got up a couple of hours before sunrise. By around 10 this morning I thought I’d go run a few errands. Then I actually went out all dressed and ready to go, made it to my mailbox , turned around and came back into the house.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You made it to the mailbox! That’s further than I got. 🙂

      Warm food tastes even better on days like this. Instead of having a second hot pocket I made some rice and added beans with chili sauce. Very satisfying and also gives me leftovers.

      I am running out of birdseed which means a trip to the store tomorrow unless driving is really bad.

      It just occurred to me that some of our new readers might not know where you are — where it was 19 degrees a couple hours before sunrise. I don’t think you would mind me saying you’re in the Finger Lakes region of western New York state.

      • weather says:

        No, I don’t mind your helping people understand where I am , actually, though, I’m in central NY state, on Oneida Lake, which is a bit bigger than the largest finger lake. I sometimes drive through the finger lakes region, it’s nice, yet I strongly prefer this area.

        In case I haven’t explained this before, I would feel weird signing in as ” weather in central NY state “. I picture people expecting to see the forecast for the next seven days, Ha! I do occasionally mention where I am hoping new readers catch that comment. It really does help us understand each other and make us seem more like real people when we know where everyone lives.

        Hopefully, tomorrow will be a good day for you to drive and shop for groceries and bird seed , or you already have enough food for a couple of days. I’m guessing you know that in place of bird seed in a pinch it’s ok to give them shreds of lettuce, broccoli, carrots, corn, peas, spinach or even small dog kibble.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          I was wondering if kibble would be okay. I do have plenty of sunflower seeds but I’ve run out of the thistle/small seed mix that the little birds seem to like best. I didn’t think about carrots or peas, which I do have on hand.

          Of course, Reggie and Roger will eat it up. If I were to put veggies in a bowl, they wouldn’t touch it, but if they think some other creature might get it, suddenly they want it.

          Well, I need to look at a map of NY again! I don’t know how I put you by the Finger Lakes. I forgot all about Oneida.

          I do hope to go to the store tomorrow, if only for the diversion and the bird seed. It depends whether there is ice on the roads.

  12. Ha, Ha, ha, LOL, We had a little of the white stuff way back in November, but lately it’s been in the 40s ta 50s and Rain, we have a Lake out front which is gone the next day, I’m waiting for a good day to cut down 5 trees so my start of a driveway to my home can be done, then I’ll just get a little wet while getting into the truck instead of walking and getting a lot wet to where she’s parked now and hopefully she’ll have a roof over her come Summer, yep, the camper is gone and she has a newer paint job, why just 3 weeks ago a fellow offered 2,000 cash for her, she’s not for sale, I said and he offered up 5,000, nope, I said,, I know her and I do just fine keeping her running in good order and she’s in my WILL, to the Grand Children of the Clan, so beat it!,, ha,, my Lady Friend agrees with me, she likes the Ol’ Hot Rod Lincoln 302 with 3 on the floor and 4/11 Possi Rear like she’s still young and listening to 50s sound from XM as we Cruise down the Avenue, a Dream come true,,,,,

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I’m surprised by your weather report, Rusty. I thought Kentucky would be buried in snow by now. I’m glad to hear the truck is still “running in good order.”

    • Oh Sue, snow in the Zone sometimes is always and some years never a Flake is seen below the Mongolian Rim, but by chanch that you might be in the South East of AZ or the North West of the Zone, you just might see a lot,, I remember of a time a long ago, well , back in 95 96, we left Washington cascades and got rid of the cold clothes and low and behold it snowed and got real cold in Tombstone, out Middle March Rd towards the Dragoons, and everyone thought it was the end of the world, god, every one was in a ditch and it only snowed 4 inches,,LOL,,,,,

      • Up in a normal Winter the roads in the Cascades had a foot of ice on them and the locals had Studded tires and drove a little slower, but some from Out of towners would drive up Hwy 141 like there was nothing there and once one got to the last rise into the Trout Lake valley there would be all kinds of havoc on the sides of the road, they passed me in my 58 23 window Deluxe VW Transporter with a 89 Datsun Motor Conversion, I didn’t have to downshift to get up the hill, but they’d be passing me anyway and the ladies of the drivers in the snow covered ditches would be screaming, we’d stop and ask if they need help and some who thought they didn’t need help said NO, THE REST WE Pulled out to get them on there way and called for a Tow for the better,,, oh those were the days to talk about at Bonnies Cafe , Snow does bring back memories on how to and not to drive in it,,,,,,,,, LOL

        • Gloria in Prescott, Az. says:

          Yes, last I looked we are in for a couple feet of snow tomorrow night. Going to the library and store tomorrow so I can sit home for awhile.
          New Year has led me to XXXXX and ordered the three ancient texts to study in your Amazon Sales. Will write a review in a year if they turn out to be helpful.

          • rvsueandcrew says:

            Hi, Gloria,

            Thank you for ordering from Amazon through my blog.

            I removed the name of the site from your comment due to its heavy political bias.

            • Well Sue, the Weather Man or Woman said Snow possible by this weekend and the temperature should be dropping, today’s temp is around the mid 60s, been running around in shorts and a T shirt and Piper is panting a lot, LoL🤓

            • Ya it’s a heat wave, that song comes to mind or Hot Dam Summer in the City, by who I don’t really know, but they’re running Through My Mind, god, there’s another one, STOpppp,!

  13. Gumo says:

    I think El Niño is in full force for us in the Southwestern states and I welcome it here in West Texas. Bring it on, I say!

  14. EmilyO in southern NM says:

    We kept hearing how my area here north of Las Cruces was suppose to get 2 to 4″ of snow and we kept hearing how much snow we are going to get and so on. The Weather service in El Paso said last night that the storm we were to get here had stalled over eastern AZ. Guess it did. Late afternoon now and sun is shinning and it’s 38º, can see snow on the Gilas and some dark clouds over them. The Black Range (located just to the east of Gilas) hasn’t received much snow, Turtleback Mt got a little a few days ago. I want my one snow of the year so I can yell out “And let Spring march its way in.” The pictures are really pretty Sue. The color of the fence against the snow and trees is a great contrast. My hummers didn’t stick around.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Aha! So this stuff belongs to you in NM, huh? 🙂

      Thanks for noting the photos, Emily. Yeah, I think the fence makes a lovely backdrop.

  15. leilani (Texas) says:

    That photo of the bird (what is it, it looks like a ring-necked dove?) in the pecan tree is pretty enough to be your 2019 Christmas Card. Gorgeous!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thank you, leilani. I like that photo, too. I had to wait a while for the dove to move his/her head to be in view between the branches, not behind them.

      That’s a great idea because I always have a hard time putting together a card for Christmas. The boys seem to know I want a photo from them and I think they make sure not to both be in frame at the same time.

  16. Diannn in MT says:

    Oh, my goodness. Yes. I see the mermaids!

  17. Jolene/Iowa says:

    I love your snow pictures Sue! Your snow I am assuming will be gone fast so it might be kind of nice every now and then because it sure is pretty in your pictures!

    I have to say I love your little oasis in your yard now with the fence! I bet it has totally changed how you feel about being out in your yard. Private person that you are I imagine it is like your own little piece of heaven!

    We are going to be in the 40’s and 50’s for a few days here in Iowa, yay! And we are all another day closer to spring!

    I have gotten busy again with sewing and crafting. My thing I am doing again now is some quilted cross wall hangings! I really enjoy making them.

    Always great to see you pop up in my notifications!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Jolene,

      The fence totally changed the atmosphere of the back and side yards. I forget about all that goes on with the neighbors. Ha!

      In fact, there’s a busybody woman who used to make comments of a negative nature whenever she walked by on her way to the cluster mailboxes. Known by everyone in the neighborhood as a troublemaker.

      It makes me smile to know she can’t see into the back yard to make one of her comments. That alone is worth the expense. Hahahaha….

      Hey, great weather for you!

  18. gine says:

    How fun to wake up to snow. In the 35 years I’ve lived in north Florida it has snowed twice but nothing to compare with yours. I think your pictures are perfect for future Christmas cards. Happy New year!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Happy New Year to you, too, gine!

      I used to live in Clearwater and we would get a light dusting of snow during some winters, not all. It would melt shortly after it hit the ground.

  19. Don in Okla. says:

    We had a foot of snow about a week ago and the temps have stayed in the teens and single digits since so we have dandy ICE now everywhere. The city streets are skating rinks and many folks have busted themselves on it. Me included!! And this is in the arid middle of the Okla. Panhandle!!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I hope you weren’t hurt, Don. Falling on ice can give the back an awful slam.

      Ice is so treacherous. I remember dealing with black ice in Georgia. Scary on the roads.

      Take care!

  20. Rob, in a snowless Tampa Florida now says:

    Your camera was working well even pushed to the limits!

    Happy New Year RvSue!!

  21. This has been a good year not to be full timing; happy that you are safe in a house watching the white stuff….the pups might want a coat though if the cold continues.
    Cheers,

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Oh, what a pretty Escape trailer you and Linda have! So shiny!

      I was thinking the same thing, Pierre, about this being a good year to NOT be full timing. Mainly I was thinking of a couple blogorinos who are experiencing their first winter “on the road” and they are facing temperature challenges.

      Reggie and Roger both have fleece coats but I don’t think they’re very effective. Too thin. Roger has gained weight so his coat fits a bit snug. When I put it on him, it takes him a minute to adjust to the feel of it. He walks sideways until he’s used to it. Hilarious!

      • Thanks RVSue, the trailer has done us quite well…it feels lonely in the garage. We had seen an Escape winter camping and we might try that this year and learn about the challenges for winter on the road. Last year we were in Tofino, British Columbia to watch the storms and had to navigate some snow covered roads. It was very tense but with carful driving and knowing how the trailer brakes can lock up on the downhill run we managed the mountain passes. We are happy to be home this year.
        Dogs and coats are funny…have you tried little booties yet…almost worth making the video.

  22. Susan in Dallas says:

    I LOVE the picture of the bare tree branches with the fence below them and that last picture in the post as well. Just something about the simplicity of them both. I’m trying to stay dry and warm here in Dallas. Tomorrow looks like it’s going to be even worse with possible some accumulated snow!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thank you, Susan, for noting those photos. The top of the fence caught my eye, the fanciful line emphasized by the snow. 🙂

      I like to look for designs to photograph. Nice to have those photos appreciated.

      Stay warm! (Before you know it I’ll be saying “Keep cool!”). That’s Dallas!

  23. Bud (N E Washington) says:

    I was raised in Phoenix and in 1949 we had snow in January and at other times over the years we would have a little snow. When I lived in Tucson we had enough to cover the ground quite well at Easter 1999. Where you live the elevation is just high enough to get occasional snow. here in northeast Washington (Spokane) we are well below our normal snow fall (more rain than snow), the mountains are getting good snow however. Spring time should be beautiful with good moisture this winter.

  24. Elaine Magliacane says:

    Cloud today in Charleston SC, high was only 71 today… I’ve lived here just over 20 years and it has snowed twice. Sure is pretty, I agree the dove photo would make a great Christmas card for you.

  25. Cynthia in San Clemente says:

    I don’t have too much to say today – in a lot of pain with my sciatica so I’ve taken some pain killers (not opioids – so not to worry!), am going to open a new book in front of the fire and read myself to sleep. Lucy’s blood tests came back and everything looked great, which is good news. No more seizure/tremors so I guess we’ll just wait to see if it happens again. The vet suggested if it does happen again that I try to take a video of it so she can see it – I wonder if she thinks I’m a crazy dog mom???

    The snow in your yard is just gorgeous – I love the white and green and brown of the fence – those are the exact colors I have in my house and I think they are so pretty together. Please – what is that pretty bird with the white breast?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      That is good news about Lucy! 🙂

      “the pretty bird with the white breast?” If you mean the one on a branch watching the other sparrows eat at the feeder (photo #10 ), I’m pretty sure that’s a chipping sparrow. Lots of them live in the Italian cypress trees around here.

      “American Tree Sparrow and Chipping Sparrow”

      Diann in MT says the bird in the 11th photo is a collared dove.

      Eurasian Collared Dove

      I hope your pain is relieved, Cynthia, so you can sleep well tonight and wake up feeling great.

  26. Mel from NW Arkansas says:

    Hi there from Mel & Gary, now in NW Arkansas.. hint from the 13yrs winters we lived in Carson City when we had snow.. I kept a good snow shovel on hand and shoveled a path from back door around the yard a bit , then shoved out an area about 4ft square for my little cavaliers “potty in the snow” ..they would pee on the path and poo in the square… a lot more comfortable for them, especially when snow was 6” + !!! PS.. 20-30yrs ago snow would show up most winters.. I have pictures of my parents place by Parker Canyon Lake under a foot of snow.. so glad to see you enjoying southern AZ.. we love it here.. small town, lots of trees and the Ozarks close by, much better than flat TX prairie!! Happy New Year..

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Mel and Gary,

      I’m glad you like your new home in a new state. Interesting about the snow that was common years ago in southern AZ.

      I need a shovel with a straight edge in order to do what you suggest. I tried with my round shovel which didn’t do much good. For some reason snow melted in a path on one side of the house. It leads to the bird feeder area so maybe I made it by walking out there. That has helped the boys.

  27. Love the snow and bird photos. It snowed in northern Phoenix, Scottsdale, Cave Creek but didn’t last long. I finally turned on my heater the day before yesterday. It’s set at 64.

    What did I do today? Well, I tackled the dining room washing curtains, dusting & washing walls, dusted ceiling fan blades too. I hate the popcorn ceiling but over the years of me using a straw broom to get cob webs and dust/dirt off them, the popcorn don’t fall any more which is great. Yesterday, I did the living room drapes, shears…washed, dusted, scrubbed to clean walls, door knobs, picture frames, etc., etc. Took me all day today and yesterday. Also the three foot desk top tree, ornaments, lights all came down into storage boxes, into big storage bins and then into storage shed. My patio is clear again of xmas bins. Every year after Xmas, I do a deep cleaning. I try to keep up with dusting when spring/summer with haboobs blowing the Arizona desert sands during storms. With house dogs, it’s a constant vacuum, mopping of floors too. My spinner bucket/mop make the job supper easy. The rest of this month, I’ll take a room at a time to deep clean.

    Already crossed off several items off my ‘to do’ list. The major ones are coming up, exterior house painting, yard work. Hope to get it done before the ‘heat’ arrives.

    • P.S. a friend who owns a nursery told me to put gypsum down to soften soil. I did and no more hard ground.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Wow, rita! You are a so ambitious! I wish I had your energy and motivation. You must feel great having all that done.

      I’ve had popcorn ceiling before. Not a great invention.

      Yes, when the weather warms up there are lots of projects and planting to be done. I see your mention of gypsum in your other comment. I’m going to research that.

      Sleep well tonight. You’ve earned it!

  28. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Sue,

    I like the stain/coating that you picked out for the deck. It compliments the natural beauty of the wood. I can “see” your plants and flowers along the fence. It is going to be really pretty! 🙂

    Ha! Snow for more than one day…you just might need to pick up a snow shovel after all! 🙂 I wish that we lived near each other. I have a pick axe that I would be happy to loan you long term. I have hardpan soil in much of my yard, so I know what you are dealing with. Years ago I purchased it so a friend could help me dig a grave in my yard for my previous precious pup. My unsolicited 2 cents: Consider Dennis and Gilbert’s offer to help break up the ground for you. Let them do the heavy work. I would hate for you to hurt your back (voice of experience here…). Have fun designing your borders!
    🙂

    Today was my first day back to work since 12/21. It was a busy day, but all was good. I was glad to get home to my little Gracie pup! We are experiencing more rain….it has been a very wet, muddy last few months. Enjoy your powder-sugar dusted yard! 🙂

    Sending you, Reggie and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! Have a good evening, Sue! 🙂

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Denise,

      Always fun to read your comments. I bet Gracie pup did miss you today.

      I’m glad you like the stain. It’s called “Cedar Natural” or something. I chose it on the recommendation of Dennis who has applied it on other jobs. It’s pricey but is supposed to not need reapplication from 4-6 years. Well, guess what. I probably won’t reapply that “liquid gold.” The next time I go with the cheap stuff!

      I wanted a light stain because whatever is put on is going to darken over time.

      One thing I wish I had from my old life in Georgia is my monster roto-tiller. That thing could whip GA clay around like it was heavy cream.

      I’ll be careful with a pick axe. I’ve learned a trick about avoiding injury. If I work for only a couple minutes, then take a short break, start up again, repeat, I get a lot more done and I don’t strain or pull any muscles. But, yes, I will hire Dennis and Gilbert for the big planting holes, assuming they’re available. Spring comes and people who do outside work are busy!

      N’nite!

      • Denise - Richmond VA says:

        N’nite! 🙂

      • Denise - Richmond VA says:

        I love that you took away the busybody’s view of your yard! HA!

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Ha! Her last comment, on the day the last section was being put up, was . . . . “Don’t you feel claustrophobic?”

          I replied, “What? In that big yard? I LOVE IT! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT!” and left her standing there.

          Oh the stories I could tell of trouble she’s caused in this neighborhood….

          • Denise - Richmond VA says:

            Who made her queen?! Unfortunately, most neighborhoods have at least one person who likes to judge/criticize others. Now she has to look elsewhere! I bet your reply left her speechless! 🙂

            • Gloria in Prescott, Az. says:

              Be thankful you don’t have someone who calls the authorities on every little thing they think is wrong.

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              Actually, that’s what this woman in my neighborhood has done to a neighbor in the past. Another neighbor warned me that she is talking about calling the county because I don’t have a permit. Dennis called the county and was told a permit wasn’t needed.

              I love my fence.

  29. jazzlover says:

    OK, this is way too cool. I’m texting a friend I used to work with who lives in Tucson. She said that Benson got 6″ of snow and people from around her were taking their kids there to see that much snow because the road to Mt. Lemmon was closed. Her snow came and went quickly. Do not remember 6″‘s in Benson when we lived there, that’s a lot of white stuff.

    Beautiful snow pictures, nice of the feeders and their visitors. Love it that the busybody neighbor can no longer see in. Your Mermaid Tears are really beautiful, can see why they are so special to you. And a straight edge shovel is a must for shoveling, just bought two new ones and have just had two inches of snow so far, strange for this neck of the woods.

    Be Well and careful on the roads.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Jazzlover,

      I was reading weather reports online. Traffic on interstate 10 from Benson east to the state line was slowed and even stopped in order to clear the roadway. Also coming out of Tucson.

      I like to check this AZ DOT website for road conditions and travel advisories.

      AZ511-DOT

      You can zero in on a region of interest.

      • jazzlover says:

        Anytime there was any appreciable amount of snow around Benson they would reduce driving as the wide open spaces would just blow across I-10 and you just could not continue until it stopped. The rest stop just east of Benson, with the neat rock formations and I should remember the name, was filled with 18 wheelers and other smart folks who did the right thing and waited. Thanks for the Az Dot website. Not knowing of the new way of letting you know when we buy thru Amazon I went back n made a list with what ASIN #’s I cd find tho a tad late I’ll review what I got for myself after I have used them enough to know.
        Is your heat source good in this weather? Rule here is if I go out I never come back in without some firewood!
        Take Care, Be Well

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          The heater for this house works great. Nice of you to ask. Thank you for shopping at Amazon from my blog. Yes, product recommendations, when you’re ready!

          I see some very interesting items on orders lists that I’m sure readers would like to know about, so I call out to anyone reading this — A review of a product from Amazon that you can recommend would be appreciated!

          • weather says:

            Thundershirt Sport Dog Anxiety Jacketcomes in sizes that will fit dogs weighing less than 7 lbs. up to 110lbs.

            My Siberian Husky was tremendously upset by and afraid of the noises from thunder, fireworks, gun shots, groups riding loud motorcycles driving past our home, etc. All those noises were heard on a regular basis where we lived, and nothing I tried helped until I bought the ThunderShirt from Amazon. At the first sign that something would be causing any of those noises I would I put the jacket on my dog, and she would act as if nothing unusual was happening. Instead of panicking, panting, shaking and trying to hide she would calmly sit or walk around.

            If you read what they have written about the product on Amazon you will see that they say it works for 80%+ of all dogs. Perhaps that explains why it has as been given 4 out of 5 stars( 80%). I think one key to our success in using it was my not waiting until my dog was in a full blown state of panic before deciding it was time to put the jacket on her.

  30. Elizabeth says:

    Well, sure seems chilly here too…but downright balmy compared to your snow, Sue!! We have run errands some…but really accomplish not much…even if we try!! Shopping here is not for the faint hearted!! Trader Joe’s tonight was devoid of nearly half their food…never seen it so…not sure why…employees seemed a bit nervous acting…which I would be too cause you cannot sell what you do not have!! We make the rounds of about 6 grocery stores to find what we need…some having maybe only a couple items (so fun being food allergic folks)…but I think I am going to need to add another one or 2 to that list in future. At our age, we are too tired to run all over kingdom come as my mother would say. Hope your snow melts before you run out of food!!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thanks, Elizabeth, but we won’t run out of food. I maintain a well-stocked cupboard for me and the boys. I just like fresh variety, and the birds are going through seed like crazy.

      You know, when I’m at the grocery store and pass by the gluten-free section, I always think of you and your husband. 🙂 I imagine it is a challenge to maintain that restricted diet. You do whatcha’ gotta’ do, right?

      Strange about Trader Joe’s not having shelves stocked.

      My mother used to say “all over kingdom come,” too!

      • Elizabeth says:

        Aw thanks for thinking of us…I have lots of other food allergies too, so do not use that many prepared things, though my daughter and her kids can and do. There is a lot more to choose from than there used to be…and I do not react as badly as does my daughter and kids if I get into gluten…other things, yes. Any rate, we DO like SOME prepared snacks at least…hubby does not need to stay gluten free all the time, but does some…moreso at home too. Yea, we do what we have to!! Funny those sayings our Mamas used…I have worked some on writing them down for addition to the little book I have been putting together for the grandkids someday. Idioms definitely seem to come and go depending on the generation. PS…glad you are well stocked…tis a good idea!!

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          I got in the habit of stocking with back-up supplies when living and traveling in the BLT. Often we were camped away from stores and once I got settled in a camp in a secluded area, I found it hard to get myself together for a shopping trip. Run out of coffee, dog food, or toilet paper once and the lesson is learned!

          I have sympathy for anyone with allergies. I’m blessed to only have a few (penicillin and sulfa drugs) and they don’t impact my daily life. For a while chocolate and dairy were causing me headaches so I gave them up. Now I can eat them without any problem. Hope it lasts because I love chocolate and dairy. 🙂

          • Elizabeth says:

            Yea penicillin and sulfa are among mine too. The doc told me that EVERYONE will be allergic to sulfa at some point…so when they give it to you, they know at some time you will also be allergic. My second time made me VERY ILL!! The good part was it made me so ill, I hardly noticed the abundance of stitches from my surgery!! Heh, best to avoid docs so much as we can I think!!

  31. Harriet says:

    Rain nothing but rain for the past 2 weeks and more for tomorrow. Today, fog everywhere! I’m so tired of this weather! Can you tell I’m sick of this weather. Your post did spark me up, though, if you don’t mind I see a paintings developing in the bird feeder and especially the morning dove! I was at a loss for inspiration. Do you mind if I use them in a painting?
    Would love some inspiration from your blodirenions, cute pet photos, breaktaking landscapes, interesting people and places! I seem to have lost my mojo, I look at lots of stuff on internet buy nothing inspires me, maybe you guys can jolt me into picking up my brushes!
    BTW, Sue, wishing to best New Year in 2019! May the new year bring all you all you wish!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thank you for that nice wish for our new year. I hope 2019 is your best year yet!

      Your post is an example of why I ask for a location after the name. Where is it raining “for the past 2 weeks” and “today, fog everywhere?” If you ever mentioned where, I can’t remember.

      Of course you can use any of my photos as inspiration. Use them however you wish in your painting. I take that as a compliment, for which I thank you!

      • Columbus Calvin says:

        Here in Columbus, Ohio, 2018 was the all-time wettest year with records dating back to 1878. We got over 55 inches. On top of that, we live downwind of Lake Erie, which gives us many cloudy days. My sister lives in Tennessee, and they get more rain but they average 30 more sunny days a year. The rain and clouds have everything to do with me looking for a dry climate. All of that makes Tucson, Yuma, and the rest of the Southwest look very good.

        We had rain right up to New Year’s Eve, but 2019 so far has been dry. Cloudy but dry, and I’m grateful because I have things to do, and I’m doing the car-free life. That puts me outdoors more than most people.

      • Covington, Louisiana just across the lake from New Orleans. News is telling me rain should move on soon and maybe the sun will come out and dry up my backyard.

  32. Barbara (Nashville) says:

    Sue I saw your comment about Angel needing boots. The news has warning for walking dogs in the snow and not having boots. Let me tell you, she will have none of that. I can barely get a coat on her. She will never stand still to but boots on and she would have them off in a minute or less. Can’t hardly get her wet feet dried off when we come in. The groomer has to have her husband hold her to clip her nails.

    I am so sick of all the rain. For 2018 we had 59 inches of rain. The most in 30 years. So far 2019 is continuing on. It is raining again tonight, letting up tomorrow and back again on Friday. Allegedly we are supposed to have 4 pretty days starting on Saturday. Yay!!!!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I was joking about the boots. I’m not getting any for Reggie and Roger for the same reason you describe. They would “have none of that” either! Ha!

      I sympathize with you being weary of rain. Repeated rain and the dark that often accompanies it can be depressing. I hope your weekend is dry and absolutely glorious!

  33. Linda Sand says:

    Raised beds may be your answer to hard dirt. We bought 12″ x12″ posts, laid them on the ground, nailed them together, filled them, and planted along our fence. Ground cloth then clean fill will reduce weeding as well.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I have to smile at your suggestion, Linda. We’re on the same track. At my first house in GA, an in-town property, I did all that you describe, including the nailing of posts. 🙂

      Our property here in AZ has four raised beds, two of them 30 feet long. When the garden center had their clearance, I stocked up on landscape cloth. I also have several large bags of cedar mulch. The soil in the raised beds is hard-packed, so hard that it takes a lot of strength just to insert a shovel. If I moisten the soil slightly and use a pick axe I might be able to break it up sufficiently.

      The fence line is so long that putting in raised beds along it would be a monumental task. I may do a few small ones over time and make “islands” around trees and cacti.

  34. Jan J. from Greenville GA says:

    Beautiful photos! I can’t believe you have a hummingbird coming in! That photo of the boys on your header is the most adorable thing I’ve seen in a while. The fence is so pretty. I need one so bad but I know they are more than I can afford. We moved from 46 acres and we were at the back of it, so our three little dogs could run off leash and sniff and play. Now we still live far off the road but have neighbors who have dogs also. So they have to be harnessed to go for a walk. I feel bad they can’t be off leash anymore, but our house is 10 times better than the moldy one we were living in, so I am thankful.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Jan!

      That header photo was taken in Blythe, CA, when we were at the RV service shop having a new refrigerator installed. Reggie and Roger were mad at me because they only had a short walk when we arrived and then they had to wait in the PTV.

      I understand your feeling about having to keep your dogs on leash after they’ve had freedom to run. I feel that way about my crew when I think about hitting the road for an excursion with the BLT. Reg and Rog would have to go back to harnesses and leashes or the tether. 🙁

      I bet it bothers you more than it does them. I have sensed over the years that the dogs I walked on-leash enjoyed the feeling of ownership (them of me and me of them). I can recall instances of Spike, Bridget, and Reggie wiggling their butts at the appearance of their leashes. Roger, no. But he’s happy once we get going. 🙂

  35. Marlene says:

    Wow! That’s 3 days of snow right? We moved to Tucson when I was 16. That’s close to 57 years ago and it nevr snowed, we movd to Benson, which is east of Tucson and we had a skiff of snow that melted by 10 am. Who know. I now live in Boise, Id. and we had a hint of snow 1 time so far this winter. My sister lives in Chandler. AZ, and is walking her dog in a parka type coat, it’s hilarious. Have fun while it lasts oh and the dirt sometimes you have to add sand so the plant roots can breathe and grow, clay is hard to grow stuff in butmy sister has a beautiful yard, of course she has been there since forever. Have a great New Year, I sure plan on it.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thank you and good morning to you, too, Marlene!

      I just finished a reply to you, a reply that I put some thought into, and, dang it, I hit the wrong key and poof! It’s gone!

      Basically I remarked on your plan to have a great New Year. I like that you’re planning on it. Active, not passive. Making good things come your way. Expecting good things! That’s a New Year’s resolution that has a lot of positive power.

      Ah, I remember Boise. Seems like ages ago… We flew past it on the interstate in search of air conditioning during a heat wave. 🙂

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        Well, the first reply appeared after all. It wasn’t as great as I thought it was, so in the trash it went. Haha.

  36. MB Dillard says:

    Hi Sue!

    Wow! I had no idea it would snow that much in southern AZ! “COOL!”<<Sorry! LOL! My dogs react the same way as your crew. Wyndy used to like to play in it but now she's just happy to do her business and get back to her warm, cozy bed. Bella is a trouper but would just as soon do the same.

    I didn't know that hummers would stay around in weather like that. Ours migrate in the fall. Guess your weather doesn't stay that way long and there are still plants in bloom nearby. I do love my birds. They have saved my sanity on many a day. When I'm doing my computer job and look away for a moment….and see them at the feeders or on my windowsill……it makes me smile every time.

    Nothing much happening here. I am, for the first time in my life….BORED! I may have always been boreING…..but never bored. That has lead to a depression of sorts. No worries…..I'm not talking about a true "depression"…..just really low energy. It's a viscous cycle that I am working on getting flipped around and going the other way.

    There are so many things for which I am thankful in my present life. But it's not enough. And I'm finally learning that it's okay to say that. What to do about it is still a mystery. 😉

    Have a wonderful day….resting, drinking warm drinks and snuggling with those sweet boys! It's what snow days are for!

    Love from VA!
    MB, Wyndy and Bella

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, MB!

      Thanks for the love. Sending you the same!

      I’m familiar with that cycle you refer to. Whatever starts first, maybe low energy due to a nutritional lack or an attack on the immune system, is followed by a drop in motivation because of the lack of energy. The lack of energy means not accomplishing much and being inactive. Inactivity is a depressant. Life becomes routine, “boredom” sets in, leading to listlessness. Round and round it goes.

      When I get caught in that I have to work very hard to get out of it.

      You’re thankful yet you seek more. That’s a good thing. Keep seeking and you’ll find what you need.

      You three have a wonderful day, too! 🙂

  37. mary batt says:

    G’ morning Sue!

    Well, Wow. ‘Wow’ is used too often, but when I opened your blog ‘wow’ is what I said over and over as I very slowly scrolled. To make it last! Every picture is so sweet and perfect. And the writing flows so well. This was one of those special days. Thanks for this great share. Pics are all great in composition, the blog is great in composition, but maybe the winner for me MIGHT be the one with the rosy hued bird in the pecan tree. Till I look again!

    Yesterday I put together stuffed crabs (plenty spice here-garlic and cayenne). Today I will wrap and freeze about 4 dozen. The cabinet installers will be here in a few to put in the base cabs. in the living room for storage. Elec. fireplace, counters, and uppers will follow in order. We have no snow-but the rain is a-coming. Lots of rain! We are well stocked to stay home and wait for better weather! Gotta run-time is passing fast!

    mary b in Abita Springs, LA

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Mary!

      Ooh, stuffed crabs. I love stuffed crabs and you have about 48 of them! Did you catch them yourself? Probably not since you have so many. I imagine they are cheap to buy in Louisiana, compared with places like Arizona. 🙂

      My ex-husband and I used to catch crabs in FL by putting chicken necks on a line and placing them in shallow water near the shore. Fun.

      • mary batt says:

        Hi Sue!

        You are right! I did not catch any crabs; I bought way too much crab meat so I had to make 2 batches! Crab meat is $$$ even in LA! I used a Frank Davis (was a New Orleans local personality) recipe off the internet and used crab ‘tins’ for the ‘stuffed crabs’-the rest went into pastry shells for my neighbors party. Now my freezer is stocked! Yay! We plan on taking them to Destin in Feb when we visit our snowbird friends-treats for them! IF we don’t finish them off in Jan! My husband and his dad had a lot of fun using nets when he was a kid, but I am not a crabber. He set out crab traps years back-caught a few with turkey necks-best bait! The good news? The stuffing was as tasty as I could hope for! Mmmmm! Perfect

        mb in Abita, LA

  38. Karen Lueck says:

    Wow. That was a beautiful snow. We hoped for one like that before we left Georgia but all we got was some pretty white slush. I didn’t know Hummingbirds stayed around in the cold weather, but I guess they didn’t expect it either? Great pictures.
    I was hoping of pictures of the dogs in the snow. Maybe a video? The little dogs don’t seem to like snow much.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Karen!

      Hard to imagine how a hummingbird can live through a cold winter but they do. Thank you for the compliment on my photos. No, I don’t do videos. The internet is chock full of videos of dogs playing. I’d rather keep my focus on writing and presenting photos.

  39. Columbus Calvin says:

    Still more on Arizona’s weather. Another blogorino commented that the cold and snow would make it a tough time to be on the road. (I have a heater, but that’s not the point.) I was just checking the weather in Tucson when the thought came to me. “Well, I guess it’s time to go to Yuma or Ajo.” For me, the major point of full-timing is the mobility, so I don’t think I’d be suffering if I were on the road. I’d be traveling, not suffering.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      It’s tough for someone new to living on the road only in that the cold, windy, and/or snowy weather this winter has been all across southern AZ and southeastern CA.

      Fulltiming has several benefits, a major one being the mobility, like you say. You are able to live year after year in perfect or near-perfect weather with only a few days when the weather catches up to you (like me and my crew fleeing northern camps in the fall or venturing north early in the spring). I think part of the fun of fulltiming is the game of choosing a delightful camp (whether isolated or among others, according to preference) where the weather is comfortable for outdoor enjoyment. Researching elevation, forecasts, availability of supplies, etc. and figuring out the correct timing for a move and how far to go. It is especially challenging and rewarding when venturing into areas of the country that one has never been in before.

  40. Barb from Hoquiam! says:

    So pretty! Love it! Racy does the same dance… and shakes each paw… Even Amelia the Wonder Cat in her old age has taken to shying away from the stormy weather.

    Take care and hugs from Hoquiam!

  41. Ken (in Queen Creek, AZ) says:

    Readers . . . Under the previous post I voiced concern for the BLT about the forecast for freezing temperatures in southeastern AZ. Ken wrote this reply which appeared after this new post was published. I’m putting it here so it will be read by more people. Lots of good info! — Sue

    We are occasionally dipping into freezing temperatures up in the Phoenix area too. A few hours in the high 20s is not to much to be concerned with. I don’t do anything with mine, other than empty as much water as I can out of it, because, as you know, our camping season never ends in AZ. I am not sure what your high daytime temperatures are where you live but I think with you leaving a heater on inside will be fine. I would leave your water heater running too. When I lived in Colorado, I once delayed my winterization until after Christmas one year because i wanted to use the travel trailer as a guest house at Christmas. I bought an electric/oil filled radiator-type heater and parked it in the middle of the floor of the RV. My Trailer has a propane furnace as well and on the coldest nights, I would run it too. I realize that you don’t have the forced air/propane furnace (you had told me before), but the term “coldest nights” in Colorado is way different than “coldest nights” in AZ. I was able to use heat from both the electric radiator and propane furnace and never had a problem – all the way down to zero degrees.

    I would – empty water tanks
    – run what heat you have
    – run the water heater
    – open all the cabinet doors inside to maximize heat penetration
    – If you have under seat/under bed storage, open up those compartments to the interior of the BLT so those normally isolated pockets can get heated air too.

    Chas is correct in his winterization procedure, but for the most part, we don’t need to do that in AZ. When I lived in CO, I would have to do that in around October and UN-Winterize it again in the Spring. Nothing nails the door shut on camping season like having to put antifreeze in your RV. My wife always swore that she could smell the antifreeze even after a thorough flushing. Good luck and turn up the heat!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Ken… This is a great tutorial for RVers dealing with winter in Arizona! Nothing like the voice of experience!

      For last night’s overnight low in the 20s, I did most of what you wrote. I’ve been turning on the heater/ac unit in the ceiling of the BLT, set on heat, of course, for a few hours before going to bed, and with the channel compartments open.

      That wouldn’t be enough for last night so I put an electric heater inside the BLT (The ceiling heater wasn’t able to put out much heat. Don’t know if there’s a problem or not. Not important right now.). This little heater really does a good job.

      I set it next to an open channel and let it run all night. It was very warm inside the BLT this morning! I think the water heater is empty. There’s water in the lines, no doubt. I don’t think the freeze was as “hard” as predicted.

      We shall see…….

      Thanks, Ken, for the thought and effort put into your comment. I’m sure you have helped others, not just me alone.

      BTW, I agree with you about winterizing. I hate to take that step.

  42. Pauline in Mississippi says:

    WOW!! I didn’t think they got such snow in Arizona. I read today that Arizona is experiencing the coldest days since 2013. I love the pictures of the birds and their feeders.
    Stay safe and warm!!
    HUGS!!!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hugs to you, too, Pauline!

      The amount of snow is a big surprise. A longtime resident tells me it is not typical to get this much snow. We can expect cold like this in Jan. and Feb., even in March. What makes it tolerable are the frequent sunny days — no long stretches of overcast skies and dreary light. Here’s one benefit of the cold…. I’ve been unable to leave anything on the kitchen counter or in the sink that has a trace of food on it because immediately ants appear…. very tiny ants, mere specks. No more! Yippee!

  43. I’m so jealous! I don’t want much in life…but I do want to live somewhere where there’s 4 seasons.
    Little did realize..I’m already in the right state for it….just a little too far to the South, and West…and North. LOL!
    I’ve been in Mesa 19 years…so far, and it’s snowed once in the middle of the night, and never stuck to the ground. Every year I wish for real snow. My fellow Chicagoan transplants think I’m nuts…I say, “Nerts to them….”

    Sue…these pics are gorgeous…I’d give just about anything to be able to wake up in my own home in the wintertime and look out the window and see these views….

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Cindy,

      You’ll get your snow someday. I wish I could send you some. 🙂

      I’m grateful that my life’s journey has brought me to this place that suits me so well.

      Thank you for the compliment on my photos.

  44. Theresa says:

    Wow! That photo of the birds at the bird feeder is stunning with the snow and the pine boughs in the background. You could use that as a beautiful Christmas card!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I’m happy you liked the photo, Theresa!

      BTW, are you the Theresa I met in Los Algodones, MX, along with your husband?

  45. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Sue!

    Breaking up can be a positive, wonderful experience! Today I cancelled the cable TV portion of my Verizon FIOS service. This change will save me over $80/month! I did not have any extras or premium channels. Ahhh….cutting the cord feels so good! I will install an antenna to pick up free local channels. In the future I may use Slingbox, streamed via my Roku to pick up more channels like TCM. That would cost $35/mo. Right now, I am enjoying the quiet. I purchased the antenna via your link a while back. After I hook it up, I will post a review. 🙂

    Just finished a quick “ok” dinner; takeout from Whole Paycheck (Whole Foods); I used up a gift card a friend gave me last year. Going to change into some comfy cozy clothes, start some laundry, and then tackle the antenna installation. 🙂

    Have a good evening, Sue! Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! xo 🙂

    There will be another meteor shower tonight, into the wee hours of the morning. Unfortunately, we have lots of cloud cover from another rainy day. I hope some blogorinos will have the opportunity to view the light show. Watch the sky in the vicinity of the Big Dipper. 🙂

  46. Donna Cassity says:

    Lynn in Kentucky
    Beautiful snow photos! So odd to see hummingbirds with snow! The fence looks great, no doubt a very nice property improvement. No snow in KY yet. I am enjoying reading and working on a second compost tumbler for our kitchen scraps so we can have one cooking and one to add new stuff to. Glad you and the boys are enjoying your new home. Happy New Year to all!

  47. Cat Lady, Baton Rouge, La. says:

    Sue, I saw on the local news where a Colorado man invented a coyote spiked vest for dogs. It can also deter birds of prey. You and the blogerinos might be interested. If you’re getting ready to make a new post, you may want to put it there for more people to see. Hope this helps folks and their pets.
    https://www.fieldandstream.com/blogs/field-notes/man-creates-anti-coyote-vest-for-dogs

  48. Hi Sue
    We were at Gunsite Wash near Why a few weeks ago. I would never have guessed there would be snow in that area, but apparently I was wrong. Yoour snow pictures make me think of the snow days we get in Nova Scotia. Not as bad as some areas that get layer upon layer of snow that does not melt until the end of spring.
    We ave been happily camped out near Bouse, AZ with not a snowflake in sight, despite the bone chilling cold when the wind whips up.
    If anyone is interested, we think Bouse is a fantastic long term boondocking area due to no BLM restrictions and loads of room for campers.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Sue,

      I’m glad you’re a happy camper!

      The Bouse BLM area will have a lot more RVs near the end of Jan. when the big tent comes to Quartzsite.

      We camped on the outskirts of the Bouse dispersed camping a couple years ago. (Folks, do not confuse “long term boondocking area” — I don’t think Sue is talking about an LTVA.)

      Sue, would you clarify what you mean by “no BLM restrictions?” Were you told that the 14-day limit doesn’t apply?

      • Hi again Sue
        There are no signs showing time restrictions. There are no rangers patrolling the area and there are numerous camepers that have migrated here for a number of years and stayed in one area for a number of months.
        Is very relaxed and easy going out here.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Thanks for the reply, Sue. As I understand it, all BLM land is 14 day limit unless posted otherwise. There are areas where it isn’t enforced and it sounds like you’re in one of them. 🙂

  49. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Sue,

    For those who would like to cut the cord on their cable TV bill, consider installing an indoor antenna to pick up free television stations in your area. I installed the antenna last night. The installation was straight forward and easy. I have access to 20 channels and will save over $80/mo! 🙂

    1byOne 50 Miles, Amplified Antenna, ASIN B00RFLXE0A

    Doing the happy dance! Another step forward in reducing my monthly expenses. 🙂

    Sending you and the boys lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! xo 🙂

  50. Elizabeth says:

    Well, you never know what a day will hold…while hubby and I were taking a little nap this afternoon, some gang guy (covered in tatoos even on the face I was told) broke down the door on the other duplex…and went inside.

    Happens that the watchdog landlady SAW HIM…got her husband who picked up his ax and went over…he rifled through the guy’s stuff next door but nothing was taken so far as was known…then seeing the owners, ran out the other door (our side only has 1 door)…it is a substanial set of locks on these doors…and the cops could not believe how this huge gangster did not even use his foot…he must have used his shoulder etc…broke the door molding etc…so now we have that to be concerned over.

    We do not live in town…out aways, yet plenty of houses around. A neighbor even witnessed the breakin driving by. So everyone is on the lookout. I told the landlady she REALLY needs to get a smart Blue Heeler…or like our last dog, maybe one with some Border Collie thrown in.

    Two times in one location our cars were being messed with in the middle of the night…and our smart Ebbie came and woke up Hubby…NOT ME, but HIM…quietly…and he went outside and chased them off. Had he turned her LOOSE on them…heh, might have been caught.

    Fortunately, the landlords get up at 4 AM…and heh, like last night I did not go to bed till 2 AM…so one of us is usually up…but folks, this was in broad daylight. There has been other problems in nearby towns of late…the gangs are moving in.

    Not sure what the short handed sheriff can do really…so I advised the land lady, in spite of what her husband says, to keep her doors locked in the daytime…not that they cannot be broken…but at least you might hear and be able to get away etc.

    Hmmmm, wonder if she might change her mind and let US GET A Blue Heeler?? Heh…

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Oh, Elizabeth! What a scary, upsetting experience for you, your husband, and the people in your neighborhood! I’m glad the person who lives next door wasn’t home. It sounds like the guy was looking for something in particular or was under the influence of drugs to decide to break into a duplex in broad daylight with people living next door. Crazy, criminal behavior.

      I don’t remember where you said you moved in order to be near your daughter. Oregon? I’m sorry that this happened, Elizabeth, and pray God’s calming touch for you and your husband. I agree — watchdogs are a good idea!

      • Elizabeth says:

        Thank you Sue!! I am wondering if the message we are getting is that we need to relocate elsewhere but still near our daughter (WA state). The water situation is very bad…bad accidents happen on our corner…etc etc…seems kind of “writing on the wall” to me…Yea…we are wondering if the other renter maybe owes these criminals for something? Or maybe they got the wrong address? The cops could not believe that the door was busted into…and this is NOT a rich appearing place on the outside…very plain…weird!!

  51. AR Rose says:

    Here’s wishing you, the pups and all the blogorinos a Happy New Year…….just a few days late.
    Sue, what kind of conical shaped trees are those shown in picture number three. I believe they are in your neighbor’s yard.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Rose,

      Those trees are Italian cypress. The grow into very tall columns of dense evergreen that make ideal protection for birds. Pull aside branches, peek inside, and you see another world. No matter how much snow or rain falls, even during the deluges of monsoon season, within the cypress the birds enjoy a dry home. 🙂

      Our property has one cypress. The birds fly back and forth across the front of the porch between cypress and the feeders.

      Thank you for the wish for us for the new year. I hope 2019 is wonderful for you.

  52. Ladybug in Mid-Tenn says:

    Greetings from Middle Tennessee, where today it’s sunny and 58 degrees!

  53. If you trickle water where you want to dig and leave it wet for over night, it softens the dirt some. A 5 gallon bucket with a 3/64 inch hole drilled in the wall of the bucket at the bottom is a good way to deep water plants as well as where you want to dig. But, having a friend with an auger is better!

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