The crew and I are into our second week at Cedar Pocket Campground.
Virgin River Recreation Area in northwestern Arizona
Come along with Bridget, Reggie, and me! The sun will set soon!
Reggie wants us to hurry up and go . . .
At sunset Bridget prefers her car. She walks every morning and during the day.
“Tonight we’ll take the trail.”
The campground is in front of the mountain, concealed by the slope of sage and creosote bushes. That’s rabbit brush in the foreground.
The trail begins near the campground entrance and is only two-tenths of a mile long.
It goes up a small hill.
The trail is paved, making it wheelchair accessible. Smooth riding for the Bridge!
At the trail’s end is a circular area with boards that explain the rocks and how the landscape was formed.
Reggie tries to see what “West” looks like. Bridget looks south.
The four directions are marked in the concrete slab.
Bridget relaxes. Reggie is everywhere!
The air is fresh and cool at this time of day.
Reggie’s had enough of this. “We’re right behind you, Reg!”
Wherever one walks, the massive rocks are part of the experience.
I flip the tether back and forth over Bridget’s head as Reggie scurries from side to side.
We haven’t camped among Joshua Trees since last winter!
With Reg in the photo, you can see the height of the Joshua Trees.
The next scene is looking northwest from the trail.
The day use area hasn’t seen much use since we’ve been here. The person in the photo below has been using it as his own, personal campground, however. Stealth camping!
The day use area has shelters, trash barrels, and restrooms ($2 a day).
The next photo is a rare sight!
The reddish part of the triangular rock in the background is usually a light orange or coral color. Recent rain and the light of late day deepen the color of the rock.
The Virgin River, the day use section, and a bit of the interstate
At sunset darkness creeps over the campground just as the mountains light up!
Reggie sniffs in front of a tent “pad” of sand.
Every evening we’re given a dramatic reminder of the majesty around us!
Our campsite is to the right, out of frame.
One last look before we go inside for the evening . . . .
The mountains and cliffs darken into silhouettes in moonlight.
The crew likes to turn in early.
“You two look ready for bed! Up you go, Bridgie Baby. Okay, Reggie Man, hop up and get in your spot. Here’s your blue monkey. N’night, cuties . . . .”
rvsue
THANKS FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
What I see out the window as I blog during the day
CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!
Fantastic!
YOU DID IT! CONGRATULATIONS, ROBIN B!
Wasn’t intentional, but I’m happy to be among an elite group. 🙂
Whoa, first? Watch out gang, there’s a new competitor in town. 🙂
Seriously, I showed these photos to my spouse and now he wants to camp here. And he also got a kick out of the adorable Miss B in the stroller.
way to go oregonians, first and second!
🙂
I’ll Take second if it’s still up for grabs. Lots of rain and some with d pounding the coast right now. Beautiful pictures of Arizona..can almost smell the sagebrush. Bridget looks so comfy and Reggie always so inquisitive and such the explorer.
Hi, Annie,
I bet the surf is beautiful. I love the energy when the waves are kicked up. You almost smell the sagebrush, I almost smell the sea. 🙂
What a beautiful pictorial – I never grow tired of looking at the rocks in this part of the country. You show so nicely how the light and shadows are a big part of the ever changing vista. I’m pleased to see that you have such a wonderful view from inside the BLT too. Happy November!
Happy November to you, too, Molly.
The light and shadows are a picture show we see twice a day, at daybreak and sunset.
Somehow comment didn’t come through but guess easy to guess…rain..yes lots of rain pounding on the skylight right now.
Rain on the skylight… I wonder what that sounds like.
Us # 2 and we or I read th’ post,, Beautiful,, Sue,,,, Bridget looks sweet in her car,,,,,,,,,, rusty
ok,,, #6
Beautiful as usual!
Where’s Chris,, Where’s PDX?
What’s PDX?
Yes, where is PDX? Remember my blog is read not only in the U.S. and Canada but in about 16 other countries all over the world. 🙂
PHX- Phoenix
PDX -Portland
Funny story..Jules and I saw a white oval sticker with OBX…we thought it meant obnoxious! Alan to the rescue again informed me it meant “outer banks”
PDX means Portland? That’s a stretch.
Airport acronyms
Aha!
Nashville is BNA, which seems to make absolutely no sense, until you find out the name of the Nashville airport was originally Berry Field. Thus Berry NAshville.
Spokane WA is GEG
figure that one out – lol
Gegner Field 😀
PDX is Portland Airport!
Thanks, Rusty!
5th? Yay! Now I’ll go get ready for the girls–my granddaughter, her Mum & Auntie are coming to give my a pie crust seminar. The goal for today is to move me out of the ranks of the pie crust challenged. Have a great day everyone!
Yikes–make that 6th! Very beautiful scenery, Sue!
Sounds like the consensus is that your pie crusts are lousy. Ha! I hope the seminar corrected that, Dawn. Nice that your family staged an intervention!
Enjoyed all the photos – those joshua trees are bigger than I thought, seeing Reggie next to them. Beautiful colors with the sunset on the mountains. Thank you, Sueandcrew.
Pamela
You’re welcome, Pamela. These are some very healthy looking trees. At first I thought they were introduced into the campground. While lounging with my monocular, I see that they grow naturally on the hillsides in this area. We aren’t very far from the Joshua Tree park in southwestern Utah.
Hi Sue, love the photos! What a beautiful place, I would sure like to see it. And it’s always enjoyable to see the crew in action. Bridget looks cute and happy in her car. 🙂
Hi, Linda in Austin,
I hope the weather has settled down in your part of Texas. Yeah, Bridget gets this happy glow when she’s in her ride.
Just lovely! Thank you so much for making my day.
You’re welcome, Michelle. That’s what we’re here for!
Beautiful! And to think instead of seeing that through your window you would still be seeing your yard in Georgia had you not gone after your dream…How wonderful to receive such gifts at each day’s end-the views for you, the play time for Reggie and love Bridget feels when you bring her with you in her car.
Awe inspiring camp,wonderful post and great photos , Sue , thank you!
You’re welcome, weather. Oh gosh, instead of four years of travel across the West with window views more beautiful than I ever imagined I could have seen that same view all those years…. I feared that would be my retirement. Thank God for the gift of freedom!
The Redbud always sounded nice, but then I think of all the amazing, lovely, and different trees (and rocks) you’ve lounged under these four years 🙂
Right!
Good morning,Sue,with the cooler temperatures expected where you are it seems you may move after today.I hope making the most of your being there now brings you glorious experiences,and that you and crew enjoy it and have an especially happy day because of that.We are having a few days of what’s called “Indian Summer” -sunny days with temp’s going up into the 60’s,so I’m driving (about 3 hours round trip)to spend time at a dear friend’s home for lunch and a visit.Have a wonderful day until we catch up with each other later on 🙂
Good morning to you, weather. You probably won’t read this until well after your lunchtime visit with your friend. I hope you both enjoy the day!
Oh, I remember those days of “Indian summer” . . . 🙂
Indian summer’s always such a welcome gift that I knew you’d remember them.Thank you,we did enjoy the day.The neatest thing happened.My brakes had a sudden issue that made driving a really bad idea in the afternoon.Her mechanic from her town came right away to tow the jeep to my mechanic and got me there just in time to explain what happened before they closed for the day.It’s usually unheard of for one owner to go out of his way to help someone not having the repair done at his place.Gotta love country folks friendly good natures.He’d only accept half what one in that situation would expect to pay,saying he’d enjoyed our conversation on the hour plus ride.
Here’s the topper-my mechanic’s sister works the office and we’re friends.She needed a parts # on something in a pick up she couldn’t open the hood on so I was trying to help her, as by now they were closed and the mechanics had just left.The owner of the other shop figured the weird latch out,opened it and told her what parts she’d need to order,showed us how to find the info on them ,read us the #’s-again,to help another shop’s owner that he’d met for only a couple of minutes-then offered to drive me home so I wouldn’t be left stranded
Don’t know what someone else would experience in a similar situation or make of the whole thing.For my part,I walked away so grateful and in wonder of all that’s good in this world, one more time.
Gosh,what a long note to say Good morning,Sue,I hope you and crew have a really nice day ahead 🙂
Good morning, weather,
I’m glad everything turned out fine yesterday. Country people are some of the nicest folk in the world! I know you appreciate them.
Excuse the quick reply. We have to hit the road before the wind kicks up. I enjoyed the “long note.” 🙂
How nice of you to reply to me with the rush you were in,thanks for taking the time to do that.I appreciate that and your need to drive while it’s early, safe and less stressful.May you arrive at your new place in a peaceful state and it’s warmth feel like a welcome home hug(( 🙂 ))
Wonderful pics and I love the scenery! Love that the days are shorter with darkness setting in. Cozy nights with the kids. You are a blessed rv’er! Snuggles to all!
Hi, Karen,
Yes, I am blessed. I’m glad you like the photos. With the days shorter and night beginning earlier, the crew has moved their bedtime to before 5 o’clock. That’s okay with me as long as they don’t get up too early.
What a gorgeous and magnificent place! Love the Joshua tree – without Reggie for comparison I wouldn’t have expected it to be that big. I really wish I could get myself and my kids out there to see all this glory!
I wish you could, too, Jan. I know you would appreciate being here.
Reggie is a handy reference for my photos, and he’s oblivious to the camera. Not like someone else we know . . . .
Lovely photos – calmed me down after the frustrating morning I had trying to book reservations through Reserve America. Sue, have you ever thought about tying Reggie’s tether to the front of Bridget’s stroller and letting him pull her? He seems to have enough energy and then you’d be “hands free” and camera ready!
Hi, Cynthia,
I hope you resolved your reservation situation. I’ve never attempted that.
Reggie does have enough strength and energy to pull Bridget in the stroller. However, unlike some working dogs, he would make a disaster of it. He darts all over instead of walking in a straight line. Like I wrote in the post, I’m constantly flipping the tether to the other side of the stroller so it won’t become caught in the wheels. Oh no, he’d jerk Bridget to the pavement . . . unintentionally, of course. It isn’t hurting me to expend a little more energy anyway.
His rendition of Mr Toad’s wild ride!
My Juice is part Husky and is a natural straight puller.She used to pull my aunt all over her assisted living center in her wheelchair.Juice would stop at every doorframe and walk in to all the ladies rooms for a brief hello.She was beloved over there.A lot of the ladies had Alzheimers etc and every visit would be a new surprise.I do not know how she came up with her routine but she would visit every room on one side and then back down the other side.Juice is a good one.Even though my aunt is gone we still go over occasionally.
How heartwarming to read this, chas. Your Juice has contributed a lot to the lives of others. I can imagine how she brightened the days of residents, perhaps bringing back memories or feelings of beloved animals they’ve cherished in their lives.
You know what I mean about a “straight puller.” Some dog breeds are and others aren’t. Reggie follows his nose wherever it leads him which doesn’t make for a good candidate for pulling a cart or stroller! Plus he’s kind of little . . .
Hug Juice for me… She’s a dear one!
Another thing… I wish blogorinos could post photos of their dogs and cats in their comments. Wouldn’t that be fun to share and to see!
OMG – be careful what you ask for!!! 🙂
That would be great. Every once in a awhile I wish I could post a photo, or see one from someone else. Instead we paint word pictures 🙂
What a sweet dog Juice must be. I used to take my Wheaten, Boz, to a local assisted living facility. Most of the residents really enjoy visits from calm dogs and I think they crave the “touching.” I’ve noticed that elderly people don’t seem to get touched often enough, which is very sad. I think having a dog come up and nuzzle their hand is very comforting.
I used to take my pup to nursing homes, too, sometimes. He loved it, and so did the folks there. He was one of those calm, loves-everyone types, so it worked out well.
(Mobile, AL). Loved all the photos. We were supposed to be at Casa Grande, AZ starting today through Nov 30, but a recent serious health diagnosis for DH has postponed that trip indefinitely. Seeing pulmonary specialist Tuesday Nov 3rd for 2nd opinion. Asking for prayers. AZ will still be there next year so I’ll continue enjoying your photos.
Prayers to you and yours! Prayers for good reports and healing where needed!
Praying for you both
i’ll be wishing you all the best. my dh also has a lung issue….not easy to learn to live with….i hope it does not alter too drastically your plans….
prayers being sent for you both,may He send you only the best through out this
Thoughts and prayers
Hoping the specialist will have good news for DH and you and whatever tests or procedures that might be needed have good health results.
Oh father ,, Glories’ God , Please Heal DH,,,,, Thank you Lord
And he said, ” I am The Lord, Thy God”…
Lord, Thou who does uphold me,
And with Thine arms enfolds me,
To Thee I do humbly pray.
To Thee I humbly pray.
Praying this medical burden is lifted off you and DH and he healed anew.
Hoping for better news on 11/3 for DH.
Hi, Corkerinna620,
I’m sorry your trip is postponed and that your husband has a serious health issue. You can count on the praying blogorinos as you work through this. Keep in touch if you can…
Praying for DH, yourself and the medical people involved. We went through a similar situation with my DH; our plans were on hold and he received a pacemaker/defibrillator ( unfortunately, not a good candidate for open heart surgery). We are thankful for each trip we make now, even so much more than before. Your precious times will come soon!
You and your husband are in my prayers, Corkerinna620.
Thoughts and prayers for skilled doctors with the right treatment and answers.
Adding you both, and the pulmonary specialist, to my prayer list.
Prayers for your DH, and you. 🙂 Pat in Bulverde, Tx
Miss Sue your pics are breathtaking! These make me think of the Badlands, love the different colors of all the rocks and the campground they surround. It comes to mind how truly blessed we all are……how truly blessed you are to experience such beauty God created. Looking at these pics made me feel homesick for the west, in a good way. Take care, be safe and give your cutie crew a big hug for me!!
Hi, Linda,
Thank you for that very nice compliment on my photos. The rocks are gorgeous, aren’t they, even more so in person because they are all around!
You have a good evening. . . The cutie crew has been hugged and is sound asleep beside me.
Soooo, 20th!!!! I’m getting closer to first, yipeeee
Don’t give up, Lisa!
Waiting to see where you go next. I was in that area 3 years ago in May and melted from the heat. It must be amazing in the comfort of nice weather.
Marilyn in DB
Hi, Marilyn,
I imagine it gets pretty hot here in the summer months. Heat absorbed by all these rocks. Even the frequent breezes wouldn’t be enough to cool temps in the 100s.
I stalled our move southward in order to arrive when the temperatures were comfortable. The forecast is for temperatures to drop starting mid-week, so the “window” for our stay here is closing.
Such beauty in both those magnificent hills and Bridget’s peaceful eyes. I love how your crew and you have settled into a rythym dictated by our natural timekeeper, the sun. I noticed we also went to bed early when camping. I look forward to returning to that natural pace.
I noticed in a previous post some talk of noisy campers. We did really well with this on our trip and most folks were quiet at or before the scheduled 10 pm.
I believe that “natural pace” you mentioned is conducive to good health. At least for morning people, anyway. 🙂
You were fortunate not to encounter noisy campers. The folks here, for the most part, are quiet.
A funny phenomenon… One guy has a horribly loud generator that he runs for several hours each day. Because this campground is along the interstate, lots of RVers use it for short stays. People pull up next to Generator Man not realizing what they are in for. The next morning (or in some cases, right away) they move to the far side of the campground. Then the morning after that they leave which makes it obvious why they changed sites.
By yesterday noon, Generator Man was by himself and most everyone was over at the other end! I don’t walk the crew by his site because it is deafening. It’s so bad it’s funny!
Sometimes I think of all the individual people fuming (as I do), but feeling powerless, and wish we could stage an intervention! (I don’t, because in reality I’m meek about it; but that doesn’t stop me from “plotting.”) I don’t mean anything rough, but just a group respectfully making it clear that it’s not acceptable, vs. each person alone not wanting to do something “anti-social.”
Meant to say: Glad it’s “so bad it’s funny.” I mean, at least there is some humor in it!
Hang onto your hat tomorrow! (If you are going to get the wind there – not sure if it’s going that far east.)
The weather widget (which you may not see on your device) says this for today (Monday):
Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 78F. ESE winds shifting to SSW at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
No wind as of yet but it’s still early….
Thanks, Sue. Yes, I was on my phone last night (which I don’t do very often because I feel like I have both hands tied behind my back and a blindfold on — guess I’m more of a laptop person).
Anyway, yes, the view is very “narrow” on the phone – especially when there are replies to replies, etc.
Wind has come up now in NW Arizona, although it’s not supposed to be as strong here as Las Vegas, Barstow, etc. (bit further north).
Finally had to leave my great spot up north. Something about the forecast of 8+” of snow and lows of around 11º just didn’t sound that great in a “3 season” RV! (and a two-season human).
Remember that really LOUD generator camped across the gully from us in Quartzsite? Ridiculous! I am not sure why our generator runs so quietly, maybe because Chuck had it converted from gas to propane ??? I dunno! But even you were standing next to it before you even realized we had it running !!! Harbor Freight sells the cheap noisy ones!
I bet the conversion is the reason your generator runs more quietly than before. It’s funny here… I think the one generator is so obnoxious that other people who have generators aren’t running them as much. “Oh, so that’s what it sounds like for everyone when we run the generator and sit inside. . . .” Hee-hee…
Ah hah the HRH in her chariot! It’s okay girl…being pushed is special! She looks happy! And whispering at the same time…”would you quit taking so many photos and push the damn stroller er I mean chariot! Sheesh! while your at it..that rotisserie chicken has two oysters and I have the munchies.”
Absolutely stunning photos and the view from inside the BLT is awesome!
I’ve never seen or heard of a tent pad. Neat idea.
Btw Thanks Alan …50 plus years of playing Rock Paper Scissors for that piece…and I never knew it’s name.
Hi, Cinandjules,
Truth be told, Bridget gets one chicken oyster and Reggie gets the other. We’re equal opportunity chicken here!
Isn’t that a great view from inside the BLT? I love it! I leave those curtains open when we go to bed and when I sit up first thing in the morning, that’s what I see. Pretty neat.
Have a good night!
What a gorgeous place! I’ve seen the turn-off from I-15 to Cedar Pocket and I always wonder what was out there. You’ve piqued my interest with these lovely photos!
Hi, Kerry On,
It is easy to fly right past the exit for Cedar Pocket. I’ve often done as you have done… I’ll see a sign and as I pass it I wonder what I missed and vow to check it out “next time.”
Thank you re the photos. . . .
Hello Sue and Crew,
Great pictures as usual. Definitely makes me want to camp there at some point in our travels.
Thanks for sharing with us.
Lisa
i just saw your blog. are you still posting?
You’re welcome, Lisa! I’m pleased you liked the photos.
Not one but two photos of HRH Bridget being smiley faced in her Chariot. How COOL is that?! I think she feels very special when she is in it, hence her willingness to have her photos taken.
Bridget, “See me, this is my Chariot. I love riding in it! Yes, Sue, you may take my photo now, I’ll even smile for you. Chariot photos of me are very Royal, don’t you think?”
That smile…cover-girl material 🙂
Hi, Pamela K.,
Oh yeah, Bridget is quite regal as I push her around. Her face lights up when I pull her car out of the PTV. In fact, I have to be careful to figure out if she really needs it or is putting on an act in order to ride. She’s smart that way.
Sometimes I leave her behind when I suspect she’s trying to manipulate me. Then I turn around and her she comes, trotting to catch up with us, and she completes the walk with no problems!
In that one photo she even has enlisted Reggie as her Foot Soldier! Yep, she’s a sharp cookie 🙂
Reggie Man, the footman!
Beautiful photos. Bridget looks content and Reggie Man is busy as usual. Will add Cedar Pocket Campground to my list of places to visit. Enjoy!
Thanks, Captain K! This campground is handy as well as in a beautiful location. Plan to be here at the right time of year or you’ll fry! Well, you’re in Utah. You know that already. 🙂
Fabulous! Hope the nights aren’t too cold there!
Hi, Jill . . . . Maybe you don’t see the weather widget on your device. The lows have been in the high 40s, low 50s… perfect open-window sleeping! That’s going to change soon though….
BTW, everyone… You can see the 10-day forecast by clicking on the word “wunderground” at the bottom of the widget. Then insert the nearest large town at the wunderground page and you’ll have the forecast.
Lovely pictures yesterday, Sue . Thanks.
You’re welcome, Virginia. Thanks for the compliment!
Your photos remind me what I miss the most about being in the west, THE COLORS OF THE EARTH! The rocks are always jaw dropping beautiful dressed in so many different colors and posing in so many different formations! I was always in awe of the beauty, especially around Zion! Utah just boggles the mind!
Thank you for reminding me how much I love it out there!
Miss Priss in her chauffeured limousine cracks me up! I can just imagine little Mr. Reggie trying to see everything and smell everything and wanting y’all to hurry it up! You are so lucky with your crew and we are so lucky with our Boys !! Rescue is definitely the best breed!
I agree . . . Rescues are the best!
I know this is one of your favorite areas of the West and I can see why. I’m looking forward to seeing and photographing more gorgeous rocks when we leave this camp and move on to the next one. The weather is predicted to cool down later this week.
Always good to see you here! Thank you!
The Bayfield Bunch is near you in Utah, headed to Congress!
Stunning color there. I want to camp there too. And I never saw a tent ‘sand pad’ before. Is this typical for campgrounds out there? Katie the dog and I camp here in Michigan in a tent, but we don’t need sand pads here. At least not most of the time. Interesting concept.
Hi, Dawn in MI,
Not all campgrounds have these sand pads for tents but many do in the rocky areas of the West.
The ground around the campground is littered with small rocks embedded in hard, sandy soil. Some of the tent sites are in the rougher areas. The sand, of course, can be raked or swept smooth to suit the tenter and the frame keeps the sand from washing away. I imagine people who tent appreciate them.
We tent from time to time with our Vespa scooters. The sand pads are nice under your tents for soft sleeping and all. But there is a downside to them too. For those late-night runs to the bathrooms it is easy to forget to *step up* into your tent area. Even with a flashlight you just don’t think about doing that when it’s dark. Trust me, those wood ties hurt when ya fall on them!
Just amazing scenery and you have captured it so nicely! Bridget looks so content in her carriage, and Reggie, well he’s quite the explorer 🙂 Glad you’re enjoying nice weather in such a beautiful place.
Thank you, Marcia. This past week has been wonderful. I’ve done a lot of reading and relaxing (wow, what a surprise!). We went into St. George a couple of times. Other than that, the crew and I have stayed at camp, outside a lot.
Hey!!!!! I’m not first….again. Isn’t the desert beautiful in the evening Missy? Used to be our favorite time when we were on the road. The air cools, a slight breeze whispers to ya. Little critters come out to enjoy it also. If you want to walk a night though, a blue light is a necessity. Scorpions light up like florescent Christmas trees. Keep on truck’n friend.
Hi, Jim,
I didn’t know that about scorpions! With Bridget and Reggie being such babies, wanting to go to bed at five o’clock (!), fat chance we’ll ever go walking after dark. That’s okay with me. We do plenty of walking during the day.
I imagine my photos do bring back good memories for you. The desert is beautiful, like you say, especially in the evening…
You know, Sue…sometimes by the end of days I am dragging my tail too…and I would appreciate a nice ride such as Bridge gets!! Glad you have that for her…she looked very content and happy I thought. For that matter, seems a nice peaceful spot you have there!!
Hi, Elizabeth,
I hope your preparations for your big trip are moving along nicely. Maybe that’s why Bridget’s ride seems so appealing right now. 🙂
Have a good night. Thanks for stopping by!
Such beautiful pictures!
Thank you for sharing!
Lynn B. (Baltimore, MD)
You’re welcome, Lynn. It’s nice to know my photos are enjoyed. 🙂
The photos are beautiful. It is an amazing site to watch the sunlight play off the mountains. I love the photo of the triangular rock with the reddish orange shadowing.
I get tickled at Reggie’s wandering around. Angel does the same thing, at times. I think she tries to make me trip over her. Mostly though, she reminds me of a tracker dog, with her nose to the ground. I have to agree that rescue dogs are the best.
I have talked so much about my full-time RV dreams, that my sister is thinking of doing the same thing. Since she no longer has anyone to account to, she will probably hit the road before I do.
Hi, Barbara,
You gave the full-time RVing “bug” to your sister! It is a contagious condition.. .
I don’t think anyone has mentioned on my blog over the four years of its existence that both they and a sibling are full-timers. I wish my sisters were RVers, at least. It would be fun to meet in different places like Cedar Pocket.
Angel is a nose-to-the-ground dog, too! I hope she’s better at hearing her name than Reggie Man. Those scents must be powerful to his nose.
Enjoy your day, Barbara, whatever you do!
She knows her name, but pays attention to it only when she wants to. A tch/tch of the mouth is more likely to get her attention.
As far as my sister, hers is just as much of necessity as desire. In our family, there are 4 cousins who hung out with each other growing up as we are all within 6 months of each other age wise, of which I am one. Besides myself, 2 of them (sisters) are also contemplating this lifestyle. So there may be 4 of us heading out in the future. Besides my gypsy fever, you have made huge impact on me and I have passed it on, I guess.
I tell everyone about your blog. My brothers think my sister & I are both crazy. What is funny the one that laughs the most travels on his motorcycle with his wife all the time. However, he is much better off financially than us girls.
That Day Area… Covered tables, trash bins and even restrooms, that’s pretty nice. Do they have grills in some of them or grill/fire rings? They seem well planned and spaced. For the money they are done really well! Have you-n-crew picniced there yet?
Good morning, Pamela,
Yes the day use area has picnic tables, grills, and fire rings. It has parking pads including pull-throughs and all the sites have shelters. To make it a campground all that would need changing is the sign. It would be great if another day use area were created, and this day use area opened up for camping.
No, we haven’t picnicked at the day use area. I guess that’s because it’s just as nice at our campsite. I can sit at my picnic table and see the river below and watch big, black birds float on air currents at my eye level.
We do go to the day use area for walks sometimes. I wanted to hike down to the riverside on the Sullivan Trail which begins at the day use area. However, the trail has loose rocks and is steep in parts. I don’t want to risk a twisted ankle. It’s not like I don’t have enough beautiful scenery!
I completely understand about a trail that appeals but is not wise to trek on for fear of injury. A lot of the waterfalls are on trails/paths like that. Best to enjoy from afar when rocks are loose.
I thought it might have been planned as an overflow campground area during prime time seasons. That or it used to be part of the main campgroud area. Eveything just seemed to be there already for that use. Makes sense that a quick change of the signs form day use to camping was their thinking. Whatever their thinking was, they planned it very nicely.
I was wondering about the freeway noise.Is it noticeable or does generator man drown it out? We’ve driven through there countless times on the way to many trips but have never stopped.I’m filing away your spots for retirement when were not highballing it to some destination and have all the time in the world.
Hi, Stan,
From my photos you know that one can see the interstate from the campground. The distance isn’t portrayed accurately by the photos as I zoomed in on the mountain.
Yes, you can hear the freeway when you listen for it. Generator Man isn’t on the side closest to the freeway and, of course, he’s closer to us. That means the generator wins! 🙁
You’ve read my blog for a long time so you know how sensitive I am to noise, and I’ve camped where road noise is irritating. Not here, not at all. I don’t know if it’s an effect of the gorge, the hills and/or all the rock, but the sound from the road is not an issue.
The main sound I hear at my campsite is the rushing river below (when GM isn’t watching tv or running his a/c or whatever).
“All the time in the world”… It’s an illusion during retirement and I love it! You’ll see what I mean . . . 🙂
I know exactly what you mean “all the time in the world ” was not thought out.I should have said more flexible schedule.With our oldest getting married this past summer and he and his bride moving to North Carolina,I fully expect crosscontinental travel to see grandkids in our retirement future.
Hi, Sue,
Thank you for sharing more pictures of this breathtaking, beautiful area! I love the layers of color. The picture after the rain, where the colors are super saturated is gorgeous! I think the Joshua Trees are magical. Isn’t it interesting that the gray stone valleys in the mountains echo the shape of both trees. (Just look slightly to the right of each tree). It goes without saying, HRH Bridget and Sir Reginald are just as adorable as ever! 🙂 I easily see why you have stayed at this camp longer than most…enjoy! 🙂
Have a good night, Sue. Sending you and the Crew hugs from me and Gracie pup! 🙂
N’nite!
We did have a good night, Denise. Thank you.
Well, there was an animal walking on the roof and scratching around outside our open window. That kept me and Reg awake for a while. I took the crew out for potty run at 5 a.m. and Reggie sniffed around the BLT instead of immediately doing his business. I’m going to look for scat and prints later. I doubt I’ll find prints in this hard, dry ground and pavement.
Thank you for your kind words about my “adorable” pals and the photos. I’m glad you enjoyed the joshua trees.
Wishing you and Gracie pup a wonderful Monday!
Interesting…..and scary. Let us know what you find out! 🙂
Maybe it was looking for a big marshmallow (BLT) to make smores!
Such beautiful pictures! I wanna go there!!! WAH!!!! (supposed to be whining)
Bridget is like a different pup in her stroller. How precious is her expression? It’s just about time for me to invest in another stroller, this time for my 12-year-old chow/beagle.
When you described the end of the day and tucking in for bed I could feel the love in that little Casita. Like an episode of “Little House on the Prairie” G’night Bridge, g’night Reggie. And they both chime in G’night, Sue! (cue sounds of chimes)
Hi, Nancy,
Aw, a twinge of sadness when it’s time to use the stroller for a pup who once ran for the fun of it. I hope your chow/beagle enjoys riding as much as Bridget does. That’s what makes the “precious” expression. She’s luxuriating in love!
I like your Little House comparison. It is cute as the dickens the way Bridget and Reggie settle into their “spots” at bedtime and drop off quickly to sleep. Reggie curls up like a cat and Bridget stretches out in relaxed abandon. I look at them like a parent looks at their sleeping children. Tender moments… I’m sure you have yours … 🙂
every time I read a new post that you have made I think
it dont get any better than this and then you come up with
your next post with “yep, its better than the last one”……
keep up the good work young lady…..
chuck
Well, that’s the sweetest compliment, chuck. Thank you. Keep reading and I’ll keep trying to do my best. 🙂
Based on Sue’s expressed wish that blogarinos insert photos of their pets in their comments, I just tried it and ……. drum roll …. epic fail!!! Anyone have any idea how to do it?
I’m replying to myself – lol. I just found this on the Internet … “Images are not allowed in [WordPress] comments because people could insert absurdly large images that could, at the very least, severely slow down the site, and at the very most, virtually blow up the site (too big and destroys the layout).” Bummer 🙁
I should have told you I investigated this a long time ago. Not something we can do, just something I wished we could do.
Oh, I didn’t understand you had already looked into it. When I get a chance, I’ll try Mick’s suggestion.
You can insert a link to a photo hosting site like Photobucket or Flickr:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b249/mickent/Bif320x240.jpg
https://www.flickr.com/photos/mixflickr/4881350625/in/album-72157624576750773/
The pictures showed up in my email but dont show up here….hmmmm
chuck
No problem for me to view. Had to show my better half the car. He thinks he knows everything about cars but Mick showed him he doesn’t. Interesting car, Mick.
Marilyn in DB
It is a VW in disquise.
Beautiful way to end another day in that lovely spot. The circle at the end/beginning of the path is wonderful, I love it when something simple provides more information about a place. Looks like a perfect and peaceful spot.
It’s icing on the cake!
Hi Jodee,
I took a look at your blog (through the link in your name here) and it was a great read and I learned a lot about the area I was already in! (395) Now I know of at least 4-5 places I want to go next time. Plus it was fun to see your take on places I had just been 🙂 Was hoping to go to Manzanar but with this crazy wind/snow/etc. forecast (and I need to help a friend do an errand to Las Vegas) I headed out a day early. Anyway, sounds like you’re having a great time trekking about.
Hi Sue, crew, and blog family,
Ahhh feeling so much better after the “eye candy” of Sue’s beautiful photos of this site in AZ. I can count on being refreshed, uplifted, and grateful after visiting this blog. You are all lovely folks from what I can tell here, and I enjoy all of your comments. Heartfelt prayers for the folks experiencing health challenges, and warmest wishes for life’s blessings for the rest of you including “our” Sue and her sweet fur-faces.
Be in peace,
CateW
Such a nice comment 🙂
So when are you coming to Pahrump. 🙂
Where is Pahrump? Then I can give you an answer about visiting. 🙂 CateW
Thanks Shirlene. Good to hear from you.
CateW
Thanks for your sweet words, Cate. Hope all is well in your world! 🙂
Hi Denise,
Now that I’ve recovered from cold virus #2 I’m great, thanks!
Life is fine here in Portland, ME and we even got an unexpected (for Nov) few days of high 60’s & low 70’s + sunshine.
Be well,
CateW
Stunning!
I have to admire all those people being first to post, I’m lucky if I get here the same day!
Love the red rocks. I’m trying to sort out my messy life. Lots of chores and work to catch up. Just wanted to stop by and say hi to all. Beautiful day here in Tucson.
You remind me of the energizer bunny!
Hahaha! I wish I felt like the energizer bunny. At this moment I have 18 hours of Block classes to get done this week; I’d like to get in 12 to 15 hours of Knife work at least, bills to pay, and I need to contact IRS and work on my tax mess. Plus I have four 1 hour meetings, a massage and a chiropractor visit. And I need to get my car in for some work, do laundry and clean house. Off the top of my list. Help! Oh, and I already did 12 hours of editing and 3 hours of Knife work yesterday and today.
I so need energy!
Hi Desert Ginger,
I had a beautiful day in Tucson about 3 wks ago when I visited friends in Phoenix. We took a day trip your way to visit the beautiful mission “White Dove of the Desert”, enjoyed the pretty, colorful homes being redone in the historic part of Tucson and had a great lunch in town.
Is it any cooler yet? It was still 90’s+ when I was there.
Have a good evening,
CateW
I’ve never heard of the white dove; I’ll have to check it out. I just moved here last year. Temps have been in the 80s, and of course cooler at night, so really lovely.
Hi, DesertGinger,
Glad you had a safe trip home, and are starting to tackle that big ball of yarn. It will all get sorted out eventually. Try to handle one thing at a time (I know easier said than done…especially when having to deal with/wait on others), and then you can rest easy that at least one issue is no longer a worry. Have a great evening! 🙂
Thanks Denise. See my list above. I’m just chugging along, doing as much as I can.
Hi, Sue,
One of my sisters and her hubby came to visit yesterday. After lunch, we stopped at a grocery store where all of the Halloween bakery goods were deeply discounted 75%. I picked up a package of a dozen mini white cake cupcakes that were iced in purple and green. The cupcakes were small, so I convinced my sister that she could eat three, as that would maybe equal one normal-sized cupcake.
After my family left, I put three of those little cupcakes in a paper bowl for myself, and set the bowl on the ottoman in the living room. I then took Gracie out for a potty break. Afterwards, back in the house, I unhooked her leash, and she tore out of the kitchen, into the front room. I did not think twice about it, as that is her normal routine. I went into the living room and my bowl was empty! Little Miss ate all three cupcakes, and did not even have a trace of green or purple icing on her face! That little mischief maker! I guess she decided that she was entitled to some dessert, too! LOL!! 🙂
Have a great night! 🙂
yes, met at haystack campground in July.
when we met you, we were on a last leg of a 5 day trip to Mt. Adams. since then, we have taken some short trips to the Metolious River near Sisters Oregon, my favorite camping place on earth. there are 9 forest service campgrounds on this clear rushing river that has its headwaters about 1 mile from the campgrounds and a beautiful photo op of Mt Jefferson. for fly fishers, this river is a challenge. there are beautiful flat trails along the river and the ponderosa pine trees create a rosy glow in the air.
did you know that Eugene has a “Rivera?” the town of Yachets (pronounced “Yaw-hots) is 90 minutes away from Eugene. Tillicum Beach National Forest Campground is nearby and we made another short trip to the coast. they have flush toilets, some electrical sites for $18 (with pass) and $12 (with pass) without electric. some sites are reserveible. this campground has shoreline views and access to the beach out your door.
your readers may not know that the citizens of Oregon protected and purchased the entire coastline in the 1950’s, so all beaches are open to the public.
i am having a blast reading all of your blogs from the beginning. i am compiling a list of your ideas for campgrounds and boondocks and areas of prettiness for a big trip we are planning next summer to Yellowstone and places all over the West.
i am also compiling a list of equipment that you have purchased and what you are finding indispensable and what you have found that you don’t really use that much, if ever. (i am so happy your blog has spell check!)
i may be writing in some question now and then to get some clarifications.
hug the doggies for me and give yourself a loving hug from me too. i so enjoy your blog and it has become so uplifting and enriching to my life. i had been lonely for conversations and like-minded people. your blog has filled my need and i am blessed. thank you so much. bess
Update. When I went to bank to deposit my rent check from my new tenants (hallelujah), I stopped to get a new paint job on my toes. Of course I sat in the massage chair and was it ever good! Now all my upper back muscles are sore, but I’m sure that’s a good thing, I had so many muscle spasms after my long drive. Going for deep tissue massage tomorrow. Sooner or later I will recover.
Bout time….you took a minute for yourself!
WARNING: I am passing this along from an Escapees Email I received:
Information has now been received of a draft bill, the “Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Modernization Act of 2015”, to privatize even more publicly owned land by the increased use of concessionaires or selling the land to private ownership. A hearing was held earlier and now the hearing record is open for public written testimony until November 6, 2015. The proposed bill will increase day use and permit fees.
Now is the time to contact the chair and the ranking member on the House Committee on Natural Resources via their staff members. Please send an email that is short and polite commenting on your experiences using public lands. Specify that your comment should be included in the record of the October 28 hearing.
Emails should go to:
Representative Tom McClintlock, Chair
House Committee on Natural Resources
Subcommittee on Federal Lands
Washington, D.C. 20515
Erica.Rhoad@mail.house.gov
Representative Niki Tsongas, Ranking Member
House Committee on Natural Resources
Subcommittee on Federal Lands
Washington D.C. 20515
Brandon.Bragato@mail.house.gov
Alan… I need to ask a favor…
I’m about to publish a new post and then the crew and I are moving camp. Would you please cut and paste this information in a new comment under the new post? I hate for it to be buried here where few will see it.
Thanks for the links and alerting us to this!
We took a little mini vacation to Petit Jean State Park in Arkansas over the weekend, arriving back home last night. Looks like I’ve got a lot of catch-up reading to do! I did read the blog and drooled over the gorgeous photos. I just love how Bridget sits back and enjoys the view from her taxi. Now I’ve got to go back up and see what everyone else has been up to!
Thanks, Suzette. I’m glad you had a chance for a little vacation!