Friday, April 29
“Great to be moving again, isn’t it, crew?”
North on Route 180 between Glenwood and Reserve, New Mexico
~ ~ ~
I can’t believe we camped at Bighorn for seven days and I never unhitched. I should rename that campground Bigsleep. Well, the rest was good. I’m feeling much —
Uh oh. What’s this?
Panic shoots through me.
An approaching car blinks its headlights at us, on, off, on, off, on . . .. Immediately I wonder what’s wrong with the Perfect Tow Vehicle or the Best Little Trailer. Then I see the driver, a woman, her mouth open with excitement.
Oh, it must be someone who likes Casitas or knows my blog . . . . Whew! That gave me a fright.
Overcast skies, a dark morning, easy driving with no glare
A sign along the roadway says “Reserve 29 miles.”
Wow, we have a big journey ahead of us. I used to drive farther to go to work. Apache Creek Campground is only twelve miles beyond the town of Reserve and here we are on the road bright and early. It’s only about 8 o’clock. Well, I wanted to beat the wind.
Seems like yesterday we were camped among cactus blooms!
Soon we’ll be under Ponderosa pine boughs again. Looks like snow on those mountains up ahead . . . .
I hope the town of Reserve has a grocery store. It’s been a week and it’d be nice to pick up some fresh items . . . .
A mailbox . . . We must be almost there.
The town of Reserve sits a few miles past the junction of Routes 180 and 12.
A statue of Elfego Baca greets visitors and residents.
Who was Elfego Baca?
Here are two interesting accounts: “Elfego Baca battles Anglo cowboys” and “Elfego Baca- One tough old New Mexico sheriff”.
(Also — If you don’t know what a jacal is, follow the second link and scroll down to the photo.)
Suddenly a pick-up truck barrels around the curve of the main street toward us.
A black dog chases, running full-out. He realizes he can’t keep up and quits.
“You two are never left behind,”I remind my pampered crew.
I bring the window down in order to take photos and Reggie stands on his hind legs to check things out.
A few houses cling to the main street. Bright colors seem “right” in the Southwest.
Uncle Bill’s Bar is next door to Jake’s General Merchandise.
I’m the only customer at Jake’s this early Friday morning. I strike up a conversation with the woman checking out my purchases.
“I’m on my way to Apache Creek. What’s it like?”
“Oh, Apache Creek is beautiful! My daughter had her wedding there. We hung streamers between the trees . . . . .”
She hands me my two bags of groceries.
“The campground is right before the store. You make a right turn. The road to the campground goes over a bridge. You’ll like it there.”
“Thanks!” I reply as I head for the door. “I’ll think of your daughter while there.”
Tularosa Mountains (seen when we go the “wrong” way on Route 435)
~~ ~
We arrive at Apache Creek Campground!
I park at a campsite and let out the crew.
Wow! So many birds! And these trees! Magnificent!
Reggie and Bridget scurry from one sniff to another, obviously enjoying this new, aromatic environment. While walking the campground lane searching for the perfect campsite, we pass a site occupied by two women and a child around two years old.
“Hi!” one of the women calls out. “Could you bring your dog over for my little girl?”
She means Reggie, of course. Reggie scampers around the girl, thoroughly enchanting her, while Bridget sits quietly and watches. I ask the women about the lay-out of the campground. It’s confusing at first because the dirt roads wiggle around the Ponderosa pines.
One woman remarks, “It was really cold last night. The water iced over.”
They’re camping in a tent.
It’s still cold out, probably barely reaching into the 60s. The little girl wears a coat and a knit cap that covers her ears. Her cheeks are ruddy, but she doesn’t seem to mind the cold.
“Gee . . . Do you have enough blankets?” I ask. “I have some spares.”
She says they have enough. This is their fifth day at Apache Creek.
Apache Creek (elevation 6,432 feet), about 98 driving miles north of Silver City, NM
“Did you notice all the birds?” she asks.
The other woman chimes in. “We’ve seen loads of wildlife, too. Deer, coyotes . . . . Elk walk through during the night and we saw the tracks of a cat over there . . . .”
In the next post . . . .
I’ll show you more of this free, national forest campground.
Plus . . . “RVSue and her canine crew” join a search-and-rescue operation!
rvsue
THANKS FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!
Good morning!
First sort of goes to my husband Dana. He’s a lurker who never comments. But told me if I hurried I might be first. Not sure if this counts? Went back to read the blog. I especially like that picture of Reggie looking out the window. Looks like he’s contemplating prospecting. I bet he’s a good digger?
CONGRATULATIONS, RONDA AND DANA! FIRST PLACE WINNERS!
Morning all
2ND PLACE GOES TO CAT LADY! CONGRATULATIONS!
“Search and rescue operation”… That’s gonna keep me on the edge of my seat. Maybe that’s why the person in the p/u came flying into town, to get help maybe. I think the first lady you saw probably recognized you and your rig and was taken by surprise and awe.
“surprise and awe” — Ha! That gave me a chuckle, Cat Lady.
Be sure to tune in to the next episode . . . . 🙂
I am living thru your post. Can’t wait to hit the road. Thanks again.
Me too, Colleen!
🙂
Third place — You’re welcome, Colleen!
Closer and closer……*theme from “Jaws” in background.
One of these days, Jim …..:)
That new place looks really nice! Since Amazon is helping to keep the crew in rotisserie chicken, I wanted to to share what I just learned, some people may find it useful. If you buy a lot from Amazon and are a Prime member, their Prime credit card gives a 5% credit for the Amazon stuff you buy. For us, that would be a good savings since we buy a lot of specialized food due to my wife’s dietary needs.
Thank you, rhodium, for shopping Amazon from my blog and for sharing that information about Prime.
I’ve just discovered your website and have been trying to read the whole thing. Looks like it will have to wait since I’m hitting the road tomorrow with my Alaskan camper. I plan to camp my way from Baja MX to my summer home in Montana. 4 Corners area will be in the mix as well as Sunglow Utah. Your blog has been SO helpful. We have similar taste in camping style. The blog is not only a wealth of info, but also very entertaining and personal. Thank you so much! Keep up the good work! and enjoy the journey!
Thank you, Carol, for reading my blog and for the nice note. You have a wonderful trip ahead of you! I’m glad my blog helps you find the kind of camps you prefer.
Happy launch tomorrow!
Welcome to RVSue’s Blog Carol! We all love it here.
Would love to hear about your camping experiences in the baja.
Glad to know you’re feeling better!
Great ride & pictures!
Thanks for sharing!
Lynn B. (Baltimore, MD)
You’re welcome, Lynn…and thank you!
Wow. Fast ones here. Back to reading the long awaited posting now!
Wow is right! They are fast.
For some reason, this campsite really speaks to me. Love the photo of the little bird, too. Looking forward to hearing more about this place!
Glad you’re feeling better.
Hi, Suzette, and thank you. I’m fully recovered.
I know what you mean when you write “this campsite really speaks to me.” That happens to me, too, and sometimes it defies explanation.
We are made from the Earth…perhaps she talks to you both in this personal way.
An intriguing thought, Joe. And some places “talk” more than others…
Elfago Baca is an interesting story,. Thanks, Beautiful country. Stay well and safe.
You’re welcome, Alice. Reserve and the surrounding area have interesting histories, going way back and even more recently.
Hi Sue, I’ve been a lurker for a long time and most recently have been going through all your posts from beginning to end and often I (try) to digest all the comments as well. Holy cow your blog is amazing. I won’t even try to get in to the ways it’s amazing here because words just don’t do it sometimes. I think I’m drawn mainly because of my experiences with my family when growing up in AZ and CO back in the 60’s. I’ve been drawn back there many times over the years but haven’t given in to those longings due to the sense that I need to be a ‘success’, which ultimately boils down to the rat race that we all know about. I hope to find an exit point very soon.
I’ve missed your posts the past few days and have worried about you. Hope you always keep coming back to share your story and to share your hope and positive outlook on life with those of us who need some of that.
Hi, Kim,
It’s sweet of you to be concerned due to our absence. Thank you for calling my blog “amazing” and for all the nice things you wrote.
Getting weary of chasing the “brass ring?” I hope you find the exit point you seek. Life is short, as we all know.
You are no longer “a lurker” having commented a few times. Thanks for writing again, blogorino!
The problem with the Rat Race is…even if you win, you’re still just a rat.
Wow, I am close to the top today! I got a kick out of the car that flashed its lights. The price of fame! Oh, and the bottome picture-Eastern Bluebird?? Or, something else?
That place looks wonderful-my kind of campground. Or course, I love the desert, too.
Good camping to you, RV Sue and cute crew!
Hi, Terri,
I’m always hit with panic when another driver reacts like that. One time we were on a 4-lane road in Utah. A driver pulled alongside on my left, leaned over, and shouted something while pointing back toward the BLT. Oh no! What could be wrong? I’m looking for a place to pull over when we stop at a light. Then he yells again,”I like your trailer!”
Whew! Scared me!
I do believe that’s a female bluebird. Someone will let us know for sure.
It’s a female mountain bluebird (the bluebird of the west!). Nice photo!
Thank you, Casitagirl!
Beautiful “campground”. I would love to know if a big FW could get up there. We are self contained, so we don’t need, and would prefer not to have, hookups. I read the story of Elfego Baca. Interesting that my nephew Philip Baca lives in Albuquerque, NM, practices law, and looks like Elfego. They could be distantly related, but then again there are a lot, a lot, or Baca’s in New Mexico.
Hi, Renee,
Yes, a big fifth wheel could camp at Apache Creek. The drive from Silver City is not difficult and the campground has spacious sites.
That is interesting that your nephew shares the same name and resembles Elfego Baca.
. . . and is in law!
Thank you so much for the feedback on Apache Creek. I will add that to my wish list of campgrounds when we travel.
Sue, glad you are feeling better. I read every post, but lately, can’t always spend time reading all the comments….Love the look of the area and the camp. Search & Rescue?
Hope we don’t wait to long for that story. ?
Hi, Val,
Thank you. I’m feeling fine now.
I plan on posting the search-and-rescue story tomorrow. The things that happen on the road — I never expected this!
Sue, glad to see you are feeling better. Your new campsite looks so beautiful with the tall pines. Hope you stay warm. And the bird is lovely!
Thanks, Sharon. Yes, we are keeping warm. The Wave 3 heater is working very well. We left Silver City with two full tanks of propane, so we’re all set!
“The town of Reserve sits at the junction of Routes 180 and 12.”
The Blogarinos that are following along will be disappointed to not find the town of Reserve at that junction. They need to go east on NM 12 for 7 miles to enter ‘downtown’ Reserve.
Did you happen to notice if Ella’s, just a few buildings to the right of Jake’s, was still in business? From what I can find on the Internet it is.
Oh, darnit! I did it again and you caught me again, Ed. That’s what happens when I go by memory without looking at a map. Sheesh. I’ll edit the post. Thank you, ever vigilant one.
Ella’s is in business. The place was lively the morning we went by… people standing out front talking so I didn’t take a photo.
Wow, that first photo of the road going north on 180 made me feel like I was on a roller coaster! The campground looks beautiful and I can’t wait to hear about the rescue!!
Hi, Cynthia,
The road between Glenwood and Apache Creek is a pleasant drive of gentle ups and downs and curves through eye-pleasing scenery. Hardly anyone on the road which makes it more enjoyable, too.
I’m a tent camper, and I have used a duly approved “indoor” tent heater. I don’t know if the tent campers you met have one, but it’s a great idea in cold weather. I myself am comfortable in a good blanket down to about freezing. It’s not that I like the cold, either, but I know how to cope with it. I learned how to do that the first time I camped. I was about 13 years old. My buddy and I rode our bicycles to a nearby river with a blanket, a can of food, and a can opener apiece. I rolled up tight in the blanket and slept well until morning. The only “problem” was convincing myself to get out of the blanket once I woke. My Aunt Hazel, who lived close by, told us that the temperature got down to thirty degrees [F] that night. We were very impressed with ourselves, and I got a lesson in minimalism.
I enjoyed the pictures. The road pictures show a surprising variety for places so close to each other. I’m thinking that the change of altitude does that. In particular, the Tularosa Mountains picture contrasts with the greenery in the other pictures.
My first thought about the picture of Reggie looking out was that he was guarding the PTV from that black dog or any other “intruders.”
Hi, Calvin,
Childhood experiences influence our lives in a big way. You and your buddy earned the right to be impressed with yourselves — “roughing it” without adults around. Boys have such rich experiences… *sigh* Thanks for sharing your boyhood adventure that set you on a path where you are now “planning and scheming” for more adventures. 🙂
You mention the variety of places so close together. I love that! A change of elevation, a change in precipitation amounts, different geology… and you have a new setting to enjoy. Gee, it wasn’t that long ago I was oohing and aahing over cactus blooms!
You’re right about Reggie. He did see that dog and gave a bark. He’s my boy!
I like your style Calvin, and Sue, you nailed it with the childhood experiences observation–my parents took us camping often (my sister’s first camping trip was at 9 months!), and I still get an “I’m home” feeling when I see a National Forest or National Parks sign. No camping for us lately, although we spent a wonderful weekend trout fishing with friends in the Blue Ridge mountains.
I can’t wait to get out west again–this summer it will be a week fishing in Idaho!
Cheers and safe travels,
Steve
Oh, by the way Sue, I had no idea you launched this adventure from Athens GA–I retired from UGA 2 years ago! We live about 12 miles outside Athens now.
The house where I lived is on Belmont Road. 🙂
Thanks, Steve. I didn’t think of that and other adventures as formative, just as fun things to do. This many years down the road, hindsight shows me more, especially what I like and what I’m willing to give up to get those things. That’s valuable even though it was not intentional.
Well, no where near first, as usual. Had to work this morning. So glad you are feeling better. You have certainly found a beautiful campground. I love all of the photos, especially the mountains and that beautiful bird at the end. Does Reggie like kids? Angel loves them. She was excited to meet someone new this morning, some young guy walking stopped, petted her and told her how cute and sweet she was. Of course, she just ate that up.
Oh yeah, Reggie loves children. He danced around the little girl, ran around showing off, went crazy-silly. I imagine Angel does something similar. Cute…
I’m happy you liked the photos. That bird hung around our campsite the whole time we were there. I think she had a nest nearby or maybe she was scoping out the real estate for one.
Angel goes up to the kids, wiggles up close to them and then licks them to death. If she sees or hears them, she about pulls my arm out of the socket to get to them quick. My little girl is a mess, but I love her to pieces.
I know you do, Barbara. And she loves you to pieces, too. 🙂
Hi Sue,
I’m home in Albuquerque planning for my next trip later this month. I seem to remember that you had a list of the places on your trip. I’m seriously getting into boondocking and I’d love to make a list of the places you’ve been. I have a 35′ rig and tow a car, so some places may not accommodate me, but you are a wonderful resource!
Also (sorry for the double whammy) Would you mind sharing how many gigs of internet you have? I have been using my phone as a hotspot, and I can’t really see any benefit to having a dedicated hotspot. I assume (triple whammy…) you have a cell phone booster. Is that the Wilson Antenna you have in your tab at the top of your web page?
I’m so eager to get back out there. I feel like I want to gobble up all the beautiful places that everyone has been…silly rabbit….I don’t have enough years left for that, but I sure want to stuff myself with as much as possible.
Thanks for your wonderful blog!
Well, Rhonda, I don’t have a cell phone booster because I almost never use my phone. What I have for internet is a Verizon jetpack “air card” — 10G to cover the data needed for this blog, plus my personal internet usage. The Wilson antenna strengthens my internet connection. It isn’t used for phone boosting.
I couldn’t pick up any internet signal at all at Apache Creek. The Wilson antenna cannot create signal, of course. It can only improve signal.
Maybe now that I’m at a camp with steady, strong signal and our basic necessities are in good supply, I’ll set about improving this blog, including the list of campsites you mention. (Good intentions, poor follow-through. Ha!)
Thanks, Sue! You are really on it with replies! I was almost totally computer centric before I hit the road, but then I switched to my cell phone, but I surely did need a booster at times when I’d keep losing the signal. I’ll look into the Verizon jetpack. I have 6GB so I really had to watch it. (Unfortunatly, since I’m at home I’m sitting at my computer, online, most of the day–never looking at sunrises or sunsets 🙁
Thanks again!
You’re welcome, Rhonda.
You need a jetpack if you’re going to camp in forests and deserts away from Wifi hotspots and want to go online.
FYI by calling Verizon ,or in your case, doing it online, we can now change data plans each month or as needed, I was near the end of my data more than once and did that. Their packages now offer adding 1g or several for $10 extra and up. As long as you change by at least one day before your bill is set (example :cycle ends on May 10, bill is set on May 7, call by May 6 if you are cutting it too close for comfortable usage ) the rate change is retroactive to the beginning of the period you’re in. After doing that it’s simple and allowed to go back to the 10g package.
I didn’t know that, weather. Verizon notifies me when I go over the limit (via email on my jetpack) and that I will be charged $15 for each 1G over.
Right, when for $10 more you can now get an extra 2g,by switching to the 12g package.
12g @$70, 14g @$80 are current new data only package prices, plus the usual $2o line fee of course.
Thanks, weather. I’ll take a look. My phone service is tied in with my data package.
I’m interested in the Verizon jetpack “air card” too. Is this best purchased from a Verizon store or online?
Yes, go to a Verizon store and tell them what you want, how you will use it, and so forth. I didn’t know anything about air cards when living in Georgia in 2011. I walked into a Verizon store, told them I wanted to be online while traveling the west, and the man set me up.
I don’t know anything about purchasing it online.
The comment from weather (above) reminds me that you can go to the Verizon website for more information… vzw.com
thanks
Where I’m from…oncoming flashing headlights means……………speed trap ahead! Hah. Okay….which blogorino had a RVSue sighting?
Quaint little town. You know most of us would never know these little gems exist without your blog!
Nice site! Glad you had a chance to rest up! How are those tires?
Have a great day!
Hi, Cinandjules,
I forgot about the speed trap warning signal. I haven’t seen anyone do that in a long time.
The tires are great! I was glad I had them as we rolled over the road shown in this post. I haven’t adjusted the pressure yet. Too involved with other things. It’s on my “Git ‘er done” list.
A great day for you, too! You’ll be leaving for AZ soon!
Flashing headlights (same direction of travel) also lets a 18 wheeler know he’s clear to move back into the right lane.
Forgot to mention how nice it was of you to offer blankets.
Jim showed up on Sun with the Uhaul…was supposed to be Monday. It was raining on and off but we were able to load it in between drops. He calls us on Monday at O dark thirty and says he wants to leave at 2pm! Mind you the Doppler radar was red! Can’t load the artwork in da rain! His original plan was to leave on Thurs or Friday! By 11pm he was in Chicago! At this rate he’s gonna beat us there.
AO got nervous watching us pack her bed…and puked!
Hi, Cindy,
I know you and Jules are excited to start the “next chapter” in your lives. It sounds like the packing went well despite the uncooperative weather! Your friend Jim is a gem!
I hope AO is feeling better! Poor thing probably thought that you all were going to leave her behind. Give her a kiss on the head for me….
The flashing lights when driving rules are what I learned, too.
Have a safe trip!! 🙂
Jim sounds like a guy with little patience once he has a job to do… 🙂
Poor AO! She could take some lessons from the Bridge. No moss grows on HER bed. Ha! She sees me toss it into the PTV and she heads for the side door, ready to be tossed in, too!
Well, it will all work out and you’ll be reporting from the Zone!
Ummm we are leaving her behind….for the 10 days. Her most favorite Uncle will be staying at the house and tending to the fur kids. Once he shows up…she really doesn’t care what WE do! He spoils them.
If I go MIA while in da zone…all is good…we just have so much to do!
Understood. This is a busy and exciting time for both of you!
“You might be in a small town when”… a store there sells produce and chain saws 😉
Great photos along the road in this post, they make apparent what people find beautiful about that area. A wedding in that setting is so different than most, that couple, too, to have chosen it. It was good of you to offer the use of your blankets, especially because a small child was involved. My son enjoyed tent camping at two years old and keeping him warm and dry was a priority that could be challenging sometimes. It’s nice that Reggie enchanted the little girl, yet I think their ignoring Bridget is beyond inconsiderate. Does it bother you when people do that?Thanks for putting the links in again. I love to learn about the local history of places and their people.
Hi, weather,
No, it doesn’t bother me when people shower Reggie with attention and not for Bridget. She seems to like it that way. I didn’t do a very good job describing our encounter with the two women and child. I made it sound like Bridget was ignored. In truth, she lagged behind us, intent on sniffing something and just enjoying herself, as we approached their campsite. She joined us a bit later. Bridget and I are a lot alike. We enjoy being by ourselves, making little discoveries . . . .
We didn’t take my first choice of a campsite. As I was looking over the site, figuring how to position the BLT, the little girl came running down the dirt lane, obviously wanting to find Reggie. Her mother was chasing after her.
I imagined the girl getting up in the middle of the night to go find the cute little dog. Probably wouldn’t happen but could happen. Therefore I decided to camp way over on the other side of the campground where she wouldn’t be tempted.
Tenting with a two-year-old in cold weather… challenging, I’m sure, for momma!
There’s much to write about the town of Reserve… not only its history, but also recent struggles and controversies.
Note to self, if I ever see RVSue and her crew don’t flash lights!! I bet that did scare you. I’d wave instead. Love your blogs and descriptions on camping places. Thank you!
And thank you, Nicki, for not scaring me! Ha! She was waving her arms frantically… oh my…
If you’re reading this — woman in the white car — It’s okay. You gave me an anecdote for this post. 🙂
Been to Apache Creek numerous times, just not with this rig. The highway between Reserve & Silver City is a beautiful drive, and nicely, there are a number of pullouts for photo ops. It sounds like you’re enjoying one of my very favorite areas of NM. Love Catron County, where there are more cattle than people (and not a whole lot of either).
We spent a week in Edgewood east of Albuq catching up with longtime friends & getting snowed on & blown around. Tis springtime in NM when the wind spends most of its time gale force!
Oh, yes… We experienced some of NM’s springtime wind. Ran into some turbulent weather which I’ll write about, of course.
Thanks again, Renee, for the invitation to park on your property. We took a different route.
Well I woke up today feeling well enough to go to my coffee group, for the first time since I got home. So I gave the dogs short walk, had a shower, and got ready to go. Then started looking for my car keys. And looked and looked. Finally, when it was too late to go for coffee, I looked in my purse. I never put them there. I always walk in and toss them on the table. But there they were. Double duh. At least I found them in time to go to my physical therapy appointment.
I love the NM scenery. Unfortunately most of those altitudes are too high for me. I envy your good health Sue.
Edlfrey have you been everywhere in the west? I can’t imagine how you know so much about every place.
Well, I’m off to PT. have a good day all.
Hi, Ginger,
How frustrating! And you missed your coffee group. I’m glad you made it to physical therapy though.
Yes, I am fortunate to have good health. Very fortunate. I count that blessing often!
“I’ve Been Everywhere”
I was totin’ my pack along the dusty Winnemucca road,
When along came a semi with a high an’ canvas-covered load.
“If you’re goin’ to Winnemucca, Mack, with me you can ride.”
And so I climbed into the cab and then I settled down inside.
He asked me if I’d seen a road with so much dust and sand.
And I said, “Listen, I’ve traveled every road in this here land!”
[Chorus:]
I’ve been everywhere, man.
I’ve been everywhere, man.
Crossed the desert’s bare, man.
I’ve breathed the mountain air, man.
Of travel I’ve had my share, man.
I’ve been everywhere.
I have NOT been to everyplace in the song but I have been in a LOT of them and many places that are not in the song i.e. Reserve, NM. Thanks for asking and the kind words!
For the complete lyrics and to listen to the song, click here.
Hi DesertGinger,
I am passing on some kind words that were given to me this past weekend.
“Don’t be too hard on yourself.”
You are now home – it will take just a minute or two to get back into the groove and to re-establish the routines that you once took for granted. Those same habits that were shelved when you were at your friend’s home, in the hospital, and in rehab. It WILL get better! Sending you a hug! 🙂
Ah New Mexico the land of enchantment. I can almost smell the pines and am embraced by the history of this magical land. The old days of Billy the Kid and Black Jack Ketchems gang. Those were the days…but of course the new days are pretty exciting too…like the mysterious happenings at Roswell in 1947! Perhaps you can go to Roswell and give us the lowdown and take pictures of the museum?
Nope, we won’t be going to southeastern NM this year, Joe. I bet you know more about the Roswell incident(s) than I could ever tell you by visiting … 🙂
I lived in eastern NM for four years and have traveled thru the state several times. There are some beautiful areas. A word of caution if you go thru northwest New Mexico. When I drove thru there last November, the roads were rough and not well-maintained on the state highways. I had to slow way down and I guarantee you that everything in the trailer had “shifted” when I finally stopped. There’s a lot of oil company traffic and I think the big rigs tear up the road faster than they can repair it.
Although I stopped the full-time gig and sold my 35′ fifth wheel, I bought a 17′ 1969 Kit Companion. Hope to do lots of weekend trips with it. I opted for no black/grey tanks on that old of a trailer and will do the porta-pottie thing instead. After the big fifth wheel, I’m going for a simpler way of travel.
As always, I look forward to reading your blog. I’ve told other women who are considering solo RV travel (whether part-time or full-time) to always start with your blog for inspiration. You were my first…blog, that is. 😉 Safe travels, dear Sue.
Hi, Kristi and Daisie,
Thank you for sharing my blog with others thinking of RVing on their own. I appreciate that!
I’m curious about the roads in northwestern New Mexico. It would be helpful to know which roads you were on that were in bad condition. Are there roads to be avoided altogether?
Sorry for the late reply–didn’t get a notification that you had responded. I was not impressed with Hwys 64 and 160. Lots of frost-heave-like roads. When I say Hwy 64, I mean west of Farmington. It was truly rough on my trailer and I could rarely get past 35-40 mph. Safe journey to you!
Thank you, Kristi… That’s very helpful.
Yeah, another Idaho gal.
I am sitting here chuckling over the stance of both the cowboy and the horse on the sign for Uncle Bill’s Bar. The both look like they are answering the call of nature. Don’t know where my mind is this morning? Anyway the new camp with the ponderosa pines looks beautiful!!
I was thinking the same thing! I didn’t know New Mexico could look like that. I remember being in the White Sands area when I was a kid and it sure didn’t look like this. Just beautiful. Only 9 more years until I can retire.
It isn’t your mind… That’s exactly what the cowboy and his horse are doing. 🙂
Susan, too funny about the stance of the cowboy and horse. Thank you for the chuckle!
Hi, Chey!
how are you doing Chey? i think of your health often and send you healing vibes. take care!
Thank you for the beautiful photos. I just felt a kind of calm and peace come over me while looking at them. Sounds weird maybe but there it is. New Mexico truly is the Land of Enchantment. Looking forward to the search and rescue, sounds quite exciting!
You’re welcome, Gingerita. I’m pleased you like the photos.
I don’t think your reaction is weird at all. Several readers have said the same thing about some of my posts over the years — that reading them is calming and relaxing. I like that. Much better than boring!
RvSue your posts are many things, but boring isn’t one of them!
🙂
I needed an inspirational escape today, and your post provided that at just the right time. Thank you. I had to say goodbye to my 13 year old coon hound, my beautiful Beau yesterday. My heart hurts the core. But I pickup my Casita next week so I need to get my MOJO back for all the work that is ahead of me these next few days. So you see how seeing those yellow center lines in your photo, Reggie looking out the window and the story of the two women and child sure did help to bring me to a more positive place even though it may take me awhile to muster up the excitement I would have been feeling at this point of my journey without Beau’s passing. I was reminded of the summer after I was divorced, I took my two year old daughter tent camping in the local mountains, just the two of us. It was the first of many such camping trips in our well loved tent. Thank you, Sue for providing a well-needed respite from my grief.
You’re welcome, Jo. I’m glad my blog helped you today. I’m very sorry for the pain you are experiencing and wish there were a way to make the coming days easier for you. It’s so hard when they leave us!
I almost didn’t include the small story about the two women tenting with the little girl.
Take care, Jo. In time you will arrive at “a more positive place.” In the meantime, you work your way through each day and night until the memory of Beau brings smiles.
Thank you for writing.
Thank you for your kind words, Sue. I remember when you wrote about dear Spike’s passing, I sobbed when reading, recalling the pain that accompanied each of my best friends’ departures and knowing you were experiencing that searing deep down hurt. I’m glad I have my Sunbear girl to commiserate with me. She is grieving quietly the loss of her brother, but together we will mend and, like you said, the day will come when smiles replace tears. Thank you and take care <3
So sorry for your loss Jo 🙁 Keep remembering all the good times you had together.
Sending you a hug, Jo. Take good care of yourself.
Congratulations on your Casita! I am excited for you! May you have many happy travels!! 🙂
Thank you both <3
sue and crew,
sending you some getwell magic…6 are pale blue and 1 will take care of my solar batteries. Amazon is always open and no parking problems, haha. Enjoy.
and that wasn’t me flashing the lights in that car you saw. i am stuck here in georgia swamp weather but getting a great education in setting up and using solar power. in a couple more weeks, i will be expanding my current system. watch for the “bits and pieces” as i order them.
so glad to hear you are feeling better.
anne
Thanks, Anne. I’ll look for your orders!
I thoroughly enjoy reading each and every post. Thank you for taking us along each and every journey.
You’re welcome, Sandi, and thank you for the encouraging note!
Now That is my kind of place to spend after leaving the desert, much better than the high desert. I imagine the trees wreak havoc on the charging rate for the batteries. I don’t imagine you will make daily trips for a loaf of bread. Ha. Enjoy your time in the high pines. When you leave Pie Town is a must stop, or a good Day trip and have a piece of Lemon Meringue for me. I am would like to figure out how I can work that into my schedule for my first year on the road. stopped there in 2003 Will have to put that one off till 2018 I guess. even thinking about it makes my mouth water!!!
Enjoy your time there. looking forward seeing where the next stop is.
Hi, Dave,
I can see where you’d think there would be a shortage of sunshine when looking at the photo I posted. Apache Creek Campground has a pleasant mix of sun and shade. The Ponderosas are spaced far apart and each campsite receives sun. I parked the BLT in the shade and the PTV in full sun.
Nope, not going to Pie Town. I love pie. The berry pies are my favorites. Now I wish I had a piece of pie to finish off the linguine with pesto that Denise (below) is serving tonight!
Hi, Sue,
Knowing that you are feeling better makes me very happy! Happy Dance!!
Just think….now you will listening to the whispering pines instead of hummingbird song. Both are equally enchanting! I wonder if you will discover some new birds in this camp. Thank you for including the links about Elfago Baca. You may be out of the formal classroom, but you are always sharing your knowledge with us! 🙂
How very kind of you to offer a spare blanket to the family that was tent camping.
My #2 nephew just finished his BS in Psychology. I am so-o-o-o very proud!! He is coming for a visit this weekend, so we will be celebrating! His brother, my #1 nephew, is moving into a new (to them) apartment with his girlfriend this weekend. Lots of good, positive news. It makes my heart swell with joy to see two of “my boys” so happy. **contented sigh**
Snuggle up, dear Sue – keep the heater on low, and those little pups close to stay warm! As I type this, it is raining and blowing pretty hard…enough to hear the raindrops hitting the windows and the roof. We have had a rainy week, but that is ok. This will help get rid of the pollen and the more rain we get now will help keep our water tables in line – delaying drought conditions. Sending you and the adorable Crew hugs from me and my adorable Gracie pup! 🙂 As always, thank you for sharing your journey with us – you are a treasure!
What is for dinner tonight? Did that small store have rotisserie chickens? I am heating up leftovers of linguine with pest0 – yum. 🙂
Ha – now the sun popped out as it is raining!!! The devil must be beating his wife. That odd saying was something that I hear often here in VA…being from the Midwest, it was new to me. I have no idea what it means!!
Hi, Denise,
You are rightfully proud of your boys! I hope you have a wonderful visit with your #2 nephew this weekend. Maybe it will stop raining!
Oh my, linguine with pesto. I love that. Wish I had a plate of it in front of me right now! What am I having for supper? I don’t know. Something simple. Nope, no rotisserie chicken at the little store in Reserve. No Carl’s Jr. for the pups either. 🙁
Thank you for another sweet message to me and the crew. Hugs to you and Gracie pup!
Sure enjoying that you are back in NM. Lots for me to see ‘thru you’. I really liked Cedar Pocket AZ, stayed three weeks.
If not filled, there is a camp host opening at cedar p. starting next fall, if someone is interested. I love hearing about your adventures and small details.
Hi, Jan,
I’m so happy you went to Cedar Pocket and enjoyed it so much you stayed for 3 weeks. I love that drive from St George to the campground.
Thanks for the information — Blogorinos and Lurkers — Camp host position available next fall at Cedar Pockets Campground . . ..
You know, someone mentioned Land of Enchantment and it reminded me of the album by that name, by a guy named Deuter, that is one of my all time favorite instrumental albums. I’m sure they sell it on Amazon. And it does sound like NM, with Indian flute music andallkinds of cool stuff. Check it out!
See link a few comments below this one… 🙂
Scroll down for link in Ginger’s comment below this one… 🙂
This is more like it…TREES!!! Hope you can stay warm enough!!
We’re comfy-cozy, Elizabeth. Thank you. 🙂
Excited for the next post…………loving New Mexico!
It’s fun showing New Mexico to you, Glenda!
Really glad to see this post! Love the scenery, definitely my kind of place. I was in need of a RVSue and crew fix! Glad you are all up and at ’em!
Thanks, Susan. It’s great to be able to go online again!
Good morning from Virginia! I am glad you were able to rest and are feeling better. I enjoyed the post as always. The picture of the little town(with the dog) gave me that feeling of getting out of the truck in a totally new town. I don’t know quite how to describe it…..and it is only true in small towns. It doesn’t matter if it’s in the desert or in the redwoods. There is a feeling, a scent, a sound…that is similar and familiar….that both excites and calms me. For a split second I felt that way this morning. Thank you.
You’re welcome, MB, and good morning/afternoon to you, too!
I think I know what you mean about the atmosphere of a small town. The dog being in no hurry to get out of the main street through town conveys that feeling . . . . I’m happy you enjoyed the post. Thanks for the interesting response!
Hi all, checking in from Thailand, after a month of 40 c it’s nice to see the back of April.
Good to read you are feeling better Sue. My Vanna is like Reggie loves playing with the little ones. I hope all the blogarinos are doing well. As always loved the pics and the story. Take care…..
Good morning Wendy! Wow, Thailand…..I have only seen pictures but it seems to be a very beautiful place with lots of interesting foods I’d love to try. Enjoy your better weather. Normal Virginia spring here….COLD, HOT, RAIN, NOT! LOL! But I love April and May! Have a great day!
Thanks, Wendy, and good whatever-it-is-right-now-in-Thailand!
Good Morning! For the very first time in my life I am boarding one of our dogs, Olive, due to my daughter’s college graduation. Because the 2 dogs are snarly around each other I decided not to leave them alone in the house. My husband will be here then will come to her graduation and I have a couple of good friends that will let the older dog out several times a day. I trust where I am taking her, but yet I don’t want her to think we’ve abandoned her. It will be hard to drop her off and walk away. She did well after her bladder stone removal and the vet will remove her staples while shes being boarded. I am going to pay for anything they can do to keep her from being bored, such as several walks a day, doggie day care and peanut butter snacks. I will pick her up on Sunday afternoon and I’m hoping she’ll have a good time. Meanwhile my wonderful, smart and beautiful daughter has an internship at one of our major TV stations and we’re all thrilled for her. She’ll be home for the summer which will be nice. Sue, love your pictures and blog. New Mexico is a beautiful state.
Kay from KC!
Hi, Kay,
Congratulations to you and your daughter on the achievement of college graduation! With many graduates having difficulty finding employment, it is a double achievement… I wish her an excellent learning experience during her internship.
It’s tough to board a dog for the first time. I’ve never done it and hope I never have to. There are times when it’s the best solution, and, who knows, maybe she will like the special treatment.
Have a fantastic weekend, Kay!
Thanks for the links re Elfego Baca – fascinating reads on a very colorful character!
I’m glad you enjoyed learning about the man who inspired that statue, Eileen. Thanks for the feedback. I want to keep in touch with what my readers like.
thats where i live!
Where do you mean, Patty? Reserve, NM?
yes! in reserve….for one year i lived at the apache creek campground ( full hookups)…that is the one you passed on the right hand side on the way to the one you are in….now i live between the town of reserve and the 180 hiway (you could have looked down and seen the cabin i live in on the way into the town of reserve)….it is a beautiful place!
Fantastic! What a lovely place in which to live. Yes, I saw Apache Creek RV Park. Interesting! I didn’t realize I was in the neighborhood of a blogorino!
So wonderful to change your backyard from blooming cactus to soaring pines in just 30 miles! Looks like another slice of heaven for you and the crew. Nice to think of the clerk’s daughter’s wedding and all the pretty streamers in the trees….makes it feel even more like home.
We’ve turned south yet again, having gotten almost to Utah at last. Mother in law will be moving to assisted living so we return to Roswell to take care of the move and the house. We’re grateful for the flexibility of being able to take our home to hers. Utah will still be there.
You are so right, Jodee. I often hear folks say they are worried about living and traveling in an RV when they have family that may need them. Your situation illustrates how an RV can be an advantage.
I wish a smooth transition for your mother-in-law. She’s fortunate to have you caring about her and for her.
Well, it was more than 30 miles from cactus blooms to Ponderosas (you’re thinking from our last camp). All the same, it is wonderful to have a home-on-wheels with a yard that is easily changed according to whim or necessity.
Well I was hoping Sue would put in a link to the music I entered earlier, but she didn’t. So, again, beautiful NM music is an album by Deuter called Land of Enchantment.
Land of Enchantment
Native American flute music and lots of other stuff. Very beautiful. Check it out.
Sorry, Ginger. I missed that opportunity. I changed your link to one of mine. Thank you.
“You two are never left behind,”
Same thing could be said for us pampered Blogorino’s. Thanks for that.
You’re welcome, Rick. 🙂