Wednesday, October 1
Today Bridget and I return to a favorite camp located in Round Valley between Salina and Scipio, Utah.
This will be our third camp alongside Ivie Creek.
We break camp at Huntington State Park and proceed southward on Route 10. The town of Huntington is only two miles from the park. I stop at the Maverick station for gas @ $3.65 a gallon, a cup of hot coffee (I like Maverick’s “Bodacious Blend”), and something for breakfast. I choose a warmed, chicken-filled croissant. I share a few of the chicken chunks with Bridget before pulling out of the parking lot
I love an early start on the open road through never-seen-before territory.
I enjoy the drive so much that I neglect to take photos! Shortly past Huntington we’re detoured by a police officer. A section of the road is closed.
“I need you to turn onto that road and drive through Lawrence. It’ll take you back to 10.”
Previously I’ve remarked on this blog about the tidiness of Utah towns.
I was impressed by the manicured lawns, immaculate streets, and trimmed fields and roadways. The detour through Lawrence reveals a different Utah. People struggle here. Junk and rusty vehicles surround dilapidated mobile homes, grass and weeds hip high, broken fences . . . .
Back on Route 10 we pass through Castle Dale, Clawson, and Ferron. At Emery I stop to give Bridget a potty run and to check the blog.
A few more miles and we’re climbing westward on Interstate 70 through Fishlake National Forest.
The interstate cuts between mountains topped with snow. One particular sight will stay with me a long time. Imagine this . . . A mountain covered with aspens and evergreens. The aspens are illuminated by the morning sunshine to a vivid yellow and the evergreens are white with snow.
A yellow and white mountain against a brilliant blue sky! Spectacular! Of course, being on the interstate, I can’t pull over for a photo.
We exit at Salina and drive Route 50 to Round Valley (first photo).
I turn onto the road that goes to Maple Grove Campground. You may remember similar photos taken upon our arrival here in June 2013 and May 2014.
In the next photo you can see the yellow aspens and patches of snow on the mountaintops.
I don’t take us to the campground.
Instead I pull into the creek-side campsite we occupied last May.
Oh, this is no good. The ground is still soft from all the rain. Lots of ruts from people driving in the mud. No, this won’t do at all.
Further up the road I choose another campsite, also next to the creek.
It’s a pretty spot from any angle.
The neighborhood senses our arrival.
First a small herd of five cows check us out. They pretend to be here for a drink out of the creek, but I know better. There’s more staring going on than drinking.
Shortly thereafter Bridget and I are in the Best Little Trailer. I’m at the laptop when I hear a familiar sound.
“It’s the turkeys!”
Quickly I grab the camera and set it on “through glass” and take these photos.
I count nine altogether.
They’re moving hither and thither and I’m unable to catch all of them within the frame at the same time. The photo isn’t that great. I post it to show how close the turkeys are to the BLT.
They pretend to be intent on pecking the ground.
Sure . . . Out of all the acres and acres of ground available for pecking, you just happen to stroll through our campsite to peck here.
You’re not foolin’ me! I see your sneaky glances!
A cold night is predicted for central Utah.
I turn on the Wave 3 catalytic heater at four o’clock. That way the interior will be well-warmed in the hours before bedtime when I’ll turn it off and close up the BLT for the night.
“Ready for a walk before we go in for the night, Bridge?”
We walk the road to the other campsites and find them empty. A few RVs have gone past our campsite on the way to the campground.
I like this kind of camping better . . . .
Plenty of elbow room!
rvsue
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“C’mon, Bridgie-baby!”
I was just going to leave a comment asking if we are there yet? And here we are…now I am going to read it….first…I think…HI BRIDGET!
Love the new campsite, and the Turkey’s, don’t they know what time of year it is! Get out a roasting pan and see if they stick around then? The hills and mountains are beautiful and the aspens that you described golden with color just makes my mouth water. How far are you from town, oh, never mid, I will just check out our map and google earth. Enjoy your stay, this is a lovely place you picked out for us…we are happy to be here. Stay warm and cozy tonight…kiss Bridget on the nose.
Congratulations, Shirlene! You are number one!
I don’t know if you ever saw the previous posts when we camped here. A few of the turkeys visited us then, too.
This is a handy place to get things done in Salina. Plus I like hanging out here.
I have been following you for a couple of years, but do not remember each camp site as perfectly as you. But I do remember the name Ivie Creek. I have been to Salina, a nice town to hang out in, and not too far for you if you need anything. I think I will like it here…The weather looks pretty but I hope it does not get too chilly… Do you ever make a camp fire, I do not remember you describing them unless you are visiting anothers campsite. The valley surrounding looks inviting, looks like a good place to explore and hike off the past two days of travel. Wonderful to place to relax.
I rarely build a campfire. Sitting around in the dark by myself watching a fire doesn’t appeal to me. It’s enjoyable when there are friends to converse with.
If you click on the weather widget for Salina in the sidebar, you’ll see that we’re expecting clear weather with highs in the 70s. Sounds good to me!
You’re right. This is a good place for Bridget and me to hike.
Another great campsite! I love that clear water too! Just beautiful. This should make a great campsite for a few days. We are getting more of the rain that was probably out west a few days ago. We are about swimming away here in Iowa. The drought of the past years is certainly over now!
Looking forward to the pictures and descriptions of this great boondock.
Hi, Jolene,
Days of rain can be tiresome. I’m glad though that you’re getting the rain you need. The farmers are probably happy to see it.
Hi Sue, this is my very favorite camp so far! I hope you have a wonderful stay! Boy that Bridget is such a great companion! She looks so very happy to lead the way on your adventures. She is such a good girl! I hope you continue to have safe and happy travels wherever you go!
Hi, Chaunte,
Bridget is a good little girl. She enjoys our walks very much. When I grab my hat and camera in the morning she immediately begins to hop around with excitement.
This camp is gorgeous in the spring when the flowers bloom along the creek. It’s more subdued at this time of year although the maples on the mountain slopes are beginning to turn shades of red.
That final photo of Bridget is adorable!
I like it, too! She’s squinting into the sun as she runs.
Agreed!!! Bridget is getting svelte!!!! Hey kiddo, time to head south! Those tires are ‘all weather’ NOT SNOW! Drive careful, be safe.
Yes!! I love that last photo. Lovely girl.
Take care ladies.
The animals love you! LOL “Hi, Sue and Crew”, they are saying. Glad you found a comfortable place to rest your heads and exercise your bods! Happy for you, Sue and Bridget!
Hi, Diann,
Usually it takes 2 or 3 days before the animals and birds come in close to spend time with us. I was amazed how quickly the turkeys visited us. Cows, well, they’re always nosy . .. . .
Ahhhh. OK everybody, outta the car. Brush that road dust off, breathe deeply and stretch your legs – we’re home at last!
I’ve only been to Ivie Creek and Round Valley vicariously through this blog and never even set a single foot anywhere near there in person. But even though I’m sort of a new reader, it feels like this area is the spiritual home base of this blog. Well, okay, maybe just the head office of RVSue, Inc.
Gee, I wonder if we’ll get to tour inside that cute-as-a-button cordwood cabin this time? [Hint-hint! ;-)]
You know, leilani? You may have struck on a truth here. There is something about the Salina area and this camp that has a hold on me. When I wonder about someday establishing a home base my thoughts invariably come here. The winters are cold and there’s snow so it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense, yet I do feel rooted whenever we camp here.
That cordwood cabin roused the imagination of several readers . . . .
You might want to think about settling there someday. Yes, it snows, but you will never get snowed in, and you will be able to drive on the snow. It is not like the ice we always get down south. You could be very much at peace there.
Oh my goodness is that a waist I see on that svelte little lady?
I was really hoping that this is where we were heading!!! With so many great camps to choose from it’s hard to pick a favorite but for some reason Ivie creek stuck with me as one of the best. Maybe because it was one of the first sites with water last spring. I’m excited to see more pictures as you hike around so that we can compare the fall and spring.
Nice to know the locals seem to remember you and stopped in to welcome you back. Maybe you will run into Del and Reg again? Take care.
Hi, Rick,
I’d love to see Del and Reg again. Really good guys . . .
Ivie Creek does have its charm. I looked at some of my old photos taken during springtime and I must say, it’s idyllic… the stream, the mountains, the flowers, the wide, bucolic valley…
Yes, Bridget has a waist! The other day I looked at her and thought, gee her legs are long. I realized the legs haven’t grown, the belly just moved higher up.
It’s so nice to follow along as you travel,even if you don’t snap a picture,so instead describe it-I feel it all.That’s ever so nice…I find it all charming to sit with for a while,even smiling at parts some feel might feel sorry about…
Viewed along certain detours, life can really appear to be defeating some ,yet may well not be.Knowing folks can be grateful just to be getting by, I’ve learned not to judge their happiness at a glance.Some struggles can be fun if those in it have unity.
Do you suppose you’ll get to hear triangle bells from a nearby porch this autumn?The turkeys,aspens,and familiar color on the rock you’re parked in front of made me picture a porch with them.Hope the chill leaves soon,until it does you may get warmed up by chasing critters away-if not I’m sure sweet Bridge will keep you cozy
Hi, weather,
You have such a positive way of viewing the world! I hope what you say about the poverty I saw is true. Happiness may exist there, but I doubt it is carefree or fun.
People say money doesn’t buy happiness, but there is a level of deprivation at which struggling to make ends meet makes happiness extremely difficult. Been there, done that, and it was anything but fun . . .
You remember the triangle bell on the cabin porch! You are amazing, weather. Bridget did a great job this afternoon chasing the cows away. She started a stampede! We were outside sitting in the sun at the time.
That’s my girl. Running around barking the canine equivlent of “Hey Boss, hey boss”.
Stampede starting Bridget,oh my gosh,I love it!!!-blazing trails,resting through the rides,ready to romp when you get there and now this!
Hope that sun’s going down is soon followed by you both resting well -that place has so much to enjoy come morning,see you then.
Have a good night, weather, and wake to soaring eagles . . .
🙂
Hi! Love those Turkeys!! And the photo of “Bridgey-Baby”…awesome :+))))
Thanks, Betty-Shea! Bridget can be very photogenic when she’s caught in an unguarded moment.
Awwww……Bridgie-Baby is so cute! That picture of her is so precious!
Although I don’t comment on every blog entry…..don’t think I am not reading every word. Checking every day and reading every comment! I think I really like your new camera. Your photos are wonderful. Although I do wish you were able to get the photos of the snow covered pines against the golden Aspens. Maybe another time. Better to be safe on the road.
Another great campsite! You really know how to pick them. Those turkeys had better run to the hills pretty soon!
Have a great evening!
Hi, Deb,
It’s nice to know you’re with us every mile. . . .
As for the turkeys, I don’t know when turkey hunting season is. These turkeys are way too comfortable around people. I felt like we were camped in a turkey yard.
People comment on the beautiful places I’ve shown in photos on this blog. What is remarkable is that many gorgeous scenes don’t appear because I can’t safely stop along the highway to take photos. The things I’ve seen in the past 3 years! Incredible… like the yellow and white mountain against blue sky…
I remember seeing a doe and fawn crossing a river — in Montana, I think — the river, magnificent, the mountains in the background, the fawn up to its belly in water, the doe confident they’d make it across, oh, what a sight! I glimpsed it for a half-second going around a curve . . . .
I tried to find the dates for hunting wild turkeys. As best I can tell, turkey hunting season is in the spring and there isn’t one in the fall.
Thanksgiving is turkey time and coming to up soon! Your turkeys look a lot plumper than these Myakka turkeys! I’m ready to see one all dressed up with cornbread stuffing and cranberry sauce!
Sue, how do you like your new laptop? Windows 8 is driving me nutz! Someone earlier mentioned a download that made Windows 8 more friendly like… I have spent the better part of this morning trying to hunt that link down. If you, or any other blogerino’s have access to that link, I’d really appreciate the link.
Our rains have stopped, the river crested yesterday, we may be able to go back to our campground in a few days. State Park is still closed to the public tho!
Love Ivie Creek! Feels all comfey, like a warm blanket on a cold night! I like it here! Daggonit Sue, I like ALL your camps! Your photographs are so amazing! We may end up back out west yet! 🙂
Hi Geri because I didn’t need it,I didn’t memorize the link,perhaps AZJim had mentioned one that works well once.If no answer shows up, later I’ll look it up for you.Thanks for mentioning cranberry sauce!I’m making my grocery list,it looks better now 🙂
Thanksgiving is turkey time and coming to up soon! Your turkeys look a lot plumper than these Myakka turkeys! I’m ready to see one all dressed up with cornbread stuffing and cranberry sauce!
Sue, how do you like your new laptop? Windows 8 is driving me nutz! Someone earlier mentioned a download that made Windows 8 more friendly like… I have spent the better part of this morning trying to hunt that link down. If you, or any other blogerino’s have access to that link, I’d really appreciate the link.
Our rains have stopped, the river crested yesterday, we may be able to go back to our campground in a few days. State Park is still closed to the public tho!
Hi, Geri,
One of the downloads suggested is called Classic Shell. I haven’t downloaded anything yet. I’m waiting until I have an excellent internet connection before doing so. Good luck!
Hi, Geri. The link to Classic Shell is here: http://www.classicshell.net/
There are also some tweaks to Windows 8.1 to make it a lot more user-friendly (including getting back to a regular windows 7-like desktop.
Lets hope this is easier. Thank you so much! Also I apologize for the two near duplicate posts I made. After wiring the first I lost the signal and thought the post drifted off into cyberspace. I even came back several hours later and couldn’t find it so I re typed it. Sheeeeeesh !
I see you made your next destination safe and sound. It looks beautiful there. The fence in the photos makes it look like your IN the campground. I know you’re not, so what’s with the fence? Looks fairly “improved”.
So, a question…with all the camps you have been privileged to find, why does this one rate so highly? I’m not being judgmental, just new to boondocking and curious.
The photos at these links will explain why this is a special boondock . . . .
“On the road to a new camp and oh, what a camp it is!” (Scroll to bottom.)
“Come ramble along Ivie Creek with me and the crew”
Thank you for those links Sue! Thank you for taking the time. It IS beautiful. When we get going with our Great Escape in 2016, I’m going to have to put my Big Boy pants on. The old me would just assume that it’s the campground or nowhere. It would not occur to me easily that it’s “O.K.” to camp elsewhere.
Sometimes, when approaching a campground, you’ll see a sign stating that camping is not allowed within a certain number of miles around the campground. No such restriction here!
I forgot to answer your question about the fence… I’m not sure why there’s a fence here. I’m guessing the forest service put it up to discourage people from driving their four-wheelers and other toy vehicles into the creek. There is a place further up the creek where the fence doesn’t go that sports a sign “no motorized vehicles” and I notice boulders placed where people used to tear up the ground.
Again, thank you. While the laser is doing a job, I’m looking at a satellite view of what I believe is your campsite. Complete with whitewater and the “fence”. It’s the voyeur in me. Smile. 🙂
Now this looks like a place to call home for awhile. Your descriptions of your road travels were perfect and I could picture the sky and colors. This area looks so beautiful.
Today starts my three days off from my new job and I kind of miss it. So far it’s very enjoyable and I think I’ll be good at interviewing people and getting them to be a TV Nielson family. 🙂 lol I know I sound a bit nuts but it’s better than waiting for time to pass. It was nice to laze around this morning. I’d love to gather some interesting friends around a campfire and listen to all the stories.
I hope you come upon some wonderful humans to share one with.
how peaceful life is when you create it for yourself…
Your last line is very true, Deb.
I marvel at your love for your job. How wonderful that is! I never had a job that made me miss it when I was home. I’m happy for you.
Okay….did this happen to anyone else? The format of this blog changed! I mean the whole site! I was like is this the new look? I hope not because it was hard to find something so simple as the Amazon link.
Whew….came back 10 minutes later and it was back to normal!
What an adorable pic of Bridget! She has come so far out of her shelll…no more dagger eyes! Beautiful scenery!
Stay warm! A polar blast is headed this way….should be here Sunday!
That’s weird about my blog. I didn’t try anything different. I did put new ads up… Maybe you opened the blog at the precise moment they were being changed? Huh. I hope it doesn’t happen again.
I think we’ve had the coldest weather for a few days. Now it’s your turn! Only I suspect your cold is colder than what we had. You stay warm! You might want to reconsider AO’s sleeping arrangement. 😉
just wanted to let you know….I slept with AO on the couch futon last night!
She’s a Bunsen burner and…………………SHE HOGS! I woke up feeling like a human question mark! OY!!!!!!
Funny!
I have seen the blog messed up before. It is probably when WordPress is up-dating their software.
Well, the thermometer hit 101…its 2:45 in So Cal…Santa Ana winds whipping. Keeping our fingers crossed that a fire does not start….Such a difference from one geographical area to another. Sue, you just stay right where you are, you should be right between colder climates and warmer climates, I cannot think of a more perfect place to be…except maybe at the market getting an Angel Food Cake…
Hot, dry, and windy… Hoo-boy… I do hope no fires start.
We should be comfortable here for a week or so. I’ll keep my eye on the forecasts. This time of year the weather can change quickly.
I’ll be going into town tomorrow. I’m already thinking cake. . . .
Lovely campsite. That fence along the creek adds a bit of old fashioned charm. Nice mix of civilization and wilderness. You’re living the life.
Hopefully we’ll be doing more of what you’re doing in the years to come. Right now we will just be taking our Casita south for a month or two this winter. Hoping we have the time to make it to the southwest, otherwise we’ll be in the southeast.
So glad we can see a bit of the country through your eyes. I know I keep saying that, but it’s really true!
I agree with Cinandjules, Bridget is definitely looking more comfortable in front of the camera, if you aren’t careful, you’ll have a real diva on your hands!
Hi, Applegirl,
You’ll really appreciate the South during the winter, coming from New York state. Any way you can make the harsh winter seem shorter is a good thing to do!
Bridget already has her diva moments. I’m happy to see her becoming more athletic. I think she’s feeling better with some of the weight gone. She seems more energetic and she doesn’t pant the way she used to. That worried me.
The weather has been lovely here, but we are getting some heat over the weekend. Even then, it drops into 60s at night. Take a week Sue…by the time you get down here it should be just perfect.
My nurse is just arriving, so time for torture. I’ll come back and check in later.
Oh, pain, go away!
Another lovely spot…and Fall…what a lovely time of year…always loved shuffling through the leaves on my way between classes at college years ago….the photos of your spot make me remember the wonderful somewhat chilly breezes too.
Looks like the cows and turkeys do not really want you to feel alone!! HA…
Very sociable critters around here! I was hoping the maples on the mountain and up at the campground would be in full autumn color when we arrived. Maybe by the time we leave they will be . . . .
Hi Sue. I don’t know…those turkeys look pretty hefty and Bridget just may peek out the door again and let you handle it! She is adorable. Enjoy that wonderful camp. Keep warm and Happy Travels.
You’re right about the turkeys. There were a few chasing each other and pecking at each other.
Bridget was inside and didn’t look out the window. She knew something was out there and barked several times. She wasn’t interested in going out to investigate though. Either she didn’t want to deal with intruders or she didn’t want her photo taken through the window.
Hi, Sue,
Oh! Ivie Creek – home of the beautiful cordwood cabin! I know you love this spot – so do we! I had imagined planting a few perennials in the front yard of the cabin and adding a swing on the porch…..ahhhh! That cabin makes my heart smile!! 🙂
Enjoy your week with your turkey and cow neighbors and the spectacular scenery! When making your grocery run, don’t forget to pick up some Tillamook ice cream to go with that cake! 🙂
Sending you and cutie Miss Bridget lots of love! 🙂
Denise! Tillamook and cake! Dare I?
I remember Del’s reaction when I told him where I’d plant roses next to the cabin. “No! This is a man cave!” Hahaha! Wouldn’t you and I have fun making that cabin sweet and homey!
Thanks for the love… Same to you…
Yes, you dare! If you have to justify it, you are celebrating your Birthday MONTH (me, too!)!!!!
Please do share all the yummy details! 🙂
When is your birthday?
The 17th.
Wow… close!
Yep…birds of a feather…. 🙂
And another October birthday girl here – mine’s the 9th! I’ll be celebrating 62 years on this Earth next week, and proud (and a little amazed) to still be here!
Whoo-Hoo, Cari! Let the celebration begin! 🙂
Cari, don’t forget to purchase your Senior America the Beautiful pass whene you turn 62! Best $10 you’ll ever spend!
That’s definitely on my list for next year! I’m looking forward to traveling and saving money, much like our fearless leader Sue.
mine is on Halloween BOO!
What a cool Birthday, Deb! Celebrate all month long! 🙂
Glad you like your new job! It is funny….I had a missed call from Nielson last week and I actually thought of you!
Mine is on the 29th.
Happy Birthday month, Geri! Another October baby! 🙂
Happy Birthday to all you October folks! What a fun month for a birthday!
It was a good month to get married too…though it was the time the Navy let him have leave to do so…not that there was much choice there for us in the date…it was 42 years now.
Thanks, Dawn! 🙂
Hi Sue,
I think Ivie Creek is one of my favorite RV Sue campsites. It has it all–a sweet little river and beautiful scenery. It’s getting cold out– are you planning to hustle south?
Hi, Casitagirl,
We will eventually go to southern Arizona, probably the Yuma area as that seems to be one of the warmest places. I’d like to stay in Utah a while longer. If the daily highs are in the 70s and the overnight temperatures don’t drop to freezing, I’m happy. There’s the risk of being caught in a fast approaching snowstorm. We shall see…. Sure keeps life interesting!
I thought I remembered the name Ivie Creek, and when I saw that first picture showing the campground sign, I knew I had seen it before. Thanks for posting the links to your previous visit to this area. Lovely and peaceful as always. And that Bridget is turning into quite a svelte young lady. Looking at the post and pictures from 2013 I definitely noticed a difference in her. I laughed at your comments about the cows and turkeys picking your little spot to visit – kinda like people clingers, don’t you think?
Hi, Cari,
I’d much rather have turkey clingers than the other kind of turkey clingers, if you get my meaning. 😉
I wondered if anyone looked at those links. I don’t think there’s a prettier creek than Ivie Creek anywhere, especially in spring. As I sit here on the bed at my laptop desk I can see it out the side window on the other side of the fence.
Three out of the four latest camps have been repeat camps (Field of Flowers, Pelican Lake, Ivie Creek). After Ivie Creek we will have to find some new camps as we move southward.
The turkeys and cows are checking you out and welcoming you back! Rather than clingers, they are greeters 🙂
Yay for greeters! It was fun having the turkeys show up shortly after we arrived. Set a happy tone for this camp. Well, the cows are okay, too… as long as they keep their distance!
I see that the beautiful clouds that we had in the Rocky Mountain National Park were at your home first and so was the snow. As always your pictures are outstanding. Give Bridget a pat.
Hi, Evie,
We do get the weather before you do… Thank you for the high marks for my photos. I’m happy you enjoyed them.
I gave Bridget a very soft pat from you. She’s asleep beside me. The exercise and brisk weather wore her out today. We came inside and she went straight to bed, conked out immediately into a deep sleep.
That fence for some reason brings visions of the idyllic life that Norman Rockwell would have captured. All you need is a hammock. 🙂 After rereading your posts on your past visits here, I can understand why you like to come back here to visit. By the creek, it’s so green and peaceful. Bridget looks so happy.
Hi, Monica,
Fences make composing a photo easy. They pull us into the picture while reminding us, maybe not consciously, of the fences we’ve leaned on in our past. Montana, Wyoming, and Utah have great rail and post fences to photograph.
I do believe Bridget is happy. Sometimes I think she remembers Spike. I can’t know for sure. The look in her eyes passes and she’s back in the moment.
Dear Sue,
Your photos are fantastic!!! Beautiful!
I feel like I’m right there with you!
Thank you!!!
You’re welcome, Lynn. That’s a great compliment. Thanks!
Glad to see you back at this spot. It is special.
I absolutely fell in love with the cabin from when you were here earlier. Hopefully, you will run into Del and his son again while there. Seemed like extremely nice people. And talented. There is just something about the basic log cabin that is so inviting and homey. I think partly because it is just natural materials and rustic. And I have already spoken before about loving Utah. Such a treasure. Enjoy every minute you’re there!
Hi, Lolalo,
I love that little cabin, too. I think there’s another reason log cabins appeal to us. They aren’t pretentious. They don’t call out for “improvement” the way regular homes do.
Log cabins (real ones, not the plastic kind) seem to say “Here I am. What you see is what you get. Don’t paint me. Don’t tack a deck onto me. Don’t pave the lane that brings you here; leave it with grass growing down the middle. I don’t need a perfect lawn. I don’t need cement for a walkway. Let your feet and the feet of those you welcome home wear the ground bare to my front steps. I am what I am, and that’s all I need to be, a home in the woods naturally.”
Hi RV Sue and Bridge!
I heard someone say Ivie Creek and I immediately popped up and paid attention. My mostest favorite camping spot that you’ve experienced. Just love this boondockers paradise that you keep coming back to. I’m still planning on next summer being my year to check out all that Utah has to offer. Such diversity in this state and all of it is beautiful!
I can really see a difference in Bridget’s contours! Do you think if I tag along on your explorations on foot, I’d find my waist, too? Her butt is getting tiny! She’s a changed girl! What a great job you’ve done improving her health, Sue.
Happy travels! Be well and stay safe. Keep snapping those great pics and thanks for sharing your journey with all of us.
Audrey
You’re welcome, Audrey,
Good to see you here again!
Do visit Utah and take the time to really see what is here. I think a lot of people visit national parks like Zion and Capitol Reef and then hop back on the interstate and zoom past the kind of places I show on this blog.
Thanks for the encouragement on Bridget’s fitness program. She’s doing very well.
Well when my nurse came today I was starting to feel a bit better. Had felt very shaky and weak all day. So she took my blood pressure and it was 90 over 60. I suspect it was very low all day. I had days in the hospital it was 80 over 45. I’m going to talk to my cardiologist about my blood pressure medicine. I’m not sure I should be taking it all the time, when it is already low, as the medicine is to lower it. Geez my heart is crazy. High, low..all over the place!
And I have another, slightly smaller abscess on the other side of my stomach. Crap. Just started hurting this evening.
I would just love to have some normal days! Why can’t I just sit here, take meds, do therapy exercises and slowly get better like normal people do?
Okay, my weekly whine is now done.
Tomorrow will be a better day, I know it! The nurse said if I feel like my blood pressure is low to eat something salty. So I have a new strategy for tomorrow. And im going to the bank…driving my car…to get a temporary card. Tomorrow will be good,
DG, I sometimes think these doctors go crazy prescribing bp meds. After my heart attack in ’08, the doctor put me on bp med. My bp had always been low to begin with so I couldn’t understand this. I felt sooooo bad, emotional, crying, and I’m not a whiny-type person. My heart rate was so low I sworn it only beat once a week. I took myself off the bp med and started perking up. I felt I had to get proactive in my health and do what was right for me. Not telling you to do this…just listen to your body. If it ain’t workin’, change lanes.
Hi, Sue and Bridget. Bridget is looking so slim and trim. Sue, maybe I need to get myself a leash and let you walk my fat azz around the campground/forest, lol. Seems like no matter what I do, my middle area just doesn’t want to go away. Oh, well.
Take care.
It is tomorrow as I write this and I hope it is “a better day” for you, Ginger. Your frustration is understandable.
You wrote something that intrigues me. “The nurse said if I feel like my blood pressure is low to eat something salty.” My blood pressure tends to be low, has been all my life. I also get cravings for salt (hence the saltines and popcorn!). Maybe my body is giving me hints.
Thanks again for keeping in touch. We care about you!
DG, are you taking some good, keep-in-the-frig probiotics? Sounds to me as if your immune system is completely gone–you keep getting abcesses & aren’t getting well. Our gut is the largest immune system in our bodies, believe it or not, & it’s filled (or should be filled) with beneficial bacteria that regulate digestion and safeguard our immunity. When we take anitbiotics, they deplete the healthy gut flora & we are much more susceptible to continuing infection & poor health. Probiotics restore and maintain healthy gut flora.
Many providers in my area recommend that people take probiotics any time they take antibiotics. If that is not the case for you, taking 1-2 capsules of good probiotics containing acidophilus & bifidus with 5-10 billion active cells would be very helpful. Get refrigerated probiotics. Some people think all you have to do is eat yogurt–nope. Not enough healthy active cells. Okay, sort of, for maintaining gut health but not for restoring. Probiotics–good probiotics–are expensive but I believe they could really put you on the road to recovery. Something to think about anyway.
Absolutely the BEST advise! Research this.
Hi Ginger-hope you got/get to take that drive and are feeling better today.
Some good advice here, Ginger. My doc recently told me that if I get my blood sugar and my blood pressure so low as what current guidelines are, that I would NOT LIVE as long…he said they both are too low a standard. One needs to balance the side effects of meds with the benefits gained by them. I have not had a heart attack, but have been on the meds many years. He wants to help me lower my meds. My blood pressure runs about 140/80 or so…some days a big lower, some days a bit higher, but that is the average. Rebuilding your immune system will help in other problems too. Hope you can find a doctor who is helpful…more reasonable. Even just being dizzy at our ages, is not good…falling down can forever change our mobility. Hope to hear you are better soon!!
Hang in there DGin!
Are the abscesses from the shots? You know with any type of meds…some work great and some don’t work so well. They (the drs) will tweak it until the combo is right! In the mean time…grit your teeth while the packing is changed. Im sure it’s irritating the wound at the same time it’s removing the yuckies!
Have a great day!
Hi Desert Ginger. I was thinking of you after your post yesterday, since I know when the nurse comes it’s very painful. I’m sorry to hear about your most recent abscess. Take care of yourself! We’re all pulling for you and praying for you! The probiotic tip is a good one. Give it a try. Get that body in balance.
Mu BP runs around 100 over 65, low but not abnormally so. Hope you’re feeling better soon!
And I know where you are! Having driven the road on our way from CO to CA the last week of Sept, it is truly intriguing. Since we were on a schedule (Boo!) we, camped in Green River, and then all the way to Cave Creek near Ely for the second night; but you better believe, I looked at every campsite on the Benchmark maps, thinking, “how would that be? maybe there next time?. On our return trip, we were scared out of a night of tent camping near Panguitch, UT, by the promise of 26 degree temps that night. We had not brought our arctic gear! Next time, Utah is a priceless treasure, and we’ll take advantage of it.
Gee, Mary…
You camped in Green River. Did you camp next to the river where there’s a beach (Lower Gray Canyon campground)? It’s a great camp, especially during the week when few or no people are there …. and it’s free, not far from the main road going through the town of Green River.
I guess you had to move too quickly to go there. Maybe next trip to Utah . . .
I’m glad you have Benchmarks. They are very helpful when looking for camps.
Yikes, 26 degrees in Panguitch!
Leaves swirl in circles and slowly descend as I watch-Sparkling white gulls fly in arcs straight ahead.The navy blue waves seen beneath meet the hills on the shore’s purple shadows -the cloud bank has hues of it all.As sun rays get stronger the treetops above become golden arms joining the ballet-their coppery edges hold more glints of reds now each day.
The paths here are so thick with flowers and caterpillars they’re almost impassable now.The slow pace because of it gives dawn more time to reveal wonders as I make my way back to the troupe. Done with their breakfasts I know they’ll be waiting near the door to see what comes next.They follow me around as I move laundry, stroke their heads ,watch their eyes.Their first run was early so they look ready for naps,I settle into a chair as a signal.If I’m staying put they won’t miss anything-within moments they all fall asleep.
There’s probably been more hair,feathers,fur and dirt in my dust pans,vacuums and lint traps than most people’s on earth all my life. To my way of thinking that says I’ve always been rich .Last night I’d been thinking,after reading this page,about struggles in life.Hard work,scant money,illness,heartache and all never derived me of the one thing that gets me through it all.
The unity I mentioned is the love I’ve never lived without-the fun is the sharing it-with my parents,siblings,son,friends, husband and troupes.It’s just my Pollyanna hat that makes me focus on the beauty of that- with everything in me- that made me say defeat might not be stealing those folks dreams.I know happiness is hard to find and sorrow easy in this world-I just think adventure would emptier without having to reach for it is all.
Hope you find a new layer of beauty at your home today-that place is so full of them when you’re there.I wonder what traveling in winter and pausing in summertime would be like.Hope the creeks not too cold to sit near-the sun will make the rocks more beautiful-autumn’s light being as golden as it is.Good morning again,Sue-hope your cake and ice cream is even better than you remember-will you wait for supper or have it right after shopping?I think I’d do both 🙂
Good Morning My Friend! Have a wonderful day with your troupe. 🙂
Happy Friday Friend WooHoo Two days off in paradise next-love the beach and poodles a little extra for me!
I hear ya….thanks. Going to be in the 100’s today, but only 90’s at the beach, thank goodness. Love where I live for right now.
Good morning Weather! Have a lovely weekend.
Hi Teri 🙂 you,too! Though high winds and rain they’ve predicted will change my original plans for the weekend,I’m excited about plan b as I’m making it.Stay cool .
Ohh, Ohh, I want to know about plan B…is this the weekend with your grandson and his girlfriend?
was the weekend,we’ll do it in a few days-I let you know the “insteads” as they come 😉
Good morning, weather,
Sounds like your plans for horseback riding with your grandson and his new girlfriend are going to be postponed. I’m sure you’ll make lemonade…. 🙂
I haven’t been to the store yet for cake and ice cream. I think I can pass up the cake, but ice cream is calling out to me. Of course I’ll eat it as soon as we get back to camp!
Tender times with your sleepy pals… Bridget is napping, too. If I don’t catch her right after breakfast for a walk, she dozes off. Maybe a new schedule is better. We’ll walk when she awakes. Then the sun will have had a chance to warm our world.
I can see the colors of the woods around your lake. 🙂
Still choosing what I’ll use to sweeten the lemonade,maybe I’ll add the cake you are skipping.Love the jello in your schedule with Bridget,and your reply to Lolalo above.Our colors and your description there make this place so nice now that waiting a few days for clearer skies will be special in it’s own ways.Hope your later walk is the same…
Enjoyed your remarks here Weather…you are blessed…if one has love and loyalty from kin and friends, other than a place to stay and a bit of food, what more can really be that needed? I had that kind of love with my mom and her parents…and for a time, with one brother….or at least thought I did. But sometimes events happen to change things and people I have found. I look back to the times with my mom and her parents as the best of times really…none of us were rich, and we worked hard, together, in harvesting and preparing food for winter…Grampie grew it, for the most part, and we canned, froze, etc. and worked together…laughing, telling stories, just enjoying each other. No amount of money could ever take the place of those times. For me at least. I do have a husband, children and grandchildren and some good times with them too…but we live in a much busier world now…so mostly it is time with hubby. I am grateful for that, as many do not have anyone living with them at least. It is love that makes life wonderful, indeed!!
Hi Elizabeth,thank you for that beautiful note and story-you and it- are also wonderful, indeed!! 🙂
What a sweet thing to say Weather…thank you!! Have a wonderful peaceful weekend!!
🙂
Lovely, as usual, Weather.
Thanks,Applegirl-wear your favorite sweater and have a good autumn weekend 🙂
Good Morning Sue, TGIF…although it does not mean as much to you as it does to those of us still slaving away at the 9 to 5. The best part of my day is sharing my coffee and reading RV Sue…it is like reading the morning news paper. Editors commments, feature stories, pictures, comic relief (Bridget). What more could I ask for, except a poem and lovely words from Weather…So I guess my day is now complete.
Good Morning Blogoinos, I also enjoy each and every comment and read each of them. This is really a wonderful group.
Good morning Shirlene! I hope you have a wonderful weekend. 🙂
Thanks Teri, I wish the same for you too…looks like, by your name, we are in the same area, sort of….where are you…we are in for some hot weather this weekend. Stay cool and lets hope for no fires.
I wish we were in the same area Shirlene!! If I recall you are in the beach area? I’m in the Inland Empire, if you know where that is. MUCH hotter here.
I think we’re supposed to be over 100 this weekend, not looking forward to that. But I tend to stay inside during the worst heat and get things done at home.
Hope you stay cool and have a great weekend!
Yep I live in Huntington Beach, and I do know where the Inland Empire is…HOT, HOT, HOT…
Have a great weekend, Teri!
Thank you Sue! I plan on it, and I hope your weekend is lovely. Give Bridget a snuggle from me please. 🙂
Good morning, Shirlene,
I’m glad my blog gives you enjoyment. . .
I remember how precious the weekends are after working a job all week. I hope yours is wonderful!
Morning Sue,
I know that campsite!
Looks like I’m running south of you. I’m on the Kaibab Plateau and have been down to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Beautiful and a bit frosty for a few nights/mornings.
After a month plus, I’m enjoying life and the variety of scenery, and the temps. I’ve been far too hot to past freezing, really, 24 the other morning. Did I mention down pours. Love it!
Great last shot of Bridgie.
Happy birthday month, in case I miss the day.
Hi, Robert,
I remember when you were here. You’re at a higher elevation on the Kaibab Plateau. . . Thanks for reminding me… By the time we enter Arizona that area will be way too cold for us!
I’m happy you are taking the temperature changes in stride. Hot afternoons and cold mornings and downpours are another adventure when one knows it’s not going to last because we can move!
Thanks for the early birthday wish. 🙂 Hugs to Geordie!
The cows and the turkeys that afternoon: “I TOLD you it was RVSue back again!” I too love this familiar and serene spot. Although the new site has a different feel so it’s still new 🙂 The mind-picture of the aspens and snow covered pines is beautiful, thank for sharing. Enjoy your little piece of heaven in Utah.
Hi, Jodee,
You’re right. Even though we’ve returned to an area in which we’ve camped previously it does seem new. A short move does have a “different feel.”
Oh, I would’ve loved to post a photo of the mountain of yellow aspens and snowy pines!
Keep cool in SoCal… I understand you’re experiencing a heat wave…
I am still so wishing we could have captured what we saw that one lovely sunset time here…the colors were beyond description and I imagine that is what you are seeing there too. Some falls in different locations are just astounding in their vividness and beauty!! Oh well…store it up in our memories anyway, eh?
Happy Birthday month, Sue! How neighborly of the Bovine Welcome Wagon to stop by & say hi & have them send along the “We Should’ve Been the National Bird” contingent. Miss Bridget is looking fit as a fiddle–she’s so lucky that her legs are getting longer! That must be why she’s running so much faster. Stay warm & enjoy this stunning place.
Your comment is cute, Dawn. “National Bird contingent”… I’d forgotten about that. Our friend weather would probably support the bald eagle as national bird. Turkeys do lack the beautiful, inspiring flight of eagles, although we Americans prefer to eat turkey and we do eat an awful lot of it!
Have a great day! Bridget just woke up. Time for walkies…
“Bovine Welcome Wagon” – very funny! They are nosy creatures and they always make me laugh.
With the price on coffee in a restaurant going through the roof lately, it might be possible for a waitress to give you your “free refill” in a vacuum bottle. This would be a welcome treat later on in your driving day. I used to take in my pint-sized Thermos full of hot water, and ask them to just pour it out before putting in the coffee. This makes an amazing difference in how long your new coffee will stay hot.
Virtual hugs,
Judie
Interesting, Judie. I don’t know if I’m organized enough to pull that off. 🙂
At last we have arrived at Ocate, NM which consists of a Post Office & a fork in the road. It is 23 miles to the nearest store. The driveway is 4 miles of narrow red clay dirt winding through the forest. Then a beautiful meadow appears with a majestic geodesic dome home on the hillside. The home & scenery are breathtaking. We are happy to have a long awaited visit with a beloved aunt & uncle.
I thought of you both this morning and figured you had arrived or were close to arriving. Best wishes to you both, your aunt, and you uncle. Have a wonderful visit!
Just showing my flag Missy, I lead such a boring life I really have nothing to add. I read ’em all however. Hi Bridget….
Hi, Jim… Is “Classic Shell” the name of the download you told me about… the one that makes Windows 8 more like Windows 7? Geri (above) asked for the name.
Thanks for dropping in…
Hi RVSue,
I left a link for Geri in a reply above. To save the scrolling, I’ll leave it here again: http://www.classicshell.net/
As I said above, if the Windows 8.1 interface is driving you nuts (I’m an IT guy and I very nearly went back to Windows 7), there are some tweaks you can do to get back to a regular desktop interface – without having to install 3rd party apps. Mind you, I can’t bring back the Win 7 Start Menu – but I can help make it “livable.”
Thanks, Taranis.
Thank you sooooooo much! Will try it!
Here’s another tip, if you want to boot straight to the Desktop like you do in Windows 7:
1. Right-click anywhere on the bottom taskbar, a menu will appear.
2. Click “Properties”, the Taskbar and Navigation properties window will appear.
3. Click the “Navigation” tab.
4. In the bottom section titled “Start Screen” click the first checkbox that says, “When I sign in or close all apps on a screen, go to the desktop instead of start.”
5. Click OK. You’re done!
Hope it helps. 🙂
Yes. I love it. Windows admits it screwed up by eliminating the familiar start screen and are bringing it back in Win 9. Here is theURL http://www.classicshell.net/
Lots of others are offering downloads of it because it is so popular but the one here is the original and developer.
I saw your question and logged in to answer, I see someone else did. Anyhow, two answers might be better than one.
Thank you ! Two answers are helpful… Now wishing I had 2 brains to help figure it all out! I want to get back to blogging! :+)
Happy Friday to all….Sue you and Bridge have a great view to spend your Friday looking at, the snow, Aspens, and the peaks and valleys must be so soothing to your soul. We have a gently rain this eve of my Mom’s 90th birthday which we will celebrate tomorrow!
Stay snug in your little home on wheels.
Enjoy your time with your mother. Happy Birthday, Mom!
We had a little storm last night,straight line winds at 90 miles an hour plus, I rode it all out with no problem but our electric is down for a few days.I hooked up the Casita and turned it into the wind ,no problem at all
Camping gear and camping trailers sure are nice in this kind of situation ,
Ron
Sitting here typing to the drone of a generator.
Hi, Ron,
I never heard that phrase before … “straight line winds.” Great description… I know exactly what you mean. Wow, 90 mph….
Aww, a little Casita with her face into the wind can weather a big, bad storm. 🙂
Glad you’re okay!
Straight line winds can do damage similar to a tornado. We have both here in southern IL. Major damage to our neighborhood several years ago by straight lines. I was also camping when trees came down on campers, electric lines down. Quite a mess. I had minor damage, only, thank the Good Lord.