Sunday, May 18
The crew and I walk a short trail that leaves the single campsite area of Maple Grove Campground, curving around to end at the group site section.
Here’s how today’s post goes: The photo captions narrate our walk, while I ramble on about nothing in between photos. Works for me! Hope it works for you, too.
At the start of our walk, Spike leads the way.
If I don’t move this blog along, y’all are gonna’ be in June while I’m still putzing around in May. Here’s the problem . . . . When the crew and I land in a pretty camp, I go crazy taking photos and then I have to share them with you.
When the trail comes to a boardwalk, Bridget gets excited and hurries ahead of us.
Look at this place. Can you blame me?
Spike and I follow. “Slow down, Bridge. This isn’t a race!”
Everything is perfect here, except for One Thing.
I hate to bring it up, but I promised to write not only the good, but also the not-so-good stuff one encounters living life full-time on the road.
Remember I mentioned a family with a travel trailer moved into the site across the creek from us? Well, every day around 5 p.m. they fire up their very noisy generator, which would be okay I suppose. However, they leave the dadburn thing on ALL NIGHT LONG until 9 in the morning!
Really!
Okay, I’ll try not to get all grumpy on you. Here, look at the bridge. I’ll look, too, and try to calm down.
Show-off Bridget waits for us slow pokes.
Ahhhh . . . That’s better. Where was I?
Oh, yeah, the generator.
Rather than listen all night to the growling and grinding from the deepest bowels of hell, I shut the windows tight at 5 p.m. and the crew and I cower inside. Forget about enjoying the night song of birds . . . sheesh.
We enter the shady portion of the trail.
And forget about waking up to cheerful chirping in the tree branches outside my bedroom window at my normal waking time of 6:30 a.m. Oh no, it’s ggggrrrrrrrrrrr. . . . sonuva . . .
Okay, okay, time for another break.
Let’s look at Spike’s cute little behind for a while. And let’s also take a gander at Bridget’s . . . um, how shall I say? . . . Bridget’s voluptuous behind which is clearly visible over by that tree. Heck, that little girl’s behind is visible for MILES.
Spike looks down at the creek.
Anyway . . . . The family across the creek went somewhere this Sunday afternoon and, by golly Miss Molly, THEY HAVE NOT RETURNED! Do I miss them, you ask? Do I pine for their return?
Nooooooooo.
The crew and I can resume our habit of sitting outside in the early evening, listening to the birds chirp and the water cascade over rocks in the creek below our camp.
And tonight we get to sleep with the windows open!
Down the bank he goes.
In other news . . .
If those Generator People return, I’ll be danged if I’m gonna’ listen to their stupid generator. I’ll hitch up this sweet little plastic home so damn fast it’ll make their heads spin and the crew and I’ll roll ourselves out of here where we can have some peace and quiet, IF YOU DON’T MIND. . . .
Oh, sorry about that. Let me try again.
“It’s okay. Enjoy your soak. We’ll wait for you.”
In other news . . .
You know how the crew and I have been riding around seven states in the West for the past two-going-on-three years with that awful looking spare tire cover? The one that says CASITA 1-800-442-9986 in a font about a foot high?
I don’t know what this is but it looks fresh and green enough to put in a salad.
Well, pretty soon I’ll be kissing that ugly baby goodbye.
You see, my dear blogorinos, Salina is a very nice town. One reason I classify it as “nice” is the UPS Customer Center that sits nicely on one of its streets. Why is that notable? A UPS “hub,” which it is fondly called, is the only facility from which I can receive packages.
A humongous campsite . . . The space between the sagebrush and the fence is greater than this photo suggests.
Yay! I can shop!
I placed an order with Amazon for a new spare tire cover in Arctic White (no more Desert Dirt-Beige) among other things that I’ll tell you about some other time.
By the way, the photo above and below show only part of the big campsite I’ve talked about in the comments section.
The campsite from the other side of the fence. The site extends this way, double the distance.
How ’bout that comments section, eh?
Y’all need to get out more. Seriously.
This pleasant, shady site is on the other side of the creek. (Sorry,Bridge, about that unnecessary remark earlier. You have a cute hiney.)
Oh, of course, I’m kidding.
I love hearing from you . . . the regulars and the new readers and the folks who’ve been lurking around. You know, all you have to do is comment one time and you’re a “regular,” too!
(To open up comments, click on the title of the post at the top.)
“You know what I think, Spike? I think RVSue needs to sit in the grass more.”
“Yeah, Bridge. Or maybe go soak in the creek. Heh-heh.”
That’s all, folks!
Be sure to return to find out what happens when the Generator People return.
rvsue
THANK YOU, RVSUE SHOPPERS, FOR YOUR AMAZON PURCHASES!
Here’s a sample of some interesting items ordered recently:
The Measure of My Days
Google Chromecast HDMI Streaming Media Player
Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews for Petite Dogs
Fan-Tastic Vent 01100WH Endless Breeze 12V Fan
Enviro Pro 1006 Deer Scram Repellent Granular White Pail, 6 Pounds
Organic Antioxidant Cherries, Blueberries, Goji Berries, Cranberries, and Raisins
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First! Congratulations, Marcia!
Almost first!!!!!
Almost first! Almost congratulations, Patricia!
Well, I’ve been following along since before you left GA. All this time I didn’t want to say anything but …. now that you mention it, Bridget is, um, rather well-reared.
Not that there’s anything wrong with that. Not like running a generator all night. Now that’s just wrong.
Hi, Kim,
I’ve been reading your blog since my dreaming days! I don’t keep up with blogs as regularly now… kind of spot-check them now and again to see where people are and how they’re doing.
Bridget carries a seat cushion wherever she goes!
Simply idyllic…love your photo essays…
Thanks, Cynthia.
What a campsite! Utah is beautiful in so many different ways- brightly colored rock formations, rushing water and greenery!
So very true, Susan. This state has everything I love except ocean. 🙂
We can’t stand generators. Solar panels and batteries for us!
Sure makes you wonder what their thinking is to have it running all night. Oh wait…they’re not thinking…
Hi, Kevin and Ruth,
I realize some people aren’t in a position to set themselves up with solar. However, if you can only afford a cheap generator and you have a choice, park AWAY from the only other camper.
I don’t think I’d like camping if I had to rely on a generator. Kinda’ defeats the reason for being here.
What an idyllic spot you have there….
Grrrr to the generator people, hopefully the reason they run that generator at night is medical..my son cannot sleep without his C- pap machine..severe sleep apnea…as far as I can see, that would be the ONLY reason to impose on the whole camp.
Your camp reminds me of Pi Pi campground here in California, wonderful wild flowers and a long wheel chair accessable wood walk. It is located on one of California’s few remaining wild rivers, the Cosumnes.
Come to think of it, McKerritcher State Park in Fort Bragg has a long walkway right by the ocean , once again you stir wonderful memories with your photo essay!
I love Bridget’s round bottom, I bet it is wonderful to stroke!
Hi, Lee,
A C-PAP machine from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m.? One morning around nine o’clock, I heard the wife yell at the husband (who was urinating on the campsite at the time), “Turn that thing off!” I assume she was talking about the generator, but maybe not. 😉
Bridget loves boardwalks! She acts like she’s on the red carpet or something.
We run a CPAP off the battery every night and then charge the battery until full during the day, now with our solar, but previously with a small, quiet generator.
Then it is possible to run a CPAP machine without running a generator at night. Thanks, Marsha.
Oooohhhh…good to know! I thought I would always have to have electricity, thus no boondocking without solar, as I use a c-pap. Do u mind telling me the name?
We have used the respironics CPAP battery for three years and it works great. We charge as we drive and get 2-3 nights of cpap use off a full charge. it is available through Amazon. Highly recommend!
CPAP Battery Pack – Respironics
Remember that noisy generator across from us in Quartzsite??? Sheesh! Must have been a cheap one from Harbor Freight! Chuck and I use our generator occasionally but NEVER all night! Plus our small Honda 2000 generator is pretty darned quiet! I love this camp area and hope you don’t have to move because of noise…. can ya just move down a bit so the noise isn’t as intrusive? Hard to believe Chuck and I only have 5 weeks left here at Myakka State Park near Sarasota FL ! This 4 months has just flown by. We have such good people volunteering here that we have made some very good friends. We both want to come back here to spend more time as volunteers! Will we make it back out west? I hope so… I need another Navajo Taco fix! LOL! AND and RVSue and Crew fix as well! Love the post today! Keep it up!
Hi, Geri,
I’m glad your workkamp has turned out so well. It’s a good sign when you want to come back for another 4-month stint. And you made some friends… a bonus!
Nice to hear from you. . .
Love the photos as always. Everything looks so lush and green after looking at your winter photos in the desert. Not that there wasn’t color in those photos, but these are so lush.
When I found your blog I went back to the start and read them all. I don’t read the comments tho. Perhaps this has been addressed before but, you never mention returning to the SE. No interest? or just too many other sights to see?
Hi, Caroline,
Thank you for reading my blog from the beginning and for the positive feedback on the photos.
No, I have no interest at all in returning to the Southeast. There is so much I want to see of the West, I hope to spend the rest of my life doing so. I have fallen in love with the Round Valley/Sevier River Valley area. I want to come back again and again.
Most people seem to feel a tug for ‘home’ after several months, but I never got the impression that the SE was really ‘home’ to you. So I kinda wondered if you would return. Yes, the West is pretty awesome; so much to offer.
I found your blog at least a year ago and I’ve kept up with it ever since. My goal upon retirement (in 4 yrs) had been to spend 3-4 months driving thru BC up to Alaska. But the list of places to see keeps growing. Now it includes the east coast of Canada so I’ll need at least 2 yrs. I’ve really learned a lot from your blog and others. Just hearing about day to day life on the road, especially from a single woman has helped me with my plans. Doesn’t seem so daunting anymore. Thanks !
You’re welcome, Caroline. I hope you go to those places that inspire you.
As for me . . . I’m incapable of feeling loneliness and everywhere is home.
Glad the noise is gone, Sue. Your photos of the pups are great, Timber says hi,,,,,,,, Rustyyyyyyyy
Hi to both of you, too! I think Bridget and Spike look pretty good against the green grass background. 🙂
As Lee stated some people have medical equipment that needs power at night but both Kathy and I use CPAP machines. By having a Pure Sine Wave Inverter and two house batteries we never run our Honda at night if ever except to exercise it.
That idiot is just being rude.
Be Safe and Enjoy!
It’s about time.
Hi, Rick and Kathy,
Very thoughtful of you to time your generator for day only and to supplement with the inverter!
I’m not saying that people with a need for medical equipment should not camp and should stay home. They deserve the right to camp as much as I do.
If someone in one’s group has to have a generator going all night to run equipment, one can do the following: 1) Put some distance between one’s camper and other campers. 2) If there are no other choices but to camp close, walk over or send someone over to the other camper and explain the situation. It’s amazing how much easier it is to tolerate annoying things when one knows it’s not a lack of consideration, that there’s a good reason for it.
Good to know, my son is just starting to camp this summer and so far has just used power in parks, but is planning to expand..this will be good info for him!
What a delightful way of teaching that finding the beauty in things makes life wonderful
Hi, weather,
Well, you know I have to put some drama into this blog. Shake things up a bit. Can’t just show pretty pictures and dogs. 🙂
Hope you are having a great day!
It was the perfect timing and order of the pretty pictures and dogs and narration that prompted my comment 🙂 I saw you displaying problem/solution,as in … grumpy thought -look at a bridge to calm down-relaxed sigh,- bad mood -concentrate on cute pups -feel better, angry thought -look at the plush greenery- become mellow.
It was a demonstration of what your blog and photography does for all the readers who come here to decompress.Whether it’s intentional on your part or not,you continually convey a message of happiness achieved by deliberately pursuing peace and what’s lovely.Underlying the details of your blog is the river of coping skills and qualities that comes from inside you unbidden,changing and empowering people.
I was simultaneously chagrined and amused in realizing perhaps you’d mistaken my comment as sarcastic humor.So you know,the rare occasions that I use that are never directed at people I like,such as yourself.
I didn’t think you were being sarcastic — you are too kind for that. I thought you were giving me a friendly, veiled suggestion to be more positive and appreciate the beauty around me. Which is good advice!
Once again, a very interesting comment. I continue to be surprised by the many ways readers benefit from my blog. I wish I could say I planned it that way, but I didn’t!
Much of the benefit comes from readers willing to share their experiences, philosophies, expertise, sense of humor, memories, joys, sorrows, fears, reflections, helpful RVing tips, and all the rest . . . or simply their friendliness. Life can be awfully harsh. It makes me happy to know my blog is a friendly, gentle place (well, when I’m not griping or going after trolls…. haha!).
No true adventure is complete without going after trolls!! 🙂
I truly enjoy reading your blog, and have read every entry you’ve ever written. Hopefully, one day I will be able to do some RV travel and we’ll meet. Blessings, Lynn (your fellow blogger)
Thank you, Lynn, for reading every one of my posts. I do hope you have the opportunity to RV…. Roaming around is such fun! Nice to hear from you . . . .
Such a pretty little campsite. It’s a shame it’s being ruined for you. Hopefully the generator people won’t be staying long & you can go back to peace & quiet again. The pups certainly seem to enjoy it.
Hi… um… there,
Yes, the pups are having a great time. We take a creek-walk at dusk every day. They enjoy the routine and it sets them up for bedtime.
To me, there is nothing worse than noisey neighbors camping or loud screaming kids… Ha ha , no it’s true. Really , when you’re paying for a nice spot and there’s generators or kids riding bikes thru your camp. Why is it when they come camping it’s like a free for all with noise etc. Well, enough said. You’re spot looks pretty ideal, except for the generator people.
Hi, Christina,
I believe this is as close to ideal as one can get.
Oh my, if I were paying to camp here, then I’d really be upset (not just making a big deal out of it in this post).
I haven’t told all the story… More to come!
I love this campsite! The dogs clearly like it too. I also dislike generators, the noise is intolerable.
Hi, Sharon,
I suppose I shouldn’t grumble, since I have many peaceful days and plenty of opportunities to listen to chirping birds and bubbly brooks. The people who suffer the most are those who come to the woods and the stream to unwind from the rat race for a few days before having to jump back into it. They NEED peace and quiet to retain their sanity. The last thing they want to hear is a gas-driven machine.
Arg! The Generator People! Blah! I hear you on annoying neighbors! Ug. It sounds like they came back. I bet you didn’t stay!
I recently lucked out with one neighbor who only started to be annoying. I’m currently camped at Dog Valley in Toiyabe National Forest above Verdi, NV. I found it with Free Camping.net. Gorgeous forest. I found the PERFECT spot up in the trees but have just enough solar between the trees to get by. Absolute peace and quiet save for the occasional plane or train and a few gun shots in the distance.
We just spent our first night here. I thought ours was the only camp up here for miles until I grudgingly saw another campsite across the road from us. Open camps close by equals potential neighbors, which I don’t really want unless I get to pick them. AND it’s memorial day weekend. Gulp! I’m half tempted to do something very selfish. Pitch my tent over there (leaving my van in my current spot), just for peace of mind. Instead, I pitched it in my own camp, though I don’t need to sleep in it. I’d like to be here for my two weeks with the same tranquility.
About 1 pm this afternoon, I see a guy in his truck motoring up into the camp. Uh oh. I wait in hopes it’s just a quiet fellow wanting to enjoy nature like myself. It’s not that I don’t want people around, it’s just that most of them aren’t quiet and contemplative in nature. They want to come out and make noise. This fellow was no exception. I hear a very deafening “Boom!” Just one. I fly out of the van with my pepper spray and grab Rochelle and march over. I’m steaming but I calm down as I see him and try to make myself known with his headphones on. It was a gentlemen in his 60’s. Nice looking fellow with a sincere and gentle looking face.
I let him know I was at my camp (he thought I was out hiking) and respectfully requested that he find another place to shoot. He willingly left. I did feel a bit bad, but, I was there first and folks are supposed to respect other campers nearby. I’m lucky he wasn’t nasty or a jerk with me. He did tell me that the spot was a local regulars spot for shooting. Well, not for the next two weeks, if I can help it! I asked if there were other camps nearby and he mentioned there was other camping down by the river, but I’m sure it will be packed out for the holiday weekend. No can do! Plus, I really didn’t want to drive much further. I’m glad it worked out with hopes it will stay quiet here!
Hi, Gloria,
Hooray! You found a good spot! I’ve thought of you many times since you told us of the quandry you were in, trying to find an internet-accessible, quiet boondock in a popular area.
You handled the gun-shooting situation very well. I think anyone reading this who is a responsible gun owner will agree that it is up to the shooter to find a place to practice that will not interfere with the activities and safety of others. I love that you stood up for yourself right away.
Holiday weekends are iffy. I’m always relieved when they’re over. Gee, I’m very happy for you, Gloria. I’m going to look at my atlas to see where you are.
Congratulations, boondocker! 🙂
Thank you, Sue! I’m still semi-peeking over at Utah, just in case. Just know if I do jump over there, I’d not be underfoot at all! He he! From one private person to another. But, I think you know that by now, anyway.
Oh, and I’m doing my common sense stuff about bear country, including eating in the van with the doors and windows closed (good thing we’re parked in semi-shade) and plastic bagging everything to death. I’m not cooking right now either. I’m not sure if I will or not yet. So far, so good. It’s been 24 hours.
You’re doing great, Gloria. It’s kind of fun adapting to situations when you face them with a can-do attitude. I appreciate you keeping in touch with us.
This is more like it! I know everyone goes ga-ga over the desert images (and I know this is still technically desert) but I’ve found that my heart sings with the green mountains in the Eastern US. Just got back from a trip to Knoxville/Gatlinburg area, and felt so peaceful looking at the mountains, the river flowing through the park, and listening to the birds singing. Took some pics to remember it by.
Hi, Ladybug,
Not everyone “goes ga-ga over the desert”…. My sister Pauline in Mississippi is like you… green grass, green trees, and water are her requirements.
Those mountains in Tennessee are lovely. I never made it to Gatlinburg but I did get to the top of Roan Mountain.
I will be there in Elkmont campground in 2 and a half weeks hoping to catch the synchronized fireflies displaying their stuff. Beautiful area, the Smokies.
Perhaps I missed it before, but … did you ask those folks why they were running a generator during “quiet time”? I can understand being non- confrontational, but a simple query might open this fellow’ s eyes to the problem. Then again, I hear NASA Will be launching pigs to Pluto any day now, too.
Hi, wil,
Welcome to my blog! Don’t know if I’ve done that yet. Good to see you here.
No, I didn’t talk to the people about the generator. Several reasons why. First off, I hoped they were weekenders and would leave on Sunday. Secondly, I’d rather put up with 2-3 days of windows closed than deal with the aftershock of a request turning into a nasty encounter. If I went over there and mentioned the generator as sweetly as possible and got a rude remark in return, I’d suffer and fume over that more than over the generator noise!
Oh, and there’s also the feeling in dispersed camping that things like “quiet time” don’t exist.
However, like Gloria’s situation in the comment above, there are some things that cannot be tolerated AT ALL. In those cases, you can bet pigs to Pluto I’ll swing into action!
Oh wonderful pics as usual and so sorry about the generators, there are alternatives I think I posted about one that runs off a battery for a whole weekend a while back.
Hot and sticky here and still sick with Lymes.
Oh, MK, what an ordeal. Still sick? What do you get with Lymes… fever? fatigue? muscle aches?
The list is too long, if your really interested I can provide links. It’s a devastating disease and the CDC has it all wrong about how much there is and the treatments. Finding a Doc that’s Lyme savvy is next to impossible if you live outside of the NE. I have a call into my Dr right now to see if I can up my ABX. Anyway enough about me and my problems.
Again… I’m sorry, MK. It sounds awful. I hope you get relief soon.
A “click” on the “XX comments” at the very bottom of the post will open comments also. No need to scroll back to the top.
Thanks so much for the virtual ride across Utah … and onward.
You’re welcome, Mick’nTN.
Hi Sue and Crew,
I love the pictures of your hike along the creek. How fun that Bridget and Spike take turns being “scout”, leading the way.
When you wrote about the family that camped across the stream, being hidden by some trees, I was hoping they did not plant themselves in your view because they wanted privacy – wrong! My bet is that hubby cannot disconnect from TV….it isn’t so warm that AC is needed yet, is it? How rude! I hope they left or that you were able to find a different spot in the same area so you can still enjoy it.
Your comments on Spike and Bridget’s hineys made me laugh out loud! Two songs came to mind regarding Bridget….”Baby’s Got Back” by the Old School Players and “Fat Bottomed Girls” by Queen. She has womanly curves! 🙂
Thanks for the recommendation on the Tillamook ice cream. I hope my Trader Joe’s carries it….a potential new magnetic item….Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (pint) sometimes jumps into my shopping cart, which helps maintain MY fat bottom! Ha!
Have a great evening…. hope you and the crew are snuggled in at a peaceful spot, away from the weekenders! 🙂
Hi, Denise,
No, it’s not even close to being time for air conditioning. The days are a perfect temperature and then it’s cooler once the sun goes down. That’s fortunate, because if the nights were warm now, I wouldn’t have been able to shut us up tight to keep the generator noise bearable.
Bridget’s bottom is handy. When she sits down, she tucks all that cushion under herself. Ever notice she’s usually sitting in my photos? That’s because she has a comfortable seat no matter where we go!
Tillamook has a lot of flavors. I suppose I have to try them all. I don’t think there could be any flavor better than White Chocolate Raspberry Yum, except maybe a chocolate flavor (which I periodically cannot eat).
You have a great evening, too!
Beautiful, funny… and not surprised as soon as Spike seen that creek he was not going to go for a soak… I camp with a tent trailer – no generator – solar lights at night – solar fan which works ok . Some day retirement will get an rv to fulltime in, but will go the route of solar power to, as I want to be able to boon dock and not worry about gas etc for generator. So stupid northerner here besides some medical conditions why people would run a generator all night? is it required for heat / fridge / stove / computers / tv maybe? Thought I would ask the experts. Here I use a generator when we lose power hey live in the north in Canada not the nicest weather at times, and sometimes have to run it 24/7 because for heat etc. but I did not think it was necessary in an rv all the time. Sue a great blog again, love the pics, thank you again for bringing us on your travels and life… take care and enjoy the quiet while you have it.. 🙂
You’re welcome, Patsy.
The generator is probably for lights, maybe a toaster oven, microwave, blender, mixer, hair dryer, computer, radio, television (they have kids so possibly video games). No need for a/c or heat.
Solar power along with propane is the way to go. Inexpensive (once you make the initial investment) and quiet.
Thank you for those kind words.
they bring their entire house with them.. not the way to go .. they miss out on so much around them when they bring the commercial things with them.. when I take my son camping, he has an hour on his lap top, then its anything but that, cards, games, walks, fishing, swimming, camp fires with smores, the reconnection to the world around us and not the stuff created by us… to bad parents lose that to instill in their children. Lol I think I have my sister convinced that rv full time living is the way to go.. ah but I have to buy the beer.. go figure.. of course animals will be a big part of that type of life to, we both have a zoo at home right now . Sue and Crew you are awesome.. thank you again..
You make a good point, Patsy. We need some connection with the real and natural world. That’s what makes those rancher’s kids very fortunate. They’re grounded in reality. Good for you for keeping it real for your son!
You still have to wonder what could necessitate running the generator for SIXTEEN hours! Air-conditioning if it were hot maybe (not that I run it, but I know “normal” people do when it is hot), but if not that…. what could be on that long?! I hate listening to them EVER, but the quiet times of evening and morning are the worst. I’d take the steady drone through the heart of the night if I had to choose one or the other.
Just wanted you to know I’m fuming along with you. Hmphh!!
Maybe television most of the night plus lights, then microwave or toaster oven in the morning. Could be one of those obsessive guys who wants his batteries “topped off” all the time or he gets excited at the sound of POWER.
Pffftt!!
Hi Sue! What pretty pictures, all that green! Can’t wait to go explore that part of Utah. We live in NV for now. My boyfriend finished his installation of the solar panels/batteries system and we got to try it out at Lake Mead last week-end. SOLAR ROCKS!! We had plenty of power and a great time. Just a couple other campers close by, probably because we boondocked on the North Rim (Stewarts Point). BTW, be careful there, I went by the water and found myself knee deep into verysoft/quick sand. Maybe that’s why the crowds go to the South Rim hehe:)
I have been going back to the beginning of your blog to catch up…up to Ajo, March 2013. Thank you so much again for this blog and sharing of your adventures until I can make mine full-time. And the advice on the benchmarks-recently purchased 3, what a gold mine they are!
xoxo
You’re welcome, Frenchie . . .
Congratulations on the solar! I agree, solar does rock! I’m glad you and your boyfriend enjoyed camping at Lake Mead. I hope to go there one of these years.
Good to know about that soft sand. Remember the mud Spike got into next to Green River? I had a moment of concern when he stepped into some really squishy mud and he sunk halfway up his legs. Whew! Not a good thing.
I’m really happy that you’re pleased with your Benchmark atlas purchases! Thanks for the orders. The more you use them, the more you’ll get out of them.
We can’t wait to go on the road again:) Next up in 2 weeks is Zion for 4 days but our “big” trip is across Cali to the PCH, and up all the way on PCH through Oregon to Southern Washington before we go back across and down. It will be summer so we hope to find some good boondocking still. Received 2 more benchmarks, AZ is yet to arrive and then we’ll have all the states we’ll be in. I can see there will be a learning curve. Right now it’s hard to even make out the different colors!
Oh, I “trained” my BF to use your link for his purchases as well. All he hears these days is “RvSue this” and “RvSue that” haha.
xoxo to you and the crew
Thank goodness we found your RV story!! I would never have known about all the great places you stay if we had not found you…enjoy the pics so much & your route info. A person can only read so many RVer’s blogs, so we stick w/you and one other. This green area is so different than what my small brain envisioned for Utah! Looking forward to the to-be-continued generator story..now that’s hooking us for sure!!
Hi, Susan,
I’m honored my blog is one of your top two favorites. Thank you.
Hey, I had a “small brain” about Utah, too. Our first time through it, I bypassed most of it, thinking mostly of the places beyond, like Wyoming and South Dakota.
As for someone who has read every word and looked at every picture of your blog for a very long time, I knew there would be a smile on my face the moment you first said “generator” in this post!!:-)
You handle it so well, haha. Sorry for the jest. I couldn’t help myself! Thanks for the smile, Sue!
You’re welcome, Teresa. Glad you got a laugh out of my generator griping. I can do a pretty good job of griping, if I do say so myself. 😉
Bridget’s hiney reminds me of Kim Kardashian and her’s is very popular, lol. Bridget may not be as money-rich as Kim, but she’s rich in health, happiness, and love from her fellow traveling companions and blog followers. That can be the best rich of all.
Take care. Have a very safe and happy Memorial Day. Hugs to the fur babies.
Cat Lady
That’s too funny! The Bridge is the Canine Kardashian! You know? It fits. I’m thankful that she doesn’t require as much pampering as Kim. Dang, that woman is high maintenance!
You have a great weekend, too!
I believe that should be “Kanine”…
Nope, it should be Canine Cardashian. 🙂
Ah, good point. Since she is one of the “C”rew, after all!
I think Spike was looking at Bridgetts butt. 🙂
–
No! Really? Spike? MY Spike? Never!
I know most of your readers/Commenters are boondockers or wannabe boondockers that wish to get away to nature, peace and solitude. But as you have pointed out in this posting that Dream is not always possible. I would guess that you have had rude ‘generator people’ 2-3 times that you have told us about. Then there have been the ATVs and motorcycle crowds also.
I am a RV Park fulltimer that usually is in a Park for a month at a time. I try to pick a space that will only have neighbors on one side of me and across the street front and back. Sometimes I get lucky and have a lot of space but even when crowded or the Clingers move in I rarely have rude neighbors. Never any generators, it is rare that I hear a TV or radio. Being partially deaf has its advantages but from what I have read about your ‘disbursed camping’ experience and those of others it seems that you get more rude neighbors than I.
No judgement meant by posting this simply an observation – Your Experience May Vary.
It’s an interesting observation, Ed. I wouldn’t have guessed that.
I’ll throw this out . . . Perhaps the reason you don’t encounter as much rudeness as an RV park fulltimer is simply because the people around you are supervised, i.e. the park manager or owner ready to enforce rules of behavior. In dispersed camping, there is no present authority to see that people behave.
It’s pretty pathetic that there are adults who only use good manners when they HAVE to.
Haven’t commented for a few months, but I still lurk. Good to see you back at Maple Grove. We are planning to be there in a week. Don’t worry, I won’t bug you if you are still there. We love the place and use it as a nice stay on our way south. Loved your pics and comments on the cattle drive.
Thanks, Steve. I’m glad you enjoyed the cattle drive post, pics, and comments. That was a fun one!
This place is easy to love! Enjoy your stay here. The crew and I will probably be gone by the time you arrive.
We can go to the Moon but our technology for everyday human use is archaic. When will the trickle down effect reach us campers? When demand like yours reaches an all time high and forces Madison Ave to listen! Ah… sounds good but I don’t believe it. C-pap users of the world unite…you have nothing to loose but your genny’s 🙂
Hi, Joe,
There are folks who like peace and quiet and there are folks who crave chaos and noise. If Madison Avenue is listening at all, the message is mixed.
If I may alter a biblical quote (with no disrespect intended), the inconsiderate will always be with us.
NOTE TO ALL: I am NOT referring to C-PAP users in the previous statement..
And the bottom line is: Some folks don’t belong out in nature.
That pretty much sums it up, Jim! Ha!
BTW, the best photo from this post for the desktop is the view from shade through the trees to grass in sunshine. It will put you in a dreamlike state every time you open up your computer.
Sending good wishes your way!
Oh my… I feel your pain. How rude and inconsiderate! I sure hope this has a happy ending!
Love the hiking photos… and your sense of humor!
Grace (in Tucson)
Hi, Grace. . . Thank you. Yes, there is a happy ending. 🙂
Love the boardwalk! How neat!
The expression on Spike’s face is priceless! So is Bridget’s backside.
As for the folks and their generator…..you can take the folks out of the city but sometimes you can’t take the city out of the folks!
I like your adaptation of a well-known adage. That’s about the size of it. Definitely not folks in tune with nature!
Yes, I gave you a double whammy of cuteness with Spike’s sweet face and the Bridge’s plump bottom.
Lurking… lol.
Hi RVSue and Crew… I am following along, read each new post. Kind of taking a “time-out” while I deal with a blown off roof on the RV, fight and stomp with insurance, and trying to learn how to relax….. it is a hard thing to do but I am improving.
Generators… let me tell ya something…. We pulled in and parked in this rather super large, parking lot. There was 5 other RV’s in the parking lot. Now, all 5 were scattered and parked with a nice great distance between each. I pull in, and choose to take the rear side of the parking lot. Closest RV is two blocks away. I get all settled in…. within 30 damn minutes a 40′ Class A arrives… where do you suppose that beast parked???
RIGHT SMACK 4 FEET FROM MY DRIVERS SIDE!!!
You can be assured, I got mouthy inside my coach. I blew the air horns, I started my generator, I went outside and started up Conway as loud as I could get him singing “Hello Darling” and they did nothing.
So, I unsettled… and moved clean across the parking lot to the other end.
Low and behold… out comes the little couple walking their little yippy dog and they stroll on by as I am sitting outside soaking up some sun. They stopped, looked at me, and said “Oh you moved over here” and I said yes, I sure did because this 40′ Class A pulled in and parked 4 feet from my drivers side when there was 2 blocks of empty space between me and the rest of RV’s, some people just have NO RESPECT for others.” And, I then went back inside.
Call me grumpy, it’s okay. I just want some PEACE and SPACE and to be left alone to relax.
Cancers like their shells, and its not often that I go into my shell but right now that is my mood.
I love you pics, and you’re not all that far away from us… we might cross trails at some point, I’ll wave the white flag so you know it’s me in a better mood.
Enjoy!
Kay
Hi, Kay,
I am sorry about your roof. What a catastrophe! I hope the insurance is resolved soon.
You, my dear, suffered an attack of The Clingers! Those people really get around. I found your account very interesting, especially the part where The Clingers are clueless why you moved. Where do they come from? A 36-floor apartment building in NYC? And they think far away is 4 feet? Good heavens!
I have a great idea (IMHO) for another mindless TV sitcom. The main characters are a family of Mom, Dad, the obligatory male and female teenagers, and one younger sibling. These folks are RVers. Their funds are limited so they always boondock and they choose to park 4 feet from another RV.
You with me? Good, isn’t it. Okay. . .
Their ignorant and inconsiderate behavior triggers all sorts of situations…. confrontations with neighbors, peeping tom-ism, marital discord, teenage hi-jinks, gunfire, forest fires, drunken accidents, sewer hose calamities, generator wars, and so on. In one episode they park next to an RV being used as a meth lab. Another episode they melt the side of the neighboring RV when they make a huge campfire for their s’mores.
The name of the show? “The Clingers,” of course! 🙂 Mr. and Mrs. Clinger and family, full-time RVers! Coming to a campsite near you!
LOL… thanks for the laugh, and for the proper name, CLINGERS.
Oh, and I won the battle with the insurance. First they TRIED to claim the roof blew off because of poor maintenance, on my part. When I pulled out my maintenance records… they then claimed their was no record of High Winds in Wyoming. When I called WYDOT and asked for the weather reports for that date and time frame and reason for WYDOT to turn on the message boards, and received it as did insurance company… Insurance then decided they would pay for and replace the entire roof. During it all, they required about 6 inspections, which meant poor hubby had to crawl up there and remove the tape, tarps and retape EACH TIME. So, they waved my deductible. In the end, the insurance was good – but- I had to get a little mean about it all at first.
Now, about those damn Clingers. They were in their 60’s if not 70’s or at least looked like it. With Washington State plates. So, I thought later on, they are not used to living alone! But, damnit I was not the babysitters or their built-in security blanket.
Tis’ life on the road… boondocking style… I now have a sign that I put in my window and it reads….
” Parking next to this rig means you will encounter a retired couple having hours and hours of sex and dealing with their nude lifestyle.” PARK AT YOUR OWN RISK!
So far, it has moved two would be CLINGERS away!!!!!
Kay, you are one spunky lady!
Good for you for keeping after the insurance company! I think insurance companies have software that provides all the possible excuses not to pay for any type of claim.
Nice touch with the nude lifestyle and all. 🙂 You have the Clingers on the run! I hope they don’t show up here. Thanks for the entertaining (for us) comments, although irritating topics for you.
Sign on your RV: “The owner of this vehicle has active TB and is en-route to a treatment center. You may not acquire symptoms if you park close. Parking is at your own risk. You have been warned. Have a nice day.”
I still like the classic:
“If you can read this, you’re too damn close.”
LOL… My FIRST thought was to have the sign read…..
“Parking close to this rig will likely cause infection, all occupants have TB and are traveling to find a good doctor who will accept MEDICAID… parking within 1000 feet of this rig is at your own risk and yes, we have no problem sharing these germs with strangers since it was strangers who shared with us.”
You all know doctors do not accept MEDICAID 98% of the time and well, the OBAMACARE is worthless too. But that is all for another post at a later date.
OMG I hear hollywood callin’…brilliant
Hi, Sue and Crew. Still enjoying your pictures and blog adventures…Don’t want to comment very much because you already have more than enough on a daily bases. I have a off topic question, That might be a little early to ask. But I’m just curious as to know . Do you see yourself and the crew in a couple of years maybe. trading the BLT in for a little larger Trailer to full time in.. I know you mentioned you like the fiberglass trailers the best. And I found the the Bigfoot fiberglass trailer has a real neat 24 foot trailer with a walk around queen bed in the back with large closets and a up front dinette (that could be used as a desk or dinning.. Just was wondering that’s all. Happy trails stay safe and healthy Dominick from Rochester, NY.
Hi, Dominick,
Thank you for the kind wish. Please don’t let the number of comments keep you from joining our discussions. There’s always a place standing empty for a guy from Rochester named Dominick to occupy. 🙂
The 24-foot Bigfoot is a very nice trailer for full-timing. Casitas aren’t for everyone. Big and tall people find the bathroom/shower room to be too small. Some people are happiest with a walk-around queen bed, like you mentioned Bigfoot provides.
I can’t see any reason, at this point anyway, for trading in the BLT for a larger trailer. The crew and I already have enough room to full-time in.
I’m happiest when living with “just enough.” Any more than that becomes “too much.” That’s me. No size fits all. Everyone needs to figure out what suits them best.
Great hearing from you again! Best wishes to you . . .
I’m a lurker! But I had to say what a beautiful place you’re at!! I would not be happy listening to a generator all night in any setting, but especially in one so natural and peaceful-looking. Thank you for sharing these pics!
You’re welcome, lostAnnfound …
Welcome to my blog! You aren’t a lurker any longer. Now you’re one of the “regulars!”
Glad you stopped by . . .
Sue, somewhere on previous Comments, it was suggested that you turn your blog into a book. On the Gypsy Journal blog today, Nick suggested this site for turning your blog into a book. It’s called blog2print.
This would be a good way for people that are unaware of your blog to finally hear about you and the Crew. That could translate to more coins from people shopping at Amazon from your site.
When you’re bored and have nothing better to do, check it out. Nick also tells you how to be self-publishing. More $ for you.
Cat Lady
Hi, Cat Lady,
Thank you for thinking my writing is worthy of a book and also for posting a link to self-publishing.
I hope you don’t mind that I removed the link. Amazon provides self-publishing (I believe there is no up-front cost whereas blog2print says $14.95 on the opening page) and offers guidance each step of the process. Amazon is very good to me, so, of course, that’s where my allegiance lies. I’m careful not to post links to Amazon competitors.
Maybe I’ll write a book, but now is not the time. The readership of my blog continues to grow and I believe it’s because of the time and attention I give to keeping it current and personal. Thanks for wanting me to make more $$$.
Ok. Here goes… I’ve been “lurking” and thoroughly enjoying your charming and lovely blogs for a year? now. We owned a Casita for about a year (that’s how we found you) and really liked it except it’s too small for 3 people and a big dog to camp in for more than 2-3 days. Anyway, your blog is great and something I look forward to reading nearly everyday. Thanks for taking the time to share 🙂
You’re welcome, Cynthia…. Welcome to my blog (never too late to welcome) and to comments. You’ve thrown aside your lurker status and are now one of the “regulars!” 🙂
Yes, I can see where a Casita would be a bit crowded for your family. I hope you are happy with what you have now. Thanks for writing!
Love this picture of Bridget with your comment “When the trail comes to a boardwalk, Bridget gets excited and hurries ahead of us.” Your little princess seems very happy when she walks on a clean boardwalk without her feet touching path with dirt or sand.
And now I’m leaving for my hike on paths with plenty of sand, dirt, slickrocks.
Hi, R.,
You probably won’t see this until you return from your hike. I hope it was a good one!
I think you’re right about Bridget. She likes to keep her paws clean and she does a good job of it. One mud-puppy in the family is enough!
Yes, I had a great hike. Wildflowers are blooming, didn’t rain, it wasn’t too hot, gentle breeze changed to more windy condition. Evening primroses are all gone, replaced by wild onion but fading quickly. New fields of Sego Lily are in a full display. They are really beautiful wildflowers. It is hard to believe they are wild and not cultivated. Sego Lilies are mainly white but there are some of every shade of pink and a few are deep purple. It is such heavenly time for hiking or just for being outside. Is the campground you’re staying in suitable for tent camping?
Utah State Flower – Sego Lily
I’m sorry I missed your comment and question and I’m glad you asked me again at a later date.
So, if Bridget is Kim, is Spike Kanye?
Have a great day Sue.
No, Edie. Spike isn’t Kanye. Spike doesn’t breathe through his mouth.
(Oh, I am sooooo bad, and it’s suuuuuch fun!)
Sure looks like a beautiful place!
Pretty inconsiderate of the generator folks.
I’m on a short trip compared to you, only a month. I also travel in a casita with my dogs. Two chihuahuas and a large pit mix.
I’m going from Austin tx to owyhee nv and back. Sure love being on the road. It forces me to slow my pace.
Safe travels out there. I love seeing all the places you go.
Marie.
Hi, Marie,
Welcome to my blog! (WordPress tells me you haven’t commented before, though your name sounds familiar to me.) I love hearing how and where people travel. Have a wonderful trip to Nevada and back! Thanks for stopping by. . .
Hi Sue
Just thought of another episode for The Clingers! My brother in law is a retired fire fighter. Two years ago he melted the vinyl siding on his neighbors garage trying to cook a turkey in peanut oil!! Very expensive turkey…I can see it happening to the Clingers! I just love to see Spike in one of his soaks and Miss Bridget sitting down waiting for you all to catch up with her!
“A turkey in peanut oil”… Great detail for the sitcom! How embarrassing for a retired fire fighter. . . . I bet that isn’t a topic to be brought up at parties. 🙂 On behalf of the crew, thank you for the kind words. Have a great day, Patricia!
I have been reading your blog ever since the “Timber and Rusty” story was in the Phoenix paper. I guess I’m a regular “lurker”. Love reading about your travels.
Hi, Carolyn H,
Thank you for riding along with me and the crew all this time! Here’s a Welcome if I haven’t already done so. Good to hear from you.
Dog butts are always calming! Voluptuous or cute, or voluptuously cute (that’s how I refer to my own duck-butt).
I’ll bet those folks boondock so they can run their generator. C-PAP, maybe? Still invasive, no matter what the perfectly good reason. I can sometimes be caught running my voluptuously cute Prius “generator” a bit after hours, but I mean like 9:30.
Hi, TGLD,
Generators for a good reason are okay, maybe, kinda’ . . . as long as they’re in YOUR back yard. Have a nice day!
Note to fellow campers:
I have a 30.06 rifle and an intense hatred for generators. You use your generator, I use my rifle. Ever see what a well placed 30.06 slug can do to a generator? Thank you.
Kidding of course….?
Sue
You have some well trained male readers here. All the comments about Bridgets ample bottom by the females and not one by a male
SHHHHHHHHHHESSS we aint stupid
Ron
Very true, Ron. What surprised me is not one comment on the man urinating in the campsite in broad (!) daylight.
Now how about those outside RV lights that light up the whole world and get left on all night?! That is a pet peeve for us. It may not be an issue while boon docking since power conservation might limit it, but elsewhere…
Love the idyllic campsite, trail, and puppies! Just think, if we had no photos we would have to rely on words alone to describe our journeys as in the past. With your literary talent I know you could do it, Sue!
Kitt
Hi, Kitt,
Oh yes, boondocking at Sidewinder Road west of Yuma, generator people kept a bright light going all night long. I moved further out into the desert to get away from the noise and light pollution. Do people think an outside light makes them safer? When boondocking, darkness is a friend. Why turn on a beacon? I’ve seen strings of Christmas tree lights on all night when it’s not even Christmas. What’s that all about? Once again, I don’t understand why people do what they do.
I do suspect that some people have a subconscious need to make their presence known wherever they go. This is manifested by loud talk, music, and noises, bright light, breaking limbs on live trees, carving on trees, building cairns and other rock designs, holes dug in the ground, and trash left behind, in and out of the fire ring.
Thank you for the compliment, Kitt.
Because they have no perception of themselves,being blocked or desensitized by whatever happened to them,they cannot perceive their environment.They make noise and marks trying to feel or be felt.Lost in disconnection they make futile attempts to be seen,heard,recognized by anyone,even as their behavior repels what they seek.Yes,it is subconscious,mercifully,they
are unaware of their plight,until,hopefully,one day,they meet
what they need,only then realizing they were missing it all along
So….what’s the rest of the story!? 🙂 Love your site, hope you can stay there awhile without annoying neighbors..but it’s Memorial Day weekend…so who knows.
So far, so good!
I was kind of hoping that the rest of the story woyld include the noisy campers returning to find the sparkplug of the generator strangely smashed by a large rock. Not that our RV Sue would do such a thing. 🙂
Oh, Marilu…. I’m glad I didn’t read this at the height of my annoyance. . . 🙂
I found a boondocking spot on Friday night of Memorial weekend within 30 miles of a city. I’m feeling blessed! I have resisted the urge to have a generator mostly because the one who would hate the constant hum would be me. I would rather do without the power and what comes with it than deal with the incessant noise. I woke up this morning to the sound of aspin leaves rustling in the breeze and birds singing….pure heaven.
That’s great, klbexplores! Hmm… keeping it a secret, eh? Aspen leaves tell me you are high up. The aspens on the mountains here are just beginning to leaf out. I agree, the sound of rustling leaves beats generator noise any day.
Naw… no secrets though I would hate (like you) to find treasured spots full of clingers and generators not to mention scads of people!! I generally wait until I have left a spot to give any directions… They are posted now with more pics, if you are interested….I will have one more post about Hog Lake.
I live in a mobile home/rv park. Many people are full time, some snowbirds, but we do have a few transients. These parking places have full hookups, so imagine my surprise when someone still ran a generator all night! I can’t imagine why. Fortunately they only destroyed one weekend.
Your writing was quite witty and just a tiny but edgy today Sue; I loved it! I also like the photos and comments, especially the one of Spike soaking.
Thanks, Ginger. I do have my “edgy” side! 🙂
Oh…I almost forgot! I was so fortunate as to see the 2014 Run for the Wall group when they came through Marana and made a pit stop….400 veterans on bikes. The groups (one big group that splits into three for three routes) gather in Long Beach, then ride for ten days before reaching Washington, D.C. All along the way they are hosted in various small towns. After arriving, they will all participate in Rolling Thunder, when hundreds if thousands of Veterans on bikes ride to Arlington cemetery and to the Wall. My brother went in 2009, two years after his son was killed by a reckless driver. He decided to stop procrastinating and live now. Kind of what you do, Sue. Anyway, I think both RFTW and Rolling Thunder are pretty amazing. There should be tv coverage on Monday. The mission of RFTW is to remember those who have fallen or are still missing, and to offer those who survived a chance to be recognized as heroes….many weren’t when they first returned home. Above all it is a healing and bonding process for all who participate. God bless our courageous veterans.
That’s wonderful, Ginger. I’m sorry I published a new post and covered up your comment.
Generator people make me crazy, I feel violated, cheated, ignored. I watch for for any sign they’re packing or will I flee? I’ve reminded some of the usual 10 PM quiet time but that is never well received, so I sit and stew. They’re clueless, inconsiderate RVers but they are probably having fun.
That’s the damned if you do, damned if you don’t situation. Try to communicate with Generator People and you end up walking away feeling worse for trying.
We used a generator for boondocking but never for more than 2 hours at a time. But then going full time was the first time we’d ever even been in an RV. We had been serious tent campers, once for a month going through the Maritimes. We hated RVers because of the generators and their inconsiderate use of them especially to watch TV OUTSIDE? Good heavens just stay home. So I don’t blame you a bit for high tailing it out of there. Why would they park so close to you. You really can’t cure stupid
I was quite surprised to read about all your followers with CPAP machines.
Me, too. It’s like CPAP Nation or something.
So glad that you warned us how this blog post was going to work at the outset, and that you kept your promise. You made me smile and laugh out loud. Love you, your pals, and your blog. It is still my favorite of the full time rv’ers.
Thank you, Glenda, for your sweet words to me. Making someone like you smile and laugh is a great pleasure for me . . . and lots of fun!
Lovely location, though something tells me my allergies would have handled it about as well they did my location this past weekend. I spent most of it drugged up with eyes feeling like I wanted to gouge them out with a spoon. That is my one real concern about one day fulltiming (even more than financial or other health concerns), that my allergies will make it difficult to enjoy the experience. However, I am determined to at least attempt the lifestyle. After all, I figure my allergies are likely to give me grief at certain times of the year regardless of where I am so it might as well be somewhere I want to see instead of cooped up in a stationary house. 🙂
That’s the spirit, Walt. Over time you may learn where there are places you enjoy and where you can avoid the allergens. I hope so.