Crew news!
The boys are on the bed when I come in with collars in hand.
“Look, Reg! Look at this! It has your name on it!” I chatter while he checks it out. I wrap the collar around his neck. “Well, the tag is a bit large, but it will do the job.”
Roger eyes Reggie’s neck.
I place Roger’s collar with tag on the bed and nonchalantly go over to the window. Drawing the curtains back, I remark casually about “another beautiful day in Arizona,” giving Roger time to examine Reggie and the black thing that lies on the bed.
I turn and commence petting Reggie, murmuring, “You are so handsome in your collar, Reg. What a sweet boy you are.”
Our address and phone number are on the back side. (Photo taken later on the porch)
Roger continues to watch.
Then I briefly pet Roger, pick up his collar, quickly wrap it around his neck and snap the clasps together. No problem!
“Ooh, Roger is handsome, too! Good boy, Roger!”
~ ~ ~
Stuff happens.
I open the hood of the PTV in order to check the fluids and the dipstick for the transmission fluid is missing. Gone! I peer into the engine. No sign of it.
I wonder — Has it been gone ever since the tune-up?
I take the PTV to the garage and show the mechanic.
“Is there any chance you found a dipstick lying around here?” I ask pleasantly, not accusingly.
“No,” he replies. “We wouldn’t have removed it anyway because the tune-up is done from the inside.”
The mechanic peers into the transmission “pipe” where the dipstick normally is inserted.
“It’s in there!” he exclaims, fingering out the very long metal stick. “Look at that. It’s missing the top!”
Searching further into the engine area, he finds the top part.
“That’s weird,” I remark. “Who ever heard of a dipstick breaking like that?”
The mechanic gives a stuff-happens shrug. I order a dipstick (around 20 bucks) and it arrives at the garage the next day.
~ ~ ~
The porch ceiling.
It turns out great! I love it! We all thought it would be a fairly easy install — just slap those bead board panels up there, hit ’em with the pneumatic staple gun, and done!
Well, it turns out to be more difficult than that due to the awkwardness of positioning the panels on the sixteen-on-center rafters, the rough surface of the stucco walls, the vertical expansion/contraction seams jutting out from the house wall, and the fact that the porch ceiling is not a rectangle; it’s a gall-durn trapezoid!
Here are the men in action.
After the bead board is up, trim is added to cover the uneven edges and give a finished look.
Not wanting the panel seams to show, I take a small piece of bead board to the paint center and bring home a quart of perfectly matched white paint.
Did you know there must be hundreds of various shades of white?
Painting the seams does the trick and the ceiling is flawless!
~ ~ ~
A new direction?
I didn’t intend to take a month off from blogging. So much for posting every Monday, eh? I never have had much self-discipline, at least when it comes to keeping a self-imposed schedule.
Anyway . . . .
Like the weather in southeastern Arizona this past month, I drift into summer doldrums. As temperatures rise into the 90s and even above 100 degrees F, my interest in writing plummets to zero.
Where are the afternoon rains? Where is RVSue, the blogger?
Before I go any further, I want to thank those of you who infused some life into the comments section during my absence.
I also appreciate the kind and thoughtful messages directed to me and the enjoyable updates.
To be honest, if it weren’t for the small cadre of faithful readers who comment regularly and use the links I post to shop Amazon, I would’ve closed down this blog a year ago.
You know who you are; YOU are the reason I didn’t quit.
Well, the break was good.
I’m not sure what I’ll do from this point forward. RVSue and her canine crew blog has enjoyed tremendous success, more than I ever imagined it would, and, from what readers tell me, has inspired people to get out of their comfort zone to live a fuller life.
Now that the crew and I are permanently homebodies, the diary format, which worked so well while traveling and camping around the West, doesn’t fit our new lifestyle.
This past month, while exploring whether I would be happy living without the blog, I also brainstormed ideas for a new format, something completely different, new and fresh.
I just can’t be writing about and photographing our home and putting it all out there on the internet. You gotta’ admit it’s kind of strange for a private person to do that or for any person, for that matter.
During this transition time I appreciate your loyalty, patience, and support. I don’t know when the crew and I will appear here again so I won’t make any promises. Be assured that summer doldrums don’t last forever. The rain will come again!
God bless you and love to all!
rvsue
NOTE: If you would like to order tags for your pet(s), Amazon has several from which to choose:
I bought the crew’s tags from Amazon a long time ago and don’t recall which brand they are. Follow the link above and scroll the page to find the type, color, and size you prefer.
THANK YOU FOR VISITING MY BLOG!
RVSue and her canine crew is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Shop Amazon Gold Box – New Deals. Everyday
~ ~ ~
Hi there!!
ANNETTE IS FIRST! CONGRATULATIONS!
Glad you are ok. Always enjoy your honest writing voice.
Second?
I missed your post right away, but I didn’t want to bother you. Can’t wait to see what is next. Monsoon average start is july 7.
Sue, since you are brainstorming about something new and different … have you thought about a Facebook page? It would relieve you of the physical and mental burden of feeling you need to blog regularly in order to keep your readers happy, and it would provide a forum for your blogorinos to communicate with each other (and share photos and videos, if they want). You could make it a public or private page, and as the administrator you could block anyone who got out of line (I know that’s happened a couple of times on the blog). In any event, so happy to hear from you and know you and the boyz are well. The do look very dapper with their new tags and I love the white beadboard on the porch!
I agree with this idea Sue. I would go a step further and tell you that I would be happy to set up a group. I would suggest a group that can be closed. That way it can be some what controlled. I am very familiar with groups as I have several I run on Facebook right now. If you would want to go this way, I can add you as an admin or mod of the group so you can also help control what is going on but you wouldn’t have to do it alone this way.
It would be another way that we can all share with each other. You could post your Amazon link in there and you could also have your blog here for if you want to blog some more. Several of our group members are already FB friends with me and I had already been thinking about setting up a group on FB if you did close this blog so we could all keep in touch because so many of us have become friends.
Even if you are not on FB, you could set up a very private profile for just being in the group. Think about it. I am happy to help. I know groups, I know how to run them, I have a 60K plus member group right now I help admin. I can set it up, you let me know your FB name if you want to do this and I will add you as an admin. if you want or you can just be there and let me and some other trusted members help me admin the group and you can just enjoy the pictures we can post on there and the conversation and join in when you want. I wasn’t going to say anything until the time came that you were thinking about closing down your blog because I would never want you to think that I wanted to take your place, which I never could. I just wanted a place we could all continue to talk.
You are very thoughtful, Jolene, and most generous with your time and talents! Thank you!
Please see my comment below (under Barbara, Nashville).
Hi Jolene. I would love to hook up w/ your FB page. I think it would be nice to have that connection (just in case). I’m an easy reader; sometime a lurker, sometimes a photo poster.
Please share the link or name of your group. Thanks!! 😁
Hi Suzi, for now, just connect with me on Facebook. Since Sue hasn’t made a decision to go the FB route, as long as we are FB friends we can be connected. I will leave my link to my FB via my name on here just by clicking on it, that should take you to my FB page and you can send me a friend request.
Stay well and happy, Sue. I will miss you if you stop blogging but I understand your dilemma.
Sue – it was so great hearing from you! I definitely understand your blogging concerns. I always hesitate putting pictures out on the Internet. I really enjoy reading the comments as well as your blog! Hope you get some lovely rain! We need it as well here in Eastern NC. It is so hot and dry. Take care!
Glad to see you here again. How’s Rogers dog bite? While I have enjoyed your photos for years I understand the privacy issues. Enjoy your home & those 4 legged cuties.
How lovely to see “a new email from RVSue and crew” notice of new post appear on my phone ! Somewhere recently I saw that the monsoon season in Arizona begins around the 4th of July, so I guess you’ll need to find ways to adjust to having it for another few weeks.
Here by the lake in central NY state our recent few days around 90 degrees also have had humidity levels around 70%, so I understand how summer can be affect one’s energy and enthusiasm for some things. Thank God, I have one window air conditioner that’s powerful enough to keep my whole little rented cottage comfortable. Working on the porch ceiling with your temps couldn’t have been a cooling off and relaxing activity, kudos to you and those guys for getting it done right, Wow, it looks great!
This month long break between posts has given me time to ponder about what your blog’s future will hold, too. One recurring thought is that rather than considering any change as “a loss of what was” , I tend to think of what I’ve gained because of it, and you, thus far. All connections and relationships change the lives and people involved. I have learned, grown, and loved more for having been part of the blog’s comment section. At some point I may explain that more fully. For now I will just thank you for it all, and be glad for each chance to visit here.
I must agree
Hi, weather,
You always find the perfect words to expresss how so many of us feel. We all have been blessed to find Sue’s blog. Not only have I learned so much from Sue, but have enjoyed the blogorino family that her blog has fostered. There are many folks I genuinely care about and would miss dearly if this chapter closed. I am thankful that our paths crossed.
Well said, again, Weather.
Very well said!!!!
My friend Sue and Crew, you have given us years of adventure and if you want to take a break that’s OK with me. I have enjoyed your blogs very much and will miss them. But if you only want to post when you feel up to it or just want to keep in touch randomly that’s great also. Give the boys a hug for me, later. And thank you for all you’ve done for us.
Jerry
I love how your porch turned out! I sure get the summer doldrums. Our weather has either been rain or so hot you don’t want to do anything. When I have time at home I have been reading, watching movies or working on some log cabin cross quilted wall hangings I am making. I have really gotten into making these and love how they are all different. Enjoy your summer with the crew!!
Hey Jolene,
Do you still have your website? Your name isn’t in blue any more so I was wondering.
You must have esp. I have been thinking about you. So good to hear from you ~!! The boys look so handsome. The FB page might be a good idea. Hope you do decide to continue on in whatever format you choose. Keep the faith, the rain will come.
Stay well and hugs to the boys.
Hi Sue I would miss you terribly even tho I don’t comment often, you seem like a natural born writer. I love hearing about your home, it may seem so daily but it’s seems so nice. I don’t know if you’re old enough or ever heard of a woman by the name of Gladys Taber, she wrote books called Stillmeadow and others. That’s what you’re writing reminds me of, I think most of us have a longing for home we can’t quite describe. I’m not expressing this well LoL I’m wish you the very best for whatever you decide. Publish all previous blogs into a book and sell on Amazon, stop blogging and write books?
Thank you for all you’ve shared with us…
I loved Gladys Taber and agree that RV Sue writes similarly. It’s a soothing, comforting style that makes me enjoy the simple things in life, which seem to be the most important. Hoping all blogorinos are doing well, no matter their situations. I’m learning to adjust to my new life with just my soon to be 1 year old kitten, Mia. It’s so good to have a pet to come home to instead of an empty house!
One of the things I have enjoyed about your blog is that your lifestyle has changed and the blog itself has changed to reflect that – like evolution itself. Since I began reading it about four years ago, I commented very rarely and have used the amazon links just a few times (I buy very little) and if that has helped you I am very happy about that. The forum for people to support you and each other and to share bits of their own lives has also been inspirational and fun. I think if you decide to stop the blog you can keep the old posts available and we will all be fine. Someone could start a “friends of the blog” facebook page and those of us on FB could join up. I think you know very well how to take care of yourself and your crew, and if that involves you stopping the blog I’m all for it. I’m very glad you continue to thrive in this world, and I will always be grateful that you began this endeavor.
Hi, again, Sue!
I’m glad you put in the mini-adventure of getting collars on Reggie and Roger. That’s fun to read and the pictures are nice.
As a “failed” (or rather quit) blogger, I understand very well the doldrums. Let’s face it, I love my life but I don’t find it all that interesting even if others do. I’ll second the idea of a Facebook group. I’m a moderator of a couple of those, and I find it easy to keep the “flavor” that I like. Also, that would (if you so choose) let us bring up things to discuss with the group, which would take some of the load off your shoulders. I don’t know the details of monetizing those, but I know people do it.
We’re not having three-digit temperatures here, but the humidity is making up for it. My personal progress right now is getting out in that on the bike without ill effects. The temperature discomfort in itself is minor to me, and I’m finding ways to counter the lung issues.
Good to see a post. I don’t know you, but I worry about you so go figure!!
You inspire me. In 2 months I will take off on a 5 week trip. First of many long I hope.
Sue, just enjoy yourself, do what brings you joy. You know, that feeling of happiness that makes you smile. I have it with the new to me Casita. It feels good
Have a wonderful trip, Glenda! 🙂
Thanks for the update, Sue…tis so hard to be motivated when the temps rise…heh, or anytime, if you are me!! Well understood how you do not want to share much more of where you live…glad you are enjoying fixing things however!! The boys look nice in their new collars too!! We are still in the “waiting game” here…about 2 weeks left till next appt. So we are laying low and not doing much…not sure of what is safe for hubby to do even, as no one has YET to be 100% sure of what is going on. Getting old is not easy!! Hope you will post from time to time…even if just a short note to say you and the boys are well…things for us of late, other than health-wise, have been of no note too…I tell our kids we are way boring these days. Tis life…
I have sure been praying for you Elizabeth. I don’t always comment on here but I read and put those of you who need prayers on my prayer list. Hang in there! I agree, getting old isn’t easy and I am just 61 now. lol
Thank you so much, Jolene…always appreciate prayers!! Well, I am some older…but under 70…just FEEL old of late!!
**hugs** Elizabeth! 🙂
Hugs back, Denise…hope all is well with you!!
😊
I may not comment but I always read it. It’s not snowing here either.
I have seldom commented, but always read. I have been around almost since you started and enjoyed all of it.
I dont comment much but I always read and I look forward to the crrews antics and your forays to the thrift store and sharing all your goodies with us –you are making a beautiful home with all your goodies. I totally understand the need for a break and we will be sitting here waiting for news whenever you decide to post.
I relate. When we were traveling all the time it was easy to find things to write about. Once we came off the road it became really hard to do. Now I try to post something at least once a month so those still following will know I am alive and well. I don’t do facebook so if you decide to go that way I won’t be following anymore but you need to do what is right for YOU. I will miss you just like I miss RVing but I’m sure I’ll survive that, too. 🙂
I don’t do facebook either. So guess I will be unable to follow also.
I haven’t made a decision. Please see my HI, BLOGORINOS! message below.
Short reply Sue, or it won’t send as cell service stinks here at Blue Mesa Reservoir, Gunnison CO. I want to tell you so many things about our travels, but now is a bad time. Suffice it to say I was happy to have my afternoon beer with you today! Thanks! I’m glad you are all well, and I hope you all enjoy those new collars! Hugs!! Suzi.
Well Sue I was wondering if you stopped writing the blog or not since you been a homebody with the crew in tow,, the porch looks fantastic and so does the new tags for the boys,,,,, I may be going for the Robotic surgery Tuesday morning, just waiting for the call when to show up in my Pjs and S8 in the bag, if that spot showed up in this last Cat Scan on the 2nd of this month, if not, then as that Lady says on Saturday night live reruns, “Never Mind” and continue on the next Procedure for my Heart ,,, love you all and bless you and your boys,,,,,👣👣🐾
Take care of yourself Rusty. I think of you often.
Praying for you Rusty!
Thanks for the wishes and prayers Barbara and Jolene 🤓
I rarely comment but have read nearly all your blogs for several years and you are an inspiration. We don’t travel much because some wonderful great grandsons moved in and changed our priorities. Thanks for the continuing enjoyment of your excellent writing. I’ll be watching if you write more and would join a facebook group if that could be in the future.As always wishing you only the best.
I understand completely….the days fly into weeks and on to months. Enjoy your time, don’t need to remind you time IS Short.
All the best to you and yours…
Claudia
Like Linda in Minnesota, I don’t do Facebook. I will stay subscribed to this blog just on the off-chance you might post a new update, that way I can get the latest on what you and the Crew are up to. I don’t Comment a lot because I’m not able to get past the I’m Not A Robot gate keeper, lol. I’m just hoping I can get this posted. I think of you and (both) Crews often, Sue. You’ve shared so many wonderful experiences and adventures with us and I deeply appreciate the happy, sometimes sad, memories. I plan to go back to the start of your original blog and slowly reread, and once again enjoy, the trip of a lifetime. Hugs and belly rubs to the boys. Take care and be happy. {hugs}
Thank you, Cat Lady,
What is it that trips you up when trying to open comments?
I have been having computer problems. When I would solve the math problem, it would just spin and spin and…you get the idea. Very frustrating.
I’m sorry it’s something that I can’t fix.
Sue you have inspired me to get out there and live life. Because of you I purchased a truck and a trailer 2 years ago and have had so many wonderful adventures with them. After my husband died I thought my dreams of getting an RV were gone but after reading your blog for a few years I decided at 68 to get out there and learn how to tow a trailer. Without your Blog I fear I would have never felt the courage to do it. Thank you Sue. I hope you continue to Blog in any fashion you choose, I know I will pleased to read it whenever you post it. Thank you Sue you have given me the courage to try new things.
I do hope you don’t stop writing your blog. I would really miss you and all the other bloggerino’s. It’s really hasn’t been the least bit boring reading about your thrift store purchases and the plants that you found or even what the weather is like where you find yourself now or updates on R&R. You have become a friend even though we’ve never met. It’s such a treat getting the email saying there’s a new post from RV Sue just as much as I enjoy a phone call from an old friend. Those phone calls discuss some of the same things that you discuss and with friends it’s never boring. I do enjoy Facebook but I do understand not wanting to leave anyone out. Don’t worry about a schedule just remember that we’re out here and that we care about you. If you don’t post for a while I don’t worry like I did when you were on the road. Love from me and the 2 M’s.
Thank you Sue for all of the wonderful adventures you have taken us on. Your posts keep my dreams of RVing alive, but I too understand.
I am a terrible writer so probably couldn’t do it at all. Since I do not do facebook or any of the other similar things, I would probably lose touch, but will keep the notifications in case you post.
Reg & Rog look so cute with their new tags. They are just too adorable period.
I will greatly miss you.
HI, BLOGORINOS!
Seeing you here is very encouraging! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.
Jolene (above) suggested I have a Facebook group, even offering to set it up for me. I want you to know I haven’t decided to do that.
Although a Facebook private group provides several advantages, one of the main reasons I hesitate is knowing that several of my readers don’t “do” Facebook and they never will. I don’t want to move to a format that shuts out some of my dear readers.
I’m still brainstorming possibilities . . . .
They could open an account but only have your group and nothing else. For instance, they can make their name unsearchable, and add no friends. People couldn’t find them if they searched. I have a friend who is a retired school administrator, and she has a Facebook account with only two people and they are her brothers. It’s free and an easy way to communicate and share photos. Something to think about.
I haven’t posted for a long time, and am really really behind.
Well..hello there!
I always enjoy your blog posts, whenever they come….not a problem.
I have followed several people that were nomadic then went to a permanent location and I continue to enjoy their posts. Never is boring to hear what others are doing, is it?
One lady is building a tiny house there in Arizona, now she has moxie! I enjoy seeing and reading about what you are doing to/in your house, seeing the doggies, seeing the wildlife, even hearing about the broken dipstick!
The idea that the things a person you enjoy is up to is not interesting..hmm..nope…it is interesting. The ideas for gardening, decorating, dealing with neighbors…interesting!
As for myself, I just had a visit from my son and his family, his two boys just did a class at a Lego store to learn stop action animation..those two kids are amazing, their ‘movies’ are so clever! Who knew such a thing was even possible?
How are your Mexican false petunias doing? This year mine are a beautiful hedge about waist high and dense! Hope yours develops into that…the humming birds and bumble bees love the flowers!
Take care!
Short reply Sue, or it won’t send as cell service stinks here at Blue Mesa Reservoir, Gunnison CO. I want to tell you so many things about our travels, but now is a bad time. Suffice it to say I was happy to have my afternoon beer with you today! Thanks! I’m glad you are all well, and I hope you all enjoy those new collars! Hugs!! Suzi.
Just for the record, I’m still here reading your blog. I don’t comment much because I don’t have much to say these days. How about those California earthquakes? LOL!
Chris B
PS: I come from a mechanical family that has repaired quite a lot of old cars. I never heard of a dipstick doing what yours did. There’s something weird or wrong there.
The PTV has an unusually long dipstick, sometimes it takes two people to get it out and be able to “read it” to see what the oil level is. It may have, therefore, been far more stressed at the joint spot that broke. Weird, yes, yet likely not “wrong” if by that you meant it had been messed with by someone.
Hi Sue, glad you posted pics of whats up in AZ. The boys will learn to appreciate their collars. I am a big game player and the thought that maybe you could start a conversation and then tag someone to respond, then they tag some one and so on and so on. Just a thought. Whatever you do you are smart enough and kind enough to decide, it’s your blog after all and we are the participants! REMEMBER JULY 15 AND 16 IS AMAZON PRIME DAY!
Hello Sue, I think it might be time to write you and tell yo how much I have appreciated and enjoyed your blog. I started reading your blog before you bought your casita. I do not remember how I found your blog but I’m glad I did. I would not know you if I passed you in the street but you feel like a old friend. I enjoyed all the pictures you have posted, cried when Spike died and then Bridget, and so happy when you adopted Reggie and Rodger. I also have quit Rving due to husbands health and do not even own a rv anymore. So if you do decide to stop your blog I will miss your updates but all I’ll say is thank you for all the ones you wrote. Debra Larson
You’re welcome, Debra.
It sounds like you have given of yourself to my blog as I’ve given to you and that’s what makes a friendship. 🙂 Thank you for sharing the happy and the sad times with us and for remaining a faithful reader, even though your life has changed, as has ours.
I wish your husband renewed strength and healing with warm wishes for you both. Thank you for the sweet message.
The boys look so cute in that pose with their new collars and tags. Your blog has been such and inspiration for so many it will surely be missed. I do understand you wanting to stop because the purpose, travel and photography, and R/V tips have morphed into a homestead blog. Facebook could be an answer but as you commented some folks don’t do Facebook and I guess the same goes for Instagram. Years ago there was mentioned you should write a book. Although, it would not be the same feedback as this blog , I think it would be well received. You have oodles of information to pass on to others. Looking forward to the future is exciting, don’t you think. There is a season for everything.
My apologies. I’ve been here since day one, but am one not to say much. Sue I think there are hundreds more like me who really enjoy your posts, but never comment. It may not be fair for you but hopefully more of us will comment. I panicked just this morning when I realized your blog hadn’t been on. I went to your blog home and saw it’s been awhile. I enjoy each post so the silent ones are here.
I’m like Gene. Have followed your blog ever since the story of reuniting Rusty & his lost dog was in the Phoenix newspaper. The monsoon season will get here when it gets here. It varies so much from year to year. We’re always hoping for the rain!
Oh yay, you’re back.
I totally understand Sue.
Please post more amazon links, to everything you use or think about daily and we will buy more!
Don’t feel bad…we love to hear about your thrift store shopping. And house buying. And upgrades. And home improvements. And more shopping!
Yay!
Just keep posting links and reminders,
Love ya Sue! Long term lurker. First time poster
Hey, any links to home buying? Pretty sure they pay for links hit! Yay
Love your enthusiasm, Almost. 🙂
Just so there’s no confusion, using a link I post on my blog will take you to Amazon. From there you can order anything you want (use the search box) and I get credit if you order within 24 hours of using the link.
Congratulations on becoming a blogorino!
Welcome, Almost there! 🙂
Hi Sue, Reggie, and Roger. Just wanted you to know I am still here and enjoying your posts even if I don’t reply much. I have loved reading about all your adventures and pictures of places I may never get to go. I feel like we are friends even if we have never met. Hope you continue your blog or a Facebook page if you decide and want to. I will understand if you don’t feel it. You have to take care of yourself and your furry friends first. I am sure it is a drain to try to think up something to post but you really have a way with words. Take care and let us all know . Thanks for all the time you have put in😊. Judy
Hi Judy from Horn Lake, MS, I live in Southaven. I have been following this blog for several years. Seems funny to know that someone so close does the same.
Hi Jean . I have posted several times and always read. I have always thought it neat to see someone so close. Maybe catch you at one of the many fast food places here😁Take care.
First Sue?
Glad to see this post. Missed you.
Hi Sue & Crew!
Yay, You’re Back! The boys new tags look great, I need to do the same for our little guy.
Its amazing when I look back and see all the improvements and repairs you have accomplished to your abode this last year. Looking very good!
As to the blog Please Don’t Stop! I think we all enjoy “You” and your writing style. I remember when you bought the abode I thought ” oh boy this is the end” but it wasn’t. It was not the end it was just a New beginning. You kept me interested and entertained redoing your new house along with the antics of the crew.
I don’t think you have to reinvent your blog. Your still RVSue, will Always be RvSue and no one, not even You can make or take that away. Thinking back when you were traveling, some of your most entertaining posts were silly, fun episodes doing laundry, eating out, repairs and on and on. Who knows, you may get hitch itch and head out for a few days here and there, If not then I will continue to enjoy hearing the news of your daily adventures right at home.
Were in Silver City! It’s a Great place to be. All the amenities we need with a historic
beautiful old western downtown, some great restaurants, shops and gallery’s. Very arty, Hippie sort of vibe. Temps here have been in the low to high 80’s during the day and much cooler at night. Our neighbor said the monsoon starts July4 and sure enough we’ve had cloudier, slightly cooler weather and a bit of rain since. Heck, if it stays like this we might just spend the summer right here!
Glad you posted, you were missed by all your Blogorinos!
Keep On Keepin On, Desert Woman!
Be Well & Stay Happy!
FloridaScott
Just a thought; maybe you don’t need to reinvent your blog Sue. Maybe for those of us who like to be more active and keep tract of our friends here, a FB page for us would be perfect. We can post our news, photos, and the like, and you can lurk when you are in the mood, and feel like catching up with what we are all up to. Personally after all these years, I’d enjoy putting faces to the names here. Might be fun! I’d also like to see “said page” kept private as well. And as for your blog, write when the spirit moves you, and the rest of us can still have that pleasure, without you feeling any sense of obligation to a time schedule. Those who don’t use FB will still have the joy of seeing your posts now and again. Everybody wins. 🙂 Food for thought. hugs!
Hugs to you, too, Suzi….
With your poor connection, I think you missed Cynthia’s and Jolene’s suggestion above for a private FB group.
Even with blog posts, I feel that non-FB people would feel left out. This blog’s community is special and I’d hate to stick a fork in it.
Yeah, blogorinos would love sharing photos… 🙂
Good to see a new post! ☺
Count me in as someone who would enjoy a Facebook group, if it ever comes to be. I really enjoy your posts about your fabulous thrift store finds and how you use them, and things that tell us a little about Arizona life, such as that rodeo-type event you went to. And of course anything involving your Crew…here’s hoping you will be inspired to keep the blog alive…..
I rarely post, but I read every word. Thank you Sue, for inspiring me to make the leap and retire, and for helping me to stay sane during these last work years.
No matter what you decide, I want you to know how much I appreciate you sharing your journey with us. Hugs to Reggie and Roger, and to you!
Thank you and you’re welcome, Sherri.
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RETIREMENT! 🙂
Happy Retirement, Sherri! Enjoy every moment – you have earned it! 🙂
Dear Sue,
Keep brainstorming for a new format. You being you can come up with something that is engaging and interesting if you take your time. Rogers bite wounds look like they are healing well, thanks to your quick attention. Seems strange to see the boys with collars on but they are necessary. I apologize for going missing for awhile. Always read what you wrote and the blogorinos added, never missed a post. Was not always in a positive mood and did not want to be less than cheerful so went silent for a bit. Things better now. You have to be content with whatever you choose and will do what is best for you. We will wait and see what that is. Take Care Dear Sue, there are many here to whom you are like family and always will be! Be Well.
Blogging is supposed to be fun, write when you feel like it, I’ll here to read it!
We left Michigan (the UP) today, crossed Wisconsin and stopped at a casino in Minnesota.
Fantastic! Thanks for the amazon tip! It gets so confusing! To me! Lol
I do hope you don’t stop writing your blog. I would really miss you and all the other bloggerino’s. It’s really hasn’t been the least bit boring reading about your thrift store purchases and the plants that you found or even what the weather is like where you find yourself now or updates on R&R. You have become a friend even though we’ve never met. It’s such a treat getting the email saying there’s a new post from RV Sue just as much as I enjoy a phone call from an old friend. Those phone calls discuss some of the same things that you discuss and with friends it’s never boring. I do enjoy Facebook but I do understand not wanting to leave anyone out. Don’t worry about a schedule just remember that we’re out here and that we care about you. If you don’t post for a while I don’t worry like I did when you were on the road. Love from me and the 2 M’s.
Long time reader, first time commenting. My husband and I are fulltime RVs since 2004. Enjoy reading your blog.
Welcome, Gail! Always happy to see a new blogorino appear!
Welcome, Gail! 🙂
I have missed your posts….respected your privacy. As fun as the travel trailing was to follow – it is your gift of observation, comments on life, and of course the crew that keeps me a fan. Figured too as time was passing, life was probably pulling you in a different direction, and when it was sorted out, you would probably share. Several years ago I asked if you missed life with a stationary home. When you answered “no”, it was the right answer, at that time for you…. I think our lives are often like a book, or your stories. Chapters happen, bring or remove people, things, adventures, sadness, joy……and then a new story begins. It may be very different from the last novel – that does not make it any less interesting, challenging, or enjoyable. Please do continue to use your gifts…..the format is probably less important than the person writing, but this format seems to suit you, and your other larger “crew” that follows you here. If I got a vote – it would not be FB…. but then I don’t, and this is about you and what you believe to be best. It has been said, when one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us. I wish you peace where ever life leads you…. and hope you will continue to share as you see fit. Congrats rv sue on this new chapter of your life. We all salute your tenacity, and love your stories. Hugs from Texas to you and the boys. and where ever life takes you keep on truckin’……..
VERY well said, Laura!!
Hi, Sue and blogorinos!
I hardly ever post, but I read, and I have rvsue’s Amazon link bookmarked, so I can always shop from it–did you see the adjustable bed? This has been a great ride, Sue. I hope it continues.
Hi, Ann!
When did you place the order? I looked at the previous 7 days and I don’t see it. Give me an approximate date and I’ll check again.
If you put the bed on a wish list or in the cart and then came back another day to complete the transaction, I don’t get credit for that.
Sorry–It was in February. Our last big purchase.
I see this….
WOW! That’s quite a bed! Thank you!
Hi, Sue,
Thank you for the post update. Your front porch ceiling looks so nice! I am glad you are pleased with the update. Reggie and Roger’s collars and tags are very handsome! 🙂
We’ll be here when/if you decide to create another post. 😊
I hope you enjoy the weekend, Sue! Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup. Thank you for sharing your great adventure with us! 😊
Hi, Denise!
How nice to see you here! You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you are free of pain and healing well.
Gracie pup — Caretaking can wear a pup out. Be sure to take care of yourself, too.
Love to you both! 🙂
Thank you for your love, kind thoughts, and prayers, Sue. My pain is less than it was last week, and for that I am very thankful! Gracie is being a very good girl caring for me. 😊
We love you and the boys, too! 💕
🙂
Thanks for giving us an update on you Denise…hope you are able to rest a lot and take it as easy as you can. Glad Gracie is being helpful!!
Thank you, Elizabeth! 🙂
Hi Denise, I have been praying for you also. I hope you are doing ok. Take care!
Thank you, Jolene! 🙂
I have no complaints about your blog. It’s been most pictures of Reggie and Roger and things happening around your home. I read lots of blogs for years that have been that way. These bloggers don’t travel but instead post about their daily activities, they tell stories (I love stories), they take pictures of gardens, pets, flowers, repairs, things that happen that affected their lives. For example, I read ‘Of Pedals and Wool’ about a woman who lives in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada on a dairy farm. She recently retired from taking care of calves. She blogs about her hobbies, garden, things she cooks and recently talked about the damages from St Johns river flooding and the subsequent clean up (this has happened several times over the years she’s been blogging). Like all of us, her life has it’s ups and downs.
When I first started reading your blog I like places you camped so I followed and cataloged areas that I might visit…and I have visited and camped at some. You rarely talked about yourself but you did blog about your interaction with your crew which I liked to read (Spike and Bridget) and now Roger and Reggie…how they became a part of your family. Your blog hit the Arizona Republic with the rescue of Rusty’s dog and how you met Rusty to begin with. This type of story and/or blogs keep me riveted not so much about your private self (although I read other blogs that talk about themselves and share their private lives i.e. Tioga George; Mary Pat and others). I think you might just be in a slump…a writer’s slump. You do have something interesting to say in each of your blogs whether you know it or not and that is why we keep coming back.
BTW I found this blog amusing with Reggie and Roger’s first name tag collars. They look adorable. My late sister always asked about my dogs. She’d laugh her head off when I’d tell her their antics. She never failed to ask about my dog.
I remember you talking about things you shared with your sister and then the sorrow at her passing. I’m glad you have sweet memories of her, rita.
Hi Rita from Phoenix,
Here’s a totally selfish question…Can you tell me how I can catalogue some of Sue’s former campsites to keep as a reference for my future endeavours? That means when I am free to travel. I would like to keep them digitally if that’s possible. Thanks in advance.
I cataloged the camp sites on a spreadsheet. I’m getting ready to travel up highway 395 to some of the gorgeous camps of RVSue and others made. My sister and niece will tag along on this road trip in September. Go back to beginning of RVSue’s blog and start entering into a spreadsheet. Using a spreadsheet you can filter, alphabetize, and sort by state the camp grounds. I’ve checked off the camps that I’ve visited. The spreadsheet contains camp sites from many bloggers I follow including RVSue.
Hello Sue,
My name is Julie and my sister is Denise – Richmond VA.
I am also the very proud Grandma of her two “Peanuts”!
Denise shared with me about your blog a couple of years ago and how much she enjoyed reading it. I began checking it out as well and it has always given me a smile to see and hear about Reggie and Roger, your two doggie pals. They are definitely very handsome!
Thank you for opening this forum for so many. You have given total strangers the opportunity to give each other caring and support, without knowing each other personally. You should feel very proud of the goodness you have brought into the lives of so many. I wish you well wherever your path takes you.
Thank you, Julie, for that kind tribute and the good wish.
On behalf of the crew, thanks for the compliment. I agree; Reg and Rog are handsome boys.
Denise is very dear to us here. When she announced that twins would be joining her family we shared her excitement and anticipation. Then the time when “the peanuts” arrived and had to stay at the hospital, we prayed for them to thrive and go home. Now they’ve been home over a year and are well on their way! It’s a pleasure to hear from their “very proud Grandma.” 🙂
Now we pray for Denise to fully recover from her surgery and to bloom with good health. Best wishes to you and do feel welcome to visit with us anytime, Julie!
You are very welcome Sue!
A very big, grateful thank you to you and all of your readers who sent the many prayers for our two Grandbabies. Last year my husband and I spent three months and many hours in the NICU rocking, reading stories and singing to them. From the beginning, our favorite song to softly sing was ‘Close to you’ by The Carpenters. Here we are 14 mos. later. Our sweeties continue to grow bigger and stronger every day and we rejoice in every aspect of their continued development. We care for them multiple days and evenings each week and just like in the beginning, we sing that song to them and now every time we do, their little faces light up and they give us the biggest smiles. We absolutely adore being their Grandma and Grandpa and there are no words to properly describe our love for them both.
Our heartfelt thanks to you all. We have truly been blessed.
Thanks too for keeping Denise close in thoughts and prayers that recovery from her surgery continues to show promise. To bloom with good health is the perfect statement. By the way, she is a wonderful Great Auntie to those two cuties! So glad they have so much love from so many. There can never be too much love!
I wanted to add quickly that I am so glad that Reggie and Roger have such a wonderful life with you. They always look so happy and content. They know that they are home. Roger’s previous circumstances remind me a lot of our Bella who we adopted from a rescue almost two years ago. She had been found wandering the streets wearing only a collar, but no tag or chip for ID. We have no idea how long she was on her own and the challenges she faced, but like your Roger, Bella now knows that she is home too.
Hi, Julie! Wow! You are no longer a lurker, and officially a blogorino! 😊Thank you for all of your help yesterday! Love you guys! xo 💕
Hi Denise!
Lurker ha! You make me sound like I was a character in a horror movie!
I guess I am “official” now. 🙂
You are welcome. Very glad we could come and help you out. Love you too! xo
Yes, you are official, Julie. I hereby grant you full blogorinoship!
Thank you Sue! 🙂
I thoroughly enjoy your writing, Sue. You have a knack for making everyday adventures interesting, whether you’re traveling or bringing home thrift treasures. So truly, I think whatever you might choose to write about would be interesting to your readers (as long as it includes updates about Roger and Reggie!). 🙂
Prayers that you find the perfect solution that will be enjoyable and meaningful for you and will keep you connected with your readers.
Even though I haven’t commented very often, I do read every post and make my Amazon purchases through your link (which I have bookmarked on my Chrome bookmark bar for easy access). Just wanted you to know that we shy introverted readers are engaged, too, in our own quiet way! 😉
It’s hard to find stuff to talk about if you’re not moving. We’ve started orbiting between Tucson and Issaquah and if we’re not on the road, there is just that much to say. I mainly do this as an aide de memoire since I can’t remember anything anymore. The dogs are darling, as ever.
I’ve been here since the beginning and even commented a few times. Just wanted you to know I’ve enjoyed and been inspired by your blog.
Hi Sue! I’ve been reading you from the beginning although I don’t comment much. I hope you do continue to post to your blog, even if it’s only once a month, or whenever. I am also on fb and would enjoy being a part of that if you decide to do that. I like to read about your everyday life and the crew. But whatever you decide to do, I wish you peace and happiness.
Hi Sue, Like everyone else stated, it was great to see a blog post from you. I don’t post all the time, but I do check in almost daily. While I do have a Facebook page for my business, it is not very active. I’m one who doesn’t ustilize Facebook for a variety of reasons, but that’s just me.
The two R’s look adorable with their tags. Handsome boys, indeed.
Whatever you do, we’ve enjoyed the ride, and you’ve always been so generous with your time and energy, we can be nothing but grateful.
I’m still praying for those who are going through challanging times. Take care, all, and enjoy this beautiful day!
G’morn all. Seems I get a bit of a signal either early or late. We’ve been camped on the North side of Blue Mesa Reservoir between Gunnison and the Black Canyon Nat’l Pk. I went to school here in the 70’s, and I’ve wanted/needed to get back here for 40 years. We’ve spent a lot of time driving all the roads and towns where I first fell in love with CO all those years ago, fresh out of Hawaii. It’s been so very wonderful, I can’t even tell you. We are heading out tomorrow, making our way West towards Dinosaur Nat’l Mon. Finding boondocks close enough to the places we want to be has been challenging during these summer months.
In the high country of Leadville and Buena Vista, CO we ran into snow still. We camped in small FS cheap-o CGs, and made due. Outside of Salida, we camped near where you were camped Sue, near that big meadow looking up at Mt Antero. That road in, was VERY crowded with Boondockers, and that’s okay. We headed in towards Browns Creek, and found a place. Not great, but allowed us a few days of warm sunshine and a place to dry out after the cold rain and snow we got in Leadville, near Twin Lakes. Also, Sue, you’ll get a kick out of this; on a day drive we headed East on the 50 out of Salida, and came across that East Salida Rec area you camped at for a day while you did some chores in town. Well. HaHa! It’s now $16/night PLUS $8. “parking fee”. No senior discounts, either. And it’s just as you described; “well worn”, and probably worse than when you were there. We were happy the Ranger suggested Browns Creek to us earlier, when we passed through Salida, but were heading to Leadville.
We spent a decent amount of time discovering The Great Sand Dunes before coming here. We camped South of the Park on a spur road, in the midst of lots and lots of cows! These guys (and gals) came in droves to lick the ashes out of the fire pit. They provided us with many hours of entertainment pushing and shoving each other for a lick. They also amused us with their antics of pushing our neighbors’ solar panels over daily, then scattering like pidgins when the panels clattered to the ground. I took a fun short video clip of them in action. Makes me laugh still.
As much as I’d like to carry on, I’ve probably exceeded my length limit, and will lose this trying to send it. I’ll try to write more later as I’ve left much out. Here’s hoping everyone is having a wonderful Sunday. it’s time to fry up some potatoes on our Blackstone, and then begin the task of packing up.
Aloha all! 😎
Another great report, Suzi, you really have become good at finding campsites though it’s been challenging. You obviously paid attention to the lessons Sue shared with us, and now taught me a new one. Note to self- When camping among a herd of cows, don’t leave solar panels on the ground 🙂 !
Another informative and interesting update, Suzi!
— Not surprised to learn you are encountering lots of boondockers. That’s summertime in Colorado!
— I found it challenging, also, to find boondocks that met my criteria, an important one being internet which is often blocked in the mountains.
— Thanks for the update on Salida East Rec Area. Sad another free camp lost, although understandable (although that fee is high!) in order to deter public drug activity, the related problems, and overuse. I inserted an update in my July 15, 2016 post.
— Cow memories! Glad you are collecting your own funny, cow stories. 🙂
— Ooh, fried potatoes on the griddle… I packed up our Blackstone for the summer (too hot here to cook outside).
I can’t tell you how pleased I am to read about your travels and camps with Larry and kitty. I’ve always had a secret trepidation that my blog would lead someone into a disastrous decision. It’s wonderful to read your enthusiasm for life on the road.
Thank you, Suzi!
Thank you for sharing your trip report, Suzy. I look forward to your updates! Have fun and stay cool! 😊
That trip sounds like so much fun Suzi!
And Sue, I understand your trepidation. I get a little worried when I recommend a restaurant! LOL! Your blog inspires people to think outside the box in lots of ways. It certainly has inspired me. Thank you!
I rarely comment, but I read! Just a note on the boys collars and tags. If you ever get tired of hearing the tags clinking around or are worried about either one’s teeth getting caught in the other’s tag while playing (we raised many guide dogs in the past and that became a real problem) Orvis offers a quick release collar with name and phone number embroidered right on the surface of the collar for total safety. I use them on my dogs as we travel in our motorhome. I never worry about lost tags or lost dogs that way (not that our’s would ever leave our side but you never know!). Just a thought.
Thank you, Sue. Although I notice the boys don’t tug at each other’s collars, the embroidered collars are a great idea. I do caution readers to read customer reviews of any brand they are considering, as some brands are reported to break (large dog lunging) at the worst time.
There are two selections for Orvis collars offered through Amazon. Here’s the other one:
Orvis Shotshell Collar and Leash/Leash Only,
It’s obvious the Orvis collars are excellent quality, hence the price.
I truly enjoy your blog ;’. That said, I have my own blog, I only document our travels, and find it exhausting to post every day when on holidays. So it is a marvel you have managed years of blogging! Enjoy your home and time.
Sue, thank you for fixing my post. Years ago, I made the same typo mistake in a brief I filed with the court. There was no way to correct it and I just hoped the judge read over it quickly and didn’t notice my gaffe.,you would think I would learn to proofread better!!
No worries Sue, you take care of yourself and the boys. Love what you did with the front porch. As for your blog, I just hope you update us once in a while with how you and the boys are doing. I may not comment often, but I have loved to read all your stories, no matter what they are about and see all the things you, the original crew (Spike and Bridget may they always R.I.P. in the lands over the Rainbow Bridge ) and the boys have done. No matter if it is while you are on the road or now at home. Take care of each other as you have and may God Bless and keep you all safe.
Respectfully,
S. Kaeseman
Love reading your blogs. Hope it gets worked out on what you will do. Especially love seeing the crew! Take care Sue and however you decide on what to do have a blessed life.
I’m another follower who doesn’t often join in but I’m still here and enjoying every word. It has not been the best of years so far for us but things are better now and looking good. Your blog has been lifeline at times, not only your writing but all the wonderful people who also comment – a real ‘family’. Whatever you decide to do, know that you are so very much appreciated. And I always think of you before I head to Amazon!!
Dear Sue,
Have you considered letting the blogorinos write your blog?
In my experience, (going way back to usenet) moving to a different site means you will lose a lot of people. If your new site, or Facebook group or whatever, is open to new members, you will gain some people. But in the end you will have a completely different community from the one you have here. If you want to preserve this community, I think you are stuck with this site.
The blog format makes it difficult to read comments after a certain number, it’s hard to find the new ones at the ends of threads. So it’s good to have a new post every week or so. But I don’t see why it needs to be written by you :-). Many of your community members are excellent writers and have wonderful stories to tell!
I’m not familiar at the back end of blogs, but I imagine there would be stuff that might make it a little complicated. There might be a password you would have to change to something appropriate, and share with people. You’d probably end up doing some tutoring on how to create posts. But you could think about whether that would be worthwhile to you.
Personally, I love the changes that have happened in your writing. I loved the thrift store post so much that I went and looked for other blogs that focus on thrifting :-). But it seems you are just tired of doing it, and that’s fine.
Maybe weather could write some of her beautiful posts about nature, and Suzi can write about rving and Rusty can write about his new life and Rita can write about hers, and so there could still be new post every week or two. Maybe I would even write something someday, if you let me 🙂
Would not be the same. Nice thought but others can still do that here.
I don’t mean to suggest that Sue stop writing completely! Just but she could have guest bloggers, like other bloggers do.
Sue!!!!! Glad to see a new posting.
We just purchased a home in Show Low and are building on news decks, refurbishing the bathroom, and repainting the outside of the cottage. We sold our toy hauler and Dodge truck to the Warden at the prison where my husband still works at. I told my husband I’ll give it a few years and if I’m not content then we can rethink our future. But in all probability will stay put. Our 4 dogs love the yard. Plus cwe aren’t getting any younger. Anyhow glad you haven’t left permanently left us yet. Whatever your decision is go with Gods blessing and all of our love. Thanks for the years of traveling and fun you shared. Hug to you and the boys.
Hi Sue! I totally understand about crossroads periods…..what to do and how to do it. You know we all love you. And people who love you want you to do what is best for yourself and brings you happiness…..whatever that is.
The house looks beautiful!
I have a technical question for anyone here who knows about these things. When I set up my van, it will include a cell amplifier like a Wilson. I know they make them for the house and for vehicles. I could use one for the house sometimes. Is it possible to use the vehicle amp if it is parked close by? This may be a very dumb question…sorry. I just didn’t know how close my Verizon Jet Pac needed to be to the amp. The way I’m living right now, it would be similar to when you (Sue) parked the trailer in the shade and the van nearby. Thanks for any input you can give.
Have a wonderful day all!
Love from VA,
MB, Bella and newly adopted Molly
Thanks for the nice message, MB. I don’t know the answer to your question.
Blogorinos: Do you have information about using a cell amplifier with a jetpack? See MP’s last paragraph (above).
Hi, MB,
This morning I placed my jetpack about two car lengths away from my laptop as a test. The signal worked as well from that distance as it does when placed right beside my laptop. My point is that if you have a cell amplifier in a vehicle, and put the jetpack with it, the signal will most likely work/reach to any device used to access the internet that’s in a house, or any place, as long as you aren’t very far away. So it probably doesn’t matter how far from the amplifier the jetpack will work, because placing them beside each other shouldn’t be a problem.
Thank you for the field test Weather!!!!! I really appreciate it!
Have a wonderful day!
MB
Thank you for entertaining me through your blog. I’ve been here since you picked up your Casita in Rice reading each and every post. My heart broke with yours when you lost Spikey, then Bridget. I was thrilled like Roger when he found his best friend and you and Reggie adopted him. I will miss hearing about you three, but also understand your concern. When I was a child, my mother never locked a door, but sadly, not safe today. God bless and keep you three, and please give R & R an extra hug for me. I will always pray for you.
Hi Sue! I have been wondering when you would write again and was happy to find your post in my email today! I hope you continue to write. I love your style. I have been thinking about you recently as I just finished reading Nomadland by Jessica Broder. As you know, you were briefly mentioned in the book. I have always found your story and adventures so inspiring and positive. You were an inspiration for me to sell my house, get a truck and trailer, and travel the country. I was able to do that two years ago, and love the traveling life. Thank you again for being somewhat of a guide and definitely an inspiration. I think there are many other RVers who are as thankful for you as I am. Boder’s book had a much different focus, not the positive, exciting, and adventurous message of your blog. Although the book was interesting, I don’t think it gives a full picture of full time RVers, which I get more of from reading your stories, and those of your readers. Whatever you decide the next direction for you will be, I wish you all the best and hope to hear about it from you!
Oh boy the boys have bling!
How sweet of Reg to show Rog, the collar was harmless! Reg’s face is adorable! How did Reg man do on the 4th?
The porch looks great! So bright! Yep some times projects that seem fairly easy blossoms into a task that takes figuring out!
As for the blog…you do what is BEST for you! You have taken us on so many journeys to far away places…absolutely gorgeous places and invited us into your life. You don’t really know how many folks you’ve inspired…I could safely say….a lot! Being part of the blogorino family is a feeling only other blogorinos know…the caring and cohesiveness is truly amazing! Everyone is a virtual friend…but it feels like we’ve known each other for ever! Thank you!
We are here because of you and appreciate the dedication you’ve have toward the blog! If and When the time comes that you hitch up…we will be ready…until that time…take some time for YOU and the crew!
You know we love you! Hugs to you and the crew!
Hi, Cinandjules!
Reg and Rog did fine on the 4th. The neighborhood was quiet. 🙂 Hope AO had a good night, too.
Thanks for the message of support.
BTW, it’s raining here!
Glad to see you and the boys are doing well. Always a challenge to decide if a new life style means changes in capturing it. Certainly many of us still enjoy hearing what you’re up to. And the boys’ antics are always delightful 🙂
IT’S RAINING! IT’S POURING!
MONSOON SEASON HAS ARRIVED AT LAST IN SOUTHEASTERN ARIZONA!
YIPPEE!
Yay monsoon!
Hi, Calvin! I’m doing the rain boogie with you! Hahaha!
Hurray!!! What a wonderful difference that will make, enjoy the gift, Sue 🙂
Heavenly cool breezes along with rain…. I am enjoying the change. 🙂
How fortunate!!! We WISH the overcast skies would unload here…but so far for a long time now, most just a few drips…and it LOOKS like August already…so rain is a blessing and glad you are having it!!
Let the rain buckets fill to the top!
Just windy up here!
Love those handsome boys.❤️. I have been reading your blog since back when you had the original crew. Your blog helped me make the decision to switch from the Aliner to our current RV that we love. I read whenever you post, and also because of your blog, read the Bayfield Bunch. Just do whatever suits you when it comes to blogging. Whenever you post I will read.
Hi Sue. I am still out here reading when I can. Lots has changed in my life since I retired last year. I still enjoy your blog. We had our house painted a couple of weeks ago and we have a ceiling put under our patio cover. We had a lot of the same problems that you described with your porch. But ours looks wonderful now. We found a really nice indoor/outdoor ceiling fan that we installed. Now if we could just get rid of the mosquitoes we could really enjoy it. Whatever you decide about the blog will be ok. Continue or stop I would understand. Keep the Casita or sell it does not matter. What matters is that you have inspired and counciled and changed a lot of peoples outlook and lives through this blog. I thank you so much. I will continue to read and order through Amazon as long as you grace us with your writing.
Generally for every few that comment there are tons more that don’t! People have to get through all their social media – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc., and don’t always have time to do comments but still enjoy reading the blogs. Maybe there aren’t the travel adventures anymore, but the people that love you still care about you and want to hear from you. Just do it when you feel like it! I think most people are on Facebook now – I don’t think I know anyone who isn’t! But either way, I still want to know what is going on with you, Reggie and Roger.
Hi Sue, Monsoon…Yes it has arrived but not with rains here in Phoenix…just the winds and some clouds. I was happy to see your post today while I was out and waited until I got home so I could use the PC to ready (larger print and a real keyboard, LOL). When I got home some one was parked in my parking slot so I parked in the handicap slot in front of my building. I had some lunch and fired up the computer for some lovely words from RVSue and her blogorinos. Was sending a note to my 5yr old nephew Zo with pictures of Reg’s and Rog’s new jewelry when BAM a loud noise and the building shook, the ice in my tea actually bounced out of the glass…I ran out outside to the front and saw a very LARGE eucalyptus tree branch had fallen in front of the two apartments and the stairs to the upper two floors…I couldn’t see my car so I ran around two buildings to get to the front…I couldn’t see the the hood or get close for all of the people gawking…I was in a panic but then I decided to go back to my note to Zo and to the read blogorinos comments (one of the pluses of your blog)…I was chilling out and enjoying RVSue and her blogorino family putting off the inevitable when a knock came…maintenance to tell me that my car was UNTOUCHED except for lots of leaves and eucalyptus seeds…Whew, what a relief!
I am glad that you chose to post a blog…I am a tiny bit selfish because you bring me such joy with your words, photos and blogorino family. As others have stated very well…do what brings you JOY and HAPPINESS. I will always check in and will continue to save so I may use your Amazon link.
Take Care
P.S. Zo sends smiles, hearts and ASL sign for puppy dogs to Reg and Rog…all from his own IPad…lots of laughter from me as there were many, many emoticons
Kaye from Oregon Since you love to read ….. maybe books you have read or are currently reading could be a topic for your blog. Even readers could post their book reviews or recommendations. This would be so helpful for all of us to find the real treasures out there to read. Perhaps a book of the month could be a topic with blogorinos sharing their thoughts on character development or discussing story lines. This would also increase revenue from book sales from Amazon for Roger & Reggies food, treats and TOYS !!!! In depth HOBBIES could be another discussion with blogorinos sharing their experiences. Perhaps they make a little spare change from their hobby. When my Grandchildren were small they would keep asking me to tell them stories from when I was a child. Very short pet stories are very entertaining too. Just a few ideas to ponder and perhaps share to take some of the burden off you finding a topic to discuss. The boys look so clean and very healthy !! So glad you are well too…you had me worried !!!
It will be so sad to see this blog go silent but I certainly understand if it does. Your fans love you and the crew and I am sure by the comments above that they understand also.
You know I love you and send Big Hugs
Whatever you decide, know that we are here to support you any way we can. You have created a wonderful community. Since I like to keep busy, I am starting a blog about retiring in this area. I want to talk about things to do and also general retirement life stuff (like an info on Bitcoin for retirees). Maybe you could have a lifestyle blog: Lifrstyles of the living on less. You have such a talent for making everything clear and interesting writing about things you learned or problems you need to solve.
I’ve followed your blog since day one, very rarely missed a post. However, I think this may only be about the third time I’ve commented. I found you soon after my husband passed away, you were a great help in getting me through that period of my life. You inspired me to purchase a truck camper. I have stayed in many of the camps you featured in your blog.
Thank you for considering those of use who do not use Facebook or similar social media in your future plans.
I’m touched that this blog helped you after the passing of your husband. Thank you for sharing that. It’s gratifying to me to know you were inspired to set out on your own with your truck camper!
Hi Sue – I remember following you when you first got your Casita and your years of blogging have been creative, informative, inspirational, thought provoking, humorous and passionate for enjoying what life rolls your way. The way you craft your blog – makes it something I look forward to reading whenever it pops up. So adding my 2 cents to the gang —- if you still enjoy creating it – keep doing it —- your blog viewers will be thrilled to get occasional updates over silence ( I don’t think Facebook would hold a candle to your current blog style). If you shut er down – I understand things come to an end but I wanted to let you know —- I am glad I had the experience to read and feel like I was in the passenger seat of the perfect tow vehicle 😎 of Sue and her crew – Thank you 👍
You’re welcome, BJ. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for riding with me and my crew all these years.
Just a reminder about the toads…..
DANGERS OF MONSOON SEASON!
There is a big toad that lives in Arizona — The Sonoran Desert Toad (a.k.a., the Colorado River Toad). The toad emerges from the ground during monsoon season.
The toad is covered with poison. When a pet licks one, the poison is absorbed very rapidly through the pet’s mouth. The signs that you will see are first drooling then frothing and then collapse.
Use a garden hose to rinse your pet’s mouth. Then bring your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Even low doses of the toad’s poison may be fatal without proper treatment.
Yikes, that’s like something from a horror movie! Sadly, it’s all too real. I googled about those toads and read that there’s no antidote for their poison, just that if caught early enough survival depends on the doctors controlling the reactions enough to allow relief and recovery .
While on the topic of cautionary tales… the ASIN for 1000 square feet of aluminum foil is B07FJ43JY9. I looked that up after seeing a meme that said
!!! WARNING !!!
Facebook is planning to start scanning your brain for private information through your computer screen. To stop this from happening wrap aluminum foil around your head.
🙂 For several reasons, including having an aversion to a lot of public scrutiny, I haven’t used facebook, instagram, twitter, pinterest, etc., nor do I want to. All of my family and friends do, and they enjoy it. I understand that there are ways to protect one’s privacy on social media, and cannot say that I won’t at some point change my mind about it. Still, I kinda hope it remains avoidable. Just my two cents on all that, hope everyone’s having a good day.
I just barely got out the the flip phone age to a simple phone…not smart phone. Call me a dinosaur….what have you..I like to keep things “back in the day” way!
Alexa and all that smart technology….meh!
If you think about it…their wasn’t all this bullying, licking ice cream containers, black lives matter, hate, Alexa do my house chores… etc prior to the social media craze! We are trying our best not to join em either!
Luv you’re reaction! My brother rented a very recent model car when he came up here. It automatically synced with his phone, so his phone would NOT stop telling him stuff like “caution, you are not on pavement” every time we drove a country road. He was pretty frustrated and distracted, really, how unsafe can that great technology be,Ha!
Hah know the feeling….rented a car in the BayArea when I visited. It was the push button on ignition…I went back inside and said excuse me…how do I turn the car on? She looked at me like I had three eyes! Oh it’s already on…ok then how do I turn it off? 😳😳
Fast forward..finally decided that my 1999 Chevy blazer with 85K miles wasn’t trustworthy with the air conditioning needed out here…my new at the time 2018 rav 4 about drives itself! I AM SERIOUS! Most of it works along with a phone….hah guess what? Don’t have navigation or whatever else! Do folks still know how to read a map?
Hi, Sue,
Glad to see a new post and hear that your life is humming along just fine. So many blogorinos have written such wonderful comments, I couldn’t have said it better.
We picked up our Casita June of 2011 and have been following your travels since we saw you at Deschutes River State Park near The Dalles, Oregon. Over the years, we have learned some handy ideas from your extensive travels that have made our travels easier. Thanks! Amazing how the time flies.
Soon we will be headed south to the Oregon Coast and the Fiberglas Gathering at Bullard’s Beach the end of the month. We are looking forward to it. Perhaps some of the other blogorinos will be there.
Enjoy your days,
Kitt
Sue, your blogs have been such a joy to read, no matter what your subject matter! Your writing gift makes every day life interesting. I hope you can find a way to keep all of us in your life, but of course, it is your blog and and such reflects what is best for you. As a fellow introvert, I get that you need a privacy barrier. Just know that we would all miss you and the crew very much!
Sue, frankly, I don’t remember if I have posted a comment before. However, I can tell you for sure that I have laughed, cried, and completely enjoyed your blog. I started just after you “hit the road” and went back to catch up on your decision process. What a story! You have inspired me beyond words over the years. And the crew, well I certainly feel like I know them as if they were mine. Selfishly, I would miss your posts. When you do take a pause in writing a concern sets in like “is she ok”? If you should choose to stop, can you somehow let us know that you and the crew are alright once in a while?
Best of luck to you, Sue. Thank you, thank you for the years of entertainment!
What a nice message, Jane. Thank you for being a part of the success of my blog!
Gosh Sue, we just got used to you blogging once a week; don’t even want to think about not being able to read about what is going on with you and the boys at all. You know at this point, you aren’t just some stranger who is blogging about her daily life, I think most of us think of you as a friend and we love keeping up with your news. I can certainly understand your needing to take a break or feeling like you are under pressure to write, but please know that we sure do appreciate your taking the time to do it. You are such an interesting writer, no matter what you are writing about – traveling on the road or just being at home. If you decide to go the Facebook route, please be sure to post an announcement so that we can continue to follow you there. But hope that after you have some time to decompress, you will choose to write once in a while so we can continue to see pictures of the boys and see the great things you are doing around the house. Take care and best wishes, Linda
My sentiments exactly. Good call Linda…
Hi Sue and crew, and my fellow blogerinos,
I agree with all the others who have stated so well that the lack of your blog would leave a hole in my life. You have formed a wonderful community with your writing. However, you did not say that you were shutting down the page, you are exploring what fits you best at this time. So really, you are still exploring as you did in all those boondocks. I look forward to you sharing the turns in the “road” ahead. I thank you for all that you have taught by sharing your endeavors. Now I need to get busy and make a record of those wonderful, out of the way campsites to enjoy in my life on the road years.
Peace
P.S. If keeping the blog active requires $ (I don’t know since I never had a blog…yet) I would be happy to contribute.
Hi, Lisa, Dad, Tommie and Buddy….
About campsites…. I did compile a list of a few years of camps (see header).
Sweet of you to mention donating to the blog (Yes, there are expenses!), but I don’t want that. What I would like is for readers to use the links I post. I admit I get discouraged when over two thousand people read a blog post and only one person places an order.
What I’m saying is…. If you like my blog and want it to continue, there are ways to support it, either with shopping and/or commenting (which I know you do, Lisa, and I appreciate that).
It’s funny — when I was living a spartan life on the road, living on public land with few expenses, this blog did well for us. Now that I have mortgage payment, house bills, repairs, and maintenance, and increased blogging costs…. POOF!
Even so, I’m grateful for the people, like you, who care, and I have been blessed beyond measure. 🙂
RVSue, you wrote:
“It’s funny — when I was living a spartan life on the road, living on public land with few expenses, this blog did well for us. Now that I have mortgage payment, house bills, repairs, and maintenance, and increased blogging costs…. POOF!”
Do you think it’s because of the infrequency of your posts now as compared to before? I know for myself, there are a number of bloggers I could support with my frequent Amazon shopping but have chosen you. However, I admit to wondering if I should shift that support elsewhere to someone posting more frequently now that it’s up in the air whether you’ll be continuing.
Just wanted to mention that as a real possibility as to why you’ve seen a decline. Not meant as a guilt trip at all, just pointing out the tendency of a likely shift in human behavior in response to a shift in another’s behavior.
Also, if I’ve had thoughts along those lines, I imagine others have, too, and some may have already acted on it.
I hope you and Roger and Reggie are doing well. I do miss your stories of their antics!
Blessings,
Fern
Hi, Fern,
Your theory is true to a certain extent. However, decline in sales started two years ago when we were traveling and I was blogging frequently. I tried to bolster sales but the decline has been steady, so it doesn’t make much difference if I post or not. Looking at it another way, if more frequent posts would help I’d be motivated to post more often, right?
It depends upon your purpose for blogging. 🙂 If it’s for income, which is perfectly legitimate, then it’s completely understandable that you’d be less inclined to blog if sales are down.
Were you aware that around two years ago (I forget the exact date) Amazon majorly changed their percentage structure for affiliate payout? A lot of bloggers took a hit in their Amazon affiliate income because of it. Not sure if that was the case for your decline in revenue (it would have to have been at least part of it), or if it was also a decline in actual sales from your readers.
It does take extra effort to intentionally go through an affiliate link to Amazon when one could easily go straight to Amazon. Personally, though, it’s worth it to me to be able to “pay” someone whose posts I enjoy reading on a regular basis.
Wishing you all the best!
My statements are based on statistics for orders which are provided to bloggers daily. The decline has nothing to do with Amazon policies.
Anyone who has read my blog over the past 8 years knows I blogged for more reasons than $$. When my motivation waned, the $$ was encouraging, as were the words of a few loyal followers.
Competition has grown exponentially. People are enchanted with YouTube videos and new blogs/vlogs. Perhaps the time for a blog such as mine has passed. It was a good run and I have no complaints.
Yes, Sue, long term readers have known your reasons have been to share, teach, give, grow a caring online community, and provide us with an entertaining post on a regular basis.
There is a part of your reply that I consider to be inaccurate, though, it’s the sentence containing-
“… a blog such as mine…” , there is no other blog such as or like yours. Hence, it’s tremendous popularity throughout the years. Not to criticize anyone else’s blog, just to mention very few people have your ability to write well and interestingly about big, small, profound or light hearted topics. Besides, quite aside from your many talents, your genuine good-heartedness has always shown, a beacon of light in a world without enough of that…
Cant wait ty o see what you come up with if you de ide to blog on. Happy summer!
Hi Sue and all,
A quick review of camping outside of Mesa Verde, for free. The area is called Cherry Creek, and it’s about halfway between Mesa Verde and Durango, right off highway 160. It used to be a gravel pit that is now being restored to its natural state. The road in to the site is very short, but the first 100 yards are very rough and uphill. We put the van in low, and crawled up it slowly and had plenty of clearance choosing our line between the ruts. We had shade and “okay” privacy the way we parked. It was never crowded, yet there were others using the area off and on while we were there for 4 days. It provided us access to Mesa Verde within about 15 minutes, and Durango about the same.
We just left another GREAT camp on the North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. There is only 1 CG within the park boundary, (North side) and it only has 13 primitive sites. $8/night with senior pass. We got there on a Monday morning around 9:30 am and had no problem getting “the best site in there”. We had shade beneath Pinyon Junipers, water nearby, and pit toilets. Our site, #4, was a nice pull through, (only 3 of those, and I’d say don’t bother with anything over 32-34’ overall length). This CG is old, and is used mostly by hikers, and climbers with tents, or van camping. It’s clean, but no host. The ranger station is only open weekends, and there is no cell service for 5 miles. Our site backed up to a private canyon view, and the Painted Wall. It was AHH- mazing! It is definitely on our “return to” list! We hiked and walked, and enjoyed cooler temperatures at our 8,000’ elevation.
**Those mozzies got me, more than Larry, but not as bad as at our camp on Blue Mesa last week. That was a good camp too, about 17 mi West of Gunnison, at Red Creek. Another primitive site with water and toilets for $8/ night. Very private, and we had a nice little creek there to listen too. Also, no cell signal.
About 30 miles North of the Black Canyon on Hwy 92, we found Hotchkiss today, to get a few things done before continuing North. There is a free dump station 6 mi West of Hotchkiss, at Gunnison River Pleasure Park. Otherwise you can pay $30 to Dump at Crawford SP. Outrageous! There is a laundry and showers, a City Market, truck and car wash, Gas, a few places to eat, an ACE, and a thrift/donation center, which was also on our list. Here in Hotchkiss, at the Fairgrounds, there is an awesome “city park” and overnight camping is allowed. The park is shaded by beautiful trees, and has green, green grass, with clean picnic tables! A few places along the fence have electric hookups. Score!! (AC!) They ask for a $3/ donation, and you stick your money in a slot by the toilets and showers. Showers are a $2 donation. Yay! I’m going to be a clean puppy tonight!! HaHa! My last shower was a month ago at Mesa Verde. I know, right?! With our outdoor shower we have been in private enough spots to just rinse off at the trailer when we want, so don’t fret, we aren’t that crusty! 😬 The only thing I truly miss is a real running water shampoo. I get those when I can, and when we don’t have to conserve water too much. A dish pan shampoo is hard for me as I never really get it squeaky clean, or rinsed well. It feels good, but nothing like a real shower and shampoo.
It feels good to have cell service again, so we can research our route ahead. The last three camps, a total of about 3.5 weeks, we’ve had no service unless we are running errands in or near towns. We haven’t minded, but it can be inconvenient for planning.
We are headed North in order to get into the mountains in ID. It feels hot to me today at 5,000’ as compared to 8000’ at our last couple camps. We will drive early, between 6 and 11 am to avoid the heat, and get back into the forests of ID relatively quickly. It will be hot between here and there mostly. We are hoping to find enough shade along the way to avoid having to pay for hookups. Fingers crossed!
Good talking to you! Hope everyone in Blogerino-land is well and enjoying Summer. Two days ago marked our 1 year anniversary picking up our new Liberty Deluxe. We’ve had a fabulous year Sue- just fabulous! We’ve passed so many places that I gave a pseudo wave in your honor. It felt special to know we traveled some of the roads and camps you blogged about. I can’t tell you how grateful we are that we took the leap to full timing. Your blog has not only been a God-send, but also a community comfort too. It’s a safe place for all of us to commune. Sort of like having coffee on the porch with you and your readers. Very special indeed. 👌🏼🤩
Aloha for now! Suzi, Larry, & Kitty. 😸💙
I enjoyed your detailed trip report, Suzi! I bet you savored that hot water shower, and the resulting squeaky clean hair! Safe travels to ID! 😊
The shower was fabulous Denise! And yes, my hair and scalp feels truly clean! Oh what a life! 🤩
How are YOU doing? Hugs ☺️
Slow and steady recovery from surgery. This week was better than last – I will take it! 🙂
Thank you for the hugs, Suzi! Back atcha! 😊
Hi, Suzi!
How very generous of your time and effort to share all this great information with us, along with your enthusiasm for the full-timing adventure. It’s a joy for me to read!
I note how you and Larry quickly learned how to “read” elevation as it affects temperatures and using that information as part of your planning. … an important skill for boondocking. Even so, as you know, it isn’t always possible to get from point A to point B and still camp in optimum air temperature. There are times when you will be in heat (or cold and snow) in order to go where you want to go. You’re doing an excellent job! Reading your updates, one would think you’ve been full-timers for several years.
You’ve also found that some of the most wonderful boondocks are in places where there is no internet. That limited my explorations while in Colorado because I wanted to keep in touch with the blog and its readers. Many a time I didn’t take a road which I suspected led to great campsites because there would be no signal. That boondock 15 minutes from Mesa Verde and Durango… wow! Congratulations on finding it!
Your updates are much enjoyed and appreciated, Suzi. You add much value to my blog and also richness to our community with your cheerful reports.
“We’ve had a fabulous year…..” I’m am very happy for you, Larry & Kitty! :
I realize I have not been doing a good job of supporting Sue and the crew by not using her link when I buy from Amazon. Since next week Amazon is doing Prime day and week, I promise to use her link if I buy something. I hope other will consider taking the pledge as a show of support for all she has given us and do the same. Let us endeavour to make July 2019 her most AMAZ(O)iNg month ever!
🙂
Love your idea for a show of support for all Sue has given us !
This morning I used her link to buy The Pure Word, a book I have been interested in since watching some shows about what was involved with its translation.
Some might think that unless they purchase a big ticket item it will not be much of a help, I believe any order we place by using her links can matter, though. My family, friends and neighbors are in the habit of often exchanging small gifts and favors with each other. The monetary values involved may add up over time, yet aren’t what makes that special, the gestures showing that we care about each is what touches our hearts.
While Sue might only receive a wee amount from my order, if four others bought something priced the same as that book she could get enough to buy a rotisserie chicken to share with the crew on a day when it’s too hot to cook. Hope everyone stays cool and well today 🙂
Thanks, weather. I see your order. 🙂
Glad to help & get great deals at the same time 🙂
Since then I also used your link to buy a M Aveline memory foam/gel mattress, a Zinus bedframe and Eddie Bauer sheet set. I hope you and the boys have been well and enjoying life, and maybe even having rainy cooler hours on occasion. The book has been as good as advertised, the mattress is amazingly comfortable, and I
expect to be really happy with the other items, too, when they arrive later this week.
Thank you, weather. You are very thoughtful. (I see the order!)
Honestly, Sue, I should be thanking you, too. If you hadn’t provided a link I wouldn’t have thought of looking for what I bought on their site, because I thought what I was interested in would cost too much to justify spending money on “wants that aren’t really needs” . They offered such great deals that it would have been fairly ridiculous of me to not get a few things that will make my life even nicer now.
Hope you and the boys have a wonderful day, I popped in here to use your link so I could buy another book, titled
” Story in the stars…” , from interviews I watched and what I know so far on it’s topic I can tell it’s going to fascinate me.
Hi Sue
Yes, I’m still lurking…
Wow, what a wonderful, amazing trip you’ve taken me (and all your bloggerinos) on!
I wish you well as you transition to the next phase in your writing endeavours. Perhaps fiction of some sort would satisfy that itch to get your thoughts out at the keyboard. Works for me 🙂
I’m ‘settled’ in Vancouver.
Email if you’re comfortable with doing that.
Cheers
Phil
ps. Did I tell you I sold my trailer?
Hi, Phil!
I had fun rereading all your comments going back to 2014. It was a pleasure for me because you’re a guy with a positive outlook, even when dealing with cancer! 🙂
Nice hearing from you again… Enjoy your home in Vancouver!
Just stopped by to say Hi.
Hi, Maple Valley gal! 🙂
Hey Lady!
Hi back at you, gal in Maple Valley! Missed you! 🙂
Thanks for sharing your views both visually and mentally. And allowing others to add to them.
Hi Sue and all, I just got home from the Hospital yesterday and the Surgery on my Lung was a success, they removed the whole Nodgual and today I had Jerry change the last Bandage dressing and everything is healing up nicely, I need to do a follow-up in 2 weeks to remove the staples and see if it was Cancer, my Lymph nodes are clean so no worries there, I thank you all for your prayers and good wishes,, have a Beautiful Blessed Life and be true to yourselves,, Piper says hi too,,, love always,, Rusty n Piper
Hi Rusty, Thanks for the update. I’m so happy to hear a positive report. We will keep praying that your situation continues to improve. Hugs to you and Piper.
Thanks Applegirl1NY, YEA a lot has been going in the right direction towards my health, the folks up at the Louaville VAMC know what they are Doing and I have no complaints on them ether, I’m getting in Tune and my timing is of course is next come November 14th, a day before I turn 70, wow where’d the time go, LOL,,, 😉 ,,, 👣👣🐾
Thanks for the update, Rusty. I wish you and your doctors continued success on your path to better health. Hi to Piper!
Hi Rusty and Piper! I am happy to hear your surgery good news! I don’t often write, but have followed RVSue and you are one of my favorites!! I enjoy hearing how you get on through life changes (can’t avoid changes!); you have a grounded, positive life perspective through everything!!! And Piper is a lucky one!!
mb in Abita LA
Hi Rusty, I’ve been AWOL, but I just now read your post. I’m SO excited to hear this good news! And I love how upbeat and positive you have always been, no matter what is going on in your life. I truly admire that. I wish I could give you and Lady Piper hugs. This note will have to do. Bless you both.
Suzi
Amazon Prime Days start today! 7/15 – 7/16.
Any chance that you will post a link, Sue?
Have a great day!
Hi, Diann,
Use any link I’ve posted, put Prime Day in the search box, and voila! You’re there! 🙂
Sorry, Sue! Your reply to Diann was not there when I posted my comment. Very strange based on the time stamp of our comments. 😯
No apology needed, Denise. I made several revisions to my reply to Diann while trying to post a link to Prime Day, which were unsuccessful. That’s probably the cause of the confusing time stamp.
Thank you for thinking of a reminder about Prime Day. 🙂
😊 xo
Hi, Diann,
By clicking on any of the Amazon links that Sue has listed near the end of this blog post will ensure Sue gets credit for purchases.
Look for the link for the dog collars or the Amazon Gold Box deals.
Thank you for thinking of Sue when making your Amazon purchase! 😊
Hi, Sue,
I like how you are changing the header photo on the post. Not sure how often you make the change. It is a happy walk down memory lane. 😊
Sending you and the boys lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! xo 😊
Hello, fellow blogorinos! Just a reminder: Today is Amazon Prime Day. If you click on one of the links on this blog post (dog collars or the Amazon Gold Box), your purchase will earn Sue a small commission at no extra cost to you. Have a great day! 😊
Hi Sue,
Caution! Random writing here-little editing.
Don’t know if I am saying goodbye or yippee-Sue-might-hang-around!! And both!
Every day is a goodbye because life changes. Things you expect to happen don’t and things that you don’t expect to happen do!
So. While we still have you…Whatever is ahead, thank you for all the snapshots of your journeys, thinking, learning, perspectives, pet-people, evolutions, your blog and your blogorinos, writing, composing, PICTURES!, experiences, RV information, PTV information, how-to-do-it info, Hello America info, the list is too long.
We all appreciate you and what you do with your blog…nature will take it’s course with all things. Whatever you find yourself doing, can be changed, undone, morphed, altered, stopped, or backed out of.
I am just glad I stumbled onto somebody’s recommendation to check out this lady and her dogs “RVSue”! What a find!! Judging by the number of responses here, in the future I will have company in searching for any activity from RVSue. (or AZSue?)
I am not a Facebooker-changed my mind but don’t know how to cancel; Compiling your RVSue blog years into a book sounds great. Or I can just print them out if a book is not in the future. Sure do like your composition! Hug to you!
Later,
MB in Abita, LA
Hey Sue,
Forgot to say I like your white porch ceiling; it looks cooling!
Man those pups look cute!!
mb in abita, LA
Hi Sue! I’m just catching up this week from being on vacation last week. I am glad that you are thinking about alternatives that will work for you. This is the only blog that I participate on. I would be sad to see it end. However, you have given us so much over the years, that I don’t want you to feel this is a chore and a burden. Whatever you decide, I do hope that you would be able to keep up the archived blogs so we can go back and relive your travels.
I was at Bald Head Island for a much needed vacation with my sisters, brother in law and niece. There are sea turtle nests on the beach, but none hatched while I was there. I got to see alot of wild life. I saw an osprey nest with a mom and her chick! I also got to see so many ibis and herons. On my last morning, I saw three young deer grazing in the front of the house I was staying in. Bald Head is a really fun place to visit. Cars are banned, so everyone uses a golf cart. It really cuts down on the noise and pollution and gives a more laid back feel to the place.
As an update, my father is healing, but is still unable to drive a car. My job search is ongoing. I had previously thought that I wouldn’t consider moving out of state. However, if I can find a really good job to support me in my future I may consider it. I hate being that far away from my parents, however. Yet, I need a job that will help me have a better life and a better retirement. Being an adult can really stink sometimes!
Look forward to hearing updates from the other Blogorinos.
You may want to try a website called workinthetriangle.com
Scroll to see a job search box, type in the 2 words- available position-, they have job openings listed alphabetically in your state. I’m glad you enjoyed your vacation, and came here to let us know how it went.
🙂
Thanks so much Weather! I will check that out!
Hi, Dawn,
I am so glad that you had a wonderful vacation with your family! Being able to decompress and enjoy your beautiful, peaceful surroundings was just what you needed. I will continue to send you positive thoughts and keep you in my prayers for a successful job search. 🙂
Thanks for your positive thoughts Denise! I’m glad that you are slowly but surely feeling better. I may have some positive news about where I am currently working. I’ll keep you guys updated! I sympathize about the heat. It is HOT!
Thank you, Dawn. I have my fingers crossed for you! 😊
Gosh, wrote a reply and it got swallowed by the ether!
Hi RVSue, a few posts back you mentioned the fate of the BLT was up in the air, just want you to know that if you do consider parting with it, I am in the market and in Southern California, not too far away. Glad to see you are enjoying your new life and to be honest, if I was you I wouldn’t be worrying about blogging anymore either!
Hi Sue, just a drop in, got some coffee, LOL. Miss coffee, but an off it for awhile to see if I sleep better. Though that isn’t right, I sleep fine just not enough. Love the taste of coffee and tea, am switching to decaf when September arrives.
I finally got around to a old truck of Partner’s that I have been overlooking for the past three years. Discovered every letter, note, and card we shared for forty years. I thought I must have thrown out all I had received when I sold the house. Nope, she had squirreled everything away to be found later. I now have beautiful albums, collages of fun times and additional thoughts written down to go along with all of the memories. She had problems sleeping those last few years, now I know what she was doing after I went to bed. My heart still fills with so much love for what we had.
I also found a hard copy of a fictional novel she wrote years ago. We had talked about publishing it but it was something she want to do. I had edited it and I knew it was in her laptop. I could never remember the password so I felt it was lost forever. A letter was in the box giving me permission to publish if I thought it was worth the trouble. I don’t think of it was trouble…it is a marvelous story about life, death, after death and the future. Her animals, some of her favorite characters from her life and her love of science play majors roles. It is funny, sad and thought provoking. I am putting it on a flash drive and will self publish.
I also found her scribbled notes and you and the original crew are list quite often…how you set out to bring happiness to you and your pups in retirement. We talked about your adventures as I read the blog and comments. Partner tried to fit you and weather, into some of the conversations of the novel…she didn’t name the durn thing…that will have to wait til I’m done typing it. This version is not one that I’ve seen, no edits in my hand so it may have ya’ll involved. am not reading it as it is easier to type one letter at a time rather than words, something I learn as a teletypist in the Army. I am happier now with a goal not my own to accomplish.
I hope you are well and happy. Take Care my blog Friend…as weather stated, your is the only blog I follow. Have a wonderful July and hope the monsoon is just a nice wind for you.
What a wonderful discovery, Deena! Your partner obviously put a lot of love and dedication into creating a record of your life together. If you publish her novel, please let us know! 🙂
Thank you, Denise. I will, maybe by next year… have to take frequent breaks… eyes get tired more quickly these days.
Take Care
Oh, Deena, that is so wonderful!
I am a new blogorino and we don’t know each other, but I certainly understand the treasure of old letters and an unpublished novel. I’m so happy for you that you found those things!
The novel sounds wonderful, and I hope to have the opportunity to read it someday.
Welcome Nila to Sue’s blogorino world. Thank your kind words. Have Great Monday.
Welcome, Nila! 🙂
Oh, thank you, both of you! I can see this is a wonderful community 🙂
Deena, I am so happy for you that you found your trunk full of letters and cards! I wish you success with your novel. What a wonderful gift to you and to her!
Thank you Dawn…it has been a wonderful journey…a very nice way to start a day reading her thoughts and sensing her amazing mind at work. I am blessed.
Enjoy your day!
Good morning, Sue, and my fellow blogorinos! 😊
I hope everyone enjoys the weekend, but is mindful of the high temps. We are supposed to get up to 111 degrees today. With the high humidity factored in, the “feels like” temp will be 115+. I am thankful for our A/C. Other than potty breaks for Gracie pup and checking the mail, we will be chilling inside.
Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and my little Gracie pup! We love you! 💕🐾
Stay safe and cool, my friends! 😊
You are wise to stay inside when it’s that hot outside, Denise. I hope and pray that you are feeling better with each passing day. Gracie pup must feel pampered by having you home with her more often now, hopefully that togetherness has made recent times feel kinda special for you 🙂 . Our “feels like”temps lakeside here in central NY state will be like yours today. It’s nice to see you here, especially now when it’s not a day to go out walking around visiting friends nearby. I actually just popped in to use Sue’s link for a little shopping, your note made me even more glad that I checked in.
Hi, weather,
Thank you for your sweet note! I am happy to find you checking in as well! 😊
Yes, Gracie pup has been taking good care of me, and I have been cherishing the extra time I have with her. Little Miss will turn 10 early next month – so hard to believe! Seems like just a few years ago that I was anxiously awaiting the day that I could bring her home. My little sweetie. 😊
My recovery is slow and steady, which is to be expected. I am very glad and thankful for better days than several weeks ago. 😊
Thank you for your kind thoughts and prayers, weather. xo
I am glad that you are keeping cool inside today. Enjoy the rest of the weekend, my friend. Sending you a **hug** 😊
Oops – don’t click on my name – there is not a link. I must have filled in the incorrect line on the form by error.
Glad to hear that you are doing ok, Denise!! Thanks for that update!! We haven not had a lot of rain out here either…also noticing some leaves turning and falling…very strange couple of years, weather-wise. We had the 2nd appt with the specialist this week for hubby…all has been ruled out, other than hydrocephalus. Next question to be answered is whether a shunt would help…so they do a spinal tap, takes 3 days in hospital…to decide that. But we have time and not an emergency. I have read some lately that leads me to think of yet another area we should seek to find out on him…before we put him through the spinal tap. We drove the back roads and used the ferry…oh so nice not to face all the life threatening traffic on the freeway!! A way more relaxed way to go. Sometimes time is less important than stress!!
Hi, Elizabeth,
So glad that you and your husband have time to review options for his treatment. And yes, driving backroads is usually safer and less stressful. I do the same thing when driving home from work. Taking a slightly slower, less congested, but more scenic route home helps me decompress. Sending you a **hug** 😊
If anyone is getting too much rain, please send some my way! It is so dry that leaves are starting to brown and fall off the pear trees. Family and friends in western and northern Virginia have been receiving a good amount of rain on a regular basis.
I order a few things early this morning Sue…I hope they appear on your report. ink cartridges, ring size adjuster and a photo album. More next month, need to get some balsa wood but keep changing what I want to do with it…something Zo and Giada need to decide…Kids, so much fun…on cruise with their Dad to see the Mayan ruins in Mexico.
Take Care
Just checking in this morning to say Hi to everyone! I hope everyone had a refreshing weekend! I did get a little rain, but not much. We’re supposed to get a break in the heat, is it next week? I can’t wait! Even with my A/C set on a reasonable setting, I sit in my house and sweat! Getting to be middle aged can really stink sometimes.
As for family news, my father’s broken hip is slowly, but surely mending! Although he is not back to driving yet, he gets better mobility every day. He’s still a bit unsteady with his balance, but is becoming ever more active. He is chomping at the bit to get out of the house again. I consider that a good sign! The only good thing to come of this is that my parents started to get their house handicap accessible, which totally benefits my disabled mom. They are trying to age in place for as long as they can.
After being away alot on the weekends to help with my folks and then going on vacation for a week, how nice it is to be home with my fur babies. They make my house a home! I love hanging out with my little kitties and cuddling with them. I don’t know how people do life without them!
Hope everyone is doing well!
Hi, Dawn!
I’m in Ohio, upwind of you as far as most weather. The temperatures here are nice (low 70s at 11 a.m.) and I have high hopes of the humidity dropping soon.
I’m glad your father is healing and even more glad if his house is more accessible. Plenty of people need that.
Hi, Dawn,
It has been a hot and steamy day here, but tonight a cold front is coming through. Temps will drop almost 30 degrees! Tomorrow morning the high for the day will be at 8 AM at 74 degrees! I am looking forward to the cooler temps!
Right now, our skies are dark and threatening (about 8:30 PM EST), and there is thunder in the distance; no rain yet. It is raining north and east of Richmond. I hope a storm cell parks over us and gives us some steady rain. It is dangerously dry. Even though I need my sunshine, I could deal with a few days of rainy grayness if our parched ground gets a long, slow drink. Gracie pup is snuggled in her crate, safe from all of the scary “thunder boomers.” 😊
Glad your Dad’s recovery is going well! I agree with you regarding the love of your kitties. I honestly cannot remember what life was like before I had a dog. To me, home is having a dog to greet me at the door. Gracie pup is always happy to see me – unconditional love! 🐾💕
Be still my heart! I do believe I hear raindrops hitting the window! Yippee!
Have a great week, Dawn! 🙂
Dawn, Glad to hear your dad is healing up. Yes, it’s nice to settle into the rythm of regular life when you’ve been out and about and caring for others. Get that well deserved down time.
Happy Monday to all,
I’m stopping in to see how everyone is doing across blogerino land. Sue, thanks so much for the reply to my last comment telling me how I can be the most helpful to the blog. Unfortunately, I rarely use Amazon because I shop around and can often beat the prices on another site. I do have a gift card that I need to use, so there’s a little drop coming your way! Comments help too, and I can do that any day!! I printed out your list of camps, Thank you so much for putting all of that together. I can see it was a lot of work. I am putting it in my RVIF file, (RV in the future).
I continue to dream and plan while stationary and caring for my Dad. He has had some trouble this year, just not feeling “good”. It’s not a blood pressure problem, I know because I checked. I think he is not tolerating the heat well. Since he rarely complains, I guess we have both become spoiled by his Hale and Hearty health history. Changes are inevitable, some easier than others. I count my blessings that he continues to do well…he will be 88 at the end of the month.
Tommie has had some “gastric distress” due to a spicy fish coating. No more Z——‘- for that boy. Fortunately, it is nothing permanent and will pass, poor guy. He got the day off and we all stayed home yesterday. I know I would not want to be out and about with those GI troubles. I cooked up some tasty rice and he is much better today. It’s an easy fix to those problems. Enough about that…..
I have been having some fun dreaming about building a camper to put in the back of my pick-up truck. I have a cap and solar panel now but would like something with a little more, OK a lot more, of my personality. The idea of a gypsy Vardo style camper is really appealing. I am researching building methods and making a list of how to hide all the modern conveniences so the camper will be like a time warp. A way to step back into a slower-paced more simple time while still having AC, LOL. I also thought it would be fun to paint it like an old peddler’s wagon. The kind where you could get a haircut or a tooth pulled along with a pot mended and a bottle of Dr. Wonderful’s wonder cure-all tonic; guaranteed to cure whatever is ailing you. To me, it just seems appropriate for a wanderer, and it would be a lot of fun to downsize to a truck camper and be easier to go farther away from the crowds. A wise man once said to me, “get the smallest camper you can live in and the biggest truck you can afford.
What would you want in a camper?
Hi Lisa,
I’m glad your dad is well as he is. I can really relate to aging parents. I think a Vardo style would be cute. One of my must haves in a camper is a toilet. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to leave my house every time I have to go to the bathroom, especially at night. If possible, I’d want a comfortable place to sit that is not on my bed. I’d like a sink. As for old school, I don’t know if I would want a propane burner or an electric one that I could run off of the solar panel. My definitely must have go to would be a french press! I haven’t used one in years, I’m too much in a hurry in the mornings. Yet, I miss the taste. It would be easier than a coffee maker or percolater in the camper…just heat water and add to the beans! OK that’s just my list to start.
Hope Tommie is feeling better!
Hi Dawn,
I agree wholeheartedly. My little camper will be self-contained and be able to go off-grid with solar power. I plan to use a DIY composting toilet that separates solids and liquids. I will have fresh water and grey water tanks, a full-size shower, an on-demand hot water heater using propane, a small propane heater (wave catalyst?)or a tiny wood stove, a super-efficient 12 v fridge/freezer, LED lights that look like lanterns, a maxifan, and a split AC. I am researching making it super-insulated and lightweight, but sturdy. I want to cover the propane tanks with barrels and the split AC with an old trunk. Of Course, I will need a few old books and maybe an old looking radio, and I will hide some 110 and 12v outlets in the cabinetry.
When I am free to travel, I want to go to TH gatherings and help those who need Service Dogs. I was thinking of painting some things on the outside like an old-time peddler; Dogs Trained, Wildcraft Herbs, Mending, and Minstrels. Of course, all of this will be riding in the bed of a big old Chevy, so it will be quite the contrast if I pull it off! We’ll see…dreaming and planning keep me happy. Thanks, Sue for fixing my goof <3
Thanks, Dawn. Tommie is feeling better after a couple of days of white rice and chicken. My Dad is doing well too. Thanks for your concern.
French press here too! Although we have been making “pour over” as it’s easier for boon docking, (no clean-up, and no slurry of wet grounds to deal with). We have a propane stove in the Casita, but also a backpacking stove we sometimes use for fun outside in the morning to make “camp coffee” like the old backpacking days. Either way, the french press is my method of choice! It really makes a superior cup of coffee. Cheers!
Hi, Lisa,
Your description of the interior of your dream camper sounds delightful! 😊
Lisa, that peddler’s wagon sounds like a hoot. You’ll be an instant hit and will make quick friends with a rig like that. How fun.
We have our little Casita. Perfect for us. Yes a comfy bed, comfy place to sit in bad weather, and of course that all important bathroom. Simple camper, all we need, takes us wherever we want to go. We even drag it up to our camp in the mountains in the summer, as it acts as an extra bedroom for weekends when everyone is with us.
Hi Everyone,
Just checking in for the week. We had a terrible hot, humid week last week in Iowa. I have been keeping busy trying to work out a few issues in a craft I am making that people want to purchase. I had to get the gifts made for my family first though.
Finally after between 10 and 15 of these quilted cross wall hangings I have made, I have finally figured out what I needed to do to fix what I wasn’t happy with. It wasn’t that the others were bad, people love them but I knew there was something I didn’t like yet. Got it fixed now and going forward I know how to make them in a way I will be happy with.
I hope all of you are doing well. Enjoy your summer!!
Hi, Jolene,
I am glad that you found a work around for the issue that was frustrating you. Hopefully this makes your quilt making process easier, too! 😊
We are finally getting a break from the heat, and some well needed rain. Temperatures will drop to a delightful mid to low 60’s this afternoon. 😊
Hope you have a great week! 😊
Thank you Sue
Thanks, Dawn. Tommie is feeling better after a couple of days of white rice and chicken. My Dad is doing well too. Thanks for your concern.
I stopped in today to get caught up on what is happening to the Blogorinos, so hello all.
I’m so sorry to hear of all the issues with the heat and humidity so many folks are having. It is the usual heat hear in Northern California, but we are close enough to the ocean that we generally get a nice breeze at night so the temperature drops to the sixties, plus we don’t have to deal with high humidity generally. I do remember visiting my mom’s family outside Houston Texas many years ago where the high humidity was a force to be reckoned with. So my heartfelt condolences to you. We are looking at 108 by Sunday but it should drop after that. Sigh….summer…
I just retreat to my basement sewing room if the heat gets too intense and cool off down there, plus get some new duds made, a good thing.
Hope everyone stays well…
Hope you are able to stay comfortable Sue, pet the boys for me…miss those sweet faces!
Hi, LeeJ!
Hello Blogorinos, Our hot, humid weather finally broke. Supposed to be more comfortable for the rest of the week.
I hope everyone is doing well. I continue to pray for those with health issues, and for all of you who are caring for others. Please continue to post, and remember that many of us are reading and praying, even if we don’t respond to everything. I check in far more often than I post, and I love to see the community still connecting.
Hi, Applegirl!
So glad to hear some of you are getting a break from the heat. It has warmed some here, but so far nothing been too bad. We are grateful. We learned that hubby has time yet (not an emergency yet)…and I am wondering if there are other issues not yet checked out, that may be causing some of his issues. The doc we saw wants to do a spinal tap at some point…and then they could send him to a surgeon for the shunt to be put in his head. He does not feel like he wants to do any of that…I told him it is his body and I will do the best I can to help him, regardless of whatever happens. So frankly, the last couple days, we have not done much of anything…kind of in a holding place again I guess. Thanks for the prayers and reminders from those who do so. We so appreciate that!!
**hugs** 🙂
Thanks…and hugs to you too…hope you are doing well!
You’re managing the situation with its difficult decisions very well, Elizabeth. Best wishes to you both.
Thank you Sue!! As we all know, much of life just comes at us and we do the best we can!! How can one plan for such things? Why we laugh if folks ask us what our plans are? Heh, so much of our lives we did not plan for…so all plans tend to be short term anyway!! Hope you manage to stay cool enough in the heat…though dry heat is more manageable fortunately, huh?
Just checking in. In case you aren’t asleep yet, Sue, n’nite
Good morning, weather!
Thanks, it’s been quite a lovely day so far, and any day is made even better by hearing from you.
GOOD MORNING, BLOGORINOS!
All is well with me and my crew. I hope the same for you and yours!
Sending love and appreciation for your participation. As always, reading your comments is a pleasure.
Try to stay cool! Our heat is less intense with the arrival of summer rain showers. In Arizona summers, when the daily highs are in the mid-90s, that’s cool!
🙂
Sue
Happy Friday Everybody! What do people have planned for the weekend?
Me, I have some light cleaning and the movies in my future! We have a wonderful discount theater where I live. You can get a ticket, a popcorn and a drink for $10! It makes the whole experience so much nicer, when you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for a movie and a snack!
I’m thinking of trying to make a unique gift of some beach pictures to my family for Christmas. Last year, I gave out small canvas prints of one of our favorite pictures of us at the beach. Do you guys have any good budget conscious ideas? I’d love to get a picture on a fleece, but so far from what I’ve seen that costs about $40.
Hi, Dawn!
Hi Dawn,
I once helped make a memory quilt for the children of a co-worker. I don’t know the process or cost, but we had photos put onto fabric, then sewed them into a quilt for each child. I think the process was done by the local Kinko’s, that’s a chain of shops that provide office services. We had to buy a certain fabric, and then the shop transferred the photos. This was all around the year 1999, so I bet there are options out there; happy hunting
What a great idea Lisa! I don’t know if I’m up for that magnitude of a project, but I really like the idea! Thanks.
Hi Sue, wish I had know about southeast and northern AZ before joining my family in Phoenix. LOL We are getting the dry heat for a week then back to the humidity of the monsoon season. Glad all is well with you and the Crew. Zo sends hand to paw Hi Fives to the Boys. He has taken a liken to Spike and his water ways…lays out in the grass under the sprinkler and wonders if Spikey would enjoy this spot for water relaxing. Take Care
Hi, Deena and Zo!
Zo is so excited to get his own message from Sue and the Boys; so cute this afternoon…sleeping in the recliner. Take Care
Greeting all. It’s been awhile.
Sue, whether or not you decide to keep your blog and this community going in whatever format just know that you have touched and changed the lives of many. Probably more than you will ever know or could guess.
Blessings to you and the crew. Love you always.
Take care
It’s wonderful to hear from you! I often think about you, and hope all’s well in your life.
Love you always, too, Rick. I think of you often and wonder how you are. Your words touched the hearts of many and I cherish them all.
God bless you, dear one.
Oh my! Mr Campstove! Great to see you here!
Yes Badger Rick it is great to hear from you. Your words are what so many of us believe as well. Thanks.
Hi Sue and All!
Good Morning!
We are DEEP in house renovations and only come up for air! But I think we are entering a “glide” slope as we are almost ready to close up the 95 year old walls-they are not pretty! Husband will finish up the blocking this weekend, adding strong-backs in the attic, closing up attic stairs and relocating attic access to a closet as a scuttle hole. This is just a tidbit of DIY/subcontractor work we have done with this old house recently.
Sheetrockers are scheduled next week! We can see the finish line for the kitchen, dining, laundry, and office in the next 4-6 weeks if there are no severe hurricane threats!!!
FYI I just ordered from Amazon thru your link; I ordered an Ohuhu 12.5 Telescopic Extension Ladder for $94.99 today.
So the only doggie news I have is the pleasure of dog sitting my son’s 2 Springer Spaniels! The young Springer runs faster than a deer! What a thrill to watch him run full out, bounding with no effort! It’s beautiful! Amazing energy! We have 2 wading pools for them so we sit under the trees in the center of our 1/2 acre and just watch them leap, chase, run for balls, splash and try to dig all the water out of the pools! One pool did not make it!!
Daily the older one reconnoiters the yard perimeter in a nonchalant manner, waiting for her opportunity, planning an escape!! I saw her showing the young one some of the weak points! She is the sneakiest! Can’t take my eyes off her!!
I sleep on the couch and both of them think the couch and I are where they should sleep–and the young one won’t negotiate! He thinks he is still a little puppy! And heavy!!
We think of you and your crew and your own nest. I love the things you have done with the house/porches/yard. We have been inspired by your ideas, products, thoughts, comments, perspectives, blog, efforts, planning, vignettes, living style, and always the crew! Even the ‘time-out’ you are in! (from trips and blog)
I know you will ‘follow your nose’ Re: day trips, road trips, creating, exploring, blogging, morphing, nesting, home improvements-it’s all good! Just want to say with the other blogos “Thanks” for the years of your life through your pictures and blog to now!! I have seen things in your pictures and been down the road with you to places I may never get to but hope to…WHEN THIS HOUSE IS DONE! (We do have one last project to add the screened porch but probably not this year)
Later,
mary b in Abita, LA
Wow Mary! Sounds like you are doing some major renovations. I wish that we could see pictures of it. Keep us updated with how it progresses!
Just checking in and catching up on everyone!
This weather is a doozy all over. Nothing new here..really!
Monsoon season is upon us but so far it’s only rained once! Hope all is well Sue and crew! Same goes for my fellow blogorinos!
Geesh, only rained there once?! You probably look forward to the freshening of wetter days. We only had about 5 or 6 days hot enough to really need the ac on, and several days had really nice storms to enjoy. July is usually our warmest month, so the rest of the summer should be comfortable, too. Always nice to hear from you, hugs to the fur kids 🙂
Our favorite months back in NY was Aug/Sept…quieter on the lake! It’s been a wet one for sure back there…water is really high! How is your lake?
Yep, once and guess what? Jules was in the pool one night chunky dunking, no skinny dipping EVER allowed at THIS establishment….and one of those Sonoran toads starts hopping toward her! Annie sees it first…but she doesn’t chase any type of wildlife. Jules was literally walking on water trying to get out before she had company!
How are your furkids? Your posts always makes me smile….you are so attentive and amazing with details!
Enjoy the weekend! Hoping the muggy humidity is gone!
Hi Cinandjules, Yup water is really high in the Adirondacks and all around. Can’t see some of the landmark rocks in our little lake. Great Sacandaga is still really high too. Usually it’s quite a bit lower heading into August. All good, though. Life is wondergful in the mountains.
Because Oneida Lake is part of the canal system it’s water level is controllable, within reason. When it gets too high the locks are opened to let more flow out to rivers, etc. The ideal water level depth for navigation is 369 feet, today it’s almost 6 feet more shallow then that. I didn’t check during the couple of rainy and stormy weeks we had earlier this month, whenever it’s very high within a few days they manage to normalize it, so I just enjoy the storms and really don’t worry about flooding.
There I go with details again, Ha!
Little frogs, like the pickerels that are common here are actually kinda cute. Young ones about dime size, full grown around two inches long. Those Sonoran toads are the T rex version, some weigh two pounds and are 8 inches long. It’s be one thing to see one at a distance near a pond in the middle of nowhere, but one expects their pool to be a controlled environment. It’s no wonder Jules wanted distance between it and her, Pronto!
Kyla and Polly are happy because the new spare bed here is one more “high perch” for them to enjoy. Amazing to see them decide to nap within inches of each other, they’ve come a long way from their initial almost total distrust of each other.
They predict tomorrow and Tuesday to feel muggy, not as badly as last weekend, though. This summer’s weekends haven’t been great for boaters and tourists. I do feel concern for local merchants that count on summer’s higher income to balance their annual budget. Still, personally, I thoroughly enjoy having the shoreline all to myself so much.
It’s sounds like this has been a nice season in life for you recently, you deserve a few like that!
I love the little frogs and toads too. I know some folks are bothered by them, but I always found them to be charming in a storybook kind of way. Also, anything that eats flies and mosquitoes is OK in my book.
Life has settle down to a nice calm pace. We are grateful for many things. God is good, through it all.
Thanks for your continued encouragement.
You have such a sweet heart, I’m glad you are part of this community.
Hi Sue,
Just popping in to let you know we are alive and well, but taking a short break from the road, moochdocking at a friend’s place, so we can do some yearly maintenance. You will be proud to know we just ordered our Wave 3 (through your link of course), and we will have heat this upcoming Winter. YAY! We also need new Casita “shoes” (tires) and front brakes for Vanna (our Van), among a few other things like teeth cleaning and a visit to the vet for Mochi Kitty. The Casita needs gutting and cleaning and my clothes need going through and sorted. We hope to be back on the road the day after Labor Day, as we have a housesitting gig on the Oregon Coast, in Gold Beach for the Month of September.
I’d like to mention a few places we camped recently, that I think are worth sharing with you and your readers. One was in Mackay, ID at their Rest Area. It’s really a small little park, with restrooms, picnic tables, ramadas for shade, soft green grass, and perfectly level asphalt that butts right up to said grass and tables. If you can believe it, there’s also a dump and fresh water outlet. There is a donation box by the dump station. Otherwise, this is a free 16 hour stay. It was just what we needed! We had a wee-little accident with our rear window jiggling open (I’m sure you’ve “never” had that happen in your Casita, heh heh heh) It seems to be a common occurrence with other Casita owners, but this was our first catastrophe! We had been on about 20 miles of rough dirt (another story for another day), and when we got to where we were going to sleep for the night, on the side of another DIRT road, we found our bed, and just about everything else inside coated in a very nice layer of reddish dirt! And I mean coated! Enter Mackay, ID. Mackay was the nearest town that we could drive to that had a laundry. We left our dirt road “camp” at 6:30 am in favor of Mackay and that laundry. Lo and Behold, a wonderful respite from the heat in a grassy, shaded park for FREE! We spent some money there in town, including gas, a few groceries, laundry, and ice cream, so we felt that was a fair trade for a clean-as-a-whistle free place to camp for the night.
The second camp I want to mention is on the West end of Orifino, ID. We found a developed BLM campground, including a super friendly host, with electric and water hook-ups for, are you ready for this? For $7 per night!! Nice bathrooms, clean park, shaded sites well spaced if you get one along the back fence which we did, AND! right on the Clearwater River for soaking your hot, and tired dogs. I was so thankful to find this place as it was nearing 96*, and we had no idea where we were going to camp that night. The Campground also has river access and day use for $5, on the opposite end. The name of the CG is Pink House. Yeah, no clue on the name, but nonetheless a real find! We lay on the bed, the 3 of us, and blasted the AC for about an hour after settling in. We didn’t unhitch or have to level as we were going to keep moving come first light. Beer-thirty came early and easy that day. 😉 Seriously, cold beer, and hot dogs cooling their jets in the river? How good is this?
Next stop was Dayton, WA. It was also 96*, and we weren’t so lucky this time. You are allowed to overnight at the Caboose Park, next to the historic train station, but it’s right on a city street, and no shade – not even a leaf. We drove around the neighborhoods after talking to a gal at the Visitor center, and parked under some very huge trees, that provided nice deep shade on a residential street, and took a long nap with all the windows open and the fans blasting on us. After a couple of hours, we moved to the city park and decided to spend the night parked there, along the side street, and under some nice big trees for evening shade. (It was still quite warm at 90* at 7:30pm, ugh) We slept hassle free until about 4:15am, when a high powered jet of water coming through the window at the foot of the bed, blasted us in the face. I mean to tell you, that sprinkler was aimed perfectly at us in bed, like a hand held soaker gun! OMG, we jumped up, slammed the window shut and began laughing pretty hard. So much for pirating a free sleep at the park. The joke was on us for sure, and we learned a big lesson there. One must mind the open windows and sprinklers that come on in the wee hours. hee hee
There is another free sleep along the Columbia River, in Rosevelt, WA that we took advantage of. It’s a big windsurfing spot, and run by the COE. We had shade, tables, grass, a small swimming beach, toilets and a warm shower, but really no water to speak of. They had shut down all the water spigots for some reason. As in, removed them completely. It was just a small parking lot, but a very large, nice park, with lots of beautiful trees, tables, 2 with shelters, and lots of room for tenters, and picnickers. People mostly came and went, stopping by the use the toilets on the way through. It’s more like a big huge rest area, but it’s legal to camp for up to two weeks. Odd I thought, and not a ton of parking. Having a compact rig sure does come in handy at times. There were 3 vans of windsurfers there when we got there, and a tenting camp host who stays the Summer to keep an eye on the place. Lots of cars and motorcycles came and went to use the toilets, but it was never bothersome at all. The windsurfers, oddly enough, were our age, and very chatty and interesting. Some lived in their vans, traveling around to follow the wind, much like we follow the sun. We were able to back right in, under a big overhanging tree, right next to several nice tables in the grass adjoining the asphalt. We had a perfect view up and down the river. It was really lovely, and sunrise was beautiful over the water the next morning. A real score in my book, and it wasn’t even on our radar! You definitely win some, and loose some, but we’ve found the wins far outweigh the losses, so we are very happy campers.
This is long, and I’m sorry if I bored any of you to tears! 😉 I’ll give an update after we get that Wave3 installed, and see how it works! Course, the real test will be this coming Winter, but I think we’re absolutely going to love it!!
Hugs to those needing them,
Suzi and Larry, and Kitty =^,^=
Tons of useful information, detailed news about attractive and affordable places to stay, topped off with a few laughs… so-o-o not boring 🙂
Ha Ha, a little humor fixes most things, right? Our favorite was the dang sprinklers! 🙂 Glad the story-telling didn’t get boring.
Great read.
😊
Hi Suzi, thanks for all the useful information on where you have been and what you have encountered there. Some of us may never get to these places but love hearing about them. You have learned well from following RVSue and crew as have we all and continue to do so. Keep them coming.
Thanks Jazzlover, will do! Glad you enjoyed the info.
I had a great mentor. 🙂 Pretty much everything we know now, we learned from reading and studying, and bookmarking critical information that Sue has shared with us over the years.
Suzicruzi thanks for the information. I am heading north in a few weeks this information will be very helpful. Last year I purchased the BLM maps , I still have problems finding BLM campgrounds. I often look at the sites that are listed under “Our Camps” on this site. Thanks Sue for keeping them up. For me they have helped with my travel adventures. Today I visited our local street market. I found different types of melons. Sue remember last year, you ate so many melons. This year I decided to purchase a few different varieties so far they are delicious. Plan on heading to Pecos, Texas the best tasting melons are grown in this part of our state.
Safe Travels…
I’d like to help you, Mona, with finding BLM campgrounds, but I don’t know why you’re having difficulty. You say you “purchased the BLM maps.” Do they not have a camping symbol displayed at all the BLM campgrounds?
Another option is to search the BLM website for the state you travel.
Glad you found a variety of melons to sample and that they were delicious. I still yearn for Green River melons. 🙂
Hi Sue ‘n Crew
It been great reading the blogorino updates. I’m not a regular visitor, but I seem to know the names of the regular contributors. Hopefully they will all keep up with their travel updates to keep me in the loop.
We have been enjoying the hazy days of summer in Nova Scotia. Fortunately, we are close to the coast, so we get the benefit of the sea breeze when we need it. We still get the pesky bugs when there is no wind though.
We are on the tourist route and there certainly have been a lot of RVs trundling by our house just lately. Makes me feel like I am ready to head for the road any time soon.
Sue and the blogorinos, any time you feel like bringing your rig up to the North East, feel free to come and park yourself in our yard and enjoy the cool breeze.
In the meanwhile, I will just have to wait when the change from summer to winter season makes it good for me to head south again.
Take care of yourself Sue
We’re thinking of heading up to Prince Edward Island for a visit next summer. So beautiful. Never been, but it’s on my list. Debaing whether to drive up with the Casita, or just rent one of the lovely cottages available.
ApplegirlNY
Everyone that goes to PEI just loves it. Be aware of the weather though. Too early will be too wet and too late will be cold. The rest of the Maritimes are a great experience too.
Hi y’all 😊
I want to make a small correction to my earlier post regarding fees and info at the Pink House Rec. Area we stayed in. (See post a bit above)
The website says “full hook-ups are $18”, tent sites are $10, etc “. I didn’t know we had a sewer drain at our site, because we were there for a quick night and didn’t need it. Also, we only paid $7 for our night there, and we did use the electricity to run our AC. Larry went to pay, and chatted with a really nice, friendly host gentleman. He said we could have the site for $7. with our senior pass. It was only now I looked it up, and it said $18 for the full hook-ups. So I don’t know why we paid $7 instead of $9? Either way it was a bargain when you have been sweltering in the heat for 2 days. 🥵
I just wanted to clear that up, in case any of you are looking into it. Thanks!
Good Afternoon Sue, Reggie and Rog! I have been following the weather in Benson and Tucson as have good friends in both places. I had forgotten just how “warm” it gets there. Out first thing in the morning, inside by 7:30. Wait until sun goes down, pray for a breeze to go and do the night watering, or whatever after supper. Met a lady from Tucson here in the Berkshires of W.Mass. She came to get away from the heat, visiting a friend in Maine and they both came here. Unusual, but lovely.
For the blogorinos out there with who use small, handheld flashlights. Looking for one that does not inhale batteries. Have a small Duracell 300, need something with longer life yet small, also needing a dog food and water dish up off the floor for my getting older gal. Stands 10″ high. Any recommendations great fully appreciated. More to say but don’t want to take up too much space. Hope everyone is doing well. Please give Reggie and Roger a hug from Jasmine. Sending you a hug also Sue. Be Well.
It just so happens that I have been considering elevated dishes for my older cat. So far I have two in mind that Amazon sells. ASIN for each
B074KX9QNK , that one comes with choice of 3 heights ranging from 3.34 inches to 7.08 inches
B000HAM18R , that one measures 7.5 inches from top of bowl to the floor.
Oops,typo,the ASIN for the 2nd item is really
B000HHM18K
Note those are zeros, not the letter O
Hi, Jazzlover,
This flashlight may be bigger than what you are looking for, but I wanted to share this info. I purchased an almost identical flashlight years ago from LL Bean. It is great for dog walking, the LED light is bright, and the batteries seem to last a long time.
Press the button once, and the forward facing light goes on to see what is ahead of you. Press the button a second time, and in addition to the forward facing light, two wide angle downward facing lights illuminate the ground. Press the button a third time; in addition to the forward and downward facing lights, a red light flashes on the back of the unit, a safety feature to help make you visible from behind.
The unit is pricey, but well worth it for me. The Amazon info is noted below. Good luck in your search! 🙂
daylight24 502056 OV-3 Oval Battery-Operated LED Handheld Walk Light, Orange. $29.99
ASIN: B013SFT572
Hi Jazzlover,
I have found that the small LED flashlights available at the Dollar Tree are remarkable, in a good way. They are small enough to fit in your pocket but bright enough to avoid stepping on things you would rather avoid. The bonus is that they come with batteries included (sometimes).
As for an elevated dish, would a folding step stool work for your needs? The one I have has a non-skid surface and is close to 12 ” tall. Mine was a gift, but I saw some at Wal-mart.
Hi Jazzlover,
I have found that the small LED flashlights available at the Dollar Tree are remarkable, in a good way. They are small enough to fit in your pocket but bright enough to avoid stepping on things you would rather avoid. The bonus is that they come with batteries included (sometimes).
As for an elevated dish, would a folding step stool work for your needs? The one I have has a non-skid surface and is close to 12 ” tall. Mine was a gift, but I saw some at Wal-mart.
I imagine they’re available at Amazon, too. 🙂
Sorry about the duplicate post. I guess I need to practice more virtues, like patience, oh well. I have a question for all of you; I am planning to take Dad and the crew on a trip to visit family and friends. I hope to go NW from South Florida to IL, then east to NH, then south down the east coast back home. I tow slow and low miles, so I am planning on 250 miles daily.
I have found a lovely spot called Lookout Mountain in Georgia for one night. Do you any of you have any camps to recommend?
We would like hookups, meaning electric, and facilities. Thanks in advance for the input. We do have one spot planned. a nice camp in IL near our family that we like, Jubilee College State Park. Thanks in advance for all your input!
Have fun planning your trip, Lisa! 😊
Lisa… Feel free to repeat your request under the next post which I should have ready by tomorrow (Th.). More readers will see it there.
I will Sue, thanks.
Providence has taught me in many ways throughout my life. One of those has been by my association with things called willow.
It began during childhood, and grew more significantly over time. For the sake of brevity I’ll begin with something that happened about a year after I married my husband that now lives in heaven. I became pregnant and searched for babies’ names. One book said the girl’s name Willow meant free, so I decided to use that, then a miscarriage freed that soul from spending time on this good earth.
A while later we wanted to move into a rural area. We saw a home surrounded by willow trees and bought it right away. Right after we bought our home on this lake one of those willow trees fell onto the smaller home we’d had before. We’d been freed of the danger and expense involved with that by moving.
This springtime a willow flycatcher made it’s nest in a small opening of my front door’s portico. It’s eggs fell out and broke so the bird was free to only have to fend for herself. Last night we had a severe thunder, wind and rainstorm where I live now. It ripped about a fifth of a willow tree in my yard apart. While out looking closely at it I saw the willow flycatcher stop close to me as we both wanted to see how the landscape had changed.
My take away from all of these events is some lovely things are with us for only part of life. They may disappear from our view, yet will remain as precious memories, and it seems that other things to treasure always appear if we look for and appreciate them.
Dear weather, why don’t you put your writing into book form? One idea … You could create a daily devotional with an appreciation-for-nature slant. Collect your many mini-essays that we’ve enjoyed over the years and you already have a good start on it.
Do it! I’d be honored to give you photos for it. I bet a Christian publisher would grab it. 🙂
This comment is a perfect example of your excellent writing leading up to the wisdom of weather. (Having read your comment –thank you– I’m surprised you didn’t choose willow for your blogorino name. 🙂 )
Generally I resist suggestions to write anywhere except for your blog, Sue. Yet, your idea is intriguing and attractive to me. Offhand I can think of dozens of your photos that would work beautifully in such a book. I promise to give some thought and prayer to the matter. Thanks ever so much for what you’ve offered.
Weather, I whole heartily agree with Sue, I love your writing and Sues pictures (and writing). Sounds like a collaboration in the works!
Thank you for sharing your lovely memories, weather. Your faith and wisdom always shine through in your comments. If you were to publish a gathering of your essays or thoughts, I would be honored to buy a copy.
I am glad that you, your crew, and the willow flycatcher were not hurt from the storm. Does it look like the tree might be salvageable if the damaged limbs are removed? New growth may fill in the area over time. I hope the damage to your little slice of paradise is very limited and that your close circle of friends were spared any damage or harm. **hugs**
My special association with the willow tree is associated with the thin, but strong branches that drape down. I remember swinging on a handful of those branches as a child. I strive to be like a strong willow branch blowing in the wind, being flexible and open to change. It is much better to bend “in the wind” than to fight it and become damaged or broken.
I always enjoy reading your comments, weather. Thank you for sharing! 😊
My parents had a huge old willow tree in front of their house once…one day in a wind storm it blew to the ground too. What they could not see, until it was down, was that insects had totally eaten away the inside of it. They are beautiful trees…but perhaps best to be away from our houses, for safety. Glad you were not harmed…some moves turn out to be providential!! Thanks for sharing your experiences, Weather.
Sending hugs and prayers to you and yours sweet lady, yes, providential…a friend is cutting the fallen wood for our bonfires during a cooler season, the gift keeps growing into more.