Sunday, December 7
Bridget sits by my hip on our bed, pierces me with an insistent stare, and barks. I look up from the Paperwhite I’m holding.
“What?”
She bugs out her eyes and barks again.
“Okay, okay! You’re tired of hanging around here. You want to go somewhere. I get it.”
The dreary skies and chilly temperatures at our camp (outside Oak Flat Campground on Route 60 between Globe and Superior, Arizona) have kept us inside for the past few days.
“Let me take a look.”
I pull aside the curtain and peer up at the sky.
“Yeah, I think you’re right. This might turn out to be a very nice day. Let’s go!”
Soon we turn south onto “Copper Mine Scenic Road,” also known as Route 177. We’re heading toward the town of Kearny. We’ll check out the lake and campground there.
Picketpost Mountain near Superior, Arizona
When the Imperfect Tow Vehicle is fitted with a new door . . . .
(Notice I say “when,” not “if.”) When that wondrous day arrives, I’ll need to make a decision about where Bridget and I will make our next camp.
We could move our camp south to Kearny and then make our way further south to explore the southeastern part of the state. Or we could turn westward and mosey over Casa Grande way, working our way to Yuma at the border with California. Or we could wing around Tucson, cross the rez, and end up in Ajo.
The 30-mile drive to Kearny will help me make a decision about the location of our next camp . . .
. . . besides being a Sunday excursion for the Bridge and me.
Route 177 gives an expansive view of the mountains. Yes, it’s scenic! We chug up and down several 10% grades in second gear. I stop at one of the summits to take a photo and to let Bridget out for her customary, roadside poop.
A relatively small mining operation beyond the prickly pear
Clicking and pooping accomplished, we continue on our way.
“Good Lord!”
We’re cresting a mountain when a very big mine comes into view.
I mean VERY BIG. The mine in the photo above is a gopher hole compared with this mine. I’ve never seen anything like this!
I don’t attempt a photo because no photo can encompass the height, length, breadth, and depth of this thing. It goes on for miles… terraced mountains, tailing piles of many colors, itty-bitty front-end loaders, gotta’ be a mile down in the earth. Gives me the willies looking at it.
A strange smell from the mine permeates the ITV as I navigate the winding road, eyes straight ahead.
“Come on, Kearny. Where ARE you?”
Legions of saguaros stand with arms raised as we pass, as if to say, “How the heck should we know? We never get to go anywhere.”
We do reach the town, I find Kearny Lake, and the campground next to it.
No one is camped in the campground.
Few trees. Few plants between sites. Picnic tables, trash bins, grills, a water spigot and a toilet house. Looks like there isn’t any charge to camp here. As we cruise the campground I notice a fish-cleaning station at the back of the toilet house. (There’s been a problem at Kearny Lake with algae killing the fish. I don’t know if it has recovered from that yet.)
I park the ITV before Bridget manages to break a leg hopping around with excitement.
“All right, Bridge! Settle down. Let me get this suit on you and we’ll walk around the lake.”
Kearny Lake
Kearny’s elevation is 1,868 feet above sea level.
Autumn is lingering here, where in Superior it’s pretty much over. Palm trees have been planted around mobile home parks and in town. By “town” I’m referring to the street where Family Dollar, the IGA grocery, the police station and a few other government buildings are located.
Bridget prances on her leash in front of me as we circle the lake.
A coot enjoying this sunny day.
We walk until Bridget shows signs of tiring.
Before leaving the campground, I fill water jugs from the spigot. Then we go into town. I make a dash into IGA to pick up a container of pasta salad for my lunch (which I eat in the parking lot, classy dame that I am).
We journey home to Oak Flat. Bridget sleeps in her ratty dog bed beside me, all the way.
Later at camp . . . .
I’m back to reading my Paperwhite when I hear vehicles nearby. I go outside and see a row of trucks and cars, about eight of them, parked side-by-side. People are standing around talking.
Hmm . . . . I wonder what this is all about.
I go back inside the BLT. My curiosity gets the best of me. I go outside again and walk over to a small group, four men and a woman.
“Excuse me,” I begin. They turn and I recognize that they’re Native American — Apache, no doubt.
“What is this gathering all about?”
A man wearing a serape of Indian design (I learn his name is Tony) earnestly proceeds to give me an account of a struggle going on between mining interests and those who want to preserve Oak Flat Campground. The debate has gone on for fifteen years.
Hmm . . . That explains why the campground hasn’t been maintained well.
A tall man in the group interjects.
“This is sacred ground here! It’s supposed to be protected!”
I mention my experience, driving to Kearny, and explain, as a lifelong Easterner unfamiliar with the West, I hadn’t realized how huge mines can be.
The woman remarks severely, “My hometown used to be where that mine is now.”
The group is “Concerned Citizens & Retired Miners Coalition.”
Below is an excerpt from a brochure Tony gives me.
CC&RMC is currently working hard to prevent a proposed federal land exchange (S.E. AZ Conservation ACT & Jobs Bill), allowing Resolution Copper Mining (RCM), a subsidiary of Rio Tinto -London and BHP-Australia, to acquire the Oak Flat Campground for copper exploration, development, and production, prior to mandated environmental studies and evaluations regarding public land use, thereby circumventing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
Tony gestures toward a fellow with a camera and microphone working his way around and through the clusters of protesters.
“That guy is making a documentary for us. He has made films of other situations like ours, like over in New Mexico.”
I ask if it’s okay for me to take a few photos for my blog.
“Some of my readers may be interested in what you are trying to accomplish,” I add.
Tony gives me an enthusiastic yes, elaborating that the local media tend to ignore the efforts of CC&RMC. (This is Tony’s opinion, not mine. I don’t know.)
“We need people to know about this!”
A small fire is lit and the people make a circle around it.
I thank Tony, excuse myself, and run to the BLT to get my camera. I take the two photos for this post before the people begin to pray for Oak Flat.
People concerned about losing Oak Flat to copper mining
A note before closing . . . .
If you are familiar with my blog, you are aware of my policy against religious and political debate. I have bent that rule now and then, although I wish I weren’t put in the position of having to make those decisions.
This post is an account of my day, as are most of my posts.
I share with my readers what I encounter. This day I encountered people upset about public land that is treasured by Native Americans and others being acquired for the purpose of copper mining for profit.
Please feel free to comment on this issue. However, I ask that there be no anti-government, anti-mining, anti-foreign interest, anti-Native American tirades. That kind of ranting is readily available on the internet. It’s not welcome here. Rational discussion is preferred. Most of you know this already.
And yes, I benefit from copper mining, so no need to get mad at me for this post, okay? Like I said, I’m just telling you what I heard and witnessed this day.
All in all, it did turn out to be a nice day.
And the bungee kept the ITV’s back door closed as we went up and down the mountains!
rvsue
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First? 🙂
Thank you for the heads up about the mining vs. campground issue. This is the type of thing I never would know about if it weren’t for your awesome blog.
Kearny lake sure looks calm and pretty. My favorite photo from this post, though, is Picketpost mountain. Gorgeous!
You’re welcome. I’m going to stay out of the mining Oak Flat discussion.
Thanks for the compliment. The photo of Picketpost Mountain doesn’t do it justice. The mountain dwarfs all around it… quite majestic!
Yes, Congratulations, Michael!
Gee,Sue-you went from a stretch of not much going on to a day full of excitement.I’m glad you two were able to get out for a bit.I love the Picketpost Mountain and Kearny Lake photos,and am glad the folks protesting let you get one of them as a group-history in the making there,for sure.I do hope the next news you’re privy to comes from the body shop,for now being there made for a great interesting post!
Goes to show how the weather influences us. A bit of sun and we emerge from our den…
Thanks for finding this post to be “great.” 🙂
I’m always a bit leery when I read about proposed land swaps. Not always, but often they tend to benefit one party at the expense of the other, and the rest of us sometimes get left to deal with the aftermath and the fallout.
I also get a little nervous whenever anything that could potentially affect the environment is involved. Unlike us humans, the air, water, and land know no state or regional boundaries, and what affects one area eventually affects others. Whenever such debates come up, I suspect that aspect gets little discussion.
There are organizations involved that I expect would bring precious aspects of the environment (other than copper) into the discussion…. Sierra Club, Earthworks, Concerned Climbers of AZ, Maricopa Audubon Society, San Carlos Apache Tribe, Inter-Tribal Council of AZ, ACCESS Fund, AZ Mining Reform Coalition, among others.
I tend to side with the Native people on this one. And the more public lands that are seized for mining and drilling, the less there will be for us to enjoy. Okay, I will get off my little soapbox.
That part of Arizona, as well as many other areas, has been “exploited” for its resources for a long time. Copper in particular is in demand. It will be difficult if not impossible to stop what is being planned in an area that already is actively mined. But it’s their right to try.
I wish the price of copper would drop so these mines would not be economically viable. Rosemont is trying to gain approval for a copper mine north of here. They plan to put the mine tailings on public land in the Santa Rita mountains. The company designing their stacking technology is the same one that designed Imperial Metal’s Mount Polley tailings dam which failed, sending millions of gallons of toxic slurry laden with heavy metals and other pollutants gushing into waterways approximately 370 miles northeast of Vancouver, BC. Recently it seems that the environment and the water table always lose.
A classy Dame eating lunch on the veranda of the IGA and a dancing and prancing HRH the Duchess of Dumpling Land. All in all sounds like the recipe of a pretty nice day.
So glad that Bridget seems to be doing better, she (and as always you) have been in my thoughts and prayers. Good luck on door #3. I’m sure it’s not a zonk.
No news on the door yet. Thanks for sending prayers and good luck wishes. I can hear you now, “Dear God, Please don’t let RVSue get another zonk of a door.”
Sue I ordered a Samsung tablet and a Lego Helicopter. Just so I know I did it right,did you see those on your report I past few days? Thanks
Yes, I did, Velda! Thanks a bunch!
Thanks Sue it is hubby’s gift and I’m awaiting it’s arrival and it’s good to know my use of your link worked. Now I will make it a practice to do that.
🙂
My Gosh you lead an interesting life! Here you are, minding your own business while Bridget is taking care of hers and all heck comes up! So thankful for the break in the day to read of your adventures!
Back to my boring every day ordinary existence!
Hugs from Hoquiam!
Barb
Hi, Barb,
We were speculating a few days ago that there may be a reason the door is delayed causing Bridget and me to stay here longer. It struck me as mysterious that on the same day we drive by that humongous mine, the Oak Flat mining controversy comes to our doorstep. Am I writing these posts or is someone else, gall darnit! 🙂
Always happy to give you a break, Barb!
Interesting development right there in your “back yard” Don’t know all the details so I won’t comment other than to say….seems like the Native Americans have always gotten the short end of the stick.
Looks like a lovely lake…of course, I love the pictures. Hope your door gets fixed soon. Take care and I pray the conflict stays peaceful.
Hi, Pauline,
The town of Superior is split between those who want the jobs that mines bring and those on the side of the group that met here yesterday.
Have you put up your tree yet?
Love you!
And that’s exactly the issue – jobs vs. the environment. Depending on how it effects you either side of the argument can have merit. Mining is such a huge part of the Arizona and local economies yet once virgin land is mined there’s no going back. I remember once while living in Tucson a major development was being created. They came in and just bladed the land. I cried when I watched them and then they put in an eco-friendly development. No easy answers.
I encourage everyone who has feelings and opinions about the mine and/or about land use in general to act on them, but not here. I have already contacted some of the relevant people to express my own position on the Rio Tinto project.
Sue, I hope the third time is the charm on the door issue, but your future comfort and satisfaction depend on having your rig in good working order. I encourage you to either continue being patient or decide to get it fixed another time, but not to settle for less than you need.
Please tell the Princess i said “hi.”
Hi, Calvin R.,
I appreciate the encouragement to be patient. I will see that the Imperfect Tow Vehicle becomes perfect again.
Hiya Sue, Good to see your post in my email. You make it very easy to see what it will be like to live as a full timer. Good weather or bad just how life is out there. Seeing the group praying for their land to be saved and fighting for their cause is really a glimpse into different cultures and area’s of our great country. You don’t get that without traveling and living on the land. I do look forward to this and I am considering installing solar so I can take advantage of Boondocking which I used to feel was scary and weird but because of you I no longer fear it. Plus saving money out of my social security will definitely help me.
thanks Sue!
You’re welcome, Deb.
Great comment! You know, I feel more secure when boondocking alone than when we camp in a campground. People make trouble. Nature, if you’re sensible and respect it, won’t bother you. I’m very pleased that my blog shows you how to enjoy this beautiful country by camping for free.
Oh, and about the solar…. Fantastic decision!
Google Earth shows the mines in that area clearly. The mine on route 177 is about 10 square miles in area. The mine north of Miami is about the same size.
Thanks, Mick! I wondered about the actual size…. 10 square miles. That’s a big mine! I didn’t see as much of the mine north of Miami as we drove Route 60 out of Globe. I wonder if that mine is still in operation. Miami looks near death.
Looked at Arizona map – so close to the Apache reservation….it’s a shame the proposed mine site is not within the boundaries of the reservation- – assuming that would protect their sacred ground. I’m all for historic, recreational, scenic, sacred sites being preserved.
Looks like the land controversy is still going on there at Oak Flats. Glad to see you got a look at Kearny Lake. I didn’t want to scare you away by telling you about the large copper mine.
Well Sue, The photos of the Lake and the Mountain are great. If you venture towards Bisbee, AZ., you’ll see another Huge Copper Mine that erodes into the City. And most folks down there would like to see it Gone, along with the sulphuratic Odor with it. There are plenty of copper mines all over, Why destroy a beautiful area just to make more money and wire., beats me. Oh,,,,Timber says hi Too. ,,,,,me
The Lavender Pit is a former open pit copper mine that is almost in the heart of Bisbee. Mining operations ceased in 1974 so the mining has been Gone for a long time but the pit remains. I don’t know about any ‘sulphuratic Odor’, I have never detected any such odor when I was in Bisbee or nearby. Camped in the Queen Mine RV Park, which is right on the lip of the pit, one time and enjoyed the view with no odor.
The Shady Dell RV Park is near the pit also and worth a visit when going thru Bisbee. There are a number of classic travel trailers in the Park that can be rented overnight or extended stays; a good diner at the Park also.
I will always be on the side of the environment—no holds barred It just makes my life easier to show my cards on issues and so its never a surprise when I shout out for Mother Nature to prevail. Today we had to shop a little… it was quite tiring…but now its done. Maybe you’ll get good news on the door search soon…meanwhile there is plenty to keep your interest in the nearby.
Hi, Sondra,
No word today on the door. Oh, I can always find ways to keep myself entertained. 🙂
You’ve stumbled across an issue that is a hot topic for those of us concerned with all things related to archaeology. You might be interested in this article:
http://huff.to/1w2GFhf
I know that you don’t want to be political; but sometimes good accidents happen for a reason.
Second topic – after your door gets fixed, I vote for Ajo. Beautiful town, beautiful people, and boon docking just south of town.
Keep on,
Bonnie
Hi, Bonnie,
Interesting link. Thanks for posting it.
Yes, Ajo is a great little town. I boondocked there with the crew — in the Darby Well Road area — for a few weeks during the winter of 2011/12 and again in the winter of 2012/13.
Anybody got a kayak I can borrow? All 3 major tv stations are now saying as much as 4 inches of rain between Wednesday night and Friday. Add to that wind gusts up to 60 mph at times. This is for Sacramento area of northern Ca and down through the valley. They say it may be the worst storm, in over a decade. our big redwood tree is 12 ft from the house and on the south side with winds from south! Luckily we have our big bus on the other side which we could move into if we had to. If you are in or near the Sierras, use caution, they say as much as 3 ft of snow possible above 6000 ft (Tahoe). Not sure how far south the storm will extend but all you boondockers check your weather. Its coming!
I know you will do your best to stay safe and ride out the storm. Thanks, Velda, for alerting readers who live in Sacramento area and valley.
I’m west of Sacramento, California in the coastal mountains. I find it interesting that they are saying it will be the worst storm in many years. In view of our extreme drought it seems like it might be the BEST storm 🙂 Fill your sandbags, great the flashlights ready and hope that we get a good drenching! Velda, I hope your tree stays upright.
Let the drought be gone!
Hope all is well post storm, Velda. So glad you’re getting some rain!
Thank you for sharing!!!
You’re welcome, Lynn.
Very nice pics Sue. All I will say about the mining protest is that I think you did the right thing. Can’t wait until next Aug. when Vickie and I will be in Park City and Flaming Gorge.
Thanks re the photos. Oh boy, Flaming Gorge! Love that area… Great free camps in the forest south of the Gorge and along the Reservoir.
YIPPEE! An email from the body shop!
“They are going to the valley (Phoenix) tomorrow to pick up the replacement door. We will have it tomorrow afternoon and as soon as I see it and it passes inspection we will send it to the painter. I will send you updates as they come thru. Thank You for your patience.”
Great news,Sue,nice of them to keep you in the loop,and of you to do that for us!
Whoo-Hoo! I know that update made your day! 🙂
Yay! Congratulations, hopefully!
Great Sue!
Woo hoo, praying the third time is the charm, err good door!
Woot Woot!
Thanks for the geography lesson of that region. I had only one vision of the deserts of the West (AZ, UT, NM, NV) being totally barren, no lakes, unless a monsoon came through. I’m learning through your posts. Fiber optics is the future. Copper will be a thing of the past. I do hope that perfect door materializes very soon for you.
Hi, Monica,
See my comment above yours… A door has been found!
I’m like you. I thought that AZ, NM, NV, and UT were mostly red rock or sandy desert. Along with our notion of desert I’ve found wonderful alpine lakes, low elevation lakes surrounded by saguaros, mountain forests, clear streams, green meadows with wildflowers, rock monuments of various hues, lush valleys…. oh my!
Hmm… Didn’t think about fiber optics crowding out copper…
I watched a science program and even electricity is destined to become wireless! They are working on the technology—soon wires will be extinct! I am in wonder when I think of how TV was sent via airwaves wayyy back in the days–now I get mine via a satellite!
One experiment they highlighted, electricity jumped the length of a large room and it worked!! Awesome idea! Jetson’s here we come!
No wires? What will birds sit on? Also, since we are sending electricity wireless across a space, what happens when something gets in the line of fire? Inquiring minds want to know.
All kidding aside for anyone interested in the concept of wireless electricity here is a good little video explaining it.
http://www.ted.com/talks/eric_giler_demos_wireless_electricity?language=en
You’re absolutely right, Monica! Unfortunately, technology costs money & there doesn’t seem to be much political will to go there.
Hello, Sue!
I have been off line the whole weekend as my phone/cable/internet service was nonexistent for two days. It is amazing how much one depends on them! The worst part was not being able to check on on you and Bridget and catch up on blogorino comments. Saturday night, I had the thought of watching something on Netflix since the cable was out…then I “remembered” that I could not stream my Roku without having internet service – duh! My service has been restored, so all is good now.
I loved the pictures in the previous post…a study in gold, pink, and the last shot is almost monochromatic! I have to wonder if that is part of the reason that your door was delayed. How magical to be in the right spot to experience and capture the changing sky. Absolutely beautiful!
Regarding the discussion that a lot of prominent photographers are male….There are lots of talented professional women photographers out there, but they don’t seem to get as much exposure as the men. The past few years I have noticed more women gaining prominence. Here is an article from Outdoor Photographer (2009) about some wonderful women nature photographers. Lynda Richardson is based in Richmond and is just about as kickass as they come…read about some of her experiences. I have been fortunate to have been able to take many of her photography classes. She is an awesome teacher and loves sharing her passion. BTW…not man bashing here..I greatly admire Art Wolfe…I attended one of his lectures several years ago…oh, so inspiring! If you love creative macro work, check out Charles Needles…amazing!
http://www.outdoor photographer.com/how-to/shooting/nature-and-nurture.html
Glad that you got to explore a bit yesterday and that Bridget’s leg is doing better, allowing for longer walks. Seems like she is healing slow and steady which is good! Hope it warms up a bit for you all!
Warm wishes for a peaceful night are being sent to the “classy dame” and little dumpling. **Hugs!!**.
Not sure why that link is broken… 🙁
Just noticed a space between Outdoor Photographer. That’s what broke the link. Oops!
http://www.outdoorphotographer.com/how-to/shooting/nature-and-nurture.html
Wow! Love the sandhill crane pic!
Me, too! Golden light at it’s finest! 🙂
Thank you, Denise, for appreciating the photos!
Okay, this city girl transplant turn country bumpkin, who can’t tell if I’m standing IN the wash…for the life of me can’t see the mine in your photo!
You made me laugh with your comment about the saguaros and being a classy dame!
Your blog is so informative….as I would have never known about the dispute to preserve the area. I hope they are successful!
Hi, CinandJules,
Maybe you don’t see the mine because you are looking for the entrance to an underground mine. These huge mining operations in the West are “open” mines. They look like someone has been playing in a sandpile, only it’s not a sandpile, it’s a mountain.
The mine in the photo extends from behind the cactus all the way across the photo, continuing beyond the frame on the right side. There’s a tiny blue dot which may be a truck, group of porta-potties, something in normal human scale. The mine is carved out of the side of the mountain.
The photo makes the mine and the mountains look much smaller than they really are because the distance from where I was standing to the mine/mtns is shortened visually. Also I took the photo from a very high elevation which diminished the mountains in the shot. For these reasons, as well as others, it’s not a very good photo.
I thought of you yesterday as Bridget and I walked a wash.
yeppers I was looking for that type of entrance! Gotcha!
Learned something else here….open mine.
While you were walking in the wash…..did you laugh? 😉
No, I didn’t laugh. I may have smiled. Thinking of you had me remembering a time when I’d never seen a wash before and now I walk them.
Well, that just sucks the Native’s once again have to fight to keep the land. UGH… Cranky Kay returns to Kamp Kay
It’s funny that you should post this at this time, I have been reading about the Copper Mine and Oak flat just days ago. Interesting… Thanks for the photos and story sue, Take Care Sue and Little Crewet.
No debate here, earth should win.
The lake sure looks pretty, and serene.
If ya want Sue, when ya get around Casa Grande,Free hook ups ( Back in drive way) Free laundry, and Bridget will be spoiled!! Most Important, stick to the bones” Chicken and Dumplings. 🙂
Thank you, Egg4Us… Nice invitation. 🙂
I read a comment about this today on Facebook that this “land swap” (theft) was included in a bill that passed on Dec 4 in the House of Representatives. It was stuck onto the National Defense Authorization Bill. This will move on to the Senate. So, any of you with strong feelings about this should call your Senator and request that the Senate version of the bill be stripped of this amendment. BTW… it is giving the mining rights to a foreign company (Australian/British)… not even an American company!! You can read about it on lastrealindians.com
See the link in the B.J. Moser post from yesterday.
Bonnie
The wife and I were out exploring the area and are always looking for new campgrounds for our little T@B so we swung in to check out Oak Flats Campground on the way home. Saw the ITV and BLT but honored your desire for privacy. Must have been after your trip to Kearny because the row of trucks were there.
Hi, Chris and Mrs. Chris,
Thank you for respecting my privacy. If you had stopped, we would have had a nice chat and this post would be about us chatting and the part about the mining protest might not have been experienced.
This is one reason why I try to keep my dear blogorinos confined to my online life… People socializing makes for uninteresting blog reading.
🙂
I was just catching up on the last post and was really tickled about the fed ex doors…good story…and the blogorinos husband chiming in…I had to share, last night my husband asked me how does Sue get credit when you order from Amazon? I told him..he looked up your blog, went to the link and ordered a bed mat for his truck! He loves your stories, I read the blog to him regularly or tell him about things you have written, you DO make a good impression on lots of folks!
Thanks for the info about the camp ground and the Indians . My grandmother was a Lumbee from the east coast, our family farm was lost, without compensation because it was valuable, family displaced and they were supposed to go to the res in Oklahoma, but chose instead to go to south Texas. Long sad story that just continues to be repeated, if you have valuable land, it can and will be forfeited. Unfortunate reality…
Hi, Lee,
Your husband is a man of action! No hesitation… He goes through my blog and orders that bed mat for his truck! I love this man!
Be sure to thank him for me. I’ll look to see the truck mat on my orders report.
That is a shame about the family farm.
So sad about the Native American’s land…but ANYTIME, someone else wants your property, or to change it in some way….believe me, it can be done, Sue. I can tell you some true life stories in among my kin. We only own property so long as no one else wants it and is willing to be fair about getting it (asking to buy it, etc and accepting your answer as final). You own a home in the surest way possible that I know about, at this time. Cause if someone wants “your land”…you can up and move, in minutes. Being a vagabond has merits. Most definitely. One reason I think it appeals to an increasingly larger group of people, from what I have read. If the ones who want the Native land are rich and powerful, they will get it (just ask the Cherokees about that). Eventually anyway. It is good you are helping to tell what is going on. Sometimes publicity can change things…worth trying anyway. Thanks for sharing what you learn.
You’re welcome, Elizabeth. Yes, “being a vagabond has merits.” 🙂
A phrase stood out in your post.
“public lands…..”
The word PUBLIC says it all to me. We ALL own that land. NO ONE has the right to decide what to do with that land. I am with the ones that were praying for that campground. Enough. they need to stop taking public lands. whew. this is a hot button topic for me *blush* I realize that people need to make a living. I just think that sometimes they trample over other in that goal.
If nothing else, “the bungee kept the door closed” made this a good day and a good post!
Hi, Rob,
What an exciting post this would have been if the bungee gave way and the contents of the Imperfect Tow Vehicle rolled out and down the mountain road.
Hmm… I’m trying to think how I’d title a post like that… “The Perfect Storm?”
“Littering Our Way to Kearny?” “Bumbling Boondocker’s Broken Bungee?”
It heartens me no end that people are out there protesting these days…there’s a lot to be vocal about. My guess is that this mine will be built, the land will be changed forever, the peoeple who are affected will not be adequately compensated & the company will become even richer.
Vocal too about the door–yay, yahoo, yippe, woot woot, ^5, yeehaa! Have a great day!
Hi Sue,
Good luck with your door. I think you handled your account of the days events very well. Not every day is sunny and 75*F. Since many of us travel vicariously through your blog it adds to the realism to know you also see things that some may take offense to were they there to see it themselves. Knowledge is power.
While you were experiencing ‘fall’ weather I woke yesterday to -11*F cold here in New Brunswick. Brrr…
All the best,
Barrie
Hi, Barrie,
Some posts are easy to write; others not so much. I tried very hard to remain a neutral observer in the post, letting the “characters” tell their point of view. Thanks for appreciating how I wrote it.
Golleee! Eleven degrees below zero is way too cold!
I bet it’s beautiful there though. I’d like to visit New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Unfortunately there’s a lot of driving to go there from here without much inexpensive camping along the way.
All the best to you, too, Barrie.
Love the saquaros who never get to go anywhere 🙂 Whenever I see one with just one “arm” I always want to say – “Yes, you can go to the bathroom, now put your hand down!” I’m sure there’s a support group for those who talk to cactus…..
Regardless of the issue, I’m always pleased to see folks in peaceful protest to attempt change rather than sitting at home complaining about it on Facebook. I know they appreciated your respectful inquiry and request to take the photos.
Hi, Jodee,
I don’t know what a group of saguaros is called… probably not a grove or copse… In this part of Arizona great numbers of them stand at attention, saluting, equally apart, across vast mountainsides and valleys. An “army’ of saguaros, maybe?
a group is correctly called a stand of saguaros…(in case you hear from/talk to or about them)… 😉
Thanks! I like that… Notice I wrote that saguaros “stand at attention.”
must be that outdoorswoman instinct you have
If the stand is large enough or there are multiple stands in the same area then you have a saguaro forest. Saguaro National Park has many stands which are usually referred to as a forest of saguaro.
Now that you tell me, Ed, I remember. . . Good to know you’re around to give my memory a kick-start. Hope Patches is well. I’ll have to surf over to your site and find out.
LATER… Pad licking is tough to figure out. Spike used to lick his leg obsessively. I wondered if it was a distraction from pain he was experiencing somewhere else, like arthritis pain in his joints. He did it mostly in the evening before falling asleep. You may have to wrap the pad to keep him from licking, but then the wound needs air to heal and he’d probably tear the wrap off.
Good morning Sue,
The geese we talked about the other day must enjoy the company here.Today they invited a few friends to come with them,I counted over 150 of them all here at once.What’s most amazing about it is that they were all quiet-just walked on the beach,swam and flew around.My kind of visit,companionable silence,sigh…hope you hear only what you enjoy,too,today 🙂
Good Morning Sue and Weather….did you miss me?….I have been out of touch but been reading the posts while I was gone…unable to read the comments or comment, but I had plenty to say to myself….i.e. what a beautiful photo, wish I was there, look at that!…blah, blah, blah…anyway, I hope your day is filled with warmth and wonder and I am glad that Bridget seems to be recovering nicely from her strain or sprain.
Of course you’re missed(and thought about,prayed for,cause a smile when you manage to pop in)!Hi,Shirlene,great to see you here,hope your travels and life have been good to you while you were away 🙂
Our connection feels like warm bowl of chicken soup after a cold day outside.
Good morning, Shirlene…. Of course, you were missed, girl!
Glad to be a part of the blogorinos and have my little place in the party we call RVSue. Although unable to communicate, I did not miss a post….yay!
That must have been a stunning sight, weather! 150 geese and quiet… Your place sounds wonderful for one who loves nature as you do. I’m glad the geese know your lake is a safe place to convene before flying further. Oh my, I would love to have been there with my camera!
With a day-starter like that, surely this will be an exceptionally fine day for you. 🙂
Amazing that many geese were very quiet!! Heh, when I think of what 150 CROWS would be doing around here!! Even 20 can be heard a great distance away!! I came up with one way to dampen the downstairs noise of this very uninsulated apt!! Last night, I set up a load of laundry and soap, and when the noise began this AM, I got up and simply turned it on!!! AH….nice background noise that sorta dampened the noises of conversations below!! Then the even noiser dryer a bit later….I feel calmer and less irritated. Told Hubby we just might be doing laundry a whole lot more often (I had been trying to do it on weekends, out of trying to not bother the ones below…but they seem to get louder with time….so a bit of household noise is helpful!!) We may get a “noise machine” too…used to have one with sounds like falling rain, the ocean waves, etc. that we loved. Hubby had sounds in his ears all the time, has for years (damaged in the Navy, etc. years ago)…so time to hunt another I think!! Enjoy the quiet geese!!
This lake has almost sixty miles of shoreline where they could go,though likely wouldn’t be welcomed,those geese chose to be within reach in an eighty by thirty foot part of this place-I’ve never seen anything like that before…Clever idea to cover the noise from below you!If you have a tape or cd player it’s economical to buy nature sounds to play on those,may your peace become ever more sweet 🙂
Oops! I didn’t return your “good morning,” weather. I hope it was.
Thanks,Sue,it was a good morning and exceptionally fine day!Tried using a large sink vs.shower/bathtub to see if I’d like it when on the road-actually enjoyed it more as the hot water lasted longer and I had smaller porcelain surfaces to rinse clean and dry later.Despite reporters warning everyone about “maybe icy” roads,I went out and looked(novel idea,huh?),it was great-misty landscapes,errands done,home …may all our days be as wonderful,have a great night with your pretty little girl/ bed warmer.
You have a great night, too. Sounds like you enjoyed a full day.
I’m with the Native Americans, to long they have been on the short end of the stick!
Absolutely….
Using resources to sustain humanity versus the environment is a two edged sword. The key I guess is conservation, use but replenish or replace. After all, if it wasn’t for copper, no one would have been able to post a comment on here!
Hopefully parties can reach a compromise.
Another great post!
My Dad worked at that copper mine in Superior for thirty plus years.Raised a family of seven.
Hi, Laurie,
There are at least two sides to every issue. If the copper mining folks had been here at our camp I would’ve given them time to talk on my blog, too. 🙂
I bet your Dad worked hard but was glad to have the money for his family. From what I could see, which I admit isn’t much, it doesn’t look like easy work.
Thanks for reminding us that there are people who benefit directly from the mines.
Sue,
You may be as well off getting a NEW aftermarket door. In my experience replacement panels and doors are not that expensive? Could be different now and or for your IPV but I doubt it. Used to get stuff from St. Louis Auto Panel, I’m sure there Cos like them everywhere. Good luck with the repair.
Hi, Wayne,
Reader MicknTN, who was an internet and email friend long before I started this blog, emailed me a link to new doors for Chevy Express vans. They are in the area of $750, can’t remember if that included shipping and whether it included the hinges.
I’ll share what I end up paying for the door. If it’s more expensive than if I’d bought a new door and found someone to put it on for me, so be it. I’ll be thrilled to have the job done. Thanks for sending me luck.
Not new.
Huh? I thought they were new doors. Whatever…
If they weren’t, then the price quoted me by the body shop is very reasonable.
Supply. Demand. Military. Munitions. Hence Copper. I hate those mines sucking up land but as long as we have demand for copper we will have mines by hook or (more likely) by crook.
MESSAGE FOR MICKEY IN ANSWER TO YOUR QUESTION —
RVSue I hope you won’t mind but Mickey (?) asked about Joshua Tree NP and until today I didn’t have access to internet. So to answer this question, Joshua Tree has many trails where I did not see another hiker. If one wants to visit the park without too many people then I would avoid weekends. Actually campgrounds get full starting Friday. It is such a beautiful park. I would go anytime. Joshua tree usually bloom in March but they don’t bloom every year.
Of course, I don’t mind, R. Yes, it is a beautiful park!
NOW I remember why
Oops! I just sent a long post & it didn’t post! The gist is it is COLD here; I am in midst of bathtub declogging & instead of a month long visit, I am flying back to hubby, Casita & warm weather on Monday!
Darn! There seems to be an uptick in dropped comments lately. Sorry about that, Kathy. Frustrating.
Aww… I’m glad to see you put hubby before Casita and warm weather. 🙂
Hi Sue!
Just (on 12/9) ordered a Lodge 12″ Cast Iron Dutch Oven and carrying case for my son’s Christmas present…I hope it show up on your report soon. I finally finished catching up on ALL of your previous posts. I’ve enjoyed riding along with you! As another blogorino has commented, I used to think that boondocking on public land was scary, but now we’re ready to try it! Thanks for being our trailblazer
You’re welcome… I’m excited for you! And thanks for purchasing your son’s present through my blog. That’s a very nice gift.
I get busy for a day and I miss such an important post. It makes me sad that there cannot be solutions for these problems that can satisfy all parties. I find it hard to believe that the only place they can put a mine is on someone’s sacred ground.
I don’t know enough on this topic to have an opinion except to say that I hope they can work it out.