Thursday, December 10
Bridget under the table, Reggie looking out the door
Some days are meant for staying home.
Our camp at Midland LTVA, ten miles northwest of Blythe, California, is peaceful and warm. After breakfast, coffee, a walk with the crew, and a bath, I don shorts and a short-sleeved shirt. By mid-morning the shirt is too much and I opt for a tank top.
I’m motivated to clean!
I’ve sort of let things go the past few weeks. Heck, sort of? I REALLY let things go. Well, there’s the water situation to consider. I’m trying to conserve, you know. Ha! If that isn’t a Big Excuse! Anyway . . . .
No more excuses!
Bridget and Reggie enjoy the pretty day while I slave away. They did become a bit confused when I started throwing things out the door onto the blue mat. When your house is as small as mine, it’s easier to toss things out the door rather than just move them around inside in order to get at the dust and dirt.
My bathroom cleans up nicely, dontcha’ think?
Everything is so white, except for that darn plastic sink which has turned yellowy-beige over the past four years. A few days ago I bought the purple bathroom rug which is much brighter than the photo shows.
What? Another bathroom photo?
Yes, because I want to show off the shine on the fiberglass. See the reflection of the toilet paper? Pretty nice, eh? Aren’t you glad you came to my blog? You could’ve done something else and missed this!
What’s in the purple box, you say?
That’s where I keep a bar of soap, a tube of toothpaste, and my toothbrush. (I wouldn’t want you to toss and turn tonight wondering about that.) Inside the big, white storage drawer are several rolls of toilet paper. “Always have toilet paper back-up” is my motto!
Nothing fancy here. Keeping it simple.
In other news . . . .
The hummers are happy. That’s right. I said hummers with an s. Seems our Anna’s Hummingbird has a girlfriend. A male competitor shows up and an aerial battle ensues. I don’t know who wins. I think I’ll know in the morning. If a song emanates from the ironwood tree, it probably will mean our first hummer-man is the victor!
I love my camera.
Here’s a link if you want to see it: Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ70 16.1 MP Digital Camera with 60x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3-Inch LCD (Black)
That photo of the hummingbird (above) is quite remarkable (which is why I’m going to remark about it). Not because it’s a fantastic photo. The internet has gazillions of hummingbird photos far better than that one.
It’s remarkable for other reasons.
Picture this: I’m in my lounger taking photos of the crew as they fool around on the blue mat. (Correction: Reggie fools around. Bridget relaxes, takes a drink, lies down.)
A hummingbird zips by my head.
I turn — Oh, he’s at the feeder — and I lift up the camera. No tripod, no steady stance, my arms akimbo, Lord knows what setting the camera is on, and click! Later I pace off the distance from the lounger to the feeder — close to 40 feet! I open up the photo on my computer and wow. It’s like magic.
See how our blue mat is two pieces?
I like it that way. More versatile. Stake the two pieces together for a big mat. Or place the halves in different areas.
I should get Bridget a big doggie bed.
She likes that little one in the photo (above).
She also likes to stretch out. The folded quilt pallet doesn’t provide much cushion for her and she’s a mature lady now.
A nice, big, cushy bed will make a great Christmas present for her.
I looked for a sweater for her to replace the one I left in the desert somewhere south of the Chuckwalla Mountains.
I haven’t seen any in stock in the stores in Blythe.
Probably not much demand for doggie sweaters in southeastern California. She doesn’t need one right now anyway as it’s in the 50s at night and near 80 during the day (soon to be cooler).
You know, I should say something here.
It’s the Amazon income you provide me that allows me to buy stuff without hesitation. Up until Amazon came into my life, I’d hem and haw about every little purchase like I’m Julius Caesar contemplating whether or not to cross the Rubicon. Gollee. Thank you for freeing up my purse strings!
As for Reggie . . . .
I’ll find another toy for him. He loves his toys . . . Pink Piggy, Blue Monkey, and Armadillo in that order. (It may not look like love in these photos.)
He has a light green dog, which somehow acquired the politically incorrect name of Limey and currently is buried inside the Perfect Tow Vehicle. That thing is messed up with stickers and whatnot. I need to clean it for Reggie. I keep forgetting to take care of that (Here come the excuses again!).
Do you have the impression I’m rambling?
Well, if you do, you’re right! This blog post comes to you straight off the top o’ my head. The RVSue work ethic is in the toilet.
Aha… in the toilet . . . That’s where this post began and that’s where I’ll close it out.
Bye for now!
*flush*
rvsue
NOTE: After all this cleaning, I’d like to sit back and read your comments without replying, okay? Blogorinos, take over for me please. You know what to do.
THANK YOU FOR GOING TO AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
I appreciate every order, whether large or small. Here is a sample of items recently purchased by RVSue shoppers at Amazon:
8′ x 12′ Dura-Mat
Flannel Duvet Cover
Henschel Breezer Hat
Self-Contained Toilet
Solar 11-in-1 Battery Charger
Barbie Pop-Up Camper Vehicle
CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!
competition? what competition?
Okay, okay… I have to answer this… The male hummers! 🙂
CONGRATULATIONS, ELIZA, ON BEING FIRST!
hah. i was talking about my incredible gloating over being first
Oh, now I get it!
this is so much fun!
Best gloat ever Eliza!
Hello from central new mexico
One minute. .. Congrats Eliza
thanks! Christmas comes early…..
Hey Carlene! I’ll be at Bosque del Apache tomorrow!
Whoa, you’re making tracks! Seems like you were in Georgia just the other day (unless I’m losing it). I’ve never been to Bosque del Apache but it sure looks neat in photos. Welcome to the SW 🙂
now that I have read the post, I heard these were loved by all dogs: (I know Bridge is a lady, so this probably will not apply to her)
Outward Hound 32069 Invincibles Plush Snake Stuffingless Durable Dog Toys Squeaker Toy 6-Squeakers, Large, Blue Green
I substituted a link to the same toy at Amazon where it’s cheaper. – Sue
Looks like a winner!
No stuffing and six, count em six squeakers. Heck, I’D play with that all day. 🙂
and for those of you with cats:
Moody Pet Fling-Ama-String
Nothing like the reflection of toilet paper on shiny fiberglass, unless it is shiny aluminum, like outer Airstream home.
Happy Christmas and/or Hanukah to all!
I added that solar 11in1 to my amazon wish list. I have replaced all my batteries with rechargables so it will come in handy.
Thanks, wildflower.
Sounds perfect to me!!!
Hi Sue and Crew,
I love your off the cuff post showing us an ordinary day. The patio furniture set I ordered for my daughter’s Christmas present came and it looks very nice and well made. I hope she likes it and you get a little gift from the commission Amazon pays you. Have an enjoyable evening.?
I think she’ll like it. It’s a very nice set. Thank you, Marilu. The commission is nice also. 🙂
As my neighbor Brooklyn Boy would say: “Eh, wha’cha doin’ he-ah? Git outta he-ah like youse be sayin’ ta alls of us!”
Well, well, no. 11 comment this time.
Wait! I’m 8th. That counts for something! Sure better than the 30 + the other day.
Hi Sue & Crew! Just started following your blog! Looking forward to getting to know you! Check out my blog listed above! Safe travels, Robin
Welcome, Robin! Your name serves as a link to your blog.
Welcome to Sue’s blogorino family, Robin! 🙂
Beautiful job of the cleanup but now on to a serious topic. What is Missy planning for Bridget and Reggie for Christmas? We already know they give you what they have to give, their love and loyalty. What greater gift could there be….
Well, Sir Reggie must be getting a bag full of Carl Jr.s’… Otherwise he will be one very miffed pooch, lol. I can hear him barking *Bad Santa* if that were not to happen 😉 I’m still laughing at his fit only the drive-in window…
Very creative. You covered six of seven seas in only a day. LOL. Feel free to take a day off. Your posts are always so entertaining.
Your use of “alliterative” was a most tempting intro. I laughed my tail waggin’ ass silly. Indeed it was your most thrilling post ever. I like seeing tidy and efficient toilets, can’t get enough of ’em. This post was to the stars a winner! Oh my! Outta the park! Nice work Sue.
Hi Chey,
Is your name short for something else or is that your given name? Just curious, as I’ve always liked that name and have thought of changing mine.
Where on the coast do you live? No need to answer if you don’t want to.
I going to the coast at the end of the month. Looking forward to seeing some big waves.
I shortened my name from Cheryl legally to suit my profession; Chef Chey is much nicer than shouting Chef Cheryl a hundred time a day. Good wave action @ the Jetty in Ocean Shores.
I see Reggie is still tethered. Is that for his safety from predators, or is he not to be trusted off leash? Or both? BTW very nice shine on that bathroom!
For both reasons.
That is one clean lav! Spotless!
Bridgee probably loves to be cuddle up in that bed…just fine! Ahem, her tag is showing! If I remember correctly her favorite bed was put in the dumpster!
If you need dog sweaters they have them back here. Weather here has been weird…no snow…and today it was 50 degrees. Let me know I can hold them until you get to a General Delivery spot.
Have a nice evening!
*flush* that was great!
Hey Cinandjules,
Aren’t you loving this weather? We sure are. After last winter, it’s so nice to still be able to be outside without freezing. Last year at this time we were cold and in snow. I feel like we have some bonus time to deal with extra firewood and some outside chores, too. Of course, by this time next year, winter will be a distant memory for you guys.
And Buffalo was getting clobbered!
I just hope it doesn’t mean winter will be extended into spring and summer!
The house inspection had really minor issues… Nothing that will kill the deal. My sister is doing all the legwork…says if we don’t like it..she’ll trade us her two homes AND her husband! The husband part was the deal killer!
LOL! Glad the inspections went well.
“The husband part was the deal killer” Another LOL comment from you. Thanks and glad the inspection went well.
Seriously…if I wanted a child…I would have had my own! Ya know?
Wondering if you could paint and seal your yellowed sink to bring it back to bright white. They have paint for everything now. Pinterest could be a good source for ideas.
Loved the post and your off the wall (fiberglass) humor.
Paint would look horrendous after a very short period. You might try bleaching it out with a Clorox solution. But it is probably here to stay.
Kind of looks like the yellowing that the exhaust fan vent covers get after time.
Eh! Kind of like gray hair…it is what it is!
It’s the little things – like the tip about cutting the rug in half that I love about your blog. I despair with you over the yellowed sink. Seems that’s a big issue with RV fixtures. I hated the ones in our motorhome (shower and sink AND TOILET) and have been prowling for handy tips to clean or paint or repair…with little luck. Why? Because one day I’ll own a used RV again, and I just know I’ll be faced with the same situation 🙂 Thanks for the humor – had quite a few laughs. Yes, I did wonder what was in the container!!
Once again, you have taken the mundane and turned it into entertainment. What a fun read. Who knew a shiny toilet could elicit such smiles! The crew looks so happy there on your blue rug.
I understand what you’re saying about Bridget’s bed, too, as my guys age, I find they need a bit more cushion in their beds. They have really nice LLBean beds, but the centers get pressed down after a while, so I have just cut up a bit of memory foam to add to the middle, and that seems to do the trick. The sides are still nice and puffy.
The pictures today reflect the lovely home you’ve created for you and the crew. I really like your outside living room. Have a great evening, Sue, crew, and blogorinos!
Hi blogeroos,
My what a shiny loo! ;and to reflections too. Is that why there’s no mirror? You can check your hairdo with the wall?! I guess I am just as silly as Sue today. But really, only 70ish and you’re needing a tank, don’t stray farther South. I was enjoying my comfy jeans and a cool 75 this evening, driving with the windows open, no ac. Then again I see your lows dip into the 30’s this weekend so……. On a totally different subject, I am glad to send a little bit your way when I can use Amazon. I know blogging doesn’t happen by itself. You put some work in and share great pictures, nice freeze frame on the hummer BTW. It seems like everyone wins, we get stuff, like a red percolator, you get a commission….. It all works out. Don’t you wish all your gifts were so easy this time of year? Oh and gifts! I almost forgot, I would love to make something warm for the pups, just need measurements and where to send ’em. You’ve got my email, OK enough rambling from me. Stay well everybody.
PS. There’s lots of info about painting fiberglass at the fiberglass rv.com website.
So what areas have you camped in South Florida, if you don’t mind me asking?
Oseola NF, Ocala NF; juniper springs campground, and an army COE near Lake Okichobee. I am not sure if I spelled these correctly.
That’s a great hummer photo. Click on my name (I know you know what to do) and check out more Anna’s. While the spousal unit convalesces, we enjoy sitting out in the morning and watching the birds feed and fight. Nice reflections in the bathroom!
I was in Blythe today to get a chicken from Smart and Final. When you mentioned the chicken & the price last blog (?) I knew what I wanted!
Made a great sandwich for lunch, worked out well in a burrito for dinner & there is more left for tomorrow!
Thanks for mentioning it!
Sue,
OMG! Your bathroom is “hospital clean*…!
Looks like Reggie Man wasn’t the only one to have found his Mojo again 🙂
p.s. If you are thinking about getting a new bed for” HRH” for Christmas be sure to leave plenty of time to have her “HRH” monogrammed on it, a proper royal has to have that, ya know (winks and giggles and hugs to her).
See Bridgee, got your back on this one! 🙂
Fun post!
Although outdoor-mat-envy has now reached fever pitch, as you can imagine 😀 Between that and seeing that you have room for a *drawer* in your bathroom, well….
Great post on everyday things! I always love to see what the crew is up to!
That hummingbird photo is awesome!
We are going camping again this weekend and the weather is supposed to be wonderful! I am going to put out my rug, chairs, table, etc., grab my Kindle and relax! My kids and spouses, plus another friend is joining us Saturday evening for a cookout, including some-mores….it may become our pre-Christmas tradition!
My, oh, my! You have inspired me to clean my bathrooms today! But, there’s no way, I’m gonna get that shine!
Glad you have stayed around so the hummers got the sense that they could set up a family. I would bet in that biome, they don’t get the opportunity enough. Thanks to you.
You sound really happy, Sue. I am really happy, too, for you! You are the best!
Thanks for the incomparable entertainment again!
Diann
Thank you, once again, for an entertaining post about everyday doings. You are kind of like the Seinfeld show that makes you chuckle over the little things we encounter regularly in our days. I also wanted to comment about how I use Amazon for so many of my purchases, especially now that I purchased the Prime subscription. I quickly go to your website, then over to Amazon, and it’s as easy as that. I am so happy to be helping you with your “purse strings” and I am thankful you keep letting us come in to your journey on the road.
Love your sparkling bathroom…but somehow it has not inspired me to clean ours. I’ll think about it though.
Hmm! That’s great Dawn.
Love your ramblings. We were going to go out in our RV this weekend, but it is raining and bad weather moving in. It is too warm here, something is going to happen. Plus our dog is having eye surgery today. I do not think he will be in the mood to camp. Love your account of your day. I would love to have a nice day to clean and watch birds and dogs and maybe sleep a little in the sun. Boy, do I sound old! Be sure and get the Reggieman a Carl Jr’s and be safe.
“…like I’m Julius Caesar contemplating whether or not to cross the Rubicon”-what an intelligent analogy. Your gratitude for being able to make small purchases is part of the way you appreciate all of life-a secret to happiness and endearing quality. Speaking of endearing, ten photos of your lovable crew in one post is such a treat! Your bathroom looks great, I love your purple rug. I hope the hummingbird’s song did emanate from the ironwood tree-lovely phrase and picture to start my day with, thanks, Sue
I have wondered what kind of camera you have. I have a similar camera I bought from Amazon. (I don’t know how to post an Amazon link).
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 12.1 MP Digital Camera with CMOS Sensor and 24x Optical Zoom – Black
Your camera is double the zoom of mine. I thought mine zoomed out a lot, no wonder you get those great close ups. Love the hummingbird pic and your simple day story.
I’m driving to Portland this weekend to look at a trailer. It’s the same size as mine but a floor plan I like. I’m excited. 🙂
A friend of mine has the FZ200 and I have often admired it. It doesn’t have the 60x zoom (which IS nice) but it does have an *amazing* lens that stays at F2.8 the whole way through (obviously by that terminology you can tell I’m not a camera expert, but basically it means is that you can take excellent photos in VERY low light). Plus the flip screen rocks! (which Sue’s camera may also have, I’m not sure).
Anyway, just thought I would help with your zoom envy 😀
You noticed I’m a zoom fanatic. lol. You’re more of a camera expert than I am. That’s good to know about what the lens can do. I still am learning what all this camera can do, (if I let it). lol Yes, I love the flip screen. I, mainly, use the viewfinder because of my poor eyesight.
I like viewfinders too. Hate looking at the screen to take photos. BUT, I love the flip screen because I use it to take photos of things like serial numbers or whatever type of thing I can’t actually see straight on but want to get a picture of (stuff under the rig, around a corner, etc.)
My last camera didn’t have a flip screen and I SO missed it (it was a hand me down but it was better than the camera I had so I started using it, but no more flip screen… waaah).
How exactly does the Amazon thing work for you, Sue? (Or blogorinos….)
I’m guessing you get a certain amount from each pirchase? But how did you arrange that with Amazon?
Also, have you ever considered a YouTube channel? I would LOVE that!#!#
I think you look into becoming an Amazon “affiliate.” I believe you have to have a blog that is already somewhat successful, and then once you become an affiliate you make a certain commission from any purchase made through your link. No extra cost to the buyer. The more sales from your link, I think means your commission rate goes up (which makes sense, as Amazon is getting more traffic from you).
Anyway, reading about “Amazon Affiliate” should probably tell you the details.
Thanks, Pen. I didn’t see your excellent reply until after I wrote mine (comments appear out of order on my admin page).
Ah, good to know. Easy to understand why some comments might overlap then (not that it’s a problem, but always nice to know the “why” of things).
Hi, kris,
One applies with Amazon to become an Associate. Once accepted, one can place ads and links. When a reader clicks on an Amazon ad or link, anything the reader buys within the following 24 hours earns the Associate a commission. Commission rates increase as the number of items increases, starting at 4% up to 8.5%. This is why every single item ordered is appreciated, no matter how small.
No, I don’t want a YouTube channel. Many an enterprise has dwindled and died from too scattered an effort. My blog as it is does very well partly due to its clear focus and simplicity. I’ll let other people fool with YouTube.
Very clever title! It could’ve been “C, C, C, C, . . . Senora and Senor”!
There are so many great things about each of your post and those everyday things are just what I like and of course your sense of humor. Just love it. I arrived in Borrego Springs a couple days ago. It is wicked windy today and during a night I could hear sand blowing. I recall you visited BS maybe two-three years ago and stayed around Rockhouse Trail Road. Am I right? Well, things did changed here and this area now became very limited. There are signs all over NO Vehicles Allowed and only the beginning of this road is still opened to boondocking. It is only December and RVs and vans are so close to each other. Personally, it would be too closed for comfort. I can only imagine how crowded is going to get in February and March and as you know there is no trees only small creosote bushes. Enjoy open spaces wherever you go with your companions Sue.
Aww, I had heard that about the Borrego Springs area but was hoping it wasn’t true! It’s an area I had thought I’d like to visit/boondock at some time. Thanks for the report.
Some days you just make me smile, RV Sue.
Put in my Amazon Christmas order through your link! (Kindle, cover and tablet mic stand). This is our way of turning the “big Amazon box” into a small business transaction. The best of both worlds.
At home I try to utilize small local businesses for most of my shopping, but sometimes the web is a beautiful thing – especially since I don’t think I could get a Kindle any other way.
Yippee! Thanks, Applegirl! 🙂
That’s a neat way to put it, Apple Girl. Even though Amazon is a big company, and those can seem “faceless,” we are supporting RVSue when we buy through her links, and that IS supporting a friend and neighbor 🙂
Hi fellow readers,
Since Sue is taking a vacay from having to respond (but I know she will be reading) just wanted to say how much I’ve enjoyed this blog, not only from the wit and adventures of Sue and Crew, but from all of the input from everyone. I’ve been definitely entertained and have learned so much from all of you as it pertains to the RV lifestyle.
Enjoying some really nice weather here in Savannah, GA, living about one block off the intracoastal waterway. Found a little fiddler crab in the stuff I swept off the patio today, mixed in with dried leaves and flotsam and jetsam. I just walked him across the street and gently let him drop down to the “pluff mud” and back to a hidey hole.
We have roses and camellias still in bloom outside, even my lantana has made an encore appearance. Even though I would prefer a Norman Rockwell Christmas with snow, I’ll take this and enjoy its unique beauty. Going to walk the squares (we have 24 of them downtown) tomorrow and soak up the beauty of the Colonial era homes and their holiday finery and then take in a “really off Broadway” show in which I indulge every year at this time.
Wishing everyone contentment if not downright happiness, peace of mind in these “interesting times”, and as much comfort as we can all find in our everyday lives. If you’re like me and getting right up on 60 with all the various aches, pains, and issues, you know about trying to find as much comfort as you can!
Happy Holidays to Everybody
What a nice post!
Happy Holidays wishes to you, Nancy! 🙂
Savannah sounds lovely! 🙂
Well, now that your bathroom is nice and clean and shiny – how about coming to do mine…..Oh, I know your excuse is you’re 3000 miles away—I will just have to knuckle down and do it myself If I ever get my cargo trailer set up for camping my bathroom will be 2 feet by 2 feet – one swipe and it will be done. Enjoyed the photos of Bridge and Reg —
Dear Sue & Crew,
Once again I have so much fun following your blog. I’ve read a few others & still do occasionally but get bored easily with them. Love your writing style, you can even turn a mundane bathroom cleaning into an adventure. I got such a kick out of the Caesar analagy & yes, I was one of those wondering what was in the little purple container. How very chic of you to match the box to the rug. There ya go getting fancy on us.
The hummingbird photo was really good, I’m never able to get anything in focus that well, that quickly. I just grab my phone cause its handy & am usually disappointed with the picture. I may have to think about ordering yours from your site. Speaking of which, my tablet case I ordered last week arrived. It’s by far the best one I’ve had. So thank you for making it easy for us to order with amazon.
Love to Bridget & Reggie. Nancy s from Indiana
Nancy S,
Been thinking of you and hoping you are still on the mend from the mean ol’ kidney stone.
I’d like to echo Nancy S. For over a year I have spent many hours on my daily commute viaLas Vegas public transport reading, rarely posting, but feeling that I am getting to know all of you. Thanks are the order of the day. Sue, thanks for your Care and Leadership. Rusty, thanks for your life experience, your earthiness, and for sharing your faith here. Weather, thanks for your eye for detail and for setting the Tone for Respect for Nature and all Humans here. Pen…you are a wealth of knowledge surpassing Encyclopedia Britannica. Arizona Jim….I like your passion for campstoves and your enduring presence here. The morning coffee folks are too numerous to mention, …. Thank you All for making this feel like a great place to start the day. MB in VA, thanks for your positivity….Pookie Boy…thanks for campfire cookin tips. Everybody else….It just wouldn’t be the same without each and every one…..so…Manyy Thanks. Gratitude also to God for making us each unique and so full of camaraderie and Love. And Thanks to my husband Mark for working out the nuts and bolts of sanitation and hot water to make Our Own 17 ft vintage trailer a Real Home, not just a Dream!!!! 🙂
I think I got confused and made Arizona Jim and Badger Rick Wisconsin into a Superperson in my head. You are each Super in your own special way. 🙂
I’m honored for the comparison.
And couldn’t agree with you more. This is one of the more special places I have ever had the privilege to be a part of.
Lot’s of people from diverse backgrounds caring for each other and being nice to each other. A simple model for how all the world should be.
AMEN, brother……….
Sue
I like the every day things that you post about. They are my favorite post.
Ron
Love the post. who would have thought that having a sparkling bath could be entertaining. The crew looks happy today. I think it is funny how Reggie stays so busy all the time. Angle’s waggin is draggin today. She started out fine, but not so much the rest of the day. Usually a walk perks her up, but she has acted afraid today, she has topped and sniffed the air every few steps and I have had to coax her to move along. Hopefully, tomorrow will be better.
Have a good night.
Barbara,
There might be a coyote in the area. You won’t see it but Angel can definitely smell it. Keep a close watch on her while walking.
I have posted about our daughter’s dog who did that in the house and we were convinced she had sundowner’s syndrome. Then, a neighbor enlightened us about the coyote that was hanging out in her yard. We think the scent came in the reverse installed range vent cover. (Along with mice.)
Marilyn in Dania Beach
i saw this on the post titled: “lost mojo” towards the end of the comments, and i thought maybe others may have missed Sue’s beautiful statement below. i copied and pasted it here:
rvsueandcrew says:
December 10, 2015 at 1:07 pm
BLOGORINOS…. I have to say, you are without a doubt the finest group of people I’ve ever been honored to know. I read your comments and I smile, laugh, giggle, tear up, get a catch in my throat, shake my head in wonder, nod with understanding.
You share your experience and knowledge freely — so helpful, answering questions in detail. And when someone “new” appears you give them a friendly welcome, writing words that make them feel part of our “community.” You cheer each other over the good things; commiserate and encourage over challenges and setbacks. You express concern and get well wishes when someone is ill. You chat and share anecdotes and life stories. You share when you’re feeling down or on top of the moon. You might be one of those who doesn’t say much, but your faithfulness to my blog and your fellow blogorinos speaks for you. It really is wondrous what I see here!
I hope each of you who read this message realizes how very much you are appreciated.
Sue
Thanks for reposting this, and thank you Nancy and Sue. I am grateful I stumbled on this blog last Spring – educational, welcoming and just plain joyful. Sue is a craftsman, and generous in sharing her adventure with us. Now, off to Amazon!
Thanks for moving this forward. I usually go back and read the comments a few times to catch them all (well worth it!), but I still had missed this.
Sue, that’s a very nice note and well describes the community you have fostered here.
I know many blogeroos are dog owners…can anyone offer any advice. ? This summer we adopted Oreo, a loveable pit bull. After work, in my rush to take her running in open fields, for the sheer joy of seeing her happy, I neglected basic walking obedience lessons. Now she has months’ of bad habits to retrain. She listens and returns to me marvelously in wide open spaces, but despite some positive clicker training,on-leash, she runs me like a bull pulling an oxcart. Any helpful hints? Please and Thank you
We use a gentle lead by Petsafe on AO. I get to walk her instead of the reverse!
We also used the clicker and treat until she learned to heal. Don’t buy a knock off product.
How old is Oreo? Just my opinion but she will pull you if she wears a harness and I’m not a fan of the pinch collars.
With the gentle lead…it’s like a bridle on a horse. Where the head goes…the body will follow.
I think I got confused and made Arizona Jim and Badger Rick Wisconsin into a Superperson in my head. You are each Super in your own special way. 🙂
Oreo is 9 months or so. She is worse with a harness so I use the lead and a neck collar.She is making progress. I try to be consistent, and walk opposite direction when she pulls and I use treats when she stays close.An attempt at a walk often looks like a 3 ring circus! 🙂
I have a bully breed and he pulls too. I did use an easy leader. When he was younger because he is soooo strong. Now that he has calmed a bit,(he’ll be four in the spring) I find that stopping walking when he pulls is best. He learns that a tight lease is a bad thing and the fun stops. Once he is back to a proper “heel” position the walk continues. I do have to help him find that position sometimes, also a good run to blow off some energy helps him focus on what I want him to learn. Be patient and persistent, our bullies are stubborn but love to please. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the insights. True she does better after an exercise run , focusing on learning that is. I worry that I reward her pulling behavior on the mile walk to the off-leash run location. Message: pull harder and faster and we can go running sooner…our evening routine. Yes she is obviously smarter than me , affectionate and eager to please. I am learning to train the behaviors that I need from her, but slowly
Lisa, have you found good camping spots in South Florida? I’m curious after camping and living in the state 15 years
Great advice from both CinandJules andLisa.
The only thing I would add is that as you use the gentle leader and stop when she pulls always, always have treats on you. Use them to get her in a proper heel position and then just hold a treat on your hip as you walk. Her attention will be on the treat and it keeps her in the proper position and paying attention. When she goes a ways (gradually increase the distance) walking nicely by your side drop your hand down and treat her.
I used all of this when I trained my Cattle Dog / GSD who was a great runner in his youth but if he knew I had treats than he was always paying attention to me and not just searching the horizon for the next fuzzy thing to chase. Good luck.
Thank you BadgerRick, Cinandjules, and Lisa. I’m coming to understand that the clicker and treats seem to make our interactions together a positive game, Oreo learns to figure out what behaviors I’m searching for.The game is played with no loser, only winners.Thanks all for the help.
Hi, Sue,
*flush*
The ending to your post made me laugh! My dad and maternal grandfather both liked to to go the bathroom to read the paper or a book while sitting on the john. My Dad used to call it ” going to the library.” Made me wonder if you were posting while in the library! I know you were not, but it was a funny thought!! 🙂
I love the shine of the clean fiberglass. I get the same results when cleaning my tubs at home. The difference is, it takes a whole lot longer for me to clean my baths compared to your perfectly outfitted, petite bath. All of the pictures of Miss Bridge and Reg were a treat and clearly showed their contentment. The hummer picture was fabulous!
Sending you, the Crew and the whole blogorino family wishes for a good day! It will get into the upper 60’s today…..crazy weather, but I am enjoying it! Sending you and the adorable Crew hugs from me and my adorable Gracie pup! Thanks for all you do, Sue. You are a treasure! Now….off to clean my bathrooms! 🙂
Dear Sidewinder,
Thanks for thinking of me, it’s been a long week since I’ve been out of the hospital. Been on 2 antibiotics & one has been thru an iv. Yes, I’ve been sitting
Here in my home on wheels hooked up to a bag of fluid enjoying myself immensely reading all the posts. Get such a kick out of the pics of Bridget & Reggie, especially getting to read what they’re ” thinking.” ?
Yesterday the iv line came out & Wednesday I go back to have the stones removed surgically. As an outpatient. So that night I come home to catch up on the blogarinos. Thanks Nancy S
Nancy S,
Thanks for your update! In a way I worry when asking that it might be too personal; but then I do care. So just know I’ll understand if you ever want to gloss over details.
But then too, I’m interested because apparently I have turned into somewhat of a “stoner.” I had my first kidney stone ever in 2010 (of course on Christmas Day on a remote island) and they were like “Oh, don’t worry, lots of people only ever get one. Don’t worry unless you have another.” Of course that made me feel just super when I had another one a year later. Argh! On a back road at night on a solo road trip (natch). I managed to gut both of those out on my own, but then the next two (yes, two more!), I finally broke down and went to the hospital (for pain relief). But yes of course I was camping remotely during both of them. Figures.
Anyway, after explaining my situation (and them determining I wasn’t just looking for easy drugs), I now have prescriptions for pain meds, “flow agents,” and an anti-nausea thing. Of course I still would have to watch for infection but these may make it so I can avoid a trip to the emergency room just for pain relief (or if I’m too far out in the boonies). Fingers crossed!
Sounds like you DID have an infection though, and now are going to have lithotripsy? (Where they “break up” a stone with rays or etc.) I guess the good thing is that will probably be a walk in the park compared to the infection you’ve had. I’m so glad to hear you are getting over that. Scary.
To anyone who hasn’t had kidney stones, thank your lucky stars! Betcha didn’t know you could experience the pain of childbirth in your 50’s and beyond (even if male)! Yes, yes you can! 😀
Well, the end of the year is always hectic and this year is no exception. I have to mine out time to read your blog but it’s always worthwhile.
I think that two major reasons underscore your Amazon income: 1) Your writing is entertaining and educational (mostly) (grin); and, 2) You work at it.
The websites I maintain (but rarely post on) have Google ads and return a very modest income but enough to cover the costs of the hosting service (I no longer do this myself). But Amazon fired me because of low sales.
I was, apparently, not worthy. (Several girlfriends remarked upon this back in my youth, actually. Not to mention my mother…)
At any rate, you have clearly demonstrated that it is entirely possible to make money with Amazon. Content plus relevance. But you have to work at it. Frequent new content combined with relevant Amazon ads. A lot of people could learn from you.
Our own trip south this year has been cancelled. Last summer I took our West Wight Potter 15 (a 15′ sailboat that two adults can actually sleep comfortably in) out on the lake. I did not rig the boat last spring and someone used the wrong fittings: A shackle for the mast’s shroud connections instead of a clevis pin, to be exact. The shackle failed in a gust of wind and the entire mast with both the main and jib went into the water.
Sue is used to watching me sail boats; the first time she saw me I was in a small sailboat ogling her as she weeded the beach in front of her parents’ house. I may have sailed pretty close to that beach because she was a cute redheaded girl in cutoffs. This was in 1974.
So, my wife was in the yard watching my expert sailing skills and (no doubt) admiring them when she saw the mast go down. She jumped into our dinghy (a 30 year old Sears 12 foot aluminum skiff) and rowed out to rescue me.
The result of her rowboat trip was a torn shoulder. She had this same injury on the other shoulder 5 years ago as a result of falling while cross-country skiing and her doc says that it is common to have identical issues in both shoulders.
So her surgery is scheduled for Monday (the 14th) and her recovery will consume all the days before and after Christmas vacation that we would have used to take our motor home south for a winter break. That would be a 🙁 for both issues.
On the bright side, this will likely be a warm – if wet – winter and I have ham radio to occupy my time as long as network maintenance chores don’t get too onerous. I have at least one major client upgrade with new Cisco managed switches, Cat-6 cabling and gigabit infrastructure that will take up my time nicely and maybe contribute to the new shop.
The shop, by the way, is now connected to both water and sewer but the “cleanout-dump” that I requested is positioned so that we can’t get the motor home out of the storage spot behind the shop. We can drive in and out just fine in cars but apparently the crew didn’t notice the motor home. 😛
It’s always something….
WDR
I found this at Wally world. Amazon has it too. Looks like a useful product.
Reliance Products Hydroller 8 Gallon Wheeled Water Container
Sidewinder, well I think I made another comment that
didn’t make it to be posted . Not sure what I’m doing wrong,
anyway , thanks for caring I appreciate it.
I’ll check tomorrow & see if my longer, previous comment
made it. If not I’ll rewrite it.
Thanks, Nancy S
I see two of your comments under the post “An alliterative campsite….”
One begins with “Dear Sidewinder, Thanks for thinking of me, it’s been a long week since I’ve been out of the hospital. Been on 2 antibiotics & one has been thru an iv…..”
The other begins with “Dear Sue & Crew, Once again I have so much fun following your blog . . . .”
If more of your comments didn’t post, I don’t know why that happened. None of your comments has been held in moderation or caught by my spam filter.
I’m sorry about that.
That Reggie is a cute one.
I agree, Sue!