Thursday, April 30 (continued)
“We need to explore this place. C’mon!”
The crew and I set out on the road that traces the shore of Antelope Reservoir, about ten miles west of Jordan Valley in barren, southeastern Oregon.
A short distance from our camp I realize we are walking on top of an earthen dam (photo above) which I later learn online is 80 feet tall. I also learn that the reservoir has a surface area of 3,285 acres (I assume that’s when full) and 17 miles of shoreline.
What’s that sound?
As we proceed, the sound becomes a roar. Rushing water. Looking down the steep slope of the dam I discover the source — the outflow from the reservoir.
The roar is tremendous. Such power!
In the photo below the water comes from the lower right, goes under the walkway, and flows around to continue in a more placid state out the upper left of the photo.
We could walk down there for a closer look.
The image of the crew being carried downstream dispels any such notion. Zooming the camera lens is a better idea!
I doubt I’d be able to walk across that raging water!
Antelope Reservoir provides irrigation for 12,000 acres of farmland downstream (wikipedia).
Further from the dam is a collection of rare plants — trees! I bet the cows and wildlife like having shade next to water.
We continue our walk, stopping often, mostly upon the insistence of the Reggie Man.
He’s excited to be in this strange place!
The day is pleasantly warm, probably around 80 degrees.
I pull out my monocular from my pants pocket and scan the shoreline. No sign of humans. A few free-range cows on the opposite shore.
We continue on our way.
We approach a small cove and a dozen American Coots noisily skit across the water. Apparently they aren’t accustomed to human presence. A squeal above us announces the fly-by of a gull.
Far from shore I see duck-like shapes.
Hmm…. I wonder what they are… I zoom in and grab a shot. Later I enlarge and crop to where the duck becomes visible. It’s a fuzzy image but good enough for identification.
A merganzer, right?
The hairdo is the dead give-away. I’m learning a lot living the way I do! I first identified merganzers (with the help of readers, of course) at Antelope Flat near Flaming Gorge. That’s the camp on a peninsula with a view of the amazing, changing rock. Do you remember that camp?
The above photo illustrates my attitude toward my photography.
I daresay most bloggers would not include such a poor quality photo in their blog or on their website. Or they have super-duper lenses that would provide a better quality photo in the first place.
Me? I want to share my experiences from “on the road.”
If I can do that with beautiful, artistic, quality photos, I’m very happy. I’m also perfectly content to post a picture like the one above. This isn’t a contest, right? Anyway . . . . You got to see the duck and that’s what I care about!
The lane curves around a series of small coves.
A picnic table comes into view.
“Oh, look! There’s a campsite on that point!”
We walk out to the site and I take the next photo.
Gee, we could move over here. Suddenly a small cloud of non-biting, gnat-like insects swirl around my face. Or, on the other hand, we could stay where we are and be content!
On the walk back to camp Bridget shows signs of weariness.
“Let’s stop for awhile, honey.”
She gets a “second wind” and the three of us resume walking.
Without any internet connection to anchor me inside the Best Little Trailer, I spend a happy afternoon and early evening outside with Bridget and Reggie.
After supper and dark (and I do mean dark! No lights anywhere!), I finish reading Swimming in the Moon: A Novel by Patricia Schoenewaldt. 
The plot carries the readers through the struggle for better working conditions around the time of the horrible fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory. The story is a lot more than that though. I enjoyed it, and therefore . . .
I recommend this book.
As I type this, the Kindle version is only $1.99. As always, before ordering read the synopsis and reader comments that Amazon provides.
Friday, May 1
I lift my head from the pillow, careful not to disturb Reggie and Bridget. The sun is rising above the hills, spilling pink across the water. Should I try to catch a photo?
I look down at the tender face of Reggie, softened by sleep, warm and fluffy. No, I want him to learn to sleep past the first morning light.
(Bridget probably wouldn’t be disturbed. Her hearing is poor and she’s accustomed to me jumping up, grabbing the camera, and disappearing.)
After we take a short walk, I break camp.
I place the chocks inside the PTV. I also arrange the quilt on the bench seat and place the doggie bed between the front seats. A few more details and we’re ready.
“C’mon, Bridgee babee! We’re going!”
I toss the crew into the PTV, start ‘er up, and pull out.
About 25 miles west we come to Rome.
A grand name for a tiny town. See the yellow sign across the bridge in the photo below? I had to laugh — It warns: CONGESTION.
Behind those trees are a cafe and a few buildings. Hmm . . . Must be a different kind of congestion than what one encounters in Boise!
This day is one of our longest travel days yet.
In the next post I’ll show you our new camp near Bend, Oregon!
rvsue
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
Where we were this time last year
Looks fabulous! Aren’t you ever scared when you see the herds of cows? I’m always a bit leery.
Wait a minute? Whoa? First? Wait, what?
Haha! YES, JILL! You are our leader today! Congratulations!
Oh, about herds of cows. No, I’m not afraid. I grew up around my grandfather’s dairy herd. Cows generally will not hurt you.
I love the pic of Bridget getting her second wind with the backdrop of the reservoir!
Hi, Tara,
You wouldn’t believe how many times I try for a shot like that — Bridget in the foreground and scenery in the background. By the time I kneel down for the shot, she turns her back or walks away. You saying you love the pic rewards those efforts!
Bend is a beautiful area, as well as Sisters, Oregon.
Hi, Kristi & Daisie,
Yes, it is. We moved through that area very quickly before and I only saw glimpses of it.
YAY Sue! You are gettin’ closer and closer! Bend has GROWN since I was there years ago… I suppose I can’t really call myself an Oregonian any more…but geez just like GA it gets in your blood! Welcome back!
Sending good tidings for great weather and a breeze to help you move along.
Hugs from Hoquiam!
Barb
Hi, Barb,
I know what you mean about places that get “in your blood.” We haven’t gone through Bend yet; we’re in the area.
Thanks for sending us great weather. It’s here! And, of course, for the hugs also. 🙂
🙂
Wow, I am close to first or first. How grand.
Hi, Jean! The grandest thing of all is that you’re here!
Beautiful areas you are passing through. Bend isn’t the small, peaceful place it used to be, you will find authentic “congestion” there. But you have a knack for finding the quieter spots, so I look forward to seeing where you settle. Have fun!
Hi, DSue,
It took some effort, but this new camp is peaceful and pretty. Any time we can make it through a weekend without aggravation I count as a big achievement. To do so this close to Bend, is more than that… It’s a blessing!
Nice hearing from you…
Well, left a comment on the last post, did not see you already posted….well good to see you here and I will now go back and read the post…ha!
And I’ll go look at your comment on the last post! 🙂
LATER… Oh gee, there’s a bunch of new comments… from AZ Jim, Rattlesnake Joe (a couple posts back), Shirlene, and others… a reply to DesertGinger…
Yep, we were busy….:)
Wow Sue, Bend Oregon already, you are just moving right along…Nevada, Idaho, Oregon. I live in California and it seems like it takes days just to get to a border…So glad you are in Oregon, I was supposed to be there next week, but had to cancel my travels plans….good thing…you might think I was following you…don’t look for me, I am not there. Enjoy Oregon, I know that I did when I was then in October, lovely State and great people. I enjoy traveling with you. Had coffee earlier and missed you, but I was busy reading the posts that I missed this weekend while I was out and about. Now that you made a run for the border, maybe you can settle in and enjoy the PNW, they are waiting for you!
Glad you’re caught up… missed you!
Yeah, we’re moving faster these days, although I am taking a break at our most recent camp. I remember when we were on the coast in Washington and the storm blew us all the way to The Dalles on the Columbia River, Oregon side… I was in a hurry to make our way toward winter camps and cut short our stay in the PNW. Not this time!
I’m sorry you had to cancel your travel plans. I hope all is well with you….
Great shots, Sue! Even the “murky” one 🙂
I would have walked over that water…but not with the dogs in tow…I know mine would have freaked out.
Hi, Cindy,
Not me! It’s pretty intimidating with that loud roar. You know, people think I take risks, but I’m really careful. I wouldn’t trust that little walkway, for instance, when I can see everything fine without stepping on the dang thing. Not a thrill-seeker at all.
This is true…and you were right there to see the actual power of it. If I was right there to see it…likely I would have been just as satisfied from a distance.
However, you know people…like the ones who maintain the dam and what-not walk on it all the time?
That’s just it… I don’t know when someone last walked on it and how much rust or unloosening has occurred since then. See what I mean? Careful. Some would say to a fault. 🙂
Ah…Ok 🙂
I’d be lookin’ anybody go out there today? Next day; Anybody go out there today?
LOL…I’d drive myself nuts!
Looks like a red-breasted merganser to me (male). I like that you post “ID” photos, whether or not they are masterpieces.
I remember in “the old days” catching a glimpse of a bird and having to frantically think/write down: Okay, black head, but white through the eye, long tail, spreads out, white under the wing and the legs are….. oh drat, flew away. Wait….. what color was the eye again? And was the breast black, or…?? Of course this was part of the fun, but it IS nice nowadays to be able to get a digital photo, zoom in, and have all the features there to look at and compare to the bird book at my leisure. When I do this, nine times out of ten they are “bad” photos, but they serve the purpose!
I just did this with a Scott’s Oriole yesterday 🙂
Hi, Pen,
I remember those “old days” of birding, too. It was very difficult, and impossible with birds out of one’s range of vision with or without an aid. Now I zoom as best I can and take a shot for scrutiny later. It’s fun.
Good decision to zoom in on the water rather than explore closer on foot-that looks like it had enough power to drag about anything under,wow,it had to be loud.The hairdo on the merganser cracks me up-that’s what the troupe and I look like most of the time,Ha!I am glad you included the photo of the PTV and BLT from down the road.That gave me a sense of how secluded a camp that really was-perfect.Because of it’s isolation it,to me,easily competes with the one on the peninsula you referred to-not better,yet certainly as good in it’s own way.Even not having internet connection adds to it’s appeal for a couple days,anyway.
As usual seeing Bridget and Reggie made the post special.The idea that everywhere is new to them always pleases me so for their sakes.It’s one thing to be as well taken care of by you as they are,add constant exploring and ,gee,they really do have wonderful lives. That you have the same one must still fill you with wonder at times…I have to laugh at what you consider to be a poor quality photograph.I can shoot a beautiful hillside and somehow make it look like a pile of manure-it really is beyond pathetic.Your outtakes would be enough to make me appreciate what I saw 🙂
Hi, weather,
Bridget and Reggie do have a good life. This little egg home gives them the security they need while moving from place to place. Bridget doesn’t relax fully at a new camp until she’s gone inside the BLT and seen that it’s the same comfortable cocoon she knows so well.
Although every camp is special in its own way — this one ranks high on seclusion! — the Antelope Flat (Flaming Gorge) camp had many extra features. . . .the big rock across the water that “changed” many times, depending upon the light, the abundance of ducks and other waterfowl, including loons, and the herd of pronghorns grazing on a ridge or running across a slope…. Later the camp deteriorated as the water level dropped leaving mud and the cattle were rounded up leaving flies… As always, timing is important!
About photographs of hillsides… I think they’re one of the hardest subjects to photograph well!
Thanks for the extra glimpse of exactly how Bridget “feels for home”,wherever you take her,amazing how certain things really matter and how our little ones make that obvious if we are paying close enough attention.When I return home and open the door my pups scamper out it if they need to tinkle ,run in for a treat they know I’ll have brought them and excitedly go out again.I just stand there waiting for a few seconds because I know they’re coming back in-this time to reassure themselves that we really are all together again.Each has to get their snuggles from me,check on the cat and birds and rub each other,too.Then they’re finally ready for run and play time outside.It’s so sweet to me that they go through that when you know they must be eager to be outside,yet not before their “everything’s OK in our world” check first.
Your honest assessment of hillsides being hard to photograph well is a bit of encouragement.Really most things I’ve tried to capture haven’t come out very much better.Several factors come in to play-average ,at best,cameras,lack of experience or even trying much.My memory and being there experiences are just completely different,clearer and nicer than pics of it.Odd in a way as I can paint a likeness entirely “real ” to me.And I very seldom do that either.That you have the interest and skill with a camera is a blessing-to your blog,readers, yourself and to me!
“…every camp is special in it’s own way…” -I love that.Every place and time is,too,huh?In case I miss you on here later,may yours this good evening and night be so,n’nite
How endearing … your troupe checking on everyone before allowing themselves to play.
I feel the same way about some of my photos — my memory of the place and the experience of being there is much greater that what the photo shows. And yet someone will write how much they loved that same photo. Maybe because it captured a memory or experience of theirs?
On the other hand there are times when a photo does come very close to capturing the specialness of a time and place and that’s what I consider a great photo, even if the exposure, focus, whatever isn’t perfect. 🙂
You have a good evening, weather, surrounded by your devoted pals.
it’s especially nice now ,having seen your reply,tucking in early for us,lots of time outdoors does that.’til coffee time or so 🙂
Yea, I think I’d stay for at least two weeks. Internet or no internet. Guess I’d make a lousy blogger. But I like the idea of spending some time where they warn you that there may or perhaps may not be congestion by the cafe.
I think that shot of Bridget coming down the lane might be one of my favorites of her. Not sure why but it just seems perfect. Hope your current home is the camp of your dreams. At least until you hit the next camp of your dreams. (which for you will always be just around the bend) 🙂
Hi, Rick,
Maybe you like that shot of Bridget because it’s Bridget being naturally herself, not reacting to the camera, simply running free.
Yeah, what is the camp of my dreams? Ha! All of them!
And maybe it’s because she’s headed towards you with that look of love in her eye.
Now it’s my turn to say AAAAWWWWW….
🙂
Loved the merganser photo even if not professional quality. We have mergansers here on our lake sometimes but they look a little different. Eastern mergansers, I guess. Can’t wait to see your pics of the new camp and your exploration of the Bend area. It’s such a great place to visit with all the beautiful surroundings. I wonder if you’re heading to Crater Lake after Bend?
Hi, Marcia,
When I looked up merganzers at that site I linked, it showed three different varieties, each quite different.
I don’t think we’ll go to Crater Lake (we have seen it). I don’t know where we’re going next!
When you mentioned, Bend, OR, I was reminded of a wonderful summer when that was my closest big city. I lived and worked at Malheur NWR near Burns, OR. That whole area is marvelous and full of history and beauty. You can camp at BLM campgrounds. Malheur Nation Forest is nearby and I also enjoyed camping there. You do need to research them to be sure you can get into them. You can also just pull off the road in most places. Stein Mountain is a wonderful place to visit – drive the loop trail and enjoy the wild horses and amazing views.
Hi, Marilyn,
Welcome! Good to see you here!
I almost made the turn to Malheur NWR and Page Springs Campground, as recommended by another blogorino who camped there recently. Instead I left it for another trip to Oregon.
That must have been an outstanding summer for you… great job in a great location!
Thanks for my daily smiles!
You’re welcome, Ida. Thanks for giving me the same!
I love, love, loved this campground….so peaceful!
And, I have to tell you, I love it when you say… “Anyway…..” (in italics) in your writings, its like I can just hear you saying it, I don’t know why but it just makes me smile!
Hope you are enjoying your new camp! So happy we get to travel through Oregon with you, I love that state!
(boy, I sure said “love” enough in this comment, huh?)
Hi, Marla,
Nothing wrong with overflowing with love! 🙂
That “anyway” that appears in my writing is there because I say it in my usual speech. A handy transition word after going off on a tangent…
I agree with you about Oregon.. I’m glad you’re traveling with me and the crew!
Hey Marla, hope your weekend was good….
Heya Shirlene! Weekend was good, but of course, too short! How about you?
It’s 80 degrees there where you are, same as here, but we have humidity now and had to turn on the AC. But I must say we had gorgeous weather long into the season because in the past it’s usually well into summer with stickiness galore. I envy you your high altitude weather.
Wow! Water in the western states and that’s good to see. I wish California were not so beleaguered by drought. I lived in California in the early 1980s and then drove cross country to return to Georgia and the dry soil was all new to me. Beautiful in a different way but when you’ve always taken water for granted it does wake you up.
Sweet little Bridget, she’s a trooper and but she might need a stroller. She might be willing but getting near not able and you know she wouldn’t want to be shown up by Reggie. I follow another blog, don’t know if I’m supposed to mention that here, but she got a baby stroller from a yard sale for her dog and it worked out well until she shelled out bigger bucks for one of those dog contraptions. Her dog loves it and jumps up into even when it’s just sitting out.
Nancy, Sue still has, I believe, the stroller used in past. They sure seem handy at times. Beautiful day here in Sacramento area, with clear blue sky and low 80’s.
I’ve been to Curves and it’s time to shower and get on with my day. Hope all of you are having a marvelous day.
Thanks, Velda.
Hi, Nancy,
I show you water in the western states. That water, however, is surrounded by a lot of dry land. I hope you manage to stay cool in the humidity…
One of these days I’ll be in a place where I can receive Amazon packages through a UPS Customer Center and then I’ll order a nice stroller that Bridget and Reggie can ride in. As Velda mentioned, Bridget does have a stroller — an umbroller-type– that I bought for her when she injured her back leg. It is handy to have.
I’m reluctant to put her in a stroller when she’s not sick or injured as she needs the exercise of our walks. I know Bridget. Once you cater to her, she demands it from that point on.
For instance, when Spike needed to be lifted into the BLT in his last weeks, Bridget insisted she be lifted in also. To this day she will stage a sit-in protest at the BLT steps, waiting for me to lift her in. I ignore her, she gives up, and hops up the steps. I could give you a bunch of examples like this! So no stroller until absolutely necessary….
HRH demands pampering!!
Wow Sue, Your close to Bend and Sisters, That’s Great. And nice photo’s too!,,,,,,,,,,, Well the work I did on the truck remedied the problem with the left rear wheel seal and no sign of a leak,,, we’re at Forest road 35, Kaibab NF, where we first met be for you moved up to where we were camped, back in 4/10/2012 , but this time we’re settin’ down near the Hwy, the road in is muddy and we’re fine where our camp is, we got hit with a hard rain commin’ to this camp. Have a great time up there and give Bridget and the Reggie man a big, BIG SWEET HUG from us,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, rusty
Hey, fellow Vet, glad to hear you fixed the problem. Give your sweet boy a hug for me.
Thanks Velda and I’ll Give Timber many from you along with mine,,,, rusty
Hi, Rusty,
It must be wonderful to have your mechanical talent and skills. I’m glad you were able to fix the truck.
Yeah, that’s sticky mud in those parts… good that you’re near the highway. A super big hug to Timber… You can rest easy tonight….
Yep, we’re gonna get good silent sleep with no decil tractor trucks runnin’ there motors all night or back up beep, beep, beeps, or a big bus motor home runnin’ it’s generator. You know the basic Truck Stop Sounds.,,,,,,,,,,,,, I’ll say That the Lord Works in many things, like tellin’ us to come back and inspirerin’ me how to fix this 40 year old Gal.,,,,,,,,,, Next time I’m Prayin’ first before settin’ out on the Road. ,,,,,,,,,,,Good night and Sweet Dreams of Jesus to You ALL,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, rusty n’ Timber in the ZONE
You explained it well, Rusty, with those three words: Truck Stop Sounds. Ha!
Good morning! I’m sure you appreciate the quiet of your present camp. I hope you and Timber slept well. I thought the same thing about your return to Arizona. Maybe that’s part of the plan for you. Be well….
Good morning to you Sue and Crew, We went to bed around 10pm and woke to the sound of a light rain at 06:15, we slept thru the night like babies. It’s a malty color of gray out with a glimnse of light once in a while in between the off and on rain and it looks like a fog is tryin’ to set in and around us.,,,,,,,,,,,,, Have a beautiful day up there in PNW while we enjoy the liquid sunshine ,,,,and give the pups a big hug from us,,,,,,, rusty
What a lovely good morning message. You have a beautiful day, too, Rusty. Sounds like you’re having one already! 🙂
Hi, Sue,
What a pretty, quiet area. Cool pictures of the dam and reservoir. I would have passed on walking across the raging water, too. I don’t like driving over water, yet alone walking over it! I like the duck’s Don King hairdo! I agree with your philosophy regarding photos. They don’t have to be perfect to convey what you saw…and some of the most imperfect shots create the most unique effects, such as looking like a watercolor painting. All have merit. I sometimes will pass on even trying to get a photo if I am not prepared for the conditions. I will put the camera aside and just enjoy the unfolding scene.
Some bluebird babies just hatched yesterday in the bluebird nesting box mounted on the edge of my patio. Mamma and Daddy are busy feeding their hungry babies. I think there are three chicks…such a happy sound! 🙂
Hope you and the Crew have an enjoyable night! Tell Bridget that she is is looking good! The closing shot was a sweet trip down memory lane – thanks. Hugs to you all from me and Gracie pup! 🙂
Hi, Denise and Gracie pup,
Aww, you have a bluebird family… It will be fun to watch the babies when they make their first attempts to leave the nest.
Don King’s hairdo…. perfect comparison! Haha!
Hugs to you and the pup… Have a good evening.
🙂
It sounds like you and the crew are in good spirits. Must be all the green vegetation. I thought you were heading north a little early in the season, but if you’re going all the way to the Oregon coast, then you left at the perfect time.
I was curious of how you handle backing your van up constantly and hook up the BLT? I haven’t done it enough to be totally comfortable doing it yet. I was thinking of putting in a camera to make it easier. You’re a pro now at this, so any advise would be great.
I have a pick-up and just a 22 foot trailer that hasn’t been named yet. So teach me Obie One. May the fourth be with you. Star Wars gotta love it.
Maybe you can shoot me an email so I don’t have to be notified for every update post being made. You’re so popular that my in box never stops till you make another post. I’ve made that mistake a couple of times. So if you could please.
Jerry
Hi, Jerry,
Let’s see…. advice about backing up to hook up the BLT.
First rule I imposed on myself from the get-go — no crutches! By that I mean no back-up camera, no magnetic balls on sticks, no crazy mirrors, no kind stranger waving his/her hands, etc. I wanted to learn how to hitch up without any aids. Just back ‘er up!
How to do that? Practice and patience. I back up in small increments, perfecting the line-up of the coupler and ball with each one. If it takes 3 tries or 33 tries, I don’t let it bother me. I take my time.
I always crank up the coupler to well above where the ball will go (wheels chocked!) to prevent hitting the coupler if I should back up too far.
At first I would focus on a stone or stick and determine how far I’d need to back and so forth. I don’t bother with that any more. I back up a few feet, get out and check, rinse and repeat, smaller distances each time.
Another thing that helps is imprinting a firm image in your mind of how the tow vehicle looks when the trailer is hitched up when looking in the side mirror. That will guide you when you make the first positioning of the truck to hitch up.
Another tip…. My coupler doesn’t always “seat” well over the ball, no matter how perfectly I line them up. Now I always squirt WD-40 or something like that on the ball before cranking the coupler down over it.
Also… If even after doing that, the coupler doesn’t “seat” well, I remove the chocks from in front of the wheels, put the PTV in drive with my foot on the brake, then I lift off the brake and let it jerk slightly forward. Invariably this solves the problem.
I’m sorry about not following your email request. Once I start doing that, I’ll be overwhelmed with requests over time, and I rarely give out my email address, which sending an email would do. I hope you understand.
Good luck with developing your skill with backing up!
Now that I’ve written all that… maybe you wanted to also know about backing up in general. Before making a backward turn, pull forward way ahead of where you want to turn. There’s a natural tendency not to go ahead far enough. Then . . . Simply hold the wheel at the bottom and turn left to make the trailer go left, turn right to make the trailer go right, and go slowly.
Now that’s the kind of stuff you don’t find anywhere else. Thanks Sue.
You’re welcome, Rick.
Hi Sue: I regretted my request as soon as I hit enter. Can’t blame you at all. At least you answered what was asked I’m so grateful for that. I like your ideas and it will take a while to do it more or less blindly. I have those balls on a stick and magnet in case it gets too bad. I mention the camera also cause I’m thinking of putting one on the back of the trailer for when I’m backing into a marked site. I’ll be alone and won’t have the luxury of a spotter. My Hi-lo isn’t much taller that the truck so I can see tree’s and buildings, so not worried about hitting them. But I would like to not run over the pedestal with electric. Yours is not as wide and would make it a little simpler to pull off.
As far as backing up I have no problem doing that. I can put that thing anywhere I choose. Grew up on a ranch and worked in the motorpool for eight years in the military and learned to drive just about everything you can think of. We had a huge forklift that would craw like a crab sideways. That was freaky to drive the first time.
Thanks for sharing your wonderful life with us minions Sue. Give the crew an extra treat for me today.
You’re welcome!
You’ve probably thought of this but I’ll mention it anyway since it’s such an inexpensive option compared to a back-up camera. You say your trailer is wider than the BLT and you’re concerned about hitting the power pedestal, for instance. How about purchasing a few of those red cones designed for the purpose of jack stands, or any other bright objects (I’ve used my yellow chocks.) Place them right next to where you want to place the back-end and where you can see them in your side mirror.
(Of course, you should be able to see the side of your trailer from your side mirror.)
BTW, I tend to go overboard with my answers, wanting to provide information for anyone who reads my reply. I figured you didn’t need all that!
BTW, is today Star Wars Day? (the 4th)… Amazon has Star Wars stuff on sale for a couple more days.
Hey, I don’t want to miss an opportunity… 🙂
Lovely area you are going through. Hope you found an out of the way spot in/near Bend. I would have carefully gone out on the damn, well without the pup (of course). It might have been cool to take some pictures of the roiling water from above. But I totally understand not getting near it with the Bridge and Reggie. The little scamp would probably have gone for a swim.
Hi, Lisa W.,
I took a photo like that, I think it was of the Rogue River while camped at Natural Bridge Campground north of Grants Pass. That bridge was for tourists and I trusted it more! BTW, the photo wasn’t that great. 🙂
We made it home. So nice to go hiking without swamps. The girls are loving it!
Your pictures are beautiful, as usual. I was waiting for a post on the Pillar’s of Rome. We haven’t made a visit there yet. You were so close.
Hi, Bill & Ann,
I’ve been wondering where you are! Glad you made it home safely.
I saw the sign for Pillars of Rome and, given that I had a couple hundred miles to drive ahead of me, I passed. I only have so much energy to expend in a day and when it’s gone, it’s gone. You’ll have to go see it and show me your photos. 🙂
Such wonderful photos!!! ALL OF THEM!!
Thank you!!
BTW- I just want to say how heartwarming it is to see how quickly & easily Reggie has settled in & become one of the Crew!
No puppy will ever take the place of Spike, but you & Bridget have given Reggie a second chance by adopting him & making him a member of you family. I’m sure he’s grateful!
Thank you for saving a life!
Lynn
Hi, Lynn,
I appreciate your kind message. Reggie is a special guy and deserves everything I can give him. No, he won’t take the place of Spike. He has a very different personality, although I did notice some sneakiness yesterday. I made it clear I didn’t want him scavenging in the fire ring and, when my back was turned, he went in it again. He was hunched down, creeping into it, so I know he was aware he was doing something bad!
For some reason, May 4th is always Star Wars day (May the fourth be with you). It is mentioned on the Google home page, on Amazon, I have seen several posts on Facebook.
I was just looking at pictures of a bridge in China they call the roller coaster bridge. It has a 6.1 incline…which is really steep. It is elevated so boats can pass under. I would never drive on that bridge. But I might walk across that one over the roaring water! Maybe.
Can’t go to pool today. It’s cloudy and cool and looks like rain. And there’s lightning. Will save the pool for tomorrow.
Tonight I think I’ll get back to my filing. Yuck. But it has to be done!
Oh…my son sent me an email. He started a new job today. He said “tough first day at work. I just had a tour of all the free beer and ice cream locations in the building”. That’s Silicon Valley high tech life for you…they treat their workers really great. If you work at Facebook you have unlimited vacation and sick days. When I worked at Visa they matched my 401k contribution 4 to 1. If I put in 3K, they put in 12K. It was awesome. Then most of that money was stolen in a Ponzi scheme. Oh well.
Hope everyone is having a great day.
Hi, Ginger,
Gosh, great perks at your son’s job, free beer and ice cream. You don’t get anything like that when teaching. We didn’t even have a lounge or a break from students while eating our lunch!
I would have jumped all over that 4 to 1 matching deal, even if I had to live on crackers. I’m sorry about your loss of savings.
Now I’m going to go look at the roller coaster bridge…
Here, check out those bridges yourself…
http://www.weather.com/travel/news/weirdest-bridges-world-photos-20140730
Yikes!
For anyone with a bridge-crossing phobia, that is The Bridge From Hell. It probably looks like there’s no more bridge when you approach the top. Geez… I don’t know if I could drive over that thing.
Thanks for the link, Ginger.
I’m sure I couldn’t drive over it. I think that bridge has been in my nightmares even before I saw it. *shudders*
If anyone complains about fuzzy pictures, just tell them it’s the latest trend in photography….impressionist photos!!!
You’re right. I actually liked the duck photo..was artistic.
🙂
WOWEE…pedal to the metal girl!! All the way to Bend…you are making tracks!! Well summer only lasts so long in the Northwest. We are still here in NC…but by the end of the month expect to be back…tis heating up here now…time to get going!! HEAT and me are not friends!! Happy trails!!
Hi, Elizabeth,
I assume you aren’t in the mountains of NC. The lowlands can become very hot and humid. Your WA home will have comfortable weather for you.
Yes, that was a long drive for me. Sometimes it’s necessary. No place I wanted to camp along that route.
Actually we are in the middle of the state…it gets hot quickly …tho’ this year has been so unusual…very cool and chilly even some days we have been here….I can remember sometimes by March it was roaring hot already…so this is a switch. It is hot now again…
Yea, soon going back to where no one has air conditioners…though there are days we could use one…but it usually does not get too hot nor stay hot long, fortunately. We have a fan of course. And being we are having to stay beside the crazy community center another year, hubby promises we will get a window air conditioner for our bedroom so we can at least shut out some of the noise. I hope we can find a VERY noisy one too!!….machine noise is easier to bear.
You probably know there are DVDs of the sound of ocean waves, roaring rivers, wind in the pines, etc. Maybe one of those would help, too.
I have one of nature sounds of the woods. I used to play it when I was dreaming of the day I could camp in the woods. I also used it to calm my students and prepare them for reading Call of the Wild.
We do have a sound machine actually and use it…it works SOMETIMES…others, the noise is simply too unbearable. I do understand why you seek so to find quiet places…
Hi Sue
You are now camping in my favorite area of the country. I spent time driving all over Oregon and we stayed at a beautiful resort hotel right on the Rogue River, our room had a fire place and two easy chairs with a sliding door open to the sound of the rushing Rogue river speeding by our room, with ducks or mallards or something begging right there. Good memories for sure.
We took the hwy all the way to Sisters and over Mt Hood and up to Seattle. What a good trip that was. enjoy and give those two furrys a hug from me.
Loved your post!
Hi, Deb,
Your trip must have been outstanding! The Rogue River is one of my favorites.
Love the picture of Bridget getting her second wind. I am with you on NOT crossing over that water!!! I am not a fan of standing on bridges any way. I love to see them in real and in pictures but don’t care about crossing over raging water. Your camp looks peaceful, like most of your camps but I would have trouble sleeping in such an isolated area. You have got more “gumption” than I do….as our Dad would have said. 🙂
Sending lots of love and big hugs to you and the crew
Hi, Pauline,
One of the many things I love about you is the way you let people be themselves. You accept me the way I am. No scolding that I shouldn’t camp in isolated areas.
People ask how my family reacted to my plans to live on the road… well, your comment answers that! You know it wouldn’t be right for you, and you also know it is right for me. I couldn’t ask for a better big sister.
I love you, too!
Daybreak was bright,afterwards a cloud descended-covering the wildlife and I in fog and suddenly changed all that we saw and heard.Traffic passed in the distance yet now more softly, like low wind sounds,as a light rainfall on a roof does it added- making earthsong even prettier to be within.Just such a rain came here last night, leaving new leaves and grasses all the fresher when it left…An afternoon of strong warm wind and loud crashing waves had left a light residue of blown soil and sand on nearly everything seen here-by this morning it all had been washed clean…As you get closer to the coast scenery you haven’t experienced before must feel new -like a series of awakenings .Good morning,Sue,I hope whatever you’ve seen since rising is wonderful.And that the three of you are feeling great so can thoroughly enjoy it all.
Hi, weather and good morning!
Nature cleans up her own “messes,” as well as ours. 🙂 I’ve seen that happen at camps…. Dusty, droopy plants are given a rain shower and they perk up, clean and refreshed.
Every camp, even in familiar territory, feels like new. When setting up camp, I always wonder where the sun will rise and what it will look like from where our home is placed.
It seems from your descriptions that your home is in a place of frequent change. I’m sure it is wonderful there. Enjoy…
Sometimes I nearly pee the bed while letting Tessa sleep that deep doggie sleep a while longer. So precious 🙂 Love the site out on the point, too bad the bugs like it too. Excited you’re in Oregon already!
Hi, Jodee…
As I type this there are two “precious” bundles next to me. They’ve had their breakfast and potty break, so back to bed they go!
The bugs weren’t bad at that point. It wasn’t dusk yet which could have meant more of them arriving later. I didn’t want to risk that. Plus our site was good.
Hi Sue! I’m interested in a monocular (I think). Can you give a link to the one you have?
I am back in the USA and busy trying to cram all my worldly goods into my teeny camper and new (to me) car, a 2006 Toyota Highlander. MUCH bigger than my baby Subaru, but still not big enough to hold everything. Severe paring down is needed, and I thought I’d already done that!
You’re home! Hooray for you, JanisP!
It’s surprising how much storage space one needs for a minimum of possessions. Good luck deciding what goes and what stays…
This is the monocular I have. As I type this it’s under $10.
Tasco Essentials 10×25 Compact Roof Prism Monocular (Black)
I don’t know that it’s the best one to buy. There may be better ones, smaller ones, higher zoom ones. This Tasco model serves me well. If I need higher zoom, I use my camera’s 60X zoom.
Good Morning Sue,
I am just now getting around to having my coffee, very busy morning for me…but the coffee is great and so is the company! Hope your day is glorious and wonderful and full of butterflys and flowers, although I have no idea where you are or if there are any there, but I wish them for you anyway.
Good Morning to all the blogorino friends!
Good morning, Shirlene… I’m ready to publish the next post. See ya’ later!
Re Last year. Is it the San Juan river?
No, it’s the Green River. That’s a free camp near the town of Green River, Utah. “Where we were this time last year” (under the photo) is a link to that post if you want to read about that camp or see more photos of it.
San Juan is a good guess. Our camp at Sand Island near Bluff, UT, was similar.