Saturday, October 26
It’s the beginning of our second week boondocking in the Alabama Hills at Lone Pine, California. That little white dot is our home!
The weather is wonderful. It seems like summertime with temperatures in the 70s, which feels like in the 80s. Nights we sleep with one quilt and a window partly open.
Today the crew and I are homebodies.
I accomplish a few, easy chores and relax in my new anti-gravity chair with a book (Elizabeth Peters’ mystery, The Snake, the Crocodile, and the Dog).
From my chair I watch the Saturday tourists going up and down Horseshoe Meadow Road. Some of them decide to drive up our lane. This causes me to leap out of my chair and into the BLT, herding Bridget and Spike as I go.
The Magnet Effect occurs.
Over the course of the day I count five cars carrying a total of twelve people, curious, I guess, as to why we’re camped here. They swarm around the BLT and PTV, yakking back and forth, while the crew and I remain inside, blinds down, until they leave. I find the mob behavior very unsettling, but I get past it.
Later that afternoon, I meet two fellow bloggers!
Bridget, Spike, and I are on the lane side of the BLT where it’s shady and cool in the afternoon. I put down my book as a car approaches.
I can tell by the tentative way the car comes up the lane that the occupants are probably readers of this blog.
“Come sit with us!” I call out.
John and Aileen of Salmon Arm, BC, (“John and Aileen On The Road”) rolled into the Alabama Hills today. Their Class A motor home is parked among the boulders off the Whitney Portal Road. You can see their rig and photos of Alabama Hills in their post of Oct. 27, 2013.
Of course we have a grand ol’ time talking about blogging and dogs and full-timing and all the other numerous things we have in common, including a love of KEEN trail shoes!
Sunday, October 27
Can you identify this bird of prey?
After a day around camp, the crew and I want a change of scenery.
First I drive us up to Tuttle Creek Campground and fill up nine one-gallon jugs with drinking water. I also dump trash in the receptacle and put plastic in the recycling bin.
The campground is almost full of week-end campers.
On the way through Lone Pine I stop at the library and put the two borrowed books in the drop box. (The other book was a Mary Higgins Clark mystery.)
We explore more roads north of Lone Pine and Independence.
It’s a pleasure for me to bring happiness to Bridget and Spike. How they love these little excursions!
Of course, I enjoy taking photos, which I’ve scattered throughout this post. On the way home I stop at a field and visit with some mules and horses. This friendly lady in the foreground manages to stick her face in almost every frame.
Later, back at camp, I notice a gray cloud hovering over Lone Pine Peak. Before retiring to the BLT for the night, I put the chairs and the crew’s beds inside the PTV in case it rains.
As it turns out, no rain, but, oh, how the BLT rocked in some strong, gusty wind!
Monday, October 28
I read blog comments and emails over a cup of coffee. Through the back window I see snow falling on the mountaintops.
I’m delighted by what I find in an email from friend Rusty.
I have to share it with you!
Hi, Sue,
Timber likes Animal Planet on the TV. He likes “So Cute” and other channels that show stories on animals moving. Here he is watching Animal Planet.
Sometimes he tries to jump into the picture or he’ll get real close as to catch what’s on the screen. If he doesn’t like what’s on, he’ll go to our bedroom and sleep on the bed til his show comes back on. Then here he comes to watch his show. Timber knows what he likes.
Rusty
Sounds like Timber is enjoying the comforts of his new home!
rvsue
THANKS, RVSUE SHOPPERS!
Here are some recent purchases made by readers of this blog:
Pine Needle Basketry: From Forest Floor to Finished Project
Pet Stairs for Cats and Dogs up to 75-pounds
Maxxair White Fanmate Cover
303 Products Aerospace Protectant
Coleman 14×10 Foot 8 Person Instant Tent
“REAR VIEW MIRROR”
In late June, 2012, I meet the lion, the scarecrow, and the tin man while camped in Wheatland, Wyoming. As one would expect, together they help “Dorothy” find her way.
“Follow the yellow brick road to Lingle”
Whoo hoo. I’m first this time!
Glad you are all enjoying the site! …..someone got the opportunity to meet you! 🙂 hmm i should add that to my bucket list!
What are those cooler looking contraptions?
How cute is Timber!
Hi, Cinandjules,
I can’t look at that photo of Timber without smiling. He’s loving the life!
Let’s wait and see if anyone can identify those “cooler looking contraptions” before I give it away. 🙂
The Bird Of prey is a Red Tail Hawk, they sound a ” Screeeeeee” when they fly. I tried to be first, but I type too slow Cin and Jules in Temp Cal, no worries. And The Mules, they’re cousins to Donkeys, but truly Mules are the hybrid of a horse and a donkey and there are Tennessee Walking Mules that are great to ride.
They are bee hives with a way to catch or keep a Queen Bee at home, I think that’s what those cups are for ,,,,,
I think you’re right, Rusty! I know they’re bee hives because I was there and saw the bees, some of them in the cups.
I’m thinking the falcon is a Merlin.
So what’s my prize?!!
I’m heading south and west next week. Maybe we’ll cross paths.
Robert
Hi, Robert,
Your prize is the good feeling you get when you’re right. Rusty says it’s a red-tailed hawk, so we’ll wait and see what others say.
(And if you both aren’t right, someone will surely drop in here and let you know. LOL!)
Are you the same Robert that I met at Fortuna Pond? Sheesh. I have an awful time keeping people straight.
Happy travels… Hope you dodge the cold weather.
Right Sue, I’m the “barge in” at Fortuna Pond.
No worries about keeping folks straight that you’ve met once. You’ve got quite a following since your start. Did you ever imagine being a heroine and inspiration to so many?
Just goes to show how one person changes lives. Heck you made the news with Rusty and Timber!
Sue, you bring a smile to all of us that read your blog.
Peace and happy trails.
Robert
Thanks for getting back with me, Robert. No, you weren’t a “barge in.” I enjoyed our conversation. The only negative that I remember . . . You caught me when I’d been housecleaning, real heavy-duty work, and my body odor was off the charts! LOL!
No, I never thought my blogging would turn out this way. I thought it’d be entertainment for myself and a nice record of our travels. Then all these people show up!
From now on, sign in as Fortuna Robert, okay? 🙂
Hey, I love “Too Cute!”, too. That is one of my de-stressing shows. Watching those tiny puppies and kittens is so comforting. Often, when I come home from work, I play one of these episodes on my Tivo (DVR).
Glad to see that Timber is adjusting well to his new home. Do Rusty and Timber ever go out in the truck camper anymore? Wondering if they miss that if they don’t.
Rosemary
Hi Rosemary, I’m Rusty, and we hardly go any where in the truck other than to the store or to the VA Hospital, we mostly stay home, we have a yard to play in, and we’ve been all over this side of the Mississippi ,,,,,,,,,,
Hi, Rusty,
Maybe next summer when it’s hot in Chino Valley you’ll want to go up into the mountains for a break. Or not! 🙂
What with AC in the house, nah, we’ll stay home and I’ll tend to the garden and Timber will stay cool
Hi Sue, I bet your spot in the Alabama Hills is one where a movie was filmed. We moved twice while we were there during the film festival because too many people kept coming into our site. At our last spot nobody drove up and got out. It makes us crazy when people come into our camp since we would NEVER do that!
Hi, Jim and Gayle,
Last fall I was in the Gunga Din setting (I think). People kept coming up to me asking questions like I was a camp host or tour guide or something.
I don’t think our present site was a movie or tv setting.
I think those people saw us camped next to these beautiful cottonwood trees and an arroyo and they wanted to see it. Maybe they thought there’s a creek running through here. Or they see someone up here so they think it is a movie setting. Who knows. I still think it’s The Magnet Phenomenon.
Some people have to go where others are, like they’re afraid they’ll miss something. It’s part of The Rubber Neck Syndrome.
Yes! The Magnet Phenomenon! This happens to us while Todd is driving all the time especially when we’re pulling this 30′ trailer. People pull up next to us and just drive right smack beside us even though there’s no other traffic. It drives Todd nuts especially when it’s a little windy, absolutely no room for a gust to blow us over a bit. I tell him it’s his magnetic personality and then sing “just like me, they long to be close to you” by The Carpenters and then he’s just happy that the singing has stopped :-/.
Love the pictures and everything as always! 🙂 Thank you Sue! Hi Bridge and Spikey too!
Sue, I think you told us in an earlier post what camera you are using. But please tell us again. I want one for Christmas!
Those photos are gorgeous! They look 3D. A quantum leap ahead of your older photos!
Of course, skill figures in there, too. But what a tool!
Thank you, tinycamper… I agree. This camera has improved my photos tremendously.
As for the skill, I find it helpful to jiggle the camera while pressing the shutter button. Hahaha!
The camera is a SONY cyber-shot Exmor R, 18.2 megapixels, 20x optical zoom, DSC-HX20V.
Thank you, Sue. Will see if I can get that jiggle down a little better. 🙂
Beautiful, beautiful pictures in today’s and yesterday’s posts. They just take me away to a stress-free visit that I truly need. Your pictures are wonderful but because they come with a sentence and they make the best mini-stories!
Hi, Susan,
The world of photography is new to me. I’m beginning to realize how much the photographer is revealed in the photos he or she takes. I usually take pics of things like trees, cows (lots of cows — LOL!), mules, horses, birds, grasses, lakes, streams, mountains…. Things that are peaceful and have a stress-free mood.
Thank you for the compliment.
Looks like bee hives with jars on them.
‘The Snake, the Crocodile and the Dog’, eh? Methinks the dog will get the short end of the stick…
Hi, Ladybug,
Yep, that’s what they are all right… “bee hives with jars on them.” Puzzle solved! 🙂
Well, now we need to know why the jars! 😀
Pre-packaged honey? I think I’ve read somewhere that doing that causes the bees to build into the jars, and then they can be removed/transported.
Inquiring minds need to know!!
Gee, next thing . . . they’ll be teaching the bees marketing skills.
Well, I learned something new today. I had no idea what those contraptions were 🙂
Thank you, Sue!
You’re welcome, Marcia! (I didn’t know you’re in Massachusetts. Thanks for adding that.)
Well add us to the list of campers hiding in the Alabama Hills. We got here yesterday just in time for the rock n’roll winds. Whooo whee! Didn’t get much sleep last night and hibernating inside today. Hope I get to see all 3 of you while we’re here. Miss the wiggly butts 🙂
Nina
I figured you were here or on your way here today. Yeah, it’s a good day for hibernating. Glad we’re not above the snow line!
Bridget, especially, would wiggle her butt for you. She loves you!
See ya’ on a better day . . .
Hi RVSue,
I have been lurking on your blog since last March reading all your posts. I have amazed myself-I have never read a blog or even been remotely interested in them until I found yours through the Airstream forum! I was reading the boondocking threads and somebody mentioned your blog so I clicked on it and the rest is history. I have been hooked! I have learned a lot and put some of that knowledge to the test when we dry camped for a week in Mather Campground at Grand Canyon in late September this year. We have a 22 foot Airstream we bought a year ago. I thought of you and chuckled when an elk wandered through our campsite at dinnertime. They were all over the place! Now, as a former librarian, I never really recommend titles (cause it can backfire) but I can say that Elizabeth Peters is one of my all-time favorite authors. I enjoyed her entire Amelia Peabody series, especially the first ones. The first title is Crocodile on the Sandbank. I love her historical knowledge and her sense of humor. By the way, I love your Canine Corner, your pictures, and your style of writing. Like many of your readers, I think you should, when you get time, start a children’s series of books with Spike and Bridget as the main characters. They could teach children about our great country, and campgrounds, as well as (most importantly) HOW TO CAMP!! Ha! Thanks for allowing us to follow along on your journey! Safe travels!
Hi, Terri D!
Welcome to my blog! I’m very happy you came out of lurkdom to let me know you’re here and to share your thoughts with all of us. Please drop in again.
This Elizabeth Peters book I just finished is one of the last, if not the very last, of the Amelia Peabody series. It’s the only one I’ve read. Just like me to start with the last one!
You mean like… “Spike and Bridget Go To The Grand Canyon,” “Spike and Bridget Go to Yellowstone”…. Ha! The crew has its own series!
Thank you for reading my posts from the beginning and for the praise. I love to read that someone has become hooked by my blog!
I am a long time “Elizabeth Peters” fan… actually her name is Barbara Mertz and she just died this past August in her 80’s of cancer. I was thrilled to meet her some years back when I arrived early at a book reading of hers and we shared stories of the place we both love(d)… Egypt. We even wrote a few letters. Actually the book you just read is book 7 out of 19 in the series. Not only is the Amelia series great fun, the Egyptology is accurate – what with her being the first woman in the US to get a PhD in the field. She also has two scholarly books out on Egyptology. She has also written nearly 30 mysteries under the name Barbara Michaels. And that is not all… she was a very prolific writer.
Hi, Connie,
Very interesting! I noticed on the front flap of the book that she’s written an unbelievable number of books. If the one I read is any indication, her books aren’t thrown together following a formula. The details (Egyptology) are interwoven throughout.
Funny how my blog will touch on things to which my readers can relate their personal experiences. Enjoyed your comment . . .
HI, Sue. for those interested in their own.
Beehives in a jar. DIY
http://removeandreplace.com/2013/05/07/how-to-easily-make-a-beehive-in-a-jar-backyard-project-diy/
Oh, My SD plates came today. I am officially a South Dakotan, Ye Haw.
Congratulations, Alan!
What a fascinating project! I didn’t know you could make a beehive in a jar. You can follow the instructions and have a little honey factory for the back yard. Thanks for the link!
Congratulations, Alan Rabe! I can’t wait for the day I get mine.
Yay. …. Alan!
One step closer to freedom and flying your ears with the windows rolled down!
And no jury duty!
Well….I was going to suggest a Cooper’s Hawk or Sharp-shinned Hawk….both of which are year round residents in that area….however, I could be wrong…(I often am). I was fortunate enough to have a nest of Cooper’s this spring and really enjoyed watching their amazing flying skills. Just to let you know that I’m following your adventures and living vicariously through your blog. I do so hope that next year I will also join the rambling people and get to enjoy this lovely country as you do. I will write you about purchasing a Casita….it would seem to be perfect for me and my two canine buddies. Wonderful pictures, Sue. Thank you so much.
Hi, Chuck,
You’re welcome. Yes, do let us know about your Casita purchase and anything you’d like to share about your experiences on the road. The very thought of it is exciting, isn’t it… 🙂
Of course, the Casita will be perfect for you and two canines!
Well, so far we have four identifications on the bird of prey… 1) a red-tailed hawk, 2) a Merlin falcon, 3) a Cooper’s hawk, and 4) a Sharp-skinned hawk.
I wish the lighting were better so we could get a better look at it. He/she was quite far away near the top of a dead branch. I zoomed in as close as I could.
Nice to hear from you again . . .
Chuck, if you mention RVSue’s name when you order your Casita, she will earn $200! I am sure she/we would appreciate the gas money so her writings will continue!
Hi Sue! It was great to meet you and visit the other day! I checked my Keen shoes and yes my Keen Dry shoes are 9 1/2 and I ordinarily wear a 9. However, I have worn the size right off the sandals so cannot tell what they were! It was several years ago and many miles ago that I purchased them. However, I am going to purchase new ones at my first opportunity so will let you know how I make out with sizing. Have a great day and safe travels.
Aileen from John and Aileen on the Road
Hi, Aileen,
Twas a treat to meet you, John, and Mitzi! How about this quick-change weather? The mountains over here are disappearing in fog and snow.
So you did the same thing with your KEENS. A half-size bigger leaves plenty of room for toe-wiggling and for socks. I have a feeling I won’t need to go a half-size up with sandals. I’ll go back and read customer reviews before ordering. Thanks for trying to come up with an answer for me!
I’ll probably see Nina before leaving here. She wears KEEN sandals, too, so maybe she’ll help me determine what size to order.
You both stay safe and happy wherever you go . . .
Good memory Sue! If I remember correctly i had to order a half size bigger for the sandals too. I’ve worn out my size, so when I get back on my regular computer I’ll see if I can find the old reciept and check.
Nina
A half-size bigger for sandals, too? Thanks for letting me know. I WANT THOSE SANDALS!!!
Finally found my old receipt and YES I ordered 1/2 size bigger on those sandals. I have 2 kinds which comprise my entire foot wardrobe…the KEEN whisper slide (basically just slip-ons) and the slightly beefier KEEN Newport H2 (my all-round hiking/walking sandals). I love them!
Nina
I’m beginning to love the Alabama Hills. Thanks for the gorgeous photos and the serenity that come with it. My week started badly on Friday, and it’s only Monday, so the blog is keeping my eye on the dream. Sure do like it there at this time of year.
Hi, DeAnne,
Oh, I’m sorry you’re having a bad week. Yes, keep your eye on the dream. My dream got me through some nightmarish days . . .
The Alabama Hills are unique. I encourage anyone to click on the link to John and Aileen’s blog. Scroll down for their photos of the Hills . . . They really show you what it’s like here. I’ve concentrated more on photographing Owens Valley this fall.
Here’s wishing you a good day tomorrow and throughout the week!
LOL I love that Timber likes to watch tv…so do our dogs. It’s so funny to watch them sit in fron of tv…Chowder howls when he hears a dog, Pikami loves opera music and the other two are not much into tv watching. I laugh becuz sometimes they get confused when they hear a knock on tv they think it’s the door.
BLT look so tiny next to those majestic mountains…what a beautiful area. Love photos of plants. It’s usually my fav to see what kind of plant life and trees in the area I’m traveling. Do you still do much cooking? I don’t see post of foods you cooked in a while. I guess I’m just curious what a full time RVer eats while on the road or in camp. I’m imagining better food prob than what I eat tent camping…grilled meat i.e. chicken, hamburger, hot dogs, sausages, etc. If I’m fishing, I’ll clean the fish, oil and season w/herbal seasoning wrap it in foil with rice or veggies…it is so good! Sometimes I make bread like my dad taught us…mix the dough in a mixing bowl…no kneading necessary…pour the content into a metal pan with/lid, wrap a damp burlap round the pan and bury it in hot ashes…enough to cover pan. In about 30 minutes to an hour the bread is done! So good fresh.
Hi, Rita,
You reminded me . . . Spike used to bark at the door when someone knocked on the tv. Of course, I’ve been known to hunt for the phone when one rings on the tube. LOL!
Ooh, that freshly caught fish sounds delicious, as well as the fresh bread baked in ashes. I don’t show my cooking very often because it’s nothing to blog about. Your list sounds better than mine. I eat a lot of vegetable plate meals, especially in the colder months. Not very inspired, but I like it.
I’m the same as you as far as interest in the plants of an area we visit. But you can tell that from my photos . . .
Hi RV Sue,
You got me out of lurkerville today as well. BTW, I have purchased a few items from your blog on Amazon..HaHa, you even mentioned them.
Being a Florida gal, I think you know what that hawk is, they are uncommon in the West. It is a Red-shouldered Hawk.
Safe travels.
Hi, Tom in AZ,
I don’t know if this is your first comment or not as a Tom has shown up here before. If it’s a first, well, then, Welcome to my blog!
A Red-shouldered hawk… Now we have 5 identifications! I have trouble identifying the birds of prey, so I’m no help at all.
Nice to hear from you . . . And a big THANK YOU for shopping Amazon from my blog!
I see my little pet step that I just ordered came up on your list. Mugsy’s knees (on her back legs) are getting cranky and she has trouble getting up and down from HER chair. I actually bought a set of these steps some years back for her and she wouldn’t use them until she hurt one of her back legs. Suddenly the steps weren’t scary any more. Funny little creatures…
I hope she’ll use the steps now. It’s sad to see our beloved pets aging. Spike can still hop into the BLT on good days. Some days I have to lift him. I always have to lift him into the PTV.
Bridget, bless her heart, can still lift her chubby behind with her spindly legs, except for getting in bed. She insists on being lifted (the prima donna).
Thank you for buying the steps from Amazon here. You’ve been good to me that way, Connie!
I hate shopping so do most of it online. I must admit that occasionally I am in a hurry to get something and forget to click here first… then I think… oh crap… should have gone to Sue’s blog first.
Do you find the distances to the mountains are deceiving? You think your much closer than you really are. Your photos give me much pleasure.
Hi, Mick,
Oh, definitely! Distances in the desert are very difficult to gauge. I remember when the crew and I first came to the desert. We were in the Sonoran near Ajo, AZ . . . .
I see something interesting on a knoll. I decide we’ll take a little walk over there. We don’t even come close to it. Turned around and dragged our sorry selves home exhausted. Haha!
The camera you gave me gives me much pleasure. 🙂
That camera gives us ALL pleasure Sue and Mick!!!!
Hi Sue,
Our vintage trailer group uses OPEN/CLOSED signs, so people don’t bother us… so far it seems to work! It would sure bug ME to have people wander around my campsite if they were not invited!
My GOSH I see an awful lot of KEEN shoes now! Only the Keen Kids wear KEENS! LOL
I need some I know I need some!
Hugs from Hoquiam, where it is DANG COLD but still sunny!
Barb
Hi, Barb,
The way we boondock so far off the main road I’d need to put up a billboard. Don’t get me started on people invading space…
If you order some KEENS trail shoes, remember to order a half-size larger than normal. At least that’s what worked for me, Aileen, and several customers reviewing on Amazon.
I hear the cold we’re getting here came for the Northwest. . . 🙂 Keep warm, Barb!
Rusty beat me too it…Red Shoulder Hawk…LOL Oh and yup bee hives.
I love your photos, what a wonderful spot you’ve found. Bridge and Spike look like they are lovin’ it too.
I LOVE mules and used to have a pony sized mule as property/pasture protection she was wonderful and for such a tiny gal she had a bray that could wake the dead in 3 counties. She ran off strangers, coyote, snakes, stray dogs etc. was affectionate to me her herd mate, my horse and my dog and cat. Mules are so smart she knew who was friend or foe very quickly.
Shoot I forgot to add I love Timber watching animal TV…careful Rusty you’ve made a boob tube monster…LOL. Next he’ll learn how to change the channels and make his own popcorn.
Hi, Mindy,
After my encounter with this particular mule, I can see why you say you love mules. That mule was very affectionate and gentle.
Yes, Bridget and Spike like it here. The weather, up until tonight (cold!), has been wonderful for walks.
Amazing pictures Sue, as always.
Thanks.
Well I found out on whatbird.com that it’s a Red Shouldered Hawk. they ‘re close looking to the Red Tailed Hawk, I had to get my glass’s on, wow what a difference it makes. well I was wrong in guessing it was a Red Tailed Hawk ,,,:~(
Rusty,
Timber’s looking really good! Glad you both are enjoying your home!
Timber and I are gaining weight , staying warm, playing in a yard, sleeping in a good bed and watching all the neat stuff on DISH
you bet cha, Cindy and Jules
I looked up all the guesses made about the hawk and I think it is a Red Shouldered Hawk. At first I thought it might be a Cooper’s Hawk but the wing markings are wrong.
Still loving the blog. And ordering from amazon. I’m like other “lurkers”. I’ve never ever even thought about reading or commenting on a blog. But I’m hooked… Very glad Rusty and Timber are doing so well! (Oklahoma)
Hi, Edie,
I want to turn lurkers into commenters. The more folks there are sharing their point of view, experiences, information, and dreams, the better this blog.
Thanks for your Amazon orders. Keep loving my blog!
I beleive this raptor to be in the Falcon Family, Peregrine…barred underneath, smaller than Red Tail Hawk. (Red Tails are huge) Look to see if the head is dark under the eye and head, like a cap. The Red Shoulder”s region seems to be further west in California. I live in Virginia the plants and animals are a little different, but as soon as I saw the picture I thought Perigrine. I am not always right, but do try to identify them when I see them. Sometimes you have to watch for a while to see them in flight, especially from underneath, the shape of tail and color. Love the Raptors! Master hunters.
Ha! Had to laugh out loud when I saw Timber watching his favorite TV show.
He is a smart dog. Thanks for sharing, Rusty and Sue.
Glad you had folks to talk to and share with. Enjoyed the Pics, such a beautiful place.
Take care Sue.
Hi, Diane,
I waited to see him fly and when he did, he took a direct angle to the ground, probably to pick up some lunch. He quickly went behind some brush so I didn’t get to see under his wings and tail in flight.
Thanks for the compliment on the photos. It’s fun sharing them here.
Thanks for making your experiences and glorious sights come alive for those of us looking forward to our own time on the road. You present daily life with humor and always point out the beauty around us. We are shrouded in fog tonight but not too cold. Max has burrowed under the comforter, he wishes I would turn off the light. I am enjoying your adventures!
You’re welcome, Ruth.
I get the same message from the crew. That’s when I pull the quilt over their heads.
Wow ! Beautiful photos. I LOVE your camping spot.
Timber is so cute and so smart !!!
Hi, Sue,
Timber is a great dog, definitely a one-man dog. Timber and Rusty are totally devoted to each other.
Glad you like the pics. Thanks.
Sue:
Here’s an excellent online guide to birds of North America by the Cornell Ornithology Dept…even gives you the pleasure of hearing their calls. Good reference for you.
http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide
Thanks, Chuck. Great site!
Sue, have you identified which peak is Mt Whitney, the highest point in the continental USA? When you do find it, it doesnt look like the highest one. I havent picked it out yet in your photos. But then, I missed reading a few days. Maybe you could send a photo of Whitney? Thanks for the lovely Fall photos.
Hi, Susan,
Yes, I can see Mt. Whitney from our back window. In recent photos it appears to the right of Lone Pine Peak which nearly eclipses it. You can see Whitney in the center of the full-moon pic (the one without the BLT) a few posts back. In the first photo of this post, Whitney is hidden behind the brown rock hill.
The mountain in the third photo is, I believe, Mt. Williamson.
Recently, I read that beekeepers in California (I assume other states) have portable hives. As an orchard needs to be pollinated, the bees are delivered for a time and they do their magic!
Hi, Nan,
Bees can do a much better job than humans can. The bees were busy on the rabbitbrush in the area of the hives while we were there.
I always thought that the jars on top of hive were to feed them over the winter months but then again I’m not a beekeeper.
I’m not a beekeeper either, Jeff. I did notice (without getting close) that the jars were empty except for a few bees. Many bees were out working on the blooms on rabbitbrush.
Hi Sue, Not sure if the jars are set up that way but sometimes they will put sugar water for the bees to make more combs. I use to manufacture bee boxes at a mill. It was fun to learn about bee keeping though I have never done it.
Hi Laurie . . . I thought you were leaving SD . . . um . . . winter’s coming . . .
Yep, left SD and my friend broke down in Reno. So we have been here since Friday and are leaving today and will be in Oregon on Halloween. Then a couple months in Oregon and in January I’m hitting the road. Don’t know where yet but it doesn’t really matter as long as I’m on the road. 🙂 Bet it’s nice and warm there compared to Reno and where I’m headed. Enjoy the sunshine and solitude…
Great to read about your travel plans. You’ve got vagabonding in your DNA… “It doesn’t really matter as long as I’m on the road.” That would make a great subtitle/slogan to an full-timer’s blog!
That is a Red shouldered Hawk, I saw one this weekend at a festival where they had rescue birds…I thought it was a Cooper’s Hawk, but it did not have the banding on the tail and is a little bigger tha Cooper’s Hawk. I also wear Keen sandals, love love them..Good choice in footwear…Keep up the good work, love the blog and the idea of childrens book from Bridget and Spike.
Hi, Shirlene,
Another KEENer! My research says Red Shouldered Hawk. Thanks for taking the time to write. I appreciate the encouragement . . .
Loving the area you are now in Sue, all the photos are just grand. Thanks for posting the photos of the mules……….lovely creatures. Loved seeing Timber in his new home enjoying his TV……….what an intelligent dog…………..my two pups never notice a thing about the TV……….DERRRRRR!!
Hi, Glenda,
Well, neither Bridget nor Spike ever showed any interest in television. Some dogs don’t focus on what’s being shown. They look at it like it’s a jumble of colors moving, but without meaning. Which, now that I think about it, is a pretty accurate assessment!
Yeah, the Hills are great. Thanks for commenting on my photos.
My job involves a lot of driving in city traffic, so it is so relaxing to come home and read your blog. The photos of the wide open spaces (aka no cars), the colors and varieties of plants, are soothing and refreshing for my frazzled nerves. I can just hear the quiet that surrounds you (that’s an odd statement, but you know what I mean, don’t you?) . I can’t believe people would just come into your area and walk around your vehicles – sheesh, some people have no shame.
I got a laugh out of the picture of Timber watching TV. I’ve had 2 dogs in the last 20 years (individually, not at the same time), and neither would watch TV directly. They would curl up at my feet while I was watching, and if the phone or doorbell rang on TV, their ears would perk up. I’m so glad to read that he and Rusty are settling in and happy in their new home- they deserve it!
Hi, Cari,
It’s not an odd statement at all — I often listen to the quiet. I thrive on it.
Just as you want photos of wide open spaces with no cars or people, I want to take photos like that. Sometimes I’ll take a photo of one of our campsites and when I see a car or person way in the distance in the corner of the photo, I crop them out. Too bad I can’t “crop out” people who run around my home. 🙂
It’s wonderful to hear my photos soothe your frazzled nerves.
RVSue: Channel surfing at dawn, came across QVC shopping channel. They were featuring an Olympus camera for $149. I believe this camera is in league with your wonderful Sony Cybershot. My point is that I learned there is a new category of digital cameras called the “bridge cameras.” They are equal in quality and features as the large SLRs, but are as affordable, lightweight, and small as a $99 pocket-size point-and-shoot. I’m excited to think I could take as good quality photos as yours without going all out for a heavy, bulky, $500 camera. One of life’s problems, solved! Amazon here I come! You’re on the crest of that wave!
Hi, Gayle,
It’s okay to look at QVC as long as you come back here and use my Amazon links. 🙂
Yeah, I don’t think I’m ready for one of those big-lens cameras. Some of my photos are taken while holding two leashes with Bridget and Spike pulling this way and that. Can’t imagine handling a big camera at the same time. . .
Hi Laurie, We have space for your RV here at Hidden Oasis RV Park in Wikieup Arizona. It will get cold soon in SD…better make a ‘bee line’ for warm AZ. Stop in Kingman to gas up on the way down here, it was only $3.13 a gallon for regular today. You’ll like it here with Cowboys, Indians and Miners. Only 300 population and when it snows the mountains shine but no snow on the valley floor. Elk bugle in the morning sometimes and Coyotes sing us to sleep at night. Google the park and see how beautiful it is…I call this valley Shangra La. My wife and I will leave the light on for you…
I may head that way in January. I’ll definately stop by if I head all the way down. May just hang out for a couple months in NM. Thanks for the invite and you enjoy that nice weather while I freeze in Grants pass. LOL. Have to get some things done in GP,so i will have to deal with it for a couple months. Take care Joe!
Joe’s right… Oasis is a nice park and the young (to me!) couple who run it are super. I wrote a post on them a while back.
Another beautiful spot! Actually I can’t come up with the right word for how beautiful it is where you are now. Extraordinary. The stars must be amazing at night!
Nice to see Timber! Reminds me. Time to send another letter.
Hi, Dawn,
The stars seem closer when viewed from the desert. Most of the nights we’ve camped here the night sky has been absolutely clear. I always leave the blinds up over my bed so I can see the stars and sometimes the satellite before falling asleep.
I can’t come up with the right word to describe this area well. That’s why I’ve posted so many photos. Always nice to hear from you . . .
Hi Sue,
Love your photos–what a gorgeous fall it’s been! Sorry to send that wind down your way! So much to love about your post–jars on beehives, KEEN sandals, fellow bloggers, sorry to hear about the intruders–they certainly have poor boundaries, Bridget & Spike (love the idea of you writing children’s books featuring the crew–brilliant idea!), the beautiful mule and just when I thought it couldn’t get better–there’s Timber watching TV! You have made not only my day but my week! Ordered 2 of the pine needle basketry books–1 for me & 1 for my brother, who just last weekend told me that he was interested in pursuing this hobby! Take good care, Sue!
Hi, Dawn,
We have two Dawns here . . . and another reader from the Pacific Northwest. Gosh, I love it up your way!
It’s a kick to read how much you get out of my blog . . . and you also order through my links to Amazon. Thank you!
When I saw the order for a book about pine needle basketry, I thought… hmm… how interesting and what a great hobby for an RVer with dexterity.
Great to hear from you… and you take care, too!
Yes–two Dawns–pretty unusual! I especially enjoyed reading your blog while you & the crew were on the Washington coast–we love it there! Gosh, I don’t know about the dexterity part…usually all thumbs here! I’m thinking it might be something my brother & I can share and I get to surprise him with the book!
Snow on the mountains??? Time to head south! 🙂 Love that you post Rusty and Timber’s email from time to time… Rusty, you need to start your own blog so folks can keep up with ya! Love the donkey photos! Just so you know, we are in Alabama now, camping on the TomBigbee River in a wonderful C.O.E. campground just off highway 84! Autumn is just beginning to dress the trees here with colors!
Hi, Geri,
You guys are just over the state line from where my sister and her family live in Mississippi. Maybe I’ll camp in that COE campground when I visit them next time. I like the COEs.
BTW . .. . Thank you for mentioning (above) the $200 referral money when someone gives my name to Casita Travel Trailers when ordering.
Putting a blog together about it right now… putting lunch together too! 🙂
Ah, we RVing bloggers have to multi-task!
RVSue:
Thank you for not making me feel like the only person in the world that feels this way.
Currently I am sitting on a ocean view balcony in Kauai. I agreed to fly 8 hours to celebrate our 50th birthday’s, get it Hawaii 50, with 3 of my very close friends from high school. Four strong, independent, and premenopausal women in a 2 bedroom condo – actually we are doing better than I thought. However, after the 3rd day of touristy destinations I had say I would stay at the condo and watch the ocean while they visited everything on the map.
That picture of Rusty makes me miss my dog.
Phyllis in Oklahoma (temporarily in Hawaii)
Oh, Phyllis . . . I completely understand.
Enjoy the rest of your stay in Hawaii . . . at your own pace . . . in your own style. 🙂
Was just thinking… Maybe those cars coming down where you were parked are just early trick or treaters? Might want to go by Von’s and get some candy just in case. We live on a road that doesn’t get many trick or treaters but we always buy lots of candy just in case. We always seem to find something to do with all the left over candy… Maybe this year we should turn on the inside and outside lights and we will get more kids coming by?
Hi, Jeff,
Maybe you’re right. Maybe they were trick or treaters dressed up as middle-class retirees!
Well Sue, you have done it now. You have turned two couch potatoes into RVer’s. We are going to look at an older Class A this afternoon. We went camping in our tent this past weekend and met the camp hosts for the campground in their class A. Hubby was hooked. Now he wants to retire and camp host and live in the RV full time. It all started with me finding your blog by googleing “full-time RVing” and getting on the Hitchitch.com. website. Your blog was the first one I read and I have followed you ever since. The mule is a Missouri Mule. The Missouri Mule always has a white nose. They are beautiful as are your pictures today. Love the bird too. it is always interesting to see what everyone thinks the species is. Stay safe. Maybe I will see you someday on the road.