Saturday, January 17
View from our boondock in the Sonoran Desert south of Ajo, Arizona
As Bridget and I approach the Border Patrol checkpoint, I slow the Perfect Tow Vehicle in accordance with the speed limit signs. A Border Patrol agent stands on the left side of my lane, talking with another agent on the far side of the opposite lane.
As the PTV slows on approach, he glances over his shoulder at me.
“You don’t have to stop, ma’am. Drive carefully.”
“Thank you.”
We continue on the straight shot southward toward Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.
I put down the visor against the glare of sunshine through the windshield.
The Ajo Mountains appear to the east, each mountain distinctly different from its neighbor. From my viewpoint across the desert plain of cacti, palo verde, ironwood trees, and creosote bushes, the distant crags and canyons seem lightly covered with green confetti.
I pull over and pick up my camera.
“Oh, darn it! I forgot to put the memory card in.”
I left it back at camp, still in the laptop! Oh well, we’ll drive for a while and then return to Organ Pipe another day.
We arrive at a rest stop which is a big parking lot with informational boards. The lot is empty.
I park and let a squirmy, excited Bridget out the side door.
“There you go. Isn’t this fun? A new place to sniff!”
Bridget goes crazy and zig-zags among the plants that border the lot. I wander over to read about the desert and look at the map of the monument.
The campground and visitor center is 15 miles ahead. Using the map as a reference I identify the dome of Montezuma’s Hat in the Ajo Mountains to the east.
I turn and face northward. I pick out familiar Black Mountain, next to Darby Well Road and the town of Ajo.
The late afternoon sun plays shadows on the mountains.
I spend a few moments watching, giving Bridget time for her explorations. Cars whiz past the rest stop.
I call Bridget over to her water dish which I have placed on the pavement. Of course, she doesn’t drink anything. I don’t think Bridget has ever taken a suggestion from me to have a drink in her entire life.
Why I go through the motions, I don’t know. Does she think I’m going to poison her?
I place her and the dish in the PTV and head north to return to camp.
“Well, Bridge, that was our big excursion for the day!”
We zip across the desert until we approach the speed limit signs… 55 mph, 45 mph, 35 mph, 15 mph, stop. I bring my window down. The same agent as before steps up to the window. Oh boy, here we go . . . .
“You look familiar,” he says, tilting his head with a questioning twist to his mouth.
“Yep, it’s me again.” I roll my eyes. “I forgot the memory card for my camera.”
“Oh, I see. You’re going for the card and then you’ll come back.”
“No, not today. I’ll do the Monument another day.”
The agent’s eyes scan the length of the PTV.
“Are you the owner of this vehicle?” he asks seriously.
“Yes, I am.”
“Does everything inside belong to you?”
“Yes, it does.”
“You can go then. Drive safely.”
“Thank you.”
Border Patrol checkpoint conversations are weird.
Usually the agent asks, “Are you a citizen of the United States?” As if I’m going to say, “No, actually I’m an illegal alien on my way to make an important drug drop in Casa Grande and then we’ll be on our way to Yuma to pick leaf lettuce.”
I guess the agents are looking for signs of nervousness.
Lord knows, I could transport a large family of Central Americans along with several of their friends behind the tinted windows of the PTV.
Sunday, January 18
I putz around the BLT all day.
I alternate reading my Paperwhite with wiping down the BLT’s exterior with a damp cloth. I’m pleased to find there’s still some shine under all the dirt!
I’m reading The Heart of Everything That Is: The Untold Story of Red Cloud by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin. So far it’s holding my interest and I’m learning a lot about Native American tribes of the West as the story of the Sioux War and Red Cloud is told. I have much to learn. My education skipped over that part of American history.
Anyway. . . . I found the book among the cheap deals offered by Amazon. My frugality introduces me to books I never would think to read otherwise.
The sunset tonight throws pink tones all over our campsite.
I run up and down the lane looking for angles from which to capture the quickly-changing sky. I have fun with my camera.
A few minutes of pink, blue, and purple . . . . peaceful, serene.
A brief time of yellow, gold, and tan . . . . A cholla silhouetted against a swirl of clouds creates a moody shot.
I like this next one. An explosion in the desert!
To close today’s post, the cliche of Arizona sunsets… a saguaro and an orange sky.
rvsue
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
Happy bees no longer thirsty
Beautiful sunset pics!
Hi, Jenny… Number One! The sunset last night was gorgeous! Easy to grab a few quick photos with interesting shapes and colors…
I have never been close to first. Beautiful images!!!
Hi, LisaG,
Congratulations on being close to first!
You got some of the best sunset shots I have ever seen. Your eye for great photos is a wonderful thing to share with all of us. Thank you.
You’re welcome, lindale. I appreciate the compliment.
Great photos. Sorry you forgot your memory card. Maybe you could indulge in a spare sometime to keep in the PTV “just in case”.
Hi, Reine,
I have a spare… which, of course, was also at camp in the BLT!
Great pictures, Sue. I never seem to get the sunset colors no matter which setting I use.
Hi, mockturtle,
I wonder why you don’t get the colors. I’ve tried different settings and still the colors appear. Thanks for the compliment.
Beautiful sunset shots. I leave my memory card in my camera a then use a cable to transfer the pics. But then I have also had to have several cables as those sneaky devils disappear to places unknown. LOL…….FUN Post
Hi, klbexplores,
I hate using a cable for just the reason you mention. I have so many cables and the one I need always hides and then the photos load to a different spot…. I have photos of Spike in memory that I haven’t loaded yet!
Glad you liked the post!
You got back in time for some spectacular sunset shots.
Hi, Calvin R.,
My plan was to take some sunset shots while in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Oh well, this proves you can find what you seek right at home. 🙂
Thanks for the compliment on the photos.
Well, your photos make me want to run down to Ajo and Organ Pipe right now. But, it will be a while yet as I have other locations I want to explore. I have to agree about the BP guys. Questions sometime seem odd, but they are usually very polite.
Hi, Pleinguy,
Yes, the border patrol agents have always been very professional and polite with me, whether at the checkpoint or elsewhere. I usually don’t have to answer many questions. The drug dog acts bored when I pull through the checkpoint.
Hi Sue, More great photos. Those BP agents are watching how you react to questions and they are trained to pick up on the smallest of nuances. Also, they get lot’s of information and so they know who they want to “talk” to. Just be yourself and you’ll never have a problem with the boys in green. Oh and bees, you should try to always have antihistamine around, bee stings inject a histamine so the drug immediately counteracts the sting. I have used it and it works like magic.
Hi, Jim,
I imagine the agents are trained to pick up evasiveness or nervousness. I think of that and then wonder if I’m acting that way! Ingrained guilt… Ha!
I have some Benadryl. Don’t know why I bought it. I’ve never used it. I appreciate the reminder in case one of the bees becomes ungrateful for my hospitality.
Bees really scare the crap out of me. My horse and I were attacked on a trail ride. He stepped on a nest I think. Probably weren’t bees, maybe wasps or hornets. Whatever the case, I had them under my clothes, in my hair stinging and stinging. Hundreds of them. Went into anaphylactic shock. Thanks goodness we were at the end of the ride and near houses and called for help (the days before cell phones). I almost died that day. My horse was ok, just covered in welts.
No wonder you’re scared of bees!
Beautiful pictures today, Sue. Thank you for sharing your day with us.
You’re welcome, Lisa, and thank you for stopping by with a nice note.
Sue: I love reading all of your adventures and the pics are fabulous. I’m a little on the “aged” side of life to begin RVing but I took the jump last week and bought a 24′ Class C to begin a new chapter in my life. Now I have to decide where to go as I leave my base in Florida. You seem to focus on the SW part of the country a lot – is this area your preference for a full timer? How to choose where your next stop will be? I’ve been reading that you should have stops “reserved” some 4 months in advance and that seems like a lot of advance planning. What would be your suggestion?
Next, how do you make money on Amazon? I can’t figure that out but would sure like to learn as a little cushion would make my social security stretch a little further.
Hi, Connie,
Congratulations on the purchase of your rig! I wish you many safe miles and happy experiences with it.
I suppose it looks like I focus on the SW. I do enjoy it very much. We’re in AZ for months in order to stay warm…. plus it has great sunsets. 🙂
This past spring we began our migration north and Utah was so interesting that we spent a lot of time there. Then onward to Wyoming. Spike’s passing halted any further exploration northward.
One thing that does encourage me to stay in places like Utah during the summer is the lack of mosquitoes. Bees are okay… skeeters, no!
How do I choose my next stop? Usually I have a general idea where I want to go long-range. Then I check my Benchmark map for public lands and campgrounds run by the forest service and BLM. I hop from boondock to campground to boondock, trying to keep drives between camps short… no more than a few hours. This is much easier to do in the West than any other part of the country.
I have never made a reservation since my first camp in August 2011. I don’t go to campgrounds/rv parks that require a reservation. If you want to camp in crowded, pricey places (where it’s usually quite beautiful, nonetheless), then you need to reserve way in advance, maybe a year or more.
Try this if you haven’t already. Choose a popular place on a beach. Look it up on ReserveAmerica. Pretend you are making a reservation for, let’s say, June 15-20. That will give you an idea of the reservation system.
You can travel and have a wonderful time without reservations in the West. I don’t know about Florida though. However, since you’re starting out, you can call a park or reserve online a few days before arrival for less popular parks.
Maybe readers who make reservations will have suggestions. Like I say, I don’t go that route.
As for making money on Amazon… Build a blog with blogger or wordpress, work on it for 6 months or more, then Google “Amazon Affiliate” … Amazon explains it very well. Basically, once you’re an affiliate, you can put links on your blog that have a special code that’s yours. Anything purchased through your links gives you a commission.
Best wishes as you head out of Florida!
I usually make reservations. The reasons for doing so are dictated somewhat by how I live.
First, I do not have a toad so driving my Class C very far to get supplies can become expensive. I prefer fresh vegetables so I like to shop weekly but don’t want to move my ‘home site’ every week because monthly RV Park fees are so much cheaper. That restricts me to a camp that is 10-15 miles from a grocery store for the most part where I’ll stay for a month at a time.
Second, I need to have a periodontal maintenance cleaning done every 4 months. This requires me to make dental appointments in a town large enough to offer such service and I usually make the appointment 4-6 months in advance. I then select other camp locations along a route from where I am when I make the dental appointment.
Third, I need an annual camp at a ‘domicil’ where I can get VA medical services, a ‘regular’ dentist, a ‘regular’ vet, vehicle registration and licensing, a preferred RV shop, etc. I make appointment with those providers and try to get everything done during a one month stop on my annual ‘circuit’.
More simply said, how you want/need to live will dictate the need for reservations or not. Reservations and pre-paying can also save you some money because of the added discounts that some Parks offer.
This has worked for me – Your Milage May Vary.
Great comment, Ed. Thank you for explaining how our individual situations and needs influence how we choose where to camp, how often we move, why reservations can be important, and so forth.
Often I’m asked how I do things and why I make certain choices/decisions. What I do isn’t necessarily going to apply to another person and your comment points that out beautifully.
From reading your blog I think you also like to be near a restaurant that serves great breakfasts. 🙂
BLM lands are only in the western US, but almost every state has a National Forest or two, and those allow dispersed camping, and other free camping places exist except in major cities and tourist traps. Thus, those on tight budgets can still travel if they can afford gasoline. I personally favor those places because I’m always on an extreme budget and because I like the level of quiet they, not game rooms, pools, or golf courses.
At the far end of the scale are the “resorts,” places that often cater to enormous motorhomes and very high budgets. Some people love those.
Edlfrey is right about reservations if you plan to live with a relatively structured schedule and camp in campgrounds. I don’t care much for commercial campgrounds, but even state and federal facilities want reservations nowadays. All the same, I’m sure people find ways around that if they’re flexible and their rigs are not too big.
Hi Connie and congratulations!
It really is hard to get a campsite in a campground on short notice. You’ll usually be able to find one but if you read reviews on them it can be scary so I would agree making reservations at least 4 months in advance is best (like you said). Sometimes the people are strange drug dealers and sometimes it’s just too tight to get through, with sharp corners or whatnot.
My Todd was working so sometimes the company already had a spot for us so I can’t give too much advice there. Sometimes we were just ahead of the crowd.
On Amazon – like RVSue said “Build a blog with Blogger or WordPress”. The difference between the two is if you want to sell / advertise / be an Amazon affiliate on WordPress you have to pay for your own domain. You can do all that for free on Blogger. Sell whatever you want.
I’m so happy for you! Have fun! 🙂
Wow! Beautiful sunset shots!!
Thanks, Betty Shea. It’s times like this I wish the background of my blog were black. The photos look a lot better. White drains the contrast.
Hi Sue – thanks so much for not giving in to the desire to use a black background on your blog. There r a couple other bloggers I follow who use black and it is so hard on the eyes. Your pictures r beautiful just as is. 🙂
You guessed why I don’t go to black, Noelle. It makes the photos look better, but then the text has to be a light color. It’s up to the blogger what is most important.
Thank you for the compliment.
Beautiful photos. Glad the border patrol was kind to you.
Hi, Doug,
Thank you. The border patrol have always been good to me.
We lived in Tucson back in the early 70’s . We always enjoyed the sunsets. We often took our little Honda 175 out to place where your staying and enjoyed the desert and beautiful sunsets. I wouldn’t want to live there now, but your pictures bring back lots of memories.
Hi, Christina,
I’m pleased that my photos remind you of your enjoyable time in Tucson. Thanks for writing a comment.
Love the photos, so different than anything I photograph around here. As for memory cards, I had the same problem. So, I picked up a 2nd card. When I pull one out to get the pictures, the 2nd card is in the way still in the computer. I make it a point to put that card in the camera. Years ago, the cost of cards was $$$. Now, cards are on the shelf at the grocery stores.
That’s a great idea, K & B in CO! That’s something that might work for me. I ordered a couple of memory cards from Amazon a while back so I have plenty of cards. I’m going to try that…. I’m relying more and more on little gimmicks like that to keep my life held together. Ha!
Thank you!
Beautiful photos, Sue…takes me back to all those monthly Arizona Sunset magazines that came and we all read!! But the bees….makes my hair stand up just seeing that photo!! Bees have always pestered me…moreso before I lost most of my hair color. I still do not like them!!!
Oppss…maybe that magazine was called Arizona Highways….so many years dim memories.
Hi, Elizabeth,
I bet you called it Arizona Sunset, not only because of my photos, but because there is a magazine called Sunset (at least there used to be) and it contains many nature photos.
The thing with bees and other stinging things, you have to treat them nicely if you want to be treated nicely by them. I stepped on a yellow-jacket nest once and I was well rewarded. 🙁
Remember without the honey bee we would not have flowers, veggies or honey to eat.
I am so fine with them staying with you all….and every place else, Jim…if you had been bothered with them like I have….well, you might not like them much either. I never said I wanted them destroyed. I know they have a purpose. But I do what I can to not entice them too…no perfumes during time they are out, no reds or pink clothes then either. Pays off in the long run. If you get enough stings, it can take your life…and my question is how many stings in your lifetime is too many? My dad reached that level. I have not been stung since childhood. Fortunately. And not planning in future to be where they might chase me either!!
I do remember the Sunset magazine…and yes, it came about the same time as the Arizona magazine…you are right….I did connect them…ha!
I still subscribe to both SUNSET and ARIZONA HIGHWAYS.
AZ Highways magazine is the best in/of the west photography, arts, hikes and recipes! My favorite by far! Hi Sue!
Hi, Geri! Good to see you back online with your new computer.
Not new computer, “repaired” computer! Still a few issues with it! Good to be back though!
Glad your treating bees nicely has worked so far, Sue…hope it always will. Did the yellow jacket call all its buddies to come get you too?? There are some people they bother worse for some reason. My brother always played with bees and I never remember one stinging him. Sometimes they left him and got me standing nearby….go figure….
The yellow jacket incident didn’t involve a yellow jacket calling in his friends. A mass of yellow jackets was in a nest in the ground. I was mowing the lawn and stepped on their nest. They came out all at once and started stinging me. I ran into the house, jumped in the shower, turned on the water, and stripped as fast as I could. It wasn’t the fault of the yellow jackets. It was me. 🙂
It is curious how bees will be placid and friendly with one person and hostile with another.
Yes, how well I know what happens when you step on their nests…I was crawling around in my grampie’s barn…on the hay…along with my brother. Was maybe 6 or so…yes, we were allowed to do that…it was some distance from the house…and yep, I got stung all over my legs that time. Never crawled in hay again. Never. I have no idea how many stings I had. LOTS. That was not the first nor last time they bothered me. Though honey bees generally do not bother people. It was wasps, hornets, that sort that are a problem. When we first moved to one mountain location, in a dry year…the whole yard (and it was fair sized) was COVERED in all sorts of bees….of every sort…probably mostly the hornet, wasp, yellow jacket types. Hubby had to kill them off as well as he could every night when he came home from work…so the poor dogs could find a spot to pee. I had never seen anything like that in my life. The river was not all that far away so no idea why they came to our yard. Even the dogs were scared out of their wits there.
You would enjoy books by Mari Sandoz, a Nebraska author. Two of her most notable are Cheyenne Autumn and Crazy Horse, both very engrossing reads. They give the reader an insight into native customs and an empathy for the plight of the Plains Indians. Also, any books about American western fur trade and mountain men give the reader great historical info on western expansion and sites which can still be visited.
Just a few suggestions from a Nebraska native….
Thanks, Annette. I’m posting a link in case anyone reading your comment would like to try one of her books.
Cheyenne Autumn, Second Edition
I’m going to finish the book on Red Cloud first. It’s rare for me to spend more than 5 bucks on a book, but I might do so for this one. It looks like a good one!
Annette, I never considered the Midwest to be a part of the Western Movement until my road trip through Omaha and Wichita. My bad! There’s a great bronze statue of a pioneer family in downtown Omaha. And Wichita has a great Western town and museum! I was of the generation that didn’t have Native American history much in our texts. Visited Custer’s battlefield and a monument to Sitting Bull, and wow… lots to learn.
How Pretty! You always make the desert look inviting. I have never felt that before seeing your photos!
What a treat to spend a day and make your home spit spot! I look at our house and think ‘oh god do I have to paint that fense again this year?’. LOL Oh well.
Hope your week begins with sunshine and fun.
Barb, in Hoquiam where everyone is excited that the Seahawks are going to the superbowl. And I feel bad that it isn’t that big a deal to me 🙂
Hi, Barb,
You mention painting the fence again. I had similar thoughts as I was wiping the dirt off the BLT (fiberglass is so easy to clean!). I thought of the houses I’ve painted during my life, inside and out. Never again!
Oh, don’t feel bad about not getting a thrill from sports. I lived in the hometown of the Georgia Bulldogs for years, obtained my degree from Georgia, and never had one iota of interest in their games. I’ll never forget the time I went to the grocery store wearing a green shirt when everyone in the store was wearing Bulldog red. The game was playing on the speakers. People had painted their faces. I’m surprised the cashiers waited on me. Athens, Georgia, people are crazy for their team!
I don’t understand the mania and never will. Why should I care what people, whom I don’t know, do in a game? Oh well, it makes lots of folks happy. 🙂
I “hope your week begins with sunshine and fun,” too, Barb!
Sue,
Love the photos! I have no favorites today, they are all wonderful.
I had to smile about the card thing…I think we all have done that at some time before. Once I left my battery still on the charger and headed out. Something the simpliest things just get left behind. About cards, I never buy cards larger than 8-16 gigs. Yes, they fill up faster but if one gets damaged or lost it doesn’t have ALL your photos on it. Of course I do not shoot video that often otherwise I would go to a higher 32-64 gigs. The Border Patrol, I have such respect for them. They have such limits put on them about enforcement but they still report for duty every day and work with what they have. They really are unsung heros much of the time. Glad they were nice to you.
Hi, Pamela,
Interesting idea about using cards with fewer gigs. I hadn’t thought of that.
I agree with you…. I respect all law enforcement. For anyone who doesn’t, I say, “Would you care to take their place?” Border Patrol agents have always treated me with courtesy, and whatever anyone’s opinion is about our immigration situation (don’t want to hear it!), the Border Patrol agents are doing their job as best they can under the conditions.
Exactly Missy……nail meet head…
Your photos are breathtaking and your chosen words to describe them and the day give new meaning to the successful blogging. Thank you for it all. Janet
What a nice message, Janet. I thank you for writing it!
Beautiful shots today Sue! Oh how I enjoyed them. Getting cabin fever here…Winter Blahs… can’t wait to get my little camper out from under her snow coat. Only a month and a half now to go. Hope you have just as good of luck tomorrow with the Border patrol.
Take Care Sue and Bridge
Hi, Diane,
I’m writing this in “tomorrow” and I don’t think we’ll go to Organ Pipe today. Of course I could change my mind within the hour! 🙂
I can’t imagine how it must be to have a sweet little camper covered in snow and have to wait before I can hitch’er up and go. It’s a good thing I couldn’t afford the BLT until the time of my retirement. I probably would’ve walked out of the classroom after another stressful day and hit the highway!
Your first excursion of the season will be especially sweet, I’m sure. 🙂
Hi RvSue & Crew, Your camera has a built in memory that will hold quite a few pictures without the memory card.
From the manual under Specs:
Recording media Built-in Memory (Approx. 200 MB) /
SD Memory Card / SDHC Memory Card /
SDXC Memory Card
I replied about the built-in memory above, after you wrote your suggestion. I wanted all my photos of Organ Pipe on a card without having to transfer them from the camera memory onto the computer and also onto a card for safe-keeping.
I often take hints from happenstance. It was late in the day for that excursion anyway.
You said you Putz’d around all day…………..first thing I said was “look how cute your home is!” (Bridget sitting in front doesn’t hurt either!)
hugs,
Lacy
Hi, Lacy,
Thanks. I love my cute home! I have another photo of that cute Bridget running out of the frame, taken a few seconds later. Not cute!
I can not stop smiling about the bee’s! Good to see bee’s out and about!
Hi, Laura,
Boy, there were a lot of bees at the dish yesterday. I looked up from my book and thought, “Damn, if they ever turn on me, I’m done for. I’d better keep the water comin’!”
My son picks up his bee hives next weekend! Guess you won’t be stopping by anytime soon! I expect to find the bees floating around in the pool with tiny, little innertubes!
hi, your pictures are so beautiful. I can see why you love being in the Southwest. I also try to be frugal with book purchase for my Kindle. I subscribe to Bookbub and get a daily email that lists free books. Some cost .99 or 1.99. Sometimes I’ll splurge for a good biography. I’ve been loading up my Kindle for my next camping outing.
Hi, Karen,
Thanks for complimenting my photos.
I subscribe to Bookbub, too…. also ereaderIQdaily… I think that’s where I picked up the Red Cloud book.
Isn’t it great to be able to “pack” as many books as you want? And when you read a book that you loved, it only takes a minute to have another book in your hands from the same author. No more “Gee, I wish I had a book to read.” 🙂
Yes it’s great to have so many books at hand. I’ll try the website you mentioned. I also search on Amazon for free ebooks. I have used Book Collection app to organize them. But for the fiction books I just discard.
Good morning- quick note for everyone -DesertGinger left a reply late last night on the previous post.I know we’ve all been anxious to hear from her 🙂
Thank you Weather!!
update-and she left another one this morning!
Thanks Weather!
Thank you, weather. I would’ve missed her comment if you hadn’t pointed the way!
Thanks, Weather!! 🙂
I traveled a lot in Imperial County, CA, near the border. I found that rolling down all my vehicle’s windows in the daytime, and turning on my interior lights at night, gave the border patrol an easy view of my interior and the lack of “passengers”. Your current spot is my favorite so far – it is just beautiful, with amazing views. Love the row of tall Saquaros standing guard, and the show of artistry in the skies all around you 🙂 One of my few “prize” possessions is a buffalo skull with the hand painted face of Red Cloud. He was a wonderful leader, and his story very inspiring. I’m glad you’re enjoying spending some time with him.
Hi, Jodee,
I like your consideration toward the border patrol. We citizens tend to focus on how WE are treated by law enforcement. It doesn’t hurt to think how THEY are treated by us. Way to go!
I’m not far into the book about Red Cloud. His leadership qualities are being revealed. I was struck by the explanation that “Indians” (of that time) did not have much forethought. In other words, their culture/religion sees past, present, and future as different circles occurring simultaneously (my poor explanation in a small space). The authors noted that Red Cloud demonstrated exceptional forethought in his military planning. He also was ruthless and brutal, another facet of the culture (male honor and societal rank).
I just LOVE where you are..it is so perfect. When I leave this park I am going to get serious about “real” boondocking!
Your photos are fabulous! The pic of the bee’s made my hair stand on end. Many years ago I was swarmed by them and since then I turn to mush when one comes anywhere near me. Ugh…
My daughter is a Vermont State Trooper and her husband is Border Patrol. Boy does he have the stories!
Stay happy and healthy…and safe.
Krystina
Hi, Krystina,
I can understand you not wanting to be Miss Bee Lady after your terrible experience! Great hearing from you again….
No pressure to be a boondocker if you enjoy having fun activities to choose from … You know you do! 🙂 How’s the quilt coming along?
The quilt has not been worked on. I was sick for over 12 days so I did nothing but read. Before that I was working on my very first Grandchild’s (Nora, due in 5 days) Cross Stitch birth announcement.Today I finally went to the sewing/crafts Monday session and I learned how to make really nifty pillowcases. We make them here and then donate them to the orphanage. Maybe next week????
Oh, no wonder… you were sick. I forgot that. Sounds like you’re back on your feet again. I’m glad for you.
Nora is a lovely name. 🙂
It must be wonderful to have so much talent as a photographer that you know your photos are worth saving.The one you likened to AZ’s cliche ones surpasses the typical ones because of the life and drama you manage to capture so well.Few would even see,much less feel,that the way you always do-like in the explosion you saw and included the very shape of the plant’s seeming to stress and participate in it!
Your encounter with border patrol and imaginary response made me grin because your being so straight forward with them in both cases would make them trust you enough to ensure the most civilized of treatment.I think you’re unaware of how much your genuineness affects people,it really is delightful.
Hi, weather,
I want to save all my photos, not because I know they will be great…. I want to save the moment. 🙂
I really enjoy taking photos. When I saw that “explosion” of light and then the cactus with its arms up, as if in surprise, well, I had to make a picture of that. What fun!
Thank you for the compliment regarding “genuineness.” I think it comes down to one thing… I stopped caring what people think of me. Once I did that, it seems like people started connecting with me more readily. Too bad I didn’t figure that out decades ago! 🙂
And thank you for complimenting me on the photos. I am blessed to receive your encouragements.
Hugs to the troupe! (Well, maybe not to the bird.)
LOL!Great reply,glad my mouth wasn’t full of coffee as I read it!you bless me,too,have a wonderful day
The sun has set here and stars are beginning to come out,popped in to check on news and folks before settling in.Left an add-on note to our evening’s conversation on the previous post to you Sue.Hope your light show outside is glorious,n’nite
Okay, I’ll go look.
A few clouds are waiting for the sun to turn them pink. 🙂 I’m sure the stars will be out tonight. The night sky has been spectacular here.
The sunsets are so amazing here–have never seen anything like it. They span the horizon & change over time. Really lovely. You crack me up, Sue, with your imagined response to the BP agent. A sense of humor is helpful in life. Enjoy your day!
That’s exactly right! “They span the horizon and change over time.” There are sunsets that turn the sky pink in the opposite direction from the sun… Quite astonishing!
You enjoy your day, too, Dawn. Glad you got a chuckle out of my post.
Ever seen border wars? They know!
Huh? I don’t know about border wars. Is that a tv show?
It is a TV show featuring the BP and the border drug problem.
Fantastic photos, by the way!
Thanks, Terri!
Good Morning Sue, beautiful pictures of the sky and the changing colors that the desert present. I was looking at the same sky this weekend, wonderful colors to greet the day and wonderful colors to say goodnight…The weather was wonderful and so I enjoyed my trip to the desert, although we did not make it quite as far was we would have liked, slept in and got a late start…we were interrupted at one of our favorite Wildlife Preserves by HUNTING….yep, Saturdays and Wednesday’s they let hunters out on the Preserve to hunt ducks…we found a side road, much like you would do, and found some wonderful birds of prey to watch hunt in their way..all the time listening to gun shots and barking dogs in the distance, hunting the way that they hunt…was quite a dicotomy I guess. Nonetheless, the dogs that we had with us were having a wonderful time sniffing everything they could that was new and fresh to them…I like it when we have such a total family outing and everyone gets to see something new and fresh and alive. I hope you see something new, fresh and alive today. Hugs to Bridget.
Hi Weather, thanks for the update on DG…I will go back to the last blog and read it….you are a good and caring friend.
PS…I started the morning with my coffee, it feels much more like it should…
😉
Hi, Shirlene,
You had a good trip to the desert… I’m happy to read that! Taking the family to new experiences enriches and invigorates. Good for you!
I try to have an open mind about hunting, but I’m not very successful. I really dislike duck hunting. It seems perverse to hide in camouflage and trick those beautiful creatures to fly within range of a gun, honking in reply to fake honking. I don’t want to hear anything about “thinning the flocks is necessary.” I haven’t seen anywhere near the number of ducks that used to grace our lakes and streams, back in the day. I don’t think I’ve seen a mallard in 30 years.
It’s a disgusting “sport.” I’m proud that my father, who was talked into a duck hunting trip, came home vowing “never again.” He was sick about killing “those beautiful birds.”
Oh well, that’s it for my rant. I hope you enjoy your day, Shirlene. Thanks for telling us about your outing to the desert.
I agree, having a similar argument with myself about fishing…love trout fishing but they are so beautiful…whumph.
I love fishing, too. I have the urge at times. I can’t get past the end result. I don’t have the negative feelings about fishing that I do about duck hunting, because the fish population is more easily replenished, for one thing.
I know, but where does one draw the line…lol…I would never kill a bee…oh well, conversation for another time…around April, when I start fishing trips to the High Sierra in Big Pine and Lone Pine…
I know what you mean. It’s a personal decision.
Duck= warm blooded
Fish= cold blooded
Wow, is it just me, but I did not see any comments from DG.
both are easy to miss-look below: Dawn in MI ‘s comment,and below one I wrote to Sue-you’ll have to scroll down a ways to find them
P.S. the notes are minimal -my excitement is about her being well and alert enough to write them
Thanks 🙂
Nope….I had a hard time locating them also!
Oh my…my auto correct typed…I had a hard one locating them also! Thank god I checked before I hit the post button!
Yikes!
Hi Cinandjules, I never did find them.
try this?open the page,type DesertGinger into your word/phrase search tool,click
I go away from this blog for two minutes and look what happens! 🙂
Hilarious!OMG
🙁
Go back one post….
13th comment
53rd comment
Thanks a bunch! I had trouble locating DG’s commments, too.
I looked too but must have missed them. How is she doing?
Hi Sue
If you haven’t read it then Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee is a classic must read about the Sioux.
No, I haven’t read it. There was a movie based on that book, right? With Dustin Hoffman?
Dustin Hofffman was in the movie “Little Big Man,” not sure about “Bury….”
I read “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee.” It was a long time ago, but the book is memorable and well worth the time it takes to read.
Absolutely gorgeous photos of the sunset(s). And your text accompanying them is so imaginative!
About the camera: I see Mick beat me to it, but your camera does have some built-in memory. I learned that while doing my ATM job, which requires photos of each machine. I had a bad habit of leaving the memory card in my PC after uploading the photos each night, and several times I went off without it. It was not a pleasant surprise when my camera said, memory exhausted. But at least the day wasn’t a total loss, because I could hook my camera up to the PC and upload the photos I had taken. And I also learned the hard way to get an extra battery and have it with me. Nothing worse that being 60 miles from home and the battery go dead, having forgotten to charge it up the night before.
Hi, Cari,
I can charge my camera in the PTV whenever I need to. I’m pleased that my present camera — the Panasonic LUMIX — holds a charge for a long time.
Years ago I used to upload photos from my camera all the time. Since using memory cards, I’ve avoided that (and maybe that’s why my camera doesn’t need charging very often?). I can see where any method of storing a photo would be crucial in your former job.
“former”… 🙂
Yes, my ‘former’ life and job as a working person 🙂 It’s starting to sink in now, because this is the time of month that I would start working and then planning out this quarter’s calendar. Instead, I’ve picked up cross stitching again, I’m sleeping late, and I’ve even joined a gym :-0
Hallelujah!
Good morning, Sue. Gorgeous photos! We are really enjoying the nice sw weather today as we recover from a spectacular Seahawks win yesterday. Now looking ahead for early spring travel. This year we are going to aim for a month visiting Louisiana! Would love to receive any good camping suggestions.
Hi, Kathy and Gil,
If I get any info on Louisiana camping from my friends, I’ll pass it on to you.
Yes, this weather is fantastic! I think this is the most comfortable (read: warm) winter we’ve had since hitting the road.
READERS: Anyone have tips or suggestions on camping in Louisiana to share here?
Joan replied with suggestions below
All the photos are beautiful, but my favorite is that first one with the mountain glowing in the background. Lovely place you’re in. I appreciate so much that you share it with us.
You’re welcome, Dawn. Thank you for the compliment. I haven’t yet captured the way the light plays on those mountains late in the day….
Absolutely stunning!
I did notice the BLT had a shine on it!
I should give the BLT her annual waxing. I’m really slacking off these days. No ambition except for play.
Play can be ambitious…Play hard, love hard…sleep well..lol.
I’ll go with that. 😉
Hurray,great decision!I’m thoroughly convinced that having fun is a primary reason for our existing,Again a subject too wonderfully full to be discussed much here-yet always brings happiness when considered…
I hope Mert is okay. She was having problems with her shunt in addition to her father having health problems, her mother in the care home…. I pray for her.
Thoughts and prayers are going out to Mert…I so enjoy her comments.
Hopefully well deserved rest is all that’s keeping her away from keyboard,praying with you that that’s true, and all is (and will be) well and what’s best for everyone involved.
Amen…
She did say she might be away for a while. Thanks for reminding me.
As usual beautiful snaps. But I have an issue. 🙂
You’ll put water out that may attract killer bees ( it is general accepted by all the experts that every bee in the South west is an Africanized bee) but you won’t feed birds so you won’t attract mice which may attract coyote’s? Anyone else think this is illogical. 🙂 🙂
Your killing me!…..keep bees out of the Casita…give them what they require, they move on….no coyotes, no mice, no birds…everybody happy…. 🙂
Maybe it is illogical. Here’s my thinking…. Bees won’t get inside the PTV and poop and pee all over the seats and my belongings the way rodents do. Bees won’t chew the wires in the PTV, causing an expensive repair, not to mention stranding us in the desert.
I don’t want to domesticate birds and rodents in even the slightest way to make it easier for the coyotes…. upsetting the balance and all that.
I hear a lot of fear about Africanized bees but I haven’t heard one personal account. Maybe I’m naive and they died …. ? The bees are here whether I put water out or not. The water keeps them away from me and Bridget. Right now they’re at the end of the driveway, rather than at our door and over the outdoor sitting area. Anyway, that’s my reasoning.
Thanks for the comment on my pics, Alan.
Two quick thoughts come to mind.1.killer bees stay on the move rather than seek and drink water at one site for days in a row as those near Sue have been doing,and are aggressive in ways these have not displayed.2.coyotes prey on small dogs,as Bridget’s sole guardian it’s incumbent upon Sue to not increase the chance of that.Aside from that ,my own imagined choices were I in her place are perhaps irrelevant as judgement most often is best used within the situation.Similar encounters that I have indeed- experienced-found all critters and humans unharmed because peaceful quiet resolutions were sought and accomplished.That said I appreciate your bringing up the subject,Alan.It’s helpful for everyone to know the potential for harm living things around us hold.
On no, killer bees are expanding their territory but they have hives just like regular bees and are very territorial. However, I was just “beeing” facetious.
🙂 clever! I admittedly had a knee jerk reaction to one from afar seeing decisions made there as potentially illogical, and need to further educate myself about bees and countless other subjects.Would love to see your photos one day!
Alan, you better BEE good!!
As to waxing. What wax do you use. I have found that the Turtle brand “Ice” waxes are quite easy to use and very effective. They leave no grey residue that gets in every crack and crevice and can’t be gotten out. Because of the size of my RV I use the spray version, but there is a paste and liquid version. I use a swifter with the dry pad to apply it or it would take days to due to the surface area of a 40′ motor home. I have also used the wet pads to clean it, they work pretty good if it isn’t real dirty.
Last winter I used Meguire’s… It was easy and I’m happy with the results. The year before that I used a product… not sure I remember the name exactly… NuShine? Something like that.
Using a swifter is clever for covering the big surface area. For waxing, I do small areas at a time using a clean rag.
Mequires’s is good stuff.
African, Asian whathaveyou…as long as they aren’t where I sleep or habitate…it’s all good!
NuFinish in the Orange colored bottle!
I use both maguiars and NuFinish!
I’ve notice the maguiars protectant on the black rubber around the windows and door …doesn’t turn that pasty white after awhile! I hate that chalky white residue!
“Ice” can be used on any surface and leaves no residue
Thanks for the suggestion of the e-book about Red Cloud, and also the “Cheyenne Autumn”. I’ve put both of these on our Amazon wish list and hope to get them before our next trip out west.
The Ajo/ Why area looks fabulous…..a trip there next winter is on our must do list!!
You’re welcome, cc and c!
I appreciate you including your location (as many here do). It makes you more real, plus it gives me a tiny peek at your life.
Hubby and I moved back to the St. Louis area 5 years ago when we retired….We bought a small house with the intention of traveling extensively in our trailer…. But real life intervened. When we got here my mom was in the midst of a health crisis. We have had to stay in town, only making short trips. She passed 2 years ago (at 92), but then we were involved caring for my mother in law, who peacefully passed away last month with us at her side. (at 93)
I can really relate to what Mert has been going through. I remember driving to the hospital, seeing a gal walk her dog, and wish that I had the time to do that…
We hope to finally have our chance to travel….The kids have moved to the west coast, and now we haaaavvvveeee to see the grandgirl! We can’t wait to hit the road!
Your blog has been so helpful….as we had never been so far west before. Most camping in the east, south, and midwest is of necessity in developed campgrounds. We’re accustomed to “dry camping”, but boondocking will be a whole new experience for us!
Wow! Great genes both for you and your husband! Your respect and caring for your mothers is admirable.
I’m pleased that my blog is a help as you plan to boondock. What fun to have a new grandchild as a destination! 🙂
I enjoyed your comment… Thank you.
Sue, in the Creative Mode section of your manual. I think it starts on page 19. All the answers to your problems with getting the image the way you want it can be found there. You can control the exposure in low light conditions to get more color. You can also control the focus of back ground objects. And a good bit more. It is a very versatile camera and looks pretty easy to use.
Thanks, Alan. Now I’ll try to figure out what problems I’m seeking answers for. 😉
I see no problems from here 🙂
I thought you said something about not getting the colors of mountains taken at sunset. A little more exposure may give you that. You know I think your work is wonderful. Just sharing knowledge.
Oh, I see what you’re referring to. Actually that photo doesn’t have the colors and light I wanted because it wasn’t the right moment. When I saw them, I didn’t have my camera with me (on a walk).
I should get out that manual though. I appreciate you sharing knowledge with me.
I hate manuals, they are too long, too complicated and boring.
Love all the photos today the first one has that nice Sun on the rocks!! Hope you get to go back to Organ Pipe…I want to see it!! I’ve forgotten my card before if you end up with photos on the internal memory you can transfer them to the SD card. May have to get the owners manual out to recall how to do it..but it works.
Waxing is a good upper body work out! Have a great week..
Hi, Sondra,
I know I’m silly for not using the camera’s memory and doing the uploading and transferring. I get set in my ways.
Thanks for complimenting me on the photos.
Along the subject about photos and their storage, what are some of the best ways to back them up? Sue, you mentioned that you had procured an external hard drive for that purpose. (and were having issues with one?) Do you transfer and store or just copy there? How many images will your laptop hold? How often do you back-up? Does anybody here use thumb/zip drives to store by year or subject? Do any of you use compact discs to store? Would anyone recommend using SD cards for permanent storage? Any and all feedback is helpful and most welcome.
Thanks in advance!
Hi, Sue!
Lovely pictures, as usual! I love them all! The sunset’s light makes the spiny cholla needles glow! The BLT is looking good – the front was nicely reflecting the night sky. And of course, Miss Bridge looks adorable! 🙂
I’m glad that you will be in the area for a while. I am looking forward to your excursion back to Organ Pipe….I have heard that the park is beautiful. Not sure how it will beat your current spot, though!. 🙂
I had to groan with sympathy regarding forgetting the camera’s memory card. Been there, done that! Also, one time I brought my tripod to take a family group shot…had the whole thing set up only to realize that I did not bring the plate the that mounts onto the bottom of my camera, which in turn connects to the tripod head. I also have left the battery in the charger….on the kitchen counter. Sheesh! I agree with Pamela about limiting your cards size to 8 or 16 GB. In the small chance that the card fails, at least you won’t lose as many pictures. I even go to the extreme of buying new cards when I am going to take a big trip and just want an extra (even if just my perception) measure of security.
Hope you and Bridget have a good night! Loving thoughts and hugs from me and Gracie pup. 🙂
Hi, Denise,
Well, it’s comforting to know I’m not the only one who forgets camera stuff. You’d think by now I’d have the habit of checking the memory card.
Here’s another example of my absent-mindedness… the all-time greatest of Dopey Things I Have Done. This morning I made a pot of coffee. I put the water in the percolator and then inserted the basket with its lid and then the top of the coffee pot. I sat down at the laptop, happily responding to comments while the coffee perked. Thinking it done, I poured the “coffee” into my cup, only it wasn’t coffee, it was hot water. I never put any grounds in the percolator’s basket! Fortunately the day improved from that point on.
Cuddles to Gracie… Thanks for the response to my photos. Have a good evening, Denise!
Ha! You just made hot water for tea! Yeah, sometimes I wonder about myself when I have a junior senior moment!! Especially when I am looking for something and look in several places multiple times…each time not finding what I was looking for. All the while the item was right in front of me! My biggie was a couple months ago. I refilled my EPI pen prescription (bee allergy!) and I think I threw out one of the pens by mistake when I was pitching the old prescription. I have not found it, so that is the only possible thing that could have happened. I think I might have a black hole on my home! Thank you for the warm wishes. 🙂
…IN my home…
Maple Valley gal, Velda, and Elizabeth…
So true! 🙂
There is a simple and understandable reason for these “lapses of the synapses” …… our brains are FULL! Perhaps, in the future, we will stick a zip drive up our nose to store those memorized lyrics and liner notes from back in the day. That would free up some much need room for more important things like ……ummm……hmmm….?? Oh well….. % ) : ) 😉
I have heard all the information is in there, it’s just that the filing cabinet is so full it takes us longer to find it!
Heh….like that explantion, Velda!!
DesertGinger…So happy to see your comments on the last post! Hope that you are doing well! You have been missed! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you a big hug! 🙂
I concur with what Denise says, Ginger!! Hope you are doing well in every way!!
Hi Sue
Does your camera not have some photo storage without using the memory card? And a way to download them to the computer via a card directly connected to the camera and the computer? On my old camera I could take 50 pictures directly in the camera without a card being necessary. I’m sure there are technical terms that would explain better what I’m trying to say but my brain isn’t working well tonight! Just curious.
ja
hmm, no way to edit a comment?
the word card up their should have been cord (to connect the camera to the computer).
Nope! Welcome to the “club”!
I think Sue leaves it that way so we can amuse her with our typos. JUST KIDDING!
Hi, ja,
Yes, my camera can store memory and yes, I have the cord to transfer (although I haven’t downloaded the camera’s software for it).
I understand what you’re saying (see replies on this topic above).
;Hi
Thanks for the reply. I don’t usually read the comments unless I have made one myself. I should have known others would offer the same comment! lol
So exciting!!!
Your photos are fantastic!!!
The desert sky is amazing!!!
Thank you for sharing!
You’re
welcome,
Lynn!!!!
🙂
Hey Sue!
The photos are so great I can’t pick a favorite! I tried.
Good thing the border patrol didn’t know about the never found zucchini! Ha! 😉
Hi Bridget! (I’m sure she’s reading… she is!)
Amazing! You remember the zucchini I took across the border into California…. undeclared!
Maybe you remember the missing avocado. I know I bought one but it never made it to my kitchen. About a year and a half later I find a strange rock in one of the compartments in the driver’s side door of the PTV. Hmmm… What is this thing? OMG, it’s the missing avocado! Petrified to rock!
Yep, I remember the zucchini and the avocado, but I didn’t know you found the avocado, lol! 😀
Yeppers the dreaded fruit police!
We all remember the zucchini and the missing avocado! I think we blamed the missing avocado on you know who!
BP is an enormous task…Kudos to them!
BP doesn’t care about fruits or veggies, that’s the dept. of agriculture. I remember back in the 40’s and 50’s when at the checkpoint into California the had a mountain of taboo product in the roadway where they made you throw all the fruits and veggies out before entering. It was to prevent the entrance of infestation into California’s vast farmlands of crops.
Sorry I didnt clarify!
Yes two entities with two different scope of duties!
Beautiful photoes! Thanks for sharing.
I always enjoy hearing about your days.
I try to imagine living in my little Casita but with four cats…
it might be a little much. Lol
Give Bridget a hug.
Good morning, Glinda,
Bridget has been fed and hugged, covered with the comforter, and now she’s asleep again, thank you!
I don’t know how people manage to full-time it with cats. Some do! Although I don’t know of anyone with four . . . .
Silent and nearly still a cardinal barely visible at predawn settled herself inside the branches of bush and watched the light appear with me today.Her loyalty and that of the other wildlife here astonishes me.It’s not just that they remain no matter how harsh the conditions become,it’s that they follow me around all the time.Their homes and food are close by so they could more easily remain near those, yet don’t.We don’t offer one another anything more than being near- as we grow in far more ways than numbers- yet that’s so much…
When you started this blog,I know you just intended it to teach.As it became a community your work load increased,they always do when the reaching kind of dreams become reality it seems.Unseen benefits and consequences appear and taking care of them keeps us strong enough to go further than we meant to or even guessed we’d want to usually.
Do you feel stronger than you did a few years ago,Sue?Even younger in most ways?I wish my next door neighbor did.He meant to do things lately that he seldom can,the years took more than they gave him in too many ways.What a price to pay for so called comfort.Hope your making coffee was more successful for you today than yesterday’s first attempt.Your days hold too much to start with water,nice…
Beautiful words to start the day with….thank you.
🙂
Good morning, weather,
Someday I hope to understand the mysteries of birds. I do believe there’s a lot more going on with them than we realize. I enjoyed reading about your cardinals.
Do I feel stronger? Maybe. My first reaction upon reading your question was… Well, I feel more ME. That in itself means I’m stronger. Knowing who you are replaces hesitancy and timidity with surety and steadfastness. That’s maturity, I guess.
Do I feel younger? I don’t know. When younger I didn’t experience each day as vividly as I do now. I was tethered to the past, unhappy in the present, and anxious about the future. I’m healthier now and that could be called “feeling younger.” 🙂
The coffee is perking as I type this. It should turn out to be a stronger brew than yesterday’s!
The image of a cardinal flitting among the branches will stay with me . . . . It’s a wonderful world, isn’t it. I know you will embrace the goodness you find in it today.
You guys need to write a book!
Courageous strength and experiencing life vividly are attributes of children-fearless by nature,they enjoy this wonderful world in ways most have forgotten how to.I clearly felt and heard those notes of youth playing throughout your reply…
did you ever notice birds don’t sing while they’re on the ground?a higher place may be where music comes from
oh my goodness ,it sure is quiet here,i won’t use capital letters as being loud may wake someone up,hope you and bridget are happily settling in after having had a good day,sue,n’nite or catch ya next time you’re here-whichever one fits
I’m sorry I didn’t get back with you yesterday, weather. I intended to reply and somehow missed doing so.
Gee, you’re right about birds not singing on the ground.
The birds I know of that vocalize while on the ground, usually while they march around, are ravens. Although they really aren’t singing, more like talking to themselves, chortling. And doves, and again, that’s not singing, that’s cooing. 🙂
Really,I’m just glad that you reply whenever you can!Neat about birds,I started studying that more after realizing I had a habit of placing whatever birds I had where they seemed happiest and sang more-it was always at a higher level near a window.
Aw, cardinals…I do miss those lovely little birds. In NC we had lots of them eating on our back porch…and chickadees and other such lovely birds!! They and the squirrels we called our “deck buddies”. How much joy they gave me in some difficult, sad days we had some of our time there!! (Frankly, basically only having crows here is not the same!!) Blessings on your day…and that of the others here too!!
“deck buddies” what a fun way to describe our little visitors 🙂
Beautiful sunsets, beauty all around you! You are blessed! You are making me miss the desert!
Hi Geri, I hope Florida is bringing you much better weather than when I was there…burr…..How long are you staying in CR?
We will be heading back to Myakka River State Park March 30! Volunteer there Apr., May, June! Then up to the panhandle to volunteer at St. George Island State Park Aug and Sept! Come see us!
We will definitely hook up when we are on the road full time…I so enjoy your posts and sitting around a fire with you guys will be fun.
I hope so. You should be here!
Sigh!
Good Morning Sue, enjoying my coffee with you this morning….Sweet Italian Creamer in mine…yum..although I don’t suppose I need the calories that is included with it. I hope your coffee is just as sweet, but then again, I need the extra sweetener because I do not have the luxury of the beautiful surroundings to make it sweet. Enjoy this sweet day given to us…I will enjoy the blog with my coffee this morning….
Hello to all the blogorinos….Desert Ginger, I hope you are feeling well and will be back commenting with us soon. Rest and take care, you are beginning a new life and new lifestyle, it will be great, ask me!
Good morning, Shirlene!
I was just this minute playing around with the draft of a post and reflecting on the “sweetness” of being here. I hope your sweet Italian coffee starts you on a wonderful day!
Thank you again for taking the time to post a comment back to me, it means a lot.
In Louisiana, two great rv parks are Betty’s RV near Lafayette and Poche’s Fish Camp near Breaux Bridge. Betty’s is VERY social and friendly if that is your style. Lots of activities.
Poche’s is kinda neat with many small ponds and fishing (or not). Much more country and quiet when we were there last February.
Thank you. We are in full research mode now in preparation for this new trip.
Hey Blogorinos! How is everyone?
I am still in rehab hospital, probably for another week. My HR block boss has been great about me missing work. I had no idea my surgery was dangerous so had assured him there would no problems. Instead, I’m just happy to survive!
I don’t have much news…just going to exercise class at least 3 hours per day, working with therapists. Trying to get where I can breathe without oxygen tank.
That’s my program. Love to all.
Oh my dear,dear Ginger,I’m so happy to hear from you and that you not only survived but are on the mend.Praying and trusting that you’ll overcome this bout with breathing problems the same way you always do-as a winner!You are on my mind and heart so often ,sending blessings,wishes for all to be well with you,hugs and much love.weather
Hi, Ginger!
Welcome back! We missed you. I’m sorry I didn’t see your message when you posted it last night.
Good morning, girl. . . Sounds like you fought off another crisis in your usual style of “I won’t give up!” Three hours of exercise a day and the liquid diet will have you strutting in cowgirl boots, looking fine. 🙂
Thanks for the update. We’re cheering you on!
It’s good to hear from you again! I’m sorry to hear there were complications to your surgery, but it sounds like you are being taken care of. We missed you! Take care, and do what you need to for recovery.
I thought I had told you guys….but maybe I didn’t.
Had my surgery on morning of 14th and apparently all went well with both things (remove 85% of stomach, and repair existing hiatal hernia) until they had de-incubated me and tried to get me to breathe, and wake me. I wouldn’t breathe. At all. They had to very quickly re-incubate me and take me to ICU. 30+ hrs later they were able to get me awake and breathing….but not without help. my O2 level just drops if I’m not on a constant source of O2.
So….since I am not O2 independent, now I’m in rehab. My doc seems to be pissed off at me. Not sure why. Oh well. I am now having 3 protein drinks a day plus 64 oz of water. Fun!
So nice of you all to be concerned for me. Love you all dearly.
Dear Ginger,
You have been through the mill, woman! It’s such a relief to have you back with us. I’ll be thinking of you as you get stronger and stronger.
I had to smile thinking of you being incubated. Maybe like an egg in those incubators we used to hatch baby chicks back when I taught kindergarten. It’s crazy what the auto-correct does for our writing
Supposed to be re-intubate….thank god for spellcheck
DesertGinger,
I am soooo glad you have shared your latest news with us. I have asked about you and held you in my thoughts. When we didn’t hear something we all hoped no news was good news. I hope your temporary complications will soon be behind you, so your new life can start 🙂
What’s up with your Doctor being pissed at you?! Have you had a heart-to-heart talk with him/her? I sure would. I and if he/she is still miffed I would remind them that you are paying them to treat you, not to cop an attitude on you 😉 I have no shame in speaking my mind to people with attitude unless I don’t feel that they are worth the time to even bother with it. Of course that is just me. Just make sure you get whatever you need to make you fully recovered, keep a journal of everything if you have too. Things are much easier to remember that way. My mom was a nurse for 35 plus years. Many of them kept a journal of everything, meds and rounds calls and all. She never minded at all. Most good doctors and staff do not mind. If they do mind, find out why because it is your right to keep one 😉
Oh Ginger, I can’t wait til you are doing fine and home/working again! Such a wonderful life awaits you!
Wow Ginger, waking up intubated had to have been scarey…well, all that is behind you now….everyday is a new day to gain strength and purpose…you have quite a life ahead of you, be well and strong.
Hi Sue – here I go again with an “off topic” question. I realized after your answer to my question about New Mexico what I did wrong in my search so now I do see all the places you went to in NM (thank you). As I was searching around I saw Baker’s RV Service and the work Chip did for you in the Elephant Butte area. What did you think about his work, would you recommend him?
Thank you very much!
Hi, Barbara,
I’m not surprised you had trouble searching my blog. The search feature is terrible. I use Google and type the following . . . .RVSue + whatever I’m searching for.
Chip at Baker’s RV Service is great! I recommend him wholeheartedly. However, the last I heard he was selling his business. I don’t know if he did.
Thanks Sue – I am writing to Chip at Baker’s RV Service to see if he is still around. He does still have a website. I’ll let you know in case you may also need his help. Is there anyone else in the NM area you (or any of your followers) recommend for service on RV’s? We don’t need any service right now but it’s always good to have a few people you can contact!!
BTW, I really am enjoying your wonderful sunset colors. Thank you for sharing!
Barbara
I heard back from Chip – yes he is still in business. But he was/is trying to sell his property where the business was located….not the business. So, good news if ever back in NM.
I hope all is well.
Barbara
Often when wanting to purchase a few items I’ve grabbed keys,wallet and a quick glimpse of myself in a mirror,thought -t-shirt’s good enough-off I go.That doesn’t work well sometimes,like yesterday.So while the jeep was warming up I layered on and bundled in more appropriate stuff,checked the tires and thought “at least I’m grateful for a warm bath,getting out alright and no dead battery.”
The cashier mentioned loving my coat and rather than roll her eyes resenting the lack of rushing the woman behind me chimed in.They both had outrageous colored hair so I figured they like fun ,too,paused,we spent a while laughing and carrying on about needing scarves and such ,sweet!I love surprises that bring smiles .A friend is planning one for Saturday,a birthday party,bonus for me-I volunteered to drive and drop off there so parked cars won’t give it away.Gets me out of attending,clever,huh?
Hope the only encounters you’re having with folks lately are as brief and pleasant,Sue.And that Bridget’s happily settled near you as you have good coffee-and best of all that fun surprises have been popping into your recent path.
Good morning, weather,
Happy happenstance… That’s what I call the little, unexpected bursts of goodness one experiences in the usual course of a day’s routine. I enjoyed hearing about the one that occurred for you with the cashier and fellow shopper.
Imagine every person is a light…
Our bodies being more than bone, blood, muscle, and other matter. We move through our days as lights and, as lights, we have a dimmer switch. In times of deep sorrow our light fades to only a flicker. In moments of happiness, we are a bright and warm beacon.
The cheerful exchange you three had in the store turns up each of your lights. You go your separate ways all aglow, and, as you encounter others, they have their dimmer switches turned up and begin to sparkle and shine upon others . .. . and so it goes, on and on . . .
Well, that was fun to write. Ha! Thanks for a charming post today, as usual. My little light-bulb girl is under the covers again. She was especially huggable this morning… I think it was the chopped liver for breakfast. 🙂
It was fun to read,too!Happy happenstance-that’s a keeper.Enjoy sparkling!
Just a funny thing, I have a friend we call “Sparkles”…but not because of her sparkling personality, but because when she was in my car with a very festive shirt, she left sparkles from her shirt all in my seats…but I like the name just the same.
Good Morning Weather, aren’t you clever, participating in a party in the way that you want and understand, giving of yourself to help, smiling, happy, at arms reach, or however is comfortable for you. You will be greatly appreciated for the help that you are always eager to give, and happy within yourself for it. I will be thinking of you, helping, driving, keeping warm as you shuttle party goers, and then going back home to your troupe, your santuary. I will be putting up with the 75 degree, but dont feel sorry for me…lol…I have learned from you to enjoy whatever is given..So enjoy this day, my hump day, which means a lot more to me than you…someday my friend, I also will not care what day of the week it is, just another glorious day to be alive.
Good Morning Sue, I have finished my cereal, rice chex…only this time I am not forgetting to have a cup of coffee with it…last time we had breakfast together (last Friday), I did not have coffee, and it turned out to be a difficult day…today that will not happen….I am anxiously awaiting the new post that I know you are working on, living through your pictures, living life from the other side of your lens…Thank you for all you do for us blogorinos, letting us into your life through your eyes and words…You have to know how much you are valued….Enjoy another day with Bridget..
Putting up with 75 degrees,driving around and living in SoCal,enjoying the ocean shore when you’re not at a job that allows visiting this delightful blog-all the while getting healthier by the second planning more freedom and fun in the future-Trust me,I don’t feel sorry for you a bit-I celebrate you! 🙂
see ya next post
🙂