Tuesday, September 4
The Perfect Tow Vehicle carries Reggie, Roger, and me on Coconino Forest Road 84 toward the Dragoon Mountains. (Nancy is home with Marg. She has stuff to take care of today.)
Maybe we’ll camp at Cochise Stronghold Campground sometime. . . . What a picturesque location for a ranch . . . .
“We’re almost there, boys. It’s been a long time since we explored like this. You’ve been yard dogs since last spring.”
And I’ve been a house dog since last spring . . . .
“It’s high time we got out and about again!“
The road is washboard-y part of the way. Then it smooths out, becomes winding and narrow.
These road photos may seem redundant and unnecessary.
I post them for a reason.
Fear.
Fear of the unknown.
I admit there are moments when I hesitate before trying something new and I have to knock down that pesky fear of the unknown.
Not knowing the condition of a road keeps many folks from going to interesting places. I want you to see it’s not difficult or hazardous to drive to Cochise Stronghold.
This post is about the campground.
Another post will focus on the history of this location and also Reggie and Roger as trail dogs!
On the way to the campground we pass a place for horse trailers to park and unload. We also pass a couple spur roads — the one below is Forest Road 4810 — that could lead to boondocks.
I don’t feel like scouting out boondocks. Today I’m in a mood to see the campground, relax and enjoy nature with my crew. And also, gather information about the campground to share with you, dear reader.
We come upon three spillways and the valiant PTV splashes through each one!
I stop and get out of the PTV to read and photograph the sign below. This makes Reggie and Roger excited about getting out of the PTV, too.
“Not much longer and I’ll let you out. You’re gonna’ have so much fun!”
Gee, the weather is perfect today. Cool and comfortable . . . . I wonder if anyone is camped in the campground . . . .
“Here we are!”
I’ve seen a lot of these brown signs over the past seven years . . . . Always get a rush of anticipation . . . .
“Okay, okay, hold on! Let me park and you two can get out . . .
Hmm . . . paved . . . . That’s a surprise. . . .
Love all these oak trees . . . .
Reg and Rog are in their harnesses with leashes attached. I lift their wiggly bodies out of the passenger seat and down to the pavement.
“Okay, let’s go, crew!”
“I hear water. C’mon this way.”
Not much left of the stream. Or maybe this is a wash that only fills after a rain.
No bugs flying around . . . . Thankful for that!
“Oh, here’s a rock for climbing.”
Roger goes up first, of course.
Reggie follows and looks around tentatively.
“Hey, RVSue, what about the campground?” you ask.
“You were going to tell us about Cochise Stronghold Campground, remember?”
Oh, yeah.
Here’s the notice on the bulletin board.
A helpful fly points out that those of us with a geezer pass park for free at the trailhead in the campground. If camping or picnicking, our fee would be $5.
Follow this link to the Forest Service web page for more information, such as suggested trailer size and season dates.
Back to Reggie and Roger on the rock . . . .
It’s nice to be here all by ourselves.
If people were around, there’d be the sound of engines and talking.
Instead we hear water gurgling its way between boulders . . .
. . . while a woodpecker drums on a tree trunk somewhere nearby.
The boys are enjoying this. I am, too. Oh, all the times I walked behind two precious pups, wandering around on a woodland path, crunching on desert gravel between creosote bushes, following a two-track trail through golden grass, strolling along a lake, river, or creek . . . . and that day by the sea, foam at my feet, the gulls squawking . . . .
“Roger, hold that pose, honey . . . . ”
“Okay. Let’s go back and have a drink of water . . . .
. . . and then you can lead me on the nature trail!”
rvsue
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Yay!! Been waiting for a new one. Going back now to read and see. Thanks, Sue and crew!
You’re welcome, Judy. Thanks for waiting. 🙂
YAY! YOU’RE FIRST TODAY!
🎈🎉🎈🎉👏👍
Hi Sue, I’m from Australia and I’ve just re-read a newspaper article from 2012 which I first read when I visited Arizona and New Mexico, about Rusty Reed and his dog Timber, and the role you played in reuniting them after they were separated. It’s a wonderful story and says a lot about the kind hearts of Americans, particularly in that part of the country. Good luck to you and I hope Rusty and Timber are still going strong.
Thank you, Meno. What a pleasure to receive a message from you!
Timber’s reunion with Rusty was the result of the actions of several people. Timber has since passed away after living a full life. Rusty adopted another malamute mix named Lady Piper.
Thanks for the update Sue. Sad to hear about Timber but glad that he lived a full life. And good to see that Rusty has a new friend. I like reading your blog and the many comments…a slice of the real America 0f which I am so fond.
Been there! Great site!
🙂
Love the photos. It’s wonderful if there’s not a lot of people there! 🙂 there is no signal right down inside the campgrounds either. Unless something’s changed since I was there last! As you’re coming into the campgrounds about a mile before you get there you see that sign and there is a road to the right. I think it’s just past the sign or just before the sign? It does lead to some wonderful dispersed camping areas. That’s where I stayed the last time.
Hi, Rachel,
I figured that’s where the dispersed camping is. You know how it is…. after a while on the road, you can “read” a road that leads to boondocks. 🙂
I don’t know what you’re referring to — “there is no signal right down inside the campgrounds either.”
Cellular signal. Do you actually have cellular signal down inside the campgrounds right now? Because if you do, I am totally impressed, and also a little saddened! As you know it’s hard for me to be around any place that has a lot of cellular signal. That little campgrounds, surrounded by those giant stones, was a good place for me, but if you are getting cellular signal, in the campgrounds, then I probably wouldn’t be able to stay there again.
I do have cell signal where I am at now, but the closest cell tower is about 25 miles away, so it makes it doable! I’ve actually been at my new spot for 2 months and a day today! That’s very exciting for me!
I’m very happy that you’ve found a place where you can settle and not be bothered by the vibes of civilization (or whatever you want to call it). Congratulations on 2 months!
I’m so dense. Of course, you meant cell signal. Don’t worry …. I didn’t try to turn on my cell phone, nor did I bring my Verizon jetpack to try internet. (We didn’t camp there, just visited.)
Chances are the lack of signal hasn’t changed, so you’re good.
I am hoping to stay where I’m at for some time to come, but that is Good to know! 🙂 Enjoy your time out wandering. When you drive through Benson, be sure and face North and wave! 🙂
on my go to list
Great plan, dave!
Cochise stronghold is a really nice little campground. Haven’t been there in a few years, if I remember correctly there is a 25 or 30 foot limit. That part of AZ is really nice.
Hi, Lisa,
At the forest service web page I linked, the limit for trailers is 16 ft. I’d bring the BLT up there (She’s 17 feet.).
What that usually means for us is I have to park the PTV crossways in the site in order not to stick her nose out into the campground road. Sometimes we fit just fine when the limit is 16 ft. (Our total length is 34 ft.)
It is a nice campground with plenty of places to walk or hike.
Wow, I had forgotten that! But now that you reminded me I remember seeing a class C try and go up there with a tow vehicle – didn’t work out to well.
I think you mean a Class C with a toad. Yes, that would be a challenge.
I still love the road, even though it’s you doing the traveling right now.
Cochise Stronghold has a history I look forward to learning. I’ll “park” at the trailhead and take my time looking at everything.
All the pictures look great to me. If you didn’t share the place with bugs, that’s even better.
Roger and Reggie seem to appreciate the Stronghold as much as anyone. I’m glad for all of you.
Hi, Calvin,
The history about Cochise, the Apache Wars, and the white man who was Cochise’s blood brother is fascinating. I’ll include some of that in a future post.
Thanks for the positive words on the photos. Yeah, Reg and Rog had a grand time!
I’m happy you’re on the road with us, Calvin. 🙂
Hey! I knew you were out camping and I was waiting for a report! Yay! Not first, but pretty close!
Thank you for the tour Sue. Lovely, just lovely. I can imagine the Apache Indians using this as a stronghold with the resources available.
You’re welcome, Renee.
It’s not hard to imagine Apaches on horseback, making their way among the boulders to high ground, seeking seclusion and safety.
We’re not camping yet. I have some things to get done at the house before we take off camping.
Yes, I saw that before I posted the second time but forgot to mention it. My husband and I often take rides up into the mountains on the weekend when we can’t get away to camp. We take the dogs and they just love it. We do too because we often scout out new boondocking spots to fit our fifth wheel in, checking out the roads in or check out small remote FS CG’s where we can take our pop-up and jeep. We often take a thermos of coffee and sweet rolls, along with water for the dogs and other snacks that we can share with them.
There were no replies when I began typing and there were ten when I posted my comment. Wow!
🙂
Dang my reply didn’t go through! That is a really nice campground. I have been there a few times. Just to look at it. If I remember correctly, the limit is 25 or 30 feet. It is really nice to see you and the boys out in the wilderness again.
I think your reply did go through, Lisa. (See above.)
Comments may take a while to appear when a lot of folks are opening up my blog at the same time or trying to post comments at the same time.
Top ten ?
Lovely photos in today’s post !
We spent 3 days over Labor Day holiday camping in Tropical Storm Gordon at Lake Manatee S.P. near Sarasota, Fl. It was a good shakedown cruise in our “new-to-us” Scamp 16. No leaks !
Hope you’ll be enjoying a road trip soon !
Heavens, DeeDee!
You camped in your Scamp in a tropical storm? Well, I guess that puts the shake in shakedown, doesn’t it. Ha! Glad you made it through okay.
Thanks re the photos.
Hi Sue, you must be so happy to be out camping again! Enjoy!
Hi, JoanneG,
Well, not camping yet, but will be soon!
Hi Sue and the boys, what a beautiful campground. Will have to add this to my bucket list for sure.
Stay safe and enjoy yourself.
Judy
Thanks, Judy…. same to you!
So nice to see you and the boys out on the trail again! Enjoy your time there. It looks like a terrific place to camp especially when no one else is around.
Hi, Marcia,
When the crew and I were at the campground last Tuesday,the 4th, it was only the 4th day of the season. (The campground opens on the 1st of Sept. every year.) The snowbirds haven’t arrived in droves yet. I imagine usage increases as the season progresses.
If we do go camping at Cochise Stronghold, I spoiled us by visiting when no one was there. 🙂
YAY!! FINALLY!!! I was fearing you may because me a bit used to the luxuries of having shingles over your head!!! The pups look so happy!!!…As am I!!
Thank you!!!
You’re welcome, Lauri.
Ha! Nope, no shingles overhead. Not that kind of roof. 🙂
I love your enthusiasm. Great compliment, thank you, which I happily accept!
What a surprise! I wasn’t expecting you to be out on the trail right now…but sure was glad to see it. Looks like a lovely spot for a little time out. Once again, I’m terribly jealous – but so happy for you.
Thank you, Suzette.
If it helps any, I was jealous for years before I could retire and hit the road. 🙂 I know the feeling….
It is a lovely spot for camping or having a picnic or for trail walking.
On the road again…beautiful place you’ve found!
Marg and Nancy are probably relaxing on the porch…thinking…we’re here!
The boys exploring….fun times for all!
Have a great time!
Hi, Cinandjules,
Autumn will be here soon. Our grape leaves are drying up. Hey, they aren’t maple leaves in blazing color but they’ll do for this Zonie. 🙂
Hope you and Jules and AO and the felines are having a great week!
I feel like I’ve been at this computer all day. Need a break. See y’all later!
Hi Sue and everyone!!
This is a beautiful area and that campground looks wonderful!! And because I was reading everything in order, I was trying to swat the fly away on my screen and then I read it is in the picture! Lol!
Have a great day everyone!!
Hi, Jolene,
I wondered if anyone would be tricked by that fly. Gotcha! 🙂
What a sweet little campground and you’re so lucky it’s not packed with other campers. Maybe the washboard road keeps it that way. I love that you’re out in nature again and thank you for letting us ride along.
You’re welcome, Marilu,
I don’t think the road is a deterrent. It really isn’t bad, just a section is washboard. It may be the time of year and also it being a weekday.
So nice to have a post from you on the road! I hope it feels good to you, too.
I love that area. It is so beautiful and magical. Since it’s a bit out of the way, I suspect it’s somewhat less visited than parks near the cities and big highways. A treasure, for sure.
Thank you, ValGal. It did feel good to visit a natural area with my crew. I enjoyed learning plants and seeing wildlife on the nature trail.
To Sue’s sister Pauline:
Happy Birthday, Pauline. Hope you have a great one. H0pe the calendar didn’t screw up the dates again.
Sue, it’s good to see you and the boys scoping out possible camp sites. I know you both will be happy to get back on the road for awhile.
How thoughtful of you, Cat Lady, to send a birthday wish to Pauline. I emailed my wish to her. Jerold (her husband) is taking her out to dinner tonight to celebrate.
Your current header photo is spectacular, I remember that as being one of the many wonderful experiences you had while camping at Midland LTVA. I hope Del and his canine crew enjoyed their summer. I imagine it won’t be long before he will be heading south again.
Thank you for posting the photos you took around Cochise Stronghold Campground. It’s more beautiful than I thought it would be, and that’s saying a lot because I had high expectations. I’ve been interested in that place for a long time and had seen others’ pictures of it . Once again I find myself preferring to see a place through your eyes. I suppose it could at times be crowded there. I’m glad you pointed out that there are places to boon dock nearby. It would be a fascinating area to explore given it’s history.
Hi, weather,
That entire experience, that entire winter, camped at Midland was a pleasure. I’m happy that you noted one of those experiences as shown in the header photo. Funny thing, in the harsh light of day that camping area doesn’t seem like much, just flat ground, sandy gravel, scraggly trees, bushes, and narrow washes. Stay for a while and be delighted by spectacular sunrises and sunsets, moody moonrises, a mysterious bird flapping its wings taking off from the ironwood tree, desert lilies popping up all over, storm clouds, rainbows, and daily chats with Del and playtime for Reg and Rog with his crew. I love that place!
Del plans to come south again this winter. He will divide his camps between Midland and his special boondock on the Colorado (if not occupied). We talk on the phone about every other weekend.
Thank you for the compliment of “preferring to see a place through your eyes.” I do believe I see and appreciate better knowing you and others will look at the photos I take. We support each other’s appreciation. 🙂
I’d enjoy exploring the area further. I was hesitant to do so on the narrow Cochise Trail that goes up to the stronghold. It is overgrown with tall grass and the snakes are still out and active. It would be better during winter.
Previously I thought I’d go to Cochise Stronghold and, for some reason, passed it by on the way to Roosevelt Lake. I put it in my “someday” folder. I’m glad I did. It made a wonderful day trip for me and the boys.
I hope your last days of summer are pleasant and satisfying. People are probably letting the lake rest from their summertime play, putting away the motorized toys, turning to other activities. I know you are grateful to have the lake for your companion all year long.
Spending enough time somewhere to realize how much there is to appreciate… That’s a large part of what I find so great about the choices you’ve often made while you’ve had the BLT. That has happened to me in every place I’ve lived, too.
Thank you, these last days of summer are wonderfully pleasant and satisfying. In fact, during this whole season no one sped around this grove’s beach or sandy lanes in boats, four wheelers or jet skis. I attribute their especially considerate behavior to the owners’ reaction to a family that began the summer here.
On the 4th of July I noticed that family had brought their picnic table, canopy, barbeque and badminton net into my backyard. When I went out to say good morning to the woman she explained that she felt it was wrong for me to have so much more space than she did around her home here. I didn’t think it was my responsibility to enforce an unwritten rule that one doesn’t use other people’s yards, but my neighbors did. They all got the grove’s owners involved, and since that family had caused other problems here they were told to move out. It was clear that disruptive behavior would not be tolerated, so everyone has been particularly cautious to not cause problems since then.
Yes, I am profoundly grateful to have the lake as my companion all year long. It’s still butterflies, bumble bees and wildflowers season here, and since the extra summertime residents left on Labor Day it’s delightfully quiet and peaceful. The great blue herons and wild rabbits are back to spending time relaxing near by, and the cooler breezes make being outside even more inviting than usual.
What started as an intrusion turned into a lesson in being considerate of others. Nice. Enjoy these “delightfully quiet and peaceful” days, weather!
🙂
Hi Sue and crew😃
And Roger, nice job posing on that rock. It’s my favorite picture.
Hi, Ronda,
Roger takes on an attitude of royalty whenever he stands in a high place. He does show off that rock well. Glad you like the photo.
😃
Looks like a great campground. Glad you and the crew were able to get out and explore bit.
Hi, Shawna,
It is a pretty campground, very small (two large sites are for groups), no electric, no water, pit toilet. Not for those who require all the amenities but great for those who don’t need them and love natural surroundings.
Hi, Sue!
I enjoyed exploring with you and the boys. It must have been so wonderfully peaceful to have the trails and campground to yourselves. If the area was brimming with people, the soft song of trickling water would have been drowned out. 🙂
I thought that I commented on the last post – the entry got lost -poof! No biggie. I love the new front door color. It nicely compliments the white siding and black porch railing. Another item checked off the to-do list! 🙂
Thank you for sharing the Cohise campground pictures. It looks like a nice place to explore for a few days. The fees seem pretty reasonable, too. Did the PTV have any transmission issues? Was this the first time yo had an opportunity to take an afternoon to explore since moving into your home? I know you savored the time well spent. 🙂
We had a quiet holiday weekend, and it has been nice having a short work week. I am already looking forward to this weekend! 🙂 Have a good evening, Sue. Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! Hi to Nancy and Marge, too! 🙂
Love the header photo with the double rainbow! 🙂
Hi, Denise,
I did miss you! I don’t know what happened to your post… so sorry about that!
The PTV hasn’t had any transmission issues for a long time now. The poor shifting gradually subsided as the summer wore on. I’m hoping upcoming cold nights don’t bring those problems back. The rough idle comes and goes, too. Maybe the PTV is turning into a cranky old lady.
Yes, this was our first outing since we boondocked last spring, prior to camping at Quail Run RV Park. Although we are blessed with lots of ground, trees, and vegetation around our house, it’s good to get out “in nature” again. Yes, I did savor the time there and the boys loved it.
Thank you for another enjoyable message, Denise. You and Gracie pup have a wonderful evening. Hugs to you both and warm wishes to the “peanuts.” 🙂
Thank you, Sue. 🙂 xo
“Maybe the PTV is turning into a cranky old lady.” Ha! Well, we all have our moments! 🙂 As long as she knows that she is not allowed to pitch a cranky fit while you are out in the wild. Best to save those little temper tantrums close to home! 🙂
Thanks for taking us on a day trip with you and the boys! It looks beautiful. It’s been a busy, frustrating week at work, complete with broken essential equipment. You’re blog is a nice break from that! I can live vicariously through you. Love the camp ground and the streams. I also loved seeing the boys joyfully exploring! Marg might get jealous when the boys tell about the trip😆
Hi, Dawn,
Sorry about the frustrating week at work. Always glad to give you a break from that!
Funny thing about Marg. I don’t see her wanting to go hiking on trails. It was over a week before she strayed from the house, patio, and porch. Gradually she ventured into the yard with Reggie and Roger, but mostly she prefers to watch them from the porch.
Sending Happy Birthday wishes to Pauline! Enjoy your special day! 🙂
What a lovely spot, Sue…looks so peaceful and if cool…even better!! Today is 80 here but supposed to only be 70s and 60s now…I am ready for that!! We can feel a bit of a coolness in the breeze…just lovely!!
Hi, Elizabeth,
Please send some of that lovely cool(er) air to the East Coast! The weather folks here are predicting no let up on the heat and humidity at least through the end of the month. I cannot wait for Fall to get here – bring on the sweater weather! 🙂 Hope you and yours are doing well! 🙂
Hi Denise. If you can get away, come on down to the hills in SW Va. It’s been warm during the day but it cools off nice at night. It was 64 just after dawn today. My wife’s baby sister is visiting and she loves how pretty and peaceful and less humid it is here vs. RI.
Hi, Rhodium,
Enjoy your lovely weather and your sister-in-law’s visit! Have the leaves started to change in your neck of the woods? My Bradford and Cleveland Pear trees are just starting to turn yellow. Have a good weekend! 🙂
Hi there Denise…who lives where we spent quite a bit of time a few years ago (lived 5 months in Providence Forge…and mostly were in Richmond for days out but also spent some fine days in Williamsburg…),
I am so sorry it is still so hot there. We lived a decade in NC before those few months in VA…and I remember it was pure sweltering or freezing and almost no days inbetween…and I remember the A/C being on from at least March through Oct!! I am so NOT a hot weather girl…but the last few years in the Pacific NW have been awfully hot too. The next door neighbors to our daughter’s house were installing a heat pump yesterday…he said he gave up waiting for it to EVER be a reasonably cool summer again here. I get that feeling. We live in one of the more naturally cooler houses in this area…it is a completely block bldg. Looks as plain as a rock outside…very modern and nice inside…STAYS cool enough as long as it does not go over 90!! So no complaints on that…just has rotten well water…argh!! I hope you can stay cool someway where you are…traveling to where it is cooler is tempting isn’t it?
Things here are still difficult…and probably we will maybe always have to watch things be bad for our daughter and her kids. Pedophiles are quite protected really we are seeing. FRUSTRATING. It may change my life thus too…if things go worse, I may be down at the capitol, not too many miles from my house, protesting and bugging lawmakers. Something I NEVER in my life wanted to do…I have stayed completely out of politics for a long time. But too many evil doers are in places of authority, frankly. What a world it would be if people could find a way to treat others as they themselves want to be treated…but I guess they threw out that admonition as well eh? It is a respite to come here and other blogs and find some good people!! I need to be reminded of that at times.
Hi, Elizabeth,
I think much of the US has had record breaking temperatures this year. I am very thankful to have A/C. The block construction of your home helps keep it cool…that is a plus!
Taking you down memory lane…. When visiting Williamsburg, did you all ever dine at Pierce’s BBQ? It is still there, still run by the same family. I usually make a quick trip to a couple of the outlet stores once a year. A stop at Pierce’s on the way home is a must! Mmmmm….a regular pork bbq sandwich with slaw on the side, and an order of homemade onion rings…oh, my! Well, now I have made myself hungry! 🙂
Sending you a hug – you and your husband are a godsend to your daughter and grandchildren.
I don’t think we ever did eat at Pierce’s, Denise…but we ate at a couple of yummy places within the village…two of them supposed to be very authentic for the time. That was fun!! Virginia is a very interesting place to me…loved seeing both Jefferson’s and Washington’s homes too…as well as spending a few days in Front Royal, the last spot we could go back on one line of our ancestry we were investigating. Plus another town in that county was begun by ancestors on the other side of my house…weird to think that very distant kin of both my mom and dad COULD have walked those same streets…yet of course, not known each other. I hope you have time to see things too…
Good morning, Elizabeth…. Isn’t it amazing how something as simple as a cool breeze can make us better able to enjoy a day? Wishing you cool breezes for today, too!
Thank you, Sue…wishing you beautiful Fall days!! Breezes and warmish…lovely indeed!! Isn’t Fall wonderful though? Even cranked up the oven today and made a new recipe which totally thrilled my hubby…corny corn muffins…haha…was quite tasty…plus I always add and change a bit to make things more healthy. We have a little toaster oven I mostly use, but wanted to do a full 12 muffin recipe today which only fits in the regular oven. That little $40 toaster oven we have had over 5 years now and use almost daily…for 2 people tis perfect…saves so much electricity plus so easy to clean…just easy, easy, easy!! My fav!! I tell hubby tis the best $40 we ever spent (got at Kmart when it was going out of business near where we lived then). I really am surprised it lasted more than a year, you know most stuff goes out when the warranty is up.
I truly enjoyed this lovely post. The campgrounds look pretty perfect to me. Still wishing I was out there traveling. The boys seem happy to be exploring again.
Hubby hasn’t bee doing too good the last couple of weeks. We have been to the ER 3 times and the Dr. twice. We have another Dr. visit next week which will probably take awhile. Between taking care of him, walking the dog and trying to work, I am beat. I haven’t had chance to do one thing my sister told me to get ready for her. She will be here on the 17th. Yikes!!!
My upper cabinets are coming out on the 14th, so she can paint without so many obstacles.
Hi, Barbara,
Keeping you and your husband in my thoughts and prayers. I am glad that you have Angel – take good care of yourself. Given the circumstances, your sister will understand. Looking forward to read about your kitchen updates! 🙂
You do have your hands full, Barbara. I hope the days ahead are better for your husband and easier for you. I agree with Denise — your sister will understand if everything isn’t perfectly ready for her arrival.
Thank you for your prayers. The doctor called today and they found a bacterial infection in his urine. So now he has to be on antibiotics for the next week. Maybe that in itself will take care of the problem. I am praying for that, which would be a simple solution.
The only thing my sister wanted me to do is get paint and supplies, so she can start when she gets here.
Must be tired! Happy Birthday Pauline.
Hi Sue! Just had to pop in for a second and tell you how much I enjoyed this post. Well, actually I Love all your post! Lol. You make me miss Arizona and Benson a Lot! Someday I shall return. Right now, duty calls! I love all the pics of the dogs! Oh, and Happy Birthday Pauline!
Hi, Linda,
Thank you for the compliments on my blog posts and photos. I hope you enjoy Kentucky until the time when you can return to the Arizona you miss. 🙂
Road to RVSue: Welcome Back!
Great comment, Rhodium! 🙂
I wish your blog had a ‘like’ button. Once I’m done reading I instinctively want to ‘like’ it. What a great day-trip. I really hope you camp there!
Good morning, Janice. I’m glad you enjoyed our day trip.
If I had a “like” button on my blog, many folks wouldn’t bother to comment and where’s the fun in that? 🙂
Good Morning! Enjoyed the jaunt to the campground! It looks lovely! Happy birthday to Pauline, too!
Good morning, Terri. Always nice to hear from you… Thanks for letting me know you enjoyed the post.
So glad that you and the crew are enjoying exploring again. Roger is adorable as King Of The Rock!…lol…
Thank you, Eileen. It was a great day.
Is it me or is Roger becoming more handsome with every passing day? Hmm….. 🙂
Hi guys (and dolls, of course),
Some back history first; growing up in the land of
Pidgeon and slang, “guys” had no gender. Just
like “dude” now- both are applicable to all genders. I think it’s just universal. So when I slip back into the old familiar, and say “Hi, guys”, it’s a greeting to all who are reading.
First, and BEST! With the early removal of the “blue sutures” (who knew different colors meant different materials?) my hand wound is finally calming down and trying to heal! YAY!
Next, during these “down” days, I’ve been sort of personalizing our new Casita. I’ve stuck up photos, cards (pertaining to camping, travel, and adventure) given to us by dear friends, trinkets, and other mementos I have to keep near. I’ve found that drapery hooks adhere well into the carpet that lines the inner walls, and makes the perfect hook to hang things from. I’ve heard you can also use cubicle hooks and pins too. Anyway, our “Happy Honu” is beginning to look more like home to me with a few meaningful things up to distract from that “sterile” look of a brand new, and empty interior.
Sometimes Kitty and I go inside the Casita, and just sit. It is comforting to me, and reminds me of the good time we had driving and camping in her all the way back to Vancouver from Texas. I look at Kitty all stretched out on one of the bench seats, and wonder what he’s thinking? Hard to know with cats. But probably it’s his next meal. HaHa!
We bought a 3” memory foam mattress topper from WM, and cut it to fit yesterday. Now to search for the perfect down blanket to fit a “short double”, to see us through the Winter months coming up.
The factory spare tire cover has GOT to go! I’m looking for a unique replacement. Probably one of those simple “Life is Good” covers will suit us just fine.
I’m looking forward to being back on the road. I don’t want to miss the beautiful Fall colors! I know I need patience to finish healing up. Having your dominant hand laid up is no fun, and, I’m not the best sport as it is. Lol.
Sue, I’m bookmarking this post. I’d like to camp here one day soon. Maybe this Winter?
Everyone, enjoy this Friday! It’s feeling like a big plate of Nachos kind of day! 😁
Suzicruzi, Kitty, and Larry.
Hi, Suzi, Kitty, and Larry,
Suzi….You’re having fun decorating and Casita dreamin’ with Kitty. 🙂
I’m happy your hand is healing. The delay in getting back on the road is excruciating but the anticipation will make your next trip that much more delicious.
You could camp at Cochise Stronghold in the winter. Keep watch of the overnight lows before going to make sure they aren’t colder than what you want to deal with.
Does your Casita have a vinyl floor or carpeting? The BLT’s floor is vinyl, which I’m glad of with the crew. Warming the interior and keeping it warm is a lot easier when I’ve put down a couple layers of throw rugs/runners and covered the windows with Reflectix (at least the one over my bed).
All this talk is making me anxious, too, to “being back on the road.”
Have a wonderful weekend!
Suzicruz, I am going to do something that is verboten on this blog. I am going to send you to a non amazon link. Only because there is no other source for these.
Take a look at http://www.rvsuperbag.com. They make sleeping bags with sheets for rv’s. I have one and love it.
Sorry Sue, but no one else does these and they aren’t on Amazon, if you can find them then great.
Glad your back on the the road. I know you had to be feeling a little confined.
Best to you and all.
Such a gorgeous area with wonderful history. A perfect day trip with the pups. It is surprising to see a paved campground at the end of a dirt road – but nice when it’s raining or windy! Those rocks were just the right size for little guys to climb on.
Hi, Jodee,
The campground is in very good condition, complete with bear boxes for one’s food. Of course, it hasn’t been open for more than a week so it’s fresh-looking.
It was nice seeing you out and about again! I’m sure the boys enjoyed the excursion too. It looks like it was a beautiful day with cloudless blue skies. I’ve never been to Cochise Stronghold, but we did visit the nearby Kartchner Caverns a few years ago. The entire area has a very interesting history. Correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t Cochise in the Coronado NF? You mentioned Coconino Forest Road 84? Anyway, I’ll bet that wash, or whatever it is, gets some pretty rapid water running through it when it rains.
I put away all my summer decor yesterday – seashells and pillows and such – and pulled out my fall things, a bit darker and cozier. Hopefully we won’t have a late hot spell! I am so ready for fall! Our motorhome is still at the dealer’s (going on two months now), so we haven’t been able to take any trips, although I do have the year planned out. Places to go and no wheels to take us!!
Hi, Cynthia,
Cochise Stronghold is on the other side of the Dragoons from Kartchner, near Pearce and Dragoon. You probably know this, just clarifying for anyone reading here.
Yes, the history of the entire area of southern Arizona is fascinating, so much so that I’ll write about some of it. Thank you for correcting me on the name of the national forest. I must’ve been writing on auto-pilot. I actually have a photo of the sign that says in big letters: CORONADO . . .plus the pic I did post! I’ll fix the post. 🙂
How nice that you change your living space with the seasons. I bet your place is beautiful.
Two months at the dealer? You have great patience, Cynthia! I hope the wait is over soon.
So good to see you on the road! Makes me itch to get out there! I’m leaving around October5th, headed to Texas. Will spend about 2 weeks there then head on up to Tulsa for a couple weeks. I hope to do some scouting in Tulsa as I am considering moving there in order to be closer to family. Haven’t made up my mind. So I expect to get home again in early November.
Meanwhile I am doing everything I can to reduce my costs. Changed my phone plan yesterday and reduced that cost from $121 per month to $75. My data plan is slower (much slower judging by performance today) but unless I get a job requiring fast internet, I can just wait. Not in a hurry. Sold my timeshare for $4200 (paid 15k), but oh well. And I won’t have ownership dues anymore. So I’m just whittling away at my bills. Cashing in an annuity for a few hundred. I sorted through all my papers and documents and of course didn’t find certain things, like the title to my house. So I’m also doing the necessary to get copies of any important papers. All kinds of busy work!
So I’m gonna get to it! Loved the pics of the campground! Later!
Hi DeGin, nice short name. 😀
Oh,! Sweet! You are back on the road again! I love your exploring, and look forward to every camp. That is a nice campground! We just completed a great boondock up the East Rosebud River in central Montana. On the way up, saw 2 bear cross the road in front of us and my husband and the dog flushed out a huge bull moose and several white tail deer on a walk this morning. Our rig and the support system (Orka cooler and water jugs) are good for 4 days. In our little trailer, that’s about long enough. Thanks for the adventures, Sue!
Has Rusty been commenting lately? I hope he’s okay. Or did I miss it.
Rusty is fine. It’s nice of you to ask, Sally.
I recently joined a wonderful group of folks for deep-water aerobics three mornings a week. Good all-over exercise, nice friendly folks, and fun conversations as we splash back and forth around the pool. I really enjoy it.
And then I realized that the feeling in the pool is the same feeling I get from reading RVSue! Congenial, friendly, positive, supportive, not intrusive, and all kinds of interesting tidbits of information!
I’ve been along-time reader, but unfortunately, I’m mostly an armchair traveler. I have never commented. But all you blogorinos make me feel good about the world and now I find I can use that feeling as a yardstick for other experiences. Does that sound crazy?
Not at all, Lynn. I like your sound of crazy.
Thank you for putting into words what I often feel about the people who gather here, long-timers to some-timers to newcomers. You’ve given me a special treat by appearing from the “armchair.” You’re a blogorino now — No turning back! Ha! 🙂
Lynn, you have a wonderful way of expression, welcome and please comment when you can.
Lynn in Oregon, the feeling you get from reading RVSue is the same as so many of us get. The beautiful photography that has evolved over the years, getting to visit so many interesting places and learning about them through Sues eyes and ears and senses is priceless. Some of the folks she has interacted with on her travels are unforgettable as are their four legged families. And some of her armchair followers have found their way into our hearts as well. Please do comment when something interests you. We can’t all be on the road but we can all have something to say when the spirit moves us. Welcome Lynn!
Lovely thoughts, jazzlover. 🙂
Welcome, Lynn! 🙂
The sign says ” Discharge of fire arms or bows and arrows prohibited ” . So that’s how the U.S. Army beat the Apaches . Not Fair !
Denise in Richmond and others in the path of the storm…
Thinking of you and praying you stay safe!
Thank you, Sue. xo
I so enjoyed this post. What a beautiful campground. Nice Blogorino comments too.
Take care everyone!
Adventure! I’m glad you’re on (or were on) a new adventure! The boys look thrilled.
Wanted my friends here to know that last Wednesday September 5, my husband died after his 5 1/2 year battle against a very rare cancer. I’m ok but busy planning his funeral and preparing for his burial with full military honors at the National Cemetery in Dixon Ca the following week. One day at a time for now.
How thoughtful of you, Velda, to write this message for your blogorino friends. May God continue to bless you with strength and comfort.
Velda… Your comment is at the end of this batch. It came in right before a new post. I hope you don’t mind me placing it under the new post so that it won’t be missed by those who care about you. I’ll put it several comments down.
You got me! As I was reading this on my phone too, I actually tried to flick the fly off my screen! I’m so glad to read that you’re out and about.
I’m currently on the southern coast of Oregon.
my goal this falls is to photograph the Oregon and Washington coasts. I started in Northern California because I wanted to visit the Redwood Forest. Awesome, to put it mildly. So far most days have been shrouded in fog. At first I loved the moody feel of seeing the trees through the fog. I’ve gotten over that… So I’m currently trying to decide whether to Keep On Keepin On or to move to sunnier climes, now that much of the smoke from the Western fires has dissipated. The answer will come to me one of these days, so until then I’ll do laundry and “enjoy” dusting, vacuuming, and general upkeep. Oh boy!
Hey Sue! Hope you are still RV’ing! Love the pic of our Cochise Stronghold Ranch sign! We are now listed with Harvest Hosts so you may enjoy camping on the ranch! We have an updated website: strongholdranch.com Happy camping!
Roma Payne