Monday, May 18
The crew and I ride the Perfect Tow Vehicle into Deschutes National Forest. I choose one of the many dirt lanes for our walk.
Bridget and Reggie are very excited to follow this road further into the woods!
“We might boondock in this forest, Reggie.”
The forest is very quiet.
My footsteps make no sound on the carpet of pine needles. The air is fresh and woodsy.
A good, hard-packed, dirt road not heavily traveled
Reggie doesn’t seem to mind wearing a collar.
Even so, I hate for him to wear one. I want to buy him a soft harness like the one Bridget wears. They are much more comfortable, since pressure is applied to the shoulders, rather than the neck.
Bridget (25 lbs.) is much bigger and heavier than Reggie (9 lbs.)!
While we’re walking, let me tell you about the ones that got away.
Missed photos, I mean. I’ll never forget the time a mama grizzly and her two cubs crossed in front of the PTV and paused to stare at me through the windshield. Boy, did I pay attention! That happened in Wyoming a few years ago and my little point-and-shoot camera wasn’t charged that morning. Dang!
It’s been a while since I’ve seen moss!
The grizzly family is at the top of my list of Photos I Wish I Hadn’t Missed.
I can add to that list the seven elk strolling through a neighborhood recently. Man, those things are big! What a photo, elk in the foreground and in the near background a house with deck complete with barbeque grill. No camera. Darn!
On an early potty-run with Reggie I see an owl sitting on the branch of a log that is partially submerged in the river. The owl is perfectly still as it catches the first rays of sunrise. Mist rises from the river in the background. Biggest owl I’ve ever seen! No camera. Oh well . . .
This little creature did not get away!
Okay, so it’s not a mama grizzly and two cubs . . . .
You can try to identify this chipmunk at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website. He/she seems to be missing a stripe or two!
NOTE: A reader researched chipmunks and squirrels for us and made a surprising discovery. That’s not a chipmunk in the photo! It’s a Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel, “the most distinctively marked ground squirrel in Oregon.” — ODFW. (Click the link above and scroll down to read more.) Thanks to all who corrected my error!
After walking quite a distance into the forest, we come to a clearing made by people chopping and collecting wood.
“It’s level here with plenty of sun. We could camp here. Ya’ know? I don’t think we’re going to find anything else on this road.”
When the panting starts, it’s time to return to the PTV!
We turn back, stopping a few times to rest on the way.
I see the PTV up the road (tiny white speck in photo below).
“We’re almost there, sweetie.”
After a drink of water, Bridget and Reggie take their positions in the PTV.
We leave the forest and head to Wal-Mart in Bend. Maybe they have soft harnesses.
I maneuver the shopping cart to the pet department. Let’s see. . . cats . . . birds . . . okay, dogs . . . Yes! They have soft harnesses!
I paw through the harnesses and find one in Reggie’s size.
Ha! A camo harness! . . . This suits the little guy.
I also pick up a denim-with-red-kerchief number for a spare. The harnesses aren’t the quality of the Puppia brand Bridget wears, but whaddya’ expect for $9.97?
I see a cheap dog bed, a small one, perfect for Reggie. Gee, only $5.97. This will keep him out of Bridget’s bed.
In the cart it goes.
Well, lookie here. This little, blue, stuffed monkey toy is only $2.97. What the heck. . . . A new toy to go with the new bed.
Next I shoot over to women’s clothing and toss a pair of Lee jeans in my cart ($19.97). Oh, capri jeans! It’d be handy to have another pair of those! ($16.97).
I’m on a roll!
In pharmacy I buy a big bottle of saline solution to have handy for eye wash ($2.88) should Bridget or Reggie need it, as the vet recommended. And 400 Q-tips for $2.97.
Um . . . Time out. You realize you’re reading about me shopping at Wal-Mart. Of all the things you could be doing? Okay, whatever . . . .
Hang on to the cart! We’re not done! Over to the deli we go!
One fat rotisserie chicken for $4.98 and it’s check-out time!
rvsue
Canine Corner: “Being Special” by Bridget and Reggie
“You really like your new camo shirt, don’t you, Reggie. You’re full of energy this morning.”
“I sure do, Miss Bridget. It’s COOL!”
“Yes, it’s very nice. Uh, I hope you don’t mind me asking . . . . Why are you jumping off logs and attacking things?”
(panting) “I’m special ops, Miss B! That’s what special ops do!”
“Oh. I wouldn’t know.” (rolls eyes)
“Me and the guys? We used to play special ops all the time at the foster home.”
“Do you miss them, Reggie?”
“No, ma’am. I like it here better. We’re gonna’ go boondockin’! RVSue said so!”
“Well, you’re certainly well prepared with your nifty camo shirt and all. If you’ll excuse me . . . I think I’ll go inside for a nap, special ops boy.”
“HEEEE- YAAAHHH!”
~ ~ ~
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
Special Operations Agent Reggie Man
Yeah, we like to be number 1…or 2. Or at least in the top 10…
Today’s your day! Congratulations, Kevin and Ruth!
Gosh, I rarely get here this soon! I don’t know why that’s fun, but it is.
Hee-hee. You almost made it!
What a fun day at Walmart! But……what did Bridgeee babee get?
Canine corner was adorable!
Bridgee Babee got plenty of rotisserie chicken and lots of hugs!
She’s happy to have her bed back. As for toys, she couldn’t care less.
That Camo harness is perfect and has he ever got the ‘tude to match the outfit…Love that last picture with that serious stare!
I like that one, too, Tara. He doesn’t look like a nine-pounder!
Well, looks like we made the top ten. Now to read the story.
That’s a good girl! 🙂
I enjoyed shopping at Walmart with you. I can identify with each step. It was fun. I like the idea of boondocking on that forest road too. Looks wonderful.
Hi, Jean,
It’s kind of funny telling everybody about shopping Wal-Mart. Glad to have you along!
Reggie’s eye looks better.
You think so? Sometimes it looks better to me and other times it doesn’t. I’m being a fussy momma, I guess.
He is still Squinting a little aint he? Love the new harness!
Yes, he is.
You’re a good mama.
I was sitting here taking a break and ding! There you are!
Hope you have a wonderful day…I need to go to Walmart now that you mention it… And that chicken sounds good..hmm….getting hungry….ok off to find something for a very late breakfast….see what you started?
Love the visit with the two side kicks!
Hi, Lee J.,
Thanks for hoping we have a wonderful day. It has been! I was setting up our new camp and said out loud, “This is so much FUN!” I get a kick out of a pretty new campsite. . . .
Sue you make me smile, today I need that…. Thank you, Bill
You’re welcome, Bill. I smile seeing you here again. 🙂
Well now, you are just 200 miles away from us. The thing I like about the Bend WalMart is that there is a Skippers restaurant right behind it. I don’t know why, but I love Skippers. Never eat that kind of food usually but will stop if one comes along.
Love, love, love the photos. You are now in the beauty of the PNW.
Hi, Kathy,
Hmm . . . Skippers. Never tried one. If I had known you like them, I would have!
Yes, this is pretty country here in central Oregon.
Good Morning Sue, I love this post so much I had to go back and read it again! I especially love the canine corner, and Reggie looks especially handsome in his camo vest….He looks 10 times bigger…ha!
What are the rules of boondocking in Washington, and where do you look it up? That road looks like a wonderful place to boondock! No much difference than the campsite you are in, except for table and fire ring I guess, and it would be free…We like it when you stay for free.
Thank you for the post! It truly makes my day.
Hi, Shirlene and good afternoon!
The crew and I moved camp today. As soon as I finished putting up this post, I got busy breaking camp; thus being late in replying.
What are the rules of boondocking in Washington and where do you look it up?
Go to the source… USDA Forest Service and you will find a page of links for all the national forests, sorted by state. Scroll down to Washington and click on the link of the forest you are interested in. Then find on that page the MVUM… Motor Vehicle Use Map. These maps show the forest roads and trails, where you can camp and where you can’t, also additional info regarding regulations for that particular forest. You can also read alerts and recent news about the forest.
Of course, when you are in Washington, visiting a ranger office will result in lots of good info.
I’m happy you enjoyed this post . . . twice!
Nice! Today is one of those days I wish I were in your shoes!! Sigh. Keep enjoying!
Thanks, Jill!
Nice to have you back. I had to go in search of two weeks worth of posts and they were in my spam folder! You’re not too far from the Applegate Valley now. What a lovely new spot for you Sue, dig in!
Hi, Julie,
Thanks for the welcome back. I really didn’t leave — I watch over this blog pretty closely! All the recent computer junk kept me busy.
I’ll have to look at my Benchmark to see where Applegate is. Such a pleasant name!
For some reason seeing Reggie wearing camo reminds me of Rusty-camo man with a camo truck and all,I can hardly wait to hear his reaction to this post 🙂 Could your crew possibly be any cuter?!!! Woodsy air and moss,the fun of getting things to enhance your family life-I’d say you haven’t missed a one of life’s best moments,camera in hand or not.Thoroughly delightful post,Sue,such a happy read!
P.S.Thanks for another wildlife link-I love when you provide those!Your photo(so artful,great shot!) looks closest to a white tailed antelope squirrel ,their picture of one is so funny-the dancing with leaf one I mentioned recently had that erect stance,what amazing creatures they are…
after searching scads of photos now it seems likelier that you captured a golden mantled ground squirrel above ground-cute whatever it is!
Thank you so much, weather! Especially for figuring out that what I thought was a chipmunk is actually a squirrel. 🙂
I added a note in the body of the post to make a correction. Funny thing — Shortly after I read your comment and added the note, I looked up from the laptop, out the window — There’s a Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel sitting on a rock! It’s fun knowing the little guy’s identity.
I can see what you mean about this being a happy post. It was a treat to go shopping again after a long time not doing so, and, of course, I enjoyed walking in the forest with Bridget and Reggie. I wrote this post in the middle of the night, something I never do. I had to take the photos of Reggie in his camo shirt this morning to put it all together.
Then we broke camp! Thanks again for helping me with my blog. I want the information to be correct and complete to help folks (and me) learn!
Neat timing for him to stop by as you thought about him…,Connections like that are funny things,between all living beings,with me since my infancy they never lose the wonder they hold.A while ago as I sat in the wind my pups faced the 45mph gusts out of loyalty to sit with me (they enjoy wind in their faces far less than I do). I thought of a herd of deer that came to me in a field when I was a child.Odd,then I felt I had to trust them-they seemed so big,now I deliberately get them to trust me first,actually have done that with all my human friends,too.
Middle of the night or waiting for sunrise at times can allow our best thoughts and make an earlier tucking in attractive,you must be tired and here I am rambling on!Rest well when you do,n’nite
No, I’m not tired and you’re not rambling. 🙂 You rest well, too… n’nite.
🙂
Well, that is a new creature to me too…sure looked like a chipmunk…though a big one. But we once had a gerbil that was at least 3 times the size of all the other gerbils…so I guess I would just have thought the chipmunk was somehow an extra big one too!! HA!
Gerbils?!How cute,Elizabeth,did you enjoy having them?
Hi Weather!! YES…have often thought of getting some more…very fun little creatures. They are not so apt to stay up all night making noise as say other such rodents…plus are VERY curious…so if they escape, they are very easy to catch again cause if they hear you about, they come to see what is going on!! Never got bit by any of them either. We had them for awhile…great way to teach some genetics science to the kids…we had a lot of fun with that. They say they mate for life, but it is not true…you just have to carefully introduce them…we figured out a way to do that…and then all is well. They take very good care of their babies too.
Gee,Elizabeth,for something so wee to be a good parent and warm our homes and hearts with their funny cute ways,isn’t it wonderful that such companions were given to us-what Love went into creation!I know your hands are full when you help your daughter in Washington and that ,for now,a dog or two is out of the question-but tiny gerbils,little home for them tucked in a corner of your apartment might bring a smile of happiness into days when you could use one…TeeHee ,I don’t want to instigate an idea that makes another mess for you to clean up 🙂 !I just like the picture of glad,hugs,dear
Hugs back at ya, Weather…it is an interesting idea…heh, but no doubt our lovely landlord would say that violated the no pet agreement…we stay so busy sometimes it seems we are just there to sleep…oh well, maybe later on…tis a nice wish and thank you too dear!
Missed pictures, growl, I hated that when it happened. It’s the biggest thing I love about my IPhone, aka smart phone, you can take pics with them, and it’s always in my pocket lol.
Love Reggies new outfit, it does so suit him.
Hi, Vicki,
I’m such a non-phone person that most of the time I forget to take my phone with me. I’m going to change my ways now that I have a smartphone that can help me in many ways.
Yeah, Reggie looks good in camo. 🙂
Did I assume a new identity and not know it. LOL
OOps! My apologies to you, Velda, and to Vicki…. (I corrected the salutation.)
Canine Corner is back! Yay!
Love Reggie’s camo harness. Diego has what looks like an Army Air Corps jacket and he gets all military when he wears it! LOL!
Those forest hikes are the best! I’m chomping at the bit waiting for the Sierras to warm up. Hoping for middle of next week to get out there.
Have fun!
Chris B
Me too Chris….going last week in May to Big Pine Creek…
Shirlene – Don’t you just love it up there? I know that we have camped at Glacier Lodge Campground several times but I don’t recall camping at Big Pine Creek. I also like the hikes that start at Rock Creek Lake. There’s nothing like the Sierras!
We actually stay at Upper Sage Campground, I prefer it to the others up there…I sure hope it warms up!
Oops! I can’t believe I typed this wrong. Should be “Army Air Corps.” My dad was in the Army Air Corps during WWII. How could I do this? I’m so embarrassed!
That’s ok Obama once pronounced Marine Corps as Marine Corpse as in dead body.
Thanks, Alan! I was obviously typing phonetically. I saw the mistake as I clicked…… I hate doing that!
I fixed it for you, Chris. Your walk of shame is over! Haha!
Thank you. There are two more typos in that post. I must have been sleeping!
Got ’em!
So darn cute! I was wondering when you were getting him one of those!
Thanks, Cindy. Talk about cute… Reggie fell asleep in his new bed in his camo harness. His bed is right beside me on my bed and his little pink tongue is sticking out. Wouldn’t you know? The camera is in the PTV! Darn! Another missed photo!
Ahhh, but where’s your phone?
In my purse . . . in the PTV.
lol
Sue & Crew,
We ( Tula & I ) enjoyed your post today, your travels take you to so many beautiful parts of the West. Thanks for taking us along, I especially loved taking the pine tree trail walk with you, I bet it smelled piney and earthy hummmm I could almost smell it. I’m heading to Sedona for a few days I always enjoy the beauty there. Reggie looks rugged I. His new camo collar I can tell he so enjoys his life with you and Briget.
Hi, Willow,
Enjoy your days in Sedona. Such a pretty area and I hear AZ weather is warming up after a cold snap.
Thanks for letting me know you and Tula enjoyed today’s post. It was a pleasure to share our forest walk . . ..
Camo – perfect for Reggie! I can just picture Bridget rolling her eyes. ha! And when Reggie was jumping off the log the picture shows his tail straight! These pictures do tell their story.
Part of the fun of writing a blog like mine, one that is in story form, I mean, is matching the photos with text. Sometimes the match is perfect! And sometimes I change the text to fit the photo. There’s a lot of work to blogging, but that part I really do enjoy.
I also enjoy hearing from readers. Thanks, Susan, for writing.
Sooo funny, Reggie the Special Ops Dude! He looks so competently tough! Thanks for the adventures,Sue, and an early hat tip to all the Veterans we remember this Memorial Day week. Our little town is gifted each year with a noble memorial service at the cemetery for our remembered vets.
Hi, Diann,
You’re welcome and thanks for reminding us that Memorial Day is more than barbeques and the beginning of summer fun.
The Special Ops Dude is sleeping with his toy monkey right now. Awww…
Dear RV Sue and Crew,
I sincerely apologize for the damp and cold weather you’re enduring here on the high desert. It is most unwelcoming and most unusual.
I think you are camped near where I work: Lava Lands Visitor Center, the HQ of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. You might enjoy a visit, and leashed doggies are welcome on all of the trails on the Monument. They can’t come in to our small visitor center but you can leave them worry-free in the PTV and/or BLT parked in the ponderosa-shaded parking lot. Entry is free with your Senior Pass!
Wishing you safe and happy travels in the PNW!
Karin,
A longtime lurker and lover of your blog
Hi, Karin,
Yes, I’ve seen the sign for Lava Lands off of Route 97. Thank you for the friendly welcome to the Center and for information about dogs on trails. We aren’t as close to it as we were…. I would like to visit it and also the High Desert Museum nearby.
Thanks for reading my blog for a long time and for letting me know you love it!
So cute!!!
Love your pics & stories!!!
Thanks, Lynn! Love your comments!
I’ve missed more than my fair share of pictures. Now I (almost always) carry my camera and an extra battery everywhere I go. And the “chipmonk” is a ground squirrel. Chipmunks ALWAYS have stripes on their faces. Check out this site for more info:
http://www.volcanolands.com/how-to-tell-the-difference-between-a-chipmunk-and-a-ground-squirrel/
Learn something everyday here!
Ummm…I guess we have ground squirrels instead of chipmunks! All these years I thought they were chippers!
Thank you, Marilyn! I appreciate the identification and the link. You taught me something!
I added a note to the post to correct my assumption that it’s a chipmunk.
That’s neat that Reggie the Special Op’s Rocket Man has a camo shirt. He looks good in it, Sue. Nice future camp spot and ,,, Well,,,, Walmart,,, It’s our favorite Store too, well, dads favorite store. Thanks for Canine Corner, it’s great. ,,,,,,,,,,,,, Timber
You’re welcome, Timber. Maybe someday you and Reggie can play special ops together!
YAAA HOOO, Special Ops with Reggie YAyyyyyyyyyyy, sorry, I get so excited, Timber
I’m snickering at the photos of “Special Ops Reggie” in that cute little harness. He is such a sweet boy!! And if Miss Bridget would have it, I’d snuggle her up in a minute. I love the expressions she wears…so sage and “I-am-not-to-be-messed-with”. They’re both just precious and I’m sure they absolutely make life on the road sweet for you. If I were full-timing, just like you, I could not be without animal family.
I was having a little trip down memory lane the other day, going through journals, photos, and other paperwork, and reminiscing about my former pets and animal rescues. I “rescued” (with my mother’s help) my first dog when I was in the first grade. In my 60 years on this earth I figured out that I’d rescued 133 animals in various capacities. Sometimes it was just to pick up a wandering senior dog on a 100-degree day and nurse him for awhile at my home until I could take him to a shelter. Other times it turned into a full-fledged adoption. I’ve hidden adopted pets from landlords and smuggled them into places where they were not allowed in dire circumstances. I loved every one of them and I cried when it was just impossible to keep any one of them due to various circumstances.
My current “children” are two male cats, a tuxedo and a solid white, both domestic short hairs, and a female dog. My dog is a very senior chow/Beagle mix and just the sweetest girl ever. We live in a sticks’n’bricks but I take a couple of annual big R-Vacays a year and take the dog with me. The cats are limited to exploring the RV parked in the drive and have never traveled with us yet.
The tuxedo cat I found when I was out walking the dog one day. We took a shortcut behind the nearest movie theatre and there were about a dozen ferals clustered by the dumpster. When they saw us they all ran, except for this one very emaciated little tuxedo male. He actually came toward us, with no fear of the dog, begging me for help. I thought back, on seeing him, to a year earlier when I helped an elderly neighbor across the street to free a kitten from her car engine. It was a little tuxedo, about eight weeks old, and she took it inside with her when I got it free. She moved a few months later and I’ll bet her daughter made her abandon that kitten and it ended up at the dumpster two blocks from our condo community and had been living there ever since. That would explain why the kitten wasn’t entirely feral and seemed to “know” me. Anyway I scooped up tuxedo and took him home for a good bath, to the vet the next day, and that’s how I got tuxedo kitty. I no more needed another cat than a hole in the head, but I could not resist that plaintive cry. He was pitiful. Now he’s spoiled rotten 9 years later.
The pure white kitten was abandoned 3 years ago near my mother’s house and came to her for help. She’s not the animal lover I am but doesn’t want to see one abandoned and suffering, so she called me. You know, good ole’ Crazy Cat Daughter. She has been on me for years to give up rescuing but it finally came in handy for her! So I ran over there and got him, skinny but very clingy and sweet, and same thing, bath followed by vet checkup, and he fit right in with the rest of the crew.
The dog I’ve had for 10 years now, another pet rescue. She was picked up by a high kill shelter, found running down I-95 with another dog, and subsequently kept as a mascot at a high end doggie grooming center/daycare for about six months as an incentive for her adoption. I got her the very same day they were going to send her back to the shelter to be euthanized. She is my snuggle buddy and protector against things that go “bump” in the night.
Love them all. Wish I could save them all, and I love it that you adopted Reggie. Those are some very lucky pups, and they know it and love their mom deeply, but if you’re like me, you feel like you’re the lucky one.
Hi, Nancy,
I enjoyed reading your comment. You’ve devoted your life to the welfare of animals and I applaud you for that. Rescue work isn’t always convenient or easy. Thank heaven there are people willing to shelter animals who are homeless, aged, blind, deaf, dirty, sick . . . . less than “perfect.” We know every one is perfect and deserves to be warm, safe, well-fed, healthy, and loved.
Yeah, you’re right… I’m the lucky one. Thanks for writing, Nancy.
Nancy, Bless you. Your benevolence to the animals will be rewarded. Here in this life you will always have the comforting feeling that you saved precious little lives that surely would have perished had you not intervened. It’s wonderful humans such as you that make this old man believe mankind just might have a chance after all. Next time I despair, I’ll think about you, and others like you who are the animal angels of this wicked old world.
Boy can I identify with the missed opportunity for a photo. Either I didn’t have my camera with me or I did get a photo only to find afterwards that it’s a blur. I think we all have days like that.
Hi, Gayle,
It’s frustrating… Missed photos remind us that special moments are fleeting . . . Nice seeing you here!
It is normal and natural to check then double check to see if they really did see what they thought you did. They are not trying to be rude, they are simply being humans who are out on a road trip. They are not reacting to you any differently than they react to an antelope by the roadside except that they are not so rude as to actually stop the car and take photos of you and then post them online 😉
Hi, KB,
I’m not sure I understand your comment. Sorry.
Only you could make a report on a trip to Wal-Mart interesting!!! 🙂 So glad Reggie is okay and enjoying his camo gear. Looks like another great camp site.
Love you !!
Sending Big Hugs to you and the crew
Hi, Pauline,
Seeing you here means you returned safely from your trip with Elly to Arkansas! Love you, too!
Reggie sure is handsome in his new camo suit! Perfect choice ! This was a fun post and I loved the canine corner! Brought grins !!! I, too, have too many memories of “missed shots”, life happens. But there is always another photo around the bend in the road, click it! Thanks for the fun post Sue! Hugs to the fur babies from our guys!
Love where you are, I can smell the trees and feel the crunch of pine needles under my feet! Love it!
Hi, Geri,
It’s so pretty around here. The trees are magnificent! Thanks for loving this post. Say hi to Chuck for me, hugs to you both and to Radar and Doogie. Have a great Memorial Day weekend . . .
Well after delivering the mail to the animal shelter, a visit with my Mom, and a trip to Walmart, I was pleasantly surprised to sit down with my coffee & Ipad and find a new post. I sure couldn’t get a chicken for that price at a Walmart in Canada.
Beautiful pics, I feel like I could walk down that lovely trail. That is my kind of camping area. We just had our holiday weekend here. super hot & humid, everyone lighting fireworks, terrifying our dog. Glad it is over, quiet once more & much cooler today.
Reggie looks adorable in his camo harness. He is just so cute. I would love to give him a kiss. We had a deaf dog get adopted last week. Everyone one was so happy for him. We only have 8 dog kennels so never have too many dogs there at once.
Hi, Val R.,
That must have been a happy time all around when the deaf dog gained a home. God bless the people who took him in.
Yeah, holiday celebrations with weekend get-togethers are great. It’s great when it’s over, too!
What a cute story today! I bought one of the soft harnesses for my Lucy dog after seeing Bridget’s and she really seems to like it! She would try to chew other harnesses and collars, but doesn’t seem to mind the soft one! I got her a pink one since she is our little girl, but the camo one is so cute on Reggie!
Hi, Laurie,
A regular, plain ol’ collar around the neck presses against the windpipe. That can’t be a good thing. I’m glad Lucy likes the soft harness… and pink, of course!
I love the walk in the woods! I can smell the pine and hear the birds sing…or is that a squawk…either way-it sure is pretty. Enjoy!
Hi, Monica,
Our new camp is in woods and with a bonus…. a river runs next to it!
Whaaaaa Hooooooo! Water !!!!!
Streams, rivers, or lakes are always a huge plus!:-)
Special Ops Agent-Reggie Man, just too cute for words. Bridget’s “don’t tread on me or my family” look is precious.
I know you are in Oregon, but I can still smell the Georgia Pine and the North Georgia Mountains. We lived in Atlanta for 13 years and rode our Honda Gold Wing all through North Georgia, to Young Harris, Helen, Brasstown Bald areas. The Tennessee hills and Smokey mountains are great too, but not as much Pine. Since my DH’s strokes a few years back, we had to get rid of the motorcycle and one of our cars. Oh well, reminiscing is great.
Thanks for the great photos and the Canine Corner.
You’re welcome, Barbara,
I imagine you have some glorious memories of cruising through the mountains on your bikes. Those are pretty areas, especially in the spring when the rhododendrons bloom and in the fall at peak color. I’m sorry you had to give that up.
Teeeeee HEEEEE!
Timber Tiger!!!!! (or known by humans that know stuff… Chipmunk)
That Reggie is a pistol! MY Gosh how are you keeping up!? LOL So funny… Bridget is just so refined!
Well, off to return the final items of the walk last weekend. Stop watches and safety pins… 🙂 Then back to finish mowing that derned lawn! You got it made RV Sue! All the nature and none of the grass catchers to empty!
Hugs from Hoquiam,
Barb
You certainly do keep busy, Barb! I bet grass grows awfully fast in Hoquiam. Keep mowing and you will be rewarded when it’s done. You know how nice everything looks with a freshly cut lawn. 🙂
Hi Barb,
I live in Hoquiam WA, is that where you are? I saving up for a small RV and plan to full-time. Being not mechanically savvy I’m unsure about how to go about buying a used RV. Would you have any advice or suggestions for a go to mechanic to go with me when I begin looking for my motorhome? I plan to wait until summer’s over to buy, thinking the prices would be better.
Remember that comment I made the other day about Reggie giving you the ‘stink eye’? It reminded me of someone and I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. Looked at the last photo today and I got it: CLARK GABLE. Yes? (stop laughing, I can hear you from here!)
And just so you know, I’d much rather read about YOU shopping in Wal Mart than my having to shop there – which I do often (ugh/shopping).
hugs,
Lacy
Hi, Lacy,
Yes! Clark Gable!
“Frankly, my dear Bridget, I don’t give a damn.” Ooh, doesn’t sound like Reggie.
As for enjoying shopping, don’t have access to a good store for a while and then it’s more fun when you do!
Thanks for the nice compliments, Gina. I’m pleased to see you here again, loving this post!
Crickett’s a cute name… I can see it fitting a dog like Bridget.
Hi Crew, loved this post – best one ever! I love hearing about Reggie and Bridget’s expeditions. Both are adorable and they talk too – can’t get any better than that.
Hi, Marieta,
Yeah, they talk… silently! Ha! Thank you for the compliment on the post and for agreeing with me about the crew. I think they’re adorable, too!
Love the walk in the pines. Nice to see that moss, too. So different from your desert landscapes.
Glad Reggie’s eye was not a huge problem. It’s nice to have the vet put your mind at ease. He makes a great Special Ops dog. Maybe next you can buy him a little parachute!
We are having wonderful weather here in Upstate NY. I can’t remember when the lilacs lasted so long or were so fragrant. They must really love sunny warm weather. We do need some rain, though. I’ll be popping in a few tomato plants this week. Not doing a big garden this summer as we’re hoping to spend loads of time up at the lake.
I always find that gardening is so wonderful on a beautiful bright May morning, but when August comes, and I’d rather be doing something else, it loses some of it’s charm, of course, those yummy fresh tomatoes are worth the effort!
Hi, Applegirl,
Oooh, the lilacs. Must be divine . . .
You’re right about gardening. Always a lot of enthusiasm in spring, picking out transplants at the garden center, making the rows and raised beds, reading the seed packets. . . . *sigh*… Then by August it’s bugs and watering and, dang, that zucchini is as big as baseball bats!
I had zucchini for supper so I had to work that in….
Yeah, you have to plant ‘maters!
Wow! That harness looks a LOT like a Puppia! Not too shabby!
I didn’t think Puppia harnesses could be slipped, but they can. I had my beagle, Tilly tied up outside of my trailer one day when I was getting set up. Things were too quiet, so I turned around to see what she was doing, and she wasn’t there! Scared me to death! She’d run about 100 yards away and was investigating neighboring campsites. Fortunately she came when I called her — a highly unusual response for a beagle! Now she gets to enjoy being outside on her harness ONLY when I can be right with her. Otherwise, she’s got her kennel and can hang out in there while I set up.
Hi, Laura,
Time will tell if these harnesses have the quality of the Puppia brand. The Puppias I bought for Spike and Bridget over five years ago are in perfect condition. Well, except where Bridget chewed one of them….
Even if you make the soft harness snug, there’s always a chance the dog will back out of it. Good idea to keep an eye on your beagle. I’m doing the same with Reg.
Reggie you are so cool in your new harness…………..perhaps I should try that sort of harness for my Chanel (3 year old Lhasa Apso) who hates her present harness….in facts at times refuses to walk in it. Loved your description of shopping in Walmart Sue…….in the previous post. Not sure we have anything quite like it in Australia…….loving the woods and your photos.
Hi, Glenda,
I’m surprised Wal-Mart hasn’t gone global like McDonald’s. Wal-Mart stores are the sort of place that you can love and hate at the same time. In rural areas of the U.S. a Wal-Mart is a blessing — low prices, big inventory. Some of the people you see shopping though… oh my. . . .
Let Chanel try a soft harness. I agree with her. I hate the regular harnesses, too! They’re impossible to figure out in the middle of the night when someone needs an emergency potty run.
Hi Sue,
Great pictures today and I love Reggies new camo shirt. What a little doll he is. And only 9 lbs he’s a tiny boy compared to Miss Bridget.
Rosie is 14lbs and Lily is 5lbs… my sweet babies. Not sure what I’d do without them.
Bend Or is so beautiful so I know you will have a wonderful camp there.
Hi, Deb,
Thanks on the photos. Your crew’s weight combined is less than Bridget’s. What would we do without them? Life wouldn’t be as good. I know I wouldn’t enjoy a walk in the forest half as much!
Hey, we’re in the same neck of the woods, sortta. I’m in Redmond, just north of Bend, helping Lou remodel his trailer. You’re not stalking us, are you? ;^)
Redmond, you say? Hmm . . . . Maybe I’ll take a little drive . . . 😉
I take the warning . . . . 🙂
Hi Sue and crew. I have been so impressed by the beautiful pine forest pictures of the last few days that I have added two more stops to our fall trip, Collier S.P. and La Pine S.P..We were at La Pine about 20 years ago and took some fantastic bike trails thru a town called Sunriver. Your walk down the forest trail really activated my senses, I can smell the pines and hear the silence. Enjoy your slice of heaven on earth.
Hi, Debbie,
Both of those parks are lovely. I have heard that Collier can have a lot of mosquitoes during the summer. They’ll probably be gone by the time you arrive in the fall. You may not recognize the Sunriver area. We were here a few years ago and I was very surprised how different it is, especially around Sunriver. The old two-lane Route 97 is a four-lane separated highway from Bend to Sunriver.
Even so, I still think it’s a beautiful place to be.
One thing that doesn’t change is the beauty of the rivers and forests, left alone and waiting for you to enjoy the aroma and to “hear the silence.”
Reggie looks REALLY good in camo, should really add to his ‘tude!!!! Bridget looking great, give ’em both some chicken for us!
They got their chicken treat! 🙂
Hi Sue, great post as usual. Once again thanks for sharing your day with us. Looks like you have found another great place to stay. The photos I don’t get are the ones that haunt me the most. I don’t even want to think about the number I have missed in my years of trying to photograph birds.
Loved the canine corner today. Reggie looks good in camo (this from someone who wore it for 22 years). Bridget is a good big sister for the little fellow.
Thanks for the compliment on the post and canine corner, Lisa, and thank you for serving our nation for 22 years!
Aw, darling camo harness for Reggie…he does seem happy…notice the tight tail…almost in a curl…hehheee…our dogs sure carried their tails tightly when happy or intense about something!! Hope you find a nice spot to stay a bit, Sue.
Hi, Elizabeth,
That’s the first time I’ve noticed his tail curled tightly like that. I’ll watch to see when he does that again.
We have found that “nice spot” you hoped for us! 🙂
Hmm. Can smell the pine. What a lovely walk and shopping trip. Hate to shop myself. The chicken at local Walmart has price of $6-8 now. Miss the $5 ones
Hi, Joy,
I’ve noticed a fluctuation in the price as I’ve gone to different Wal-Marts, Safeways, etc. in different areas. I think the price goes up and down at some.
I hated to shop in malls. Haven’t been inside one in several years… and that’s a good thing! 🙂
Sue,
Special Agent Reggie is pure CUTENESS in his Camo!
Now he has all his bases covered…Forest Camo Vest and his own natural Desert Camo color of White and Tan. He is ready for anything now!
Shaking my head now, I just love him!
Bridget, “No, Reggie! You CANNOT have a Medal of Valor for your Camo Vest.
Not yet, anyway.”
🙂
Hi, Pamela,
Reggie has forest camo. I guess I’ll have to get him a desert camo vest for the winter months. 🙂
He is a lovable guy!
How do i unsubscribe?
In your email message notifying you of a new post,below the Comment heading,you should see Unsubscribe underlined.Click on that.I haven’t tried it but think that should work.
Thanks, weather. 🙂
I haven’t seen the notification email. The unsubscribe link may be way at the bottom. 🙂
Love the camo outfit. $4.95 for a cooked chicken?!!
Twice the price in Australia. And they ain’t fat either.
Hi, Heda,
You reminded me of a meal at a Greek restaurant several years ago. I ordered roast chicken. When the plate was set before me, I see half of a skinny chicken (one side — with wing and drumstick — stretched across the plate.) My dinner partner said it looked like a roadrunner!
Well, who wouldn’t want to keep walking down that road??? Beautiful! We have a couple of areas of planted pines on the farm. And we have mixed woods also. I love them both……but there is just something about the quiet of a pine woods. That, along with the dappled light and pine scent make me peaceful as soon as I walk in……..I wish the same for you and the crew. Have a lovely day. MB from VA
Thanks, MB. You have a lovely day, too.
Hi Sue, nice to catch up with you again. Your posts are great and I love the pictures you post on your walks. I’ll be fulltiming in my tiny camper in the fall. I haven’t found my PTV yet, let you know when I do.Your blog is really helpful for my planning. Got the plumbing and cooling, food for me and furry companions figured out. Next is solar and electric/propane. Thanks for sharing how it’s done.
You’re welcome, Lisa. Isn’t it exciting? Fixing your rig how you want it, finding that “perfect tow vehicle,” planning your first camps, dreaming of the future, the life you will fashion for yourself? Thanks for the compliment on my photos.
If I have my facts straight this morning you have a river nearby.I wonder if you can hear it.Good morning,Sue,I have the doors and windows closed against the chill that came with a cold front’s passing through.The quiet is letting the troupe finish a nap and so me a chance to visit here.Every branch and bramble,stem and stalk is in full leaf now.A wind becomes a thousand voices rustling overhead.The lake is roiled and rough,even water fowl can’t fish when it’s this turbulent,and folks with boats know better than to try.Deserted by all but fans of raw power in the air the area seems uninhabited,it’s just spectacular and I have it all to myself!I hope you have as much privacy at times around your home now,and as much to feel grateful for.Breathe taking gifts we live with,aren’t they?
It’s blustery over our way also! Woke up to 36 degrees..snow in Copenhagen and Old Forge!
Water level is really low…too low for boats….gonna be a quiet Memorial Day weekend! 🙂
Snow and it’s almost June,officially summer starts in a month!A quiet holiday week end is a nice trade off,I hope you do get it.The lake level here is high and so is enthusiasm for parties,landscape “improvements”,boating and fishing contests,barbecues,etc. that folks look forward to every year.I’m glad they feel enthusiasm and enjoy it all,their complaining about daily living in other seasons makes me sad for them,ya know?Even your ferals and my usually caged canary finches find reasons to frolic and sing more often than some people smile with real happiness.I love that you found something to be glad about in a 36 degree morning 🙂 ! You always make such lively comments,whether about Sue’s posts,a swipe “to keep a clean” place here when needed or whatever you show interest in,nice energy you bring us,thanks,Cinandjules.
What you say about Cinandjules — So true, weather, and well said!
Likewise……
Just a slice of the entire apple pie!
🙂
You Ladies are just Sweet!
Your words transport me to your window this morning, weather. 🙂
Yes, we’re by a river! It’s not quiet like the section of Big River flowing by our former camp. This river roars — I can hear it even with all the windows and the door closed. No wind here.
Stay cozy with your troupe as you watch nature’s show!
A roaring river-that transports me to your world…troupe’s up running the fence barking to “talk” to their pals ,has their own little society.Think I’ll wear something warm and share a sandwich with them out there today.Never could resist lunch in the woods
Good Morning
Special Ops man…..so dang adorable!! Love the forest pics…I too can smell the woodsy air….ahhhh
Have a super day.
Krystina
You, too, Krystina!
Gosh, you have me wishing my screen had a scratch-and-sniff feature! Those Central Oregon woods smell heavenly. Reg looks all manly in his harness and Bridget looks quite happy about taking a walk. You weave such wonderful word stories for us that missing a few photos is completely forgiven. Enjoy your day–ear skritches to the crew!
Ha, a scratch-and-sniff screen. 🙂 You have a great day, Dawn!
This was such a great post, Sue! Such a story! It was fun going to Walmart with you, and I didn’t even spend any money! 🙂 Bridget in that first pic is such a big sister, and loved the canine corner, too….Special Ops Reg in action….he cracked me up!
All the pics are great as usual….I love Oregon! 😉
Enjoy your new spot!
Thanks, Marlo.
Special Ops Agent Reggie is running around inside the BLT in his camo shirt, jumping on and off the bed, attacking my shirt, driving Bridget bonkers . . . I just wrestled with him for 20 minutes… Time for another walk!
Yep, you busted me. I was totally enthralled with your shopping……I guess as a fellow non-shopper I was curious what would keep you in the store so long :-)))))) I have a life, I swear!! Bridget makes a great “M” to Reggie’s James Bond…….who needs tv when you have those two to entertain and delight?
Hi, Jodee…
“to entertain and delight” …. See reply to previous comment! 🙂
🙂
Laughs for today, in Bend:
http://m.democratherald.com/news/state-and-regional/woman-uses-bridesmaid-dress-to-rescue-rockchuck/article_22dd439d-a9b2-545b-b20b-49ac50f63df1.html?mobile_touch=true
Funny woman! I wonder what the groom-to-be thinks of this!
Well Missy, whadja expect? You put a frisky little boy in a natural battle field site, dress him in camo and wham you have a canine Rambo. He looks very happy and adorable. Hope the eye is better. Have fun and adventure, I’ll enjoy right along with you guys. Hi Bridget!!!! *special Bridget hug*
Hi, Jim,
What is it about guys in camo? Reggie thinks he can take on the world! He jumped on Bridget this morning, before she was fully awake. Now what dog in his right mind would do a thing like that! He’s camo-crazed!
Yes, the “fun and adventure” continue . . . .
Casita question….ma’mm.
Have you noticed any wear and tear associated with living in your casita full time?
Well, there hasn’t been any major “wear and tear.” Two rivets have come out. One still needs to be replaced. A lower cabinet door came off one hinge. That was fixed. The thingy that holds the door open broke its spring. Screws need to be tightened periodically. It’s little stuff. Nothing stays new forever!
I think the biggest repair/replacement has been the replacement of the propane regulator which I had done when the refrigerator was checked/adjusted.
Oh, and I replaced the window blinds with curtains and rods.
Rivets that…………? And do you have to go back to the factory to get them replaced?
So basically the only “real” maintenance is the wheel bearings?
No, you don’t have to go back to the factory. Someone fixed one of them… Can’t remember how they did that. Can’t even remember who did me the favor! Gosh! I could look up how it’s done on the casita forum, but I have a post almost ready to publish… 🙂
Time for my update. Well, spent the night with my friends in Neosho, MO. They took me to dinner at a restaurant. Big mistake. Food was terrible. Really awful. And they were rude. Yuck. Then we went to Braums and had ice cream. Then home to watch the final of Dancing with the Stars. I was very happy that Rumer Willis won. She was the most talented dancer by far.
Today I have driven about 425 miles and I’m tired. Just getting ready to check into a motel as it is too cold to camp. Maybe tomorrow night. We are just outside Indianapolis. Two more days of driving. I’ll be glad when it’s over. It is more tiring than I expected. I hope I have more energy and am in better shape when it’s time to come back.
Thanks for the update, Ginger. Good of you to do so when you’re very tired. Sleep well. Cinandjules is right. The trip home will go easier.
Sounds like you’re really tired deGin……it always seems to take longer to get somewhere instead of when you’re headed home.
How is Chloe? Get some rest….tomorrow’s another day!
Missy, Quick tip. When you have screws/rivets that need tightening, remove them and apply glue to them then reinstall. If you ever need to remove them it can be done but vibration will not back them out otherwise. Any glue will do the trick!
Thanks, Jim. Good tip. I’ll do that! Recently a friend with a taller ladder than mine put Loctite on the screws in the solar panel tilt mechanism. I’ve been wanting that done for about two years!