Thursday, July 9 (continued)
Robinhood Creek at Sherwood Campground, Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon
In the previous episode of RVSue and her canine crew, Bridget, Reggie, and I found a pleasant, riverside camp at Sherwood Campground, perfect in every way except for one thing — no signal for internet.
I consult the Oregon Benchmark Atlas
We’re about ten to twelve miles from the Hood River Ranger District Office on Route 35 and also from the little town of Parkdale situated in Upper Hood River Valley. From the valley, Forest Road 2840 goes to Kinnickinnick Campground on Laurence Lake. Kinnickinnick is at a higher elevation . . . . Maybe a signal can be caught there?
“C’mon, poundcakes. Let’s investigate!”
First we stop at the ranger station.
I’m told that internet signal is “hit or miss,” and given directions to the lake, along with a map of Hood River County. From there we drive through Parkdale and continue to Kinnickinnick Campground.
A quick drive-through reveals it’s not a campground I want to stay in. The lake is pretty enough, lots of people boating and enjoying water activities.
Campsites are lined up along the rocky lanes to two boat ramps. Campsites are worn down to dirt from overuse with little or no separation between sites. Vehicles and children are all over.
I don’t bother to check for signal because we won’t camp here.
Okay. We’ll go back to Sherwood Forest. After a day or two there, we’ll move out of the area. The blog will have to wait . . . .
I pick an end site and pay $14 for two days.
I set up my lounger next to the river. The crew and I relax for the rest of the day. The campground is quiet and no one camps near us. A few overnight campers pull in right before dark as Bridget, Reggie, and I go inside for the night.
My Paperwhite provides its own illumination, so I don’t turn on any lights. That’s why I’m not aware there’s a problem until the next day.
Friday, July 10
Uh-oh . . . The refrigerator lights are off. I push a light switch. Hoo-boy, no lights. I turn the fan to “on.” Nothing. I check the two AGM batteries in the Perfect Tow Vehicle. They’re charged up nicely. Something must be wrong with the house battery . . . or worse.
It’s a devil of a job to check the house battery.
Once you remove the bracket holding it in place, the battery doesn’t come out easily because the tray was installed crooked, not lined up with the compartment’s door. For this reason and the fact that I’m eventually going to need assistance anyway, I don’t bother to find the voltmeter to check it.
My focus is on devising a plan.
Okay. We need to go somewhere for electric hook-ups.
“Goodbye, Sherwood Campground and Robinhood Creek!”
After the usual morning routine, I pack up the crew and we head north on Route 35. I don’t yet have a plan. I turn eastward on Interstate 84 which follows the Columbia River. We pass the exits for The Dalles. Too hectic. I’m not stopping . . .
I pull off at Deschutes River State Park.
Not surprisingly, all the sites with hook-ups have been reserved for the weekend. We continue eastward on Route 30 to Biggs Junction. Friday madness is in full swing.
I want to stop at the Pilot station for gas, but I’m stuck in the turn lane. Semi- trucks come and go, one right after another, RVs lumber in and out, jockeying for a turn at the pumps or a break to get out on the highway, various vehicles pull boats or are laden with kayaks and bicycles, people dart helter-skelter across the highway, motorcycles appear out of nowhere to zip and roar through the confusion, someone lays on their horn . . . An opening! The PTV squeezes next to a gas pump. Whew!
I hand my credit card to an attendant.
Do I turn north and take Route 97 into Washington? We’d have to cross the Yakima Indian Reservation . . . .
The picture of us pushing into Washington and across the state to the Olympic Peninsula — at one time very appealing — seems at this moment to be too much work. I’m done with popular places. I want calm! I want ordinary! I want away from people in a frenzy for fun! And I need a place with electric hook-up that isn’t filled up with reservations for the weekend. Someplace where we can enjoy a peaceful weekend while the house battery is charged up.
As the attendant hands back my credit card, I look across the intersection to where Route 97 climbs a hill and goes to . . . .
Grass Valley!
I buy a sandwich at Subway (my groceries are a loss) and, after a quick potty run for the crew, we head south. I recall the peacefulness of the drive from Columbia River Gorge to the town of Grass Valley from our trip to Oregon a few years ago.
The scent of grass and ripening grain wafts through the open windows of the PTV. Far to the horizon all around us are fields of yellow and gold, gentle folds of a plush cloak tossed across the land. My stress is winnowed like chaff from grain . . . . aahhhh. . . .
This will suit us perfectly!
Grass Valley RV Park is a small park consisting of a grassy lawn (what else!) and a showers-restroom-laundry building. The backyard view is a field of horses!
I happily find a spot next to unoccupied RVs, hook up to electric, and insert a check in the self-pay station ($25 a night).
I set out my camp chair on our lawn.
Reggie plays with his toys and Bridget snoozes on the soft grass. During the hottest part of the day we go inside and bask in the air conditioning. Although my inverter has died, I can turn on the laptop and jetpack because I gave them charge with the PTV during the drive to Grass Valley. I write a post for this blog.
When early evening coolness arrives, we walk around the town of Grass Valley.
Later the crew and I sit outside the Best Little Trailer. I watch the horses run and play, and I try to capture them with my camera. What fun!
Throughout my life I wanted to own horses.
It never came about. That doesn’t matter any more. I’ve learned to enjoy without owning. Now I have my horses. Aren’t they wonderful?
rvsue
NOTE: At this point in the saga (yes, it turns into a saga) of the BLT’s lack of electricity, I sense the problem encompasses more than the draining of the house battery. You’re welcome to speculate what went wrong. However, there’s no need to give me advice on what the problem might be, because, in real time, the problem has been diagnosed and the repair is almost complete. More about that in future posts as I get the blog caught up. (My online time is still limited until repairs are complete.)
Thanks again for your patience and loyalty to my blog. Your presence and lively comments are a source of encouragement for me!
AND, AS ALWAYS, THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
“Miss B? Do you think RVSue loves those horses more than she loves us?”
“Well, Reggie, I look at it this way. We’re the ones she gives chicken every day, lightly browned in olive oil, cut into bite-sized pieces, served on plates, and, oh yeah, at upwards to $3.99 a pound. If that isn’t love, what is?”
CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!
Hi Sue we are up visiting Kathy and Gil
So sorry to read about your electric problems. I can truly sympathies as I have been there and felt the momentary helplessness as I think “now what do I do”. I will wait to see how it comes out.
Kathy says I am number one.
Hi, lindale, and CONGRATULATIONS ON BEING NUMBER ONE!
Glad to see you here again!
Thanks, Judy. Nice of you to say so. I may not be able to reply to all the comments. I’ll see what I can do . . . .
Am I #1? And I even read the whole thing.
Hi, Evelyn…. You’re #1 every day, in some way…. 🙂
My speculation is Bridget and Reggie solved the electrical issue.
Hi, Marilyn,
Darn! I should’ve asked for the crew’s input! Woulda’ been a lot cheaper!
since you have obviously survived, i will say reading your post is fun…a cliff-hanger mystery, with cool horse pix thrown in. thank you!
You’re welcome, eliza…. I’m happy you see my blog as FUN! 🙂
Glad your rig is fixed!!!I have always loved horses too…they are sweet and wonderful!!!
Love the photo of the furbabies wondering if you love the horeses more
Enjoy!!!
You enjoy, too, Betty Shea! Always nice to hear from you…
Sue!!! You turned the wrong way!!! From Biggs Jct. north, 68 miles and you would arrive at the free full hook-UPS at the Garcias!!!. Gourmet food!!!. Gil to help you!!. Free Laundromat. Soft green grass with shade for the 4leggers. Fresh produce in the backyard. What are you thinking????!!!!.
Just kidding We know your mindset BUT you are welcome here!!!
Hi, Kathy and Dan,
I almost turned north…. Your invitation is very appealing! I know you would feed me and your home and yard would make a lovely camp…. not to mention the great company!
However, I’d be dragging my electrical problems along with me. Thank you… maybe another time?
Enjoy the company of lindale… 🙂
Good RV repair here in Yakima. Gil & Dale would love to help. Only thinking of you & we are at your service. If you have second thoughts we are here happy to help. Otherwise we understand.
Hi, Sue,
Glad you found a peaceful spot with full hookups so you all can stay comfortable. What a lovely hard with horses! Just think, if you did own horses, you would be tied down. As you roam, you can “have” and enjoy many different kinds of horse, both tame and wild! Bridget and Reggie….Sue may love horses, but she loves you both more!! No need to worry, little ones!
Enjoy the rest of the day! The Amazon Sale the other day was not that great….it depends what you are looking for. That being said, I will be shopping through your link this evening…with my Amazon gift cards I purchased at Kroger this morning to get double fuel points. A win-win all around! Sending you and your adorable Crew hugs from me and my adorable Gracie!! 🙂 🙂 🙂
Hope all the blogorinos are doing well! 🙂
…lovely yard….
Love the picture of the house with the hollyhocks in the foreground! 🙂
Me too!
There’s something about hollyhocks . . . . They remind us of times gone by, old homesteads, grandma tending her garden. . . .
Exactly! Both of my Grandmas had hollyhocks along the fence of their postage stamp sized, city backyard. 🙂
I remember the hollyhocks along side the road to your camp on the Virgin River!
Don’t you just hate it when stuff goes wrong! Glad you were able to get it fixed. You said your groceries were a loss; don’t you run the fridge on propane? Or is there something on the fridge that requires battery power? Maybe a fan. Mine doesn’t have a fan, just runs off the propane. How nice to have the horses to watch, though watching rivers run is also good. You always seem to find great campsites.
Janis,
On most propane refrigerators (at least modern types) the controller board requires DC power to operate, even when on propane. It’s not a lot of power, but it’s more than nothing.
PS: Just noticed your moniker of “not in Ecuador” – made me chuckle.
Hi there, Not-in-Ecuador Janis!
Sidewinder Pen is correct. Once the electric is gone, the fridge is down because it needs the electronic panel in order to operate. I was able to keep the eggs and a few other items for meals through the weekend. No store in Grass Valley from which to buy a cooler.
Fortunately I only lost one package of chicken…. probably altogether the loss in groceries was less then $30. It could’ve been a lot worse!
…squealing…baby horses!
There were three of them…. Little beauties.
Yes!-your horses are wonderful,the top one with the black mane is magnificent.Caring for horses you keep on your property involves much more work than the wonderful chicken breakfasts you make for your crew.You have selected the best of both worlds,dogs to love you through life and horses to readily admire.I am extremely pleased that the malfunctions in your life involve equipment and not your body.It’s great to hear from you,be blessed and be well,weather
Hi, weather,
I don’t doubt my dream of owning horses was not based in the realities of caring for them. What seems like a disappointment at the time, in hindsight is obviously a blessing!
Yes, dogs are easier. . . and cats . . . and birds. I hope your finches are doing well, living happily together.
Lovely horses!
Boy did I get it when you pointed away from the coast. I love coastal areas, but it sure can be a relief to get to what I call “secondary sites.” That is, places that are nice in their own way, but not so spectacular that everyone goes there. Ahhhhh.
It will be interesting to find out what your problem turned out to be and if I’m guessing right (in my own mind) or not.
Hi, Pen,
I like your term, “secondary sites.” I didn’t know how to explain my need to get away to something more ordinary (I think ordinary is special!), more normal… something that doesn’t draw crowds.
I had the same feeling after living several years in Clearwater, Florida, a popular destination for snowbirds. Living among tourists is similar to living in a house with rooms painted in garish colors. After a while, one has to get away!
I bet you’ve guessed correctly. Your knowledge of things mechanical and electrical amazes me.
Hi Missy.
This is not what you want to hear. When you are not here the blog is not the same for me.. I know it’s a chore. I know you can’t always get a signal, but the blog lacks YOU.
I probably am spoiled. I’ll even admit to that. I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news. I will say, THANK GOODNESS YOU ARE BACK!!!!!!
Hi, Jim,
Awww, Missy does want to hear that she’s missed. 🙂 The blog is only a chore when I have power problems, having to rely on the PTV to keep the technology going.
When I can blog at my table in the comfort of the BLT, without having to hurry before the charge runs down, then I’ll be able to fully enjoy writing, editing photos, and, most of all, talking with the blogorinos. Even though I’ve read every comment, I missed being a part of the action!
Hey, I like spoiling you, Jim. 🙂
Well I’m glad to hear you have it figured out and repairs almost done. No electric…eeek!
I’m working on my second shadow story, this one about Japan voting to allow participation in battles. Article 9 of their constitution species no army,no navy…no nothing. No wars. But they are finding ways around it. With US aid. I hope we don’t regret it.
Have people still looking at my house. My front picture window is foggy, which happens with dual pane windows. All the potential tenants want to have that fixed. Right. Replacing the picture window costs thousands. Not gonna happen anytime soon.
Upkeep on a house is so expensive. Wish I could sell it it it is still upside down. Oh well.
Beyond that, it is still cool here most days. A very cool summer. And I’m not in the Tucson heat!
Well, back to work on my project. Ta-ta!
Hi, Ginger,
Although I don’t fully understand what your classes are all about, I can see that they are interesting and challenging. Good for you! Never stop learning!
I had windows that were fogged like that, too, on my house in Georgia. Fortunately my buyer didn’t expect me to replace them. I wish the same kind of buyer for you. . . .
It’s good to feel the energy that radiates from your comment. You sound healthy and strong. Stay that way! 🙂
DeGin,
Sounds like the argon gas escaped from the window. That happened in our CA house and the window had a lifetime quarantine. Check with the manufacturer.
What must you have been thinking about when you typed this, “quaratine.” If the argon gas escapes you are stuck inside for a lifetime. Laughed outloud, I know exactly what you meant though, but it was funny.
Phyllis in Oklahoma
Oops….there goes my iPad …autocorrect is NOT your friend.
wow…you had my heart thumping reading about your trying
to get into a gas station to get gas…..that happened to me coming
home from Virginia several weeks ago and I wasnt even pulling
a camper….HA! so I can relate to your problem….
I hate crowds and I hate traffic……….
chuck
Hi, Chuck,
You know what I meant when I wrote that paragraph…. So many things going on at once, people driving crazy in order to get through the mess… whew! It made driving across the grasslands with hardly any traffic at all (everyone was going in the opposite direction!) especially sweet.
Yeah, it was like a traffic snarl back East….
Sorry for your power woes recently, Sue. You’ve had more than your share. I’m happy to hear that repairs are being done and hope it’s smooth sailing from here on.
Hi, Marcia,
Thanks for the kind words. We’re in a great camp while the work is being done. I’ve had a long stretch of living a charmed life with few repairs. We were due.
I am sorry about your problems. Hanging by my toenails waiting to find out what. I evidently am disallusioned to thinking my propane would keep without power?? Am planning on tucking in an extra battery somewhere to start the generator in case such happens to me. Not very mechanical I’m afraid. Fun reading but I’m sure not fun for you.
Hi, Joy,
An extra battery to start the generator? I’m mechanical in some areas, but not at all in automotive/electrical. I’m proof that you can live this vagabond life quite well while clueless. . . .
No, malfunctions and break-downs are not fun. But you know what? The fact that I can pay for repairs is such a comfort to me that I don’t mind the inconvenience very much. There was a time when a necessary repair would spell a major financial disaster. I am so very happy those days are behind me!
Most smaller generators simply start with a pull or two on the crank cord. I think some of the large ones might be more likely to electric start systems.
Jim! You aren’t suggesting I get a generator, are you? This is RVSue! Your Missy!
Generators are EVIL.
🙂
I’m glad to hear that in real time your problem has been found and is on the way to being fixed. I hope it doesn’t hurt the wallet to much. To bad it wasn’t found prior to the food in the fridge being spoiled. I absolutely hate crossing multiple lanes of traffic when there is a lot of it, makes my heart speed up.
Hi, Lisa W.,
Even if I’d been alert and noticed the problem before going to bed the night before, I couldn’t have done much to save the groceries, being in the woods, the only store being closed.
It wasn’t a big loss. It gave me an opportunity to give the fridge a good cleaning!
You’re a good problem solver Sue and I don’t worry about you at all I know you can handle it! Hope it was as painless as possible…I have been scoping out the Col Gorge for future plans, I really want to do a waterfall tour up there. HORSES oh gotta love them had a few in my lifetime and I hope I will have more not so much for riding these days…but for loving! I’ll be wondering what was up with the battery banks!
Hi, Sondra,
A waterfall tour would be wonderful! I’d like that, too. There are falls near Sherwood Campground, at the end of a 2-mile trail. I wanted to hike it. Even if we didn’t have to leave to deal with the electrical issue, a 4-mile round trip hike is too much for Bridget. I’d rather have her than a waterfall, right?
Columbia Gorge is a fascinating place… You need reservations in the summer though!
I appreciate the confidence you have in me . . . . 🙂
Electrical weirdness just drives me crazy. It’s so hard to diagnose on your own, and it’s almost always expensive. Glad you are in the process of getting it fixed.
Hi, Allison,
I agree about electrical issues. To tell the truth, not only do I know very little, I don’t want to know much about electricity. I’d rather someone else handle it!
The repairs are taking almost a week… a chain of problems. The end is near… I hope the appointment next Tuesday at the repair shop is the last one!
By now it should be all rainbows and fireflies for you! I know anything electrical runs into $$$$ real quick! Hope you still have your angel on your shoulder leading you to the right repair person! We have been under a heat alerts here for several days! Hot hot hot July! But its been hot everywhere this summer! At least we haven’t has tornados and super bad storms, so in that, we have been blessed! Gotta tell you, I love the back yard full of horses! But that photo of Bridget and Reggie is really special ! Love it! We love y’all, take care Miz Sue! No more problems this summer!
Hi, Geri,
Well, not “all rainbows and fireflies” yet. We’re getting there!
Yes, it has been a heckuva hot summer. I’m glad we (and you) haven’t encountered any wildfires. I noticed Grass Valley has a strong fire department with lots of equipment. I hate to think of fire racing across those fields of dry grass and grain.
I like the pic of Bridget and Reggie, too. So serious, but obviously they’re sharing a moment! Love you, too… Take care… NO more problems this summer for you either!
Hi Sue!
Did the repairs involve a bag of rice perchance? 🙂
Glad you have nice, comfortable place to re-group.
Horses??!! Bonus!
P.S……waiting for a berry pie update. Soon?
A gal in Maple Valley, WA
I just replied to your last message to me from last night on the previous post.
Scored an interesting and important *find*…
Pamela,
Read your note. Not really surprised. One of the sites I noted showed that enough people (seniors) wrote in that they delayed/postponed new or larger fees for some areas and put it under review. One of those legal acts states that private companies cannot collect fees that the Forest Service/ Nat. Parks do not. I want to say at least I tried. Squeek… Squeek…Squeek gets the oil. 😉
A gal in Maple Valley, WA…
Trying is a GOOD THING 🙂
With a hope and a prayer maybe those that have ears will listen 🙂
What’s a little trouble? Sure makes one appreciate when things go right, but sorry to hear of loss of food and inconvenience.
I received my Oregon Benchmark Atlas yesterday, and I am stalking– um, following –you on the map. And I am taking notes of where I want to go when The Chiweenie Brothers and I hit the road. Happy trails Sue; may the next thousand miles be carefree. Make that ten thousand miles!
Thanks, Shawna! I hope we (and you and the Chiweenies) are blessed with many more miles.
Enjoy your Benchmark! You’ll find that the more you study it and use it, the more valuable it becomes. 🙂
Yep that sounds like a saga! No advice e from me, just glad you found a good spot to be!!!!
I am home for a couple of days, then back to the Moose to finish my summer. I thought it would be cooler. WRONG. 93 High in Hoquiam.
Double UGH.
Hugs,
Barb
Hoquiam,WA 93F today, 7/18/2015? Untrue Barb. Today the temp was 73 here in Hoquiam and 83 in Seattle. I live here.
Facts check:
At 1:27 PM the high temp WAS 88*F. according to weather.org. Other stations may have, indeed, put the temp at 93*F. I can see that as happening. Certainly within the normal range of error. 🙂
So Chey, for the record, Barb was TRUTHFUL about what she was saying.
Barb, got your 6 🙂
Thanks Pamela!
Hey there Chey… me too 🙂
Car said outside temp was 93 at about noon… I was coming back to town and one of the signs said 91.
Hugs as always Sue!
My cheeks are hot and blushing, and it’s not menopause. Please accept my apology, Barb. Those bank signs in the sun are often inaccurate, though.
Hi, Barb. . . Whatever the temps, I appreciate the warm hugs. 🙂
Hmm…
My guess would be the main electric/fuse box had a loose wire/short…since that is the control center of the BLT. Glad it is all now behind you!
No worries Bridgee babee and Reg Man….
That horses’ tail is so cute!
Enjoy
Hi, Cinandjules,
Nope, not a loose wire, although your guess is “warm.” 🙂
A mouse chewed the wires….cuz HRH Bridgee babee says although I may be part rat terrier….I thought we were all coexisting.
Whatever it was….sometimes “stuff” happens…part of life…you’ll deal with it, when it “pops” up.
Well done finding a place in the meantime.
Sue – does it make any sense to take a rig in annually for a full check over? I am wondering about this for when we get our trailer and t.v. – I don’t really think I will ever fully grasp the electrical stuff, and was just curious about whether problems can be identified before things go wrong. I’m able to grasp plumbing and to deal with those problems, but was the electric I know I will never really get, and was hoping to do mostly solar like you are. So it got me thinking that maybe I could find someone really good with these things and just take my rig in once a year or so for a check up….like the dentist. I don’t see that happening usually on rv blogs and was wondering about it….
Hi, eliza,
As I’ve said before, I don’t know much about electrical stuff. Should you have a “full check over” of your solar set-up annually? Well, in my clueless opinion, I’d say no. When I write about the cause of my electrical problems, you will understand why I say a regular checkup of a solar system isn’t necessary.
The reason you don’t see rvers taking their rigs in for annual check-ups… and I’m thinking of the solar/electrical set-up… is because it would be like hiring someone to check if the stable door was closed for the night. The chance that you’d catch the stable door left open when visiting annually is close to nil. Weak analogy …. It’s all I can think of at the moment.
thanks – it makes sense. i was just hoping for disaster-avoidance…
Raining here in Prescott. Yes, rain!! Almost tripped over a big fat bull snake this morning. It snapped and hissed at Daisy Dog and missed.
YAY FOR RAIN! Tripping over a fat bull snake…. BOOOO!
Pictures of the horses are out standing. Everyone should own at least one horse in their life time. Every little girl wants one, so my daughter had hers and now her daughter wants one. We lucked out by our neighbors having six of them just over the back fence, and she gets to ride them. I love to spoil them with an apple once in a while, but don’t want to own another one. They are amazing animals. Oh a puppy update: I brought home my little 2 pound Bitchon baby girl named Bella last Wed. Hope she turns out to be as good a camping partner as my Annie was.
I am glad you got the electrical bugs fixed, although I know our 12v system pretty well, they can be very confusing to some folks. Enjoy our “Oregon heat wave”, it won’t last.
Hi, Ron,
Thanks for the compliment on the horse photos.
Best wishes to you and Bella the Bichon (hmmm… I caught the message in your spelling..)
I’m learning more about my 12v system. Nothing like an expensive repair to make one pay attention! 🙂
Sitting in your lounge chair on a lawn of green grass. Stepping inside to flick a switch for luxurious A/C from the ever faithful BLT, while looking out into your backyard of playful beautiful horses.
I can’t help but to compare that to my weekend. Where after mowing my lawn and setting adrift hordes of mosquitoes rising from the grass like fog coming off a lake. I finally gave up and went down to the basement to haul up my old window air conditioner which while cooling the air and dimming the lights had the added benefit of making enough racket to drown out my drunken neighbor who was across the street braying like a horses ass. Yea…………..I think I like your life better. 🙂
” You’re welcome to speculate what went wrong. However, there’s no need to give me advice on what the problem might be, because, in real time, the problem has been diagnosed and the repair is almost complete. ”
OK, here’s my guess. Your batteries grew lonely from your egregious lack of attention and went on strike. However all was saved after hooking up Reggie to a hamster wheel that shall fore ever more drive the electrical needs of the BLT with the power of the “Energizer Puppy”!!!
That or perhaps the thingamajig somehow came in contact with the whatchamacallit and caused the whatthehellisdisthing to short out. Could be either one.
BTW: Really like the photos of the horses. Perhaps it helps to truly love your subject. Which of course is reflected in your final shot as well.
Take care, while we all understand that you had “stuff” to deal with, I think I speak for everyone when I express how much we love having you back.
That was good!
Whatthehellisdisthing!
I told you Reggie and Bridget were the answer to the electrical issue but not just how they would be involved. Rick has the answer.
So glad your electric problems are fixed by now!!!
You were nearly in my neck of the woods! ~Waves~
I’ve been through Grass Valley, OR many times and I know where you were camped. A little farther along is a great almost-Ghost-town and the Oregon Trail crosses the highway along in there somewhere. North of you – and across the river into WA – there is a vast wilderness surrounding Mt. Adams and the other mountains in the Cascades. If you go much farther east you’ll be in desert with temps over 90F (but down to 60F at night). On the bright side, your solar panels will work great. 😛
But there is a lot of BLM and NFS land around where you are (and fewer campers); it’s just hot. It’s a summer and it’s a desert, after all.
Your plans to visit the Olympic Peninsula sound good to me. 😀
WDR
We’ve had horses. We had a farm and kids and so, we had horses. After the kids grew up we moved the horses along to new kids and we came into ownership of two burros: Sarah first and then, a year later, Clyde. And then ClaraBelle came into our lives (all ears and legs at first). They were wonderful.
When our horses got out of their pen they would run down the hill and across the road to the next farm where they had horses. But if the burros got out of their pen they would try to come into the house and watch TV with us. (Son: “Clyde’s out”. Me – watching TV: “How do you know… we can’t see his pen from here.” Son: “He’s on the porch trying to get into the house.”)
Clyde loved my wife and would follow her along as she tended her garden next to his pen; she would give him treats from time to time.
When we sold the farm and moved to town we donated the trio to a sheep farm that needed burros to protect the sheep from coyotes. The last I saw was three pairs of long ears all perked up and pointed in the direction of travel. I hope they enjoyed the sheep.
WDR
Sue,
WOW! I just don’t know what to say even! Like you, electronics are a complete mystery to me. And, like you, I don’t want to know anything more than I already do – which is zero. The whole subject of electronics makes me weak in my knees. Glad you have always had good people around you to help you out on the things you need help with. Here’s hoping you will have good people to fix these latest problems too. What do they say, on a wing and a prayer…? I would have either lost 10 lbs from worry or gained 20 lbs from comfort foods during it all! Sending hugs and hoping for better tomorrows 🙂
Hi Sue, hope by now your electric problems are all fixed! I so wanted a horse when I was young too. I told my mother I could keep it in the garage. So I never had one! I bet feeding Miss B and the Reggie man even chicken every day is cheaper than feeding a horse! Hope all is well now and you can return to your blog! Patti in Colorado
So smart to find a hookup for the weekend before trying to find a shop first thing. Also nice to have that time to devise a plan 🙂 And a shower house is a sweet bonus 🙂 Loved the water at the campground, nice to have that sound at night. I use my paperwhite to see to get in bed at night too :-))))) Hope the repairs didn’t kill the chicken budget!!
Aah jeeze RVSue what a mess huh? Love where you are and the horses are just beautiful. Yep, love the pic of the hollyhocks. I had a whole bunch of them at my house in VT…love them…I miss my gardens.
Well I am in a real pickle…I’ve got Shingles. I have slept for tree days so far. Horrible pain is everywhere, my joints are killing me…on and on. Finding a walk-in clinic that had a parking lot big enough for my RV was impossible. It was the 3rd place I called about that I could park….across the street so it wasn’t that far to walk. After the Dr. visit I had to get the prescriptions filled so I googled a Walmart near me. I found 3 and put the address in the GPS…address not found…all three times. I called each one and they said I had the address right. Meanwhile I am crying my eyeballs out and just want to sleep. Finally I found one in Auburn, WA. Of course I had to wait for 30 minutes crying all the while…I just couldn’t stop. Once I finally got out of there I just could not do another thing so I am still in Walmart parking lot. I feel a “bit” better today. I am almost out of my prescription pain pill (for my back) that I have taken for years. I asked the Dr. at the clinic if he could refill that script…of course not…what was I thinking?? He said I needed to go to a Primary Care Dr. which of course I don’t have. The primary care Dr. that was referred to me in Corvallis OR when I had the urine issue (by the way it is still the same because they couldn’t find anything wrong) would not continue to be my Primary Care Dr. once I left Corvallis. What do people do for meds, etc when they are on the road full time? I can tell you I have just about had it with all of this. I am not used to being sick because in the 68 years I have been alive I NEVER got sick. Bloggerinos do you have any ideas for me?
Oh dear,Krystina,I pray you feel a touch of peace,please do what calms you best.If locating a primary care physician or emergency room that can refill your back pain meds is the main concern,perhaps this will help.Auburn,WA has rail service(25 minute ride )to Seattle.The hospitals and places there accept medicare and medicaid.I googled to find this out,perhaps just knowing that’s available will give you a place to begin.I can make phone calls for more specifics if you’d like.
Good Morning Weather…thank you so much for all your information. It seems as though the shingles is doing something to my brain as well. I feel very disoriented which isn’t helping any. I did manage to get to a nice little campground VERY close to where I was…thank goodness. I called my primary care Dr. in VT and am waiting for her to call back. I also put in a few calls around here to see if I could get a primary care Dr. around here. Of course no one has called me back yet. Thank goodness I have been able to sleep. I slept for 12 hours last night even though I napped through out the day. Thank you again Weather for your suggestions and your concern.
Sleep is when we heal best,I’m glad you are able to!Again,I would honestly be happy to make calls for you if you and/or Barb have trouble getting what you need for appointments or info,please feel free to ask for anything specific you’d like me to try to arrange.Sorry I didn’t check this “back page” earlier and respond then.I’m still holding you in prayer and will continue to,so hoping your comfort increases soon in every way!Krystina,you are doing a great job with what you can for yourself,reaching for and accepting help,I’m proud of you and impressed that you type replies at all.I’ll drop a line to you on the “front” Grass Valley post to let you know this reply is here,hugs,weather
Hi, Krystina,
I apologize for not responding sooner. I just now saw your comment and I wrote a long reply which disappeared as I ran out of charge. I don’t have much to offer you anyway because I don’t know very much about medical/prescription issues. I think I’ve heard of full-time RVers making arrangements with the doctor who made the original prescription for a way to get refills while on the road.
BLOGORINOS… HELP PLEASE! Any help for Krystina?
I’m sorry you have another medical issue to deal with. As you probably know, shingles aren’t caused by stress but stress can make you susceptible. You’ve taken on a lot in the past year, faced a lot of challenges, and you’ve handled them well. Even so, stress is stress. Maybe once this primary care physician and prescription situation is resolved (and it will be!), you might find a pleasant RV park in which you can rest and relax for weeks or longer (pay by the month?), while you beat the shingles and restore your equilibrium. I wish I could be more helpful.
The one thing I can do is offer you this blog. Feel welcome to ask questions here, let off steam, seek comfort, whatever…. It’s tough to deal with problems and details when sick.
BLOGORINOS… PLEASE HELP KRYSTINA WORK HER WAY THROUGH THIS . . . ANY IDEAS? (without overwhelming her — keep it simple). . . Thank you!
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Hey Sue and of course Krystina,
I am headed back to Puyallup in the AM hours. If I can do anything, let me know! I will write/call you as well. You have my number sweetie so if you need to call me! I will have my car, so I can get you into the doc if needed without hauling the moho.
IF THIS WERE ME I would contact my doctor (original). I had to deal with this both when I was first dealing with my brain injury and also back when my father chose to toss all of his meds from the containers into a zip bag (to save space? OMG) what a mess. So, if it were me, I would call that original doctor. If you got your meds from Walmart or another US chain store, they can expedite your medication… Lots of people use the online services (cheaper) but you have to have an address.
Jimbo (the hubs) has had shingles, and he said it was the WORSE pain of all his transplant issues. I do not envy. Sending this now, and going to go give you a jingle.
From my rolling home to yours, FEEL BETTER!
Barb
Thank you RVSue…I did manage to find a nice campground but I can only stay for 5 days 🙁 When I went to the walk-in clinic and the Dr. said I had shingles I asked him what would trigger them….he answered stress! Hummmmmmm All I have done is sleep and thank God for that. There are no words to tell you how I appreciate you, your blog and your wonderful Bloggerinos!!!! xxoo
Good to know you are able to rest in a comfortable place, Krystina. These crises we have are like riding waves in high seas.. just when it feels like we’re gonna’ capsize, the wave passes . . .
Yes, I agree! The blogorinos are wonderful . . . You made a great friend when you met Barb!
BTW, Krystina…. Do not feel you have to reply or thank anyone who sends you a comment here. I’m sure everyone will understand that you are sick and need to conserve your energies.
Krystina,
When you lived in your house did you attend or affiliated with any church or religious denomination? I ask because I would find that same denomination and show up at their doors for help to find medical care or a place to stay sheltered until your acute pains are better. Let them know you have a history with their denomination and are *reaching out* to them within your faith guidelines. That may be of great help to you to do that. I sure would if it were me. If you don’t ask you can’t receive their help, what ever level that help may be. I am so sorry you are having these problems and these health issues! I will also try to think of something else that might be of help too so know that we all are trying to help in some way. Sending *sister hugs* your way.
That is a really really good thought!
Sad to say but I did not attend church back in Vermont. There was not an Episcopal church anywhere near me. I do not belong to Escapees…whaaaa. I appreciate your comment and your thoughtfulness.
Kristina, I had shingles 4 months ago. My case was very minor compared to the photos of the poor people I saw on the internet, but the pain was still horrible. I understand how difficult it is to imagine that the pain from shingles will eventually subside.
Have you tried calling the dr in Corvalis? Perhaps he could give a small prescription for your back one more time, enough to get you by until you are established with another pcp.
Shingles is frightening because of the pain. I was also alone when I had it, and embarrassed to tell anyone because so many people had urged me to get the shot.
I learned the hard way that once I developed a chronic disease (asthma) I needed a permanent and dependable pcp. I, too, was rarely ever sick until I turned 65.
Good Morning Wildflower…I too believe I do not have a bad case of them…thank goodness (could have fooled me LOL) I am now in a very nice little campground. I am getting LOTS of sleep and drinking a lot of water. Sorry to hear that you too had shingles. Were you in an RV too when you got them? Yep, my VT Dr told me I should have the shot but did I listen….nope. I am placing a wet wash cloth on the blisters. It is helping! Thank you Wildflower.
The only things that helped me with the pain of shingles was either gently placing wet wipe tissues over the blisters or calamine lotion – not at the same time! YMMV.
Krystina – I read on another blog that if you are a member of Escapees, they have a place in Livingston,Texas where they can provide temporary care (although they do charge). I think there are doctors also who treat patients there. You can stay in your own rig and they provide a lot of assistance. I don’t know if you belong to that group, and I guess if you did you already would know about it, but if it takes a long time for your health to stabilize, that is an idea.
With the shingles, calamine lotion, capsaicin cream, and eucalyptus all can help soothe the skin. It does take a few weeks for the pain to subside, but it should improve and once you get the anti-viral shot it should not worsen.
Keep us posted on what is happening….I can’t do anything to help, but I do care…
Good Morning Eliza Thank you for your words of advice. I do not belong to Escapees unfortunately. Two weeks for the pain to go away??? WOW Thank you for caring.
Krystina,
If you are still in Auburn, and still have internet access, here’s a few ideas.
Kanaskat-Palmer state campground is just off of Hwy 18 east of you. They have electric sites (19) @ $30. (+/-) and campers don’t require the Discover Pass. Rigs up to 50′. Their phone # 360-902-0148. May have to leave a message for the ranger.
Look on Craigslist under Housing then put in RV space. There are a lot of long term ones in the south part of the state; several near the ocean. Most under $400 p/mo.
Geri Moore-Hajek commented, a page or so back, her solution to comforting Shingles. Also, for your back pain, don’t know what non Rx you have tried but Valerian is available at most stores that have a good supplement section. Don’t know if your virus is on top of where the biggest pain is or else I’d recommend the stick-on pads (analgesic) SalonPas(?) or buy a TENS unit. (battery pack with stick on leads that zaps you to override nerve signals)
Sadly, because of misuse/abuse of pain meds, unless you have established a relationship with a doctor, you might find you’ll have to jump through a lot of hoops to get a new script. If you can obtain previous records and history and bring copies with you, you might expedite the process that way. Wallgreens is also open 24/7 and there are a lot of them everywhere. You could ask if you could stay in their parking lot to wait for the pharmacy.
In Kent (just north) there is a medical clinic/group that takes your insurance and not too busy. SeaMar. Older downtown area so there are parking lots of businesses and residential street parking. There are no doubt many other options for you, this is just one.
I hope your path will ease shortly.
Hey Gal, I am going to copy and paste this — I realized I don’t want to call Krystina in case she is resting… but I did send her a message on email.
You have given her some really great advice. I know Puyallup fairly well, but other spots not so much. I have only driven in Auburn twice… so thank you. i am hoping she calls me. I asked her to.
Barb, in a much cooler (thank goodness) Hoquiam!
Barb, Send some of that cooler this-a-way plezzz. I have 4 different thermojiggys and so I average them all. It blew past 100* here again and has ‘cooled’ down to 92*! % ) 😛
Will you be up in this area again soon? I’d really like to meet your Moose. (and you 🙂 )
Hey Gal!
LOL I am headed back tomorrow. The moose and I will remain in spot until July 31 (but I have to come home for the weekend, have an event to handle). I will be at Dash Point from Aug 9-11 though too! 🙂 Would LOVE to meet up and of course the Moosee Mobile loves company!
It is cloudy here, but friends in Olympia say it is over 100 too. I am not happy!
PS there is also a SeaMar in Puyallup. I go to their clinic here in the harbor, as all the doctors over here are notorious for having long wait times (other than my neuro who is marvy!)
I have spoken with Krystina and she was so thankful for the suggestions! I am going to meet up with her tomorrow and hope we can get her more comfortable. Wally living is great, but not in this heat!
Gal, I will have limited email but would love company! I try to check here but my email is barbmgeorge@gmail.com (I hope that is OK to share Sue).
Maybe if we all did the WAVE we could get this cooler weather over your way? LOL
Hugs from Hoquiam,
Barb
Barb,
Having email issues. Should be fixed Tue-Wed. I would meet you almost anytime, anyplace. You could leave a note here until I can contact you. I’d even take a shower for that! HA HA
(Camping World is easy/central)
I’m about 30 min or less to Fife.
Oh gosh I have no idea where camping world is! LOL I am near Spooner Farms on Orting Hwy. How far is that?
Right off I5 just west of the Tacoma dome. X hwy 99. On the map, just where I5 n+s curves e+w. 512 to 167 @ Fife.
NO WAY! I must have passed this a zillion times. Thanks!
Edit: east of T-dome
Thanks for checking on Krystina, Barb. 🙂
No problem. We are going to get together again… I just hope she can find a good space with some shade and real water/power. Options are few in the Tacoma area… I had a heck of a time finding a place, and it isn’t ideal… but it is handy. They have a waiting list. 🙁
You are an angel, Barb! I believe you and Krystina were brought together for a reason. I feel better for Krystina knowing you are available for her.
Hi Gal from Maple Valley…thank you sooooo much for looking up campgrounds for me. I am having a hard time keeping my brain together to do research. I did go on Craig’s List but didn’t seem to find anything that fit. I never even thought to look on Craig’s list. Barb from Hoquiam suggested Sea Mar as well. Thank goodness I found this little campground but I can only stay for 5 days. Thank you again.
When this was mentioned a few posts ago, I responded with how I treated my father when he had shingles. You will need à good heath food store where you can buy herb by the ounce. Since I don’t know how wide spread your shingles are, there is no way I can suggest a quantity to buy. I used equal parts of powdered or ground comfrey root with golden seal. Make a paste adding water. Smear on the shingles and cover with gauze bandage. It doesn’t cure it but it does provide relief! My dad said it was better than anything the doc prescribed! I hope it helps you now!
I should have suggested changing the poultice at least twice, every 6 hours, a day, as the shingles ge better evey 12 hours until gone! Do not stop taking your meds!!! This is just to make you physically more comfortable! Don’t know about your back ache. But drink lots of water to get through this and flush it out!
Geri I am going to note those items in my planner. If I ever get shingles (please no) and if maybe I can find the herbs I can take some to Krystina. Are they hard to find?
Barb: I don’t know how you feel about vaccinations, but the shingles vac is quick, cheap, easy, and painless. If you’re over 65 I think it might be free. I only had to see one person who had it and I decided to get the vaccination. You only have to do it once and you’re done for life.
Geri When you talked about your Grandfather and what he used when he had shingles I actually wrote it down in my notebook!! Of course, never thinking I would be needing it so soon 🙁 I appreciate your suggestion.
Krystina,
So sorry that you are having to deal with more health issues. Maybe your VT primary care doc could call in a Rx for your pain meds. Do you have copies of your primary care records? Sharing the history of your back condition/pain med history should make it easier for a new doc to give you an Rx. If you already have done this or know this, I apologize. I wish I was closer and familiar with the area so I could provide you some real help. So glad that a couple blogorinos nearby will be coming to your rescue soon. Hang in there…I know from experience that shingles and chronic back issues are terribly painful…. Sending you a hug and prayers for guidance to find the right doc to help you.
Good Morning Denise…Until you mentioned my medical records I forgot that I do have them with me. Thank you for reminding me and Thank you so much for the hugs and the prayers.
Kristina for me it is days end but I checked again to see how you are …..I hope the wonderful advice you have been given by these caring folks has been help that you can use .
Good Morning Denise…Until you mentioned my medical records I forgot that I do have them with me. Thank you for reminding me and Thank you so much for the hugs and the prayers.
Krystina:
Try http://www.zocdoc.com/primary-care-docs
It looks like you enter a zip code, type of insurance or self-pay, and if you have a gender preference (for the doctor, not you – lol). You can also list the reason you need to the the doc and “prescription refill” is one of the reasons. I haven’t tried it but it came up when I Googled “primary care doctors on the road.”
Good luck and God bless you
Good Morning Cynthia…Looks like a great website
!!! When I have more brain power I will go through it carefully. Thank you.
Oh my, you poor thing. I have had shingles for the past month, on the down side now, thank goodness.
I hope you are having a ‘light’ case. Did you have the shingle shot? I did, and got shingles anyway. I was told it was a light case. Good grief. It does indeed hurt.
This may be simplistic, but Tylenol actually helped as much as anything else I tried. And normally Tylenol doesn’t help my pain issues at all, old injury to my hip.
I tried most things suggested and nothing really helped…. I also used Caldesene powder on the spots that were being chafed.
It is hard to rest, I found that if I cushioned my parts with soft pillows I was able to get fairly comfortable. Mine effected my right thigh and lower belly so pretty much lay on my left side.
I am so very sorry you are dealing with this! Do you have a place where you can sit tight, not have to travel? I am also 68, do you suppose that is a factor? Kidding aside, take care of yourself, and rest as much as possible.
Unfortunately this disease tends to hang on. The body aches only lasted five days or so, but the pain tends to hang on….again, so sorry!
I am sorry to hear that you have had shingles for a month!! Everyone says it takes at least a month…ugh!! Oh yes…the body aches!!!!! Horrible! EVERY joint in my body aches like when you have a fever but I don’t have one. Thank the good Lord I am able to rest. I slept for 12 hrs last night and I have been able to take long naps during the day. Thank you Lee for all your suggestions.
Aaah I love Oregon but it is a crowded popular area same as Washington state. Lately, I’ve had my share of vehicle problems, first the fuel pump (replaced twice), clutch repair, and a week ago a radiator blew while I was running errands in over 100 degree temp miles from home. I thought it might be not enough water/anti-freeze in radiator (I always carry a gallon in summer) so I put that in but it still didn’t cool but discovered a fine mist escaping from a seam. Had to tow the 15 year old truck home. Lots of dollars spent but I don’t want car/truck payments on a newer vehicle. Truck seems to be doing fine now. I’ve had the same mechanic for years….he comes to my house to do repairs and knows all the repairs and upkeep he’s done and he usually gives the truck a once over checking belts, fluid levels, air pressures, wiring, etc while he’s here. A very nice mechanic. I’m glad you now have the means to do repairs without worries….at one point I too would have had a major upset….I’ve been stranded more than once in my life time. Happy trails to you and crew.
Your post is heartbreaking to me. You are clear across the country from home? Travelling alone? I’m 85 and always healthy too but knew I was getting old at the end of my 60s. My advice for what it is worth is to go to the emergency room of a nearby hospital where the doctors there can and I hope will deal with all your issues . Shingles are devastating and I sure feel badly you are coping with this alone. I am just an interested reader here but see that the bloggers have not come to your rescue for 3 hours. There are 24 hour emergency rooms and CVS has a minute clinic. I am in Indiana and wish you were closer to here.
Oh Virginia thank you for your heartfelt message! Yes it is very difficult to go through this alone. Thank God I am not going it alone. Barb from Hoquiam-from this blog-came over to my campground and brought me ICE CREAM!!! My Hero 🙂 I have been blessed with kindness from all my friends on this blog who are giving me support and suggestions. I am one lucky women!! I have a call into my Dr. from Vermont. I am praying she will write a prescription for the pain meds I take for my back. Thank you for your comment Virginia.
Well, and another thing. If you have family anywhere near where you are perhaps you could work your way to them so they can help you. Or even, someone from Vermont could come to you and drive you home…or back to what was ‘home’. Praying for your help. Ginny in Zionsville, In.
Krystina – First I would call your primary care dr. and just see what his office says. They can call in scripts across the country if need be. If that doesn’t work, call back to the walk in clinic and see if they have a referral of a Family Practice Doctor you can see in the area or call your insurance and see who they have listed in that area. If that doesn’t work find an ER and go in and explain your problem. No matter where you go, take a list of all your meds with you to give the medical personal. Last bit – look up a Family Practice Doctor, explain the problem to the staff and see if they can get you in asap. Good Luck and please keep us informed as to how you do! Kay from KC!
Hi Kay! If my Dr. in Vermont says that she will not refill my prescription I will be forced to call a primary care Dr. here to see if I can get in. Thank you so much for your suggestions.
Hi Sue and crew, spent a pleasant Sun. Afternoon catching up on recent events. Sorry to hear of your electric troubles. I guess I missed the problem and solution bcse I didn’t read all the comments. Also glad you made a good decision for all involved concerning adding Edith to the crew. I appreciate all you share. I consider it free education for my future fulltiming in Nov 2016… I am planning carefully for life on the road in my tiny trailer. Bought a tiny washing machine today, thanks for the Amazon link. I figure if I am spending money, we can both get a “bonus” from the purchase. Stay well and happy.
Thanks, Lisa, for using one of my links to go shopping at Amazon. I appreciate your thoughtfulness.
You didn’t miss the complete story re my electrical problem. I haven’t written it yet (my posts are a week behind). I try not to make comment-reading necessary to keep up with what’s going on….
You stay well and happy, too! 🙂
Hello again,Sue,it occurs to me that you may want to mark this post as “Self-encouragement” in your personal file.
Days come to most of us at sometime in life when the soft-spoken around us are almost unheard because of one out-spoken voice.It may come from a troll or just our own mood if we’re tired or a bit down.The words change but the sentiments are the same-You are wrong,Enough-why try so hard?Accept less,Get real-that goal,dream or path isn’t worth it,blah,blah,blah.Whatever,it’s from “the dark”. Rare as that is,I keep a tool kit to counteract it in my memories-of the successes that make it all worth it.
Yes,your life and blog encourage and entertain people that appreciate the story and hope.Well above and beyond that in very real and tangible ways individuals are helped,as is being demonstrated in today’s comment section.This feather in your cap that you can offer to ones needing it is here because of every effort you’ve put forth for years.It will come back to you as memory and as blessings untold when you need it and/or least expect it-count on that,hold it.You hear thank you from us on occasion,I hope you remember to thank yourself,friend,Lord knows you’ve earned it.
Hi, weather,
I’m not sure what caused you to write about “one out-spoken voice.” Did I miss something?
The success of this blog and the spin-off success from it — people shown a way to enjoy retirement, people encouraged to let go of fear and step into the unknown, RV tips shared, boondocking illustrated, photos for vicarious camping, Timber found, etc. All those things reward me beyond measure. . . and then there are the many condolences over the passing of Spike, the get-well-wishes when I have a headache :), and, yes, the many, many thank yous. Each one is in my memory bank from which I can make withdrawals in the future. I’m not discouraged by this electrical snafu. Instead I’ve been relaxing next to a pretty lake with a view of a snow-capped mountain — Not bad!
Your message is wise for anyone reading it. Thank you for your many kindnesses toward me and others who gather here.
My note wasn’t referencing anything or voice current,so no,you didn’t miss something.Today I was simply struck again by how much good is spread into this world by you and your blog.I just made mention of it for your own memory bank/tool kit ,so to speak,as I actually rebuild my own on a regular basis.It’s like placing extra threads in my Pollyanna hat to help me remain happy,may seem silly or unnecessary to some,yet ,for me,it works.Anyhoo,thank you for your wonderful reply 🙂 Your place sounds beautiful.
🙂
Thanks for the horse pics! The top single one is a gorgeous Appaloosa, the rest are just cool. The foals are cute. Sorry for your electrical bugaboos. Stay cool, have fun and stay safe. Our two say hi to your two!
Your house battery is 5+ years and the bank in the PTV is near that, right? Hum… I would point a finger of guilt at them. Although solar panels aren’t at max efficiency at high temps.
Perhaps the Crew’s ‘magnetic’ personalities are buffering the charge? 🙂
The Optima batteries were purchased closer to 3.5 years ago rather than 5+. They may be guilty but I don’t think it is because of age.
You are absolutely correct that “solar panels aren’t at max efficiency at high temps”. However, a field experiment revealed a drop of 1.1% of peak output for every increase in degrees Celsius of a home photovoltaic solar panel once the panel reached 42 degrees Celsius, or about 107 degrees Fahrenheit. Sue has not subjected her solar panels to those high temperatures.
You can read a much more thorough explanation of the effect of heat on solar cell electric efficiency by using this link
http://www.arpa-e.energy.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/SolarBeyondGridParity_Gray.pdf
I did not understand it – but it is scientific!
Hi, Ed,
The link sounds interesting. I’ll come back to it after my electrical repairs are complete, which should be noon tomorrow. (fingers crossed)
The two AGMs inside the PTV were purchased in the fall of 2011. The house battery, also Optima AGM, is still under its 3-year warranty, having been purchased in September of 2013. You’re correct — The problem isn’t due to the age of the batteries.
Hi Sue!
I guess misery loves company, I have had things break down on me constantly these past two weeks and was feeling sorry for myself. After reading your blog it reminded me that this is all part of “the life”. If I owned a house I would have to make repairs – why did I think I would be free of that on the road? Silly me, thank you Sue!
Wow, and I thought there was a lot going on in my neck of the woods. All good advice for Krystina, and I hope something works out soon. But thank goodness for the goodness of the Blogorinos! What a wonderful group of supporters. As for my neck of the woods, fires, rain, thunderstorms, flash flooding, and that is just within 50 miles of my town. Was quite a weekend, huh Marla! We are traveling to Arizona in about 10 days, and I just heard that a part of the 10 interstate at the Arizona border is completely shut down because the road was washed away and left a big hole in the hwy. So people have to take the 40 or the 8…what the heck! I do not know how long it takes to fix that part of the road, but what a mess for travelers coming from Arizona to Californa. I hope it is fixed soon, I do not want to take the 40 to Sedona! ugh…
Start of a new week, lets hope by the end of the week we have Krystina in a safe place with little pain left in her life. I am praying for that.
Oh, and Hi Sue! SOOOO glad to have you back, electrical problems and all. Hugs to the pups.
So sorry for all the “stuff” going on in your area!! It has to make you feel uneasy all the time!
There really no words to describe how wonderful you Bloggerinos are. I am overwhelmed at this outpouring of help you are giving me.
Hi Sue – Just wanted to say that I recently discovered your blog and am really enjoying it. I’m trying to start from the early posts and work my way forward, now that I sort of know what you’re all about. Love the pups! You’re living my dream. It may never happen for me, for a number of complicating reasons. But, hey…it’s a dream. I’m learning a lot from your adventures.
I buy a lot of stuff on Amazon and figured I might as well throw a few coins your way through my purchases. So, I clicked through this morning and bought some fancy schmancy light bulbs. I am pretty sure that went OK. But, then I went back and ordered some vacuum cleaner filters. Not so sure about that purchase. I hope you got credit for both.
In the meantime, I’ll be keeping up with you and the crew.
Welcome, Suzette!
I’m always thrilled to hear from someone “new.” Thanks for being interested enough in our travels to go back and read the old posts. It’s been an amazing few years!
Thanks also for shopping Amazon through my blog. I can’t check whether your order came through — I’m quite confident it did — because I’m conserving the charge on my laptop and jetpack . . .
I hope you continue to enjoy my blog. You are now officially a blogorino! 🙂
Glad it sounds like you’ve got your electrical problem worked out.
Yes, we power on without you, but it is not the same! Take care.
Loved the horse photos, Sue. You capture their movement so well. I love riding, but I’ve always thought horses are so much more beautiful without saddles and tack. I couldn’t even hazard a guess about your electrical problem – for some reason I just don’t “get” electrical systems. We took our RV in last week for a check-up before our big trip to Oregon next week and wouldn’t you know they found a leak in the hydraulic line for one of the leveling jacks. Can you imagine getting one of those suckers out and not being able to get it back in?? How would you get anywhere to fix it? So grateful it was discovered and fixed. Glad your electrical issues are on the mend.
My prayers go out to Rusty at the loss of his beautiful Timber. So sorry for your loss, there are no words, just prayers for your strength and healing.
Sue, what a relief to have all your electric problems fixed. I love that you can check on all your batteries now. Happy travels.