Saturday, February 27 (continued)
Buckeye Hills Recreation Area, Arizona
What a wonderful surprise!
In the last post I mention how the weekend party people sleep late. This Saturday morning, the campground is perfectly quiet as I sit at my laptop table in the back of the Best Little Trailer next to the big, open window. I set about writing the previous post while Bridget and Reggie nap beside me.
At one point I become aware of campers coming alive again.
I don’t pay attention because I’m engrossed in writing and inserting photos. Finally, the post is done, I hit the “publish” button, and I look up.
They’re gone!
I don’t believe it! They left! The campground loop, which earlier was a sleeping Tent City, shows no evidence of campers.
I break into a big smile.
The crew and I go outside and look around.
Hmm . . . The big rig left, too. Apparently they used this campground for an overnight stop on their way somewhere else.
“Hey, Bridge. I’m liking this place more and more. I think you are, too.”
I make myself a delicious salad for lunch.
At Wally World the other day I bought a mix of baby, spring greens, avocados (only 48 cents each), and radishes. I love radishes. I used to plant them every year. I love choosing varieties in the seed catalogs — Cherry Belle, Crimson Giant, French Breakfast.
I love making the furrows in soft earth and planting the tiny seeds just so. I love checking them each day to see if they’re ready, and then, the best part, tugging the pretty, red treasures out of the soil.
No, no. . . That’s wrong.
The best part is eating them!
I also put chunks of what’s left of the rotisserie chicken in the salad and top it with some Marie’s Blue Cheese Vinaigrette. I eat my creation outside, sitting in a sunbeam.
Oh, my, so good. I’m munching happily when overhead two raptors drift, showing the yellow undersides of their wings.
Then a truck pulling a travel trailer drives by.
More people on their way out. Yeah, it’s nice here and getting nicer.
Later, when the sun is low in the sky . . .
“Okay, okay, Reggie. We’ll go for a walk now.”
On cue, he sits on the floor looking up at me, waiting to be suited up.
He’s such a good boy. He even lifts up his front leg to help me put it on.
“Good boy, Reg!”
I turn to Bridget on the bed.
“C’mon, Bridge, time for a walk.”
Uh-oh, there’s that look. This girl does not want to walk.
I go outside, grab the folded-up stroller, and show it to her through the door.
Nope. Not interested.
“Not even in your car? Well, you stay here then. It’s all right. We’ll be back in a little while.”
I leave the door open, as is my practice when Bridget stays behind. She doesn’t like being shut up in the BLT by herself.
Reggie and I set out across the nearly empty campground.
We walk quite a distance up the road until we come to the best site in the entire camping area!
It’s occupied by a big rig with toad.
Gee, that’s a great spot. They have about a 300 degree view of the valley and mountains beyond. Wow.
Reggie and I return to camp.
We’re greeted by a tail-wagging Bridget.
“Bridgee Baby! We’re back!”
I reach down and caress her wiggly body.
“It’s so nice to have you to come home to, sweetie.”
~ ~ ~
Another Arizona day comes to a close.
Our view of the sunset is blocked by a nearby hill. Doesn’t matter. When in Arizona, the sunset paints the eastern sky, too. One doesn’t usually associate the desert with the color blue, yet look at this!
Wow!
Saturday night at Buckeye Hills . . .
. . . and the only sound is the distant howls of coyotes.
rvsue
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a very sweet post. love the sunset photo….
Thanks, eliza, and CONGRATULATIONS! You’re number one today!
it makes a monday, when one is still working, so much better….
🙂
Hi Sue, new follower!
WELCOME, DAN! A new follower and second place already. Wow!
lol, I just got lucky. walked in after lunch and had the email notification. Love what your doing!
Glad to have you riding along with us, Dan.
Welcome to RVSue’s Blog Dan! You are now an official Bloggerino 🙂
HI Krystina ~ Sutton, Vermont,
“Bloggerino” I like it. Still catching up on the old posts and all the comments. I am sure I will pick up ques on how it is all done – Blogwise. Wife and I are preparing for fulltiming in (1-2 year timeline). I have a lot to learn!
Dan
You’ll definitely learn a lot here especially if you go back to the beginning.
And do ask any questions that come up, Dan. We live for sharing what we know… 🙂
What a beautiful sunset!! My Laci will do the same as Miss Bridget, her feet are planted and she is going no where!! But if I bring out her carry bag she jumps and gets so excited that I will carry her!! I love their personalities!! So precious!!
Wish we were back out in the desert for spring such a beautiful time! Enjoy!
Hi, Queennonna!
Are you new here? If so, welcome to my blog! I remember a reader who had a dog named Laci…. Funny, Bridget likes to ride; Lacy likes to be carried. 🙂
Wow, close to the top! Hi, Sue, I saw that you originally listed a screen shelter in your must have list, but I don’t recall seeing that you ever use one. In the desert, I guess I can understand, but as you head north, don’t the mosquitoes become a problem? I’m planning for the future and don’t know if I need to track down a shelter that is easy for one person to put up. Thanks! Love your journey, pictures and the community you have created.
Hi, Jan in Bremerton, WA,
If I listed a screen shelter on a “must have list,” it must have been a long time ago. I thought I would need one. As it turns out, the crew and I haven’t had many encounters with mosquitoes and other biting insects, except for our stay at Brooks Lake in WY, back in 2012 I think it was.
I guess we’ve been at high elevations without still water around during the peak mosquito time (June?). We’ll probably run into them at some time….
I was thinking about LTVA living in the winter months. If I ever sign up for a stay of a few months or more, buying the $180 permit, it might be nice to have a shade house. Except for the dang wind. . .
It’s hard to say whether you’ll need one, Jane. It depends upon where you go, your timing.
Beautiful post! Love the rv cuisine and the pics of Bridget–not wanting to go and then happily waiting for you to return.
Hi, Tara from Pac NW,
You didn’t mind me waxing on and on about radishes. Ha! Thanks for the positive feedback. It was sweet the way Bridget welcomed us to camp.
Was just thinking you could take maybe a plastic flower pot from Walmart and some potting soil and plant a little crop of radishes. As you know they grow quickly. I know you don’t have to but it might be fun to watch.
Morning Blogerinos!
Hi, Velda,
That suggestion is tempting. I won’t do that. Gotta’ keep life simple and I can see dirt flying. Growing radishes is part of another kind of life — Maybe someday when I have to leave the road. I’m hoping I’ll be able to purchase a piece of ground for that stage of life. Then it’ll be fun to plant radishes again. 🙂
Oh my Sue, such a nice post of a lovely day in nature! And it comes just as I am sitting at my computer making reservations for my first summer of BLT adventures. One is a shady spot along a rushing river near Mt Baker – another includes essential AC for an August stay along an eastern WA lake for a chamber music festival – another is to join my folks near Mossy Rock. The pine forests of Bend OR will be a Sept destination. While I am still unfamiliar with many PNW campgrounds and not yet ready to meander and discover spots along the way, I do appreciate the ability to reserve ahead. My camp savvy education is just beginning, and I look forward to continuing to glean tips from you and your readers!
Does anyone have a good recommendation for a campground in the Willamette Valley OR that is central to lots of good wine tasting? Cheers!
Hi, MollyLuvsRoadtrippin (Seattle),
How fun for you to be planning your summer camps! While reading your comment, I imagined you researching campgrounds on the internet with the kind of enthusiasm I felt in times past while researching vegetable seeds in garden catalogs. Summer is calling! 🙂
Blogorinos: Do you know good campgrounds in the Willamette Valley, OR, near wine tasting?
Champoeg State Park.
hi, you might be able to be near some vineyards by Silver Falls State Park in the Silverton area. My friend Joe has a winery at Ankeny Hill by Salem.
At the base of the Willamette Valley here in Eugene, there are a few wineries near Fern Ridge Lake. Richardson Point I think has campsites.
This sounds like a fun adventure! bess
Thanks bess and kgdan – good ideas!
Hi, Kathy and Gil! Are you home yet?
Nope! Weather really warmed up here in Laughlin and though it’s warmer back home, not so much on the road back. Will stay here for March then start back on April 1. We haven’t been the camper/explorers this year but that’s ok. Will probably do much more of that next year.
There’s no rule says you have to explore, right? You guys love Laughlin and you have taken care of some things while there. The PTV has needed a new cluster assembly for a couple of years. I do miss having an oil pressure gauge/indicator that actually works!
Oh my i was having such a horrible day here at work and I hear the ping….I have an email…OMG it’s RVSUEANDCREW. ….a huge smile is planted on my face and I start my reading….Sue you have just turned this yucky day around and for that I send all my love to you and the Crew.
The area is beautiful and peaceful and I can just transport myself right there in your shoes. Thank you thank you thank you.
Stay safe and rock on my cyber friend.
Judy
Hi, Judy in East texas,
Your smile is contagious! What a cheerful message. Thanks.
BTW, I wrote a multi-reply under the previous post and answered your question.
You stay safe, too, and keep smiling!
Thanks Sue. I did read it. By the way. I did go back and read ALL your post from the beginning, it was a wonderful book, I could hardly put it down.
Rock on
That’s the best compliment of all, Judy!
What a nice post – beautiful pics of the furballs, sky, and distant birds. Do you know what those are? I sometimes get radishes in my “farm box” delivery; I slice them really thin into salads but I’ve never been able to figure out anything else to do with them. Do you do anything besides eat them plain or in salads? It looks like you’re going to have a nice, quiet week there and the weather forecast shows it will be nice. Enjoy!!
Hi, Cynthia from San Clemente,
No, I don’t know any other way to eat radishes. They make great snacks. I’d rather have a radish than a carrot stick. (Not to mention the urinary tract benefits)
Yes, the campground is still almost empty and the weather is pleasantly warm during the day, and open-window cool for sleeping at night. It’s a bit too warm for about an hour in the late afternoon. That’s when I sit in the shade in shorts and tank top, reading.
Radishes are good dipped in some salt and eaten with cooked turnips, collards, and mixed greens.
Cat Lady
Hi, Cat Lady in Central La,
I never would’ve thought of that combination. Yeah, radishes dipped in salt are tasty. I’ve given up salt though. Funny thing about that… I used to have salt cravings all the time. Hence the popcorn eating. Since I’ve stopped salting my food and am choosing products with less sodium, I haven’t had those cravings. ??
Hi, Sue and crew and Blogorinos –
I have heard that some folks like their radishes sliced and on a piece of bread with butter. It does take the bite out.
Very nice blog post and good information and fun photos. I like your 60x zoom lens!
You probably feel light as a feather after your Spring Cleaning.
I finally ordered my Casita on Friday and plan to pick it up the first part of August! Trying not to buy too much ‘stuff’ until I actually spend some time in it.
Your blog about your adventures has helped me to be fearless. Happy Trails and hugs to the pups.
Pamelab in Houston – for now…
Congratulations, Pamelab in Houston! I can’t remember if you are keeping your present home or not. At any rate, I don’t wish temps over 100 degrees like we had when we picked up the Best Little Trailer in August. You must be very excited, having made this important step. You’re smart to hold off on buying a lot of stuff for it.
Congratulations!!! Such an exciting feeling to have the order placed, and now anticipation builds. Smart move to figure out what you need and what you have room for after spending time with your Casita. I found out that there was much more interior storage space than I expected and almost no exterior storage, so things that will get/stay dirty need thinking through. Have fun!!
Forgot about the “distant birds”… No, I don’t know what they are. I keep looking for them. They hang around here a lot and stay up high.
Hi Cynthia! I know it’s sounds a bit bizarre, but radishes are really good quartered and sauteed! In bacon grease, especially! You can even add in the greens too, if they’re in decent condition. Delicious! Just use Mr. Google or Ms. Pintrest and you can find several recipes for sauteed radishes. 🙂
Thank you Kerry On! I have two bunches of radishes in the fridge now and I always have bacon grease (we try to eat pretty much Paleo) so I’m going to try your suggestion. I have beet greens too – bet they would be good mixed in.
Hi Sue, the last photo looks like those birds are Doves of some sort,,, Glad your having a great time at your nice camp and your photos of the sunset are Fantastic,, have another great day with your babies,,,, we’ll be shopping on the marrow and be leaving the area ’bout noon Wednesday,, trying to watch the wind, temps to see which way we’re going to go,, to the North to cross I 40 to 89 and south to BB, or South down 95 to 60, 74, up 17 to BB, looking to see,,, with the truck running so well, we’ll do the speed limit, maybe 4 hours max,,,, any how we’ll see to which way He points us,,,,, I had a special screen made for Piper’s window so when I’m in a store when it’s hot the window is down and she get a better breeze and no one can get in or unlock the doors,,,, ,,,,,,,,
Hi, Rusty,
The birds do look like doves. They’re a bit big for doves though. I’ll be thinking of you and Piper, on the road, on Wednesday. I thought your appointment was on Wednesday. Good idea to give Piper more ventilation for when you leave her in the truck. I’ve stopped going shopping after 10 a.m. Too hot for the crew.
Have a safe trip. I know you’ll pick the best route for the conditions.
My Time to see the Doctor isn’t till April 6th,,,, thank you, Sue for the road blessing,,, I just measured both routs and the southern rout is the shortest by 62 miles ,, so down from LHC on 95 to 72, then to 60, to 74 to just past Lake Pleasant and up L Pleasant/ New River road to 17, to the south exit to Bumble Bee area,,, Look on your Benchmark map and you’ll see the way we’re going,, and a lot less traffic lights too,,,,,, rusty
I can see the way you’re going without looking at a map. I remember seeing a burro along Route 74 near Lake Pleasant and then we went north on 17 looking for a boondock at Agua Fria National Monument. Sounds like you have a good plan…
Thanks Sue……..
Rusty, you are just the best dog dad. I was at Costco today and when I parked there was a car next to me with two little dogs in it. All the windows were rolled up and the sun roof was only slightly open. It was almost 70 degrees and a car can heat up pretty quickly. I looked at my watch and made a mental note of the time. If the dogs had still been there when I came out I would have called animal control. Thankfully, the car was gone when I came out. So glad you made special acommodations for Piper.
Hi there I love the way Bridgett welcomed you and Reggie back. Nothing like it. I love my pups like you do yours. Beautiful pictures today too. Always look forward to your posts so I can hitch a ride along with the 3 of you
Today is a beautiful day in Horn Lake, Ms. It is about 70 degrees and sunshiny
Hi, Judy L., Horn Lake, Ms,
I bet it is very nice where you are today. I’m going to search for a photo of Horn Lake so I can imagine you there. Thanks for the compliment on my pictures. I’m glad you have pups to love.
It is a very small town but very pleasant to live in. Really handy too, Southaven is just across the interstate 55 from here and every store I ever need within 6 miles of my house. Just opened a super Walmart within 1 1/2 miles but I am still in country area. Love that
Memphis, too is just about 10 miles North of here but hate to go there. Too much meanness in that city but it is a big one. Know you probably know where that is. Take care and enjoy your quiet campground
I know I would enjoy the scenery and the quiet and peacefulness of the area
A pleasant, small town . . . with a Wal-Mart nearby. . . and you’re still in the country. Ideal!
The first photo of the pink sunset on your Casita is one that the Casita people would love. They are always looking for photos to include on their website. I know they once, years ago, used one of our Casita being pulled by our hybred green Chevy truck, next to some red cliffs.
Hi, Linda from Oregon,
I didn’t realize that Casita Travel Trailers use customer photos. You say your photo was on the website years ago. I probably stared at it, dreaming of the day I’d have my own Casita. 🙂
Hi Sue,
Nice to hear you and the crew had a peaceful day. It’s nice to find such a peaceful free site to settle in for a few days.
Hi, Lisa W (currently in Bakersfield, CA),
Good hearing from you . . . I like how people are including their location. Makes reading comments more interesting. I hope you have a peaceful day, too!
If one were to drive by there during the sunset of your last photo, the colors may enchant them, yet not tempt them to camp nearby. With your second photo you manage to convey how when beside a person desert vegetation can be as lovely as a willow tree beside a small stream. I think that’s part of how you have opened a world of possibilities for so many that hadn’t considered much of our western states’ beauty. Your rare quiet, appreciative, intimate way of relating with nature can be seen on each post without even reading the narrative.
Gosh, I’m ever so pleased for you to have had most nearby campers leave. Peaceful days and nights with the loveable crew …it looks and sounds like a touch of heaven is surrounding you. I’m all smiles and happy sighs, thanks , Sue.
“like a willow tree beside a small stream” — Yes! What a lovely and true comparison with the palo verde beside a small wash. Once again you help us see a connection. 🙂 Thank you for your affirming message, weather, and for sharing my “smiles and happy sighs.”
Upon awakening in the quiet of pre-dawn usually I wait a while before venturing outside. This morning, though, I grabbed a flashlight and went out to secure a few things to make sure the storm that was coming wouldn’t blow them away. Within minutes the temperature began to drop like a rock and the air that had been still held wind gales whipping through at fifty miles per hour. Suddenly all that mattered to me was seeing the smallest of the kitties that has been my favorite since the first time I saw the family looking so helpless last summer. It took less than an hour of walking around searching for those two little golden eyes to be found staring at me. Needless fears melting into peace allowed me to notice that I was cold, yet the kitty stood still just long enough to let me know all was well, and scampered away .What a few months ago was a wisp of fur that would have fit in the palm of my hand if I’d picked it up is now all courage and muscle ready and able to take on the world and whatever life holds.
Of course, I’m thrilled to get a visit each time that I do. I imagine in some ways that’s what it’s like for you when a someone that you gave hope,information or inspiration to, comments from wherever they are on the road. I guess any of us that have left a door open for any or all humans, critters, friends, family or strangers that needed something have paid a cost for it, you more than most of us ,Sue. Thank you so much for keeping it open anyways, and for all those that haven’t said that when they should have, thank you a thousand times over.
Hi, weather,
The crew and I were out and about this morning, just came in…. A very busy day. I haven’t given your message the slow reading it deserves and that I want to give it. I love your stories about the kitties! Thank you for the thoughtful closing words… Talk to you later!
Hi, again . . . It’s “later”… 🙂
I like to read your messages the way I eat artichokes!
I enjoyed wandering around with a flashlight looking for the golden eyes of the littlest kitten, now grown and ready for the life for which it was designed. Miracles! Your home is in a powerful place. Even when all seems calm — the lake, the air, the creatures — there is energy there!
The grace in your closing words is enough thanks on behalf of everyone to last me a very long time. I’m honored by the depth of your caring.
And I’m glad you weren’t blown off the cliff in those 50 mph winds! Ha!
Assuming that you relish artichokes as much as I do, taking the time to savor each leaf and piece of the heart that’s a great analogy and tremendous compliment 🙂
,thank you. Your perceptions about this being a powerful place and the energy that it has are very insightful. I appreciate your coming back later on such a busy day for you, as always, your writing and replies are worth waiting for. No reply to this note is needed or expected, I hope you accomplish what you need to and enjoy what’s left of your warm desert day and evening.
What a great post and love the pics. So peaceful and lovely. I lived in the High Desert in California for a few months, Yucca Valley. The coyotes used to wander along under my windows at night and howl. It was eerie but kind of beautiful. I hear you about the radishes. I’m planning to grow a tomato plant in a pot this spring. I miss the old fashioned, meaty, rich acidic/sweet flavors of Grandmother’s tomatoes, thickly sliced on a plate for mealtime. What great sandwiches they made.
While I’m on the topic of food, I have to thank Sidewinder Pen for the information of things that really don’t need to be refrigerated. Makes my life so much easier now.
And Desert Ginger (how are you doing, DG?) for the link for hand-operated blender, and some other tools I bought and love them. Ilse mentioned a battery operated fan. I spent much of last August, September and October trying to find one. I bought 2 of the ones she mentioned on Amazon. 8 Inches, 2 speeds, D-cell batts. They really make life bearable. Then I have Sue’s blog with photos and fun stories about furry folk for entertainment. Life just can’t get much better.
My 9 month old kittens, Calvin and Hobbs are growing up and growing spoiled. Last night around midnight, they both helped me shoo away yet another possum, Ralphy Racoon and the illusive fox/wolf/coyote I’ve yet to positively identify due to its very fast run in the darkest part of the property. I’m still living in my tent and thanks to this blog and everyone who comments, life is pretty comfortable. And the solar suitcase in your list of Amazon purchases may be the one that Mick just ordered for me. He is going to check it out for me and I’ll pick it up on my way back to Georgia from Pennsylvania via Tennessee.
I too am now smiling after savouring the blog and all it’s goodies. I do have to add that one of the things I most enjoy is the Amazon list of purchases. I look up almost everything on each list to see what it is. I love to read anyway. I’ve been know to sit down, eat my lunch while reading the production label on the back of the package of paper towels. Sad that. No matter. Back to my chores with a happy heart after time here in Bloggerinoville. Thank You, Sue, Bridget and Reggie.
Anne – from my beach chair in the sunshine with a cool breeze keeping it comfy in GA
You’re welcome, Anne — in GA,
Enjoyed reading your comment very much. You have a way of bringing us to your campsite! I’m pleased to see how suggestions from blogorinos Sidewinder Pen, DesertGinger, and Ilse have turned out to be products you use and enjoy. And you’ll be visiting Mick in TN! Thanks for the solar suitcase purchase. It gave me a nice commission.
Reading the back of the paper towel package? Nothing wrong with that. I eat while reading blog comments. Which is probably why the letter “m” is starting to stick on my laptop.
Always fun to read one of your updates, Anne!
Thank you, sue for your cheerful reply to my post.
Some time ago, you came upon a fallen tree and wrote about the problem and the solution provided by some helpful passersby. I took that to heart. A few months ago, I noticed my old bow saw was missing. So I bought a new one. I love it. I began to prune, cut, carve, and nothing on this property was sacred. But it wasn’t enough. There were limbs I wasn’t able to cut with a bow saw. So I bought a lithium battery operated 10-inch chain saw. And I was royally teased by my family and all friends who know me. That’s ok. I love my saw.
It requires the battery to be charged and the small container on its side to be filled with oil – who knew? It works perfectly with Canola Oil from the Grocery Store.
So A bad morning today. Gorgeous weather, temp almost perfect. No morning mosquito attacks.
What more could you want?
Not to be so clumsy, for one thing.
I cleaned up the kitchen area last night and reorganized things in the food prep area. Thinking I was so smart (a few hours too early it would seem) I smugly reminded the kittens how smart their mom was. And I went off to bed.
This morning, I went in to find some b’fast. I managed to knock over a tray with a drinking cup half full of dry rice crispies. What a mess. Luckily, i had not swept last night. Left that for this morning.
I picked stuff up, left the rice crispies to be cleared away later on. reached over to get something else, hit the same $%&^%&* tray and knocked it over again, spilling the rest of the rice crispies all over the carpet AND my chainsaw.
I wasn’t teh least embarrassed. I mean, haven’t we all spilled rice crispies or cheerios on our battery-operated chainsaw at one time or another? Could happen to anybody.
Well, Hoover and Dyson appeared out of nowhere and began sucking up the cereal. Calvin loves it. And his sister, Hobbs can Hoover up anything spilled on the floor faster than you can say “Eureka!”
And I have you to thank for my saws. I’m ready for any tree that falls in the forest – as I may not hear the sound it may or may not make, but I will cut it into little bitty pieces then burn it in my Flame Genie (courtesy of another blog).
Just another chapter from “The Georgia Chainsaw Massacre”
I’m not so good with knowing which limbs to cut and which to leave to make a tree look shapely. But I love the cutting process.
Thank You, Sue and Crew.
Hilarious, Anne! 🙂
Your Renogy made the list of Honor. 🙂
thanks, mick.
so looking forward to solar power.
you’re the best!!!
A.
I’m curious, when I googled Flame Genie, I only found one that burns pellets, not pieces of wood. Is that a different model for burning wood instead of pellets ? Thanks for info.
Good Morning, Velda,
Yes, it is supposed to only burn pellets of which I have a huge bag. However, if I were to find a tree blocking my path / road, I would cut it up into tiny pieces with my trusty chainsaw and at least try to burn with the pellets. I will try anything once. Thank you for asking. Wishing you a day as gorgeous as the photos in Sue’s entry above.
Anne
i enjoy your descriptions too! thanks for brightening our days!
Thank you, Bess. I used to live on Lawrence Road past Fern Ridge and just past Elmirea. I was house-sitting for a couple who were in Europe for a year or two. Waaay out in the country. I had my horse then and used to ride over the dirt roads, through some fields, jumping some fences and dry creek beds to a little country store just across the road from the fire station. Toward Junction City. Great memories. I worked at Scared Heart Hospital in the critical care unit then. That was a lifetime ago. Once in a while, I would ride the horse down to the back of Fern Ridge lake and let her wade in the water a bit on really hot days. I rode her bareback mostly. We would go berry picking for pies. I would fill the buckets with large juicy blackberries. She would knock the buckets over and eat the bounty. Loved that lady. Really miss Eugene and its bounty. Sunday brunch at the bistro Fifth Street Market. That has changed so much in the years as to be totally unrecognizable. Always read your comments to ward off “homesickness” for the great northwest.
Anne
DEEEE-light full!!!!
Lynn B. (Baltimore, MD)
You’re in a fun mood today, Lynn! 🙂
Lovely poetic post. It makes the yearning for sun, quiet, wilderness and travel take me over. Soon I’ll be on the road again. Very soon!
Thank you, Elaine. I wish you much poetry on the road.
Hi Sue,
Thank you for reposting my comment about the blue house. I debated with myself about commenting, wasn’t sure anyone would really be interested…
I’m glad you went ahead and told us about it. Lots of us find this sort of thing interesting. It makes the photo more meaningful, knowing the history of the house.
Yes, thank you. I enjoyed the back history too.
Peggy! I thought it was really interesting, thanks for posting it!
Kay from KC!
What a treat to open up my email and to see another post from Sue and Crew! Thanks Sue!
You’re welcome, Dawn in NC,
Always happy to hand out “treats” to those who appreciate them. 🙂
Nice post Sue, with some memorable photos.
We drove by Buckeye Hills (4 wks ago), on our way from the Phoenix metro area to Why. I was tempted to drive in and take a look see, but was concerned by how close it was to the metro area. Thanks for unfounding that concern. 😉
You’re welcome, Kevin in CO,
I had that same concern. I always hesitate before camping near a metropolitan area. Then I give it a try — like Roosevelt Lake and Buckeye Hills — and I’m glad I did. Thanks for the compliment on the post and pics.
I have looked at the blm land on hwy 74 by lake pleasant, haven’t been there yet, but it is only about 10 miles from the family farm.
I will be in Glendale for only two days, March n12,13. then back to Missouri. hoping to check it out while there.
The best pic is the longshot, the two birds in the tree.
Looks like you are feeling Better Yeah!
Dave
Hi, Dave Steward (in missouri for now),
I appreciate the “Yeah!” for me feeling better. Thanks re the bird photo. I was surprised when I opened it up on my computer to see that it didn’t need any cropping, and from that distance! Couldn’t have turned out better if I’d planned it.
Won’t be long and you’ll be out this way…
Yea, another gift from RVSue to read to Partner which makes his day Better. I love reading you to him and he smiles. Makes my day. Thank you.
You make my AZ sound so beautiful with your words and your pictures truly are a joy to look at again and again.
You are a blessing.
Deena, Partner and Miss Mollie
Hi, Deena in Peoria,
Okay. I have to ask and feel foolish doing so. Is Partner your partner (as in your husband) or is Partner your dog? I remember you mentioning “hubby.”
Nice of you to call me a blessing. I’m not always but, like many, I keep trying.
Sorry for the confusion – I call her hubby she calls me wifey; been partners for 40 years therefore she likes the name Partner (referencing Clint Eastwood in “Paint your Wagon”.
Just brought my Partner home for hospice care and she no longer has much strentgth but still smiles when I say Oh boy a new Sue and Crew has arrived! You and your Bloggerinos are contributing to making her time left easier and more peaceful. Thank you and much Joy and Positivity sent to all of you. I may be off line for a few weeks but I will check on you and the Community every day.
Thank you, Deena, for the explanation. I’m very sorry your Partner is at a stage of needing hospice care. Preparing to part must be terribly hard for you after 40 years together. I admire you for writing such a positive message at this time. It’s not me or my blog … It’s You who is “making her time left easier and more peaceful.” Blessings to you both and a “howdy” for Partner!
You got a smile Sue, Thanks
Hi Deena, blessings on you and your partner, may you have what you need each moment, a second before you need it.
Deena, I’m sorry about Partner needing hospice care. Prayers on the way and please take care of yourself too.
Kay from KC!
Thank you Kay
hi Deena and Partner, i wanted to say hello and am wishing you that each day you know that we are sending you love and peace. your long relationship is a testament to your deep commitment and sharing a life of love. take care and let us know if you need our support.
Partner, Deena and Miss Mollie, I will be sending positive thoughts for Love and Joy for you at this stage in your Lives. We all love us some Rvsueandcrew….
Blessings and prayers to you Deena. Hospice is a wonderful help, but anytime you have to say good-bye after so many years, it is heartbreaking. May your many years of memories bring you healing .
Hi Sue and Crew! Loved your description of planting radishes, as February comes to a close I’m thinking of starting a garden. It’s something I couldn’t do while on the road so while I’m hanging around New York waiting for a new knee I have something to keep me busy! I recognized the look on Bridget’s face, I have seen it many times on Maya!
Enjoy the day!
Hi, Pam and Maya, Still in NY,
It’s good to know someone liked my rambling about radishes. 🙂 How long do you have to wait for a new knee?
Not sure yet, waiting to hear back from the Doc., thanks for asking Sue!
?Bridget meeting you at the end of your “driveway”, that’s sweet. I’m guessing she wasn’t there long. Amazing how they just know. I used to be able to tell when my husband was almost home because Reilly would start pacing to the door and back. He’d start before even his dog ears could have heard the car. My husband doesn’t come home at a regular time. He has 3(4really) different commuting routes he takes and often stops to run errands. How do they know?!?
Hi, Ronda western WA,
I don’t know how they know. Dogs are incredible, as your Reilly illustrates. 🙂 We’ve all heard about dogs crossing several states, finding their way home. Maybe someday we will learn their secret.
someone posted a video on Facebook the other day showing a man and his dog being together and the man went to a barbershop to get a haircut while his master got his hair done….he came out and while walking home the master fell over with a stroke and died….they took him to the hospital and the dog followed the ambulance to the hospital and waited outside….for several days…
the 7th day a woman came out in a wheel chair and the dog greeted his master as if he was never gone…..the woman had gotten the master heart in a transplant……
I thot I was gonna cry….
chuck
That is an incredible story Chuck…hope the woman will keep the doggie!!
Whoa! What a story, Chuck. Thanks for telling it here.
That’s awesome!
Thanks for posting that Chuck!
Amazing story, Chuck. Thanks for posting.
That was a European commercial promoting organ donation. It was beautiful and a real tear jerker.
Hi Sue – I love your radish story. My mom encouraged me to plant radishes with my granddaughter when I first moved into my house. She figured that they sprout so quickly, a little kid would stay interested. Of course, my dad had been buying the kiddo her own tomato plant from the time she was 2, lol! And now that she’s 6 she does indeed love to help with the gardening. And the neighborhood kids all pitch in. Sometimes I have too much help, and sometimes you can’t really call it “help”. But they enjoy it, are learning something, and getting fresh air. And I love seeing my grandkiddo having fun with her friends.
Hi, Pat in Rochester,
You’re growing more than radishes and tomatoes. You’re growing gardeners! Good for you, good for them. 🙂
I think it’s time for you to write your RV Guide to Boondocking in the Western States, which is titled, oddly enough, “RV Sue’s Guide to Boondocking in the Western States”. A compendium (gee, I like that word) of places the Blogorinos would go if they were here.
I’d write it myself except that: A) My father did not name me Sue; and, B) I have only a vague clue where you go.
So it’s up to you.
No rush… We don’t leave until October, 2017. 😀
WDR 🙂
Hi, WDR,
I appreciate your confidence in me writing a boondocking guide! I’m afraid I’d have to write a second volume: “The Guide to RVSue Boondocks to Avoid Because Everyone Is Going There After Reading Volume I.”
The trick is not to publish until you’ve found new places to boondock. 😛
WDR
well I just sit down with a salad made up of chicken, lettuce, maters, bacon, eggs, olives and what do I see…….your post about eating a salad for lunch….
I must say great minds think alike….:)
thanks for the post…..wish I was in your area….to view the sunsets
chuck
Ooh, Chuck! Your salad sounds much better!
You’re welcome (for the post). I’m happy to share the sunsets with you.
I love the photo of Bridget waiting to greet you! It is so beautiful there and the emptiness of people is lovely and makes me yearn even more for it. The traffic here in McDonough GA has just gotten so out of hand. Even if you go to a Publix or Kroger ANY day of the week they are jam packed with people. Saturday I sat in horrendous traffic – sitting through 10 or 12 red lights at each one. I so wish I could move!
I am not crazy about raw radishes, but I have been boiling some when I boil chicken and they are yummy this way! They are not starchy as potatoes are, which as a diabetic and needing to lose some poundage, I am trying to avoid starchy foods. They are very good for you, too!
Hi, Jan,
You’ve been with me and the crew for quite a while. . . 🙂
I know exactly what you’re talking about when you describe the traffic in McDonough, GA. That whole area around Atlanta has horrible traffic. I used to take my uncle from Athens to the VA hospital… In Duluth, I think… or we had to drive through Duluth. Anyway, it was always an ordeal. And to sit watching the traffic light cycle through the three colors, over and over again… Yes, I know what it’s like!
What a surprising way to eat radishes… boiled! I never would’ve thought to do that. I wonder if they stay red or if they bleed into the water like beets do. Hmm.. interesting. I’ll have to try that.
Okay, I admit it; I am a twice a year poster. I am one of the most introverted people you’ll ever meet. I was walking my dog today and thought of a couple of comments for the blogorinos…
Major annoyance–I live in an apartment (single and saving for my retirement) and I was walking my dog on his leash today, when a 13 year old or so came careening down a hill with a dog pulling her like a sleigh. I start shouting “My dog doesn’t like other dogs; my dog doesn’t like other dogs” and, of course the damn dog attacks my dog, and lifting up my dog with my leash by the collar. I told her, “Don’t walk your dog if you can’t control him.”–adrenaline, I know. I know my dogs limitations, and I know what he can tolerate and I am so tired of people sending their children to let the dog out. Thank you for letting me vent about that.
Sue, as I was walking today, I was wondering. How did you learn how to do things like empty the tanks, and how to read all the thingamajigs and boxes and such for your solar power? I have been looking for years (you know that) but for the life of me, I can’t find anything helpful. I guess it’s because I don’t have the actual parts in front of me? I dunno…when you bought the BLT or got the solar system, did you know how to do this stuff or were you shown? As silly as these questions may sound, I’m sure others might have the same thoughts. Thanks guys…three more weeks until Spring Break!!!
Hi, DeAnne in TN,
Your annoyance and frustration over the dog incident is understandable. I hope your dog wasn’t hurt. I agree with you about having a child walk a dog they cannot control… also adopting a dog too powerful for its owner. I see this a lot, mostly young women with large dogs bred to protect and attack.
Okay. How did I learn to dump tanks? By reading blogs and by using common sense, I guess. Here’s a post of mine about dumping tanks that has photos to illustrate. I bet there are youtube videos showing how to empty tanks.
As for reading all the thingamajigs for my solar power, I hardly ever do that. I look for a reading of 14 volts or more and walk away mumbling “That’s good.” That’s about the extent of my solar power knowledge. Haha! Mick has answered many solar power questions for me.
Seriously, at the Casita factory I was given an orientation. If I hadn’t bought from the factory, I would have asked the person selling a trailer to me to show me how everything works. Also the BLT came with a manual and I downloaded and printed another manual provided at the Casita forum. Reine and Paul helped me set up and break our first camp, too. And, of course, when stuck not knowing what to do, I ask the blogorinos! You can do that, too, when the time comes and you’re living “on the road.”
The skills one uses when full-timing may seem overwhelming. Taken one by one, not a big deal. It’s hard to know how to operate something that you don’t have in your presence. Not silly questions, DeAnne. I’m glad you asked.
Ah, Spring Break to the rescue of teachers all over. Nice hearing from you!
Thanks so much for your answer. I just start stressing about it some days–mostly when life is overwhelming at that time, or if I start overthinking it. I’ve also checked into my retirement pay, and I won’t be making a fortune, but I should be comfortable. Thanks for being the generous person that you are.
Hahaha–I also noticed that the post was from 2011 and you only had 22 comments! I well remember those days!
And I was absolutely thrilled to receive those 22 comments!
Aww-I felt like I was in Arizona with the crew. How sweet they are! Nothing more welcoming to come home to than your best friend! Great pics as usual. The only thing that I will miss if I sell my house is my garden. I am a Master Gardener and vegetables and flowers abound! Of course, I can always find fresh radishes somewhere:)) Thanks for the great post!
You’re welcome, Linda-NC,
I’m glad you liked the post and photos. Thanks for letting me know.
Wow! A Master Gardener! Are you sure you’ll be okay giving up your garden? Sometimes I miss my vegetable garden but the feeling passes in less than 10 seconds. I like what I gained by giving it up.
The fun of being a Master Gardner and then hitting the road is getting to learn so many new Areas of plants and new insect and bird species!!! The Wonder of Nature is Vast!
Yes! That’s so true! Those are things that have enriched my days on the road. Enjoy the discoveries!
I think a boondocking guide is a great idea! But then it would cut into blogging and that’s not a good thing. But maybe?
Those birds look too big to be dovies. I think maybe one of these?
http://www.birderfrommaricopa.com/vultures–hawks–eagles–and-falcons.htm
Enjoy your blog immensely even if I don’t write all the time, I READ. Still planning my trip west in the little C late May. Just not sure of where, hate to wander and don’t especially like alone. I mean yes, the freedom of alone but meeting up with other like minded wanderers would be great. Just don’t know how to find them other than one of those clubs you have to pay $80 bucks a year for. Surely there is another way? Oh well, still time. Be safe, enjoy your peace and the coyotes howling.
i agree that they look like a raptor and not a vulture. The hawks have a shoulder silhouette that looks like your photo Sue. and they do love to soar and float.
Hi, bess… Take a look at that website… Very cool!
hi Sue, i have mad a note of the website for future reference. thanks!
one time while camping at a remote spot in south central Oregon, a woman pointed out two big juvenile male Harrier Hawks to us. she said that hatchlings often hang out together until they are ready to find a mate and these two brothers were quite a sight. and they had a companionship that was sweet. they hunted together and groomed each other and slept about two feet apart. i learned a lot that trip, and one thing was that “birders” are very generous folks.
That brother relationship describes these two very well…
Gal – try rvillage.com. There are interest groups within that site that may be of interest to you. Good Luck…. I also have a small C but not sure I’m going to make it west I understand the wandering and flying solo. Good Luck.
Hi, Gal and a cat in FL,
Thanks for the link on birds from Maricopa. I’m going to look at it and try to identify the ones I see around here.
You don’t need to join any club to meet “like minded wanderers.” Gosh, all you have to do is walk around a campground or RV park and say hello to people with a smile. RVers are super friendly. Maybe you want suggestions for something more certain. . .
Blogorinos: What are some ways to meet “like minded wanderers” when traveling?
Gal and a cat in FL….
bess in Oregon has written a comment in response to your question. It is located several comments below this one.
LATER… That’s a fabulous website! It gives details on where to see the different birds, even mentioning the agricultural fields that I can see from our campsite. Oh, happy me…
Bridget sounds like my Heidi.
Hi, Steve! 🙂
Hi Sue 🙂
Give your two “hounds” a pat on the head for me.
Hi Sue,
Your post reminded me of an old favorite poem from my childhood….”Radish so red, radish so red, plucked from the heart of your little warm bed; sprinkled with salt all over your head, and (gulp), you’re delicious !” 🙂
That is an adorable, little ditty! I love it, Gail! I need to memorize it so I can say it whenever I snack on radishes.
I am in love with your little Bridget. What a cutie. The desert looks beautiful. Hadn’t thought about planting radishes – may put some in. I didn’t plant much this year – fennel and two tomatoe plants. Take care.
Hi, Alice (So. Fla),
Bridget is in her royal bedchamber at the moment. I’m sure she would accept your love and adoration. Ha!
Fennel. Hmm . . . Never planted fennel. You must have a special recipe that takes fennel.
LATER… I did a search for fennel and learned it is very nutritious and medicinal for all sorts of ailments. If I had known that, I might have put some in my garden.
Sue,
So enjoyed your post as a former gardener I tasted the radishes when you described them. Love your little guy Reggie too. Love to all 3 of you
Thanks for the warm message, Willow. Love to you, too. I see you’re in Arizona!
Hi, Sue and crew! It’s been a while since I’ve last posted. I just celebrated a full year full-time in my RV! I cannot believe it has been that long already! And just yesterday I woke up to find out I’m once again alone in the RV park I’m staying in! It was funny, when the guy was getting things ready to move on outta here I actually thought something was wrong with my RV because of the noises I had been hearing. Instead it was his packing up! Yay! I was still in bed at the time so had no idea he was getting ready to leave.
You mentioned a few posts back about people seemingly disappearing. I certainly would have appeared to be one of them. However, my mom passed away a little over a month ago and I was quite busy with her prior to her passing as well as dealing with things afterwards. Things are quieter now so here I am again! I’ve always loved your writing as well as the photos that go with them. You have been a great inspiration to me even if my own journey has ended up at this point so very different from yours. I actually now have my own followers who are about ready to push off into the RV life! Pretty cool!
Congratulations, Deborah K., on completing one year of full-timing! The time does go quickly . . . Thank you for your kind words.
My condolences to you on the passing of your mother. Be good to yourself.
Thank you, Sue. I actually have been doing a good job of taking care of myself. Seemed like a good option to me!
Oh the joy of feeling the campground empty out while having nothing more to do than create a wonderful salad 🙂 Bridget is enjoying her retirement as well, getting to do things at her own pace, or not at all. Letting others “Be” makes for such a calmer life :-)) The fellow next to us has two female Aussies who he lets run in the morning as we are both backed up to open land. They come out one at a time and do their business and then wander a bit before coming back to his 5er. He comes out and throws the Frisbee several times to give them a bit of exercise as well. We wait to take Tessa out until they have had their morning time, because not long after that he leaves for the day and they have to hang out inside waiting for him. Funny how easy it is fit our routine to his, no need to make an issue about his pups being off leash, running loose in the field, or our pup waiting to do her business in the morning. We’re glad to be good neighbors and glad we don’t have to get up and leave our girl alone all day. Enjoy your beautiful desert oasis of calm.
Hi, Jodee,
It’s good that you tolerate a slight adjustment to Tessa’s schedule. The man doesn’t have much choice about when he exercises his dog. A complaining neighbor would force him to move somewhere else.
Too bad he has to leave his dog all day. I hated when I had to do that with Bridget, Spike, and Janie. That’s the way it is when you work a job….. It makes retirement all the better when you finally get there!
Beautiful pink sunset and only the howl of coyotes sounds like pure bliss. I hope Bridget gets her mojo back soon.
Hi, Bonnie,
Nice of you to say that about Bridget… Her welcome for Reg and me on our return showed that all was well with her. Sometimes she just wants to stay in bed.
Howdy Sue! Longtime no talk. Although we’re home now, working toward multiple yard sales on our way to our Great Escape, we spent mid January to mid February over in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona mostly boondocking starting with 10 days on BLM land in Quartzite. Good test of our solar and other mods, which passed with flying colors. We can’t wait to get back “out there” wander ‘n the West. For now, we’ll “wander” vicariously through your eyes.
That’s great, Ed! Great that your boondocking, “solar and other mods,” passed the test. It’s fun being a wanderer. I understand your itch to get back to it!
Good Morning Sue, Just my 2 cents… Red-shouldered hawks.
Good afternoon, Shirlene,
I think you’re right. And the yellow undersides of wings? Probably an optical trick as they flew against a backdrop of blue….
Me, too!!! Love radishes!! I keep them in the frig as a “pop in the mouth” snack. Love them plain, with salt or dip them in Ranch dressing.
Love the pictures, of course. Bridget welcoming you two home was so sweet!
Sending each of you a big hug.
Love you!!!
A big hug with love to you, too, Pauline!
Hi RvSue,
I do love a deserted campground! I can’t wait til we have the leisure time to just wander ourselves! Just got finished with 2 of the most strenuous days in my recent life! I took the motorcycle safety course for my endorsement and I passed with flying colors!! So, now I am supposedly road worthy. However, I will give myself a little more practice time in the parking lot. I hope in the future we can take our cycles/scooters to some parks and tool around on them. Talking with my sister last night…her dog (a big black lab rescue) ran out her front door (she didn’t realize he was in the house) and into the street yesterday and a truck ran over him. She said she stood there and screamed. When the truck had gone (it never stopped) her dog got up and came back to the house. His paw pad was the only thing bleeding-he was a very very lucky doggie!
Ya’ll take care-enjoy those silent, peaceful, deserted walks!
Congratulations, Terri, on passing the safety course!
What a nightmare during the day for your sister. I’m glad her dog survived.
In response to question from Gal and a cat in FL:
you asked for ideas about meeting like-minded people when camping and i agree that often it happens like a miracle when i have been out walking the campground during our strolls. i look people in the eye, smile and wait for a recognition of kindred spirits.
this past summer i met 3 such people. of course at the top of the list is you, Sue! we talked for maybe 15 minutes and i met your doggies, you gave me your website address and here we are sharing much more that that little encounter. i love it!
i met one couple at Tachanik Lake by Mt. Adams (WOW what a place!) where i was wandering around on the trails and my new friend Sandy, called out to me. a slow conversation revealed we had so much in common and our husbands even like each other! Sandy and i went on some hikes together and we made up a date to camp together later in the summer at Mt. Hood. we delved deeper into our pasts and our present and future dreams. we were both willing to be vulnerable. they are coming to visit in a few weeks and i know that this was the beginning of a long friendship.
the other couple we met this summer at the Oregon Coast. they have a vintage trailer too and she is also an artist. they live on a sailboat most of the summer and travel the rest of the year. immediately on meeting we knew that we shared a similar peacefulness without very much talking.
what i have learned about meeting like-minded people is that i keep trying. i am an extrovert, married to an introvert. after about 3 days camping, i start to go stir-crazy for wanting to talk to someone new. i have had to learn to not expect people to want to share. i think it is rare to find someone that will become a long-time friend from a chance encounter camping.
i love to have deep conversations and that is intimidating to a lot of people, so i am slow to approach my favorite subjects until i know i am with like-minded people. i can also enjoy superficial conversations, but only for short duration because i find them boring. i think it is important to learn to satisfy my own needs and get over the expectation that someone else will fulfill my needs. i am lucky that my husband is a deep thinker too and we both love to commune with Nature.
here is a quote that i have tried to remember:
Reconciled to reality, one either whispers the unteachable to the deaf or silently shares the inexplicable with someone who already knows.
you will know the kindred people and won’t spend time trying too hard to make a connection that isn’t there. of course, i greet each encounter as a recognition that we are all Children of God and Light. there you have it!
🙂
Another fun filled day wth the crew! Bridgeee’s face is priceless! Reg man is a kick in the pants! He’s learning…settling right in. Soon enough he will be running like the wind…off leash with no problems. Buckeye….are there a lot of cattle out there?
Radishes….and chicken salad! That dressing is one of Jules’ favorites.
Have a great day and wonderful evening. Love the photos!
Hi, Cinandjules,
I imagine you are gearing up for the move to AZ soon. I was thinking of you, living here and seeing these sunsets from your new home.
I haven’t done a lot of driving around the area. Drove out Palo Verde way this morning, cruising along, enjoying the freshness of early morning, the smell of newly mown hay…. and an occasional stink as we passed cattle stockyards. (Boo-hoo). Not many cattle in the fields. Big equestrian center between here and Buckeye. Took a few pics of horses, of course. 🙂
Hello to Jules, AO, and all the creatures around your place…
Thinking of us? How neat is that? Still a ways off…but we are excited. My sistah went and got the keys from the sellers yesterday as their home was finally ready..in Buckeye!
We can’t wait to EAT real food! Flying out in May….mooooooving in Sept or so.
It’s been very windy..tree branches everywhere…Spent the day shredding paystubs for the past 33 years! Why? Can someone tell me WHY I saved them? Yesterday was spent scanning and saving my 1040’s for the past 33 years. Again…someone remind me why I’m doing this? They suggest saving the last 7 years…but apparently I didn’t get that memo early enough in life.
AO says hi back!
Hi guys, looking forward to seeing that signature changed to CinandJules (AZ).
You’ll fit right in and remember with modern AC AZ is a wonderful place to be. I spent as much time indoors in my years in snow country as I do here in summer. You do not shovel heat and it’s not bad mornings and evenings on those hot days….
Hello Jim how are you and Ms Detta? We are excited and looking forward.
We made sure the home had a pool. AO doesn’t like the waves of the lake…hopefully she’ll float with us in the pool.
Detta’s doing pretty well again, just the inevitable aches and pains that we oldies are prone to. Thanks for asking. You’ll love it out here and next year when winter comes you won’t have to deal with the weather….
Hi all you blogeroos, it is great to see a beautiful post and read the comments by all. I especially love the radish talk. I do miss my therapy garden I enjoyed at my house a lifetime ago. I guess that makes me sound old when I read it. I am not, just have been through a lot of changes in the past two decades.
My planning for rv life is becoming more concrete. I have decided on my heat source and cookstove; coal. Soon I will choose my super efficient 12v fridge and food preservation methods. After that, look out Mick…I’ll need that system designed, Bless you for offering your help. I really couldn’t do it without you. Or without you Sue! Or any one of you. You all add so much to my plans and confidence for my next journey.
That trip might start sooner than I have planned too, since I am dealing with a new property manager/owner that are asking illegal things about my Service Dog. So we’ll see if I stay till June or grab a suitcase and go sooner. Fortunately I have a fair housing entity helping me
.
For that gal concerned about meeting those of like minds while traveling rv wise, I suggest trying the fiberglass rv.com site. There are many meetups scheduled and the only cost is what you would pay camping anyway. There are groups for just about any kind of camper out there. Another good resource is meetups. It’s a smart phone app that you can use to start a group of those with like interests, be it radish noodle winding or rock collecting.
Anyway, it is lovely to see Reggie and HRH so happy, and hear happy news from you Sue.
I intend to try rv gardening using a windowbox to grow my own greens, herbs and now radishes! Yum!
Hi, Lisa,
I love how your comments radiate energy and enthusiasm! Even when you’re dealing with the property mgr./owner issue, you are positive about your options. It’s interesting reading the details of your plans — you think “outside the box.”
Enjoy this day!
Hi guys I’m back! I’m still in Hoag Hospital, on the Pacific Coast Highway, I my fabulous ocean view room. I have continuing problems with my heart rate so I have another surgery Thursday morning to install a pacemaker. After that I will eventually e moved to a rehab, probably on the weekend. I still have a fair amount of pain, still have trouble breathing, but everything is gradually improving. I am so happy to be here! I can’t write much, I get very tired. Thinking of you all with love.
Hey kiddo! Ocean view. That’s awesome!
Glad to hear from you! The Drs will get you squared away…your job is to keep your spirits up. Pain is due to the route the Drs took to fix the problem. It will subside with time as you heal!
Know that you are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Rest up…it helps with the healing process.
Pacemaker…..go energizer bunny!
Yeah Desert Ginger! You go girl, wooohoooo. And woopeeee. So happy to hear from you. Hey, make sure you get a warranty on that new ticker, kinda like a Timex….
Hi, DesertGinger!
You are making huge strides, and will be getting much stronger with the pacemakers help. You soon will be making plans to go home, working on Knife assignments, and looking forward to new adventures. Your future looks bright! 🙂
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers – stay strong! Sending you a loving hug! 🙂 xxxooo
Good Morning Desert Ginger! So happy to hear from you. Sounds like you are doing fabulous. Keep in touch when you feel up to it.
Thanks for writing as much as you did, Ginger. How great that you’re “so happy to be here”! I’m sorry that you have pain and difficulty breathing, hopefully comfort and ease are right around the corner. For now I’m glad that you’re where you need to be-at Hoag, on here and in terms of progressively improving. – 🙂 you are also in my thoughts with love.
Ginger! I’m so glad to hear from you! Please do what they tell you! The rehab will be a good benefit to help with moving and pain.
Kay from KC!
Hi, Ginger!
Thank you for making the effort to send us this update. Lots of folks have been concerned for you, wishing, hoping, praying for you, and I’m sure many are happy to hear of your progress. Although you are experiencing pain and discomfort, now you have hope (Yay!) where before you felt like there was none. Get that pacemaker and better days are on their way! I’ll be thinking of you tomorrow morning.
Thank heavens you are receiving excellent care . . . and with an ocean view! Love ya!
Hi Desert Ginger!
Welcome back to the bloggorinos! You sound so optimistic and energized….once that pacemaker is in there will be no stopping you. In the meantime, happy thought for your next surgery…you’ll soon be in rehab at this rate!
OH my gosh, I rarely have time to scroll through all the comments, but today I did and I found your post!!! So glad to hear from you, although Jolene had done a good job of keeping us updated. The docs must feel you’re strong enough to have the pacemaker surgery, so that is a good thing. I hope the pain subsides and the pacemaker helps you to stabilize. Prayers are still coming your way. Thanks for taking the time to let us hear from you 🙂
Hi, Sue,
Welcome back! You were missed! I am glad you were able to catch up with yourself and are feeling better. Loved the pictures of the Crew. The last sunset picture looks like wisps of pink cotton candy floating in the evening sky….so beautiful!
Sending you, Bridget, and Reggie wishes for a quiet night, and hugs from me and Gracie pup! Love ya! 🙂
P. S. – No mention of gunshots disturbing Reggie. Has the firing range been quiet?
Hi, Denise – Richmond VA,
Thank you for the sweet welcome and good night wish for me and the crew. We had some “challenges” last night which I’ll blog about…
I looked at that pink cloud photo again and, yes, you’re right — It does look like cotton candy. Wish I’d thought of that when writing! 🙂
There were gunshots on Sunday which put a damper on Reggie’s fun. During the week the range is quiet. I’m thankful for that. It continues to be peaceful here.
Wishing you and the Gracie pup a happy day!
Hi Sue. Not sure if your “challenges” were anything you might have needed help with but I am parked just below you at the end of the road if I can help. I met you at Roosevelt Lake a year or two ago and loved visiting with you then. You might remember it because I had the best campsite in the campground and when I got ready to leave you pulled in to that spot as I pulled out. I am in the high top white van and travel with
a little overactive dog named Tony. Would love to visit with you again. I had a knee replacement in January so I don’t go too far from the van. HUGS Cheri and Tony.
Great to hear from you again, Cheri. Of course, I remember you and Tony the Terrier! 🙂
I’m in a middle of a big project right now, the kind that has to be finished today. Also dealing with another issue which I’m hoping will resolve on its own by the end of the day. Sorry to be cryptic; I don’t want to start a flood of comments while I’m offline. Will you still be here in the morning? Reggie would love playing with Tony, I’m sure
Thanks for offering to help. It’s something I need to do…
I will be here for several days. I have a dr. appt. on the 8th in Chandler. Just hanging out trying to strenghten this new knee. Sometime tomorrow I need to go into town for a quick shopping trip but I am up by about 9 in the morning so come on down whenever you have time. HUGS
The crew and I will see you at your campsite around 9:30 then! 🙂
Sue,
You may dismiss this suggestion out of hand but I offer it anyway.
Patches has reacted to fireworks with some nervousness in the past so I was concerned about her reaction at the gun range. When I arrived the first time there was no shooting happening yet. We started on our walk and were relatively close when the fist shot went off. She flinched but did not over react. As the shooting increased she seemed to ignore it.
I then left her in Desperado while I was shooting perhaps 75-100 yard away. She sat in the drivers seat and watched me all the time I was out there and never barked, never did a thing except sit and watch.
The second time we went to the range I did the same thing – short walk, a little shooting happened then into Desperado while I was on the range. This time she watched for a while and then went back to bed.
I think Reggie just needs to be exposed to the shooting. Try walking with him while there is some gun fire going on and see if that does not take away some of his fear. Good luck and remember that YMMV!
Hi, Ed,
No, I’m not dismissing your suggestion “out of hand.” In fact, I already implemented your technique, although I didn’t think about it much at the time. The other day the gun shots were audible here, right at the time before sunset when Reggie needs a walk. Even though he was huddled in his bed because of the shots being fired, he couldn’t turn down a walk! And I wasn’t going to let him skip the walk because he’d be up half the night without it.
Off we go with Reggie walking next to my ankles as the gunshots continued. It wasn’t long before something caught his interest and he was sniffing and lifting his leg, running ahead of me and all around, according to his usual habit. He didn’t lose his awareness or fear of the shots completely, but, like you experienced with Patches, the exposure put him on a path toward tolerating them.
It will take longer for Reggie than for Patches because I’m not going to target shoot in his presence. Thanks for writing about this and the good luck wish. To tell the truth, I forgot about walking him during gun shots, until I read your comment. I’m going to make a point of doing that with him.
Add in a “snack treat” during the gunshots and I bet he loses his fear of them!
Thanks, Sue! 🙂
Just a quick update. I do have a cancerous tumor on my tongue. I had two cat scans and my head, neck and chest and they are clear though and that’s good news. I’ll be having surgery on the 10th to remove the tumor and a couple of lymph nodes. The doctor thinks he can remove the tumor and just suture the area and if the lymph nodes are clear, everything should be ok.
Toni, I’m sure that was scary news but it sounds like you will be ok! Please keep us informed. Prayers….
Kay from KC!
Hi, Toni,
Thanks for sharing this with us. I’m glad that your bad news was followed by some very good news! I like the confident tone in your comment which I believe comes from your doctor’s confidence that this is something he can fix for you. Even so, I’m sure it was scary wondering what was going on. Keep in touch!
I will continue to keep you in my prayers, Toni. Sending you a hug! 🙂
Wow – that must have been a scary diagnosis, but it sounds like you and your doctor have a good plan. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
I would think container gardening would be snap. I would get2 or 3 plastic dish pans. Put a drainage hole or two in bottom, fill with some good soil. I would plant a nice bushy cherry tomato, some radishes?, maybe some quick growing lettuce. Grow myself a nice Salad!
It could be done. I always have to be careful what I add to my life and our space. I think “Do I want to lug pots of soil in and out of the BLT?” and “Do I want to clean up the mess when the pot tips over while we’re bumping through a desert wash?”
you have been doing your RV living for long enough to know what will work for you Sue! and like you said above, sometime later when you have your own plot of land somewhere, you can return to gardening.
i once saw a big RV in a campground that had several houseplants on the dashboard catching sun. i assume that when they were driving the houseplants had to be moved to a safe place. to each their own, right?
It’s a safe bet that those houseplants didn’t belong to a solo full-timer. A couple can take on more tasks. We solos need not over-extend ourselves. Although there are people who have way more energy than I have!
I like that DesertGinger is thinking about planting tomatoes and radishes. She’s got her optimism back! 🙂
Hi Bess!
We’ll be moving soon, leaving Missouri for Oregon, of all places! We plan on taking our time on the way out in our camper,my husband driving with me following with our car, loaded with houseplants! Hopefully they will all fit in our old Subaru Forester. Looking forward to finding a house east of Portland, but in the meantime, looking forward to a period of houselessness!
Our plants are large and heavy, so Sue is right to be concerned about the extra work. Hopefully, we won’t have to get them out of the car too much.
hi cc and canine, YAY to moving to Oregon. will you be close to Portland or further east in the mountains? there are lots of wonderful towns near there.
i transported my huge houseplants from Oregon to California to Washington and back to Oregon in the 1990’s and they all survived. some leaves got a little bruised but i wanted to continue to care for them because they give me so much pleasure. so i know you will be able to do it!
Our son, DIL and granddaughter are in Damascus, so we are looking in the Clackamas, Damascus, and Gresham area…But everything is sooo expensive compared to here.. about double! But the camping in Oregon is extraordinary, compared with here in Missouri.. We’re looking forward to exploring our new home state.. What area do you live in??
i am in downtown Eugene, about 112 miles south of Portland. we (my husband Barry and I) haven’t explored camping up by Portland too much. we mostly go to the Coast or to Central Oregon or up the nearby rivers and stay in Forest Service campgrounds. very cheap and beautiful. i love waterfalls and there are tons of them in Oregon.
there is a housing shortage in Portland and bidding wars on houses. our friend just had to bid $100,000 more than the asking price to buy her house
!