Saturday, November 22
I know, I know, I’m a slacker. I haven’t had any inspiration to write a blog entry the past few days.
Bridget and I are still at the same boondock near Roosevelt, Arizona.
We like it here!
Globe is about 25 miles away and has everything needed in the way of services and supplies. Globe has a Wal-Mart, Safeway, and Fry’s. I zip over to Windy Hill Campground to take showers and fill the water jugs.
The weather is great and it looks like it will continue that way.
So why haven’t I written a blog post?
Gee. It’s hard to develop a story line about cleaning the refrigerator.
Or reorganizing cabinets. Or vacuuming the Imperfect Tow Vehicle. Or any of the other puttering I’ve done around our campsite. This is the puttering time of year. I’m trying to work up the ambition to do the annual waxing of the Best Little Trailer. I’ll probably be ready to do that by January.
Bridget and I drive roads in Tonto National Forest in order to walk new trails.
One day we climb to a very high place from which I take the photo below with my camera’s zoom. I can hardly see this couple with the naked eye. Evidently they know that keeping fishing lines apart maintains marital peace.
Not much fishing on Roosevelt Lake at this time of year
Another day we take a drive across Salt River.
Bridget and I walk a rafting access road to the almost dried-up river.
Today we journey into Globe and I talk with Duane at the body shop.
My purpose is to take another look at the premises in order to plan where I will park the Best Little Trailer while the Imperfect Tow Vehicle is made perfect again. I’m pleased to find Duane at the shop this Saturday noon.
Turns out I won’t have to camp at the body shop!
The door arrived from the salvage yard on Friday. Unfortunately it’s silver, not white, and therefore will need to be painted. That will be done on Monday. On Tuesday I’ll drive from our camp near Roosevelt Lake to the body shop in Globe to arrive at 9 a.m.
Duane says it will be ready by the end of the day!
This makes me very happy. If it had been necessary for us to spend the night at the body shop, I wouldn’t tow the BLT back to this camp. I like this camp, and now I know Bridget and I can stay here through Thanksgiving weekend.
For that I’m thankful!
From the body shop Bridget and I motor over to the laundromat ($10.75) up the street. Nothing unusual to report there.
I’ve developed the habit of adding Calgon to the washing machines at laundromats. Traveling from place to place I don’t know the hardness of the water in any particular area. Calgon takes care of that. Clothes come out brighter, whites are whiter.
Okay. That’s enough home ec . . .
I did get a giggle out of watching a guy try to enter the laundromat carrying a basket piled high with laundry.
He tried to balance the laundry basket with one arm in order to grab the door with the other hand and pull it toward him. Realizing he couldn’t do that, he set the basket on the ground, pulled the door toward himself, propped it open with his foot, picked up the basket, and jockeyed his way in. (I would have held the door for him, but I didn’t get to him in time.)
Hmm… must be a laundromat newbie…
Anyone experienced with laundromats knows you turn around, stick out your behind against the door, press backward, and you’re in!
rvsue
THANKS, RVSUE SHOPPERS, FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
Here are a few of the items purchased recently:
Melissa & Doug Benson Black Lab
HP ENVY Wireless All-in-One Color Photo Printer
Bemaystar Women’s 5 Pack Fashion Plaid-Maple Leaf Wool Socks
RenogyⓇ Foldable Solar Suitcase Battery Charger 100W
Wisdom Panel 2.0 Breed Identification DNA Test Kit
Soft Heat Micro-Plush Top Low-Voltage Electric Heated Twin Mattress Pad, White
My co worker is reading the series you’re reading! I may have to join in…
Crystal
I’m almost done with the Outlander series. I’m in the middle of the 7th book. Quite a story…
Where is everyone? Am I…..
wait for it……
FIRST?!
CONGRATULATIONS! 🙂 First AND second!
I’m sitting here watching McKennas Gold which was largely filmed in Glens Canyon. Beautiful scenery much like where you are.
That’s by Page, right? We were near there not too long ago.
Yes, just west of Page.
Beautiful area…..
Hope we make it back there.
Yay Team and Joy of Joy the ‘ITV’ will soon return to the ‘PTV’ in true Cinderella form… YAY!!! No line or waiting at the body shop! 🙂
Nothing much else to share… planted 11 trees in Hoquiam today with friends and tomorrow will go look at our train project (and take cookies to those guys). We have an old caboose that we are rehabbing… fun times in a small town!
Hugs from you guessed it!
Barb
Well, aren’t you a good citizen of Hoquiam! Have a great time tomorrow, Barb.
Glad that you’re still enjoying that secluded camp. Nice that the door will be fixed in the PTV in just one day. I know what you mean about the season to get various chores done. I’m in the process of waxing my rig this week. Whew!
You’re waaaaay ahead of me, Pleinguy, if you’re waxing already. The BLT needs to be washed and heaven knows when I’ll get that done.
Hi Sue!
Well I even enjoy reading about your world even if your just doing the regular life stuff we all have to do. Ok so here is what’s happening with me. I pick up my tiny home on wheels on Tuesday and bring it here in front of my mobile home. On Wed. I’m taking my virgin trip up to a 4 day Sertoma Bluegrass Thanksgiving Festival. I’ll be parking my trailer right next to two of my dear friends. They used to have a truck like mine but now they have a brand new Class C and it is a gorgeous one. My friend Neil will help me with my backing in and working with the propane etc. I’m excited and nervous too. I’ll bring my pups of course and I bought a really comfy huge camp chair. I am making lists of what I need to bring and it should be fun. I still feel a emptiness having holidays without my beloved Mark but he’d want me to do this and to carry on for the both of us. Excitement, nervousness, sadness, happiness all mixed together. What are you doing for Thanksgiving? Any interesting idea’s? I am just thankful to be alive and feeling well and having the good friendships I have.
cyber hug to you and Bridg
I didn’t say where I’m going for the 4 day camp festival. It’s only about an hour drive but that’s good for a start. 🙂
I hope your time over the holidays will be very special, Deb!! It must be hard!!
Nothing is the same for me Elizabeth. I think this is why I’m doing things I’ve never done. It’s a heartbreak but he will travel with me. This little trailer is going to change my entire lifestyle and way of doing most everything. Hope the dogs will be happy with such a small area. thank you for caring…. you just don’t know how this helps me.
I am not yet where you are, however due to some of the griefs in our lives, as well as some positive things too, we have made some major changes in our lives too. One of those is how we do holidays…actually more not, than anything…but it is a way of peace and we are fine!! But all changes do take time for adjustment. So glad you have some good friends!!
Hi Deb,
No need to be nervous about your rv journeys. As you will quickly see, a small bit of practice which comes thru the trips and you’ll be an ol pro. I’ve traveled with two dogs in a small popup and they love it. They have there own queen bed on one end! How much better can it get?
Looking forward to hearing about your first trip. Just have lots of FUN!
Thanks will do!
Hi Deb, Chuck and I will be in Crystal River come January! If you are still in the area, wed love to meet ya! Hope your Thanksgiving camp with friends was full of smiles!
I am excited for you, Deb! Having good friends to help you learn your systems and to help you get comfortable backing, etc., is the perfect first adventure! Have fun! 🙂
It’s funny how things work out. Yes I’m so glad to have friends there. They just happen to call and tell me what they were up to and when I said I am getting my camper Tuesday they were like hey join us for some good times and all the help you could need. I believe I have a special angel helping me get through this thing called life. 🙂 thank you for caring
Sounds like the perfect maiden voyage. Have a great holiday.
Your great attitude will get you through. I hope you start a blog so we can follow your escapades.
Hi, Deb!
I love the way you are jumping into this new way of life! What a wonderful way to start out… friends at hand to help and a festival to enjoy. I know you will do fine and make great memories.
I’m not overlooking your ache of not having the love of your life participating in all this with you. You are doing the next best thing… Going ahead with your life, as Mark would have you do.
“I am just thankful to be alive and feeling well and having the good friendships I have.” I admire your courage and positive attitude, Deb. I can hardly wait to hear about the weekend and your experiences with your new rig!
Hugs to you and your pups…
thank you Sue I so appreciate you and your wonderful blogerino’s! I’m the type of person that totally dives into what ever I do. Example : I make a painted hat and it sells and so I paint 50 more. Or I decide on something and I go for it. Just got back from the store with cute stuff for my camper and have a big list of things I will bring. I’m so excited.
I have to go on and I want a life of adventure, friendships and peace.
Happy and safe travels, Deb!
Hi Sue,
Just wanted to wish you and Bridget a peaceful and joyous Thanksgiving from Geordie and me.
Robert
Thank you, Robert. I wish you the same. We have much to be thankful for, don’t we… 🙂
Thanks a lot for the laundry tip, Sue….I wish I knew before I begin, how to get the smell out of some blankets borrowed from my daughter….hubby thinks her cats got to them….I simply do not know….but they need something!! I am going to add vinegar to some water in the washer first off, then try a couple other products I have and see if it will work!! You know, maybe we should take them to the Laundromat instead!! Not sure I will want to put anything in the dryer unless it smells pretty good!!
I make my own powdered laundry detergent and everything smells nice and fresh, like it’s been dried in the sun. I think because it has washing soda in it. You may want to try something like that if the vinegar doesn’t work. Hope you get the smell out.
My nephew washed a blanket in my washer that a cat had peed on. Took me 2 days to get that smell out of my washer. I would highly recommend laundry facitlites good luck
Mert
Gross!
There is something about an article that a cat pees on….you can wash it a zillion times and somehow the “other” cat can still smell it…and will pee on it!
We don’t even bother….if the cat peed on it….it gets thrown out!
PS: Cruiser was sick and now resides at the rainbow bridge.
Oh I’m sorry for your loss!
Sorry to hear of Cruiser’s ride to the Rainbows bridge,,,,,,,,,,Sniff ,,,,,,,,,,,Timber
sorry I wasn’t specific
Cruiser passed away while I was in CA last winter.
Well, sniff sniff , all the more, looseing not good any time ,,,,,Timber
Don’t take a blanket with cat-pee on it to the public laundromat. Please. 🙂
As a user of public laundromats, I agree.
I always smell the washing machine drum before I put my stuff in….Ya never know what was in it!
in regards to the dog hair…I vacuum her blanket and couch throw to minimize cling ons before washing it! I also wipe the drum out after my load is done!
Dog hair and our septic tank / leech field don’t mix!
We’re going to be using laundromats–great tip about smelling the machine before using! Sue, thank you for the tip about Borax–I was going to put it in the black & grey tanks along with Calgon but will use it at the laundromat instead & use Dawn & Calgon in the tanks.
Hubby and I are not sure that is what is on it…but don’t worry….we will either wash it here or forget it!! The first one I did (was not very bad) and used just vinegar in the first load (maybe a cup to a small load) and next load was my laundry soap and some oxy stuff….came out ok. But not sure how much I will mess with the rest…esp. after reading here from others….
It’s a rainy night in Texas, to paraphrase a Brook Benton song, and it’s the good kind, without high winds, thunder, lightning, or the dreaded hail. We definitely need it, the whole area has been in drought conditions for quite some time. I had some turkey chili (Jenny Craig, not homemade, but tasty) and some black bean taco chips for dinner. It just feels like a chili kind of night.
I’m glad to hear that the door repair won’t take as long as you had expected and that you can stay in your great campsite through the holiday weekend. Your description of the laundromat newbie made me laugh!
I will be dog sitting this coming week so Thanksgiving will be spent at home, curled up on the couch, watching movies and football. The dog sitting is a new part time venture I started recently, to give me some dog love without all the responsibility. We shall see how it goes.
Hi,, Cari,
All this talk about chili is making me want to get out my chili pot!
Yes, it was happy news to know that we can stay here through Thanksgiving and continue to enjoy peace, quiet, and the company of those beings who don’t talk.
Dog-sitting! How clever of you … I hope your new part time business is very successful. Enjoy being a couch potato this Thanksgiving! Sounds good to me…
Cari,
How nice of you to dog sit….it sure makes leaving a pet someplace so much nicer when someone has it who loves animals!! So much better than most boarding facilities we ever used.
Thank you, Elizabeth. I have had two dogs in the past but don’t have one now, so I view my dog sitting as getting my fix LOL And I can have the animal companionship and fun without the long-term responsibility.
You can be thankful you have such a nice camp spot at a beautiful lake with hardly any people, even if a small tradgedy did occur. After all you can’t go on forever living your life of bliss, with out a banged up door every now and then. You can relax now as Mr. Murphy is all paid up 🙂
Hi, Joe,
I like the idea of having Mr. Murphy “all paid up.” 🙂
I look at it this way… If I take what I paid for the PTV in 2011 and add to that the cost of having this door fixed, I still can say I’ve had good, reliable transportation very cheaply for close to 4 years…. and I hope for more years to come!
And some of us live the life of Murphy every day! 😉
Cute.
Hi Sue
Your comment about “Home Ec” made me giggle.
Like that second pic a lot, very pretty. Glad you can stay in your site a while longer.
Do you mind if I ask? This will help when our turn to travel comes. When you drive to the campground to shower an fill jugs, is there a fee? Our fresh water tank is small, only 18 gal, so I expect we will need to find more at times. I need to learn the rules of boondocking…we have an outside shower, but guess you would have to contain the grey water. Oh well, won’t be going anywhere this winter, maybe next year.
Not much happening here. Mild again, snow is melting . Now I am going to make myself and the Weiner dog a bowl of popcorn, his favourite snack…:-).
Hope you and Bridget have a lovely Thanksgiving with no clingers.
No, the third one…is my fave, all good though. 🙂
Thanks.
Hi, Val R.,
To answer your question about whether there is a fee to take a shower and fill up water jugs…
Yes, there is a fee. In order to camp in Tonto Recreation Area or use any of the facilities (day use, boating, showers, restrooms, water spigots, etc.), one is required to display a Tonto Pass ($6 regular/$3 with National Forest Senior Pass). Those rates will go up soon, btw.
Signs say “All parked vehicles must display a current Tonto Pass.” Even if one boondocks on a forest road within the boundaries of Tonto Rec Area, a pass is required.
Re: your comment about the outside shower. You could use your outside shower and let the water run into the ground as long as you weren’t in a campground or other developed place like a picnic area, and were not close to a water source (distances in different areas vary… 25 ft., 100 ft., whatever).
Thanks for the Thanksgiving wish. 🙂 I hope yours is good, too!
Thanks Sue…all helpful info
Hi sue,
Ouch on the fender bender, but pleased to see you have got it under control. I hit a jungle gym once on a playground ( long story, was at night no one around and my friends house was behind the school) needless to say, embarrassing story.
Been a fun filled 2 days here. My birthday was yesterday (51) and Asia mae’s was today. And since she LOVES to open gifts. She tore into mine before I could even pick them up to look at them. Then she pouted because she realized they were not her gifts. So I had to wrap 2 of hers last night so she could open hers. Yes, I know… I have created a spoiled little brat. What can I say.. She lights up my world and makes it such a better place. This evening she opened the rest of hers…. My ears are still squeaking from her 5 new squeaky toys. She gets a glaze of wildness over her eyes when her presents come in to be
open. Needless to say… Both of us are worn out!
Cold cold cold here in north eastern Kentucky. We have been very lucky with only a few flurries so far. But they are calling for the worse winter since 1977. Petrifying news for a former Florida girl. I will thaw out around may! 😉
Happy trails to you and the baby girl. Peace love and health to all!
Mert & Asia. The birthday girls 😉
Happy Birthday, Mert! 🙂
Thank you very much!:)
Happy Birthday to you and Asia Mae!
Thank you!
Happy, happy birthday Mert!
Thank you
Congratulations on reaching another year!! Many more!!
Thank you
Hi, Mert,
I hope your birthday was all you hoped it would be. The same for Asia Mae. That’s cute about her wanting to open presents. You brought to mind something about Spike I had forgotten.
When we lived in our house in Georgia and Spike was a young boy, I came out to the room where the Christmas tree was set up to find Spike opening up presents under the tree. What a guilty face! I wrapped up a bunch of “presents” for him after that …
I do hope your winter turns out to be milder than expected. Thanks for the sweet wishes for me and Bridget.
May this year be a very good one for you and Asia!
Thank you sue!
I can not put presents under my tree… Asia opens them all. Has since she was a puppy. She absolutely loves to open gifts. I have never seen her get as excited as she does opening gifts. 🙂
wow Sue, that’s great news that the ITV will be the PTV by Tue evening, see what prayers will do? And the photos of the Salt River look great too. Happy Thanks Giving ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,us
I was just in the last post, commenting to Weather, when I got your new post delivery. Neat. ,,,,,,,us
On Herbs,,,,,,,,,,
Happy Thanksgiving to you, Rusty, and to Timber, too!
I love hearing about your regular days. I have a new neighbor in the park, in a casita. He’s been living in it 7 years, and at the end of the season (end of March according to him) he’s selling it. 10k he said. Hmmm….. Interesting. He said it’s the one with captains chairs which is not my fave, but 10k is a good price for a 2007 casita.
I didn’t do any homework today; I was bad. Have to do more tomorrow. Yuck. Oh well, it’s almost over.
Happy you get to stay at Roosevelt lake a few more days. And that the PTV will be restored to its former glory.
Have a good night, DesertGinger! 🙂
Hi,, Ginger,
Hope you continue to feel better, as reported in your last comment.
Your neighbor won’t have any trouble selling that Casita. As soon as word gets out, it will be gone!
Good luck with the homework…
Hey Desert Woman!
Reading whatever you write is always entertaining! Cleaning and organizing the BLT/PTV might be interesting. Like how do you keep the dirt/sand out? Or how you maximize space?
A silver door is better than blue! The PTV will be back to perfect in no time! Had to laugh at Micks suggestion of walking from the body shop to the PO! He’s quite the character! Still waiting on the details!
Nothing happening at the laundromat? WHAT gives? Did you watch and see if he separated his load..whites/darks etc. Too funny!
I do AO’s laundry at the laundromat due to the amount of hair. OMG the folks that are there sometimes act like they are from Mars!
Freezing rain going on in the ADK’s. Our roofs are clear of the snow…broke the snow rake in the process! Buffalo had 88 inches in 3 days! A heatwave is coming which is bad news for them.
Enjoy your evening and the rest of the weekend. Hopefully you’ll have a peaceful stay!
That’s some serious snow, enough to break the snow rake! 🙂
It is 32 now. Tomorrow will be a bitter, cold, rainy day. Perfect for finishing chores inside. Stay warm!
It’s not the rake itself…but the clips that attach the poles together ….so you can reach waaaaaayyyyy up there…keep springing out!
Can the clips be replaced or do you need to buy a new rake?
Ok, I just updated to 8.1.1…your turn! 🙂
Perhaps if we lived in the city….but not up here.
8.1.1. Not yet, I’m farming on Hay Day and Tom’s running!
Hi, Cinandjules… I hadn’t read the news lately. I thought for sure “Buffalo had 88 inches in 3 days!” was a typo on your part. I immediately pulled up the news to check. Good heavens! Why does anyone live there?
You’ve given me an idea for a way to make bad stuff easier to cope with… I’ll say to myself, “Well, it could be worse. I could be in Buffalo.”
Buffalo ALWAYS gets hammered because of the lake!
But 88 inches in a couple of days is enough to drive anyone insane!
I’m encouraged that you have days in retirement with nothing to write about – isn’t that the goal? To just be… with no pressure? Just post when something out of the ordinary happens, there are great wildlife or flower photos to share, or you find an interesting boondock camping place to share. Your readers want you to be happy, not to pressure yourself to write constantly. We appreciate your sharing, but don’t want it to be a burden.
You are very considerate, PJ. I appreciate your thoughtfulness.
I don’t fret about the blog. I do, however, feel a responsibility to keep the posts current. For many reasons. Because my readers are faithful and have been and continue to be good to me… Because people shop Amazon from my blog… Because of the love shown Spike and the many condolences sent to me at the time he passed on… Because of the concern for me and Bridget… All the good that I receive from this blog, too much to list here.
Thanks, PJ.
Good evening, Sue,
Sounds like many of us are in cleaning mode. I was taking care of some chores today as well. Great news that the PTV repair will not take as long as expected!
I went to go see the movie “Gone Girl” tonight. Wow – lots of twists! Definitely worth the price of admission. My friend’s book club read the book; she said the movie was pretty true to the book and very well done. Ben Afleck starred…oh, so easy on the eyes! 🙂
Sweet dreams, Sue and Bridget!
Hi, Denise,
Going to the movies can be risky these days. Glad you chose a good one that you enjoyed!
I have been sittin today, getting caught up on all the blogorinos , too distracted to do much other than putter.
I found,out this morning that my best friend, my friend with the Scamp, we have been besties for over thirty years…
Anyway, her grand daughter was in a vehicle accident early this morning about five. She was a passenger in a car driven by her best friend, started kindergarten together. There were six kids in the car..they had gotten a wild idea to drive up to San Francisco last night after seeing a movie. Also in the car was her grand daughter’s boyfriend, another boy, other girls….
Then the tragady struck when her friend who was driving fell asleep at the wheel…all the other kids were asleep too….
The friend was killed, grand daughter’s boyfriend is brain dead….Another girl has a broken back and it isn’t looking good for her to ever walk again. My friend’s grand daughter has a now repaired broken femur, lower back fractured, upper back fractured, pelvis fractured in two places…so she is looking at months in a back brace, months of rehab. But she isn’t paralyzed or dead….don’t know about the other two, they were mediflighted and it is said they are expected to recover…..
I am stunned….I feel so bad,for my friend and her daughter, the mom of the poor broken daughter. Her daughter is a beautiful young woman, a cheerleader..active…this is going to be so horrible for her.
I was told five of her friends from school are up at the hospital tonight so they can support her when she is told her best friend is gone and her boyfriend is also…
No one had seat belts on….driving tired…inexperienced….and now so many lives are shattered.
So dear friends, hug your kids and your grand children..life can change in a instant…
It isn’t on the news yet, but the tribal drums have spread the word…
I remember once pulling a similar stunt, we drove up,to the ‘city’ and ran out of gas on the San Francisco Bay bridge..and my dad had to come rescue us…thought he was going to ground us for life…but he was so relieved he just hugged us…so hug your kids…and count your blessings…I sure am…
Oh, Lee, I will keep you friend’s family in my prayers. So tragic…
I am so sorry!
Thoughts and prayers
Sending heartfelt prayer for all involved,Lee,you set an impressive example by including choosing to count your blessings while having such sorrow touch you.
What a tragedy, so sorry. Prayers to all.
Oh Lee, I am so sorry to hear about your friends Granddaughter and her friends 🙁 I agree, children (and MANY adults) do think they are invincible. I will NEVER understand why folks don’t wear their seat belts.
Absolutely tragic and heartbreaking. Thoughts and prayers to all involved!
o m goodness that is just about the worst thing anyone could imagine…so sorry for the young ones to suffer such a tragic loss so early in life–you are so right I’m very guilty of not staying in touch with the people I love who are not living close by…thank you for reminding me I must do better.
A tragedy of immense proportions. I’m sorry for all those it touches. May God help you be the friend needed now, in the near future, and for the years to come.
I hope your friend’s granddaughter heals. Such a sad event. Best wishes.
May the Lord put a bunch of healing in that direction ,,,,,,us
This also Northern CA resident also sends thoughts and prayers. Tried to look up the accident info based on your description looking for a update on the kids but could not find it. Where exactly was the accident and how are the survivors? Feel so for the families. Years ago a terrible accident took several young lives of Travy young people and years later more in a collision with a train. Lives are changed and people remembered but nothing is the same. Every year on the anniversary of the train accident someone mentions it on Facebook. Tracy, for those who dont know, is a community about 55 miles east of San Francisco. May loved ones and friends surround those families involved and may their friends learn the difficult lessons this accident presents.
Sorry stupid auto check changed Tracy to Travy. Sue you may fix if you have time. Thanks
Velda, the accident was here in Tracy, on 205.
We can’t understand why it hasn’t been on the news. I would imagine the Manteca Bulliten will have it tomorrow as the kids were from there.
As of tonight my friend’s grand daughter has had her broken femur repaired, she will be months in a body brace so her spine can heal , the also discovered her shoulders have fractures too.
It was a boy that broke his spine, my error, he is having surgery as I write. The girl that was flown to U C Davis is expected to live, the girl that was taken to Stockton has similar injuries to Shelby, broken bones, but they said she was injured worse than Shelby. Shelby ‘s boyfriend was taken off life support tonight . So two dead four maimed .
It should be in the news, don’t understand it…it was a carload of popular kids, active at school…this needs to be out there, to help parents I,press on their children to be careful…oh and I was also in error, it was a BMW and bothe the kids in the front seat did have seat belts on, CHP came talked to them late last night and gave them a report…
Thank you so much for your kindness and support…all of you, what a lovely ‘family’.
Tracy was where I grew up from age 5 and I still own my childhood home there, so have some emotional ties as well to the community. Manteca is close by and some of my classmates live all over that area and had not heard any chatter so hopefully no one I know is affected. I will continue to pray for the families.
OH my….oh so sorry and will remember your grandchild and the others in my prayers. I so well understand…it was Nov. 16, 1974 when a drunk driver snuffed out my brother and left my dad and my brother’s fiancée with backs broken and other injuries. Tho’ they survived. We were to have gone up north for my brother’s wedding 6 weeks later….but it was not to be. Those families will never again have the kind of life they had and holidays will be a torture for a long time to come. Being so close to both the Nov and Dec holidays!! I hope their friends will continue to hang in there with them for a long time. Those who just sat with me and listened I will never forget. SOOOOOOOOOOO sorry to hear this!!
Just catching up. Oh Lee, I will be praying for that family. Heartbreaking news. May they find God’s peace through this unimaginable tragedy.
Oh, Lee J, that is heartbreaking. Kids always think they are 10 feet tall and bulletproof. They hate to be treated like babies, but these long trips are too often just too much. Someone falls asleep and they are killed or injured. It is hard being a parent or a grandparent. One hates to constantly be saying, “No”. Youngsters learn from experience, but some experiences are just too horrible and the lessons too painful. I think it’s a miracle that any of them survive to become adults. I am so sorry for all of the families who will have this to live with.
Your last photo is truly beautiful, with the colors, shadows, and sense of calm. This Thanksgiving we are all thankful for your sharing of Boondocking life complete with pictures. Wishing you a peaceful and restful day at your site.
And I’m thankful for kind readers such as yourself, Mary. You make blogging enjoyable.
Whatever your plans for Thanksgiving (or lack of them, like me), I wish you many blessings to be thankful for!
Good Morning Bloggerino’s, RVSue and Miss Queenie. Yep, like you RVSue, I cleaned my Buggy yesterday! I still cannot believe the dirt and dust that is always EVERYWHERE! Now that I am in this RV Resort, I will be washing and waxing my home. I will feel much better when that is done.
So Miss Queenie has been hiking a lot! That is wonderful news. I can only assume that her limp is much better 🙂
Super news about the ITV…somehow things do seem to work out don’t they?
Hi, Krystina,
I hope you are enjoying your new location. I looked at the RV park’s website. I remember seeing that park when I was in Wellton. It looks nice.
Good place and time to clean and wash your rig. When you leave there, you could try a night or more of boondocking very easily. Cross the interstate to the south side, go past the church and the golf course until you see RVs on the left before the canal. You won’t get stuck if you park with the RVs. I got stuck because I had to go off by myself. . . .Anyway… That’s called Coyote Wash.
Or maybe you’d rather not boondock after enjoying the amenities of the RV park! 🙂
Bridget’s limp is much better, thank you.
This park, Tier Drop RV Resort, is pretty amazing. I only signed up for one month to see how I was going to like it…so far so good. I went to the Club House last night and played bingo (yep I did) and had a blast. Bingo is similar to watching grass grow! Monday is crafts in the Club House so, just maybe, I might be able to get my quilt done that I started 39 years ago…BC (before children) when I still had a bit of my brain intact. It is now AC (after children) and I have no brain at all. What’s my hurry??? Thanks for the boondocking tips!! Give Queenie a kiss for me xxoo
Loved the fishing boat picture with the quote about “marital peace”. Nice tip on adding calgon to the different washers/water you experience. You are turning into a regular Hints from Heloise gal 🙂
Good to see you here again, Patti. I do appreciate your loyalty to my blog.
A “Hints from Heloise gal”…. That’s hilarious when one knows how un-domestic I’ve always been!
Often I note skill,wit,humor,well applied drama,etc. in your choice in titling a post.This one is a new favorite!Your hopeful,happy exuberance expressed there and within the narrative makes me smile as much as Duane’s news did.I just love seeing everything’s timing give you just what you want for your oh-so-sweet home,camp and holiday.
With just four beautifully taken and chosen photos,a snippet of story,the lightness of your mood shown in a laundromat’s scene getting you to giggle-you conveyed what’s making you thankful right now.I appreciate all that takes and the gift you’ve given me by doing it.Hope yours and Bridget’s day is bright,mine surely is more so now 🙂
Hi, weather,
You always lift me up! I hope you are well today. I’m looking for “the lightness of your mood” in your comment, not wanting any of the blues to be with you from yesterday. If this little blog post softens any aches in your heart, it’s well worth the effort.
Well, perfection will never arrive on a Tuesday, or any other day of the week. It’s fun to think that it will! 🙂
Whether you have glints of sunlight on the water or wind and whitecaps, know that you are loved.
Your last line touched me throughout like a sudden silken sunrise,thank you ever so ,Sue.Perhaps you’ll see a richness worth even more than the lightness in my mood you’d hoped for in my telling of one(in a series) of the epiphanies I’ve been given.
Realizing that I’d have to be heart and brain dead not to feel the loss -of what was far beyond just a marriage -that my husband and I had,I expect to and do have occasions of being intensely aware of that.The blinding pain I was lost in left in time,believe me life now isn’t painful,no pity is needed,understanding is all I am trying to establish. Yesterday I was left afterward with a particular pathos and compassion for him and myself-by seeing something about the years he’d still been here .
In trying to fulfill each others destiny and dreams,there were inevitable sacrifices made.Though his were many and heroic ,I noted one I’d made- living in this building for so long.You see last evening I read about someone leaving the full timers life, who’d bought a house,proudly shown photos of it…looking at it repulsed me.Not, mind you,because they’d decided to change their lifestyle or that their new home was ugly.What I found repulsive was seeing too many walls keeping nature just beyond reach and things that in truth I’ve always found suffocating.
Prior to my marriage I lived in wee cottage,intent on a far different path than living here allowed.The exchange brought me exquisite happiness on levels unimaginable by most, I’m deeply blessed to this moment by it all.I’ve zero regrets,am simply mentioning those years involved restrictions because the truth remains- that One fashioned me to see,carry, live and share a story while wandering this creation- .
Wisdom told me not to leave this place too soon,lest carrying sorrow,being unhealed, fretting over possible future remorse at walking away from a jewel like asset… mar my future.I needed to see- literally- an RV next to the alternative of a house that “happened” to appear on my laptop’s screen because I think in pictures.The glow from this jewel and what it’s held will always be in me.I’m ready now ,Sue,on the inside-the material was never a concern I honestly cared enough about to let be my focus.All I wanted was the truth.
Even I’m amused at how wild it seems that nearly gagging at polished counter tops is key to knowing what that is for me Kinda fits,huh? 🙂
Have always heard from those who have already walked this same path you are, Weather, that one should make no major changes for at least a year. I am glad that you are doing so well…I think there will always be days that come that are harder for a time…in any grief in life. While yet being grateful for what you had. It sounds as if you always had a good life with him. A real gift to have such. I have a good life now, but I have many scars too. What I saw my grandparents have was so rare. They were never outward with affection to each other, but the respect, honor and care they gave each other spoke volumes. We found an old college theme my grandmother had written about her life and my grandpa, after she died. It was so clear how happy she was. He had the most wonderful gift of story telling and making other laugh…he could make anything funny!! Laughter was such a large part of their lives. I hope in the future, only good places will be yours…whatever it is that you decide to do.
Hi Elizabeth,thanks for mentioning that those experienced in being in my position say that .You make me feel better about what sometimes feels like I’m dragging my feet,waiting until I’m convinced to my core that the changes I want to make are the right ones.I’ve wondered so many times if my penchant for only feeling like myself while in nature this time was wanting to run away.
Because I’ve been like that since infancy at times this year too often I thought maybe it’s time to grow up,scolded myself for being “stuck” in inactive mode in so many ways that I’m not used to.I suppose it’s natural when reality suddenly feels unfamiliar for a believer to “stall” until God makes it very clear that it’s OK to be who you are and act/live like it, because He made you that way on purpose,unusual or not.
So moments like the one where I see a photo online that disturbs me,pray asking what that means,hear inside reassurance it’s just more proof that I’m not meant to be in a house unless it’s on wheels,then read your note saying my pace is good-well,it’s very precious to me,dear.
Your sharing about your grandparents was also a beautifully worded reminder that some folks marriages are really rare.I hope only good places for you ,too,friend.You help me more than you know,are always so honest and kind..weather
Good morning, weather,
Last night I read what you wrote above and then I read it again… and again… savoring your revelation.
A flood of images came to mind yet I couldn’t put into words a response commensurate with the “richness” you conveyed. I tried several times and my words, although earnest and heartfelt, seemed to trivialize your experience.
This morning I see Elizabeth’s reply and I’m grateful that she shared with you.
Yes, when polished counter tops bring on a gag reflex, you’ve been given a clue! 🙂
Thank you, weather. I look forward to learning where Truth leads you.
Good morning Sue,I know exactly what it’s like to become frustrated by not finding just how to say things so not say anything at all.Several times I’ve deleted thoughts here and left until later,myself!As I think simultaneously on transcendent/spiritual levels that include the ordinary most often- words that are clear enough to make plain to others the subject elude me.Trying to reply without diminishing the topic is also an issue at times,simply because it finds me unprepared by prior contemplation on it.Sounds like that’s what you experienced and I love that you “studied” my words as though they had value rather than dismiss them or find them out of place here.
Thank you for telling me that was the case,and for not just leaving a flippant reply.At times “What the heck is that supposed to mean,what are you going on about,geesh,cantcha just say howdy for once,you’re too much work ta be fun.”
is what I consider some think reading my words.
As this reply is becoming an example of that I’ll just add that I know you earnestly care about me and your pause before replying wasn’t taken to mean anything other than it was-being a bit stymied about how to respond to friend.Happens to me ,too,if they matter enough for me to care how they feel.Therefore,I take this exchange as a compliment.
Now I’m going to organize a few things that make me glad instead of gag, smiling because of your reply 🙂 !
🙂
Thanks for sharing all you do, Weather…your love and kindness for others shines through so well. I think sometimes be it a church, a group we belong to, or just society in general make too many demands on those in grief. It is work and it takes time. And why make a mistake in being hurried to change anything at all…I feel certain you will just know what to do, when the time comes. Yet, I have not walked your path yet…but in some other areas of life, I have. Others, even ones very close to me, certainly did not understand the ways I dealt with my brother’s death. Some, even my hubby’s sister, never have said to this day, that they are sorry. Something simple goes a long ways. But people simply are who they are. I struggle often with being understood too….seems what I am trying to convey just does not always come across well. I am grateful that you seem always to understand!! Thank you for that. I hope you had a great time with the grandson and that whatever you do for this holiday will be a blessing to you!! We won’t be with kin until Sunday…but we 2 are just fine being here us 2. Found a little cooked turkey breast to warm up and will do a few other dishes alongside…but simpler than the huge productions of the past. I love what it says in Ecclesiastes….there is a time and a season for all these different parts of life (my words here). Wishing you all the best!
You convey your heart with your words,Elizabeth,I find that both easy and truly pleasurable to understand.Your wise to know that with certain deep grief or wounds real healing only comes through work.Some you mention have not had to experience what we have,I’m glad that they haven’t.Many have,yet live suffering- without Providence’s guidance to do the work-and need compassion.I’m saying that I agree -demands or advice are often poorly informed and best left unheeded.
It’s wonderful that you’ll celebrate the holiday twice!So will I,Thursday here quietly giving thanks with the troupe,Saturday the whole shebang nearby with others.
🙂
My Mom used to say “perfectly good enough.”
You had me chuckling through the whole post – I could see you at the keyboard with that “Who’s going to care that I cleaned the dang frig?” look on your face, yet ready to reach out and check in with your tribe 🙂 And you had to share the pic of the couple fishing – I mean Bridget is the best traveling companion, but I “get” that they are the picture of marital bliss! For me, the best news about the PTV door is that you can stay put through the holiday weekend! It is my absolutely least favorite time to be on the road (so naturally we’re driving north on Sunday). Love the last pic of the cactus with its fingers crossed 🙂 .
Hi, Jodee,
Readers say they like it when I write about every day activities. When I do type up something like cleaning my refrigerator, I can’t help but think — “What an inflated self-image you have to think anyone should care about the interior of your refrigerator!” How can something that bores the socks off of me be interesting to anyone else? The mysteries of blogs . . . .
Do be careful, stay safe, as you travel this Thanksgiving weekend and have a wonderful holiday.
Know what I think it is? It is common experience..we take joy in having a job to do and doing it well, isn’t that one of God’s blessings? So you cleaning your house.. Is golden!
I think you’re right about that!
Sue, you are living a life some of us have yet to join…so yes, even things, everyday things, are what we enjoy hearing about. It does not mean an inflated ego to do so…and besides no one is forced to read here…it is a choice. I am always on the hunt for better ways to do things too…have had to use Laundromats at times in our lives and I simply hate bringing home cigarette, pipe, etc. smoke on my clothing….with it being my worst allergy and all. So I do appreciate hearing what others do….and now with these smelly blankets….have not attempted a worse one yet….still debating what to do…
🙂
Your abode is so cute!
Noticing your water jugs….
Are you ever hesitant drinking water from an unknown source?
Hi, Cinandjules,
The spigots I use to draw water are tested regularly and designated for drinking. Even so, I don’t drink the water from spigots other than after it’s been perked into coffee or boiled for tea. I use it to cook with and for the dog dish. The water I drink comes from the grocery store, not because I’m afraid to drink the spigot water. I like consistency of taste.
Sue you look settled in nicely…good news the door change will be a simpler task than you were thinking that is a relief I’m sure! So what you cooking on Thanksgiving? We have decided to eat out since half the family is not here now… It suits me just fine…in fact my fondest Thanksgiving memory was the one year (that i didn’t have to host a meal) we all decided to travel to Myrtle Beach as this time of year is off season and rates are down and crowds are gone, we booked adjoining rooms, played putt putt golf, beach combed, did a little shopping, and then went to a delicious buffet for the meal with all the trimmings!
Hi, Sondra,
That was a good idea — to go to Myrtle Beach on Thanksgiving. Great memory for all of you!
I won’t cook anything special on Thanksgiving. I like to keep the holidays as normal (as usual) as I can, because, when you come right down to it, every one of my days is a holiday. 🙂
Enjoy the Thanksgiving dinner in a restaurant! I used to take my mother out to eat on Thanksgiving and it was a special time for us both.
Hi Sue! Wasn’t it last year during puttering time that you put up your curtains? Seems to me you accomplish quite a lot during putters. Putterers seem to me to be happy folks–they take their time, don’t have a schedule & probably even whistle while they work. Jim’s a putterer & he’s one of the best people I know. I liked the puttering that Rusty did on his trains–I wonder if he has them with him now? We’re 43 days from lift-off & are just about ready to shift from puttering to git-er-done. Whew…
You painted such a sweet word picture in your last post–holding Bridget’s face in your hands & kissing her…thank you, Sue. Thank you for being here.
You’re welcome, Dawn.
Yes, it was last winter that I put up the curtains. The mini-blinds that came with the BLT from the factory were dust catchers. I like the curtains. Dust doesn’t cling to them and they wash easily. That’s important when one drives on dusty forest roads a lot like I do.
Only 43 days… well, now only 42… until launch. Yippee for you!
Checking in after an absence……No I have not been anywhere, but have just read about 10 entries to catch up with where you are and what you and Bridget have been doing………….such picturesque places you have stayed and the photos are glorious. Glad things have been rolling along ok apart from the imperfect tow vehicle…bad luck about that but these things happen to the best of us. Glad to see Bridget doing a little better too……….happy days……. XX
Good to know you’re still reading my blog, Glenda. Thanks for dropping in to let us know.
Happy days to you, too! It’s not Thanksgiving week in Australia but it is here so let me say… I’m thankful for faithful readers like you!
Good morning, Sue and fellow blogorinos,
It is a beautiful, sunny morning here. I am volunteering today and tomorrow for the Salvation Army Angel Tree program. This has been a holiday tradition of mine for over 20 years. I also “adopt” a couple angels. This year, I have an 8 yr old girl, and a 4 yr old boy. It has been fun shopping for Barbie and HotWheels items on the little one’s wish lists!
Hope everyone has a wonderful day! 🙂
Hi,, Denise,
Wow! Twenty years! I admire your commitment. Thanks for reminding us to find ways to help others, especially at this time of year.
🙂
So nice giving Denise…and shopping for children is the most fun of all!! Thanks for sharing!! Hope you will have a fine holiday doing whatever it is that makes you feel happy too!!
I just wanted to jump in and say hi to everyone. Been kinda busy here for three days but we’re getting ready for our little Thanksgiving meal. We won’t see any of our Grandkids this year so it’s just Detta and I and she insists on making a Turkey dinner so we’ll celebrate together. If I don’t get by tomorrow I hope you all have a great day on Thursday and Sue I hope you’ll go to town and get a turkey dinner somewhere and I know Bridget would love the contents of a doggie bag. Keep ’em flyin’ gang!
To Jim and Detta…. Have a very happy Thanksgiving Day!
Happy Thanksgiving, Sue. We count among our many blessings this year our opportunity to visit with you for just a little bit and to keep up with your adventures via your blog. We will feast on the traditional meal at the Riverside here in Laughlin tho we did pick up a tiny little “Butterball” to roast in the crockpot for “leftovers”. Wishing you a wonderful day, your way, with a freshly facelifted PTV.
Good morning kgdan,
Just returned early November from the Riverside. I left “Uncle Don” a small donation. While I was there I walked up to the rv park. When your in Laughlin is that where you stay? If so, how is it? Might take the dog and trailer out there for the bowl games around New Year’s. Thanks for the info.
WTXCal
Yes, we do stay in the Riverside RV Park. We love it here in the coldest months— we are spoiled
It took us 3 yrs to get this site—- people stay here year after year. It has a beautiful view & is at the end of a row so we only have a neighbor on one side. That’s important for a Casita dweller among the big guys. Very nice facilities (tho not luxurious). Can walk to showers & laundry.
Happy Thanksgiving, Gil and Kathy! I, too, am thankful for the time we had together … for your friendship, not to mention your great food… Ha!
Hi Sue and Happy Thanksgiving and happy healing for the PTV. Even in it’s damaged state it’s still the Perfect Tow Vehicle for you. Haven’t commented for a while cause we spent 5 weeks on the road with iffy Internet. Read your blog on my phone but I don’t type well on tiny keyboards.
Joyous news from here is that we’ll have TWO new grand babies next year. One March 2 (unless she decides to show up early) and one around July 16. Kinda changed some camping plans but we DO have our priorities straight and babies come first. Well, actually the babies may come second since we’ll probably end up keeping their big sisters when their mommies are in the hospital.
We’re still loving the pictures, your writing style and your blog about reality. There was an article in the paper yesterday about folks enjoying retirement more if they practiced enjoying CONTENTMENT instead of trying for excitement all the time. How true. You are a great example of contented retirement.
Wow! How thrilling! Two new people to join your family… I’m happy for you, Paul and all who welcome the babies…
Once again you reveal your wisdom. Yes, I am content and happy . . . and grateful.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Sorry I haven’t been responding lately. Our signal here is not too dependable! I rushed past the comments so we could take this opportunity to wish you a happy Thanksgiving! I cannot believe it’s been 4 years since we shared turkey in T or C! Time flies! Glad you are getting you door fixed! This is our last week as camp hosts at Big Flats Campground! Dec will find us doing something new! Keep warm! Keep happy! We will be thinking of you on turkey day and thankful you are our friend!
Yeah, the time has flown by… Good to hear from you. Enjoy your last week at that campground and have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Love to you, Chuck, Doogie Bowser and Radar!
A woof from the boyz to their sweetheart and have a restful Thanksgiving.
As access to your laptop may be unavailable while Duane fixes the PTV,you might not see the wishes I’m sending for you until they’ve come true.Whenever you find this know this is among them-
May this day bring what your hopes for it held,may whatever you and Bridget need as you wait be graciously given to you, may your home feel as wonderfully welcome to return to as ever-Happy Tuesday,Sue!
Good Morning Weather, I think I missed an important comment from you while I was gone…sorry, I would have like to have said something warm and wonderful to you, but just know that these words are being said with the same intent. Moving forward is difficult and to be done in one’s own time…you are so in touch with yourself, I am sure that when the time is right, something will come down singing from the roof tops…”NOW” and we will all be right here with you for all the support, love and encouragement that you need. Again, I will be out of town during this Holiday, and spending it with my two lovely daughters that I love soooo much…but there is the recess of my mind, I will be thinking of you and of course Sue and Bridget, enjoying your day in each your own special way….Love to you as always
Shirlene, your love,understanding and totally delightful picture of that moment’s arrival IS warm,wonderful and perfectly timed,as usual.Love you,too,friend-Holiday and every day hugs 🙂
Thank you, dear weather.
🙂
Good Morning Sue, I had coffee by myself this morning, but was aware that I missed a couple of mornings with you and the blogorinos…I will be leaving town for the Holiday and not be back until already one week into December…I will be reading your posts and loving everyone of them, and even enjoy just hearing about cleaning out your fridge….How can we feel like we are living this with you if we do not know when it is time to clean the fridge and sweep the BLT…Happy Holiday to you and Bridget and I hope you are feeling the warm and loving wishes that are coming through the electronic highways and byways….We all love you and Bridget and share the Holiday with you both. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving doing what ever makes you feel happy and thankful…
You have a wonderful holiday, too, Shirlene. Thank you for that sweet message to me and Bridget. Take care.