Rejected!

Friday, January 23

With 300 comments (and counting) under the previous blog entry, I’d better post something quickly, even though I’m not prepared!

If you didn’t see the comments under the post, “Hodgepodge!”, I encourage you to browse through the many topics discussed.  Wow!  What a fun group!

I don’t have any new photos. 

It’s been very breezy here at our boondock in the Sonoran Desert near Why, Arizona. I don’t like to use my precious camera when sand could be blown against the lens..  Not that the wind is strong enough for sand to be visible.  It’s not like Lawrence of Arabia or anything..  However, a gust could send tiny particles of grit . . . .

I’ll rely on my “second string” photos.

These are the photos I rejected for one reason or another.  Like the photo I took — or tried to take, rather — of Bridget hopping around the side-door of the Perfect Tow Vehicle.  The photo was going to illustrate her excitement over making a trip into Ajo.  That was the plan anyway.

Here’s the photo . . .

1-P1020257And, yes, Bridget, this pic makes your butt look fat.  So there!

Photo rejected due to uncooperative model!

While in Ajo I took several photos.

Some of those photos were taken to add a bit of “local color”.   Church signs can be wry and cute and such.  The more I looked at this one, the more it bothered me.

1-P1020263-001Jam is a good thing.  Jams, not so much.

Sure, I get what the church is trying to tell us, but “Fruit That Is Allowed Also Creates Many Jams.”

Photo rejected on a technicality!

One can never have too many sunset photos.

True, although this next one didn’t measure up to the others I’ve shown.  The colors are intense and incredible and all that.  However, this sunset photo lacks something.

1-P1020270The end of another day in the Land of the . .  . Poles?

I know what’s missing.  Where are the saguaros’ arms?

Rejected due to lack of arms!

Okay, enough of that for now . . . .

The bees left.  Just as quickly as they appeared en masse, they left the premises.  Not one straggler at the dish of water.

I finished the book about Red Cloud. 

I see that fifteen of you ordered the book for your kindles.  At $1.99, what’s to lose, right?   I started reading a collection of short, first-person accounts from the journals of pioneers on the Oregon Trail.  That held my interest for a while.  I’ll go back to them later.

Now I’m reading about Geronimo.

I switched over to Geronimo: The True Story of America’s Most Ferocious Warrior
(as told by Geronimo).  Too early to tell if it’s a good read.  I hope it will give insight into the life and mind of this famous Apache warrior.  Another cheap kindle book, only 99-cents as I type this.

When will we move camp? 

The 14-day limit rule means we need to break camp next Tuesday.  I don’t know if Bridget and I will stay in the Ajo-Why area or not.  (Why Not? as the local store is called.)  It’s a convenient part of the desert in southern Arizona and pretty, too.  Quartzsite area is packed with RVers at the end of January.  I’m not interested in the Big Q this year.

I want to stay in a low elevation area for warmth, of course.  Yuma is, well, Yuma.  Oh well, no reason to hurry on a decision . . . . Live in the moment.

Oh, update on animal tracks! 

Of course, no animal walked across the area I raked smooth.  As if a javelina or mule deer is going to go, “Over here, guys.  See that smooth spot?  Now step very carefully so your tracks don’t get messed up. ”

I do think the night-time visitors are javelina. Bridget and I found a mess of tracks further up the lane, not clear enough for a photo.  The prints were close together and pointed every which way.  Deer walk gracefully.  Javelina trot around.

We didn’t find any scat.

So that settles it. 

Our night visitors are constipated javelina!

1-P1020216I’d never reject this little girl.

rvsue

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234 Responses to Rejected!

  1. Utah Bonnie says:

    I wouldn’t be in a hurry to move either. It looks like you’ve found a bit of paradise right where you are.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Utah Bonnie,

      If it weren’t for the 14-day limit, we would stay right in this spot for a few more weeks.

      • Question (probably a dumb one), Sue,

        You’re in that park, which is part of BLM land, right? And the rule is you have to move after 14 days, right?

        So, what would happen if you merely moved to a different campsite? But in the same park?

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Hi, Cindy,

          Yes, this is BLM. No, that’s not a dumb question.

          You have to move at least 25 miles away. In some areas of national forest or BLM, the distance is 30 miles away.

          See my reply to Applegirl NY below that includes the rule in italics.

          • Ah….I see.

            Well…now I understand why people like Tioga George would only drive a few miles a day. I always wondered how he stayed so long in the same region.

            Thank you for the thorough answer. So now the question is…is there a place 25 miles away that’s just as nice?

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              Not that I know of. Twin Peaks Campground to the south in Organ Pipe is less than 25 miles, I think, plus there are a lot of people there.

              To the east is the rez, to the west is Cabeza Prieta Wildlife Refuge (no RVs), and to the north is Barry Goldwater Air Force Range.

              That’s okay… We’ll find something and come back here again another time.

              As for George, if my memory is correct, while in CA he did a lot of stealth camping (in parking lots, on streets, in industrial areas, etc.) which meant he had to keep moving.

            • Yeah…he did do that.

              Ha! I remember a post when he stayed in a Home Depot parking lot for a few days, because he was both removing his awning, and waiting for the person to show up who was going to buy it.

              That one cracked me up.

            • Oh…I forgot to ask…are you allowed to stay on any rez?

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              Usually a permit is required to camp on a rez. I don’t know about Tohonto O’odham. Boondocking on a rez is not desirable for many reasons, IMHO.

      • Another question about BLM lands;

        I may have missed this on other posts, way back when you first started, or something….but how do you “find” these campgrounds?
        Are you strictly using the Benchmark Maps, or is there either an online or hard-copy BLM locator that you use.

        I would think ‘online’ would be unreliable since signal can be spotty.

        I mean what did you use when you first decided you were going to be staying a lot on these lands?

  2. Shirlene says:

    Yippeee…..new page, new comments…whew…..over 300 comments on last post…What is your record?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I’m not sure. I think there were close to 500 comments under the post about Spike’s passing and none of those comments were mine. I’m still astounded and touched by that outpouring.

      • Shirlene says:

        Amazing! What a reach you have 🙂

      • Gayle - SO CAL Beach Boomer says:

        There’s an RV blogger meet-up at Q tomorrow. Are you going? I read about this at kimbopolo.

      • Gayle - SO CAL Beach Boomer says:

        Technomadia said that the etiquette for campsites not being bothered is to turn camp chairs around so you back is to the road. Would that work for you?

        If not, you could make a sign that says:

        I AM NOT RV SUE.
        I GET THAT A LOT.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          That chair thing might work in campsites where people gather. I doubt it would work in places where I’m camped all by myself.

          If I person ignores my “no visitors” message, I doubt the position of a camp chair is going to make an impact. Besides, I’ll put my chairs how they’re convenient and pleasing for me.

  3. kristine barr says:

    Brigid does look thinner the the rejected photo. All you write about and photograph still remain interesting to me.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      That’s good to know, kristine. Thanks for telling me. 🙂

      • Gayle - SO CAL Beach Boomer says:

        In addition to wanting to read your “nostalgia muses,” I’d love to see more pix that qualify as “outtakes”!

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Okay. 🙂

          • Gayle - SO CAL Beach Boomer says:

            Rick Steves does travel logs on PBS, and ends each show with his outtakes. It’s hilarious how much can go wrong in the otherwise perfect-looking world he creates. I’m sure you have a few of those yourself — like “Bear! stay right there til I get my camera!”

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              Or the “perfect” photo I worked hard to obtain, a downward shot on a cactus, and there’s my foot sticking into the frame.

  4. Leander Linda says:

    I bet you would have a great time with a game camera. I set one up here on my little ranch to see what critters are coming around at night. It’s like Christmas every morning, when I check the camera and see a bunch of photos are on it.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You’re right, Leander Linda. I would love to see what wanders around our camp at night. It would’ve been fun to post a pic of the bear that rocked the BLT . . . . and then there was a mysterious creature we never identified that climbed on top of the BLT, leaving muddy prints…

    • OOOOO…like the kind Nat Geo uses? How cool!

      What kind do you have, Linda?

      • Timber n' me says:

        It, a game camera , would also be good for security of un wanted night visitors and day visitors when your gone from home. Gotcha! you varmint ,,,,,,,,,,Timber

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          I hadn’t thought of that, Rusty!

          • Sondra-SC says:

            I was thinking the same thing! Stayed in a cabin in CO about 3 yrs ago..friend had 2 horses grazing in a secluded valley way up in the mountains…my sis and I were lucky enough to be allowed to stay up there for a while…he had one of those motion activated cameras mounted on a tree…we had a great stay in the cabin, he told my sister later when he checked the camera on the dates we were there he had photos of several elk, several Big Horn Sheep and one Mountain Lion!! (:o

          • Pamela K. says:

            A word of warning about the wireless game cameras… they act like the Baby Cams, the Web Cams, and the Security Cams. They often work off the computer or the TV settings. They are also sadly subject to reverse signal hacking! When done, they can monitor your home inside from the outside hackers, near or far. Just a heads up that they are great for their intended uses but can turn on you with a dime. So…only consider the free-standing digital camera kind that is NOT wireless to your stuff! It does mean extra steps to go out and retrieve it, download it to the computer or TV but they are MUCH more secure and private! The wireless ones do have codes to set and paswords to help protect privacy but a good outside scanner or hacker came attack it just the same. I am sure someone on here has more knowledge of the techno than I do so just keep these points in mind if you do decide to buy one. The battery kind is the best, imho.

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              Good of you to share that, Pamela. Thanks.

            • AZ Jim says:

              That is only a problem if you fail to delete the default password and use your own. Those cams are used by hunters to determine game in the area of the cam. They are ideal for your purposes.

            • Don in Okla says:

              The game cameras I have use a SD card for photo storage. I check them every few days to see if any two legged or four legged critters have been coming around the place.

            • Libby Nester says:

              A friend of mine in a campground caught a person looking in her trailer window at 2 a.m. with her wildlife camera. What a shock.

            • Pamela K. says:

              UHF is what is used for the wireless TV connections for many of those cameras. Even with using your own passwords, they still can be scanned and viewed by others when broadcasting. Says so right in the fine print and the FCC statements. Ones that are freestanding digital and use a scan-disk card operate differently. They are mostly USB connected to computers or TV input or Video in-out settings. Game cameras are no different if they use the Video in-out or UHF settings on the TV.

    • Gayle - SO CAL Beach Boomer says:

      Like Christmas every morning — what a great way to start the day!

  5. JanisP says:

    How about the Shea Rd. BLM area just outside of Parker; have you been there yet? It’s supposed to be nice.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, JanisP,

      No, I haven’t been there, although I’ve been to Parker to pick up groceries. Is it crowded? Is there any place to be by oneself?

  6. Terri From Texas says:

    Hi RvSue,
    Is that the road behind your trailer in the last photo? How close to the road do you have to camp normally?
    Your photos are cute-you have a very high standard of picture taking if those are your rejects! The sunset pic is stunning-even without the cactus!
    When we were at Big Bend last October there were so many more Javelina running around than I have ever seen. A whole herd ran through our campsite one night when we were sitting out. Our dog, who usually barks, (at home) sat very still and alert. I don’t know if he was scared or not-but I wasn’t too thrilled. Javelina can be dangerous. When we moved out to the country I saw a feral hog (of which we have many in the area) probably the size of a small car cross the road.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Yikes, Terri, that feral hog could do some Major Hurt.

      It’s interesting how you described your dog sitting very still. Bridget did that one afternoon while we were sitting outside. She took a few steps around the BLT toward the wash, with ears perked and nose twitching. Usually she barks. This time she froze. I didn’t see anything.

      I’m not sure about the required distance here on BLM land. Rangers seem to be lax about rules around here, as was my experience the times I camped off of Darby Well Road. They have other stuff to deal with. People stay a lot longer than 14 days . . . .

      We’re less than 100 feet from the road. In choosing this site I went by the recent tracks leading up to it and other signs of recent use.

      How close do I normally camp in relation to the road? It depends on the rules at the different ranger districts. Some, like Coconino NF, want you within 50 feet. To answer your question: No, that isn’t the road behind the BLT in the last photo. It’s a clear area as appears in the desert normally.

  7. UPCDebra says:

    Rejected picture? It is stunning! You captured a picture of a Suguaro nursery. These babies are not yet 75 years old, but you knew that. Bridget’s butt is cute too.
    Have you camped near Safford, AZ (has everything), Gila Bend? Maybe I missed that post. It is a bit cooler there, but for me the draw is the hot springs. My fav is a funky, hippy (minus drugs and drama) clean place called Essence of Tranquility (and it is). All day soak $10 (private rooms with natural soaking tubs) and $15 to “camp” onsite. I was there in October. Usually, it’s honor system to pay. Don’t think anyone will bother you and the surrounding area is gorgeous. Maybe there is a secluded place for you nearby. I have long wanted to drive over the mountains NE to Albuquerque.
    I’m not too fond of jams-either kind 🙂

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, UPCDebra,

      Let’s see… UPC… United Postal Code…. I’m kidding…

      For the benefit of all of us not up on abbreviations or reading this from another country, is the Upper Peninsula something… where?

      We camped near Gila Bend recently (Painted Rock). There’s plenty of BLM land around there, some of it is mountains…..

      No, we haven’t camped at Safford… I hear Roper State Park is nice, a bit pricey for us though.

      I did a search for Essence of Tranquility. Anyone interested can click that link.

      • JanisP says:

        The Upper Peninsula is in northern Michigan!

      • Wow…this place looks really cool!

        However, it doesn’t say if you can bring your dogs, or not. Funnily, on their Contact page, they have a ‘Help Wanted’ posting, with exchange for lodging, and it says THERE no dogs.

        We stayed overnight in the Safford, Walmart parking lot once…lol

        • UPCDebra says:

          Yes, it is a wonderful place. In the middle of the night, I have gone into a tub. There is a cute, fully equipped lodge with self catering kitchen – open to campers, but not day users. Website “camping” says pet friendly for guests. Looks like she prefers no pets for the caretaker position. She might be willing to have just the right person/pet. Worth asking!

      • UPCDebra says:

        Ultra Petita Casita
        Looks like it is Spanish for extra small house, but actually, for us non-Attorney types, Ultra Petita, is a legal term for being granted more than was asked for – As in the judge awards 10m when only 6m was asked for. I like the play on words.

        Sorry, my mistake – It is Gila Box (Riparian National Conservation Area). Lots of water. Fingers remembered your old campsite. It is 20 miles NE of Safford.
        http://www.blm.gov/az/st/en/prog/blm_special_areas/ncarea/gbox.html

    • cluelesscampers and canine (Eastern Missouri) says:

      Thanks for the info on the Safford area….we’ll definitely add this to our “must see” list (it’s growing by leaps and bounds!). Sue’s blogorinos are so helpful!

    • Sondra-SC says:

      I really loved that reject sunset the color was so orange I love that color here ours are usually pink/purple I love the reds and oranges!

  8. Bonnie says:

    “I know what’s missing. Where are the saguaros’ arms?”

    You must be in a young forest.
    It can take up to 70 years before a saguaro grow arms.

    Enjoy,

    Bonnie

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Bonnie,

      There are both young saguaros and very old saguaros around here. That’s one of the things I like about this camp. The vegetation is very healthy and robust. Not covered in dust from vehicles and looking forlorn. Yeah, those are youngsters. I thought they made the photo look a bit weird though.

  9. Diann in MT says:

    Sue, you are so stinkin’ funny! Constipated javelinas! That is a hoot.

    Here is another hoot. I am the “marquee -maker ” as our lady minister calls me, tor our church. It’s fun to create politically correct and non -offensive messages within a limited amount of space. Of course the sign in your photo should have read, “fruit create”. As in the words of the famous Church Lady “Isn’t that special!”

    I am really glad those bees left, Sue. As if I am a big worrier, I was afraid they were the Africanized type. You have special mojo. I should never admit I worry about you.

    Keep having fun, and if you think of a snappy msg for the marquee, let me know! Ha ha!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Diann in MT,

      You’re the person behind the marquee! Oh boy, we have to help you with that….

      You’re sweet to be concerned about us. No need to. What will be, will be, and in the meantime girls just wanna have fun!

      OKAY, READERS…. Seen any sayings on church signs that Diann can use? (To trolls: Nothing offensive please.)

      • Diann in MT says:

        Thanks! Let the fun times keep rollin’!

        • Kay Dattilio says:

          Diann in MT – How about – Men and women chasing each other is what causes the human race!

          I read that years ago on a church sign in Phoenix and think it’s a cute one!

          Great Pictures, Sue, whether rejected or not! There are no bad pictures of the divine Miss B!

          Kay from KC!

          • rvsueandcrew says:

            Hi, Kay! Thank you!

          • Diann in MT says:

            Kay,
            That is soooo FUNNY! I just might use it when I am in a silly mood. I love our congregation. They are just very thankful someone is willing to go out there, chip the frozen words off the frozen board, and put up a message that won’t last longer than 2 weeks! Haha.

            • “Don’t make me come down there! – God”

            • Diann in MT says:

              HAHAHAHAHA! That is really gooood!
              Here’s the one I’m going to put up today.
              PERFECT SUPER BOWL PARTY:
              WINGS AND SOME PRAYERS
              I made that up, but I am sure, it’s not an original. Thanks, again, Sue for the space.

            • BadgerRickInWis says:

              Years ago I drove by a church in Eureka CA with a sign out front that read. “If you were dead you’d be home by now.” I’m not sure why but 30 years later it has still stuck with me. Might say something about my sense of humor.

      • From Ontario says:

        Its nice to be important, but its important to be nice..

    • weather says:

      Sometimes,Diann,those doing tasks think it may go unnoticed,perhaps not make much of a difference.I wanted to mention a sign I happened to see along a road.I found it’s message so refreshing that it gave me a good feeling as I drove through the community it was in.So I began going there rather than other places closer and more convenient for certain purchases and occasional meals out with friends.A few words…their local economy,so quality of living,was improved by them.Now I don’t suppose the citizens there put that together,attributed the improvements in their lives to the effort of a single person’s willingness to do what it took to have that sign there to be seen.However,I wanted you to know I did-and the One it spoke of did ,too.

  10. Applegirl NY says:

    Great to see you’re chillin’ in that beautiful campsite. You can always come back to it after a week or so break, right?

    I hope you don’t feel there is pressure for you to post your blogs? I know I check in often to see what’s up, but I think we all know you’ll post when you have something to share.

    Your rejects sure are nice!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You’re thoughtful and considerate, Applegirl NY. I wanted to put up another post in order to provide a “clean” page for comments. When the comments number over 300, it’s difficult for people to find the answers to the questions they posed earlier. Interesting information is buried. I’m okay. If I need a break, I’ll take one. Thank you.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I didn’t answer your question. If one follows the rules, one cannot return to a site “after a week or so break.” Here’s a message from the Bureau of Land Management:

      Dispersed camping is generally allowed on public lands for no more than a period of 14 days within any period of 28 consecutive days. The 14-day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28-day period. After this time period, you must relocate to another site at least 25 miles away. The purpose of this is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas.

      In other words — you were close — one needs to go 25 miles away for 2 weeks.

      • Shirlene says:

        Wow, I like the logic. Good to know. Thanks for that.

      • cluelesscampers and canine (Eastern Missouri) says:

        Thanks for the clarification on the BLM rules!

      • Applegirl NY says:

        Yes, that does make sense. Of course, once you’ve moved on to something 25 miles away, you’ve more than likely moved on mentally too – always something else wonderful on the horizon.

        This beautiful site will be there to return to, when the opportunity presents itself.

  11. Page says:

    The rejects are decent photos. Even the one of the Diva’s rear sticking out from under the PTV is cute because it is sooo Bridget.

  12. Chas Anderson says:

    I am sure that you will enjoy the Geronimo book.His life interacted far more with the then modern world than people realize.

    Finally, we are leaving for AZ February 1. Juice(jaw tumor) the Wonder dog got a cancer free checkup and is itching to go.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Oh, that’s fantastic about Juice! I’m very happy for you! Have a safe and enjoyable trip to Arizona, Charles. This has been the best winter we’ve had in southern AZ, as far as the weather. And it’s waiting for you!

  13. AZ Jim says:

    14 days? Who cares? The most anyone would do is tell you it’s time to move. Stay! Enjoy! I used the Sunset pic as desktop and tucked a copy in the RV Sue file.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Jim,

      Maybe I’d get a warning, maybe not. I have at lot of folks watching what I do (ha-ha!). I want to set a good example! Sometimes I do that; other times not. 🙂

      I’m using the “explosion in the desert” photo right now for my monitor. I have it set so it’s in a box in the center with a black background (rather than full screen).. Wow! It really amps up that pic!

      I’m pleased you enjoy my photography, Jim.

  14. Cari in Plano Texas says:

    Even your rejected photos are beautiful and/or meaningful. I love the sunset photo with all its color variations. And I understand the BLM reasoning about moving every 2 weeks, but it’s a shame because you have such a beautiful and peaceful location. I guess they have to regulate the not-so-caring yahoos that destroy land wherever they go.

    I found several websites that have funny sayings for church signs. Just do a Google search for “church sign sayings.”

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thank you, Cari, for your words about my photos and also for the suggestion for church sayings.

      The 2-week limit is a good rule. It keeps us seeking new places, new experiences. It also keeps people from squatting for extended lengths of time. One irresponsible camper can do an awful lot of damage.

      I was in a campground once when a party came into another campsite. This was in a forest in Oregon. After they left, I looked at their campsite. (It’s a game I play…. I look to find what they left behind. So far I’ve never found a campsite recently in use that some trash wasn’t left. Amazing.)

      They didn’t bring firewood, nor a saw (cutting wood wasn’t allowed anyway). What they did was pull and twist and mangle the branches of the bushes and trees around the campsite, trying unsuccessfully to have something to burn (green wood? Idiots!) leaving the branches hanging, half-broken.

      Imagine someone in the forest or in the desert, off by themselves for an extended period of time…. with no respect for the environment. You know this. I’m ranting.

    • Diann in MT says:

      Thanks, Cari,
      Yep. I use those sites for inspiration.

      Here is a really good one I might use:
      His Eye is on the Sparrow, and He’s Watching You Birds Too

  15. Betty Shea says:

    Just had to laugh at Bridget heading under the van..it is rare that I can get a shot of my HoneyGirl..she hates to have her picture taken…too!

  16. Lee J in Northern California says:

    Rant away. We had a favorite campground in the Sierras, Cow Camp on Beaver Creek. It was owned by a lumber mill, they maintained it, and it stretched along Beaver Creek, well separated camps, no fee was charged. The creek was wide and shallow so our kids could play without danger, there was a swimming hole within walking distance. We could bring our horses and ride for miles on Forest Service roads. We visited that campground for years.

    We always took our own firewood, hauled out our trash, stayed in establishe camp sites…

    The last time we went, people had ruined it…the posts that lined the roads had been pulled out and burned, vegetation was squashed by off road bikes going every which way, people had chopped down bushes, left trash, there were several people that had tatty camps full of old sofas and other signs of long term squatting. Broken glass on the ground where target shooting took place.

    I think the lumber company had given up, pulled out their sponsorship.

    Never have been back up there… So regulation is good…so sad…

    Ok off my soap box…

    I love this spot to read, meet people, exchange ideas, see beautiful photos.

    A few days ago my husband was ordering something from Amazon and he asked me..’How do I order through your friend Sue?’. I liked that..I do consider you a friend..

    Have a great day, my friend, lol.

    • Shirlene says:

      I had that same experience, my Partner said the same thing the other day….”What did your friend Sue say?”…I hope that we are all friends and can help each other like friends if we are in need…I know that I will be there if I am able to help anyone.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Lee J.,

      I knew your story wasn’t going to have a happy ending. What a loss. It sounds like that place was lovely…. ideal for families.

      You know, it may not seem like it to some, but I do try very hard not to complain too much on this blog. If anyone saw what I see on a regular basis, they’d realize how very little I complain in proportion to what there is to complain about.

      Areas of our public lands are being destroyed. Precious habitat for animals is being wrecked. Damage is inflicted on the land that causes severe erosion in the near to distant future. I can’t remember a trail or stream where I didn’t see trash.

      A few rangers responsible for large areas can’t defend the land (and water) against slobs and marauders, especially those who hit and run on all-terrain vehicles. It’s not all wanton disregard. Some people don’t even know the damage they do… like handing the kids plastic cups, plastic water bottles, or Capri-Suns or food in wrappers with no instructions to return the trash or no follow-up to make sure they did.

      I don’t know what the answer is. Mutants are everywhere. Like many who read this blog, I clean up every site before and after using it. I take a trash bag and pick up junk when we go for walks. It’s not much help, but it’s something.

      OH, I ALMOST FORGOT! Lee J. . . . . Give your husband a hug and tell him, “That’s from RVSue and Bridget.” 🙂

      • Marilu from Northern California says:

        I wonder what it is that creates so many irresponsible slobs who have no respect for the environment? Is it the vehicles that get them into the wildlands with little effort? Is it lack of training by parents or what? I grew up tent camping with my parents. Before we left a campsite we patrolled for every tiny scrap of anything left by a human or pet. My daughter is now a backpacking enthusiast but she occasionally joins us at our RV sites. I’m proud to see her doing the same thing when we pack up. Maybe the difference is in the folks who go to appreciate nature and those who go out into nature to see what they can do on their “toys”. You didn’t grow up camping did you, Sue? Where did you learn to respect and love nature?

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          No, I didn’t grow up camping. Where did I learn? I’m not sure. I used to walk in the woods and fields by myself, starting at a very young age.

          My parents weren’t idiots, which helped. They were responsible adults.

          My mother enjoyed simple things. She loved the river that flowed near our town. My father was a “do no harm” kind of guy when it came to nature or anything, for that matter. I can remember him saying to my sisters and me, “Leave that alone.” in various circumstances.

          Kids today think they can touch and manipulate anything, put their feet up anywhere, destroy for fun. Too many people these days never look to see what they’ve left in their wake, whether in nature or in their lives.

          • Pauline in Mississippi says:

            Our camping experiences as children were going to Maine with our Aunt, Uncle and 3 cousins. We slept in a tent on the ground!!! It was awful! However, I loved eating breakfast cooked on a grill and the time spent at the ocean.

    • Applegirl NY says:

      Lee J, That is so discouraging. So sad to hear of people abusing what is really a very special privilege.

      When I see things like that, I think of the book “Everything I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten” I remember one of the things was “clean up after yourself.”

  17. AlanOutandAbout says:

    It might not be what is missing in the photo, but what is there. A cell tower, it is out of place with the mood of the image and your artist sense is not happy.

    I remember when I was there that I could go just about anywhere on the reservations and it wasn’t an issue, no permits were required. There where places that no photography was allowed but other than that you were ignored.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You saw the cell tower! You have the eye of an experienced photographer, Alan.

      My comment about camping on reservations not being desirable was a general statement, not based on any experience with the Tohonto O’odham rez.

      I have learned in my travels around the West that there are racial tensions in some areas between people on the reservations and the people nearby and that situation has led to loss of personal property, vandalism, and other problems. I don’t plan on boondocking on a rez because of that, as I don’t keep up with the dynamics and recent events of a particular area.

      Did you camp on the rez?

      • AlanOutandAbout says:

        What I did was to drive to a spot before sunset, Take photos, stay the night and then shoot again at sunrise. Prime light so to speak. I would then search out the next location and do the same. No one ever bothered me.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Not that I’m going to camp on the rez…. Your short, overnight stays wouldn’t compare to me and Bridget setting up a temporary homestead. LOL!

        • Pamela K. says:

          Alan,
          What you did sounds so perfect! Sunrise, Sunset, Move and do it all again…
          That is how I used my scooters when I tent camp. My new idea of a teardrop trailer will give me some urban photo ops for street photography too.

  18. edlfrey says:

    I’m sure you have looked at some of the camps available in the Coronado National Forest. Perhaps along excellent gravel road between Patagonia and Harshaw there are disbursed camping spots.
    If you have not found this web site before take a look: http://www.thewanderinghobo.com/Travelling/Boondocking/arizona.html

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Ed,

      I’ve been considering exploring southeastern AZ. I appreciate the suggestion. I looked on the map and now I’m wondering about elevation. It looks like 4,000 feet, give or take.

      I haven’t looked at the link yet. Will do so after replying to more comments. Thanks.

      • edlfrey says:

        The elevation could be a problem but IF past is prologue then you would be fine.

        Example: Red Rock Acres, Patagonia elevation 4,383′
        January 24, 2014 – February 23, 2014 High 81.3 ° Low 30.6 ° but only 5 nights during that period were below 35. The current 10 day forecast is for highs in the upper 60s/lower 70s and the lows to be mostly in the mid to low 40s. A lot like it has been here.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Gosh, Ed. I need to put you on the payroll.

          It’s a bit chilly (“5 nights below 35”)… Warmer than I originally assumed though

      • AlanOutandAbout says:

        Chiricahua National Monument area is nice

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Okay, I looked. When I opened the page I remembered looking at that site a long time ago and then, over time, I forgot about it. Lots of suggestions there.

      A caution to readers: Several entries were visited around 1998. That doesn’t mean the camping suggestions are no good. I suggest if you find one that interests you, follow up with an online search to make sure it’s still available or whatever.

      Thanks again, Ed.

  19. PookieBoy says:

    I was excited to see a new post by you Sue….I always look every day to see if you post something as I enjoy reading your stories about places Ive never been. I grew up in the 40’s and 50’s without TV, phone or a car so we read a lot to keep entertained. I was especially intrigued by the maps that you carry while you are towing…can you give us additional info on those maps? I’d love to have some to see areas where you have stayed. I used to take my 3 boys camping and fishing up in the mountains when they were little and boondock and we loved it. Wish I had good health to do it again. Keep up the good work. BTW, Ive ordered 2 or 3 books thru your site…thanks for introducing me to them.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, PookieBoy,

      Thank you for ordering books through my blog. I appreciate that!

      Where are you (generally) and what area or state are you interested in? Let me know and I’ll be happy to post a link to the map and try to include whatever “additional info” you’re asking about.

  20. Ozark Sam on Darby Well Road says:

    Dear Sue, Thank you for all the work you do for us. We were driving around this morning and ran on to the best camp site I have ever seen. It is about 3 or 4 miles SW of the Warning Sign on Darby Well Road. It is on a dead end road up high and has a view all around. SAM

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I think I know where you mean. The crew and I hiked with friends and their canine crew up there a couple years ago… where the rocky point is… excellent view of the desert from there. Thanks for the suggestion. However, we need to move 25 miles away from here come Tuesday.

  21. Bill&Ann says:

    Camped at Huntington Beach State Park in SC. Only 400 more miles to go.

    I hear tell, Sue, there was camper in your spot who made the place his home for quite a long period of time. Hence all the nice rock work in the area.

    Trashed out campsites, dog poop, people poop. Thanks to all the caretakers (I.e. you blogarino) of our public lands who follow RV Sue. It really helps those of us who volunteer. That pristine site on the BLM or Wildlife Refuge was more than likely cleaned by a volunteer or public employee at one time or another. Toilet paper and poop under rocks does not magically disappear when you have dry conditions and low rainfall. We have even found this in Death Valley in old rock cabins! So sad.

    Oh well. Beautiful pictures Sue.

    Alligator River here we come!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi Bill & Ann,

      I looked up Alligator River Wildlife Refuge. I can see why you want to volunteer there!

      Your trip from Arizona to the east coast is exciting. Thanks for the updates on your progress. Take care and may the last 400 be easy!

    • AlanOutandAbout says:

      On the east coast the Alligator River is about as close to the middle of nowhere you can get. It is a beautiful area but I don’t remember any camping there except the County Line. Since you will be there I am sure you’ll jump across to the Outer Banks, north is business’s while south is Hatteras, you will love it.

      • Bill&Ann says:

        We are hosting at the Visitors Center. Camp Pod is off island. Haven’t figured out where yet. We are looking forward to the experience.

  22. Phxkayaker says:

    I’m really impressed by the tracking skills that you’ve picked up over the past couple years. Those aren’t just any javelina tracks, those are constipated javelinas! Love it!!

  23. weather says:

    First on behalf of all literate humanity I commend your graciousness in not talking about the book endlessly before or while mentioning that you finished.Some less considerate people take the joy out of experiencing story in film,stage or written word by betraying too much of it in their “sharing”.

    Bridget is adorable!I love all that’s involved with your moves-from the planning you tell us you’re having to consider to the always exciting end.Thanks for extra effort of the rushed post ,the story,news,it’s timing re the comments section, great photos -your standards are laudable yet any you take and show really are such a pleasure to see!Now you’re a heroine among more travelers-bees 🙂

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, weather,

      May those bees tell all their family and friends that I’m friendly and not to be bothered. 🙂 I couldn’t help but see the similarities, as do you, between the bees stopping at this “oasis” on their journey and the immigrants who thirst in the desert… Water, life-sustaining for all…

      I know what you mean about over-sharing a book or film. When I shop for books on Amazon I never read more than the first line of the synopsis.

      You always think of positive things to say. I hope your day went well. You’re a heroine among your troupe.

      • weather says:

        Aw-w,sweet about my troupe.They were especially happy about today(that went delightfully well,thank you)bringing us all favorite foods to have a little party-A toast- Here’s to all receiving
        …Water and Life

      • Willow (AZ) says:

        Sue,
        I’m glad you have such respect for bees, my husband was a bee keeper they are wondrous creatures. My husband was awed by them and would tell me about seeing them come back to the hive and do a dance for the other bees to show the direction to areas of pollen.
        We could not survive without bees.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Your husband sounds sensitive, Willow. This is going to sound weird. Here goes anyway… When the bees were at our camp, after a day or two of me putting water in a dish for them down the driveway of our camp, one morning I forgot to pour water in the dish. One… just one… bee came to the open door of the BLT and buzzed around until I remembered the water. The rest of the bees waited at the dish. It was “You go get that woman. We’re out of water. We’ll wait here.”

  24. Pamela K. says:

    Sue,
    Not to change the many subjects you have on here today but I have a question about your fiberglass Casita…
    Are you glad you have a Fiberglass shell instead of an Alum, or Wooden one? I ask because I just found a teardrop that is a Fiberglass shell. I am very excited about finding it. It is called a MyPod Max. So any pros or cons about your Fiberglass would be helpful as it is a used MyPod Max and I might go for it soon. I think it would be great for just me to use for a few wekends and maybe a week or so at the beach or fishing trips to the mountain streams.
    Thanks for any input or tips.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi Pamela,

      I love fiberglass! I love the way it shines and how easy it is to clean… a damp cloth is all you need. Even grease and road tar comes off easily. The white fiberglass is pleasant to sit next to. And, of course, it’s light-weight.

      One thing that attracted me to a fiberglass “egg” trailer was no seams on the roof; the seam is the “belly band” around the middle. One of the big headaches with a trailer kept for a long time is leaks.

      I’m not familiar with the MyPod Max. I looked it up… cute and tiny and lightweight! The one I saw was black or dark blue fiberglass. I’d hate that in the desert or on a hot day anywhere and it seems it would show every speck of dust. Something to consider. I’m guessing they come in lighter colors…

      • Pamela K. says:

        Sue,
        So glad you replied so quick, thanks! Yes, I have seen photos of the Red and also the Blue ones but the one I like best is White 🙂 And they also have a White w/black Rhino skin trim. The Rhino skin trim is mainly for extra off-road protection against rocks, bumps and such. A good idea but I still tend to like the all White one best. Morning skies, Sunsets, would look so nice in photos reflexing on it too 😉 I am a real sucker for the times of day that are The Golden Hour, The Blue Hour, and the drama of Misty Fog scenes. I want to read some more reviews about it over the next day or two but I think it might be a GO. I am hoping to get to Savannah for the St. Patty’s Day events there. I have some time still but not too much to look and read more but the used one will not last so I might jump on it now.
        Sue, all the points you make for the Fiberglass are exactly why I am considering going that route…and I learned it all here from you as I read your blog posts! You share with all of us so much info about all kinds of stuff, bless you for doing that! And you do it in a way that always makes good sense…always the Teacher. You would think after my 15 years of RVing I would have found much of the info to be old-hat. But not so. Being an Airstreamer I have never really thought about a small teardrop as a weekender before! This is a whole new way of thinking for me, more like my tent camping weekends with the scooters but with more options 😉 I am really excited! Thanks again, Sue!

    • Applegirl NY says:

      Pamela, I just took a peak at those online. Snug as a bug in a rug! Very cool and I bet you could take it anywhere. Fiberglass is very maintenance free. Good luck with your decision.

      • Pamela K. says:

        Applegirl NY,
        Thanks! 🙂
        I really do like them alot and it suits me and how I love to camp in both rural and urban settings. It just seems easy. I like carefree easy in my life and it seems to fit the bill perfectly 😉 I also like tiny! My summertime tent is a tiny 3 person dome tent so the teardrop size is perfect as a second camper.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          It’s exciting to find the perfect trailer. Somehow one knows the right one, like love at first sight! You’ll have fun with that little baby.

  25. Lynn Brooks says:

    Dear Sue,
    You are an amazing writer!! How you come up with ideas to write about everyday is a true gift!!! And a TRUE BLESSING to all of us!!
    I always get s smile or a giggle from your posts!
    Thank you!!

  26. Rattlesnake Joe says:

    The desert is very fragile. Rocks put in place thousands of years ago can still be seen laying on the ground even today (Indian sign of long ago). When backpacking I love seeing these artifacts. The land can talk to us if we pay attention to what she is saying. Geronimo use to sell buttons off his clothes when held a prisoner at Fort Sill Oklahoma for a dollar. He got a dollar for photos taken of him too. He was probably the most famous Indian there ever was. Too bad the government never let him go back home to his beloved Arizona.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Sometimes you’ll see rocks placed in mysterious (to us) designs on the desert sand and a fence has been put around the area to keep people from trampling or driving all over them.

      • Rattlesnake Joe says:

        Sometimes these are messages are for our Star Brothers who can see them from way up in the sky. The deserts of Peru are full of old Indian sign talking to our space brothers of long ago.

  27. Hi Sue. Your editing processes were interesting to me. I’m much less discriminating. We’re leaving Tyson Wash LTVA on the 28th–you’d love our site. We have a bit of ATV noise from the road but otherwise it’s quiet, has a lovely little tree and best of all, No Clingers! Or how about KOFA? I think you could definitely get away from clingers there. We hiked up to Palm Canyon & on the way back down to the car, I met a blogger who shared a love of your blog. A cool small world moment. Take good care.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I’m hesitant about Kofa because late Jan. and early Feb. are when people flock to Quartzsite which may mean more campers at Kofa and there’s no place to hide there. I’m glad you enjoyed Tyson Wash. Going home on the 28th?

      • I understand, Sue. Nope, not going home but going on to our next camp. Jim is the Cruise Director this trip & he wants to go up to Ajo. If it were up to me, we wouldn’t go home until mid- to late April but I think the Cruise Director wants to get home earlier than that–dang it!

  28. Sheila says:

    Wondering if you have some type of lock on your trailer so no one can drive off with BLT while you’re away for the day? I so enjoy your blog and photos. Waiting for the day when I can retire and wander like you for awhile. Be well and give a pet to Bridgette for me.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Sheila,

      I have a hitch lock that came with the BLT from the Casita factory. As for the day you can retire, believe me, it’s well worth the wait! 🙂

  29. Alison PNW says:

    I love the way Bridget sits in most of your pictures of her. She always has her legs off to the side. There’s something very cute about that. What a sweetie.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You noticed. 🙂 I think that’s cute, too. I also think her stick legs are cute in front of her round body when she’s sitting on her bum.

  30. Ann Mc says:

    My husband is a LONG time reader and when I decided to buy my camera lens (the EF 70-200 f/4L you listed) he reminded me to make sure and go through your site.

    Because he enjoys your site so much, ALL of our Amazon purchases will be through RVSue and her amazing crew! Thank you for your delightful blog!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You’re welcome, Ann Mc,

      I think I’m in love ….. with your husband! Haha! His purchase of a camera lens gave a very healthy boost to my 2nd retirement fund. I thank you both and wish you many happy shopping experiences….

      Seriously, I’m pleased you find my blog enjoyable.

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Hi Ann,

      I am SO jealous of your new L glass purchase !! Enjoy! 🙂

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        Did I miss something? What is “L glass?”

        • Denise - Richmond VA says:

          Canon’s line of professional DSLR lenses…like the 70-200f/4L model that Ann ordered.

          • Ann Mc says:

            “L” glass is really good quality glass on the canon lenses. They’re pricey, but after using it, I can see why…this lens is a powerhouse and what a difference!

            @RVSue – my hubby is a GREAT guy and he truly enjoys your blog! Thank you!

            @Denise – are you into photography? I’ve taken it up in a BIG way…if it holds still long enough, I take pics of it!

            I hope you all have a delightful evening!

            • Denise - Richmond VA says:

              Hi, Ann,

              Yes! I have been interested in photography since I was a kid! I shoot with Canon, too. Do you shoot full frame? I have the cropped sensor 60D…which comes in handy when needing extra reach when trying to shoot wildlife. I would love to upgrade to full frame, but am just having fun using what I have. My 55-250 IS has been giving me problems off and on…when I replace it, the new lens will be the 70-200L. Have fun shooting – have a great day! 🙂

          • rvsueandcrew says:

            Oh, thanks… I was thinking it was a travel trailer. Hahahaha!

  31. DesertGinger says:

    Hi gang! How is everyone? I have 4 more days here in rehab. Then, unless a miracle has occurred, I will be going home hooked to oxygen.

    Pretty unhappy about that; I’ve never been oxygen dependent. I am really bummed about the prospect of dragging a tank around with me. I’m sure my clients at block will love it, too.

    Oh well. I guess aging is just dealing with one indignity after another.

    • Elizabeth in WA says:

      So sorry you are stuck with an oxygen tank, Ginger. But I think maybe, as in many areas of life, how one feels about it, might impact how well you do. Both of our moms were on oxygen in later life. My mom welcomed it as her friend. And my mother-in-law hated it with a purple passion. They had different things wrong with them, but even though my mom was way more fragile, she outlived my mother-in-law by 2 years. I have wondered if her looking at oxygen as her friend helped that happen. Maybe you can wean off it eventually too….sometimes loosing weight does all sorts of good things for us. And no doubt you are already loosing big time. I am afraid I too would feel pretty upset about the oxygen. I also remember one time having a severe asthma attack the emergency room doc would not let me have much of an oxygen treatment. Took me 2 days to breathe normal from that one. My specialist was livid!! Told me to never go to the emergency room again, with out calling him first so he could see to it I was given proper treatment. Some oxygen sure helps with asthma too!! Wishing you the very best in recovery!! Glad you have made it thus far!! We have missed your posting here.

    • Hi DG–it’s nice having you back. Folks I’ve seen out in public who must use oxygen full-time have dsicrete ways of carrying it–backpacks especially. They have the nasal canula of course but they look pretty mobile. My dear mother-in-law used to say “Growing old is not for sissies!” She was right on target! But hey, it’s better than the alternative, right?

    • Applegirl NY says:

      DesertG, My mom is on oxygen and it’s really fine. Between the concentrator for home and the tiny portable things for getting around, it’s very manageable, and also so many people are out and about with it now a days that no one even notices.

      My mom’s doctor told her she could even try being off of it sometimes, but she keeps it on, since she is prone to anxiety and it comforts her. You may find that in time you have that option – of course, I have no idea if that would be your case.

      Hang in there, you’ve come through a lot.

    • weather says:

      Hi Ginger, glad to see you here and that you’re moving forward no matter what you encounter,it’s inspirational.I’m sure you know that folks receiving pure oxygen in chambers etc. have experienced enormous increases in many of their capacities. Hopefully that benefit will remain with you when the miracle I’m praying you receive has come and gone.Your clarity,wit and obvious intelligence has been spot on in the comments you’ve written recently-may you enjoy that boon -I’m enjoying watching it,and you as always,weather

      • Edie, OK says:

        Weather, I woke up this morning and thought of you as I watched the sun rise over my lake. I wish I could put the beauty into words like you do. With the herons and bald eagle, and gold and pink shimmering water it was just beautiful. Hope you and Sue and all blogerinos have a wonderful and peaceful day.

    • Edie, OK says:

      Welcome back Ginger! We missed you and have all been awaiting your return. Hang in there and you will soon be better than before!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Ginger,

      Another tough adjustment for you. Darn! It seems like your resilience, determination, and ebullient spirit have been tested again and again and now you face another test with this oxygen tank. I hope you never lose your positive outlook which has inspired many over the past months.

      You probably would rather kick the oxygen tank to the curb than to be an inspiration. Selfishly, I’m happy you can breathe and write and share here. Carry on, dear one. We’re with you.

      • Denise - Richmond VA says:

        I am selfishly happy to see DG back, too!! 🙂

      • DesertGinger says:

        As usual, you have comprehended my feelings perfectly. I knew you would understand. I’m tethered to a machine…to electricity. I’m going further away from goals/fantasies of traveling and boon docking in a van, line dancing, all the things I want that make me…me. Will not take up line dancing with an oxygen tank. Not gonna happen.

        So I have to hope that I can build my stamina and capacity, otherwise things look kinda bleak.

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Good morning. DesertGinger,

      So glad to see your post! Maybe as you get healthier, your need for the supplemental oxygen will diminish. I know that you will do what you need to do to make the best of things and move forward in a positive way…..just as you have the past year. You are a very strong woman and an inspiration! As far as what Block and clients will think about the oxygen….don’t let that worry you. Just like some folks need to wear glasses, if you need the oxygen, so be it. Please don’t let that stress you out.

      Sending you loving thoughts and positive energy for a quick recovery and adjustment to your new way of life. I know you will be glad to be home in a few days….little Chloe will be so happy to see you! Hugs!! xxxooo. 🙂

    • Marilu from Northern California says:

      Good Morning Ginger,
      I’m happy that you are well enough to post more often. I’m sure it is distressingly to need to go home on oxygen but you will be able to rest and heal better in your own place. My very unprofessional intuition tells me that as you lose weight and exercise you will eventually be able to get along without it. That’s my hope for you, anyway.
      I admire your spirit, girl. Keep on keeping on.

    • BadgerRickInWis says:

      Ging, like everyone here I mirror (parrot) the encouraging words. But I also can appreciate the disappointment of what at the moment seems like another setback. But you have proven over and over again how strong a woman you are and I’m sure you will again.

      Mostly I just wanted to let you know how good it is to see you here again and let you know that there are folks in the world who you have never met who care for you deeply.

  32. Kay Dattilio says:

    Ginger, Welcome back! There have been so many improvements in the resp. field hope you can get a small unit to carry around when you go out. Don’t over-d0 and follow the rules…. until you feel better!

    Edie, OK, we live close to a large lake and there is an eagles nest close by. I can’t believe how huge it is! They very seldom pass over our acreage and usually over the lake, but once in awhile we can watch them and they are just beautiful!

    My ‘country’ birds are still enjoying the bird feeder and birdbath warmer. Everyone have a good week-end!

    Kay from KC!

  33. weather says:

    Good morning Sue,
    Today I awakened aware that I’d had a dream involving an amazingly beautiful experience with clouds.As I thought about it I realized they were a combination of ones I’ve seen and those in many of your photos.Awesome,literally,way to wake up!Hope your day began and continues as filled with beauty.Our neighborhood’s dogs have been even more excited than usual today as they greet each other barking through all the yards.I think we have a tiny poodle as a new resident next door,woo-hoo!What critters have been pleasing you?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, weather,

      Good morning! That’s interesting about your cloud dream. You must have a clearer subconscious than I do. My dreams are far more cluttered and convoluted. I wake up thinking, “What the heck was THAT all about?” 🙂

      Hmm… What critters have been pleasing me? Okay…. Yesterday was too breezy and cold for sitting outside. On our walk, the critters were hunkered down, I guess.

      The day before, I sat in my lounger scanning the hillside with my monocular. Above the crest of the hill two birds of prey circled together. I thought this unusual because whenever I’ve seen hawks, eagles, ospreys, etc. they are flying alone. I tried to identify them (unsuccessfully) based on their yellow undersides and black under their wings. The colors I saw may not be true due to shadow.

      Anyway…. It’s not necessary to put a name on them to enjoy their freedom and flight!

      • weather says:

        Dreams are a bit like the strewing of bits that land in kaleidoscopes-take different amounts of time and adjustments to complete the designs …I say that because while reflecting on the subject I realize I immediately enjoy pleasant dreams and ones that felt unpleasant or were just puzzling had parts that have taken much longer too appreciate and see the message within.

        Thank you for describing the circling flight that you witnessed,because picturing it was lovely for me to experience and you reminded me to bring my monocular outside.It’s warm enough today to stay longer watching… 🙂 !

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          I apologize for not responding here earlier, weather. I always enjoy your comments and appreciate what you write.

          • weather says:

            Always glad to get any response when you’re able to give me one,Sue,I hope you know I “get” busy-,life-or best-was simply off enjoying mind /body meandering 🙂

      • weather says:

        Hi Sue,hope you had a quiet sunset.I made through my party escape plan with only two conversations aside from the obligatory “let me get the door for you,sorry I need to concentrate on the road,Oh hi(zip away)”stuff,my evening went much better than I’d even hoped it would.And home early enough for tucking in the troupe.The snow flakes in the street lamps light were amazingly pretty,Kinkade worthy scenes.Sleep well this good night.

  34. Pauline in Mississippi says:

    Even your rejected photos are great. Love the one of Bridget going under the camper. She is such a cutie!

    The number of comments on your posts is astonishing. What a following you have!….and they all are such nice people.
    Love you!! Hugs to you and Bridget

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Pauline,

      The participation on this blog does amaze me. I remember when I started, how thrilled I was when you and a few friends wrote comments. I think there were 7 or 8. Boy, I had no idea.

      Yes, the people here are good folks.

      Love you, too, and all the family!

    • DesertGinger says:

      Pauline, stomach’s gone. Have lost 17 pounds, including the 12 I gained. Have a lot of abdominal pain…I think from my hernia surgery. On Tuesday I can add soft food. Excited about that!

      • Pauline in Mississippi says:

        Congratulations!!!! I am so proud of you! They repaired my hiatal hernia during my gastric sleeve also. The soreness will be just memory soon and then you won’t even remember it. Keep me posted!

      • Elizabeth in WA says:

        Oh Ginger…sorry to hear about the pain from the hernia. Hubby had to have his fixed at the same time as another surgery. Seemed he had a huge lot of pain…but it went in time. So hopefully your will soon be gone as well!! So glad you are seeing the weight come off!!

  35. Love the hodgepodge, and the rejects. Mostly I love the human”ness” that you and your commenters share here. From providing water for bees to a refrigerator for the desperate to moral support for those with health challenges – it reminds me that believing in the good of others is not a futile exercise 🙂

  36. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Good morning, Sue!

    Even photo rejects are nice…because they conjure up memories. Thank you for sharing them with us! The shot of Bridget’s hiney made me laugh!

    Hope you and all the blogorinos have a good day! Some dear friends are happily expecting a baby, after many years of disappointment and heartbreak. I am so happy and excited for them! This afternoon, I will be attending their gender reveal party – a first for me. They have given the results from their last sonogram to a bakery, who will color the middle of a cake pink or blue. When they cut the cake, the gender will be revealed. He thinks they are having a boy, she thinks it is a girl. One thing is for sure…it will be one or the other! 🙂

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      It’s a boy! 🙂

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Ha! We’ve covered a lot of topics ever since this blog started in April 2011. I do believe this is the first birth announcement. LOL!

    • Elizabeth in WA says:

      Thanks for sharing this fun event, Denise!! How lovely!!

    • BadgerRickInWis says:

      What an incredibly cool idea. And think of what fun it would be for the baker as the parents pick up the cake and knowing that they have no idea. What joy!

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        Wouldn’t it be funny if the cake revealed non-identical twins …. a pink layer and a blue layer!

      • Denise - Richmond VA says:

        It really was cool! He went to Coldstone Creamery and ordered an ice cream cake. He picked out blue cotton candy ice cream or pink berry ice cream, both with chocolate chips mixed in. The ice cream was sandwiched between two layers of chocolate cake. He gave them the sonogram results in a sealed envelope. The cake was iced with white icing, with “Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how we wonder what you are…” written in pink and blue. So sweet! My friends had the sonogram done in early December and were anxiously waiting for the party for the big reveal! They delayed the party so it would not conflict with friends holiday plans! Sweet agony!!

  37. edlfrey says:

    Sue,

    If you are going that way you might look at this young fellow. His name is Hilton and is listed under Dew Paws Rescue in Santa Fe, NM. Pointer/Terrier mix and looks like he has Crew ‘attitude’.

  38. Hi There!

    To those of you RVing in AZ, another RV friend of mine was here yesterday; http://www.visityuma.com/field-to-feast-agriculture-tour.html

    Have any of you visited yet? If so, how’d you like it?

  39. Elizabeth in WA says:

    Enjoyed this post too, Sue….even ordinary days have fun things in them.

  40. Sue,
    Bayfield shout, not a ‘gottch’ no, no, no. I was just saying she gets that shy folks are socially phobic, introverts are thinkers.
    You should watch her, Susan Cain’s, Ted Talk. She’s ‘shouting’ that introverts are smart, funny, social but selective, and deep thinkers that need time alone.
    I was not ‘rejecting’ your idea, I was saying she knows!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I understood what you meant. I didn’t take it as disagreement. I made an assumption about the point the author was making based on the part about introverts not raising their hand in a large group. I assumed she was saying introverts are shy. My assumption about the author’s meaning was wrong.

      I should have written “got it!” instead of “gotcha!”… Gee, I’m sloppy with reading and writing lately. 🙂

      Ted Talk is a tv show?

      This statement is absolutely correct. — “…introverts are smart, funny, social but selective, and deep thinkers that need time alone.” Of course I’d agree with that. It’s very flattering.

      Great hearing from you again, Robert.

  41. weather says:

    Freshened with snow the scenery at sunrise blazed with light -so much more robust than the glitter last night’s artificially lit world held.The morning crowd gathered to ice fish and those at last evening’s party really have the same difference in many ways.There’s a strength,a natural enthusiasm in the outdoor lovers that’s missing among most I saw inside the festively decorated building.They all try to express love goodness and caring,seems it takes a certain type of energy to accomplish that well.I’m so grateful that everyone wants to.

    As I’d walked my passenger to the door of the event,I’d seen my friend’s face.He was trying to feign happiness over everyone’s gathering for his birthday.Though I’d not intended to go in we walked to a private corner ,talked a while commiserating about folks thinking such surprises were a gift.Soon we saw the crowd moving to the cake room.To avoid the usual being asked to “say a few words to commemorate the occasion.blah ,blah blah” and being expected to be available I ducked out the door and came home.I just didn’t have it in me to put up with it right then.

    Driving home and this morning I thought about you Sue,the bloggers 2015 event and your choosing not to attend.Just wanted to applaud your wisdom in taking care of yourself in that choice and let you know that I appreciate it.There’s a limit to how much of your solitude you can give up and keep giving us everything that you do.I’ve seen that line be crossed before ,what it cost you, and in smaller ways, those you help until you recuperated from it.

    Hope you’re feeling great and feeling the beauty of all that’s around you now.Lord knows you’ve earned it and spread it through this earth as well as anyone I’ve ever seen

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      “I just didn’t have it in me to put up with it right then.” Oh, how I can relate to that!

      Good morning, weather. I read your message with interest and felt like I was right there. I cringed as the surprise hit your friend and I was in the corner with you as you looked for an opportunity to duck out the door. Often surprise parties, I think, are way more fun for the surprisers than for the surprised. At its worst it’s a technique for well-intentioned extroverts to trap an introvert into attending a party he/she doesn’t want.

      Again you wrap me in warm words of support. It’s comforting to be understood so well, so completely.

      I expect the blogger get-together at Quartzsite will be fun for those who participate. Bloggers and their fans/friends will enjoy the gathering. It’s a clever idea for those who like socializing in groups. I’d turn into a pillar of salt.

      I’ve savored these two weeks in the desert alone by ourselves, me and Bridget. Yes, I’m feeling great. I continue to enjoy the beauty around us, as are you. Thank you for bringing forth the memory of “freshened with snow the scenery at sunrise blazed with light.” I hope you can relax today. You met your social commitment. The world is yours to enjoy. 🙂

  42. Lisa Fox Weekley says:

    I would keep that cancer insurance. I without a strong family history went stage 1 to stage 4 breast cancer at ages 50 to 51. You just never know, but keeping the insurance is better safe than sorry. I have a Bridgette too, she is snuggled up in bed with me now.

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