Sunday, July 6
Ashley National Forest, Utah
Another beautiful morning in the forest!
Spike signals the start of day by stumbling over my ankles to jump off the bed. I throw back the quilt, put my feet on the floor, and take a few steps to open the door of the Best Little Trailer for him. He stands in the open doorway surveying the front yard through cloudy eyes. His sensitive nose twitches. Out he goes to patrol the perimeter of our camp. The only sign of life from Bridget is the brief opening of her eyes.
Lodgepole Pine
A pot half-full of coffee that I brewed yesterday awaits on the burner.
I strike a match, hold it to the burner, and turn the knob. Nothing. I turn and look at the panel on the refrigerator. Oh, the fridge is off. The propane has run out.
I step outside, open the cover to the dual tanks, close the old tank and open the new. I remember to turn the lever toward the tank in use to prevent me from mixing up which is the empty tank.
Larkspur
Successful boondocking combined with travel requires good timing.
After a check of the blog and breakfast, Spike, Bridget, and I wander around the campsite. I sip coffee and take stock of our situation.
Yellow Salsify
Our next move will take us closer to Flaming Gorge. From that camp we’ll go to Dutch John and see the dam. After that, we’ll follow Routes 44, 43, and 530 along the southern and western sides of the gorge, taking in the views. Damn switchbacks and steep grades!
Oh well . . . .
I’ve studied my Utah and Wyoming Benchmark atlases very thoroughly.
I visualize what lies ahead.
Gee, our next town of any size will be Green River in Wyoming. We’ll go through the town of Manila before then, but it doesn’t look like it’s very big.
I’ll need to replenish the crew’s supply of meat and stock up on perishables soon. Prices are surely high in the area around the southern end of the Gorge, and small groceries don’t have the selection I want.
Tanks are no problem. Dump stations and water spigots are available at Dutch John and some of the campgrounds. Penstemon
One tank of propane will probably last us until Green River, since we aren’t using the heater.
Then again, if we find a super camp or two and want to stay a long time . . .
Field Chickweed
Oh, man, I need to do laundry . . . .
Buckwheat
All the way to Green River. Hmm . . . . There’s a lot between here and there. I don’t want to have a great camp shortened because of the need for supplies. I can see me being forced to buy meat for the crew at $4.98 a pound or more at a little grocery. Don’t want to do that, if I can avoid it.
Heck! Why don’t I go back to Vernal!
Common Juniper
It’s only about twenty miles down the mountain. I could go to Wal-Mart on the west side of town, stock up, find a laundromat, maybe get some propane for the empty tank . . . .
Gee, it’s gonna’ be hot down there, but it sure would be nice to have all these things taken care of. Then I can concentrate on finding new camps, exploring the forest, and viewing the Gorge.
I love figuring out our basic needs as we travel this gorgeous land!
Yarrow
Well, well, well . . . .
Looks like some of our neighbors are leaving. Off they go to start another work week tomorrow. Poor saps. Fun time is over. Bye-bye!
Monday, July 7
Light through the window. Spike jumps over me. Let him out. He patrols. Bridget finally gets herself out of bed. Coffee. Greet the morning. Check the blog. Read the “news.” Wash up. Breakfast.
Silvery Lupine
“Hey, nutcakes! You get your favorite breakfast this morning. Calf liver, seared on both sides and chopped into tasty, bite-sized morsels, served with a side of scrumptious raw turkey. Yaaaayyyy!”
I arrange their individual paper plates and set them on the floor. Wow! Look at ’em go! It takes about five seconds for the crew to make that meat disappear.
Hint to caretakers of canines:
Liver is cheap. You can get several slices of liver for under $2.00 and that’s enough to fill up a large fry pan.
Brown both sides and store in a zip-lock baggie in the fridge. Much better than high-priced, liver-flavored treats from China with Lord-only-knows-what in them.
The packages are flat and don’t take up much space in the freezer, an important consideration if you only have 4.0 cubic feet of space like I have or less.
Stonecrop before blooming
After I finish this blog post . . .
I’ll load up the Perfect Tow Vehicle with laundry and the empty propane tank, settle the crew inside, and we’ll take off for town!
“Sound like a good idea, guys?”
“YEAH! LET’S GO!”
rvsue
NOTE: All of the photos in this post were taken within a 50-yard radius of our campsite.
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
I appreciate your thoughtfulness.
Western Groundsel
Great photos, great plans. Have fun.
Thank you, Reine. You are tops today!
Being prepared and thinking ahead is the key to success!
Walmart is pretty good with staples and their prices are great! Stocking up is easy!
Glad to hear the crew is enjoying their meals!
Hi, Cinandjules,
I should’ve left first thing this morning to avoid the heat. We’ll manage. I’ll make a quick dash into Wal-Mart and sit in the shade with the crew while the laundry spins.
Wishing y’all a fine day! Hugs to AO!
Morning,
Just want to make you chuckle this morning.
Jules made her way to the bathroom in the middle of the night..of course AO follows because she’s a nosey nelly. She peeks in and leaves. Jules returns to the bedroom and ends up lying on AO who has proceeded to claim HER side of the bed!
This morning hmmmmm she has somehow managed to “stealth” her way onto the bed without us knowing. Hey math teacher…do this equation: 2 humans 2 cats and 1 AO in a full size bed. Cripes where are WE supposed to sleep? Jules wakes up looking like a human question mark!
Have a great day!
That little girl knows what she wants! Cute.
I love the photo of Spike and Bridget, priceless! How did you manage to catch that perfect moment?
The photos of the flowers are yummy, I especially love the lupine.
Did the shopping go well ?
I am leaving tomorrow for Lake Alpine in the Sierra Nevadas, another adventure for me too!
Hi, Lee,
I’m dashing off this reply before we leave camp for Vernal. Yes, I like that lupine pic, too. They grow like a bouquet.
The photo of Bridget and Spike is a small portion I pulled out of a much larger scene (That’s why it’s a bit blurry.) I love how they walk side-by-side, sharing moments together.
Hmm… Lake Alpine… Sounds great! I’ll look that up and maybe we’ll go there someday. Have a fantastic adventure!
What do you know? I was first and even read the whole post.
Note to folks contemplating Sue’s lifestyle. Being a carefree vagabond doesn’t mean not caring about what’s coming up next. It just means that you have the option to tailor your plans to the lifestyle you choose. This post is an excellent example of thinking through your next days/weeks to be sure you take care of the necessities so their need doesn’t interfere with what you want to do later.
Hi, Reine,
Your comment is a great start to the discussion underneath this post! I look forward to reading what the blogorinos have to say today when the crew and I return from Vernal. Thanks for adding your usual, good sense to my blog. Regards to Paul, hovering in the background somewhere. 🙂
That’s probably the most accurate portrayal of the crew I’ve seen.They’re not doing anything ,just being.Kinda like seeing someone first thing in the morning,not yet focused on anything,just waking up the way they really are,right now.
Hi, weather…. Gotta go! Talk to you later…. 🙂
LATER…. We’re back! Laundry done, PTV gassed up, trash dumped, groceries purchased . . . . The only thing I didn’t take care of is the propane.
By the time we left camp it was close to noon and warm on the mountain. I knew it would be sweltering down in the Basin where Vernal is located. Making the crew wait in the PTV for one more thing seemed a bit much. I can always buy more propane if I need it and at tourist prices if need be.
Hope your day is progressing nicely….
It’s not surprising that the crew needed to be given preference over filling the back up propane tank.Laundry takes long enough without a Walmart trip.Even with a short list,you end up thinking ,”Oh,They probably have much better and affordable rye bread,pepperjack cheese,and maybe a handful of peppers with a couple of onions….”.
Whatever extra you might end up paying for propane you’ve saved by not shelling out five bucks a loaf for what passes for bread,etc. at most small town stores.All in all you have to feel pretty satisfied with so much taken care of today.It’ll feel good to finalize plans for what’s next with all of that out of the way.Enjoy the views from your windows when you tuck in with the crew…
You understand my thinking very well. I like to be frugal and save whenever I can, until it infringes on the enjoyment of the day by me or either of my crew members. Then money is no object!
I hated leaving them in the PTV. At least it’s insulated well and four windows were cracked. I always place a bowl of water where they can get a drink whenever they want. It really is remarkable how well Bridget and Spike have adapted to life on the road. They seem to take all the moves and disruption in their stride. To think the first part of their lives was spent as residential dogs, waiting for me to come home, confined by the fence around the yard.
I hope all your critters are well and happy, along with you, of course.
You’re right about bread . . . I recently found bread sold at Wal-Marts that I love! It’s called “Grandma Sycamore’s Sunflower and Honey Bread.” It’s so good I can eat it without toasting it or putting anything on it. Bread is my downfall in the weight control department.
Have a good night!
Amen! I could live with only bread–its a sin.
We haven’t been able to keep up with you lately. It sure is nice to see how great you and the crew are doing. Very nice pics.
S&S
Well, hello, Sandy and Scott! Great to see you here!
(I met this cheerful couple last winter when camped at Kofa National Wildlife Refuge south of Quartzsite, Arizona. We met on the road and stopped our vehicles to chat.)
I’ll forgive you for not keeping up with me and the crew. 😉 Hope all is well with you, wherever you may be at the moment!
Good morning Sue,
Absolutely beautiful pictures near your camp. Your new camera is doing a great job — along with your natural photography talent of course. Get your work done in Vernal, keep cool, and get back to camp as fast as you can. It’s a marvelous location.
Paula
Hi, Paula,
Good afternoon! We’re back from Vernal. Man, is it hot down there. It’s warm on the mountain but cool in the shade wherever there’s breeze. I’m sitting by the back window with it open wide, cooling off. Spike and Bridget are on the vinyl floor which probably feels cool on their bellies.
And the traffic! Big trucks go right through the main street of town…. RVs and tourists and people scrambling around on their lunch hour. It’s like a different planet from the one we’re on up here!
Planet Sue! I like it! We’re “summering” (the opposite of wintering in AZ) in a stick and brick in Frisco, CO. We’ve got a very quiet community, but all hell broke loose over the 4th of July weekend. Multitudes of people infiltrated our personal space! It gave me the incentive I needed to start planning our Moose path back to Arizona this fall. I’m having fun hunting for some quiet spaces to spend time between here and there.
By the way, most of those touri (plural for tourist) have made their way back down the mountains – thankfully. Life is calm again. Have a wonderfully beautiful day!
You have a wonderful day, too, Paula! It seems like this year’s Independence Day was rowdier than ever.
Glad to hear you are going up the west side of the gorge. Haven’t been over that way. There are some boondocks that i’d like to see pictures of. How are those FS/BLM roads?
Hi, John,
Great question . . . .. The roads in this part of Ashley National Forest are the best we’ve experienced of any national forest (with maybe the exception of Fishlake NF in Utah). The roads were constructed very wide with wide shoulders. I appreciate that because deer often come out of the forest and cross the road. The width gives you a little more time to stop as soon as one appears.
Hwy 191 is paved, as you know. Red Loop Road is paved (smooth, no pot holes, no patches) the eight miles from Hwy 191 to East Park Reservoir and Campground.
Our camp is on a gravel road and is in great shape. No washboard and only a few holes. It’s narrow in places, but two vehicles can pass if one stops a bit on the shoulder.
I’ve heard there are good boondocks in the Sheep Creek area, south of Manila. I may look that area over. I hope the roads are as good there as we’ve found them to be here.
Sue, I have been reading your blog for a little over a year and am so intrigued by your lifestyle and impressed with your frugal living. I, like you once said, really never felt lonely and I think this lifestyle would suit me. That being said, how different do you think things would be if you didn’t have Spike and Bridget? On the one hand, I can see that the companionship is invaluable. On the other hand, I wonder how much having a dog along would limit things like museum visits, etc. Also, as a former pet owner, I’ve experienced some incredibly high vet bills. Everyone is different but would love to hear your thoughts.
I’m not answering for Sue, this is just my experience.
I lived alone on the road full time for about two years before getting my dog. Did not do the tourist ‘thing’ during that time and the dog has not limited me in any way since I got her. There is one exception to that – RV Parks with dog breed restrictions (discrimination) policies. I may have stayed at a Park with such a policy before I got her; now I do not.
If going to places that exclude dogs is very important to you then a dog will limit where you can go, so it might be best not to have one.
I’ll chime in also.
A pet is a commitment no matter what your lifestyle is. Do pets play a part in what you can do? Absolutely…but it’s a personal decision.
We couldn’t even fathom not having pets.
Pets are like humans… they to tend to have medical issues associated with aging.
Just like ones choice of “rigs” everyone has different wants, needs, priorities and funds.
Best wishes on your decision.
Thank you. All good points well taken.
Thanks Ed. Don’t think I’d be interested in rv parks anyway. I like the way Sue travels.
Hi, Gail,
Ditto on what Ed and Cinandjules said about pet ownership. How different would things be without Spike and Bridget? NOT AS INTERESTING! haha! With those two, the laughs keep comin’. 🙂
At this stage of my life I’m not “into” things that aren’t pet-friendly, i.e. museums, tours, tram rides, plays, concerts, etc. Once in a very great while I’ll come upon something I want to do and dogs aren’t allowed — like the trail up close to Mt. Whitney, for example — but it’s really no sacrifice. They give me much more than any attraction can.
Although I’ve never experienced loneliness, I benefit from the companionship of my crew. Having Bridget and Spike dependent upon me provides structure to my days. They have to be fed and cared for, walked and tucked in at night.
Without the crew to look after, I’m afraid I’d drift into a sea of slothfulness, my butt adhered to the lounger, slack-jawed with arms hanging . . . well, you get the picture . . . and it ain’t pretty!
Although I don’t get lonely either, I might if I didn’t have a pet. There is a comfort about them. And they don’t talk a lot!
Good point, Toni. Although Spike does talk in his sleep. . .
Thanks so much for the answer and insight. I think I would definitely lean towards the dog. Steinbeck’s “Travels with Charlie” was always one of my favorite books.
Whatever is best for you, Gail.
Oh, one more thing — I talk to the crew. I’m alone so much that if I didn’t have Bridget and Spike to talk to, my vocal cords might atrophy!
I have found if I don’t have a pet to talk to, I start talking to myself. Not a problem until I start answering myself. That’s a little freaky! My cat, Miss Kitty, actually answers me about as often as my husband does. (Note: That’s a compliment to my hubby as he usually engages in conversation when I say something.)
Laundry, eh? Guess that explains all the flower pics! (natural air freshener heh heh)
You’re kidding, Ladybug, but there’s truth in what you say! I like fresh, clean bedding and towels, not to mention clothes. Living with two dogs, things can get dingy pretty quickly.
Some things I wash by hand, but not often. That’s a stop-gap measure. Nothing like a good, commercial washer with a pre-soak and wash cycle to spruce things up!
So much to do, and so little time to do it….wait, who am I talking to? For someone who claims to procrastinate as much you say, you sure get a lot done in a hurry. Maybe, instead of saying you procrastinate, you can just start proclaiming you’re excellent at planning and that’s how it looks like you are just always putting things off:-) I’m glad to see all is well. Safe travels!
Teresa
Hi, Teresa,
You’ve got me thinking…. Hmm…. I procrastinate on projects, like waxing or painting or anything major. However, when it comes to FOOD and CLEAN LAUNDRY, I don’t mess around! Nothing like an empty fridge and dirty clothes to make one feel incompetent and out of control . . .
Sorta off topic (but maybe not, its sorta about being prepared). I’m wondering what one does with dog “poop” when boondocking? Do you flush it down the toilet or use a sealed container to store the poop until you can find a trash can? Or bury it maybe?
Hi, ja,
Not off-topic here! Dog poop is an important subject, worthy of our time . . .
When boondocking (not in a campground), I go around with a shovel, scoop up the poops, and bury them in a hole. This is especially important to do when boondocking in the desert because the poops are visible and, even so, easily stepped on. Sometimes I wait until it’s time to break camp before going on poop patrol .
Bridget and especially Spike don’t like to do their poopers close to camp. That’s one reason why Spike needs a light on his neck when he goes out to do his business at night. He likes to go far off to poop in private.
Here in the forest, I don’t have any poop to shovel because the crew goes off in the bushes where I’d never find it. I appreciate the fact that they don’t poop in paths and lanes or where people are likely to walk. Plus their poops are small, not big burrito piles I’ve seen in places.
In campgrounds I use poop bags, knot them tightly, put them inside another plastic bag, knot tightly (to keep odor contained) and keep the bags in the very back of the PTV to dump when we go to town and I find a trash bin. Some campgrounds have trash bins so we walk the poop bag right over to the bin.
It was funny in the early months of living full-time. I didn’t boondock then. Mostly I camped in state parks in New Mexico. Bridget caught on quickly to the scoop-the-poop-with-a-bag-and-toss-it-in-the-dumpster routine. Soon she did all her pooping next to the dumpsters!
I told you this was an important subject. And I’ve only touched the surface of it (of the topic, that is…).
“Poor Saps” That made me giggle.
Thank you for all of the photos of gorgeous flowers in this post, so lovely to look at.
You’re very welcome, Teri. It’s my pleasure to post photos of wildflowers for those who enjoy them.
I used to be a “poor sap.” Ugh.
A friend recently turned me onto your blog and I am really enjoying it. You are taking me on an adventure!
Welcome to my blog, laraceel! I’m happy to learn that you’re enjoying it. It’s good to see you jumping into comments. You can learn a lot, have some fun, get answers to your questions.. . . . We talk about all sorts of topics.
When you have the time and the inclination, I encourage you to read past posts. Go back to the beginning. You’ll be amazed what a time the crew and I have had, wandering around the West, camping in picturesque boondocks. *sigh* I think you’ll enjoy those posts, as well as the comments below them.
Bless you and the friend who sent you this way! Glad to have you with us, loraceel.
Nice flower pics…met a Casita owner yesterday at Camping World near Springfield, MO..he came over to ask us about our truck (diesel) & told us a little about his 2010 Casita & how he & his wife travel..we told him about your lifestyle with your Casita & how we follow your adventures..nice guy! I am so mixed up from reading your history & then your current blog that I have to think twice were you are right now!! (at the laundromat of course!) Looking forward to your next site! (and road report)
Hi, Susan,
It must be confusing going from one of our camps in the past to the camp in the present, jumping across state lines and mountain ranges! I’m sure you’ll agree that the crew and I have had an exciting 2+ years on the road. Gee, it’ll be three years this August. . . . I’ve lived more in that time than in previous decades.
Thanks for reading my blog, past and present. It’s fun having you along with us.
We are no longer one of those “poor saps” as of seven days ago. Love being able to pull into a campground and pretty much have our pick of the sites, off by ourselves with no real set schedule other than to no overstay the 14 day limit.
Love your pictures. I was just looking up through the maples, taking some great shots of the trees and blue blue sky. Relaxing and just enjoying life.
HIP HIP HOORAY FOR MARSHA AND CREW! Isn’t retirement fantastic? There are so many advantages. Time belongs to YOU!
I’m glad you like the photos. Enjoy every day . . . 🙂
Oh gosh, the crew is bugging me to get out the rotisserie chicken I picked up at Wal-Mart. . . . .
Thanks. We’re loving it!
Let me get this straight. You say “time belongs to YOU” just as you jump up to obey the orders of the real bosses in that crew of yours. 🙂
Just kidding, love the new sight, love the photos. Especially the 2nd to the last of the crew. One of the best I can remember of the two of them together.
Bridget and Spike were walking around the campsite close together. Two pals enjoying each other’s company. I was in the process of trying to take a good pic of the BLT from a different angle (like y’all haven’t seen every possible angle a thousand times!) and the nutcakes happened to walk into the frame.
The pic came out poorly. I zoomed in on the faces of the crew and cropped out that photo. I love finding little gems in photos.
Hi Sue,
Wonderful photos, as usual! So peaceful looking. How great that there is so much beauty nearby.
I’ve been meaning to ask you about how you deal with mosquitoes and other annoying bugs. I’ve been trying the various potions available at the local store up here, some with marginal success but each seems to have a drawback (ineffective, smelly, too oily, etc). What has worked best for you?
I have found the best way to deal with mosquitoes is to go where they are not.
That is usually someplace that has low humidity and low temperatures – high and dry. I also like to be someplace that as the temperature increases during the day the wind picks up.
Mosquitoes are most active when the temperatures are above 80 but become more active at lower temperatures as the humidity increases. They are less bothersome if the wind is blowing that when it it is calm.
Good tips Ed! A good defense is to not need one in the first place.
Hi, Michael,
Ed gave you great information. I agree with everything he wrote. High, dry, and breezy. . . That’s the best way to avoid mosquitoes.
We’ve experienced very few in our travels. There were mosquitoes when we were at Brooks Lake, WY in the summer of 2012… lots of grass and reeds around the lake. Beautiful place though. Some at Mittry Lake, AZ… again, grass and reeds.
It helps if you’re a morning person. The mosquitoes seem to come out in force once the sun goes down. By then I have the crew inside and the screen door shut. (I’m not one for hanging around outside by a campfire in the dark.)
This strategy was important at Pelican Lake because the mosquitoes did come up from the lake once the sun set. That also was when the afternoon winds would stop.
Mostly though, we haven’t had to deal with mosquitoes. I have some OFF! spray which I haven’t used in over a year.
I love wild flower photography you can get lost in it till you cant see from that one eye anymore!! All lovely ones you’ve found for this post…I figure you’re not going back to the Clingers post but I saw the mention of not liking the inflatable you have…I was considering one for the weight being able to load and launch alone…so what is it you don’t like about yours?
Hi, Sondra,
An inflatable is okay. I chose the wrong brand and the wrong size. The Sevelor doesn’t have a firm bottom “board” like the Sea Hawk, Sea Eagle (or whatever it is, never can remember that name.) In mine one tends to drop too low in the water which is uncomfortable and makes paddling difficult.
Mine is a 2-seater which I though would work with me in the back seat and the crew in the front. Well, they want to be in the back with me all the time. I put a cooler loaded with heavy stuff in the bow as ballast. Still the boat is clumsy and hard to maneuver by oneself. I had to drag it across the current of the Madison River, walking on rocks in hip-deep water. I thought I’d collapse with exhaustion and be carried away. It’s a big ol’ bulbous monster.
The inflatables do take some effort to inflate and then deflate and pack away. You are getting rid of the lifting involved with a hard-sided kayak, although there are ways to get around that.
If you want to try an inflatable, look at the “Sea whatevers.” Check back here again to see if readers, more experienced than I, have added more information and opinion.
Thank You! That is valuable info there…now I know what to look for when I get to that point! I hope my strength will return in time…slow but sure.
Careful of the WINDS in SW Wyoming, its where we lot the RV roof. We’re still broke down, just talk to insurance company and they have an investigator on the way. Tomorrow, we should more. All of the injectors were not shipped last Thursday, so expecting rest tomorrow as well. We are all sure missing the ocean right now, its in the 90’s and humid. YUCK. Plus the bugs, I swear they went all winter without food because they are chowing down on us like mad. Went for a morning walk, came back with bites and more bites, but saw a motorhome with a sign on the back that read “Don’t follow us, we’re retired, lost and spending our kids money trying to find a quiet place to be.” I chuckled.
Still thinking, a pickup and 5th Wheel! Good luck in Vernal. The next big weekend is Labor Day and then time to start heading south again!!!!
Hi, Kay,
Well, you’re still in The Valley of RV Repair. Soon you will find your way out of that dismal place. What is it with mosquitoes? They have to bite you when you’re down… sheesh. And hot and humid… There are times it seems bad won’t go away. . .
But it will! Promise!
That sign is cute… Lots of folks want peace and quiet, especially after years of noise and frenzy.
I appreciate you checking in with us, Kay. Keep on keeping on, which I’ve learned from your recent reports is something you’re very good at. 🙂
Kay, did you see this picture of WY windsock?
http://aviationhumor.net/wyoming-wind-sock/#
Strength of wind from chain angle
Kay, Chuck and I love our 32′ 5th wheel. We went from a Casita to a 5th wheel 4 years ago. Chuck says it handles much better than expected, just be safe and get a long bed truck and one big and strong enough to get you up to those mountaintops! We got a Ford 450, more than we needed but it gets us where we are going! Safe travels!
Sue, The old Hiwa used to go thru Manila and was a neat place for lunch (in the 70’s). Found out a few years ago a friend and neighbor who was raised in that area was a waitress in the cafe as a teenager, not sure she was their when I worked that area.
The liver should be free, who would pay good money for it. Several years ago my wife had a “Milestone” birthday and the whole family went out to a really nice resturant for dinner. Most of us had steaks, prime rib, etc., my Dear Wife ordered LIVER, with 10 of us around the table; she then offers a taste of this stuff to anyone. Finally after a short time of silence, my son said, “there is such a thing as a dumb question”.
Bob
Hi, Bob,
Your wife probably figured the only way she could eat liver was to order it in a restaurant. I don’t think it would be welcome in the house!
At first I had a hard time cooking it up for the crew, especially since they like it in the morning. Yuck! I’m used to it now but I don’t eat it, not one bite. My mother loved liver, fried up with onions.
I’ll report on what I see in Manila and around there. Maybe it will bring back good memories for you. Always nice to hear from you, Bob.
Part of liking liver is having it prepared properly. My parents learned that by accident. Mom planned it for supper one night and forgot to thaw it out. My dad said, well get it out anyway and I will use a sharp knife and just slice it as we go, very thinly. OH MY!! We kids all grew up LOVING it. You dip the paper thin slices in flour and fry in butter and/or oil. It was not a meal we ate often…but every cow they butchered had a liver…so we had it a few times a year. They would slice all we wanted, then put it back in the freezer for the next time. When it is paper thin, it fries up very quickly…and somehow there is no bitter taste. As an adult, when I could fix things with onions, that also added delight to it. Oh and salted a bit too…
Your sons question was super funny! Had a great laugh from that!
The wildflower pics are lovely. I am still dreaming of my future on the road. It has dimmed a little since my heart surgery in May, but am still optimistic.
I am still planning on checking out the Oliver trailers soon. I think they are supposed to start making the 17 footer again this summer. I think that actually looking at them will restore my full enthusiasm. Hubby is loosening his thought a little, so maybe.
Have fun taking care of the necessities and the moving on.
Hi, Barbara,
Heart surgery is a big hurdle to overcome and can put a weight on one’s spirit. I’m pleased to see you here, enjoying my wildflower photos and writing a comment, dreaming of the future, planning on an Oliver tour . . . . That’s all good for you to live a full life.
As for hubby… He needs to get with the program! (Just kidding. . .Although I do hope you can realize your dream.)
I want what will work out best for both of you. Have a good evening, Barbara. Keep cool!
The Oliver travel trailer is designed very well with double layer walls. They also have stainless steel do-dads like a nicely built sailboat. But they are pricey. I met the owners a few years back at their showing in Quartzsite and got to see all their models. Very nice folks. I rarely see an Oliver going down the highway, probably because they are so expensive. But if I had the money I might be tempted to buy the Sportsmans model with such high ground clearance I could scoot right over most sagebrush. It’s a boondockers dream.
The main reason you rarely see an Oliver is that they haven’t made that many of them – although maybe the reason they haven’t made that many is the price. We have a friend with an Oliver and he loves it.
And they didn’t make travel trailers for a few years. Probably the price is the biggest reason.
The flowers are simply gorgeous, Sue…how wonderful that spot is!! And liver and turkey…what more could a dog ever want?? Hope you don’t hit the worst of the heat!!
Hi, Elizabeth in WA,
Aren’t the flowers pretty! One thing I enjoy about photography is putting the photos of flowers in the Picasa editing program and being able to see the flowers close up. You know that white flower next to “Tanks are no problem..” is only about the size of the eraser on a pencil.
(For our younger blogorinos, a pencil is what people used to write with before tablets, iPads, iPhones, etc. ) 😉
It was pretty hot in Vernal today. I was disappointed that the laundromat had a big sign inside: “NO PETS ALLOWED.” Some laundromats have let the crew come in to keep cool. They were stuck in the PTV, except for a short time while the washers turned when I let them lie down in the grass in the shade of a small tree.
They were good pups. They earned that rotisserie chicken feast we had when we came home.
It would be hard not to spoil such cute doggies!!
Sue, I’m sure your propane tanks have an automatic changeover regulator. The trick is, you have to have both valves open for it to work. [I learned this when I had my little travel trailer ;-)]
Mockturtle! Thank you!
When I picked up the BLT from the factory I didn’t think to ask about that. Maybe I was told and in my excitement it didn’t sink in. Later I tried to figure it out and deduced that I didn’t have an “automatic changeover regulator.”
What does it look like? All I see is a lever than I turn to point at the tank in use. Is that it? I’d like to see what happens when both tanks have their valves open. I’ll try it when both tanks are full.
It hasn’t been a big deal closing one tank and opening another. Of course, the need to switch tanks usually occurs in the middle of the night!
RVSue:
At about 4:35 Victor talks about the propane tanks:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pz9Dg5GQk34
Phyllis in Oklahoma
Thanks, Phyllis. I’ll look at it when my connection is steadier.
Sue,
Sort of off-topic, but curious; When you leave camp and go as you did in this post, you leave your BLT vulnerable to the Take-It-If-You-Want-It-God’s. Even though you attach the lock to the hitch (I’m assuming), aren’t you tense about returning and not having a home?
“aren’t you tense about returning and not having a home?”
Just the way you have phrased the question has me thinking that Sue ‘should’ be tense/worried that her home will have been stolen while she is away.
Are you tense/worried that your car will be stolen while you are in the mall shopping? Do you park your car in your home driveway and become tense/worried that someone will steal it during the night? When you leave your home are you tense/worried that it will be destroyed during the time that you are gone?
If you are NOT tense/worried in any of these situations then why should Sue be when she leaves her home to go shopping? If you ARE tense/worried in any of these situations then you need help and don’t try to transfer your unjustified fears onto Sue.
As always, thanks for your help, Ed.
Hi, Randall,
I’m happy to see you here . . .
No, I don’t give it a second thought when I leave the BLT. Actually I don’t give it a first thought! Haha! Whenever I unhitch and set up camp, the lock goes on the hitch. Then I treat my home like anyone treats theirs. I lock the door and leave.
Ed drove home this point in his comment. A lot of what looks like a problem for a full-timer really isn’t. In the earlier days of this blog, I received many questions on the line of “Aren’t you afraid?” “How can you do that all by yourself? (being a woman)” “What if somebody comes around your camp while you’re out all by yourself?” What if you get sick?” “What if you get a flat tire?” “What if you get stuck?” “Aren’t you lonely?” Aren’t you afraid of snakes?… tornadoes?” “What if you fall?” “I could never do that! I’d be too scared!” etc.
Ed’s concluding statement may seem a bit terse. Understand he’s helped field the many questions that I’ve received over many months. After almost three years of successful, solo full-timing, readers are seeing that their fears and concerns have very little basis in reality. This is what’s fulfilling for me in writing this blog.
Your question is valid. Someone could steal the BLT. The likelihood is practically nil. In fact, right now I can see four rigs (trailers and fifth wheels) across the meadow on the other side of the road. They will sit unoccupied day and night all week long until their owners come back for the weekend. This forest is full of temporarily abandoned rigs!
Looking at it from another point of view . . . . I like my stuff. However, if someone takes any of it, I’ll deal with it, and go on living and loving life.
…wondering this after reading that..I was told that when I pull my utility trailer the one I use for hauling stuff…that is it covered by my car insurance…but i’m assuming you have separate insurance coverage for the travel trailer and would it cover theft of trailer (God forbid) and the contents too?
Yes, it would, but not replacement value. It would pay for real value.
Another glorious day in the mountains where it’s cool. Have a great day.
Jerry
Thank you for that short and sweet message, Jerry. I treasure the comments of my male blogorinos. Sometimes the guys drift away and then my blog becomes a chick haven.
Yes, this day has been great. The fridge and cupboard are full and the laundry is done! (Not put away, but it’s done!)
Be sure to drop in again, Jerry . . . .
I know that I posted earlier, but as I’m working on my house, I just started giggling at myself and wanted to share with you what I found humorous.
Today is my day off from work, and I’m busily trying to get my house ready to be put on the market. I have a great house, a nice salaried job, and friends/family within a short distance. So, I guess I have what many people would consider a pretty good life.
Yet, with every break I’ve taken today, I’ve picked up my phone to see if some retired lady, on the other side of the country, has gotten back home from doing laundry! No? Ok then, who else has responded?
So funny to me that I find your activities of doing laundry and buying raw meat for your crew, and the responses to those activities, way more exciting than the life I’m leading!
I got the biggest kick out of your comment, Teresa. You set it up beautifully… your good life with a good job and family and friends nearby. . .
And what do you do? Check into this blog and its comments several times a day. That’s so funny because, you’re right, it is a lot of mundane stuff, “doing laundry and buying meat.”
I know why you do it! I really do!
Because I used to do the same thing! When I was still housebound, I’d check Tioga George’s blog several times every day. He had a habit of adding something new every few hours, so that kept me on a leash. Most of the time he’d write about ordinary stuff. What he ate for lunch. Cleaning Tioga’s floor. Checking his batteries. And I hung on every word!!!
Thanks for the chuckles . . .
Kudos on your pics as usual Sue. I am now using your Aspen trees as my new desktop. I save all I use and recycle them. Have a great stay.
Thanks, Jim. I have the thistle photo on my desktop now. I change the photos about every other day.
This has been a great camp. One of the greatest natural wonders in the world is right up the road and here I am, wandering around our camp taking photos. Your Missy is easily distracted by pretty little things.
Have a good evening .. .
Hi Sue,
Sounds like you had a very productive day. I agree…getting all the shopping and laundry out of the way will free up your time and energy to use towards planning your route and finding another beautiful site. Being prepared for a potential longer stay is wise. It would be sad to cut a visit short due to the need for supplies. Switchbacks…you will get through them with ease!
Wow! The wildflowers and new pine growth pictures are just spectacular! It is amazing that there are so many different flower varieties in a relatively small area! Absolutely beautiful!
Safe travels Sue and Crew! Gracie (pup) and I have our seat belts on and our snack trays in the upright position….anxiously awaiting to see where you will take us next!! -:)
Love the picture of the two nut cakes smiling!!!
P.S. I agree with Teresa from NC, it is fun checking for your updates and reader’s comments. Yep….even your grocery and laundry run is entertaining!! LOL!
Hi, Denise,
That’s a cute image . . . You and Gracie strapped in and ready to take off on another adventure with RVSue and her canine crew! Vrrooom-vrroom, and awaaaayyy we go!!
Except we’re still at the same camp for a while yet. I like it here. It’s really pleasant now that the weekend is over.
It’s rewarding and fun for me to know my photos are enjoyed. There are much better pics on the internet and in blogs. Half the time my photos have bad focus, poor exposure, and a lot of amateurish “mistakes.” I don’t care! As long as I capture some of the beauty I come across and am able to share it with people like yourself who have the capacity to appreciate it, well, I’m happy!
I used to be like some of my readers… entertained and enthralled by every detail in a full-timer’s life. It kept my dream fresh and real. Gosh, back in the day, Tioga George could pass gas and I’d be checking every 20 minutes for an update! LOL!
Hi gang! Just checking in…..
Had my surgery June 10 and things got crazy after that. One problem after another. First I had a kidney failure problem, then an upper respiratory infection. Somewhere in there I had a heart attack, from which I have permanent heart damage. I was so heavily medicated I remember very little of the first few days. I was transferred to inpatient rehab after 8 days. Things got better then, except then I got pneumonia. But that healed too and on July 4….independence day! I was released and my girlfriend Tabby flew in and drove me (in my car) back to Irvine, CA…near LA. I will be here almost 4 weeks, till August 3….then I go home. Meanwhile I will have physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nurses come to see me at home here in Irvine. My physical therapist just left. I have a new knee in my left leg, a damaged heart and a determined spirit! Onward!
Oh my, you could write a book, I am so glad to hear you are on the mend now and moving forward. Hang in there, and keep us posted for sure!
Someone else today told me to write a book! Maybe I will! 🙂
Desert Ginger: Wow, what an ordeal just to get a new knee. BUT, I love your spirit and attitude and “this too shall pass” and you will be onward. What a trooper.
Thanks Emily. Hugs.
DesertGinger…..So glad that you are on the road to recovery after so many challenges. Keep that determined spirit! You have been missed! Sending you healing, positive thoughts and prayers. Sending you a hug! 🙂
Thank you. So grateful for the caring. 🙂
Dear Ginger,
It’s wonderful to hear from you!!! A determined spirit…you are a simply amazing woman.I cannot express my sorrow for all you went through,but I can tell you that my relief that you are alright has me in tears.Thank you so for commenting,I know you probably understand how much you were missed here,but in case you don’t-TONS.Welcome back 🙂
Oh good God! Glad to hear you have been paroled and on your way toward recovery. You were on our minds the entire time you were “busy”.
What a great friend Tabby! Was she the friend who was taking care of your doggie? I remember you driving to Irvine to drop off your doggie.
Yes Cinandjules, she has had my dog and is a great friend. The best. Home from your trip? Having warm weather and mosquitoes finally?
Ah Weather, the sweetest woman ever. Love and hugs to you too. So happy to be back.
Dear, dear Ginger! You have been through a lot in an awfully short period of time. Good heavens, I’m glad you have your girlfriend to help you, as well as the nurses and therapists. I’m sorry you’ve had a rough time of it.
We missed you! I tried not to worry. I guess it’s best we didn’t know what you were going through. You’ve been in our prayers and will continue to be. Thanks for giving us an update. I admire the fight in you… You’re the Comeback Kid!
Love ya! Hugs to Chloe who must be thrilled to have you back again . . . as are we.
I’m crying here. Thank you all so much. I didn’t want to post when things weren’t going well….which was most of the time. I knew you were already worrying and I didn’t want you to worry more. So I waited till I had good news….for all of us. I have come to really love everyone here; what a gang of misfits and rebels. Just my type!
Oh my DeGin, so happy to hear from you. Of course a bit sad about your rough road. You do have a great spirit and that will carry you far.
🙂 love you too Mick. Someday I hope to have a little trailer and
PTV and I’m coming to you to guide me down the path of solar awareness. Till then I just enjoy your pithy comments.
Holy Moly!! Welcome back, and back you will be! Slow and steady wins the race…someone said. Glad you’re on the mend. Great positive and determined attitude…as you’ve always had.
Thanks Teresa! Glad to be home.
Whoa there Ginger! I’m glad you’re on the mend and sorry you went through so much so fast but maybe you got it all done now and can relax and enjoy life. I sure hope so. BTW I know you got the new knee but I wonder what did ya do with the old one? *LOL*….Smile! It’s gonna be better soon. *AZ Hug*
Was wondering how you were doing, Ginger…so glad you are still here, in spite of the medical stuff!! We are starting down an unknown trail with hubby. One never knows what to do these days!! Hang in there…thanks for posting to let us all know you are doing much better now!!! Blessings for better days ahead!!
Sooooo HAPPY to see you back! My heart actually skipped a beat when I saw your name. You have had an unbelievable experience…and now you are still enthusiastic and raring to go! Can’t beat that with a stick. Keep up that positive attitude 🙂
So glad to see you back! You were certainly on our minds, with your name popping up and folks wondering how you were doing. I’m so glad you are on the healing path after all the setbacks! With close proximity to the ocean Irvine should be very good for you :-).
Dear Ginger! The Lord has something more special for you to do yet, girl! Along with the rest of Sue’s blogorinos, I am so happy that you are ready to join us again. I missed you, too, Ginger!
God bless your friend Tabby, too.
GINGER !!!!!!!
So glad to see you back. Sounds like it was an ordeal but with your spirit I’m sure that brighter days are ahead.
You have been missed here……..and thought of, and loved and prayed for.
May all the love in the universe work for your speedy recovery.
Dear Desert Ginger, So sorry to hear about the complications and so happy to see you’re on the mend. I guess what they say is true. If you don’t want to get sick don’t go into a hospital. Again. glad to see you are on the road to recovery. I am sure you are looking forward to getting back to your Park model and Tucson.
Best Wishes and Enjoy.
Welcome back!!!! Glad you are doing ok. What an ordeal!
DesertGinger–so glad you checked-in. So sorry it has been so challenging. Slow going but it will get better. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
CherylLyn…yes, it was a challenge! But I feel quite proud of myself…I hung in there. Doing well now. 🙂
Ginger — When I saw you pop up in the comments today I was so relieved. Yes you were missed. What an ordeal you have been thru. Glad you have the medical people and your friend Tabby to help you thru this time. Keep moving and keep in touch.
Will do! Hugs
Welcome back. We all waited for any news and now we know. If you need any help let us know. I bet some of us aren’t that far away from you. If Chloe needs a sitter let us know too.
You take care of yourself and keep posting whenever you’re able.
I am a BIG fan of your blog,Su thank you got all your posti have two q??,how do I get right to comments, and where do you find calf liver?it is really good, hut I can’t find it round me.Beef liver is cheaper but not for human consumption.When I fully regain mobility from my stroke,I reckon I will join you on the road, with a travel trailer(our fiver burned up our barn)and my two Aussies.
Hi, Jean,
There are two quick ways to have the comments appear below a post. 1) Click on the title of the post. In this case, “Thoughts of a traveling boondocker.” 2) Click on the tiny word “comments” at the bottom of the post. If anyone has commented already, a number will be in front of the word “comments.”
Does that answer your question?
At Wal-Mart the calf liver is kept frozen in a freezer case (with open top) in the aisle right next to the meat section. You know, where the breaded chicken patties and such are kept.
If you can’t find it, ask someone who works in the meat dept. if you’re lucky to see one around. That’s how I found it to begin with.
You’re right. Beef liver is the cheapest. I said in this post that you could buy calf liver for under $2… Actually calf liver is more like $3.28 a package. I know because I bought more today! I’ve purchased beef liver for $1.78 a package.
Wow! You dropped a bomb in your comment with the parenthetical statement “Our fiver burned up our barn.” Not a good thing.
I like that you are planning for the time when you fully regain mobility. Bless you. I hope you’re able to get back on the road soon.
I love the flower pictures today, so pretty!
Boy, I sure envy this lifestyle more than ever after something my husband told me tonight. I take my dog and walk each morning and even sometimes again in the evening. I live in a very small, rural town and found out tonight that one of the elderly people in this town thinks the only reason I walk around town is to find things to complain about.
I laughed out loud. I could care less. I have my headphones on and I am trying to get more exercise and lose weight and to hear this, I thought to myself, Sue’s forest sounds really good right now!!
Oh, well, bless his/her pea-pickin’ heart! That’s typical of small town living. People sitting around saying stuff to other people, stuff that has no basis in fact or logic. Just flapping their gums because they have nothing else to do!
I’d laugh, too. It’s too ridiculous to take seriously. I can see where you’d want to flee to the forest! Don’t forget to bring your “Allen Party” sign with you!
LOL… the sign is already packed!! Have a great day!
I know you can’t have clothes lines but what a treat it is to have clothes air dry in a breeze. The smell of air dry clothes is heavenly. Glad you have clean clothes.
Love your photos and those flowers near Flaming Gorge are gorgeous.
Lodgepole Pine
Larkspur (Poisonous!!)
Yellow Salsify
Penstemon
Field Chickweed
Buckwheat
Common Juniper (?)
Yarrow (close up)
Silvery Lupine
Stonecrop (before blooming)
Spike and Bridget
Western Groundsel
Hi, R. (Western Colorado), our wildflower expert!
I LOVE having the correct names for the plants and flowers. Tomorrow I’ll put the labels under the photos. It’s too late for me to do it tonight. I’m tired! The heat in Vernal really took the energy out of me. I’m not used to the heat.
Thanks a lot, R. Your help raises my blog to a whole new level! Plus I’m learning.
Good night!
I added the labels this morning. (Sometimes WordPress won’t let me put the labels under the photo like I want.) It’s nice to see the name of the flower. Thanks again, R.
It is my pleasure Sue to give something back for all enjoyment I get from following your blog with so many fantastic pictures. Thank YOU
I have recently heard of a cure for mosquito bites. Use a hot spoon on the bite after being bitten. It is supposed to break up the poison. The only thing I have ever found that really works for personal protection is DEET. Just don’t get any on your skin. The odor is a little bothersome but it works. The mosquitos fly close but at about a foot and half away they get a whif of the stuff and just fly away. I think the odor tells them that you are not food. I think this stuff was invented during the Vietnam War.
Hi, Joe,
The hot spoon method is a new one for me. Yeah, that DEET is pretty effective. Not the healthiest thing, but neither are mosquito bites!
I currently reside about 200 yards from the Dismal swamp where the mosquitos have been know to carry away small children. Skin-so-Soft expedition strength works quite well. In the OBX they have been know to just carry away cars full of people, never to be seen again. 🙂
Alan… Many years ago, in the late 60s I think, my husband and I were traveling from NY to FL with a few side trips along the way. We came to a lovely beach in the Outer Banks area.
“Look at that beach!” I exclaim. “No one’s there! We can have it all to ourselves!” (See, I’ve always been a loner.) We get out of the car and run out to the beach to see the ocean and turn right around and run even faster to get back into the car. 🙂
At that time you could have been anywhere in the banks. Now the north half, from Nags Head all the way up to Duck it is just one big collection of people and business. It relies on the summer for its main blood but there are enough people there permanently that it can maintain a year round economy. From Pea Island to the south, Hatteras proper, there is no winter economy to speak off. There are a few towns like Merlo Beach, Rodanthe, Buxton and a few more little towns, but it is just one 60+ mile long beach. Ocean side for surfing and fishing. Sound side for wind surfing and kite boarding. There is no boondocking. Not enough land for it. But there are many campgrounds at all levels. It is a nice place, very pleasant with the occasional huricane. But if you want varity look elsewhere. Every day on OBX is the same as every other day, nothing ever really changes, except the weather. The occasional house falling into the ocean is the most exciting event to occur. It can take weeks, even months. It is kind a fun to watch mother nature win one.
Love your last line, Alan, even though it might mean someone’s heartache. 🙂
Is it a myth that the Mosquitos that buzz your ears don’t actually bite?
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve popped myself in the ear out of reaction!
Oh by the way…the Avon Skin so Soft bug spray is a godsend against noseeums. Thanks to the blogorino that hooked me up!
I second that. I see it on my orders reports. 🙂
“Poor saps.” cracked me up. Excellent stream of the day you had and hearing from your friend Ginger really was the cherry on top. And the response with the Casita introduction videos sent me there for a really good introduction to the Casita systems. Great, as usual.
Hi, jonthebru,
Yes, it was good to hear from Ginger. Not so good what she’s been through.
I haven’t looked at the video yet. I think I’ve seen it before and it is a good one. My internet connection is acting up this morning. The signal strength is excellent, but it keeps dropping. I’m limiting what I open up.
I never thought about it but “poor saps” is a weird phrase. Wonder where it came from.
Ginger, I was worried about you. I’m so thankful your doing better. Sam
Thanks Sam, that was so kind. Hugs.
There is something so special about old dogs. Their hearts are pure, they have their priorities right, and I love their calmness.
Very true, Heda. With Spike it’s like he’s letting go of this world. . . . not as obsessed with the environment like he used to .. . more content to just BE.
Nice to hear from you. . .
Good morning,Sue,
The wild blackberries ripened enough over the past day to be ready for gathering a few handfuls.The birds get the bonus of not having to share with me,because I didn’t pick any today.You see it rained so much overnight that every plant is soaked.I would find the wetness refreshing on my skin and clothing,but just stood still,listening,and came inside.You know how dry grasses,leaves and flowers just glide off you as you walk through?When wet and weighted down they cling to your clothes and moving causes them to be ripped and broken.So,to leave them intact,I’ll wait for the wind and sun to dry everything before I visit the wildlife today.It’s just as well,there’s enough in here to let me drift in my pretty thoughts world.
Hope you enjoy surveying your fuller pantry,fresh laundry and bright mountain this morning.
Good morning, weather,
You bring back pleasant, New York memories of blackberry brambles and wet grass and leaves in the morning. We used to pick what my mother called Black Longberries. I don’t know if they were simply blackberries or a certain variety.
The crew and I are enjoying this “bright mountain” this morning. Bridget is being her usual lazy self. She rolled out of bed for breakfast and went right back to bed once she filled her belly. I took a photo of her face peeking out of the covers earlier.
Spike has been outside three times this morning. I walked with him to the end of our “driveway” to look across the meadow. Now he’s back in bed, too.
The trouble with having a full larder is I want to eat everything in one day!
Always a pleasure to greet the morning with you, weather.
Blackberry / cat story: About 1995 on my property east of Cambridge, NY there was a banner year for blackberries. I was out in the patch picking buckets full for a friend and my cat “Puttin”, an orange tabby, was hanging around. I offered Puttin a berry and he said “no thanks”
The next morning I rolled out of bed and saw a black blob on the carpet at the foot of the bed. When I put my glasses on and examined the blob I saw that it was a neatly arranged pile of perfect blackberries. Puttin had to have make a dozen trips through the cat port to bring me that present. He moved south with me and lived to be 17. Still my favorite cat!
Cute story Mick. I love that!
Puttin
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b249/mickent/cats004_zps0c2d5d7d.jpg
He loved you Mick, so he did his best.
What an adorable story, Mick. No wonder you loved that cat!
Touching story. They love those who love them.
But did you say Cambridge, NY? I just talked with friends in Saratoga Springs and they had a dinner a couple nights ago in Cambridge at Sylvano, Siliano or something like that. We’re planning to eat there in October when I’m in the Adirondacks, ME and VT. Can’t wait to eat Cortland apples and have a real maple syrup.
Silvano’s … new to me, been gone since 1997.
http://www.silvanosrestaurant.com/index.html
Cambridge is my home town and birth place; also former home to a famous RV blogger.
Mick, it sounds like this is the place. Wasn’t Grandma Moses from that area as well?
Yes, Grandma Moses had her studio near Eagle Bridge, about 5 miles south from Cambridge. Norman Rockwell also had a place on the Battenkill river just across the state line in Vermont. Beautiful country with a six month long winter!
And he’s not exaggerating!
🙂
Mick… Connie has asked a question under the Flexible Solar Panel page. Would you be so kind to reply to her… please?
>Done<
Your welcome!
Thanks, Mick!
Last week I made 6 and a half pint jars of Blackberry Jam!! YUM YUM got one tick and 2 chiggers, and many scratches…. but it was worth it! Mailed one jar off to a friend’s husband! He loves my jams and jellies and I always like to share. He had a stroke about 3 yrs ago and his life is more narrowed now so even little things bring great joy! We ate the half jar in 3 days!!
What a nice thing to do. Homemade blackberry jam… Is there anything better? I think not!
Ginger
It is great to have you back.
Sue your Allen sign makes my day every time you mention it.
Both you ladies have a great day.
Ron
Thanks, Ron. You, too.
Thanks Ron. 🙂
Hi, Sue and Crew!
Want to hear about our 4th of July camping experience???
Thought we would try a “civilized” (chortle) and hosted campground to escape the fireworks in our little burg, so we booked a couple of nights at the FS Campground, Limberpine, above Red Lodge. The lovely Rock Creek runs nearby, the pines tower, and the immensely popular Beartooth Pass to Yellowstone Park is just across the highway! (The traffic on which was like living near a popular airport. Another story…)
However, what we did not know was that the road to a million boondocking sites up the pine-clad canyon runs alongside this campground. The boondocking sites are actually base camps for hundreds of OHV enthusiasts. Consequently, just above our camp, dust tumbled off that little road, as did the roar of OHV engines and the happy yelps of their riders, all day long and into the night! NOTHING AGAINST YOU OHV LOVERS! It looks like a fun sport. And your compadres appeared to be happy and considerate people. (Bless ya’) So,,,
Don’t get down on me. I am a retiree who grew up in the forests around here where never a foreign sound was heard. Where the snap of a tree branch was startling. My point is that camping has changed. What I have learned is that now it includes the use of small engines, (and big), trails made and maintained by the USFS for such off road uses, and the expectation that many, many enthusiasts show up at once to enjoy their sport. I must be very, very careful in the future to chose more wisely. It means that my husband and I will become boondocking specialists.
I have also learned that although I have studied the Motorized Vehicles Use Maps before choosing a site, those maps are not always up to date.
So, OHV enthusiasts: I have found a wonderful trail system for you! Complete with boondocking within a pristine forest in Montana with instant access to one of the most beautiful highways to Yellowstone Park. Enjoy!
I’m boondockin’ like I mean it next time! LOL
Hello, Diann,
Your comment makes me sad. I was outside a few minutes ago having a conversation with a teenager who has damaged a large area behind this camp. When we arrived here it was open forest with an undergrowth of grass and wildflowers. Lovely. Now it is a maze of tire tracks, crushed grass and flowers, crushed animal burrows, broken limbs, dust and dirt.
Since I can’t catch this kid, when I heard him driving in circles in the forest, I walked back there with my camera. As he zoomed by he looked at me and I took his picture. This brought about the desired result.
He left and came back with his momma. I asked them both about Motor Vehicle Use maps. They didn’t know what they were. I explained.
I had downloaded the MVU for this area previously. I told them this and informed them that this part of the forest is not designated for OHV use. One must follow the trails set aside for OHV use. A long conversation followed during which the mother was very receptive. It was hard for her to argue since we were standing at the intersection of five or six “new roads” her son had created and which other OHVers will see as OHV trails until all vegetation and wildlife is gone and it is one big area of dirt.
She told her son not to drive back there any more, to stay on the road. I thanked her and told her I was not going to email the photo to the Forest Service because of her cooperation and understanding of the situation.
Best of luck finding quiet and peaceful boondocks, Diann. I’m very sorry you had that experience. I was looking forward to camping in that area someday. The MVU map may not be outdated. It may be that the OHVers aren’t supposed to be there, but they know they can get away with it, due to the lack of enforcement.
I may sound like an alarmist. However, I see the day coming when one cannot find a camp anywhere without the drone of engines within earshot. When this part of the world becomes so saturated with noise that no silence can be had, stress and subsequent mental illnesses and nervous disorders will proliferate to the point that the lunatics will truly be running the asylum.
Of course, no offense intended to responsible OHVers.
Dear Sue,
Your having to witness living things being broken and crushed makes my heart break for you.Bucking the tide of humanity -in it’s numbed march to obliterate the very environment that can slow their descent to madness- can feel overwhelming, yet is a noble pursuit worthy of setting out on,because it has goals we can apprehend.
Consistent effort has effects more far reaching than we sometimes imagine, when it seems we’ve been handed defeat.When I came to this area and began parking roadside to help whatever had been struck by vehicles if it was still alive,folks sort of glared at me for causing a distraction in their racing each other to wherever.Between my being blessed with whatever that makes wild life trust me and skilled vets,happy endings always replace the initial horror of what I first see.
Over time,instead of glaring,when people saw my jeep pullover,they began to slow down and watch.Then one day one pulled over and asked if he could help.A parade of heroes rose up as friends who’s hearts had only needed a battle to matter in. These tough guys in huge trucks came to help when my biggest storm hit…
Everyone we influence is connected to others, by learning to notice life they help themselves and all that lives.We win!Don’t let anything discourage you,light has ever dispelled darkness
Sweet weather,
You actually stopped and lent mercy to fallen deer? God bless your soul forever.
weather is a pretty remarkable woman. You have to be careful around a wounded deer. They can give you a nasty kick when they’re terrified.
God bless you too,I’m sure you would help if you were here 🙂
oops,Diann ,I answered you one spot down,deer, turtles,climbing,crawling,swimming or flying creatures-you’d be amazed how many things can’t seem to avoid getting roughed up in this world,us included,oh well,it’s still worth being here!
This may need clarification.The trucks aren’t OHVs,they are what these guys,now my friends,who rose up to become animal rescue helping heroes,all drive to work.
This rough looking crowd of country guys began showing their capacity to care when they were shown what was happening to some local wildlife.These people don’t go near any NF or BLM land because as local landowners with plenty of turf of their own they just step outside when they want wilderness.
They influence their families ,and the communities in several counties now have kinder inhabitants because one guy noticed someone struggling to get a blanket under an injured turtle.
Today,by showing one mother and a teenager the destroyed life caused by a joy ride,you may have helped them turn a corner, so they show someone else and so on.Our small efforts can bring huge changes…hope- that what we care about can survive-,is the point I was trying to make.
If my comment was so vague that it was misinterpreted as anything else and felt wrong,I’m sorry.
No apology necessary. The written word has limitations. 🙂 I do hope the mother and son become more sensitive to their impact on the forest and pass it on to others.
I wish I had a blog post to write tonight. Sometimes the words don’t come. I think I’ll turn in early and maybe we’ll move camp tomorrow. You have a good night!
🙂
Well I will just be blunt and say I cant abide those noisy machines! It sends me into a rage…the destructiveness is long standing!! A state forest near us used to be a great place to hike, fish, camp, horse camps too…now its a racetrack full of transformers! I have to steer clear of where they are if possible, so I wont get myself into a situation–that I may not live to regret!! Even Mt Bikes get on my nerves. No cards or letter please..lol
I don’t understand why the ones that like to race and jump over “hills” go to the beautiful forests. There are OHV recreation areas all over the place. (I know because I drive many miles to avoid them.) Why race around the forest? They obviously don’t appreciate nature since they wantonly destroy it.
I’ve been reading and thinking a lot about kindness, and also about modeling. My girlfriend is trying to get pregnant and give birth, so we talk a lot about parenting and how kids learn. My parents were not kind, and I never learned much about kindness. I bet this young man has never learned much about kindness or respecting the earth.
By doing what you did, you modeled several important things. You were kind, even when you were upset. You were concerned about the forest and the state in which it will be left, perhaps damaged beyond repair. You also showed him courage by standing up for your beliefs.
Parents cannot force children to behave; the child has to want to do good on his own. Hard to say the intent in his actions…perhaps he didnt realize the damage. But by modeling other behaviors you gave him choice. If he is a child who wants to do good, then I think your seeds will take root. Either way, you did what you could.
We did talk about how one person’s actions can influence the actions of others and, in the case of disturbing the forest, set into motion behaviors that could cause damage lasting several years. Not in those words, of course… just talking about how once a path is made, others will think it’s okay to drive there, too, until no grass or wildflowers grow, only dirt remains. The boy listened and his mother agreed. We have no way to know what effect will take place. I hope something positive!
Thanks for affirming me. At one point, I thought I had actually lost touch with what is acceptable in the woods these days. I personally think that you should drop by the FS ranger station on your way out of that area and share your concerns. If we don’t speak up, who will?
I found out that all the OHV traffic was approved by the USFS because we saw a green FS truck go up that way a couple of times. Hope whoever was driving that green truck insisted on checking OHV permits. Those fees supposedly go to toward the building and maintaining of the trails through the forest.
An email explaining the behavior and abuse of the forest, along with photos of the people on their machines and the damage they’ve done, plus an accurate description of the location, is the most efficient and effective measure.
Then the Forest Service has proof they can take to court if the citation they give out is contested. This is what I was told by Forest Service personnel.
Will DO!
You Go RVSue!!
I think all those vehicles should be banned from our forests. For the few who are responsible there are too many who are not and just contribute to the demise of our National Forests. And I don’t care who I offend!! I think Jet skis should go, as well, followed by snowmobiles in our Forests and National Parks. My husband and I decided to go on a snowmobiling tour in Yellowstone about 15 years ago. Neither one of us had ever been on one so I don’t really know why we wanted to. Bret grew up in Wisconsin playing in snow but I am a native Texan-I had seen snow maybe 3 or 4 times in my life.
Anyway, we went up there, and all the people on the tour wanted to do was zoom around. The speed limit in the National Park was 35. In order to keep up with our tour, I remember seeing my speedometer hit 70 mph. Then we saw a ranger pulling a trailer with a dead coyote. A snowmobiler had hit it and killed it. That was the last straw for us. We told the tour group goodbye and took our snowmobiles and rode off slowly to see some geysers and walk around Old Faithful. The exhaust fumes from those things was almost intolerable. We were happy when the sport was banned from the National Parks, and then sad when the decision was reversed. I know the machines themselves are better now, less smelly and loud, but people stay the same.
Too bad. On another note, glad to see DesertGinger back! A speedy recovery!
Can’t wait til you go to Flaming Gorge-take lots of pics!! That said, your camp is lovely where you are now. Enjoy the peace!
Hi, Terri,
Interesting experience. I’ve found that’s the problem with joining a group. The potential exists for the behavior of all to descend to the level of the self-appointed leader, no matter how low that might be. I didn’t know that snowmobiles are allowed in national parks. I wonder why.. . to generate revenue during the winter months?
I hope I can take some good photos of Flaming Gorge. The summer haze has been thick. I was going to take some pics of the scenery on the way down the mountain to Vernal. It’s quite a scenic drive with overlooks of lakes, ridges, monuments, and mountains. However, I knew I wouldn’t have anything good to post because the haze was like a cloud.
You know where I live now there are endless hiking trails, biking trails, trails for dirt bike and other noisy things, horse trails. Some of them are only for hikers, some for hikers and bikers, some for horseback riders and still once in a while there is someone who tries to go where not supposed to. Why would someone want to break rules and take a bike on trails designated for hikers and horses only? There are hundreds and hundreds miles of biking trails including one from Loma, CO all the way to Moab, UT (142 miles long). Another one all the way to Durango, CO about 140 miles and there are more.
There is a couple who walks their donkey on a trail in the national monument. When I asked why they do that I got not very polite reply and answer this is a pack animal. But I know they are not allowed on every trail and definitely not on that one. Anyone knows if pack animals need to have some sign indicating they are pack animals and are they allowed to be there only when working or at any time the owner feels like taking them for a walk?
READERS: Anyone know about regs concerning pack animals in national monuments and parks? What trails they are allowed on? Working or not working?
Sue,
If you go to National Park Service (NPS) and search using Recreational Stock you will get a number of ‘hits’. I did not read any of them in detail but it appears that there is no single ‘rule or regulation’. Each Park has its own Park Management Plan and rules and regulations for that individual Park. I doubt seriously that they make a distinction between ‘working and not working’ but that again would be at the discretion of each Park. I use Park but I think Monuments would be the same.
A sample of what is involved may be:
2014 Stock Users Guide to the Wilderness of
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks that can be read by using this link–
http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/2014-Stock-Users-Guide_FINAL-2.pdf
Thanks, Ed. This should answer R.’s questions.
Ed, thank you. This is very helpful. After I read your post last night I went to the website for the monument and there is a map showing in red every trail where horse and pack animals are allowed. There is nothing about working and non working animals.
R-
I respect your perspective, plus the fact that you write about the Western Slope and areas beyond. You’re also a remarkable flower expert; however, I would not quibble with people who want to take their mule for a walk. The abuse of our pristine forests by OHV’s trumps any muley “left overs” on a trail.
I am a former Coloradan who hiked trails that were used and abused by “mountain bikers” in the ’80’s and ’90’s.
Diann in MT, I think you missed my point. This is not about donkey’s poop or that I should not quibble about animals taking walks on hiking trails. It is about designated or not designated trails for such activity. The trail in question is not for animals, only for hikers. It’s owners’ responsibility to know the rules. Thank you for your comments.
It has always been my experience that if horses are allowed it will say so at the trail head…but if its NOT marked Horses Not Allowed it could happen until the trail is properly signed to prevent it. Horses do a lot of damage to a hiking trail. I recently got to hike a short trail in a park that is also used by Mt Bikes. I’ve had near collisions before with cyclists who fly by thinking I hear them come up behind and coming so fast one move by me could mean a collision.On this trail Bikes go one way Hikers the other so they are facing each other I felt more at ease with that arrangement.
Hahaha:-) last to post! Welcome back Ginger…. Jeeeeze, no fair having all those complications with your surgery! Love your come back attitude though!Tomorrow we go pick up our fixed like new laptops! Yay! This tablet isn’t as much help as I had hoped. Sue, I loved all your photographs, however the first one is my favorite as is the one of Bridget and Spikey. Glad you summer is full of beautiful places! It has rained here at Hillsborough River State Park everyday since we arrived! Florida summers. Sheeeeeesh! But camp hosting here is fun!
Whoops! Not last! 🙂
Summer in Florida . . . I remember those afternoon downpours. Great to hear you’re enjoying your new post!
Good morning,Sue,
The winds I’d counted on to dry the foliage yesterday were part of a severe storm system that was to pass through.Much of the day was spent preoccupied with preparation to avoid possible damage here.That’s why I wasn’t as attentive to the pace of replies here as I wish I had been.The idea of letting someone,especially you, spend anytime feeling badly because of my too hastily written comment is an awful feeling.
As it turns out “only” four people locally died in the storm,many more had homes,businesses,jobs and property destroyed and now ,with most of the power restored,the efforts to deal with the aftermath begins.
My hope is that all the damage caused is soon thoroughly turned into better circumstances for everyone affected.Whatever your morning and day holds,I pray knowing that my every thought of you as wonderful hadn’t wavered ,is part of it.
Blessedly,nothing broke or died that”belongs”to me,my gratitude about so many things,yourself included,is deeper than ever.Hope there’s lots of things to make you and the crew enjoy today. 🙂
Hi weather,
How about telling us your location. That would help us visualize your detailed description.
Have a great day Sue. I’m on the way out to hike on trails in McInnis Canyon designated for hikers, runners, hikers and runners with dogs and for horses only. Maybe donkeys too.
🙂
Oneida Lake,bordering Oswego,Madison,and Onondaga counties,NY State-Predominantly rural area with only one city of any size within a few hours radius,hence everyone’s driving rapidly trying to shorten the length of time taken in long commutes for the better paying jobs in town.They don’t sometimes notice critters as they’re thinking about what most people struggle through or enjoy in life.
Have a wonderful hike, R.!
R,
McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area is managed by the Bureau Of Land Management (BLM) which is another kettle of fish compared to the NPS. However, they also have individual rules and regulations within each BLM Field Office and then the individual areas that each Field Office has under management may have their own individual rules and regulations.
In your other comment you said “It’s owners’ responsibility to know the rules.” That is absolutely correct but the NPS and the BLM do not make it easy much less simple. I am glad that I was able to help with your question.
Good morning, weather,
I had no idea you were facing such a powerful storm! I don’t read the news like I used to — tired of wading through all the non-news — so I only had a vague idea there was a storm on the east coast.
I thank God you are okay! I went to a news website as soon as I read your comment. How terrifying and sad for those who lost their lives or their loved ones.
I didn’t feel badly about anything you wrote yesterday… not for one second! I don’t know what concerned you, which is just as well. The comments on this blog can get confusing when two or three topics are being discussed simultaneously with comments popping up quickly.
I understand you well enough, after sharing many thoughts and feelings, to be confident you would NEVER intentionally write anything hurtful, curt, offensive, rude, etc. So no more apologizing, sweet woman! 🙂
Yesterday was one of my dopey days. I have them maybe once every 2-3 months. Those are days when my usual low-energy drops even further. I feel like napping all day long. I finally succumbed to my sleepiness in mid-afternoon, wrapping myself in a quilt in the lounger, watching the twinkling of the aspen leaves in the breeze, and dozed off and on for a few hours. I was still sleepy in the early evening, went to bed early, and slept solidly all night. I don’t know why that happens to me. It’s something I’ve experienced all my life. Oh well, of all the physical ailments one can have, a day of sleepiness is nothing! My body’s batteries must need recharging.
Today is a new day and I finally feel rested and ready to enjoy each hour! I hope everything is right in your world after being shaken and washed anew.
“Dopey days”,cute expression for trying to move through a fog.Low energy episodes have really wiped me out sometimes, too.My hyper immune system has blessed me with protection I’ve taken advantage of all my life.The flip side is that when it detects danger,it half knocks me out with it’s methods of purging in a few hours all potential “assailants”!
As you’ve said,it’s a gift to be as free of bigger health issues as we are.Being wiped out and renewed now and then, by however our system does that, is what others pay spas to do for them!
The events yesterday were more difficult than I can really handle without pretty strong emotions,but that’s what makes life full and worth it all,the whole spectrum of what adventures contain if we care.
Washed anew.thanks,that’s how I’m going to look at everything today! 🙂
You know? You’re probably right about “dopey days” caused by the immune system going into overdrive. I woke up yesterday with a stuffed-up head which was gone by the end of the day.
I sense you’ve had a bad time of it, weather, with the violence of the storm perhaps. I trust today is much better.
Thanks,today is much better,as much as I love everything about the topography of this whole area and especially my location(Tug Hill Plateau meets lake via cliff in back yard),there’s a history of destruction caused by straight line and tornadic winds that have taken tolls I wouldn’t care to go through again.
The signs of the impending storm were much more obvious to me than most others and quite took everything I had in me to make sure all that needed protection followed my suggestions/directions or lead.Couple that with forcing myself to focus on how fast it all needed to be done without frightening the sensitive and you have a formula for almost making me break a sweat 🙂
Really,sometimes seeing/noticing as much as I do is hard to describe as the bittersweet way I experience life.I accept being “different” as the gift that He meant it to be,it’s just that,well, the intensity of the path’s demands for strength are more challenging some days.Yesterday was one of them.
The super good news is that everyone expresses gratitude instead of resenting what I am.I’m blessed by an acceptance many never receive.I know you understand how precious that is .
I’m glad you were there to help others. Yes, sensitivity is a precious gift, but there are situations where it can take a toll.
Amen!
Good thing you were there to warn and help others. Yes, acceptance can be a blessing, as can sensitivity, although the latter can take a toll.
I knew you,of all people, would understand all of that.
🙂
Is there a prize for #200 > Duh!
Well… gee…. The only prize that comes to mind is you, Mick. You are MY prize! 🙂
EXCUSE ME!
Apparently we live in tornado country! Two in the last week….. I’m like WTH Jules? She’s claiming they never had them in this area!
We are currently on generator power….although we are country bumpkin transplants…you can take the girl out of the city but you can’t take the city out of the girl! Gotta have a toilet and running water!
Cinandjules,didn’t you say it seemed like someone had pissed off Mother Nature?Well,apparently they didn’t listen when you asked them to apologize.All kinds of natural disasters that used to happen rarely occur regularly now.Pretty glad about being a “gadget hoarder” now that you have the generator’s power,aren’t ‘cha?Glad to hear you’re OK.
You have a good memory! Yikes……
Remember I’m a CA girl…I can deal with earthquakes. I’m not so keen on these tornados. Gadgets hoarder you bet…the generator is a must because I can’t be without the facilities! Ya know!
Having withdraws not being able to farm on Hay Day! 😉
Funny thing about my good memory.Can watch ,feel or read anything I enjoy once and it’s permanently etched in my brain… -however- -Sh-h! Don’t tell anybody,but when I don’t like someone,it’s the weirdest thing,they could tell me their name (and whatever else their lips won’t stop moving about!)everyday for a year,and the next time I see them I can’t even remember their name!True story. 🙂
Oh, wow! It’s like your brain has a spam filter!
Ha Ha!Exactly!
Too funny!