Monday, April 7
This morning we break camp and leave the BLM land between Wickenburg and Congress, Arizona. At Congress the Perfect Tow Vehicle takes on some gas before we head up Highway 89. And I do mean UP!
It’s a long, winding, 2nd-gear haul up the Weaver Mountains.
We make it to Yarnell at the top of the mountain, and from there on, it’s an easy, enjoyable ride.
Further I take Iron Springs Road through Skull Valley, and avoid Prescott by going “the back way” on Williamson Valley Road.
In the town of Chino Valley, I pull into the Safeway parking lot to restock before going to Rusty’s and Timber’s house.
I’m almost finished shopping when I hear “Hey!”
I turn and there’s Rusty smiling at me!
“Hello, Rusty! How are you?” We hug and talk in the aisle for a bit.
Out in the parking lot Rusty says, “I’ll lead you to my house.”
Rusty’s 1975 Ford pick-up with camper still takes him where he needs to go (although she leaks oil when driven over 45 mph). This isn’t a problem for Rusty because everything he needs is within a few miles and the driving is easy.
I see why Rusty chose to settle in this location.
It has a country feel with lots of stores nearby. In only a few minutes we reach his driveway. Rusty directs me to a parking spot that will throw shade on the refrigerator side of the Best Little Trailer during the afternoon.
I open the side door of the PTV and Bridget and Spike tumble out.
Timber is in his back yard. He goes nuts at the sight of the crew, racing back and forth on the other side of the fence, hopping up and down.
The crew greets him in a flash and I fail at my efforts to catch a good photo or two of the reunion-in-motion.
Rusty gives me a tour of the property and shows me the inside of his home. It’s pleasantly cool and clean. The kitchen and bathroom are spotless.
“I want to take care of it,” Rusty remarks. “I see how some guys are. I don’t want to live like that.”
During the tour of the property, Rusty shows me his train yard!
It’s located in his front yard which he has fenced, giving Timber access to both yards.
As the train chug-chugs on the winding track, Rusty excitedly describes his plans. “Over here . . . I’m going to build a mountain over that tunnel. And I’m going to make a village. The track is going to go over that way and come around to join in here.”
“I like how you put those rocks on that slope. This is incredible!”
The little train blows its horn at the tunnel.
“I’m going to move my garden from the back yard and put it over here and then the train will run around the garden,” he adds.
“Oh my gosh, you have a trestle. I love it, Rusty!” (The trestle can be seen in the photo above.)
While we’re playing with the train, Timber bounces around trying to get some play out of Bridget and Spike. Bridget, predictably, shows her teeth and snarls. Spike lies down in the shade.
Later, after more talk on the porch watching the train make its rounds . . .
“Rusty, I can’t find the keys to the BLT’s door. I called up Safeway and they said they found them. I’d better get over there. I can’t unhitch without those keys so I’m taking the BLT with me.”
I drive back to Safeway with the BLT following behind and pick up the keys at the Customer Service counter. I must’ve dropped them in the parking lot as I was loading up the groceries.
Back at Rusty’s place . . .
Timber is so excited that he jumps out of the yard and onto the porch, a good four feet up. Rusty sets to work affixing chicken wire across that section of the porch to keep Timber from escaping. Rusty declines my offer to help. I watch him work from my camp chair, relaxing with a cool drink.
While he works, Rusty mentions that the porch roof leaks and some other repairs are needed around the house. A few minutes pass as he continues to work.
“I know it’s not perfect,” he says, referring to his home, “but it’s a whole lot better than living in that.” He jerks his head toward the truck camper. I look at the pipe coming out of the camper roof and remember Rusty gathering wood for the stove within. Rusty taps the chicken wire securely to the porch rail.
“I’m happy with what I’ve got.”
“I can see that you are, Rusty. And that’s what matters.”
rvsue
THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
First time here love your blog! Glad you got to Rusty’s
And I love seeing you here! Stop in any time. 🙂
Brand new and you got in first comment! Folks are gonna be jealous 😉
So glad Rusty and Timber are doing so well. What he has done with his home is beautiful. I love the garden at the end of the house where the BLT is parked. It looks like a little miniature conifer forest!
So Happy for Rusty. Glad you shared your visit with us…..did you get your present that was waiting there for you?
Hi, Val. . . No, Alan said it will arrive later in the week. I can’t imagine what he’s sent me!
Hooray! Rusty found you and you are parked and ready to get caught up with the news from your good friend, does it get any better than that?
Tell Rusty his train set up is awesome, it is so great that he has a fun hobby and the leisure to pursue it, what a great life he is making for himself. I can’t help but think you had a personal hand in his finding this wonderful new life, just wow…
Have a great visit!
Hi, Lee J,
It’s a joy to listen to Rusty explain his plans for his railroad. He’s very particular that everything be to scale. His kitchen table is covered with tiny pieces of train that he’s gluing together. It’s a wonderful creative hobby. I’m tickled to see him this happy and content.
No, I didn’t have much to do with Rusty’s “new” life. It was the outpouring of love and generosity from readers of this blog that helped him transition from the road to a regular house. He will always be grateful.
Awesome! So happy you and the crew shared your visit with Rusty and Timber. I love his place. He’s got the flag flying. I love his train hobby. Timber’s got a nice yard to run in. Rusty has a nice place to live. I hope you all enjoy catching up.
Hi, Libby,
We’ve had a few good conversations already. Always nice to hear from you, Libby, with your positive comments.
Sue I think Rusty’s passion for his hobby is an inspiration, it is so wonderful that he has you as a friend and finally a home and space. I think it is wonderful too that he takes such pride and care of his home. Would Rusty mind if you published his address so I could send him a gift card to help with the needed repairs? I couldn’t afford to donate when he got his house, but I could now. Thank you. Mary
That’s sweet of you, Mary. I’ll mention it to Rusty tomorrow and see if he will let me post his address.
Sue, I would also like to send Rusty a gift card. I do hope he will allow you to post his address or have it sent to Mary and me privately. Does he have a Home Depot nearby to buy home repair items?
I’d like to take some of my (ungrateful, materialistic) former students on a field trip to Rusty’s house and have Rusty tell them, “I’m happy with what I’ve got.” I guarantee that those $200 sports shoes they beg their parents for do not give them the pleasure that Rusty’s train set has.
Oh, I know what you mean, Gayle. I had a middle school student who carried a $350 handbag to school. Insanity!!!
I love Rusty’s train hobby. I want to sit in the dirt and make little scenes along the tracks. You know, plant miniature trees. Put wild horses on the mountain. Make a pond. Haha!
….oh and maybe add a few cows too! lol
Oh, yes, of course! How could I forget! Haha!
Oh jeez, that’s hilarious!
You need to donate your compact mirror for the pond!
I think y’all want to play with trains!
Train confession: My brother gave my 10 yr old son his train board/city. My son’s friend came over. I go into the garage and see the HO village it’s totally flattened. “What did you do?” I cried. “We made a war diorama,” he said.
I’m so excited ya’ll can hang out and catch up! Yay, I see you’re at around 4,707′ which will hopefully make a nice summer for Rusty and Timber, and a nice break for you too Sue!
Rusty, I love your train! And all that’s around, of course! I wondered if you still had your camper and happy to see you do. 🙂
Sue, thank you, as always! You’re the best! 🙂
You’re welcome, Carrie. Chino Valley is a great location. The elevation is just enough to temper the heat somewhat. It snows here but not much and it doesn’t stay long.
I don’t know what it is about Chino Valley (the valley itself). I always feel a peace coming over me when I drive across it, the grass bending in waves. One can see the snow-topped San Francisco Peaks from Chino Valley.
And the sense of peace just moved across me like the breeze across the grass.
I think Reine (comment below) is on to something. You’re humble, which is great, but your words set this garden into motion. It’s quite beautiful! Words have such an amazing impact! 🙂
Yes, words are powerful. Every blogger learns that quickly!
Monday was probably a good day to haul up 84. I hope you enjoyed the trip but the reunion most of all. Hello to Rusty and Timber from TN. Have a great time.
Hi, Mick… It’s been a great day and a happy time for Rusty, me, Timber, and the crew. You’ve been a good friend to Rusty. I hope all is well for you . . .
“No, I didn’t have much to do with Rusty’s “new” life. ” Sue I disagree completely. YOU are the one who set the stage by opening your heart to Rusty and letting us get to know him through you. You are also the one who shared the story of the loss of Timber. You have also spent three years working hard to ensure that your blog is a joyful, happy place that stays positive. That effort attracts folks that are the type to reach out to others.
You provided the good soil and planted the seeds, others watered and now Rusty is reaping the harvest.
Hi, Reine,
I forgot!!! This blog is three years old this month! Thanks for reminding me… and also for the kind words.
I like your last line… It’s a community garden. 🙂
I am so happy you and the crew got to visit with Rusty and Timber. He is very humble. Loved the little train project, he is having enjoyment out of that. Brings back memories. This is all good. Enjoy your visit and will wait for more. Take Care.
Hi, Diane,
There was a time I wondered if Rusty would adjust to life in a regular house after so many years — most of his adult life — roaming the West. I feared he might become restless and not find much joy in living in one spot. Seems silly now. Rusty has all sorts of ideas and projects for his home and his railroad yard. I think everyone should have something that they can throw themselves into wholeheartedly.
You take care, too. Thanks for writing.
What a wonderful reunion! Oops….lost keys. You should have duplicates just in case. I hate when I lose keys. Never a dull day in the life of Sue and the Crew!
It sure is nice to hear how Rusty and Timber are doing. I just love the railroad…what a great hobby! Nice job Rusty! Thanks for the photos Sue.
(Sue in previous post I left a comment about the Amazon issue, no need to comment on it. I will keep you posted on future items purchased)
Hi, Deb,
You’re right. I need duplicate keys for the BLT. I thought I had some but if I did, I don’t know where they are now!
Yes, I’ll be happy to check on an Amazon purchase. I do appreciate you thinking of me when you go shopping.
How cool meeting up with Rusty again, and to run into him at the grocery is amazing. You enjoy your stay there and keep us up to speed on what you do. Please be sure to tell Rusty hello for his friends here on the blog. Nice entry Sue….you never disappoint.
Hi, Jim,
I suspect that Rusty was at the store looking for me. 🙂 As you can see below, Rusty goes online and reads the friendly messages to him. that are posted here.
So happy to learn Rusty has a house and Timber has a yard. I loved the story of how you helped them reunite.
Hi, Ginger…
Several people made the reunion possible… Jay for finding Timber, Daisy for taking care of him and posting him online as a lost dog, Cinandjules for finding Timber online, the folks who helped Rusty get from AZ to CO to pick up Timber, the Arizona Republic, USA Today, and Channel 3 News for telling the story, and probably others I’ve failed to mention (forgive me!).
If Rusty is renting, the owners should fix leaks etc…but maybe he has ownership of this home?? Glad to hear he is doing well. And so nice some honest person turned in your keys!!!
We just got keys tonight for our new digs for the next year…within view of the water of Puget Sound…so the ole sailor is a happy guy. Smelling salt air again soon…
Hi, Elizabeth,
Congratulations on your new home overlooking Puget Sound!
Yes, the owners are responsible for repairs. This is a case of a rental management company and absentee owner, so the “gears” turn very slowly. Rusty will continue to be “a squeaky wheel.” As many renters know, perseverance, determination, and a whole lot of patience is required.
It must make you feel very good Sue to know that Rusty and Timber are so settled and happy in their new life……………thanks to you in so many ways!
Hi, Glenda,
I didn’t know what to expect coming to Rusty’s and Timber’s house. Rusty and I correspond by email and I, of course, ask him how he’s doing, and he gave me positive responses. I didn’t know if he was giving me a positive response to avoid complaining, the way people do.
It does make me very happy to see the life the Rusty is making for himself here, and that he and Timber are happy.
Thanks, again to all of you folks who follow Sue’s Blog, I really love our home and Timber says hi too!!!! The C.V. Short Line Railroad is 1:22.5 scale, also known as “G” scale. “G” means Garden railroad. You all should go to UTube and type in Garden Railroads and see this fantastic hobby, some folks out there have layouts with video cameras on their trains so you can take a ride and see the realism of the hobby. Some folks even have “Live” steam, but that is for folks who have mooola. Yes I plan to do the Ol’ time era with horse’s and cows and such. When I get a new camera with a tri-pod I’ll share my hobby with you all as it grows. ,,,,,,,,,Rusty n’ Timber
Hi Rusty and Timber.
Rusty, your model railroading is an excellent hobby and I can “hear” the enthusiasm when you describe it. One of my brothers does N scale and has quite a setup in his basement; he’s been doing it for years. Where do you get the train, tracks and accessories from? I had never heard of G scale before. It kinda reminds me of the train engine in the monopoly game.
Good to hear you and Timber are doing well. Timber is still a pretty energetic and clever dog – figuring out how to get where the action is by jumping out of his yard 🙂
Sue – thanks for the update. We’ve all come to know and love Rusty and Timber through your blog.
I get my trains, track and some accessories on line to e bay, Black Forest Hobby supply Co., Train World in N.Y., Rain deer Pass in IA. ,,But as soon as I start getting the tools to build my own structures, like wind mills and such. My main cost is the track and the figures, ,,,,,Rusty
Hi Rusty, Woof to Timber!
As a kid, my Dad and I did O gauge(Lionel) and then after a move, started with HO. Kept me out of trouble and I learned a lot. Made track from just the rails, spikes and roadbed. Will investigate your G gauge and looking forward to your pics! Chuck n Geri..now in Florida
Hi, Chuck…
I think Rusty missed your comment. I’ll tell him to take a look.
Rusty I’m so glad you are doing well and enjoying your home. Sounds like Timber is doing well also. Your train hobby sounds very creative!
Thanks to you Rusty, I went to You Tube to see the videos…..they are amazing.
What a great hobby for you….Want to show my husband them later today.
Enjoy your visit with Sue & Crew.
Glad to see Rusty and Timber happy and doing well. I look forward to seeing more of his trains. What a fun hobby! Thanks for sharing Sue!
Hi, Glenda,
I plan to do a better job taking photos of Rusty, Timber, the crew (maybe me), the train set-up, and Chino Valley in general. It was a packed day… breaking camp, the drive, shopping, seeing Rusty and Timber again, the excitement of the canines, going back for the keys, setting up camp, catching up on things with Rusty, taking the tour of his home and property, making sure Spike didn’t sneak off, dealing with Bridget and her neuroses . . . . 🙂
Yes, I want more pics of the train, too!
Hi Glenda. Black Forest Hobby Co. is in Scottsdale Az
What a happy post!I enjoyed all the details.A hobby that involves being inside and outside seems like a great way to get the most enjoyment out of a home.
Timber’s excitement is so nice to hear about after the other parts of his story,all of this is,actually.Thanks for all the uplifting news .
Hi, weather,
You’re welcome!
I never got around to answering your comment under the previous post due to breaking camp and moving. I’ll answer here…
Yes, I do like you very much! And I mean that… I like the way you think, your sensitivity and perceptions, and your overall mature approach to life. You have a philosophical bent which appeals to my contemplative nature. 🙂
That’s a good point about the train hobby being both an indoor and outdoor activity. Rusty’s plans for creating his own structures involve a lot of research, creativity, and crafting, as he wants everything to be authentic for 19th century and in correct scale.
Your thoughtful and warm answer has given me a contented sigh and smile,thank you
So glad to find that you’re at Rusty & Timber’s home for a visit! Rusty, your train set up is a-mazing! Having a hobby is one of the great pleasures of life! Have a wonderful visit!
Hi, Dawn . . . Thanks from me and Rusty!
So nice to ‘see’ this reunion. I hope yall are enjoying your time catching up.
Side note: The BLT sure is looking nice and clean and shiny!!!!
Lacy
PTV too! 😉
I mentioned previously that I cleaned the PTV’s windows. Oh how shiny they WERE. They’re covered with dust again. Somehow the PTV manages to shine in photos!
Oh Sue it sounds like you and crew are having a blast at Rusty’s, I’d love to see some more photos of the area it sounds like a great place! Enjoy your time there.
Hi, mk….
I will post more photos of the area. I wanted to post a great shot of the valley. It’s hard for me to capture large expanses of mostly flat land, such as the grassy plain on the way here.
A trestle – how neat is that! Thanks for sharing the story of Rusty and Timber. I am glad they adjusted so well to their new lifestyle.
It is said that from a house’s neatness one can recognized the persons inner balance.
I am not a big fan of you tube, but I will definitely go and look at the train movie.
Hi, Bea,
You remind me of the saying about a messy desk being a sign of a creative mind (rather than simply being a slob… haha!).
Nice train. How do you keep it dry or does that not matter (I guess real trains and tracks are out in the weather). I wonder what Sue does as a hobby (other than blog, which probably takes up quite a bit of time. I am originally from Georgia and it seems my parents and everyone else’s main hobby was golf (I do not like the sport).
Roland, hi, the trains, buildings and all can stay out side, even in snow. they are built to take the weather, including the sun. I bring the trains in if I’m going to gone from home ,,,,rusty
I think Sue’s hobby is Life in the easy lane.,,,,,Timber
Maybe it is. I am thinking of taking up gem collecting, as we will be in similar areas as Sue and there are a lot of interesting minerals to be found. I would stick to open public land with no claims of course!
Roland… You may already know … There are clubs and classes in Quartzsite to help you learn about rocks and gems.
Roland, I had an old book from the Congress Library called Gem Trails of Az.
Has a map of all the different areas and the stones, gems, crystals etc. you can find there. We did two of them that were close to us. It’s a fun active hobby. Kelly
I mean be away from home , I bring the trains in. But if one needs to destroy, no worries, I’ll just build it again, maybe it was wrong in the first place, But God will get em , not my worry. ,,,rusty
Hi, Roland,
Sue has many hobbies… The biggest one is chasing after two nutcakes, reading, then there’s running around seven western states and camping on mountaintops and in deserts . . . Oh yeah, and the blog! 🙂
And her amazing photography!!!
I have no words…
Am a sucker for reunions.
Hugs fro Hoquiam,
Barb
Hi, Barb. . . Hugs to you, too. I hope the weather is fine in Hoquiam!
How wonderful!!!!! It is great to see Rusty and Timber enjoying life in their home. I love the train set….that looks like so much fun!
Hi, Pauline… It is a fun hobby. I could easily become obsessed with it myself!
When I was 3 mom “accidentally” let me see Santa in the little living room Christmas eve. There he was and even at three I had heard all the stories about him. The next morning I found a Lionel Electric Train set up on a plywood board painted and it had little trees and train stations, little people. My Dad had worked nights after his job at the shipyard was over to put it all together. I later leaned the elderly sisters who owned a drugstore on our corner there in Los Angeles (and who loved me apparently per my Mom) had loaned my Dad the Santa suit. Long time ago, Mom, Dad, the train and my innocence all gone but what a memory. I treasure it.
My little train was nothing like the setup Rusty has. He has a really professional looking setup. I’m glad he is taking pleasure from it.
Dear Sue,
I have spent a lot of time reading your blog archives recently, catching up on the Rusty and Timber “tail” because I came onboard a couple of weeks after Rusty and Timber became comfortably settled into their home.
I was struck by the outpouring of genuine compassion and sense of sharing among your blogorinos and yourself during this time. Since then, I have stuck with you, checking in daily for reports of the adventurous lady who like a good godmother spreads acceptance and wisdom at every turn of the road. And, who in turn inspires the best from each of her devoted readers. It’s truly is a gift to read your blog, Sue!
Indeed, It’s As Good As it Gets!
Your comment touched me, Diann. Thank you for your kind words. I’m very happy you enjoy my blog!
The “outpouring of genuine compassion and sense of sharing” was incredible. I removed the Housewarming page that showed all the gifts that came in for house and yard. The generosity and thoughtfulness! I’m still amazed when I think of it.
So happy to See Rusty and Timber doing so well. I could spend a lot of time looking at the trains, what a wonderful hobby!
I told Rusty as we sat on his porch talking while the train made its rounds. . . “I can’t keep my eyes off the train. It’s like I’m hypnotized!”
We have friends that live near Chino Valley & Rusty in a small town called Paulden! A small world! It is so great to see Rusty’s new life even if you didn’t post a pic of Rusty with the happy and joyful Timber! 🙁 The train project looks like fun! Rusty, keep up the good work! You need to start your own blog just to show us your progress with the train community you are building! Sue, Enjoy your stay and thank you for sharing with us! So good to know Rusty and Timber are doing so well! 🙂
Hi, Geri,
Rusty and I camped near Paulden last spring. It’s just up the road from here. I’ll have to come back to Rusty’s in order to show all my readers who like his train hobby to see how his lay-out turns out. I have a feeling it’s the kind of hobby that keeps on growing!
Hope you and Chuck are enjoying your workkamp and family in Florida!
The peaceful camaraderie you and the crew share with Rusty and Timber is delightful. I believe they have enhanced your life every bit as much as you have theirs. When I think about what they might have been doing in the years that you were making sacrifices in preparation for your new life, and then all the turns in the road that brought you together in the middle of rocks and cactus in Arizona, it seems clear it was meant to be. Enjoy your time together and hugs to all.
Hi, Jodee . . . The way lives come together at the right time and under the right circumstances does cause one to wonder. Rusty and Timber have helped me a great deal… besides friendship, that is. Their story brought many new readers to my blog.
What a happy day! Rusty your home looks wonderful. You have done so much with it to make it your own. I think we all have a secret desire to come and play with the train. Sue, enjoy your time in Chino Valley. Ear scritches to all the pups.
Thanks, Marilu. We are enjoying our visit. This morning is another beautiful Arizona day!
What a great reunion! Glad to see Rusty and Timber are settling in. It’s apparent that he loves his trains! Of course Timber remembers the crew!
To hear Rusty say, “I’ll lead you to my house” must have made you smile. You made it happen in so many ways.. YOU ROCK Desert Woman!
PS: The spare set of keys are in the glove box. 😉
To Rusty and Timber
Sunkmanitu Tanka Owaci
Cin and Jules.
Hi, Cinandjules,
The spare set of keys are in the glove box? Well, since the PTV doesn’t have a glove box, that’s probably where they are and why I can’t find them! Haha!
Timber is so excited to have company. He’s been getting into trouble — nothing major — mostly over-exuberance!
Err ……I meant the center console!
A spare set of keys would be so much more inexpensive than replacing any window on the BLT! Come to think of it….it goes the same for the PTV!
Hello Sue,
Greetings from Richmond, VA! The pear & cherry trees and daffodils have been blooming their heads off for the past week! Spring – yeah! I stumbled across your blog about 6 months ago when I started researching TTs. I enjoy your blog -you give wonderful insight into full-timing and even more so travelling solo, with your furry-faced angels. I, too, am a solo traveler (not by choice) and have my pup as my constant companion. I live vicariously through your blogs…as it will be quite a while before I can purchase a TT and TV – saving to have cash in hand. A cross country trip to the Southwest would be heavenly! Now, just need to find that money tree! Thank you for sharing your thought process and the gorgeous pictures. The blog about the cows coming to visit, and then bringing back 100 or so friends made me laugh out loud!!! Hope you have a wonderful day! Denise
Hi RVA Denise,
Welcome to my blog! We’re happy to have you travel with us and to join in our conversations . . . .
Your description of spring sounds glorious! You say you are saving to “have cash in hand’ for your trailer and tow vehicle. Very wise! You don’t want to have any debt to slow down your adventures.
It’s a privilege to share my life with my crew, especially when hearing my blog entertains and informs. You’ll soon learn that we seem to run into funny situations, like having a hundred, uninvited bovine visitors!
You have a wonderful day, too. Thanks for stopping by!
Sue, I read and enjoy every single post you publish and have done so since the beginning, so please don’t take this question the wrong way. (You’ve probably answered this a million times already…I’m not so thorough in reading the comments.) But do you sometimes feel that the tail (or tale in this case) wags the dog with your blog—that you have built up such a loyal following that you can’t always do what YOU want, such as camp where there’s no string internet signal? I get that you love to blog and that’s your connection to people, but does the blog sometimes have too much control in your life? Just asking, and probably projecting my own feelings.
Hi, Donna P.,
I don’t take offense. Your thought is valid. First off, internet signal is not a problem now that I have the Wilson antenna. It’s been a long time since I’ve found a boondock only to discover I can’t go online. On rare occasions I move to a place where I know I’ll have exceptionally strong signal and I do that because I have a lot of internet things to do, but like I say, that’s rare.
It seems like I spend a lot of time online. I do but it doesn’t interfere with my life in a negative way. For instance, I usually open up my laptop in the morning and answer comments while I drink my first cup of coffee. Then I have the second camp outside enjoying our camp.
When I check the blog during the day, I do other things. I might be tidying up the BLT, then glance at the laptop, see a new comment, reply, go back to what I was doing, and so on. Multi-tasking…
Writing a post and inserting photos may take an hour or so in the early evening. That doesn’t intrude on the enjoyment of the day. Some evenings I don’t feel like reading. That’s when I surf the web, checking the blog every few minutes, writing replies, go surfing some more.
In other words, I integrate blog “work” with my daily life and activities. As we travel more, I probably won’t be as attentive because I don’t let the blog control my life, rather, I let it enhance my life.
I’ve been thinking something along this line, myself. I haven’t started my adventure yet, but am considering the pro’s and con’s of having a blog and well… exposing myself to those who visit and read it. Sue is inspiring in that she loves her solitude, but has struck a balance where she asks for respect for that solitude. My feeling is that the dangers exist with or without a blog, and maybe are minimized by having a daily report on location etc. I’m trying to establish a few “rules of the road” on the best way to write a decent blog. (I think I’ve spent too much time in “civilization” ha ha)
I went through the same process, Starlight. How much do I reveal about myself and location? I thought I’d be more cautious than I am. 🙂
The Smithsonian or maybe Henry Ford Museum should make a place for MsTioga and, when done with, Rusty’s camper. These are truly historical objects.
Well, last I heard Ms Tioga has kicked the bucket. Rather than the Smithsonian — hows about — a museum at Slab City…???
I am visiting my son and grandson during spring break. My husband and I had plans to visit museums and parks in the Atlanta area with the 7 year old. We considered a train museum because they fascinate me too. Unfortunately, my husband came down with the flu and he is at the hotel sleeping and experiencing chills. So our grandson and I are staying close to home, so I can check in regularly. Having your blog to read while our grandson rides his bike and plays with friends makes this time fun for me.
I am excited to see Rusty’s train set-up. There is so much potential for fun doing that. Its good that Rusty and Timber have settled in so well
L
Hi, Pat,
I’m sorry your husband caught the flu. I wish him a quick recovery.
Great timing for this post about Rusty’s train lay-out! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
I do believe that Timber has filled out a bit. Looks like house living agrees with him!
He certainly looks like a happy dog!
Should be there Thursday via FedEx.
It is truly wonderful how things have worked out for Rusty. And it is just the start.
So, if your are sitting around and with nothing to do. About 10 miles north of you between Chino and Paulden just to the north of Little Thumb Butte is the start of the Verde river. It runs down thru the Verde valley and thru the center of Phoenix where it meets the Salt river. It is major river in Az and it starts in a unique area. Becomes the Coconino forest, Lots of forest roads and camping places along it. If you got nothing to do. 🙂
Hi, Alan,
I’m a bit leery of boondocking in the Coconino National Forest. The rangers have a reputation for hassling people who aren’t driving $100,000+ rigs. What I hear may not be true, but it’s no fun wondering if the ranger is going to show up.
Did you send the package to Rusty’s P.O. Box or to his home address? 🙂
After a day like today, sqishing in a train that breaks, get home way too late and read about you, Rusty, Timber, Spike and Bridget and end up all relaxed and happy as if I was there. Wow, a great end to a day. Thank you for the stories.
You’re welcome, Carla. I’m sorry you had a long, not-so-great day.
So glad to see that Rusty and Timber are doing great! The train is amazing. Really happy that you got to visit and shared it with us!
Hi, Dawn, We got your card and Timber says thanks a whole lot,, me tooo ;~D
You are welcome Rusty!
Sue, your blog is definitely a “community garden”. We are the plants, and you are the gardener, cultivating positivity, sharing, generosity and caring.
Rusty and Timber, Hello! It is so nice of Sue to share her visit with us! Your home is beautiful, and even in pictures, it looks full of love and fun. That is what life is all about! Congratulations on your beautiful home, garden and the cool trains. I bet the train project will be über cool when you get more of your plans built out.
Great analogy. There is even the occasional weed that Sue has to deal with. Sometimes I think she’s growing nuts. Haha!
🙂
Well, just wanted to pop in again and say I MADE IT, I’m here in Arizona at my new park model. Just arrived tonite (Tuesday). Tomorrow we begin painting and laying new floor. So excited to be here! And, I went through Hatch New Mexico and of course bought some chile. Of course I didn’t know the exact restaurant in Hatch, but hopefully what I got will be good.
Yay!!! You made it! Oh, if it came from Hatch, it’s bound to be good!
Great story .
I love to hear about Rusty and Timber.
And I like train sets. And I always follow the adventures of RV SUE and HER CANINE CREW. I’ll admit sometimes Mr. Spike gives us a scare ,the things he gets into.
Someday our goal is to travel fulltime .We will just have to wait and see.
Many people travel the country in a truck camper.
And I think Rusty and Timber’s new place is just fine.
This is such a happy post, I love it!! Love that you have finally gotten to see Rusty’s place in person. The train set up is so cool!!