Monday, February 5
“Well, boys, we’re off to a new camp!”
The Perfect Tow Vehicle and the Best Little Trailer rumble out of our boondock south of Why. We take Route 86 east and cross the land of the Tohono O’odham Nation (“Desert People”).
Route 86 connects Ajo and Why with Tucson and Green Valley.
The day is ideal for travel.
Anticipating a very long drive, my focus is on “making time,” although I’m not aware of it. My usual frame of mind when on the way to a new camp is happy anticipation.
At the tiny town of Sells we pull into a convenience store/gas station parking lot. I walk the crew and buy a cup of coffee.
Before resuming our travel, I open up my Arizona Benchmark atlas.
Gee . . . . Instead of pushing myself for a couple more hours, we could make a right turn onto Route 286 at Robles Junction, go south and make camp at Buenos Aires National Wildlife Area. It’s only 34 miles south of the junction.
Yeah . . . That was a great camp!
“That’s what we’ll do!” I announce cheerfully to the crew. “We’ll camp on that ridge overlooking the grasslands!”
The decision lightens my spirit.
That familiar “happy anticipation” returns as I recall pleasant scenes from the camp that Bridget, Reggie and I shared.
Briefly I park on the shoulder to photograph the saguaro (above) and the road towards Robles Junction.
A couple miles before the turn for Route 286, we’re stopped at a Border Patrol checkpoint.
The uniformed man asks me the usual questions:
“Is it just you by yourself?”
“Yes, me and my two dogs.”
“Where are you coming from?”
“Ajo. Well, actually Why. I camped south of Why.”
“And where are you going?”
“I thought I’d go down to Buenos Aires, the wildlife refuge. I want to camp there.”
(Smile) “Yes, the turn is up the road a little way. Enjoy yourself.”
(Smile) “Thank you!”
I think the purpose of the question-answer exchange is to give the drug-sniffing dog a chance to perform his task.
At Robles Junction aka Three Points, I top off the PTV’s tank.
Then I go into the little grocery store.
Yay! They have flour tortillas!
The package says “Alejandro’s Tortilla & Bakery, Tucson — A Southern Arizona Tradition since 1980”.)
Funny that. 1980 seems only a short while ago. Well, now that we have tortillas we’re all set to boondock several days. I’m so excited! This is going to be fun.
I make the right turn onto Route 286.
Except for about ten Border Patrol vehicles heading north, we don’t come across anyone else during the 34 miles of road south through Altar Valley.
We turn onto Arivaca Road and head toward the Las Guijas Mountains.
The road I’m looking for is clearly marked.
What? I don’t remember seeing that last time we were here.
Over by the kiosk sits a Border Patrol truck.
Hooked behind it is a horse trailer with a few horses inside. I go up to the truck and ask the guy behind the wheel about the sign.
He smiles and says, “I don’t know about a permit. You could check at the headquarters. If I were you, I’d go ahead and camp and not worry about it. That sign may have to do with hunting, not camping.”
I love choosing a campsite!
There are loads of nice, level campsites on this road. Many of them are very large.
No one is camped here . . . .
Soon I know the one I want and we move in!
I make sure I position the Best Little Trailer’s door facing north in order that shade be on our outdoor room. (Photos in upcoming posts.)
The angle is just right for this view of Baboquivari Peak (elev. 7,734) from my lounger.
The air is comfortably warm with a gentle, cool breeze.
When I have everything just how I want it, inside the BLT and out, I fire up the griddle for lunch. After lunch I take the crew on a walk-around. The boys need to check the perimeter of our camp before they can feel at home.
Late in the afternoon, after the heat of the day, we explore our road.
Reggie and Roger are very excited to be in a new place with lots of new scents!
For me, I love the way the grass glows in the gold of late afternoon, the soft breezes that come up from the valley and waft over the ridge, the signs of wildlife all around, the soothing silence except for an occasional cactus wren or quail, and, oh yeah, over 100,000 beautiful, mostly untouched acres, and the place we’ve claimed within it.
There’s not an RV in sight!
I’m very glad I made the right turn and found home!
rvsue
THANK YOU FOR VISITING MY BLOG!
To see a few of the products recently purchased by readers or to browse and shop, follow these links to Amazon:
Hot Cocoa K-Cups for Keurig Brewers
Portable Induction Countertop Burner
Smart Dog Collar – GPS Location Tracker
Women’s Antique Design Pendant Watch
NFZ PUFFER ear treatment for dogs and cats
Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
FLASHBACK!
Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, southern Arizona” – March 2016
~ ~ ~
RVSue and her canine crew is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
First?!
HOORAY FOR DAWN! SHE’S FIRST TODAY!
First?
Hi, Robin B!
Hey, welcome to the neighborhood! ::waving from Green Valley::
🙂
Second???
Hi, Ken!
I love the picture with the view of Baboquivari Peak. It is spectacular. I’m glad that you listened to your inner voice and didn’t rush around on this adventure. All of your description of the griddle cooking is making me want one, although I don’t cook much! I can follow a recipe, but I’m not good at throwing things together and having them taste better than the individual ingredients!
I want one also. If only we had some great tortillas in Turner OR. Hmmmm. Maybe calls for a visit to a Mexican market!
Do you ever get them from Hacienda Real restaurant in South Salem? They do have them “to go” and they are excellent.
Can you believe….. Amazon sells tortillas!
Mission, 6″ Flour Tortillas, 20 Count, 26oz Bag (Pack of 2)
7″ La Tortilla Factory Whole Wheat Low Carb Tortillas 13 oz – 10 count (Regular Size)
La Banderita Burrito Large Flour Tortilla, 25 oz
Mission White Corn Tortillas (4.16 lb., 80 ct.)
(Sshhhh…..They’re cheaper at the store.)
I’ll have to check to see if they have the flour/white corn combo. Can’t find them at any stores here in GV.
Dawn, I’ve never been much of a cook myself. Not very creative in the kitchen. However, with this griddle, it’s hard to go wrong. Maybe something won’t come out perfect — a few burnt edges here or there, whatever, until you get some practice — but it would be awfully difficult to produce something that doesn’t taste great. Really. If you like Mexican dishes, this griddle makes them easy!
As a boondocker and one who likes to camp off by myself, I like that the ingredients for my griddle can be bought and stored for a long time — stuff like green chilies, refried beans, salsa in a jar or can… turkey sausage in the freezer… blocks of cheese. I start out with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions (the latter keeps a long time). When the lettuce and tomatoes are used up, I still have enough goodies to make delicious meals. Up until the griddle, I soon became tired of what I had on hand and wanted to go grocery shopping.
When the fresh tomatoes run out, there’s always canned Rotel which has diced tomatoes and green chillies, jalepeno I think, in it. Tasty and cheap.
Yep, we always have travel with a few cans of rotel. the walmart brand is super cheap and tasty! We prefer green onions to regular onions. Green onions will keep up to a month if you crop the tops off, and put the stalks in a screw top water bottle that is half full of water. Just put the bottle in the fridge – we use a water bottle that fits in the fridge door. Oh, and a head of lettuce will keep twice as long if you twist (don’t ever cut lettuce, it makes it wilt faster) the stem out, and then fill the resulting hole with water. Drain the head for 5 minutes, then wrap in wet paper towels and store in a plastic bag that’s been closed with a bread tie. If your lettuce does wilt, put the leaves in some chilled water with a little salt for 10 minutes and you can usually salvage it. Now if there was just a trick to keep tomatoes fresh besides trying to find someplace cool and dark in our tiny rv!
Hi mostlylost, I’m a little late to this days blog but I get there. Thanks for the info on lettuce, never knew not to cut it, nor about putting water in stem hole for a few minutes, or about salt & cold water. Good info on green onions as well, keep for up to a month, who knew? Now a bunch of us do. Appreciate the info.
I just finished reading a great book called, “Nomadland” – surviving America in the 21st Century in which Jessica Bruder, the author mentions RV Sue & the Crew. It’s all about living on the road. I highly recommend it.
Hi Sandy! How’s the weather in Lancaster today? I hold that place fondly in my heart as that is where my mom grew up, and I still have relatives there.
It is bright and sunny, but pretty cold. They predicted an early morning rush hour snow storm, but it never happened. If it wasn’t so windy, it wouldn’t be too bad out for a February day.
Hi, Sandy,
Yes, someone mentioned that book a while back and I looked up the part about moi. 🙂
Agree. It’s a fascinating look at not only life on the road but those who do the work kamping thibg.
Wow from tn
Wow back to ya, Pam! 🙂
Amazing views, RV Sue! I hope you and the canine crew enjoy your stay there.
Thank you, Sharon!
im getting better at getting to the top 10….
love reading your travels as usual…wish i was with you
chuck and pookie
I’ve been missing you! I’m very glad you’re posting again, chuck. You’re in the “top 10” with me no matter where your comment lands. 🙂
Howdy all,
Love having a read, Sue, this time on my lunch break, to brighten my day. I have a question for you, about America’s Mailbox. Did you sign up online before you picked up the BLT? I wondered if you did it all in person, pretty much in a matter of days, once you drove up to SD to license the vehicles, and apply for your DL. Also, if you could do it all over again, (choosing SD as your domicile), would you do it the same, or anything different? Thanks for any insight you care to offer! We are getting our ducks in a row!
Cheers, and have an awesome day – all of you!
Suzi
Hi, Suzi,
I signed up with Americas Mailbox before leaving Georgia. The registration/tags/driver license process was very easy. Yes, I’d still choose SD. 🙂
You have an awesome day, too!
Awe Sue, just what I had hoped to hear! You are a wealth of information, and you share it generously, and nicely too. I’m grateful for you. Honestly – I do mean that. I feel as though you are such a friend to fellow RVers with questions. You never seem bothered to be asked. Thank you!! 😉
You’re welcome. I should admit something though… I think I like answering questions because it makes me feel smart. But if you think it’s because I’m nice, that’s okay with me! Ha!
you are smart AND nice!
and funny and…..
SD is still a good option UNLESS you are not old enough for medicare but do need health insurance. In that situation Florida is now the only state offering decent care for those who travel. I’m so glad we hit medicare age then came off the road before this happened.
“In that situation Florida is now the only state offering decent care for those who travel.”
Curious how you know this.
Wheeling it and Technomadia have both done some extensive research on this topic for anyone interested in some good insight as to why FL seems to be the better option for those under medicare age. Also some valuable info on rverinsurance website. The rules are changing from year to year so it seems to be an ongoing research task as our healthcare options keep changing.
Interesting Jan, thanks for the heads up!
That’s why I asked for your source(s). Thanks for the reply. 🙂
You’re welcome suzicruzi.
Sue, I don’t know if Linda Sand had different sources but I just happened to have done some researches on this very topic over the weekend :). Even though I changed roles at work with my 3 month training…still trying to figure out a way to retire before 65!
I also used Americas Mailbox when I was on the road. I have no complaints and it was very easy to set up. They even sent my SD plates to me in NC.
What an amazing place. And all to yourself for now anyway. That’s the way I dream of RVing.
This is a beautful place to camp, Dawn. What’s nice is the road has been scraped recently and the campsites have been cleaned up and scraped. I remember the last time we were here the entrance and exit of campsites (most of them are pull-thrus) had ditches you had to cross. That’s been fixed.
Unlike our last camp near Why which looked tired and worn, this camp looks fresh. I don’t expect anyone to arrive here. Maybe one or two on the weekend, but they’re not likely to be close.
I don’t know for certain, but looking at a crude map there must be 50 or more campsites scattered over this very big area.
You are amazing, Sue! Enjoy your days in the Refuge!
Thank you, Diann. Gee, I sure did enjoy our time in your state last summer!
Well. Come on back. The Yellowstone River is still here. :>)
I want to go back! There’s so much I missed. For one thing, I’d like to camp along Rosebud Creek and see the mountains down that way.
I love reading mountain man/fur trapper historical accounts and many of them take place in your “neighborhood.” ::)
OMG! I got the place for you. If you investigate, the East Rosebud Canyon you will see a scene right out of the Alps. Probably no WiFi there, but up the road at the town of Alpine, the store has wifi. Let me know, and I will plant my camping gear up there for you. It’s popular after about June 15. Jimmy Joe Campground has one place that is remote away from the others, but there’s a boondock right on the river right down the road. Sooooo cool, if you can make it, Sue!
Woohoo, top twenty!!, Now to read,
🙂
Pretty camp! Love the view of the peak. And the boys are off! Happy grillin!
Thanks, Linda. We’re happy and content here. Saw some interesting wildlife this morning! 🙂
The trip sounds like nice driving, and I’ve actually driven across Buenos Aires NWR. My wife was with me, and she decided not to camp. I’m single now and looking forward to more information and more pictures. That one of Baboquivari is very nice. I could spend an afternoon gazing at that view.
The Border Patrol scares me much more than any other law enforcement agency. I’d have to fuss around until I got a good explanation of the “No Unauthorized Entry” sign before I’d be comfortable anywhere in the area. I’d do it, though. Buenos Aires has a peaceful air that I enjoyed.
Hi, Calvin,
You aren’t the only one who “could spend an afternoon gazing at that view.” I plan on washing dishes in a little while, as I stand behind my table facing that view. 🙂
As for Border Patrol…. I’ve had several encounters with them and gone through several checkpoints, too. It’s been my experience that they are good natured, helpful, easy-going, and not looking to cause trouble.
As for needing a permit or not, as the Border Patrol guy said (I don’t always include every word), “If someone from the Refuge comes around and you’re told you need a permit, I’m sure they won’t give you any problems.”
The more I think about it, the more certain I am I don’t need a permit to camp. None of the literature I picked up from the kiosk says anything about a permit in the paragraphs about camping rules.
I’m glad you had the opportunity to see Buenos Aires NWR.
Hello again. I love the view of the mountains from your outdoor living space. No picture on the wall could ever top that view!
Well I am getting excited about our upcoming move. I am going to look on Amazon for a couple of things we need for the trip. Hopefully we can both (you and me Sue) get a good deal.
If you find something you need at a good price, I appreciate you getting a good deal. Thank you for thinking of us when you shop, Lisa!
I saw signs just like that on King Road at KOFA wildlife area. Still unsure what the heck unauthorized means. I am absolutely sure that 14 days per year camping is allowed in KOFA. I am also positive hiking is permitted. So what exactly would unauthorized acces be???
Hi, Mush,
Yeah, it is strange. Unless…. those signs are produced in quantity to cover different situations, like places where permits ARE required?
The limit here is 14 days also (in any 30 day period)
I’m hoping a blogorino might know. Let’s keep our fingers crossed 🤗
Okay, Mush, but, dang, it’s hard to type…
Hi Sue,
Okay I looked at their website and permits are only needed for special uses. below is from their website :
Permits enable the public to engage in legitimate wildlife-related activities and ensures that such activities are carried out in a manner that safeguards wildlife. Additionally, some permits promote conservation efforts by authorizing scientific research, generating data, or allowing wildlife management and rehabilitation activities to go forward.
At the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, wildlife comes first. For this reason, Special Use Permits (SUP) are required for the following uses:
• General Use (could include litter cleanups, border education tours and humanitarian efforts).
• Research Use (could include surveys, monitoring and collecting data).
• Commercial Use (could include commercial filming, fee-based tours and bee keeping).
So your Good.
Thank you, Scott! Good of you to check for all of us… 🙂
Thanks! Just a very strange sign that made me wonder what might be unauthorized 🤔
We’re blessed to stay in a variety of beautiful places and I always love the golden grass plains the best. Your site is spectacular. Enjoy!!
Thank you, Jodee. I hope you enjoy Yuma or wherever you go from there.
I really can’t say what is “the best”…. I love forests, desert (high and low), grassland, canyon, alpine, valley, riverside, lakeside, ocean front….. *sigh*
” I’m very glad I made the right turn and found home! ” – Aw-w, how wonderful for you! And it’s a really nice sentence, one that could apply in many parts of our journey. Luv the view from your lounger, what a great front yard you have, wow! Your own grove of mesquite trees, Baboquivari Peak and no manmade structures to block the view…
May your spirit stay lightened
Thank you, weather. We are blessed. 🙂
Looks like a lovely spot. To experience that place with such solitude must be sublime. I love, love, love to be alone in nature.
Looks like there are some very pleasant temps there right now. You and the boys enjoy!
Are any other Blogorinos starting to get itchy feet for travels now that we have moved into late winter?
I am, although I am still anchored for the foreseeable future.
This place is the quietest camp I know. At night especially. I love it.
This camp looks amazing. I like the golden glow of late afternoon too, and you captured it so well in your photos. The boys seem happy; I guess they have been too occupied to miss Skeeter, although I wonder how that little guy is doing. Have you talked to Del to see how he adjusted.
I just finished a book I think you would like and it’s available on Kindle: “The Daily Coyote” by Shreve Stockton. It’s a true story of a young woman who adopts a baby coyote when its mother is shot and killed in Wyoming. The book covers her first year with “Charlie,” although I think he is now about ten and still lives with her, another dog, and her cat. Her writing is beautiful and insightful. Anyone who loves animals will like this book, I think.
Hi, Cynthia,
Thanks for the book recommendation. Here’s a link to the Kindle edition at Amazon.
The Daily Coyote: A Story of Love, Survival, and Trust in the Wilds of Wyoming
I spoke with Del one time since we left and Skeeter was sad. Only a few days had passed since we left. I’m sure he has accepted the situation. Del is sensitive to his dogs and I bet he’s keeping Skeeter occupied.
You’re correct about it being harder on Skeeter than on Reg and Rog. I think it’s always more difficult for the one left behind rather than for the one that goes. That’s been my experience anyway.
I love Shreve! I’ve been following her blog for about 10 years. Started when I was looking into getting a scooter and found her blog documenting her solo trip from San Francisco to New York on her Vespa! She’s an amazing woman. Now she blogs and posts great photos of her critters on her ranch. Highly recommend. Her website is called Honey Rock Dawn.
Wow! That shot of Baboquivari Peak actually gave me goosebumps. Just gorgeous. And the saguaro is magnificent. What a beautiful place. Wish I could share a quesadilla with you while soaking in all that loveliness.
It’s almost as if you are showing the new crew all your favorite spots spent with the old crew. Lovely pic of the mountain spire.
I’ll probably post another photo of the peak before we leave. The morning light shows it off better.
Such a beautiful camp, Sue. Your description had me feeling warm breezes on my face. Lovely.
We’re heading to Florida in 11 days (but who’s counting). Snow expected tomorrow. Can’t wait to get my face in the sun and my toes in the sand. I ordered a spare tire cover for the Casita, through your link. Not a big purchase – online shopping has slowed down a bit for me of late.
I appreciate all orders, no matter the amount. Thank you, Applegirl.
Florida must be heavenly when coming from snowbound New York state. I wish you safe travel and happy days in the sun.
Hey Applegirl,
what is your preferred route from the frozen NE to sunny Florida? I am planning our escape now. We leave in mid March.
Hi Lisa! I’m a day or two late on my reply. Hope you see this. We’re in the Albany area, so west from you. We go down I81 to Virginia and cut over to 95 from I75 south of Roanoke. We’ve done the I87 to Jersey and south on I95 but it’s much more traffic and really doesn’t save time. Our old standby route is much less stressful. We usually do a full out 12 hours the first day to get far enough south for dinner at a Cracker Barrel and some boondocking in their parking lot. They are always gracoious and have never said “no.” We always ask.
I haven’t been to Buenos Aires in, wow, three years. I really like the place. It reminds me of African savanna. I should go back. Soon!
It does look similar to the savanna. Almost like a giraffe could appear or a herd of wildebeast… 🙂
Or lions slinking through the grass.
That is a nice looking peak! I like the “sharpness” of the mountains down this way. I don’t know if they are young and have not weathered the sharp edges down yet or old and everything else has worn away?
I guess if that question was more than a passing one I’d look it up!
Enjoy your stay Sue!
Thanks, Rob. I hope you are enjoying Yuma.
I don’t know much about geology…. Maybe the type of rock?
It’s easy to sense your excitement and to share in your enjoyment of the natural beauty. Safe travels and happy camping.
Thank you, Li. I hope wherever you are and whatever you do, all is good.
Great post and photos too,,,
Well I’m in the Louisville VAMC and been here since Friday with heart failure problems that tomorrow the doctor is doing a procedure for checking my heart by inserting a tube to check my heart for blockage, I have a Afib and they may put in a Stent in this week, they got my heart beat down to under 100 , , so from Wood Stove Smoke I have had all these problems and not getting enough air to keep up with my heart beats, I understand that this Hospital has great doctors and I should not worry about it,,
Piper is at home with Jerry and Elizabeth , she is missing me by checking my truck and howling for me and looking for me, but Jerry and Elizabeth keep her close,, I get daily reports from home and give up dates of what’s happening with me,, I been crying too ,, been Flirting with Nurses to try and get my mind off things ,, Prayers I’m needing again, so I can get better and back home with my Piper and family , bless you all,,, Love,,, Rusty
Hi, Rusty,
It’s good to hear from you again! I’m glad you are getting the help you need. Those prayers you asked for — You got ’em! 🙂
God takes care of you and Piper. I thank Him for putting you with family and with good doctors at a time when you need them very much. Love and hugs!
May you rest as well as you can,Rusty, know you’re cared about and being prayed for,thanks for letting us know what’s going on with you and Piper.
Sending prayers and healing thoughts your way. May all go well at the doc’s and may you be restored to better health soon.
Praying for you Rusty. Getting a stent is a pretty easy procedure these days. If possible, see of they can go through your wrist. Recovery time is much faster. I have three of them now. Angel and I send you our best. Thanks for the update.
Prayers, light, and love Rusty, for your fast recovery, and getting back to doing what you love with your girl, Piper. I’ll hold you in my “sunny thoughts”, and I send virtual hugs! Take good care, and do what the docs say – at least for a little while! 😉
suzi
Hi Rusty-
Sending wishes for a speedy recovery. Feel better every day. Love, hugs & prayers for you.
Great site, Sue. Love all the golden colors and the Peak. I didn’t get chance to comment on the last post, but the 4th photo with the saguaro in the background makes the Casita look like a flower pot for it. Just a goofy observation that struck me funny. No offense intended. Thanks for sharing your life with us.
You’re welcome, Barbara. Yeah, that saguaro photo-bombed the BLT. 🙂
Hang in there Rusty….Good thoughts your way…
Rusty, our thoughts and prayers are for you and for the Drs and nurses baring for you.
I’m praying for you Rusty. Thanks for keeping us in the loop.
Adding prayers to those of many others, Rusty. Piper will be fine until you get home. She needs you “good as new”. Trusting you’ll know His comfort, peace and total healing. 🙏♥️
Rusty,
Thinking of you and sending good vibes your way for a fast recovery and getting back to your sweet Piper soon!
Rusty,
We’re praying for you – and for Piper! Sounds like you are in good hands!
Prayers for you and Piper and your family – hope to hear you can go home very soon.
Sending up some extra prayers for you, Rusty. Take good care of yourself. I am glad that you are in a good place to get help and that your family is nearby and can watch over Miss Piper until you get home. Sending you a big hug! 🙂
Hi Sue,
Once again, the road less traveled has led you to a tranquil setting. I hope you and the crew take just a few days to marinate at the foot of those mountains. Beautiful pictures.
Thank you, Joe. 🙂
Take a can of Rosarito spicy hot refried beans, a handful of pepperjack grated cheese, heat the beans (maybe half a can) and add the grated cheese. Sit it aside, heat a tortilla (not to where it hardens and cracks, just warm and soft). Fill the tort with the mix, roll into a thick burrito and pour a cold beer, sit back and enjoy. I can’t show you how to roll a proper burrito here but anyway you do it, it’s good! I always feel good knowing you are back in your honorary citizen state….
Oh, Jim! I’m hungry all over again. Last night I had something very similar. Just added some sautéed onions, jalapenos, and ground beef with taco seasoning. To save calories, I did it sans the tortilla but added chopped lettuce and tomatoes on top. Didn’t have avocado, but it would have been good with that, too. Think I’ll make another one for breakfast this morning, without the beer.—Audrey
Hi, Jim,
My cupboard is stocked with Rosarita refried beans! I like the refried made from black beans (and low salt). I was thinking about using pepperjack cheese but then thought, hey, that’s pretty much what I have anyway when I use Monterey jack cheese and pour on diced green chilies. 🙂
I figured out a way to wrap burritos. It may not be the proper way. Doesn’t matter, it works! I like the way the wrap “seals” on the griddle when I lightly brown the burrito. Gee, it’s almost time for lunch…. 🙂
Good for you Missy, you are resourceful for sure. I make all kinds of burritos too. Enjoying the ride…Hi to your boys!
Sending you hugs and prayer, Rusty. Sounds like you’re getting great care. Keep those nurse’s on their toes. I wish you a speedy recovery Piper needs her Pop home.
Nice spot! Mighty nice view from your lounger!
I can see myself there…a glass of peach tea, my dogs on my lap, and my husband in his lounger beside me.
Oh, peach tea. I love peach tea! 🙂
Such a lovely place and great pictures! After reading the comments, I want a burrito! I guess that is what we will have for dinner tonight! I have a griddle for my stove that I rarely use. I think I will try it with some tortillas!
Hi, Laurie…. Happy griddling! 🙂
Sue. Great campsite! We have stayed in that spot in the past for a week at a time. Love the quiet and hardly ever see anyone. So quiet and still.
The peace and quiet are divine, Kent. When I return to “civilization” after a camp such as this, the commotion and noise drive me nuts.
Hi Sue
So, you’ve discovered Alejandro’s Tortillas from South Tucson! Any Latino from these parts knows all about those tortillas. They are exceptional. Sadly they have a very limited distribution area so you need to be in southern AZ to enjoy them. There is just no comparing them to any others. It would be like trying to compare a frozen Swanson turkey dinner with a Thanksgiving feast made at home. Even better than most home made tortillas I’ve experienced. Alejandro’s has a store front at the bakery and I’ve had them still warm—heaven!
I’m just delighted that you are enjoying southern AZ and all that it offers. Such a diverse landscape. There’s lush riparian areas, sacred Indian grounds, lakes and fishing, challenging mountainous hikes, unique grasslands, labyrinths of rocky spires, and much of it is unchanged since forever. Just fascinating stuff and I never tire of exploring these parts. Given this is where I call home, you think I’m a bit prejudiced? Well, I am!
Just a friendly reminder to keep your eyes peeled for snakes. With our eighty degree days they are enjoying the warm sunshine before retreating again overnight. Look at the ground before you step out of the BLT and let the crew outside. Walk with a heavy foot or use a hiking stick and you’ll give them sufficient warning of your presence so that you never see them. Careful picking up the blue mat or the crew’s beds from the ground. It’s early for them to be out and they are still pretty sluggish but the unusually early warm weather is bringing them out. No need to be fearful, just be aware of your immediate surroundings.
Enjoy your visit and all the wonders of this beautiful environment. As always, thanks so much for sharing your adventures with all of us. Stay safe and travel on.—Audrey
Hi, Audrey,
Thanks for the reminder about snakes. So far we haven’t seen any. There is very little sign of rodents in the area of our camp. Maybe that will mean fewer snakes.
Alejandro’s tortillas are delicious. I’m having a hard time keeping my carb consumption under control with tortillas in the house. This morning I made Alejandro’s smaller, fajito tortillas into a cracker-like texture with cheese on top. A couple of those made a great breakfast with OJ and coffee.
Be safe, be well, be happy!
Just for comparison’s sake -a small tortilla w/ cheese is usually around 5 or so carbs, while a slice of toast with peanut butter is closer to 35 carbs. Also, any meal you add salsa to revs up your metabolism so more calories are burned with no change in activity level (hot spices and peppers have that among their benefits) . Since eating breakfast is just healthier than skipping it, I’d say enjoy your new enthusiasm for preparing foods you enjoy, and have a nice day 🙂
Thank you, weather. I hope your day is splendid!
You confirm what I’ve suspected. I’ve been eating a couple small tortillas as cheese quesadillas for breakfast and then a large tortilla made into a tostada for the main meal of the day. If I were eating bread instead of the tortillas, I would see weight gain by now. If anything, I’ve lost weight!
I didn’t know that about spices and peppers. Both are significant in my diet since I started griddling. 🙂
Hi Sue,
So enjoyed your post. I have a question for you and other blogorinos that I’m sure you can all give me pointers on. The Benchmark Atlas maps are so intimidating to me. First of all, I can hardly see the map details. Can anyone recommend a solution? Are there good magnifiers that leave your hands free but aren’t bulky? I bought one B-Mark atlas a year ago….hard to see big time.
One further question: I would like to leave Grand Rapids, Michigan for the west by the end of March. Do any of you have route suggestions for staying out of severe weather?
I’m thinking I should head south and aim for the southwest this time of year? Am I correct? After spending a month in DC with my youngest son (33 and just diagnosed with cancer) and his wife, trying to make sense of life….I’m ready for some heavy duty nature therapy!!!!!
Hi Kathy,
I keep a large plastic Fresnel lens tucked in my Atlas. It’s 8.5 x 11″ and helps to magnify the tiny print. It’s great because it magnifies a large area of the page. I found mine at a Dollar Tree, so…1$ each. I bought a few because they are a bit fragile, but I have found they do great tucked in the large size Atlas map book. I am sure you can find them online. Good luck.
Hi to you Lisa, Tommie, and Buddy! Thanks for the advice and tip. So appreciate it.
They do make hands free full page size magnifiers, Amazon carries a few. With fine lines and small print on maps I find triple magnification easier to read than double. A lightweight, easily portable one with those features that also has lights and adjustable/ foldable legs is made by oenbopo.
The Amazon ASIN for it is B0772R3KY7 , if you want to look at it, you can type that series of letters and numbers in Amazon’s search box, or maybe Sue will decide to make a link here for it if she has the time to.
Thank you, weather, for saving me time and data! You are so thoughtful. 🙂
Kathy….. Here’s a good yet inexpensive magnifier that weather found for you:
Foldable LED Lighted Reading Magnifier, Oenbopo Hands-free Rectangular Full Page Magnifier 3X Magnifying Glass with Light Desktop Lamp for Close Work, Sewing, Cross Stitch, Inspection, Repair, Crafts
Re: travel south from Michigan…. When the highways are cleared of ice and snow and there are no storms coming, I’d roll out of Michigan toward the SW as quickly as possible. To give you an idea about time of year in sync with rising temperatures in the spring, I find that the first week of May is a good time to leave Arizona when I’m going northward from AZ to explore UT, CO, WY, NV, ID, MT….
Thanks to you both, Weather and Sue! And I really appreciate the travel tip soooo much. I’m ordering the Benchmark for AZ today as well as a fresnel lens.
Thank you, Kathy! I see the items on my orders list. 🙂
Sue and MB- I commented on yesterdays post for your response.
Okay, I’ll take a look.
Hi Sue,
Glad you changed your mind and took that right turn. Love your new view. I wanted to tell you….. we were out of lettuce and were making BLT’s. Since I usually have celery now, thanks to your talk in the past of chicken salad, which we are hooked on and now have at least once a week…. oh yeah…. anyway, we’re now using it for lettuce. Cut up all three BCT ingredients, chopping celery thin, add a touch of mayonnaise and it was great. I had toast, son had tortilla (yellow corn). He said he finally didn’t rip up the roof of his mouth with a BLT. Great on tacos, too. Celery keeps longer if you clean and wrap stalks in HD aluminum foil. Tried regular foil but tears easy. Learned from a cooking show. Have a beautiful day!
Hi, Barb,
That is very interesting information about celery as a substitute for lettuce. Your BCT sounds good!
You have me considering all the possibilities. Besides wrapping in foil, celery can be reconstituted in a glass of water, if necessary. Hmmm…. I wonder how chopped celery would work on a tostada or in a burrito…..
I had to smile at my blog putting you and your husband onto chicken salad.
All this talk about burritos and such since you got your grill has had me hankering for some homemade chili. I haven’t made it because I don’t eat beans since I gave up carbs. Working from home today due to snow storm, I decided to experiment a recipe in my slow cooker. Had to be a little creative so threw in ground chicken, chopped celery, onion and red peppers (seems I no longer care for the green). canned tomatoes, garlic and all the chili seasonings…then decided it needed more veggies so chopped up so zucchini….oh my, it is better than I would have thought! I may never make it with beans again!
Don’t you love it when an experiment turns out great? 🙂
🙂
Great post. Love the pics.
Bought little motor home. Take possession next week. Bought little toad truck today
I’m getting to fly.
Wow! Well done, Virginia!
What do you mean “I’m getting to fly”… Is that a figure of speech or are you having to fly to pick up your rig or truck. We want details! 🙂
Lol. That was SUPPOSED to be “I’m getting excited”. I do not know how that happened.
Congratulations, Virginia! Whoo-Hoo! You have your rig and toad!! I am happy for you! 🙂
Thank you, Denise. I’m getting there. Hopefully heading out for several weeks sometime after March 15th, if I get my taxes done.
I decided to check in on you this morning. I’m in the middle of packing up our home, moving across the street to Mom’s until her place sells, then move up to our Wisconsin summer home until our new house is completed and my husband, Mom, pups and I can move in to that in November. Whew…I went to your site just to have a mental break and exhale. How relaxing I become just reading about your laid back adventures. Thank you for calming me today 🙂