2007/11/13 – Tuesday – Not Flat

Well, tire was not flat this morning so all is good.

Lunch was with my buddy and friend to Quizno’s

I finally got all the blogs read!!! So now it am all up to date.

2007/10/12 – Monday – Flat?

Lunch was with a friend to Denny’s

Cheryl picked me up from work.

Well, this morning I had to walk to work because the Jeep had a flat tire, so now I went ahead and filled all the tires up. The tire is fine – I cannot find a leak.

I am still way behind reading all my blogs that I read…

2007/10/11 – Sunday – Drive Home

We slept in a little today.

I checked and I do have the stuff required to fix the tire. So I got the tools, but I was having problems. So I called for a friend to help and he was able to help. With his help we where able to patch my tire. I really didn’t want to have a flat tire and the possibilities of ruining the tire.

Cheryl got the inside all ready for travel. I tore down the satellite and got everything else ready to go. Cheryl took the van over to main camp to help out. Once I finally got moving, I also headed on over to main camp to say goodbye.

Cheryl followed and we headed home. Cheryl stopped at Kramer Junction for lunch, while I continued on before stopping. I stopped at the junction of I15 & 395 and got gas and to get the RV washed. Cheryl finally made it and stopped to get Eric and I lunch, while we waited for the RV to get washed. While I was pulling up to the RV wash, a good friend was there to get his RV washed also.

Our friend, Cheryl and I all traveled together the remaining drive home.

I got the Jeep unloaded and got the RV and Trailer backed down the drive – waiting to be cleaned out (tomorrow).

One of our friends that is a plumber called and said he has the camera. So he came over and ran the camera down the sewer line. O I have ruts and now we know how bad it really is and now I know why we have to have the line cleaned out about every 6 months.

Now I am trying to catch up on all my computer stuff – more for tomorrow….

2007/10/10 – Saturday – Defense Mine

I got up and headed out to go for a trail ride. But I was still undecided.

Finally I got in line for Defense Mine and of course joined in as part of the trail crew. When I finally got to waterfall zero, I tried it, well I was a little to far to the right and almost rolled the Jeep onto the driver side. Two guys had to keep some additional weight to stop me from going over. I was able to backup and recover before trying again. I finally made it up it – hurray.

The remaining part of the trail to the mine was ok. We ate lunch and now it was time to head back down.

Now a group that wanted to do Cummings Cutoff would be guided up it – well of course I wanted to.

The beginning of the cutoff has a nice hard section to climb up at the beginning. It took me about three different tries. The next hard part required me to use the boulder bars to pivot on but it did require a little finesse and not hitting the wall on the passenger side. The next obstacle had two ways of trying it. I went up the wall without any major problems. Now the last obstacle (waterfall/v-notch) was a major challenge. The first two attempts stopped my progress. The third attempt I climbed the wall on the driver side and while I was still having forward progression I could hear the passenger tail lights being destroyed. Once I completed the cutoff, I parked on the road out – I check the taillight and sure enough it was destroyed.

We had another guy break his rear hubs, so we had to do a lot of work using several jeeps including mine to help winch him up and out.

Once we got everybody out of the cutoff it was time to head back to camp.

When I pulled into camp I can hear air hissing out of one of my tires. So I dropped off my passenger and head for my trailer and put the Jeep onto the trailer.

I headed on over to the main camp and did the usual raffle activities. Eric did win one raffle item. I even won a raffle item.

After the raffle, I stayed around the campfire and had a good time with my other Desert Dawgs club members.

I didn’t get to bed until a little after one – one long day – but good!

2007/10/09 – Friday – Driving and Playing

Today is a vacation day for me.

I left for Panamint Valley Days (PVD) about 9:00; I arrived at camp at 1:30. I unloaded the Jeep and went to the line of people that I will be leading this afternoon for a sunset run.

We had 37 vehicles for the sunset run to Lookout City. This year there was more of a haze in the valley. When I was doing the drivers meeting, about half the people said they never been on this run – wow new people – cool. We all made it back without any problems.

When I got back we got a few more things squared away in the rv.

Cheryl finally arrived from her 5-hour drive in the van, because Eric did not what to miss the day from school.

Now its time for bed – even if its before 11:00 – 6:30 will come quickly…

2007/10/08 – Thursday – SICK!!!

I was sick today – it was the cookie dough. It was leaving both ways….

When I got home from work, I went straight to bed. Tossed and turn all night.

2007/11/07 – Wednesday – Prep.

Lunch was my buddy to crazy chicken. We then walked over to the locksmith and he checked out some stuff.

I got home to work on getting ready for the weekend.

Cheryl did some shopping for stuff necessary for this weekend.

Amanda finally returned from her trip to Disney Land with L.S. She had fun – they were looking for the several Mickey icons all over the place.

I will be lucky to post an entry tomorrow, but I will back date it (like if have in the past).

2007/11/06 – Tuesday – Jury Service

I got up really early and finally got on the road, I thought I was leaving early, but it took me hour and half to go 22 miles.

The morning was spending my time doing my duty of Jury service. I will type more later when it is all over with – Yes to be continued…

After lunch I was back to work.

Tonight is the Dirt Devils meeting. Meeting had a ok amount of people.

On the way home I talked to Mom M. I think our normal plans for Thanksgiving has changed. I will know more in the next couple of days. It will be only our second time that we will not be with Cheryl’s family for Thanksgiving.

I had to work on my laptop and fix the wifi properties to get thing working again – uhg!

2007/11/05 – Monday – She is Home…

Lunch was with my buddy to Denny’s – screaming kids and all.

Cheryl made it home without to much problem. Her first flight was canceled but was rescheduled for the next flight an hour later.

I talked to Mom M for a little bit, and then I called my brother and talked to him for almost two hours.

I also worked on getting information for what I need to do tomorrow.

2007/11/04 – Sunday – Watching

I didn’t really sleep in for some reason.

The kids and I watched TV most of the day. We watched the NASCAR and then Football and then a few of the Sunday night shows.

I have finally won a game on NFL Fantasy league. At then end of Monday night – I will be W-2, L-7; there is only one other person with a worse record of W-1, L-8. Cheryl is doing better then me – currently she is W-5, L-3 but it looks like she will be W-5, L-4, but we need to wait for the Monday Night Football game.

I also worked on a load of laundry, but I need to put things away…

2007/11/03 – Saturday – Party and Museums

Eric didn’t wake me up, I got up around 9:30 and got the kids up, we needed to leave by 10:00.

We left a little after 10:00 and headed to Uncle M & Aunt C for the party and boy day out.

We got to the house right on time - 11:00. We were put to work in helping out prepare for the party that Amanda was to attend – The party is for Jesse cousin – T.&G. R. baby shower.

Jesse, Eric, Amanda, Uncle M, and S.R. went for lunch at the Rose Bowl Country Club – Aunt C stay home to work on the party stuff.

Once back to the house, we help in some final stuff before guest started to arrive. I talked to Cousin T.R. a little bit.

Eric, Uncle M and Jesse went and visited the Nethercutt Collection in Sylmar – Really cool collection (see other blog for pictures.)

Afterward, we stopped at Baskin Robins to enjoy a scoop of ice-cream.

We returned to the house chatted a bit with who was left at the house.

Now it was time for dinner, so, Uncle M & Aunt C, the kids & me, went to a restaurant in South Pasadena. Again good chatting, before we had to depart and go our own way.

Another good day.

2007/11/02 – Friday – Improv

I went home for lunch to get a bowl of cereal and a quick nap.

Cheryl has already left for the weekend in San Francisco to do work for the weekend – she is not due back until late Monday

I picked up the kids and headed on over to pickup Mom D and friend. We then dropped off the kids at D&M for the evening.

We made it to the Improv in ok time. Dinner was served a little slow, but the food was good. M had made all the arrangement for the evening. So we had reserved seating in the stage area. We had a total of 9 people in the group. We had up front seating. We laughed for most of the entertainers.

The trip back went quick without all the traffic. We picked up the kids and headed back home of course stopping to drop off Mom D and friend.

2007/11/01 – Thursday – Normalcy?

Lunch was with my buddy to crazy chicken and then a quick browsing in RadioShack.

Cheryl came home early to help Amanda out ‘to be looked after’ because she was not feeling good.

I worked on the computers again tonight a little. Cheryl has been doing a lot of type tonight. We watched our Thursday night shows and relaxed.

I did some minor work for NSDC getting a picture tying to get things started on that particular front.

2007/10/31 – Wednesday – Bad Food

Lunch – was none, I had a meeting that lasted longer (like a hour longer).

Cheryl went and got dinner from some fast-food places.

Amanda got all dressed up as Jack’s girl friend Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas. One of our friends came over and also dressed up as a wood elf – it looked like a witch ghoul to me. O and I cannot for get about her dog that she dressed up and he did not like it.

We handed out candy but I still think each year we are getting less and less kids.

I worked on computers getting this reconnected to each other. I had to reset the modem/router because I forgot the password, so I had to redo all the settings, getting both printers working/talking again.

I have ate to much of the bad food, the candy is way to tempting I am gong to try to make sure they are gone form the house.

2007/10/30 – Tuesday – Meltdown

Lunch was with my buddy to crazy chicken and then we walked over to Wal*Mart for some browsing.

Cheryl stopped on the way home and picked up dinner.

I did a load of laundry. I still need to sort out all the white clothes – maybe tomorrow.
I also worked on the computers again – I know, when don’t I :)

I also had to do some work for about half-hour.

Amanda had a meltdown tonight when it was time to go to bed. She was not being corporative about taking her meds and doing what Cheryl was requesting. Again I think she is doing a wonderful job at manipulating us, but we are trying our best. Cheryl is getting frustrated.

2007/10/29 – Monday – Frustrating

Lunch was with my buddy over to Quizno’s

Cheryl took Amanda to Church group.

I started work on the computers. I worked on BOINC on most of the machines; Eric machine was giving my fits, but finally I got it fixed. I worked on the Linux machine. I was not able to upgrade it to the next version via CD, but I was able to reinstall BOINC with a new version (test) and its working good currently.

Cheryl picked up Amanda and got dinner for them.

2007/10/28 – Sunday – Laundry and Pumpkins

Cheryl and Amanda went to Church this morning. I did get up before they came home, but not by much.

Cheryl and Amanda went to get their nails done.

I worked on getting the laundry done

Amanda worked on a pumpkin and it looks good.

2007/10/27 – Saturday – Errands and Relaxing

The day started early. Eric and I took the dogs to the groomer and then we stopped by the store to get some milk.

Once home Cheryl and Amanda was up, so now we are off to do some shopping. We got some Halloween stuff. Next stop was a Borders and we got book. We stopped at the pet store to get some dogs stuff and cat litter. Now it was time for some lunch. While at lunch we got a call that the dogs were ready to pick up.

We stopped at the groomer and Zircon looks really good. She does not have her pompoms but she was really bad. That’s what we get for not getting her groomed earlier.

Once we dropped the dogs off, I was a stop at the grocery store. We spent way to much but we like to eat. Once home, we did cleaned out some cupboards that had old cans and stuff.

We watched two movies tonight.

We did miss the square dance that we were going to go, but when we remembered, we were to late to go; now we will have to apologize when we see our friends.

O – I did update photos for the last month on my other bog – so go and see.

2007/10/26 – Friday – Relaxing Again

Lunch was with a friend over to the bar.

Our houseguest went home today. They are giving passes out to the residents so they can go back and check on things. I have not heard of anything yet – I have left messages but no return.

Cheryl and Amanda went out and got something really quickly.

Tonight we watch more shows on ABC again and relaxed

I talked with Mom M tonight, she was asking some questions about some programs for the computer.

2007/10/25 – Thursday – Relaxing

Lunch; I went home ate and took a quick nap.

Nothing much tonight. We watched our Thursday night programs on ABC.

2007/10/24 – Wednesday – Glendale

Lunch was with my buddy to Quizno’s

We stopped by Jack-in-the-box for dinner on our way to the last show of the season at Glendale Centre Theatre. We watch Mouse Trap. Very interesting finish – we got back late like normal.

2007/10/23 – Tuesday – Supporting Friends

Lunch was with my buddy to Dinno Dizza and we watch the new (CNN)

Our friend did not return to his family out near the fires. He is going to spend the night with use so he can still earn money during this time of fires.

We went ahead and took him out for dinner. We had a good time. He stayed up late for him and watched the TV for any type of news. We also found a Big Bear scanner on the web that is online and we had that going all night. We were listening to the information that was being talked about on the scanner – saving buildings, but had to let some other building go, but save the ones next to them. Listen to guys about hose lines and were to get guy to.

Looking at the photo on TV, the winds have changed, and it might slow things down hopefully.

I would love to be up in the mountains, but during these times, I am glad that I am in the city (about the only time I don’t mind to be in the city).

2007/10/22 – Monday – Smelly (Fires)

Lunch was with a buddy to the bar so we could watch the fire stuff that is going on here in Southern California.

I found out that one of our close friends evacuated from their place on the mountain. We might have a guest for the week so he can still work before returning for the weekend.

Cheryl took Amanda to church group tonight.

I think I need to install a different operation on the old tower – the Linux version I am trying to install is just not working out, I keep getting errors.

A few time tonight you can smell the smoke in the air.

Cheryl then picked up Amanda. Cheryl also did some work.

We watch a few show, then watched the fire reports…

2007/10/21 – Sunday – Dance

Cheryl and Amanda went to church

Eric got sick this morning – he could not keep things down.

Amanda and I went to the monthly Croakers dance. The drive to the dance center was an interesting dive through the strong winds and not seeing the mountains in the distance because of the hazy from the winds.

A broad from the top of the dance center flew off the roof and hit one of the parents on the noise and forehead. The wind was really bad. Dealing with the incident took a lot of my time.

I did have a little tiff with Amanda and her not dancing for the first part of the dance. But when I was dealing with some more stuff, I found out she danced the last three tips – but she is pushing the boundaries.

After dance, several of us headed over to Sizzler for dinner.

2007/10/20 – Saturday – Demo

We had to get up early for a Saturday. We left on time and went to a SCAD’s meeting. This meeting was to discuss the anniversary dance the weekend after Thanksgiving.

After the meeting we dropped off some cards and bought some stuff at Boot Barn. Then we went next door to have lunch at Poly Pies.

We did a few things around the house and now it was time for our next adventure.

We went to a demonstration of Square Dancing at a club down south – Laguna Niguel Racquet Club. We did two sets, and our caller did one teach. But several people that were to come to the event (paying customer) did not show up. With the low turnout, it was not a good demonstration.

We headed on out for someplace to eat. Well, I lost Mom D, so a few phone calls and we were all back together trying to find a place. We could not find the place we wanted, so we had to go drive some more before finding a place. The group seemed to have fun and now time to head home.

2007/10/19 – Friday – Desk

Lunch, well I came home – Amanda was still sleeping – I guess she had a hard time getting to sleep.

I stopped at the auto store and I finally got my battery – But man the price of the Optima has raised their prices – WOW.

I worked on the desk again. Reduced on stack to only two items.

2007/10/18 – Thursday – Desk

I went with fellow co-workers to celebrate the boss’s birthday to a Peruvian place.

Cheryl went grocery shopping and both kids went with her.

I worked on m desk trying to get my stacks down.

2007/10/17 – Wednesday – Nothing Much

Lunch was with my buddy to crazy chicken.

I worked on the Linux machine again, but its going slowly.

Cheryl got me dinner again tonight and she also worked on one load of laundry.

Nothing much tonight.

2007/10/16 – Tuesday – Restarting

Lunch was with my buddy over to Quizno’s

I stopped by the part store again – and the second battery is of course not available yet – I am sure glad that I am not in a hurry.

I took Eric to church group tonight. On the way home I got several messages from work. I logged on and had to call the subject expect and he worked on it. He knows more details about the working of the software then the other two of us that help support. By the time we where wrapping things up, it was time for me to pickup Eric from church group.

I had to start over again on the old tower in installing the Linux system – hopefully it will work this time. Well it is not looking good – so I am downloading a newer version and creating a new CD and see if that will work.

2007/10/15 – Monday – Parts – Blog Action Day

Environment is the subject of the day. Well, I like to enjoy our lands, not from afar, but on the land (don’t get me started). We have explored many places in the Western US. One thing I notice (might it be a stereotype) if it is the part of town that has the lower income people then the area is a mess. Again might it be a stereotype, but the lower income people shopping at Wal*mart near us are making it an extremely trashy location. The parking lot ALWAYS has trash all over it. I do think if we can get the companies to keep their properties cleaned up, then it might spread some sense of cleanliness around the neighborhood.

Now back to my normal mundane daily dribble.
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Lunch was with my buddy; I took the van to pick up the RV parts from the dealer. And we stopped at Wienerschnitzel – hot dog + corn dog.

Cheryl is home when I got home – hurray.

I installed the new window on the back of the RV – another thing off my list of things to do on the RV.

Cheryl worked on a little bit of laundry.

Cheryl took Amanda to church group.

I worked on several of our computer to bring them up on changes. I finally got Eric’s computer running on BOINC. I am converting another old computer to run Linux – this will be my second computer on Linux.

2007/10/14 – Sunday – Relaxing

I finally got up and did started on load of laundry, but never finished it.

D finally dropped off Eric. I went with D to pick his RV up and take it over to the storage place; he also did some minor maintenance on the roof.

I did 2½ hours of work dealing with the Mainframe maintenance at work – luckily all from home.

I found out today about Grandma Barb passing away she was past 80. I will send a card, I am not expected to go up for anything – so card should do hopefully.

I talked with mom for sometime tonight.

2007/10/13 – Saturday – Unexpected End

I finally got up around 10:00. The kids and I went and dropped Eric off at D&M to spend the weekend with them. I had a good talk with D about Jeep and RV stuff before they needed to head out.

I called to make sure the RV parts was open – nope they close at noon – dam out of luck.

I stopped by the parts store and finally got my battery for the Jeep (Blue). I am still in need of a battery for Green (Jeep). I finally changed the battery in Blue and now the hood can close correctly. The spoiled milk smell is bad, so I poured some smelly stuff to see it will cover it up – not sure that will work.

Amanda and I finally left at 6:00 to head for Knott’s Scary Farm. The traffic was bad getting to the parking lot. It took over an hour to finally get to the parking both – BUT we found out that tonight was sold out – and we had not got tickets ahead of time so we are out of luck. So Plan B (which we had not planned at all). We went for a movie. Dam, I should have been more prepared on which movie to watch – we watched the Ben Stiller movie.

2007/10/12 – Friday – Picking Things Up

Cheryl left for your business trip to San Francisco.

I got a phone call from Mom D – something about her scooter. We made arrangement for this evening.

Lunch was with some friends over to Alpine Village. Two of the friends did some shopping.

I got home, moved the Jeep, and got the kids to hop into the RV. The drive was the normal Friday night drive. Once I got to Mom D Work, I could not do the u-turn so now I had to drive the next 10 minutes to get back – what a pain to get the RV turned around.
I loaded Mom D scooter onto the trailer.

Mom is a little sore from her spill, but she is ok.

We made it back to the bike dealer in time, so we unloaded and got her scooter in for a good check of things.

After getting the RV and trailer back into the driveway, we hopped into the van and all went out to Hoft Huts for dinner.

We finally cleaned out the back end of the Jeep. For some reason there was a gallon of milk and it had exploded the top and was stinking the Jeep up. So, now it is all cleaned out.

Finally it started raining around 10:30 tonight.

2007/10/11 – Thursday – School Meeting

Eric complained to Cheryl about his teeth hurting and not able to eat, so she let him stay home today.

Lunch was with my buddy to Costco, the two of us had lunch for $7.

Cheryl and I went to an AVID meeting. We found out some information about Eric program that he is in and what he needs to do.

When we got home, we got Eric to show us some stuff.

Cheryl got ready for her trip.

2007/10/10 – Wednesday – Dinner

At the beginning of lunch, as we was walking to my buddies vehicle, we herd a car crash and then noticed the dust. A guy bolted from the side street against a red light and got hit. Ambulance, Fire Equipment, and Sheriff all arrived and took care of things. We went to Quizno’s and came back out to the patio to watch them clean things all up.

After work, I stopped at the auto part store – and guess what – NO Battery – now it should be there something tomorrow afternoon.

Cheryl took Amanda and Eric to their Ortho appointment.

Cheryl and Amanda went to Cheryl’s company picnic today, well they won some gift cards. We went to Marie Calendar for dinner – the gift cards paid for about half of our dinner.

We really had to work with Eric on his homework tonight. Cheryl even emailed the teacher and she responded so he could finish the work.

I finally download the pictures from the camera; I should be updating the other blog in the next couple of days. I also created a CD for Cheryl of the picture she took at her picnic.

2007/10/09 – Tuesday – More Shuffle

Before getting to work, I took the RV to the dealer to get the oil changed and fix the right blinker issue fixed. Cheryl picked me up and took me to work in time for my first meeting.

My buddy took me to the part store to see if the battery was ready, but of course not. The part guy started to get my battery – hopefully tomorrow. We walked over to Carls Jr for lunch.

I got a friend from work to take me to the dealer so I can get the RV out. They did the oil change, fixed the right turn signal problem, but I thought they were going to do the recall and the cruise control would be disable – but not true, cruise control still works.

Once I got home I had to do a modified vehicle shuffle. Take the Jeep out of the drive way and then put the RV back in and also hooking up the RV to the trailer. But I didn’t put the Jeep back in the driveway – Cheryl parked the Van in the driveway instead.

Cheryl and I worked on our NFL Fantasy lineup.

2007/10/08 – Monday – Shell Game

I got up and when it was time to go to work, I could not get the Jeep to start – the batter was totally dead dead dead! Some how the cable that would activate the trailer brakes was pulled the trailer breaks drained the batteries.

Cheryl took me to work while she got a day off today.

Lunch was with co-works to celebrate this month birthdays at El Torito

I walked home because Cheryl was out and about. I started work on the vehicles. I removed the battery from the Jeep. I waited for Cheryl to get home. Once home I went and got a battery. But once I got home, the battery is a little to big, but I got it to work for next day. Because the battery I wanted will be available tomorrow.

Cheryl took Amanda to her church group

Now the shell game begins. I moved the Jeep and trailer our and next is the RV was moved out to the street. I then backup the Jeep and trailer into the driveway, next is the RV – leaving enough room so I can disconnect the trailer from the Jeep.

I also asked our friend – a plumber, to clean our line out because it had backed up last night – those dam tree roots! It was about 5 months ago that the line was cleaned out last.

Cheryl went and pickup Amanda from her church group.

Cheryl cooked me some dinner and salad – good.

2007/10/07 – Sunday – Walked and Sit

Amanda and I got up early and headed on out to our next adventure.

We walked the Off Road Expo. We met several of our friends. Amanda dragged me to do one of those rock climbing thingy. Well, I had to show this old guy how to climb clear to the top on the difficult run. Amanda finally was able to climb to the top but on the medium run.

When we finally got home, Cheryl said we needed to go to a movie – so off we went. We say ‘Star Dust’. It was a decent film. In fact it will most likely be one of the videos in our collection when it come out.

Mom M called and we talked for a short time, but I was somewhat distracted by one of the Sunday show that we watch.

2007/10/06 – Saturday – Parade and Dance

The family got up early and headed out. We went to San Dimas. The Jeep and trailer got decorated for the parade. Cheryl, Amanda and Eric Square danced on the float (trailer) with the rest of the Croakers. This was our third year doing the parade.

As soon as we got home, we change vehicles and went to lunch – the bribe for Eric to not complain about dancing for 20 minutes straight on the float (trailer).

The day was slipping by fast. Now it was time for the Croakers Saturday night dance.

We had a total of six squares on the floor one time – most of the time we had 4 or 5 squares.

We went to Denny’s after the dance. We had about 16 people in our group. The waitress took our order (drinks and food). Well; we waited for 25 minutes before we walked – yes we walked. Nothing was ever delivered to our tables – so we walked. I did give the guy at the register why, and he understood.

Another long day – but fun.

2007/10/05 – Friday – Moving Vehicles

Lunch was with a friend and we walked to Dinno Dizza - P’s look like D – Some day I need to take a picture of the sign.

I disconnected the RV from the trailer and moved the jeep behind the RV and got the trailer connected to the Jeep. Once that was done, I had to move the RV out onto the street and move the Jeep and trailer out, then move the RV back down the driveway all the way back to the garage, next was move the Jeep and trailer back into the drive way.

I put away all the straps and ramps – I got Eric to help in unbolting the step ramps that I usually have bolted to the trailer. We then put up the handrails onto the trailer. The Jeep and trailer are ready for tomorrow’s parade.

Cheryl played Ratchet and Clank this evening. So said she doesn’t see how the kids could be on it all the time.

2007/10/04 – Girls Dance

I had lunch all by myself at Quizno’s.

Cheryl dragged Amanda with her to a work event to practice some type of dancing.

While the girls were out, Cheryl bother B brought both his boys over for a couple of hours so he could attend a meeting.

Eric and the cousin played on the Gamecube – it seemed like they had fun.

2007/10/03 – Wednesday – Nothing

Lunch was a trip to the tire place – my buddy wanted to make sure his tires were balanced. We went to Islands for lunch. When we got back the truck was not event touched – so we left with nothing done.

We did not do much tonight.

I do have a concern with whom Amanda has been talking to – but Cheryl knew about it. I am just steamed about it. But of course I just over reacting.

2007/10/02 – Tuesday – School Night

Lunch was with friends to an Italian restaurant.

Once at home, we went for Eric back to school night. We found out some information and the school is pushing to have all the grades on the net so we can always know what the kid’s grades are currently.

2007/10/01 – Monday – Email

Lunch was a quick pay stop to pay my water bill and then over to Arby’s.

I sat down on the couch and I woke up from a nap that I had not planned – o well.

Cheryl took Amanda and Eric to get some dinner from Subway.

I worked on my email – cleaning out my inbox…

2007/09/30 – Sunday – Relaxing

This morning we all seemed to sleep in a little.

Cheryl and Amanda went to do some errands and shopping.

Cheryl and the kids took back a bad video game and did some exchanging so they wanted to play the games when they came back.

I did start the laundry, but I have not finished them…

I went into work, but not to do work, but to clean the department’s refrigerator and defrost the freezer – it is one of those small refrigerators that is very small, like for a student room.

While we were watching any football game, the kids was playing there game (picture in picture does come in handy sometimes.

I did talk to my mom, but this time it was short...

I think Amanda is coming down with something – she is not feeling good – I don’t think we will get much from her tomorrow.

2007/09/29 – Saturday – NSDC Meeting

We got up and our first stop was as Starbucks. We then dropped off Eric at Mom D for day. Looking at an email on my PDA, I finally found the address and we found the place where the meeting location.

For lunch we went to Super Mex for a quick lunch of only 30 minutes.

After lunch the Program Group, the Youth Group is part of the Program Group was up for their report. Infact the Youth Group was first group up in the Program Group.

I gave my report and a teen gave a report about the additional room that we are planning. We had few questions but all seems good.

Mom D took the girls back home and Cheryl and I stayed for the complete meeting.

Once the meeting was over, our Program Leader, their assistant, and us went to dinner. They all piled into the van we headed out for dinner. We went to the Elephant bar about 6 miles away.

Dinner we all had a good time it seemed. I then of course we took them back to the hotel.

Today was a full day the NSDC meeting seemed to go well and a lot of info was exchanged.

2007/09/28 – Friday – Class and Walkthrough

Morning at work I attended a class. Right after class I headed for home.

Once Mom D came over we headed for the NSDC walkthrough at the Long Beach Convention Center.

While at the walkthrough a few more room changes were hashed out but the youth hall stayed the same – cool. I was able to look at the hall and start making the necessary arrangements – measurements, table, chairs, piping, dividing, and flooring.

I took Mom D to get her car. Once Cheryl was on her way home, I jump onto Mom D’s Scooter and drove back to her place. The max the scooter could get up to was 40mphs.

Cheryl and I stopped at Trader Joes to get a few items.

Cheryl and the kids went out to get dinner while I waited for company.

One of Amanda’s friends came over to get ready for the NSDC meeting tomorrow.

2007/09/27 – Thursday – More NFL Tweaks and Photos.

Lunch was with my buddy to crazy chicken.

I worked on my NFL stuff gain, but I not making this better based on the numbers…

I worked on getting the photos off the laptop and onto my main computer. I finally got all of the vacation photos over and it will take two 8 gig DVDs to copy all the pictures – total is 15.4 gig worth of photos and just over 5,000 photos and videos.

I really need to make backup of all of the photos!!!

2007/09/26 – Wednesday – NFL Tweaking

Lunch was with my sick buddy of to Quizno’s.

Cheryl dragged me along with Eric so Eric could by the Gamecube.

We worked on our Fantasy football league on NFL.com. We move some players around and trying to understand things…

2007/09/25 – Tuesday – Going for a drive?

I had nobody to go to lunch with, so I did a few choirs – I got necessary bird food (we were out), and I stopped by the bank to make a deposit.

Cheryl took Eric to his church group.

I worked on and finished the laundry!

When it was time, Cheryl convinced me to go with her to pickup Eric. I took nothing but streets back – only a little bit out of our way but not much – you have to get around the airport somehow…

2007/09/24 – Monday – Not Much?

Lunch was with a friend to Denny’s.

Cheryl and Eric went to the store – I passed her on their way.

Cheryl worked on the receipts – putting them into money.

Very short entry for today – sign of not doing much???

O I did call to cancel my DSL, because I am already on FIOS

2007/09/23 – Sunday – Quick Drive Home

The night was not a very good night sleep – about 4 in the morning, people started setting up for a swap meet in the next parking lot behind us. A lot of noise! – Cheryl did not notice.

About 7:00, people started to park all around us so they can go to the swap meet – man talk about rude people

We went to the dance hall and talked with people. I did do two round dances, but we did not do any square dancing today.

Amanda was picked up by one of our friends. And she is going to spend a few days with them (still doing her school work!)

We got home about three – the drive was really easy – not a lot of traffic to worry about.

Eric return home riding on the back with Mom D moped – he had a blast.

I put up 5 different entries on my other blogs of all the pictures of the weekend.

2007/09/22 – Saturday – Dancing

I got woke up by Turquoise this morning three different times, so not the most restful night. But at least he got my attention and waited for us to go out before doing anything.

At about 10:00 the wagon master came by and asked for the money for the two nights.

Cheryl made breakfast this morning – pancakes – good.

I have to thank a good friend for sending us an e-card about Marble – Thanks!!!

We went in and talked to several people that we know, Cheryl danced one tip.

For dinner we went to Claim Jumpers – we snagged one of Amanda’s friend to join us.

We all went dancing. We stayed for the complete dance and had fun. The youth really kept me going all night.

I started to put things away getting ready to head home tomorrow.

2007/09/21- Friday – Short Drive

Lunch was with a friend – they took their car to a shop, I pick them up and then to lunch at a Mexico Food place.

I got home and started to get ready. Got the computers into the RV, and got the clothing into the RV. Cheryl came home took Eric over to the cousin to stay for the weekend. Amanda had got al of her stuff into the RV. Cheryl stopped by the grocery store to get some stuff.

I finally got the van onto the trailer.

She got home and she started to get things put into the RV.

We finally left at 8:00. The drive took only 1 and half so a very short drive for us.

Like normal, the wagon master was not at the trailer so I could be told where to park for the weekend. So I walked into the one of the halls and found somebody that I know and he was able to guide me to a place for the weekend.

We made camp, and as you can tell (if you read this when I post it) I was able to get the satellite all set up and we are on the Internet.

A few friends came over and we talked until the evening.

2007/09/20 – Thursday – Prep-work

Lunch was with my buddy to Quizno’s.

I dump the tanks of the RV and filled the water up so the appropriate tanks are empty and full.

I worked on my computer and went through several emails that I have for the last two months. I still one more folder to go through, but that will have to wait until next week.

I am now moving all the photos from the laptop to my main computer, but this will take a lot of time…

2007/09/19 – Wednesday – Banking

Lunch was with the office for a birthday luncheon at L.V. Seafood.

I was requested to pick up mom from a dealer to take her home.

Cheryl made a good dinner for us.

Cheryl worked on the accounts some more, while I did some banking requirements.

Eric told me that he needed one of his tires filled up at 10:00 at night. So of course he got a little tongue-lashing for telling me so late. But I did go and fill both tires up.

2007/09/18 – Tuesday – Power of the Internet

Lunch was with my buddy over to the bar. Afterwards we went to Wal*Mart and I got some items we needed. Ever since Wal*Mart been open, the trash from the parking lot is absolutely appalling. Wal*Mart does nothing to clean it up – it is really bad!

Cheryl took Eric to Church group. Then she also got dinner for her and I.

I started the laundry and finished it later in the evening.

Cheryl went and picked up Eric from group and got him dinner.

I also worked on posting some pictures from last weekend and backdate some other photos that I have taken with the cell phone.

Amanda returned from Disney Land – Lisa and Amanda had a good time I guess.

I got a surprise email from a post that I did last week – Friday. Wow Matt G (the cop.) read my post - somebody else other than family read my blog. In fact when I tried to do a very quick synopsis to Cheryl, I still got all chocked up about it.

2007/09/17 – Monday – Normal Monday???

Lunch was my buddy to crazy chicken place.

When Cheryl got home, she took Amanda to her church group. Cheryl also did a few extra stops afterward before returning home. Cheryl then went back to pick her up.

I took a nap that I hadn’t planned, but I feel good.

2007/09/16 – Sunday – Church and Dancing

The family got up and the friend that spent the night went to church this morning.

When we returned we got ready for the Croakers Dance.

Wow, we had 4 to 5 squares dancing most of the time. This was the Croakers 3 anniversary dance and we had a very good turnout! We also did some round dancing between the tips, which normaly we do not do because we only have one or two of us that could round dance.

We came back home and watch two different movies – so it was a nice relaxing evening.

2007/09/15 – Saturday – Goodbye - Full Day

I took Cheryl and Amada over to their nail appointment. After dropping them off Eric and I went to Loews to get a few things for the house.

I went ahead and finally took Marble to the vet to be put down. It was extremely hard for me to do that. Marble was 15 years old and she could no longer keep the flies off her ears and her hips are really bad and she has a very hard time getting up and down. I will sure miss her!

I fix the closet rod that broke about 6 months ago in our closet. I got halfway through fixing the transition from the dinning room to the kitchen but now need to make it permanent, but that will wait for another day.

I work on the little bit of laundry we had.

I went and picked up Cheryl and Amanda and went to get some food for them.

We then got ready for the meeting we had planned for the NSDC Youth Meeting.

We ate dinner before the meeting started. All seemed to enjoy it. The meeting seemed to go well, the group got the info they needed and now we just need to start getting a few things done.

After the meeting was over one of our friends will spend the night – We spent the rest of the evening talking before finally going to be after midnight.

2007/09/14 – Friday – Three Point View

Lunch was with a friend to Arby’s.

I got the seat covers finished on the van. It took awhile, but the covers look nice.

I have never linked to anything else before, but the next three links is a powerful story from three different points in the time line – very good read for kids about ready to drive or still driving and drinking.

You have to read it! It is awesome and excellent.

Chapter 1 - THE COP
Chapter 2 -THE PARAMEDIC
Chapter 3 -THE NURSE

2007/09/13 – Thursday – Relaxing

Lunch was with my buddy to Fuji Grill

Cheryl went out got dinner for us.

I worked on getting the computer to be able to display on the TV screen, I also downloaded the newest driver.

Otherwise we relaxed today

2007/09/12 – Wednesday – Errands

I got the last item that the dealer was to put on the van done today.

For lunch I went with a friend to Soup Plantation.

After work I went to the seat cover place to get them fix – fit correctly for the van – to be continued…

Turquoise still does not understand about not going in the house – he did it again in front of me and he wasn’t even buggy anybody about going out.

I worked on laundry today; I also cleaned up the bedroom some more.

2007/09/11 – Tuesday – Eyes and Report

Lunch was with a buddy and a friend to Pinno Pizza

I made a phone call before an appointment. To fix the RV is going to cost some money – a lot of money – And I am doing the work, I can’t imagine what it would cost if the shop did the work.

We all had an eye appointment today. Eric is getting new glasses, Amanda got contacts and new glasses, Cheryl is getting new glasses, and Jesse is getting new glasses. We will not be getting the glasses until later (when they make them.)

Cheryl went to the grocery store to get a few things for dinner.

Mom D came over and we worked on the NSDC report that is due this week.

Cheryl and Amanda practiced their calling.

2007/09/10 – Monday – Yep Sick

Lunch was with my buddy and we went to McD.

Cheryl took Amanda to her group night for church.

I practiced do some square dance calling – boy I a bad. And being sick does not help. At least I can try to keep memorizing the song.

Cheryl also work on some calling as well.

I cleaned up my mess under my desk.

Tonight I have a running nose – so I hope that is all I get…

2007/09/09 – Sunday – Sick

When I got up this morning it felt like I might be getting a sore throat.

Amanda and Cheryl went shopping again…

Eric and I did watch the Indy car on TV today – as well as on the computers.

I worked on getting the computers all hooked up – my two play machines and Amanda’s machine.

I started on working on the laundry and got most of it done today.

Now at the end of the day, I think my throat is reminding me about this morning – I might be getting sick…

2007/09/08 – Saturday – Working Around

Cheryl and Amanda went with Amanda’s church group to Magic Mountain.

Eric and Jesse did things around the house. First on the agenda was collecting all the stuff that needed to go to hazardous and e-waste roundup; so a trip to drop the junk off.

We worked on putting things back into the dinning room. I worked on getting things straighten out in the kitchen and the dinning room.

Eric worked on his laundry and his room looks somewhat cleaned up.

Eric and Jesse did watch the NASCAR show.

Cheryl and Amanda got home late – as expected…

2007/09/07 – Friday – Walk

Lunch was with some friends over to Black Angus

Cheryl and I walked to the store for some stuff for dinner.

Later Cheryl and Amanda went shopping – I am not sure what they where shopping for, but I know Cheryl got a new pillow for her.

2007/09/06 - Thursday - Back

Well, I have taken a break from blogging as you can tell. We have done a lot of stuff while my break from blogging. I have posted a few pictures from this past month on my other blog. I really need to think long and hard about doing a photo a day type of blog that I have been thinking about. To post every day does take some discipline and I need to make so I have it! So if I can do this daily blog, then I should be able to do a photo a day. Maybe I will start that next year, will see.

At least one friend asked about why I haven’t bogged and I had no real good reason. I am really glad somebody has been reading my stuff – so here is today…

Lunch was with a body of mine to Quizno

After work, I went to the pet store and got some cat stuff as well as some dog toys for the pup. He has several things crewed up on the back yard so I got him some stuff more appropriate.

Cheryl took Amanda to her church youth group and Eric and I just watched TV and played on the computers.

Eric still needed a few more items for school; we were able to find them around the house.

Well off to bed and getting ready for another Friday.

I still like the encouragement about keeping the blog going…

2007/08/02 – Thursday – Class Work

Lunch was with my buddy to the bar – I was bad and had a burger with rings - mmmm good.

Tonight Cheryl took Amanda to her church group.

We also worked on our Square Dance Calling Class homework.

2007/08/01 – Wednesday- Sex Seminar

I was stood up today for lunch, he had a meeting at the last minute.

When Cheryl got home, she coached me to go with her to a church seminar about sex.

When we got back, we where tired, and we got ready for bed.

2007/07/31 – Tuesday – Dinner

Lunch was with my buddy and we had lunch at crazy chicken.

A friend is over for the next three nights so he doesn’t have to commute.

We went to Dales for dinner tonight.

2007/07/30 – Monday – Appointment

Lunch was with my buddy, but it was a very quick lunch – ½ hour – salad at Zpizza

I picked up Amanda for her appointment at the Orthodontist – I think we only a few more appointments left – hurray.

Cheryl and Amanda went to urgent care to check her hurting thumb, but all looks ok – good!

2007/07/29 – Sunday – Fair

Well, the Croakers were invited to participate at the Orange County Fair.

We got to the fair with plenty of time to get ready. Amanda, Eric and Jesse danced a few tips during the hour that the group was to dance on the stage.

After eating some food for lunch, some friends and the family went walking around and the kids did some rides.

We got home about 5:00 and relaxed. I took a nap. Come time find out that all of us got sun burnt so that is why we all were extremely tired.

2007/07/28 – Saturday – Class

We got up early so we could be at the Calling Class on time.

Calling Class, Lunch, Calling Class, Dinner, and then Calling Class

Back to house again – late.

Amanda is doing ok with the class so far. Cheryl is doing better then she thought she would be able to do. Jesse is having to struggle a little with it.

2007/07/27 – Friday - Travel – Class

I slept in today – I set the alarm for 10:00 so it was nice to sleep in for once in about 5 weeks.

Got up and checked out of the hotel. The taxi ride was with three other co-workers.

We got on the plane and left DC at about 2:00 and landed in Long Beach a little early around 3:45. But this time, my ears were hurting!

I got home and took a nap, something about flying and being tired.

When Cheryl finally got home, off we go to Caller Class.

We got home around 11:00 and off to bed.

2007/07/26 – Thursday – More Meetings

Again got up and headed on over to the convention center at 8:00.

Meetings all day.

I was invited to a IT meeting at a co-workers place and they had a bus all lined up. So off I went and I had a good time getting know more people from the DC office.

I got back to the hotel about 10:30

2007/07/25 – Wednesday - March

Got up and headed on over the convention center at 8:00 again.

At one point in our day of meetings was a march onto one of the grounds around the capital builder with all the employees in their red shirts.

Nothing special tonight but back to the room to watch TV

2007/07/24 – Tuesday - Game

Got up and headed on over the convention center at 8:00.

I did the meeting thing all day.

I went to the WNBA game of the Storms and Mystics. The game was close most of the time. At half time it was tied. At the end of the 4th quarter it was tied, at the end of the overtime, the Mystics won by one point – Good Game!

2007/07/23 – Monday – Work Travel day

Cheryl and I got up at 7:00 and we left the house at 7:30. On the way to the airport, we stopped at the ATM so I could have some cash on hand.

The check in and security was smooth and easy.

The plane ride to DC was fairly smooth. I did buy some Earplane (ear plugs) and they WORKED; I did not have the ear pressure issue that I have in the past.

Once I arrived at DC, fellow coworkers and I went to the baggage area to retrieve our bags. I got a ride in a taxi with two other coworkers to the hotel.

Once checked in, a group of use went out for dinner. We just started to walk to find a place. Food was good, but the service was a little slow.

Back to the hotel to relax and watching TV.

2007/07/22 – Sunday – Work and Relax

I slept in this morning. Eric, Amanda, and Cheryl went to church.

I was planning to go into work early, but it turned out that I finally went in about 11:30.

I was in the office for 4 hours and I got the item done that needed to be done.

Cheryl and the kids went and watched the Harry Potter movie.

When I got home, I worked on some bills and started to get ready for my trip to DC.

At one point in the afternoon, I was out talking to neighbors and it started to do one of those big drops sprinkle thing – it was nice.

2007/07/21 – Saturday – Home Again

The morning started gruffly – the dog peeing in the RV, Eric not doing what I want him to do, and the fast food messing up the order. We finally got on the road at 10:00.

We did see a crop duster and Eric watched it do it thing.

I called Flying J’s (the one at the top of the Grape Vine) to make sure they had propane and the lady said yes.

Getting closer to the Grape Vine, we could see smoke on the hills. Sure enough it’s a grass/forest fire.

Before starting the Grape Vine, I stopped at a truck was and got the RV and Van washed – I still need to do the underside of the RV better. We also had lunch while we waited.

I stop at Flying J’s and noticed a note about not able to do propane – now I am MAD! The clerks got the manager and after talking with her I was able to get some propane (after a year of trying to get propane there) and got some gas.

The traffic going through Los Angeles was bad,

On your main boulevard there was an accident with a turned over vehicle.

Now we are home!

Cheryl ordered Pizza for dinner.

Camp Location:
Home – Lakewood, California

Big Animal Report:
None

Attractions:
None

2007/07/20 – Friday – Redwoods and Long Day

We left camp at 9:00

We stopped at Shrine Drive-Thru Tree – no we could not drive the RV through the tree, the RV is slightly too big for it.

Next stop was Confusion Hill. We paid for the train ride but we had to wait for the guide to finish his lunch, so we order ours and have it ready by the time we returned from our ride. We were given some interesting facts about the redwoods, logging, and the area. We returned and got our lunch (a late lunch)

Next stop was the Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree – no we could not drive the RV through this tree.

We stopped in Willits for gas

As we were getting close to San Francisco, I stopped at a RV park and they were full and she stated that everybody was full. So we had to drive on past San Francisco to find another park.

I say a sign along the Freeway about an RV park so I took the exit and finding the park was easy. The Kit Fox RV Park near the town of Patterson is a good size park.

We walked to Denny’s for dinner, both direction we noticed the frogs large and small near the office of the park.

Camp Location:
N 37.46860°, W 121.17683° - Kit Fox RV Park – Patterson, California

Big Animal Report:

Head of Elk in Redwood Creek beside the road
1-Deer chasing a bird

Attractions:
Shrine Drive Thru Tree
Confusion Hill
Chandelier Drive Thru Tree

2007/07/19 – Thursday – To the Coast and Trees

We left at 9:00

Our first stop of the day was a quick drive back towards I5, we stop at a covered bridge called Lowell Covered Bridge. The bridge had a very good display of history and lots panels of information.

We finally head south on I5 after a quick detour.

We stop for gas and lunch in Grants Pass.

The drive towards the coast on 199 is an interesting highway. It has section of very tight/skinny roadway.

We stopped at Ocean World and did their tour of what they have as an aquarium; of course we did buy some trinkets.

We stopped at Trees of Mystery and were able to take the dogs on the walk/hike, which also included a gondola ride up to the top of the ridge for a great view.

We stopped for the night at Mystic Forest RV Park, just a couple of miles south.

I went for a short walk and found some very good blackberries.

Camp Location:
N 41.57617°, W 124.07450° – Mystic Forest RV Park, Klamath, California

Big Animal Report:
None

Attractions:
Lowell Covered Bridge
Ocean World
Trees of Mystery

2007/07/18 – Wednesday - Heading Home and Fixing

We left and said our good byes at 9:00.

We stopped for gas before we got onto the freeway.

We stopped for lunch at the last Rest Area heading south in Washington.

I called the tire place make sure they are able to help me resolve the problem with the Smarttire not receiving from the driver side trailer tires.

We made it to Bob Dickman Tire & Accessory Center by 2:30. They balanced both of the spare RV tires. They also worked on getting the two trailer tires to be recognized by the system. I even got an additional tool to help in getting the sensors to send a signal so if I need to change a tire it will be easier to get the new tire added to the system. I also got a new trailer tire because I had two flat spots on it.

Cheryl and the kids went for a walk while I stayed and watched and help in getting the Smarttire system working.

I had Amanda look for a RV park where we will stay, She made a few phone calls and we got a site reserved. But we found out it was like 30 miles away from the freeway, but o well.

Cheryl and Amanda cooked dinner.

It has been raining off and on this evening.

Camp Location:
N 43.75930°, W 122.52637° – Casey’s Riverside RV Park – Westfir, Oregon

Big Animal Report:
None

Attractions:
Tire Store

2007/07/17 – Tuesday – Water & Food

We slept in a little bit again.

Mom and I started the laundry.

We went Snoqualmie Falls, I thought I was going to have lunch there, but the price was HIGH, so did our gift shop shopping and then we went to Carnation for some lunch at one of the local café.

We then went over to GG to see her new house.

We returned and finished the laundry

Cheryl and Amanda went to a nail salon.

Several May Families came over and we had a fun BBQ feast.

Camp Location:
Same as Yesterday - N 47.758411°, W 122.036364° – Brothers Place, Woodinville Washington

Big Animal Report:
None

Attractions:
Snoqualmie Falls
A Family BBQ

2007/07/16 – Monday – Under and High

We slept in a little bit.

We did a little bit of shopping and then headed on over to the Seattle Underground Tour.

We got the 2:00 tour. The tour lasted about 90 minutes.

We then went to the top of the Seattle Space Needle observation deck. Of course we did do our trinket shopping in the gift center at the base.

We returned and G made dinner and we had a good time talking.

Camp Location:
Same as Yesterday - N 47.758411°, W 122.036364° – Brothers Place, Woodinville Washington

Big Animal Report:
None

Attractions:
Seattle Underground Tour
Space Needle

2007/07/15 – Sunday – Crossing and Family

We left camp at 8:45

We stopped for gas in a little place called Lytton.

We stopped at Hell’s Gate (near Boston Bar, British Columbia, Canada). They even allowed us to take the dogs on the airtram. When we got to the bottom of the canyon, we walked onto the suspension bridge at the bottom of the canyon. We could look trough the grates to the water below. The dogs were not very comfortable about walking on the grates; there is a 6x6 near the middle of the bridge and the dogs preferred to walk on that. We watched a movie about fish life.

We stopped and the next turn out and had lunch. I walked to what I thought was a bridge, but it was a structure like a Hollywood bowl shape under the road.

The traffic was getting heavier and heavier and a few times we were crawling.

We got to the boarder at 4:30 and waited for about ½ hour before we got our chance to be asked questions and be let into USA.

The guy asked some questions and we had a good conversation with him about our trip with the animals.

We called several people once we were back in the USA.

We got to Luke’s place about 6:30 and after some hugs and talking, we got the RV leveled off and unloaded the van.

I finally got the Satellite set up after moving it to get a good view through the trees.

We went for dinner and invited L&G. We went to Red Robin.

Camp Location:
N 47.758411°, W 122.036364° – Brothers Place, Woodinville Washington

Big Animal Report:
1 Dear

Attractions:
Hells Gate Canyon
Crossing the Border

2007/07/14 – Saturday – Hot and Hilly

We left camp about 9:00 even after I had been talking to a fellow camper about the roads going to Alaska.

We got gas in Prince George

We stopped in Quesnel at the Visitor Center and Museum of the local area. We spent about 1 hour in there – Amanda was doing about three different fact finding sheets.

When we returned to the RV, Turquoise had chewed up the ice chest that we keep between the front seats to store cold water in.

On the way out of town we found a pet store (Total Pet) and stopped. The head lady let us bring the dogs in to help find a muzzle that would fit properly, but we had to do some modifications to make sure he could not get it off.

In the same area, we got lunch at A&W, in the process of getting ready to leave, Turquoise spilled Eric drink and so I went in and got another drink for him.

At 5:00 I came across a RV campground. I had to go around the block to get the correct driveway.

Today’s driving consisted of a lot of hills; so far the last two days has had the most hills in terms of how steep the climbs have been.

We had everything setup including the Satellite in 45 minutes.

We took a walk to one of the local restaurants – Fish and Chips

When we returned, the muzzle worked, Turquoise did not get the muzzle off!

The kids watch a TV show.

I worked on repairing the rear axle trailer breaks. The wires were crushed and one had completed been separated.

We turned off the TV and the kids then worked on some schoolwork. Amanda and Mom M had worked on math off and on all day. Cheryl and Amanda worked on several subjects.

Camp Location:
N 51.64386, W 121.29865 – 100 Mile Hotel and RV Park, 100 Mile House, British Columbia, Canada

Big Animal Report:
1 - Deer

Attractions:
Visitor Center and Museum – Quesnel
Pet Store

2007/07/13 – Friday – Driving and Fishing

We left camp at 8:45. We had to stop at the boarding crossing into Canada and the lady asked a few questions and we were allowed to head on into Canada.

We stopped in Stewart for gas.

The climb out of Stewart was not bad like I thought it was going to be based on the drive down.

I turned south at the intersection back onto the Cassiar.

When we reached the end of the Cassiar, I turn east and headed onto the Yellowhead Highway.

About 7 miles before Smithers, we stopped at Adams Igloo Wildlife Museum, but when we approached the door it was locked and the grounds did not look like the advertisements, so we got back in to the RV and continued.

We stopped in Smithers for gas and a quick trip into the grocery store.

I then wanted to find the RV wash that we say for advertisements, but when we found it, it was a self wash and I didn’t want to do it, so we looked for another place for lunch, I found a turn out and we had lunch.

This section of the road had some big climbs – at a few points I was down to 25 mph climbing the hills. I was sure watching the tranny temp.

We stopped in Houston to look at the World’s Largest Fly Fishing Rod. Also in the same area, there was a dog park, so the dogs got a good chance to run and play.

We are stopped in Vanderhoof at Dave’s RV Park for the nice place. I did setup the satellite because the park charges for Internet.

Amanda cooked dinner tonight, It started to rain on us during dinner.

The kids watched two different movies – Quest for Camelot, Thief and the Cobbler. We also watched the DVD about Fish Creek and Salmon Glacier

The kids also worked on schoolwork.

Camp Location:
N 53 59.792, W 123 58.663 – Dave’s RV Park, Vanderhoof, British Columbia, Canada

Big Animal Report:
1 – Deer

Attractions:
Adams Igloo Wildlife Museum – NOT
World’s Largest Fly Fishing Rod

2007/07/12 – Thursday – Back in Alaska

We left camp about 8:45

I pulled out and the tire alarm came on again, so I pulled over again and filled the tire to match the other tire.

We were stopped in three different construction zones.

The roads were rough in places and a few places that have gravel.

About ½ hour before our lunch stop the road turned really good compared what I have been driving for the last two days.

Lunch was at a roadside turnout called Bob Quinn Lake Airport.

Our next stop was at Bell 2 for some gas.

When we got to the intersection, the road going straight was the road to Stewart, Canada, and Hyder Alaska, so off we went.

We crossed into Hyder with out any fan fair – no customs, or boarder crossing station. (But we will have to go through one to get back into Canada)

We found the RV camp and made camp. I also setup the satellite.

I unload the van, and we headed on up the road to go see the Salmon Glacier. The road was ruff with lots of potholes. We went as far as we could, the road has not been cleared of all the snow near the top.

On the way back we stopped at the Fish Creek Viewing, but no bears yet, the salmon have not started their spawning.

We returned back to town and finally found a place to eat, but after driving all the way down a planked pier and back.

After dinner, we did some souvenir shopping. We also stopped at the local dump to see if we could find some bears. We found two big bears and two baby bears.

We watched Narnia

Camp Location:
N 55 55.233, W 130 01.918 Camp Run-A-Muck – Hyder Alaska

Big Animal Report:
4 – Black Bear

Attractions:
Bear Glacier
Fish Creek Viewing
Salmon Glacier

2007/07/11 – Wednesday – Rocks and Mud

We left Whitehorse at 8:50.

About ½ hour into the drive, one of the tires said it was low, so I stopped to fix it. I took the valve extension off and that seamed to resolve the tire getting lower on pressure; but I sure kept a very close eye on the sensor for quite awhile.

I did not stop again until Junction 37 for lunch and gas at 1:00 so a solid 4 hours of driving. I had used ¾ of tank of gas on that part of the trip.

We are now heading down the Cassiar Highway. The first part of this road is really rough so it was slow going. We stop at a place called Jade City (consisting of two buildings one on each side of the road, one of them being closed this season)

Of course we did spend some money on some jade items.

The next part of the road turned into a mud bath. The back of the RV and all of the van was covered in mud!

I stopped at a campground but it had no good view to the south for the satellite, so back onto the road.

I stopped at Dease Lake for gas; I tried to clean the back window, but not very well.

As we were heading out of town, I found a RV park with hookups, so I quickly stopped and paid for a site. On the way to the site, I noticed that they had a high power washer wand, so I cleaned the RV and van. So now the RV looks white and the van looks smoke gray instead of medium brown.

I was able to set up the satellite.

Amanda cooked dinner tonight, but she started the Cocktail Smokies in barbeque sauce in the crock-pot at our lunch spot.

We watched two movies tonight – Legally Blond 2 and Good Boy

Camp Location:
N 58 26.011, W 129 59.025 – Dease Lake RV Park, Dease Lake, British Columbia, Canada

Big Animal Report:
1-Drenched Fox
1-Mooses that crossed in front of a motorcycle

Attractions:
Jade City - Shop

2007/07/10 – Tuesday – Dirty and Shopping

We left a little late today – about 9:15. I was going to get gas in White River but the office was not open yet.

The road from White River to Destruction Bay was rough and a lot of sections that where gravel and a little mud.

We did have two construction points where we had to wait for the pilot truck.

I stopped at Burwash Landing for Gas

We had lunch at a pull out; the stop was at a creek called Jarvis Creek. We tossed the ball for the dogs to get them some exercise.

As we were approaching Whitehorse, I stopped for gas. Then we went into Whitehorse to get groceries and stuff.

By the time we finished all the shopping, it was almost 5:00 so time to find a campground.

We are stopped at Pioneer RV Park just south of Whitehorse. Cheryl tired the internet at the campsite but it was going slow, so I sit up the satellite.

Nobody wanted to cook dinner, so Amanda begged be to unload the van and go out for dinner.

So I unloaded the van and we headed back into Whitehorse to find dinner. We ate at a small café, then we headed back to the RV.

When we got back, Turquoise had way to much fun chewing on things. One of the items he chewed on was a stuffed tow that had the small little white pellets that got EVERYWHERE! Eric and Cheryl cleaned up the mess.

Mom did her laundry and two loads of ours.

Camp Location:
N 60 38.950, W 135 01.082 – Pioneer RV Park, Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

Big Animal Report:
1 – Mule Deer

Attractions:
Wal-Mart
Craft Store
Canadian Super Mart (groceries)
Dinner out

2007/07/09 – Monday – Into Canada

We left Valdez at 9:00 with our first stop at a gas station before heading out.

We got gas a little gas stop at Gakona Junction

We stopped for lunch in one of the pullouts along the way.

I got gas at Tok,

We stopped at the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center and Amanda got a stamp for her Refuge book.

We went through the boarder without any issues, the lady asked a few questions and let us through.

I pulled into Beaver Creek and asked about the RV park and the lady said go to the RV park about 30 miles away, right after crossing the White River.

The roads from Tok to the campground are really bad. On the US side, the roads have a lot of frost heaves, while in Canada there are a lot of gravel surfaces, so that means a lot of rocks flying and dust – the RV is filthy.

Finally we arrived at the White River Crossing RV Park.

It took awhile for me to set up the satellite but finally I got it working. The next camper next to me asked a few questions about the setup. He asked about getting on, so I set the wifi to open so they could use the Internet. A little bit later another person noticed and asked so a few people are using it.

Amanda and Cheryl cooked dinner.

Mom and I started the laundry – we had to do 4 loads. Mom stayed to do the rest of the loads, while I came back and played on the computers.

The kids watched two movies tonight.

Camp Location:
N 61 59.057, W 140 32.246 – White River Crossing RV Park, Beaver Creek, Yukon, Canada

Big Animal Report:
3 Swans

Attractions:
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

2007/07/08 – Sunday – Boat Ride

We got up and ready for our trip at 9:00. We bought our trip from the RV park headquarters.

We walked over to the boat and got on, we left at 10:00 for our 9 to 10 hour tour.

The captain was very informative and gave us a lot of information. We saw a lot of animals and some small pieces of ice from a glacier calving.

When we got back to the RV, I had to do some minor cleaning up after the dogs, and off to dinner we went. We also walked around the town after dinner with the dogs.

Camp Location:
Same as yesterday - N 61 07.647, W 146 21.016 – Bear Paw RV Park – Valdez, Alaska

Big Animal Report:
Birds of Prince Williams Sound:
Marbled Murrelet
Horned Puffin
Bald Eagles
Tufted Puffin
Mammals of Prince Williams Sound:
Steller Sea Lion
Humpback Whale
Sea Otter
Dall’s Porpoise
Harbor Seal

Attractions:
Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises - Prince Williams Sound – Columbia and Meares Glacier Excursion

2007/07/07 – Saturday – Ferry Ride

We left camp at 10:00.

We only had to wait about 20 minutes to go through the Whittier Tunnel. While driving through the tunnel the speed limit is 25 mph. Also you are driving on the train tracks, but it is smooth.

Once we got to Whittier, we checked in at the ferry terminal and paid the expensive bill!

We walked the little water front part of town and ate lunch.

We pulled the RV into the staging area ready for the ferry.

When it was our time to load we were the last one to load.

The ferry to 6 hours to get into Valdez, again we were the last one to unload – the deck hands had to almost jack knife the RV so I could get off the ship properly.

We found the campground really easily.

We walked the town a little bit before watching some TV for the evening.

Camp Location:
N 61 07.647, W 146 21.016 – Bear Paw RV Park – Valdez, Alaska

Big Animal Report:
Sea Lions

Attractions:
Whittier Tunnel – Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel
Ferry Boat

2007/07/06 – Friday – Full RV Parks

We left camp at 9:00.

We drove the 15 miles into Denali; near the end we watched a small group caribou running in a creek. We stopped on the way out at the visitor center.

We stopped for gas and lunch at Cantwell

We looked up a park in Anchorage. We followed the direction and found the place, but when I checked they could not accommodate us and making a few phone calls, nobody in Anchorage could accommodate us, so off to find somewhere else.

I made a decision to change our route and not stay two nights in Anchorage. So we did some research and phone calls to find out if a ferry goes from Whittier to Valdez. I made a reservation for the ferry ride.

I also phoned a RV park near Portage to find out, but just an answering machine answered.

I drove toward Whittier hoping we could find an RV park on the way. We pulled into Portage Valley RV Park; come to find out it was the same placed I called. We are dry camped, because they have everything else taken/reserved.

I tried to setup the satellite, but the mountain is in the way.

We watched Nanny McPhee – What a neat movie

Camp Location:
N 60 48.175, W 148 56.000 – Portage Valley RV Park - Portage Alaska

Big Animal Report:
4 - Caribou

Attractions:
Denali Visitor Center

2007/07/05 – Thursday – Fun Ride

We slept in today. We said our good byes and left about 10:00.

We did stop at Petco and exchanged one item that we got and Cheryl went into Barns & Noble.

We stopped for gas and headed on down the road.

We stopped at Rainbow Village, I checked on a RV space, but none was available, the gal phone two other RV location and we found a place, back about 6 miles back to the north, so I went back the way we came and we got one night stay.

I unloaded the van and we headed back down to Rainbow Village to get a late lunch early dinner and some shopping.

We headed on over to the helicopter location and waited for our time depart.

What a neat flight, we all had a blast riding in the RV landing and walking on the glacier. It was raining while we were walking around, but we all had a good time.

When we got back, I loaded the van and then worked on getting my magnet mount lights to work on the van bumpers.

I also found one of the value stem extension about ready to have leak, so I changed that.

Camp Location:
N 63 49.263, W 148 59.228 – Denali RV Park – (North of Denali Park Entrance) - Alaska

Big Animal Report:
1 – Moose from Helicopter
A lot of Sheep from the Helicopter

Attractions:
Helicopter ride
Walking on a Glacier

2007/07/04 – Wednesday – LONG Ride - Arctic Circle

We got up at 4:45 and started to get ready, we left and got to the excursion place at 5:45, after dropping the dogs at our friends’ work place.

We started about 15 minutes early on our ride to the Arctic Circle.

Our first stop was at Joy. Next stop was at the Yukon River crossing for Lunch

We stopped along the pipeline and we took some picture by it.

We stopped at a location called Thumbs Up and explored around the rocks.

We then finally made it to the Arctic Circle. We all took pictures. The guide (Mary) put down a rug to mark the line for the Arctic Circle and we all walked across it. Mary even gave all of us some cake and whipped cream (she called it something like muck and frost)

On the way back, from the Circle Mary found a place so she could show us the Tundra and the Perma Frost.

When we were about ready to get dinner, a car that passed us broke one of the back windows in the bus. Mary got a piece of cardboard and covered the window and I helped her tape the outside up.

We then ate dinner at the same location as lunch at the Yukon River crossing.

We then again stopped at Joy for another break

At different times Mary would show a video of different aspects of Alaska, Pipeline, and road building.

At the end of the trip we all got a certificate that we crossed the Arctic Circle.

We picked up the dogs and got back to the RV at 11:30

Camp Location:
Same as yesterday - N 64 53.500, W 147 27.500 – R&P place near Fairbanks Alaska

Big Animal Report:
1 - Moose

Attractions:
Arctic Circle

2007/07/03 – Tuesday- Around Town

O I could have killed the dogs – more like Turquoise this morning, he woke me up at 4:30 in the morning, I think he saw daylight so he thought it was time to get up.

We did sleep in a little bit before doing things around town.

The first thing when we went into town was to go find the location where we need to be for the excursion tomorrow.

We then dropped the dogs off at our friends’ work place and we headed out to our first attraction.

We finally found the Pioneer Park; First thing we did was to find the square dance hall, well we will miss the square dance opportunity because we all ready have plans for dinner tonight. After walking around we went into the air museum and walked around that. Next was the train museum, but we missed the opportunity to ride the train around the compound. We finished the park by walking around all the little businesses.

We ate lunch at small family style restaurant.

We found the Museum of the North. What a neat museum, it had a great audio that you could rent and read all the information. But the biggest problem today was that they had the place VERY cold! So we rushed to on getting out of there.

We went shopping at Petco, Home Depot, and Fred Myers

We got the dogs and headed back to R&P so we could get ready for dinner.

They took us to Two Rivers. Nice place. I think the place has about three different menus depending on what area of the builder you are setting at – bar area, out side, and then main area. The food was good and I am glad we went; also it allowed more time enjoying R&P company.

Returning to the house R & I worked on the trailer cutting the wood that I got to fix the wood on the trailer that the tire was breaking.

We got to sleep about midnight even though we need to get up about 4:45.

Camp Location:
Same as yesterday - N 64 53.500, W 147 27.500 – R&P place near Fairbanks Alaska

Big Animal Report:
None

Attractions:
Pioneer Park
Air Museum (in Pioneer Park)
University of Alaska Museum of the North

2007/07/02 – Monday - Santa House and Fine Dinning

We left camp at 9:00.

Our first stop was back down the road at the “End of the Alaska Highway” to take some pictures at the Delta Junction Visitor Center.

We made it to North Pole Alaska. We stopped at the visitor center and then went to the Santa Claus House to do some shopping. A note on the Santa chair stated that he takes a break on Mondays and Tuesdays – so no Santa today. Of course we spent too much money but we did get some cool stuff.

I made a phone call to our friend R&P E, after getting lost, R guided us to where he works, after some talking, we then followed R to his house so I could set up the RV and unload the van.

I made some phone calls and I have booked us the Artic Circle excursion – The first trip I tried to book was a plane flight and drive back, but none was available, so we are taking the ride up and back – ~18 hour trip on a bus. The trip starts at 6:30AM

R&P took out for dinner at the Pump House – wow fancy place or should I say expensive, because we sure did not dress fancy. The place has good food, we had a good time and I have to really thank R&P for treating us to dinner!!!

It has been warm here, we slept with all the windows open, and it was 81 degrees at 11:00 PM with the sun still being up.

The sunsets at 1:35 AM and rises at 4:12 AM

Camp Location:
N 64 53.500, W 147 27.500 – R&P place near Fairbanks Alaska

Big Animal Report:
1 - Moose

Attractions:
Delta Junction Visitor Center
North Pole Visitor Center
Santa House
Pump House

2007/07/01 – Sunday - Rough

We left camp at 9:00

Today was nothing but driving – Slow and then fast then slow then fast.

The road was rough; we had to slow down in a lot of places! A few of the “heaves” made us almost jump out of our seats!

We had lunch at a location called “Dry Creek 2”

We got gas at Beaver Creek

We crossed into Alaska – We finally made it!

We did not stop in Delta Junction and we pressed on to Delta Junction. We got gas and propane in Delta Junction

We are stopped for the night in Delta Junction at Smith Green Acres RV Park

When I walked around the trailer I noticed that the driver rear tire of the Van has cracked trough the wood on the trailer – So now I will need to get that fixed in Fairbanks.

Mom and I will be doing the laundry tonight.

The kids for some reason cannot get online for school – so Cheryl will make a call tomorrow to find out what is happening with the account.

We also watched a movie tonight – Mr & Mrs Smith

Also during the day, both driver side trailer tires would not respond correctly; I am glad I did not change the tire – I guess I will wait until Oregon to have the dealer fix the issue.

Camp Location:
N 64 03.943, W 145 44.497 – Delta Junction, Alaska – Smith Green Acers RV Park.

Big Animal Report:
Bunny rabbet

Attractions:
None
Frost Heaves ride in the RV

2007/06/30 – Saturday – Broken

We left camp at 8:45. Cheryl and Amanda stay asleep awhile, while I drove down the road.

One the way to Whitehorse, Cheryl told me that the back window was shattered. I pulled over to see what we could do. It was determined that currently, nothing.

Approaching Whitehorse, I stopped at an RV Service place, but they are closed for Canada Day Weekend.

When we arrived in Whitehorse, we did some shopping. First we ate lunch at A&W. I then I gassed up the RV. We needed some grocery items, so a stop at Canada Super Store.

I have a roll of clear tap, so we tapped both sides of the window and hopefully we can get it fixed in Fairbanks.

A Wal*Mart stop was need for Amanda to get a knee brace, and then Cheryl needed her fix at Starbucks.

We did not get out of Whitehorse until 3:00.

Drive side rear trailer tire sensor is not report properly. I think the sensor broke away from the strap that was holding it. The sensor will respond about every ½ hour, but I should be getting a reading about every 2 to 5 minutes.

We pulled into Hanes Junction at 4:45 so it was time to camp. We are camped at Kluane R.V. Kampground which has free wi-fi.

Amanda BBQ bacon wraped turkey and pork chops and Cheryl made the rest – garlic cheddar mashed potatoes and breaded fried eggplant. And Eric said it is GOOD!

We watched a movie tonight – dam tear jerker – Bridge to Terabithia

I guess I didn’t change the trailer tire; I will wait awhile before doing it.

Camp Location:
N 60 45.122, W 137 31.268 – Kluane R.V. Kampground – Haines Junction, Yukon Canada

Big Animal Report:
NONE

Attractions:
Shopping at Canada Super Store, Wal*Mart, and Starbucks

2007/06/29 – Friday – Animals and Signs

We left at 9:00 – another good start…

About 10:30 we stopped at Liard Hot Springs – It was really nice and hot. None of us made it to the hottest part of the springs. We stayed in the water for about 45 minutes. After returning to the RV, we ate lunch.

Next stop is at Watson Lake. First thing to do was get gas. We then stopped at Northern Lights Centre and we stopped just in time to watch the hour show. We then went over to the sign post forest and did a quick walk around.

It was still to early for me to stop for the night so, we continued on for another two hours.

We stopped on Rancheria, Yukon for the night, also got gas, and we went into the little restaurant for dinner.

It took a little longer trying to get the satellite but finally I was successful on getting aimed.

Eric and Amanda did some schoolwork.

Camp Location:
N 58 50.776, W 125 13.863 – Rancheria, Yukon, Canada

Big Animal Report:
2-mule deer
10-stone sheep all together where standing beside the road
2-stone sheep off to the side of the road one had a good pair of horns
5-buffalo
10 buffalo and 3 calf-all herding together in a pack right off the side of the road
30+ buffalo with several babies including two that walked in front of us

Attractions:
Liard Hot Springs
Northern Lights Centre
Watson Lake Sign Forest

2007/06/28 – Thursday – Drive, Gas, & Lake

We left early today – 8:35, so we went into Dawson to go find the other mile zero post. I was able to park really close to it and get pictures of it. A friendly couple took Eric and my picture standing in front of it.

We had to stop in one of the road construction place for about 15 minutes waiting for a pilot car.

Our next stop was for gas at and lunch stop at Pink Mountain.

I had to hit the breaks hard to avoid a dear running across the road.

The next stop was at Fort Nelson for Gas.

According to Street Atlas, it was time to stop for the day, but it was only 3:00 so we continued on to drive.

We made it to Toad for gas and our night stop as well as dinner.

Our back window looks upon a beaver lake. Between doing laundry and walking the dogs, we say several animals.

Both kids worked on the schoolwork.

Camp Location:
N 58 50.776, W 125 13.863 – Toad, British Columbia, Canada

Big Animal Report:
6 – Dear
1 – Elk
1 – Stone Sheep
2 – Beavers
1 – Otter
5 - Moose

Attractions:
None (unless you want to look at all the hats in the store/restaurant/office at Toad)

2007/06/27 – Wednesday – Animals and Rain.

We left camp at 9:02 – right on time.

As you can see in the animal report (below) we say several animals along our drive out of Jasper National Park.

We got gas at Jasper.

We got lunch at Subway and gas at Grande Cache – A small town up on the side of a hill. The road climbs high to get into town, and then when you leave you go down a steep hill.

It was a hilly drive to get to Dawson.

When we got into Dawson, it was thundering and lightening.

We got some pictures at mile marker 0 of the Alaska Highway (in the rain)

Once we found a campground that could take us, we went into town to get gas and dinner. This allowed enough time for the rain storm to pass, so we could setup camp not in the rain.

Very nice sunset tonight

Camp Location:
N 55 45.923, W 120.15.667 – Dawson, British Columbia, Canada

Big Animal Report:
- elk cow wanted to cross the road, changed her mind as several cars and two motorcycles came by
- another cow cross road a little in front of us
- driver’side 2 doe’s grazing
- black bear going into Jasper
- 4 cow right hand side in trees. 4 more about 10 yards further up
- 1 goat right beside the road
- 4 bulls
- 6 goats on left side, 2 on right – 1 was a baby
- 2 deer – 1 doe, 1 buck

Attractions:
Mile Marker Zero of the Alaska Highway

2007/06/26 – Tuesday – High, Cold, and Remote

The day started when the alarm went off at 7:30. While I was getting things ready, I also checked the tire pressure on all tires, so all will be good on the tires.

We left at 9:00 and we headed towards Banff

We turned off the highway into Banff, while driving through town (with all of its construction). I found a sign for a Gondola Ride, so I made the drive up the hill and finally found a parking place for the RV and trailer (on the upper lot).

We went to the top and looked around, we also ate lunch at the top.

The next stop was at the Columbia Icefield to explore the Athabasca Glacier. What a drive to the top of the pass, at one point I was down to 25 mph climbing the hill.

We did the “Brewster Columbia Icefield Glacier Experience”. We got one of the last trips to the ice. When we got the chance to get out of the BIG buss, we where standing on about 1000 feet of ice.

After returning to the RV, it was late, so I found the next campground. I tired to get into a spot but it was way to small and I tagged the RV on a tree (no damage – just a little sap was left on the RV). Then I found another site where I could fit, so I was able to back into it. I had to use two 4x4 on the passenger front, one on the driver side, and one on the rear passenger side to get the RV leveled off (of course also using the leveler jacks).

But we did not have Internet because of the trees all around us; But a very nice camp location with the Jonas Creek running next to it – even with all the mosquitoes.

We did watch one of the many movies we brought along – so far the batteries are doing good!

Camp Location:
N 52 25.033, W 117 23.706 – Jasper National Park – Jonas Creek

Big Animal Sightings:
1 – Brown Bear (In Banff National Park)
2 – Black Bear (In Banff National Park)
1 - Deer (In Jasper National Park)
several big horn sheet on the excursion (in Jasper)

Attractions:
Gondola Ride (In Banff)
Glacier Experience (In Jasper National Park)

2007/06/25 – Monday – Got Mom and Rain

We got up early today – We left camp at 7:30 (normally this would be wake time not leave time).

We got gas at Flying J’s in Great Falls, MT. And it started to rain there and it was COLD.

I called Mom M about 11:35 and she was already at the station. Dam I am late, and was 24 minutes out. I thought I was going to beat her there. As I was driving over the bridge (over the railroad tracks), I could see her down there so I honked and she waved back.

We left Shelby, and headed for the boarder. Getting gas at the boarder was interesting. The gas station where I got gas has no attendant, no body in the builder, but at least it accepted the credit card.

We went on over to the visitor center to eat lunch, since we could not find a restaurant to eat at.

Crossing the boarder, we had to go into the builder to get cleared to enter Canada. I had to show all the birth certificates – Dam I don’t have Eric’s. They allowed us entry into Canada – hurray. As we were leaving the builder it was hailing – Wow COLD! (Mom said it wasn’t).

We made it to Lethbridge. Trying to find a bank that would accept our card was hard, we stopped at two different banks. I was given directions for a possible success. Cheryl had to jump out the RV, because there was no place remotely close where I could park the RV and trailer, so I went around the block waiting for her – I only had to drive around once. And she was successful at getting cash.

On the drive to Vulcan, it started to thundering, lighting and raining. We arrived and I got gas, then headed on over the to the visitor center – not that big of one, it is there. We got a patch for mom and post card for Cheryl to send back to a co-worker. We also did a game that Eric, Amanda, and myself did that was ok, but for $10.00, it am not sure it was worth it. But we did have a little fun with it.

Amanda and Mom looked on the computer for a campground, so our next stop was for the night. We stopped near Calgary, out of the rain – hurray.

I unloaded the Van and we headed on into a Wal*Mart to get some stuff like jackets that we forgot to bring along and to get dinner.

All in all a good day of travel.

2007/06/24 – Sunday – Nice Drive

We got on the road by 8:00.

We stopped at a Flying J’s in Blackfoot for gas and lunch.

We stopped at Flying J’s in Butte for gas.

We then made it the KOA in Butte.

While setting things up; I discovered that the reason the generator was not producing power is because it got unplugged when we had the flat tire. So we are ok with that aspect of things. I did go a buy a new sewer hose to replace the hose that got crushed when the tire exploded on the driver side.

Amanda and Cheryl made dinner. Eric and I walked the dogs.

I swear I am getting faster and faster at setting up the satellite.

Cheryl worked on her computer, Eric did a class assignment on a laptop, and Amanda and I worked on the getting some more stuff printed. The items being printed is like a treasure hunting for them to find things as we are driving down the road.

I did talk to Mom M and made sure what time we have to pick her up in Shelby.

2007/06/23 – Saturday – Drive from Hell

We started the day at 8:15, before leaving, we went into the casino for breakfast.

First stop for the day was at Flying J’s in North Las Vegas. After crossing into Arizona, we changed our clock ahead one hour into Mountain Time Zone.

Next stop was another Flying J’s in Saint Gorge for more gas and Lunch.

We have passed I70 turn off, we passed a really bad accident and they were still working on a person. By the skid marks you could see that the SUV lost control of the trailer and rolled both.

About hour before our next gas stop. All of a sudden we had the driver rear inside duly explode. I pulled over to the shoulder quickly to check out the damage. Well I was not going to change the tire on the side that had traffic pass by so close, so I drove really really slow to the next off ramp and pulled in to the big parking area so we could work on it.

The damage: Flat Tire, Crushed box around the waste container (black tank), Generator not working, a sewer hose being an item that was crushed, part of the generator exhaust.

The next stop was at another Flying J’s in Nephi.

At a mile before out next gas stop; All of a sudden we had the passenger rear inside duly pop (it didn’t exploded – it just made a very loud pop noise). Again I pulled over really quickly to check the damage. The outside tire was ok, so we were only 1 mile away from our next gas stop and the next off ramp (I just passed one). So again on the shoulder driving very slowly all the way to the Flying J’s

We changed the tire and on a good note, we only had the tire damage, no damage to the RV.

After changing the tire and getting gas, we were on the road again.

As we were approaching the campground, I discovered that it is no longer there, but the kids really wanted to go to the Mayan restaurant. So I thought screw it and lets see how late they are open.

I pulled into a lot across the street that could accommodate me. I noticed a guy coming out of the business and I asked where I could get tires on a Sunday and where I could park for the night. He said not sure about the tires, but he stated that I could park in his lot for the night.

I moved the RV into auto repair lot and we walked across the street to got eat food.

I did setup the satellite dish. Cheryl did some searches for business that are open on Sundays so we could get two new tires. She found a 24-hour service, so I called and the guy came out to replace both tires.

We were about 3 hours delayed over both tires and very tired. I sure hope tomorrow will bring a better day!

2007/06/22 – Friday – Drive Late

Lunch was with a friend to the Italian place on the diagonal. I did show off the new van to a few friends after work.

Cheryl made it home before I did, so she was able to start before I did.

We finally got on the road, but had to return to get a few things that we forgot, luckily we had not got onto the freeway yet, so the detour was a big deal.

We stop at Flying J’s, fueled up, and weighed the RV – 23000lbs

We got into Jean about 1:18AM

2007/06/21 – Thursday – One more day

Lunch was with my buddy to the bar for lunch.

Cheryl took Amanda to the youth group.

We did put more stuff into the RV. Tomorrow will be very hectic and I will post tomorrow entry on Saturday night, because we will not have any internet at our Friday night stop.

2007/06/19 – Tuesday – Pets and Shopping

Lunch, well my buddy had a late meeting, so he told right before his meeting – no 24 hour notice – hmmm. I went home to get the paper work, ate some lunch, and then headed on over the insurance agents place. I got the van added to the policy and the Prius taken off. I also increased the coverage based on his recommendation. I still need to think about the personal accident policy.

After work, a co-worker that has the same type of scooter like I have, helped me start taking apart the scooter to find out what is wrong. The circuit board has burned marks. After connecting the battery back up, we saw more sparks. So now we removed the circuit board, we tried to connect the battery direct to the motor and then we started to smoke the battery. So I think the motor is toast! Tomorrow we will look at the motor.

When Cheryl got home, we all went to the vet’s with the three dogs and the two cats. They got their shots and I have the necessary paper work for the animals for our trip.

After dropping off the animals, it was time for grocery shopping; with a quick stop at Del Taco for dinner. Mom did call to ask a question.

We put away all the RV stuff and now it was time for bed!

2007/06/18 – Monday – Getting more things ready

Lunch was with my buddy at the crazy chicken place and then over to Radio Shack. I got a splitter, but now thinking about it I need to get two more.

On the way home, my scooter started to come to a stop and start smoking. So I had to walk the remaining distance home, but when I got closer to the house a neighbor gave me a ride – very nice. The scooter was getting heavy so I was glad to have the ride.

I started to work on cleaning up the RV from the mess that I made from the prior two days.

The junk door is toast! – So this trip we will not have a junk door, so I had to find locations for all the stuff.

It took way longer then I expected, but the RV really looks nice now. So tomorrow we start to put more things in for the trip.

Cheryl and the kids did some shopping – book store and a craft store.