Up and on our way to the convention center. We did get parking under the center because they were not allowing any Hoopfest people to park there. We made it to Mom D requested seminar that she wanted to attend on time.
I finally did get my CD from the photographer today.
I did not some dancing in the family hall before we all headed for some lunch. We stayed in the convention center for lunch and not braved the outside world.
After lunch it was decided that we needed to walk to the falls. The walk was interesting with the Hoopfest going on. We finally made it to the gondola ride and went ahead and did that. We did some more walking around and finally made it back to the convention center.
We did some more walking, talking, a little bit of dancing and one round dance.
We headed back to the RV sometime after 4. Amanda was able to do her 15 min hot tub soak for her ankle while the rest got ready for the evening activities.
We had dinner at Outback. We had gotten two cards with a buy one get one free, so why not stop and have dinner (the card were only good in one of the three in the Spokane valley area.) As we were getting our desert the waitress knocked over two classes of water and got 4 of us wet. She took off the deserts from the bill.
We got to the convention center and again was able to park under, but this time without paying because nobody was at the booth.
We found out Iowa did win the bid. So of course we went ahead and registered (it really didn't mater who got it, we would have registered for the next one anyway.)
Mom M was looking really intently at getting another prairie skirt, so we went back to Mondiki and finally had to order one for her.
We finally ended up in the family hall and had a good time all the way through a part of the after-party before leaving and driving back to the RV.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Friday, June 29, 2012
2012/06/29 – Friday - Vacation – Day 8 – Dance Halftime
Mom D was not feeling good so she would stay behind for the first part of the day.
We got to the Bid session just at the very beginning. Two places are bidding for 2016. Des Moines, Iowa and Amarillo, Texas. We liked Des Moines better between the two presentation.
We watched the competition a little bit and we talked a lot.
Eric went with some friends for lunch while the rest of us went to the Onion for lunch.
We watched the California and the Colorado exhibition groups.
We then got invited to do a demonstration at an arena football game during the halftime show.
So a quick trip back to the RV to get ready and to pick up Mom D. We made it back to the convention center in time to join the group heading to the game.
We watch the first and most of the second quarters before we had to be back down to the field. There was 6 squares dancing to Hunter Keller (which he was WAY UP in the announcer booth), but we only got to dance to one song. The field is really weird to dance on, it was very spongy. Most of the group went back to the convention center while the rest continue to watch the remainder of the game. Arizona 61 at Spokane 35
Back at the convention center, we went and got the van and drove back to the RV. Once back at the RV park, the place where I should be able to park the van was being taken by somebody else.
Amanda and I went over to the Flying J's to get some dog food and some milk.
We got to the Bid session just at the very beginning. Two places are bidding for 2016. Des Moines, Iowa and Amarillo, Texas. We liked Des Moines better between the two presentation.
We watched the competition a little bit and we talked a lot.
Eric went with some friends for lunch while the rest of us went to the Onion for lunch.
We watched the California and the Colorado exhibition groups.
We then got invited to do a demonstration at an arena football game during the halftime show.
So a quick trip back to the RV to get ready and to pick up Mom D. We made it back to the convention center in time to join the group heading to the game.
We watch the first and most of the second quarters before we had to be back down to the field. There was 6 squares dancing to Hunter Keller (which he was WAY UP in the announcer booth), but we only got to dance to one song. The field is really weird to dance on, it was very spongy. Most of the group went back to the convention center while the rest continue to watch the remainder of the game. Arizona 61 at Spokane 35
Back at the convention center, we went and got the van and drove back to the RV. Once back at the RV park, the place where I should be able to park the van was being taken by somebody else.
Amanda and I went over to the Flying J's to get some dog food and some milk.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
2012/06/28 – Thursday - Vacation – Day 7 – The Start
Our first thing we wanted to do today was attend a seminar for Food Allergy. Cheryl got some information. We also got Eric registered for the Youth Hall. Something new being done this year was that if the kids have cell phones they have to check them in.
When it was time to leave to pick up Mom D, Eric was dancing - wow what a shock.
We did arrive at the airport a little early so we waited at the cell phone parking area. Mom D arrived on time and was a little tired.
We headed back toward town and got lunch.
I stopped at the convention, the kids, Cheryl, and Mom D got out while Mom M and I drove off. We went a got the new tire for the RV. That took awhile but it was replaced under the warranty.
Getting back to the convention center, we picked everybody up to go get changed and dinner.
After get ready, we went to a steak place for dinner. We stopped by the RV before heading to the convention center.
Some did a little dancing, shopping, and not feeling good (the food did not agree with a few of us).
Note: the list of highways from yesterdays post needs to include a lot more (especially the local freeways in the LA area like I405....)
When it was time to leave to pick up Mom D, Eric was dancing - wow what a shock.
We did arrive at the airport a little early so we waited at the cell phone parking area. Mom D arrived on time and was a little tired.
We headed back toward town and got lunch.
I stopped at the convention, the kids, Cheryl, and Mom D got out while Mom M and I drove off. We went a got the new tire for the RV. That took awhile but it was replaced under the warranty.
Getting back to the convention center, we picked everybody up to go get changed and dinner.
After get ready, we went to a steak place for dinner. We stopped by the RV before heading to the convention center.
Some did a little dancing, shopping, and not feeling good (the food did not agree with a few of us).
Note: the list of highways from yesterdays post needs to include a lot more (especially the local freeways in the LA area like I405....)
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
2012/06/27 – Wednesday - Vacation – Day 6 – Finished US-395
We got moving a little latter then I wanted but all was good.
We got to the convention center where the National Square Dance Convention is being held in Spokane. Our main goals for today was two things.
Our first goal was to setup the show case of ideas in the convention center. We got parked and payed the toll. We found the registration and got our packets. Talked to several people from California. Found the location and put up both displays that need to be put up. So goal one finished
Cheryl wanted to stop at a gluten free bakery. Found it and she was able get a few items. Now it was time for lunch so we found a gluten free specialty place on our way to my second goal for the day. Lunch was good and filling.
Goal two was to drive the rest of US-395 to the Canadian border. The drive up took about two hours. On the way back home we stopped by the Columbia river and explored an area. That took about 45 minutes. When we got back into Spokane we stopped at Michale for some crafts stuff. Next stop was dinner. During dinner we made a decision not to go back and dance for the night.
Back at the RV, we relaxed and worked on few items. Eric posted all his items, so he is up to date, go check it out.
So today was a success, we accomplished both goals.
So for posterity, during several years of driving around for vacations, we have driven all of US-1, US-101, I-5, US-395, I-15, I-8, Cassiar Highway, and the Alaska Highway. One of these days I will create a map of all the roads that I have driven.
We got to the convention center where the National Square Dance Convention is being held in Spokane. Our main goals for today was two things.
Our first goal was to setup the show case of ideas in the convention center. We got parked and payed the toll. We found the registration and got our packets. Talked to several people from California. Found the location and put up both displays that need to be put up. So goal one finished
Cheryl wanted to stop at a gluten free bakery. Found it and she was able get a few items. Now it was time for lunch so we found a gluten free specialty place on our way to my second goal for the day. Lunch was good and filling.
Goal two was to drive the rest of US-395 to the Canadian border. The drive up took about two hours. On the way back home we stopped by the Columbia river and explored an area. That took about 45 minutes. When we got back into Spokane we stopped at Michale for some crafts stuff. Next stop was dinner. During dinner we made a decision not to go back and dance for the night.
Back at the RV, we relaxed and worked on few items. Eric posted all his items, so he is up to date, go check it out.
So today was a success, we accomplished both goals.
So for posterity, during several years of driving around for vacations, we have driven all of US-1, US-101, I-5, US-395, I-15, I-8, Cassiar Highway, and the Alaska Highway. One of these days I will create a map of all the roads that I have driven.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
2012/06/26 – Tuesday - Vacation – Day 5 – Got There
During the night the rain started about 3:30 and our heater came on about two times during the night. I got up about 7:30 and started to get the others up and going.
We left camp about 9:00
First stop for the day was gas, but trying to get into the station was tricky.
Next was across the street to Wal-Mart.
The Subway in Wal-Mart did not have gluten free bread, so I drove to another Subway, but they also did not have it so Cheryl had to make her own lunch while the rest of us ordered something.
I did make a quick stop at a rest area on our last leg of the trip to Spokane.
The stop before getting to the RV Park was at a Flying J's. After filling up, a lady pulled in facing me going the wrong way. She wanted me to backup, so I was not a happy camper with her. After yelling at her (the windows where rolled up so she could not hear me, but she sure could read my lips and expression) she finally backup and out of my way so I could go forward and head to the RV park.
I had to unload the van before backing into our spot for the rest of the week. I did have to buy a new sewer hose and had troubles dealing with that, but finally we are all hooked up.
We did drive back into Spokane to explore the lay of the land.
Driving back to camp, we had a hard time trying to find someplace to eat. We finally settled for Denny's.
Back at camp I worked with Eric to setup his own blog. He is doing his perspective of events during vacation. Go check it out - Eric's Ramblings
We left camp about 9:00
First stop for the day was gas, but trying to get into the station was tricky.
Next was across the street to Wal-Mart.
The Subway in Wal-Mart did not have gluten free bread, so I drove to another Subway, but they also did not have it so Cheryl had to make her own lunch while the rest of us ordered something.
I did make a quick stop at a rest area on our last leg of the trip to Spokane.
The stop before getting to the RV Park was at a Flying J's. After filling up, a lady pulled in facing me going the wrong way. She wanted me to backup, so I was not a happy camper with her. After yelling at her (the windows where rolled up so she could not hear me, but she sure could read my lips and expression) she finally backup and out of my way so I could go forward and head to the RV park.
I had to unload the van before backing into our spot for the rest of the week. I did have to buy a new sewer hose and had troubles dealing with that, but finally we are all hooked up.
We did drive back into Spokane to explore the lay of the land.
Driving back to camp, we had a hard time trying to find someplace to eat. We finally settled for Denny's.
Back at camp I worked with Eric to setup his own blog. He is doing his perspective of events during vacation. Go check it out - Eric's Ramblings
Monday, June 25, 2012
2012/06/25 – Monday - Vacation – Day 4 – The Drive
We left camp at 9:00. Our first stop was going to be at the museum, but it was still closed. I had another waypoint for another item, but that also was a bust.
So next stop gas.
Cheryl wanted to stop at a grocery store, but it took a trip around a block to finally find a place to park. Amanda went to Subway to get her breakfast and lunch.
While out in the middle of nowhere I noticed a 5th wheel on the side of the road, so I stopped to check on them. All was well, just a quick break.
We stopped for a quick lunch.
We stopped for gas again, because towns are scarce on this part of 395.
The terrain has gotten more hilly.
We have stopped at a Forest Service Campground with a stream at the back of our site. Also this campground does not have any type of a hookups. Our internet coverage is almost none existence.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
2012/06/24 - Sunday - Train - Remoteness
We got on the road about 9:15
First stop was Costco in Carson City for the necessary go go juice for the RV.
We stop at the Carson City - Nevada State Railroad Museum, the place looks nice but it only took about half an hour. They also were not doing any train rides.
Quick stop at some stores and had some lunch. One of the stops was to replace a very smelly inverter that was going bad.
The last stretch today on 395 was a section of 70 miles without any services.
Cheryl and Amanda made dinner.
Relaxing after dinner watching TV and playing on the computers.
First stop was Costco in Carson City for the necessary go go juice for the RV.
We stop at the Carson City - Nevada State Railroad Museum, the place looks nice but it only took about half an hour. They also were not doing any train rides.
Quick stop at some stores and had some lunch. One of the stops was to replace a very smelly inverter that was going bad.
The last stretch today on 395 was a section of 70 miles without any services.
Cheryl and Amanda made dinner.
Relaxing after dinner watching TV and playing on the computers.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
2012/06/23 - Saturday - Manzanar - Upside Down - Mono
In the morning, I went up and paid for our night stay at the office.
We left camp at 9:00 and we arrived at Manzanar National Historic Site about 15 minutes later.
Amanda was able to do the JR Ranger program and we also did the driving tour, that took about 2 hours.
Our next stop was at Laws Railroad Museum. We had lunch before going into the grounds. We will not be stopping there again, it did not hold our attention very well.
Next stop, go go juice for the RV.
The climb out of Bishop was brutal and slow, the transmission temp got up to 210.
We did find the Upside Down House and walked around it.
We spent about an hour at the Mono Basin Visitor Center, then we stop by the lake shore and took some pictures.
We stopped at Willow Springs Motel & RV Park for the night.
We walked up to Virginia Creek Settlement for dinner. You have to stop there and have good Italian food!
We left camp at 9:00 and we arrived at Manzanar National Historic Site about 15 minutes later.
Amanda was able to do the JR Ranger program and we also did the driving tour, that took about 2 hours.
Our next stop was at Laws Railroad Museum. We had lunch before going into the grounds. We will not be stopping there again, it did not hold our attention very well.
Next stop, go go juice for the RV.
The climb out of Bishop was brutal and slow, the transmission temp got up to 210.
We did find the Upside Down House and walked around it.
We spent about an hour at the Mono Basin Visitor Center, then we stop by the lake shore and took some pictures.
We stopped at Willow Springs Motel & RV Park for the night.
We walked up to Virginia Creek Settlement for dinner. You have to stop there and have good Italian food!
Friday, June 22, 2012
2012/06/22 – Friday – Start of Vacation - BANG
We left the house at 4 pm - hurray vacation has started!
First stop was at Costco to get all the tires topped off with air.
Next stop - side of I605 Freeway to change the passenger side outside duel tire. When Eric took the spare off the holder he noticed the holder has a crack in it so now the bad tire is in the van and not on the RV.
We stopped at the Pilot at Kramer Junction to fill the RV up with go go juice and also get us some food.
We stopped for the night (about 10:45) at Boulder Creek RV Resort (south of Lone Pine).
First stop was at Costco to get all the tires topped off with air.
Next stop - side of I605 Freeway to change the passenger side outside duel tire. When Eric took the spare off the holder he noticed the holder has a crack in it so now the bad tire is in the van and not on the RV.
We stopped at the Pilot at Kramer Junction to fill the RV up with go go juice and also get us some food.
We stopped for the night (about 10:45) at Boulder Creek RV Resort (south of Lone Pine).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
