Saturday, July 03, 2010

2010/07/03 – Saturday – The King

We took the tour of the Graceland and other attraction, like the car museum and the planes. 

The day was hot and the internet connection was terrible, the RV park was having electrical problems because of the heat.

  We had dinner at the Hart Break Hotel. 

Friday, July 02, 2010

2010/07/02 – Friday – More War Time

We lift our camp which only had one other camper – a troop of boy scoots tent camping.

Our stopped at the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center was an unplanned stopped, we spotted the signs so we had to stop.  Amanda was able to do her Junior Ranger program.  It took about two hours to complete it and return back to the RV.

We stopped somewhere in-route to Memphis for lunch. 

We pulled in the RV park across from Graceland and yes they had a spot for us for the two nights.

We called Marlow’s and they came to pick us up in a pink limo.  The place was good and then we also returned back to the RV in the pink limo.

Thursday, July 01, 2010

2010/07/01 – Thursday – Natchez Trace and War

We left camp about 9:45.  We made our way around / through Nashville. 

We made our way to the start (Northern End) of the Natchez Trace Parkway.  We stopped at several of the turn-outs along the way.  At around noon we stopped and had lunch at one of the turn-outs.  We only did about 70 miles of the Parkway.

Our next stop was at the Shiloh National Military Park.  Wow I did not know it was a big battle area of the civil way!  Amanda was able to get her JR Ranger Program completed.  And we did part of the driving tour.

The park ranger was able to give us a list of RV camp sites close by, so we picked on just down the road from the park.  When I pulled off the road I was not sure about it.  It is a small park and it had nobody manning the office, so I left and at the next intersection went into the store and asked about it. 

So we returned and set up camp.  Some time late the owner drove by and asked for some money ($15).   The only amenities is water and electric, so no internet tonight.

Amanda and Cheryl made dinner and we are now relaxing.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

2010/06/30 – Wednesday – Country Music Museum

We did not get moving quickly this morning.  But I did get a phone call about the RV tire being ready. 

Once we left the campground our first stop was way back down south of Nashville to Franklin to the Discount Tire to pickup the RV tire.

Next stop was back in Nashville at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.  We spent most of the day there.  We even met a So Cal Square Dance in the museum.

We walked around town a little and stopped at the Opry Original and Mom D got what she wanted.

We wandered around town and finally had dinner close to camp

Cheryl, Mom M and I went to grocery shopping.

I checked all the tires, put the van back up onto the trailer and got things ready for tomorrow. 

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

2010/06/29 – Tuesday - Nashville

We got a little late start, but no big deal, today was a short drive day.

We stopped at Flying J’s for our necessary gas before crossing into Tennessee.

We passed through Nashville and stopped south of it at a Discount Tire to get a new rim (to replace a out of balanced rim.)  We finally found somebody that could supply a rim, so I left the tire for them to replace it.

We found the RV campground (KOA).  The park is still recovering from the flood about two months ago.  With the van unloaded, we headed out to get the tickets for the Grand Ole Opry.

We headed back down to retrieve the tire, but when they dismounted the tire, the sensor got busted.  So I left the tire there while a new sensor is expressed mailed to them to replace the broken one.

Returned back to the RV for a quick change of clothes for Mom D (she wanted to to be a little warmer).

The show at the Grand Ole Opry was  good!!!

Monday, June 28, 2010

2010/06/28 – Monday – Caves

Our first stop was Mammoth Caves.  We got our tickets for the History Tour.  We did our shopping and went back out to the van to wait.  While we waited it started to rain.

By the time tour started the rain had stopped.   The tour has some interesting features.  When we got out the rain had returned and we got wet!!!

We took a round about route and did both ferries in the park.

We did stop for a late lunch at a DQ in Brownsville.

We made it down to the Lost River Cave and did the tour and enjoy it.  We did have rain before the tour, but when we got back out it was drying out.

The trip back, I decided to take a more scenic route.  When we got close to camp and I noticed the freeway was stopped!  We then got caught in the traffic getting back to the RV.

We did laundry tonight.

Sunday, June 27, 2010

2010/06/27 – Sunday – Abraham Lincoln

We left the KOA campground about 10:00 – so that was not bad for the Sunday after the NSDC.

Our first stop was at Abraham Lincoln Birth Place.  Amanda got her JR Ranger booklet.  She discovered that we needed to go to his boy hood place.

Before heading to the boy hood place, we headed to lunch with one of Cheryl’s ROTC Friends from High School.

After lunch we finally found Lincoln Boy Hood Place.  Amanda was able to complete her JR Ranger booklet and got her badge.

We stopped for gas before we stopped for the night.  Next stop was at KOA and found out they did not have full hookup so we went to the next exit and found Cave Country Campground for the next two nights.

We did go out for dinner at one of the local eateries.

Saturday, June 26, 2010

2010/06/26 – Saturday – Bats, Horses, and Dancing

We started out the day going to Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.  We did the tour and got a mini bat as part of the tour.

We stopped at Church Hill Downs and Mom D, Mom M, and Jesse did the museum, while Eric, Amanda, and Cheryl waited in the van – we took a little over an hour to tour the museum.

We stopped for lunch before heading over to the convention center to dance.

We all did do some dancing, but Mom D did head out to the van to relax near the end of the evening.  We finally left the convention center at 11:30. 

So I would call the 59th National Square Dance Convention a success and we had great fun.  We have already paid for the next three convention in previous years, but the Little Rock was announced this year so we have paid for that now.

  • 2011 – Detroit
  • 2012 – Spokane
  • 2013 – Oklahoma
  • 2014 – Little Rock

Friday, June 25, 2010

2010/06/25 – Friday – Dancing

We got a little slow start but we did manage to leave about 10:00. 

We did get to dance a little and we did a lot of walking.

We had a good dinner with the current Youth Chair and the Spokane Youth Chair.  We discussed what worked and did not worked.

We did stay for the after party in the youth hall until it was closed at 11:30.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

2010/06/24 – Thursday – Sick Plain Dancing

Amanda had gotten sick over the night and was not able to keep anything down.

Cheryl did laundry, while the rest of us slept or worked on the computers.

By late afternoon Amanda was feeling better.  Jesse, Eric, and Mom M went and picked up Mom D from the airport (her plain arrived late, but that was no big deal).  We then stopped at Sonic for dinner.

When we returned Amanda and Cheryl was ready to go, so we got dressed and headed to the convention center, while Mom D and Eric stayed back at the RV.

We got back to the RV around 11:30 and we all headed off to bed.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

2010/06/23 – Wednesday – We Made It!

We left at 9:00 and was on the road heading to our furthest East destination.

We stopped for lunch about noon.  We got into Louisville at what we thought was 2:00 but I guess we crossed the time line into Eastern Time so it was 3:00. 

We stopped at the convention center to pick up our packets and found out we had already paid for RV nights, but I already knew that I did not want to dry camp (with only electric available) especially with 6 people that will be in the RV.  We then headed for the RV park (KOA) where I had already made reservations for the weekend.

After setting things up, Cheryl made dinner, and then we got ready to head back to the convention center.

Amanda did dance one tip.  We also walked around to get the lay of the land.

Also note, the drive was good!!!!

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

2010/06/22 – Tuesday – Pop – Another Tire

This morning we got up early so we could be at Discount Tires at opening time 8:00, and we managed to do that!

It only took an hour to get the tire changed (they had to go get the tire from another store), so we where on the road at 9:00

We had lunch at the Largest McDonalds (which sets over the freeway)

All day, I have been watching the Smart Tire System (especially the temps) but all have been looking ok.  All of a sudden we hear this loud POP, I looked out both of my mirrors and can see tire shrapnel on the driver side, but I could not feel any problems – then I notice that it is a semi trailer tire that had exploded (the semi was passing me at the time). 

The good news is we were all good on our tires!!! hurray!!!

We stopped for the night at KOA in Illinois, but we thought we had enough time to go see the arch.  So we unload the van and headed on down.  We got there and found out it was all sold out.  Amanda was able to do her Junior Ranger program. 

Finding a place to eat was interesting, we drove around and finally found a Burger King to eat a late dinner.

Once back at the RV, I loaded the van, but I will secure it in the morning.

Next stop Louisville.

Monday, June 21, 2010

2010/06/21 – Monday – Tires!!!

We started the day at 9:00.
We got into Amarillo and we found a Discount Tires, so we stopped to replace the bad tires – that took about 2 hours.  During that time we also had our lunch.
About an hour before Oklahoma City, we felt another tire develop a bubble, so we stopped and changed the tire.  So that makes it three RV tires and one trailer tire.  So now this is our new record for replacing tires.  One good thing is we have had NO BLOWOUTS (knock on lots of wood!!!)
We stopped in Oklahoma City for the night at about 7:30, we walked across the road to eat dinner.
Again we are using the parks wifi, but it drops you connection all the time (about every few minutes)
We have already looked for another Discount Tire place and hopefully we will be up early and be at the store at 8:00.  So that means we have to get up earlier then our normal time.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

2010/06/20 – Sunday – Long Drive and Another Tire

We left camp at 9:00 – so the day started off good.
We crossed the state line and changed our clocks to Mountain Standard Time. 
We stopped at a rest stop for lunch.
Our next stop is Flying J’s in Albuquerque, but about 3 miles before the exit we had another tire develop a bubble so it was shaking the RV.  We got gas and then drove around to the truck area to change the rear driver outside dually.  Now we will have to get that tire replace in Oklahoma.
We stopped in Tucumcari Flying J’s for gas and now we are at the KOA Tucumcari, NM.
When we stopped the wind was really bad so I did not setup the satellite, but we are using the parks wifi and it is extremely slow.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

2010/06/19 – Saturday - Drive and Fixing

After getting up, I went out and check the RV out.  Well I noticed that the front passenger trailer tire had no tread, but it was still holding air.   So I changed the tire.
Cheryl did some research and found a Discount Tire in Flagstaff so we stopped to get two new tires.
After leaving, we noticed a fire was relatively close to town, so I took the business loop out of town (because the interstate was close to the smoke and listing to the CB the interstate was slow)
We stopped in William at Flying J’s for the necessary gas.
We have stopped in Holbrook (KOA) for the night and we had dinner at their grill.
Well, I am having major problems trying to get the Satellite Internet to connect – so we are using the SLOW campground connection

Friday, June 18, 2010

2010/06/18 – Friday - Start the Vacation with a problem

We only got 22 miles before I had to stop and change the front passenger tire – the tire was starting to separate (creating a bubble in the tread and causing a vibration in the RV.
We did stop a the Flying J’s for our normal fuel stop in Barstow.
We finally pulled into our night stop 1:30 AM

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Almost time to leave

Well I finished the last item to get ready for the RV.  I put the necessary connection for a set of tail lights that I put onto the van when it is on the trailer.  I also checked all the tires on the trailer and the RV.

The RV is mostly loaded and is ready.  Its getting late, and we still have to go to work in the morning…

Getting Ready For Our 2010 Vacation

I am currently home for lunch and we have a few things to do before we leave on vacation this Friday.  

I am posting this to dust off the dust and making sure things still work…

I will hopefully post more tonight!

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Heading Home

The camp all seemed to get up about the same time and start getting ready to leave.

I even let Eric drive the Jeep up onto the trailer – it did make me a little nervous but all went well.

The traffic heading home on 86 was not to bad a little heavy but was moving, this could not be said about the 10.  Slow most of the way until the 10 and 60 split.  Then again a little slowdown at the 60 and 215 merge.

The trip was good and nothing existing – which is good!

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Saturday Fun and Fixing

We left camp about 9:00 and heading north towards the phone booth.  Once we got on the mesa top – I was looking back toward camp and I noticed another club  member coming into camp, so we stopped and waited for him to join us – so now we have seven vehicles. 

We played on/in/around the mud hill going toward the phone booth.  One hill climb, Dan made it to the top, but Jeff couldn’t get the traction on the hill climb he was doing – it took some time for him to turn around.

We finally made it to the phone booth and looking around we noticed that a helicopter was coming to medi-vac somebody out.  We watched he helicopter land.

After lunch we headed further north to explore some more areas.  Bill then broke hill driver rear axle, but a few of use wanted to do a little section before heading back to camp. 

Dan then broke his passenger front leaf spring.  So we spent the next 3 hours fixing it.  We finally got back to camp about 6.

Dinner with family and friends and then setting around the camp fire.   A good Saturday!

Friday, November 27, 2009

Light Day of Wheeling

We all seemed to get a slow start for the day.  Of course I had to take care of the dogs in the morning – we go for a short walk.
We (4 vehicles) got going on our little off roading trip about 10:00.  Eric join me for this run.  We played relativity close to camp and we stayed on the north side of S22.
At one point I thought I got the Jeep (CJ5 - ‘Green’) stuck but with the V8 and a little extra power, I was able to get myself unstuck.  With the street tires, I really don’t get a lot of traction and I need some type of locker in the front.  But I am happy with what I am able to do with ‘Green’ so far.
We return back to camp about noon and had lunch, the group decided that they didn’t want to go out in the afternoon, they just wanted to relax.
Some time in the after noon I did run Turquoise around – me driving the Jeep and him running beside me.  It seemed like he was having fun.
I took Eric into town to get a few things – supper glue, paper towel, and toilet paper.  So far the supper glue is somewhat working on keeping Eric glasses together.
After dinner we sat around the camp fire, but the wind started to pick up and drove all of us back into our respective campers about 9:30.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Thanksgiving Day

We got a lot of our packing down on Wednesday so this morning we did not need to do a lot.  We left the house some time around 11:00 to head over to Mom D for Turkey. 

We had 4 different families (Mom D, D&M&J&R, Y&Y&C, and of course us four.)  Turkey was good and we all seemed to have a good time. 

We left almost at 3:00 to head for Truckhaven hills.

About and hour into our drive, the inside passenger rear tire blows.   It did no damage – so that is a good thing.  The Smartire never did give a squawk about the blown tire. We got the tire changed in a really good time.

We got into camp about 8:00 and Jeff lead the way into camp.  He found a faster straighter route.

I set everything up and then went and sat around the fire to enjoy some time with some friends.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

PVD Over – Heading Home

We slowly got things ready to go around the RV.  I help a friend trying to get his satellite  TV working. 

We said our goodbyes and heading down the road.

First stop was at Kramer Junction to fill up the RV with some go go juice.  Everybody else got lunch and I ate a lunch-able that we already had in the the fridge.  I also noticed the the Jeep was dripping radiator fluid – it doesn’t like being bounced around so the whole must be getting bigger.

I stopped at a new RV dump location, but they wanted $10 , so I left and stopped at the other place that is only $7. 

I took a little different route today to getting home, I decided I didn’t want to take the 210 because of the winds – I was getting pushed around good, so I dropped down to the 60.

On the way down to the 60, Cheryl called and said that they heard a pop, but all my tires were good.  About 10 minutes later, I get a warning from the SmarTire system about the front driver side trailer tire low on pressure.  I finished transferring onto the 60 and exited the first exit, so I could double check the tire.  By the time we stopped the pressure on the tire had dropped another 8 pounds.

Eric and CJ helped in changing the tire.  Once the tire was off the trailer, we could see that a big chunk of the tire is missing on the inside, but the tire was still holding pressure (I will take a picture of it on Monday).

We made it home and got everything put away.  The Jeep has dipped a lot of radiator fluids out, so no driving it until I get it fixed.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Fish and Raffle

I got up early so I could go on a ride with the leader that was doing Fish Canyon.  I did wakeup Amanda also so she could also ride with another friend which was also going on Fish Canyon

I had a good time riding with S.G.  Fish Canyon was more technical then I remember from many years ago.

We got back to camp about 3:00 and I talked to many other friends before finally getting my chair and setting it up for me to enjoy the raffle.

Well, for this year PVD raffle including the kids raffle – we got nothing.

I am tired so off to bed early tonight…

Friday, November 13, 2009

Exploring and Lookout City

I got up early – but had a good night sleep.

I was able to get a ride with some friends and we went exploring south of the PVD main camp.  We drove from the top of the pass from Trona to Panamint Valley on the old Nadu Road.  We got back to camp about 1:15 – Just in time to get ready for my next adventure.

After squaring away a driver that I can ride with, I started the drivers meeting, at least half if not more were new to PVD and of course new to the Lookout City Sunset run.

Our first stop was on the roadway to collect everybody after leaving camp.  When we were waiting for everybody we had a jet flying over us doing flybys – really COOL!  We had a total of 33 vehicles.

We even got back to camp in a very good time – good group!

While we were out we heard about a bad rollover from a non-event  group run on South Park, with bad injuries.  We all need to pray for the people in the rollover for a quick recovery.

Cheryl and Eric made it out in about four and half hours – traffic was good.

Time for bed, 6:30 will come early.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Broken

Of course I didn’t get a good nights sleep, so hopefully I will tonight.  But the day started out nice and sunny with a few clouds.

I went and helped out setting up the cook tent.  A little after noon, I came over to get some food. 

I worked on getting the Dish TV to work but I think the switch is broken so we can only use one of the LNBs.  I am going to find out why I have gone through two switches already.

The jets did buzz us a few times so that is always a cool thing.

In the afternoon I was going to help set up sign for the run, well the Jeep CJ5 “Green” started to leek radiator fluid from the bottom of the radiator – so that means I will not be able to go anywhere with it this weekend.

I came back to the RV around 9 and watch TV for the evening.  Now I am tired so I should sleep good.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

PVD Bound

I got off work a little early for me.  It only took about an hour to get the last of the item in the RV and rolling down the road.  Amanda, CJ and I left about 5:30. 

We made good time, all the freeways were moving and no real slowdowns anywhere.

We did stop at Cramer Junction to get fuel and somewhat of a dinner.  We did forget the ice, so I will have to tell Cheryl to get it on her way up on Friday after she picks up Eric after school.

We also stumbled into Chef Andy’s group also heading up to PVD

We got into camp about 10:30 and finally got everything setup about 12:00 including the wind generator, but I still cannot get the Satellite TV working yet, but as you can tell if you are reading this on the 12th, that I was able to get the internet working fine.

It is almost 1:00 in the morning and I need to get some sleep – hope we have fun here at Panamint Valley Days

Monday, October 19, 2009

2009/10/19 – Monday - Vacation Day

I did not get up until noon – vacation day for me so I could relax and get a few things done around the house.

I got the RV cleaned out – now it is ready for packing when the time comes for our next adventure.

I finally got a copy of the RV engine key – I had lost my key on vacation – so now we have two keys like we should!

Next thing I fixed was the internet satellite dish – I needed some bolts that have been lost – so now that is fixed.  I set the dish up so we can have Dish up and going.  We received our switch for Dish, but that did not work, so now I will wait for a new switch (not a used one).

I was still busy working on things and Cheryl wanted to do a few more things, so we did not got to Group tonight.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

2009/10/18 - Sunday - Drive Back Home From ODF

Both of us sleep in today, I started around 9:00 to get things put away and ready. We did not leave until 11:00 (saying goodbye to friends and taking our time putting things away).

We did stop at Flying J’s to get gas and empting our tanks.

The trip back was nothing like getting to ODF – the freeways were all moving with no stop and go.

We got home about 3:00 – and did our normal car shuffle and got everything put away.

Cheryl and Eric did go to the Croakers dance and said it was a good dance.

Cheryl and Amanda went and got some pumpkins and now Amanda is carving them.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

2009/10/17 - Saturday - Jeep and Raffle

We got up a little late – Amanda wanted to wake up earlier, but it turned out ok. We got everything ready.

I went over to A.C. and she stated that I have to put on the spare dress that she had so I could drive in the Powder Pull trail.

Once we finally got going, I drove the CJ5 “Green” over to the start of the trail.

Amanda did all of the driving of the trail. About 1 or 2 into the drive, the Jeep was getting very HOT, so we stopped to cool down. We started to go and we caught up to the two in front and then the Jeep stalled.

Well, the Jeep was not getting any fuel, we finally determined that the ground lead on the fuel pump was no longer connected. That was fixed and all is good (until I get home and do a more permanent fix).

One the way out of the canyon, the temp on the Jeep was much better!

Back at camp, we started the generator to cool down the 104 temp inside the RV (with the windows open). The cats were panting.

At 4:30 the temp stats 105, and now the inside is finally down to 97 and still going down.

We had dinner and now it was time for the Raffle. I did win one bag of goodies. I did get a registration for TDS – so I guess I need to go now.

After all the hoopla was done, we sat around a fire and enjoyed the rest of the evening. (we didn’t get back to the RV until 1:00 a.m.)

Friday, October 16, 2009

2009/10/16 - Friday - Travel Day to ODF

We started the day early – Amanda and I started packing the RV and getting the Jeep ready to go.

About an hour before leaving a stray dog was wondering the neighborhood, with the help of a neighbor we was able to capture the dog. We called the animal control to come pick him up. On then continued packing while Amanda and the neighbor took care the of the dog. Finally the animal control guy showed up. The dog was chipped so he was able to call the people that owns the dog and have them come and get it.

We finally got on the road about noon, but we had stops to do. First mail off the Smart Tire computer and monitor (its on the fritz). Next stop Ralphs for the stuff for the cats. Last stop was at Fresh and Easy to get the last minute items.

Traffic was not good – it was slow going. A vibration had started to get worse. I got off the freeway but could not see which tire making the vibration. Back on the freeway – not 5 miles later the diver front tire blows! (I was still stuck in traffic going only about 15 mph). It took me awhile to change the tire ( A CHP and the Highway Service person stopped by to offer help). I headed on over the America’s Tire to get a new one.

When we got going the freeways were slow again. Our next stop was at Flying J’s, we when next door to get dinner from McDonalds.

We finally pulled into camp about 8:00!

We got all setup and chatted with friends.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

2009/07/11 – Saturday – Valley and Mountains

Well this morning the RV was getting warm, when I looked at the time, it was 9:30 – hmmm lat for us – o-well we slept in.

We finally left to head into the park – Yosemite.  It took us about 1 hour to get into the park.  I made the turn to head up to go to the tunnel view and drove the tunnel (both directions) and then stopped to take the necessary photos of the valley.

House Keeping store was our next stop – Mom M got her pennies pressed.

Our next stop was at the parking spot for the visitor center.  Now it was lunch time.  We found both penny press and eat lunch at the Grill (Burgers and Dogs).

Back to the van – we got ready for our hike .  We did the lower Yosemite Falls.  Eric, Amanda, and I also scrambled up to the base of the falls.  Amanda wanted to cross the water, so we started to cross, Eric made the last leap across, then I made it over, but Amanda slipped and fell into the water. She also hit her knee and stomach, but she was ok.  We climbed up to near the base, but the spray was a lot more on this side (west side.)

Our next stop was the visitor center.  Amanda had completed her junior ranger paper, so she was sworn in as a junior ranger.

We then stopped at the Samuel Adams gallery and Amanda got a few items.

The drive out was a little hectic, but we got back to the RV in reasonable amount of time.   We went out to eat at one of the local dinners. 

Back to the RV to load the van on the trailer, relax, and I through the ball for the dogs a few time.

Tomorrow is the drive home.

Friday, July 10, 2009

2009/07/10 – Friday – Park Fun

The camp power was cut off at about 6:00 – I had to turn off the satellite equipment because of low battery.

We finally left camp at about 9:00 and headed for Tioga pass. 

Tioga pass is a very hard pass to climb – I was down to 20 mph for quite a few miles.

Finally we made it to Yosemite.  The roads are tight.  The driver mirror almost got hit a few times, so I would hit the branches on the passenger side a few times so I would not get hit by the passing vehicle.

We did not drive the RV into the village, we headed outside the park to find a camp.  The first place was all booked up, so we went into Mariposa and found the fair grounds – they found a location for me so I don’t have to disconnect the trailer.

We got everything squared away and unloaded the van – so we went back into the park.

We had dinner at Curry Village and then we found a program to watch about Ansell Adams.  While we were waiting for the program, we watch a mule deer walk by.

The drive back to the RV was ok – now we get to drive back into the park again tomorrow.

Thursday, July 09, 2009

2009/07/09 – Thursday – Drive Time

I got up and took the dogs for a walk and got to meet RV-Dreams Journal owners - They are very nice, but of course it was a short meeting because they were working and of course work never stops.

We finally left about 9:30 and headed south.

I pulled over at a pull out for lunch and I walked the dogs. Turquoise did find the creek and played in it.

The drive around lake Tahoe was slow going because of the traffic.

We are camped at Willow Springs RV park. We went to dinner a short walking distance up the road at a very nice small restaurant.

O – and no phone works here – my work phone works thought the satellite only.

Wednesday, July 08, 2009

2009/07/08 – Wednesday – High and Steam

We left camp late – I slept in but we finally got going around 10:00 – I could not find the engine keys for the RV.

We stopped for gas and kept on heading to Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Our next stop was the North entrance to the park. Amanda got her Junior Ranger booklet and started to fill it out. Amanda, Mom M and Jesse listen to one of the ranger talks on bears. We also noticed that they are doing a control burn in the area.

We stopped at several of the pull outs. We even did some of the short walks for the Junior Ranger booklet.

We finally arrived at the south entrance about fifteen minutes before closing. Amanda got her Junior Ranger badge and we even got our few trinkets.

Now it was time for to camp – we made it to Chester. I found the RV campground that one of the bloggers that I follow works at for the summer (but they are not working today)

Trying to find a camp spot for me was a little hard, we drove through the campground and found one, so back to the office to register and then back to the camp spot. I pull in forward into the spot so we could unload the van. We even tried to get the satellite to work through the trees but were unsuccessful.

I unload the van and we went into Chester to find a place to eat.

Back at the RV, I loaded the van so we are ready to leave in the morning.

Tuesday, July 07, 2009

2009/07/07 – Tuesday – Tubes Away

We left camp about 9:30 and headed south east.  We crossed back into California before our first stop. 

We stopped at Klamath Wildlife Refuge on our way to the Lava Beds National Monument.

We stopped at a few pull out locations before getting to the visitor center.  Amanda did get her booklet for the Junior Ranger program.  We watch one of the videos as one of the Ranger led program.  We drove the auto cave tour.  We walked in several of the caves (lava tubes).  We returned to the visitor center so Amanda could get her badge.

I took the road less travel to exit the park – South East.  The road was not to bad, but I could understand why some people might not want to take it.  The road is paved, but it is not all that smooth.

Amanda and Mom M. looked for an RV park  and found one really close to our path.  We turned west to find the RV park, but I traveled about 10 miles before turning around to find the RV park only to find it about quarter a mile the other way that we turned west at.

We pulled into the first RV park and had a pick of locations. 

We did have a little bit of rain while  we are relaxing.

Monday, July 06, 2009

2009/07/06 – Monday – Trapped Water

Well, time to get going took LONGER then normal (see yesterday.)  Got the RV read, then get the trailer re-attached, and then finally get the van loaded and secured. 

We headed on into Creator Lake National Park.  Near the lip of the creator, it was sure slow going trying to climb the road.  When we finally see the water, we had to stop for some road construction. 

We stopped at several location along the west ridge.  At the main ridge lodge/ranger station, Amanda got and started her junior ranger program.  But the requirements to fulfill is to much – we would have to do two ranger programs and one of them being at 5:30 at the campground – so that means she will not get this one.  She did do all but one sheet.  We also stopped on our way out of the park heading to Klamath Falls.

Amanda suggested that we stay at Klamath Falls because between there and our next destination, it seems to be no RV campgrounds. 

So we are camped at the Klamath Falls KOA.

We did unload the van and we went for a drive.  Amanda had already found a restaurant, so we stopped at it for dinner.

Once back at camp, I loaded the van back on the trailer.  I also went ahead and checked and topped off all the tires (RV and trailer).

Now it was time to relax.

Sunday, July 05, 2009

2009/07/05 – Sunday – Starting Home

We finally got everything loaded and headed on our way.

We stopped sometime after lunch for gas for the RV – 53 gallons worth!

Amanda looked for an RV camp close to Creator Lake – Diamond Lake

Well, we will never stay at this RV park again.  They do not allow any trailers (boat, car, or box) at any of the sites – so I had to take some time to unload the van and unhook the trailer (I was not pleased)

It took a bit to finally get the satellite pointed through the trees, but we got online, but we could not get our dish-tv online. 

We watched movies – 2004 and the 1956 versions of Around the World in 80 Days.

Saturday, July 04, 2009

2009/07/04 – Saturday – Drive

Mom M and I drove her van to Packwood to unload items that she wanted to keep. 

We stopped at my old grade school to look at the museum they have inside and to help in identifying some of my old grade school classmates. 

On our drive back, we finally stopped to get some food outside of Randle.  The drive back was good.

We did watch fireworks out in the distant tonight and pre-paired for departure tomorrow.

Friday, July 03, 2009

2009/07/03 – Friday - Gorge

I was feeling much better, so Cheryl scheduled us for a cruise on the Columbia River.

We sat round resting and getting things taken care of.

We left and stayed on the Washington side until we crossed at the Bridge of the Gods.

We found the place, and waited for our time to board the boat.

We were escorted to our seats.

As we were eating dinner, I kept going out and taking a few pictures. We first went down stream and before the locks, we turnaround and then headed upstream, past our starting location and then again turnaround to head back to the dock. The total time on the water was 2 1/2 hours.

Once off the ship, we drove to H&E W for a really quick visit. We got back to the RV really late.

Thursday, July 02, 2009

2009/07/02 – Thursday – Errand and Forts

I was still not 100%, but we went and did some Errands – Mom M got some things squared away with Family maters.

We stopped by Fort Vancouver.  Amanda got her Junior Ranger Badge for completing the necessary pages.

We went to one of Cheryl’s bank and where she did some necessary work, the rest of the family rested in the basement (the cafeteria) until she had completed her work.

We did fill up the water in the RV and Eric did drive a tractor and had a blast doing it.

Wednesday, July 01, 2009

2009/07/01 – Wednesday - Sick

I was Sick.  So I just laid on the couch all day

Cheryl, Amanda and Mom M. did errands.

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

2009/06/30 – Tuesday – Final Leg

We left Grants Pass at 9:00.  I drove for about an hour before finally getting gas.  I always forget that only the gas attendant can pump the gas and almost got in trouble.

Next stop was at Bob Dickman Tire Center to get the driver side rear out side tire sensor replaced and get the trailer tire replaced.  That took about 2 hours, but all is good now.

We got to our final stop around 3:30.  We got the RV parked and started enjoying talking with Mom M and Luke and Grace.  Unfortunately, L & G had to return home. 

We went to dinner at TGIF and then stopped at Safeway for some goods.

Once back at the RV, I set up the Satellite.  But I found out that my local channel will not display, because we are outside of the spot beam for Dish for local channel – bummers.

Monday, June 29, 2009

2009/06/29 – Monday – Traveling Along

We left camp a little later then I wanted to – 9:30.

Our first stop was at Flying J’s for gas and breakfast.

About 12:15 the tire sensor went off for the front driver side trailer tire.  The pressure was going down fast and I was about a mile away from an exit!  I started to slow down and finally got off the freeway, once I stopped, the pressure for the tire was zero.

Eric helped with changing the tire.  Once the tire was off, we noticed that a bubble had developed on the inside and had finally pop, which resulted in the flat tire.  I got the spare tire added to the sensor monitor and we were back on the road in a very quick fashion.

We stopped at another Flying J’s for lunch and fuel.  I pulled over in the parking lot and ate my lunch (salad) before hitting the road.

We were about to stop for the night, we heard a big thud and I thought I blew a tire, but the sensor never squawked, all my gauges are fine and I can not see anything wrong out my mirrors, so we keep on going.

We are now at Grants Pass for the night.  We went next door for dinner and got a 10% discount by showing that we are camped next door.

I check all over, under, and top to see what the noise was.  I think I found the noise – it seems to be a flashlight had fell out of it holding place and thumped on the floor in the doorway – so I think all is well for tomorrow.

Sunday, June 28, 2009

2009/06/28 – Sunday – Start of Trip

Let me set things up. Saturday morning Mom M. got a phone call notifying her that her dad has passed on. So our last day at the 58th NSDC was slightly clouded about the fact that my Grandfather has pass away.

But now we have to figure out what to do, so this morning, we got a ticket for Mom M to fly back up to start handling the arrangement of things to do.

We had a hard time getting ready to leave. After doing some running around, we finally left around 2:30 – we had to return to the house to get some last minute items. We were finally on our way.

Heading up over the grapevine, the tire sensors alerted me that my tires were hot so I slowed down and take the pass at a slower speed.

We did stop at Flying J’s to fuel up and then stopped at Jack-N-The-Box for dinner.

We are now stopped at Kit Fox RV camp ground in Patterson for the night.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

2009/05/20 – Wednesday – Jelly Arms

Today is my third day of furlough. We all took our time to get up, eat breakfast. We did things on the computer and then it was time for lunch.

CJ and I took the trailer that had all the signs and went and placed all the road sign (4 small one and 1 big one.) I did get a minor blister in my palm trying to secure the small signs.

One of the vendors showed up, so I placed him in the main camp area on the Northeast corner (hopefully I put him in the correct place)

After dinner (Amanda made it – Thanks!); CJ and I put up the Ranch Sign and the East and most of the South stakes. We still need to do more stakes, but we totally ran out of light and were doing some of them in the dark. O man my arms are really sore – and we need to do more.

I got a phone call from Mom M and we talked for little while.

I some how did not take any pictures today – bummers.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

2009/05/19 – Tuesday – Shopping and Relaxing

Another day off on Furlough – I still got up at normal time like I was going to work – I don’t know about that….

We all ate breakfast and we did a little research on some Geo Cache and around noon we finally got ready for leave.

First stop, Slash-X – It was Closed! hmmm don’t know why.

We stopped at the National Park Service for the Mojave Preserve and looked around – it is small but has a good map display.

Now in town we stopped at Home Depot to get a few things (stakes, ribbon, and batteries), next it was time for Lunch at IHOP.  We then stopped at Vons to get a few other items and replenish.

We stopped at Flying J’s to refuel, and did two Geo Cache that was really close to the road.

“Blue” needs some tlc, so I am going to take it easy this week.

Amanda did cook dinner tonight and I started the fire to relax at for the evening.

We did have two campers (one group) come in today, but they did camp a little bit away.

CJ wanted to do the telescope, so I got it out and set it up for him.

Now the fire has died down and I am leaving what little wood I have left for tomorrow.

Monday, May 18, 2009

2009/05/18 – Monday – Interesting Weather

We all slept in a little today.  We had clouds this morning so it slowly warmed up. 

We did not go anywhere today – it has turned out to be another do nothing day.

I did make and received a few phone calls.  Worked on the computer, ready bogs and just enjoying a relaxing furlough day.  I did get invited to go with a group to dinner on Thursday night – so of course I said yes.

Sometime in the afternoon, I  noticed in the distant that it looked like rain.  The rain and the wind made for some very interesting dust storm.  We only got a few drops hitting the side of the RV (wind driving the drops.)

We only had four different people pass by today – two different motorcycle couple, and two different vehicles – Nobody stopped.

The cats are doing ok – Amber still will hiss at Moonstone, but Moonstone and Pearl do play together a little bit.  Turquoise does play with Moonstone, in fact, Moonstone will lay down and curl up on Turquoise – I will try to get a picture next time he does that.

I did get the Jeep “Blue” cleaned up inside and got all my stuff organized in the back.  I may regret for not getting everything that I normally carry, but time will tell.  I did check my fluids and I had to put water and some oil in to top things off.

I think tomorrow we will run into town to get a few things.

I wrote this out by the fire – it is a little windy but still nice to sit out side.

We had a late night visitor – He dropped off a few things for the Cafe.

Sunday, May 17, 2009

2009/05/17 – Sunday – And Now No One Is Here

I and the kids got up late.  I did turn the generator on, in the hopes to keeping the RV cool during the day.

All of us did play on the internet most of the day.  We watched several DVD’s all through out the day.

I even got a nap in a little bit in the afternoon, so that was really nice.

The other group packed up; so we are the only ones out here at the HDR camp.

I noticed from my emails and twitter that home had an earthquake – 4.7,  Cheryl felt it and a few things moved around but no damage – which is good

I am out by the fire doing more internet stuff this evening.

Maybe tomorrow, we will be more productive.

Saturday, May 16, 2009

2009/05/16 – Saturday – HDR Pre-run

With the help of S.G. we got Baby Beast ready – CB added, Fire Extinguisher secured, Wind Generator setup and a few other minor items.

The Dirt Devils finally showed up little after 9:00, we got ready and left for the trail.

Once on the trail, the first obstacle was ruffed up more – Baby Beast made it but it was not very easy. I stalled it a few times and finally made it through it.

One our way to the next obstacle was having a little problems getting over some rocks, that’s when I am expecting I don’t have four wheel-drive. Sure enough after looking I don’t have four wheel-drive, I can get the Jeep into low, but the front wheels will not spin.

Not having four wheel-drive made it very interesting to climb some of the hills.

About 30 minutes later I noticed that I did not have normal breaks. After a few more minutes of driving, the front breaks were working (I could skid the fronts), but the back breaks were not working.

At the lunch stop, that is when we found out that I broken the back break line. So after lunch I headed back to camp. We unloaded the Jeep and I headed home with Baby Beast.

I surprised Eric when I showed up at home; I did the vehicle swap and started back to camp with “Blue”. The Jeep (XJ) has a vibration at 70 so I kept it round 60 to 65 the whole way back to camp.

On the drive back to camp, I talked with my Mom and Cheryl.

I also found out that our Friend L.S. lost her mom today – so our thoughts are with her

Once back at camp, I talked with the other camp for a while, and then went into the RV to watch some movies.

O and it was HOT today!
--------------------

Thanks Mom for the call.

Friday, May 15, 2009

2009/05/15 – Friday – Travel Day – Start of Furlough Week

I did the normal work day

I finally got home and we got the last of the items it the RV. For the last three days, we have been doing things to get ready. So tonight, I had a few items – clothing, computers, and the animals.

Amanda, CJ, and I left the house about 7:00 PM. Our first stop was at Fresh and Easy for the last minute items to get.

Next stop was at Flying J’s to get everything topped off and drained and more last minute items.

The road (Stoddard Wells Rd) into the HDR camp location is a little ruff so it was slow going. A small group was already park near the main camp at HDR and enjoying a fire. I finally found the location where I will camp for a week.

With the help from S.G. and the kids, we got most of the RV setup and the internet running.

Bedtime came a little after 1:00 AM.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

2009/04/19 – Sunday – Amanda’s Photos

Well its been awhile sense I have posted to the blog - again (I guess I should leave this statement out the next time)

Amanda volunteered to do the Easter Bunny Photo and the pictures that she took as well as the other person (a professional photographer) are now up on the web. 

Revolution Church Flicker Set – Scramble – Bunny Pictures

To tell the difference on who took the pictures  - Amanda’s photos start with IMG_#### and the photos by the professional is DSCF####

Also don’t forget about all the other photos that we take over at SmugMug  - Jechamer Photo Album

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

2009/03/10 – Tuesday – Work Related Again.

Well, I still have a job; I was not one of the people that got cut today from my work. But, one of my close friends did cut. She has been at the company for a very long time so it is very hard to see her go.

Also on the work front, from the prior post, I have placed my furlough so I could be out in the desert for the week. It is still unsure if we will have to do additional 5 or 10 days in the last half of the year yet.

I still need to put in my paperwork for my ‘renewal’ but I am currently going to schedule it for 2010.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

2009/02/11 – Wednesday – Work Related

Normally I do not write about work, because – well its work and I would like to not think of it when I leave. Of course I am dedicated to work and have and will respond when needed.

But what brings me to write currently is we have been notified that everybody at my work is required to go on a 5-day furlough. So that means no pay for 5 days – ½ a paycheck. That will hurt, but the uncertainty of the economy, they might add additional 10 days to the furlough thing.

I also have been given the opportunity to take a ‘renewal’. Which mean I get 4 weeks off with pay.

So now I need to schedule my vacation, furlough, and renewal for the next two years.

I am still concern about the furlough, but I think we could handle the 5 days, but I not sure about the additional 10 days. We will just have to tighten our belts a little.

Sunday, February 08, 2009

2009/02/08 - Sunday - SmugMug Photos

Last couple of days I have been updated photos to the Smugmug site.

I need to get back into sometype of writing, when I find the time... for now I am working on photos... so that does mean getting the other blogs updated...

Sunday, December 07, 2008

2008/12/07 - Sunday - Flying and Fixing

This weekend was a blast. Saturday we did something that we have never done before. We went hang gliding at Dockweiler Beach – see pics – Everybody had fun. I did get the most air on my second to last flight – o what fun we had.

Sunday I worked on the RV. I fixed the metal box that the flat tire banged up on Thanksgiving night. Eric even helped me out getting the box out and then put back in after the box looked more like a box then a squished box. I was so glad that Eric didn’t even put up a fuss about helping me with working on the RV.

I then started working on getting one of the RV storage cabinet cleaned up and organized again.

Dan called so I went and helped him with his RV to fix a flat tire. We did empty my tank of nitrogen trying to get his tires filled up to 110 psi. We also took apart the city water connection so he could replace it (it was leaking.)

Once back at home, I got caught up on all photos for the blogs.

Monday, November 24, 2008

2008/11/24 – Monday – Found it!

I really need to get the ARB working on the Jeep so I have my lockers working.

So, I started on getting the side panel off. Unscrewed three screws and two bolts and the panel finally moved out of the way.

I check several wires. The probe showed I had power in places, but not in all place. I ran wires to get the pump to work – yes it pump. Then I tried to cross the wires, but still the pump would not start.

Finally I found a fuse holder, well – yep the fuse was no good. I need to replace the 30amp. I could not find one, but I wanted to try it out, so I put a 15amp fuse and it worked – of course that fuse blew, but the pump did work for a short time.

So tomorrow I will buy a complete set with a few extras and I should be good.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

2008/11/23 – Sunday – Argument

The morning started with me working on Eric shot glass case. I cut pieces of plexi-glass and three times I skinned my wrist – so now I have three areas of skin that is nice a pink. I did get his cases covered with the plexi-glass. Now I just need to hang them up in his room.

Cheryl and I went to the store and the event for the day started without me knowing.

I noticed a kid was going to leave a shopping cart in the empty parking spot between use and I asked him “please” to move the cart up out of the way so a car could park there. We (Cheryl and I) headed into the grocery store to do some shopping.

About three aisles later, at lady approached me and ask if I had said something to her kid. I said yes and then proceeded to tell her what I stated. She then would not let things go. How dare I correct her son, How dare I say anything, I should have said it to her. But the problem with that is she was already in her car and I just asked the kid. One of her statement was that she was outside and could see my scorning face, but later she said she was in her car. Then get this – she had to bring the race card into it. At the beginning Cheryl tried to get me to step away, but I refused, she left and continued shopping.

The store manager finally had to come to break things up. She just would not let things go and continued to argue with anybody that was going to deal with her.

I finally got to state my side of the store with the manager and left my name and number with him.

We finally checkout and while we where leaving, I noticed she was with the manager with her three kids going into his office – she just would not let it go.

Later, I had to return to get a rolling pin for Cheryl, but they did not have one, but I did talk to the manager again. He event stated that he has had that type of problem before with other kids and parents in the store. (When a kid was doing something that they shouldn’t).

This country is going in the hell whole. I do really believe in the adage of the village helps in the raising of the kids, but some parents just don’t understand it!

I did go to Wal-Mart go get the rolling pin.

Cheryl started working on the mints, while I finally got the vacation items photographed – thimbles, playing cards, and shot glasses.

Now we need to buy Eric a new holder because we have filled all three of his shot glass holders also we need to buy another for the larger size shot glasses. Amanda still has some room, but we need to get another one for the larger thimbles.

Saturday, November 22, 2008

2008/11/22 – Saturday – Friends

J.A. spent the night. This morning we worked on destroying all my old 5” and 3” cds and took the morning.

Amanda, Eric and Mom D went to a Long Beach Cert Training class; Eric and Mom D volunteered to be victims and Amanda was the photographer for the event.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

2008/11/16 – Sunday – Less Smoke for Us

When we got up in the morning, the fires where still going, but the smoke was less for us. Looking out in the back yard we could see all the ash we had all over things.

We watched more of the fire coverage.

Cheryl and Eric stayed home, while Amanda and I went to the Croakers Dance. We had two squares of a visiting club.

I did call JM again and they are back in their home and all is ok with them. I was glad. But the fire had shifted, so I emailed another friend and he was ok and still far enough away.

Chris did come back to the house and we watch football and went over our fantasy football/hockey teams.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

2008/11/15 – Saturday – Smokey

I had things planned today, but first it was off with Mom D and Cheryl to the winery. We got our spirits for the holidays.

Next on the agenda turned out to be the fires that are happening in the LA area. I found out a very good friend of mine from work lost her house. She and her partner and their cats all got out last night safely, but lost their house.

Cheryl and Amanda did some shopping, while I watch the news about the fires.

Cheryl went to her nail appointment.

I started on the hall closet and was doing a little de-cluttering.

Mom D called about her bike not starting, so she came and got me to help her with that. I got her bike started and she took it to the dealer to get it fixed.

Since I was out with Mom D she wanted a better antenna for the new digital TV signal, well that did not work so we returned that for a different on and that one worked – I might have to by that one, instead of the current setup I have now (with the aluminum foil on it.)

Once I got back home I put the stuff back in the hall closet.

I got a status about the bike – well it not good; it will coast us about $500 to fix it. So now I am going to see if the original dealer will work with me to get it fixed – not good!

I watched more the fire reports. While watching I noticed that the Brea fire was really close to another friends place so I called J.M. Yep he was on mandatory evacuation. He was getting things ready to leave, but he was staying as LONG as possible. His wife had left to find a place to stay for the night.

On Friday we worked on Amanda computer and blew it away – installed XP back on to it. So I still could not find the driver disk for the computer. I worked on my pile of CD/DVD and organized my collection trying to find it – but no luck on that front.

The smoke from the Brea fire was really bad for us. We shut all the windows and Cheryl was having problems breathing because of the Smoke.

Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.

Monday, November 10, 2008

2008/11/10 – Monday – Maintenance

Well tonight I have updated all the blogs formats to be layouts (it a blogger thing). So now if I want to change things it will be easier (not that I change it much.)

O and I am up to date on everything for posting wise…

Sunday, November 09, 2008

2008/11/09 – Sunday – Rain and Wind

We got up to rain, so I got wet putting things away. We could tell in the distant that it was really raining. It was also snowing up high – we could see the snow line.

I think this was our first time in a long time that we left by 10:00. Before leaving we did stop at the main camp and said our goodbyes.

The wind was blowing strong on our drive.

B.S. and our Family stopped at Kramer Junction for gas and lunch.

We had just left Kramer Junction and a fellow DD had lost his awning on his RV so we stopped and helped him. The awning just ripped completely off no real damage other then the wholes where the screws were located.

We also stopped at the I15 and 395 to dump our tanks.

We got home and got the RV cleaned out.

So now we are doing the laundry and watching football.

Saturday, November 08, 2008

2008/11/08 – Saturday – South Park

Well I picked South Park to Pleasant run. It has been even longer sense I have done that.

CJ and I got ready on time and headed for lineup at 7:30. Once in line I became one of the trail crew. We got going at 8:00.

We bypassed Balarat and headed for the start of South Park canyon trail. Some people aired down their tires. I had to get the First Aid box out get some Band-Aids and some alcohol to try to clean a girl’s trip.

Once we got to the Brigs mine B.S. had to turn around because he was having problems keeping it running.

I was asked to pull in behind the leader and help spot the Chicken Wire Corner. The leader went through and once I was through, CJ drove the Jeep up to where the leader stopped, while I spotted the rest of the group trough the corner. I had only one guy that did not have his front hubs engaged, so with a little hat beat, all was ok.

We made it to the Ranch by noon and had our lunch.

After lunch we headed for Middle Park and up to the saddle on Pleasant Canyon. A group was already there so down the canyon we go.

We did stop for a 10:100 on the way down.

When we got down to where the water comes out of the ground, that area have had a fire and you can still smell it – I am not sure when the fire occurred. It was sad to see that it was burned, but you can start seeing green again.

We got done and back to camp about 3:30 – so a good fun ride.

Dinner was good as always.

Later I found out that Cheryl had high-centered the Van trying to get it to the RV after they went and got stuff for the raffle during the day.

Eric was the only winner for the kids and adult raffle.

The wind started up about 10:00pm and it never let up.

Friday, November 07, 2008

2008/11/07 – Friday – Two Runs.

Up bright and early. I got to the start of my trail ride and held my drivers meeting for my Jail Canyon ride. Over ¾ have never done the trail and about ½ of them never been to PVD.

The group moved really well. We made to the end at the adopt-a-cabin and were able to park about 48 vehicles. We did have one vehicle not get all the way up to the cabin with out overheating.

We got back into camp about 12:30 – so a quick good trip.

Amanda and I made lunch and we got ready again for the next trail.

We left on time at 2:00 for the Lookout City / Sunset Run. The group made it to the top, again, with out any major issue. We did have one guy leave his truck at the bottom of waterfall zero and caught a ride up to the top.

We watch the colors on the mount range change as the sun was setting.

We made it back to camp by 6:00. I was able to relax and visit with friends.

Cheryl, Eric and CJ finally arrived for the weekend.

Thursday, November 06, 2008

2008/11/06 – Thursday - Relaxing

Once I got up, I did some research on about the work phone working on the UMA and I finally got it to work.

I got all caught up on all of my blog reading.

Did some socializing and came back to the RV and took a nap.

Hard Rock Café was open, so we got dinner. Some more socializing and back to the RV to watch a good movie – Radio.

Tomorrow up and early for my two trail rides.

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

2008/11/05 – Wednesday - Leaving for PVD Early

I got up at my normal time for work (with the help from Cheryl).

Getting the RV ready and then the Jeep took a little longer then I like, but Amanda and I left the house around 10:30.

We did stop at Fresh and Easy to get some last minute items. The next stop was at Glob to top off the propane in the RV.

I had a lot of wind going up the I15, so that was no fun fighting that.

I stopped in Kramer Junction to fuel up.

We made into camp by 3:30 and got things all setup.

Amanda did cook dinner.

We did go over to talking with M&B, then R&G and R.L., and before heading back to the RV, we chatted with G for a little bit in his new RV (new to him).

Once back at the RV we watch Journey to the Center of the Earth and I worked on making sure all the BLOG were updated.

Sunday, November 02, 2008

2008/11/02 – Sunday – Friends

Saturday I got up early and started picking things up around the house and started the laundry. I did take the RV and Trailer over to get one of the trailer tires replaced.

Cheryl made her seven-layer dip. We went over to one of our friends for a game night. We did plan for the Easter Week on where we wanted to go – AZ. And they also planned for the New Years activates. Once that was done, we ate dinner and then started the game.

Today, I woke up with a sore throat so it will be interesting this week. Now I am doing the rest of the laundry and watching football.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

2008/10/30 – Thursday – Day of Concerns

I got a phone in the morning about Eric being hit by a car. He is fine; in fact he made it to school and all it ok. But of course I was concern about him!

After lunch with a friend and both got sick from what we at. We have eaten there several times in the past and were ok, but this time we both got sick. I went ahead and went home early, the other went home early also.

Cheryl got her knee MRI done; we won’t know the results for at least 3 days,

I did take a good nap before heading out.

Tonight was also our night out at Glendale Centre Theatre. I barely made it all night without any problems, I still do not feel good, and hopefully tomorrow I will be ok.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

2008/10/25 – Saturday – Last Two Days – LATE!

Lets start with Thursday 2008/10/23 – Chris came up and we headed off to go to a collage hockey game, but the first place was closed, the second had no idea, finally we found where the game was going to be held. Well, the game started about 10:45 and lasted until 12:30 am. The team from San Diego won! 11 to 3.

I got a chill and did not sleep well at all. I was miserable when I got up for work and most of the day.

But the lateness was not over; we had tickets for Amanda and I for Knots Scary Farm. We had fun and I found out that Amanda does not like mazes, but at least I got her into one of them. We got home about 2 in the morning.

I was able to sleep in a little bit, but I was up by 10:30. So maybe tonight I will get some good sleep.

I did go over to today and work on Mom’s toilet and fixed that, but in doing that, now my back is hurting me.

I hope I can get a good night sleep and be able to relax and watch football tomorrow!

Sunday, October 19, 2008

2008/10/19 – Sunday – SQ and Football

I needed to go into work while Cheryl and the kids went to the Croakers Monthly Dance.

They had dinner afterwards.

CJ, Chris, and his mom came over afterwards and we watched football and talked about all the fantasy football, Hockey and the baseball game. A good evening with friends.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

2008/10/18 – Saturday – Class

Amanda and I went to a beginner’s photo class. It was very basic. Amanda did learn something and I did get one item out of it. Now we just need to find when we can to the next level of class.

Cheryl also got her nails done.

We got home before she got home.

Sometime during the afternoon, I took a nap. Hmmm – must have been tired.

Friday, October 17, 2008

2008/10/17 – Friday – Movie Night

We went for a movie tonight – we watched - The Duchess

So it was nice to relax and enjoy some movie time.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

2008/10/16 – Thursday – Need to catch up on things

A few of the highlights…
-The new bike is in the shop getting the overheating resolved and fluids changed.
-Both of us have taken the motorcycle class and passed, so now Cheryl will just have to turn in the paper work and I will have to take the written test.
-Eric has been picked on at school and now we are trying to deal with it.
-Amanda is not doing her schoolwork as much as we like, but she is a least progressing.
-In September, work sent me to DC for staff week.
-We lost Opal and Cheryl said we are not going to replace him.

We are still taking picture each day, but I need to work on that and start back posting them.
Hope all is well out there and the politics is always interesting if you try to look at all sides!

Sunday, August 03, 2008

2008/08/03 – Sunday – No Go

Well, I got up ready for Amanda’s last Caller class. She never did get up in the morning, so we missed the class – I am not happy, but what can I do…

In the afternoon, Mom D brought her patio set, so we now have a new to us patio set. It will make it into the photo a day. I am still doing the photos a day, I just need to start posting them again, as well as finish the posting the Family Adventure photo of Vacation.

I did make sure Amanda call the Caller Class instructor to make sure she stated she like the class and sorry for missing the last day of class.

Cheryl did go out to get dinner and I started on the laundry piles.

Saturday, August 02, 2008

2008/08/02 – Saturday – More Calling

We got up and Amanda and I left for the today’s caller’s class.

Cheryl and Eric got picked up by Mom D, and they headed to an area square dance president meeting.

Amanda stomach did not agree with what she got from Starbucks this morning, so she did not do any calling – she did participate in the discussions during the class.

Class was over at 4:00.

I wanted to get some ride time on the bike, so I took a trip around the block. The bike did take a little bit to get it started, but it did run good.

Cheryl finally convinced me that she needs a new phone. (Yes the phone was partly broken but it was still working.) 2 hours later and $200 later, she has a palm phone and Amanda got a new phone (she paid for hers from her allowance.)

Thanks to Lisa, she took us out for dinner, we went to TGIF.

Friday, August 01, 2008

2008/08/01 – Friday – Class Again

Amanda and I went to Amanda’s calling class. We got to class right on time. She is doing ok. I danced for the two hours. Each of the students taught the move that they were assigned.

Well, another long weekend of being in class with Amanda.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

2008/07/30 – Wednesday – Deal Or No Deal

I got a call near the end of day at work asking if he was late getting to our house – No Chris you are on time….

Well, I still got out of work a little later (15 min)

I got on-line to check the address, but I could not find the correct locations for sure, but their map was the same location that the address was pointing to.

We (Chris, Amanda and I) finally left about 4:30 to our destination. I was using both phones to look at maps and tracking our progress on the other phone (Google maps on the blackberry can get you an approximant location)

The first attempt, we went past it without even noticing the little sign on the corner. We then did a loop around one of Sony’s buildings. Next we were about to make a loop around another big block, we found the sign with the address. Going down the block, we finally found people lined up for the show.

Chris was able to find a really close parking on the street. We did a few trips back to the car for a few things.

When we got into the lot, we were put into a soundstage with nothing in it – except for a few chairs, but not enough for the 360+ people that was going to watch the taping.

Once all the small to large logos were hidden or removed and they were ready, we headed on in to the Deal or No Deal stage.

The episode we were watching is #409 and it will show the day before 2008 election.

We sat near the entrance where the contestant comes out – about half way up on the right.

The ladies were of course beautiful waiting by the cases.

They did give out some candy and a few t-shirts. Chris did catch one of the t-shirts and he was very nice and gave it to Amanda. Thanks Chris!

It was interesting when they had to re-shut for the additional commercial brakes necessary for the 90 minute show.

We finally got released a little past 10:00. We had to walk out a different gate so now the car was not close – o well. On the way out we passed a sign with J. May at a parking spot so does that means I could park there?

We stopped on the way for some dinner to bring home – we got home about 11:30.

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O you thought I would give out the results – guess what – Nope – you’ll have to wait and see.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

2008/07/29 – Tuesday – Shake Rattle and Roll

Quick update sense I last write. Sunday we attended the caller. At noon I went over to the other hall and attended the Program Committee Meeting for 2009 NSDC. The meeting was over by 4:00. So I went back over to support Amanda in the caller class.

Now today:

I was in a video meeting on the third floor at work and wow what a felling. The building slowly bumping along, then a big bump happen, then back to slowly bumping along.

Finally I got a hold of the kids and I found out that Amanda was woken up by the quake. O about an hour later finally Cheryl was able to get a hold of me (cell to cell) to check on things and give status.

Here at home we had no damage at all. At my work, we only a few things that fell or got moved (on the third floor.)

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I have made a decision to change my daily blogging to a more relevant blogging, so if all we did was stuff around the house then I will most likely not blog, but if we go someplace other then the store, then I will most likely post a note. So this blog will not necessarily be a daily blog, but most likely a weekend blog. If I do get comments that still would like daily happenings, then I might keep it up.

Saturday, July 26, 2008

2008/07/26 – Saturday – Week Recap and Calling

During the week, Cheryl did get her arm looked at and now she is out of her splint.

Eric had an orthodontist appointment.

Friday night Amanda attended her first session of the current Caller Class that she is doing. I am her partner for the class.

Cheryl and Eric went and helped the Orange Coast Lariats with the Orange County Fair Square Dance demonstration.

Today Amanda and I were in the class all day, so we are both tried.

Cheryl did a little bit of shopping for the bike, but she did not like anything, so I guess we will be doing our shopping on the internet.

Sunday, July 20, 2008

2008/07/20 – Sunday – Dance and Baseball

Our first stop for the day was at Ralph’s to pickup the cake for our friend Birthday.

Next stop was at the Croakers monthly dance. We of course did our dancing and we presented the cake to Chris. We also did a game that we will do for the national square dance convention in 2009.

Our last stop for the day was at the Lake Elsinore Storm field. We had a good time. CJ even got teased by the mascot – Thunder. The Storms did not win this time…

We dropped CJ back to his car before returning home.

Saturday, July 19, 2008

2008/07/19 – Saturday – Relax / Cleaned

We relaxed for most of the day. I am still trying to get through my major backlog of blogs to read.

L.S. did come over to relax with us. Eric and her did play one of the game system for awhile.

I started to get pissy and finally got the kids to work on the RV to get it cleaned out from vacation.

Once that was done, we relaxed some more.

Friday, July 18, 2008

2008/07/18 – Friday

Cheryl went to work again and did ok. She still gets a little dizzy when she gets up to quickly.

We did some relaxing.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

2008/07/17 – Thursday

Cheryl took Amanda to her dentist appointment. She then went into work for awhile.

She was board on Wednesday and was glad to do something.

I left work early to be able to take Eric to his dentist appointment.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

2008/07/16 – Wednesday – Theatre Night

Once I got home, we needed to leave and head for Glendale Centre Theatre. We had plenty of time, so we stopped at JIB in Glendale before heading for the theatre.

The show tonight was Brigadoon.

Tonight we also got two different phone calls to checkup on Cheryl’s condition. She is doing well; in fact she is going into work tomorrow and seeing how long she can last…

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

2008/07/15 – Tuesday – More Fixing

We had notified both of our bosses that we where not coming in to work last night.

I did not sleep very well; I kept making sure Cheryl was ok. She of course did not sleep to good.

I did get Mom M to the train station on time and she is on her way home.

When I got home, we got a call from the hospital and they wanted us to return to take more x-rays.

Before stopped at the hospital, we stopped at USPS to pick up a package.

When Cheryl was getting two additional x-rays taken, she almost passed out from the pain moving her arm.

Yep, her arm is broken. The new x-rays show that her smaller arm bone at the head in the elbow was broken. She now has to be in a splint for a couple of weeks.

After the hospital we took the results (x-rays on the cd) to Y.D. so she could review the results and have her doctors to look at it also.

We also stopped at Cheryl normal doctor to get that paperwork started to get her approval to have a specialist review the healing process.

Next stop was at the insurance agent to get insurance for the bike, but we would not have any property claim from her accident.

By the time we got home, we were both worn out.

Mom D, came over after work to check on what was going on, she also tried the bike out and she is not sure if she wants to upgrade to that size yet.

Cheryl did go to Crazy Chicken to get dinner.

I will go back to work and the kids will help her out. She will stay home one more day before returning back to work.

Monday, July 14, 2008

2008/07/14 – Monday – New But Hurt

Warning – All is ok! – Long Post!!!

We returned to work like normal.

Cheryl made an appointment so she left work early, I left a little early to join her to get a new motorbike – 260cc motor scooter.

Cheryl did go to the DMV and passed the test to get the motorcycle license endorsement.

Cheryl, Mom M, and I made it to the Motorcycle dealer in plenty of time. After completed all the paper work, we tried to start the bike. I had to go get 3 galloons of gas and that still not work, the owner of the business finally got a can of starter fluid and sprayed that into the carburetor to finally start the bike.

After about 15 minutes of idling the motor, it got really hot, so I ran the bike up and down the street to cool it back down.

Finally it was time for Cheryl to ride the bike all the home on the city street because the restrictions on the bike endorsements.

In the mean time Mom D called and wanted to meet up with us on the way home.

Finally we meet Mom D at Rosemead/Lakewood Blvd and I5. We stopped and talked a little bit then we got moving again.

We almost made it home without any problems. - Cheryl is fine just a little bruised up and a broken arm.

Now the next section is my view of what I say of what happen.

I was following the whole time and she was doing well. Cheryl was turning right from Lakewood Blvd to Del Amo Blvd and crashed.

As she was turning right she was not leaning the bike correctly so she was fighting the turn. She drifted to the center divider, when the bike hit the divider, she was thrown into the left turning lane (the other side of the divider). Her helmet flew off of her head. She was laying on the ground face down with her top back of her head somewhat wedged under a stopped car tire (waiting for the light to change in the left turning lane). Her left arm was laying flat and her right arm was lying beside her body.

When I got the van stopped and checked on her she was not moving (which scarred the hell out of me, but I kept my composer). By this time, several people were telling her and anybody else not to move her and they had already called 911.

She finally responded to our talking to her (and what a relief she is alive! – now is her body ok?)
In the mean time I also got the bike back up and out of the center divider.

Cheryl then also insisted to move and get a little more comfortable. When she finally set up she got a little dizzy then she lay back down onto the road (wow she seems all ok!)

Finally the Police and Firemen came and took her to the local hospital. She was mostly complaining about her left arm being really sore. The crew working on Cheryl put the neck brace on and put her on a board before taking her away.

I finished talking to the person that Cheryl’s head hit and the police. (The bike never hit any car.)

I took the bike home and Mom M. followed.

Mom D detoured to the hospital, while I told the kids and took care of a few things. Lisa S. was over so she wanted to come also. On the way to the hospital, I had to return to the house to get the health card and ID.

Mom M, Lisa and I finally found a parking spot and went in to check on Cheryl.

Two X-Rays were taken of her left arm and a CTScan for her head.

We had 7 people in her room waiting.

Once the X-Rays where finally read, we got her road rash (forehead and left arm) cleaned up and we were finally released

We made it home some time after Midnight.

What a way for her and her new bike to end the day.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

2008/07/13 – Sunday – Finally Home

We got up and went into the casino for breakfast. We finally left around 10:45 for home.

The traffic was not bad. On the grade before the Baker Grade, we went through a major ran storm.

We did stop at Flying J’s for gas and dump the tanks.

We then stop at Three Sisters to get the RV and Van washed – now they look pretty again.

We got home and got the vehicles all back in their normal places.

O – And Cheryl won at the video poker slots last night, so a nice way to pay for part of the vacation…

Saturday, July 12, 2008

2008/07/12 – Saturday – Drive

We left a little after 9:00. Our neighbors work me up around 6:30 and I then catnapped until a little after 8:00.

Our next stop was a Flying J’s

I had to stop at a rest area (after the I70 split) to we could have lunch and I could use the restroom.

Next stop was at the Flying J’s in St George.

Our final gas stop for the day was at (you guessed it) another Flying J’s in North Las Vegas.

We are now camped at Sam Town RV campground.

We went in and got dinner and a show – Hancock.

Friday, July 11, 2008

2008/07/11 – Friday – Golden Spike

When we left the campground, the first thing on the drive was up a very steep climb. I stopped at an overlook to cool down the transmission. While at the stop an Indian family was selling stuff and Cheryl and Amanda bought some stuff.

On our way to the Golden Spike, we had to take another detour – the route I had planned was closed because of construction.

We finally make it to the Golden Spike Park. The climb to get to the place is also very steep. We watched both trains move on the track (back and then forth (back into place)). After leaving the visitor center, we took both car tours. We can proclaim that we drove on the same ground as the trains that connected both coasts.

We also stopped on the way out at the place that make rockets – that was only a 10 minute stopped – I was the only one that got out and looked at some of the rockets.

We stopped for the needed gas at a Flying J’s.

Amanda and Mom M found a camping location; I think we got the very last spot that could fit us.

We got the van unloaded and headed on out to the Mayan restaurant we like in Sandy.

Back at the RV, we loaded the van back on, and now ready for the long drive tomorrow – we should be in Las Vegas tomorrow.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

2008/07/10 – Thursday – Added Stop

Well the morning was not a good morning. We had drained the motor battery and using the crossover switch to connect the RV batteries did not work. Using the solar battery charger and the battery booster finally got the motor started.

We left the campground around 9:15, still not bad for having a bad start.

Just got on the road and I noticed that the trailer breaks was on when it should not be. I finally had to turn them off.

We stopped at Flying J’s and we got gas, as well as I fixed the trailer breaks by disconnecting the motor battery and the trailer to get the trailer break control to reset. Now the trailer breaks are working properly.

We stopped in the town where J.C. Penny started his business; we also had a late lunch in a little place that only served breakfast and lunch.

The next stop was an unplanned stop – Fossil Butte National Monument. Neat location out in the middle of now where…

We got gas and were looking for our next stop for the night.

We found the RV camp site and what an ordeal with the guy in the office. The guy was too new and not confident in running it.

Amanda really wanted to eat dinner out and since we are really close to Idaho, she wanted to eat in Idaho.

We unloaded the Van and took a drive. We finally stopped at a veerryy small place. We all had good food.

When we got back we loaded the van back on the trailer.

We watched anther movie tonight.

Wednesday, July 09, 2008

2008/07/09 – Wednesday – Another Detour ending in Prison.

I got up early this morning for a good breakfast that the KOA offered. We got on the road a little after 9:00.

We stop in Casper to get gas at a Flying J’s and a lunch stop at a Wal-Mart parking lot.

Following Street Atlas we started down the road, but the road was set at 40 mph, then the road had no center strip and getting rough. Finally the road turned into a dirt road and I stopped to check on the map. Come to find out that Street Atlas put us down a dirt road instead of a state route. After fixing the route, we got back on to track on a state route to Rawlins, WY.

When we got into Rawlins, our site to see was a old prison that is now a museum. Our tour guide was very nice. But the other lady that was behind the counter was a bitty. In fact we would have spent more money but she wanted nothing to do with it, but to make sure to state they were CLOSED. Sure not a good thing when dealing with customers.

We stopped at the KOA here in Rawlins for the night. Cheryl made dinner – mmm good.

I talked with a fellow CA and he is heading to the Black Hills, so I gave him the tourist map that we picked up when we where there to help him with his 4 days there.

Tuesday, July 08, 2008

2008/07/08 – Tuesday – Relaxing Day

We got up late. It was nice to sleep in a little. But the sleep was not all that pleasant – at 2:30 in the morning we had a lighting and thunder show with a few good down pours for about an hour.

Our first stop today was at the Mammoths Pit. They are estimating about 20 to 30 more years of digging. Yes we say a lot of bones.

We had a late lunch.

Our next stop was at the local Hot Spring Pool (it warm not hot). We enjoyed the pool for about 4 hours.

Next was dinner at the same place as lunch.

Back to the RV, we watch another movie.

Well, the rest of the trip will be one night stands – at any given RV park.

Monday, July 07, 2008

2008/07/07 – Monday – More Change of Plans

Based on the rain storm last night, I changed our route through the Bad Lands. I did not think it was wise to travel any of the dirt roads

We started on the North end of the Bad Lands. We stopped at almost every turn out. By the time we got close to the south end I missed the last three – I just wanted to get to the visitor center.

Amanda got the necessary paper work for the Junior Ranger Program and proceeded to work on it. We watched the 20 minute video about the place and walked the exhibits. Amanda finally finished and the ranger questioned her memory on a few things – so also had to state the oath.

The route I took was paved buy sure was not smooth.

We stopped for two nights near Hot Springs at a KOA.

Eric and Amanda cooked dinner. Mom M, Cheryl, and I did laundry.

We watched Wild Hogs tonight and had a few good laughs.

Trying to upload photos is slow on the Satellite, so I will try to work on the photo post tomorrow – but hay I am on vacation… Until tomorrow…

Sunday, July 06, 2008

2008/07/06 – Sunday – Change of Plans

We left a little late, I had to get the van loaded so that adds time to getting ready to leave in the morning.

We headed back down the Enchanted Highway. This time the gift shop was open and we talked with the artist that is keeping the idea alive and well. Also found out that he does have power hook ups like a campground, but just no shower or restrooms.

We stopped at a petrified wood museum. After that we stopped on the side of the road for lunch.

The next road that street atlas guided us was a dirt road and I really didn’t want to travel that far on a dirt road, also a sign stated only local trucks. So the new path then lead us trough Sturgis and then back to Wall.

We are camped at one of the camp grounds in Wall. We walked over to the Wall Drug
Store/Mall. The place had a lot of small stores in the front and in the back some more stores. In the middle of the place it has more interactive things to do. Also a T-Rex head that growled at people every two minutes. Also took some pictures of the kids on/in some touristy stuff.

We then ate at a restaurant across the street – the food was so-so – we were not impressed.

By the time it was to go to sleep a big thunder stormed rolled in and I lost my internet connection – so that is why the post is a day latter (back dated).

Saturday, July 05, 2008

2008/07/05 – Saturday – Enchanted Highway

We left a little after 9:00 – so not a bad start for the day.

We stopped at Flying J’s for our gas stop in Fargo.

We stopped for lunch around noon at one of the rest area along I94.

Next stop was gas in Bismarck.

We stopped at the “Big Cow” (I will post picture on the adventure page – but you can also look in Smugmug album). The dirt road going up to the parking was ok, but to turn around was another storey. I had to jackknife the RV and trailer so we finally get turned around.

Now we started to look for a campsite, but it is extremely hard to find them. We had to drive additional 10 miles to Dickinson to find one in the time period we wanted to drive.

I unloaded the van and we then drove the Enchanted Highway. We stopped at all the metal sculptures along the route. All of the stops can accommodate the RV, but I was not sure. Buy the time we reached the end of the route, the store was closed, so tomorrow we will stop and of course buy nick-knacks.

When we returned back to town, we stopped at Apple Bee for dinner.

We stopped by the movie theater and found out they are showing Wall-E at 9:30.

Cheryl wanted to buy something for Eric, so off we go to K-Mart and she found something.

Now back to the theater to watch Wall-E.

We got back to camp about 11:30. Walked the dogs and now its time to go to bed – Later.

Friday, July 04, 2008

2008/07/04 – Friday - Head Waters

We left camp a little after 9:00.

Before finding a beachfront we had to wait for a BIG boat to go by with the drawbridge up to let it pass by. We finally found a beachfront on Lake Superior and dipped our toes and hands in the BIG Lake.

A quick stop for gas and we where on way. We stopped in Cohasset for lunch.

We finally made it to the Mississippi River headwaters. We took the dogs for the walk also. Zircon did swim across the river and didn’t want to do that again.

We all played in the water for a while – even Turquoise enjoyed playing.

We tried to stay at a casino, but the RV Park was full, so we tried about three other places and all was full. We finally made a reservation at KOA near Fargo and all was well.

We finally pulled in about 6:00. Amanda and Cheryl cooked dinner.

Thursday, July 03, 2008

2008/07/03 – Last of the Locks

We got moving right on time – 9:00. I did have to stop when I just pulled out of the parking lot to get the computer reset – so Cheryl went into the store to get some ice.

Dam and Lock #2 and #1 was found. But getting to #1 took an ordeal of navigation. We wondered through Minneapolis and finally found #1. I drove down to the bottom and found out I could not turn around, so I had to backup about a quarter of a mile.

Next we finally found lower and upper St Anthony Falls/Dam/Locks. I had to park in three locations and feed the three meters.

Amanda volunteered to call a campground that she found in the books.

I finally get see one of the Great Lakes – Superior

We went out for groceries and dinner. After dinner Cheryl really wanted Starbucks so we took about an 8-mile detour to find one.

Amanda worked on some schoolwork.

Wednesday, July 02, 2008

2008/07/02 – Wednesday – Dams and Locks

We left Elkader a little after 9:00. We stopped at several locks going up the Mississippi. Dams and Locks #9, #8, #7, #6, #5A, (missed number #5), #4, and #3.

At #9 and #5A we watched barges being worked in the lock.

Getting to dam #3 was a little nerve racking, because of all the signs stating restricted areas and all, but we finally found it and park in the visitor parking area and walked over the observation area without any problems.

We are camped at a casino RV Park – nice and cheep. We went into the casino for the buffet dinner.

We watch Nemo tonight.

Tuesday, July 01, 2008

2008/07/01 – Tuesday – Family and Water

We got up late to day. We finally got moving and headed on out for dinner at family.

We stayed for about two hours and had fun talking.

We made arrange for the supper – so now it was time to explore.

We stopped at Dam/Lock #10, but we could not get the close view because it was under some type of maintenance/construction.

Next stop was at Pikes Peak – a great view of the Mississippi River and the Wisconsin River.

We did a cave, but a twist to it was to ride a boat. It is called Spooks Cave. After the cave tour, we did take a few pictures of a waterfall coming out of the middle of the hill (another cave), on the same grounds.

We went driving around – we did go over a bridge to Wisconsin for some sight seeing.

We then headed for another family house for supper. We had a good time enjoying the food and company.

When we got back the dogs were really good – I am very happy with the dogs so far on this trip.

Amanda is currently frying bugs with our battery-operated fly swatter thingy.
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