Not having internet available is making me crazy. I have no idea what I wrote in my last blog since I did it online (I think). Well here goes!!
Karen and Rod Sprague arrived last week after a rainy trip from Washington. We went to Casa Grande ruins last Thursday. Ken and I had been there before, but I think Karen and Rod enjoyed it. There is one part of a large structure and some low walls remaining as evidence of a people that existed for almost 1000 years until the 1400s. They, like many early civilizations, exhibited an interest (understanding) in celestial happenings and rhythms.
A first for me that day was lunch at a Crackerbarrel restaurant. I was underwhelmed to say the least. But I am usually super critical of most chain restaurants (except KFC). I found the food to be starchy and salty. It was interesting to arrive and be told it would be fifteen minutes before we could be seated. It turned out to be 45 minutes, and that same scenario transpired for every other person we encountered. Could it be that the delay is deliberate since there is a big roomful of knick knacks and old time candy to peruse and purchase while you wait?
Colleen and I flew to Colorado Springs last Friday to rent a truck and retrieve her belongings that have been in storage for almost two years. Her friend, Emmie, picked us up at the airport and hosted us for the evening. She is a gracious southern girl who exudes warmth and hospitality, and is a wonderful cook.
Two women and a truck……..
We had two men load the truck, then Colleen and I climbed aboard and proceeded to herd the behemoth down the road. It was twice as big as we needed, and it acted as though the wheels had never been balanced. It was a terrible ride until we got up to about 70 mph, and then it was a bit smoother. With the blessing of U-Haul, we drove all the way with the oil light and check engine lights on, but it did keep ‘truckin’ along.
We stayed in Gallup, NM on Saturday night, got up at six and were on the road by six thirty. We arrived in Phoenix around noon, and with the help of Ken and Colleen’s landlord, had the truck emptied and returned by mid afternoon. By evening, her bed was assembled and made, her entire kitchen unpacked and put away., and I slept hard last night!!
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Yesterday was a day for little projects which evolved into a little shopping which evolved into spending a bunch of money. We have a broken part on the latch for one of the pantries so of course that means going to the Winnebago dealer to spend a ton of money on a little part that isn’t even in stock at the moment with Winnebago. We also took note of some shopping sites in the area and went to Camping World, Trader Joes, and one or two quilt shops.
Finally last night we remembered to take advantage of the pool and the spa here at the ol’ Dollbeer Park. The pool was spa temperature, and the spa was so hot it was almost painful so we didn’t stay long. The pool area is right in front of our MH; about a 20 yard walk for us. The pools were immaculate, as they should be since I have never seen anyone in them, and they get cleaned about every other day.
We stopped by Colleen’s office yesterday to retrieve my handbag that I had left in her car, so her dad had a chance to meet her boss and see her office. She has a busy week getting ready for a big annual fundraising event this coming Saturday, but she still thinks she has enough energy to go to IKEA one evening this week.
We have no immediate plans for the day, but I have frittered the last 2 ½ hours on the Today Show, Sonoran Living Live, and View along with several cups of coffee. Okay, okay, I need to get on with the day. Ciao.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Saturday, January 14, 2006
mMesa et al
We made our way from Yuma to Mesa last Tuesday and checked in at the Doll Beer Trailer Park. Actually, it is quite adequate except, like just about every RV park in the state - no internet. The property for the park was a working horse farm and then converted to a dedicated community of fixed mobile homes. The homes are old, probably at least 30 years, but everything is very well maintained. There are a few RV sites "on the plaza" where we are parked which is right beside the pool and hot tub.
We looked at many RV parks in the area yesterday, and since internet is not available anywhere, we will probably stay put until the 31st when we move to Benson, AZ to an RV resort with its own observatory.
We have enjoyed a great visit with Mike, Mary, Becky, and Martha. Martha is 86 years young, and it was only within the last few years that everybody concerned put two and two together and acknowledged the fact that she and Mike share the same father. Martha looks and acts more like she is 66 with naturally dark hair and she clog dances! She tramped through IKEA with us earlier this week and has been on the go every day. Although much shorter, she reminds me a bit of Lilly.
Colleen has been looking for a place to live, since the house where she has been staying is now empty and on the market. She has secured a little two bedroom guest house that sits behind the home (with a swimming pool) of an ASU professor. AND he owns a two year old Golden Reteiver. She can move in tomorrow with what she has with her, and then she and I will do a road trip to Colorado to retrieve her belongings out of storage.
We know some folks from Davenport (Glenn and Nancy Reinbold) who are staying here in Mesa, but we haven't connected yet. And there are others who will be arriving, but probably after we have left.
As the Northwest slogs through the wet and the rain, this area is coming up on 90 days with no rain, but there is a hint that there might be something within the next 48 hours. The temps have been in the 70s during the day so we are not complaining.
I have no idea when we will be connected again, but keep checking back for another update. Ciao
Ken Colleen and I went to the Mesa Market today for a while, and it looks just about the same as it did when we were here two years ago. I didn't find anything I couldn't live without.
We looked at many RV parks in the area yesterday, and since internet is not available anywhere, we will probably stay put until the 31st when we move to Benson, AZ to an RV resort with its own observatory.
We have enjoyed a great visit with Mike, Mary, Becky, and Martha. Martha is 86 years young, and it was only within the last few years that everybody concerned put two and two together and acknowledged the fact that she and Mike share the same father. Martha looks and acts more like she is 66 with naturally dark hair and she clog dances! She tramped through IKEA with us earlier this week and has been on the go every day. Although much shorter, she reminds me a bit of Lilly.
Colleen has been looking for a place to live, since the house where she has been staying is now empty and on the market. She has secured a little two bedroom guest house that sits behind the home (with a swimming pool) of an ASU professor. AND he owns a two year old Golden Reteiver. She can move in tomorrow with what she has with her, and then she and I will do a road trip to Colorado to retrieve her belongings out of storage.
We know some folks from Davenport (Glenn and Nancy Reinbold) who are staying here in Mesa, but we haven't connected yet. And there are others who will be arriving, but probably after we have left.
As the Northwest slogs through the wet and the rain, this area is coming up on 90 days with no rain, but there is a hint that there might be something within the next 48 hours. The temps have been in the 70s during the day so we are not complaining.
I have no idea when we will be connected again, but keep checking back for another update. Ciao
Ken Colleen and I went to the Mesa Market today for a while, and it looks just about the same as it did when we were here two years ago. I didn't find anything I couldn't live without.
Sunday, January 08, 2006
Happy New Year
Let’s see, where were we? Oh yes, Idaho. Now back in Yuma, and moving on to Mesa next week.
We had a wonderful Christmas with Brian, Sheila, and the boys. We had some good meals and enjoyed each other’s company. Ken and I made ragg quilts for the boys for Christmas, and they were well received. Ken did all of the cutting, and I did the sewing. Then for the two days of driving to McCall, I clipped seams. That is about 1200 miles of clipping!!
We drove from McCall back to Yuma in two days. My advice with regard to the state of Utah is don’t eat or sleep there. We had terrible meals, and a terrible motel room in Provo. Tuesday, the second day on the road was long with our arriving at Colleen’s about ten.
Gary and Carolyn arrived in Phoenix on time on Wednesday, and we made our way back to Yuma. Now with each passing day, we see more and more of the sites filling. Today the wind is blowing very hard and is doing a good job of rocking the motor home. We face a big open expanse of newly-worked dirt, so it is especially adept at infiltrating every square inch.
We welcomed in the new year with Jeff and Bev, Gary and Carolyn, and their friends from Victoria, Kathy and Andy. I think this is about the 25th consecutive New Year’s Eve we have spent with Jeff and Bev. We were all still wide awake at midnight, which has sometimes been a struggle for us.
We went to Algodones on Wednesday, which we can practically see from the RV park. It is a pretty typical border town except much cleaner. I didn’t see anything that looked to be a spectacular deal – most of the silver is mediocre at best and nothing out of the ordinary. We did have a bite to eat and it was quite good.
We have been to the ‘old’ market here in Yuma and plan to visit the ‘new’ one today. We did find some nice produce at the old market this week.
Jeff and Bev will be leaving within the next day or two, and then on the tenth we will move to Mesa. Mike and Mary and Becky will be arriving in Mesa on the seventh for a week’s visit with Mike’s half sister, and we will join them there. “We are staying at the Dohlbeer Trailer Park because that is where Martha is staying, but when I called I was told they had plenty of room, to self-register if we arrived on a week end, pick any spot that was available, and no they didn’t need my name or credit card. Hmmm. But it will be fine and convenient for a few days of visiting.
Then later in the month Rod and Karen will be back from Connecticut. They leave Spokane Sunday to drive to Mesa and set up their fifth wheel before they hop on a plane to visit son John and family in Connecticut. We plan to spend a few days together the latter part of January and first part of February.
January 8, 2006
The Schulers have gone home after a great visit, the dust has settled (from the fields, not the Schulers), the weather has been warm and sunny, and on Tuesday we will pull up stakes and move to Mesa. Mike called yesterday to say they had arrived.
We have now shopped the ‘new’ market’ as well as the old, so I think we have seen as many cheap Chinese junk (not junks, but junk) imports as we can stand. I am enjoying the fresh produce that the markets offer: avocados, squash, peppers, and lots of citrus. We made a salad with nopales (paddle cactus leaves), and it was tasty.
We also now know of a good jeweler in Yuma. I broke two prongs on my diamond ring, so nothing to do but have it repaired – which requires removing it from my finger which was not an easy task. So along with repairing and sizing mine, Ken will have his sized as well, and both will be re-engraved and re-florentined. They should be ready tomorrow.
After about three weeks in the Mesa/Phoenix area, we are going to spend one week with the Ouseys, their friends, Rob and Sue, and our friends, Rod and Karen at the Butterfield RV Park in Benson which even boasts its own observatory. Then after a day or two near Picacho Peak and Casa Grande, we will set up camp at River’s Edge in Ehrenburg for one month. Come the first of March I guess we will have to think about making our way back north. I’m not ready to think about that yet.
This is the first time we have been able to connect to the internet since we arrived here, so I just might sit up all night surfing the net!!
Ciao
We had a wonderful Christmas with Brian, Sheila, and the boys. We had some good meals and enjoyed each other’s company. Ken and I made ragg quilts for the boys for Christmas, and they were well received. Ken did all of the cutting, and I did the sewing. Then for the two days of driving to McCall, I clipped seams. That is about 1200 miles of clipping!!
We drove from McCall back to Yuma in two days. My advice with regard to the state of Utah is don’t eat or sleep there. We had terrible meals, and a terrible motel room in Provo. Tuesday, the second day on the road was long with our arriving at Colleen’s about ten.
Gary and Carolyn arrived in Phoenix on time on Wednesday, and we made our way back to Yuma. Now with each passing day, we see more and more of the sites filling. Today the wind is blowing very hard and is doing a good job of rocking the motor home. We face a big open expanse of newly-worked dirt, so it is especially adept at infiltrating every square inch.
We welcomed in the new year with Jeff and Bev, Gary and Carolyn, and their friends from Victoria, Kathy and Andy. I think this is about the 25th consecutive New Year’s Eve we have spent with Jeff and Bev. We were all still wide awake at midnight, which has sometimes been a struggle for us.
We went to Algodones on Wednesday, which we can practically see from the RV park. It is a pretty typical border town except much cleaner. I didn’t see anything that looked to be a spectacular deal – most of the silver is mediocre at best and nothing out of the ordinary. We did have a bite to eat and it was quite good.
We have been to the ‘old’ market here in Yuma and plan to visit the ‘new’ one today. We did find some nice produce at the old market this week.
Jeff and Bev will be leaving within the next day or two, and then on the tenth we will move to Mesa. Mike and Mary and Becky will be arriving in Mesa on the seventh for a week’s visit with Mike’s half sister, and we will join them there. “We are staying at the Dohlbeer Trailer Park because that is where Martha is staying, but when I called I was told they had plenty of room, to self-register if we arrived on a week end, pick any spot that was available, and no they didn’t need my name or credit card. Hmmm. But it will be fine and convenient for a few days of visiting.
Then later in the month Rod and Karen will be back from Connecticut. They leave Spokane Sunday to drive to Mesa and set up their fifth wheel before they hop on a plane to visit son John and family in Connecticut. We plan to spend a few days together the latter part of January and first part of February.
January 8, 2006
The Schulers have gone home after a great visit, the dust has settled (from the fields, not the Schulers), the weather has been warm and sunny, and on Tuesday we will pull up stakes and move to Mesa. Mike called yesterday to say they had arrived.
We have now shopped the ‘new’ market’ as well as the old, so I think we have seen as many cheap Chinese junk (not junks, but junk) imports as we can stand. I am enjoying the fresh produce that the markets offer: avocados, squash, peppers, and lots of citrus. We made a salad with nopales (paddle cactus leaves), and it was tasty.
We also now know of a good jeweler in Yuma. I broke two prongs on my diamond ring, so nothing to do but have it repaired – which requires removing it from my finger which was not an easy task. So along with repairing and sizing mine, Ken will have his sized as well, and both will be re-engraved and re-florentined. They should be ready tomorrow.
After about three weeks in the Mesa/Phoenix area, we are going to spend one week with the Ouseys, their friends, Rob and Sue, and our friends, Rod and Karen at the Butterfield RV Park in Benson which even boasts its own observatory. Then after a day or two near Picacho Peak and Casa Grande, we will set up camp at River’s Edge in Ehrenburg for one month. Come the first of March I guess we will have to think about making our way back north. I’m not ready to think about that yet.
This is the first time we have been able to connect to the internet since we arrived here, so I just might sit up all night surfing the net!!
Ciao
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Merry Christmas
from McCall. I am looking out at some snow on the ground, but it is not all that cold. The last two days have been warm and rainy, so we consider ourselves fortunate to have something white outside. Walking has been treacherous because of a thick layer of ice underfoot, and some of that is still with us.
We had planned to stay in Twin Falls last Tuesday night, but Brian made reservations for us in billeting on base in Mt. Home, so we continued on. Our drive on Tuesday was easy and uneventful. We did not drive the interstate, and when we stopped in the little town of Alamo, we learned from the postmistress that there was a secondary road going north that would save us 50 miles. Another great two-lane road with little or no traffic. We met an occasional truck, but did not encounter any trucks going north with us. That alone made the route very enjoyable. There were stretches of road that would be straight ahead for a mile or more.
We drove to McCall on Wednesday, and Sheila and the boys followed on later in the evening. Brian got here about nine on Thursday evening. We have been eating too much, sleeping, and just generally enjoying ourselves. Colleen, Sheila, and I visited all the shops in town yesterday for our last minute items.
Brian and Sheila’s condo is just too charming and cozy. The theme “It’s always winter at the condo” shines brightly in every corner from the antique skis to the framed photos of the family while playing in the snow to the snowflake dinnerware. It is done in red, white, and beige – very Scandinavian!! And now there is the decorated Christmas tree, and dozens of Christmas decorations to add to the delight.
McCall is very cute. It sits on the shore of Lake Payette and has several very nice shops. I found it interesting that Paul’s Grocery (an excellent upscale grocery store) has a mezzanine that is a fabric and handwork shop. Only in Idaho?
As I write this, Sheila and Colleen are cross-country skiing, and Brian and the boys have gone tubing. I just finished making sausage strudels and tea ring dough, and now we are going to head for the local coffee shop to post this blog.
We will go to church at seven and then come home for raclette with cheese, onions, potatoes, cornichons, beef, and sausage.
I think we are getting up about 4 am tomorrow! We engaged in a little poker game last night with the winning team deciding how late we could sleep in the morning. It came down to Nolan and me, and Nolan won. Needless to say, a ten-year-old and twelve-year-old year old are not going to stay in bed very long.
We plan to leave either Monday (Ken’s plan) or Tuesday (Helen and Colleen’s plan) to be in Phoenix by Wednesday afternoon to pick up Gary and Carolyn at the airport and return to Yuma for the Schulers’ arrival.
A blessed Christmas to all. Ciao
We had planned to stay in Twin Falls last Tuesday night, but Brian made reservations for us in billeting on base in Mt. Home, so we continued on. Our drive on Tuesday was easy and uneventful. We did not drive the interstate, and when we stopped in the little town of Alamo, we learned from the postmistress that there was a secondary road going north that would save us 50 miles. Another great two-lane road with little or no traffic. We met an occasional truck, but did not encounter any trucks going north with us. That alone made the route very enjoyable. There were stretches of road that would be straight ahead for a mile or more.
We drove to McCall on Wednesday, and Sheila and the boys followed on later in the evening. Brian got here about nine on Thursday evening. We have been eating too much, sleeping, and just generally enjoying ourselves. Colleen, Sheila, and I visited all the shops in town yesterday for our last minute items.
Brian and Sheila’s condo is just too charming and cozy. The theme “It’s always winter at the condo” shines brightly in every corner from the antique skis to the framed photos of the family while playing in the snow to the snowflake dinnerware. It is done in red, white, and beige – very Scandinavian!! And now there is the decorated Christmas tree, and dozens of Christmas decorations to add to the delight.
McCall is very cute. It sits on the shore of Lake Payette and has several very nice shops. I found it interesting that Paul’s Grocery (an excellent upscale grocery store) has a mezzanine that is a fabric and handwork shop. Only in Idaho?
As I write this, Sheila and Colleen are cross-country skiing, and Brian and the boys have gone tubing. I just finished making sausage strudels and tea ring dough, and now we are going to head for the local coffee shop to post this blog.
We will go to church at seven and then come home for raclette with cheese, onions, potatoes, cornichons, beef, and sausage.
I think we are getting up about 4 am tomorrow! We engaged in a little poker game last night with the winning team deciding how late we could sleep in the morning. It came down to Nolan and me, and Nolan won. Needless to say, a ten-year-old and twelve-year-old year old are not going to stay in bed very long.
We plan to leave either Monday (Ken’s plan) or Tuesday (Helen and Colleen’s plan) to be in Phoenix by Wednesday afternoon to pick up Gary and Carolyn at the airport and return to Yuma for the Schulers’ arrival.
A blessed Christmas to all. Ciao
Monday, December 19, 2005
Several days' of blogs
I am sitting at the front of the MH looking out across a field at a totally clear sky with one pointy peak rising up in the distance. I have even found a way to put a positive spin on the freeway traffic out in the distance…..at night the trucks look like lighted cars on a toy train – an ever-changing, Christmas-like view – along with lots of real trains in the background.
I got out and walked yesterday, finally, and found it to be pretty easy compared to the hills of Steilacoom. It is flat, flat, flat, here. Just about everyone I passed greeted me. Now if this place would get internet, I would be happy as a clam. We spent almost an hour at the library yesterday trying to use the modem, but gave up when we couldn’t get anything beyond 14.4, and our first email hung up while trying to download.
Last night after dark, we were treated to a parade of lighted golf carts with some of them looking pretty creative. One had icicle lights hanging from the canopy, and another with lighted wheels going ‘round and ‘round..
Ken and I have spent time working on a Christmas gift project, and that will be our task for the next day or two. We are running out of days before we will be leaving for Brian and Sheila’s.
December 16
The Christmas gift project continues, but we should be in good shape by tomorrow.
The weather finally calmed down today after two days of wicked winds, hence tons of blowing sand and dust Today we have had sunshine and temps in the high 60s.
Our friends, the Ouseys, have continued to receive very bad news about Gary’s brother – there is no treatment for his cancer, and he has just days to live. We are taking Carolyn to the Phoenix airport tomorrow, and their three children who live in Victoria all flew to Winnipeg today. So come Monday, our two motor homes will be sitting here unoccupied. But there is good security here at the park so I have no concerns.
After we drop Carolyn at the airport, we will spend some time with Colleen before coming back to Cocopah. Ken has a Fry’s ad in his hands, and he is headed in that direction. I think we are in the market for a new network card that is stronger than what we now have. I doubt I will be wanting to try to do much shopping on the Saturday before Christmas week end.
I talked to Craig last night for a few minutes. He and Cooper were at Cassie’s. Since Cooper spends the days by himself in the run while Craig works, Craig tries to take him with him when he goes out in the evenings.
I will try to post this blog later this evening, and if I don’t there will be another installment in a day or two.
December 17
Nope, the new network card did us no good, so we are still without internet access. I’ll go to the Ousey’s to post this tomorrow.
Sadly, Gary’s brother passed away last evening. It was such a rapid turn of events that it is hard to grasp. We took Carolyn to the airport today, but according to a phone message, there was a delay and she is stuck in Denver until tomorrow morning. It is unknown when she and Gary will return to Cocopah.
We had an early dinner with Colleen and met her roommate/landlady and her mother this afternoon in Phoenix. This is a great arrangement for Colleen, but Suzie is getting married and is going to sell the house, so Colleen will be looking for another place to stay. She would like to buy, but she has no idea how long (or short) she will be in Arizona, so that is risky too.
We stopped and shopped in a book store and a Stein Mart before coming home. I remember being very taken with the Stein Mart in Las Vegas, but I didn’t find anything exciting in this one in Phoenix.
Cinda called today to say that their house in Bellevue was broken into this past week and every piece of jewelry plus computers were stolen. Their property is very private so it would be easy for someone to gain entry and go unnoticed. And to file any kind of an insurance claim is a nightmare and it is hardly worth the effort, or the risk of being dropped if you have another claim. What has happened to the insurance industry in this country? We pay and pay and pay, and then are afraid to use it.
Tomorrow we will finish projects and errands and get ready to be on the road to Idaho on Monday. We plan to arrive Boise Wednesday afternoon, pick up Colleen and go on to McCall.
December 19, 2005
We are in the Air Force Inn at Nellis AFB. We didn’t get out of Cocopah until about eleven today, so this was a good stopping place . We will be on the road bright and early tomorrow morning to get ourselves with in striking distance of Boise for Wednesday noon.
I just finished chatting with Bev Schuler, and she and Jeff are going to drive to Yuma on 12/28 for their annual holiday visit. Jeff looked at flights and decided there was no easy way to get from there to there. We found Yuma to be a conundrum when we were looking at flights for the Ouseys. I thought it was because they needed to get to Canada, but evidently California is no better!
We do at least have a modem here in our room, so I am going to post this since I have been adding to it for days. Ciao
I got out and walked yesterday, finally, and found it to be pretty easy compared to the hills of Steilacoom. It is flat, flat, flat, here. Just about everyone I passed greeted me. Now if this place would get internet, I would be happy as a clam. We spent almost an hour at the library yesterday trying to use the modem, but gave up when we couldn’t get anything beyond 14.4, and our first email hung up while trying to download.
Last night after dark, we were treated to a parade of lighted golf carts with some of them looking pretty creative. One had icicle lights hanging from the canopy, and another with lighted wheels going ‘round and ‘round..
Ken and I have spent time working on a Christmas gift project, and that will be our task for the next day or two. We are running out of days before we will be leaving for Brian and Sheila’s.
December 16
The Christmas gift project continues, but we should be in good shape by tomorrow.
The weather finally calmed down today after two days of wicked winds, hence tons of blowing sand and dust Today we have had sunshine and temps in the high 60s.
Our friends, the Ouseys, have continued to receive very bad news about Gary’s brother – there is no treatment for his cancer, and he has just days to live. We are taking Carolyn to the Phoenix airport tomorrow, and their three children who live in Victoria all flew to Winnipeg today. So come Monday, our two motor homes will be sitting here unoccupied. But there is good security here at the park so I have no concerns.
After we drop Carolyn at the airport, we will spend some time with Colleen before coming back to Cocopah. Ken has a Fry’s ad in his hands, and he is headed in that direction. I think we are in the market for a new network card that is stronger than what we now have. I doubt I will be wanting to try to do much shopping on the Saturday before Christmas week end.
I talked to Craig last night for a few minutes. He and Cooper were at Cassie’s. Since Cooper spends the days by himself in the run while Craig works, Craig tries to take him with him when he goes out in the evenings.
I will try to post this blog later this evening, and if I don’t there will be another installment in a day or two.
December 17
Nope, the new network card did us no good, so we are still without internet access. I’ll go to the Ousey’s to post this tomorrow.
Sadly, Gary’s brother passed away last evening. It was such a rapid turn of events that it is hard to grasp. We took Carolyn to the airport today, but according to a phone message, there was a delay and she is stuck in Denver until tomorrow morning. It is unknown when she and Gary will return to Cocopah.
We had an early dinner with Colleen and met her roommate/landlady and her mother this afternoon in Phoenix. This is a great arrangement for Colleen, but Suzie is getting married and is going to sell the house, so Colleen will be looking for another place to stay. She would like to buy, but she has no idea how long (or short) she will be in Arizona, so that is risky too.
We stopped and shopped in a book store and a Stein Mart before coming home. I remember being very taken with the Stein Mart in Las Vegas, but I didn’t find anything exciting in this one in Phoenix.
Cinda called today to say that their house in Bellevue was broken into this past week and every piece of jewelry plus computers were stolen. Their property is very private so it would be easy for someone to gain entry and go unnoticed. And to file any kind of an insurance claim is a nightmare and it is hardly worth the effort, or the risk of being dropped if you have another claim. What has happened to the insurance industry in this country? We pay and pay and pay, and then are afraid to use it.
Tomorrow we will finish projects and errands and get ready to be on the road to Idaho on Monday. We plan to arrive Boise Wednesday afternoon, pick up Colleen and go on to McCall.
December 19, 2005
We are in the Air Force Inn at Nellis AFB. We didn’t get out of Cocopah until about eleven today, so this was a good stopping place . We will be on the road bright and early tomorrow morning to get ourselves with in striking distance of Boise for Wednesday noon.
I just finished chatting with Bev Schuler, and she and Jeff are going to drive to Yuma on 12/28 for their annual holiday visit. Jeff looked at flights and decided there was no easy way to get from there to there. We found Yuma to be a conundrum when we were looking at flights for the Ouseys. I thought it was because they needed to get to Canada, but evidently California is no better!
We do at least have a modem here in our room, so I am going to post this since I have been adding to it for days. Ciao
Monday, December 12, 2005
And so the fun begins......
We met up with Gary and Carolyn at the Wal Mart in Chehalis about 4 pm on Monday afternoon. I had driven on ahead so I would have time to visit Sister’s Fabric Shop in Chehalis, and it was well worth it. I have never seen so many fabrics in one place at one time. I did make a few purchases but practiced lots of restraint.
Tuesday, we went as far as Canyonville, OR and stayed at the Seven Feathers Casino - Ouseys’ recommendation and well worthwhile. For a mere $14, we had full hook-ups and use of the hotel’s swimming pool, 2 Jacuzzis and showers. It is by far one of the nicest hotel/casinos I’ve seen outside Las Vegas. We availed ourselves of all the amenities, including the $6.95 steak dinner, and didn’t drop a penny in the casino.
Wednesday took us as far as the Wal Mart in Willows, and again Gary and Carolyn knew exactly how to get around on the side of the building away from the general traffic of the parking lot. We were in an area between the building and a row of outside storage units giving us our own little “oasis”.
Thursday has us going as far as Bakersfield and Camping World. Gary has something he wants to buy, and then we will just stay put for the night. Tomorrow is Yuma!
Gary and Carolyn encountered a couple on the ferry coming from Victoria to Port Angeles whom they had met briefly once before. We have seen them every day since, and we stayed the same places the first two nights. It is a small world.
Ken discovered on the day that we were leaving that his driver’s license will expire on March 1 so he got up early on Tuesday and drove into Centralia to be the first in line. It seems there is always something unforeseen that pops up.
This is Thursday afternoon that I am writing this, and we are on I-5 with Merced to the east and Morgan Hill to the west. It has been very smoggy all day so even though there are no clouds, we can’t see the sun. We are far enough south to see them harvesting citrus fruit and to see palm trees waving in the breeze. We decided we were official Snowbirds as soon as we left the state of Washington.
Colleen finally found a decent one-way fare to Idaho for Christmas so we will meet up with her in Boise, and then she will road trip back to Arizona with us. I am looking forward to some real winter Christmas with crisp air and snow, even more importantly, time with Brian, Sheila and the boys. It should be lots of fun.
Monday, December 12, 2005
We cannot get an internet connection, even though Gary can, and he is parked right next door. We are suspecting our card because we can’t even connect on our computer when we go to Gary’s rig.
We had a bit of a challenge to find the Wal Mart in Bakersfield on Thursday, and at first glance weren’t even sure there was room for us for the night, but we did finally make it work. On Friday night we stayed at El Centro Naval Air Facility. Much to our amazement, we did not even have to register our “Canadian Nationals”. The guard at the gate said he could authorize their entry for the one night. We had to stay in the overflow lot which is no big surprise considering the location of this base, but we had access to the showers and that was most important.
After some rather harrowing driving in five lanes of traffic and up and down a pass as we drove through the San Bernadino area, we arrived at Cocopah in the early afternoon on Saturday. Much to Ouseys’ amazement, the area in front of our parking spaces has been taken from trees and cacti to bare dirt. Homeland Security is footing the bill to clear the area to help deter folks from coming across the border. But we have no one in front of us, there is the freeway in the distance, and railroad tracks with lots of trains to keep us company – sort of like home.
We had two different brake warning scenarios on the last day of travel, so we were up at six this morning to get the motor home into the Workhorse dealer, where they said they could find nothing. I really did not want to get up at that hour, especially to be told they could find nothing. Time will tell.
Now this afternoon is my first chance to really get settled since we are parked permanently for the next month. I have lights, a wreath, lighted snowflakes, and poinsettias to put up. Some of the motor homes and park models have brilliant and extensive displays of Christmas.
Tomorrow we can start checking out the activities, of which there are many.
The bad news on this trip was to learn that Gary’s brother, Dennis, has been diagnosed with brain cancer. It is anticipated that a decision will be made today as to whether he is a candidate for a Gamma Knife procedure. Gary is flying to Winnipeg tomorrow to provide some moral support for a week. Gary and Dennis’ mother, age 87, is understandably distraught, so I’m sure Gary can help to calm her. We keep the family in our prayers.
Okay, I’m going to take my little memory stick to the Ousey’s and see if I can get this posted.
Ciao
Tuesday, we went as far as Canyonville, OR and stayed at the Seven Feathers Casino - Ouseys’ recommendation and well worthwhile. For a mere $14, we had full hook-ups and use of the hotel’s swimming pool, 2 Jacuzzis and showers. It is by far one of the nicest hotel/casinos I’ve seen outside Las Vegas. We availed ourselves of all the amenities, including the $6.95 steak dinner, and didn’t drop a penny in the casino.
Wednesday took us as far as the Wal Mart in Willows, and again Gary and Carolyn knew exactly how to get around on the side of the building away from the general traffic of the parking lot. We were in an area between the building and a row of outside storage units giving us our own little “oasis”.
Thursday has us going as far as Bakersfield and Camping World. Gary has something he wants to buy, and then we will just stay put for the night. Tomorrow is Yuma!
Gary and Carolyn encountered a couple on the ferry coming from Victoria to Port Angeles whom they had met briefly once before. We have seen them every day since, and we stayed the same places the first two nights. It is a small world.
Ken discovered on the day that we were leaving that his driver’s license will expire on March 1 so he got up early on Tuesday and drove into Centralia to be the first in line. It seems there is always something unforeseen that pops up.
This is Thursday afternoon that I am writing this, and we are on I-5 with Merced to the east and Morgan Hill to the west. It has been very smoggy all day so even though there are no clouds, we can’t see the sun. We are far enough south to see them harvesting citrus fruit and to see palm trees waving in the breeze. We decided we were official Snowbirds as soon as we left the state of Washington.
Colleen finally found a decent one-way fare to Idaho for Christmas so we will meet up with her in Boise, and then she will road trip back to Arizona with us. I am looking forward to some real winter Christmas with crisp air and snow, even more importantly, time with Brian, Sheila and the boys. It should be lots of fun.
Monday, December 12, 2005
We cannot get an internet connection, even though Gary can, and he is parked right next door. We are suspecting our card because we can’t even connect on our computer when we go to Gary’s rig.
We had a bit of a challenge to find the Wal Mart in Bakersfield on Thursday, and at first glance weren’t even sure there was room for us for the night, but we did finally make it work. On Friday night we stayed at El Centro Naval Air Facility. Much to our amazement, we did not even have to register our “Canadian Nationals”. The guard at the gate said he could authorize their entry for the one night. We had to stay in the overflow lot which is no big surprise considering the location of this base, but we had access to the showers and that was most important.
After some rather harrowing driving in five lanes of traffic and up and down a pass as we drove through the San Bernadino area, we arrived at Cocopah in the early afternoon on Saturday. Much to Ouseys’ amazement, the area in front of our parking spaces has been taken from trees and cacti to bare dirt. Homeland Security is footing the bill to clear the area to help deter folks from coming across the border. But we have no one in front of us, there is the freeway in the distance, and railroad tracks with lots of trains to keep us company – sort of like home.
We had two different brake warning scenarios on the last day of travel, so we were up at six this morning to get the motor home into the Workhorse dealer, where they said they could find nothing. I really did not want to get up at that hour, especially to be told they could find nothing. Time will tell.
Now this afternoon is my first chance to really get settled since we are parked permanently for the next month. I have lights, a wreath, lighted snowflakes, and poinsettias to put up. Some of the motor homes and park models have brilliant and extensive displays of Christmas.
Tomorrow we can start checking out the activities, of which there are many.
The bad news on this trip was to learn that Gary’s brother, Dennis, has been diagnosed with brain cancer. It is anticipated that a decision will be made today as to whether he is a candidate for a Gamma Knife procedure. Gary is flying to Winnipeg tomorrow to provide some moral support for a week. Gary and Dennis’ mother, age 87, is understandably distraught, so I’m sure Gary can help to calm her. We keep the family in our prayers.
Okay, I’m going to take my little memory stick to the Ousey’s and see if I can get this posted.
Ciao
Sunday, December 04, 2005
One more Sleep
We are down to the finale. I am mostly just tidying up and putting away in the house to make Craig's life easier. Ken is outside washing the motor home - and it is cold out there!!
Craig, Ken and I went downtown to La Creme Brulee last night, and I must say I was quite disappointed. The name, the accent, the ambiance were far superior to the food. It has a limited menu of only about five appetizers, five entrees, and two or three desserts.
Even though it was before seven, they were out of three of the entrees. We ordered onion soup, and it was mediocre at best. Mine was just tepid, and the soup had all the marks of being watered down. The basket of rolls looked inviting, but they tasted like they had been living in the freezer for several weeks. The wine list consists of just one wine, French, Cotes d Rhone, in all three colors, and we all three enjoyed the bottle of red wine. We chose to share a country pate which came with three little scrappy pieces of melba toast, 3 cornichons, and a half dozen broken pieces of walnut. The pate was good, but it could easily have been the French brand available at Costco. The creme brulee was the better part of the meal, but not nearly as rich as some I've had or made.
If it is still in existence when we come home next spring, we'll try it one more time.
This really is the last blog from home. Probably California next time. Ciao
Craig, Ken and I went downtown to La Creme Brulee last night, and I must say I was quite disappointed. The name, the accent, the ambiance were far superior to the food. It has a limited menu of only about five appetizers, five entrees, and two or three desserts.
Even though it was before seven, they were out of three of the entrees. We ordered onion soup, and it was mediocre at best. Mine was just tepid, and the soup had all the marks of being watered down. The basket of rolls looked inviting, but they tasted like they had been living in the freezer for several weeks. The wine list consists of just one wine, French, Cotes d Rhone, in all three colors, and we all three enjoyed the bottle of red wine. We chose to share a country pate which came with three little scrappy pieces of melba toast, 3 cornichons, and a half dozen broken pieces of walnut. The pate was good, but it could easily have been the French brand available at Costco. The creme brulee was the better part of the meal, but not nearly as rich as some I've had or made.
If it is still in existence when we come home next spring, we'll try it one more time.
This really is the last blog from home. Probably California next time. Ciao
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Two sleeps until departure
We are meeting Gary and Carolyn in Chehalis at the Wal Mart on Monday evening. That is about as far as they will get considering they leave Victoria at 10:30 and won't be on the road until after noon by the time they cross, clear customs, and hook up the car. Plus Carolyn wants to stop and shop for fresh produce and meats. I'm delighted to meet them there so I can check out the fabric shop that I have heard so much about.
We were quite taken with Cassie while she was here for dinner on Thursday. She is very poised, attractive, and nice, and didn't flinch when I told her we were have leg of lamb for dinner. She seems to have a balance of femininity and strength. She is slim with long strawberry blond hair, and wears very stylish up-to-the-minute glasses. She has a five-year-old daughter whom we would hope to meet one day. And she came bearing a beautiful bouquet of flowers!!
We have had a bit of winter. Several inches of snow fell night before last, and there are still some remnants on the lawn. Plus it has been pretty cold and staying near the freezing mark at night.
I spent some time organizing the motor home this afternoon. I have been taking basketsful out and dumping the contents so it was reckoning time. So far I have been able to cram everything in somewhere. Since we are taking Christmas gifts, warm clothes for McCall, and some of Colleen's possessions, it is getting snug in there.
We bought a new heater that should be a bit more efficient than our old one. It is an oscillating tower so I'm hoping the heat moves around better. Of course there is a chance we will have no use for it since we will staying in parking lots on the way down, and I would hope we wouldn't need it while in Arizona.
Tonight we will drop in at Creme Brulee. I just called to ask about reservations, and the owner is so french I could hardly understand him. When I asked if it was a set fixed-price menu he said, "Oh no, this is America, you can have whatever you want." And he has a license to sell beer and wine so what more could one ask for?
Keith and Janet and the girls are in Willimasburg this week end. I have tried to visit Williamsburg twice, and twice I didn't quite make it. So I will be interested to hear about their experiences.
So the next blog will probably be from somewhere in California. Ciao
We were quite taken with Cassie while she was here for dinner on Thursday. She is very poised, attractive, and nice, and didn't flinch when I told her we were have leg of lamb for dinner. She seems to have a balance of femininity and strength. She is slim with long strawberry blond hair, and wears very stylish up-to-the-minute glasses. She has a five-year-old daughter whom we would hope to meet one day. And she came bearing a beautiful bouquet of flowers!!
We have had a bit of winter. Several inches of snow fell night before last, and there are still some remnants on the lawn. Plus it has been pretty cold and staying near the freezing mark at night.
I spent some time organizing the motor home this afternoon. I have been taking basketsful out and dumping the contents so it was reckoning time. So far I have been able to cram everything in somewhere. Since we are taking Christmas gifts, warm clothes for McCall, and some of Colleen's possessions, it is getting snug in there.
We bought a new heater that should be a bit more efficient than our old one. It is an oscillating tower so I'm hoping the heat moves around better. Of course there is a chance we will have no use for it since we will staying in parking lots on the way down, and I would hope we wouldn't need it while in Arizona.
Tonight we will drop in at Creme Brulee. I just called to ask about reservations, and the owner is so french I could hardly understand him. When I asked if it was a set fixed-price menu he said, "Oh no, this is America, you can have whatever you want." And he has a license to sell beer and wine so what more could one ask for?
Keith and Janet and the girls are in Willimasburg this week end. I have tried to visit Williamsburg twice, and twice I didn't quite make it. So I will be interested to hear about their experiences.
So the next blog will probably be from somewhere in California. Ciao
Sunday, November 27, 2005
End of Thanksgiving Weekend
Now we need to prepare in earnest for out trip south. We are down to the last 8 days. I have no problem with being ready to leave, but I am still working on Christmas gifts which need to be finished for Keith's family and Craig. The rest of the family will be together so I have a bit more time. Gary and Caroline, how far do you expect to get on the fifth? We are debating whether we will leave and meet you on the fifth, or rise and shine early on the sixth and meet up with you.
Our Thanksgiving Day was very enjoyable albeit quiet. Craig, Colleen, and I engaged in a game of Scrabble to while away some time. And then we grazed on into the evening.
Colleen and I met Cinda, Linea, and Jordan in Seattle on Friday. We had lunch together and browsed through a few stores but bought nothing. I can't shop when I am with anyone. Shopping is serious business, and I need to concentrate!
Craig has a new girlfriend and she is coming to dinner on Thursday evening. I think she has been an item for a while, but we just learned about her this past week. I love her name - Cassie. Thursday is our 43rd wedding anniversary, so it will be fun to celebrate with others. I think Ken and I will try the new restaurant here in town some night this week for an anniversary dinner. It is called Creme Brulee, is in the bistro style of dining, and it is rumored that the owner is French. I'll give a full report.
Colleen is out walking Cooper. He loves to be walked, but Ken isn't a walker, and I find I can't manage him on the leash and keep myself all together. There is always a risk involved when walking him for fear there will be a dog on the loose. Steilacoom is pretty good to enforce leash laws, and it doesn't happen very often, but it is a very helpless feeling when a strange dog appears.
Dinner calls.
Ciao
Our Thanksgiving Day was very enjoyable albeit quiet. Craig, Colleen, and I engaged in a game of Scrabble to while away some time. And then we grazed on into the evening.
Colleen and I met Cinda, Linea, and Jordan in Seattle on Friday. We had lunch together and browsed through a few stores but bought nothing. I can't shop when I am with anyone. Shopping is serious business, and I need to concentrate!
Craig has a new girlfriend and she is coming to dinner on Thursday evening. I think she has been an item for a while, but we just learned about her this past week. I love her name - Cassie. Thursday is our 43rd wedding anniversary, so it will be fun to celebrate with others. I think Ken and I will try the new restaurant here in town some night this week for an anniversary dinner. It is called Creme Brulee, is in the bistro style of dining, and it is rumored that the owner is French. I'll give a full report.
Colleen is out walking Cooper. He loves to be walked, but Ken isn't a walker, and I find I can't manage him on the leash and keep myself all together. There is always a risk involved when walking him for fear there will be a dog on the loose. Steilacoom is pretty good to enforce leash laws, and it doesn't happen very often, but it is a very helpless feeling when a strange dog appears.
Dinner calls.
Ciao
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving
It is Thanksgiving eve, and all is well - the tomato aspic is prepared and in the refrigerator. It will just be Craig, Colleen, Ken, and me for dinner tomorrow. Why am I needing to make 3 pies? Well, tradition says one must have mincemeat (actually Ken says we must have mincemeat) and pumpkin, and we have huckleberries from Montana that are crying to be put into a pie to be shared.
I scored on the turkey this year. I prefer fresh to frozen, but the commissary was already out of them. However, Trader Joe’s had fresh turkeys, and all of them, regardless of size were $9.99. And they are organic, for whatever that may be worth. So tonight Mr. Turkey will get dunked in a bourbon brine to ready him for the oven tomorrow.
2 cups coarse or kosher salt
1 cup sugar
2 cups bourbon
2 gallons water
Add salt and sugar to 2 quarts of the water and heat until salt is dissolved. Combine with the remaining cold water, add the bourbon and plunk the turkey in the brine. We leave it overnight, chilled (on the back porch), then rinse and roast it in the morning.
This recipe was on last year’s Thanksgiving episode of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.
Cooper gets a bath tonight, just because. He always looks like an unmade bed, but he does look more handsome after a bath. As I was reading a website about honey, I learned that it is common for groomers to add some honey along with the shampoo when bathing a dog. Maybe we will try it. They say it makes the coat much shinier, and the stickiness of the honey goes away as soon as it is combined with the shampoo.
On that note, I will retire for the evening. Happy Thanksgiving to all and g’day to you Canadians who have already had your Thanksgiving.
Ciao
I scored on the turkey this year. I prefer fresh to frozen, but the commissary was already out of them. However, Trader Joe’s had fresh turkeys, and all of them, regardless of size were $9.99. And they are organic, for whatever that may be worth. So tonight Mr. Turkey will get dunked in a bourbon brine to ready him for the oven tomorrow.
2 cups coarse or kosher salt
1 cup sugar
2 cups bourbon
2 gallons water
Add salt and sugar to 2 quarts of the water and heat until salt is dissolved. Combine with the remaining cold water, add the bourbon and plunk the turkey in the brine. We leave it overnight, chilled (on the back porch), then rinse and roast it in the morning.
This recipe was on last year’s Thanksgiving episode of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.
Cooper gets a bath tonight, just because. He always looks like an unmade bed, but he does look more handsome after a bath. As I was reading a website about honey, I learned that it is common for groomers to add some honey along with the shampoo when bathing a dog. Maybe we will try it. They say it makes the coat much shinier, and the stickiness of the honey goes away as soon as it is combined with the shampoo.
On that note, I will retire for the evening. Happy Thanksgiving to all and g’day to you Canadians who have already had your Thanksgiving.
Ciao
Friday, November 18, 2005
We give thanks this Thanksgiving.................
for the good news that Keith will not be recalled by the Army and can resign his commission with no further obligation. Do you hear that sigh of relief? It happened with a telephone call that Keith just happened to pick up since he was home yesterday for a bite of lunch. My understanding is that since last July those who have fulfilled their military obligation and are still in the inactive reserves are not duty-bound to return to active duty. My cynical mind wants to say that President Bush and his cohorts just quietly let this one sit, but saner minds prevailed and Sheila pointed out that the military has the onerous task of changing over to a completely new digital process for tracking all military folks, and it has simply taken this long to catch up to Keith. I will not concern myself further with the process, but will just be thankful for the outcome. But my heart and my prayers go out to all families who are affected by the situation in Iraq....and Afghanistan.
We keep thinking we need to be busier to get ready to go south on about the fifth of December, but we must be more ready than we think, because we aren't busy!! I did do a bit of housekeeping, sorting, and rearranging in the motor home yesterday, but it was nothing major. I do need to give some more serious thought to Christmas. I particularly need to finish shopping for Craig since we will not be here with him at Christmas. And I want to take a string of lights, at least, for decorating the motor home in Arizona. Then there is the planning for what to take and what to wear when we go to McCall to spend Christmas with Brian, Sheila, and the boys. At least I am thinking if not doing!
We are invited to Jerry and Mary Ellen McKain's for dinner this evening, and that is always enjoyable. Jerry mixes a mean cocktail, and there is lots of good conversation throughout the evening. Ken worked for Jerry when he first went to work at Western State Hospital, and then it turned out that we moved into Steilacoom and on to the same street as the McKains.
Colleen has had three business trips in as many weeks. She was in Pasadena at the Fuller campus for each of the two previous weeks, and as of this past Wednesday she is in Nashville to observe a class to better prepare herself to write the follow-on course. She called last night and said it is cold there. But most anywhere in the US would feel cold coming from Phoenix.
The interstate just east of Snoquolmie Pass is still down to one lane each direction as a result of the latest rock slide. The DOT announced last night that the repairs will not be finished by the Thanksgiving holiday, and folks could face a 30 mile backup. Their advice is for everyone to stay put and not try to cross the state. There are two alternate passes, but they have fewer lanes, and the weather and road conditions could be a major issue for either one.
Curt, Cinda and Linea were planning to go to Spokane, driving over on Thaksgiving morning and returning Sunday evening to get Linea on a plane back to Chicago early on Monday morning, and I know that is their first choice, but I have assured them we would love to have them here with us. I am just waiting to hear from them, but knowing their schedule, I am pretty sure they won't try to get to Spokane.
To complete the sewing machine saga: Elisabeth and I went to a sewing and quilting fair last Friday, and I found the machine I wanted at a great price. So went back to the shop that I had been dealing with, told her the going price ($500 less than what she was asking) and asked if she could match it. She did! Another example of a consumable that doesn't even come close to selling for the suggested retail!! But I love the machine, and know exactly where it will live in the motor home. Of course the expenditure for the machine is only the beginning. It has been so long since I have sewn that there is a whole new world of notions and accessories, plus the price of fabric and patterns has quadrupled since I last purchased any. So I had better get busy and go shopping!!
Ciao
We keep thinking we need to be busier to get ready to go south on about the fifth of December, but we must be more ready than we think, because we aren't busy!! I did do a bit of housekeeping, sorting, and rearranging in the motor home yesterday, but it was nothing major. I do need to give some more serious thought to Christmas. I particularly need to finish shopping for Craig since we will not be here with him at Christmas. And I want to take a string of lights, at least, for decorating the motor home in Arizona. Then there is the planning for what to take and what to wear when we go to McCall to spend Christmas with Brian, Sheila, and the boys. At least I am thinking if not doing!
We are invited to Jerry and Mary Ellen McKain's for dinner this evening, and that is always enjoyable. Jerry mixes a mean cocktail, and there is lots of good conversation throughout the evening. Ken worked for Jerry when he first went to work at Western State Hospital, and then it turned out that we moved into Steilacoom and on to the same street as the McKains.
Colleen has had three business trips in as many weeks. She was in Pasadena at the Fuller campus for each of the two previous weeks, and as of this past Wednesday she is in Nashville to observe a class to better prepare herself to write the follow-on course. She called last night and said it is cold there. But most anywhere in the US would feel cold coming from Phoenix.
The interstate just east of Snoquolmie Pass is still down to one lane each direction as a result of the latest rock slide. The DOT announced last night that the repairs will not be finished by the Thanksgiving holiday, and folks could face a 30 mile backup. Their advice is for everyone to stay put and not try to cross the state. There are two alternate passes, but they have fewer lanes, and the weather and road conditions could be a major issue for either one.
Curt, Cinda and Linea were planning to go to Spokane, driving over on Thaksgiving morning and returning Sunday evening to get Linea on a plane back to Chicago early on Monday morning, and I know that is their first choice, but I have assured them we would love to have them here with us. I am just waiting to hear from them, but knowing their schedule, I am pretty sure they won't try to get to Spokane.
To complete the sewing machine saga: Elisabeth and I went to a sewing and quilting fair last Friday, and I found the machine I wanted at a great price. So went back to the shop that I had been dealing with, told her the going price ($500 less than what she was asking) and asked if she could match it. She did! Another example of a consumable that doesn't even come close to selling for the suggested retail!! But I love the machine, and know exactly where it will live in the motor home. Of course the expenditure for the machine is only the beginning. It has been so long since I have sewn that there is a whole new world of notions and accessories, plus the price of fabric and patterns has quadrupled since I last purchased any. So I had better get busy and go shopping!!
Ciao
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Birthdays, Spelling Bee, and Sewing Machines
As I sit here trying to figure out where to start, the above are what come to mind. I had a birthday luncheon yesterday for 10 women for Elisabeth's birthday. All in all in was a success, even though I was aware of little things that didn't meet my expectations. It was a fun project, but I'm glad it is over.
Grandson Warren asked his family for pledges for a spelling bee in which he was competing. So in true grandparent, aunt and uncle, and mom and dad style, they all came through and he raised the most money for his school - $53. In turn, he received a $70 gift certificate from Toys R Us.!! I think there are several of us who would like that kind of a return on our money.
I-90 near Easton has had another major rock slide which has resulted in either no traffic or one lane of traffic for the last few days. We would like to drive to Spokane to look at a piece of property, but don't know that this is the best time to do it. This is the third rock slide this year, and it makes one wonder why all of a sudden. It tends to make me not to even want to drive it.
After several weeks of research, I made a decision about a new sewing machine, and picked it up last Thursday. Within 15 minutes, I realized it could not do one of the things I expected - straight stitch in a circle as small as two inches in diameter. So I returned it on Wednesday and looked at some other possibilities. Now I think I am ready to try again. Buying a sewing machine, even limiting oneself to one brand, is like buying a mattress. Every store has a different number, or color, or model for the same item. As I am sure it is intended, it makes it virtually impossible to comparison shop. More to follow.
You might recall my tale of woe about crunching the camera case behind the slide wall in the motor home? Ken took it in last week, and the repair cost $49; yes $49. And $3 of that was for parts - staples. I didn't think it was possible to have anything done at a vehicle or RV repair facility for less than several hundred dollars. I am just relieved that there does not appear to be any structural damage to the slide that would compromise its ability to keep water out. Of course in another month, we won't have that worry for a while as we bask in the sunshine of Arizona.
Here is the soup I served at the luncheon yesterday. I thought it very good. Plus it is easy, inexpensive, and can be made the day before.
Curried Pumpkin Soup
1 large onion, sliced
3/4 cup sliced green onions, white part only
1/4 cup butter
1 16-oz can pumpkin
3 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup Muscat Canelli (I used Lairds apple brandy)
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp curry powder (or to taste, I used more)
1/8 tsp nutmeg
Several parsley sprigs
2 cups half and half
Salt and pepper
Saute` onions and scallions in butter until golden brown. Stir in pumpkin, broth, bay leaf, sugar, curry powder, nutmeg and parsley. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer soup to food processor in batches and puree. Return to pan; add half and half, salt and pepper. Simmier 5 to 10 minutes. 6 servings. I garnished it with the green onion tops, minched.
Grandson Warren asked his family for pledges for a spelling bee in which he was competing. So in true grandparent, aunt and uncle, and mom and dad style, they all came through and he raised the most money for his school - $53. In turn, he received a $70 gift certificate from Toys R Us.!! I think there are several of us who would like that kind of a return on our money.
I-90 near Easton has had another major rock slide which has resulted in either no traffic or one lane of traffic for the last few days. We would like to drive to Spokane to look at a piece of property, but don't know that this is the best time to do it. This is the third rock slide this year, and it makes one wonder why all of a sudden. It tends to make me not to even want to drive it.
After several weeks of research, I made a decision about a new sewing machine, and picked it up last Thursday. Within 15 minutes, I realized it could not do one of the things I expected - straight stitch in a circle as small as two inches in diameter. So I returned it on Wednesday and looked at some other possibilities. Now I think I am ready to try again. Buying a sewing machine, even limiting oneself to one brand, is like buying a mattress. Every store has a different number, or color, or model for the same item. As I am sure it is intended, it makes it virtually impossible to comparison shop. More to follow.
You might recall my tale of woe about crunching the camera case behind the slide wall in the motor home? Ken took it in last week, and the repair cost $49; yes $49. And $3 of that was for parts - staples. I didn't think it was possible to have anything done at a vehicle or RV repair facility for less than several hundred dollars. I am just relieved that there does not appear to be any structural damage to the slide that would compromise its ability to keep water out. Of course in another month, we won't have that worry for a while as we bask in the sunshine of Arizona.
Here is the soup I served at the luncheon yesterday. I thought it very good. Plus it is easy, inexpensive, and can be made the day before.
Curried Pumpkin Soup
1 large onion, sliced
3/4 cup sliced green onions, white part only
1/4 cup butter
1 16-oz can pumpkin
3 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup Muscat Canelli (I used Lairds apple brandy)
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp curry powder (or to taste, I used more)
1/8 tsp nutmeg
Several parsley sprigs
2 cups half and half
Salt and pepper
Saute` onions and scallions in butter until golden brown. Stir in pumpkin, broth, bay leaf, sugar, curry powder, nutmeg and parsley. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer soup to food processor in batches and puree. Return to pan; add half and half, salt and pepper. Simmier 5 to 10 minutes. 6 servings. I garnished it with the green onion tops, minched.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Wine Women and ?
This past week was a busy one. Colleen arrived on Thursday evening to join in the weekend's festivities for the Chick Fling. Friday morning had the hairdresser here for about 3 hours, to be followed by Colleen's birthday lunch. Then she and I jumped in the car and drove to Bellevue for the week end. I drove I-5 and I-405 on Friday, and drove I-405 round trip to the airport on Sunday, and I made it in record time every trip. Even on Friday, about five o'clock, we didn't have to slow down. Perhaps there are some folks who are driving less.
The Chick Fling was lots of fun. We enjoyed a lovely dinner Saturday night at the Metropolitan Grill, and spent Sunday morning reading the paper and noshing on quiche and sausage strudels.
We had briefly discussed transportation to and from dinner, but had not settled on anything. As we were getting ready to go, Cinda's collegue, Dennis, drove up in a rented van (Cinda's treat), and stood beside the open doors in his black slacks and white shirt. Dennis' profession is in education!! It was much fun. As he arrived at the restaurant, the valet handed him his claim check only to be told by Dennis that he wasn't staying, just dropping us off, and would be returning for us. So of course the valet folks recognized all of us when Dennis returned to get us.
Curt and Cinda have a lovely hot tub, so we jumped into that several times over the week end!!
After dropping Colleen and Lois at the airport Sunday afternoon, I headed for Indian John Hill rest stop on the other side of Snoqualmie Pass to meet up with Ken and proceed on to Yakima where Rod and Karen were staying. We stayed at Sportsman State Park in Yakima, and it was beautiful. There were lots of deciduous trees whose leaves had turned, but not all had fallen. So there was golden light in the trees plus a golden carpet on the ground.
There is a wine area between Yakima and the Tri Cities known as Rattlesnake Hills. Those dozen wineries have developed a "passport" and when 10 wineries have stamped your passport, you get a corkscrew or wine glass and are entered into a drawing for an empty wine barrel. Quite a clever marketing endeavor, and we did our best to visit all. The one or two we missed; we have visited before.
We enjoyed our time with Rod and Karen and spent some time discussing winter trips down south. They are going for the months of January and February, but are not inclined to stay for more than one week in any one place, so we will meet up with them occasionally throughout the winter.
Gary and Carolyn - your cupboard doors arrived today so if we don't see you before, we will have them with us when we get to Cocopah. Do we need to open the box to be sure you got what you were expecting?
Brian and Sheila gave me puzzle books for my birthday; a New York Times crossword dictionary and a book of Sudoku puzzles. If I didn't know better, I would think they were being cruel. Those puzzles are addictive, even though they are thoroughyly frustrating. You have probably seen them in your newspapers. They are simply based on the numbers one through nine, with each number appearing just once in each row, both horizontally and vertically. It is all logic, but when over half the numbers are missing, it is difficult to find the logic.
And a lovely box of cut flowers arrived from Keith and Janet today. My kids ease the distress of growing another year older!
And on a closing note: I am so glad Harriet and George took my advice!!!!
Ciao
The Chick Fling was lots of fun. We enjoyed a lovely dinner Saturday night at the Metropolitan Grill, and spent Sunday morning reading the paper and noshing on quiche and sausage strudels.
We had briefly discussed transportation to and from dinner, but had not settled on anything. As we were getting ready to go, Cinda's collegue, Dennis, drove up in a rented van (Cinda's treat), and stood beside the open doors in his black slacks and white shirt. Dennis' profession is in education!! It was much fun. As he arrived at the restaurant, the valet handed him his claim check only to be told by Dennis that he wasn't staying, just dropping us off, and would be returning for us. So of course the valet folks recognized all of us when Dennis returned to get us.
Curt and Cinda have a lovely hot tub, so we jumped into that several times over the week end!!
After dropping Colleen and Lois at the airport Sunday afternoon, I headed for Indian John Hill rest stop on the other side of Snoqualmie Pass to meet up with Ken and proceed on to Yakima where Rod and Karen were staying. We stayed at Sportsman State Park in Yakima, and it was beautiful. There were lots of deciduous trees whose leaves had turned, but not all had fallen. So there was golden light in the trees plus a golden carpet on the ground.
There is a wine area between Yakima and the Tri Cities known as Rattlesnake Hills. Those dozen wineries have developed a "passport" and when 10 wineries have stamped your passport, you get a corkscrew or wine glass and are entered into a drawing for an empty wine barrel. Quite a clever marketing endeavor, and we did our best to visit all. The one or two we missed; we have visited before.
We enjoyed our time with Rod and Karen and spent some time discussing winter trips down south. They are going for the months of January and February, but are not inclined to stay for more than one week in any one place, so we will meet up with them occasionally throughout the winter.
Gary and Carolyn - your cupboard doors arrived today so if we don't see you before, we will have them with us when we get to Cocopah. Do we need to open the box to be sure you got what you were expecting?
Brian and Sheila gave me puzzle books for my birthday; a New York Times crossword dictionary and a book of Sudoku puzzles. If I didn't know better, I would think they were being cruel. Those puzzles are addictive, even though they are thoroughyly frustrating. You have probably seen them in your newspapers. They are simply based on the numbers one through nine, with each number appearing just once in each row, both horizontally and vertically. It is all logic, but when over half the numbers are missing, it is difficult to find the logic.
And a lovely box of cut flowers arrived from Keith and Janet today. My kids ease the distress of growing another year older!
And on a closing note: I am so glad Harriet and George took my advice!!!!
Ciao
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Pennywise and pound-foolish
I needed a small table for a plant in the corner of our shower and while at IKEA last week, I found one. It was okay except it was orange, but I figured I could paint it and with a search on the internet, I found the primer and paint products I would need to make this happen. I sprayed the primer without incident, and yesterday I created a "paint booth" on the back porch to spray on the burgundy paint. At some point, the sprayer lost its mind and applied a whisper of burgundy paint over an area of at least 180 degrees, if not more. Now I had paint spray on the cabinet, the floor, the recycling bins, and me!!! The cleanup process took forever, and I doubt the floor will ever be the same (not that it was much to start with). To apply mineral spirits or paint thinner only thinned and spread it, so it was a process of one swipe, change towels, and another swipe.
Ken very kindly came to my rescue, but in the process of moving a heavy chest, he jammed his big toe and it immediately turned blue under the nail. We are still waiting to see what it is going to do. The final act was to send Ken to the garbage can with the table, the paint, and the full wastebasket - including throwing away the disfigured wastebasket.
On a happier note, I had a lovely day with Elisabeth on Tuesday. We did not drive to Chehalis, but I met her in Gig Harbor where she treated me to lunch and we visited not one, but two quilt shops. I did not escape without buying something, but it was very small and insignificant. But I did spend some time talking to the shop owner about the merits of Pfaff sewing machines!!
I am off to the Olympia Farmers' Market since we garnered such a lovely bunch of produce last week. Colleen's birthday was last week, but she has requested her birthday meal while here tomorrow so I need to ingredients for stew and apple crisp. That, along with homemade bread, is her all-time favorite meal.
Here is a recipe I discovered in our Sunday paper. I have prepared it twice because (a) it is so easy, and (2) Ken loves it. Enjoy. Ciao
Roasted Pears with Caramel Sauce (what could be easier?)
4 Tbs butter
1 cup brown sugar
4 pears, halved and cored
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup toasted nuts
Heat oven to 400. Place butter in baking dish large enough to hold the pears in a single layer, set in the heating oven until butter melts. Sprinkle sugar over melted butter, then place pears, cut side down, on top. Bake until tender, about 30 minutes. Remove pan from oven, turn over pears and baste with pan sauce. Return to oven, bake until golden and glossy, about 10 minutes. Let cool slightly. Transfer pears to dessert plates or bowls. Top each with a dollop of sour cream, drizzle with caramel pan sauce, sprinkle with nuts and serve. Helen's version: I added a splash of white port to the butter and brown sugar mixture and topped the pears with a bit of shredded coconut along with the sour cream and nuts (I used almonds).
Ken very kindly came to my rescue, but in the process of moving a heavy chest, he jammed his big toe and it immediately turned blue under the nail. We are still waiting to see what it is going to do. The final act was to send Ken to the garbage can with the table, the paint, and the full wastebasket - including throwing away the disfigured wastebasket.
On a happier note, I had a lovely day with Elisabeth on Tuesday. We did not drive to Chehalis, but I met her in Gig Harbor where she treated me to lunch and we visited not one, but two quilt shops. I did not escape without buying something, but it was very small and insignificant. But I did spend some time talking to the shop owner about the merits of Pfaff sewing machines!!
I am off to the Olympia Farmers' Market since we garnered such a lovely bunch of produce last week. Colleen's birthday was last week, but she has requested her birthday meal while here tomorrow so I need to ingredients for stew and apple crisp. That, along with homemade bread, is her all-time favorite meal.
Here is a recipe I discovered in our Sunday paper. I have prepared it twice because (a) it is so easy, and (2) Ken loves it. Enjoy. Ciao
Roasted Pears with Caramel Sauce (what could be easier?)
4 Tbs butter
1 cup brown sugar
4 pears, halved and cored
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup toasted nuts
Heat oven to 400. Place butter in baking dish large enough to hold the pears in a single layer, set in the heating oven until butter melts. Sprinkle sugar over melted butter, then place pears, cut side down, on top. Bake until tender, about 30 minutes. Remove pan from oven, turn over pears and baste with pan sauce. Return to oven, bake until golden and glossy, about 10 minutes. Let cool slightly. Transfer pears to dessert plates or bowls. Top each with a dollop of sour cream, drizzle with caramel pan sauce, sprinkle with nuts and serve. Helen's version: I added a splash of white port to the butter and brown sugar mixture and topped the pears with a bit of shredded coconut along with the sour cream and nuts (I used almonds).
Monday, October 17, 2005
Merry Monday
All is quiet here. Ken is outside raking up huge piles of maple leaves. We have one huge maple tree that shelters the tree house, and it drops about a gazillion leaves this time of year. They are quite lovely to look at until it rains when they all turn to brown mush.
My friend, Elisabeth, called and suggested lunch tomorrow. So I think we will start early and visit a fabric shop in Chehalis before we have lunch. I have never been to "Sister's", but it is supposed to have fabric galore. And I am sure we will find some delightful place for lunch.
Speaking of lunch, there is a little shop getting ready to open in "downtown" Steilacoom - "Creme Brulee". A peek in the window offered snippets of a French bistro with banquettes against the walls, colorful wooden chairs, checkered tablecloths, and various French posters and decorations. There was also an application for a liquor license taped to the door, so it all looks very promising. It is rumored that the proprietor is French!
Carolyn Ousey called this morning to check in before they head to Winnipeg to visit family. We talked about a route and stopping places for our trek south the first part of December. She and Gary have made this trip a time or two so they know all the good Wal Marts and casinos to overnight. Ken really wants to spend some time in California, San Diego and San Luis Obispo, so I guess we need to figure out those pieces.
I did read that Bon Appetite magazine, and did see one or two promising recipes, but I'll try them first to see if they are worthy of being passed.
Ken is on the phone with the garage that is providing a second opinion on the ills of the Jetta, so I'll have a full report in my next blog. Ciao.
Craig came to pick up his mail yesterday and stayed for dinner. He still feels like he is floundering in his new job. Isn't that how all new jobs feel? Plus his manager and his mentor have both been away. Not an easy way to learn the ropes.
I spent a couple of hours at the local mall this afternoon and succeeded in coming home empty-handed. I really couldn't think of much of anything I needed, and the one or two things I had in mind I couldn't find. Of course the stores all have their Christmas departments fully decked out. I just looked the other way and walked on by.
My friend, Elisabeth, called and suggested lunch tomorrow. So I think we will start early and visit a fabric shop in Chehalis before we have lunch. I have never been to "Sister's", but it is supposed to have fabric galore. And I am sure we will find some delightful place for lunch.
Speaking of lunch, there is a little shop getting ready to open in "downtown" Steilacoom - "Creme Brulee". A peek in the window offered snippets of a French bistro with banquettes against the walls, colorful wooden chairs, checkered tablecloths, and various French posters and decorations. There was also an application for a liquor license taped to the door, so it all looks very promising. It is rumored that the proprietor is French!
Carolyn Ousey called this morning to check in before they head to Winnipeg to visit family. We talked about a route and stopping places for our trek south the first part of December. She and Gary have made this trip a time or two so they know all the good Wal Marts and casinos to overnight. Ken really wants to spend some time in California, San Diego and San Luis Obispo, so I guess we need to figure out those pieces.
I did read that Bon Appetite magazine, and did see one or two promising recipes, but I'll try them first to see if they are worthy of being passed.
Ken is on the phone with the garage that is providing a second opinion on the ills of the Jetta, so I'll have a full report in my next blog. Ciao.
Craig came to pick up his mail yesterday and stayed for dinner. He still feels like he is floundering in his new job. Isn't that how all new jobs feel? Plus his manager and his mentor have both been away. Not an easy way to learn the ropes.
I spent a couple of hours at the local mall this afternoon and succeeded in coming home empty-handed. I really couldn't think of much of anything I needed, and the one or two things I had in mind I couldn't find. Of course the stores all have their Christmas departments fully decked out. I just looked the other way and walked on by.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
I am not a Democrat..
nor am I a diehard Republican - the issue with Miers and Bush is Bush!!! And as I read more and more, my word, crony, pops up often.
I had to take the Jetta in for some more warranty work to replace the passenger seat mechanism. But this is a great dealership, and as long as we ask ahead of time, we can get a loaner car. So I took my friend Elisabeth, and we went to IKEA for the day. I LOVE THAT STORE!! I only bought three or four small items, but of course we walked the entire store and stopped in the restaurant for lunch.
Yesterday was Collen's birthday. Our main gift was a plane ticket to come up the week end of the 21st for the Chick Fling. But I did make a small pieced table topper that I wanted to send to her. I missed the post office opening on Saturday, so decided I would send it Federal Express, overnight. It weighed less than one pound and was a small box..................$38 it cost. Gift-giving just became money and gift cards. No more shipping and mailing.
I am ready for fall and Thanksgiving with a small arrangement of dried colored corn, and a wreath on the front door with silk sunflowers! And since we will be leaving the first of December, the Christmas decorations will stay tucked away for the year.
Mike and Mary are planning to be in Phoenix the middle of December to visit his half sister, Martha, so we will drive up from Yuma to see them. Then a bit later we will leave Yuma to spend Christmas with Brian and Sheila and the boys at their condo in McCall. Only to return to Yuma in time for the Schulers to join us for the annual week between Christmas and New Years.
I just received the November issue of Bon Appetite, so I need to go study up on all the recipes for Thanksgiving, in case I need to cook! If I find anything that looks outstanding, I'll pass it along in my next blog. Ciao
I had to take the Jetta in for some more warranty work to replace the passenger seat mechanism. But this is a great dealership, and as long as we ask ahead of time, we can get a loaner car. So I took my friend Elisabeth, and we went to IKEA for the day. I LOVE THAT STORE!! I only bought three or four small items, but of course we walked the entire store and stopped in the restaurant for lunch.
Yesterday was Collen's birthday. Our main gift was a plane ticket to come up the week end of the 21st for the Chick Fling. But I did make a small pieced table topper that I wanted to send to her. I missed the post office opening on Saturday, so decided I would send it Federal Express, overnight. It weighed less than one pound and was a small box..................$38 it cost. Gift-giving just became money and gift cards. No more shipping and mailing.
I am ready for fall and Thanksgiving with a small arrangement of dried colored corn, and a wreath on the front door with silk sunflowers! And since we will be leaving the first of December, the Christmas decorations will stay tucked away for the year.
Mike and Mary are planning to be in Phoenix the middle of December to visit his half sister, Martha, so we will drive up from Yuma to see them. Then a bit later we will leave Yuma to spend Christmas with Brian and Sheila and the boys at their condo in McCall. Only to return to Yuma in time for the Schulers to join us for the annual week between Christmas and New Years.
I just received the November issue of Bon Appetite, so I need to go study up on all the recipes for Thanksgiving, in case I need to cook! If I find anything that looks outstanding, I'll pass it along in my next blog. Ciao
Thursday, October 06, 2005
No Dishwasher?!
Nope. The $1.3M motor home did not have a dishwasher. Heck, even the little old cheap (~$185K) Winnebago had a dishwasher). But the big guy had a full sized Bosch washer and dryer!! I can only think of two items that caught my eye at this years’ show: The feature of the year seems to be a pull-out counter that provides extra working or serving space in the kitchen area. It slides out from under the fixed countertop so therefore is about one inch lower than the counter, but you just about need a double slide to accommodate it. I liked the concept and it would provide about 2 square feet of extra counter space.
Bounder had a modest-sized motor home somewhere around 35 feet that had a toilet and lavatory in the mid section, but across the back end in the bedroom was a vanity that ran the width of the coach with a shower at one end. I liked it! One salesman asked if we had found the coach of our dreams, and I said, “Yes, it is parked at home in the driveway.”
Road Treks are quite the compact little van, complete with shower, toilet, two-burner stove and sleeping space for four – all in a van. One of the options is the spare tire cover that can be raised and pivoted to provide a surface for a small gas grill. But one could buy a modest Class C motor home for the same price.
There, you have the promised report on the annual RV show. Tune in again next year at this time!
Ciao
Bounder had a modest-sized motor home somewhere around 35 feet that had a toilet and lavatory in the mid section, but across the back end in the bedroom was a vanity that ran the width of the coach with a shower at one end. I liked it! One salesman asked if we had found the coach of our dreams, and I said, “Yes, it is parked at home in the driveway.”
Road Treks are quite the compact little van, complete with shower, toilet, two-burner stove and sleeping space for four – all in a van. One of the options is the spare tire cover that can be raised and pivoted to provide a surface for a small gas grill. But one could buy a modest Class C motor home for the same price.
There, you have the promised report on the annual RV show. Tune in again next year at this time!
Ciao
It was a dark and cloudy morning
But I am up, dressed, and halfway through my first cup of coffee and the paper. The season is starting off as it should with a day or two of clouds and rain, a little clearing and a day or two of clouds and rain. I always say I don't mind the clouds and rain, but I am almost euphoric when we travel to places with lots of sunshine such as eastern Washington, western Montana, and down south. I think I like the sense of staying inside and cozy, but it isn't so great outside when it is dark and dreary.
Yesterday was the start of the Tacoma RV show, so we will go today to see what is new. And I do mean see, not buy. I especially enjoy the various vendors who are hawking such wonderful items as 100% vinyl/plastic/manmade material doormats at $75/each and decorated with various gaudy designs!! But once in a while there is a product that generates some interest, and could actually be useful. I'll give a full report later.
Craig came for dinner last night. Now that he has changed jobs and works in downtown Tacoma, we don't get to see him for lunch every once in a while. I don't think he has been able to make much of an assessment about the new job since he has done and seen little so far, and the training phase has not really begun. An interesting note is that Cinda is frequently called as an expert witness for a company that is in direct competition with OSC where Craig is working. Both companies manage L&I claims, but I doubt this situation will have a negative impact on the cousins' relationship.
Another Jetta glitch. We recently found a spring lying on the floor on the passenger's side, and upon inquiring of the VW service department, were told that it is a common failure, a recall, and they have to replace the 'seating system'; whatever that is. Again under warranty. At this rate, the entire car will have been replaced by the time it hits 75,000 miles. So far most everything has been warranty work, but that is going to run out, and then what? I'll keep baking cookies for the service department in the hope that they will keep fixing. When that ends, we'll buy a Honda!
And what do you make of Harriet Miers (I'm not even sure of the spelling, let alone her)? I don't have a problem with the fact that she has not been a judge, but I do have a major problem with the fact that it SMACKS of Bush cronyism and manipulation. His philosophy of selecting folks whom no one knows anything about needs to be put to a stop. Unfortunately, there are more voting Republicans than Democrats.
Back to my paper.
Ciao
Yesterday was the start of the Tacoma RV show, so we will go today to see what is new. And I do mean see, not buy. I especially enjoy the various vendors who are hawking such wonderful items as 100% vinyl/plastic/manmade material doormats at $75/each and decorated with various gaudy designs!! But once in a while there is a product that generates some interest, and could actually be useful. I'll give a full report later.
Craig came for dinner last night. Now that he has changed jobs and works in downtown Tacoma, we don't get to see him for lunch every once in a while. I don't think he has been able to make much of an assessment about the new job since he has done and seen little so far, and the training phase has not really begun. An interesting note is that Cinda is frequently called as an expert witness for a company that is in direct competition with OSC where Craig is working. Both companies manage L&I claims, but I doubt this situation will have a negative impact on the cousins' relationship.
Another Jetta glitch. We recently found a spring lying on the floor on the passenger's side, and upon inquiring of the VW service department, were told that it is a common failure, a recall, and they have to replace the 'seating system'; whatever that is. Again under warranty. At this rate, the entire car will have been replaced by the time it hits 75,000 miles. So far most everything has been warranty work, but that is going to run out, and then what? I'll keep baking cookies for the service department in the hope that they will keep fixing. When that ends, we'll buy a Honda!
And what do you make of Harriet Miers (I'm not even sure of the spelling, let alone her)? I don't have a problem with the fact that she has not been a judge, but I do have a major problem with the fact that it SMACKS of Bush cronyism and manipulation. His philosophy of selecting folks whom no one knows anything about needs to be put to a stop. Unfortunately, there are more voting Republicans than Democrats.
Back to my paper.
Ciao
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Note the green bell pepper
I just did an edit on the previous blog; to add one bell pepper to the recipe for pulled pork!!
We have stayed home all weekend with Ken getting his football hit, and me.........working on my quilting project. I did walk yesterday, but it is dark and drizzly today, so I will stay in.
I had been trying to reach Colleen since we returned home on Thursday and was beginning to get concerned when she called yesterday. Seems I had forgotten that she had a business trip to Pasadena coming up, and she managed to add a stay in Las Vegas on the way. So she and a friend have spent the week end lounging by the pool and gambling the requisite $20. She goes on to Pasadena this afternoon for two days of meetings at the main campus and then returns to Phoenix on Wednesday.
Lois, Cinda, Colleen, maybe Calla, and I are planning a Chick Fling the last week end in October. We did something similar two years ago when we all went to Portland to celebrate Lois' birthday. We considered various places for this year, but decided Cinda's lovely home in Bellevue would be perfect since Curt has a business trip and won't be around to have to put up with us. We figure the money we save on hotel rooms and plane fare can be put towards a catered dinner, massages and pedicures, good booze and limousine service. I suggested we smoke cigars and watch dirty movies, but no one has taken me up on that one! What generation gap?
This was Homecoming weekend at the University of Maryland, and Sarah was going to take Rachel to the game, so I'll be anxious for this evening's phone call to hear all about it. Ken suggested Rachel should attend all the games since UofM won yesterday. Keith has been attending the games, so I suspect he was there yesterday. Between a friend who is in management for Coca Cola who frequently offers box seats and catered food, and the neighbor who is the UofM golf pro, he has fared quite well for golf and sporting events at school.
Speaking of food; I need to finish dinner - the Sunday dinner of our childhoods - pot roast, mashed potatoes and gravy and carrots.
Ciao
The coming week looks quiet with no appointments for anything to be repaired.....not us, nor the car nor the motor home. Whoopee, we can stay home.
We have stayed home all weekend with Ken getting his football hit, and me.........working on my quilting project. I did walk yesterday, but it is dark and drizzly today, so I will stay in.
I had been trying to reach Colleen since we returned home on Thursday and was beginning to get concerned when she called yesterday. Seems I had forgotten that she had a business trip to Pasadena coming up, and she managed to add a stay in Las Vegas on the way. So she and a friend have spent the week end lounging by the pool and gambling the requisite $20. She goes on to Pasadena this afternoon for two days of meetings at the main campus and then returns to Phoenix on Wednesday.
Lois, Cinda, Colleen, maybe Calla, and I are planning a Chick Fling the last week end in October. We did something similar two years ago when we all went to Portland to celebrate Lois' birthday. We considered various places for this year, but decided Cinda's lovely home in Bellevue would be perfect since Curt has a business trip and won't be around to have to put up with us. We figure the money we save on hotel rooms and plane fare can be put towards a catered dinner, massages and pedicures, good booze and limousine service. I suggested we smoke cigars and watch dirty movies, but no one has taken me up on that one! What generation gap?
This was Homecoming weekend at the University of Maryland, and Sarah was going to take Rachel to the game, so I'll be anxious for this evening's phone call to hear all about it. Ken suggested Rachel should attend all the games since UofM won yesterday. Keith has been attending the games, so I suspect he was there yesterday. Between a friend who is in management for Coca Cola who frequently offers box seats and catered food, and the neighbor who is the UofM golf pro, he has fared quite well for golf and sporting events at school.
Speaking of food; I need to finish dinner - the Sunday dinner of our childhoods - pot roast, mashed potatoes and gravy and carrots.
Ciao
The coming week looks quiet with no appointments for anything to be repaired.....not us, nor the car nor the motor home. Whoopee, we can stay home.
Friday, September 30, 2005
Double Trouble
I'm sorry about the double post, but I guess all of us have had some quirk with our blog at some point.
We returned from Pacific Beach yesterday after an enjoyable three days. The tides were very low, but the wind and rain came in on Wednesday night and created a fair bit of noise and motion. The motor home definitely catches the wind! We drove to Lake Quinault Lodge on the southern edge of the Hoh Rain Forest and Karen and Rod treated us to lunch. We did avail ourselves of a short 1/2 mile trail that took us through some lovely old-growth forest along with the evidence of years of fallen trees.
There is no cell phone service for us at Pacific Beach, and of course no internet, so one does truly "get away from it all".
We have nothing coming up on our calendar. The Spragues have invited us to join them for a day or two of wine tasting in the Yakima Valley along towards the end of October, and I suspect we will take them up on it.
We received delightful thank you notes from Nolan and Warren for the trip to Yellowstone. Delightful except that little brother Warren regretted that big brother Nolan wasn't eaten by a bear. Spoken like a true little brother. Sheila sent along a copy of the Gunfighter which is the newspaper for the base. There was a photo of Brian and Sheila embracing upon his return from deployment, and a wonderful photo of Nolan holding up his sign that said, "I missed you Dad."
Colleen and I are about to enter into dueling crossword puzzles. She gave me a date book for 2006 that contains 52 NY Times puzzles - and she has the same. My only stipulation is that we remove the answer sheets so we are not tempted to look at the answers. At least not until both of us are totally stumped. I know from experience that it can take me the full week or more to finish one of those.
Here is an easy slow cooker recipe:
Pulled Pork for sandwiches
3# boneless pork shoulder
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/2" squares
2 large onions, sliced
1 bottle Kraft barbeque sauce
Helen's version: add a spoonful of beef or chicken base to bolster the meat flavor and a splash or two of wine - red or white.
Cook on low for about 7 hours. Remove meat, shred, and return to the sauce. If you want more onion flavor, you could add 1 package Lipton Dry Onion Soup Mix.
Ciao
We returned from Pacific Beach yesterday after an enjoyable three days. The tides were very low, but the wind and rain came in on Wednesday night and created a fair bit of noise and motion. The motor home definitely catches the wind! We drove to Lake Quinault Lodge on the southern edge of the Hoh Rain Forest and Karen and Rod treated us to lunch. We did avail ourselves of a short 1/2 mile trail that took us through some lovely old-growth forest along with the evidence of years of fallen trees.
There is no cell phone service for us at Pacific Beach, and of course no internet, so one does truly "get away from it all".
We have nothing coming up on our calendar. The Spragues have invited us to join them for a day or two of wine tasting in the Yakima Valley along towards the end of October, and I suspect we will take them up on it.
We received delightful thank you notes from Nolan and Warren for the trip to Yellowstone. Delightful except that little brother Warren regretted that big brother Nolan wasn't eaten by a bear. Spoken like a true little brother. Sheila sent along a copy of the Gunfighter which is the newspaper for the base. There was a photo of Brian and Sheila embracing upon his return from deployment, and a wonderful photo of Nolan holding up his sign that said, "I missed you Dad."
Colleen and I are about to enter into dueling crossword puzzles. She gave me a date book for 2006 that contains 52 NY Times puzzles - and she has the same. My only stipulation is that we remove the answer sheets so we are not tempted to look at the answers. At least not until both of us are totally stumped. I know from experience that it can take me the full week or more to finish one of those.
Here is an easy slow cooker recipe:
Pulled Pork for sandwiches
3# boneless pork shoulder
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/2" squares
2 large onions, sliced
1 bottle Kraft barbeque sauce
Helen's version: add a spoonful of beef or chicken base to bolster the meat flavor and a splash or two of wine - red or white.
Cook on low for about 7 hours. Remove meat, shred, and return to the sauce. If you want more onion flavor, you could add 1 package Lipton Dry Onion Soup Mix.
Ciao
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