It's Thursday morning and raining here in Hoover, but the last two days have been gorgeous, especially since we had a great visit with Fred and Pat.
Yesterday morning they picked us up and took us to a couple botanical gardens in the area. Although the gardens won't be in full bloom for another few weeks, there were still plenty of early bloomers to see. Besides, the walk in the sun was welcome, since they have had lots of rain here in Alabama. We had burgers at 5 Guys, really good, and ended up at Fred's house where we chatted till late in the evening. Fred is a collector of many things and a gadget freak. I really enjoyed seeing his collections and, of course, his gadgets. 'He who dies with the most toys wins' comes to mind when we visit Fred, and I must admit, Fred WINS! Fred and Pat took us back to the campground and we said our farewells.
We are getting ready to head on over to Jacksonville, AL later this morning and visit with Janie's sisters and brother. Janie and Jim are also there from their home in NC, so it will be a fun reunion.
Sorry about the pictures, or lack thereof, but we've just been too busy. I'll work on getting some posted while in Jacksonville.
Till then, take care, have fun and be safe.
Ron & Barb
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Austin, TX and Hoover, AL
You may be wondering what these two cities have in common. Well, both have an old IBM buddy. Gary in Austin and Fred in Hoover.
We left the rest stop north of Corpus Christi early Sunday morning, March 21, and made our way toward Austin. We pulled into a Walmart in the early afternoon and Gary and Joyce met us there and took us to their beautiful home. We had not seen each other since Gary and Joyce left Bethlehem in 1972. We had a fun time reminiscing about the good old days and the fun we had way back then and got caught up on each others families. They then treated us to a great barbeque dinner at the County Line restaurant, followed by a tour of Austin. More reminiscing back at the motorhome before, sadly, we said our farewells and promised to see each other next time they come back east.
Monday morning, March 22, we left Austin via I35 north till we ran into I20 east and headed toward Alabama. We drove over 500 miles before calling it a day in Vicksburg, Mississippi.
This morning we drove through Mississippi and finally landed in Hoover, AL at the Birmingham South Campground. My buddy Fred and his wife Pat met us at the campground and, after a bit of reminiscing since we had seen them in 2007, we went for a fine Italian dinner at Joe's Italian restaurant where we stuffed ourselves. Tomorrow we'll be doing some sightseeing and picture taking with them.
We will be leaving here Thursday for Jacksonville, AL.
QUIZ ALERT: G.O. What is the blue ghost and how did it get its name?
Ron & Barb
We left the rest stop north of Corpus Christi early Sunday morning, March 21, and made our way toward Austin. We pulled into a Walmart in the early afternoon and Gary and Joyce met us there and took us to their beautiful home. We had not seen each other since Gary and Joyce left Bethlehem in 1972. We had a fun time reminiscing about the good old days and the fun we had way back then and got caught up on each others families. They then treated us to a great barbeque dinner at the County Line restaurant, followed by a tour of Austin. More reminiscing back at the motorhome before, sadly, we said our farewells and promised to see each other next time they come back east.
Monday morning, March 22, we left Austin via I35 north till we ran into I20 east and headed toward Alabama. We drove over 500 miles before calling it a day in Vicksburg, Mississippi.
This morning we drove through Mississippi and finally landed in Hoover, AL at the Birmingham South Campground. My buddy Fred and his wife Pat met us at the campground and, after a bit of reminiscing since we had seen them in 2007, we went for a fine Italian dinner at Joe's Italian restaurant where we stuffed ourselves. Tomorrow we'll be doing some sightseeing and picture taking with them.
We will be leaving here Thursday for Jacksonville, AL.
QUIZ ALERT: G.O. What is the blue ghost and how did it get its name?
Ron & Barb
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Corpus Christi
We're stopped for the night at a rest stop halfway between Corpus Christi and San Antonio, and we have wifi! We left Corpus Christi about 5:30 and were planning on getting close to Austin before shutting down for the night. However, Mother Nature had different ideas. The 78 miles I drove from CC to this rest area was difficult and tiring because of the wind. It's blowing so hard, even the birds are walking.
We had a good time in Corpus Christi. Friday afternoon when we arrived at our WalMart campground, we took the Tracker down to the waterfront to check things out. We were going to take a sunset cruise around the harbor, but it was too windy to take the boat out. So we had a delicious seafood dinner at Landry's (don't know if it is Tom Landry's restaurant) on the waterfront. We found our way back to our moho and hit the hay.
Today, Saturday, March 20, we had a big IHOP breakfast before going to the South Texas Botanical Gardens. It was somewhat disappointing because we were too early in the season. Not many flowers in bloom yet. We then drove across the bay to the Lexington aircraft carrier of WWII fame and spent a couple hours touring it. VERY interesting. During our visit, heavy rain and wind moved in, and it got much cooler. As I write this at about 8:30 cst, it is about 46 degrees.
Not far from the Lexington is the Texas State Aquarium. We stood in a long line in the blowing rain till finally we got in. It was not the largest or most interesting aquarium we have seen, but it was nice and had lots of stuff for kids.
After leaving the aquarium, we were on our way back to the moho to leave when I decided to go out on Padre Island. It is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. Not much to see this time of the year except marshland and, of course the Gulf of Mexico. We stopped at the information center and looked around and as we were about to leave, Barb stuck her head in a door marked Auditorium. From inside came a voice yelling 'Come on in and have hot dogs and Frito pie'. A group called CCA (Coastline Conservation Association) was having a cleanup day and had put on more food than they could consume, so they were inviting everyone in. Of course, loving Fritos and not knowing what a Frito pie was, I was more than willing to find out. It was REALLY good as were the all beef Texas hot dogs. That got Barb off the hook for cooking supper.
That brings us to where we are now. I was going to go through more pics to post, but our days are so busy and long, we usually are very tired when we finally get back to the moho for the night. I apologize for not getting more pics up, but that is the reason. Hopefully soon we can take a day off from our busy schedule and get some work done.
Till then, you'll have to visualize what we see from the written word.
Ron & Barb
We had a good time in Corpus Christi. Friday afternoon when we arrived at our WalMart campground, we took the Tracker down to the waterfront to check things out. We were going to take a sunset cruise around the harbor, but it was too windy to take the boat out. So we had a delicious seafood dinner at Landry's (don't know if it is Tom Landry's restaurant) on the waterfront. We found our way back to our moho and hit the hay.
Today, Saturday, March 20, we had a big IHOP breakfast before going to the South Texas Botanical Gardens. It was somewhat disappointing because we were too early in the season. Not many flowers in bloom yet. We then drove across the bay to the Lexington aircraft carrier of WWII fame and spent a couple hours touring it. VERY interesting. During our visit, heavy rain and wind moved in, and it got much cooler. As I write this at about 8:30 cst, it is about 46 degrees.
Not far from the Lexington is the Texas State Aquarium. We stood in a long line in the blowing rain till finally we got in. It was not the largest or most interesting aquarium we have seen, but it was nice and had lots of stuff for kids.
After leaving the aquarium, we were on our way back to the moho to leave when I decided to go out on Padre Island. It is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world. Not much to see this time of the year except marshland and, of course the Gulf of Mexico. We stopped at the information center and looked around and as we were about to leave, Barb stuck her head in a door marked Auditorium. From inside came a voice yelling 'Come on in and have hot dogs and Frito pie'. A group called CCA (Coastline Conservation Association) was having a cleanup day and had put on more food than they could consume, so they were inviting everyone in. Of course, loving Fritos and not knowing what a Frito pie was, I was more than willing to find out. It was REALLY good as were the all beef Texas hot dogs. That got Barb off the hook for cooking supper.
That brings us to where we are now. I was going to go through more pics to post, but our days are so busy and long, we usually are very tired when we finally get back to the moho for the night. I apologize for not getting more pics up, but that is the reason. Hopefully soon we can take a day off from our busy schedule and get some work done.
Till then, you'll have to visualize what we see from the written word.
Ron & Barb
Friday, March 19, 2010
Riverwalk, San Antonio
Wow, I don't know where to start. After hearing how great the Riverwalk is, we had to find out for ourselves. Well, it lived up to its reputation and more. After a somewhat frustrating drive around downtown San Antonio looking for it, we finally found an excellent parking lot just across the street from one of many stairs leading down to the river. It was hard to see because the river is below street level and occasionally we would get a glimpse of it as we drove around. The weather, however, was perfect.
Once down on the Riverwalk, it was like a whole different world from up on the street. What a gorgeous place. There are shops, restaurants and boats taking tourists for rides up and down the river. Many trees and shady places to rest... and did I mention restaurants? There are many different cuisines, including Tex-Mex. We had lunch at Rita's (short for margaritas) and was serenaded by a mariachi band on our anniversary. Great food at quite reasonable prices. We visited an old part of town, La Villita (Little Village) up at street level where there are many old buildings and plenty of artsy type shops. We took the boat tour, which was neat and resting as well as informative. We wandered around on the other side of the river for a while, and before we knew it, it was time for dinner. We checked out several different resturants before deciding on Rita's again. This time we tried their chicken enchiladas, and they were delicious, not too hot.
After dinner, we headed back up on the street and walked a couple blocks to the Alamo. When we had passed it in the morning drive, there was a line for blocks waiting to get in. When we got there, it was closed, but there were still many people around it. We got some pictures and historical info from rangers/guides and managed to get pictures inside the compound. It is spring break, so the crowds are very big.
We then sat in the Alamo square a while and watched the horse and buggies go by. Barb had always wanted to go for a ride in one, soooo, since it was our anniversary, I gave in. $40 gets you a twenty minute ride around town with some interesting narrative by the driver. It was really neat.
Afterwards, we went back down to the Riverwalk for ice cream and just sat and watched the people and scenery as the sun set and the lights began to come on. Around 8:00 pm we decided to leave and head back to the campground. After eight or more hours of walking around the Riverwalk, (glad they don't call it the Riverrun) we were ready for bed. It was quite a memorable day.
This morning is a bit cloudy, and we've decide to head to Corpus Christi and the Texas Aquarium. We were going to go to Sea World about ten minutes from us, but the price is too high, because there is a waterpark and amusement park included in the ticket, which we would not use.
Anyway, we're slowly getting ready to leave, so talk to you soon.
Ron & Barb
Once down on the Riverwalk, it was like a whole different world from up on the street. What a gorgeous place. There are shops, restaurants and boats taking tourists for rides up and down the river. Many trees and shady places to rest... and did I mention restaurants? There are many different cuisines, including Tex-Mex. We had lunch at Rita's (short for margaritas) and was serenaded by a mariachi band on our anniversary. Great food at quite reasonable prices. We visited an old part of town, La Villita (Little Village) up at street level where there are many old buildings and plenty of artsy type shops. We took the boat tour, which was neat and resting as well as informative. We wandered around on the other side of the river for a while, and before we knew it, it was time for dinner. We checked out several different resturants before deciding on Rita's again. This time we tried their chicken enchiladas, and they were delicious, not too hot.
After dinner, we headed back up on the street and walked a couple blocks to the Alamo. When we had passed it in the morning drive, there was a line for blocks waiting to get in. When we got there, it was closed, but there were still many people around it. We got some pictures and historical info from rangers/guides and managed to get pictures inside the compound. It is spring break, so the crowds are very big.
We then sat in the Alamo square a while and watched the horse and buggies go by. Barb had always wanted to go for a ride in one, soooo, since it was our anniversary, I gave in. $40 gets you a twenty minute ride around town with some interesting narrative by the driver. It was really neat.
Afterwards, we went back down to the Riverwalk for ice cream and just sat and watched the people and scenery as the sun set and the lights began to come on. Around 8:00 pm we decided to leave and head back to the campground. After eight or more hours of walking around the Riverwalk, (glad they don't call it the Riverrun) we were ready for bed. It was quite a memorable day.
This morning is a bit cloudy, and we've decide to head to Corpus Christi and the Texas Aquarium. We were going to go to Sea World about ten minutes from us, but the price is too high, because there is a waterpark and amusement park included in the ticket, which we would not use.
Anyway, we're slowly getting ready to leave, so talk to you soon.
Ron & Barb
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Happy Anniversary to us!
Today Thursday, March 18, is our 49th anniversary. We woke up to beautiful sunshine since we slept in for a change.
We had a wonderful visit last night with Steve, Julie and daughter Mikki, friends from back home in PA. We knew them because of granddaughter Mandy and her friendship with Mikki, as well as through the high school band. One of their older daughters is a skater with Disney on Ice and has been all over the world performing.
They had prepared a delicious Irish dinner for us.....boiled potatoes, cabbage and corned beef. It was great! They have a beautiful home in the suburbs of San Antonio. Just as we started dinner, the power went out and we ended up having a lovely romantic candlelight dinner. We talked till late in the evening and got back to the campground after 11:00 pm. We were both very tired and went to bed immediately after spending a memorable evening with them.
The Tracker worked great, which takes a load off my mind and makes us more mobile again. We are getting ready to head to the Riverwalk in downtown San Antonio and spend the day there.
So, till then, take care, have fun and be safe.
Ron & Barb
We had a wonderful visit last night with Steve, Julie and daughter Mikki, friends from back home in PA. We knew them because of granddaughter Mandy and her friendship with Mikki, as well as through the high school band. One of their older daughters is a skater with Disney on Ice and has been all over the world performing.
They had prepared a delicious Irish dinner for us.....boiled potatoes, cabbage and corned beef. It was great! They have a beautiful home in the suburbs of San Antonio. Just as we started dinner, the power went out and we ended up having a lovely romantic candlelight dinner. We talked till late in the evening and got back to the campground after 11:00 pm. We were both very tired and went to bed immediately after spending a memorable evening with them.
The Tracker worked great, which takes a load off my mind and makes us more mobile again. We are getting ready to head to the Riverwalk in downtown San Antonio and spend the day there.
So, till then, take care, have fun and be safe.
Ron & Barb
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
San Antonio and GOOD NEWS!
About 1:00 pm central time I got a call from the garage and was told the Tracker was ready. We had left the campground, filled up with propane, and did a little shopping at Walmart when I got the call. Went over to the garage, took the Tracker out for a spin, and it runs like it used to, and it only cost $305.00. Just happy to have it back. We hooked up and headed for San Antonio, which was about 70 miles away. Found the Tejas Valley Campground, got set up and am now sitting under the awning at the picnic table relaxing, for the first time this trip, sipping my favorite beverage.
We will be visiting with friends of Mandy's, who had moved here several years ago due to work requirements. We will be having a traditional Irish dinner with them.
We will be here at Tejas for at least two days so we can tour the Riverwalk in San Antonio and possibly go to Sea World, which is ten minutes from the campground. Will update later.
Ron & Barb
We will be visiting with friends of Mandy's, who had moved here several years ago due to work requirements. We will be having a traditional Irish dinner with them.
We will be here at Tejas for at least two days so we can tour the Riverwalk in San Antonio and possibly go to Sea World, which is ten minutes from the campground. Will update later.
Ron & Barb
Kerrville, Texas
We're still here in Kerrville. During the night we ran out of propane and the furnace shut off. It got down to 39 degrees overnight, but our little ceramic heater at least took the chill off.
Called the garage late yesterday afternoon and they had found the problem for the rough idling. Seems a wire for one injector had shorted out and was constantly shooting gas into one cylinder. That's the good news. The bad news is there apparently was a little damage to the rings on that cylinder from all the gas washing away the oil causing the compression on that cylinder to be low. At least they fixed the smoking problem. They will try to get the compression up this morning with some 'magic' and hopefully we'll be able to use the Tracker the rest of the trip.
We are planning on leaving here by 11:00 am and making our way to San Antonio after we fill the propane. I'll let you know what's going on as soon as we get to San Antonio.
Ron & Barb
Called the garage late yesterday afternoon and they had found the problem for the rough idling. Seems a wire for one injector had shorted out and was constantly shooting gas into one cylinder. That's the good news. The bad news is there apparently was a little damage to the rings on that cylinder from all the gas washing away the oil causing the compression on that cylinder to be low. At least they fixed the smoking problem. They will try to get the compression up this morning with some 'magic' and hopefully we'll be able to use the Tracker the rest of the trip.
We are planning on leaving here by 11:00 am and making our way to San Antonio after we fill the propane. I'll let you know what's going on as soon as we get to San Antonio.
Ron & Barb
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Desert Blowout
We left Pecos, Texas this morning, Sunday, March 14, after a good night sleep and filling the gas tank again. We headed out across the Texas desert just enjoying the scenery. We passed through the little town of Marathon on route 385 headed for Big Bend National Park.
About 30 miles from Marathon at about 11:30 am we heard some big thumps coming from the rear of the moho. I immediately knew what had happened........a flat tire. Actually, I had tread separation on the right outside tire, but it did not lose its air. I quickly stopped on the shoulder of the road. Before I even had a chance to get out, a Border Patrol vehicle had stopped to check on us. Of course, there is little, and in our case no, cell phone service in the hot Texas desert.
Border Patrol Agent Rogelio Jauregui was tremendously helpful and radioed his dispatch with the particulars for Good Sam ERS. A really great guy! The dispatcher verified the call had been made, but did not get an ETA. The Border Patrol agent left after about a half hour, and we began our lonely wait.
It is now 2:45 pm and still no help has arrived. Another Border Patrol Agent stopped to check on us about 10 minutes ago to verify we were ok and had plenty of water. Very nice fellas.
(Tongue planted firmly in cheek)
We are rationing the water, as Barb is concerned we may die out here in the HOT Texas desert sun. I must admit, I too am a bit concerned, but I am keeping a positive attitude so as not to upset her more. ;);)
As we look out across the desert, in all directions is nothing but yuccas and mountains in the far distance. We are on the lookout for rattlers and other wild desert animals that could do us harm.
I am writing this on Notepad on the computer, because, of course, there also is no internet in the HOT Texas desert, in hopes that someone will read this should any harm come to us. I have visions of us trying to walk out of here and with buzzards circling overhead waiting for us to fall.
Finally, after about 4 hours, a truck from Oasis Truck Center pulled up along side us. What a welcome site! We were saved!
(Tongue removed from cheek)
A big burly fella with tattoes all over his arms and some on his face, got out of the truck. He was a real gentleman and quickly got to work replacing the tire. It took him about a half hour, and left with just the cleanup for me to do. I only found one wire which had been torn by the shredded tire. I repaired that, retrieved my reflectors and finished putting my tools away. (Question: Why do the RV manufacturers run wires through the wheel well where they are vulnerable to this sort of damage? Huh?)
By 4:30, we were back on the road just 7 miles from the gate of Big Bend NP. We had planned to camp in the park, but all the campgrounds were full. At the visitors center we asked for the most scenic route we could take with the moho and were on our way. We were racing the clock against the darkness as we stopped many times to take pictures. We arrived at the turnaround point just as the sun set over the mountain. I must say, the scenery was awesome (bet you thought I was going to say spectacular again), especially since we saw most of it at sunset.
Now we had a dilemma. Where to spend the night? We drove in darkness, and I mean DARKNESS, back to the entrance, which was about 45 miles, and then on up 385 towards Marathon. About 10 miles from Marathon there was a picnic area alongside the road where we pulled into and spent the night there. It had gotten VERY windy and the stars were as bright as we had ever seen them. The wind rocked the camper through the night, but it didn't flip us over, though at times, it felt like it would. We woke up to cloudy skies and the wind had subsided.
We got up early Monday, March 15, and headed for Kerrville, TX, where we are now at the Take-It-Easy RV park. The folks here directed me to a garage where we could have the Tracker looked at. In fact, the owner drove me to the garage to talk to the mechanic. I took the Tracker in this morning and a quick analysis showed the mechanic it was not a head gasket, but, he thought, an electrical problem. Seems like a very reputable and competent fella.
A worker drove me back to the campground. Barb is at the laundry finishing up as I write this, waiting for a call from the garage.
We had a thunderstorm during the night, but right now the weather is clearing and the sun is peeking through at 11:30 am. We will spend another night here before moving on to San Antonio tomorrow, providing the Tracker gets fixed. I still have not fixed the other gremlins, but my workarounds are working ok.
So, that's my story and I'm stickin to it.
QUIZ ALERT: G.O. Where do the holes in the giant saguaro cactuses come from?
Ron & Barb
About 30 miles from Marathon at about 11:30 am we heard some big thumps coming from the rear of the moho. I immediately knew what had happened........a flat tire. Actually, I had tread separation on the right outside tire, but it did not lose its air. I quickly stopped on the shoulder of the road. Before I even had a chance to get out, a Border Patrol vehicle had stopped to check on us. Of course, there is little, and in our case no, cell phone service in the hot Texas desert.
Border Patrol Agent Rogelio Jauregui was tremendously helpful and radioed his dispatch with the particulars for Good Sam ERS. A really great guy! The dispatcher verified the call had been made, but did not get an ETA. The Border Patrol agent left after about a half hour, and we began our lonely wait.
It is now 2:45 pm and still no help has arrived. Another Border Patrol Agent stopped to check on us about 10 minutes ago to verify we were ok and had plenty of water. Very nice fellas.
(Tongue planted firmly in cheek)
We are rationing the water, as Barb is concerned we may die out here in the HOT Texas desert sun. I must admit, I too am a bit concerned, but I am keeping a positive attitude so as not to upset her more. ;);)
As we look out across the desert, in all directions is nothing but yuccas and mountains in the far distance. We are on the lookout for rattlers and other wild desert animals that could do us harm.
I am writing this on Notepad on the computer, because, of course, there also is no internet in the HOT Texas desert, in hopes that someone will read this should any harm come to us. I have visions of us trying to walk out of here and with buzzards circling overhead waiting for us to fall.
Finally, after about 4 hours, a truck from Oasis Truck Center pulled up along side us. What a welcome site! We were saved!
(Tongue removed from cheek)
A big burly fella with tattoes all over his arms and some on his face, got out of the truck. He was a real gentleman and quickly got to work replacing the tire. It took him about a half hour, and left with just the cleanup for me to do. I only found one wire which had been torn by the shredded tire. I repaired that, retrieved my reflectors and finished putting my tools away. (Question: Why do the RV manufacturers run wires through the wheel well where they are vulnerable to this sort of damage? Huh?)
By 4:30, we were back on the road just 7 miles from the gate of Big Bend NP. We had planned to camp in the park, but all the campgrounds were full. At the visitors center we asked for the most scenic route we could take with the moho and were on our way. We were racing the clock against the darkness as we stopped many times to take pictures. We arrived at the turnaround point just as the sun set over the mountain. I must say, the scenery was awesome (bet you thought I was going to say spectacular again), especially since we saw most of it at sunset.
Now we had a dilemma. Where to spend the night? We drove in darkness, and I mean DARKNESS, back to the entrance, which was about 45 miles, and then on up 385 towards Marathon. About 10 miles from Marathon there was a picnic area alongside the road where we pulled into and spent the night there. It had gotten VERY windy and the stars were as bright as we had ever seen them. The wind rocked the camper through the night, but it didn't flip us over, though at times, it felt like it would. We woke up to cloudy skies and the wind had subsided.
We got up early Monday, March 15, and headed for Kerrville, TX, where we are now at the Take-It-Easy RV park. The folks here directed me to a garage where we could have the Tracker looked at. In fact, the owner drove me to the garage to talk to the mechanic. I took the Tracker in this morning and a quick analysis showed the mechanic it was not a head gasket, but, he thought, an electrical problem. Seems like a very reputable and competent fella.
A worker drove me back to the campground. Barb is at the laundry finishing up as I write this, waiting for a call from the garage.
We had a thunderstorm during the night, but right now the weather is clearing and the sun is peeking through at 11:30 am. We will spend another night here before moving on to San Antonio tomorrow, providing the Tracker gets fixed. I still have not fixed the other gremlins, but my workarounds are working ok.
So, that's my story and I'm stickin to it.
QUIZ ALERT: G.O. Where do the holes in the giant saguaro cactuses come from?
Ron & Barb
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Pecos, Texas
Well, Friday, March 12, we finally left Phoenix and our wonderful friends from Alberta Canada. What a great family they are. Mike and Lynn, sons Brandon and Conner and daughter Sydney. They are on a two month tour of the US and will be volunteering their help to build a house in Mexico. When we left, we missed them like our own.
We headed east on I10 and stopped in Tuscon, AZ to visit two really neat museums. The first was the International Wildlife Museum, which featured stuffed animals from around the world in beautiful settings. The second was the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, which featured live animals indigenous to Arizona as well as acres of cactuses (cacti).
We spent the night in a crowded Flying J in Lordsburg, NM and had a decent nights sleep in spite of the nearby train.
We left Lordsburg early this morning and made our way to Carlsbad Caverns by 2:00pm. Of course that meant going across part of Texas and back into New Mexico for the caverns. The caverns were spectacular. (got to find another word....any ideas?) We took the self-guided tour through the 'Big Room', which is the largest limestone cavern in North America. It was over a mile long and took us about 1 1/2 hours to complete. We left there a little after 4:00 and headed back south into Texas and to the Flying J in Pecos, where we will spend the night.
I haven't commented much on the weather we've been enjoying, but it has been sunny and mild with temps in the 60's and low 70's during the day and 30's to upper 20's during the night since we left Flagstaff a week ago. Just about perfect.
QUIZ ALERT: There will be another quiz within the hour, so stay tuned.
Ron & Barb
QUIZ ALERT: G.O. (Grandkids Only) If you've been following the blog, what are the capitols of all the states we've been through since we left, including PA.
We headed east on I10 and stopped in Tuscon, AZ to visit two really neat museums. The first was the International Wildlife Museum, which featured stuffed animals from around the world in beautiful settings. The second was the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, which featured live animals indigenous to Arizona as well as acres of cactuses (cacti).
We spent the night in a crowded Flying J in Lordsburg, NM and had a decent nights sleep in spite of the nearby train.
We left Lordsburg early this morning and made our way to Carlsbad Caverns by 2:00pm. Of course that meant going across part of Texas and back into New Mexico for the caverns. The caverns were spectacular. (got to find another word....any ideas?) We took the self-guided tour through the 'Big Room', which is the largest limestone cavern in North America. It was over a mile long and took us about 1 1/2 hours to complete. We left there a little after 4:00 and headed back south into Texas and to the Flying J in Pecos, where we will spend the night.
I haven't commented much on the weather we've been enjoying, but it has been sunny and mild with temps in the 60's and low 70's during the day and 30's to upper 20's during the night since we left Flagstaff a week ago. Just about perfect.
QUIZ ALERT: There will be another quiz within the hour, so stay tuned.
Ron & Barb
QUIZ ALERT: G.O. (Grandkids Only) If you've been following the blog, what are the capitols of all the states we've been through since we left, including PA.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Still in Phoenix
Wednesday, March 10,we found this campground near Phoenix, Desert Edge RV park, after we left the Walmart in Surprise. What a find! Mandy would love it because all the fences and buildings are purple. The neatest part is there are orange and grapefruit trees throughout the campground and are free to pick. We picked a small bag and came back to the moho to try them out. Deeeelicious! Real fresh fruit.
We were planning to only stay one night, but a couple things made us stay another night, today, Thursday, March 11. First we wanted to see Mike Meyers, a friend from back home in Nazareth during our scouting years. He was our first Eagle Scout in the troop we resurrected back in the 70's. We had a great visit and spent the night reminiscing about old times. He's turned out to be a fine young man, partly because of his scouting background. We are proud to know him and call him friend.
The second reason is it is soooo nice here and our neighbors are such wonderful folks from Alberta, Canada. Plus, I guess, we needed another day to catch up with our chores and for me to go in search of the gremlins (still no luck) and just kick back before we head to Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico before finally making our way to San Antonio.
I started to work on getting pictures up on the blog, but didn't get too far yet....maybe tonight? So much to do, so little time.
QUIZ ALERT: GO (Grandkids Only) Name three kinds of cacti (cactuses) indigenous to Arizona.
Bye for now, It's supper time.
Ron & Barb
We were planning to only stay one night, but a couple things made us stay another night, today, Thursday, March 11. First we wanted to see Mike Meyers, a friend from back home in Nazareth during our scouting years. He was our first Eagle Scout in the troop we resurrected back in the 70's. We had a great visit and spent the night reminiscing about old times. He's turned out to be a fine young man, partly because of his scouting background. We are proud to know him and call him friend.
The second reason is it is soooo nice here and our neighbors are such wonderful folks from Alberta, Canada. Plus, I guess, we needed another day to catch up with our chores and for me to go in search of the gremlins (still no luck) and just kick back before we head to Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico before finally making our way to San Antonio.
I started to work on getting pictures up on the blog, but didn't get too far yet....maybe tonight? So much to do, so little time.
QUIZ ALERT: GO (Grandkids Only) Name three kinds of cacti (cactuses) indigenous to Arizona.
Bye for now, It's supper time.
Ron & Barb
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Phoenix, AZ and Gremlins!
Monday morning, March 8, we left Flagstaff for Phoenix. We took a side trip to Sedona and the Oak Creek Canyon. We drove out of the snow before we got to Sedona, which was snow-free. Sedona is an artsie tourist town, and since we could not find parking for the RV, we just left and drove through the Oak Creek Canyon. It had some very picturesque mountains and rock formations, but hardly any place to stop for sightseeing. We arrived in Phoenix, actually Surprise, and found a Walmart to stay at around 3:00pm.
To back up a bit, the night we stayed in Flagstaff and went to visit Brenda and Dave, the Tracker was acting up. (first Gremlin) It had a miss at low rpm and ran rough. So when we got to the Walmart in Surprise, I went to diagnose the problem, and found one of the plug wires had come loose. After putting it back on, it didn't run any better. We called Al and Carol and told them of our problem. We were less than 3 miles from their place, so Al came and picked us up. We had another wonderful visit with them and talked till well after 11:00, when Al graciously took us back to our motorhome.
As we prepared to go to bed, we found out we didn't have water. (second Gremlin) The pump didn't run. We washed up with the jugs of water we had bought and went to bed, hoping to quickly fix the problem in the morning.
Tuesday, March 9, I got up in the morning and worked on the water pump problem, but could not find what was wrong. I used the battery booster I carry along to run the pump, and that's how we're getting water now.
Al came by about 9:00 and we discussed what to do about the Tracker. I decided to replace the distributor cap, , rotor, the spark plugs and wires, which we finished up doing around 11:30. It ran better, but not as well as before. Also, lots of white smoke was coming out the tailpipe. NOT a good sign! We decided to leave it alone for now, and I'll work on it at a later date.
We then went back to Al and Carols and spent another great day with them. Carol prepared a wonderful dinner and we chatted till about 10:30. They drove us back to our moho and we said our goodbyes.
During the night the batteries got low and the heat shut off. So I got up to turn the generator on to charge the batteries. (Gremlin #3) The generator would not start from the switch on the dash. It was about 5:30 am, so I just threw another blanket on and went back to bed. Another problem to diagnose! Got up around 7:00, got dressed and went outside to start the generator, which worked just fine.
As I write this, we are at a Flying J on I10 south of Phoenix, and as of this writing, I have not gotten rid of any of the GREMLINS.
We will be going to a cqampground near here, so Barb can do the laundry and I can contemplate my next moves to find the Gremlins. I'll update you when we get there as to my progress, and finally take the time to post some pictures. So till then, take care, have fun and be safe.
Ron & Barb
To back up a bit, the night we stayed in Flagstaff and went to visit Brenda and Dave, the Tracker was acting up. (first Gremlin) It had a miss at low rpm and ran rough. So when we got to the Walmart in Surprise, I went to diagnose the problem, and found one of the plug wires had come loose. After putting it back on, it didn't run any better. We called Al and Carol and told them of our problem. We were less than 3 miles from their place, so Al came and picked us up. We had another wonderful visit with them and talked till well after 11:00, when Al graciously took us back to our motorhome.
As we prepared to go to bed, we found out we didn't have water. (second Gremlin) The pump didn't run. We washed up with the jugs of water we had bought and went to bed, hoping to quickly fix the problem in the morning.
Tuesday, March 9, I got up in the morning and worked on the water pump problem, but could not find what was wrong. I used the battery booster I carry along to run the pump, and that's how we're getting water now.
Al came by about 9:00 and we discussed what to do about the Tracker. I decided to replace the distributor cap, , rotor, the spark plugs and wires, which we finished up doing around 11:30. It ran better, but not as well as before. Also, lots of white smoke was coming out the tailpipe. NOT a good sign! We decided to leave it alone for now, and I'll work on it at a later date.
We then went back to Al and Carols and spent another great day with them. Carol prepared a wonderful dinner and we chatted till about 10:30. They drove us back to our moho and we said our goodbyes.
During the night the batteries got low and the heat shut off. So I got up to turn the generator on to charge the batteries. (Gremlin #3) The generator would not start from the switch on the dash. It was about 5:30 am, so I just threw another blanket on and went back to bed. Another problem to diagnose! Got up around 7:00, got dressed and went outside to start the generator, which worked just fine.
As I write this, we are at a Flying J on I10 south of Phoenix, and as of this writing, I have not gotten rid of any of the GREMLINS.
We will be going to a cqampground near here, so Barb can do the laundry and I can contemplate my next moves to find the Gremlins. I'll update you when we get there as to my progress, and finally take the time to post some pictures. So till then, take care, have fun and be safe.
Ron & Barb
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Grand Canyon
Sunday, March 7, we left Winslow about 7:00 for the Grand Canyon. We had some rain overnight and the threat of rain and/or snow today. When we got to Flagstaff, it had snowed a bit and the plows were out clearing the roads.
As we headed north on route 180 out of Flagstaff for the Canyon, we encountered more snow as we got higher in elevation. The snow on the trees was absolutely spectacular, a real Winter Wonderland. Eventually the sun came out a bit making the scenery even more fantastic. The road was covered with snow in some spots and there was a little drifting. However, we made it to the Canyon by 10:30. As we walked up to the Canyon at Mather Point, the sun came out illuminating the rock and snow. We got some great pics which, I promise, I will upload soon.
As we traveled to the different viewing areas at the Canyon, it began to snow, heavily at times. Eventually, you could not see very far into the canyon. We headed back to Grand Canyon village, did a little shopping and and started back to Flagstaff. As we went down in elevation the snow stopped, but before you come down into Flagstaff, you rise back up to over 8000 feet. The snow started up again and there was a strong wind, which caused the snow to drift in the open areas. At one point, we could hardly see due to the near white-out conditions. The road was covered in snow and was getting a bit slick. Still, being an 'excellent driver', I had little problems navigating the winter conditions. It was definitely an adventure and one we will talk about for some time to come.
We dropped down into Flagstaff and found our way to a Cracker Barrel, where we got permission to spend the night. We had dinner there and afterwards found our way to Brenda and Dave's 'winter' home here in Flagstaff. (They summer in Sitka, AK) It took a while to get the Tracker unhooked since every thing was full of ice and frozen solid, including the windows and doors. We had a nice visit and got back to the moho about 10:00.
We just came back from breakfast. So the 'free' camping cost almost $50.00. This morning we woke up to a fresh dusting of snow, about an inch or so, and will be leaving for Phoenix in a short while. The free internet is courtesy of a Super8 motel just down the street.
Anyway, got to do some chores and then we'll be on our way. Talk to you soon.
Ron & Barb
As we headed north on route 180 out of Flagstaff for the Canyon, we encountered more snow as we got higher in elevation. The snow on the trees was absolutely spectacular, a real Winter Wonderland. Eventually the sun came out a bit making the scenery even more fantastic. The road was covered with snow in some spots and there was a little drifting. However, we made it to the Canyon by 10:30. As we walked up to the Canyon at Mather Point, the sun came out illuminating the rock and snow. We got some great pics which, I promise, I will upload soon.
As we traveled to the different viewing areas at the Canyon, it began to snow, heavily at times. Eventually, you could not see very far into the canyon. We headed back to Grand Canyon village, did a little shopping and and started back to Flagstaff. As we went down in elevation the snow stopped, but before you come down into Flagstaff, you rise back up to over 8000 feet. The snow started up again and there was a strong wind, which caused the snow to drift in the open areas. At one point, we could hardly see due to the near white-out conditions. The road was covered in snow and was getting a bit slick. Still, being an 'excellent driver', I had little problems navigating the winter conditions. It was definitely an adventure and one we will talk about for some time to come.
We dropped down into Flagstaff and found our way to a Cracker Barrel, where we got permission to spend the night. We had dinner there and afterwards found our way to Brenda and Dave's 'winter' home here in Flagstaff. (They summer in Sitka, AK) It took a while to get the Tracker unhooked since every thing was full of ice and frozen solid, including the windows and doors. We had a nice visit and got back to the moho about 10:00.
We just came back from breakfast. So the 'free' camping cost almost $50.00. This morning we woke up to a fresh dusting of snow, about an inch or so, and will be leaving for Phoenix in a short while. The free internet is courtesy of a Super8 motel just down the street.
Anyway, got to do some chores and then we'll be on our way. Talk to you soon.
Ron & Barb
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Winslow, Arizona
Well, I'm standing on a corner in Winslow Arizona........
QUIZ ALERT: What group used these words in a song?
Anyway, that's where we are in a Flyng J for the night.....7:46 local time. Just finished supper.
Backing up a few days, we last left you in Checotah, OK, home of Carrie Underwood, which is the correct answer for the first quiz won by Annie.
Day four (March 4) we left Checotah for Amarillo Texas. Nice weather except for a strong southerly crosswind. In Amarillo we toured Palo Duro Canyon state park. Pretty neat with unusual rock formations. However, we got lost trying to find the place and ended up on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere and had to unhook the car to turn around. The canyon was nice. We stayed at a Flying J in Amarillo.
Day five, Friday the 5th, we drove from Amarillo to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Again, nice weather except for STRONG headwinds, which greatly slowed our progress and drastically reduced fuel mileage. We pulled into Hidden Valley RV resort about noon, had lunch and took a trip up the Turquoise Trail, so named because of all the turquoise in that area. Another neat and unusual 60 mile drive, though not all that exciting. We turned around near Santa Fe, NM and headed back towards Albuquerque and the Sandia Peak Tramway. We had dinner at Sandiagos Mexican restaurant at the bottom of the tram.
At about 5:45 we boarded the tram for a sunset ride to the top of Sandia Peak at over 10,000 feet. The tram is the longest in North America. What a spectacular view of the sunset during the 15 minute ride to the top!!! We both took lots of pics, which I still have not uploaded.....too busy. At the top it was about 20 degrees with a 15 mph wind and a chill factor of REALLY COLD....even for me. We had dessert and coffee at the High Finance restaurant at the top of the mountain. Around 7:30 we took the tram back down and headed back to camp and a good nights rest.
Day six, Saturday, March 6, we left Albuquerque aqbout 9:00. We stopped at Walmart in Gallup, NM and I got two new coach batteries, since they were not holding up all through the night. Barb also did a little grocery shopping before we headed out. Beautiful desert scenery along the way, and we ended up going through the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest before we end up here in Winslow, Arizona. It is now 8:00 pm and I'm getting ready to hit the hay after another long day.
Tomorrow, we plan on heading up to the Grand Canyon to hopefully see it in snow. Till then, take care, have fun and be safe.
Ron & Barb
QUIZ ALERT: What group used these words in a song?
Anyway, that's where we are in a Flyng J for the night.....7:46 local time. Just finished supper.
Backing up a few days, we last left you in Checotah, OK, home of Carrie Underwood, which is the correct answer for the first quiz won by Annie.
Day four (March 4) we left Checotah for Amarillo Texas. Nice weather except for a strong southerly crosswind. In Amarillo we toured Palo Duro Canyon state park. Pretty neat with unusual rock formations. However, we got lost trying to find the place and ended up on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere and had to unhook the car to turn around. The canyon was nice. We stayed at a Flying J in Amarillo.
Day five, Friday the 5th, we drove from Amarillo to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Again, nice weather except for STRONG headwinds, which greatly slowed our progress and drastically reduced fuel mileage. We pulled into Hidden Valley RV resort about noon, had lunch and took a trip up the Turquoise Trail, so named because of all the turquoise in that area. Another neat and unusual 60 mile drive, though not all that exciting. We turned around near Santa Fe, NM and headed back towards Albuquerque and the Sandia Peak Tramway. We had dinner at Sandiagos Mexican restaurant at the bottom of the tram.
At about 5:45 we boarded the tram for a sunset ride to the top of Sandia Peak at over 10,000 feet. The tram is the longest in North America. What a spectacular view of the sunset during the 15 minute ride to the top!!! We both took lots of pics, which I still have not uploaded.....too busy. At the top it was about 20 degrees with a 15 mph wind and a chill factor of REALLY COLD....even for me. We had dessert and coffee at the High Finance restaurant at the top of the mountain. Around 7:30 we took the tram back down and headed back to camp and a good nights rest.
Day six, Saturday, March 6, we left Albuquerque aqbout 9:00. We stopped at Walmart in Gallup, NM and I got two new coach batteries, since they were not holding up all through the night. Barb also did a little grocery shopping before we headed out. Beautiful desert scenery along the way, and we ended up going through the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest before we end up here in Winslow, Arizona. It is now 8:00 pm and I'm getting ready to hit the hay after another long day.
Tomorrow, we plan on heading up to the Grand Canyon to hopefully see it in snow. Till then, take care, have fun and be safe.
Ron & Barb
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Checotah, OK
We finally found a place with wifi.....it's right here at the Flying J in Checotah, Oklahoma.
QUIZ ALERT: What famous singer is from Checotah? (Sorry adults, grandkids only)
Our first day on the road from home to Bristol, VA/TN was very good. The weather was fine and the roads were dry, a totally uneventful trip. We spent the night in the Sam's parking lot in Bristol.
Tuesday morning, however, we woke up to a coating of snow on the ground. The roads were just wet, so no real problem driving. At times the snow was very heavy and visibility was poor, but we eventually drove out of the snow around Nashville and ended up in a Walmart in Memphis. Yes, we drove the entire length of Tennessee in one day.
This morning we drove the 20 miles or so to Graceland and took the Platinum Tour. (That just means you pay more) Though I never was a real Elvis fan, it was an interesting tour and I took lots of pics. Barb loved it. (Elvis was not home and noone had seen him for many years)
I have not uploaded any pics yet, cause I'm tired. I also am going to try something different....instead of loading the pics into the blog, which takes a lot of time, I'll be adding them to the slideshow. All you have to do then is to single click on the slideshow and see the pics. I will have captions for them. We'll try it that way and see if everyone likes it.
Well, it's 9:20 Central time (10:20 home time), it's been a long day and we're tired. See you soon.
Ron & Barb
QUIZ ALERT: What famous singer is from Checotah? (Sorry adults, grandkids only)
Our first day on the road from home to Bristol, VA/TN was very good. The weather was fine and the roads were dry, a totally uneventful trip. We spent the night in the Sam's parking lot in Bristol.
Tuesday morning, however, we woke up to a coating of snow on the ground. The roads were just wet, so no real problem driving. At times the snow was very heavy and visibility was poor, but we eventually drove out of the snow around Nashville and ended up in a Walmart in Memphis. Yes, we drove the entire length of Tennessee in one day.
This morning we drove the 20 miles or so to Graceland and took the Platinum Tour. (That just means you pay more) Though I never was a real Elvis fan, it was an interesting tour and I took lots of pics. Barb loved it. (Elvis was not home and noone had seen him for many years)
I have not uploaded any pics yet, cause I'm tired. I also am going to try something different....instead of loading the pics into the blog, which takes a lot of time, I'll be adding them to the slideshow. All you have to do then is to single click on the slideshow and see the pics. I will have captions for them. We'll try it that way and see if everyone likes it.
Well, it's 9:20 Central time (10:20 home time), it's been a long day and we're tired. See you soon.
Ron & Barb
Friday, February 26, 2010
Heading to Texas
We've not seen much of Texas, so last year we started planning a trip to tour the second largest state in the Union. Since Barb and I don't like hot and humid weather, we decided to go there in March before the heat sets in. We will also be visiting friends in Arizona (the same good folks we visited in Alaska who winter in AZ) and a short trip up to the Grand Canyon to see it in snow before we head south to San Antonio.
This plan has caused a few problems. First, there is the snow and the snow and the snow. After the last big snow, 15", I snow-blowed a path from the motorhome in the back yard to the driveway. At that time, the ground was frozen and would have been a good time to drive it out. However, I procrastinated and ended up getting stuck in the mud last Wednesday after a rain/snow event melted the ground. Luckily I was only 10 feet from the driveway and used the old Ford van to pull it out. Wednesday night another snow storm moved in and quickly became a blizzard, which is coming to an end as I write this on Friday. I cleared the driveway this morning and it is melting nicely now that the temperature has risen to 38 degrees.
Barb is a little reluctant to leave on Monday because of all the snow, but I think the roads will be just fine by then. Hopefully, by the time we get a couple hours down the road, we should be in good shape.
If you want to follow along on the map, we will be taking I78 to I81 to I40 to Flagstaff, AZ. After we see the Canyon, we'll head south to Phoenix via I17 and then I10 to San Antonio. Of course, there will be many stops along the way as we travel through Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona.
Hope you enjoy our trip with us,
Ron & Barb
This plan has caused a few problems. First, there is the snow and the snow and the snow. After the last big snow, 15", I snow-blowed a path from the motorhome in the back yard to the driveway. At that time, the ground was frozen and would have been a good time to drive it out. However, I procrastinated and ended up getting stuck in the mud last Wednesday after a rain/snow event melted the ground. Luckily I was only 10 feet from the driveway and used the old Ford van to pull it out. Wednesday night another snow storm moved in and quickly became a blizzard, which is coming to an end as I write this on Friday. I cleared the driveway this morning and it is melting nicely now that the temperature has risen to 38 degrees.
Barb is a little reluctant to leave on Monday because of all the snow, but I think the roads will be just fine by then. Hopefully, by the time we get a couple hours down the road, we should be in good shape.
If you want to follow along on the map, we will be taking I78 to I81 to I40 to Flagstaff, AZ. After we see the Canyon, we'll head south to Phoenix via I17 and then I10 to San Antonio. Of course, there will be many stops along the way as we travel through Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona.
Hope you enjoy our trip with us,
Ron & Barb
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