July 4, 2014 See pictures
Happy 4th of July. Last couple of days have been travel days for Jim and I. There is no easy way to go home they way we were coming. Overnight travel days are a little tough. We did spend two nights in Branson, MO. After spending so much time out west we felt a little claustrophobic in Branson as it was very touristy.
We are spending the 4th and 5th near Memphis, TN. Unfortunately I fell yesterday at a rest stop and landed on my knees. They are a little swollen and I am having a little trouble getting around today so we plan to just chill, grill steaks and hopefully see fireworks. I have attached some pictures of our travels from South Dakota to here. We have enjoyed our travels, the places we have been, the people we have met, the time we spent with family and friends. Thank you all for making this such a great adventure for Jim and I. A huge thank you to our friends that have read our blog and enjoyed our adventure with us.
Enjoy the long weekend!!!!
Love,
Jim and Debbie
Friday, July 4, 2014
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Saturday June 28, 2014 (pictures below)
Hi Everyone,
Time to play catch up. Wednesday Jim went to play golf at Elkhorn Country Club. He said the course was really nice. It took advantage of some me time and walk/jog around the park 4 times and did some laundry. When Jim got home we went to dinner at Saloon no. 10. Meal was great and we had the best brochette.
Thursday we drove to Sturgis to walk around and have lunch. The town was pretty much dead (no motorcycles), but the town folks were pretty nice. Sturgis is now known because of the motorcycle rally they have every year in August, but back in the 1800 is was the home of Fort Meade. It was at this fort that the Star Spangled Banner was first played in an official capacity for evening retreat. It was also at Fort Meade that the only military survivor of the Battle of Little Big Horn, Comanche a Cavalry horse was officially retired with military honors. It is amazing how much history is concentrated in the Black Hills. That night we experience the worse thunder storm that we have had on this trip. The RV park we are in use to be a cattle ranch so it is open land, so to have winds in excess of 70 miles per hour in a 5th wheel with no buffer was a whole new ball game. It was pretty scary. On the news Friday morning we learned that there had been a tornado just 50 miles away by Devils Tower.
Friday morning we took a drive over to Leads. Leads use to be an old mining town. The main road through town is under construction so we did not get to see much, but we did happen to get a couple pictures of some old homes. Leads is so close to Deadwood that we stopped and did some more sightseeing in Deadwood.
Saturday was a cleaning day as we leave here tomorrow for Mitchell, SD. We did take a ride in the afternoon to see Bridle Veil Falls. We have really enjoyed South Dakota and will be back.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Hi Everyone,
Time to play catch up. Wednesday Jim went to play golf at Elkhorn Country Club. He said the course was really nice. It took advantage of some me time and walk/jog around the park 4 times and did some laundry. When Jim got home we went to dinner at Saloon no. 10. Meal was great and we had the best brochette.
Thursday we drove to Sturgis to walk around and have lunch. The town was pretty much dead (no motorcycles), but the town folks were pretty nice. Sturgis is now known because of the motorcycle rally they have every year in August, but back in the 1800 is was the home of Fort Meade. It was at this fort that the Star Spangled Banner was first played in an official capacity for evening retreat. It was also at Fort Meade that the only military survivor of the Battle of Little Big Horn, Comanche a Cavalry horse was officially retired with military honors. It is amazing how much history is concentrated in the Black Hills. That night we experience the worse thunder storm that we have had on this trip. The RV park we are in use to be a cattle ranch so it is open land, so to have winds in excess of 70 miles per hour in a 5th wheel with no buffer was a whole new ball game. It was pretty scary. On the news Friday morning we learned that there had been a tornado just 50 miles away by Devils Tower.
Friday morning we took a drive over to Leads. Leads use to be an old mining town. The main road through town is under construction so we did not get to see much, but we did happen to get a couple pictures of some old homes. Leads is so close to Deadwood that we stopped and did some more sightseeing in Deadwood.
Saturday was a cleaning day as we leave here tomorrow for Mitchell, SD. We did take a ride in the afternoon to see Bridle Veil Falls. We have really enjoyed South Dakota and will be back.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Tuesday June 24, 2014 See Pictures
Hi everyone,
Monday we spent the day touring the Crazy Horse Memorial. The first blast on the mountain carving took place on June 3, 1948. The sculptor Korczak Ziolowski died on October 20, 1982 but the work on the memorial is being continue by his wife and seven children. A strong believer free enterprise systhm, Mr. Ziolowski felt that the Memorial to Crazy Horse should be built by the public and not the taxpayer. Mr. Ziolowski even turned down 10 million dollars from the government as he felt they would not continue his work. Crazy Horse never signed a treaty or touched a pen. When asked by a white man where is his land now Crazy Horse replied "My lands are where my dead lie buried."
From the Memorial we went to Deadwood. Deadwood is famed in the public's mind as the place where Wild Bill Hickok was murdered while playing poker in Saloon No. 10 which is still standing. Wild Bill was holding what is now known as the "Dead Man's Hand" aces, eights and nine of diamonds. The man that killed Wild Bill was known as Jack McCall. Jack said that Wild Bill had killed his brother and in a miners court this was an acceptable defense and let him go. Deadwood at times was the home of Calamity Jane who was quite the character. Calamity Jane and Wild Bill are buried beside each other in the Mt. Moriah Cemetery in Deadwood. There are a lot of 1800 old buildings and homes still standing.
Today we went to Devils Tower the sight of the movie Close Encounters. Jim and I have wanted to visit this National Monument for some time. The only close encounter we had was with a prairie dog (they are so cute). Jim and I took the 1.3 mile tower trail around the mountain and were amazed at our countries 1st National Monument. This Monument is very sacred to the Lokota people to this day and today prayer bundles still appear in the trees. Devils tower was formed by an intrusion, the forcible entry of magma into or between other rock formations. The native American legend is that "One day an Indian tribe was camped beside the river and seven small girls were playing at a distance when a bear began chasing the girls. They ran back toward their village, but the bear was about to catch them. The girls jumped upon a rock about three feet high and began to pray to the rock " rock, take pity on us, rock save us." The rock heard the pleas of the young girls and began to elongate itself upwards pushing them higher and higher out of reach of the bear. The bear clawed and jumped at the sides of the rock, broke his claws and fell to the ground. The bear continued to jump at the rock until the girls were pushed up into the sky, where they are to this day in a group of seven little stars (the Pleiades). To Jim and I this legend is more believable than what Hillary and Joe Biden are dishing out about being broke. This is a magical place.
Until tomorrow,
Jim and Debbie
Hi everyone,
Monday we spent the day touring the Crazy Horse Memorial. The first blast on the mountain carving took place on June 3, 1948. The sculptor Korczak Ziolowski died on October 20, 1982 but the work on the memorial is being continue by his wife and seven children. A strong believer free enterprise systhm, Mr. Ziolowski felt that the Memorial to Crazy Horse should be built by the public and not the taxpayer. Mr. Ziolowski even turned down 10 million dollars from the government as he felt they would not continue his work. Crazy Horse never signed a treaty or touched a pen. When asked by a white man where is his land now Crazy Horse replied "My lands are where my dead lie buried."
From the Memorial we went to Deadwood. Deadwood is famed in the public's mind as the place where Wild Bill Hickok was murdered while playing poker in Saloon No. 10 which is still standing. Wild Bill was holding what is now known as the "Dead Man's Hand" aces, eights and nine of diamonds. The man that killed Wild Bill was known as Jack McCall. Jack said that Wild Bill had killed his brother and in a miners court this was an acceptable defense and let him go. Deadwood at times was the home of Calamity Jane who was quite the character. Calamity Jane and Wild Bill are buried beside each other in the Mt. Moriah Cemetery in Deadwood. There are a lot of 1800 old buildings and homes still standing.
Today we went to Devils Tower the sight of the movie Close Encounters. Jim and I have wanted to visit this National Monument for some time. The only close encounter we had was with a prairie dog (they are so cute). Jim and I took the 1.3 mile tower trail around the mountain and were amazed at our countries 1st National Monument. This Monument is very sacred to the Lokota people to this day and today prayer bundles still appear in the trees. Devils tower was formed by an intrusion, the forcible entry of magma into or between other rock formations. The native American legend is that "One day an Indian tribe was camped beside the river and seven small girls were playing at a distance when a bear began chasing the girls. They ran back toward their village, but the bear was about to catch them. The girls jumped upon a rock about three feet high and began to pray to the rock " rock, take pity on us, rock save us." The rock heard the pleas of the young girls and began to elongate itself upwards pushing them higher and higher out of reach of the bear. The bear clawed and jumped at the sides of the rock, broke his claws and fell to the ground. The bear continued to jump at the rock until the girls were pushed up into the sky, where they are to this day in a group of seven little stars (the Pleiades). To Jim and I this legend is more believable than what Hillary and Joe Biden are dishing out about being broke. This is a magical place.
Until tomorrow,
Jim and Debbie
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Sunday June 22, 2014 (see pictures below)
Hi Everyone,
Friday Jim and I went to the Upper Loop of Yellowstone on our own. We saw a wolf eating his prey, a lot more Bison, in fact Jim had to stop so one could cross the road. We saw a young elk walking in a river and more hot springs. We also took a 2 mile hike back on a trail to get a picture of Mystic Waterfalls and it was well worth the walk. We walked 5 miles today. We will definitely come back to Yellowstone.
Saturday was a travel day. We spent last the night in Garryown, Mt. We stayed at an RV park that is actually a working ranch.
We made it to Deadwood/Spearfish, SD. We start our sight seeing tomorrow. We will be here for a week as there is a lot of things to see and visit.
Enjoying our experiences,
Jim and Debbie
Hi Everyone,
Friday Jim and I went to the Upper Loop of Yellowstone on our own. We saw a wolf eating his prey, a lot more Bison, in fact Jim had to stop so one could cross the road. We saw a young elk walking in a river and more hot springs. We also took a 2 mile hike back on a trail to get a picture of Mystic Waterfalls and it was well worth the walk. We walked 5 miles today. We will definitely come back to Yellowstone.
Saturday was a travel day. We spent last the night in Garryown, Mt. We stayed at an RV park that is actually a working ranch.
We made it to Deadwood/Spearfish, SD. We start our sight seeing tomorrow. We will be here for a week as there is a lot of things to see and visit.
Enjoying our experiences,
Jim and Debbie
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Thursday July 19, 2014
Hi Everyone,
Time to play catch up. We have not stopped. Tuesday we went to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. This is a non for profit wildlife park and educational facility. We saw two bears feeding. The first one was Sam who was found wandering in a fishing village with his sister Illie in 1996 after their mother disappeared (Illie passed away in October). Sam is much larger than the Yellowstone grizzlies, he weighs about 1,000 pounds. We also saw Grant and Roosevelt, brothers from Yellowstone Park after their mother was euthanized out of concerns for public safety.
We also saw two packs of wolves. These animals are feed animal carcasses just like they would find in the wild. We got to experience the wolves howling after fire sirens were heard. Wolves ears are very sensitive. Jim was able to get a video of this experience.
Yesterday we spent touring the lower loop of Yellowstone. We had the best tour guide who was full of knowledge about the park and told the best jokes. I snowed off and on yesterday, at one point we walked a half of mile in the snow to look at Mammoth Hot Springs. The lower loops has many hot springs, mudpots, fumaroles and geyers. There are some hot springs where the ph level is 1. We then traveled to Old Faithful Geyers and we just got there in time. What a sight to see.
We had lunch at the Old Faithful Lodge which was built in 1908. My Dad helped build the new roads into this lodge in 1930. The old part of the lodge still has shared bathrooms (rooms are $150 a night). Rooms at the new part of the hotel are $350.
Are experience continued to visit more waterfalls and hot springs. We saw more bison and elk today. We actually saw a whole herd of bison who stay together to protect the young.
We did met a young man who works at the park and happens to be from Gainesville. He said that just a couple days ago (he did not have a camera or a phone) had a National Geographic moment in front of his dorm bedroom window when a grizzlie and a black bear had a fight over a baby elk. He said the park rangers where using sirens and plastic bullets to break up this fight. He said what was sad was to see the Mama Elk walk around the rest of the day bewildered at the lost of her baby. Such is nature beautiful at times and ugly others. Once a mother always a mother.
Jim and I are off to explore. No snow today so we are going back to the lower loop to do more exploring on our own.
Love to all,
Debbie and Jim
Hi Everyone,
Time to play catch up. We have not stopped. Tuesday we went to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. This is a non for profit wildlife park and educational facility. We saw two bears feeding. The first one was Sam who was found wandering in a fishing village with his sister Illie in 1996 after their mother disappeared (Illie passed away in October). Sam is much larger than the Yellowstone grizzlies, he weighs about 1,000 pounds. We also saw Grant and Roosevelt, brothers from Yellowstone Park after their mother was euthanized out of concerns for public safety.
We also saw two packs of wolves. These animals are feed animal carcasses just like they would find in the wild. We got to experience the wolves howling after fire sirens were heard. Wolves ears are very sensitive. Jim was able to get a video of this experience.
Yesterday we spent touring the lower loop of Yellowstone. We had the best tour guide who was full of knowledge about the park and told the best jokes. I snowed off and on yesterday, at one point we walked a half of mile in the snow to look at Mammoth Hot Springs. The lower loops has many hot springs, mudpots, fumaroles and geyers. There are some hot springs where the ph level is 1. We then traveled to Old Faithful Geyers and we just got there in time. What a sight to see.
We had lunch at the Old Faithful Lodge which was built in 1908. My Dad helped build the new roads into this lodge in 1930. The old part of the lodge still has shared bathrooms (rooms are $150 a night). Rooms at the new part of the hotel are $350.
Are experience continued to visit more waterfalls and hot springs. We saw more bison and elk today. We actually saw a whole herd of bison who stay together to protect the young.
We did met a young man who works at the park and happens to be from Gainesville. He said that just a couple days ago (he did not have a camera or a phone) had a National Geographic moment in front of his dorm bedroom window when a grizzlie and a black bear had a fight over a baby elk. He said the park rangers where using sirens and plastic bullets to break up this fight. He said what was sad was to see the Mama Elk walk around the rest of the day bewildered at the lost of her baby. Such is nature beautiful at times and ugly others. Once a mother always a mother.
Jim and I are off to explore. No snow today so we are going back to the lower loop to do more exploring on our own.
Love to all,
Debbie and Jim
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
June 17, 2014 Lots of Pictures
Hi everyone,
We are amazed at the beauty of Yellowstone. The last time I was here I was 6 years old and yes we were one of the cars that feed the bears. I remember my Mom would bake oatmeal cookies the night we took off to travel to North Dakota just for this reason.
We are staying at an RV park in the town of West Yellowstone, but there are trees all around and a open field next to us where you can go for walks as long as you take your bear spray with you.
Yesterday we took a tour to the Upper Loop of Yellowstone. This loop is the central part of the park and is actually a part of the park that collapsed when the volcano last erupted 630,000 years ago. The magma flow in Yellowstone is only 4 to 5 miles below the earth. This is the reason the rivers and creeks that flow through Yellowstone never freeze and the grass around the rivers and creeks stay green all year round. The magmatic heat powers the eruptions at the geysers, hot springs and mudpots. The animals thrive in this environment for this reason.
We were thrilled that we were able to see two sets of mama bears with babies, Elk, Bison and lots of bald eagles. Wednesday we will do the lower loop to see Old Faithful, Grant Village and West Thumb.
Have fun in Yellowstone,
Jim and Debbie
Sunday, June 15, 2014
June 14, 2014 Pictures below
We had a beautiful drive today from Deer Lodge, MT to West Yellowstone, MT. Jim and I are continually amazed at this beautiful America. We drove through mountains, saw many creeks and rivers where people were fly fishing, lots of ranches and cute, small, old western towns.
We traveled on a small road where there were falling rock signs and falling rocks in the road which was a little nerve racking when you have a 34ft fifth wheel behind you. What we didn't know was this little road is where most of the earthquakes occur in the Yellowstone area. We realized this when we came upon a lake that used to be solid ground until 1959 when an earthquake occurred in this area.
We saw many signs about animals in the road ahead but unfortunately we did not see any. The weather is very cold here, we had a freeze warning last night and actually had to unhook our water for the night. We plan to do some bike riding today around town. Tomorrow we will travel the upper loop of Yellowstone.
Happy Father's Day,
Jim and Debbie
We had a beautiful drive today from Deer Lodge, MT to West Yellowstone, MT. Jim and I are continually amazed at this beautiful America. We drove through mountains, saw many creeks and rivers where people were fly fishing, lots of ranches and cute, small, old western towns.
We traveled on a small road where there were falling rock signs and falling rocks in the road which was a little nerve racking when you have a 34ft fifth wheel behind you. What we didn't know was this little road is where most of the earthquakes occur in the Yellowstone area. We realized this when we came upon a lake that used to be solid ground until 1959 when an earthquake occurred in this area.
We saw many signs about animals in the road ahead but unfortunately we did not see any. The weather is very cold here, we had a freeze warning last night and actually had to unhook our water for the night. We plan to do some bike riding today around town. Tomorrow we will travel the upper loop of Yellowstone.
Happy Father's Day,
Jim and Debbie
Friday, June 13, 2014
June 13, 2014 (see pictures below, lots today)
Hi everyone,
Started out with rain today and temperatures in the 60's but we traveled on. We had the mind set that just because it is raining here it doesn't mean it is raining where you are going. We took the a 70 mile loop today that took us through the old mining towns of Drummond, Hall, Philipsburg and Anaconda. We took a two lane road that took us through some beautiful back country.
As you can see by the pictures the buildings in these towns date back to the early 1850. There was one store in particular that any one would enjoy, it was called the candy palace.
Jim and I also visited the Grant-Kohrs Ranch is a National Historic Site and is run by the National Park Service (Kohrs family gave the land and home to the National Park Service). In touring the ranch we learned that in this area they get a lot of snow fall on the mountains but not a lot of rain in the valley. The area depends on the snow fall in the mountains. The Deer Valley averages only 10 inches of rain a year. This is the reason that Mr. Kohr's cattle grazed over 10 million acres of land. This was free, public grazing and other ranchers had cattle on the same land at the same time. The worst land in the arid West requires 250 acres for a cow and calf. The National Park Service maintains 150 heads of cattle on this ranch. I did post a picture of a longhorn and a calf.
We got to tour the downstairs of the Kohrs home which had the original carpet, wallpaper and original furniture. Unfortunately they would not let us take pictures inside the home which is also still furnished with original china, silverware and cookware.
Outside we toured a working blacksmith shop, toured a bunk house, a barn filled with old carriages and bunkboards. There was an old chuck wagon which served hot coffee. At this point I would like to say what a great job that the people who work for the National Park Services do and we commend them for their service.
Also impressive was the 100 year old lilac bushes and 150 year old poppies that sprout every year.
Again we had a blast learning about the past. As I sit here writing this I am gazing at mountains that still have snow on the tops. As I am looking at Mount Powell (where the snow lies the longest) I am reminded what a lady told me yesterday. She said that in the distant pocket of this mountain they pray that the snow holds out until July 4th. At that point they breathe a sigh of relief and it means the streams will have enough water to keep water flowing for the year. Conservation is important and we must all do our part.
Tomorrow we travel to Yellowstone, we will be there for a week. Jim has never seen Old Faithful, he is in for a treat. Happy Fathers Day to all our Dad's, especially to my husband and our son Michael who are both incredible Dads.
Our love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Hi everyone,
Started out with rain today and temperatures in the 60's but we traveled on. We had the mind set that just because it is raining here it doesn't mean it is raining where you are going. We took the a 70 mile loop today that took us through the old mining towns of Drummond, Hall, Philipsburg and Anaconda. We took a two lane road that took us through some beautiful back country.
As you can see by the pictures the buildings in these towns date back to the early 1850. There was one store in particular that any one would enjoy, it was called the candy palace.
Jim and I also visited the Grant-Kohrs Ranch is a National Historic Site and is run by the National Park Service (Kohrs family gave the land and home to the National Park Service). In touring the ranch we learned that in this area they get a lot of snow fall on the mountains but not a lot of rain in the valley. The area depends on the snow fall in the mountains. The Deer Valley averages only 10 inches of rain a year. This is the reason that Mr. Kohr's cattle grazed over 10 million acres of land. This was free, public grazing and other ranchers had cattle on the same land at the same time. The worst land in the arid West requires 250 acres for a cow and calf. The National Park Service maintains 150 heads of cattle on this ranch. I did post a picture of a longhorn and a calf.
We got to tour the downstairs of the Kohrs home which had the original carpet, wallpaper and original furniture. Unfortunately they would not let us take pictures inside the home which is also still furnished with original china, silverware and cookware.
Outside we toured a working blacksmith shop, toured a bunk house, a barn filled with old carriages and bunkboards. There was an old chuck wagon which served hot coffee. At this point I would like to say what a great job that the people who work for the National Park Services do and we commend them for their service.
Also impressive was the 100 year old lilac bushes and 150 year old poppies that sprout every year.
Again we had a blast learning about the past. As I sit here writing this I am gazing at mountains that still have snow on the tops. As I am looking at Mount Powell (where the snow lies the longest) I am reminded what a lady told me yesterday. She said that in the distant pocket of this mountain they pray that the snow holds out until July 4th. At that point they breathe a sigh of relief and it means the streams will have enough water to keep water flowing for the year. Conservation is important and we must all do our part.
Tomorrow we travel to Yellowstone, we will be there for a week. Jim has never seen Old Faithful, he is in for a treat. Happy Fathers Day to all our Dad's, especially to my husband and our son Michael who are both incredible Dads.
Our love to all,
Jim and Debbie
June 13, 2014 (Friday) See pictures below
Hello Everyone,
Today we woke up in Deer Lodge, Montana. We arrived here yesterday. The world is such a small place. After setting up yesterday, Jim and I were just famished as we had not had breakfast and did not stop for lunch. We were off to get groceries but decided to stop at this little place next door and get some lunch. As we were leaving we noticed this couple getting out of their car with licensed place tags from Florida. Come to find out their were from Orange County which is one county over from us. The both had lost their jobs after 35 years so like me the lady decided to retire and her husband was a medical therapist and was working up here in Deer Lodge. They still have a home in Orlando because the wife does not like Montana winters so she just visits in the Spring and Summer.
We plan to go on a ride which should encompass a ghost town and gem mining for Sapphires.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Hello Everyone,
Today we woke up in Deer Lodge, Montana. We arrived here yesterday. The world is such a small place. After setting up yesterday, Jim and I were just famished as we had not had breakfast and did not stop for lunch. We were off to get groceries but decided to stop at this little place next door and get some lunch. As we were leaving we noticed this couple getting out of their car with licensed place tags from Florida. Come to find out their were from Orange County which is one county over from us. The both had lost their jobs after 35 years so like me the lady decided to retire and her husband was a medical therapist and was working up here in Deer Lodge. They still have a home in Orlando because the wife does not like Montana winters so she just visits in the Spring and Summer.
We plan to go on a ride which should encompass a ghost town and gem mining for Sapphires.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
June 10, 2014 (see pictures below)
Hi Dear Family and Friends,
We have spent the last couple days enjoying graduation festivities for Paige Adora Drennon. Her graduation was beautiful. Paige is a beautiful, sweet and thoughtful girl. We have known Paige since she was a baby and we felt honored that we could share this important moment in her timeline with her and her family.
Although Jim and I have enjoyed the scenery and the places we have visited, what we really have enjoyed is spending time along the way with family and friends. These memories are irreplaceable.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote "The glory of friendship is not in the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is in the spiritual inspiration the comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him." So cherish the times you have with people because when those times are gone all you'll have is memories.
So to all our family and friends, if you are in our lives we are inspired by you in some shape or form and the best thing in our life is holding onto each and everyone of you.
To lovely Paige, the true test in life does not occur when all is going well. The true test takes place when we are faced with challenges, so just remember life is like a taxi. The meter just keeps a ticking whether your are getting somewhere or just standing still. Enjoy the ride, Paige and remember you have a lot of people that love you and are riding that taxi with you.
Tomorrow we will start our journey home, next stop is Spokane Valley.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Hi Dear Family and Friends,
We have spent the last couple days enjoying graduation festivities for Paige Adora Drennon. Her graduation was beautiful. Paige is a beautiful, sweet and thoughtful girl. We have known Paige since she was a baby and we felt honored that we could share this important moment in her timeline with her and her family.
Although Jim and I have enjoyed the scenery and the places we have visited, what we really have enjoyed is spending time along the way with family and friends. These memories are irreplaceable.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote "The glory of friendship is not in the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is in the spiritual inspiration the comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him." So cherish the times you have with people because when those times are gone all you'll have is memories.
So to all our family and friends, if you are in our lives we are inspired by you in some shape or form and the best thing in our life is holding onto each and everyone of you.
To lovely Paige, the true test in life does not occur when all is going well. The true test takes place when we are faced with challenges, so just remember life is like a taxi. The meter just keeps a ticking whether your are getting somewhere or just standing still. Enjoy the ride, Paige and remember you have a lot of people that love you and are riding that taxi with you.
Tomorrow we will start our journey home, next stop is Spokane Valley.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Sunday, June 8, 2014
June 8, 2014
Hi Everyone,
We have been real busy since we have arrived in Seattle. We arrived here on Tuesday, June 4th. We had made reservations in February for Thunderbird RV park in Munroe which was close to our friends in Snohomish. When we got there we were told it was first come first serve which meant we had no hook ups and they charge was $41 dollars a night. Jim said this is not what he made reservations for and there was no way we could stay there. Then they had the nerve to get nasty with us and it took them 45 minutes to give us a refund. We called our friends and Tara made arrangements for us to park our RV in their gated community so we could find another park to stay at.
Wednesday we found spot in Everett, WA which is nice but the sights are really close. So while I went shopping with the girls and having lunch at the American Girl store with Sandy, Tara, Paige and Madelyn, Bill and his grandson William help Jim set up. While they were setting up they saw smoke bellowing out of our kitchen cabinets. It ended up being the inverter box (converts AC into DC). $500 dollars later we now have a new converter box.
Friday Tara and Roy's son Royce graduated from 8th grade. Royce is excited about attending high school next year and he will spend the summer with his Mom and Dad up in Alaska.
Saturday Tara and Roy had a barbeque for the gang. Scott (William and Maddies dad) flew in from Tennessee and Roy flew in from Alaska. A great time was had by all.
Today is Paige's party as she graduates tomorrow. We have known the Opfer family for over 34 years and even though most of those years have been spent in different states we have remained constant in each other lives. Thank you Bill, Sandy, Tara, Roy, Paige, Royce, Scott, William and Madelyn for taking care of us, opening your home and feeding us such wonderful meals.
We love you all,
Jim and Debbie
Hi Everyone,
We have been real busy since we have arrived in Seattle. We arrived here on Tuesday, June 4th. We had made reservations in February for Thunderbird RV park in Munroe which was close to our friends in Snohomish. When we got there we were told it was first come first serve which meant we had no hook ups and they charge was $41 dollars a night. Jim said this is not what he made reservations for and there was no way we could stay there. Then they had the nerve to get nasty with us and it took them 45 minutes to give us a refund. We called our friends and Tara made arrangements for us to park our RV in their gated community so we could find another park to stay at.
Wednesday we found spot in Everett, WA which is nice but the sights are really close. So while I went shopping with the girls and having lunch at the American Girl store with Sandy, Tara, Paige and Madelyn, Bill and his grandson William help Jim set up. While they were setting up they saw smoke bellowing out of our kitchen cabinets. It ended up being the inverter box (converts AC into DC). $500 dollars later we now have a new converter box.
Friday Tara and Roy's son Royce graduated from 8th grade. Royce is excited about attending high school next year and he will spend the summer with his Mom and Dad up in Alaska.
Saturday Tara and Roy had a barbeque for the gang. Scott (William and Maddies dad) flew in from Tennessee and Roy flew in from Alaska. A great time was had by all.
Today is Paige's party as she graduates tomorrow. We have known the Opfer family for over 34 years and even though most of those years have been spent in different states we have remained constant in each other lives. Thank you Bill, Sandy, Tara, Roy, Paige, Royce, Scott, William and Madelyn for taking care of us, opening your home and feeding us such wonderful meals.
We love you all,
Jim and Debbie
Friday, June 6, 2014
June 6, 2014 See pictures below
We had a beautiful drive to Astoria. Astoria is the oldest city on the West Coast and was founded on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. We started the day at the Marine Time Museum and toured a boat that was used as a light house boat for ships coming and going with cargo. It was next to two Coast Guard vessels where there were young men and women working on their boats. We made sure to thank them for their service.
We walked around the time looking for Goonie movie spots. We found the bowling alley where Chunk smashed his milk shake and pizza against the window during the policy chase. We found the jail where the Fratelli's were held. We had lunch on the water at "Baked Alaska". Food was outstanding.
As we left we drove to the Walsh's House and next door was Data's House. If you are a Goonie fan you will love the pictures.
Traveling on,
Jim and Debbie
We had a beautiful drive to Astoria. Astoria is the oldest city on the West Coast and was founded on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. We started the day at the Marine Time Museum and toured a boat that was used as a light house boat for ships coming and going with cargo. It was next to two Coast Guard vessels where there were young men and women working on their boats. We made sure to thank them for their service.
We walked around the time looking for Goonie movie spots. We found the bowling alley where Chunk smashed his milk shake and pizza against the window during the policy chase. We found the jail where the Fratelli's were held. We had lunch on the water at "Baked Alaska". Food was outstanding.
As we left we drove to the Walsh's House and next door was Data's House. If you are a Goonie fan you will love the pictures.
Traveling on,
Jim and Debbie
Monday, June 2, 2014
June 5, 2014 (pictures below)
We are in Woodland, WA just over the border from Oregon. We spent yesterday traveling to Gresham, OR to visit my Aunt Juilet who will soon be 100 and her son Carl. I could not get over how much she looks like my mother. It brought tears to my eyes. Sitting and talking about old times was like spending the afternoon with my mother. My aunt is in good health other than her eyes and had not problem remembering the times we spent together when we were younger. We had a wonderful day with her.
Today we went to Mt. St. Helens, what an awesome experience. We watched a movie about that fateful day and saw landscape that showed just how devastating the eruption was. Although the blast extended out 26 miles, companies have come together to help rebuild the forest. In 34 years they have done a great job. The blast sight closer to the mountain they are letting the foliage and trees build naturally. The mud and the ash have carved new rivers in the valley below and this is very evident even today. We were amazed to learn that up to the day of the blast that the volcano experienced 10,000 earthquakes in 7 weeks. We have seen pictures of Mt. St. Helens but nothing matches to seeing this active volcano in person.
Tomorrow we are traveling to Astoria, OR as we are big Goonie fans.
Much love,
Jim and Debbie
We are in Woodland, WA just over the border from Oregon. We spent yesterday traveling to Gresham, OR to visit my Aunt Juilet who will soon be 100 and her son Carl. I could not get over how much she looks like my mother. It brought tears to my eyes. Sitting and talking about old times was like spending the afternoon with my mother. My aunt is in good health other than her eyes and had not problem remembering the times we spent together when we were younger. We had a wonderful day with her.
Today we went to Mt. St. Helens, what an awesome experience. We watched a movie about that fateful day and saw landscape that showed just how devastating the eruption was. Although the blast extended out 26 miles, companies have come together to help rebuild the forest. In 34 years they have done a great job. The blast sight closer to the mountain they are letting the foliage and trees build naturally. The mud and the ash have carved new rivers in the valley below and this is very evident even today. We were amazed to learn that up to the day of the blast that the volcano experienced 10,000 earthquakes in 7 weeks. We have seen pictures of Mt. St. Helens but nothing matches to seeing this active volcano in person.
Tomorrow we are traveling to Astoria, OR as we are big Goonie fans.
Much love,
Jim and Debbie
June 5, 2014
Hi to everyone,
Finally have time to catch up on our blog. We were really busy our last couple days in CA mostly spending precious hours with our family. On the 26th we went to the Elks Club in Woodbridge as our friend Jim Norton is the chaplain of the Elks Cub and they were having a Memorial Day Service.
Tuesday the 27th. We drove with Margaret and Greg down to Old Sacramento. My nephew Jimmy lives there so he met us to show us around and then took us to lunch on an old river boat that is located on the Sacramento River. Old Sac does have an underground town but it was not open the day we were there, we will have to catch it on the next trip.
My niece Cheri took Wednesday off we spent the morning at the Galt Flea Market and shopping in Lodi. We had loads of fun. That night we took my sister Merrill out for dinner.
Thursday we spent packing up and getting the RV ready for our next destination. We had our last meal with our family. Really going to miss them all!!
Best Wishes,
Jim and Debbie
Hi to everyone,
Finally have time to catch up on our blog. We were really busy our last couple days in CA mostly spending precious hours with our family. On the 26th we went to the Elks Club in Woodbridge as our friend Jim Norton is the chaplain of the Elks Cub and they were having a Memorial Day Service.
Tuesday the 27th. We drove with Margaret and Greg down to Old Sacramento. My nephew Jimmy lives there so he met us to show us around and then took us to lunch on an old river boat that is located on the Sacramento River. Old Sac does have an underground town but it was not open the day we were there, we will have to catch it on the next trip.
My niece Cheri took Wednesday off we spent the morning at the Galt Flea Market and shopping in Lodi. We had loads of fun. That night we took my sister Merrill out for dinner.
Thursday we spent packing up and getting the RV ready for our next destination. We had our last meal with our family. Really going to miss them all!!
Best Wishes,
Jim and Debbie
Monday, May 26, 2014
May 26, 2013
Happy Memorial Day to all my family and friends that have served in the armed forces, especially my husband Jim, our son Michael, my mother and father in law Tom and Dottie and Jim's grandfather John Duane you are my hero's.
We continue to spend quality time with my family and I know I have said once but I will say it again, it will be hard from us to leave on Friday. We have connected with friends we have not seen in over 30 years.
Our friends Diana and Robert came over for breakfast on the 21st. We talked about our children and grandchildren and showed them our pictures of our adventures.
On the 22st we drove up to Columbia State Park. Columbia is an old mining time with an old working blacksmith shop, a saloon, an old bank that is actually a working bank now. They have an candy store and a place where you can pan for gold. There were busloads of schools children there and they were having a ball.
Jim went to play golf on the 23rd and I dropped him off and drove up to Valley Springs so I could spend more time with my niece Tanay and my sister Merrill. We looked over craft books and they showed me the clear glass ornaments that they decorate by threading beads on a wire. They made an ornament for the Duane Family. My niece is also cutting out their wood for painting so we made copies of the ornaments that I do.
On the 24th my niece Cheri and nephew Gary took us out for a boat ride on the San Joaquin Delta. There is 750 miles of waterways in the Delta and the water comes in from the Pacific Ocean. At times they have had whales and sea lands come into the Delta. Actually coming back to the boat ramp we heard a sea lion under one of the piers.
On Sunday we had breakfast with two dear friends Naomi and Frances. It has been 35 years since we have seen them. They both looked great! My niece finished off our day by having everyone over so she could make her famous tacos. We have had lots of love in Stockton, Ca.
Have a wonderful day and please take a moment of silence to give thanks to our military.
Jim and Debbie
Happy Memorial Day to all my family and friends that have served in the armed forces, especially my husband Jim, our son Michael, my mother and father in law Tom and Dottie and Jim's grandfather John Duane you are my hero's.
We continue to spend quality time with my family and I know I have said once but I will say it again, it will be hard from us to leave on Friday. We have connected with friends we have not seen in over 30 years.
Our friends Diana and Robert came over for breakfast on the 21st. We talked about our children and grandchildren and showed them our pictures of our adventures.
On the 22st we drove up to Columbia State Park. Columbia is an old mining time with an old working blacksmith shop, a saloon, an old bank that is actually a working bank now. They have an candy store and a place where you can pan for gold. There were busloads of schools children there and they were having a ball.
Jim went to play golf on the 23rd and I dropped him off and drove up to Valley Springs so I could spend more time with my niece Tanay and my sister Merrill. We looked over craft books and they showed me the clear glass ornaments that they decorate by threading beads on a wire. They made an ornament for the Duane Family. My niece is also cutting out their wood for painting so we made copies of the ornaments that I do.
On the 24th my niece Cheri and nephew Gary took us out for a boat ride on the San Joaquin Delta. There is 750 miles of waterways in the Delta and the water comes in from the Pacific Ocean. At times they have had whales and sea lands come into the Delta. Actually coming back to the boat ramp we heard a sea lion under one of the piers.
On Sunday we had breakfast with two dear friends Naomi and Frances. It has been 35 years since we have seen them. They both looked great! My niece finished off our day by having everyone over so she could make her famous tacos. We have had lots of love in Stockton, Ca.
Have a wonderful day and please take a moment of silence to give thanks to our military.
Jim and Debbie
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
May 20, 2014
Hi Everyone,
Another fine day in Stockton. Weather is back in the 70's and I am totally liking the weather. Saturday we went over to my Cheri and Gary (my niece and nephews) and made a homemade pancake breakfast. That night we all went to a Stockton Ports Baseball game. It was alumni night so they had the players from the 1969 team on hand including Ron Shelton who directed Bull Durham and Tin Cup. I ended up sitting next to Joe Lefebvre who played with the Yankees, San Diego Padres and the Phil Phillies. He currently is the assistant hitting coach for the San Francisco Giants.
Sunday we had lunch with a dear friend of mine whom I have known since 1st grade. Claudia and I go way back. It is always fun to see old friends and play catch up. We spent the rest of the afternoon with my sister Margaret and Greg.
Monday was laundry day and spending the afternoon with my sister Merrill. She and my niece Tanay are getting into painting so we spent the afternoon going over craft books.
This morning we had our friends Merlene and Bill Harrison over for breakfast so we could show them our pictures of our road trip. Bill's sister lives in Georgia so somewhere down the road we plan to meet up again. It is hard to believe that we only have another week and half left in California.
Have a wonderful day,
Jim and Debbie
Hi Everyone,
Another fine day in Stockton. Weather is back in the 70's and I am totally liking the weather. Saturday we went over to my Cheri and Gary (my niece and nephews) and made a homemade pancake breakfast. That night we all went to a Stockton Ports Baseball game. It was alumni night so they had the players from the 1969 team on hand including Ron Shelton who directed Bull Durham and Tin Cup. I ended up sitting next to Joe Lefebvre who played with the Yankees, San Diego Padres and the Phil Phillies. He currently is the assistant hitting coach for the San Francisco Giants.
Sunday we had lunch with a dear friend of mine whom I have known since 1st grade. Claudia and I go way back. It is always fun to see old friends and play catch up. We spent the rest of the afternoon with my sister Margaret and Greg.
Monday was laundry day and spending the afternoon with my sister Merrill. She and my niece Tanay are getting into painting so we spent the afternoon going over craft books.
This morning we had our friends Merlene and Bill Harrison over for breakfast so we could show them our pictures of our road trip. Bill's sister lives in Georgia so somewhere down the road we plan to meet up again. It is hard to believe that we only have another week and half left in California.
Have a wonderful day,
Jim and Debbie
Saturday, May 17, 2014
May 17, 2014
Hi Everyone,
Another nice week with family and friends and a couple of days of relaxation. We have eaten some real good Mexican and Chinese food. Some of these restaurants have been in business for over 40 years and the food is as good as it ever was. We could not believe that Xochomolco is still open downtown.
We had lunch with of friends Cindy and Mike on Wednesday at the Michael David Winery. There are over 80 wineries in and around the county now.
We had dinner with our friends Robert and Diana. They just both recently retired and are having a great time spending time with their grandchildren and remodeling their kitchen.
Friday we went to Royce Farm and reconnected with our friends Marlene and Bill Harrison. Bill has 1940 Chevy that he takes to car shows. We are happy to see that are friends are retired and enjoying life.
Enjoy the day,
Jim and Debbie
Hi Everyone,
Another nice week with family and friends and a couple of days of relaxation. We have eaten some real good Mexican and Chinese food. Some of these restaurants have been in business for over 40 years and the food is as good as it ever was. We could not believe that Xochomolco is still open downtown.
We had lunch with of friends Cindy and Mike on Wednesday at the Michael David Winery. There are over 80 wineries in and around the county now.
We had dinner with our friends Robert and Diana. They just both recently retired and are having a great time spending time with their grandchildren and remodeling their kitchen.
Friday we went to Royce Farm and reconnected with our friends Marlene and Bill Harrison. Bill has 1940 Chevy that he takes to car shows. We are happy to see that are friends are retired and enjoying life.
Enjoy the day,
Jim and Debbie
Monday, May 12, 2014
May 12, 2014 (pictures below)
Good Morning Everyone,
We have stayed busy visiting family and friends and celebrating birthdays and Mother's Day with barbeques. I have an awesome family and I will not be able to get enough of them before we leave. We were able to spend an evening with Jim Norton (Jim's friend from his Pacific Telephone days) and his wife Bobbie. We had a great time catching up as it has been at least 25 years since we have seen Jim.
We also had dinner with our friends Cindy and Mike. I have known Cindy since elementary school.
We had not seen each other since high school, but like Cindy said catching up was like never being apart. Again a memory that will last us a life time.
Saturday my niece Cheri had a barbeque for Mother's Day, my nephew Mitchell's 22nd birthday and Jim's 67th birthday. I promised my nephew Greg that I would bring him a steak from Pettys (our meat market) and I kept that promise. Jim made mushrooms, I made brochette, and my niece made pasta, artichoke dip (which was out of this world) and Jim's birthday cake. We had a great time catching up, telling stories and reminiscing.
Yesterday we picked up my sister Merrill and drove to Valley Springs where my niece Tanay lives with her husband Ryan and their 3 boys, Jacob, Brandon and Andrew. They love living in the country. The boys spend their time riding their bikes and helping Ryan ticker with cars, lawnmowers and go cart. Ryan is redoing a 51 Ford and will be teaching the boys the art of restoring a car. Ryan and Tanay have the art of parenting down as the boys are gentlemen's.
We hope everyone is doing well.
Enjoy your day,
Jim and Debbie
Good Morning Everyone,
We have stayed busy visiting family and friends and celebrating birthdays and Mother's Day with barbeques. I have an awesome family and I will not be able to get enough of them before we leave. We were able to spend an evening with Jim Norton (Jim's friend from his Pacific Telephone days) and his wife Bobbie. We had a great time catching up as it has been at least 25 years since we have seen Jim.
We also had dinner with our friends Cindy and Mike. I have known Cindy since elementary school.
We had not seen each other since high school, but like Cindy said catching up was like never being apart. Again a memory that will last us a life time.
Saturday my niece Cheri had a barbeque for Mother's Day, my nephew Mitchell's 22nd birthday and Jim's 67th birthday. I promised my nephew Greg that I would bring him a steak from Pettys (our meat market) and I kept that promise. Jim made mushrooms, I made brochette, and my niece made pasta, artichoke dip (which was out of this world) and Jim's birthday cake. We had a great time catching up, telling stories and reminiscing.
Yesterday we picked up my sister Merrill and drove to Valley Springs where my niece Tanay lives with her husband Ryan and their 3 boys, Jacob, Brandon and Andrew. They love living in the country. The boys spend their time riding their bikes and helping Ryan ticker with cars, lawnmowers and go cart. Ryan is redoing a 51 Ford and will be teaching the boys the art of restoring a car. Ryan and Tanay have the art of parenting down as the boys are gentlemen's.
We hope everyone is doing well.
Enjoy your day,
Jim and Debbie
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
5-7-14
Hi everyone,
Just back from my walk/jog (walked more than ran) but did set a goal to make it to x number of rv spots when I ran and made that goal. We are enjoying our visit with family and friends.
Monday Jim and I had our hair cut (we both looked liked the rugrats, lol) by a friend of mine from 8th grade, Marty Beskow. We had a great time talking about old time, our children and grandchildren. We spent the afternoon with Margaret and Gregory going over pictures of our trip and looking at old videos. I fell in love with a kitten and its mother that have taken up residency in Margaret's backyard. I would bring them home with me if I could.
Yesterday we got a visit from an old friend of Jim's from the phone company, Jim Norton. It was good to catch up again with children and grandchildren. We drove over Margaret's house so we could ride around and view the new baseball stadium, old neighborhoods and the Google pad that was located in San Francisco and is now located at the Port of Stockton. We stopped and had pizza at Michaels Place and it was so good (hence my walk and jog this morning).
Jim went to play golf today with Gary and I am expecting a visit from Margaret and Greg so we can venture out.
Enjoy the day,
Jim and Debbie
Hi everyone,
Just back from my walk/jog (walked more than ran) but did set a goal to make it to x number of rv spots when I ran and made that goal. We are enjoying our visit with family and friends.
Monday Jim and I had our hair cut (we both looked liked the rugrats, lol) by a friend of mine from 8th grade, Marty Beskow. We had a great time talking about old time, our children and grandchildren. We spent the afternoon with Margaret and Gregory going over pictures of our trip and looking at old videos. I fell in love with a kitten and its mother that have taken up residency in Margaret's backyard. I would bring them home with me if I could.
Yesterday we got a visit from an old friend of Jim's from the phone company, Jim Norton. It was good to catch up again with children and grandchildren. We drove over Margaret's house so we could ride around and view the new baseball stadium, old neighborhoods and the Google pad that was located in San Francisco and is now located at the Port of Stockton. We stopped and had pizza at Michaels Place and it was so good (hence my walk and jog this morning).
Jim went to play golf today with Gary and I am expecting a visit from Margaret and Greg so we can venture out.
Enjoy the day,
Jim and Debbie
Saturday, May 3, 2014
5-3-14
Hi guys,
Finally have decent internet service, although not much to report. Our last day in Williams was 5-1-14. Jim went to play golf and I straightened up the fifth wheel. We went downtown and had a real nice dinner.
We traveled to Needles, CA yesterday and spent the night. We met a real nice couple that actually work in RV parks during the summer. They get there lot for free for working 20 hours a week. They have worked from New York to CA. It gives them the freedom to see a lot of the country.
Today we traveled to Bakersfield and will be in Stockton tomorrow. Stockton will be a month stop for us which will be nice. Can't wait to see our family.
Good news, our son Michael, received is BA diploma today. We are just so proud and he is the wind beneath our wings.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Hi guys,
Finally have decent internet service, although not much to report. Our last day in Williams was 5-1-14. Jim went to play golf and I straightened up the fifth wheel. We went downtown and had a real nice dinner.
We traveled to Needles, CA yesterday and spent the night. We met a real nice couple that actually work in RV parks during the summer. They get there lot for free for working 20 hours a week. They have worked from New York to CA. It gives them the freedom to see a lot of the country.
Today we traveled to Bakersfield and will be in Stockton tomorrow. Stockton will be a month stop for us which will be nice. Can't wait to see our family.
Good news, our son Michael, received is BA diploma today. We are just so proud and he is the wind beneath our wings.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
4-30-14 (Pictures below)
Another cold, breezy day but we bundled up and we were on our way. Our adventure today took us to Wupatki and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monuments. We can not say enough good things about the National Parks we have been too so far. The rangers are wonderful. We can say that our government needs to increase the funds to these parks as they are in need of upkeep. We know the rangers do the best they can, we just need to get our government to back them up and preserve our National Parks and history.
About a 1,000 years ago a 1,000 foot high cinder cone, known today as Sunset Crater grew where forest had been. The volcano ash buried about 64,000 acres of potential farm land. All the hills and mountains in the area are volcanos. They are part of 2,200 square miles of landscape, lava flows, cinder cones and other wonders known as the San Francisco field. The San Francisco Mountain shown in the pictures was named after St. Francis. In the pictures you can tell the volcano ash is still prevalent everywhere. Trees and shrubs are again lining these hill and mountains. Different elevations support different habitats. The upper elevation supports Squirrels and blue steller jays. The middle elevations supports jackrabbits and pronghorn antelope. The lower elevation and lower lands support lizards, snakes, coyotes and bobcats.
Jim and I walked the lava trail and it was just magnificent to walk among history that happened over 1,000 years ago.
At the Wupatki National Park we saw a Big House or Hopi and and the Citadel Pueblo. The Hopi and the Citadel is what is left of the culture of the puebloan people that occupied this land during the 1,100.
Until tomorrow,
Jim and Debbie
Another cold, breezy day but we bundled up and we were on our way. Our adventure today took us to Wupatki and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monuments. We can not say enough good things about the National Parks we have been too so far. The rangers are wonderful. We can say that our government needs to increase the funds to these parks as they are in need of upkeep. We know the rangers do the best they can, we just need to get our government to back them up and preserve our National Parks and history.
About a 1,000 years ago a 1,000 foot high cinder cone, known today as Sunset Crater grew where forest had been. The volcano ash buried about 64,000 acres of potential farm land. All the hills and mountains in the area are volcanos. They are part of 2,200 square miles of landscape, lava flows, cinder cones and other wonders known as the San Francisco field. The San Francisco Mountain shown in the pictures was named after St. Francis. In the pictures you can tell the volcano ash is still prevalent everywhere. Trees and shrubs are again lining these hill and mountains. Different elevations support different habitats. The upper elevation supports Squirrels and blue steller jays. The middle elevations supports jackrabbits and pronghorn antelope. The lower elevation and lower lands support lizards, snakes, coyotes and bobcats.
Jim and I walked the lava trail and it was just magnificent to walk among history that happened over 1,000 years ago.
At the Wupatki National Park we saw a Big House or Hopi and and the Citadel Pueblo. The Hopi and the Citadel is what is left of the culture of the puebloan people that occupied this land during the 1,100.
Until tomorrow,
Jim and Debbie
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
April 28, 2014 ( lots of pictures)
Today was our train ride trip to the Grand Canyon. We are just so excited. I have never been on a train before so I was double excited. We first saw a western show that was just so funny and we really enjoyed it. We spoke to one of the cast members (he was from Mississippi). He said that if it wasn't for the train and the man that owns the Canyon Railways, the town of Williams would be a ghost town.
We had a great ride and saw cattle fences, corrals and phone lines that were built in the 1890's. This land still has cattle ranches that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Our first stop at the Grand Canyon was to view the Bucky O'Neill Cabin. Mr. O'Neill was a prospector and adventurer. The cabin was built in the 1890's and is the oldest Grand Canyon structure. Mr. O'Neill's career ended abruptly in 1898 when he was killed in Cuba while serving with Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders. Later when Theodore Roosevelt became President he stayed in Bucky's cabin and made the Grand Canyon a National Park.
The Grand Canyon has to be one of the most awesome landmarks in the US. I can't even put into words how gorgeous it is. It is one of those places you have to experience for yourself. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long and an average of 10 miles wide from rim to rim. It boast 24 miles of hiking trail and has an average elevation from 7000-8000 feet above sea level. Jim and I walked the Trail of Time and almost made it to a bus pick up point, but we have to admit the altitude has put a kink in our breathing.
As beautiful as the Grand Canyon is a lot of the trails especially the trails that go down the side of the mountains have no barriers. When Jim and I were coming off of our trail we walked by a ranger that was receiving a call about an incident at Mather Point. Unfortunately someone did fall 400 feet off the South Rim and this morning our prayers are with this family.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Sunday, April 27, 2014
April 27, 2014 (pictures below)
Deep contrast between todays weather and yesterdays. We woke up to clear skies and a temperature of 34 degrees. We took a ride to Sedona and Jerome today. It was a beautiful drive as we had to go to Flagstaff to get to Sedona. Flagstaff received up to 8 inches of snow so the snow on the trees was beautiful as well as the mountain with snow on it and in the clouds this morning.
We saw a herd of at least 20 deer but could not get a picture as the road was steep and there was no place to pull off. The ride to Sedona and was like every picture we have ever seen (another bucket place check marked off). I think you will agree the rock formations are breathless and beauty to behold. We did not stop in Sedona as the town was really touristy and Jim and I love history. So we drove to an old mining town called Jerome.
Jerome was an old copper mining boom town of 15,000 people and turned into one of Arizona's largest ghost town but now is considered Arizona's most unique art and history destinations that boast over 1,000,000 visitors a year. The town is built on Cleopatra Hill and in its hay day produced 3 million pounds of copper per month. In the late 60's and 70's Jerome offered a haven for artists that renovated homes and opened up abandoned shops to sell their wares. Jerome is now a bustling tourist magnet and artistic community with a population of about 480. We had a cup of coffee with Vinnie who owns the Copper Town Café. Vinnie gave us tips on the town of Jerome and was a very inspirational soul. God led us to this little Café for a reason today. Thank you and God Bless you Vinnie.
We then headed for the Montezuma Castle National Park. Montezuma's castle was built by the Southern Sinagua farmers. It is a 5 story, 20 room dwelling that was built between 1100 and 1300.
It occupies a cliff recess 100 feet above the valley. The castle once was a five story apartment like building with about 45 rooms. The farmers found reliable water in the nearby creek and fertile land on the nearby terrace for farming. As you can tell by the picture this was a unique history lesson.
We came back to town and ate at the 66 café where we met a Joann and Dave from Ocala, FL. What a small world.
Tomorrow is our train ride which we are both really excited about, number 1 I have never been on a train and no. 2 we have never seen the Grand Canyon.
Have a great evening,
Jim and Debbie
Deep contrast between todays weather and yesterdays. We woke up to clear skies and a temperature of 34 degrees. We took a ride to Sedona and Jerome today. It was a beautiful drive as we had to go to Flagstaff to get to Sedona. Flagstaff received up to 8 inches of snow so the snow on the trees was beautiful as well as the mountain with snow on it and in the clouds this morning.
We saw a herd of at least 20 deer but could not get a picture as the road was steep and there was no place to pull off. The ride to Sedona and was like every picture we have ever seen (another bucket place check marked off). I think you will agree the rock formations are breathless and beauty to behold. We did not stop in Sedona as the town was really touristy and Jim and I love history. So we drove to an old mining town called Jerome.
Jerome was an old copper mining boom town of 15,000 people and turned into one of Arizona's largest ghost town but now is considered Arizona's most unique art and history destinations that boast over 1,000,000 visitors a year. The town is built on Cleopatra Hill and in its hay day produced 3 million pounds of copper per month. In the late 60's and 70's Jerome offered a haven for artists that renovated homes and opened up abandoned shops to sell their wares. Jerome is now a bustling tourist magnet and artistic community with a population of about 480. We had a cup of coffee with Vinnie who owns the Copper Town Café. Vinnie gave us tips on the town of Jerome and was a very inspirational soul. God led us to this little Café for a reason today. Thank you and God Bless you Vinnie.
We then headed for the Montezuma Castle National Park. Montezuma's castle was built by the Southern Sinagua farmers. It is a 5 story, 20 room dwelling that was built between 1100 and 1300.
It occupies a cliff recess 100 feet above the valley. The castle once was a five story apartment like building with about 45 rooms. The farmers found reliable water in the nearby creek and fertile land on the nearby terrace for farming. As you can tell by the picture this was a unique history lesson.
We came back to town and ate at the 66 café where we met a Joann and Dave from Ocala, FL. What a small world.
Tomorrow is our train ride which we are both really excited about, number 1 I have never been on a train and no. 2 we have never seen the Grand Canyon.
Have a great evening,
Jim and Debbie
Saturday, April 26, 2014
April 26, 2014 (pictures below)
Well as you can see by the pictures below we were pretty RV bound today. Had 40-50 mile an hour winds all night and then woke up to snow flurries, which I found pretty cool, Jim not so much (LOL).
The people that know my Jim, know that anything below 80 degrees is cold to him.
It started to really snow about 9:00am, now I have seen snow before, but I have never seen it snow. I was in awe. In between the snow we decided to go get a bite to eat and experience the freezing weather. While we were on the way out we saw a coyote cross the road and go into an empty lot next door. Another 1st for me and again I was in awe. By the time we got done with lunch the snow pick up again.
We have plans to cook chili and corn bread for dinner as the weather is suppose to get bad again.
Tomorrow is suppose to be a nicer day and we are planning to take a trip to Sedona.
Have a great evening,
Jim and Debbie
Well as you can see by the pictures below we were pretty RV bound today. Had 40-50 mile an hour winds all night and then woke up to snow flurries, which I found pretty cool, Jim not so much (LOL).
The people that know my Jim, know that anything below 80 degrees is cold to him.
It started to really snow about 9:00am, now I have seen snow before, but I have never seen it snow. I was in awe. In between the snow we decided to go get a bite to eat and experience the freezing weather. While we were on the way out we saw a coyote cross the road and go into an empty lot next door. Another 1st for me and again I was in awe. By the time we got done with lunch the snow pick up again.
We have plans to cook chili and corn bread for dinner as the weather is suppose to get bad again.
Tomorrow is suppose to be a nicer day and we are planning to take a trip to Sedona.
Have a great evening,
Jim and Debbie
April 25, 2014 (pictures below)
Hi,
We decided to leave Winslow early because the weather up in Williams was suppose to get bad.
Had a gorgeous ride again. Williams is a beautiful little town. We have reservations to take a train ride to the Grand Canyon on Monday. From here we can drive to Flagstaff, Sedona, Jerome (which is suppose to be a western ghost town) so we are planning a lot of day trips from here.
The town of Williams is only 2 blocks away (old route 66) so after we set up yesterday we walked up for a peak to see what it is like. Cute little town with lots of shops and places to eat. Jim and I tried Pine Country Restaurant which is family style cooking. The desserts were amazing (homemade pies and cakes). Having a great time.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Hi,
We decided to leave Winslow early because the weather up in Williams was suppose to get bad.
Had a gorgeous ride again. Williams is a beautiful little town. We have reservations to take a train ride to the Grand Canyon on Monday. From here we can drive to Flagstaff, Sedona, Jerome (which is suppose to be a western ghost town) so we are planning a lot of day trips from here.
The town of Williams is only 2 blocks away (old route 66) so after we set up yesterday we walked up for a peak to see what it is like. Cute little town with lots of shops and places to eat. Jim and I tried Pine Country Restaurant which is family style cooking. The desserts were amazing (homemade pies and cakes). Having a great time.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Friday, April 25, 2014
April 24, 2014 (see pictures)
Hi everyone,
We had a great travel day. You could definitely see the landscape change from one state to another. The combination of the sculpture of these plateau's and the hills is amazing. We crossed the Continental Divide and ended up at one point being over a mile above sea level.
We gained an hour so by the time we arrived at the RV park it was only 2:30. Since the crater is just 5 miles away we went ahead to tour the largest crater made by a meteor preserved on Earth.
About 50,000 years ago part of an asteroid hurtling about 26,000 miles per hour and estimated about 150 feet across and weighing several hundred thousand tons struck the rocky plain with an explosive force greater than 20 million tons of TNT. In seconds a crater 700 feet deep and over 4000 feet across was carved into this once flat rocky plain. In some of the shocked meteorites, the intense pressures transformed small concentrations of graphite into microscopic-sized diamonds.
To give you a better idea as to the craters size, imagine twenty football games being played simultaneously on its floor, while more than 2 million spectators observe from its sloping sides.
Fortunately for science and all of us, Meteor Crater has sustained relatively little removal of material since it's formation 50,000 year ago. Meteor Crater is the first proven and best preserved impact site on Earth and is designated a Natural Landmark by the Department of the Interior.
One more site to cross off our bucket list. Truly an amazing sight to see.
We also saw the Milky Way (yes my granddaughter Kylie you can see the Milky Way) last night as the RV park we are staying at is away from any towns so the stars are amazing and spectacular.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Hi everyone,
We had a great travel day. You could definitely see the landscape change from one state to another. The combination of the sculpture of these plateau's and the hills is amazing. We crossed the Continental Divide and ended up at one point being over a mile above sea level.
We gained an hour so by the time we arrived at the RV park it was only 2:30. Since the crater is just 5 miles away we went ahead to tour the largest crater made by a meteor preserved on Earth.
About 50,000 years ago part of an asteroid hurtling about 26,000 miles per hour and estimated about 150 feet across and weighing several hundred thousand tons struck the rocky plain with an explosive force greater than 20 million tons of TNT. In seconds a crater 700 feet deep and over 4000 feet across was carved into this once flat rocky plain. In some of the shocked meteorites, the intense pressures transformed small concentrations of graphite into microscopic-sized diamonds.
To give you a better idea as to the craters size, imagine twenty football games being played simultaneously on its floor, while more than 2 million spectators observe from its sloping sides.
Fortunately for science and all of us, Meteor Crater has sustained relatively little removal of material since it's formation 50,000 year ago. Meteor Crater is the first proven and best preserved impact site on Earth and is designated a Natural Landmark by the Department of the Interior.
One more site to cross off our bucket list. Truly an amazing sight to see.
We also saw the Milky Way (yes my granddaughter Kylie you can see the Milky Way) last night as the RV park we are staying at is away from any towns so the stars are amazing and spectacular.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
April 23, 2014 (lots of pictures today)
We had another beautiful day today. First we started off the day with a visit from a little rabbit (he is so cute).
Today we visited the Petroglyph National Monument. Petroglyphs are fragile, non renewable cultural resources that once damaged can not be replaced. The location we visited was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. To the America Indians the entire monument is a sacred landscape. There are over 20,000 images pecked in stone, some recognizable as animals, people, crosses and others more mysterious. Archeologists estimate that most of the images were made 400 to 700 years ago by the ancestors of todays Native people. Some images may be 2,000 to 3,000 years old. The West Mesa is a 17 mile long table of land west of the Rio Grande, emerged about 200,000 years ago when lava flowed from a large crack in the Earth's crust. This is the natural setting for the petroglyphs you see today. Jim and I really enjoyed the images that were created centuries ago along and with a lesson in ancient culture.
We move on tomorrow to Winslow, AZ.
Happy Trails,
Jim and Debbie
We had another beautiful day today. First we started off the day with a visit from a little rabbit (he is so cute).
Today we visited the Petroglyph National Monument. Petroglyphs are fragile, non renewable cultural resources that once damaged can not be replaced. The location we visited was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. To the America Indians the entire monument is a sacred landscape. There are over 20,000 images pecked in stone, some recognizable as animals, people, crosses and others more mysterious. Archeologists estimate that most of the images were made 400 to 700 years ago by the ancestors of todays Native people. Some images may be 2,000 to 3,000 years old. The West Mesa is a 17 mile long table of land west of the Rio Grande, emerged about 200,000 years ago when lava flowed from a large crack in the Earth's crust. This is the natural setting for the petroglyphs you see today. Jim and I really enjoyed the images that were created centuries ago along and with a lesson in ancient culture.
We move on tomorrow to Winslow, AZ.
Happy Trails,
Jim and Debbie
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
April 22, 2014 pictures below
Beautiful day. We drove on what is called the Turquoise Trail. Prehistoric people made their homes here, Spanish missionaires explored the area and battles were fought over this land. Outlaws and Confederate soldiers camped in the area and Kit Carson marched the Navajo people along the trail in their "Long Walk" to Fort Sumner.
The ride took us through the Sandia Range, which is home to the towns of Golden a town that appeared suddenly in 1839 as a new placers gold mining town.
Madrid dates from the early 1800 which was a coal mining town. It had unique geology as it mined hard and soft coal and phenomenon found in only two other mines in the world. The town has been converted into galleries, services and shops. The movie "Wild Hogs" was filmed in this town and we took a picture of Maggies Diner. Over 100 movies have been shot in New Mexico most recently Trancendence with Johnny Depp. We did pass a movie location with big white tents and ATV's but we saw no humans. Rumor has it that J.J. Abrams is scouting out this area for the next Star War's movie.
The town of Cerrillos is known for its turquoise and lead deposits. The Cerrillos mining district from 900 AD is one of the oldest and most marked of the Old Spanish Mineral Developments in the Southwest.
We then drove down to the Old downtown of Albuquerque which is situated on the Old Highway 66.
The old homes are now housed with shops, restaurants and galleries.
Hope this post finds our family and friends happy and healthy,
Jim and Debbie
Beautiful day. We drove on what is called the Turquoise Trail. Prehistoric people made their homes here, Spanish missionaires explored the area and battles were fought over this land. Outlaws and Confederate soldiers camped in the area and Kit Carson marched the Navajo people along the trail in their "Long Walk" to Fort Sumner.
The ride took us through the Sandia Range, which is home to the towns of Golden a town that appeared suddenly in 1839 as a new placers gold mining town.
Madrid dates from the early 1800 which was a coal mining town. It had unique geology as it mined hard and soft coal and phenomenon found in only two other mines in the world. The town has been converted into galleries, services and shops. The movie "Wild Hogs" was filmed in this town and we took a picture of Maggies Diner. Over 100 movies have been shot in New Mexico most recently Trancendence with Johnny Depp. We did pass a movie location with big white tents and ATV's but we saw no humans. Rumor has it that J.J. Abrams is scouting out this area for the next Star War's movie.
The town of Cerrillos is known for its turquoise and lead deposits. The Cerrillos mining district from 900 AD is one of the oldest and most marked of the Old Spanish Mineral Developments in the Southwest.
We then drove down to the Old downtown of Albuquerque which is situated on the Old Highway 66.
The old homes are now housed with shops, restaurants and galleries.
Hope this post finds our family and friends happy and healthy,
Jim and Debbie
Monday, April 21, 2014
April 21, 2014 (pictures below)
We traveled from Amarillo, TX to Albuquerque, NM today. It was a pretty drive. We literally got on the exit going I-40 west and got off at exit 149 in New Mexico. This was one of the most easiest traveling days we have had. We stopped at a rest stop and ran into a truck driver from Orlando, Fl. He was with the Ferrari Race Team and was headed to Sonoma then back to Sebring, Fl.
We are planning to travel the Turquoise Trail tomorrow. One of the towns on this route was in Hog Wild.
Happy Trails,
Jim and Debbie
We traveled from Amarillo, TX to Albuquerque, NM today. It was a pretty drive. We literally got on the exit going I-40 west and got off at exit 149 in New Mexico. This was one of the most easiest traveling days we have had. We stopped at a rest stop and ran into a truck driver from Orlando, Fl. He was with the Ferrari Race Team and was headed to Sonoma then back to Sebring, Fl.
We are planning to travel the Turquoise Trail tomorrow. One of the towns on this route was in Hog Wild.
Happy Trails,
Jim and Debbie
April 20, 2014 (pictures below)
Hi,
Hope everyone had a Happy Easter. Jim and I attended service at Redeemer Christian Church and what a great choice. The congregation was so friendly and we felt very welcomed. We got the opportunity to witness 10 people being baptized from 10 years old to an 80 year old gentleman. This brought tears to our eyes.
Since there is just the two of us we decided to go out to lunch afterwards. We really broke from tradition when we had Mexican food instead of a ham dinner.
It rained pretty much of the afternoon but the rains produced a beautiful rainbow. Tomorrow we move on to Albuquerque, NM.
Happy Trails,
Jim and Debbie
Hi,
Hope everyone had a Happy Easter. Jim and I attended service at Redeemer Christian Church and what a great choice. The congregation was so friendly and we felt very welcomed. We got the opportunity to witness 10 people being baptized from 10 years old to an 80 year old gentleman. This brought tears to our eyes.
Since there is just the two of us we decided to go out to lunch afterwards. We really broke from tradition when we had Mexican food instead of a ham dinner.
It rained pretty much of the afternoon but the rains produced a beautiful rainbow. Tomorrow we move on to Albuquerque, NM.
Happy Trails,
Jim and Debbie
Saturday, April 19, 2014
April 19, 2014 (pictures below)
Jim and I drove to Groom, TX today about 40 miles east of Amarillo to visit the magnificent Christian sculptures. A long time ago I had received an email with pictures of these sculptures included. I decide then if Jim and I ever fulfilled our dream to travel this would be one place we would visit. We took pictures of the 13 stations of the cross, the last supper, the crucifixion, and the tomb. What gave us chills was the statue of Jesus down on his knees holding a tiny baby that had been aborted in his hands. Visiting this Christian site was truly spiritual.
On the back we stopped at the Big Texan for lunch. This is the steak place that if you eat a 72oz steak in 60 minutes you get your meal for free. Not only do you have to eat the steak but a salad, baked potato and a roll. While we were there an exchange student from Switzerland took the 72oz challenge. When we left he still had 1/2 steak to eat with 30 minutes left on his clock.
I hope ya'll have a wonderful Easter. We will go to church and get ready for our traveling day on Monday.
Happy Easter,
Jim and Debbie
Jim and I drove to Groom, TX today about 40 miles east of Amarillo to visit the magnificent Christian sculptures. A long time ago I had received an email with pictures of these sculptures included. I decide then if Jim and I ever fulfilled our dream to travel this would be one place we would visit. We took pictures of the 13 stations of the cross, the last supper, the crucifixion, and the tomb. What gave us chills was the statue of Jesus down on his knees holding a tiny baby that had been aborted in his hands. Visiting this Christian site was truly spiritual.
On the back we stopped at the Big Texan for lunch. This is the steak place that if you eat a 72oz steak in 60 minutes you get your meal for free. Not only do you have to eat the steak but a salad, baked potato and a roll. While we were there an exchange student from Switzerland took the 72oz challenge. When we left he still had 1/2 steak to eat with 30 minutes left on his clock.
I hope ya'll have a wonderful Easter. We will go to church and get ready for our traveling day on Monday.
Happy Easter,
Jim and Debbie
Friday, April 18, 2014
April 18, 2014 (pictures below)
Beautiful day today in Amarillo. We went to the Palo Duro Canyon. The canyon is a place where erosion shapes the land, four bioregions intersect, cultures have met and clashed and change is the only constant. The state park consist of 18,438 acres. The canyon is home to the Palo Duro mouse which is only found in the Red River canyon. It is also home to the mule deer, roadrunners, wild turkey, cottontails, horned lizards, coyotes, Barbary sheep, bobcats and of course the diamond back rattlesnake.
The canyon is the second largest in the US and was formed 1 million years ago when the Prairie Dog Town Fork and the Red River first carved its way through the Southern High Plains.
From 1876 to 1890 most of the canyon was part of the JA Ranch owned by Charles Goodnight (we have run across his name several times on our way to Amarillo). He had history with John Chisum, yes there was really a John Chisum. To read their is history is interesting. Goodnight himself owned over 1,325,000 acres of land and over 100,000 head of cattle.
After the canyon we went to see Cadillac Ranch. Jim and I got to spray a message.
We then took a drive down to the old part of Amarillo the houses old building that use to stand on the old route 66. These buildings now are home to antiques and restaurants.
Love,
Jim and Debbie
Beautiful day today in Amarillo. We went to the Palo Duro Canyon. The canyon is a place where erosion shapes the land, four bioregions intersect, cultures have met and clashed and change is the only constant. The state park consist of 18,438 acres. The canyon is home to the Palo Duro mouse which is only found in the Red River canyon. It is also home to the mule deer, roadrunners, wild turkey, cottontails, horned lizards, coyotes, Barbary sheep, bobcats and of course the diamond back rattlesnake.
The canyon is the second largest in the US and was formed 1 million years ago when the Prairie Dog Town Fork and the Red River first carved its way through the Southern High Plains.
From 1876 to 1890 most of the canyon was part of the JA Ranch owned by Charles Goodnight (we have run across his name several times on our way to Amarillo). He had history with John Chisum, yes there was really a John Chisum. To read their is history is interesting. Goodnight himself owned over 1,325,000 acres of land and over 100,000 head of cattle.
After the canyon we went to see Cadillac Ranch. Jim and I got to spray a message.
We then took a drive down to the old part of Amarillo the houses old building that use to stand on the old route 66. These buildings now are home to antiques and restaurants.
Love,
Jim and Debbie
April 17, 2014
Jim and I are proud of ourselves today, we actually switched out are microwave all by ourselves. We went to an RV place and they did not have any in stock that would fit. So we went to Walmart and found one. Jim was able to drill holes and put back on the grill that went around the old microwave. We are going to Palo Duro Canyon today. We did post pictures of the Texas Motor Speedway. This is one race my son Mike and I would like to go to. I pray that our friends and family in Florida have a safe day as it is suppose to be a stormy one. Prayers your way.
Love,
Jim and Debbie
Jim and I are proud of ourselves today, we actually switched out are microwave all by ourselves. We went to an RV place and they did not have any in stock that would fit. So we went to Walmart and found one. Jim was able to drill holes and put back on the grill that went around the old microwave. We are going to Palo Duro Canyon today. We did post pictures of the Texas Motor Speedway. This is one race my son Mike and I would like to go to. I pray that our friends and family in Florida have a safe day as it is suppose to be a stormy one. Prayers your way.
Love,
Jim and Debbie
Thursday, April 17, 2014
April 16, 2014 (Pictures below)
Yesterday was a travel day. We left South Lake, Tx and headed for Amarillo. We saw the Texas Motor Speedway, which is huge. This is one race we as a family would like to attend one of these days. Our favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt has a Parkway named after him. We saw cattle farms, wind mills and cotton fields. I always pack a picnic lunch so we can stop at a rest stop and have lunch half way through our ride. We stopped at a rest stop that was one of the nicest one we have seen, it even had a playground for children. The only problem it also had a big sign that said beware of rattlesnakes. Now I am like Harrison Ford when it comes to snakes, I HATE THEM. Needless to say we sat in the car to eat.
We will spend tomorrow replacing our microwave which decided to take a dive, so Lowes it is.
Have a great day,
Jim and Debbie
Yesterday was a travel day. We left South Lake, Tx and headed for Amarillo. We saw the Texas Motor Speedway, which is huge. This is one race we as a family would like to attend one of these days. Our favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt has a Parkway named after him. We saw cattle farms, wind mills and cotton fields. I always pack a picnic lunch so we can stop at a rest stop and have lunch half way through our ride. We stopped at a rest stop that was one of the nicest one we have seen, it even had a playground for children. The only problem it also had a big sign that said beware of rattlesnakes. Now I am like Harrison Ford when it comes to snakes, I HATE THEM. Needless to say we sat in the car to eat.
We will spend tomorrow replacing our microwave which decided to take a dive, so Lowes it is.
Have a great day,
Jim and Debbie
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
April 15, 2014
Jim and I spent the morning getting some needed groceries and looking for a nut for my bicycle. I guess the bumpy roads unloosened a bolt on my bicycle tire.
Spent the afternoon with Debi and Bob. They have been so gracious showing Jim and I around. We have had a wonderful time catching up and we all agreed we can not let 19 years go by before we see each other again. We really fell in love with Savannah their rescue dog. She was such a delight.
Spending time with family is so important and we enjoyed our visit very much. THANK YOU, DEBI, BOB AND SAVANNAH.
Love,
Jim and Debbie
Jim and I spent the morning getting some needed groceries and looking for a nut for my bicycle. I guess the bumpy roads unloosened a bolt on my bicycle tire.
Spent the afternoon with Debi and Bob. They have been so gracious showing Jim and I around. We have had a wonderful time catching up and we all agreed we can not let 19 years go by before we see each other again. We really fell in love with Savannah their rescue dog. She was such a delight.
Spending time with family is so important and we enjoyed our visit very much. THANK YOU, DEBI, BOB AND SAVANNAH.
Love,
Jim and Debbie
April 14, 2014 (Pictures below)
Woke up to a really chilly, windy morning we will have to pull out a heavy coat today. The wind was horrendous last night and I could have used a sleeping aide last night. Bob and Debbie pick us up for a day for touring Grapevine, TX one of the many suburbs of Dallas. First they took us to lunch at a barbecue place that use to be an old feed store. The food was wonderful. I had a grilled chicken salad with chipotle seasoning that was awesome. We took a drive to where the rich and famous live. The homes were gorgeous. We saw where Pat Summerall and Jason Whitten lived. We also went to the biggest Pro Bass store that Jim and I had ever been in. We had a great day and finished with dinner at a Mexican restaurant. What topped off my day was laying in bed and able to see the lunar eclipse right out my side window as it got down to 34 last night. Nothing better to watching something so amazing under the covers.
We hope everyone is well. Thank you Doug and Mickey for you voice message regarding our blog. We are having a great time and enjoy writing down our day and sharing our pictures.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Woke up to a really chilly, windy morning we will have to pull out a heavy coat today. The wind was horrendous last night and I could have used a sleeping aide last night. Bob and Debbie pick us up for a day for touring Grapevine, TX one of the many suburbs of Dallas. First they took us to lunch at a barbecue place that use to be an old feed store. The food was wonderful. I had a grilled chicken salad with chipotle seasoning that was awesome. We took a drive to where the rich and famous live. The homes were gorgeous. We saw where Pat Summerall and Jason Whitten lived. We also went to the biggest Pro Bass store that Jim and I had ever been in. We had a great day and finished with dinner at a Mexican restaurant. What topped off my day was laying in bed and able to see the lunar eclipse right out my side window as it got down to 34 last night. Nothing better to watching something so amazing under the covers.
We hope everyone is well. Thank you Doug and Mickey for you voice message regarding our blog. We are having a great time and enjoy writing down our day and sharing our pictures.
Love to all,
Jim and Debbie
Monday, April 14, 2014
April 14, 2014 (See pictures below)
Yey, we have internet access today so I am going to play catch up.
On April 11, 2014 we took a chance and went diamond mining again, let me tell you it is really hard work. We did not have any luck but met some interesting people and to us this is what this trip is all about. In the afternoon we took off and explored the town of Murfreesboro (which took all of three minutes, LOL) the town is not very big, but the store they had was just filled with stuff. We found a gas station that sold diesel for $3.69. We thought we hit pay dirt and at this point finding diesel at this price was like finding a diamond (well close). We got back to the camp and realized we had no electricity, some of you know the history of our luck so we immediately thought it was the fifth wheel. It turned out that a limb fell down on one of the major roads and took down a power line which started a fire, we had power before dark.
April 12, 2014 we went to an Ka-Do-Ha Indian Village. Ka-Do-Ha Indian Village is the excavated site of a pre-historic mound-builder village. The museum and other displays in the village highlighted the history and artifacts of this 1,000-year-old site. There were 7 mounds that were excavated to reveal burial sites. The skeletons are castings as the skeletons that were unearthed were reburied in another ceremonial site. There was one burial sight that contained two bodies. One was a chief and a younger male that was a sacrifice. Some of the skulls are deformed do to a rawhide band around the head when they are very young forcing the head to grow in a defective shape. This practice was considered a mark of tribal importance.
We went back to the camp and I decided to go for a walk/jog. I opened the camper when we got back went in to change. Jim was outside so I shut the door (huge mistake). When I got back Jim asked me why I took the keys and I said what keys. He proceeded to tell me that the 5th wheel was locked. At this point I swear we have a ghost living with us as I had gotten locked in the shower the day before and had to yell for Jim to come and save me (we should have called this the misadventures of Jim and Debbie, lol). It turns out when we got back I opened the door okay but when I took out the key I accidently turned the key to lock the door don't ask me how I did this, but I am not allowed to open the door anymore. We proceeded to try and call a locksmith and we were having no luck. Our knight in shining armor was our neighbor Trent who is an Air Force pilot. He came over with a small screw driver and a bobby pin that we borrowed from our neighbor on the other side. Trent was able to pick our lock and all was good.
April 14, 2014 was a travel day. The weather was not great but by the time we arrived in South Lake, TX we were able to set up with clouds clearing. Jim called his cousin Bob and they had dinner waiting for us. They have a beautiful home with an awesome yard, pool and outside barbeque area. Their home is also equipped with a home theater room which includes a small kitchen.
Debbie (Bob's wife) loves her antiques like I do. She still has her Tiny Tears doll from when she was younger and her metal Tom Thumb register. Debbie said the guy that moved them from CA back to TX in December told her that she had made his record of most boxes moved, she had 369. We enjoyed touring their house and listening their memories.
Yey, we have internet access today so I am going to play catch up.
On April 11, 2014 we took a chance and went diamond mining again, let me tell you it is really hard work. We did not have any luck but met some interesting people and to us this is what this trip is all about. In the afternoon we took off and explored the town of Murfreesboro (which took all of three minutes, LOL) the town is not very big, but the store they had was just filled with stuff. We found a gas station that sold diesel for $3.69. We thought we hit pay dirt and at this point finding diesel at this price was like finding a diamond (well close). We got back to the camp and realized we had no electricity, some of you know the history of our luck so we immediately thought it was the fifth wheel. It turned out that a limb fell down on one of the major roads and took down a power line which started a fire, we had power before dark.
April 12, 2014 we went to an Ka-Do-Ha Indian Village. Ka-Do-Ha Indian Village is the excavated site of a pre-historic mound-builder village. The museum and other displays in the village highlighted the history and artifacts of this 1,000-year-old site. There were 7 mounds that were excavated to reveal burial sites. The skeletons are castings as the skeletons that were unearthed were reburied in another ceremonial site. There was one burial sight that contained two bodies. One was a chief and a younger male that was a sacrifice. Some of the skulls are deformed do to a rawhide band around the head when they are very young forcing the head to grow in a defective shape. This practice was considered a mark of tribal importance.
We went back to the camp and I decided to go for a walk/jog. I opened the camper when we got back went in to change. Jim was outside so I shut the door (huge mistake). When I got back Jim asked me why I took the keys and I said what keys. He proceeded to tell me that the 5th wheel was locked. At this point I swear we have a ghost living with us as I had gotten locked in the shower the day before and had to yell for Jim to come and save me (we should have called this the misadventures of Jim and Debbie, lol). It turns out when we got back I opened the door okay but when I took out the key I accidently turned the key to lock the door don't ask me how I did this, but I am not allowed to open the door anymore. We proceeded to try and call a locksmith and we were having no luck. Our knight in shining armor was our neighbor Trent who is an Air Force pilot. He came over with a small screw driver and a bobby pin that we borrowed from our neighbor on the other side. Trent was able to pick our lock and all was good.
April 14, 2014 was a travel day. The weather was not great but by the time we arrived in South Lake, TX we were able to set up with clouds clearing. Jim called his cousin Bob and they had dinner waiting for us. They have a beautiful home with an awesome yard, pool and outside barbeque area. Their home is also equipped with a home theater room which includes a small kitchen.
Debbie (Bob's wife) loves her antiques like I do. She still has her Tiny Tears doll from when she was younger and her metal Tom Thumb register. Debbie said the guy that moved them from CA back to TX in December told her that she had made his record of most boxes moved, she had 369. We enjoyed touring their house and listening their memories.
Friday, April 11, 2014
April 10, 2014 (See pictures below)
April 9th was a travel day from Mississippi to Crater of Diamonds National Park. Most of the roads we took to get here were back roads which sometimes takes a little longer but you can not beat the view. This is the nicest state park we have ever been to you and the people are so friendly.
April 10th was diamond mining day. We did not have any luck but had tons of fun, except for my cold intolerance decide to flair up as I had my arms in water sifting the clay and the wind was cold so both of my arms blew up like balloons from the hives. My arms were so cold that I did not realize anything was going on until the lady across from us saw that my arms were not normal. Went and purchased some Claritan as I forgot my Benydrel at home and stayed out of the water, my arms finally cleared up. As you can see by the picture below the place is huge and there are days that go mind that not one diamond is found, however, the day before we arrived there were 4 diamonds find. This is definitely one of those places where you have to be at the right place at the right time. Jim and I walked a natural trail down to the Little Missouri River and were adventurous on the way back as I wanted to see a Bob Cat, needless to say we did not even see a Squirrel. LOL
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April 9th was a travel day from Mississippi to Crater of Diamonds National Park. Most of the roads we took to get here were back roads which sometimes takes a little longer but you can not beat the view. This is the nicest state park we have ever been to you and the people are so friendly.
April 10th was diamond mining day. We did not have any luck but had tons of fun, except for my cold intolerance decide to flair up as I had my arms in water sifting the clay and the wind was cold so both of my arms blew up like balloons from the hives. My arms were so cold that I did not realize anything was going on until the lady across from us saw that my arms were not normal. Went and purchased some Claritan as I forgot my Benydrel at home and stayed out of the water, my arms finally cleared up. As you can see by the picture below the place is huge and there are days that go mind that not one diamond is found, however, the day before we arrived there were 4 diamonds find. This is definitely one of those places where you have to be at the right place at the right time. Jim and I walked a natural trail down to the Little Missouri River and were adventurous on the way back as I wanted to see a Bob Cat, needless to say we did not even see a Squirrel. LOL
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Monday, April 7, 2014
4-5-14 See picture below
Today we spent with our friends the Sherhouse's. Curt made the most amazing tacos. Kim and I use to work together and had not seen each other in four years so we had a lot of catching up today. Jessica Kim's oldest daughter has grown up into a fine lady and Kaitlyn is a little lady who is really smart. We had a great day with our friends.
Today we spent with our friends the Sherhouse's. Curt made the most amazing tacos. Kim and I use to work together and had not seen each other in four years so we had a lot of catching up today. Jessica Kim's oldest daughter has grown up into a fine lady and Kaitlyn is a little lady who is really smart. We had a great day with our friends.
4-7-14 See pictures below
Woke up to clouds but no rain. We started out at old downtown to look at old homes built in the 1800's. One house was used to hold a ball for George Washington. One of the homes we wanted to view is said to have a cannon ball stuck in the wall from the Civil War, but the house was not open to the public today. We then an old train station that was filled with models of iron clad boats from the Battle of Vicksburg and models of paddles wheelers. The museum showed a film of the Battle of Vicksburg and what the people endured for 46 days of battle.
We then drove to the Vicksburg Memorial Cemetery and where the battle of Vicksburg took place. It was such a surreal feeling to stand on the same land where a war took place. We also got to see the ironclad boat the Cairo that was sunk in the Mississippi river before the battle of Vicksburg ended. This boat sunk with over 175 crew members on board and not a life was lost. In 1960 two men took it upon themselves to raise this boat, unfortunately 1 of those men drowned in the Mississippi river before the boat was raised. The boat was finally raised in three pieces and put back together.
I end our post with our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of a 9 year old girl that was swept away by flood waters in Yazoo County (county over from where we are staying.
Woke up to clouds but no rain. We started out at old downtown to look at old homes built in the 1800's. One house was used to hold a ball for George Washington. One of the homes we wanted to view is said to have a cannon ball stuck in the wall from the Civil War, but the house was not open to the public today. We then an old train station that was filled with models of iron clad boats from the Battle of Vicksburg and models of paddles wheelers. The museum showed a film of the Battle of Vicksburg and what the people endured for 46 days of battle.
We then drove to the Vicksburg Memorial Cemetery and where the battle of Vicksburg took place. It was such a surreal feeling to stand on the same land where a war took place. We also got to see the ironclad boat the Cairo that was sunk in the Mississippi river before the battle of Vicksburg ended. This boat sunk with over 175 crew members on board and not a life was lost. In 1960 two men took it upon themselves to raise this boat, unfortunately 1 of those men drowned in the Mississippi river before the boat was raised. The boat was finally raised in three pieces and put back together.
I end our post with our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of a 9 year old girl that was swept away by flood waters in Yazoo County (county over from where we are staying.
On to Vicksburg, MS
4-6-14
Today was in interesting traveling day weather wise it was not the best. We started out in sprinklers to torrential downpours. This did not damper the beautiful scenic route we took though. We drove through some old towns. We saw two older gentlemen sitting in rockers on an old front porch and it reminded us of a scene in Secondhand Lions. We ended up setting up the 5th wheel in the rain. The county we are in ended up having a tornado and flood flash warnings by evenings end. We look forward to some nicer weather tomorrow so we can do some sight seeing.
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Today was in interesting traveling day weather wise it was not the best. We started out in sprinklers to torrential downpours. This did not damper the beautiful scenic route we took though. We drove through some old towns. We saw two older gentlemen sitting in rockers on an old front porch and it reminded us of a scene in Secondhand Lions. We ended up setting up the 5th wheel in the rain. The county we are in ended up having a tornado and flood flash warnings by evenings end. We look forward to some nicer weather tomorrow so we can do some sight seeing.
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Saturday, April 5, 2014
Day 2
4-4-14 (see pictures below)
A beautiful day in Pensacola. We went to the Naval Air Museum today, what a fantastic place. It ranks in the top 10 tourist destinations in Florida. We saw war planes used from World War I to present day. Jim saw the engine and plane that his dad fixed and flew as a Flight Engineer and Crew Chief. We also saw an amazing IMAX film (the screen was 7 stories high) about the training of a fighter pilot. There were two huge buildings just filled with war planes plus planes to view on the tarmack. The museum is free and runs on donations and corporate sponsors. They do charge for the film and the chance to ride on a jet simulator. We passed as the movie was enough to give you the feeling for being in a jet and that was enough for two people over 60. LOL.
The base did have a nice RV park right on the bay but unless you are retired military you can't use it.
There is also an old lighthouse on the base that you can visit for a fee. Climbing to the top you got a good view of the base and the bay.
We met our dear friends the Sherhouse's for dinner at the Mellow Mushroom and will go to their house Saturday for a barbeque. This trip is about new adventurers and visiting family and catching up with old friends, so be careful we will find you. LOL.
A beautiful day in Pensacola. We went to the Naval Air Museum today, what a fantastic place. It ranks in the top 10 tourist destinations in Florida. We saw war planes used from World War I to present day. Jim saw the engine and plane that his dad fixed and flew as a Flight Engineer and Crew Chief. We also saw an amazing IMAX film (the screen was 7 stories high) about the training of a fighter pilot. There were two huge buildings just filled with war planes plus planes to view on the tarmack. The museum is free and runs on donations and corporate sponsors. They do charge for the film and the chance to ride on a jet simulator. We passed as the movie was enough to give you the feeling for being in a jet and that was enough for two people over 60. LOL.
The base did have a nice RV park right on the bay but unless you are retired military you can't use it.
There is also an old lighthouse on the base that you can visit for a fee. Climbing to the top you got a good view of the base and the bay.
We met our dear friends the Sherhouse's for dinner at the Mellow Mushroom and will go to their house Saturday for a barbeque. This trip is about new adventurers and visiting family and catching up with old friends, so be careful we will find you. LOL.
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Hi Everyone,
The adventure began at 8:30 this morning. Had a beautiful ride from home to Pensacola. We realized that stopping for gas and something to eat in a 5th wheel is anything but easy if you can not find a truck stop. One lesson learned. We did stop at a nice rest area and made us a sandwich which was much nicer anyway. We are set up and ready to do some sight seeing tomorrow and have a barbeque with our dear friends the Sherhouse's. We will leave here Sunday to head for Vicksburg, Mississippi.
The adventure began at 8:30 this morning. Had a beautiful ride from home to Pensacola. We realized that stopping for gas and something to eat in a 5th wheel is anything but easy if you can not find a truck stop. One lesson learned. We did stop at a nice rest area and made us a sandwich which was much nicer anyway. We are set up and ready to do some sight seeing tomorrow and have a barbeque with our dear friends the Sherhouse's. We will leave here Sunday to head for Vicksburg, Mississippi.
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Good Morning,
We just set up our blog to catalog our journey's the next few months. We are busy getting things done around the house and loading up the fifth wheel. We are leaving on April 3rd with our first stop in Pensacola to visit some dear friends. Follow us on our journey across country to see the most beautiful sights that God has created.
Love,
Jim and Debbie
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We just set up our blog to catalog our journey's the next few months. We are busy getting things done around the house and loading up the fifth wheel. We are leaving on April 3rd with our first stop in Pensacola to visit some dear friends. Follow us on our journey across country to see the most beautiful sights that God has created.
Love,
Jim and Debbie
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