It was pretty tough just before
they closed the park.
Herd of Bison
Massive animal
Massive animal
Mule Deer
Eagle's nest (left of the tree on
the right)
Friday, April 30, 2010
I forgot pictures from Yellowstone
It was pretty tough just before
Mule Deer
Eagle's nest (left of the tree on
We're in South Dakota
Here are some pictures I haven't posted yet.
Matt and Marty
Lynn "Mom" making mandal bread
Marty and Lynn
Matt and Marty
Lynn "Mom" making mandal bread
Denny, Lynn, Marty & Pam
at Griffith Park
Marty and Lynn
I tried to post last night but couldn't get a good connection. We left Yellowstone right after breakfast to get out of the weather. What a long, long day. We were quite a while on our planned route and found the road closed. We had to turn around and go around the mountain. We drove like 450 miles and ended up practically right where we started. But we found a room in Thermopolis Wyoming. The weather was tolerable when we went to bed, but got up to more snow, wind and temps in the low 20's.
We checked the road conditions before we left and the highway department said our route was wet and slushy. Well it had some slush but mainly snow. This was the highest we've been, 9600 ft.
Now we are settled into a Super 8 in Custer, North Dakota. The weather is much better and seems like a lot to do around here. We'll do that tomorrow. Gonna take it easy and rest up this evening.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
some pictures
A falcon native to Texas/Mexico
African falcon
pretty tall tree
Can you find Pam in this picture?
The campsite I woke up to.
Isn't he just the cutest?
Yosemite in April
Coffee anyone?
One of our fabulous views
Yosemite in April
Coffee anyone?
One of our fabulous views
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Still on our way to Yosemite
By the time we made it to Yosemite the rain we were driving in turned to snow, so we checked into a motel. When we did get in the park the next morning the weather wasn't favorable for driving too deep into the park. They were also requiring drivers to have chains. The weather forecast wasn't any better for the next day, so we decided to stay and make a decision in the morning. Weather wasn't any better in the morning so we decided to head north to the Redwood Forest. We took the most beautiful route to get there. Strawberry Fields Forever.
We drove until well past dark, we did find a campground so we pulled in and set up for the night. What we didn't know was that when you check in during normal business hours, you receive the combination to get into the bathroom!! Once Marty found that out, he knew that I wouldn't be happy when I woke up, so he did the only thing Marty knows how to do...he took off with me sleeping in the back, AGAIN! We didn't leave any money in the envelope, "no pee, no fee", that is my new motto. (By this time I am on to Marty, I slept in my sweats!)
When I woke up, the sun was just rising. I looked out the back window and I saw Marty standing over a campfire he had built for me, he was in the middle of the most massive trees I had ever seen. Marty had managed to find a state park in the forest. Marty delivered again, I was in the Redwood Forest!!
We enjoyed the fire and I made us a pot of coffee. Of course there wasn't any electric at the campsite, so me being the caffeine freak I am, I found electric and a shelf in the men's room. So right there right next to the urinals, I brewed our morning coffee! We also grilled our breakfast (all beef hot dogs) over the fire. That was the best hot dog I've had, even if we didn't have sauerkraut.
When the fire burned out we packed up and headed into the forest. Oh my God! It is just so hard to find the words to describe these trees. We went to the site of the biggest tree in the world. I felt like I woke up in the land of the jolly green giant!! We came across a herd of elk and watched them for a while. We took a small hike. We even paid for a stupid "tour thru a tree", but it made for a nice picture.
We found a beautiful campground, again almost completely empty. This by far was the most beautiful site. The only problem, bear country!! Each campsite was equipped with a steel vault to lock up all your food. I was a little nervous at first, but became comfortable very quickly, until about 2:30am when I had to decide just how bad I had to go to the bathroom. I had to go pretty bad! I am still here, so you can breathe now, there wasn't a bear out there. A great nights sleep for both of us.
The next morning we decided to continue up the coast since Yellowstone was northeast from where we were. That was pretty much a day of driving and enjoying the scenery.
Our next destination was Crater Lake park in Oregon. That was incredible too. This park is opened year round, I don't know how they do it. The guides for the snow plows were like 12 ft. high. At one pull off, I took a picture the snow was taller than Ruby. Did I mention that we were driving thru an avalanche zone? When we got up to the lake, which in on top of a mountain at 6600 ft. there were more people there. There were a lot of hikers hiking in snowshoes. To get into the lodge/gift shop you enter thru the basement and take the elevator up, because the snow was too deep around the front doors.
The rest of the drive thru Oregon sucked. We nicknamed it "Boregon". We drove for miles and miles and miles and didn't see anything!! We drove into Idaho and had to settle in for a couple of days so I could have an address to send my fixed computer to. While we were there we did some housekeeping. We also went to a Birds of Prey exhibit which was very interesting.
The computer was to be delivered by noon. I tracked it thru FedEx and I knew it was on the truck for delivery, so we waited and waited. At about 1:30 decided to get some lunch, as soon as we left we passed the truck on the road. Yeah, we're on our way again!! Headed to Yellowstone.
Another day of driving. When we made it to Yellowstone we checked into a hotel.
Got up early this morning and it was snowing just a little bit. We didn't know whether we should do an imax movie first or go to the park first. We opted for the park. When we entered the park the ranger told us which roads were closed. There were the ones at the highest elevations and a couple of loops for the bears who are just coming out of hibernation. We had entered at the west entrance and planned on leaving thru the north entrance which was still open. I think we stopped at every pull off on the way to Ole Faithful. Our first spotting of wildlife was a couple of mule deers. They were pretty far off so we needed the zoom lens. We thought that we were destined to not see anything. We turned a curve and right in the road huge bison, just standing there. I didn't know just how big they are, they weight up to 2,000 pounds. Beautiful animals. When we got to Ole Faithful it was snowing pretty hard and the wind had kicked up a lot. It was quite the wait for the next eruption, so we decided that the smaller geysers (vents) that we had pictures of would have to do!! It was like 24 and the wind and snow blowing like crazy, it was cold! We headed out toward the north entrance and planned on finding a motel there and continuing exploring in the morning. By that time they were closing all the roads in the park. I don't usually do the snow driving, I leave that up to Marty, but at this point I was driving. The snow was coming down so hard we couldn't see in front of us, and the wipers were freezing up, and there wasn't a place to pull off to clean them, but I did it. Dad, would would be so proud.
We found a hotel and took a nice long nap. When we woke up we went to the imax theater. We watched both of the movies, Bears and Yellowstone. Great shows, both of them. We were planning on heading back into the park in the morning, the weather earlier said that only flurries tomorrow. Just watched the local news, they measure their flurries in inches here! So we don't know what we are going to do. hmmm, should I stay or should I go now?
I know I have forgotten a lot and will add it when I remember. It's just nice to have my computer back.
For some reason, I can't put my pictures in right now, but I will try one more time tonight.
I'll let you know what we decide to do.
We drove until well past dark, we did find a campground so we pulled in and set up for the night. What we didn't know was that when you check in during normal business hours, you receive the combination to get into the bathroom!! Once Marty found that out, he knew that I wouldn't be happy when I woke up, so he did the only thing Marty knows how to do...he took off with me sleeping in the back, AGAIN! We didn't leave any money in the envelope, "no pee, no fee", that is my new motto. (By this time I am on to Marty, I slept in my sweats!)
When I woke up, the sun was just rising. I looked out the back window and I saw Marty standing over a campfire he had built for me, he was in the middle of the most massive trees I had ever seen. Marty had managed to find a state park in the forest. Marty delivered again, I was in the Redwood Forest!!
We enjoyed the fire and I made us a pot of coffee. Of course there wasn't any electric at the campsite, so me being the caffeine freak I am, I found electric and a shelf in the men's room. So right there right next to the urinals, I brewed our morning coffee! We also grilled our breakfast (all beef hot dogs) over the fire. That was the best hot dog I've had, even if we didn't have sauerkraut.
When the fire burned out we packed up and headed into the forest. Oh my God! It is just so hard to find the words to describe these trees. We went to the site of the biggest tree in the world. I felt like I woke up in the land of the jolly green giant!! We came across a herd of elk and watched them for a while. We took a small hike. We even paid for a stupid "tour thru a tree", but it made for a nice picture.
We found a beautiful campground, again almost completely empty. This by far was the most beautiful site. The only problem, bear country!! Each campsite was equipped with a steel vault to lock up all your food. I was a little nervous at first, but became comfortable very quickly, until about 2:30am when I had to decide just how bad I had to go to the bathroom. I had to go pretty bad! I am still here, so you can breathe now, there wasn't a bear out there. A great nights sleep for both of us.
The next morning we decided to continue up the coast since Yellowstone was northeast from where we were. That was pretty much a day of driving and enjoying the scenery.
Our next destination was Crater Lake park in Oregon. That was incredible too. This park is opened year round, I don't know how they do it. The guides for the snow plows were like 12 ft. high. At one pull off, I took a picture the snow was taller than Ruby. Did I mention that we were driving thru an avalanche zone? When we got up to the lake, which in on top of a mountain at 6600 ft. there were more people there. There were a lot of hikers hiking in snowshoes. To get into the lodge/gift shop you enter thru the basement and take the elevator up, because the snow was too deep around the front doors.
The rest of the drive thru Oregon sucked. We nicknamed it "Boregon". We drove for miles and miles and miles and didn't see anything!! We drove into Idaho and had to settle in for a couple of days so I could have an address to send my fixed computer to. While we were there we did some housekeeping. We also went to a Birds of Prey exhibit which was very interesting.
The computer was to be delivered by noon. I tracked it thru FedEx and I knew it was on the truck for delivery, so we waited and waited. At about 1:30 decided to get some lunch, as soon as we left we passed the truck on the road. Yeah, we're on our way again!! Headed to Yellowstone.
Another day of driving. When we made it to Yellowstone we checked into a hotel.
Got up early this morning and it was snowing just a little bit. We didn't know whether we should do an imax movie first or go to the park first. We opted for the park. When we entered the park the ranger told us which roads were closed. There were the ones at the highest elevations and a couple of loops for the bears who are just coming out of hibernation. We had entered at the west entrance and planned on leaving thru the north entrance which was still open. I think we stopped at every pull off on the way to Ole Faithful. Our first spotting of wildlife was a couple of mule deers. They were pretty far off so we needed the zoom lens. We thought that we were destined to not see anything. We turned a curve and right in the road huge bison, just standing there. I didn't know just how big they are, they weight up to 2,000 pounds. Beautiful animals. When we got to Ole Faithful it was snowing pretty hard and the wind had kicked up a lot. It was quite the wait for the next eruption, so we decided that the smaller geysers (vents) that we had pictures of would have to do!! It was like 24 and the wind and snow blowing like crazy, it was cold! We headed out toward the north entrance and planned on finding a motel there and continuing exploring in the morning. By that time they were closing all the roads in the park. I don't usually do the snow driving, I leave that up to Marty, but at this point I was driving. The snow was coming down so hard we couldn't see in front of us, and the wipers were freezing up, and there wasn't a place to pull off to clean them, but I did it. Dad, would would be so proud.
We found a hotel and took a nice long nap. When we woke up we went to the imax theater. We watched both of the movies, Bears and Yellowstone. Great shows, both of them. We were planning on heading back into the park in the morning, the weather earlier said that only flurries tomorrow. Just watched the local news, they measure their flurries in inches here! So we don't know what we are going to do. hmmm, should I stay or should I go now?
I know I have forgotten a lot and will add it when I remember. It's just nice to have my computer back.
For some reason, I can't put my pictures in right now, but I will try one more time tonight.
I'll let you know what we decide to do.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Lots of catching up to do
When we left Barstow we drove to Big Bear Lake CA, but the campgrounds weren't opened for the season yet. We drove around the Lake it was really beautiful on the south side of the lake, the northern side was pretty busy, with cabins, lodges and lots of people and shops.
Since we couldn't find a campsite we decided to head to Lynn & Denny's a day early. It was so good to see them.
Saturday was a pretty quiet day, I took it easy and Marty went to Venice Beach and did some shopping. After a delicious dinner we went to Griffith Park Observatory and Planetarium. The view of LA from there was great. The telescope was set of Saturn.
We got to see Matt and Stephanie on Sunday, it had been way to long since we've seen them. We packed a nice picnic lunch and visit. It was just a nice nice afternoon. When we got home Denny even played boggle with us!
Mailed my laptop in to get fixed. Such a pain in the butt. This computer should have been protected, I paid for it. I had been uploading my pictures on a daily basis, but I also had to buy a bigger memory card for my camera.
We drove up the coast and found a campsite right on the pacific ocean in Jalama Beach! The sunset was beautiful. I couldn't believe how lucky we were to find this beach. There was a small sign on the side of the road that said camping to the left. When we turned there was a sign that said the road ended in 14 miles, and it did end, right on the beach.
Headed for Yosemite and had every intention of hooking up with Marty's cousins who were vacationing there. We drove right up the coast on the scenic #1. We stopped at many pull offs, just to look at the beauty. We stayed a particularly long time at the pull off to watch the elephant seals. It required a little bit of a hike to see them, but definitely worth it. I couldn't believe no one else was there. We pulled off at one of the overlooks, backed in, opened the rear doors and took a nap.
Denny thanks for the beach tips Cayugas was beautiful as well as Phieffer beach.
We were getting low on fuel and it was $4.07 in Carmel, so needless to say Marty didn't stop there. Found gas for $3.25 yeah Marty.
At the pace we were going we realized that we wouldn't make it to Yosemite that day and had to call Marty's cousin.
Well it is getting late. I will pick up on the activities of the 21st and post some pictures tomorrow morning.
Since we couldn't find a campsite we decided to head to Lynn & Denny's a day early. It was so good to see them.
Saturday was a pretty quiet day, I took it easy and Marty went to Venice Beach and did some shopping. After a delicious dinner we went to Griffith Park Observatory and Planetarium. The view of LA from there was great. The telescope was set of Saturn.
We got to see Matt and Stephanie on Sunday, it had been way to long since we've seen them. We packed a nice picnic lunch and visit. It was just a nice nice afternoon. When we got home Denny even played boggle with us!
Mailed my laptop in to get fixed. Such a pain in the butt. This computer should have been protected, I paid for it. I had been uploading my pictures on a daily basis, but I also had to buy a bigger memory card for my camera.
We drove up the coast and found a campsite right on the pacific ocean in Jalama Beach! The sunset was beautiful. I couldn't believe how lucky we were to find this beach. There was a small sign on the side of the road that said camping to the left. When we turned there was a sign that said the road ended in 14 miles, and it did end, right on the beach.
Headed for Yosemite and had every intention of hooking up with Marty's cousins who were vacationing there. We drove right up the coast on the scenic #1. We stopped at many pull offs, just to look at the beauty. We stayed a particularly long time at the pull off to watch the elephant seals. It required a little bit of a hike to see them, but definitely worth it. I couldn't believe no one else was there. We pulled off at one of the overlooks, backed in, opened the rear doors and took a nap.
Denny thanks for the beach tips Cayugas was beautiful as well as Phieffer beach.
We were getting low on fuel and it was $4.07 in Carmel, so needless to say Marty didn't stop there. Found gas for $3.25 yeah Marty.
At the pace we were going we realized that we wouldn't make it to Yosemite that day and had to call Marty's cousin.
Well it is getting late. I will pick up on the activities of the 21st and post some pictures tomorrow morning.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
A day of rest
We spent the day in Barstow today, taking it easy. We checked out of our motel and did laundry. We drove around town and went to a couple of antique malls. Nothing special. We have been going from sunrise to way past sunset and needed to take a rest.
Off to Big Bear Lake Park tomorrow, going to camp there, then off to LA to see Lynn and Denny. Looking forward to seeing them haven't seen Lynn for like two years and even longer since we've seen Denny. Don't really have any definite plans, just going to spend time and enjoy the company.
Mom, since you mentioned bed bugs I have been itchy all day, thanks!
Nancy-I used your safeway saving card today. When the receipt came out the woman asked me how to pronounce my last name, I started to say Kramer, but that would have really confused her.
Cookie-congratulations on your new horse. You know that once I tell Sylvia and Kyla they will want to visit. They want to visit you anyway, though.
Sylvia & Kyla, Aunt Cookie got a new horse and is looking at a pony this weekend, won't that be fun?
If you see Frank tomorrow tell him happy birthday!!
Have a good night, see you tomorrow.
Off to Big Bear Lake Park tomorrow, going to camp there, then off to LA to see Lynn and Denny. Looking forward to seeing them haven't seen Lynn for like two years and even longer since we've seen Denny. Don't really have any definite plans, just going to spend time and enjoy the company.
Mom, since you mentioned bed bugs I have been itchy all day, thanks!
Nancy-I used your safeway saving card today. When the receipt came out the woman asked me how to pronounce my last name, I started to say Kramer, but that would have really confused her.
Cookie-congratulations on your new horse. You know that once I tell Sylvia and Kyla they will want to visit. They want to visit you anyway, though.
Sylvia & Kyla, Aunt Cookie got a new horse and is looking at a pony this weekend, won't that be fun?
If you see Frank tomorrow tell him happy birthday!!
Have a good night, see you tomorrow.
Misc. Pictures
This is a meteor crater in Arizona.Sylvia and Kyla, we are so excited everytime we talk to you. I hope you have gotten your packages. Keep you eyes out for more!
Kyla, I didn't know that you were counting the days that we have been gone, you are something else. Don't forget that when we get back it's time for our Memorial Day party! I will need your help getting ready, so rest up ok?
Sylvia, I will need you to help set up the talent competition for the party ok? I think you will be very good at that.
I don't know if you can see the little thingys coming out of the plant, but the indians used to pull them out and would weave shoes and baskets and different things out of them. Saw a pair of shoes that were almost 200 years old and still intack.
This is the watch tower that I mentioned. Designed by a woman in 1932.
The Grand Canyon this doesn't do it justice!
I think I have figured out how to put the pictures in with the text! The only problem is they come out backwards. I'm sure by the time the trip is over I will have it down.
Marty and I have decided that today will be a day of REST all we plan to do is check out of the hotel drive to town, find a laundromat and another hotel and just hang out.
I'll check back soon!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
April 14, 2010
Quite the campsite! Oatman Ar 
I talked to Seth the other day and he reminded me of a story that I forgot to tell you about. When Marty and I were checked into our hotel just outside of Oklahoma City,we parked in an empty parking lot. We went out to get something out of Ruby and she was surrounded by a bunch of K-9 police dogs and officers. They were parked right up against the van, so Marty (being the protective person he is of Ruby), didn't like that and of course had to say something in a rude tone to the effect of the parking lot is empty and they didn't even leave enough room to open the door. He wasn't happy!! We couldn't figure out why the police would have Ruby in their sites. It turns out there was some kind of training or something going on and they were just checking out the bumper stickers.
Also in New Mexico we saw a lot of armored 4 wheel drive vans and pick-ups. We later drove past some secured government stuff.
We went to Verde Canyon and road the train through the canyon. It was a beautiful day and we had packed a picnic lunch to eat before the ride. The ride through the canyon was great, the train went through a tunnel carved thru the rock, an opening just large enough for the train.
We went thru the Prescott National Forest where the elevation was 7,000 ft and overlooked the canyon and beyond.
Someone pinch me! I can't believe the beauty that I am seeing.
After the train ride we decided to take the back country byway instead of the scenic route. We were so glad we did. The road we were on was on the side of a mountain and was barely wide enough for two cars. We were pleasantly surprised to come across a very happening place. Lots of art galleries, cafes and specialty shops.
Had a really hard time finding a place to camp, we finally came along a KOA just outside the Grand Canyon.
Guess who woke up on the road again? Yep. I've decided that when we camp I will sleep with the keys! Rachel, that toothebrush came in really handy thanks!!!
Grand Canyon day! Oh my gosh absolutely beautiful. We were at the park before it opened so we went to the cafe near the visitor center and had breakfast. The pictures don't do this justice. We stopped at every overview. We found a dirt road with an open gate, it might just as well said "welcome". We drove down a couple of miles and found a quiet spot hoping to see some wildlife, before we knew it we were asleep, that was the best nap we've had for a long time.
I have been so excited about visiting the skywalk at the Grand Canyon, but after talking to one of the park rangers he told us that it was $80.00 each to walk out on the platform and the pictures make it look a lot longer than it is. He directed us to a watch tower that had a better view. We went there instead. I wasn't going to complain to Marty about being cheap because he has been very generous (I have lots on new jewlery). The view was spectacular. I thought it was really cool that the watch tower was designed by a woman in 1932. She oversaw the entire construction down to the placement of each rock.
When we left the canyon we drove thru Navajo Indian Reservation. The park ranger suggested we try a navajo taco it was really good. Meat, bean, cheese, lettuce etc. on fry bread.
While driving we happened upon Wupatki Sunset Crater Volcano National Park. The elevation was 7045ft. I can't believe how high we were.
Had to start to find a place to spend the night, as we were driving we thought we saw snow, Marty said no it can't be snow it was 72 that afternoon. Sure enought snow, not just flurries, it was snowing and blowing, then as quick as it started it stopped.
We found a nice little dump to spend the night in. I mean a real dump! We were tired and it was just to sleep so...we brought in our bed linen and pillows and went to sleep. The man said he had wifi, but there wasn't a signal strong enough. When we went to breakfast the cafe also had wifi, but noone knew the security code!!
We were off to Joshua Tree National Park. On the way (continuing on the backcountry byway) we came across an old prospecting town, Oatman AR. What a find! The town was great, they put on a gunfight show in the center of town. All the merchants were dressed the part. Oh, while we were driving there up and down a mountain with no guardrails and drop offs hundreds of feet, maybe millions, there were signs to watch out for animals but we couldn't make out the animals until we got to town. There were wild burros. They were walking the streets and protected by law. They are decendants of the burros the prospectors brought with them looking for gold.
Marty also found some more bumper stickers. Dad, you'll love this, it's my favorite.. It says the three stooges, with pictures of Pelosi, Feinstein and Boxer!!!
We left Oatman and continued to Joshua Tree, we drove and drove and drove and drove. We are deep in the desert. We found the park (after 11:00) and went to sleep. It was a dry, dark campground. No hook-ups, there was a composting toilet, but not even electric in the bathroom. The visitor and ranger stations were solar powered. There were some great campsites there, right in between the rocks.
This morning we went into town for breakfast and got some groceries for lunch and went back to the park. After driving from one end to the other we decided to not stay there another night. So we hit the road. We stopped and made a couple of sandwiches and ate in the van.
I had wanted to visit Death Valley, but after the last few days I am done with desert!
The desert is someplace you don't want to be if you have sjogrens!! My eyes were on fire. We stopped a couple of times just so I could put drops in them. Does anyone know just how big the Mojave desert is? It is big. We drove all afternoon and for miles saw noone and nothing. We made it to Barstow CA and are now in a hotel/motel.
Marty found something he wants to do tomorrow, but I wasn't really listening, too tired to do anything more than nod my head.
Marty and I are spending soooo much time together, I can't believe that after 30 years I'm finding out things about him that NOBODY should know! He's asleep so I will tell you, (don't let on like you know), he knows ALL the words to the Partridge Family song "I Think I Love You" How sad is that? There is more, but if I told you he'd kill me! Send me a private email. hahaha
OK, getting silly now. Thanks for reading, and please talk to me, somebody, anybody please say something!!!
Good Night
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Finally got connected
There is so much catching up to do. One of the interesting things we saw in Kentucky was a neighborhood of houseboats, that was kind of cool to see.
Right now we are in Arizona. We have been here since yesterday.
We stayed at a state park in Arkansas Petit Jean State Park, it was right on the Arkansas river. It was absolutely beautiful. We took a short hike to the waterfalls. We saw some baby turkeys. We had a nice campsite, nice and close to the restrooms and showers. So far that has been the only dinner that we cooked ourselves. The rest of our meals have been in restaurants. After we drove around and explored the park we headed to Oklahoma.
Of course we took the scenic drive to Norman OK, which is just outside of Oklahoma City. We just ate dinner and relaxed.
We headed out early and started driving on Route 66. We stopped at the first Rte 66 museum we came across, not knowing that every city along the route has their own museum. So we got a couple of souvenirs and hit the road. I saw my very first tumbleweed! I was so excited. We pretty much just drove and enjoyed the scenery.
We entered Texas in time for a late lunch. We stopped at a place called Big Vern's.
The food was really good and we learned that the woman who owned the restaurant used to live in Alexandria, on Duke Street. it really is a small world. She didn't like Alexandria because there were too many trees and she couldn't see where she was going and got lost a lot. We learned that when we were driving past the large cattle ranches that the people raise cattle as a hobby, their money comes from oil. We saw a lot of oil rigs (or whatever they're called).
It was really odd when we drove into Texas, we drove for miles and miles and saw NOTHING. It felt like we drove into a Stephen King novel or The Twilight Zone. Spooky. We decided not to stay over in Texas and drove into New Mexico.
We found the Santa Rosa Lake State Park, that was like a different planet. What we call bushes they call trees. They also call fish hatcheries trout rearing. We are really liking the state parks, the campgrounds are very clean and more importantly the showers and restrooms are clean. It is different there, the picnic tables were all made out of concrete. When we woke up there were no birds singing, it was really quiet. When we left the campground we decided to visit Santa Fe before taking our scenic drive. We visited the Indian Culture Museum. I knew there were a lot of different tribes, I just didn't know how many! Santa Fe was very touristy so we continued to our drive, we knew our general direction was Albuquerque, Marty was tired so he went in the back and took a nap. The highway system outside of Albuquerque is huge. I found myself all of the sudden on a super highway with a speed limit of 75. It's a good thing I have been through the mixing bowl in Springfield on Rt 95, so I was all good. I drove a little while longer and saw a sign for a casino and they advertised $10. in gas for all from out of state. I decided to stop. I didn't have the heart to wake Marty, so I left him sleeping in Ruby. He did come looking for me for an hour or so and when he came and got me I was $5.00 up and had a voucher for the gas, he was ok when he found that out, but he is very reluctant to ask me to drive. HMM I wonder why.
We drove to Red Rock State Park in NM and camped there for the night. We were very surpised to learn the elevation there was 7,000 feet. The campground was all sand, different. The campground was surrounded on three sides by these beautiful red cliffs, rocks. Still kind of strange that the only wildlife we've seen thus far were the baby turkeys and a roadrunner. It was a little chilly when we woke up but didn't think it felt at all like 21. There was no frost, no humidity, no frost. Did I mention that Marty got up before me and when I woke up in my pajamas in the back of Ruby, he was driving. He was kind enough to take me to a 24 hr. laundromat to go to the bathroom, after he got coffee of course. That was his way of getting back at me for leaving him sleep while I went in the casino. I made him take me back to the campground for a shower. We watched some hot air balloonists set up and take off in the morning. We decided to go for a scenic drive that we learned about from a man we met the evening before. So we decided to get another coffee for the road. While we were inside getting our coffee, this huge and I mean huge man came in for his morning coffee, this guy had to be about 7ft tall and weighed a lot too (Not good at guessing weight). Marty turned to me and said his coffee wasn't hot, that's when the big man said his coffee was hot. Without thinking, as usual, I blurt out "if I was that coffee I'd be hot for you too". After what seemed like forever, but all moments like that seem forever, all was good. Then I proceeded to tell Marty that there IS a double standard and if he ever had a slip like that, it wouldn't be funny.
We laughed about that for a while. We were taking a very leisurely drive that took us through an Indian reservation and ended up behind a school bus. When the bus stopped to let off the children Marty burst into song...one little, two little, three little indians.....sorry if that offends anyone but I laughed so hard I cried!! Marty is so funny.
We decided to visit the Petrified Forest, since we were given a pass to all the National Parks by Marty's sisters for Marty's birthday. I can't put into words how beautiful it is. Breath taking.
Today was a maintenance day. We got up and Ruby got an oil change and a bath and we did laundry. Marty found some information on the Grand Canyon Train, so we made reservations for tomorrow. We then went to Winslow Arizona and Marty took a picture of me on the corner. We then drove through the Cococino National Forest and Slide Rock Park. There were some vendors so we stopped for more gifts.
At the other end of the Park was Sedona, that was so congested and full of spas and spiritual voodoo type stuff and very very yuppie.
We stopped for a late lunch/early dinner at "Hog Wild", a Chicago style hot dog restaurant. No sauerkraut or spicy mustard for the hot dogs. We watched Super Nanny while we ate.
Found a neat little store after that the "hippie store". Marty found some cool bumper stickers. Poor Marty, he's been collecting stickers for the back of Ruby, we have a stowaway, which is like a truck that connect at the trailer hitch, anyway, his goal has been to fill the stowaway with stickers and every time he puts one on it is gone by our next stop. He has tried all kinds of things to get them to stick. We lost one in a parking lot that said "if you lived in your truck you'd be home now" we did find it, but couldn't get it back because some lady in a BMW was wearing it on her car and we thought it best if we just let that one go. Anyway the lady at the hippie store gave us some advise and after our train ride tomorrow we will take care of that.
This will be our last night in a hotel for awhile because tomorrow night after the train ride we will be heading by Ruby to the Grand Canyon and that is definitely camping time.
I know there is a lot that I forgot to add, but I will when I get wifi again, now that I know what my problem was, this laptop is new and there is a switch on the side that I had inadvertently turned off so I couldn't get a connection. Thanks Frank for helping, sorry I called so late, you're my favorite brother.
Sylvia and Kyla, I hope you're tracking us on your map we sent you. I am so glad we got to talk on the phone! We miss you so much! Keep up the good work at school!
We also found out that Abel is doing good. He is loving it there playing with the other dogs. I heard he found a mud hole that he likes to visit and on his way back he likes to go through the woods where he picks us burrs and twigs and brings them in to Jody to pick off. Sorry Jody. Jody and the kids have been taking him on hikes and he is losing weight. Maybe she should open up a fat doggy camp. All I know is I am so grateful Abel is being taken care of so well and it sets our minds at ease so we can really enjoy this trip, even though we miss him like crazy!
This trip is amazing, I can't believe how much fun we are having. Each stop is like a vacation by itself! It is almost midnight here and we have a busy day tomorrow so I will say good night for now.
Check back soon!!
Right now we are in Arizona. We have been here since yesterday.
We stayed at a state park in Arkansas Petit Jean State Park, it was right on the Arkansas river. It was absolutely beautiful. We took a short hike to the waterfalls. We saw some baby turkeys. We had a nice campsite, nice and close to the restrooms and showers. So far that has been the only dinner that we cooked ourselves. The rest of our meals have been in restaurants. After we drove around and explored the park we headed to Oklahoma.
Of course we took the scenic drive to Norman OK, which is just outside of Oklahoma City. We just ate dinner and relaxed.
We headed out early and started driving on Route 66. We stopped at the first Rte 66 museum we came across, not knowing that every city along the route has their own museum. So we got a couple of souvenirs and hit the road. I saw my very first tumbleweed! I was so excited. We pretty much just drove and enjoyed the scenery.
We entered Texas in time for a late lunch. We stopped at a place called Big Vern's.
The food was really good and we learned that the woman who owned the restaurant used to live in Alexandria, on Duke Street. it really is a small world. She didn't like Alexandria because there were too many trees and she couldn't see where she was going and got lost a lot. We learned that when we were driving past the large cattle ranches that the people raise cattle as a hobby, their money comes from oil. We saw a lot of oil rigs (or whatever they're called).
It was really odd when we drove into Texas, we drove for miles and miles and saw NOTHING. It felt like we drove into a Stephen King novel or The Twilight Zone. Spooky. We decided not to stay over in Texas and drove into New Mexico.
We found the Santa Rosa Lake State Park, that was like a different planet. What we call bushes they call trees. They also call fish hatcheries trout rearing. We are really liking the state parks, the campgrounds are very clean and more importantly the showers and restrooms are clean. It is different there, the picnic tables were all made out of concrete. When we woke up there were no birds singing, it was really quiet. When we left the campground we decided to visit Santa Fe before taking our scenic drive. We visited the Indian Culture Museum. I knew there were a lot of different tribes, I just didn't know how many! Santa Fe was very touristy so we continued to our drive, we knew our general direction was Albuquerque, Marty was tired so he went in the back and took a nap. The highway system outside of Albuquerque is huge. I found myself all of the sudden on a super highway with a speed limit of 75. It's a good thing I have been through the mixing bowl in Springfield on Rt 95, so I was all good. I drove a little while longer and saw a sign for a casino and they advertised $10. in gas for all from out of state. I decided to stop. I didn't have the heart to wake Marty, so I left him sleeping in Ruby. He did come looking for me for an hour or so and when he came and got me I was $5.00 up and had a voucher for the gas, he was ok when he found that out, but he is very reluctant to ask me to drive. HMM I wonder why.
We drove to Red Rock State Park in NM and camped there for the night. We were very surpised to learn the elevation there was 7,000 feet. The campground was all sand, different. The campground was surrounded on three sides by these beautiful red cliffs, rocks. Still kind of strange that the only wildlife we've seen thus far were the baby turkeys and a roadrunner. It was a little chilly when we woke up but didn't think it felt at all like 21. There was no frost, no humidity, no frost. Did I mention that Marty got up before me and when I woke up in my pajamas in the back of Ruby, he was driving. He was kind enough to take me to a 24 hr. laundromat to go to the bathroom, after he got coffee of course. That was his way of getting back at me for leaving him sleep while I went in the casino. I made him take me back to the campground for a shower. We watched some hot air balloonists set up and take off in the morning. We decided to go for a scenic drive that we learned about from a man we met the evening before. So we decided to get another coffee for the road. While we were inside getting our coffee, this huge and I mean huge man came in for his morning coffee, this guy had to be about 7ft tall and weighed a lot too (Not good at guessing weight). Marty turned to me and said his coffee wasn't hot, that's when the big man said his coffee was hot. Without thinking, as usual, I blurt out "if I was that coffee I'd be hot for you too". After what seemed like forever, but all moments like that seem forever, all was good. Then I proceeded to tell Marty that there IS a double standard and if he ever had a slip like that, it wouldn't be funny.
We laughed about that for a while. We were taking a very leisurely drive that took us through an Indian reservation and ended up behind a school bus. When the bus stopped to let off the children Marty burst into song...one little, two little, three little indians.....sorry if that offends anyone but I laughed so hard I cried!! Marty is so funny.
We decided to visit the Petrified Forest, since we were given a pass to all the National Parks by Marty's sisters for Marty's birthday. I can't put into words how beautiful it is. Breath taking.
Today was a maintenance day. We got up and Ruby got an oil change and a bath and we did laundry. Marty found some information on the Grand Canyon Train, so we made reservations for tomorrow. We then went to Winslow Arizona and Marty took a picture of me on the corner. We then drove through the Cococino National Forest and Slide Rock Park. There were some vendors so we stopped for more gifts.
At the other end of the Park was Sedona, that was so congested and full of spas and spiritual voodoo type stuff and very very yuppie.
We stopped for a late lunch/early dinner at "Hog Wild", a Chicago style hot dog restaurant. No sauerkraut or spicy mustard for the hot dogs. We watched Super Nanny while we ate.
Found a neat little store after that the "hippie store". Marty found some cool bumper stickers. Poor Marty, he's been collecting stickers for the back of Ruby, we have a stowaway, which is like a truck that connect at the trailer hitch, anyway, his goal has been to fill the stowaway with stickers and every time he puts one on it is gone by our next stop. He has tried all kinds of things to get them to stick. We lost one in a parking lot that said "if you lived in your truck you'd be home now" we did find it, but couldn't get it back because some lady in a BMW was wearing it on her car and we thought it best if we just let that one go. Anyway the lady at the hippie store gave us some advise and after our train ride tomorrow we will take care of that.
This will be our last night in a hotel for awhile because tomorrow night after the train ride we will be heading by Ruby to the Grand Canyon and that is definitely camping time.
I know there is a lot that I forgot to add, but I will when I get wifi again, now that I know what my problem was, this laptop is new and there is a switch on the side that I had inadvertently turned off so I couldn't get a connection. Thanks Frank for helping, sorry I called so late, you're my favorite brother.
Sylvia and Kyla, I hope you're tracking us on your map we sent you. I am so glad we got to talk on the phone! We miss you so much! Keep up the good work at school!
We also found out that Abel is doing good. He is loving it there playing with the other dogs. I heard he found a mud hole that he likes to visit and on his way back he likes to go through the woods where he picks us burrs and twigs and brings them in to Jody to pick off. Sorry Jody. Jody and the kids have been taking him on hikes and he is losing weight. Maybe she should open up a fat doggy camp. All I know is I am so grateful Abel is being taken care of so well and it sets our minds at ease so we can really enjoy this trip, even though we miss him like crazy!
This trip is amazing, I can't believe how much fun we are having. Each stop is like a vacation by itself! It is almost midnight here and we have a busy day tomorrow so I will say good night for now.
Check back soon!!
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Last Post from Memphis
This will be my last post from Memphis, I'm not going to pay for another day of internet. We are at the Westin and EVERYTHING is an extra. They don't even give you a free newspaper, we get a paper and free coffee at the "crack shack"!
We did a backstreet tour today after having breakfast at a cafe. The tour was very fun, I like things like that, you get to know a little of the history of the city. It was interesting to me, however Marty fell asleep (so what's new?). The tour guide who did quite a bit of singing made sure to point Marty out to the bus of people! I wasn't going to tell him at first, but some of the other tourists ruined it for me.
I can't believe we have only come across one bar that is closed today. It's kind of nice having a holiday, because things aren't nearly as crowded, just us heathens out today.
Sylvia, don't forget you need to learn how to spell that city in New Mexico before we get there.
Kyla, you need to find and mark all the cities that Grandma and PopPop visit, ok? We got you a little something today and we will mail it to you so you don't have to wait so long for it.
Frank, I will say here infront of everyone, your ribs are better than any I've eaten here! (I actually haven't had any yet, but I plan on it tonight, I've only had the pulled bbq, but I know yours are batter).
We are going to be leaving pretty early in the morning, I think we are heading towards Little Rock, Arkansas.
Seth, you and Jobey be careful on that motorcycle. I was really hoping the Jobey wouldn't like it, then maybe you would sell that stupid thing. Jobey, you do look really good in your jacket and helmet though. Hot biker babe that you are!
The people here are really nice, the hotel housekeeper just hugged me because I told her not to clean the room today, just needed new towels. Didn't want her in here today. Marty is finishing his nap from the tour.
Happy Easter to everyone. Enjoy the pictures.
Love,
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Memphis
Happy Easter and belated Passover!
We had a very late night last night we didn't get in until 11:30! The music is great and Bealle Street is a great place to "people watch".
I am so glad that Abel is being taken care of so well. He went on a three mile hike the other day. I heard he dropped and slept as soon as he got back. Thanks Jodi and Andy.
We did some shopping today today and visited Bally's Casino (in Mississippi). And ate some crablegs. Did I say I came out a winner again!! Yes sir, $5.76 more than I started with.
Getting back to the entertainment here. In the street little kids called "flippers" do flippy, gymnastic tricks right down the middle of the street. That started according to the magazine, when people were evicted from their homes in the projects, kids would play on the matress'. Just a silly fact, but I wouldn't want anyone to think that we aren't getting any culture!
Marty and I both have been in big cities and small towns, but we have never been panhandled in the drive thru of a McDonalds and it just happened twice waiting for a sweet tea!! Also on my way into the RiteAid. (Yes dad I am being carefull, I just told them that Marty carries all the money and the gun)
We are going to take the "MoJo" backstreet tour tomorrow. Should be lots of fun. The tourguide is a musician (must be out of work) and we will be getting a history lesson on the blues!
Jeff Shaw, there are lots of horns blowing here, but none are accompanied by a fiddle. There may be an opportunity for your "blues"grass here! Just a thought.
We're going to go out and people watch some more, I'm going to be looking for a big screen with the game. Go Mountaineers!!
Enjoy the pics, not many though.
BTW this is an interactive blog. If I wanted to talk to myself I'd just talk to Marty.
We had a very late night last night we didn't get in until 11:30! The music is great and Bealle Street is a great place to "people watch".
I am so glad that Abel is being taken care of so well. He went on a three mile hike the other day. I heard he dropped and slept as soon as he got back. Thanks Jodi and Andy.
We did some shopping today today and visited Bally's Casino (in Mississippi). And ate some crablegs. Did I say I came out a winner again!! Yes sir, $5.76 more than I started with.
Getting back to the entertainment here. In the street little kids called "flippers" do flippy, gymnastic tricks right down the middle of the street. That started according to the magazine, when people were evicted from their homes in the projects, kids would play on the matress'. Just a silly fact, but I wouldn't want anyone to think that we aren't getting any culture!
Marty and I both have been in big cities and small towns, but we have never been panhandled in the drive thru of a McDonalds and it just happened twice waiting for a sweet tea!! Also on my way into the RiteAid. (Yes dad I am being carefull, I just told them that Marty carries all the money and the gun)
We are going to take the "MoJo" backstreet tour tomorrow. Should be lots of fun. The tourguide is a musician (must be out of work) and we will be getting a history lesson on the blues!
Jeff Shaw, there are lots of horns blowing here, but none are accompanied by a fiddle. There may be an opportunity for your "blues"grass here! Just a thought.
We're going to go out and people watch some more, I'm going to be looking for a big screen with the game. Go Mountaineers!!
Enjoy the pics, not many though.
BTW this is an interactive blog. If I wanted to talk to myself I'd just talk to Marty.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Catch-up Post
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We have just checked into our hotel in Memphis. Yeah a real shower and bathtub! We will be here for three (3) nights. We are right on Bealle Street.
So the last couple of days I couldn't post. I will start with our exploring around the Mammouth Cave area. Of course the pictures of the water and truck were when Marty was driving.
We left that area a day early and that turned out to be a good decision. We happened upon Montgomery Bell State Park near Dickson TN. What a find! We set up camp right on the side of the river, I hope you can see that in the pictures. We did a lot more exploring before returning to the campsite for the evening. I like driving off the beaten path, we find the most interesting people and usually good food.
We broke camp this morning and took the two-lane here to Memphis. The drive wasn't too bad. We broke it up by finding another state park and checking that out. It wasn't nearly as crowded as Montgomery Bell. As a matter of fact when we were packing up the camper beside us went and reserved our site for his family who was across the road from him.
Sylvia & Kyla we saw a snapping turtle, it was pretty big, but not nearly as big as the one we found on our nature walk! Remember how it hissed at PopPop when he tried to nudge him with a stick? That was funny to watch PopPop jump like a little girl huh?
There were also wild turkeys and something making a really loud noise I couldn't figure out what it was though.
We are going to rest up for a little bit then get ourselves together and head out to hear some music, people watch and for sure eat some barbeque!!
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