Oct 25th – Tues
Dennis had to take his truck in for some repairs so Terry brought him back. Then Terry had a hankering for doughnuts and made a quick trip to Albertsons. Dennis & Gloria came over to visit for a while and after they left we went to the pool. We came back and threw burgers on the BBQ for a late lunch, then went to the courtyard to listen to music and dance a bit. We ended the day at Dennis & Glo’s where they taught us to play a board/card game called Pegs & Jokers.
Oct 26th – Wed
We had our mail forwarded so waded through all the junk and made a couple of phone calls to get off mailing lists. We rode our bikes to visit some people before having breakfast for lunch.
We did a bit of shopping and I tried on a couple of bathing suits – YUK!! This should motivate me to get some exercise!
We were chatting with Ron & Terri when Dennis called to say his truck was finally done. I stayed with Gloria (and Larry & Julie) while Terry took Dennis to get the truck. While they were gone, former neighbors of Gloria’s (Carl & Lois) dropped by and joined the party. Terry arrived with 2 pizzas (!?) as he had seen a guy waving a sign for $5 large pizzas at Little Caesars.
After everyone else left, we moved inside and played Pegs & Jokers with Dennis & Gloria. It got very windy so Terry made a quick trip to put in our awning and close windows.
Oct 27th – Thurs
Terry played a great game (90) of golf this morning and I went to the church rummage sale with Julie. I got pink shirts for both of us for a dance next week and a pair of pants to modify for the Halloween dance. Then we went to a fabric store for a couple of items.
Before going shopping, I cooked some chicken that I thawed a couple of days ago and then made rice when I got back so dinner would be easy. When Terry got back at 2:20, he hadn’t eaten anything all day so we had an early dinner before going to listen to music in the courtyard. The new entertainer started out with his music drowning his voice but as he adjusted his equipment and we had a couple of drinks he sounded better. The weather cooled down today so we danced quite a bit. Then we rode over to Neal & Robin’s where we watched the World Series and played Sequence.
Oct 28th – Fri
We went to the office to buy tickets for a dance before we tackled the laundry. After we put everything away, we visited a while with Ron & Terri and watched a new neighbor get parked. The neighbor had a toy hauler and had to unload his motorcycle before parking. The bike had a dead battery so Terry & Ron ended up helping him pull the bike out and then slow it on the ramp. When they (Greg & Joan) were set up they came over with bags of apples as a thank you.
We decided to have a group over to watch the last game of the World Series and have drinks and an appy dinner. After riding around and inviting everyone, we went to a grocery store and I cooked and set out snacks. We ended up with a fun, loud group with a few people who actually watched the game. Julie & Larry were the first to arrive at 4:20 and Ron & Terri were the last to leave at 9:30.
At 4:09, Val called to say they were about 60 miles out near Payson but they didn’t make a reservation and the office closed at 4. Terry hoped on his bike and got a site arranged for them. Before they arrived and with the “party” well underway, I looked up and saw our friend Moe standing beside the patio. We knew he would be here but didn’t know when. He has been travelling in his new-to-him motor home with a friend (Cal) for a couple of weeks. He was trying to figure out how to get an internet connection when he heard our voices!! We sent him back to get Cal and join the party. Terry was showing him how to get back to his site when a golf cart passed him leading Claude & Val to their site. Terry hopped into the golf cart, helped them get parked and told them to come on over. Another Montana 5th wheel parked next to Greg & Joan and Dwayne & Sue joined us after they walked by and Terry spotted them. In addition to the people mentioned, the following also were here – Dennis & Gloria, Neil & Robin, Neal & Judy, Mike and Greg.
Oct 29th – Sat
We took Claude & Val to the church rummage sale (Val got a dress for Halloween and we bought half price candles for buddy burners), stopped for a late breakfast and went to the Mesa Marketplace where we walked all the rows and everyone bought something.
We went to see Moe’s motor home and introduced him & Cal to Billy & Laurie since they are across the street from each other. Billy & Terry helped Moe program his TV to get channels from the antenna. Moe joined us in the pool and then he & Cal and Claude & Val came over for drinks and hamburgers. We started telling embarrassing and/or funny stories about ourselves and had a ton of laughs.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Oct 22nd to 24th - Mesa
Oct 22nd – Sat
We went to the Mesa Marketplace fairly early this morning so it wouldn’t be too hot there. I bought new Dawg’s sandals as I discovered in Yuma that too much direct sunlight (or just heat) makes them shrink. Gloria’s sandals shrunk from being in their park model here over the summer. We stopped at WalMart on the way back.
After lunch we went to the pool for quite a while as it seemed really hot even though it didn’t reach 100 today. We visited Dennis & Gloria and then we all went to Neal & Judy’s for dinner. Also there were Larry & Julie, Billy & Lauri and Kathy & Dennis. Kathy has a park model right behind Neal & Judy and they figured they better invite her as we are kind of loud!
Oct 23rd – Sun
Neal brought our tables and chairs back but he didn’t bring the storage bags so we rode our bikes over to get them. Then we stopped to visit with Larry & Julie. A bit later Dennis & Gloria came over and we watched a football game outside with them. Just before that game was done, Ron & Terri came over and stayed to chat and watch another football game. Mike & Susie joined us part way through the 2nd football game.
They all left and we watched a World Series game and had dinner.
Oct 24th – Mon
Terry left at 6:15 for a 6:45 tee time with Ron, Mike and Bob (he and his wife Sandy came in yesterday and are friends with Ron, etc). I sort of dozed for a while longer and then did emails and called sister Marg. I was still chatting with her when Terry returned about 10.
We went to pick up baby backs on sale and stopped at Arby’s for an early lunch. After packaging the ribs for the freezer, we went to Best Buy to look at cameras. We picked the brains of a couple of very knowledgeable employees and then went to Costco where we bought the same brand (Panasonic) camera that we saw at Best Buy but with more features for less money.
We went for a short swim and then rode to Larry & Julie’s. Billy & Lauri were there so after chatting a bit we all decided to go to Fat Willy’s for “$5 hamburger Monday”. Neal & Judy also joined us. Fat Willy’s was very crowded but we all had good meals and cold beer and were home in time to miss just a couple of dances on DWTS. You have to remember that a lot of shows start on Central time here in AZ.
We went to the Mesa Marketplace fairly early this morning so it wouldn’t be too hot there. I bought new Dawg’s sandals as I discovered in Yuma that too much direct sunlight (or just heat) makes them shrink. Gloria’s sandals shrunk from being in their park model here over the summer. We stopped at WalMart on the way back.
After lunch we went to the pool for quite a while as it seemed really hot even though it didn’t reach 100 today. We visited Dennis & Gloria and then we all went to Neal & Judy’s for dinner. Also there were Larry & Julie, Billy & Lauri and Kathy & Dennis. Kathy has a park model right behind Neal & Judy and they figured they better invite her as we are kind of loud!
Oct 23rd – Sun
Neal brought our tables and chairs back but he didn’t bring the storage bags so we rode our bikes over to get them. Then we stopped to visit with Larry & Julie. A bit later Dennis & Gloria came over and we watched a football game outside with them. Just before that game was done, Ron & Terri came over and stayed to chat and watch another football game. Mike & Susie joined us part way through the 2nd football game.
They all left and we watched a World Series game and had dinner.
Oct 24th – Mon
Terry left at 6:15 for a 6:45 tee time with Ron, Mike and Bob (he and his wife Sandy came in yesterday and are friends with Ron, etc). I sort of dozed for a while longer and then did emails and called sister Marg. I was still chatting with her when Terry returned about 10.
We went to pick up baby backs on sale and stopped at Arby’s for an early lunch. After packaging the ribs for the freezer, we went to Best Buy to look at cameras. We picked the brains of a couple of very knowledgeable employees and then went to Costco where we bought the same brand (Panasonic) camera that we saw at Best Buy but with more features for less money.
We went for a short swim and then rode to Larry & Julie’s. Billy & Lauri were there so after chatting a bit we all decided to go to Fat Willy’s for “$5 hamburger Monday”. Neal & Judy also joined us. Fat Willy’s was very crowded but we all had good meals and cold beer and were home in time to miss just a couple of dances on DWTS. You have to remember that a lot of shows start on Central time here in AZ.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Oct 19th to 21st - Mesa
Oct 19th – Wed
My horrible haircut finally grew out enough to visit the stylist here in the park. She cut my hair last year and did as good a job today. Then we did the laundry before going to the first “watering hole”. It is an afternoon (4-6) dance in the ballroom and there were more people than I expected. An enjoyable country band played mostly danceable music.
As soon as we got back, we picked up Dennis & Gloria to go for wings at Fat Willy’s. Larry & Julie also joined us there.
Oct 20th – Thurs
We attended the coffee & doughnuts manager meeting this morning and then rode our bicycles around the park and visited people. When we were nearing our rig, we saw Gloria standing on the entrance road so we went to see what was up. They were waiting for Direct TV to install a satellite dish and had seen the truck drive by on the wrong road and were trying to flag him down. Terry took off on his bike and eventually found the guy in the wrong section of the park and led him back to Dennis & Gloria’s. Apparently Direct TV had the wrong phone number and then the guy said he couldn’t get a signal from where they wanted the dish installed so they cancelled Direct and called Cox cable.
We joined a group for the first “music in the courtyard” with Curtis Knox entertaining. Terry danced a couple of line dances but the dance area was in the sun and I was already sweating just sitting in the shade. Terry invited everyone (Billy & Lauri, Larry & Julie, Dennis & Gloria) over after for a strawberry daiquiri so the party continued at our place for a while.
Oct 21st – Fri
We went with Billy & Lauri to Fort McDowell casino to play bingo. It is a little boring as the bingo machines do everything and all you have to do is yell bingo. Unfortunately, none of us got to do that! We ate a late lunch there at the intermission and then headed right back after bingo ended. There was an Oktoberfest celebration in the courtyard so we joined some friends to listen to music & have a drink. A group was going to look at Julie’s park model but we came back and then took some tables over to Judy for dinner tomorrow.
We sat out & watched TV for a while and just as I was making a light dinner, Neil & Robin came by. Robin had a snack with us and then we moved back outside and played a couple games of Wizard.
My horrible haircut finally grew out enough to visit the stylist here in the park. She cut my hair last year and did as good a job today. Then we did the laundry before going to the first “watering hole”. It is an afternoon (4-6) dance in the ballroom and there were more people than I expected. An enjoyable country band played mostly danceable music.
As soon as we got back, we picked up Dennis & Gloria to go for wings at Fat Willy’s. Larry & Julie also joined us there.
Oct 20th – Thurs
We attended the coffee & doughnuts manager meeting this morning and then rode our bicycles around the park and visited people. When we were nearing our rig, we saw Gloria standing on the entrance road so we went to see what was up. They were waiting for Direct TV to install a satellite dish and had seen the truck drive by on the wrong road and were trying to flag him down. Terry took off on his bike and eventually found the guy in the wrong section of the park and led him back to Dennis & Gloria’s. Apparently Direct TV had the wrong phone number and then the guy said he couldn’t get a signal from where they wanted the dish installed so they cancelled Direct and called Cox cable.
We joined a group for the first “music in the courtyard” with Curtis Knox entertaining. Terry danced a couple of line dances but the dance area was in the sun and I was already sweating just sitting in the shade. Terry invited everyone (Billy & Lauri, Larry & Julie, Dennis & Gloria) over after for a strawberry daiquiri so the party continued at our place for a while.
Oct 21st – Fri
We went with Billy & Lauri to Fort McDowell casino to play bingo. It is a little boring as the bingo machines do everything and all you have to do is yell bingo. Unfortunately, none of us got to do that! We ate a late lunch there at the intermission and then headed right back after bingo ended. There was an Oktoberfest celebration in the courtyard so we joined some friends to listen to music & have a drink. A group was going to look at Julie’s park model but we came back and then took some tables over to Judy for dinner tomorrow.
We sat out & watched TV for a while and just as I was making a light dinner, Neil & Robin came by. Robin had a snack with us and then we moved back outside and played a couple games of Wizard.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Oct 16th to 18th - Mesa
Oct 16th – Sun
We were heading to Costco for a couple of items and decided to stop for breakfast first. On the way back we picked up some items at WalMart. We were watching TV outside when Dennis & Gloria arrived and drove by our place first. They didn’t stay long as they were anxious to check out their park model which they only had for a week before they left last spring.
We had previously invited Dennis & Gloria for dinner the day they arrived so they returned with a drink in hand within a couple of hours. They had only eaten breakfast as well so we ate dinner early and enjoyed catching up on news.
Oct 17th – Mon
We picked up Billy and made a trip to Total Wine this morning. Later we went looking for something to wear for Halloween but ended up with an air pump and a slow cooker instead. My crock pot had a crack in the bottom which looked as if it went all the way through so I didn’t want to take a chance on a meal, and possibly the countertop, being ruined.
We walked over to Dennis & Gloria’s – with a drink in hand of course – and Terry ended up helping Dennis raise the window awnings on their large living room windows.
We had a quiet evening with dinner & DWTS.
Oct 18th – Tues
After breakfast, we went to find a car wash as you can’t wash your vehicles in the park. We found a full service wash that did an excellent job and now Terry will be able to keep the truck clean with dry wash. Then we carried on to a casino where it didn’t take too long to lose our allowances.
We stopped for a late lunch on the way back, turned on the AC in the stifling hot 5th wheel and sat outside to read & watch TV. Dennis & Gloria stopped in for a visit and to tell us about their efforts to find a bigger TV that would still fit in the spot available. Eventually Terry made us all a drink and then Ron & Terri from next door joined us. A bit later, Julie came over in her golf cart and had everyone in stitches as she was in fine form.
We had some leftovers for dinner and watched DWTS.
We were heading to Costco for a couple of items and decided to stop for breakfast first. On the way back we picked up some items at WalMart. We were watching TV outside when Dennis & Gloria arrived and drove by our place first. They didn’t stay long as they were anxious to check out their park model which they only had for a week before they left last spring.
We had previously invited Dennis & Gloria for dinner the day they arrived so they returned with a drink in hand within a couple of hours. They had only eaten breakfast as well so we ate dinner early and enjoyed catching up on news.
Oct 17th – Mon
We picked up Billy and made a trip to Total Wine this morning. Later we went looking for something to wear for Halloween but ended up with an air pump and a slow cooker instead. My crock pot had a crack in the bottom which looked as if it went all the way through so I didn’t want to take a chance on a meal, and possibly the countertop, being ruined.
We walked over to Dennis & Gloria’s – with a drink in hand of course – and Terry ended up helping Dennis raise the window awnings on their large living room windows.
We had a quiet evening with dinner & DWTS.
Oct 18th – Tues
After breakfast, we went to find a car wash as you can’t wash your vehicles in the park. We found a full service wash that did an excellent job and now Terry will be able to keep the truck clean with dry wash. Then we carried on to a casino where it didn’t take too long to lose our allowances.
We stopped for a late lunch on the way back, turned on the AC in the stifling hot 5th wheel and sat outside to read & watch TV. Dennis & Gloria stopped in for a visit and to tell us about their efforts to find a bigger TV that would still fit in the spot available. Eventually Terry made us all a drink and then Ron & Terri from next door joined us. A bit later, Julie came over in her golf cart and had everyone in stitches as she was in fine form.
We had some leftovers for dinner and watched DWTS.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Oct 13th to 15th - Mesa
Oct 13th – Thurs – Mesa
We went to the weekly coffee & doughnuts this morning. There was an addition to the agenda today – a troupe of 11 to 15 year old girls & boys performing numbers from a musical that they will be putting on at the Mesa Arts Center. Their singing, dancing and acting skills were very good.
We went to Camping World for the light bulbs we needed and went out for a late breakfast.
Then we kind of “took the rest of the day off” with TV, reading & a bit of cleaning.
Oct 14th – Fri – Mesa
Our RV park is tearing down some rental units (the “Casitas” part of Val Vista Villages) and selling furniture, fixtures & kitchen items. We went there at 8 to see if there was anything that we had to have and luckily found nothing! We then rode our bikes over to Neil & Robin’s where Robin was getting ready for work and Neil was doing some projects on his day off. We helped Neil install vent covers, make a buddy burner and make a bucket light. Next we stopped at our rig for a hose nozzle & broom and cleaned up Dennis & Gloria’s carport & “garden” as they will be arriving soon.
After a late breakfast, we did a bit of shopping and then went to the pool as it is still hot. For dinner, we attended a steak fry here at the park. There was an entertainer – The Wolfman – who sang constantly and enjoyably for the 2 hours that we were there. Larry & Julie and our new neighbors Ron & Terri came over for a drink afterwards and we sat around the buddy burner even though the heat from it was definitely not needed.
Oct 15th – Sat – Mesa
We are getting into a wonderfully lazy morning routine with Terry getting up for coffee & to play games on the computer and then I hang out in my PJ’s to read, watch TV, putter around and/or have coffee.
Terry talked to a few people about going to the casino for a stage show so he rode around on his bike to get money or casino cards from participants. We went to the casino to get the tickets (free with a casino card) and ended up spending money on the slots. We stopped for a few groceries on the way back and had an early dinner since all we ate was cinnamon rolls for breakfast.
At 5:30, we left with Ron & Terri for the casino. Seating started at 6 and there was already a line after Terri got a casino card and we chatted with Neil & Robin who were having a yummy looking sandwich that we will have to try some time. Larry & Julie and Neal & Judy also joined us. The show was 4 singing impersonators (Elvis, Dean Martin, Stevie Nicks and Tina Turner) and a comedian. It was very well done in a nice little Vegas-style showroom.
We didn’t stay to gamble and were home shortly after 8:30.
We went to the weekly coffee & doughnuts this morning. There was an addition to the agenda today – a troupe of 11 to 15 year old girls & boys performing numbers from a musical that they will be putting on at the Mesa Arts Center. Their singing, dancing and acting skills were very good.
We went to Camping World for the light bulbs we needed and went out for a late breakfast.
Then we kind of “took the rest of the day off” with TV, reading & a bit of cleaning.
Oct 14th – Fri – Mesa
Our RV park is tearing down some rental units (the “Casitas” part of Val Vista Villages) and selling furniture, fixtures & kitchen items. We went there at 8 to see if there was anything that we had to have and luckily found nothing! We then rode our bikes over to Neil & Robin’s where Robin was getting ready for work and Neil was doing some projects on his day off. We helped Neil install vent covers, make a buddy burner and make a bucket light. Next we stopped at our rig for a hose nozzle & broom and cleaned up Dennis & Gloria’s carport & “garden” as they will be arriving soon.
After a late breakfast, we did a bit of shopping and then went to the pool as it is still hot. For dinner, we attended a steak fry here at the park. There was an entertainer – The Wolfman – who sang constantly and enjoyably for the 2 hours that we were there. Larry & Julie and our new neighbors Ron & Terri came over for a drink afterwards and we sat around the buddy burner even though the heat from it was definitely not needed.
Oct 15th – Sat – Mesa
We are getting into a wonderfully lazy morning routine with Terry getting up for coffee & to play games on the computer and then I hang out in my PJ’s to read, watch TV, putter around and/or have coffee.
Terry talked to a few people about going to the casino for a stage show so he rode around on his bike to get money or casino cards from participants. We went to the casino to get the tickets (free with a casino card) and ended up spending money on the slots. We stopped for a few groceries on the way back and had an early dinner since all we ate was cinnamon rolls for breakfast.
At 5:30, we left with Ron & Terri for the casino. Seating started at 6 and there was already a line after Terri got a casino card and we chatted with Neil & Robin who were having a yummy looking sandwich that we will have to try some time. Larry & Julie and Neal & Judy also joined us. The show was 4 singing impersonators (Elvis, Dean Martin, Stevie Nicks and Tina Turner) and a comedian. It was very well done in a nice little Vegas-style showroom.
We didn’t stay to gamble and were home shortly after 8:30.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Oct 10th to 12th - back to Mesa
Oct 10th – Mon – to Mesa AZ
We left at 5:50 for the 413 mile drive back to Mesa. The weather was clear & sunny and got down to 33 degrees near Gallup. We stopped for diesel & a breakfast sandwich and then took a casino break just south of Payson. We gained an hour and pulled in to Val Vista Villages about 2.
Larry & Julie drove by in their golf cart as we were starting to set up and said they were at the big pool. We finished all the setup and some cleaning and headed to the pool with large glasses of strawberry daiquiri. We came back to relax a bit outside and have leftovers for an easy dinner. Terry was falling asleep in his chair outside so we moved in to watch TV for a bit.
It is in the high 80’s today and 100 degrees is forecast for Wed & Thurs. The nights are cooler though so the AC won’t be needed then, I hope.
Oct 11th – Tues – Mesa
Long pants take way more room than shorts in the laundry basket so it was time to do laundry this morning. Neil stopped by to chat for a while just as we got back. One of the lights above the kitchen counter blew out so we went looking for a new one. It looks like an automotive bulb but you can’t find them at auto supply stores and we couldn’t remember where we found them previously.
We took it easy the rest of the afternoon and then went to Neal & Judy’s for spaghetti dinner. Billy & Lauri and Larry & Julie were also there and we had our usual good time. I think we are still running on New Mexico time so went to bed early.
Oct 12th – Wed – Mesa
We rode around on our bikes this morning and stopped briefly to see the changes Neal has made to their 5th wheel. We visited with Larry & Julie and then with Billy & Lauri where I said that I would help them sew curtains for the front window of their motor home. The lining in their old curtain is in shreds and they couldn’t handle the $900 - $1300 estimate and 8 weeks to get new curtains. They had already bought 8 black-out curtain panels and were prepared to buy a sewing machine or just tack them up as the afternoon sun beats into that large window.
Billy went to the store for thread and we came back for the sewing machine. There was a nice breeze so we weren’t too hot working in the shade outside. I only had to rip out 2 seams and everything went quite well with Terry, Billy & Lauri eager to help. We started just after 12 and finished about 5:30. The curtains are pleated and have a 2 level hem just for additional fun. Larry & Julie had joined us by then (back from the pool!!). Laurie ordered pizza and we had some premade turkey kabobs that needed to be used so we put them on the BBQ. I forgot to mention that the guys had started drinking beer part way through the project but Lauri & I waited until we were done to hit the wine.
We left at 5:50 for the 413 mile drive back to Mesa. The weather was clear & sunny and got down to 33 degrees near Gallup. We stopped for diesel & a breakfast sandwich and then took a casino break just south of Payson. We gained an hour and pulled in to Val Vista Villages about 2.
Larry & Julie drove by in their golf cart as we were starting to set up and said they were at the big pool. We finished all the setup and some cleaning and headed to the pool with large glasses of strawberry daiquiri. We came back to relax a bit outside and have leftovers for an easy dinner. Terry was falling asleep in his chair outside so we moved in to watch TV for a bit.
It is in the high 80’s today and 100 degrees is forecast for Wed & Thurs. The nights are cooler though so the AC won’t be needed then, I hope.
Oct 11th – Tues – Mesa
Long pants take way more room than shorts in the laundry basket so it was time to do laundry this morning. Neil stopped by to chat for a while just as we got back. One of the lights above the kitchen counter blew out so we went looking for a new one. It looks like an automotive bulb but you can’t find them at auto supply stores and we couldn’t remember where we found them previously.
We took it easy the rest of the afternoon and then went to Neal & Judy’s for spaghetti dinner. Billy & Lauri and Larry & Julie were also there and we had our usual good time. I think we are still running on New Mexico time so went to bed early.
Oct 12th – Wed – Mesa
We rode around on our bikes this morning and stopped briefly to see the changes Neal has made to their 5th wheel. We visited with Larry & Julie and then with Billy & Lauri where I said that I would help them sew curtains for the front window of their motor home. The lining in their old curtain is in shreds and they couldn’t handle the $900 - $1300 estimate and 8 weeks to get new curtains. They had already bought 8 black-out curtain panels and were prepared to buy a sewing machine or just tack them up as the afternoon sun beats into that large window.
Billy went to the store for thread and we came back for the sewing machine. There was a nice breeze so we weren’t too hot working in the shade outside. I only had to rip out 2 seams and everything went quite well with Terry, Billy & Lauri eager to help. We started just after 12 and finished about 5:30. The curtains are pleated and have a 2 level hem just for additional fun. Larry & Julie had joined us by then (back from the pool!!). Laurie ordered pizza and we had some premade turkey kabobs that needed to be used so we put them on the BBQ. I forgot to mention that the guys had started drinking beer part way through the project but Lauri & I waited until we were done to hit the wine.
Sunday, October 09, 2011
Oct 7th to 9th - Albuquerque
Oct 7th – Fri – Albuquerque
We caught the bus at 6:30 this morning but again there was too much wind for the balloons to fly. They are all special shapes today which makes them harder to pilot and affected more by windy conditions. Five Navy parachutists put on a nice little show with smoke and stacked parachutes.
We went back to the Sandia casino where I broke even but Terry lost his allowance. The night glow was cancelled due to rain so we had happy hour at Dave & Margo’s and then we all went to a Mexican restaurant for dinner. The traffic was terrible to get there and we found out later that a power line had come down across all lanes of I25.
Dave & Margo came over to visit after dinner. When they opened the door to leave about 9, we discovered a lake beside our rig. Just a corner of the mat was showing and the generator was sitting in water. Terry went out in the still pouring rain and put the generator up on a small table.
Oct 8th – Sat – Albuquerque
The mass ascension this morning was iffy because of the wet launch field. It is all grass and soaked from the rain yesterday and last night. They finally got permission to fly so quite a few took off.
We had breakfast when we got back and then went with Dave & Margo to an Art & Craft sale. We weren’t impressed with the $7 entrance fee but decided it was worth it as there were many beautiful and unique items there. Then we went to the Hard Rock casino where Dave & Margo got $25 free play on their new players’ cards. I showed Margo a slot machine that I like to play and darned if she didn’t win over $80 on it without even spending all her free play. Just before we met up to leave, I won back most of my allowance and Terry didn’t even spend all of his. Dave turned his $25 free play into $7 to take home!
Happy hour was at David & Phyllis’ at 4 and then we all caught a bus to the launch field where there was a very successful night glow and a great fireworks display. The line for the buses to come back was huge so Dave & Margo and we walked back. David is having knee replacement surgery this winter so they waited for a bus. It was a long, busy day so it didn’t take us long to hit the sack.
Oct 9th – Sun – Albuquerque
We decided this morning that we will stay here tonight and drive all the way back to Mesa tomorrow rather than rush packing up to get on the road after the morning session.
When we went out to catch the bus, we saw about a dozen balloons that had joined the “Morning Show” balloons that go up to check the winds at different altitudes. It was still quite dark and the glowing balloons were spectacular. It was a beautiful sunny morning (but cool so we wore our layers and heavy coats) and the mass ascension was amazing. It took over an hour to get all the balloons launched. When we got back, a few balloons were landing in a field in the middle of where all the RVs are parked.
Terry put the bikes back on the rack and started the generator to charge the batteries so I took advantage of the power and vacuumed. We and Phyllis went to the Hard Rock casino as she didn’t use all her free play on her first visit. We all lost!! I made brownies when we got back and we all got together for a pot luck steak dinner. The weather was beautiful so we sat out for drinks and enjoyed a buddy burner after dinner.
We caught the bus at 6:30 this morning but again there was too much wind for the balloons to fly. They are all special shapes today which makes them harder to pilot and affected more by windy conditions. Five Navy parachutists put on a nice little show with smoke and stacked parachutes.
We went back to the Sandia casino where I broke even but Terry lost his allowance. The night glow was cancelled due to rain so we had happy hour at Dave & Margo’s and then we all went to a Mexican restaurant for dinner. The traffic was terrible to get there and we found out later that a power line had come down across all lanes of I25.
Dave & Margo came over to visit after dinner. When they opened the door to leave about 9, we discovered a lake beside our rig. Just a corner of the mat was showing and the generator was sitting in water. Terry went out in the still pouring rain and put the generator up on a small table.
Oct 8th – Sat – Albuquerque
The mass ascension this morning was iffy because of the wet launch field. It is all grass and soaked from the rain yesterday and last night. They finally got permission to fly so quite a few took off.
We had breakfast when we got back and then went with Dave & Margo to an Art & Craft sale. We weren’t impressed with the $7 entrance fee but decided it was worth it as there were many beautiful and unique items there. Then we went to the Hard Rock casino where Dave & Margo got $25 free play on their new players’ cards. I showed Margo a slot machine that I like to play and darned if she didn’t win over $80 on it without even spending all her free play. Just before we met up to leave, I won back most of my allowance and Terry didn’t even spend all of his. Dave turned his $25 free play into $7 to take home!
Happy hour was at David & Phyllis’ at 4 and then we all caught a bus to the launch field where there was a very successful night glow and a great fireworks display. The line for the buses to come back was huge so Dave & Margo and we walked back. David is having knee replacement surgery this winter so they waited for a bus. It was a long, busy day so it didn’t take us long to hit the sack.
Oct 9th – Sun – Albuquerque
We decided this morning that we will stay here tonight and drive all the way back to Mesa tomorrow rather than rush packing up to get on the road after the morning session.
When we went out to catch the bus, we saw about a dozen balloons that had joined the “Morning Show” balloons that go up to check the winds at different altitudes. It was still quite dark and the glowing balloons were spectacular. It was a beautiful sunny morning (but cool so we wore our layers and heavy coats) and the mass ascension was amazing. It took over an hour to get all the balloons launched. When we got back, a few balloons were landing in a field in the middle of where all the RVs are parked.
Terry put the bikes back on the rack and started the generator to charge the batteries so I took advantage of the power and vacuumed. We and Phyllis went to the Hard Rock casino as she didn’t use all her free play on her first visit. We all lost!! I made brownies when we got back and we all got together for a pot luck steak dinner. The weather was beautiful so we sat out for drinks and enjoyed a buddy burner after dinner.
Friday, October 07, 2011
Oct 3rd to 6th - Mesa to Albuquerque NM
Oct 3rd – Mon – Mesa
We were the only people in the laundry room this morning and got that chore out of the way easily. We made a trip to Costco for coffee – and a few other items before we got out the door – and then picked up some groceries & fueled up the truck.
We packed everything up in preparation for our trip to the Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Laurie figured I didn’t need to cook dinner today so she asked us, Larry & Julie and Neal & Judy over for dinner. The slight breeze was blocked by their motor home and a neighbor so it was very warm again. We got home in time to watch the 2nd hour of DWTS as it starts at 7:00 in this area.
Oct 4th – Tues – to Albuquerque NM
We left at 6:45 for the 425 mile trip to Albuquerque. We headed north to Payson and hit I40 at Holbrook so we didn’t run into any rush hour traffic slowdowns. The highway really climbs to Payson and the Mogollon Rim and ends up at an altitude of over 7000 feet. Just before Gallup NM, there was an accident on an overpass on the freeway. Traffic was diverted off an exit and right back onto the freeway. As we were passing the overpass, we could see a fifth wheel up on the side rails of the towing truck which was at right angles to the road and up against the guard rail. Behind it a ways was a semi with the truck also at a right angle to the road (but facing the other way) and the trailer pushed right up to the truck at more than 90 degrees. It is a good thing that we could get around by the exit ramp as the traffic was backed up quite a ways.
The traffic had just got spaced out when everyone started braking and moving to the left lane. This time it appeared as if a small closed utility trailer had come off the hitch and someone had smacked into the back of it. The next slowdown was for road work. It sprinkled, cleared up and poured on & off to Bernalillo (arrived at 2:00) and the Santa Ana Star casino where we met Dave & Margo (from Walla Walla) and Dave (David for differentiation) & Phyllis who are new friends that we met at Camping World in Mesa.
We all visited in Dave & Margo’s MH for a while and then discussed what to do for dinner. The rain was causing a river in front of Dave & Margo’s doorway so I offered to cook dinner for everyone rather than walking to the casino. By the time we finished dinner, the rain had let up so we all went to gamble for a while. Margo won a bit, I made $50 and Terry came out $35 ahead so it was a fun night. We were the last to get back at 11:45.
Oct 5th – Wed – Albuquerque
We all went to the casino for the $2.99 breakfast before leaving about 10 for the balloon park. This is when I discovered that we forgot about the time change and it was really 12:45 when we got back last night. I wondered why Dave knocked on our door at 6:40 this morning!
We checked in and got settled in our spots. It doesn’t take long to set up when you are dry camping.
Dave & Margo and we walked to the balloon park and looked through the few vendors that were open. We all had tired feet by the time we walked back. There are no balloon activities this evening so we all went to the Sandia casino where the others got $25 free play when they signed up for a players’ card. We ate dinner at the buffet and then scattered to gamble. We all took our own vehicle so we didn’t have to leave at the same time and again we were the last to return but not by much. I had lost almost all my money when I started to win on a machine and cashed in $60. Terry, “broke”, found me shortly after and I switched to a different machine where I continued to win. When that “streak” ended, I moved again, gave Terry more money and I won some more. I ended up with enough to cover both our allowances and $25 extra which we consider a good time.
Oct 6th – Thurs – Albuquerque
We all caught the shuttle to the balloon field at 6:15. The wind was blowing so it wasn’t decided yet if the special shapes balloons would be able to fly. Some of us got breakfast burritos and we all wandered around taking pictures of the balloons which were inflated but now unable to take off due to increasing winds. Suddenly, the wind gusts picked up and the balloons were deflated in short order. We wandered through vendors’ tents and then all caught a golf cart shuttle back to the Balloon Museum where we wandered around some more. We caught the shuttle bus back to the RV parking, amazed that it was only 10:30. The day is long when you start so early!
After we all had something to eat, Margo drove the girls to Tinkertown Museum which is on the Sandia Peak Road. I have been there previously but I enjoyed it just as much the second time. We continued on to Sandia Peak where we hurried to the first viewpoint in a gale force wind, took one picture and headed back to the car. The aspens along the road are bright yellow and look beautiful against the dark green evergreens.
We passed a Trader Joe’s on the way back so Terry & I returned for bruschetta mix & a baguette for appetizers. Margo made a delicious broccoli/cheese soup and David & Phyllis brought a couple of pasta dishes for a pot luck dinner. We thought the night glow would be cancelled but then heard it wasn’t so we ate quickly and went to the balloon park. By now the wind had gotten worse so only 2 balloons inflated. Fireworks were still planned but they had to wait until the second balloon was down & packed away so we headed for the buses. Just as we got there, the fireworks started but we came back anyway as it was too cold.
We were the only people in the laundry room this morning and got that chore out of the way easily. We made a trip to Costco for coffee – and a few other items before we got out the door – and then picked up some groceries & fueled up the truck.
We packed everything up in preparation for our trip to the Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Laurie figured I didn’t need to cook dinner today so she asked us, Larry & Julie and Neal & Judy over for dinner. The slight breeze was blocked by their motor home and a neighbor so it was very warm again. We got home in time to watch the 2nd hour of DWTS as it starts at 7:00 in this area.
Oct 4th – Tues – to Albuquerque NM
We left at 6:45 for the 425 mile trip to Albuquerque. We headed north to Payson and hit I40 at Holbrook so we didn’t run into any rush hour traffic slowdowns. The highway really climbs to Payson and the Mogollon Rim and ends up at an altitude of over 7000 feet. Just before Gallup NM, there was an accident on an overpass on the freeway. Traffic was diverted off an exit and right back onto the freeway. As we were passing the overpass, we could see a fifth wheel up on the side rails of the towing truck which was at right angles to the road and up against the guard rail. Behind it a ways was a semi with the truck also at a right angle to the road (but facing the other way) and the trailer pushed right up to the truck at more than 90 degrees. It is a good thing that we could get around by the exit ramp as the traffic was backed up quite a ways.
The traffic had just got spaced out when everyone started braking and moving to the left lane. This time it appeared as if a small closed utility trailer had come off the hitch and someone had smacked into the back of it. The next slowdown was for road work. It sprinkled, cleared up and poured on & off to Bernalillo (arrived at 2:00) and the Santa Ana Star casino where we met Dave & Margo (from Walla Walla) and Dave (David for differentiation) & Phyllis who are new friends that we met at Camping World in Mesa.
We all visited in Dave & Margo’s MH for a while and then discussed what to do for dinner. The rain was causing a river in front of Dave & Margo’s doorway so I offered to cook dinner for everyone rather than walking to the casino. By the time we finished dinner, the rain had let up so we all went to gamble for a while. Margo won a bit, I made $50 and Terry came out $35 ahead so it was a fun night. We were the last to get back at 11:45.
Oct 5th – Wed – Albuquerque
We all went to the casino for the $2.99 breakfast before leaving about 10 for the balloon park. This is when I discovered that we forgot about the time change and it was really 12:45 when we got back last night. I wondered why Dave knocked on our door at 6:40 this morning!
We checked in and got settled in our spots. It doesn’t take long to set up when you are dry camping.
Dave & Margo and we walked to the balloon park and looked through the few vendors that were open. We all had tired feet by the time we walked back. There are no balloon activities this evening so we all went to the Sandia casino where the others got $25 free play when they signed up for a players’ card. We ate dinner at the buffet and then scattered to gamble. We all took our own vehicle so we didn’t have to leave at the same time and again we were the last to return but not by much. I had lost almost all my money when I started to win on a machine and cashed in $60. Terry, “broke”, found me shortly after and I switched to a different machine where I continued to win. When that “streak” ended, I moved again, gave Terry more money and I won some more. I ended up with enough to cover both our allowances and $25 extra which we consider a good time.
Oct 6th – Thurs – Albuquerque
We all caught the shuttle to the balloon field at 6:15. The wind was blowing so it wasn’t decided yet if the special shapes balloons would be able to fly. Some of us got breakfast burritos and we all wandered around taking pictures of the balloons which were inflated but now unable to take off due to increasing winds. Suddenly, the wind gusts picked up and the balloons were deflated in short order. We wandered through vendors’ tents and then all caught a golf cart shuttle back to the Balloon Museum where we wandered around some more. We caught the shuttle bus back to the RV parking, amazed that it was only 10:30. The day is long when you start so early!
After we all had something to eat, Margo drove the girls to Tinkertown Museum which is on the Sandia Peak Road. I have been there previously but I enjoyed it just as much the second time. We continued on to Sandia Peak where we hurried to the first viewpoint in a gale force wind, took one picture and headed back to the car. The aspens along the road are bright yellow and look beautiful against the dark green evergreens.
We passed a Trader Joe’s on the way back so Terry & I returned for bruschetta mix & a baguette for appetizers. Margo made a delicious broccoli/cheese soup and David & Phyllis brought a couple of pasta dishes for a pot luck dinner. We thought the night glow would be cancelled but then heard it wasn’t so we ate quickly and went to the balloon park. By now the wind had gotten worse so only 2 balloons inflated. Fireworks were still planned but they had to wait until the second balloon was down & packed away so we headed for the buses. Just as we got there, the fireworks started but we came back anyway as it was too cold.
Monday, October 03, 2011
Sept 30th to Oct 2nd - Mesa
Sept 30th – Fri – Mesa
We got up early to put everything back together while it was sort of cool. At Camping World, we had to take almost everything out of the large storage compartment to allow access behind removable panels. We put smaller items in the back seat of the truck and slid large items under the 5th wheel. We just dumped the large items back in when we picked it up so we took out everything, threw some things out, reorganized & labeled before repacking. After putting the shelf back in the large cupboard above the TV, we did the same sorting & reorganizing.
Now it was time for a nice breakfast and then a trip to the grocery store after putting away the awning & sun shade as the wind came up.
After putting away groceries and trying out some new iced tea Kcups (for the Keurig coffee maker), we rode our bikes to see what everyone was up to. Julie & Larry were just getting ready to join Billy & Laurie at the pool so we came back to change and joined them. We met a younger couple (Neal & Maria) who are staying at the park while he works in the area. They are from Utah but move around where his job takes him. We stayed quite a while before coming back for a cool drink & dinner.
Oct 1st – Sat – Mesa
Terry went to help Larry secure his propane tanks and I stayed home to work on the computer and read. I was just about to get on my bike and see what was going on when Terry came back for a drill bit. He didn’t have the right size so I went with him to Home Depot for a bit and another concrete block as he broke one. Park model propane tanks have to sit on a concrete pad (blocks are OK) and be secured with a chain to a post in the ground. I guess this prevents them from falling over in an earthquake!! Terry started early so it would be the coolest but by now he was in the full sun and sweating like crazy. He got it done and we all sat in the shade and downed ice water.
I had invited “the group” over for dinner and had put a pork roast in the crock pot. Then I found out that the other 6 had pork roast last night so I got some meat out of the freezer and switched to stroganoff. We made a trip to the grocery store and I made dessert, an appetizer and got the meat cooking while Terry set up tables with chairs borrowed from Julie. This left us time for a cooling dip in the pool and time to relax before company arrived – Billy & Laurie, Larry & Julie and Neal & Judy. Our shade screen worked great and the sun was down before we ate so it was tolerable if not totally comfortable.
Oct 2nd – Sun – Mesa
We returned Larry & Julie’s chairs this morning and visited with them and Billy & Laurie for a bit. Terry was a little antsy so we ended up going to Arizona Casino and decided that we would not be going back there any time soon. They have very few penny machines and even those require a bet of more than we usually spend. We played for a while with no luck.
We stopped at WalMart for some tie downs for the awning and came back to watch a golf tournament on TV. At 5:30 we went to Neal & Judy’s for dinner. They have very little shade in the afternoon and there was no breeze so it was hot. After a nice dinner, we & Julie went to the pool to cool off. We met a couple (Jim & Eileen) from Wisconsin and enjoyed talking with them. They are renting a park model for 3 months so we look forward to seeing them again.
We got up early to put everything back together while it was sort of cool. At Camping World, we had to take almost everything out of the large storage compartment to allow access behind removable panels. We put smaller items in the back seat of the truck and slid large items under the 5th wheel. We just dumped the large items back in when we picked it up so we took out everything, threw some things out, reorganized & labeled before repacking. After putting the shelf back in the large cupboard above the TV, we did the same sorting & reorganizing.
Now it was time for a nice breakfast and then a trip to the grocery store after putting away the awning & sun shade as the wind came up.
After putting away groceries and trying out some new iced tea Kcups (for the Keurig coffee maker), we rode our bikes to see what everyone was up to. Julie & Larry were just getting ready to join Billy & Laurie at the pool so we came back to change and joined them. We met a younger couple (Neal & Maria) who are staying at the park while he works in the area. They are from Utah but move around where his job takes him. We stayed quite a while before coming back for a cool drink & dinner.
Oct 1st – Sat – Mesa
Terry went to help Larry secure his propane tanks and I stayed home to work on the computer and read. I was just about to get on my bike and see what was going on when Terry came back for a drill bit. He didn’t have the right size so I went with him to Home Depot for a bit and another concrete block as he broke one. Park model propane tanks have to sit on a concrete pad (blocks are OK) and be secured with a chain to a post in the ground. I guess this prevents them from falling over in an earthquake!! Terry started early so it would be the coolest but by now he was in the full sun and sweating like crazy. He got it done and we all sat in the shade and downed ice water.
I had invited “the group” over for dinner and had put a pork roast in the crock pot. Then I found out that the other 6 had pork roast last night so I got some meat out of the freezer and switched to stroganoff. We made a trip to the grocery store and I made dessert, an appetizer and got the meat cooking while Terry set up tables with chairs borrowed from Julie. This left us time for a cooling dip in the pool and time to relax before company arrived – Billy & Laurie, Larry & Julie and Neal & Judy. Our shade screen worked great and the sun was down before we ate so it was tolerable if not totally comfortable.
Oct 2nd – Sun – Mesa
We returned Larry & Julie’s chairs this morning and visited with them and Billy & Laurie for a bit. Terry was a little antsy so we ended up going to Arizona Casino and decided that we would not be going back there any time soon. They have very few penny machines and even those require a bet of more than we usually spend. We played for a while with no luck.
We stopped at WalMart for some tie downs for the awning and came back to watch a golf tournament on TV. At 5:30 we went to Neal & Judy’s for dinner. They have very little shade in the afternoon and there was no breeze so it was hot. After a nice dinner, we & Julie went to the pool to cool off. We met a couple (Jim & Eileen) from Wisconsin and enjoyed talking with them. They are renting a park model for 3 months so we look forward to seeing them again.
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