Aug 27th - Mon - to Campbell River
We intended to end up at Port McNeill today but after a late start and some shopping in Courtney, we decided to stay in Campbell River. We got a spot in an RV park right on the water and enjoyed a stroll before dinner. Marg & I relaxed in the hot tub later. We heard the rain start just after going to bed.
Aug 28th - Tues - to Port McNeill
Grocery shopping this morning so we arrived at my brother Doug’s place in Port McNeill around 4. Rained most of the way and continued all evening. Doug & Judy have a couple of acres so they have lots of room for us to park and hook up to electricity and water. Doug works for CanFor (Canadian Forest Products) and they are on strike right now. He had to put in a shift on the picket line today but he was back by the time we got here.
Judy fixed a nice dinner so we relaxed and enjoyed good food and good company. It was cool enough that Doug lit a fire in the wood stove in the family room and everyone got very lazy!
Aug 29th - Wed - Port McNeill
Judy had to work today. She works 3 days a week for a veterinarian. My nephew Dennis, who lives right next door, has a wireless internet connection that I can use so I caught up on emails while the others checked out the gardens, greenhouses and Dennis’ farm. Running some errands in town used up the afternoon until happy hour(s). We had a fire in the outdoor firepit and ate dinner outside even though it was a little cool. Dennis was recently engaged to be married and we met his fiancé Nina.
Aug 30th - Thurs - Port McNeill
Judy had to work again today. After Doug returned from doing a little job with his backhoe, we went to Telegraph Cove and wandered the boardwalks and whale interpretive center there. Telegraph Cove is a little settlement that used to be a sawmill and has retained a lot of its old buildings and character.. Stopped by the house to pick up propane tanks and back into town for a couple more errands and some groceries.
The weather wasn’t too bad so Terry, Marg and I checked out the local 9 hole par 3 golf course. Very short, nicely maintained. We each just took 3 clubs and Marg & I ran into more trouble than you might imagine from first looking at the course - Terry did well.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Monday, August 27, 2007
Aug 24th to 26th - Parksville
Aug 24th - Fri - to Parksville
We drove to Parksville today to meet up with brother Doug and his wife Judy. They live on the north end of Vancouver Island (Port McNeill) and are in Parksville to attend a wedding.
We arrived about 1:00 after stopping for some groceries in Nanaimo. We set up, had lunch and went looking for a liquor store for some beer. Guess property is at a premium all over Vancouver Island as we ran into parking problems again where the liquor store shared a very small parking lot with a grocery store.
When we got back, Doug & Judy had arrived - just in time for happy hour(s). Before we had time to fix dinner, Judy’s Mom & Dad (Carl & Pat who live in Parksville) and Judy’s brother - John - arrived for a visit. The weather was nice and we sat out and chatted until past the 10 o’clock quiet time.
Aug 25th - Sat - Parksville
Doug & Judy set out on their bicycles to Coomes but we can’t keep up with them on bikes so we choose to drive there. It is a small town with a large assortment of touristy stores including a market/restaurant that has goats living on the sod roof - appropriately known as ‘Goats on the Roof‘.
Before we went to Coomes, we went to view sand sculptures that had been entered in a competition. There were 3 group entries and about a dozen individual entries. The imagination and sculpting talent is amazing. My nephew in Port McNeill (Dennis) has a wireless internet connection so I should be able to update photos on the blog.
While we were strolling around Coomes it started to rain - and then to pour. We had been keeping an eye out for Doug & Judy but did not see them. After a late lunch when we got back, we went to see Doug & Judy. They had been caught in the downpour and gotten soaked.
Marg & Dad arrived about 5. They had been to Pemberton to see brother Bob and caught a ferry at Horseshoe Bay. Doug & Judy went to dinner with friends and the rest of us had to move inside for dinner as the weather cooled down. It started to rain about 11 and rained off & on during the night.
Aug 26th - Sun - Parksville
Doug & Judy attended the midday wedding while Marg, Dad, Terry & I went first to show Marg & Dad the sand sculptures and then went golfing. The weather had cleared up for a nice 9 holes of golf on a pretty course in Qualicum Beach.
We all gathered for drinks and dinner. Judy’s Mom & Dad and her brother came again so they could see Dad & Marg. John brought his ukulele and Judy got out her guitar so we had some entertainment as well. We had to put out the awning and get cozy to avoid some rain but it wasn’t too cold.
We drove to Parksville today to meet up with brother Doug and his wife Judy. They live on the north end of Vancouver Island (Port McNeill) and are in Parksville to attend a wedding.
We arrived about 1:00 after stopping for some groceries in Nanaimo. We set up, had lunch and went looking for a liquor store for some beer. Guess property is at a premium all over Vancouver Island as we ran into parking problems again where the liquor store shared a very small parking lot with a grocery store.
When we got back, Doug & Judy had arrived - just in time for happy hour(s). Before we had time to fix dinner, Judy’s Mom & Dad (Carl & Pat who live in Parksville) and Judy’s brother - John - arrived for a visit. The weather was nice and we sat out and chatted until past the 10 o’clock quiet time.
Aug 25th - Sat - Parksville
Doug & Judy set out on their bicycles to Coomes but we can’t keep up with them on bikes so we choose to drive there. It is a small town with a large assortment of touristy stores including a market/restaurant that has goats living on the sod roof - appropriately known as ‘Goats on the Roof‘.
Before we went to Coomes, we went to view sand sculptures that had been entered in a competition. There were 3 group entries and about a dozen individual entries. The imagination and sculpting talent is amazing. My nephew in Port McNeill (Dennis) has a wireless internet connection so I should be able to update photos on the blog.
While we were strolling around Coomes it started to rain - and then to pour. We had been keeping an eye out for Doug & Judy but did not see them. After a late lunch when we got back, we went to see Doug & Judy. They had been caught in the downpour and gotten soaked.
Marg & Dad arrived about 5. They had been to Pemberton to see brother Bob and caught a ferry at Horseshoe Bay. Doug & Judy went to dinner with friends and the rest of us had to move inside for dinner as the weather cooled down. It started to rain about 11 and rained off & on during the night.
Aug 26th - Sun - Parksville
Doug & Judy attended the midday wedding while Marg, Dad, Terry & I went first to show Marg & Dad the sand sculptures and then went golfing. The weather had cleared up for a nice 9 holes of golf on a pretty course in Qualicum Beach.
We all gathered for drinks and dinner. Judy’s Mom & Dad and her brother came again so they could see Dad & Marg. John brought his ukulele and Judy got out her guitar so we had some entertainment as well. We had to put out the awning and get cozy to avoid some rain but it wasn’t too cold.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Aug 21st to 23rd - Monroe/Victoria, BC
Aug 21st - Tues - Monroe
A little fog in the morning lifted quickly. Barb made us breakfast and we just took it easy and did laundry until it was time to eat again! I used Barb’s sewing machine to fix a seam on a pillowcase and was able to show her how to use the needle threader on her machine which made her very happy. After lunch we went to Blue Boy golf course to play 9 holes. There was no one at the course as it had been raining on and off there all morning. We had great weather for our game. The course is very pretty. I am glad that we were playing with Larry & Barb as most holes were blind or needed tips to play smart. They warned us about hole 8 being “the hole from hell” and Terry birdied it - after struggling with the first 7 holes.
Another great dinner with good friends.
Aug 22nd - Wed - to Victoria
Breakfast courtesy of Barb again and then we left for Anacortes to catch the ferry to Vancouver Island. It goes to Sidney which is just north of Victoria. The ferry left at 2:00 and stopped at Orcas Island and Friday Harbour to take on more passengers. We were driving off the ferry (note - NOT backing off!) at 5:25 and were set up in the Fort Victoria RV park with dinner on the barbeque by just after 7. Quite a bit of traffic noise here.
Aug 23rd - Thurs - Victoria
We went back to Sidney this morning and wandered & shopped along a very nice main street. The lady in the RV park office said they have a street fair every Thursday but it did not start until 5:30.
We next visited Butchart Gardens and could not have had a more lovely day to do so. Summer is a wonderful time to see the gardens as everything is in full bloom - truly gorgeous. I could have spent more time there but Terry was a very good sport about the time that we did spend so it worked out OK.
We then decided to go to the Underwater Gardens which are in downtown Victoria. Parking turned out to be a huge pain so we cancelled that plan and drove along a “scenic drive” along the water before heading back to the rig for an early dinner.
After dinner we went back to Sidney to check out the street fair. They block off several blocks of the main street and put up booths. Again, parking was a challenge - there were lots of people shopping.
We purchased 24 hours of wireless internet access so I have to get this blog done and posted before my time runs out.
A little fog in the morning lifted quickly. Barb made us breakfast and we just took it easy and did laundry until it was time to eat again! I used Barb’s sewing machine to fix a seam on a pillowcase and was able to show her how to use the needle threader on her machine which made her very happy. After lunch we went to Blue Boy golf course to play 9 holes. There was no one at the course as it had been raining on and off there all morning. We had great weather for our game. The course is very pretty. I am glad that we were playing with Larry & Barb as most holes were blind or needed tips to play smart. They warned us about hole 8 being “the hole from hell” and Terry birdied it - after struggling with the first 7 holes.
Another great dinner with good friends.
Aug 22nd - Wed - to Victoria
Breakfast courtesy of Barb again and then we left for Anacortes to catch the ferry to Vancouver Island. It goes to Sidney which is just north of Victoria. The ferry left at 2:00 and stopped at Orcas Island and Friday Harbour to take on more passengers. We were driving off the ferry (note - NOT backing off!) at 5:25 and were set up in the Fort Victoria RV park with dinner on the barbeque by just after 7. Quite a bit of traffic noise here.
Aug 23rd - Thurs - Victoria
We went back to Sidney this morning and wandered & shopped along a very nice main street. The lady in the RV park office said they have a street fair every Thursday but it did not start until 5:30.
We next visited Butchart Gardens and could not have had a more lovely day to do so. Summer is a wonderful time to see the gardens as everything is in full bloom - truly gorgeous. I could have spent more time there but Terry was a very good sport about the time that we did spend so it worked out OK.
We then decided to go to the Underwater Gardens which are in downtown Victoria. Parking turned out to be a huge pain so we cancelled that plan and drove along a “scenic drive” along the water before heading back to the rig for an early dinner.
After dinner we went back to Sidney to check out the street fair. They block off several blocks of the main street and put up booths. Again, parking was a challenge - there were lots of people shopping.
We purchased 24 hours of wireless internet access so I have to get this blog done and posted before my time runs out.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Aug 19th to 20th - Washington
Aug 19th - Sun - Rochester
We were planning to go to the fair with Dean and family but it rained during then night and is still cloudy & drizzly today. Terry & I picked some blackberries before he & Dean went to the casino to take part in a poker tournament. Dean got knocked out pretty quickly. Terry lasted a little longer - 16 out of 30. None of us won the $20,000 drawing at 4 pm!!
Aug 20th - Mon - to Monroe, WA
HATE the traffic in the Seattle area! We left Rochester about 9:30 and hit slow traffic right away on I5. Stopped at Camping World for a new sewer hose and got right back into slow traffic. We pulled into a rest area to dump the tanks and then had MORE slow traffic on I405. We arrived at Larry & Barb’s (friends we met in Alaska) in Monroe about 1:30 We traveled about 110 miles!
Barb made a great steak dinner, we put out the slides on our rig in their nice long driveway and “so to bed”.
We were planning to go to the fair with Dean and family but it rained during then night and is still cloudy & drizzly today. Terry & I picked some blackberries before he & Dean went to the casino to take part in a poker tournament. Dean got knocked out pretty quickly. Terry lasted a little longer - 16 out of 30. None of us won the $20,000 drawing at 4 pm!!
Aug 20th - Mon - to Monroe, WA
HATE the traffic in the Seattle area! We left Rochester about 9:30 and hit slow traffic right away on I5. Stopped at Camping World for a new sewer hose and got right back into slow traffic. We pulled into a rest area to dump the tanks and then had MORE slow traffic on I405. We arrived at Larry & Barb’s (friends we met in Alaska) in Monroe about 1:30 We traveled about 110 miles!
Barb made a great steak dinner, we put out the slides on our rig in their nice long driveway and “so to bed”.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Aug 11th to 18th - Washington state
Aug 11th - Sat - Spokane
We had a lazy morning at Skip & Kathy’s and then went to Ella Mae & Don’s to pick them up for a trip to Fort Spokane. It is only about a 70 mile drive so we were set up in the RV park at the Two Rivers casino/RV park/marina complex before dinner. After dinner we had to check out the casino and did not get back to the rig until midnight.
Aug 12th - Sun - Fort Spokane
Breakfast, casino and a sightseeing trip around the area after lunch back at the rig. Another visit to the casino convinced us all that we did not like this casino much. The slot machines take paper money or coins but pay out (less than $100) in coins. It is pain playing the coins or always cashing them in at the cashier.
I ended up a little ahead - made up Terry’s loses.
Aug 13th - Mon - back to Spokane
We left early and stopped at the Northern Quest casino in Airway Heights on the way back to Spokane. Played a couple of hours and then had lunch at the buffet. With the points on our player club cards, it cost Terry & I $3.10 for a good lunch. Played a while longer and then continued back to Ella Mae & Don’s. We parked at the curb and just slept in the 5th wheel without putting any slides out.
Aug 14th - Tues - to Ocean Shores, WA
Good friends Bill & Georgia (from Spokane) are staying in a state campground near Ocean Shores so we decided to join them for a couple of days. I did a load of laundry at Ella Mae’s before leaving so we left about 9:30 and expected to arrive about 4:30. Like many good plans, this one did not work.
Between Ellensburg and Cle Elem (on I90) we blew a tire on the 5th wheel. As we pulled to the shoulder to have a look, we saw a sign saying “Rest Area 1 Mile”. The blown tire was shredded so we limped to the rest area hoping that the remaining tire on that side would hold up as it had a 3 inch cut on the side wall. We changed to the spare and slowly drove to Cle Elem where we could not get Goodyear tires. Back to Ellensburg (23 miles) where we still could not get Goodyear tires so we settled for 2 tires from Les Shwab. They fit us in fairly quickly and we were back on the road with an estimated arrival time (Wanda) of 7:20.
Bill & Georgia had secured a site for us at the RV park and met us with a couple of Scotches! Barb & Larry from Monroe (our Alaska traveling friends) have a lot at Ocean Shores that they had offered to us for camping if we were in the area. Barb had emailed a permission slip so we went to the local McDonalds and paid for internet access to receive the slip. We then had the address of the lot and spent some time looking for the address in the dark but did not find it. Ask Bill how he likes HIS GPS system!
Aug 15th - Wed - Ocean Shores, WA
Found the lot this morning and determined how we could most easily park. Returned to the state campground, packed up and moved. Bill & Georgia had met a couple in the campground that they knew (Chuck & Cherie) so we invited them to join us for dinner. By the time that we picked up some firewood, hit the grocery store and unsuccessfully tried to fill propane bottles, it was time for dinner and a campfire.
We leaned back in lawn chairs for some star gazing and saw a great shooting star (meteor) and a fast moving satellite. Larry & Barb’s lot is on a canal (23 miles of them in Ocean Shores) in a quiet neighborhood. It is set up with water & electric for 2 RVs so we really enjoyed it.
Aug 16th - Thurs - Ocean Shores
Misty rain this morning letting us know why the area is so green. It cleared up mid morning so Georgia and I could do some shopping while the guys got propane and visited the casino so they would not have to join us for shopping. They did end up at a couple of stores after lunch! Back to the rigs for R&R after such a taxing day! Georgia and I walked a couple of blocks down the road and across the sand dunes to the beach. Lovely day.
Aug 17th - Fri - to Rochester, WA
Hard rain and a thunder storm last night. I made us all breakfast before we started packing up. The guys got rained on a couple of times as they were doing the “outside” stuff. We parted company with Bill & Georgia - they were heading to Richland, WA for sprint boat races and we were going to Rochester to see son Dean and his family. We got a spot at the Lucky Eagle Casino (cannot park at Dean’s) and had Dean, Jennifer, Victoria and Cameron over for dinner. Cameron is going to be 6 on Oct 31st and is very shy at first. But suddenly he will start talking and becomes quite the entertainer - kept us all laughing. Victoria is 13 and is as tall as her mother (5 ft 2 inches).
Aug 18th - Sat - Rochester
Dean & Jennifer had us and Jennifer’s parents (Jack & Marty) over for breakfast today. Then we drove out to see the 2 spec houses that Dean and Jack have built about 45 minutes from here. 2 very different houses side by side on 5 acres pieces of property - very nice.
The casino beat us up this afternoon. Terry found that we could get internet access in the motel across the parking lot so I can update the blog. Hate it when I get a week behind!
We had a lazy morning at Skip & Kathy’s and then went to Ella Mae & Don’s to pick them up for a trip to Fort Spokane. It is only about a 70 mile drive so we were set up in the RV park at the Two Rivers casino/RV park/marina complex before dinner. After dinner we had to check out the casino and did not get back to the rig until midnight.
Aug 12th - Sun - Fort Spokane
Breakfast, casino and a sightseeing trip around the area after lunch back at the rig. Another visit to the casino convinced us all that we did not like this casino much. The slot machines take paper money or coins but pay out (less than $100) in coins. It is pain playing the coins or always cashing them in at the cashier.
I ended up a little ahead - made up Terry’s loses.
Aug 13th - Mon - back to Spokane
We left early and stopped at the Northern Quest casino in Airway Heights on the way back to Spokane. Played a couple of hours and then had lunch at the buffet. With the points on our player club cards, it cost Terry & I $3.10 for a good lunch. Played a while longer and then continued back to Ella Mae & Don’s. We parked at the curb and just slept in the 5th wheel without putting any slides out.
Aug 14th - Tues - to Ocean Shores, WA
Good friends Bill & Georgia (from Spokane) are staying in a state campground near Ocean Shores so we decided to join them for a couple of days. I did a load of laundry at Ella Mae’s before leaving so we left about 9:30 and expected to arrive about 4:30. Like many good plans, this one did not work.
Between Ellensburg and Cle Elem (on I90) we blew a tire on the 5th wheel. As we pulled to the shoulder to have a look, we saw a sign saying “Rest Area 1 Mile”. The blown tire was shredded so we limped to the rest area hoping that the remaining tire on that side would hold up as it had a 3 inch cut on the side wall. We changed to the spare and slowly drove to Cle Elem where we could not get Goodyear tires. Back to Ellensburg (23 miles) where we still could not get Goodyear tires so we settled for 2 tires from Les Shwab. They fit us in fairly quickly and we were back on the road with an estimated arrival time (Wanda) of 7:20.
Bill & Georgia had secured a site for us at the RV park and met us with a couple of Scotches! Barb & Larry from Monroe (our Alaska traveling friends) have a lot at Ocean Shores that they had offered to us for camping if we were in the area. Barb had emailed a permission slip so we went to the local McDonalds and paid for internet access to receive the slip. We then had the address of the lot and spent some time looking for the address in the dark but did not find it. Ask Bill how he likes HIS GPS system!
Aug 15th - Wed - Ocean Shores, WA
Found the lot this morning and determined how we could most easily park. Returned to the state campground, packed up and moved. Bill & Georgia had met a couple in the campground that they knew (Chuck & Cherie) so we invited them to join us for dinner. By the time that we picked up some firewood, hit the grocery store and unsuccessfully tried to fill propane bottles, it was time for dinner and a campfire.
We leaned back in lawn chairs for some star gazing and saw a great shooting star (meteor) and a fast moving satellite. Larry & Barb’s lot is on a canal (23 miles of them in Ocean Shores) in a quiet neighborhood. It is set up with water & electric for 2 RVs so we really enjoyed it.
Aug 16th - Thurs - Ocean Shores
Misty rain this morning letting us know why the area is so green. It cleared up mid morning so Georgia and I could do some shopping while the guys got propane and visited the casino so they would not have to join us for shopping. They did end up at a couple of stores after lunch! Back to the rigs for R&R after such a taxing day! Georgia and I walked a couple of blocks down the road and across the sand dunes to the beach. Lovely day.
Aug 17th - Fri - to Rochester, WA
Hard rain and a thunder storm last night. I made us all breakfast before we started packing up. The guys got rained on a couple of times as they were doing the “outside” stuff. We parted company with Bill & Georgia - they were heading to Richland, WA for sprint boat races and we were going to Rochester to see son Dean and his family. We got a spot at the Lucky Eagle Casino (cannot park at Dean’s) and had Dean, Jennifer, Victoria and Cameron over for dinner. Cameron is going to be 6 on Oct 31st and is very shy at first. But suddenly he will start talking and becomes quite the entertainer - kept us all laughing. Victoria is 13 and is as tall as her mother (5 ft 2 inches).
Aug 18th - Sat - Rochester
Dean & Jennifer had us and Jennifer’s parents (Jack & Marty) over for breakfast today. Then we drove out to see the 2 spec houses that Dean and Jack have built about 45 minutes from here. 2 very different houses side by side on 5 acres pieces of property - very nice.
The casino beat us up this afternoon. Terry found that we could get internet access in the motel across the parking lot so I can update the blog. Hate it when I get a week behind!
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Aug 4th to 10th - Spokane
Aug 4th - Sat - Worley, ID
We moved all the way (½ hour drive) to the Coeur d’Alene Casino near Worley today. We found a spot to stay in the parking lot and went to the casino. Barry & Yvonne and Larry & Cam joined us about 2:30. We all had dinner at the casino and then we said goodbye to our friends.
Aug 5th - Sun - Spokane
Another short move today - we drove to Spokane and parked in Bill & Georgia’s back yard. We had a wonderfully relaxing day catching up with Bill & Georgia and then Georgia made us a great dinner.
Aug 6th - Mon - Spokane
Bill was supposed to work today (he is retired but got talked into a temporary job delivering landscape materials!) but the delivery was cancelled at the last minute so we were able to spend more time with them doing such exciting things as washing the bugs off the front of the 5th wheel.
We also played “golf” and “bowled” on their Wii game. This is a game that uses a TV and handheld controllers that are moved like a golf club, tennis racket or your arm (bowling). A sensor “reads” the movement of the controller and your “swing” is shown on the screen as a golf shot or a ball bowled. This also allowed us to escape some of the heat of the day in their basement.
Aug 7th - Tues - Spokane
We took the 5th wheel in for some maintenance today - slide adjustments, wheel bearings and brake check. We did errands while it was in the shop and then drove to Skip & Kathy’s (Terry’s brother) and parked in their driveway. We extend across the sidewalk but they live on a cul de sac so it is OK. We are staying in the house while we are here so we don’t need the slides out.
We arrived in time for drinks, dinner and much talk after a tour of their lovely new house.
Aug 8th - Wed - Spokane
I spent some time this morning working on Skip & Kathy’s computer. They have a new PC with the Vista operating system so Skip’s digital camera would not download to the PC. I found a new program on the internet, installed it and it worked. We also discovered a program already on the PC that Skip can use to edit pictures which was a nice bonus. Then we fixed the fax machine that would not accept incoming faxes. Productive morning.
Next was a visit and lunch with Terry’s Mom and her husband (EllaMae & Don). More computer work as I showed EllaMae how to view pictures that I had sent her on a CD.
Skip had a new barbeque delivered today so we had to have steaks to check it out - it is a keeper based on the steaks!
Aug 9th - Thurs - Spokane
Rabies shot for Dolly, haircut for me and then golf with Skip & Kathy at Qualchan golf course. It was a perfect day for golf - slight breeze and temperature not over 80. Pretty course in great shape. Oh yes, I also spent more time on the computer between appointments finding a new program so Kathy could sync up her Palm Treo Verizon phone with the PC. Took a couple of tries but got that to work too.
Aug 10th - Fri - Spokane
Skip & Kathy were having company for a lunch meeting so we picked up my new contacts in CDA and ran a few other errands. Then we visited with good friends Dan & Dottie. They moved to a retirement complex so we got to see their new apartment. We think we could be quite happy in such an apartment when/if we get tired of full timing. We had too short a visit - and another short computer session to set up our blog in Dottie’s “favorites” as she lost the address in the move.
Kathy arranged for an insurance agent (and friend), Debbie, to come for dinner and show us what she could offer us for medical insurance. We will stay with our Cobra coverage (extension of Terry’s insurance from work) until it expires next year and then make a change.
Another great dinner with rotisserie chicken on the new barbeque and fresh corn from a roadside stand.
We moved all the way (½ hour drive) to the Coeur d’Alene Casino near Worley today. We found a spot to stay in the parking lot and went to the casino. Barry & Yvonne and Larry & Cam joined us about 2:30. We all had dinner at the casino and then we said goodbye to our friends.
Aug 5th - Sun - Spokane
Another short move today - we drove to Spokane and parked in Bill & Georgia’s back yard. We had a wonderfully relaxing day catching up with Bill & Georgia and then Georgia made us a great dinner.
Aug 6th - Mon - Spokane
Bill was supposed to work today (he is retired but got talked into a temporary job delivering landscape materials!) but the delivery was cancelled at the last minute so we were able to spend more time with them doing such exciting things as washing the bugs off the front of the 5th wheel.
We also played “golf” and “bowled” on their Wii game. This is a game that uses a TV and handheld controllers that are moved like a golf club, tennis racket or your arm (bowling). A sensor “reads” the movement of the controller and your “swing” is shown on the screen as a golf shot or a ball bowled. This also allowed us to escape some of the heat of the day in their basement.
Aug 7th - Tues - Spokane
We took the 5th wheel in for some maintenance today - slide adjustments, wheel bearings and brake check. We did errands while it was in the shop and then drove to Skip & Kathy’s (Terry’s brother) and parked in their driveway. We extend across the sidewalk but they live on a cul de sac so it is OK. We are staying in the house while we are here so we don’t need the slides out.
We arrived in time for drinks, dinner and much talk after a tour of their lovely new house.
Aug 8th - Wed - Spokane
I spent some time this morning working on Skip & Kathy’s computer. They have a new PC with the Vista operating system so Skip’s digital camera would not download to the PC. I found a new program on the internet, installed it and it worked. We also discovered a program already on the PC that Skip can use to edit pictures which was a nice bonus. Then we fixed the fax machine that would not accept incoming faxes. Productive morning.
Next was a visit and lunch with Terry’s Mom and her husband (EllaMae & Don). More computer work as I showed EllaMae how to view pictures that I had sent her on a CD.
Skip had a new barbeque delivered today so we had to have steaks to check it out - it is a keeper based on the steaks!
Aug 9th - Thurs - Spokane
Rabies shot for Dolly, haircut for me and then golf with Skip & Kathy at Qualchan golf course. It was a perfect day for golf - slight breeze and temperature not over 80. Pretty course in great shape. Oh yes, I also spent more time on the computer between appointments finding a new program so Kathy could sync up her Palm Treo Verizon phone with the PC. Took a couple of tries but got that to work too.
Aug 10th - Fri - Spokane
Skip & Kathy were having company for a lunch meeting so we picked up my new contacts in CDA and ran a few other errands. Then we visited with good friends Dan & Dottie. They moved to a retirement complex so we got to see their new apartment. We think we could be quite happy in such an apartment when/if we get tired of full timing. We had too short a visit - and another short computer session to set up our blog in Dottie’s “favorites” as she lost the address in the move.
Kathy arranged for an insurance agent (and friend), Debbie, to come for dinner and show us what she could offer us for medical insurance. We will stay with our Cobra coverage (extension of Terry’s insurance from work) until it expires next year and then make a change.
Another great dinner with rotisserie chicken on the new barbeque and fresh corn from a roadside stand.
Friday, August 03, 2007
July 30th to Aug 3rd - Canada to Coeur d'Alene, ID
July 30th - Mon - to Shuswap Lake
We drove from 100 Mile House to Claude & Val’s place on Shuswap Lake via Highway 24 - a lovely drive. Arrived about 1:00 after stopping to fix some lunch along the way. Claude arranged for us to park overnight in a neighbor’s lot so we were very comfortable. Val informed us that she was making supper for us - and a fine supper it was! Not enough time to catch up on everything but we tried.
July 31st - Tues - to Summerland
Auntie Jessie called this morning to say that she had to make a mandatory appearance at the first birthday party for a granddaughter so we told her that we would stop for lunch. We were invited to the birthday party but weren’t sure if we would stay. We drove to Summerland through Salmon Arm & Kelowna - again a very nice drive.
After lunch we went to Auntie Jessie’s condo to put together a new headboard. Turned out there was a missing vital part so we ended up trying to find something that would work in town. No luck so we did a couple of other small things and then Terry decided we could get the bed frame together with a metal plate and bunch of small screws. Auntie Jessie & I got the items, we fixed the bed frame and then we all went to the birthday party/barbeque for cousin Cheryl’s youngest daughter. Cousin Kelly and his wife Sam were also there so we enjoyed visiting with them.
Aug 1st - Wed - to Coeur d’Alene, ID
Our friends Barry & Yvonne from Hemet, CA are staying in the Blackwell Island RV park here. I called on the way and we could only get a site for Thursday but they have an area for dry camping if you are waiting for a site so we said we could do that tonight.
When Barry & Yvonne returned from golfing we met the 2 couples (Larry & Cam and Jim & Carol) who are their friends and who are working here for the summer. After drinks and visiting, we went to dinner with Barry & Yvonne and Larry & Cam.
Very warm weather!
Aug 2nd - Thurs - Coeur d’Alene (CDA)
We moved to our site this morning - luckily the spot was vacated early. A group of us were going to go to the CDA Casino but we were able to get a pontoon boat so we toured the CDA river and then the north end of CDA lake and to the CDA Resort golf course. There are a lot of beautiful houses along the river and an amazing new building with condos beside the golf course.
The RV park owners put on a get together with food and drinks for the people working here and their friends so we went to that at 5:30. Afterwards we learned to play 31 - a card game played at many RV parks. The hot weather continues.
Aug 3rd - Fri - CDA
More hot weather (with breezes) for our golf game today at the CDA municipal course. Our friends here already had 2 foursomes but the course allowed us to play 2 groups of 5 so we could join them. It is very obvious that Terry & I have not played much golf!
Dinner tonight was already planned before we got here and we were again invited to join in. Yvonne offered to make baby back ribs (our “recipe”) for everyone. We all contributed side dishes and we had a great meal. The sun & golf zapped everyone and the gathering broke up shortly after 8. All I wanted to do was read but figured I better get the blog updated while we have internet access.
We drove from 100 Mile House to Claude & Val’s place on Shuswap Lake via Highway 24 - a lovely drive. Arrived about 1:00 after stopping to fix some lunch along the way. Claude arranged for us to park overnight in a neighbor’s lot so we were very comfortable. Val informed us that she was making supper for us - and a fine supper it was! Not enough time to catch up on everything but we tried.
July 31st - Tues - to Summerland
Auntie Jessie called this morning to say that she had to make a mandatory appearance at the first birthday party for a granddaughter so we told her that we would stop for lunch. We were invited to the birthday party but weren’t sure if we would stay. We drove to Summerland through Salmon Arm & Kelowna - again a very nice drive.
After lunch we went to Auntie Jessie’s condo to put together a new headboard. Turned out there was a missing vital part so we ended up trying to find something that would work in town. No luck so we did a couple of other small things and then Terry decided we could get the bed frame together with a metal plate and bunch of small screws. Auntie Jessie & I got the items, we fixed the bed frame and then we all went to the birthday party/barbeque for cousin Cheryl’s youngest daughter. Cousin Kelly and his wife Sam were also there so we enjoyed visiting with them.
Aug 1st - Wed - to Coeur d’Alene, ID
Our friends Barry & Yvonne from Hemet, CA are staying in the Blackwell Island RV park here. I called on the way and we could only get a site for Thursday but they have an area for dry camping if you are waiting for a site so we said we could do that tonight.
When Barry & Yvonne returned from golfing we met the 2 couples (Larry & Cam and Jim & Carol) who are their friends and who are working here for the summer. After drinks and visiting, we went to dinner with Barry & Yvonne and Larry & Cam.
Very warm weather!
Aug 2nd - Thurs - Coeur d’Alene (CDA)
We moved to our site this morning - luckily the spot was vacated early. A group of us were going to go to the CDA Casino but we were able to get a pontoon boat so we toured the CDA river and then the north end of CDA lake and to the CDA Resort golf course. There are a lot of beautiful houses along the river and an amazing new building with condos beside the golf course.
The RV park owners put on a get together with food and drinks for the people working here and their friends so we went to that at 5:30. Afterwards we learned to play 31 - a card game played at many RV parks. The hot weather continues.
Aug 3rd - Fri - CDA
More hot weather (with breezes) for our golf game today at the CDA municipal course. Our friends here already had 2 foursomes but the course allowed us to play 2 groups of 5 so we could join them. It is very obvious that Terry & I have not played much golf!
Dinner tonight was already planned before we got here and we were again invited to join in. Yvonne offered to make baby back ribs (our “recipe”) for everyone. We all contributed side dishes and we had a great meal. The sun & golf zapped everyone and the gathering broke up shortly after 8. All I wanted to do was read but figured I better get the blog updated while we have internet access.
Monday, July 30, 2007
July 28th to 29th - 100 Mile House
July 28th - Sat - 100 Mile
Today was a marathon wood cutting day. We got going about 9 after chores and did not finish until 5. We did take a break for lunch and to get new bottles of water. It was hot and of course none of the trees that we were cutting up were in the shade. After lunch we brought in a load, split & stacked it and the stack was still not full. So we bit the bullet and went out for another tree which completed the stack with a little left over. What a good feeling to have that done!
Marg & I were so happy to have leftovers from our company dinner so we didn’t have to cook - just heat and eat. Needless to say, we were all pretty tired this evening.
July 29th - Sun - 100 Mile
A day of rest!
Terry, Marg & I played 9 holes of golf this morning at the short Marmot Ridge course in 100 Mile. I got 46 - one better than last Wed - and beat both Marg & Terry. After lunch and a few misc chores such as plant watering, we went to Al & Cecile’s to get some raspberries. They had picked a bucket yesterday that they said we could have but we felt guilty taking what they picked so we picked some more. And then Cecile gave us their bucket full as well! We enjoyed big bowlfuls after dinner and they were wonderful.
Marg lost a small, expensive earring when she took off her ear protectors when we were cutting wood yesterday. She heard it when it hit the tractor step but we could not find it. We marked the spot and went out with the metal detector to try to find it. The metal detector did not pick it up but Terry spotted it in the grass. A good day all around!
Today was a marathon wood cutting day. We got going about 9 after chores and did not finish until 5. We did take a break for lunch and to get new bottles of water. It was hot and of course none of the trees that we were cutting up were in the shade. After lunch we brought in a load, split & stacked it and the stack was still not full. So we bit the bullet and went out for another tree which completed the stack with a little left over. What a good feeling to have that done!
Marg & I were so happy to have leftovers from our company dinner so we didn’t have to cook - just heat and eat. Needless to say, we were all pretty tired this evening.
July 29th - Sun - 100 Mile
A day of rest!
Terry, Marg & I played 9 holes of golf this morning at the short Marmot Ridge course in 100 Mile. I got 46 - one better than last Wed - and beat both Marg & Terry. After lunch and a few misc chores such as plant watering, we went to Al & Cecile’s to get some raspberries. They had picked a bucket yesterday that they said we could have but we felt guilty taking what they picked so we picked some more. And then Cecile gave us their bucket full as well! We enjoyed big bowlfuls after dinner and they were wonderful.
Marg lost a small, expensive earring when she took off her ear protectors when we were cutting wood yesterday. She heard it when it hit the tractor step but we could not find it. We marked the spot and went out with the metal detector to try to find it. The metal detector did not pick it up but Terry spotted it in the grass. A good day all around!
Friday, July 27, 2007
July 25th to 27th - 100 Mile House
July 25th - Wed - 100 Mile
We moved the wood cutting process to a field where Marg had several big fir logs waiting to be cut up. Dad picked up each log on forks on the tractor, I marked the lengths with a crayon, and then Terry cut the rounds with the chain saw while Marg & I balanced and moved the log. This puts the log at waist level so the chain saw operator isn’t bending the whole time he/she is sawing. We cut up 3 logs, split them with a splitter hooked to the power takeoff on the tractor and loaded it on a wagon. Marg & I had to play golf at ladies’ night so we only brought in one load. We left the tractor in the field and the load of wood did not allow for passengers on the ATV so Marg, Terry & I had to walk all the way back to the house in very warm weather. A cool shower felt mighty fine!
Did OK at golf considering I have only played once in the last 2 months.
July 26th - Thurs - 100 Mile
Terry went out this morning to bring in some logs that the power company cut down so they would not fall onto power lines sometime. He turned off the ATV to load some pieces on the wagon and the ATV would not start again. Terry & Marg pushed it to the shop and checked out a few things with no luck. So they loaded it on the trailer and took it to the mechanic while Dad & I puttered in the shop.
The ATV had to stay overnight in the “hospital” so we went out to finish cutting the remaining logs into rounds. Dad said there were 5 left but we discovered 7 when we got there. We did take our nice clean truck instead of walking all the way back there! We finished cutting the trees and enjoyed a cool shower again in time to welcome Francis & Nicole and Allan & Cecile for dinner - which we had put in the crock pot after lunch. Lovely evening with great friends!
July 27th - Fri - 100 Mile
Marg & Terry picked up the repaired ATV while I did the breakfast dishes, farm chores and updated a few days on the blog. We just had time to split the rounds from all 7 logs and load them on a trailer, a wagon and the bucket on the tractor before a quick lunch so Marg could take Dad to town to get the dressing on his leg changed. Terry & I stacked the wood that we had brought in and used the ATV to take salt to the cows. We still were not exhausted (close to it!) so we washed the 5th wheel since we could not even see out the back windows. Then we all enjoyed large glasses of iced tea while we rested on the front porch.
We looked at a lot of pictures on the computer after dinner and I will join the rest of the seriously relaxed group as soon as I post these entries!
Dad is doing good. He thinks he should be able to do more than he can but we keep reminding him of how long he was inactive before his surgery and the month (almost) that he spent in the hospital. He can walk way further than before the surgery but has no strength or stamina.
We moved the wood cutting process to a field where Marg had several big fir logs waiting to be cut up. Dad picked up each log on forks on the tractor, I marked the lengths with a crayon, and then Terry cut the rounds with the chain saw while Marg & I balanced and moved the log. This puts the log at waist level so the chain saw operator isn’t bending the whole time he/she is sawing. We cut up 3 logs, split them with a splitter hooked to the power takeoff on the tractor and loaded it on a wagon. Marg & I had to play golf at ladies’ night so we only brought in one load. We left the tractor in the field and the load of wood did not allow for passengers on the ATV so Marg, Terry & I had to walk all the way back to the house in very warm weather. A cool shower felt mighty fine!
Did OK at golf considering I have only played once in the last 2 months.
July 26th - Thurs - 100 Mile
Terry went out this morning to bring in some logs that the power company cut down so they would not fall onto power lines sometime. He turned off the ATV to load some pieces on the wagon and the ATV would not start again. Terry & Marg pushed it to the shop and checked out a few things with no luck. So they loaded it on the trailer and took it to the mechanic while Dad & I puttered in the shop.
The ATV had to stay overnight in the “hospital” so we went out to finish cutting the remaining logs into rounds. Dad said there were 5 left but we discovered 7 when we got there. We did take our nice clean truck instead of walking all the way back there! We finished cutting the trees and enjoyed a cool shower again in time to welcome Francis & Nicole and Allan & Cecile for dinner - which we had put in the crock pot after lunch. Lovely evening with great friends!
July 27th - Fri - 100 Mile
Marg & Terry picked up the repaired ATV while I did the breakfast dishes, farm chores and updated a few days on the blog. We just had time to split the rounds from all 7 logs and load them on a trailer, a wagon and the bucket on the tractor before a quick lunch so Marg could take Dad to town to get the dressing on his leg changed. Terry & I stacked the wood that we had brought in and used the ATV to take salt to the cows. We still were not exhausted (close to it!) so we washed the 5th wheel since we could not even see out the back windows. Then we all enjoyed large glasses of iced tea while we rested on the front porch.
We looked at a lot of pictures on the computer after dinner and I will join the rest of the seriously relaxed group as soon as I post these entries!
Dad is doing good. He thinks he should be able to do more than he can but we keep reminding him of how long he was inactive before his surgery and the month (almost) that he spent in the hospital. He can walk way further than before the surgery but has no strength or stamina.
July 20th to 24th - 100 Mile House
July 20th - Fri - BC Cariboo
Terry & I left early this morning for the drive to Horn Lake. It took about 4 ½ hours - good roads until a 12 mile gravel section at the end which was very bumpy. There were only 3 small, widely spaced campsites left but we lucked out and were able to use a large boat launch parking/day use area for 3 of the rigs in our group and an adjacent site for the 4th rig.
Cousin Pat & Rick and Marg & Dad arrived about 6:30 and a couple from 100 Mile House (Janet & Bill) are coming tomorrow. We made good use of the firewood that we brought with us and sat around the fire until bedtime.
July 21st - Sat - Horn Lake, BC
Did some vehicle shuffling when Janet & Bill arrived this morning.
Marg, Terry, Pat & Rick set out in kayaks late this morning to try their luck at fishing. Pretty slow - Pat caught one trout. The weather got windy & rainy this evening so we moved inside after dinner.
This morning a potato chip bag on the table in our 5th wheel had been chewed by a mouse so Marg picked up some traps for us when she went with Rick to get some gas. Set them with peanut butter and a raisin (?) and hoped for better results than fishing.
July 22nd - Sun - Horn Lake
A beeping noise woke us last night about 2 - turned out to be Terry’s cell phone running out of juice. While we were trying to locate the source of the sound, we saw a mouse running around the rig. Much later I heard a trap snap. But this morning, even with a mouse in the trap, the napkins left on the table had been shredded. Not sure if the mouse did it before it got caught so will set traps again tonight.
We drove to Bella Coola today. A little cozy with 4 of us in the back seat of our pickup but it is 150 miles each way so we didn’t want to take 2 vehicles. Bella Coola’s “claim to fame” is a very steep hill in the middle of a 40 mile gravel stretch. Downhill going west (to Bella Coola). Earlier in our trip we had considered taking our 5th wheel there and are glad that we didn’t. So we had a nice lunch, checked out one store and headed back.
Pat & Marg went fishing when we got back and Marg caught a lovely trout. The weather was nice so we enjoyed the campfire again.
July 23rd - Mon - to 100 Mile House
Caught another mouse last night - yuck!
Headed out this morning after digging out jumper cables when Marg’s motor home would not start. Rick & Pat had a couple of propane problems with their 5th wheel so they took it to an RV place in Williams Lake on the way back to get it fixed. The RV place is very close to a casino so we all had to stop and check it out. Marg, Terry & I lost all we were prepared to lose and left Pat at the casino waiting for Rick to return with their rig. They joined us at Marg’s to spend the night and Pat informed us that she had won $511 after we left her.
July 24th - Tues - 100 Mile
Marg took Dad to a couple of medical appointments early this morning. They were back before Terry & I and Pat & Rick had finished breakfast. Pat & Rick left about 10. We washed our truck and Marg’s truck. After lunch Marg & Terry went to retrieve the log splitter while I took Dad back to the dentist. Dad & I had time to drive around the farm for an “inspection tour” on the ATV before we hooked up the splitter and made short work of splitting and stacking a few logs. This is the wood that will be drying to burn in the winter of 2008.
Terry & I left early this morning for the drive to Horn Lake. It took about 4 ½ hours - good roads until a 12 mile gravel section at the end which was very bumpy. There were only 3 small, widely spaced campsites left but we lucked out and were able to use a large boat launch parking/day use area for 3 of the rigs in our group and an adjacent site for the 4th rig.
Cousin Pat & Rick and Marg & Dad arrived about 6:30 and a couple from 100 Mile House (Janet & Bill) are coming tomorrow. We made good use of the firewood that we brought with us and sat around the fire until bedtime.
July 21st - Sat - Horn Lake, BC
Did some vehicle shuffling when Janet & Bill arrived this morning.
Marg, Terry, Pat & Rick set out in kayaks late this morning to try their luck at fishing. Pretty slow - Pat caught one trout. The weather got windy & rainy this evening so we moved inside after dinner.
This morning a potato chip bag on the table in our 5th wheel had been chewed by a mouse so Marg picked up some traps for us when she went with Rick to get some gas. Set them with peanut butter and a raisin (?) and hoped for better results than fishing.
July 22nd - Sun - Horn Lake
A beeping noise woke us last night about 2 - turned out to be Terry’s cell phone running out of juice. While we were trying to locate the source of the sound, we saw a mouse running around the rig. Much later I heard a trap snap. But this morning, even with a mouse in the trap, the napkins left on the table had been shredded. Not sure if the mouse did it before it got caught so will set traps again tonight.
We drove to Bella Coola today. A little cozy with 4 of us in the back seat of our pickup but it is 150 miles each way so we didn’t want to take 2 vehicles. Bella Coola’s “claim to fame” is a very steep hill in the middle of a 40 mile gravel stretch. Downhill going west (to Bella Coola). Earlier in our trip we had considered taking our 5th wheel there and are glad that we didn’t. So we had a nice lunch, checked out one store and headed back.
Pat & Marg went fishing when we got back and Marg caught a lovely trout. The weather was nice so we enjoyed the campfire again.
July 23rd - Mon - to 100 Mile House
Caught another mouse last night - yuck!
Headed out this morning after digging out jumper cables when Marg’s motor home would not start. Rick & Pat had a couple of propane problems with their 5th wheel so they took it to an RV place in Williams Lake on the way back to get it fixed. The RV place is very close to a casino so we all had to stop and check it out. Marg, Terry & I lost all we were prepared to lose and left Pat at the casino waiting for Rick to return with their rig. They joined us at Marg’s to spend the night and Pat informed us that she had won $511 after we left her.
July 24th - Tues - 100 Mile
Marg took Dad to a couple of medical appointments early this morning. They were back before Terry & I and Pat & Rick had finished breakfast. Pat & Rick left about 10. We washed our truck and Marg’s truck. After lunch Marg & Terry went to retrieve the log splitter while I took Dad back to the dentist. Dad & I had time to drive around the farm for an “inspection tour” on the ATV before we hooked up the splitter and made short work of splitting and stacking a few logs. This is the wood that will be drying to burn in the winter of 2008.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
July 14th to 19th - in B.C.
July 14th - Sat - to Telkwa
We drove halfway to Prince George today. The road follows the incredibly wide & shallow Skeena River for a long ways. When we drove to Prince Rupert I wondered how far back the tide would affect the river and we found out when we drove out. For miles you can see exposed sand bars in the river.
We made a slight detour to check out the Hagwilget Canyon suspension bridge. It is a 460 ft span which is 262 feet above the Skeena River on the way to old Hazelton. We did not drive over the one-lane bridge but Larry & I walked out on the bridge to take pictures. There was a sign with information and pictures about previous bridges - amazing, primitive construction.
While we were checking into the RV park, Max & Eva showed up. We met them in Dawson City and Fairbanks where they stayed for 2 weeks. When Larry & Barb and we were sitting out before dinner, another traveling couple (Joe & Sandra from St. George, UT) joined us. Talking with other people is one of the greatest things about this lifestyle.
July 15th - Sun - to Prince George
I chatted with Max & Eva this morning before we left and it turns out that they went to almost all the places that we have been, just a few days behind. They are on their way home to Sutherlind, OR.
We had some torrential rains on the drive to Prince George today. We pulled off in a parking lot for about 5 minutes to let the worst of the storm (we thought) go past. But it continued off and on all the way to PG. When we got to the RV park it was full. Terry & Larry both needed fuel and had to fill up in the pouring rain. We found another park and the rain cleared up in time for us to set up.
We were parked beside a canvas shelter with 2 picnic tables and a robin had a nest in the corner. She/he finally got brave and started feeding the babies with us sitting at a table.
We visited the casino after dinner. Larry & Barb went with us in our truck even though Terry warned them that he might want to stay a while if he was winning. We didn’t win but still stayed until nearly 11.
July 16th - Mon - Prince George
Terry & I found a Laundromat in town for that lovely weekly (or so) chore. Picked up some groceries at the Superstore and made some lunch. Then we all went on a tour of the PG Pulp & Paper Mill. The tourist info center leads the tours so we followed the guide to the mill, donned all the protective gear (hardhat, safety glasses, vest, emergency breathing pack and ear plugs) and had an interesting hour tour.
Terry thought we better visit our money at the casino so he & I went back for a while and made another deposit.
July 17th - Tues - to 100 Mile House
We said goodbye to Larry & Barb this morning. They are continuing down the Yellowhead Hwy (#16) on their way home to Monroe, WA. We will miss them but plan to get together somewhere “down the road”.
We stopped at Quesnel and went through an interesting museum there. Quesnel has the most beautiful flowers along the streets, in hanging pots and in flower beds at the visitor center (actually “visitor centre” in Canada!).
Arrived at sister Marg’s in 100 Mile House about 2:45. Sunny and hot. I guess this concludes our Alaska trip. We put on 6480 miles from Dawson Creek back to here.
Hooked up jumper cables to get Marg’s motor home started and moved to the house. We are going camping later in the week so need to get Marg’s rig ready. After dinner Marg & Terry went out on the 4 wheeler to look for Marg’s bull. Her bull and the neighbor’s bull had gotten into a fight across the fence which led to the neighbor’s bull coming through the fence to continue the fight. The neighbor told Marg about the fight , took his bull home and fixed the fence. No sign of Marg’s bull but the cattle are in 160 acres of wooded land so he can hide anywhere.
July 18th - Wed - 100 Mile House
We all spent the morning in the shop working on a wishing well. After lunch, Terry & I made a quick trip to town for diesel and to find material to patch a hole in a lawn chair from a campfire accident. Patched the chair and spent some more time in the shop before dinner. Marg, Terry & I went out again on the 4 wheeler and found the bull with the rest of the cattle. Marg took us on a long tour through fields, woods and trails. Spent the rest of the evening watching TV.
July 19th - Thurs - 100 Mile House
Marg got Terry set up to haul split wood from a “drying” pile into the carport for winter heating before her and I took the motor home to town for propane, air in the tires, gas and current insurance/license. Also had to do grocery shopping for our weekend trip.
Terry & Dad were still hauling wood when we got back at nearly 2 pm. I gave Terry heck for not stopping for lunch as we had left sandwich fixings and instructions when we left. Busy afternoon cleaning the motor home, finishing moving the wood and cutting down/bucking/splitting a dead tree for firewood to take with us camping.
We are going camping about halfway between Williams Lake and Bella Coola at Horn Lake. There is a small, primitive forestry campground so Terry & I will leave early tomorrow morning to try to snag 3 or 4 campsites for the 4 rigs in our group. There will be no blog updates until we get back first thing next week.
We drove halfway to Prince George today. The road follows the incredibly wide & shallow Skeena River for a long ways. When we drove to Prince Rupert I wondered how far back the tide would affect the river and we found out when we drove out. For miles you can see exposed sand bars in the river.
We made a slight detour to check out the Hagwilget Canyon suspension bridge. It is a 460 ft span which is 262 feet above the Skeena River on the way to old Hazelton. We did not drive over the one-lane bridge but Larry & I walked out on the bridge to take pictures. There was a sign with information and pictures about previous bridges - amazing, primitive construction.
While we were checking into the RV park, Max & Eva showed up. We met them in Dawson City and Fairbanks where they stayed for 2 weeks. When Larry & Barb and we were sitting out before dinner, another traveling couple (Joe & Sandra from St. George, UT) joined us. Talking with other people is one of the greatest things about this lifestyle.
July 15th - Sun - to Prince George
I chatted with Max & Eva this morning before we left and it turns out that they went to almost all the places that we have been, just a few days behind. They are on their way home to Sutherlind, OR.
We had some torrential rains on the drive to Prince George today. We pulled off in a parking lot for about 5 minutes to let the worst of the storm (we thought) go past. But it continued off and on all the way to PG. When we got to the RV park it was full. Terry & Larry both needed fuel and had to fill up in the pouring rain. We found another park and the rain cleared up in time for us to set up.
We were parked beside a canvas shelter with 2 picnic tables and a robin had a nest in the corner. She/he finally got brave and started feeding the babies with us sitting at a table.
We visited the casino after dinner. Larry & Barb went with us in our truck even though Terry warned them that he might want to stay a while if he was winning. We didn’t win but still stayed until nearly 11.
July 16th - Mon - Prince George
Terry & I found a Laundromat in town for that lovely weekly (or so) chore. Picked up some groceries at the Superstore and made some lunch. Then we all went on a tour of the PG Pulp & Paper Mill. The tourist info center leads the tours so we followed the guide to the mill, donned all the protective gear (hardhat, safety glasses, vest, emergency breathing pack and ear plugs) and had an interesting hour tour.
Terry thought we better visit our money at the casino so he & I went back for a while and made another deposit.
July 17th - Tues - to 100 Mile House
We said goodbye to Larry & Barb this morning. They are continuing down the Yellowhead Hwy (#16) on their way home to Monroe, WA. We will miss them but plan to get together somewhere “down the road”.
We stopped at Quesnel and went through an interesting museum there. Quesnel has the most beautiful flowers along the streets, in hanging pots and in flower beds at the visitor center (actually “visitor centre” in Canada!).
Arrived at sister Marg’s in 100 Mile House about 2:45. Sunny and hot. I guess this concludes our Alaska trip. We put on 6480 miles from Dawson Creek back to here.
Hooked up jumper cables to get Marg’s motor home started and moved to the house. We are going camping later in the week so need to get Marg’s rig ready. After dinner Marg & Terry went out on the 4 wheeler to look for Marg’s bull. Her bull and the neighbor’s bull had gotten into a fight across the fence which led to the neighbor’s bull coming through the fence to continue the fight. The neighbor told Marg about the fight , took his bull home and fixed the fence. No sign of Marg’s bull but the cattle are in 160 acres of wooded land so he can hide anywhere.
July 18th - Wed - 100 Mile House
We all spent the morning in the shop working on a wishing well. After lunch, Terry & I made a quick trip to town for diesel and to find material to patch a hole in a lawn chair from a campfire accident. Patched the chair and spent some more time in the shop before dinner. Marg, Terry & I went out again on the 4 wheeler and found the bull with the rest of the cattle. Marg took us on a long tour through fields, woods and trails. Spent the rest of the evening watching TV.
July 19th - Thurs - 100 Mile House
Marg got Terry set up to haul split wood from a “drying” pile into the carport for winter heating before her and I took the motor home to town for propane, air in the tires, gas and current insurance/license. Also had to do grocery shopping for our weekend trip.
Terry & Dad were still hauling wood when we got back at nearly 2 pm. I gave Terry heck for not stopping for lunch as we had left sandwich fixings and instructions when we left. Busy afternoon cleaning the motor home, finishing moving the wood and cutting down/bucking/splitting a dead tree for firewood to take with us camping.
We are going camping about halfway between Williams Lake and Bella Coola at Horn Lake. There is a small, primitive forestry campground so Terry & I will leave early tomorrow morning to try to snag 3 or 4 campsites for the 4 rigs in our group. There will be no blog updates until we get back first thing next week.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
July 11th to 13th - Terrace/Prince Rupert
July 11th - Wed - Terrace
YES!! We drove out of the rain and into some very warm weather. The roads were good, clear blue sky - lovely drive. Part way here we were stopped for about 20 minutes at a road construction site and I went into the 5th wheel to change into a T-shirt. I discovered that a couple of items had fallen out of the pantry and we had sticky Margarita mix all over the floor. A quick clean up just left a tacky mess to clean up when we got set up.
Larry & Barb caught up to us. Luckily, since we did not have cell phone service, we both had wi-fi at our site last night and we were able to “converse” and figure out if and where we could get back together. Did a bit of misc & grocery shopping and enjoyed the sunshine and a nice steak dinner.
July 12th - Thurs - to Prince Rupert
Another lovely day for the short drive to Prince Rupert. Time enough for a hair cut for me before we left Terrace. We were going to stay at a PA park in Port Edward but the sites were small and hard to get into so we carried on to PR. They have an interesting way of locating people who are camping together. They have long sites that accommodate 2 rigs backed in from each end. We pulled through the site and out the other side and then Larry pulled in and parked his 5th wheel “backwards”, unhooked and moved his truck. Then we backed in right up to his rig. This puts our doors on the same side which is nice when you are together.
Our barbeque quit working last night and we determined that the hose was the problem so Terry and I went out to get a new one. We managed to explore quite a bit of the town before we found a hose. Had a nice dinner and sat around a fire.
July 13th - Fri - Prince Rupert
We were sightseeing, shopping tourists today. There is a section of PR called Cow Bay which has some great shops and the Museum of Northern BC is located there as well. In Cow Bay, of course the emphasis is on “cow” names (Cowpuccino coffee house) and cow (Holstein) paint jobs. Had lunch, picked up some groceries and tried to find some fresh crab. Larry got the last 1 ½ lbs that were cooked at a place that offered live Dungeness crab at $6.00/lb. A guy at Safeway told us that we probably could get some crab at the docks so we checked it out. They had a boat coming in in a couple of hours so Terry went back and got 6 broken/incomplete crabs for free! We set up our camp stove outside and cooked and cleaned them. Great dinner!
YES!! We drove out of the rain and into some very warm weather. The roads were good, clear blue sky - lovely drive. Part way here we were stopped for about 20 minutes at a road construction site and I went into the 5th wheel to change into a T-shirt. I discovered that a couple of items had fallen out of the pantry and we had sticky Margarita mix all over the floor. A quick clean up just left a tacky mess to clean up when we got set up.
Larry & Barb caught up to us. Luckily, since we did not have cell phone service, we both had wi-fi at our site last night and we were able to “converse” and figure out if and where we could get back together. Did a bit of misc & grocery shopping and enjoyed the sunshine and a nice steak dinner.
July 12th - Thurs - to Prince Rupert
Another lovely day for the short drive to Prince Rupert. Time enough for a hair cut for me before we left Terrace. We were going to stay at a PA park in Port Edward but the sites were small and hard to get into so we carried on to PR. They have an interesting way of locating people who are camping together. They have long sites that accommodate 2 rigs backed in from each end. We pulled through the site and out the other side and then Larry pulled in and parked his 5th wheel “backwards”, unhooked and moved his truck. Then we backed in right up to his rig. This puts our doors on the same side which is nice when you are together.
Our barbeque quit working last night and we determined that the hose was the problem so Terry and I went out to get a new one. We managed to explore quite a bit of the town before we found a hose. Had a nice dinner and sat around a fire.
July 13th - Fri - Prince Rupert
We were sightseeing, shopping tourists today. There is a section of PR called Cow Bay which has some great shops and the Museum of Northern BC is located there as well. In Cow Bay, of course the emphasis is on “cow” names (Cowpuccino coffee house) and cow (Holstein) paint jobs. Had lunch, picked up some groceries and tried to find some fresh crab. Larry got the last 1 ½ lbs that were cooked at a place that offered live Dungeness crab at $6.00/lb. A guy at Safeway told us that we probably could get some crab at the docks so we checked it out. They had a boat coming in in a couple of hours so Terry went back and got 6 broken/incomplete crabs for free! We set up our camp stove outside and cooked and cleaned them. Great dinner!
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
July 9th to 10th - Stewart, BC
July 9th - Mon - to Stewart, BC
The road improved immensely just after Iskut but the rain decided to start again and stay with us. It did wash the mud off the front of the 5th wheel but I think we missed some great scenery. The Cassiar mountains made very brief appearances through the clouds. After we got settled and had lunch, we checked out Stewart - very small town and it was still raining.
July 10th - Tues - Stewart
Terry had watched a weather forecast and thought the rain would stop so we hung around a bit after breakfast. No such luck so we took off for Hyder and the Salmon Glacier. The roads past the edge of Stewart were terrible. There was no need for 20 MPH signs in Hyder as you could only comfortably drive about 10 - 15. We stopped at the fish viewing platforms (6 miles from Hyder) and were told there were no fish spawning and therefore no bears. We continued up the road about 4 more miles toward the glacier and then decided to turn back. Apparently we turned back just before a road block/warning about bad roads so we could not have driven to the glacier anyhow. There were no warning signs before you drove 10+ miles on a bad road!
We saw a bear and 2 cubs cross the road just before the viewing platforms so we stopped, dug out the umbrellas and checked it out. Beautiful facility for bear viewing but just like a few other things we are slightly early for this activity.
Spent the afternoon and evening on the internet, watching TV (than goodness for cable on rainy days) and doing miscellaneous little chores that don’t otherwise get done.
The road improved immensely just after Iskut but the rain decided to start again and stay with us. It did wash the mud off the front of the 5th wheel but I think we missed some great scenery. The Cassiar mountains made very brief appearances through the clouds. After we got settled and had lunch, we checked out Stewart - very small town and it was still raining.
July 10th - Tues - Stewart
Terry had watched a weather forecast and thought the rain would stop so we hung around a bit after breakfast. No such luck so we took off for Hyder and the Salmon Glacier. The roads past the edge of Stewart were terrible. There was no need for 20 MPH signs in Hyder as you could only comfortably drive about 10 - 15. We stopped at the fish viewing platforms (6 miles from Hyder) and were told there were no fish spawning and therefore no bears. We continued up the road about 4 more miles toward the glacier and then decided to turn back. Apparently we turned back just before a road block/warning about bad roads so we could not have driven to the glacier anyhow. There were no warning signs before you drove 10+ miles on a bad road!
We saw a bear and 2 cubs cross the road just before the viewing platforms so we stopped, dug out the umbrellas and checked it out. Beautiful facility for bear viewing but just like a few other things we are slightly early for this activity.
Spent the afternoon and evening on the internet, watching TV (than goodness for cable on rainy days) and doing miscellaneous little chores that don’t otherwise get done.
Monday, July 09, 2007
July 7th & 8th - Atlin to Iskut
July 7th - Sat - Traveling (Alaska Hwy)
We drove from Atlin to the junction of Hwy 37 (Cassiar Hwy) today. Stayed at the Baby Nugget RV park which is about 14 miles from Watson Lake. Celebrated my birthday by washing the rigs, doing laundry and catching up on my blog - exciting huh?! On the way, we took a break and walked into Rancheria Falls which we had done on the way to Alaska. The snow patches from the previous walk turned into mosquitoes on this trip.
July 8th - Sun - Traveling (Cassiar Hwy)
We made a little detour into Watson Lake this morning for propane and a few groceries before heading down the Cassiar.
Larry & Terry looked at maps before we left Skagway and decided we would meet in Jade City unless we could get cell phone service and make other plans. Well, we do not have cell phone service and Larry & Barb were not at Jade City by 1:30 so we decided to carry on. We ended up at Iskut which is 198 miles from the junction with the Alaska Hwy. It was a tough 198 miles - bumpy pavement, bumpy gravel and mud when it rained. Sure glad we cleaned up the rigs yesterday! A guy camped beside us tonight was washing his rigs in front of us last night and he is the same mudball that we are.
The sun just decided to stay out for a while so we took a long walk through the trees to a lake. Very nice. A guy was fishing and had caught a couple of small, throw-back trout but did not get any more while we were there.
We drove from Atlin to the junction of Hwy 37 (Cassiar Hwy) today. Stayed at the Baby Nugget RV park which is about 14 miles from Watson Lake. Celebrated my birthday by washing the rigs, doing laundry and catching up on my blog - exciting huh?! On the way, we took a break and walked into Rancheria Falls which we had done on the way to Alaska. The snow patches from the previous walk turned into mosquitoes on this trip.
July 8th - Sun - Traveling (Cassiar Hwy)
We made a little detour into Watson Lake this morning for propane and a few groceries before heading down the Cassiar.
Larry & Terry looked at maps before we left Skagway and decided we would meet in Jade City unless we could get cell phone service and make other plans. Well, we do not have cell phone service and Larry & Barb were not at Jade City by 1:30 so we decided to carry on. We ended up at Iskut which is 198 miles from the junction with the Alaska Hwy. It was a tough 198 miles - bumpy pavement, bumpy gravel and mud when it rained. Sure glad we cleaned up the rigs yesterday! A guy camped beside us tonight was washing his rigs in front of us last night and he is the same mudball that we are.
The sun just decided to stay out for a while so we took a long walk through the trees to a lake. Very nice. A guy was fishing and had caught a couple of small, throw-back trout but did not get any more while we were there.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
July 4th to 6th - Skagway/Atlin
July 4th - Wed - Skagway
Slept in this morning (after our late night!) and then went to town to take in more 4th activities. Parade at 10 - down the main street, around a block and back up the main street! - and then foot races, etc. We finished going through the shops that we hadn’t gotten to yesterday, got some lunch and came back to the RV park. Not so nice weather today. Very windy last night, cloudy & cool today.
Barb invited us over for (all-American!) hamburgers for dinner today. Larry did a very good job of grilling the burgers and we all ate too much.
July 5th - Thurs - to Atlin
We parted company with Larry & Barb today. They are staying in Skagway and taking a day tour to Juneau while we continue on to Atlin, B.C. The beginning of the road to Atlin is very bumpy gravel and Terry was ready to turn around when we stopped for lunch. Then he looked at the Milepost and saw that the last 18 miles was pavement so decided we would carry on. We are glad that we did - it is a beautiful setting. There was a music & arts festival in Atlin for the weekend so the only RV park with services was full except for a peninsula with dry camping. What a gorgeous setting!!
We stopped for a few groceries and happened to see some T-bone steaks in the little store. They were the best! What a life!
July 6th - Friday - Atlin
Lazy day - wonderful. We visited the tourist center to find out where to do some gold panning. It was a lovely drive - no gold. There are 2 other rigs (traveling together) on the peninsula with us but the people are German and their English is a little rudimentary. We collected wood while we were out and enjoyed a fire and the scenery.
Atlin is on the largest natural lake in B.C. In the lake is an island with the highest peak in fresh water in the world. And Atlin is the northwest-most town in B.C. We really hit the list of superlatives here.
Slept in this morning (after our late night!) and then went to town to take in more 4th activities. Parade at 10 - down the main street, around a block and back up the main street! - and then foot races, etc. We finished going through the shops that we hadn’t gotten to yesterday, got some lunch and came back to the RV park. Not so nice weather today. Very windy last night, cloudy & cool today.
Barb invited us over for (all-American!) hamburgers for dinner today. Larry did a very good job of grilling the burgers and we all ate too much.
July 5th - Thurs - to Atlin
We parted company with Larry & Barb today. They are staying in Skagway and taking a day tour to Juneau while we continue on to Atlin, B.C. The beginning of the road to Atlin is very bumpy gravel and Terry was ready to turn around when we stopped for lunch. Then he looked at the Milepost and saw that the last 18 miles was pavement so decided we would carry on. We are glad that we did - it is a beautiful setting. There was a music & arts festival in Atlin for the weekend so the only RV park with services was full except for a peninsula with dry camping. What a gorgeous setting!!
We stopped for a few groceries and happened to see some T-bone steaks in the little store. They were the best! What a life!
July 6th - Friday - Atlin
Lazy day - wonderful. We visited the tourist center to find out where to do some gold panning. It was a lovely drive - no gold. There are 2 other rigs (traveling together) on the peninsula with us but the people are German and their English is a little rudimentary. We collected wood while we were out and enjoyed a fire and the scenery.
Atlin is on the largest natural lake in B.C. In the lake is an island with the highest peak in fresh water in the world. And Atlin is the northwest-most town in B.C. We really hit the list of superlatives here.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
June 30th to July 3rd - Skagway
June 30th - Sat - to Haines
More gorgeous scenery on the drive to Haines. Nicer road with not so many frost heaves. Then Dolly got a treat at the RV park which is totally grass - very nice place with full hookups including sewer. A lot of places in Alaska just have central dumps - I think the long, cold winters make it difficult to keep sewer hookups open.
Explored the town and drove out to Chilcoot Lake where people where fishing for salmon from the banks of the Chilcoot River. The landscape here is different from much of Alaska - large evergreens and very lush forests rather than the scrawny black & white spruce trees. And of course amazing mountains everywhere!
July 1st - Sun - Haines
Today we drove to Chilcat state park and saw Rainbow and Davidson glaciers. Then we finished touring the town although some stores where not open since it was Sunday. We went to the Alaska Bald Eagle Foundation Interpretive Center which had a wonderful display of animal mounts - mammals, birds and fish - and an interesting film on eagles. There is a huge bald eagle preserve just outside of Haines. The film had a lot of footage from there and included quite a bit of footage from the eagle preserve at Brackendale (Squamish), B.C.
July 2nd - Mon - to Skagway
We decided to take the ferry from Haines to Skagway rather than driving around. It is 14 miles by water and 350 miles by road. With diesel costing $3.50 a gallon here and $1.34 a liter in the Yukon, the cost of the ferry didn’t seem quite so bad.
We left the RV park in Haines at 10:30 as we had to check in 2 hours ahead of our 1:00 pm departure time. The ferry was an hour late leaving Haines for the 1 hour trip and we were almost the last rig off so it was 3:40 by the time we were driving to the RV park here. So basically the whole day was taken up for a 1 hour ferry trip.
When the ferry docked at Haines, we saw that cars exiting for Haines and cars getting on (us!) would be entering the ferry through a door on the side rather than the front or back like we have done previously. This means you have to turn around somehow inside the ferry and do some backing up! We were the longest rig taking the ferry (55 feet) so they pulled us out of line and had us board after 2 other rigs. We made a 90 degree turn in the ferry and drove all the way to the back where large loading doors were open. We figured we would be driving off that way at Skagway - but we figured wrong! The side door was used again so Terry had to back up the entire length of the ferry (past the loading doors) and make a 90 degree turn to drive off. There are 3 lanes in the middle of the ferry and the rigs on either side of us were still there when Terry had to back out - quite a challenge.
We did not have a reservation at the RV park here as it was full when I called earlier. The guy said to just show up and “something would break loose”! Larry & Barb had a reservation here so they reminded the guy all morning that we were coming and wanted a spot. So we did get a space when we arrived.
July 3rd - Tues - Skagway
We chatted with neighbors this morning before heading to town with Larry & Barb. It was a gorgeous sunny day, just right for wandering around. We figure 80% of the shops in Skagway are jewelry stores. They are catering to the cruise ship passengers. There were 4 cruise ships here when we arrived, all due to leave tonight. We came back to the RV park for a rest and dinner so we could take in some evening activities for the 4th of July holiday.
There was a street dance starting at 9. The band was not playing music that appealed much to us but it was fun watching kids “dancing” and just watching people. Fireworks were supposed to start at 11, actually started at 11:25 but were worth the wait. It was a very good show with some fireworks set off from a boat and others from the end of the cruise ship dock.
More gorgeous scenery on the drive to Haines. Nicer road with not so many frost heaves. Then Dolly got a treat at the RV park which is totally grass - very nice place with full hookups including sewer. A lot of places in Alaska just have central dumps - I think the long, cold winters make it difficult to keep sewer hookups open.
Explored the town and drove out to Chilcoot Lake where people where fishing for salmon from the banks of the Chilcoot River. The landscape here is different from much of Alaska - large evergreens and very lush forests rather than the scrawny black & white spruce trees. And of course amazing mountains everywhere!
July 1st - Sun - Haines
Today we drove to Chilcat state park and saw Rainbow and Davidson glaciers. Then we finished touring the town although some stores where not open since it was Sunday. We went to the Alaska Bald Eagle Foundation Interpretive Center which had a wonderful display of animal mounts - mammals, birds and fish - and an interesting film on eagles. There is a huge bald eagle preserve just outside of Haines. The film had a lot of footage from there and included quite a bit of footage from the eagle preserve at Brackendale (Squamish), B.C.
July 2nd - Mon - to Skagway
We decided to take the ferry from Haines to Skagway rather than driving around. It is 14 miles by water and 350 miles by road. With diesel costing $3.50 a gallon here and $1.34 a liter in the Yukon, the cost of the ferry didn’t seem quite so bad.
We left the RV park in Haines at 10:30 as we had to check in 2 hours ahead of our 1:00 pm departure time. The ferry was an hour late leaving Haines for the 1 hour trip and we were almost the last rig off so it was 3:40 by the time we were driving to the RV park here. So basically the whole day was taken up for a 1 hour ferry trip.
When the ferry docked at Haines, we saw that cars exiting for Haines and cars getting on (us!) would be entering the ferry through a door on the side rather than the front or back like we have done previously. This means you have to turn around somehow inside the ferry and do some backing up! We were the longest rig taking the ferry (55 feet) so they pulled us out of line and had us board after 2 other rigs. We made a 90 degree turn in the ferry and drove all the way to the back where large loading doors were open. We figured we would be driving off that way at Skagway - but we figured wrong! The side door was used again so Terry had to back up the entire length of the ferry (past the loading doors) and make a 90 degree turn to drive off. There are 3 lanes in the middle of the ferry and the rigs on either side of us were still there when Terry had to back out - quite a challenge.
We did not have a reservation at the RV park here as it was full when I called earlier. The guy said to just show up and “something would break loose”! Larry & Barb had a reservation here so they reminded the guy all morning that we were coming and wanted a spot. So we did get a space when we arrived.
July 3rd - Tues - Skagway
We chatted with neighbors this morning before heading to town with Larry & Barb. It was a gorgeous sunny day, just right for wandering around. We figure 80% of the shops in Skagway are jewelry stores. They are catering to the cruise ship passengers. There were 4 cruise ships here when we arrived, all due to leave tonight. We came back to the RV park for a rest and dinner so we could take in some evening activities for the 4th of July holiday.
There was a street dance starting at 9. The band was not playing music that appealed much to us but it was fun watching kids “dancing” and just watching people. Fireworks were supposed to start at 11, actually started at 11:25 but were worth the wait. It was a very good show with some fireworks set off from a boat and others from the end of the cruise ship dock.
Friday, June 29, 2007
June 27th to 29th - Copper Center/Tok/Haines Junction
June 27th - Wed - to Copper Center
We had a short drive today to the Copper Center area, Klutina river to try some salmon fishing. We dry camped in an RV park right on the Klutina river. Larry caught a nice sockeye salmon. The fishing is kind of crazy and Terry gets irritated with it. People are standing about 8 feet apart on the edge of the river and it is a challenge not to tangle lines. When you catch a fish, because of the current it wants to come to shore down a bit from where you are standing. Some people don’t even stop fishing so you can land your fish.
The weather was lovely until about 6 when it poured rain for a while and then sprinkled a while longer. We sat out for a bit with a small fire and then called it a day.
June 28th - Thurs - to Tok/Beaver Creek
We left early this morning for the drive to Tok. We shopped a bit, had lunch with Larry & Barb and then parted ways for a few days. Larry & Barb are going on the Top of the World Hwy to Dawson City. We continued on the Alaska Hwy towards Haines Junction where we will head to Haines, AK. We were going to stop at Border City but a guy working at the service station/RV park ticked Terry off so we kept on driving. Crossed the border into the Yukon and stayed at Beaver Creek.
The road is terrible! There are many frost heaves so the going is slow or else you are throwing out the anchor all the time.
We chatted for quite a while with a couple from Vermont. They make about 300 gallons of maple syrup each year so it was fun to find out more about that process.
June 29th - Friday - to Haines Junction
Hit the laundromat before leaving this morning. A lady working at the RV park said the road is worse towards Haines Junction and she was right. Some of the highway is gravel (under construction) and is actually nicer to drive than the paved sections. Except for the fact that they water the gravel to keep the dust under control so we ended up covered in mud.
Thanks to Marg’s recommendation, we stopped at the Kluane Museum of Natural History on the way and really enjoyed it.
We washed off the worst of the dirt on the truck and 5th wheel at the wash station in the RV park before we set up. I walked out to the truck for something and smelled some wonderful Chinese food cooking so we splurged and went out for dinner.
We had a short drive today to the Copper Center area, Klutina river to try some salmon fishing. We dry camped in an RV park right on the Klutina river. Larry caught a nice sockeye salmon. The fishing is kind of crazy and Terry gets irritated with it. People are standing about 8 feet apart on the edge of the river and it is a challenge not to tangle lines. When you catch a fish, because of the current it wants to come to shore down a bit from where you are standing. Some people don’t even stop fishing so you can land your fish.
The weather was lovely until about 6 when it poured rain for a while and then sprinkled a while longer. We sat out for a bit with a small fire and then called it a day.
June 28th - Thurs - to Tok/Beaver Creek
We left early this morning for the drive to Tok. We shopped a bit, had lunch with Larry & Barb and then parted ways for a few days. Larry & Barb are going on the Top of the World Hwy to Dawson City. We continued on the Alaska Hwy towards Haines Junction where we will head to Haines, AK. We were going to stop at Border City but a guy working at the service station/RV park ticked Terry off so we kept on driving. Crossed the border into the Yukon and stayed at Beaver Creek.
The road is terrible! There are many frost heaves so the going is slow or else you are throwing out the anchor all the time.
We chatted for quite a while with a couple from Vermont. They make about 300 gallons of maple syrup each year so it was fun to find out more about that process.
June 29th - Friday - to Haines Junction
Hit the laundromat before leaving this morning. A lady working at the RV park said the road is worse towards Haines Junction and she was right. Some of the highway is gravel (under construction) and is actually nicer to drive than the paved sections. Except for the fact that they water the gravel to keep the dust under control so we ended up covered in mud.
Thanks to Marg’s recommendation, we stopped at the Kluane Museum of Natural History on the way and really enjoyed it.
We washed off the worst of the dirt on the truck and 5th wheel at the wash station in the RV park before we set up. I walked out to the truck for something and smelled some wonderful Chinese food cooking so we splurged and went out for dinner.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
June 21st to 26th - Seward/Valdez
June 21st - Thurs - Seward
We aren’t sure how long we will be staying here and a caravan is arriving on Sunday to take over the spot where we are camped. So we have been watching for someone to leave the waterfront row. Terry spotted someone packing up so I went with a lawn chair to reserve the spot and then helped pack up so we could put in the slides and move. We discovered that we can pack up very quickly! So now we have a “waterfront lot” - lovely view!
Clem & Marlene, Larry & Barb and we went for a drive and walk to Exit Glacier. Some higher trails were flooded and we did not want to get our feet wet so just walked to the bottom of the glacier. Did a little more sightseeing with the group and then we went to the library so I could post to the blog. I also got some halibut recipes from Marv’s website and picked up a couple of ingredients. Clem & Marlene fixed some halibut (boiled in water with sugar & salt added, dip in melted butter) and shared it with all of us. VERY good! I had put together one of Diane’s recipes so we shared it with Clem & Marlene for the rest of dinner.
June 22nd - Friday - Seward
We were rudely woke up this morning by inconsiderate neighbors packing up to move at 5:10 am. Their diesel pickup ran until they actually left at 5:45! The rig next to them pulled out right after they did. I told Terry that we should call Clem & Marlene as they were hoping for a front row spot because their current spot is in the caravan area. We figured no one would be coming in that early so thought we would call later. A little bit later, Terry heard something and someone had put a chair out to save the spot next to us. Terry threw on some clothes and parked our truck in the vacant spot while I called Clem (now close to 6:30). They used the opportunity to dump their holding tanks and moved in a couple spots down from us.
Larry & Barb left this morning to head for Valdez. We went exploring and shopping this afternoon. I just finished putting together a chicken casserole for dinner when Marlene came over to ask us to join them for some of their delicious halibut for dinner. We played a few games of dice after dinner.
June 23rd - Sat - Seward
We went fishing again today with Marv, Diane, Steve, Renee, Steve & Renee’s daughter and her husband (Jessica & David). It was rainy and cold all day. Terry caught the only halibut. We caught 30 “rock fish” (a type of cod) which are really fun because when you hit a school everyone gets fish on at the same time. Also got 2 quillbacks, a true cod and a flounder. We did some sightseeing too as Renee, Jessica and David did not fish. We got right up to the base of a glacier that came down to the water and watched it calve for a bit. We kept one fillet from the halibut and fillets from a couple of the rock fish and gave the rest to Marv & Diane.
We were so cold and wet when we got back that we made hot rum and went and visited with Clem & Marlene for a while before making dinner and hitting the sack early.
June 24th - Sunday - to Palmer
We are heading to Valdez but it is quite a long trip for one day so we decided to stop at the PA park (save money when we can!!) in Palmer where we stayed previously. I needed to pick up some groceries and wanted to avoid the high prices like I had to pay in Seward. I also took the opportunity to wash the smelly jackets that we wore fishing.
June 25th - Mon - to Valdez
The scenery on the drive from Palmer to Glenellen and then to Valdez is incredible. The clouds lifted for a while so we could see all the mountains but unfortunately came down again so we missed some. I am sure everyone will be tired of mountain pictures anyhow!
We stopped for fuel in Glenellen and I made a late breakfast. Terry visited the visitor info center and was told about a spot 14 miles down the road where a lot of sockeye salmon were being caught. We took a slight detour and saw a lot of people fishing but decided to fish on the way back since Larry & Barb were expecting us.
After setting up and relaxing for a bit, Larry took us on a quick tour of the town (doesn’t take long!) and we stopped at the Elk’s club for a drink. I had them make a Brave Bull for me (tequila and Kahlua for anyone who does not know me well!) and they made it in the same size highball glass that they used for Bloody Marys. When Terry ordered another round he included a second drink for me - mistake! I somehow got ribs ready to boil and Terry took over while I had a nap. Amazingly, I was OK by the time the ribs were done and made Texas toast and ate dinner.
June 26th - Tues - Valdez
Larry & Barb went on a glacier tour today. We used the rare RV park that allows vehicle washing (the one we are staying in) to wash both the 5th wheel and the truck. We had some pretty stubborn bugs on the 5th wheel.
Went browsing through the town and then found a spot where we could pick up some wood for a campfire tonight. Hate spending $5 for a very small bundle of firewood.
Beautiful day today - sunny and breezy. Our campsite is right on the water again and I have been watching a couple of sea otters bobbing around just off the shore behind us.
We aren’t sure how long we will be staying here and a caravan is arriving on Sunday to take over the spot where we are camped. So we have been watching for someone to leave the waterfront row. Terry spotted someone packing up so I went with a lawn chair to reserve the spot and then helped pack up so we could put in the slides and move. We discovered that we can pack up very quickly! So now we have a “waterfront lot” - lovely view!
Clem & Marlene, Larry & Barb and we went for a drive and walk to Exit Glacier. Some higher trails were flooded and we did not want to get our feet wet so just walked to the bottom of the glacier. Did a little more sightseeing with the group and then we went to the library so I could post to the blog. I also got some halibut recipes from Marv’s website and picked up a couple of ingredients. Clem & Marlene fixed some halibut (boiled in water with sugar & salt added, dip in melted butter) and shared it with all of us. VERY good! I had put together one of Diane’s recipes so we shared it with Clem & Marlene for the rest of dinner.
June 22nd - Friday - Seward
We were rudely woke up this morning by inconsiderate neighbors packing up to move at 5:10 am. Their diesel pickup ran until they actually left at 5:45! The rig next to them pulled out right after they did. I told Terry that we should call Clem & Marlene as they were hoping for a front row spot because their current spot is in the caravan area. We figured no one would be coming in that early so thought we would call later. A little bit later, Terry heard something and someone had put a chair out to save the spot next to us. Terry threw on some clothes and parked our truck in the vacant spot while I called Clem (now close to 6:30). They used the opportunity to dump their holding tanks and moved in a couple spots down from us.
Larry & Barb left this morning to head for Valdez. We went exploring and shopping this afternoon. I just finished putting together a chicken casserole for dinner when Marlene came over to ask us to join them for some of their delicious halibut for dinner. We played a few games of dice after dinner.
June 23rd - Sat - Seward
We went fishing again today with Marv, Diane, Steve, Renee, Steve & Renee’s daughter and her husband (Jessica & David). It was rainy and cold all day. Terry caught the only halibut. We caught 30 “rock fish” (a type of cod) which are really fun because when you hit a school everyone gets fish on at the same time. Also got 2 quillbacks, a true cod and a flounder. We did some sightseeing too as Renee, Jessica and David did not fish. We got right up to the base of a glacier that came down to the water and watched it calve for a bit. We kept one fillet from the halibut and fillets from a couple of the rock fish and gave the rest to Marv & Diane.
We were so cold and wet when we got back that we made hot rum and went and visited with Clem & Marlene for a while before making dinner and hitting the sack early.
June 24th - Sunday - to Palmer
We are heading to Valdez but it is quite a long trip for one day so we decided to stop at the PA park (save money when we can!!) in Palmer where we stayed previously. I needed to pick up some groceries and wanted to avoid the high prices like I had to pay in Seward. I also took the opportunity to wash the smelly jackets that we wore fishing.
June 25th - Mon - to Valdez
The scenery on the drive from Palmer to Glenellen and then to Valdez is incredible. The clouds lifted for a while so we could see all the mountains but unfortunately came down again so we missed some. I am sure everyone will be tired of mountain pictures anyhow!
We stopped for fuel in Glenellen and I made a late breakfast. Terry visited the visitor info center and was told about a spot 14 miles down the road where a lot of sockeye salmon were being caught. We took a slight detour and saw a lot of people fishing but decided to fish on the way back since Larry & Barb were expecting us.
After setting up and relaxing for a bit, Larry took us on a quick tour of the town (doesn’t take long!) and we stopped at the Elk’s club for a drink. I had them make a Brave Bull for me (tequila and Kahlua for anyone who does not know me well!) and they made it in the same size highball glass that they used for Bloody Marys. When Terry ordered another round he included a second drink for me - mistake! I somehow got ribs ready to boil and Terry took over while I had a nap. Amazingly, I was OK by the time the ribs were done and made Texas toast and ate dinner.
June 26th - Tues - Valdez
Larry & Barb went on a glacier tour today. We used the rare RV park that allows vehicle washing (the one we are staying in) to wash both the 5th wheel and the truck. We had some pretty stubborn bugs on the 5th wheel.
Went browsing through the town and then found a spot where we could pick up some wood for a campfire tonight. Hate spending $5 for a very small bundle of firewood.
Beautiful day today - sunny and breezy. Our campsite is right on the water again and I have been watching a couple of sea otters bobbing around just off the shore behind us.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
June 19th & 20th - Seward
June 19th - Tues - to Seward
Got an early start today for the 180 mile drive to Seward. Had to dump tanks and get fuel, arrived in Seward about 12:30. We are staying at the city RV park on the beach - water & electric but no sewer hookups. Our spot is on the front row of the second level so we have a wonderful view of the water and mountains out the back windows. Clem & Marlene’s rig is here too but they are out somewhere.
After lunch we went with Larry & Barb to the Alaska SeaLife Center. Very nice facility - part aquarium and part science “exhibits”. Hit the Safeway for booze & food and then back to the rig for Happy Hour(s) and dinner.
Terry’s friend Marv Thompson, his wife Diane and their friends Steve and Renee came by about 8:30 when they finished cleaning fish from their charter trip. Marv used to live in Spokane and fished many steelhead tournaments with Terry. Now he is a guide and operates charters out of Seward. We are going to join Marv tomorrow to fish for halibut.
June 20th - Wed - Seward
Foggy this morning. Could not see anything on the 2 hour trip out to the spot that Marv picked to fish for halibut. No luck at the first spot so we moved after just under an hour and got into a great spot. We switched from herring on halibut poles (boat anchored) to lures on lighter salmon poles that we jigged while the boat drifted slightly. Another guy on the trip (Dustin) and I got fish on at the same time just after we put our poles out. Dustin got his in quickly while I was blaming myself for being wimpy and not able to wind mine in even after Marv tightened up the drag. We found out why when the fish got close enough to the surface and sent Marv running for the harpoon and 410 shotgun. It was big! Turned out to be 95 pounds. Marv didn’t get the first harpoon through and the fish took off for the bottom again. So I had to wind it in again - I thought for a while that I would not be able to do it but with a few rests and advice from Terry I got it in. Then I got my “souvenir” from Marv - the 410 shell that was used to shoot the fish before they bring it in the boat. Large live halibut have very powerful tails that can do serious damage.
After the pictures at the boat dock (with an appreciative audience!) and getting our fish filleted, we came back to the RV park and did some bragging to Larry & Barb and Clem & Marlene and shared some halibut with them. Diane had asked us to join them for dinner and we got to sample some of the fresh halibut.
Got an early start today for the 180 mile drive to Seward. Had to dump tanks and get fuel, arrived in Seward about 12:30. We are staying at the city RV park on the beach - water & electric but no sewer hookups. Our spot is on the front row of the second level so we have a wonderful view of the water and mountains out the back windows. Clem & Marlene’s rig is here too but they are out somewhere.
After lunch we went with Larry & Barb to the Alaska SeaLife Center. Very nice facility - part aquarium and part science “exhibits”. Hit the Safeway for booze & food and then back to the rig for Happy Hour(s) and dinner.
Terry’s friend Marv Thompson, his wife Diane and their friends Steve and Renee came by about 8:30 when they finished cleaning fish from their charter trip. Marv used to live in Spokane and fished many steelhead tournaments with Terry. Now he is a guide and operates charters out of Seward. We are going to join Marv tomorrow to fish for halibut.
June 20th - Wed - Seward
Foggy this morning. Could not see anything on the 2 hour trip out to the spot that Marv picked to fish for halibut. No luck at the first spot so we moved after just under an hour and got into a great spot. We switched from herring on halibut poles (boat anchored) to lures on lighter salmon poles that we jigged while the boat drifted slightly. Another guy on the trip (Dustin) and I got fish on at the same time just after we put our poles out. Dustin got his in quickly while I was blaming myself for being wimpy and not able to wind mine in even after Marv tightened up the drag. We found out why when the fish got close enough to the surface and sent Marv running for the harpoon and 410 shotgun. It was big! Turned out to be 95 pounds. Marv didn’t get the first harpoon through and the fish took off for the bottom again. So I had to wind it in again - I thought for a while that I would not be able to do it but with a few rests and advice from Terry I got it in. Then I got my “souvenir” from Marv - the 410 shell that was used to shoot the fish before they bring it in the boat. Large live halibut have very powerful tails that can do serious damage.
After the pictures at the boat dock (with an appreciative audience!) and getting our fish filleted, we came back to the RV park and did some bragging to Larry & Barb and Clem & Marlene and shared some halibut with them. Diane had asked us to join them for dinner and we got to sample some of the fresh halibut.
Monday, June 18, 2007
June 17th - 18th - Homer
June 17th - Sun - to Homer
We got an early start, dumped our tanks and filled up with water at a service station and had a nice drive to Homer. We are staying on the Homer “Spit” - a long, narrow spit of land curving into Kachemak Bay. Apparently it is narrower than it was previously as it sank 4 to 6 feet during the 1964 earthquake.
The Spit is lined with shops and charter boat places so we went wandering, had lunch, took a nap break and then drove along a road on a bluff above Homer for amazing views of the town, Spit, water & mountains. We saw people fishing at the end of the Spit where there were clouds of seagulls floating on and diving into the water. They (the people!) were catching flounder and bass. Then we watched people fishing in a man-made “Fishing Hole” and catching salmon. Decided we would try fishing tomorrow.
Terry & I walked along the beach at 9:30 pm and collected agates. The sun was still way up in the sky.
Pat & Rick were visiting Dad in the hospital today and used their cell phone to call me so I could talk to Dad. He is in the surgical ward and seemed in good spirits even though he gets only ice chips to suck on. He starts on a liquid diet tomorrow.
June 18th - Mon - Homer
Larry & Terry tried the Fishing Hole this morning and I went along to supervise. Think we were a little late as the tide was quite far out - no luck.
We made reservations yesterday (using our coupon book) for a boat tour to Gull Island/Katchemak Bay and then have lunch at the Rookery Restaurant across Kachemak Bay. We left at noon with only 2 other “guests” on the boat. Circled Gull Island which is a nesting area for 7 species of gulls. Even with hundreds of gulls flying overhead and 7 people outside on the boat, no one was hit with any “gull missiles”. We saw some sea otters - much larger than any of us thought they would be.
We had a good lunch in an unexpectedly nice restaurant in the middle of nowhere. Very relaxing.
After the mandatory “nap time” when we got back, Terry & Larry went fishing again under my capable supervision. We saw several King salmon being caught but again no luck for us.
The weather here has been cooler with a breeze/wind most of the time. But only a bit of rain this morning so not too bad.
We got an early start, dumped our tanks and filled up with water at a service station and had a nice drive to Homer. We are staying on the Homer “Spit” - a long, narrow spit of land curving into Kachemak Bay. Apparently it is narrower than it was previously as it sank 4 to 6 feet during the 1964 earthquake.
The Spit is lined with shops and charter boat places so we went wandering, had lunch, took a nap break and then drove along a road on a bluff above Homer for amazing views of the town, Spit, water & mountains. We saw people fishing at the end of the Spit where there were clouds of seagulls floating on and diving into the water. They (the people!) were catching flounder and bass. Then we watched people fishing in a man-made “Fishing Hole” and catching salmon. Decided we would try fishing tomorrow.
Terry & I walked along the beach at 9:30 pm and collected agates. The sun was still way up in the sky.
Pat & Rick were visiting Dad in the hospital today and used their cell phone to call me so I could talk to Dad. He is in the surgical ward and seemed in good spirits even though he gets only ice chips to suck on. He starts on a liquid diet tomorrow.
June 18th - Mon - Homer
Larry & Terry tried the Fishing Hole this morning and I went along to supervise. Think we were a little late as the tide was quite far out - no luck.
We made reservations yesterday (using our coupon book) for a boat tour to Gull Island/Katchemak Bay and then have lunch at the Rookery Restaurant across Kachemak Bay. We left at noon with only 2 other “guests” on the boat. Circled Gull Island which is a nesting area for 7 species of gulls. Even with hundreds of gulls flying overhead and 7 people outside on the boat, no one was hit with any “gull missiles”. We saw some sea otters - much larger than any of us thought they would be.
We had a good lunch in an unexpectedly nice restaurant in the middle of nowhere. Very relaxing.
After the mandatory “nap time” when we got back, Terry & Larry went fishing again under my capable supervision. We saw several King salmon being caught but again no luck for us.
The weather here has been cooler with a breeze/wind most of the time. But only a bit of rain this morning so not too bad.
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