Jan 29th – Fri – Yuma
We went to WalMart this morning for groceries. We happened to go past the electronic section and detoured to look at the computers. There was a Dell that was marked down from $798 to $598 as they aren’t going to carry that model any more. They only had the display model left but it was in a locked case so wasn’t subjected to a lot of abuse. But they could not find the box which also had the power cable in it. We decided to think about whether we wanted it and came back to drop off the groceries.
Another WalMart was supposed to have 2 of the computers so we decided to get one. On the way we stopped at the 3rd WalMart in Yuma. They only had the display model and it was out for public use & abuse. On to the last store only to find they had just the display computer and it was missing a key. OK – back to the first store for one more check for the missing box. The electronic department was no help until Terry got the assistance of a customer service employee who mobilized the troops and the box was found.
But the saga is not over yet. When Terry paid with his credit card, it was denied. We had used the card earlier for groceries and were nowhere near our limit. We tried my card with no luck. There is a bank nearby so we left to get things straightened out or get enough cash. We were nearly at the truck when our phone rang. It was the Bank of America Fraud department asking if it was really us trying to make the purchase. Some combination of events had caused their computer to deny the transaction – too close to Mexico?, out of the home state?, multiple transactions? The lady said she would reset our card and mark it “extended travel” so it should not happen again. We returned to the store and finally got our computer.
We only had breakfast so we were starved and got dinner going as soon as we got back. We got to relax for just over an hour when it was time to go to the dance here at the park. The 2 person “band” was not as good as the guy at the previous dance but we still danced a lot. We sat with Freeman & Louie and Larry & Bernice who we met at the first dance we went to.
Jan 30th – Sat – Yuma
We went to breakfast at the park and then went for a bike ride since it was sunny & warm. Didn’t get too far when we stopped to talk to Jan and then were joined by Louie. Finished our bike ride and then did some multi-tasking – baking (pretzels & toffee bit squares) & loading up the new computer.
Freeman stopped by after his golf game to learn how to make a buddy burner. Terry told him about them at the dance last night.
About 3:30 we headed to Charlie & Julie’s for HH and dinner. We were joined by Mike & Jewell, Bob & Karen and Rick & Karen - newly arrived friends of Charlie & Julie’s. After dinner we moved back outside and enjoyed Charlie’s new buddy burner.
Jan 31st – Sun – Yuma
Got a fairly early start this morning and got the laundry done. Had a late breakfast and then rode our bikes to see Bob & Karen’s new park model. They weren’t supposed to get possession until tomorrow but the previous owner decided to leave one day earlier so we got to see it. I think they will enjoy it a lot.
We packed up some things in preparation to leave tomorrow and then went to the Swap Meet to get a couple of new flags. The wind here kind of frayed our flags.
We picked up a few items at WalMart and then went to Aunt Jessie & Ed’s for dinner. Aunt Jessie spoils Terry and made cabbage rolls for dinner since that is one of his favorites.
The moon was just coming up as we drove back into the park and it was beautiful. It is the largest full moon of the year – incredible.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Jan 26th to 28th - Yuma
Jan 26th - Tues - Yuma
We washed the truck this morning and I made another batch of seasoned pretzels (email me for the recipe if you want it). Then we went to visit Rob & Sue from Victoria BC who we met in Calgary in July 2008 and haven’t seen since. I called to invite them for dinner but they wanted to show us their new rig and their park and introduce us to some friends so we went there. They are staying in the Foothills area at Las Quintas Oasis RV park. They are on the “6 month in/ 6 month out” plan and just moved to a site where they have a storage shed and improved patio areas.
We sat out for drinks and met 2 couples (Bert & Judy and Wayne & Pauline). Sue had taco soup in the crock pot so we had dinner & continued to chat. Rob & Sue had just been traveling for a few days when we met them and were trying to decide if they might want to try the fulltime lifestyle. We were instrumental in them buying a GPS and probably helped them decide to sell their house and go full timing.
Jan 27th - Wed - Yuma
We headed out for a bike ride this morning and just down the road stopped to say hi to Charlie & Julie who were getting ready to go for a drive with Mike & Jewel. We chatted with them for a few minutes. When Mike & Jewel arrived, they asked us to go with them as Mike’s truck can seat 6 people. First we went to the Imperial Date Farm where Jewel bought some yummy date nut bread to share with all of us. Then on to the Peanut Patch where they sold items similar to the date farm at higher prices. Next we investigated several RV parks as possible choices for future visits to Yuma. We were impressed with the park where Rob & Sue are staying so we showed it to the rest of the group.
Charlie had the cardboard in a couple of tins to make buddy burners so Terry offered to melt the wax on our propane burner outside rather than Charlie possibly messing up their kitchen. While we were waiting for them to show up, our neighbors Lowell & Frankie came by from an afternoon at the pool and stopped to have a quick beer with us. Eventually, Charlie & Julie, Bob & Karen and Mike & Jewel were all here.
Jan 28th - Thurs - Yuma
Terry dismantled the wind screen today and figured out how to pack & carry all the pieces. I got to do vacuuming & cleaning. After lunch we went for a bike ride - lovely sunny day with little wind.
At 2 we picked up Bob & Karen to go golfing at Ironwood GC which is a 9 hole executive course. None of us want to play it again as it was not in very good shape - packed dirt tee boxes, long grass on the greens - and was a dangerous “up & back” layout that brought other golfers into range of many tee shots. But the weather was superb, actually got to wear shorts in comfort for the first time in weeks.
I had put a pork roast in the crock pot & invited Bob & Karen over for dinner.
We washed the truck this morning and I made another batch of seasoned pretzels (email me for the recipe if you want it). Then we went to visit Rob & Sue from Victoria BC who we met in Calgary in July 2008 and haven’t seen since. I called to invite them for dinner but they wanted to show us their new rig and their park and introduce us to some friends so we went there. They are staying in the Foothills area at Las Quintas Oasis RV park. They are on the “6 month in/ 6 month out” plan and just moved to a site where they have a storage shed and improved patio areas.
We sat out for drinks and met 2 couples (Bert & Judy and Wayne & Pauline). Sue had taco soup in the crock pot so we had dinner & continued to chat. Rob & Sue had just been traveling for a few days when we met them and were trying to decide if they might want to try the fulltime lifestyle. We were instrumental in them buying a GPS and probably helped them decide to sell their house and go full timing.
Jan 27th - Wed - Yuma
We headed out for a bike ride this morning and just down the road stopped to say hi to Charlie & Julie who were getting ready to go for a drive with Mike & Jewel. We chatted with them for a few minutes. When Mike & Jewel arrived, they asked us to go with them as Mike’s truck can seat 6 people. First we went to the Imperial Date Farm where Jewel bought some yummy date nut bread to share with all of us. Then on to the Peanut Patch where they sold items similar to the date farm at higher prices. Next we investigated several RV parks as possible choices for future visits to Yuma. We were impressed with the park where Rob & Sue are staying so we showed it to the rest of the group.
Charlie had the cardboard in a couple of tins to make buddy burners so Terry offered to melt the wax on our propane burner outside rather than Charlie possibly messing up their kitchen. While we were waiting for them to show up, our neighbors Lowell & Frankie came by from an afternoon at the pool and stopped to have a quick beer with us. Eventually, Charlie & Julie, Bob & Karen and Mike & Jewel were all here.
Jan 28th - Thurs - Yuma
Terry dismantled the wind screen today and figured out how to pack & carry all the pieces. I got to do vacuuming & cleaning. After lunch we went for a bike ride - lovely sunny day with little wind.
At 2 we picked up Bob & Karen to go golfing at Ironwood GC which is a 9 hole executive course. None of us want to play it again as it was not in very good shape - packed dirt tee boxes, long grass on the greens - and was a dangerous “up & back” layout that brought other golfers into range of many tee shots. But the weather was superb, actually got to wear shorts in comfort for the first time in weeks.
I had put a pork roast in the crock pot & invited Bob & Karen over for dinner.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Jan 23rd to 25th - Yuma
Jan 23rd - Sat - Yuma
Our brakes have been squeaking so Terry took the truck to Meineke (where we had them replaced in Spokane) to have them looked at. He had to go back at 2:00 and they said there were heat cracks and it wasn’t something covered on the lifetime warranty on the work we had done. So the brakes are OK - we just have to live with the noise until we bite the bullet and get them fixed.
I backed up some files on the computer before doing a bunch of work on my expenses and then tried to back up our pictures using Picasa which has always been easy. Today there was some type of error and I spent ages unsuccessfully trying to find an answer on the internet. I finally just went ahead and got some expenses entered.
We went for a short bike ride as the wind was blowing fairly hard which makes for a tough ride.
Jan 24th - Sun - Yuma
I made breakfast this morning, pulled out the sewing machine for a couple of mending jobs and then we headed for the laundry room with 6 loads of laundry. More than usual with extra bedding including our old electric mattress pad which we will keep in case we have guests sleeping on the cold air mattress again.
We went on a 4 mile bike ride and then had an early dinner. We went to card bingo with Karen & Bob (Karen won twice) and then they came back with us for a drink so we could look up their new park model on the internet and hear all about it. We were very surprised to see it was 10:45 when they left.
Jan 25th - Mon - Yuma
We went to the Paradise Casino for a $1.99 (decent) breakfast and $10 in free play on our cards. The line to get the free play went out the door and half around the building but we figured we didn’t have anything else pressing to do so waited our turn - only took about 20 minutes. We saw a guy turn his $10 into $81 but that didn’t happen to us!
Next we went downtown to the Lettuce Festival. Main Street was lined with art & craft vendors and it was a beautiful day to walk. Next a quick stop at BigLots for some ginger cookies that they still did not have and then on to Fry’s for some groceries. We put the groceries away, fixed a drink in our “go” cups and rode the bikes to Charlie & Julie’s. They had just returned from a trip to San Felipe in Mexico and we wanted to BBQ steaks in the daylight so we didn’t stay long.
Our brakes have been squeaking so Terry took the truck to Meineke (where we had them replaced in Spokane) to have them looked at. He had to go back at 2:00 and they said there were heat cracks and it wasn’t something covered on the lifetime warranty on the work we had done. So the brakes are OK - we just have to live with the noise until we bite the bullet and get them fixed.
I backed up some files on the computer before doing a bunch of work on my expenses and then tried to back up our pictures using Picasa which has always been easy. Today there was some type of error and I spent ages unsuccessfully trying to find an answer on the internet. I finally just went ahead and got some expenses entered.
We went for a short bike ride as the wind was blowing fairly hard which makes for a tough ride.
Jan 24th - Sun - Yuma
I made breakfast this morning, pulled out the sewing machine for a couple of mending jobs and then we headed for the laundry room with 6 loads of laundry. More than usual with extra bedding including our old electric mattress pad which we will keep in case we have guests sleeping on the cold air mattress again.
We went on a 4 mile bike ride and then had an early dinner. We went to card bingo with Karen & Bob (Karen won twice) and then they came back with us for a drink so we could look up their new park model on the internet and hear all about it. We were very surprised to see it was 10:45 when they left.
Jan 25th - Mon - Yuma
We went to the Paradise Casino for a $1.99 (decent) breakfast and $10 in free play on our cards. The line to get the free play went out the door and half around the building but we figured we didn’t have anything else pressing to do so waited our turn - only took about 20 minutes. We saw a guy turn his $10 into $81 but that didn’t happen to us!
Next we went downtown to the Lettuce Festival. Main Street was lined with art & craft vendors and it was a beautiful day to walk. Next a quick stop at BigLots for some ginger cookies that they still did not have and then on to Fry’s for some groceries. We put the groceries away, fixed a drink in our “go” cups and rode the bikes to Charlie & Julie’s. They had just returned from a trip to San Felipe in Mexico and we wanted to BBQ steaks in the daylight so we didn’t stay long.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Jan 19th to 22nd - Yuma
Jan 19th - Tues - Yuma
We went to the casino for 2-for-1 breakfast this morning. The original plan was for Marg to get her $10 free play for her January birthday, play slots for a while and then go to Algodones. By the time we were done gambling, we decided that we would get to Algodones just in time to line up to get back through customs so we didn’t go.
Marg needed some saw blades so we had to find the Harbor Freight store on the way home - thanks Wanda. Marg & I went for a bike ride before Aunt Jessie & Ed arrived for dinner. It started to pour rain when they were here and they had to tiptoe around puddles when they left.
Jan 20th - Wed - Yuma
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO TERRY!!
We made it to Algodones this morning. We knew that Aunt Jessie & Ed were going there also for a dental appointment but we were very surprised to pull into a parking spot and see them getting out of their truck in a parking spot right in front of us. We all wandered & shopped until just before noon. They had to return to their truck to feed their dog so we all left at the same time - no line.
We stopped at the casino to take advantage of $10 free play for 55+ players - of course! We all spent our $10 and more. We finished in time to have a late buffet lunch.
Marg & I went for a bike ride and worked on jigsaw puzzles while Terry got propane and diesel. Just as Marg & I were getting back, Charlie & Julie came over for happy hour. Since we had such a late lunch, no dinner was needed.
Jan 21st - Thurs - Yuma
It rained all night. Terry had to wade to get to the truck and back it up to where Marg & I could get in on dry ground. We had very cleverly made plans to go shopping today and since it was Marg’s last day here we carried on.
We dropped Terry off at the Paradise Casino and met Aunt Jessie & Ed at the shopping mall. We were late - I hate being late & it was my fault!! - so when we arrived and Ed knew that Jessie was in good hands he went home. The weather was nasty! I dropped Jessie & Marg off at the front door of stores and then parked the truck which is a chore for me since it is so long & I don’t drive it much. Reversed the process when we were done. What a sweetie!!
We had a late lunch at Olive Garden and went to pick up Terry. The usual road to the casino was closed due to flooding so I had to get back out and take the only other way in that I knew - and Terry was waiting outside. We took Jessie back to her RV park and then stopped at WalMart where Terry finally had something to eat at McDonald’s while Marg & I shopped.
When we got back to our RV park, we drove by Bob & Karen’s to invite them over for drinks. I didn’t want to get my feet wet to knock on their door so Terry drove the truck up beside their window where they were sitting. As we continued through the park, we were laughing and exclaiming over the amount of water everywhere. Our neighbor Rich was getting pulled out of a ditch by the golf course as he couldn’t tell the road from the ditch since it was all under water. When we turned the corner to our street, it was totally covered in water but not very deep. Most streets here are one-way so I called Karen to tell them how to avoid the ditch by the golf course and to drive our street the wrong way and miss most of the flooding.
Karen’s dream has been to live on a golf course so they bought a park model here. Unfortunately, they don’t take possession until Feb 1st when we will be leaving so we probably won’t even get to see it.
Marg didn’t have a cake for her birthday earlier this month and neither did Terry so we had cake with Bob & Karen which was our dinner.
Jan 22nd - Fri - to Palm Springs & back
We left at 7 to take Marg to Palm Springs to catch her flight back to Vancouver. We allowed time again to stop for breakfast at the Red Earth Casino and of course Marg had to get a card and free play - sound like a pattern here? Terry & I lost $10 each but Marg was doing OK so we each took another $10. Terry immediately started building up on a machine while I quickly lost $5. Then I switched to a machine like the one Terry was playing. About the time that Marg was done, both Terry & I started winning. We finally HAD to leave and were $63 ahead.
We made good time to Palm Springs until we got off the freeway and then traffic backed up. Did I mention that I HATE to be late?! We did get Marg there in time even though it took about ½ hour to go just over 3 miles.
We figured that since we did OK at the casino that we might as well try another one on our way home. We each ended up with $20 free play which we spent along with the $20 each that we started with earlier. We grabbed a hamburger at the McDonald’s in the casino and headed out about 4:30. But wait - I still had $10 (that Terry gave me when he won a bit) in my pocket and decided to play another machine. I spent less than $4 when I hit a bonus and won $84 - playing 25 cents! I immediately cashed out $90 to cover our losses for the day and then some!
It started raining shortly after we left but we drove out of it fairly quickly. We thought the rain would end up in Yuma later but it didn’t. The roads in the park were mostly clear of water but there were still extra “water hazards” on the golf course.
We went to the casino for 2-for-1 breakfast this morning. The original plan was for Marg to get her $10 free play for her January birthday, play slots for a while and then go to Algodones. By the time we were done gambling, we decided that we would get to Algodones just in time to line up to get back through customs so we didn’t go.
Marg needed some saw blades so we had to find the Harbor Freight store on the way home - thanks Wanda. Marg & I went for a bike ride before Aunt Jessie & Ed arrived for dinner. It started to pour rain when they were here and they had to tiptoe around puddles when they left.
Jan 20th - Wed - Yuma
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO TERRY!!
We made it to Algodones this morning. We knew that Aunt Jessie & Ed were going there also for a dental appointment but we were very surprised to pull into a parking spot and see them getting out of their truck in a parking spot right in front of us. We all wandered & shopped until just before noon. They had to return to their truck to feed their dog so we all left at the same time - no line.
We stopped at the casino to take advantage of $10 free play for 55+ players - of course! We all spent our $10 and more. We finished in time to have a late buffet lunch.
Marg & I went for a bike ride and worked on jigsaw puzzles while Terry got propane and diesel. Just as Marg & I were getting back, Charlie & Julie came over for happy hour. Since we had such a late lunch, no dinner was needed.
Jan 21st - Thurs - Yuma
It rained all night. Terry had to wade to get to the truck and back it up to where Marg & I could get in on dry ground. We had very cleverly made plans to go shopping today and since it was Marg’s last day here we carried on.
We dropped Terry off at the Paradise Casino and met Aunt Jessie & Ed at the shopping mall. We were late - I hate being late & it was my fault!! - so when we arrived and Ed knew that Jessie was in good hands he went home. The weather was nasty! I dropped Jessie & Marg off at the front door of stores and then parked the truck which is a chore for me since it is so long & I don’t drive it much. Reversed the process when we were done. What a sweetie!!
We had a late lunch at Olive Garden and went to pick up Terry. The usual road to the casino was closed due to flooding so I had to get back out and take the only other way in that I knew - and Terry was waiting outside. We took Jessie back to her RV park and then stopped at WalMart where Terry finally had something to eat at McDonald’s while Marg & I shopped.
When we got back to our RV park, we drove by Bob & Karen’s to invite them over for drinks. I didn’t want to get my feet wet to knock on their door so Terry drove the truck up beside their window where they were sitting. As we continued through the park, we were laughing and exclaiming over the amount of water everywhere. Our neighbor Rich was getting pulled out of a ditch by the golf course as he couldn’t tell the road from the ditch since it was all under water. When we turned the corner to our street, it was totally covered in water but not very deep. Most streets here are one-way so I called Karen to tell them how to avoid the ditch by the golf course and to drive our street the wrong way and miss most of the flooding.
Karen’s dream has been to live on a golf course so they bought a park model here. Unfortunately, they don’t take possession until Feb 1st when we will be leaving so we probably won’t even get to see it.
Marg didn’t have a cake for her birthday earlier this month and neither did Terry so we had cake with Bob & Karen which was our dinner.
Jan 22nd - Fri - to Palm Springs & back
We left at 7 to take Marg to Palm Springs to catch her flight back to Vancouver. We allowed time again to stop for breakfast at the Red Earth Casino and of course Marg had to get a card and free play - sound like a pattern here? Terry & I lost $10 each but Marg was doing OK so we each took another $10. Terry immediately started building up on a machine while I quickly lost $5. Then I switched to a machine like the one Terry was playing. About the time that Marg was done, both Terry & I started winning. We finally HAD to leave and were $63 ahead.
We made good time to Palm Springs until we got off the freeway and then traffic backed up. Did I mention that I HATE to be late?! We did get Marg there in time even though it took about ½ hour to go just over 3 miles.
We figured that since we did OK at the casino that we might as well try another one on our way home. We each ended up with $20 free play which we spent along with the $20 each that we started with earlier. We grabbed a hamburger at the McDonald’s in the casino and headed out about 4:30. But wait - I still had $10 (that Terry gave me when he won a bit) in my pocket and decided to play another machine. I spent less than $4 when I hit a bonus and won $84 - playing 25 cents! I immediately cashed out $90 to cover our losses for the day and then some!
It started raining shortly after we left but we drove out of it fairly quickly. We thought the rain would end up in Yuma later but it didn’t. The roads in the park were mostly clear of water but there were still extra “water hazards” on the golf course.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Jan 16th to 18th - Yuma & Quartzsite
Jan 16th - Sat - to Quartzsite
We left at 8:00 for our trip to the RV show in QZ and immediately parked by the office here at the park so we could take advantage of the Saturday breakfast. We pulled into Clem & Marlene’s yard about 11, got set up and chatted for a while before going “shopping”. We just went to the Main Event area and started with an ice cream cone for lunch. Billy & Lauri were also here for the weekend so we found them out dry camping in the desert and had a drink with them and the group of their friends who had “circled the wagons” for a couple of days.
Back to Clem & Marlene’s where they had a great campfire going. Clem’s brother and his wife Vicki are staying on Clem & Marlene’s lot in their motor home for a couple of months and joined us. When it cooled off it was time for dinner. I had a crock pot full of chili which we turned into Frito Pie for all of us. We were parked right by C&M’s back door so it was easy to take all the dinner ingredients inside and be comfortable at their dining room table.
Marg has not been very comfortable on our hide-a-bed. We bought an air mattress but it turns out that it is too cold at night and Marg has been freezing even with all our spare bedding under & over her. Last night she slept without the air mattress so she was warmer but the mattress is pretty hard. Without knowing all this, Marlene offered Marg the use of their guest room which she gladly accepted.
Jan 17th - Sun - QZ
We got a fairly early start and went to the BIG tent that is a major part of the RV show. The tent covers 2 acres, is carpeted with indoor/outdoor carpet nailed to the ground and filled with all sorts of vendors. We didn’t find anything new & exciting but wandered up & down all the aisles. It got very crowded by the time we finished.
We continued wandering & shopping, got some lunch and then took a drive north to show Marg more of the thousands of dry campers. We went to the Arizona Sun RV park where we stayed 3 years ago and stopped to visit friends Ken & Jo. Jo had to return to Denver to look after her ailing mother but we got to visit for a short while with Ken and their cute little dog Lucy.
I had put a roast in the crockpot before we left this morning and had invited Clem & Marlene and Roger & Vicki to join us for dinner - in Clem & Marlene’s dining room again. We had time to sit on the patio to have a drink and watch birds before Marg & I went to finish making dinner. We also took the opportunity to phone brother Bob.
Good dinner and early to bed.
Jan 18th - Mon - back to Yuma
It rained last night and this morning. Actual rain, not just sprinkles to spot vehicles.
Marlene made a nice breakfast for us and Roger & Vicki. We lingered over coffee and finally hugged our goodbyes about 10:30. The traffic was lined up south on 95 but didn’t take too long to get through. We took the route past the proving grounds and Imperial Dam to show Marg some different sights. Made a stop for a date shake and arrived back around 1.
After we were all set up again, Marg & I took the bikes to run some errands and get some exercise. We worked on a couple of jigsaw puzzles, got a gallon of water and rode past Karen & Bob’s but they weren’t home. Just after we got back, our neighbors Lowell & Frankie asked us to join them for happy hour. Frankie had deep fried some bite sizes pieces of walleye that were delicious. Their “back fence” neighbors Dean & Alice also joined us.
Marg & I ate so much fish & some chips that we didn’t want much dinner. I was able to heat up leftovers from last night for Terry to keep things easy.
I got on the computer to check email & do the blog and found out that we had an annoying virus-type program running called Antivirus Live. It keeps telling you that you have a virus and infected files and prevents most things from running. Then if you say you want to deal with the virus, you are prompted to buy antivirus software - from the company sending the messages!! It took me a couple hours to get some legitimate software to get rid of the mess.
We left at 8:00 for our trip to the RV show in QZ and immediately parked by the office here at the park so we could take advantage of the Saturday breakfast. We pulled into Clem & Marlene’s yard about 11, got set up and chatted for a while before going “shopping”. We just went to the Main Event area and started with an ice cream cone for lunch. Billy & Lauri were also here for the weekend so we found them out dry camping in the desert and had a drink with them and the group of their friends who had “circled the wagons” for a couple of days.
Back to Clem & Marlene’s where they had a great campfire going. Clem’s brother and his wife Vicki are staying on Clem & Marlene’s lot in their motor home for a couple of months and joined us. When it cooled off it was time for dinner. I had a crock pot full of chili which we turned into Frito Pie for all of us. We were parked right by C&M’s back door so it was easy to take all the dinner ingredients inside and be comfortable at their dining room table.
Marg has not been very comfortable on our hide-a-bed. We bought an air mattress but it turns out that it is too cold at night and Marg has been freezing even with all our spare bedding under & over her. Last night she slept without the air mattress so she was warmer but the mattress is pretty hard. Without knowing all this, Marlene offered Marg the use of their guest room which she gladly accepted.
Jan 17th - Sun - QZ
We got a fairly early start and went to the BIG tent that is a major part of the RV show. The tent covers 2 acres, is carpeted with indoor/outdoor carpet nailed to the ground and filled with all sorts of vendors. We didn’t find anything new & exciting but wandered up & down all the aisles. It got very crowded by the time we finished.
We continued wandering & shopping, got some lunch and then took a drive north to show Marg more of the thousands of dry campers. We went to the Arizona Sun RV park where we stayed 3 years ago and stopped to visit friends Ken & Jo. Jo had to return to Denver to look after her ailing mother but we got to visit for a short while with Ken and their cute little dog Lucy.
I had put a roast in the crockpot before we left this morning and had invited Clem & Marlene and Roger & Vicki to join us for dinner - in Clem & Marlene’s dining room again. We had time to sit on the patio to have a drink and watch birds before Marg & I went to finish making dinner. We also took the opportunity to phone brother Bob.
Good dinner and early to bed.
Jan 18th - Mon - back to Yuma
It rained last night and this morning. Actual rain, not just sprinkles to spot vehicles.
Marlene made a nice breakfast for us and Roger & Vicki. We lingered over coffee and finally hugged our goodbyes about 10:30. The traffic was lined up south on 95 but didn’t take too long to get through. We took the route past the proving grounds and Imperial Dam to show Marg some different sights. Made a stop for a date shake and arrived back around 1.
After we were all set up again, Marg & I took the bikes to run some errands and get some exercise. We worked on a couple of jigsaw puzzles, got a gallon of water and rode past Karen & Bob’s but they weren’t home. Just after we got back, our neighbors Lowell & Frankie asked us to join them for happy hour. Frankie had deep fried some bite sizes pieces of walleye that were delicious. Their “back fence” neighbors Dean & Alice also joined us.
Marg & I ate so much fish & some chips that we didn’t want much dinner. I was able to heat up leftovers from last night for Terry to keep things easy.
I got on the computer to check email & do the blog and found out that we had an annoying virus-type program running called Antivirus Live. It keeps telling you that you have a virus and infected files and prevents most things from running. Then if you say you want to deal with the virus, you are prompted to buy antivirus software - from the company sending the messages!! It took me a couple hours to get some legitimate software to get rid of the mess.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Jan 13th to 15th - Yuma
Jan 13th - Wed - Yuma
Terry had to go get a part to fix the holding tank handle so Marg & I went for a bike ride. We stopped for a chat with Karen & Bob and ended up riding 3 miles before getting back at the same time as Terry.
Terry spent a couple of hours under the rig and finally got the handle to work. I was the “gofer” and Marg enjoyed reading her book in the sunshine.
We had a very late lunch and then Marg & I went for a walk to get water and show Marg the park facilities while Terry took a much needed shower. As we got back, Terry was walking across the fairway to have a drink with Mike & Jewel. Charlie & Julie joined Marg & I for HH just before Terry got back. The neighbors next door had some company so Terry & Charlie had to go over and visit for a bit.
Jan 14th - Thurs - Yuma
Breakfast and then off for the day. First a stop to get a haircut for Marg. Then on to the Swap Meet where we only wandered through less than half of it before it was time to go. We stopped for a light lunch and then tried to find a friend of Marg’s. The GPS got us where we needed to be but we could not find the house number that Marg had written down.
This left us some time to kill so we went grocery shopping at WalMart which made us slightly late for a dinner date at Francis & Nichole’s. The wind had been blowing all day so we sat inside to visit and have drinks & a very good dinner.
Jan 15th - Fri - Yuma
Terry packed stuff up outside this morning in preparation for a trip tomorrow to Quartzsite. It was too windy to do much else. I made a batch of seasoned pretzels and then we went to do laundry. Marg & I worked on a jigsaw puzzle while the laundry washed and then Terry returned from a couple of errands & joined Marg at the puzzle while I hung & folded clothes.
We were trying to get together for some shopping with Aunt Jessie & Ed who arrived in Yuma yesterday. We finally decided it was not going to happen when Aunt Jessie realized they had not changed their clocks when they came from CA to AZ and they were short an hour.
So Terry decided we should take Marg to another casino. I sat down at a 2 cent machine playing 48 cents and on the third spin I won $402!!! Finally! I was lucky enough to play the rest of our time there (a couple of hours) and lose only $10. Terry & Marg did not do as well.
We were all starving so we went to Lute’s Casino - a restaurant, not a casino - in old Yuma for an early dinner. Next we stopped to try to find Marg a bathing suit and then got a few groceries.
We were thinking about going to a dance here at the park but were just too lazy so watched a movie and read instead.
Terry had to go get a part to fix the holding tank handle so Marg & I went for a bike ride. We stopped for a chat with Karen & Bob and ended up riding 3 miles before getting back at the same time as Terry.
Terry spent a couple of hours under the rig and finally got the handle to work. I was the “gofer” and Marg enjoyed reading her book in the sunshine.
We had a very late lunch and then Marg & I went for a walk to get water and show Marg the park facilities while Terry took a much needed shower. As we got back, Terry was walking across the fairway to have a drink with Mike & Jewel. Charlie & Julie joined Marg & I for HH just before Terry got back. The neighbors next door had some company so Terry & Charlie had to go over and visit for a bit.
Jan 14th - Thurs - Yuma
Breakfast and then off for the day. First a stop to get a haircut for Marg. Then on to the Swap Meet where we only wandered through less than half of it before it was time to go. We stopped for a light lunch and then tried to find a friend of Marg’s. The GPS got us where we needed to be but we could not find the house number that Marg had written down.
This left us some time to kill so we went grocery shopping at WalMart which made us slightly late for a dinner date at Francis & Nichole’s. The wind had been blowing all day so we sat inside to visit and have drinks & a very good dinner.
Jan 15th - Fri - Yuma
Terry packed stuff up outside this morning in preparation for a trip tomorrow to Quartzsite. It was too windy to do much else. I made a batch of seasoned pretzels and then we went to do laundry. Marg & I worked on a jigsaw puzzle while the laundry washed and then Terry returned from a couple of errands & joined Marg at the puzzle while I hung & folded clothes.
We were trying to get together for some shopping with Aunt Jessie & Ed who arrived in Yuma yesterday. We finally decided it was not going to happen when Aunt Jessie realized they had not changed their clocks when they came from CA to AZ and they were short an hour.
So Terry decided we should take Marg to another casino. I sat down at a 2 cent machine playing 48 cents and on the third spin I won $402!!! Finally! I was lucky enough to play the rest of our time there (a couple of hours) and lose only $10. Terry & Marg did not do as well.
We were all starving so we went to Lute’s Casino - a restaurant, not a casino - in old Yuma for an early dinner. Next we stopped to try to find Marg a bathing suit and then got a few groceries.
We were thinking about going to a dance here at the park but were just too lazy so watched a movie and read instead.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Jan 9th to 12th - Yuma
Jan 9th - Sat - Yuma
Terry didn’t think we did much today - you decide.
I was giving Terry a haircut when a golf ball hit our rig. Terry went out and discovered that the golfer was lucky and hit & shattered a clearance light cover rather than the side of the rig. He was very apologetic and gave Terry money to buy a new cover.
We went for breakfast at the park and threw in a load of laundry while we were eating. We watched shuffleboard and chatted with people while the laundry dried. I vacuumed and did some cleaning before we headed to town for diesel, a haircut for me and groceries.
I sat in the sun and read while Terry washed the truck. Then we had time for a bike ride before an early steak dinner. We stopped to chat with Gale & Jan and their friends came by. Turned out they were the couple (Freeman & Louie) that we sat with at breakfast and they had told Jan about meeting us but they couldn’t remember our names. By what they said, Jan figured it was us - hmmmm! Just as we finished eating, Karen & Bob stopped by for a drink. Their dog is doing OK.
There was a “sock hop” here at the park so off we went. Karen & Bob also showed up and we all sat at a table next to Gale & Jan and friends. The same guy from the last dance (Dervin James) provided the music and he was excellent. We danced nearly every dance so got quite a bit of exercise from 7 to 10.
Jan 10th - Sun - Yuma
Got in a 5 mile bike ride this morning. Tough riding when we turned into the wind.
I filled up the kitchen gray water tank while doing some dinner prep and asked Terry to empty it. Didn’t turn out well as the handle broke off after he pulled it out. Not a simple valve replacement. Our rig has a long cable with the handle visible but the valve is somewhere under the fully covered “under belly”. Terry spent quite a bit of time removing screws to find the valve and only succeeded in cutting his hand & head. We were having dinner with friends so he put it back together until we get back from Palm Springs.
Charlie & Julie and Mike & Jewel came over with and for dinner. Charlie & I boiled baby back ribs, Julie made a salad, I made appies & garlic bread and Jewel brought twice baked potatoes for a great dinner.
We ate dinner outside and then sat around the buddy burner and had dessert. Wonderful friends and wonderful food.
Jan 11th - Mon - Palm Springs
We left at 7 this morning to drive to Palm Springs and pick up my sister Marg who is flying in from Canada. We allowed enough time to stop for breakfast and did so at a small, truck-stop casino. We played slots for a bit and Terry won enough for us to break even.
After we picked Marg up, we went to Terry’s brother’s (Skip & Kathy) place in Rancho Mirage. They invited us to spend the afternoon & night with them. After Kathy made us lunch, the women enjoyed the pool while the guys went to a casino. We were going to join them later but we were having too much fun gabbing & having a drink so just stayed home and watched Kathy make dinner.
After dinner, the women again headed for the water but this time the spa. The pool was really warm so we moved back & forth from the spa to the pool while the guys watched a movie.
Jan 12th - Tues - back to Yuma
We had a nice breakfast and left Skip & Kathy’s about 9:30. We found it necessary to stop at the Fantasy Springs Casino to take advantage of a “play $20 and get $50 slot credit” offer. Marg came out money ahead and I broke even. We had an uneventful trip back and then stopped at the local “Q” casino to have dinner so I didn’t have to cook. The dinner buffet did not start until 4:00 so we got a card & $10 free play for Marg and $10 play for Terry for his January birthday. We played before and a bit after dinner and headed home.
When Terry was playing a machine, a guy beside him asked if he was Terry and if I was Glenda. It was Rob who we met in Calgary in July 2008. We have not seen him & his wife Sue since but have emailed once in a while. We knew they were in Yuma and didn’t think we would get a chance to see them until after Marg leaves.
Terry didn’t think we did much today - you decide.
I was giving Terry a haircut when a golf ball hit our rig. Terry went out and discovered that the golfer was lucky and hit & shattered a clearance light cover rather than the side of the rig. He was very apologetic and gave Terry money to buy a new cover.
We went for breakfast at the park and threw in a load of laundry while we were eating. We watched shuffleboard and chatted with people while the laundry dried. I vacuumed and did some cleaning before we headed to town for diesel, a haircut for me and groceries.
I sat in the sun and read while Terry washed the truck. Then we had time for a bike ride before an early steak dinner. We stopped to chat with Gale & Jan and their friends came by. Turned out they were the couple (Freeman & Louie) that we sat with at breakfast and they had told Jan about meeting us but they couldn’t remember our names. By what they said, Jan figured it was us - hmmmm! Just as we finished eating, Karen & Bob stopped by for a drink. Their dog is doing OK.
There was a “sock hop” here at the park so off we went. Karen & Bob also showed up and we all sat at a table next to Gale & Jan and friends. The same guy from the last dance (Dervin James) provided the music and he was excellent. We danced nearly every dance so got quite a bit of exercise from 7 to 10.
Jan 10th - Sun - Yuma
Got in a 5 mile bike ride this morning. Tough riding when we turned into the wind.
I filled up the kitchen gray water tank while doing some dinner prep and asked Terry to empty it. Didn’t turn out well as the handle broke off after he pulled it out. Not a simple valve replacement. Our rig has a long cable with the handle visible but the valve is somewhere under the fully covered “under belly”. Terry spent quite a bit of time removing screws to find the valve and only succeeded in cutting his hand & head. We were having dinner with friends so he put it back together until we get back from Palm Springs.
Charlie & Julie and Mike & Jewel came over with and for dinner. Charlie & I boiled baby back ribs, Julie made a salad, I made appies & garlic bread and Jewel brought twice baked potatoes for a great dinner.
We ate dinner outside and then sat around the buddy burner and had dessert. Wonderful friends and wonderful food.
Jan 11th - Mon - Palm Springs
We left at 7 this morning to drive to Palm Springs and pick up my sister Marg who is flying in from Canada. We allowed enough time to stop for breakfast and did so at a small, truck-stop casino. We played slots for a bit and Terry won enough for us to break even.
After we picked Marg up, we went to Terry’s brother’s (Skip & Kathy) place in Rancho Mirage. They invited us to spend the afternoon & night with them. After Kathy made us lunch, the women enjoyed the pool while the guys went to a casino. We were going to join them later but we were having too much fun gabbing & having a drink so just stayed home and watched Kathy make dinner.
After dinner, the women again headed for the water but this time the spa. The pool was really warm so we moved back & forth from the spa to the pool while the guys watched a movie.
Jan 12th - Tues - back to Yuma
We had a nice breakfast and left Skip & Kathy’s about 9:30. We found it necessary to stop at the Fantasy Springs Casino to take advantage of a “play $20 and get $50 slot credit” offer. Marg came out money ahead and I broke even. We had an uneventful trip back and then stopped at the local “Q” casino to have dinner so I didn’t have to cook. The dinner buffet did not start until 4:00 so we got a card & $10 free play for Marg and $10 play for Terry for his January birthday. We played before and a bit after dinner and headed home.
When Terry was playing a machine, a guy beside him asked if he was Terry and if I was Glenda. It was Rob who we met in Calgary in July 2008. We have not seen him & his wife Sue since but have emailed once in a while. We knew they were in Yuma and didn’t think we would get a chance to see them until after Marg leaves.
Friday, January 08, 2010
Jan 6th to 8th - Yuma
Jan 6th - Wed - Yuma
Caught up the blog and email this morning before going to get propane and groceries. We returned and put away the groceries and then headed back out to the casino. They started a new program where 55+ card holders get $10 free play each Wednesday. We couldn’t miss out on that!! We added just a little money and played for a long time before admitting defeat again.
Bob & Karen’s dog Zoe had been sick so we stopped by to check on her on our way back. Their vet in WA said to give her Immodium so hope that helps.
Charlie & Julie came over for HH.
Jan 7th - Thurs - Yuma
Only rode our bikes only 3 miles this morning as we stopped & chatted with Gayle & Jan who were out on a walk. Then we had to get back to have breakfast and get a roast in the crock pot before golf.
It was a gorgeous day for golf with Charlie & Julie. Unfortunately, our golf games were not as wonderful but we had a good time.
C&J came over for happy hour and dinner. We were joined for a short time by our neighbors Lowell & Frankie and our “across the fairway” neighbor Dick also stopped by.
During & after dinner we watched a college football game that C&J didn’t want to miss.
Jan 8th - Fri - Yuma
Lovely weather for a bike ride this morning even though the wind did pick up before we finished the 5 miles. Charlie & Julie picked us up at 10:30 for a trip to Sam’s Club where they needed some items and we could use their membership to stock up on inexpensive liquor. We stopped for a hamburger and then we introduced them to BigLots!
Did laundry in the afternoon, relaxed for just a bit and then headed out for another bike ride. I made a statement at the beginning of the month that I want to ride 100 miles on my bike this month and we haven’t made a very good start so need to catch up. We added another couple of miles to today’s tally. It was pretty windy again so headed back after the first road that was straight into the wind!
Caught up the blog and email this morning before going to get propane and groceries. We returned and put away the groceries and then headed back out to the casino. They started a new program where 55+ card holders get $10 free play each Wednesday. We couldn’t miss out on that!! We added just a little money and played for a long time before admitting defeat again.
Bob & Karen’s dog Zoe had been sick so we stopped by to check on her on our way back. Their vet in WA said to give her Immodium so hope that helps.
Charlie & Julie came over for HH.
Jan 7th - Thurs - Yuma
Only rode our bikes only 3 miles this morning as we stopped & chatted with Gayle & Jan who were out on a walk. Then we had to get back to have breakfast and get a roast in the crock pot before golf.
It was a gorgeous day for golf with Charlie & Julie. Unfortunately, our golf games were not as wonderful but we had a good time.
C&J came over for happy hour and dinner. We were joined for a short time by our neighbors Lowell & Frankie and our “across the fairway” neighbor Dick also stopped by.
During & after dinner we watched a college football game that C&J didn’t want to miss.
Jan 8th - Fri - Yuma
Lovely weather for a bike ride this morning even though the wind did pick up before we finished the 5 miles. Charlie & Julie picked us up at 10:30 for a trip to Sam’s Club where they needed some items and we could use their membership to stock up on inexpensive liquor. We stopped for a hamburger and then we introduced them to BigLots!
Did laundry in the afternoon, relaxed for just a bit and then headed out for another bike ride. I made a statement at the beginning of the month that I want to ride 100 miles on my bike this month and we haven’t made a very good start so need to catch up. We added another couple of miles to today’s tally. It was pretty windy again so headed back after the first road that was straight into the wind!
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Jan 2nd to 5th - Yuma
Jan 2nd - Sat - Yuma
P&R joined us for breakfast (pancakes, sausage, eggs, biscuits & gravy, juice & coffee) here at the park this morning before they left for Wellton. They will be moving around southern Arizona before going to Mexico for 2 months. Bob & Karen from Chewelah (we met them in Alabama last spring) arrived yesterday. Karen stopped to see if she could borrow a laundry card and a bit later Bob stopped as he was passing by on a walk.
We decided to make a wind screen so we can sit outside more often. We picked up Karen & Bob and went to the Swap Meet for supplies and a quick lunch.
The wind screen is constructed of metal poles and screw-on fittings so it is portable. We could not buy the right size of sun shade material for the screen so we have to cut the fabric and put in grommets. Hope the neighbors are tolerant of the hammering.
Bob & Karen came over for happy hour. The cool wind caused us to move inside very quickly. Charlie & Julie hammered on the door and joined us later so dinner was quite late.
Jan 3rd - Sun - Yuma
We made a trip to the Swap Meet to get some more pieces for the wind screen and got one panel laced to the frame. It looks like the grommets are not going to hold so I will sew tabs on the second panel - another day! It was after 1:00 by the time we finished and we hadn’t eaten yet so I was too cranky to get the sewing machine out.
We started on a bike ride and realized there was live music at the cantina. So we continued on the Bob & Karen’s spot to see if they wanted to go. They had just returned from the dog park, had been told about the music and were planning to go. We spent a relaxing couple of hours listening to old time music and drinking “$5 a pitcher” beer.
We rode a couple more miles, stopped at Charlie & Julie’s and they invited us to share a big pot of soup for dinner. We finished just in time for us to drop off our bikes and get the truck to pick up Charlie & Julie to go to Card Bingo here at the park. Bob & Karen were saving seats for us and C&J were able to complete another table.
Charlie, Terry & I each won a game and Bob won 2 games. There were 48 players so our group did pretty good.
I finished up the day with a nice long phone call with sister Marg.
Jan 4th - Mon - Yuma
We got out the sewing machine and spent most of the day sewing another wind screen panel. This time I sewed pockets to slide the poles through. This was a fairly tricky job considering that we have to be able to insert poles & connections from both directions. One end had to have tabs for lacing since it uses the corner pole with the other screen. Then my sewing machine kept snarling the thread so I was very happy when we were done. And it looks great. Even with just one screen our chairs do not blow over.
We grabbed our cooler and headed to Charlie & Julie’s for happy hour which by now we really needed. Home for a late dinner.
Jan 5th - Tues - Yuma
We took a short (3 mile) bike ride before picking up Bob & Karen for a trip to Algodones. Charlie & Julie and Mike & Jewel were also going so we all stopped first at the casino for 2-for-1 breakfast buffet. Beautiful, short sleeve weather. It was a challenge keeping the group together but fun watching each other negotiate prices. We stopped for a large margarita before stopping at the liquor store and lining up to get through customs. It took us about 45 minutes to get through.
Our group stopped at the casino on the way back. We were there for about 1 ½ hours. Terry broke even, I lost my money, Karen got a run of good luck at the end to recoup her losses and Bob lost some. Terry probably broke even only because that’s where he was when we had to leave so B&K could rescue their dog from the motor home.
Speaking of rescue, our golfer that flies on our flagpole was gone this morning. Terry peeked over the fence behind us and could not see it. When we went to pick up K&B, we drove past the park models behind us and I spotted the golfer on the edge of a garage roof. Terry was able to snag it with an extendable squeegee.
P&R joined us for breakfast (pancakes, sausage, eggs, biscuits & gravy, juice & coffee) here at the park this morning before they left for Wellton. They will be moving around southern Arizona before going to Mexico for 2 months. Bob & Karen from Chewelah (we met them in Alabama last spring) arrived yesterday. Karen stopped to see if she could borrow a laundry card and a bit later Bob stopped as he was passing by on a walk.
We decided to make a wind screen so we can sit outside more often. We picked up Karen & Bob and went to the Swap Meet for supplies and a quick lunch.
The wind screen is constructed of metal poles and screw-on fittings so it is portable. We could not buy the right size of sun shade material for the screen so we have to cut the fabric and put in grommets. Hope the neighbors are tolerant of the hammering.
Bob & Karen came over for happy hour. The cool wind caused us to move inside very quickly. Charlie & Julie hammered on the door and joined us later so dinner was quite late.
Jan 3rd - Sun - Yuma
We made a trip to the Swap Meet to get some more pieces for the wind screen and got one panel laced to the frame. It looks like the grommets are not going to hold so I will sew tabs on the second panel - another day! It was after 1:00 by the time we finished and we hadn’t eaten yet so I was too cranky to get the sewing machine out.
We started on a bike ride and realized there was live music at the cantina. So we continued on the Bob & Karen’s spot to see if they wanted to go. They had just returned from the dog park, had been told about the music and were planning to go. We spent a relaxing couple of hours listening to old time music and drinking “$5 a pitcher” beer.
We rode a couple more miles, stopped at Charlie & Julie’s and they invited us to share a big pot of soup for dinner. We finished just in time for us to drop off our bikes and get the truck to pick up Charlie & Julie to go to Card Bingo here at the park. Bob & Karen were saving seats for us and C&J were able to complete another table.
Charlie, Terry & I each won a game and Bob won 2 games. There were 48 players so our group did pretty good.
I finished up the day with a nice long phone call with sister Marg.
Jan 4th - Mon - Yuma
We got out the sewing machine and spent most of the day sewing another wind screen panel. This time I sewed pockets to slide the poles through. This was a fairly tricky job considering that we have to be able to insert poles & connections from both directions. One end had to have tabs for lacing since it uses the corner pole with the other screen. Then my sewing machine kept snarling the thread so I was very happy when we were done. And it looks great. Even with just one screen our chairs do not blow over.
We grabbed our cooler and headed to Charlie & Julie’s for happy hour which by now we really needed. Home for a late dinner.
Jan 5th - Tues - Yuma
We took a short (3 mile) bike ride before picking up Bob & Karen for a trip to Algodones. Charlie & Julie and Mike & Jewel were also going so we all stopped first at the casino for 2-for-1 breakfast buffet. Beautiful, short sleeve weather. It was a challenge keeping the group together but fun watching each other negotiate prices. We stopped for a large margarita before stopping at the liquor store and lining up to get through customs. It took us about 45 minutes to get through.
Our group stopped at the casino on the way back. We were there for about 1 ½ hours. Terry broke even, I lost my money, Karen got a run of good luck at the end to recoup her losses and Bob lost some. Terry probably broke even only because that’s where he was when we had to leave so B&K could rescue their dog from the motor home.
Speaking of rescue, our golfer that flies on our flagpole was gone this morning. Terry peeked over the fence behind us and could not see it. When we went to pick up K&B, we drove past the park models behind us and I spotted the golfer on the edge of a garage roof. Terry was able to snag it with an extendable squeegee.
Saturday, January 02, 2010
Dec 30th to Jan 1st - Yuma
Dec 30th - Wed - Yuma
We had a little surprise late this morning - an earthquake. I was inside and heard a rumble before the rig started moving. Terry was outside, saw the rig shaking and wondered what the heck I was doing in there! We were both outside and did not feel a smaller quake shortly after. It was centered southwest of us in Mexico so there was no or very little damage in this area.
A nice day for golf with P&R. Claude & Val joined us outside for happy hour at P&R’s so this time we got to use their buddy burner. Their tin is quite large and the slight breeze was making a great swirling design with the flame. Home for dinner.
Dec 31st - Thurs - Yuma
We and P&R went out for breakfast this morning and then went shopping. Pat really wanted to kayak down the river but it was too windy.
We purchased the last of the crab at Albertson’s and got together for New Year’s Eve dinner. The park had a dinner/dance but we decided to do our own thing. After dinner, we set up the card table and played Hand & Foot Canasta. The guys won the first 3 hands but Pat & I had a good 4th hand and ended up winning by 200 points.
We glimpsed some fireworks at 10 (the older folks at the dance celebrated New Year’s at Eastern time), another batch at 11 and I listened, from bed, to a longer batch at midnight - maybe from the casino.
Jan 1st - Fri - HAPPY NEW YEAR!
We rode our bikes to pick up our mail and stopped to see Charlie & Julie on the way back. Back to the rig for a late breakfast before a 12:23 tee time with P&R.
There were 3 groups of not very good players ahead of us so it was slow going. Sunny with a breeze increasing to wind sometimes. We finally got frustrated (slow play) and cold enough to quit in the middle of the 18th hole after 4 ½ hours.
Our place for happy hour and then P&R’s for dinner and cards. In the interest of fair reporting, I must say that the women beat the men again in another close game.
We had a little surprise late this morning - an earthquake. I was inside and heard a rumble before the rig started moving. Terry was outside, saw the rig shaking and wondered what the heck I was doing in there! We were both outside and did not feel a smaller quake shortly after. It was centered southwest of us in Mexico so there was no or very little damage in this area.
A nice day for golf with P&R. Claude & Val joined us outside for happy hour at P&R’s so this time we got to use their buddy burner. Their tin is quite large and the slight breeze was making a great swirling design with the flame. Home for dinner.
Dec 31st - Thurs - Yuma
We and P&R went out for breakfast this morning and then went shopping. Pat really wanted to kayak down the river but it was too windy.
We purchased the last of the crab at Albertson’s and got together for New Year’s Eve dinner. The park had a dinner/dance but we decided to do our own thing. After dinner, we set up the card table and played Hand & Foot Canasta. The guys won the first 3 hands but Pat & I had a good 4th hand and ended up winning by 200 points.
We glimpsed some fireworks at 10 (the older folks at the dance celebrated New Year’s at Eastern time), another batch at 11 and I listened, from bed, to a longer batch at midnight - maybe from the casino.
Jan 1st - Fri - HAPPY NEW YEAR!
We rode our bikes to pick up our mail and stopped to see Charlie & Julie on the way back. Back to the rig for a late breakfast before a 12:23 tee time with P&R.
There were 3 groups of not very good players ahead of us so it was slow going. Sunny with a breeze increasing to wind sometimes. We finally got frustrated (slow play) and cold enough to quit in the middle of the 18th hole after 4 ½ hours.
Our place for happy hour and then P&R’s for dinner and cards. In the interest of fair reporting, I must say that the women beat the men again in another close game.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Dec 26th to 29th - Yuma
Dec 26th - Sat - Yuma
(Boxing Day for all our Canadian friends)
We packed a lunch and went exploring with P&R. We went to the Castle Dome Museum & Ghost Town which is north of here off Hwy 95. You exit at milepost 55 and head east for 10 miles, 7 of which are wash-boardy gravel. We got a late start and made one quick stop before heading out so we ended up eating our lunch as we were driving the last few miles.
Castle Dome ghost town was really interesting. It is a collection of restored & rebuilt buildings with lots of history to read and lots of old “stuff”. What makes it really fun is that you can wander into all the buildings and closely examine whatever is there rather than having doorways blocked off and stuff behind glass.
We had a grocery ad for Albertson’s so we had to stop for a few items including a “buy 1 get 2 free” pork loin special. They were nearly 5 lbs. each so Pat & I split the 3 pieces of pork. Then we cut them up into chops & roasts.
P&R and we went to a dance here at the park at 7. The music was supplied by one very good singer backed up by electronic equipment and his guitar. It was very nice and we danced almost every dance.
Dec 27th - Sun - Yuma
We went geo-caching with Claude & Val and P&R today. For anyone who does not know what geo-caching is, check out geocache.com. We found 3 caches, wandered around in the desert based on what might have been incorrect coordinates in the GPS and then were unable to find a 4th cache. We had packed lunches and had a tailgate party. All of this was in the Pilot Knob area near Winterhaven CA - just a short way from here. The wind had died down and it was very pleasant to wander around without jackets.
Just to be a brat, I have to include the information that Claude got stuck in the sand on what looked like a little used “road”. 4 wheel drive did not help. We dug out sand (with a board, no shovel available!), put boards under the front wheels and rocks behind the back wheels. But I am sure it was the 3 women pushing that enabled him to get out. We had tied a rope to Rick’s truck but he barely had time to pull it tight before Claude was out.
I filled the crock pot with chili before we headed out so we had C&V and P&R over for happy hour and Frito Pie for dinner.
Dec 28th - Mon - Yuma
We had a tee time today for our group of 8 but the wind did not cooperate. It woke me about 2 and continued all day.
After a late breakfast, we went to Charlie & Julie’s where I helped Julie load Picasa on her computer. We downloaded the pictures from her camera so I could give her a usage lesson. I accidentally brought up a feature that I have not used but is really fun - face recognition. Picasa finds & displays faces from all your photos and allows you to identify them. Then when you do a name search it will bring up all pictures that include that person.
We continued on to do a bit of grocery shopping and then went to the casino for a 2 for 1 buffet dinner with P&R and Charlie & Julie. Terry, Lucky Pat & I stayed to play slots for a while.
Dec 29th - Tues - Yuma
Rick had a dentist appointment in Algodones early this morning and they took Charlie & Julie with them. About 9 we picked up C&V and stopped for 2 for 1 breakfast buffet at the casino before going to Algodones to find a geo-cache. We found it right away and then shopped. When we were in the liquor store just before leaving, we ran into P&R and C&J.
Yesterday, C&V returned to the geo-cache where we could not find the cache and found it in a few minutes. We had looked up just what was hidden so they had a better idea of the size and Val was focused!
We worked on jigsaw puzzles again while we did laundry. When we were putting clothes away, I realized that we were missing a sock so we hopped on the bikes to look for it (found it) and then continued for a ride around the park. Didn't ride too far when we stopped for a beer with Gayle & Jan who we chatted with at the dance. It was 4:30 when Terry checked the time and we had to ride like mad to get back just as our happy hour guests were arriving.
Charlie & Julie brought friends Mike & Jewel (just arrived in the park) to join us and P&R at happy hour. A neighbor across the fairway (Dick) stopped by in his golf cart and said we were just having too much fun so we invited him & his wife (Bea) to join us which they did a bit later. Then our neighbors Rick & Sue, who have been away since we got here, arrived home and joined the group. Obviously it was finally nice enough to sit outside and amaze more people with our buddy burner.
Terry had to BBQ steaks in the dark but they were great.
(Boxing Day for all our Canadian friends)
We packed a lunch and went exploring with P&R. We went to the Castle Dome Museum & Ghost Town which is north of here off Hwy 95. You exit at milepost 55 and head east for 10 miles, 7 of which are wash-boardy gravel. We got a late start and made one quick stop before heading out so we ended up eating our lunch as we were driving the last few miles.
Castle Dome ghost town was really interesting. It is a collection of restored & rebuilt buildings with lots of history to read and lots of old “stuff”. What makes it really fun is that you can wander into all the buildings and closely examine whatever is there rather than having doorways blocked off and stuff behind glass.
We had a grocery ad for Albertson’s so we had to stop for a few items including a “buy 1 get 2 free” pork loin special. They were nearly 5 lbs. each so Pat & I split the 3 pieces of pork. Then we cut them up into chops & roasts.
P&R and we went to a dance here at the park at 7. The music was supplied by one very good singer backed up by electronic equipment and his guitar. It was very nice and we danced almost every dance.
Dec 27th - Sun - Yuma
We went geo-caching with Claude & Val and P&R today. For anyone who does not know what geo-caching is, check out geocache.com. We found 3 caches, wandered around in the desert based on what might have been incorrect coordinates in the GPS and then were unable to find a 4th cache. We had packed lunches and had a tailgate party. All of this was in the Pilot Knob area near Winterhaven CA - just a short way from here. The wind had died down and it was very pleasant to wander around without jackets.
Just to be a brat, I have to include the information that Claude got stuck in the sand on what looked like a little used “road”. 4 wheel drive did not help. We dug out sand (with a board, no shovel available!), put boards under the front wheels and rocks behind the back wheels. But I am sure it was the 3 women pushing that enabled him to get out. We had tied a rope to Rick’s truck but he barely had time to pull it tight before Claude was out.
I filled the crock pot with chili before we headed out so we had C&V and P&R over for happy hour and Frito Pie for dinner.
Dec 28th - Mon - Yuma
We had a tee time today for our group of 8 but the wind did not cooperate. It woke me about 2 and continued all day.
After a late breakfast, we went to Charlie & Julie’s where I helped Julie load Picasa on her computer. We downloaded the pictures from her camera so I could give her a usage lesson. I accidentally brought up a feature that I have not used but is really fun - face recognition. Picasa finds & displays faces from all your photos and allows you to identify them. Then when you do a name search it will bring up all pictures that include that person.
We continued on to do a bit of grocery shopping and then went to the casino for a 2 for 1 buffet dinner with P&R and Charlie & Julie. Terry, Lucky Pat & I stayed to play slots for a while.
Dec 29th - Tues - Yuma
Rick had a dentist appointment in Algodones early this morning and they took Charlie & Julie with them. About 9 we picked up C&V and stopped for 2 for 1 breakfast buffet at the casino before going to Algodones to find a geo-cache. We found it right away and then shopped. When we were in the liquor store just before leaving, we ran into P&R and C&J.
Yesterday, C&V returned to the geo-cache where we could not find the cache and found it in a few minutes. We had looked up just what was hidden so they had a better idea of the size and Val was focused!
We worked on jigsaw puzzles again while we did laundry. When we were putting clothes away, I realized that we were missing a sock so we hopped on the bikes to look for it (found it) and then continued for a ride around the park. Didn't ride too far when we stopped for a beer with Gayle & Jan who we chatted with at the dance. It was 4:30 when Terry checked the time and we had to ride like mad to get back just as our happy hour guests were arriving.
Charlie & Julie brought friends Mike & Jewel (just arrived in the park) to join us and P&R at happy hour. A neighbor across the fairway (Dick) stopped by in his golf cart and said we were just having too much fun so we invited him & his wife (Bea) to join us which they did a bit later. Then our neighbors Rick & Sue, who have been away since we got here, arrived home and joined the group. Obviously it was finally nice enough to sit outside and amaze more people with our buddy burner.
Terry had to BBQ steaks in the dark but they were great.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Dec 23rd to 25th - Yuma
Dec 23rd - Wed - Yuma
Had a late breakfast to give us energy for a golf game today with Charlie & Julie. 18 holes is a long game when you walk the course. C&J have not played for months and don’t usually walk so we were all dragging by the time we finished.
Just enough time to rest for a bit and then join Claude & Val and Charlie & Julie at P&R’s for our daily happy hour. We are all among the younger residents of this 55+ RV park and have a great time together.
Dec 24th - Thurs - Yuma
Terry had an urge for cinnamon rolls this morning so we went shopping. We ended up at 3 grocery stores on the hunt for pickled asparagus.
After pigging out on cinnamon rolls, I started work on some appetizers for this evening. P&R and we went to Charlie & Julie’s for “appy” dinner. Ate, drank and had a good time.
Dec 25th - Fri - MERRY CHRISTMAS
Christmas dinner at our place today so, after a breakfast of jelly biscuits, I moved into cleaning mode. Nothing like company to push me to clean! I found out how lazy I have been!
Not too much cooking to do. Pat cooked a turkey, stuffing, gravy & brussel sprouts. Julie made 2 great pies and Val contributed rolls & green bean casserole. That left potatoes, carrots and a veggie plate for me.
Everyone was here shortly after 3 for drinks & conversation - generally several conversations at once. We set up a second table in the “living room” so we could all be seated for dinner at 6. Then we played a couple of games - LCR & “Golf” race (Horse race but with a golf theme). Coffee & dessert before everyone left about 9. Great day with super friends.
Nice sunny day but with the usual wind to keep it cool outside.
Had a late breakfast to give us energy for a golf game today with Charlie & Julie. 18 holes is a long game when you walk the course. C&J have not played for months and don’t usually walk so we were all dragging by the time we finished.
Just enough time to rest for a bit and then join Claude & Val and Charlie & Julie at P&R’s for our daily happy hour. We are all among the younger residents of this 55+ RV park and have a great time together.
Dec 24th - Thurs - Yuma
Terry had an urge for cinnamon rolls this morning so we went shopping. We ended up at 3 grocery stores on the hunt for pickled asparagus.
After pigging out on cinnamon rolls, I started work on some appetizers for this evening. P&R and we went to Charlie & Julie’s for “appy” dinner. Ate, drank and had a good time.
Dec 25th - Fri - MERRY CHRISTMAS
Christmas dinner at our place today so, after a breakfast of jelly biscuits, I moved into cleaning mode. Nothing like company to push me to clean! I found out how lazy I have been!
Not too much cooking to do. Pat cooked a turkey, stuffing, gravy & brussel sprouts. Julie made 2 great pies and Val contributed rolls & green bean casserole. That left potatoes, carrots and a veggie plate for me.
Everyone was here shortly after 3 for drinks & conversation - generally several conversations at once. We set up a second table in the “living room” so we could all be seated for dinner at 6. Then we played a couple of games - LCR & “Golf” race (Horse race but with a golf theme). Coffee & dessert before everyone left about 9. Great day with super friends.
Nice sunny day but with the usual wind to keep it cool outside.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Dec 20th to 22nd - Yuma
Dec 20th - Sun - Yuma
Friends Francis & Nichole (from 100 Mile House, B.C.) came for dinner today so I spent the morning doing dinner prep and computer work. Terry washed the 5th wheel and I helped dry it with a squeegee.
When Francis & Nichole (and P&R of course) arrived about 2 it was just warm enough to sit & visit outside and to eat outside about 4. Then we moved inside for dessert.
P&R headed home in time for the season finale of Survivor which we also watched.
Dec 21st - Mon - Yuma
Laundry day for me & Pat which also included jigsaw puzzle making for Terry & me. In the afternoon, our friend Claude phoned. They were near our campground on Hwy 8 and heading for Pilot Knob RV in Winterhaven. In a few minutes Terry saw them on the highway so we called back and asked if they saw us waving! We told them we were heading for the buffet at the casino for dinner and they were happy to join us.
Part of the reason for dinner at the casino was wet carpets for us and P&R. We both got our carpets cleaned late in the afternoon and didn’t want to walk on them a lot. We were very pleased with the cleaning job for $35.
Charlie & Julie also joined us for dinner and for a little gambling after. We had to take 2 trucks so Rick was able to come back after dinner (he does not like to gamble in smoky casinos) and Lucky Pat came back with us. Yes, she did it again!
We had left the furnace on to dry the carpet but we ran out of propane so it was still very wet. We had all moveable items stacked on the kitchen linoleum so just cleared off the bed and went to bed to watch TV.
Dec 22nd - Tues - Yuma
P&R had their ripped awning replaced this morning and then joined us for a trip to visit Claude & Val. There was no wind this morning but by the time we filled propane tanks, drove the loop through Yuma and were across from our RV park on Hwy 8, the wind suddenly came up and we could see a dust cloud moving towards the park.
We drove the wrong way when we exited the highway and got sandblasted before we turned around. We found Claude & Val’s rig in their RV park and debated whether we wanted to brave the wind to go in! Their new 5th wheel is very nice. The wind gave it a workout by actually moving the top of a slide a couple of inches with each big gust.
We visited until our stomachs told us to leave and get some lunch. We calmed the growlies at Arby’s and then went to Fry’s for groceries. Unbelievably, they had almost no turkeys so we had to stop at WalMart to get one for Pat to cook for Christmas.
On our way out this morning, we talked to Charlie and he invited us over for happy hour. We rode our bikes to their place and they weren’t home! So we came back to our rig and started without them. They had to go pick up a new hot water tank in Wellton and joined us when they returned.
P&R left for dinner and so Pat could play bridge. We ended up showing some pictures to Charlie & Julie and had a late dinner after they left.
Friends Francis & Nichole (from 100 Mile House, B.C.) came for dinner today so I spent the morning doing dinner prep and computer work. Terry washed the 5th wheel and I helped dry it with a squeegee.
When Francis & Nichole (and P&R of course) arrived about 2 it was just warm enough to sit & visit outside and to eat outside about 4. Then we moved inside for dessert.
P&R headed home in time for the season finale of Survivor which we also watched.
Dec 21st - Mon - Yuma
Laundry day for me & Pat which also included jigsaw puzzle making for Terry & me. In the afternoon, our friend Claude phoned. They were near our campground on Hwy 8 and heading for Pilot Knob RV in Winterhaven. In a few minutes Terry saw them on the highway so we called back and asked if they saw us waving! We told them we were heading for the buffet at the casino for dinner and they were happy to join us.
Part of the reason for dinner at the casino was wet carpets for us and P&R. We both got our carpets cleaned late in the afternoon and didn’t want to walk on them a lot. We were very pleased with the cleaning job for $35.
Charlie & Julie also joined us for dinner and for a little gambling after. We had to take 2 trucks so Rick was able to come back after dinner (he does not like to gamble in smoky casinos) and Lucky Pat came back with us. Yes, she did it again!
We had left the furnace on to dry the carpet but we ran out of propane so it was still very wet. We had all moveable items stacked on the kitchen linoleum so just cleared off the bed and went to bed to watch TV.
Dec 22nd - Tues - Yuma
P&R had their ripped awning replaced this morning and then joined us for a trip to visit Claude & Val. There was no wind this morning but by the time we filled propane tanks, drove the loop through Yuma and were across from our RV park on Hwy 8, the wind suddenly came up and we could see a dust cloud moving towards the park.
We drove the wrong way when we exited the highway and got sandblasted before we turned around. We found Claude & Val’s rig in their RV park and debated whether we wanted to brave the wind to go in! Their new 5th wheel is very nice. The wind gave it a workout by actually moving the top of a slide a couple of inches with each big gust.
We visited until our stomachs told us to leave and get some lunch. We calmed the growlies at Arby’s and then went to Fry’s for groceries. Unbelievably, they had almost no turkeys so we had to stop at WalMart to get one for Pat to cook for Christmas.
On our way out this morning, we talked to Charlie and he invited us over for happy hour. We rode our bikes to their place and they weren’t home! So we came back to our rig and started without them. They had to go pick up a new hot water tank in Wellton and joined us when they returned.
P&R left for dinner and so Pat could play bridge. We ended up showing some pictures to Charlie & Julie and had a late dinner after they left.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Dec 16th to 19th - Yuma
Dec 16th - Wed - Yuma
Terry is taking some antibiotics to clear up a tooth infection before his dental work so I have to make a reasonably early breakfast so he can take his pill with food. Pat came by as we were finishing and suggested a drive today instead of the bike ride that we discussed. We are all nursing sore feet & joints from our golf game. Need to do more walking to get in shape!!
We first stopped so I could get a haircut and visit an ATM. Then on through construction traffic to Olive Garden for lunch. Pat wanted to try the “all-you-can-eat soup, salad & breadstick” lunch which she has seen in ads so we all ordered it. Very good.
Next we got in a little walking and stair climbing by checking out RVs for sale at a shopping mall. Nothing any of us could not resist. By now it was time to stop for some groceries for Pat. Unfortunately we picked WalMart and Terry finally found the TV that he wanted in stock. He did not get the rain check price (we thought we probably wouldn’t) but it was still a good price. So now he has a larger (26”) TV in the outside compartment and I can continue to use the smaller one as a screen until we get a new computer.
Over to P&R’S again for happy hour & dinner.
Dec 17th - Thurs - Yuma
I mentioned the circular route that we have to take to get to Hwy 8 and then west to Algodones. Well, now 1st Street that parallels Hwy 8 is closed until Jan 18th so we have to go further south to 8th Street before heading east & then north. Good thing we are retired and have lots of time to get somewhere!
Finally got some catching up done on the computer and did some cleaning. Rick was supposed to get his awning replaced today but it was too windy. They had to hang around in case the wind let up in the afternoon so Terry & I ran some errands.
Dec 18th - Fri - Yuma
Up early this morning for an 8 o’clock dental appointment for Terry. We got there early and then it turned out his appointment was for 8:30 so Terry had lots of time to pace around the courtyard of the dental complex! He got in about 8:45 and was out about 9:30 with 3 teeth pulled and his modified upper partial in place. He had to wait about an hour for his lower partial to be fixed so we went shopping. Then he had to wait for the lower partial to be fitted. There was no line to get across the border so we were back at the casino for lunch about 11:30. Terry was so happy that his total bill was only $270 that we had to spend a little on the slots!
Pat & I went for a bike ride before happy hour. Not much wind and fairly warm.
Dec 19th - Sat - Yuma
We and P&R were able to tee off a few minutes before our 8:53 tee time this morning. Very windy but not too cold. No one in front of us until we caught up to a 5-some on the 9th hole. We waited for them on the 10th and then decided to cut ahead of them by skipping 12 and playing half of 13. Played through 16 and were all tired of the wind and ready to quit.
We walked back to the rigs, got our bikes and went to the cantina for a good hamburger & a beer for lunch. We tried to figure out how to use our awning sun screen as a wind break but decided it would not work. So Terry & I headed for the Swap Meet to check out materials to make a wind break. We would have had to get pieces from 2 or 3 different stores so came back empty handed - except for a few groceries.
Terry invited new friends (Charlie & Julie) from down the street to join us for happy hour tonight. We sat outside - with jackets on - and even got to watch a parade of decorated golf carts travel down our street. We sat out with the buddy burner going until after 7. I had a pork roast and sweet potatoes in the crock pot so dinner was a snap.
Terry is taking some antibiotics to clear up a tooth infection before his dental work so I have to make a reasonably early breakfast so he can take his pill with food. Pat came by as we were finishing and suggested a drive today instead of the bike ride that we discussed. We are all nursing sore feet & joints from our golf game. Need to do more walking to get in shape!!
We first stopped so I could get a haircut and visit an ATM. Then on through construction traffic to Olive Garden for lunch. Pat wanted to try the “all-you-can-eat soup, salad & breadstick” lunch which she has seen in ads so we all ordered it. Very good.
Next we got in a little walking and stair climbing by checking out RVs for sale at a shopping mall. Nothing any of us could not resist. By now it was time to stop for some groceries for Pat. Unfortunately we picked WalMart and Terry finally found the TV that he wanted in stock. He did not get the rain check price (we thought we probably wouldn’t) but it was still a good price. So now he has a larger (26”) TV in the outside compartment and I can continue to use the smaller one as a screen until we get a new computer.
Over to P&R’S again for happy hour & dinner.
Dec 17th - Thurs - Yuma
I mentioned the circular route that we have to take to get to Hwy 8 and then west to Algodones. Well, now 1st Street that parallels Hwy 8 is closed until Jan 18th so we have to go further south to 8th Street before heading east & then north. Good thing we are retired and have lots of time to get somewhere!
Finally got some catching up done on the computer and did some cleaning. Rick was supposed to get his awning replaced today but it was too windy. They had to hang around in case the wind let up in the afternoon so Terry & I ran some errands.
Dec 18th - Fri - Yuma
Up early this morning for an 8 o’clock dental appointment for Terry. We got there early and then it turned out his appointment was for 8:30 so Terry had lots of time to pace around the courtyard of the dental complex! He got in about 8:45 and was out about 9:30 with 3 teeth pulled and his modified upper partial in place. He had to wait about an hour for his lower partial to be fixed so we went shopping. Then he had to wait for the lower partial to be fitted. There was no line to get across the border so we were back at the casino for lunch about 11:30. Terry was so happy that his total bill was only $270 that we had to spend a little on the slots!
Pat & I went for a bike ride before happy hour. Not much wind and fairly warm.
Dec 19th - Sat - Yuma
We and P&R were able to tee off a few minutes before our 8:53 tee time this morning. Very windy but not too cold. No one in front of us until we caught up to a 5-some on the 9th hole. We waited for them on the 10th and then decided to cut ahead of them by skipping 12 and playing half of 13. Played through 16 and were all tired of the wind and ready to quit.
We walked back to the rigs, got our bikes and went to the cantina for a good hamburger & a beer for lunch. We tried to figure out how to use our awning sun screen as a wind break but decided it would not work. So Terry & I headed for the Swap Meet to check out materials to make a wind break. We would have had to get pieces from 2 or 3 different stores so came back empty handed - except for a few groceries.
Terry invited new friends (Charlie & Julie) from down the street to join us for happy hour tonight. We sat outside - with jackets on - and even got to watch a parade of decorated golf carts travel down our street. We sat out with the buddy burner going until after 7. I had a pork roast and sweet potatoes in the crock pot so dinner was a snap.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Dec 12th to 15th - Yuma
Dec 12th - Sat - Yuma
Blog & emails before making brunch. We had a 12:30 tee time and the weather was gorgeous. There was a tournament in the morning and then a shotgun start for anyone who wanted to play at 12:30. Well, the participants in the tournament were playing with 8 players on a hole to keep each other honest! We decided to tee off in front of the group that was taking a very long time to finish a par three but they weren’t really happy when we did so. They informed Rick that they would be hitting into us and they had 5 holes still to play.
We WAITED behind them, we all had bad second shots and finally decided to go to the pro shop and make other arrangements. They would not let us play 9 later and then 9 tomorrow on our 18 hole punch cards so we made a tee time for Tuesday.
With no other plans, we headed out for a bit of shopping. We checked out Sam’s Club and decided it was too much like Costco and has fewer west coast stores so wouldn’t join them instead of Costco. Found an Albertsons for some groceries and then back to cram them in the fridge.
Happy hour with P&R, dinner at home and then Terry & I went to a dance here at the park. A couple (Larry & Bernice) invited us to join them at their table and we ended up meeting 8 new friends. The band was on a trial and was not very good. The floor was over-waxed so we had to be careful not to land on our butts but we still had a good time. Larry thought the dance went to 10 so we were all surprised when the band just started packing up at 9 without so much as a goodbye or thanks for coming. Maybe they were upset that not many people were dancing.
Dec 13th - Sun - Yuma
Laundry this morning. I goofed and didn’t get one machine started with the others so it took us a while. Terry got into a jigsaw puzzle at the library and I helped him finish it after the laundry was all done.
We just had enough time to make & eat some lunch before it was time to head to the cantina for an afternoon of music & beer. There is a 6 piece group that plays every Sunday and they were much better than the group at the dance. Some of our new friends were there and came over to say hi - very friendly folks. We danced a couple of times and had a good time.
P&R came over for happy hour and for chicken fettuccini dinner.
Dec 14th - Mon - Yuma
Terry, Pat & I left at 8 for our dentist appointments in Algodones. True to form in Mexico, we all got in after the time of our appointments. Pat did not need a filling so got a cleaning instead. Terry will be getting 3 teeth pulled on Friday. They took his top partial and will have it ready with an additional tooth to replace one that will be pulled. During his next appointment, they will send his lower partial to the lab to get 2 teeth added to replace the lower 2 being pulled. The lab will have the work done by the time his teeth are pulled.
My crown did not satisfy my dentist - too much space between it and the next tooth - so she sent it back to the lab while she cleaned my teeth. I had to wait for it to come back and then wait for the dentist to finish with her next patient but we were out of there about 11.
We stopped at the casino for “2 for 1” buffet lunch and then played slots for a while. We dropped Pat off and went to get an oil change. We went to the same place in the Foothills area that we went a couple of years ago since we liked the job that they did. Then we continued on to find our friends Francis & Nichole. They do not have a phone or email so we wanted to deliver a dinner invitation in person. They weren’t home so we left a note - hope it was the right place!!
It will be a challenge to feed Terry until Friday since he only has one back tooth on the top. I had leftover fettuccini from last night so that worked for tonight.
Dec 15th - Tues - Yuma
We had a 1:00 pm tee time today and wondered how fun it would be since Terry was up at 5:00 folding our chairs & tables up so they wouldn’t blow away. But the sun came out and the wind died down so it was perfect for golf. None of us are used to playing 18 holes and we were all tired at the end.
I had put a big pot of stew in the crock pot and invited P&R to join us for dinner. After a couple of drinks and dinner, we were all pretty quiet.
Blog & emails before making brunch. We had a 12:30 tee time and the weather was gorgeous. There was a tournament in the morning and then a shotgun start for anyone who wanted to play at 12:30. Well, the participants in the tournament were playing with 8 players on a hole to keep each other honest! We decided to tee off in front of the group that was taking a very long time to finish a par three but they weren’t really happy when we did so. They informed Rick that they would be hitting into us and they had 5 holes still to play.
We WAITED behind them, we all had bad second shots and finally decided to go to the pro shop and make other arrangements. They would not let us play 9 later and then 9 tomorrow on our 18 hole punch cards so we made a tee time for Tuesday.
With no other plans, we headed out for a bit of shopping. We checked out Sam’s Club and decided it was too much like Costco and has fewer west coast stores so wouldn’t join them instead of Costco. Found an Albertsons for some groceries and then back to cram them in the fridge.
Happy hour with P&R, dinner at home and then Terry & I went to a dance here at the park. A couple (Larry & Bernice) invited us to join them at their table and we ended up meeting 8 new friends. The band was on a trial and was not very good. The floor was over-waxed so we had to be careful not to land on our butts but we still had a good time. Larry thought the dance went to 10 so we were all surprised when the band just started packing up at 9 without so much as a goodbye or thanks for coming. Maybe they were upset that not many people were dancing.
Dec 13th - Sun - Yuma
Laundry this morning. I goofed and didn’t get one machine started with the others so it took us a while. Terry got into a jigsaw puzzle at the library and I helped him finish it after the laundry was all done.
We just had enough time to make & eat some lunch before it was time to head to the cantina for an afternoon of music & beer. There is a 6 piece group that plays every Sunday and they were much better than the group at the dance. Some of our new friends were there and came over to say hi - very friendly folks. We danced a couple of times and had a good time.
P&R came over for happy hour and for chicken fettuccini dinner.
Dec 14th - Mon - Yuma
Terry, Pat & I left at 8 for our dentist appointments in Algodones. True to form in Mexico, we all got in after the time of our appointments. Pat did not need a filling so got a cleaning instead. Terry will be getting 3 teeth pulled on Friday. They took his top partial and will have it ready with an additional tooth to replace one that will be pulled. During his next appointment, they will send his lower partial to the lab to get 2 teeth added to replace the lower 2 being pulled. The lab will have the work done by the time his teeth are pulled.
My crown did not satisfy my dentist - too much space between it and the next tooth - so she sent it back to the lab while she cleaned my teeth. I had to wait for it to come back and then wait for the dentist to finish with her next patient but we were out of there about 11.
We stopped at the casino for “2 for 1” buffet lunch and then played slots for a while. We dropped Pat off and went to get an oil change. We went to the same place in the Foothills area that we went a couple of years ago since we liked the job that they did. Then we continued on to find our friends Francis & Nichole. They do not have a phone or email so we wanted to deliver a dinner invitation in person. They weren’t home so we left a note - hope it was the right place!!
It will be a challenge to feed Terry until Friday since he only has one back tooth on the top. I had leftover fettuccini from last night so that worked for tonight.
Dec 15th - Tues - Yuma
We had a 1:00 pm tee time today and wondered how fun it would be since Terry was up at 5:00 folding our chairs & tables up so they wouldn’t blow away. But the sun came out and the wind died down so it was perfect for golf. None of us are used to playing 18 holes and we were all tired at the end.
I had put a big pot of stew in the crock pot and invited P&R to join us for dinner. After a couple of drinks and dinner, we were all pretty quiet.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Dec 9th to 11th - Yuma
Dec 9th - Wed - Yuma
Cold & windy again today so we cancelled another tee time as did several other groups. I caught up the blog & email before picking up P&R for a day of lunch & shopping in old Yuma.
We had a good lunch at Lute’s Casino downtown which is a restaurant and pool hall. Then we wandered the main street & and an alley and checked out some interesting touristy shops. Next a stop at WalMart for “bits & pieces” and groceries. After a rest time all around, P&R came to our rig for happy hour which allowed me to put in a small roast for Terry & my dinner.
We had finished eating and cleaning up the kitchen when P&R’s son Chris phoned trying to get hold of Rick. We told him to call back in 10 minutes and we walked over to take the phone to Rick. P&R did not question why we came over so we chatted until the phone rang and Terry handed it to a bewildered Rick. They had a nice chat with Chris and then we headed home.
Dec 10th - Thurs - Yuma
It was really nice to stay in a nice warm bed while the furnace warmed up the rig this morning. In the last 2 nights, we have received weird phone calls on my phone. The first night, Terry leaped out of bed and slammed his foot against something trying to get to the phone before it quit. He couldn’t understand the caller and just got back into bed when the phone rang again. He answered it only to be cussed at by the caller. Last night Terry did not wake up with the 2 calls at 12:12 & 12:17 and I just let it ring. Sure disturbs your sleep.
Haircut for Terry, dealt with email and ate breakfast before heading to the Paradise casino - Terry was bored and P&R were off doing their own thing. The casino finally gobbled our allowance so we came back and went for a 6.8 mile bike ride around the park. Terry brought in the small TV from the outside storage compartment to use on the computer until we decide what we are going to do about the computer screen being dead.
Just as we were ready to fix a drink, P&R showed up for happy hour. As our sign says “Why limit happy to an hour?” - and we don’t. At the first commercial in “Survivor”, P&R headed for home & dinner.
Dec 11th - Fri - Yuma
We decided to make a trip to Algodones Mexico to find a dentist (to repair my broken tooth) rather than just making a phone call. P&R went with us and we stopped for a buffet breakfast at the new Quechan Casino on the way.
The first dentist office that I checked charges $400 for a crown. The second office was recommended by Judy at Good Life RV park and charges $180 for a crown. One of the 3 dentists had a no-show so I was able to get in right away for the crown prep while Terry and P&R wandered around town. My crown will be ready on Monday so we also made an appointment for Terry to get started on his dental work. Pat was also able to get in for a filling so we will make good use of the next trip.
Of course we had to stop to gamble a bit on the way home. Pat had spent her allotment and was waiting for Terry to quit when she decided to put another $5 into a machine that had eaten my money earlier. A few spins later she hit $57 and was able to go home with money in her pocket. We persuaded Terry to quit when he still had some money.
Terry, Pat & I went for a bike ride trying to find a shorter way to Algodones & the casino. We have to drive a large loop to Hwy 8 in order to cross the Colorado River and head west. We can almost see the casino from the RV park but “can’t get there from here”.
The wind finally died and we were able to put our chairs into the sun and enjoy sitting out for a while. Pat & Terry combined happy hour with a game of canasta while Rick & I relaxed and watched TV.
Cold & windy again today so we cancelled another tee time as did several other groups. I caught up the blog & email before picking up P&R for a day of lunch & shopping in old Yuma.
We had a good lunch at Lute’s Casino downtown which is a restaurant and pool hall. Then we wandered the main street & and an alley and checked out some interesting touristy shops. Next a stop at WalMart for “bits & pieces” and groceries. After a rest time all around, P&R came to our rig for happy hour which allowed me to put in a small roast for Terry & my dinner.
We had finished eating and cleaning up the kitchen when P&R’s son Chris phoned trying to get hold of Rick. We told him to call back in 10 minutes and we walked over to take the phone to Rick. P&R did not question why we came over so we chatted until the phone rang and Terry handed it to a bewildered Rick. They had a nice chat with Chris and then we headed home.
Dec 10th - Thurs - Yuma
It was really nice to stay in a nice warm bed while the furnace warmed up the rig this morning. In the last 2 nights, we have received weird phone calls on my phone. The first night, Terry leaped out of bed and slammed his foot against something trying to get to the phone before it quit. He couldn’t understand the caller and just got back into bed when the phone rang again. He answered it only to be cussed at by the caller. Last night Terry did not wake up with the 2 calls at 12:12 & 12:17 and I just let it ring. Sure disturbs your sleep.
Haircut for Terry, dealt with email and ate breakfast before heading to the Paradise casino - Terry was bored and P&R were off doing their own thing. The casino finally gobbled our allowance so we came back and went for a 6.8 mile bike ride around the park. Terry brought in the small TV from the outside storage compartment to use on the computer until we decide what we are going to do about the computer screen being dead.
Just as we were ready to fix a drink, P&R showed up for happy hour. As our sign says “Why limit happy to an hour?” - and we don’t. At the first commercial in “Survivor”, P&R headed for home & dinner.
Dec 11th - Fri - Yuma
We decided to make a trip to Algodones Mexico to find a dentist (to repair my broken tooth) rather than just making a phone call. P&R went with us and we stopped for a buffet breakfast at the new Quechan Casino on the way.
The first dentist office that I checked charges $400 for a crown. The second office was recommended by Judy at Good Life RV park and charges $180 for a crown. One of the 3 dentists had a no-show so I was able to get in right away for the crown prep while Terry and P&R wandered around town. My crown will be ready on Monday so we also made an appointment for Terry to get started on his dental work. Pat was also able to get in for a filling so we will make good use of the next trip.
Of course we had to stop to gamble a bit on the way home. Pat had spent her allotment and was waiting for Terry to quit when she decided to put another $5 into a machine that had eaten my money earlier. A few spins later she hit $57 and was able to go home with money in her pocket. We persuaded Terry to quit when he still had some money.
Terry, Pat & I went for a bike ride trying to find a shorter way to Algodones & the casino. We have to drive a large loop to Hwy 8 in order to cross the Colorado River and head west. We can almost see the casino from the RV park but “can’t get there from here”.
The wind finally died and we were able to put our chairs into the sun and enjoy sitting out for a while. Pat & Terry combined happy hour with a game of canasta while Rick & I relaxed and watched TV.
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Dec 6th to 8th - Yuma
Dec 6th - Sun - Yuma
Lazy start to the day and then time for a 5 mile bike ride around the park. My butt starts to complain after 4 miles so will just have to keep increasing the length of the rides.
Terry decided it was a good day to clean out and organize the storage box in the truck. I supervised & helped. We have a bicycle stand that we have been dragging around for 3 years and never used so we put it together and will put up a notice to try to sell it here. We needed a storage crate to finish the job so we headed for town. P&R had been gone all morning. We passed them as we were leaving and made a date for happy hour.
After shopping we went to the Cocopah Casino. It is small, has older slot machines and did not treat us very well!! We had a late lunch and went to the Paradise/Quechan Casino where I continued my losing ways and Terry bailed us out again!
It was very cool when we walked to P&R’s about 6. We ended up watching the final episode of “Amazing Race” with them and then I had to make dinner so we ate at 8:45.
Dec 7th - Mon - Yuma
Clouds?!! No wonder we slept late - it was still dark! And the clouds actually produced some rain. Before going for a drive, we stopped to change our tee time that we had for today as we decided that we did not have to golf in the rain.
We took P&R on a loop around the Imperial Dam area where we camped before coming here. They were as amazed as we were at the number and variety of rigs parked in the “desert”. We stopped at the Imperial date farm so Pat could buy some dates to ship home.
We all had “rest time” before joining P&R for happy hour and a shared dinner. Then we actually had enough energy to play a few rounds of “31”. The wind really started to blow before we walked home.
Dec 8th - Tues - Yuma
Rick went to pay for our golf today and discovered that our tee time is for tomorrow. We have to start paying attention to the date & day!!
The wind continued to blow all night. From the wind and the drive yesterday, our truck was filthy and required a wash today. We also hosed off the patio carpet and wiped down the tables and bikes. Terry fixed our flagpole and got our golfer flying while I vacuumed.
It was Rick’s birthday today so we headed to the casino for dinner. Mondays and Tuesdays have a 2 for 1 buffet special - $11.95 for 2 people for what turned out to be a good buffet. Of course we had to play the slots before and after dinner. “Lucky” Pat (you’ve heard about her before in our blog!) walked out a winner. Rick turned his $10 birthday free play into $14 to take home. I held my own but was not able to come out ahead to bail Terry out.
We got a phone call from friends Francis & Nichole from 100 Mile House. They are in Yuma for the winter and we are looking forward to seeing them.
Lazy start to the day and then time for a 5 mile bike ride around the park. My butt starts to complain after 4 miles so will just have to keep increasing the length of the rides.
Terry decided it was a good day to clean out and organize the storage box in the truck. I supervised & helped. We have a bicycle stand that we have been dragging around for 3 years and never used so we put it together and will put up a notice to try to sell it here. We needed a storage crate to finish the job so we headed for town. P&R had been gone all morning. We passed them as we were leaving and made a date for happy hour.
After shopping we went to the Cocopah Casino. It is small, has older slot machines and did not treat us very well!! We had a late lunch and went to the Paradise/Quechan Casino where I continued my losing ways and Terry bailed us out again!
It was very cool when we walked to P&R’s about 6. We ended up watching the final episode of “Amazing Race” with them and then I had to make dinner so we ate at 8:45.
Dec 7th - Mon - Yuma
Clouds?!! No wonder we slept late - it was still dark! And the clouds actually produced some rain. Before going for a drive, we stopped to change our tee time that we had for today as we decided that we did not have to golf in the rain.
We took P&R on a loop around the Imperial Dam area where we camped before coming here. They were as amazed as we were at the number and variety of rigs parked in the “desert”. We stopped at the Imperial date farm so Pat could buy some dates to ship home.
We all had “rest time” before joining P&R for happy hour and a shared dinner. Then we actually had enough energy to play a few rounds of “31”. The wind really started to blow before we walked home.
Dec 8th - Tues - Yuma
Rick went to pay for our golf today and discovered that our tee time is for tomorrow. We have to start paying attention to the date & day!!
The wind continued to blow all night. From the wind and the drive yesterday, our truck was filthy and required a wash today. We also hosed off the patio carpet and wiped down the tables and bikes. Terry fixed our flagpole and got our golfer flying while I vacuumed.
It was Rick’s birthday today so we headed to the casino for dinner. Mondays and Tuesdays have a 2 for 1 buffet special - $11.95 for 2 people for what turned out to be a good buffet. Of course we had to play the slots before and after dinner. “Lucky” Pat (you’ve heard about her before in our blog!) walked out a winner. Rick turned his $10 birthday free play into $14 to take home. I held my own but was not able to come out ahead to bail Terry out.
We got a phone call from friends Francis & Nichole from 100 Mile House. They are in Yuma for the winter and we are looking forward to seeing them.
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Dec 2nd to 5th - Yuma
Dec 2nd - Wed - Yuma
I had a nice long phone chat with sister Marg before making breakfast. Then an overdue visit to the laundry room. While the laundry was washing, we walked to the pro shop and purchased punch cards to get a discounted golf rate - $950 for 50 18 hole rounds. The cards can be used by anyone so we don’t have to try to fit in that much golf in the 2 months that we will be here.
When we finished putting away laundry and making the bed, we joined Pat & Rick for a bike ride around the park. The sun was nearly setting and it was cooling off rapidly so we didn’t ride all the roads - just put in 4 miles.
Dec 3rd - Thurs - Yuma
Puttered around until our tee time at 11 this morning. By then it had warmed up enough to be comfortable in short sleeves but still with long pants. The golf course here has mostly narrow fairways that run between the RVs but Terry actually used some controllable clubs and avoided hitting rigs. There was one bad shot where we all held our breath but it went right over the double row of RVs into the next fairway. When we got to the 17th hole there was such a backup that we decided to make it a 16 hole round.
We had BBQ chicken sandwiches & beer at the park Grill for a late lunch and then went to Smart & Final in search (successful) of baby back ribs.
I had some stroganoff in the freezer and invited P&R over for dinner which was late due to the timing of our lunch.
Dec 4th - Fri - Yuma
Shopping day with Rick & Pat. WalMart(s), Swap Meet & Bealls. We ran into Leona & Victor and Leona’s sister & husband who we met at Imperial Dam in both WalMarts and the Swap Meet!
Happy hour at Pat & Rick’s and on our own for dinner.
Very cool and windy today.
Dec 5th - Sat - Yuma
P&R’s turn at the laundry room this morning so Terry & I went shopping for a couple of items that we did not find.
P&R wanted to go to an afternoon concert at the new Quechan casino so we decided to go there as well but just to gamble. After they got their tickets we realized that the performance is tomorrow! Pat loves to gamble and Rick was a good sport so we stayed for a while. It was very busy and we were not doing well. I had decided to quit before spending all my money and Terry was on his last $5 when he started to win. We ended up leaving with $70 ahead and so did Pat.
P&R came over for happy hour, returned to their rig for dinner and then came back to play dominoes. Rick & I begged off after a couple of games to watch TV so Terry & Pat played Hand & Foot Canasta.
I put up a hummingbird feeder a couple of days ago and finally saw a couple of birds feeding today. It sticks on the kitchen window with suction cups so is fun to watch from inside or from the patio.
I had a nice long phone chat with sister Marg before making breakfast. Then an overdue visit to the laundry room. While the laundry was washing, we walked to the pro shop and purchased punch cards to get a discounted golf rate - $950 for 50 18 hole rounds. The cards can be used by anyone so we don’t have to try to fit in that much golf in the 2 months that we will be here.
When we finished putting away laundry and making the bed, we joined Pat & Rick for a bike ride around the park. The sun was nearly setting and it was cooling off rapidly so we didn’t ride all the roads - just put in 4 miles.
Dec 3rd - Thurs - Yuma
Puttered around until our tee time at 11 this morning. By then it had warmed up enough to be comfortable in short sleeves but still with long pants. The golf course here has mostly narrow fairways that run between the RVs but Terry actually used some controllable clubs and avoided hitting rigs. There was one bad shot where we all held our breath but it went right over the double row of RVs into the next fairway. When we got to the 17th hole there was such a backup that we decided to make it a 16 hole round.
We had BBQ chicken sandwiches & beer at the park Grill for a late lunch and then went to Smart & Final in search (successful) of baby back ribs.
I had some stroganoff in the freezer and invited P&R over for dinner which was late due to the timing of our lunch.
Dec 4th - Fri - Yuma
Shopping day with Rick & Pat. WalMart(s), Swap Meet & Bealls. We ran into Leona & Victor and Leona’s sister & husband who we met at Imperial Dam in both WalMarts and the Swap Meet!
Happy hour at Pat & Rick’s and on our own for dinner.
Very cool and windy today.
Dec 5th - Sat - Yuma
P&R’s turn at the laundry room this morning so Terry & I went shopping for a couple of items that we did not find.
P&R wanted to go to an afternoon concert at the new Quechan casino so we decided to go there as well but just to gamble. After they got their tickets we realized that the performance is tomorrow! Pat loves to gamble and Rick was a good sport so we stayed for a while. It was very busy and we were not doing well. I had decided to quit before spending all my money and Terry was on his last $5 when he started to win. We ended up leaving with $70 ahead and so did Pat.
P&R came over for happy hour, returned to their rig for dinner and then came back to play dominoes. Rick & I begged off after a couple of games to watch TV so Terry & Pat played Hand & Foot Canasta.
I put up a hummingbird feeder a couple of days ago and finally saw a couple of birds feeding today. It sticks on the kitchen window with suction cups so is fun to watch from inside or from the patio.
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Nov 29th to Dec 1st - Imperial Dam to Yuma
Nov 29th - Sun - Imperial Dam
Dave & Margo went to church in Yuma so we puttered around and visited with neighbors. I spent some time getting a hummingbird out of our rig. He kept flying right up to the ceiling and could not find the door to get out. I gently used a fly swatter and a hat to try to move him down but it did not work. He got tired and perched quite a few times. He finally landed on the shower rim, I placed a hat over him and then slid my hand under the edge of the hat and picked him up. I showed the bird to Terry & the neighbors - so they would believe me? - and let him go. This was the second hummingbird to fly into the open door so we think they were attracted by the red water pump light. We kept the screen closed after that.
When D&M returned we decided it was a good day to go for a drive and get a date shake. Terry does not like dates but he took a sip of my shake and ordered one. Wrong! He didn’t end up drinking very much.
We each had chicken to cook for dinner so we got together with shared salads. It gets quite cool as soon as the sun goes down (just after 6) so we ate inside and then shared some photos with D&M.
The Greycup football game was played today. Our Canadian neighbors could not get a score so we turned on the computer and got a play-by-play website. Terry kept going to their window next door whenever we got an update. Saskatchewan led the whole game (one Canadian couple is from Sask) and then shot themselves in the foot with a “too many player” penalty on the next to last play which let Montreal try a second field goal and win. When Terry reported this to our neighbors, they closed the window and pulled down the blind!
Nov 30th - Mon - Imperial Dam
I introduced Dave & Margo to breakfast sandwiches made with Sandwich Thins which are great, thin “buns” that you can use for hamburgers with all the trimmings and still get your mouth around them.
Then we had to get some exercise so we walked to a boondocking area, checked out the desert golf course and returned by the edge of a lake. Dave’s GPS reported that we walked just over 4 miles. While we were walking, we saw military planes climbing above us and skydivers coming down.
We had to refresh ourselves with beer & a snack and then got out their Ladder Golf game. After a couple of games we had to take a break while Dave & Terry figured out how to secure the legs to the uprights. Don’t know how the women let the men win the most games!!
We planned dinner (polish sausages) around having a real fire on the beach. Before we finished, the wild donkeys were wandering around the campsite and letting us know they were there with their hee-haws.
Dec 1st - Tues - to Yuma AZ
Jelly biscuits and a final cup of coffee with Dave & Margo this morning. Left about 10:15 for the long (23.6 miles) drive to Cocopah Golf & RV Resort on the west side of Yuma. We had a wonderful surprise when we got here - cousin Pat & her husband Rick directing us into a parking spot at the office! They will be here for the whole month.
I did some much needed cleaning as we set up & fixed some lunch. Then we joined Rick & Pat on a shopping trip - RV repair (they need an awning replaced), WalMart, fuel and a thrift shop for Pat & I while we waited (unsuccessfully) for Rick to get a chiropractic treatment.
Then another lovely treat - Pat made a great steak dinner for us! Their spot is not far from us so we can walk or bike there easily.
The weather was beautiful today. When we left Squaw Lake, the water was perfectly still so I took a bunch of pictures as we drove trying to get a good reflection shot.
Dave & Margo went to church in Yuma so we puttered around and visited with neighbors. I spent some time getting a hummingbird out of our rig. He kept flying right up to the ceiling and could not find the door to get out. I gently used a fly swatter and a hat to try to move him down but it did not work. He got tired and perched quite a few times. He finally landed on the shower rim, I placed a hat over him and then slid my hand under the edge of the hat and picked him up. I showed the bird to Terry & the neighbors - so they would believe me? - and let him go. This was the second hummingbird to fly into the open door so we think they were attracted by the red water pump light. We kept the screen closed after that.
When D&M returned we decided it was a good day to go for a drive and get a date shake. Terry does not like dates but he took a sip of my shake and ordered one. Wrong! He didn’t end up drinking very much.
We each had chicken to cook for dinner so we got together with shared salads. It gets quite cool as soon as the sun goes down (just after 6) so we ate inside and then shared some photos with D&M.
The Greycup football game was played today. Our Canadian neighbors could not get a score so we turned on the computer and got a play-by-play website. Terry kept going to their window next door whenever we got an update. Saskatchewan led the whole game (one Canadian couple is from Sask) and then shot themselves in the foot with a “too many player” penalty on the next to last play which let Montreal try a second field goal and win. When Terry reported this to our neighbors, they closed the window and pulled down the blind!
Nov 30th - Mon - Imperial Dam
I introduced Dave & Margo to breakfast sandwiches made with Sandwich Thins which are great, thin “buns” that you can use for hamburgers with all the trimmings and still get your mouth around them.
Then we had to get some exercise so we walked to a boondocking area, checked out the desert golf course and returned by the edge of a lake. Dave’s GPS reported that we walked just over 4 miles. While we were walking, we saw military planes climbing above us and skydivers coming down.
We had to refresh ourselves with beer & a snack and then got out their Ladder Golf game. After a couple of games we had to take a break while Dave & Terry figured out how to secure the legs to the uprights. Don’t know how the women let the men win the most games!!
We planned dinner (polish sausages) around having a real fire on the beach. Before we finished, the wild donkeys were wandering around the campsite and letting us know they were there with their hee-haws.
Dec 1st - Tues - to Yuma AZ
Jelly biscuits and a final cup of coffee with Dave & Margo this morning. Left about 10:15 for the long (23.6 miles) drive to Cocopah Golf & RV Resort on the west side of Yuma. We had a wonderful surprise when we got here - cousin Pat & her husband Rick directing us into a parking spot at the office! They will be here for the whole month.
I did some much needed cleaning as we set up & fixed some lunch. Then we joined Rick & Pat on a shopping trip - RV repair (they need an awning replaced), WalMart, fuel and a thrift shop for Pat & I while we waited (unsuccessfully) for Rick to get a chiropractic treatment.
Then another lovely treat - Pat made a great steak dinner for us! Their spot is not far from us so we can walk or bike there easily.
The weather was beautiful today. When we left Squaw Lake, the water was perfectly still so I took a bunch of pictures as we drove trying to get a good reflection shot.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Nov 26th to 28th - Imperial Dam
Nov 26th - Thurs - to Imperial Dam area
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
We left at 9 for the 1 ½ hour drive to Squaw Lake north of Yuma. We are camping with Dave & Margo who we met in Mexico and who live in Walla Walla WA. We are dry camping in a small organized camping area (parking lot type) right beside a lake. We have plenty of room since they allow 2 parking spots per camper with your vehicle parked in another row in the middle. For those of you who know the area somewhat, you turn off Hwy 95 at the Proving Grounds and go past the turnoff to Martinez Lake.
After setting up, we all went for a hike in the nearby hills and then sat and caught up before dinner. Margo had most of the fixings for turkey dinner so I added devilled eggs and mashed potatoes and we had a great meal with good friends - just what Thanksgiving is all about!
We started the generator after dinner and it kept surging and causing the lights to dim so we decided that we didn’t want to trust plugging in the TV or computer and shut it off. Decided to go to Yuma tomorrow and buy a new generator.
Nov 27th - Fri - Imperial Dam
Had a quick breakfast and headed to Yuma with Dave & Margo. It is about 25 minutes away. At the second place that we stopped, we bought a Honda 2000 generator. Then stops at a cash machine and the post office for Dave & Margo and on to the Swap Meet. Our stop there included lunch.
We took a different route back to see some different sights. Dave & Margo have camped several times in this area and are good tour guides. I am always amazed by the size of the farms and the amount of produce grown around Yuma.
Our turn for dinner tonight so of course had to make baby back ribs which we found at Smart & Final in Blythe. We ate fairly early so it was warm enough to eat outside. The generator is wonderful and Terry was able to get his TV “fix” outside and later inside.
Nov 28th - Sat - Imperial Dam
We were planning to go kayaking today but it was too windy. We all drove to the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge and went through the visitor center. Then we went for a .8 mile interpretive walk which came out at a marina that, according to Terry, we could have just driven to. And then we had to walk back. It was a nice walk.
We continued on towards the Painted Hills Trail and drove to a couple of view points on the way. The trail is a 1.3 mile loop through really varied types of hills. We took this hike previously with Rick & Pat and I enjoyed it every bit as much this time. We drove further to 3 more view points overlooking the Colorado River and then returned to Martinez Lake for a very late (3:00) lunch at a restaurant overlooking the lake.
It was cool when we returned so we went our separate ways for the evening. I worked on my blog before turning the TV over to Terry. The screen on our computer hopefully will get fixed in Yuma.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
We left at 9 for the 1 ½ hour drive to Squaw Lake north of Yuma. We are camping with Dave & Margo who we met in Mexico and who live in Walla Walla WA. We are dry camping in a small organized camping area (parking lot type) right beside a lake. We have plenty of room since they allow 2 parking spots per camper with your vehicle parked in another row in the middle. For those of you who know the area somewhat, you turn off Hwy 95 at the Proving Grounds and go past the turnoff to Martinez Lake.
After setting up, we all went for a hike in the nearby hills and then sat and caught up before dinner. Margo had most of the fixings for turkey dinner so I added devilled eggs and mashed potatoes and we had a great meal with good friends - just what Thanksgiving is all about!
We started the generator after dinner and it kept surging and causing the lights to dim so we decided that we didn’t want to trust plugging in the TV or computer and shut it off. Decided to go to Yuma tomorrow and buy a new generator.
Nov 27th - Fri - Imperial Dam
Had a quick breakfast and headed to Yuma with Dave & Margo. It is about 25 minutes away. At the second place that we stopped, we bought a Honda 2000 generator. Then stops at a cash machine and the post office for Dave & Margo and on to the Swap Meet. Our stop there included lunch.
We took a different route back to see some different sights. Dave & Margo have camped several times in this area and are good tour guides. I am always amazed by the size of the farms and the amount of produce grown around Yuma.
Our turn for dinner tonight so of course had to make baby back ribs which we found at Smart & Final in Blythe. We ate fairly early so it was warm enough to eat outside. The generator is wonderful and Terry was able to get his TV “fix” outside and later inside.
Nov 28th - Sat - Imperial Dam
We were planning to go kayaking today but it was too windy. We all drove to the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge and went through the visitor center. Then we went for a .8 mile interpretive walk which came out at a marina that, according to Terry, we could have just driven to. And then we had to walk back. It was a nice walk.
We continued on towards the Painted Hills Trail and drove to a couple of view points on the way. The trail is a 1.3 mile loop through really varied types of hills. We took this hike previously with Rick & Pat and I enjoyed it every bit as much this time. We drove further to 3 more view points overlooking the Colorado River and then returned to Martinez Lake for a very late (3:00) lunch at a restaurant overlooking the lake.
It was cool when we returned so we went our separate ways for the evening. I worked on my blog before turning the TV over to Terry. The screen on our computer hopefully will get fixed in Yuma.
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