24 March
When we returned from our trip to Mesa, there was a note on our MH door. It was from a couple from Med Hat ( Carol and Clarence Herter ) who were parked in our park. They invited us over for a visit as they were not sure if they knew us. Although, we had never met them before we do know Clarence's cousin.
Now for today. We have to move out of our site because it has 50 A and someone has reserved it before we realized they were going to extend our stay. Hence we relocated to another site with 30 A. With 30 A you can only run one AC at a time but we don't even need the AC so it wasn't any pain to us. The real pain was that I can not pick up the WiFi from this site as I could with the other site. So I have to go to the office to use the computer. I know... Lifes a Bitch.
We did not have to leave our site until 11 AM so we just took our time . By the time we moved and got set up again we pretty much killed a day. We did however, meet with our new neighbors so that always leads to Travel stories. The couple in next site have been "Full Timers " for two year and sold everything and bought a new MH. We swapped MH problems as even the new ones are not problem free. In fact , the wife says they have only met 2 MH owners who have never had a problem of some kind. They are having a slide problem but since it is still under warranty they are too worried. B.S. always help to kill an afternoon. Cheers
Tuesday, 29 March 2016
Visit to Mesa
23 March
We are actually in a holding pattern waiting on 1 April when our House Sitters vacate our house and we have pretty much seen this area of AZ, so we decided to visit some friends in Mesa. Mesa is a casual 1 hour and 45 minute drive from Camp Verde along I-17 and then taking 101 to Mesa. I use the word casual since driving 120 KMH both on the I-17 and then on 101 which has , at times has up to 5 lanes of traffic which includes an HOV lane. We do use the HOV; but when you need to get off the 101 you now have to negotiate crossing those 5 lanes and there is not many people who give a dam about you turn signal.
We finally reached our first destination which was the winter home, at Leisure World, of Pat and Kay whom are our friends from Med Hat. We just stayed for an hour as we had a late lunch date with friends Bob and Shirley from Comox. Bob and I served together while we were in Comox and we have been friends since the late 80's. They always winter in Mesa so we do get to the see them most years. Shirley "over-did" the lunch by making a fabulist meal as she always does. We had a great visit but the drive home was during rush hour. Hwy 101 was crowded but we took the HOV lane which at first was moving along at 120 KMH, for about the 1/2 hour. And then , somehow the HOV lane came to a completed stop. How in hell does a HOV lane stop when there is no accident or vehicle breakdown. Final we got to the end of 101 and there was no apparent reason for the slow down so if you live in these big city you just accept the traffic. I'm glad I live in Med Hat. cheers
We are actually in a holding pattern waiting on 1 April when our House Sitters vacate our house and we have pretty much seen this area of AZ, so we decided to visit some friends in Mesa. Mesa is a casual 1 hour and 45 minute drive from Camp Verde along I-17 and then taking 101 to Mesa. I use the word casual since driving 120 KMH both on the I-17 and then on 101 which has , at times has up to 5 lanes of traffic which includes an HOV lane. We do use the HOV; but when you need to get off the 101 you now have to negotiate crossing those 5 lanes and there is not many people who give a dam about you turn signal.
We finally reached our first destination which was the winter home, at Leisure World, of Pat and Kay whom are our friends from Med Hat. We just stayed for an hour as we had a late lunch date with friends Bob and Shirley from Comox. Bob and I served together while we were in Comox and we have been friends since the late 80's. They always winter in Mesa so we do get to the see them most years. Shirley "over-did" the lunch by making a fabulist meal as she always does. We had a great visit but the drive home was during rush hour. Hwy 101 was crowded but we took the HOV lane which at first was moving along at 120 KMH, for about the 1/2 hour. And then , somehow the HOV lane came to a completed stop. How in hell does a HOV lane stop when there is no accident or vehicle breakdown. Final we got to the end of 101 and there was no apparent reason for the slow down so if you live in these big city you just accept the traffic. I'm glad I live in Med Hat. cheers
Trip to Sedona AGAIN
As mentioned earlier, we made a trip to Sedona some 25 or miles away but could not find a parking spot and there were too many tourist so we gave up and came home. However, we did spot at a Ranger Station and picked up some maps and valuable info from the Ranger. We also viewed a 15 Minute movie on the area which was interesting.
However, today is Tuesday so many of the Sunday tourist will be gone and we will surely find a parking spot. We decided to tour Sedona and parking was tight but we found a spot. We walked around the town site for awhile , mostly window shopping. It started to feel like lunch time so we grabbed a restaurant and they were busy but time is something we have lots of so we just did some people "watching" and analyzing them while waiting for our lunch.
After lunch we concluded that we have seen enough of Sedona and we ( Carroll ) decided that the afternoon would be wasted unless we traveled 25 miles up another mountain road to a View Point which just happen to have about 20 tables/booths of Native Art, Jewelry and Pottery. This area is set aside for Natives only and no others are allowed to sell their wares in this area. Obviously, there is no "discrimination" in this country.
Yes , Carroll helped the Native economy by buying another pair of ear rings which will no doubt help to clutter up her Jewelry box . Another day done. cheers
However, today is Tuesday so many of the Sunday tourist will be gone and we will surely find a parking spot. We decided to tour Sedona and parking was tight but we found a spot. We walked around the town site for awhile , mostly window shopping. It started to feel like lunch time so we grabbed a restaurant and they were busy but time is something we have lots of so we just did some people "watching" and analyzing them while waiting for our lunch.
After lunch we concluded that we have seen enough of Sedona and we ( Carroll ) decided that the afternoon would be wasted unless we traveled 25 miles up another mountain road to a View Point which just happen to have about 20 tables/booths of Native Art, Jewelry and Pottery. This area is set aside for Natives only and no others are allowed to sell their wares in this area. Obviously, there is no "discrimination" in this country.
Yes , Carroll helped the Native economy by buying another pair of ear rings which will no doubt help to clutter up her Jewelry box . Another day done. cheers
Tuesday, 22 March 2016
Moving Day and Sedona
18 March, Friday
Our reservations for the Dead Horse State Park in Cottonwood was for two days only and it is impossible to get an extension as they are all booked up in advance. Therefore we had to move 15 miles down the road to town/city called Camp Verde. I did some checking for an RV Park in this area about 2 weeks ago and found out that the Verde River RV park was a Passport park. If you are a Passport member you can get a site for a reduced price therefore this park cost us 20.00 per day.
As a point of interest a Passport membership cost 44.00 per year ( which I rejoined 2 weeks ago ) but since I am a return member I pay only 34.00 per year and I am now saving 15.00 per day and we are staying here for 10 days.
Camp Verde got its' name from the fact that an Army Platoon set up an Camp along the river, here in the 1860 era and hence a town grew out fact that the army need some services. President Roosevelt set aside a tract of land along the edge of town for a State Park which is now a tourist attraction. I'm not sure what the people do for a living here because I do not see any agriculture or any factories .
After we set up camp we drove, 3 miles to the town to check out what might be of interest to us. As we drove into the town we seen several sites and signs advertising for a Festival for Saturday and Sunday. Of course we will definitely return tomorrow and check out the attractions. After returning to the RV Park from our drive around the town we went to the RV office and booked in for another 3 days as there is lots of areas to tour such as Sedona, Jerome and Prescott valley. After all that, it was "Miller Time". cheers
19 March Saturday
On Saturday morning we headed to Camp Verde to check out the festive actives that we seen setting up yesterday. As we entered the town we seen a " Flea Market" so we stopped to see if there was any items that we did not "need" but may want to have anyways. One of the couples from our RV Park have a "Hotdog Wagon " and they were set up at the Flea Market so we felt compelled ( besides we were hungry ) to have a Specialty Hotdog. These folks had 5 different hotdogs such as Elk, Wild Boar, Buffalo, Pheasant, and Polish. Carroll had a Pheasant and I had Wild Boar. Needless to say the Hotdogs were great but we had to leave room for the food at the Festival which we moved to next.
Parking was at a premium during this Festival but it seemed that you can park anywhere as long as there isn't a " No Parking " sign and I took advantage of that. Besides the entire town population was at the festival including the Police. The festival did not hold much interest to us as the largest tent was for Wine Tasting and they charged 5.00 for the wine tasting glass although you get to keep the glass.... Yahoo. We spent an hour at the festival and thankfully the entry was free.
Since we completed out tour of the Festival around 1 PM we decide to visit Sedona, some 25 miles away. Sedona is a very beautiful scenic town located in a valley, 1 1/2 hours north of Phoenix and is 25 miles north of Camp Verde. Sedona is a tourist attraction and every tourist within a hundred miles got to Sedona about an hour before us and there was no room to move or to park the car. Actually I missed the turn off to park so using my logic I decided to drive out of town and turn around and look for a parking spot on my return. I drove 5 miles north of town and I still was not near the end of the line which was moving into town at a Snails pace. Carroll suggested ( and I knew what was coming next ) that we drive away form Sedona for 20 miles north where the Natives have a market set up with Native Art, Jewelry , etc. The reason Carroll knew about the Native Market is that we have been there many years ago. However we arrived at the Native Market at exactly at 5 PM and they were just closing the gates.
Since this afternoon was a failure we returned back to the RV park where I knew I could find a cool beer to drown my sorrows. cheers
Our reservations for the Dead Horse State Park in Cottonwood was for two days only and it is impossible to get an extension as they are all booked up in advance. Therefore we had to move 15 miles down the road to town/city called Camp Verde. I did some checking for an RV Park in this area about 2 weeks ago and found out that the Verde River RV park was a Passport park. If you are a Passport member you can get a site for a reduced price therefore this park cost us 20.00 per day.
As a point of interest a Passport membership cost 44.00 per year ( which I rejoined 2 weeks ago ) but since I am a return member I pay only 34.00 per year and I am now saving 15.00 per day and we are staying here for 10 days.
Camp Verde got its' name from the fact that an Army Platoon set up an Camp along the river, here in the 1860 era and hence a town grew out fact that the army need some services. President Roosevelt set aside a tract of land along the edge of town for a State Park which is now a tourist attraction. I'm not sure what the people do for a living here because I do not see any agriculture or any factories .
After we set up camp we drove, 3 miles to the town to check out what might be of interest to us. As we drove into the town we seen several sites and signs advertising for a Festival for Saturday and Sunday. Of course we will definitely return tomorrow and check out the attractions. After returning to the RV Park from our drive around the town we went to the RV office and booked in for another 3 days as there is lots of areas to tour such as Sedona, Jerome and Prescott valley. After all that, it was "Miller Time". cheers
19 March Saturday
On Saturday morning we headed to Camp Verde to check out the festive actives that we seen setting up yesterday. As we entered the town we seen a " Flea Market" so we stopped to see if there was any items that we did not "need" but may want to have anyways. One of the couples from our RV Park have a "Hotdog Wagon " and they were set up at the Flea Market so we felt compelled ( besides we were hungry ) to have a Specialty Hotdog. These folks had 5 different hotdogs such as Elk, Wild Boar, Buffalo, Pheasant, and Polish. Carroll had a Pheasant and I had Wild Boar. Needless to say the Hotdogs were great but we had to leave room for the food at the Festival which we moved to next.
Parking was at a premium during this Festival but it seemed that you can park anywhere as long as there isn't a " No Parking " sign and I took advantage of that. Besides the entire town population was at the festival including the Police. The festival did not hold much interest to us as the largest tent was for Wine Tasting and they charged 5.00 for the wine tasting glass although you get to keep the glass.... Yahoo. We spent an hour at the festival and thankfully the entry was free.
Since we completed out tour of the Festival around 1 PM we decide to visit Sedona, some 25 miles away. Sedona is a very beautiful scenic town located in a valley, 1 1/2 hours north of Phoenix and is 25 miles north of Camp Verde. Sedona is a tourist attraction and every tourist within a hundred miles got to Sedona about an hour before us and there was no room to move or to park the car. Actually I missed the turn off to park so using my logic I decided to drive out of town and turn around and look for a parking spot on my return. I drove 5 miles north of town and I still was not near the end of the line which was moving into town at a Snails pace. Carroll suggested ( and I knew what was coming next ) that we drive away form Sedona for 20 miles north where the Natives have a market set up with Native Art, Jewelry , etc. The reason Carroll knew about the Native Market is that we have been there many years ago. However we arrived at the Native Market at exactly at 5 PM and they were just closing the gates.
Since this afternoon was a failure we returned back to the RV park where I knew I could find a cool beer to drown my sorrows. cheers
Sunday, 20 March 2016
Tour of Cottonwood
Cottonwood began as a small mining town, which flourished around 1860's and as a result there is a Old town and now a new area which has all the store that would see in any town, like Fry's, MacDonald's, JC Pennies and a Wal-Mart. However the Old Town has kept the Wild West Façade on all the building so it is very interesting to see the shops, Pubs and restaurants. As you would expect in a Western town there was 2 horses tied up at the hitching rail.
The Old Town is only two blocks long but Carroll had to check out most of the stores so we spent about two hours meandering around the town. We did stop at a store that " made and sold " different mixtures of Oliver Oils and Balsamic Vinegars. Who knew there was 50 different mixtures and of course they had to explain every mixture to Carroll. I demonstrate my interest by walking away and spent time looking at the over priced bottles on the self. Carroll bought a bottle of Tangerine Balsamic Vinegar and a bottle of Blood Orange flavored Olive Oil. I could have purchased another bottle of Crown Royal for the price of those two bottles.
There is an old run down Ranch about 2 miles from the State Park and the family turned it into an old Mining town motif complete with a Bar/ Pub and a variety of other Tourist Trap type boutiques, a photo shop where you dress up in Old Western attire so you can get an over price picture that nobody wants to look at, and a pistol range where they can take your money. The main attraction is the Cowboy Supper follow by some Cowboy music and another character who tells a few stories. The supper is really " Chuck wagon Style " where you line up and get a tin plate then you go thru the assembly line to get a bake potato, ribs, chicken, beans, coleslaw. It real was a good dinner as it was all you could eat. Desert was apple with ice cream.
The cost was 32.00 per person which was a little pricey but all in all it was a good evening. The couple sitting beside me was from Airdre . Cheers
The Old Town is only two blocks long but Carroll had to check out most of the stores so we spent about two hours meandering around the town. We did stop at a store that " made and sold " different mixtures of Oliver Oils and Balsamic Vinegars. Who knew there was 50 different mixtures and of course they had to explain every mixture to Carroll. I demonstrate my interest by walking away and spent time looking at the over priced bottles on the self. Carroll bought a bottle of Tangerine Balsamic Vinegar and a bottle of Blood Orange flavored Olive Oil. I could have purchased another bottle of Crown Royal for the price of those two bottles.
There is an old run down Ranch about 2 miles from the State Park and the family turned it into an old Mining town motif complete with a Bar/ Pub and a variety of other Tourist Trap type boutiques, a photo shop where you dress up in Old Western attire so you can get an over price picture that nobody wants to look at, and a pistol range where they can take your money. The main attraction is the Cowboy Supper follow by some Cowboy music and another character who tells a few stories. The supper is really " Chuck wagon Style " where you line up and get a tin plate then you go thru the assembly line to get a bake potato, ribs, chicken, beans, coleslaw. It real was a good dinner as it was all you could eat. Desert was apple with ice cream.
The cost was 32.00 per person which was a little pricey but all in all it was a good evening. The couple sitting beside me was from Airdre . Cheers
Heading for Cottonwood, AZ
We left our free camping spot in Laughlin, NV and headed for Dead Horse State Park in Cottonwood, AZ which is located 15 miles south of Sedona and 10 miles north of Jerome. These 3 towns are a must see for those who have never visited the area. The Sedona area is a great area for the scenery and for those who enjoy Hiking .
We made reservation for the State park because you can not get into a State Park without a reservation, 24 hours in advance. We knew this, hence the reason for a reservation. I also explained that we had a 40 ft MH with 4 slides . When we arrived at the State Park entrance, the clerk said OMG I don't think you can get into that spot. I said "what are my option" and the Ranger said I can get you into the Overflow. We said, that is NOT an option. The clerk say to go and look at the spot to see what you think and , oh by the way, your MH can not touch any part of the trees and you can not cut any branches or you will be ask to leave. Already , I'm over excited about staying here.
We moved the MH to a parking area and disconnect the car so we can go to inspect the spot. While I disconnecting the tow bar Carroll was changing the car from a tow position to drive position. She says the battery is dead; I can't start the car. I immediate knew what was wrong. We carry the Coolatron in the car and I plugged it into the Power Point ( cigarette lighter) last evening in Laughlin to keep the pop, water and more import the beer cool. I usually only plug it in for a few hours as I know it will kill the battery if left too long. Being plugged in all night and all day is too long. So I go back to the Park office asking for help and the Ranger has a pair of Jumper Cable and he jump starts our car.
One crisis solved !!!!
We then drive to our site and it sure looks small but I know my options are not good so I pace out the length of the site and I estimate that it is 45 ft long but there is no way I can get all four slides out, however maybe we can get 3 slides out so we can live with that, since we are only here for 2 nights.
We went back and retrieved the MH and " Wedged " it into the spot where it fit better then I originally thought it would. However, the slides would not operate so I went to the Park office and the Ranger gave me the phone number for a Mobile RV Tech. I knew the Tech would be busy so I was prepared to "Kiss Butt " just to get him to come today. Of course he had enough work to keep him busy until his retirement in 20 years hence. I gave him my tale of "whoo " complete with tears so he promised to try his best to come later this evening. About 7:30 I called to tell him to wait until morning but he said he was on his way and would arrive in 10 minutes.
I walked him thru the things I had checked so he says " show me your fuses box ". He checked the power to the slide solenoid and it was good but there was no power thru the solenoid so he says there is your problem. He then " jumped " the solenoid and said to try the slides and they worked. Apparently the solenoid was just stuck and it is now working great. He charged me 40.00.... what a relief. Another Crisis solved !!!!
Later I went outside to check if the slides where touching any trees and sure enough one branch was laying on top of the slide awning. I figure I would wait for the Ranger to tell me to put the slide in but they never even came around. So all is well that ends well. cheers
We made reservation for the State park because you can not get into a State Park without a reservation, 24 hours in advance. We knew this, hence the reason for a reservation. I also explained that we had a 40 ft MH with 4 slides . When we arrived at the State Park entrance, the clerk said OMG I don't think you can get into that spot. I said "what are my option" and the Ranger said I can get you into the Overflow. We said, that is NOT an option. The clerk say to go and look at the spot to see what you think and , oh by the way, your MH can not touch any part of the trees and you can not cut any branches or you will be ask to leave. Already , I'm over excited about staying here.
We moved the MH to a parking area and disconnect the car so we can go to inspect the spot. While I disconnecting the tow bar Carroll was changing the car from a tow position to drive position. She says the battery is dead; I can't start the car. I immediate knew what was wrong. We carry the Coolatron in the car and I plugged it into the Power Point ( cigarette lighter) last evening in Laughlin to keep the pop, water and more import the beer cool. I usually only plug it in for a few hours as I know it will kill the battery if left too long. Being plugged in all night and all day is too long. So I go back to the Park office asking for help and the Ranger has a pair of Jumper Cable and he jump starts our car.
One crisis solved !!!!
We then drive to our site and it sure looks small but I know my options are not good so I pace out the length of the site and I estimate that it is 45 ft long but there is no way I can get all four slides out, however maybe we can get 3 slides out so we can live with that, since we are only here for 2 nights.
We went back and retrieved the MH and " Wedged " it into the spot where it fit better then I originally thought it would. However, the slides would not operate so I went to the Park office and the Ranger gave me the phone number for a Mobile RV Tech. I knew the Tech would be busy so I was prepared to "Kiss Butt " just to get him to come today. Of course he had enough work to keep him busy until his retirement in 20 years hence. I gave him my tale of "whoo " complete with tears so he promised to try his best to come later this evening. About 7:30 I called to tell him to wait until morning but he said he was on his way and would arrive in 10 minutes.
I walked him thru the things I had checked so he says " show me your fuses box ". He checked the power to the slide solenoid and it was good but there was no power thru the solenoid so he says there is your problem. He then " jumped " the solenoid and said to try the slides and they worked. Apparently the solenoid was just stuck and it is now working great. He charged me 40.00.... what a relief. Another Crisis solved !!!!
Later I went outside to check if the slides where touching any trees and sure enough one branch was laying on top of the slide awning. I figure I would wait for the Ranger to tell me to put the slide in but they never even came around. So all is well that ends well. cheers
Saturday, 19 March 2016
Laughlin, NV
Early this morning around 7:30 AM we left our Free camping spot in AVI Casino to deliver our MH to the RV dealer in Mojave ,5 miles away for our 8 AM appointment. Logic told us the maintenance for our Hydro Hot system would be 3 hours because they charge a flat rate of 300.00 and their shop rate is 105.00 an hour and I'm sure they would not want us to know that they could do it in 2 hours. We did leave our cell number and off we went to check out the sites and sounds of Laughlin some 10 miles away.
As we drove by the Riverside casino we noticed about 50 RV's parked in the parking area and they looked to us, as if they had been there for days if not weeks, since most of the tow vehicles where disconnect and most had their chairs all set up. I did a quick U-turn and drove in to inquire and luckily I spotted an older ( someone older than me ) gentleman outside his MH so I stopped and ask if it was free to park here. Apparently I did not phase the question to his liking because , not only did he tell me it was free to park but he continue on with a dissertation about Mr Laughlin , the owner of the casino and why he build a fence around area. Jumping in with another question, before I got the history of the USA, and thinking about passing thru here another time, I ask how long can you stay. He started naming people , like Pete over there has been here about 6 months, and Brett, over there, has been here for about 2 months. I got the picture, so I thanked him as I slowly moved the car, hoping he would stop talking.
The Riverside casino looked like a great place to park overnight so we decided that we would move to the Riverside once we got our MH back. After selecting a good spot to park the MH, we went to the Mall, mainly to check out what was on the show this evening. However, it developed into a window shopping outing for Carroll. I got bored waiting so I found a shoe store and found a pair of shoes that I needed since I threw a pair away in Yuma.
Around noon we received a call that our MH was ready so we picked it up and returned to the Riverside where we found a good parking spot where we could get out early next morning without bothering anyone. As mentioned yesterday , our slide still would not operate but for one night ,it is not a problem. Then we went to the 4 PM show " Whiskey, Tango , Foxtrot " For 6.00 it was worth the price.
After supper we went to the casino so Carroll could donate her preverbal 20.00, so the free camping , with no services,actual cost 20.00.
About 8 PM I did a walk-around just to see if there were many Canadians in the parking lot. I seen a couple from BC sitting outside so I stopped to talk. I notice a card in there windshield with a date on it so I ask why since it was free to stay. Apparent when they arrived a few days ago they were told to move to the back row; then they were told they had to sign in, which they did. I guess the Security guard had a shitty day so he picked on a Canadian. Then they told me they had their tow bar stolen right in the parking lot. After they parked , they decided to move to another area and they left their tow bar against a light standard. Fifteen minutes later they returned to pick up their tow bar and it was gone. However, they are stuck in Laughlin until their insurance company replaces the tow bar and all the necessary connection for the car at a cost of 2500.00. They hope to be on their way in 3 or 4 days. Even a casino parking lot is not always safe from thieves. cheers
As we drove by the Riverside casino we noticed about 50 RV's parked in the parking area and they looked to us, as if they had been there for days if not weeks, since most of the tow vehicles where disconnect and most had their chairs all set up. I did a quick U-turn and drove in to inquire and luckily I spotted an older ( someone older than me ) gentleman outside his MH so I stopped and ask if it was free to park here. Apparently I did not phase the question to his liking because , not only did he tell me it was free to park but he continue on with a dissertation about Mr Laughlin , the owner of the casino and why he build a fence around area. Jumping in with another question, before I got the history of the USA, and thinking about passing thru here another time, I ask how long can you stay. He started naming people , like Pete over there has been here about 6 months, and Brett, over there, has been here for about 2 months. I got the picture, so I thanked him as I slowly moved the car, hoping he would stop talking.
The Riverside casino looked like a great place to park overnight so we decided that we would move to the Riverside once we got our MH back. After selecting a good spot to park the MH, we went to the Mall, mainly to check out what was on the show this evening. However, it developed into a window shopping outing for Carroll. I got bored waiting so I found a shoe store and found a pair of shoes that I needed since I threw a pair away in Yuma.
Around noon we received a call that our MH was ready so we picked it up and returned to the Riverside where we found a good parking spot where we could get out early next morning without bothering anyone. As mentioned yesterday , our slide still would not operate but for one night ,it is not a problem. Then we went to the 4 PM show " Whiskey, Tango , Foxtrot " For 6.00 it was worth the price.
After supper we went to the casino so Carroll could donate her preverbal 20.00, so the free camping , with no services,actual cost 20.00.
About 8 PM I did a walk-around just to see if there were many Canadians in the parking lot. I seen a couple from BC sitting outside so I stopped to talk. I notice a card in there windshield with a date on it so I ask why since it was free to stay. Apparent when they arrived a few days ago they were told to move to the back row; then they were told they had to sign in, which they did. I guess the Security guard had a shitty day so he picked on a Canadian. Then they told me they had their tow bar stolen right in the parking lot. After they parked , they decided to move to another area and they left their tow bar against a light standard. Fifteen minutes later they returned to pick up their tow bar and it was gone. However, they are stuck in Laughlin until their insurance company replaces the tow bar and all the necessary connection for the car at a cost of 2500.00. They hope to be on their way in 3 or 4 days. Even a casino parking lot is not always safe from thieves. cheers
Friday, 18 March 2016
Travel Day
We you are pulling up stakes to leave, it usually is a fairly simple operation. You pack up the last few items, Carroll ensures that nothing is left on the counter that will fly around. You pull the MH out on the street, hook up the car and " Bob's your Uncle " and away you go. Not so dam fast for the Eslers
First I had to return the WiFi router to Time Warner (TW). TW is not open on Saturday or Sunday so my choice was to return it Friday at noon ( which was not an option ) or early Monday morning. TW opens at 7 AM so I thought if I arrived by 6:55 I would be first in line. Unfortunately, so did 25 other Snowbirds who were returning their routers or TV receivers. I actual arrived at 6:40 AM and I was 9 th in line. The guy, first in line brought a chair and was asleep at the door.
Once inside I had to wait 30 minutes to be served and there was at least 50 people behind me. As I drove back to the RV park I was thinking that we would on the road by 9 AM and it would be a nice easy drive to our intend free overnight parking at a casino near Mojave. Our MH appointment is for 8 AM on Tuesday.
When I got back to the MH, Carroll had the slides in and all I had to do was to start the MH, raise the jacks and pay the power bill when the office opened at 9 AM. However when I turn the key to start the MH the batteries were dead; not even a "click click". So I put the charger on the batteries known full well that it would probably take an hour or so to charge up the batteries . I then paid the power bill and on my return to the MH I noticed a friend who swapping some B.S. with a neighbor and I ask if they had some jumpers cable. Bob, a retired farmer from Montana , had a set and as he says; I never leave home without them. Bob also used his brand new Super Duty, 350 Ford to jump the MH and it started right away. Whenever you have a problem it always attracts others who seem to want to bask in your misery, so there was a few onlookers, but they mean well.
Now we are ready to leave but we do not connect the car as I need propane and to top up the fuel. I get to the propane station but I do not want to shut off the MH and they can not fill the propane on a MH that is running so I will get propane down the road. Then I got to Fry's which is a grocery store that has a gas station. Since we have spent 300.00 on groceries we get 30 cents off a gallon. However getting into a pump with diesel is not easy as those dam car owners seem to think a MH is as easy to maneuver as a Smart Car. I did manage to get my cheap fuel but getting out of the place was not easy as two other MH with a vehicle in tow were trying to maneuver into the outside pumps , much like I was. Once the MH moved up I was able to sneak by, but now I had to go thru the parking to get out and those dam senior don't give you much help.
Carroll actually waited for me at a truck stop down the road so that we could hook up the car. Finally about 10:30 we got on our way. Since we did not have breakfast we stopped at Parker some 2 hours down the road for lunch. I don't like the twisty roads and small towns in AZ so at this point I cross into CA which takes us to the Casino near Mojave where we will get the MH maintained tomorrow. When you cross from AZ to CA you go thru a Fruit Inspection station. They are checking for Citrus fruit only and we always make sure we don't have any. They usually take you word, when you say that you don't have any.
We arrived at AVI casino and they have a "gravel Pit" for us, who are looking for a free place to overnight. The place is fairly full so I worm my way around looking for a good spot and I dam near removed a guys awning. Carroll says I missed it by a foot. As it turns out the RV belong to friends who had just left Yuma a week earlier. All that called for a beer, Cheers
First I had to return the WiFi router to Time Warner (TW). TW is not open on Saturday or Sunday so my choice was to return it Friday at noon ( which was not an option ) or early Monday morning. TW opens at 7 AM so I thought if I arrived by 6:55 I would be first in line. Unfortunately, so did 25 other Snowbirds who were returning their routers or TV receivers. I actual arrived at 6:40 AM and I was 9 th in line. The guy, first in line brought a chair and was asleep at the door.
Once inside I had to wait 30 minutes to be served and there was at least 50 people behind me. As I drove back to the RV park I was thinking that we would on the road by 9 AM and it would be a nice easy drive to our intend free overnight parking at a casino near Mojave. Our MH appointment is for 8 AM on Tuesday.
When I got back to the MH, Carroll had the slides in and all I had to do was to start the MH, raise the jacks and pay the power bill when the office opened at 9 AM. However when I turn the key to start the MH the batteries were dead; not even a "click click". So I put the charger on the batteries known full well that it would probably take an hour or so to charge up the batteries . I then paid the power bill and on my return to the MH I noticed a friend who swapping some B.S. with a neighbor and I ask if they had some jumpers cable. Bob, a retired farmer from Montana , had a set and as he says; I never leave home without them. Bob also used his brand new Super Duty, 350 Ford to jump the MH and it started right away. Whenever you have a problem it always attracts others who seem to want to bask in your misery, so there was a few onlookers, but they mean well.
Now we are ready to leave but we do not connect the car as I need propane and to top up the fuel. I get to the propane station but I do not want to shut off the MH and they can not fill the propane on a MH that is running so I will get propane down the road. Then I got to Fry's which is a grocery store that has a gas station. Since we have spent 300.00 on groceries we get 30 cents off a gallon. However getting into a pump with diesel is not easy as those dam car owners seem to think a MH is as easy to maneuver as a Smart Car. I did manage to get my cheap fuel but getting out of the place was not easy as two other MH with a vehicle in tow were trying to maneuver into the outside pumps , much like I was. Once the MH moved up I was able to sneak by, but now I had to go thru the parking to get out and those dam senior don't give you much help.
Carroll actually waited for me at a truck stop down the road so that we could hook up the car. Finally about 10:30 we got on our way. Since we did not have breakfast we stopped at Parker some 2 hours down the road for lunch. I don't like the twisty roads and small towns in AZ so at this point I cross into CA which takes us to the Casino near Mojave where we will get the MH maintained tomorrow. When you cross from AZ to CA you go thru a Fruit Inspection station. They are checking for Citrus fruit only and we always make sure we don't have any. They usually take you word, when you say that you don't have any.
We arrived at AVI casino and they have a "gravel Pit" for us, who are looking for a free place to overnight. The place is fairly full so I worm my way around looking for a good spot and I dam near removed a guys awning. Carroll says I missed it by a foot. As it turns out the RV belong to friends who had just left Yuma a week earlier. All that called for a beer, Cheers
Minnesota Breakfast
Sunday 13 March
Our friends Barb and Dick are from Minnesota and Dick just loves biscuits and gravy for breakfast, however he usually only has it for breakfast once a week. I have made fun of this menu food for breakfast for years and I always called it a " Heart attack on a Plate ". I must admit, when I see it served and "Wolfed " down by those sitting near me, I truly believed it would hasten a heart attack.
Dick has had enough of Vince and I making fun of "Biscuits and Gravy" so he and Barb invited ( almost insisted ) that we ( Carroll, me , Vince and Lynda ) come for a Minnesota Breakfast which will include Dick's recipe for Biscuits and Gravy and he guaranteed that we would like it.
The breakfast not only included Dick's B and G but Barb had baked a huge platter of " Sticky buns", a casserole of " Wife Saver " and a mixed fruit bowl for desert.
Dick's B and G includes chopped Italian sausage and I must admit it tasted great as did the others. I had a second helping. I would not want to eat it often as I'm sure it can not be the best choice for your health, but neither is a Hot Dog. Would I try it again, yes , especially if Dick made it.
Since we are leaving tomorrow we ( mostly me ) spent the afternoon packing up the MH. It seems that taking things out of the storage area takes less time then repacking it.
We have had trouble with the slides not going in or out so we hope they work tomorrow. We are heading to Mojave ( Bullhead City) to have some maintenance done on the hot water system. Cheers
Our friends Barb and Dick are from Minnesota and Dick just loves biscuits and gravy for breakfast, however he usually only has it for breakfast once a week. I have made fun of this menu food for breakfast for years and I always called it a " Heart attack on a Plate ". I must admit, when I see it served and "Wolfed " down by those sitting near me, I truly believed it would hasten a heart attack.
Dick has had enough of Vince and I making fun of "Biscuits and Gravy" so he and Barb invited ( almost insisted ) that we ( Carroll, me , Vince and Lynda ) come for a Minnesota Breakfast which will include Dick's recipe for Biscuits and Gravy and he guaranteed that we would like it.
The breakfast not only included Dick's B and G but Barb had baked a huge platter of " Sticky buns", a casserole of " Wife Saver " and a mixed fruit bowl for desert.
Dick's B and G includes chopped Italian sausage and I must admit it tasted great as did the others. I had a second helping. I would not want to eat it often as I'm sure it can not be the best choice for your health, but neither is a Hot Dog. Would I try it again, yes , especially if Dick made it.
Since we are leaving tomorrow we ( mostly me ) spent the afternoon packing up the MH. It seems that taking things out of the storage area takes less time then repacking it.
We have had trouble with the slides not going in or out so we hope they work tomorrow. We are heading to Mojave ( Bullhead City) to have some maintenance done on the hot water system. Cheers
Saturday, 12 March 2016
Carroll Needed a haircut
Carroll decided she should get her hair cut before we head home. Her hair Salon is located in the Sun Vista RV Park and it seems to be the Salon of choice for the Senior crowd. The hair dresser is a male about 50 years old and owns two Hair Salons with his Mother.
Carroll says he is extremely busy and he suggested to his Mother that he should open on Saturdays. She apparently Vetoed the idea as she did not want to work on Saturdays and she said that most of their customers are Senior so the can schedule their hair appointments during the week.
Today was extremely hot and was over 90 F by early afternoon. We spent the afternoon sitting in the shade , begging for a breeze and seeping on a cool one. After supper the temperature did drop slightly and we got a most welcome breeze. That breeze started to increase and the cool temperature was very welcome until I thought I heard one of our chairs tumble over. So about 9 PM I went outside side to check and " Holy Moly " we were having another dust storm. All our windows in MH were open so now we have a layer of dust on ever counter. Also, I had left the trunk open in the car so it too is full of dust. Most of the neighbors' were scrambling to get their awning in before they left for good.
The wind died down during the night but the north wind brought in a " Cold Front" if a temperature of 72 F is considered cold. Today is another beautiful day. cheers.
Carroll says he is extremely busy and he suggested to his Mother that he should open on Saturdays. She apparently Vetoed the idea as she did not want to work on Saturdays and she said that most of their customers are Senior so the can schedule their hair appointments during the week.
Today was extremely hot and was over 90 F by early afternoon. We spent the afternoon sitting in the shade , begging for a breeze and seeping on a cool one. After supper the temperature did drop slightly and we got a most welcome breeze. That breeze started to increase and the cool temperature was very welcome until I thought I heard one of our chairs tumble over. So about 9 PM I went outside side to check and " Holy Moly " we were having another dust storm. All our windows in MH were open so now we have a layer of dust on ever counter. Also, I had left the trunk open in the car so it too is full of dust. Most of the neighbors' were scrambling to get their awning in before they left for good.
The wind died down during the night but the north wind brought in a " Cold Front" if a temperature of 72 F is considered cold. Today is another beautiful day. cheers.
Cell Phone
10 March
As most of our friends know, we are not cell phone savvy; in fact , we are cell phone illiterate . Anyhow I picked up the phone this morning and attempted to call Time Warner to ask about returning my router on Saturday or Monday.
Actually I wanted to know the office hours so I could be first in line. This office is the only one I recall that has around 100 people lined up ahead of you. I can't figure out how everyone has time to spend an hour, just to return a router or pay their bill.
Anyway, I dialed Time Warner and the phone says that your time expired on the 7 th March. OH Shit; now we have to go downtown to AT&T to pay for another month which will cover us until we get home. They would like me to do " Auto Pay " but I seen that "Movie " before and if the overcharge me , it will take months to get my money back, hence the reason I pay monthly. Apparently TW sent us a msg advising that time was running out but we did not notice it.
On the way home from town , we dropped into see Ken and Carol Jangula. They are heading home on Saturday, mainly because it is too hot for Ken. I believe he had a Heat Stroke once and he just can't handle the 90 F temperature. Cheers
As most of our friends know, we are not cell phone savvy; in fact , we are cell phone illiterate . Anyhow I picked up the phone this morning and attempted to call Time Warner to ask about returning my router on Saturday or Monday.
Actually I wanted to know the office hours so I could be first in line. This office is the only one I recall that has around 100 people lined up ahead of you. I can't figure out how everyone has time to spend an hour, just to return a router or pay their bill.
Anyway, I dialed Time Warner and the phone says that your time expired on the 7 th March. OH Shit; now we have to go downtown to AT&T to pay for another month which will cover us until we get home. They would like me to do " Auto Pay " but I seen that "Movie " before and if the overcharge me , it will take months to get my money back, hence the reason I pay monthly. Apparently TW sent us a msg advising that time was running out but we did not notice it.
On the way home from town , we dropped into see Ken and Carol Jangula. They are heading home on Saturday, mainly because it is too hot for Ken. I believe he had a Heat Stroke once and he just can't handle the 90 F temperature. Cheers
Wash and Wax the Motor Home.
We are leaving Yuma and slowly heading north on Monday so it is time to give the Motor Home (MH ) its' annual Wash and Wax. However, it will not be done by me. Sergio, is one of the many local firms that make a living by washing (and Waxing ) Park Models and RV's. Sergio, usually has 5 workers who actually swarm you MH. They start by 3 guys cleaning the roof while the other 1 or 2 guys scrub the tires and the wheel rims. After the finishing the wash they wipe it dry and then start into the waxing and polishing, which takes another 1/2 hour. Sergio always returns to check the job and to make sure you are happy. If you are not happy, he will call his crew back and will do what ever is necessary to make his customers happy. The price is 120.00 and they will throw in a car wash for free. If anyone in Med Hat can meet that price , I'll be glad to have it done at home.
We spent the afternoon watching curling and sitting outdoors in the shade ( it is about 85 F ) trying to keep cool and along comes our friend to invited us for supper. They also invited some mutual friends. Apparently they have too much food and need to get rid of it before leaving. They have a park Model so they can not take it home, unlike us who have a good size freezer in the MH.
After a wonderful meal we played cards and not to brag , but we men , Kicked Ass. Cheers
We spent the afternoon watching curling and sitting outdoors in the shade ( it is about 85 F ) trying to keep cool and along comes our friend to invited us for supper. They also invited some mutual friends. Apparently they have too much food and need to get rid of it before leaving. They have a park Model so they can not take it home, unlike us who have a good size freezer in the MH.
After a wonderful meal we played cards and not to brag , but we men , Kicked Ass. Cheers
Friday, 11 March 2016
Strawberries.
The strawberries from California finally arrived in late Feb. ( they don't grow strawberries in this area ). They are at least a month late due to the cold , rainy weather in in CA. The first box of 3 pints was 11.00 but they have now dropped to 8.00 so obviously there is now a better supply. The strawberries are sold at a roadside "Wagon" so we went to pick up another batch before we leave. This area also has several other fast food vehicles, one which is a Taco Truck. Since they serve Shrimp Tacos for 1.75, we could not pass up the opportunity so we stayed for lunch.
Since the Brier ( for those who do not know what the Bier is Men's Cdn Curling Championship " is on now, so we spent the afternoon watching the Curling.
In the evening , our friends the Ziglos dropped by to see if we wanted to go to the show as the wanted to see " London is Falling". It is a great show and I strongly recommend it. It is about the Terrorist taking over London and Kidnapping the US President. After what happen in France it may not be far fetched. Cheers
Since the Brier ( for those who do not know what the Bier is Men's Cdn Curling Championship " is on now, so we spent the afternoon watching the Curling.
In the evening , our friends the Ziglos dropped by to see if we wanted to go to the show as the wanted to see " London is Falling". It is a great show and I strongly recommend it. It is about the Terrorist taking over London and Kidnapping the US President. After what happen in France it may not be far fetched. Cheers
Last trip to MX
Carroll and I ordered glasses in Mx about two weeks ago and, in Mexican fashion, we were promised that it would take 7 or 10 days ( and they would call us when nthey were in ) because our glasses had to come from .... you guessed it; from Phoenix. The reason being that we wanted anti-glare and they don't do it in Algodonnes, MX. If you don't need or want anti-glare it only takes 2 1/2 hours to make your glasses.
After 10 days with no phone call , we called them and of course no glasses yet but they should be in by tomorrow ( Manama ) , which means maybe tomorrow. I do not think that Mexicans have the capacity to live on a definite schedule so it was no surprise that the glasses would not be delivered on time.
At 9 AM today we called to see if our glasses were in and " Eureka " the glasses had arrived so off we go to pick them up. As it turns out, the weather is " shitty " as it is windy, cool and looks like rain so we have to wear a sweater and Jeans.
I should explain that the Optometrist company is called Meyers and they have 3 shops run by 3 brothers. I assume each brother runs a shop but the business is co-mingled. They Lenses are ground in another shop somewhere close by the office we went to, hence the reason they can be done in 2 1/2 hours.
When we arrived at the office, they were busy with other customers but the clerk notice us and reaffirmed that our glasses where in. The doctor is a funny character and often jokes with the customers. When we ordered the glasses he ask Carroll if I was her husband and she said yes , for 53 years. He says , why would stay with him for that long?. So now I owe him one . As he was explaining to the customer that his glasses would be ready in 2 1/2 hours, I said don't believe him, I have been waiting for 2 weeks for mine. The customer had a shocked look on his face and the doctor explained why my glasses took 2 weeks. Finally we got our glasses fitted an the cost for both pair was 660.00.
Now I had to return to the Dentist as I felt that my bridge was not quite right. The dentist checked the bite and did a touch up so it now feels great.
Carroll now feels, in the shopping mood and she just remembered that she needed (another) table cloth from MX. The shop we picked is run by a Mother and an adult son. The Mother understand English but doesn't speak it well but the son is fluent in English. After we pick out the table cloth , the son says it cost 50.00 so I pretend I'm unset so I walk away and he comes after me and says he will do better. Carroll offers 20.00 and the Mother ( who can not speak English ) says No No, give me 30.00. Carroll counters at 25.00, and says it is my best offer but Mom says No. I take 25.00 out of my wallet and I say , do you want it or not. The son takes the money but Mom is not happy. Carroll is happy.
We then went to a restaurant and had lunch before picking up a pound of fresh Shrimp for 10.00 before we lined up for an hour to get thru customs. Another successful trip to MC. Cheers
After 10 days with no phone call , we called them and of course no glasses yet but they should be in by tomorrow ( Manama ) , which means maybe tomorrow. I do not think that Mexicans have the capacity to live on a definite schedule so it was no surprise that the glasses would not be delivered on time.
At 9 AM today we called to see if our glasses were in and " Eureka " the glasses had arrived so off we go to pick them up. As it turns out, the weather is " shitty " as it is windy, cool and looks like rain so we have to wear a sweater and Jeans.
I should explain that the Optometrist company is called Meyers and they have 3 shops run by 3 brothers. I assume each brother runs a shop but the business is co-mingled. They Lenses are ground in another shop somewhere close by the office we went to, hence the reason they can be done in 2 1/2 hours.
When we arrived at the office, they were busy with other customers but the clerk notice us and reaffirmed that our glasses where in. The doctor is a funny character and often jokes with the customers. When we ordered the glasses he ask Carroll if I was her husband and she said yes , for 53 years. He says , why would stay with him for that long?. So now I owe him one . As he was explaining to the customer that his glasses would be ready in 2 1/2 hours, I said don't believe him, I have been waiting for 2 weeks for mine. The customer had a shocked look on his face and the doctor explained why my glasses took 2 weeks. Finally we got our glasses fitted an the cost for both pair was 660.00.
Now I had to return to the Dentist as I felt that my bridge was not quite right. The dentist checked the bite and did a touch up so it now feels great.
Carroll now feels, in the shopping mood and she just remembered that she needed (another) table cloth from MX. The shop we picked is run by a Mother and an adult son. The Mother understand English but doesn't speak it well but the son is fluent in English. After we pick out the table cloth , the son says it cost 50.00 so I pretend I'm unset so I walk away and he comes after me and says he will do better. Carroll offers 20.00 and the Mother ( who can not speak English ) says No No, give me 30.00. Carroll counters at 25.00, and says it is my best offer but Mom says No. I take 25.00 out of my wallet and I say , do you want it or not. The son takes the money but Mom is not happy. Carroll is happy.
We then went to a restaurant and had lunch before picking up a pound of fresh Shrimp for 10.00 before we lined up for an hour to get thru customs. Another successful trip to MC. Cheers
Tuesday, 8 March 2016
Another Sand Storm
Before I get to the Sand storm I want to mention a restaurant which I feel serves the best lunch menu I have ever had. The name is Kneaders and it serves Sandwiches , Soups and Deserts. If you order Soup, beware that it is unlikely that you could eat a whole sandwich. They serve several soups and they have 5 or 6 different breads ( all great ) along with 5 or 6 different sandwiches. Their deserts are pricey but huge. We have never had room for a desert so I can only tell want our table mates have said. As you may know that bread in the US does not meet our CDN standard, so when we are near a Kneaders restaurant we buy the ends. They never serve the 3 slices from each end however, they bag the ends and sell them for 4.00 for a large bag. We feast on those ends if we can get them. Enough about the advertisement.
6 March
On Sunday we visited our friends Cam and Joanne Asher from Winnipeg. Cam and I were in the same trade in the Military and we served in Comox for about 3 years and we have been friends ever since. They are camped at Welton, Az, a small town 20 miles east of Yuma. They are heading north on Monday so we wanted to say goodbye.
While sitting outside their MH draining a beer Cam mentioned that a Wind Storm was predicted to arrive around 3 PM and man was he correct. Near 3 PM the west wind was so strong that we had to move inside. Then on the way home, heading west, into the teeth of this high wind we could see the sand being whipped up and that storm lasted until late evening. Since we left our widows open in our MH we had a light dusting of sand in ever nook and cranny throughout the MH. Carroll now had a reason to dust. This is the third dust storm since we arrived in early January. The wind brought quite a bit of sand with it to the point where our swimming was closed on Monday so the maintenance staff could clean the pool and the filters.
After the high winds subsided we then had a cold front move in on Sunday and Monday which brought with it another round of high winds. When I use the word "cold front " I mean high 50's and low 60's F. Anyway, we will suffer thru until Monday when we leave Yuma and head north. cheers
6 March
On Sunday we visited our friends Cam and Joanne Asher from Winnipeg. Cam and I were in the same trade in the Military and we served in Comox for about 3 years and we have been friends ever since. They are camped at Welton, Az, a small town 20 miles east of Yuma. They are heading north on Monday so we wanted to say goodbye.
While sitting outside their MH draining a beer Cam mentioned that a Wind Storm was predicted to arrive around 3 PM and man was he correct. Near 3 PM the west wind was so strong that we had to move inside. Then on the way home, heading west, into the teeth of this high wind we could see the sand being whipped up and that storm lasted until late evening. Since we left our widows open in our MH we had a light dusting of sand in ever nook and cranny throughout the MH. Carroll now had a reason to dust. This is the third dust storm since we arrived in early January. The wind brought quite a bit of sand with it to the point where our swimming was closed on Monday so the maintenance staff could clean the pool and the filters.
After the high winds subsided we then had a cold front move in on Sunday and Monday which brought with it another round of high winds. When I use the word "cold front " I mean high 50's and low 60's F. Anyway, we will suffer thru until Monday when we leave Yuma and head north. cheers
Military Tattoo
Our friends Vince and Lynda advised us that the Marines were putting on a Tattoo tonight at the football field at the local High School and invited us to join then along with other friends , Barb and dick from Minnesota. This Tattoo consisted of a huge compliment of a Marching Band and a Precision Drill team. The Marching Band put on a fabulous performance for about 25 minute and it is amazing how those guys can carry a Tuba around for that long.
Then the Band "Stood Down " while the Precision Drill Team Marched on to the field. For those who have never experience a Precision of a Drill Team; it means that a Platoon of usually 30 soldier will perform 15 minute of Marching and Rifle drill that almost looks mechanical. To complete the final maneuver, the Platoon leader, who is without a rifle, marches in front of the Platoon and one of the soldiers flips his rifle , airborne to the Platoon Leader. The Platoon Leader then marches one step to the next soldier and they perform several maneuvers by flipping their rifles back and forth to each other. The final maneuver was when the Platoon Leader flips the "borrowed " rifle back to the soldier where it came. This has to be a very precise maneuver because the receiving soldier can not move except to reach with his hand to receiver the rifle.
To end the show the Color Party marches on the field with the American flag and the Marine flag while the band plays the National Anthem. Then the Precision Team and the Band do a March Past and two retired Marine Sergeants receiver the Salute.
After the show is over all the Band and Drill team members are available on the football field to talk to the spectators. I actual heard one soldier from the Drill team say that they practice 7 hours the day before the performance. This show is nothing short of fantastic. WOW.
To complete the evening , we returned to Barb and Dick's home for coffee and pie.
Cheers
Then the Band "Stood Down " while the Precision Drill Team Marched on to the field. For those who have never experience a Precision of a Drill Team; it means that a Platoon of usually 30 soldier will perform 15 minute of Marching and Rifle drill that almost looks mechanical. To complete the final maneuver, the Platoon leader, who is without a rifle, marches in front of the Platoon and one of the soldiers flips his rifle , airborne to the Platoon Leader. The Platoon Leader then marches one step to the next soldier and they perform several maneuvers by flipping their rifles back and forth to each other. The final maneuver was when the Platoon Leader flips the "borrowed " rifle back to the soldier where it came. This has to be a very precise maneuver because the receiving soldier can not move except to reach with his hand to receiver the rifle.
To end the show the Color Party marches on the field with the American flag and the Marine flag while the band plays the National Anthem. Then the Precision Team and the Band do a March Past and two retired Marine Sergeants receiver the Salute.
After the show is over all the Band and Drill team members are available on the football field to talk to the spectators. I actual heard one soldier from the Drill team say that they practice 7 hours the day before the performance. This show is nothing short of fantastic. WOW.
To complete the evening , we returned to Barb and Dick's home for coffee and pie.
Cheers
Travel Insurance
2 March
Today we were not too busy, in fact we were trying to think of something to do. Carroll suggested we visit out long time Travel friends , Otto and Edna who we met in MX several years ago and have stayed in close contact ever since. They are from Armstrong, BC and are in an RV Park a few miles away. I open the computer to see if they were on Skype and if so I would call them to see if they were around. Unfortunately the msg read that Otto slipped and hurt his back and had to fly home.
We were shocked and actually thought the msg meant he was going to fly home and have his MH returned by the Insurance company so we immediately drove over to their Park. However, we learned that they had flew home on Monday as requested by the Medical Insurance company.
Apparently Otto's injury was to a vertebra or two and of course the Insurance company insisted he return to BC where the cost would be on BC Health Care not on theirs. Hopefully the cost to return his MH is covered by his Travel Insurance.
We all have extra but over priced Travel Insurance but we never know for such if we are covered. We have been told that once you need your Travel Insurance the company goes thru you medical history and if you forgot to tell them about some medical history from years ago they can and will disqualify your claim. We did hear of a couple who were saddled with a bill for 140,000.00 do to misunderstanding on the application.
Otto has advised us that his back will heal in Time and he does not require surgery. cheers
Today we were not too busy, in fact we were trying to think of something to do. Carroll suggested we visit out long time Travel friends , Otto and Edna who we met in MX several years ago and have stayed in close contact ever since. They are from Armstrong, BC and are in an RV Park a few miles away. I open the computer to see if they were on Skype and if so I would call them to see if they were around. Unfortunately the msg read that Otto slipped and hurt his back and had to fly home.
We were shocked and actually thought the msg meant he was going to fly home and have his MH returned by the Insurance company so we immediately drove over to their Park. However, we learned that they had flew home on Monday as requested by the Medical Insurance company.
Apparently Otto's injury was to a vertebra or two and of course the Insurance company insisted he return to BC where the cost would be on BC Health Care not on theirs. Hopefully the cost to return his MH is covered by his Travel Insurance.
We all have extra but over priced Travel Insurance but we never know for such if we are covered. We have been told that once you need your Travel Insurance the company goes thru you medical history and if you forgot to tell them about some medical history from years ago they can and will disqualify your claim. We did hear of a couple who were saddled with a bill for 140,000.00 do to misunderstanding on the application.
Otto has advised us that his back will heal in Time and he does not require surgery. cheers
Monday, 7 March 2016
Visit with Friends
1 March
Today we dropped in to visit with Jimmie and Marion as they are heading home to Belmont, ON albeit, that they are taking a month to get there. I have known Jimmie since I was a kid as he is slightly older than me. Jim and Marion have wintered in Yuma for many years and we only realized that they were in Yuma about 5 years ago.
It is always nice to speak with people from home and to catch up things happen where we grew up. I actually went to High School with Jimmie's younger brother. I did not realize Marion's maiden name and it is only from these visit that I realize I knew her parents and other relatives. Small world. We wish them a safe journey home. Cheers
Today we dropped in to visit with Jimmie and Marion as they are heading home to Belmont, ON albeit, that they are taking a month to get there. I have known Jimmie since I was a kid as he is slightly older than me. Jim and Marion have wintered in Yuma for many years and we only realized that they were in Yuma about 5 years ago.
It is always nice to speak with people from home and to catch up things happen where we grew up. I actually went to High School with Jimmie's younger brother. I did not realize Marion's maiden name and it is only from these visit that I realize I knew her parents and other relatives. Small world. We wish them a safe journey home. Cheers
Can_AM Days
29 th Feb
Can-AM days is a joint sports day for Cdns and Americans and not a competition between nations but a mixture on each teams. The sports are Shuffle, Horseshoes, Cribbage (non body contact ), Curling and Bean Bag. The teams are not chosen by ability but by an interest in the sport , hence not all players understand the games or rules such as curling. I participated in Curling and we finished second to a team skipped by a Cdn fireman from Shilo, MB. Our team had a handicap because our "Second" did not have a clue and fail to delivery the rock as I instructed her and none of her Rocks made it to the House. One other handicap was that each player had to drink a shot of "Canadian Mist " after each game. After playing 4 games during an afternoon in 90 F heat, this may have affected some of the players ability. I opted out of the "Canadian Mist " drinking as I was on Medical from my Dental work.
After all Sports Days there has to be a "windup " party ( banquet ) and this was no different. The party also had Amateur entertainment by the talented people from the park. I was amazed at the quality of talent we have in the park. The talent show was all " LipSinging " and most of them where great. We had Willie Nelson, Everly Brothers, Nancy Sinatra, Geo Jones ( and he even looked like him in real life ) and several others that I can remember the Singers names.
This party was organized by our friends Lynda and Vince Ziglo with many volunteers to assist. Everyone involved deserves a great deal of credit for putting on this Sports Day and the Party. I know that we Carroll and I had a good time. cheers
Can-AM days is a joint sports day for Cdns and Americans and not a competition between nations but a mixture on each teams. The sports are Shuffle, Horseshoes, Cribbage (non body contact ), Curling and Bean Bag. The teams are not chosen by ability but by an interest in the sport , hence not all players understand the games or rules such as curling. I participated in Curling and we finished second to a team skipped by a Cdn fireman from Shilo, MB. Our team had a handicap because our "Second" did not have a clue and fail to delivery the rock as I instructed her and none of her Rocks made it to the House. One other handicap was that each player had to drink a shot of "Canadian Mist " after each game. After playing 4 games during an afternoon in 90 F heat, this may have affected some of the players ability. I opted out of the "Canadian Mist " drinking as I was on Medical from my Dental work.
After all Sports Days there has to be a "windup " party ( banquet ) and this was no different. The party also had Amateur entertainment by the talented people from the park. I was amazed at the quality of talent we have in the park. The talent show was all " LipSinging " and most of them where great. We had Willie Nelson, Everly Brothers, Nancy Sinatra, Geo Jones ( and he even looked like him in real life ) and several others that I can remember the Singers names.
This party was organized by our friends Lynda and Vince Ziglo with many volunteers to assist. Everyone involved deserves a great deal of credit for putting on this Sports Day and the Party. I know that we Carroll and I had a good time. cheers
Wednesday, 2 March 2016
Dental Work in Mexico
26 th Feb Friday
A few weeks ago I had my teeth cleaned in MX and I was advised that I needed some Dental work because I had some "Old " fillings that were leaking which had caused some cavities. I also have a "bridge" and it would have to be replaced. So I dug up the nerve to return to the Dentist is MX since I knew this work had to be done someday so I might as well face the music.
I have been going to the same Dentist for about 10 years so I feel quite comfortable with " Maria ". This was a husband and wife team but they have now added their daughter to the office and I'm sure the daughter does the majority of the work on a slow day.
We went to MX around 9:30 and I did not bother to make an appointment because I know their appointments are arranged around the number of "walk in " customers and appointments are seldom if ever on time. I arrived at the office around 10:00 AM.
Maria's office is located in a courtyard area surrounded by 5 other Dental offices, so it is a very busy courtyard area because these is were everyone and there spouse sit to wait their turn. Most dental waiting rooms will hold no more that 4 people so the courtyard is were you wait your turn and "chew the fat " with ( mostly interesting ) people you don't know but it helps to kill time. Most spouses get bored and leave their "partner" after a short time and go for a walk or mostly go shopping. This includes Carroll, however her boredom forced her to buy a purse and a wallet that she did not need.
The dental clerk said she could get me in shortly, which in Mexico terms means somewhere between 20 minutes and an hour. During our wait we drummed up a conversation with a couple from Las Vegas who come to MX for all their dental work. As an example, a Crown replacement in Yuma cost 1500.00 and in MX it 200.00. When I got into the Dental chair, Maria was my dentist which I liked because she has done all my dental work. She told me I would need two " root canals" and that she would need to arrange for a "Specialist " to do the work and he was not available until 3 PM.
I should tell you that Root Canals , in most dental offices are done by a Specialist, not by the Dentist and the Specialist only do the Root Canal not the preparatory work. Maria then prepared my two teeth for the root canals which included removing the bridge. Then she prepared another tooth for a Crown. In the mean time Carroll returned to check on me and I told her to go for lunch as the root Canal was not schedule until 3 PM. She told me which restaurant was going to so that is where I could find her later. Once my teeth were prepared Maria told me to take a break and to return at 2:45 to get ready for the Specialist. Since I knew which restaurant Carroll was going to I went there; but no Carroll, so now I have to check on several restaurants in a two block area. I found her at our favorite "haunt" which is the Taco stand where they serve Shrimp Tacos for 1.50 and beer cost a dollar. You gotta love Mexico.
After Carroll finished her lunch ( I did not feel like eating ) we meandered back to the dental courtyard to wait on the Specialist for my 3 PM appointment. Maria then called me in so they could do the Impressions for the Crowns and the Bridge. Then back out to the courtyard to wait.
While sitting the courtyard you can see the " Specialist" moving from office to office. Usually, a dental assistant will arrive 5 or 10 minutes before the Doctor and she will be pulling a small suit case with all the tools and she sets up the tools and gets you prepared. When the doctor arrives, they usually speak fluent English and they always introduce themselves and their assistant. After freezing half of my face , he goes right to work and both teeth where done in about 1/2 an hour. The doctor then does an x-ray to ensure that all is well and he then shake hands and leaves. Incidentally, Root Canals cost 300.00. It is now about 5 PM and I am done until tomorrow when I have an appointment for 11 AM tomorrow to install the bridge and the Crowns.
During the afternoon we noticed a long lineup of about 1 1/2 hour returning to the USA but by 5 PM the lineup was gone and we walked right thru until Carroll got to the customs officer. He says , this is your luckily day as you have been chosen by the computer to be further checked, No reason given. So she was ushered to another office where she had to wait in line with other " convicts" ha ha. One gentleman waiting with me ask a Custom Office if his wife would be leaving out our exit door or the back door. He reply " if she goes out the back door she will be in hand cuffs ". We all laughed, but the custom officer did not. When Carroll got to the Officer he said I don't know why you are here so you are free to go.
26 th Feb Saturday
We arrived about 10:30 AM, foolishly thinking that I might get in early but I don't think my Crowns and Bridge had arrived so again I was parked in the courtyard. Carroll brought a pair of my "good " shoes that really need a polish so she took them to the local Square where all the Shoeshine boys/men ply their services. She also want to buy some Asparagus which they sell on the street corner besides it helps to kill time for her. While sitting in the courtyard waiting on my Crowns I was speaking with a guy from Minnesota, whose wife was having Mega work on her teeth as she grinds her teeth and has worn them down. He said the estimate at home was 22,000.00 and Maria was doing it for 2600.00.
Finally my Crowns and Bridge arrived and it probably took and hour to install the them. The Bridge took a little grinding to fit properly so it was sent back to the factory ( down the street ) to be re-polished . The dental offices have Runners , much like our Couriers on Bicycles to deliver the impressions and to pickup the Crowns etc.
The cost for the 3 Crowns, a Bridge and two root Canals cost 1600.00. I think and hope that my insurance will cover 50 % of the cost. I'll let you equate that to a cost if I had it done in Canada. cheers
A few weeks ago I had my teeth cleaned in MX and I was advised that I needed some Dental work because I had some "Old " fillings that were leaking which had caused some cavities. I also have a "bridge" and it would have to be replaced. So I dug up the nerve to return to the Dentist is MX since I knew this work had to be done someday so I might as well face the music.
I have been going to the same Dentist for about 10 years so I feel quite comfortable with " Maria ". This was a husband and wife team but they have now added their daughter to the office and I'm sure the daughter does the majority of the work on a slow day.
We went to MX around 9:30 and I did not bother to make an appointment because I know their appointments are arranged around the number of "walk in " customers and appointments are seldom if ever on time. I arrived at the office around 10:00 AM.
Maria's office is located in a courtyard area surrounded by 5 other Dental offices, so it is a very busy courtyard area because these is were everyone and there spouse sit to wait their turn. Most dental waiting rooms will hold no more that 4 people so the courtyard is were you wait your turn and "chew the fat " with ( mostly interesting ) people you don't know but it helps to kill time. Most spouses get bored and leave their "partner" after a short time and go for a walk or mostly go shopping. This includes Carroll, however her boredom forced her to buy a purse and a wallet that she did not need.
The dental clerk said she could get me in shortly, which in Mexico terms means somewhere between 20 minutes and an hour. During our wait we drummed up a conversation with a couple from Las Vegas who come to MX for all their dental work. As an example, a Crown replacement in Yuma cost 1500.00 and in MX it 200.00. When I got into the Dental chair, Maria was my dentist which I liked because she has done all my dental work. She told me I would need two " root canals" and that she would need to arrange for a "Specialist " to do the work and he was not available until 3 PM.
I should tell you that Root Canals , in most dental offices are done by a Specialist, not by the Dentist and the Specialist only do the Root Canal not the preparatory work. Maria then prepared my two teeth for the root canals which included removing the bridge. Then she prepared another tooth for a Crown. In the mean time Carroll returned to check on me and I told her to go for lunch as the root Canal was not schedule until 3 PM. She told me which restaurant was going to so that is where I could find her later. Once my teeth were prepared Maria told me to take a break and to return at 2:45 to get ready for the Specialist. Since I knew which restaurant Carroll was going to I went there; but no Carroll, so now I have to check on several restaurants in a two block area. I found her at our favorite "haunt" which is the Taco stand where they serve Shrimp Tacos for 1.50 and beer cost a dollar. You gotta love Mexico.
After Carroll finished her lunch ( I did not feel like eating ) we meandered back to the dental courtyard to wait on the Specialist for my 3 PM appointment. Maria then called me in so they could do the Impressions for the Crowns and the Bridge. Then back out to the courtyard to wait.
While sitting the courtyard you can see the " Specialist" moving from office to office. Usually, a dental assistant will arrive 5 or 10 minutes before the Doctor and she will be pulling a small suit case with all the tools and she sets up the tools and gets you prepared. When the doctor arrives, they usually speak fluent English and they always introduce themselves and their assistant. After freezing half of my face , he goes right to work and both teeth where done in about 1/2 an hour. The doctor then does an x-ray to ensure that all is well and he then shake hands and leaves. Incidentally, Root Canals cost 300.00. It is now about 5 PM and I am done until tomorrow when I have an appointment for 11 AM tomorrow to install the bridge and the Crowns.
During the afternoon we noticed a long lineup of about 1 1/2 hour returning to the USA but by 5 PM the lineup was gone and we walked right thru until Carroll got to the customs officer. He says , this is your luckily day as you have been chosen by the computer to be further checked, No reason given. So she was ushered to another office where she had to wait in line with other " convicts" ha ha. One gentleman waiting with me ask a Custom Office if his wife would be leaving out our exit door or the back door. He reply " if she goes out the back door she will be in hand cuffs ". We all laughed, but the custom officer did not. When Carroll got to the Officer he said I don't know why you are here so you are free to go.
26 th Feb Saturday
We arrived about 10:30 AM, foolishly thinking that I might get in early but I don't think my Crowns and Bridge had arrived so again I was parked in the courtyard. Carroll brought a pair of my "good " shoes that really need a polish so she took them to the local Square where all the Shoeshine boys/men ply their services. She also want to buy some Asparagus which they sell on the street corner besides it helps to kill time for her. While sitting in the courtyard waiting on my Crowns I was speaking with a guy from Minnesota, whose wife was having Mega work on her teeth as she grinds her teeth and has worn them down. He said the estimate at home was 22,000.00 and Maria was doing it for 2600.00.
Finally my Crowns and Bridge arrived and it probably took and hour to install the them. The Bridge took a little grinding to fit properly so it was sent back to the factory ( down the street ) to be re-polished . The dental offices have Runners , much like our Couriers on Bicycles to deliver the impressions and to pickup the Crowns etc.
The cost for the 3 Crowns, a Bridge and two root Canals cost 1600.00. I think and hope that my insurance will cover 50 % of the cost. I'll let you equate that to a cost if I had it done in Canada. cheers
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